15 Low-Key Summer Destinations for Budget Travelers (#10 Feels Like an Island Getaway)

Summer travel is as American as it gets, conjuring images of families piling into the car for a road trip to a favorite destination. Ideally, the trip takes you to a lake or a sunny place where you can enjoy long days out in nature.

Or perhaps you prefer heading to a more urban locale for your summer escape. No matter your preferences, there are excellent vacation spots where you can beat the crowds without running up a massive balance on your favorite travel credit card.

This affordable Gulf Coast gem is known for its beautiful beaches, casinos (with low minimum bets), and history. For fun, enjoy lounging on the sandy beaches, playing the slots, and exploring historic sites.

A day trip to Ship Island is a must, as is dining on the abundant, fresh seafood (especially shrimp) in the vibrant culinary scene.

With its cobblestone streets and gorgeous waterfront, Charleston has plenty to offer visitors. Check out the city's historic district, look for dolphins on a boat tour, and enjoy views of the harbor on an afternoon stroll.

Be sure to sample some of the city's delicious Lowcountry cuisine, which won't put a huge dent in your wallet.

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Chattanooga has tons of affordable outdoor activities and local attractions.

A visit to Lookout Mountain is a must. Then enjoy the revitalized Riverwalk and take a cruise on the Tennessee River. Dine on a diverse variety of cuisine, but a plate of Southern specialties can’t be missed.

Florence is a cute coastal town in Oregon known for its uncrowded public beaches, towering sand dunes, and bustling arts scene.

Hang out downtown, nosh on farm-to-table fare, hike in the nearby Siuslaw National Forest, get your adrenaline going in a dune buggy, or just chill out on the beach.

The gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a quaint mountain town known for its beauty, outdoor mountain adventures, and eight-mile loop dotted with local restaurants and shops.

The park is the main draw, as is a ride on the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. A day trip to Dollywood is a must. Consider camping for the most affordable lodgings.

Located in the heart of Colorado's wine country, Grand Junction has Moab and Grand Canyon energy without the crowds or price tag. Outdoor activities run the gamut from hiking and biking to climbing.

The otherworldly Colorado National Monument is a must-see. Afterward, go wine tasting and stroll through downtown.

Beat the crowds in Napa and Sonoma and save money by heading to Mendocino County, which has an abundance of charming vineyards.

While in town, drive Highway 1, which has stunning views of the Pacific, and hike among the redwoods in the Mendocino National Forest. For the cheapest lodging, use Airbnb.

Oodles of craft breweries? Check. Gorgeous beaches on Lake Michigan? Check. Affordable prices and fewer crowds than Madison? Check. That, plus the weather, makes Milwaukee a great summer destination.

Baseball fans can take in a Brewers game. Oh, and Midwest Living named Milwaukee the culinary capital of the Midwest in 2023 — a bonus!

Nestled in the scenic Hudson Valley, New Paltz is a funky college town with great outdoor recreation and eclectic downtown. Locals love hiking and picnicking at Mohonk Preserve in the summer.

Historic Huguenot Street is great for history-loving tourists. And, affordable lodgings and dining are easy to find in this off-the-radar gem.

While Florida is famous for its stunning beaches, Ocala is an excellent and affordable home base to visit Florida’s lesser-known but equally gorgeous springs.

You can kayak Silver Springs and look for wildlife like monkeys (yes, really!), take a dip in Rainbow Springs, and tubing at Ichetucknee Springs. Afterward, enjoy the cute downtown.

There's so much to do in affordable and underrated Omaha. Walk along the 3,000-foot Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, shop and dine in the bustling Old Market district (pro-tip: order the steak or Reuben), and visit museums for a history lesson.

Kids (and adults with robust inner children) can't miss the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.

Located at the confluence of three Rivers, Pittsburgh is affordable across the board and pleasant in the summer. Plus, it's kid-friendly and less crowded than Philly.

Dine on abundant Polish cuisine, peruse the Andy Warhol Museum, catch a Pirates game, and ride the Duquesne Incline to enjoy sweeping city views.

Situated along the serene Casco Bay, Portland comes alive with gusto in the summer. It's the perfect place for getting your lobster fix, going on a brewery crawl, and wandering through the artsy downtown.

Take a fun cruise around the bay to see lighthouses and harbor seals in this affordable Northeastern vacation spot.

Stunning San Juan is an affordable city known for its architecture, delicious cuisine, and utterly beautiful beaches.

Viejo San Juan is the heart of the action, buttressed by the El Morro and Castillo San Cristobal forts. Feast on dishes like Mofongo, enjoy the boisterous nightlife scene, and of course, hit the beach.

Voyageurs National Park — one of the least visited in the country — is known for its gorgeous lakes, outdoor activities, and wildlife viewing.

Explore the park's network of waterways by kayak, go fishing, or hike along one of its many trails. At night, look out for the Northern Lights!

Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, urban adventures, or just a relaxing getaway, these destinations promise plenty of fun.

If you’re on the lookout for an international adventure thanks to scoring cheap plane fare, there are plenty of ways to travel more as well. The world is your oyster.