Crafting cherished family moments often involves hitting the road, or embarking on adventures with friends. Regardless of your life stage or the season, explore these 11 budget-friendly road trips for a memorable journey.
Seven Magic Mountains
Planning a trip to Las Vegas? Why not add on a little road trip outside the city to see the seven magic mountains. They’re free and just off the side of the road.
Going to the Sun Road
Yes, this trek really is called “Going to the Sun.” Located in Montana, this stretch of road is one of the prettiest in Glacier National Park. You’ll see waterfalls and wildflowers as well as plenty of beautiful overlooks.
California Coastal Trail
Plenty of people have heard of Avenue of the Giants and the amazing Redwoods located in Humboldt County, California. But travel further north, nearly to the Oregon border, and you’ll be rewarded with view of some of the most stunning tall trees on the planet.
Plan a day or two in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, visiting trails like the Simpson Reed Trail and Stout Grove. You won’t regret it.
Bourbon Trail
Kentucky is home to some of the best whiskey in America. From Lexington to Louisville, this trail puts bourbon and bluegrass music front and center, featuring nearly 20 distilleries. Consider using a travel rewards credit card to help defray the extra expenses that accompany this trip.
Jim Beam and Woodford Reserve are just a few of the locations you’ll be able to stop and enjoy.
Civil Rights Trail
Do you enjoy learning something while you travel? If so, you’ll appreciate the history on this path through Alabama that puts Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and message on display.
In its entirety, the trail crosses 14 states. The portion through Alabama is under 200 miles long and takes you through Selma, among other notable locations.
The GATOR
The Gulf Alliance of Tourism Organization Representatives, or GATOR, have put together a budget-friendly road trip that is as easy on the eyes as it is on the wallet. Covering Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana, you’ll get bird’s eye views of the Gulf Coast as you pass through small and medium-sized towns that are all within a short drive of each other.
Pair this path with a gas app to save money on gas and you can slash your travel costs without cutting any of the fun.
Great River Road
If seeing the mighty Mississippi River at its headwaters, an area you can walk across with just five steps, sounds exciting, you’ll love this drive. The Great River Road takes you along the entire Mississippi River.
After starting at Lake Itasca State Park in Minnesota, you’ll cross Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
America’s Mother Road
A giant blue whale. A six-story plus bottle of soda. A ginormous totem pole. These are just a few of the fun roadside attractions littered across Route 66 – America’s original road trip.
Follow this historic path from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL and relive the golden era of driving, before interstate highways steered traffic away from small towns and fun, roadside attractions.
Harriet Tubman Byway
If you want to feel inspired while on vacation, consider the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway. Follow Maryland’s eastern shore up through Delaware where Harriet Tubman worked, lived and led slaves to freedom.
Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway
Travel to the northeastern tip of America to Maine where you can take in lobsters, lighthouses and loons. There are abundant mountain and coaster views here to delight everyone in your party.
Maple Trail
Pancakes, anyone? You’ll be licking your lips along this mouthwatering trail that takes you through Vermont. Visit sugarhouses, distilleries and enjoy a night at a rustic inn.
Get Cash Back on Your Gas Purchases
It’s painful to fill up at the pump. Thankfully, there’s an app for that! With Upside you can get rebates on your gas purchases that you can redeem for cash.
Upside App Review: Is the Gas App Worth it?
15 Best Coupon Apps to Save Money
Saving money at the store is as simple as using your phone. Better yet, you can redeem savings for free PayPal money or gift cards. That’s a win-win.
15 Best Coupon Apps to Save Money
11 Jobs That Pay $20+ an Hour and Don’t Require a Degree
A college diploma is terrific, but it’s not always necessary to earn a good living. Consult this guide to identify other ways to earn at least $20 an hour without a college degree.
Jobs That Pay $20 an Hour and Don’t Require a Degree
How to Make Money Without a Job
In between jobs and need a way to supplement your income? There are plenty of ways to earn cash to tie you over.
Ways to Make Money Without a Job
Costco vs Sam’s Club
Whether you’re stocking up for a road trip or looking for discounts on cruises, hotels and rental cars, these two big box membership clubs are worth comparing when you’re prepping for vacation.
Costco vs. Sam’s Club: Which is Best for Shoppers?
Frugal Rules. (2023-12-15 09:00:39). www.frugalrules.com
