8 Road Trip Ideas That Are Way Cheaper Than Flying
While I absolutely love going on long vacations, sometimes a short road trip is the best option—especially when you’re busy with work or trying to save money. Road trips are an amazing and often overlooked way to enjoy an affordable travel experience. It’s fun to pack your car, bring some snacks, and hit the road with your partner or friends. Plus, flying can be really stressful and flight prices keep rising. So skipping the airport and enjoying a road trip in your own car is a great way to relax. Don’t forget, with the right road trip insurance and smart travel tips for saving money, you can enjoy a fun, budget-friendly vacation without spending too much.
If you’re thinking about planning a road trip this summer, let me help you get inspired. Whether you have an entire week off or just a long weekend, these summer road trip ideas are perfect for your travel bucket list. From cheap vacation spots to unforgettable family travel destinations, there’s something here for everyone. These are some of the best places to travel in summer for a fun, affordable getaway.
1. Drive down the California coastline
California is full of beautiful drives and top travel spots. One of the best scenic California road trips is from San Francisco to the peaceful beach town of Santa Barbara. You can take the faster 101 freeway or enjoy the stunning views along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). The PCH is slower but offers amazing sights like Big Sur and McWay Falls. If you take the 101, you’ll pass through Paso Robles, a top spot for wine tasting tours.
When you get to Santa Barbara, relax on the beach, explore stylish shops, or enjoy the city’s great food. There are also pretty hiking trails and a fun local vibe. For a luxury beach hotel experience, consider staying at the Kimpton Canary Hotel or Hideaway. These spots are perfect for a romantic getaway or a relaxing mother-daughter trip. This California travel guide stop has something for everyone.
2. Channel Nancy Meyers on the East Coast
Calling all fans of cozy, coastal vibes and luxury travel! If you’re dreaming of a coastal grandmother style getaway, a New England road trip is the perfect choice. The route from Newport, Rhode Island to Portland, Maine takes less than three hours to drive, making it ideal for a romantic weekend getaway or a short luxury coastal vacation.
Start in Newport, where you can enjoy New England charm with Gilded Age mansions, sailboats, and relaxing waterfront views. Treat yourself to dinner at Pasta Beach for amazing Italian food, and don’t miss the cocktails and boat views at Castle Hill Inn—both top-rated spots for travelers.
As you make your way to Portland, plan to stop in Boston, Massachusetts and Kennebunkport, Maine. Boston offers exciting city energy, while Kennebunkport is full of small-town charm. Both are great for a short visit or an overnight stay.
Once you arrive in Portland, Maine, explore the rich maritime history, the famous fishing culture, and some of the best seafood in Maine. Portland is also known for its art scene and walkable cobblestone streets, making it a must-visit on your East Coast travel guide.
3. Experience southern charm at its best
If you’re searching for relaxing road trip ideas with a slow and peaceful pace, this short three-hour drive is perfect for you. The route from Charleston, South Carolina to Sea Island, Georgia is ideal for a weekend getaway, especially if you’re short on time. As you drive, you’ll enjoy beautiful marsh views and Georgia’s famous live oak trees.
One of the best places to stop along the way is the charming city of Savannah. It’s the perfect spot for a lunch break, shopping, or even a night at one of Savannah’s historic hotels. For a truly classic experience, consider staying at the Hamilton-Turner Inn or the Kehoe House—both are top-rated Southern travel destinations.
Once you arrive in Sea Island, get ready to enjoy a luxury beach vacation filled with beautiful beaches, top golf resorts, fine dining, and relaxing spa experiences. This Southern gem is perfect for travelers looking for comfort and style.
Sea Island is also known for its fresh, local seafood. One of the best seafood restaurants in the area is Southern Tide—a must-try for anyone who loves coastal flavors. For a bit of upscale shopping, head to Two Friends boutique. You can sip champagne while you browse unique home decor, fashion pieces, and beauty products, making it one of the best boutique shopping destinations on the island.
This is the perfect spot to unwind, play golf, eat well, and enjoy a true spa resort experience in the South.
4. Take a drive to the desert
Scottsdale, Arizona is packed with fun things to do and is one of the best girls trip destinations around. It’s easy to reach by car, especially if you’re coming from California. A Scottsdale road trip gives you a completely different view—think desert landscapes, open skies, and a peaceful drive. It’s the perfect time to listen to your favorite playlist or a good audiobook while enjoying the ride through quiet, scenic areas.
Once you get to Scottsdale, check into a wellness resort like the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa (great for romantic getaways) or The Scott Resort (perfect for groups of friends). Don’t forget your sunscreen! You can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, tennis, or pickleball—or go shopping if that’s more your style.
To make your trip extra special, design your own cowboy hat at Rancher Hat Bar, have an outdoor brunch at the famous El Chorro Lodge, or play a beginner-friendly round of golf at Camelback Golf Club—one of the top luxury golf resorts in the area.
5. Mix city vibes with lake life
This Midwest weekend getaway is perfect for anyone looking to escape the city without a long drive. Just under three hours each way, this Chicago road trip takes you from the busy city streets to the peaceful lakefront town of Saugatuck, Michigan.
As you leave Chicago behind, you’ll enjoy views of green fields, small towns, and tree-lined roads. While it’s a short trip, you might want to stop in charming towns like New Buffalo or South Haven—both offer cute coffee shops, art galleries, and local boutiques.
Once in Saugatuck, book a lakefront vacation rental to truly enjoy the lake life. Spend time out on the water with Retro Boat Rentals, a popular local option with boats for groups of all sizes. You can also explore Saugatuck Dunes State Park or relax at Oval Beach—one of the best beaches in the Midwest—perfect for reading and sunbathing.
After your outdoor adventures, check out Saugatuck’s local restaurants and breweries for a tasty way to end the day. This quick trip offers a perfect mix of relaxation, nature, and small-town charm.
6. Blend country music with mountain views
A road trip from Nashville to Asheville offers a perfect mix of music, nature, and luxury. Starting in Nashville, explore famous attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame before heading out of the city. The Southern Appalachian drive is filled with rolling hills, peaceful roads, and beautiful mountain views.
Along the way, take a break at top Tennessee hiking destinations like Cummins Falls State Park, where you can hike to a stunning waterfall. Another great stop is Fall Creek Falls State Park—one of the state’s most popular spots, perfect for outdoor lovers.
When you arrive in Asheville, North Carolina, you’ll find yourself in a creative, outdoorsy town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The city offers amazing hiking trails, a vibrant brewery scene, and excellent farm-to-table restaurants. One luxury attraction you can’t miss is the Biltmore Estate. Explore its beautiful gardens, tour the historic mansion, and relax with a wine tasting at the estate’s winery—one of the best wineries in North Carolina.
This Nashville to Asheville road trip is a well-rounded getaway that blends adventure, relaxation, and a touch of luxury.
7. Trade the beach for wine country
Escape the busy life of Los Angeles and relax with a peaceful road trip to California wine country. Driving from Southern California to the northern wine regions can be fast or scenic—it’s up to you. The I-5 freeway is the quickest route, the 101 offers a bit more scenery, and the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) gives you the most beautiful ocean views.
Along the way, you can stop in charming cities like San Luis Obispo, Monterey, Carmel, and San Francisco. These make great day trips or overnight stays if you want to stretch out your adventure. Once you reach the wine country, you’ll find that Sonoma has a cozy, small-town feel. It’s more local and laid-back compared to Napa, but both are close enough to explore during the same trip.
For a romantic getaway or special celebration, consider staying at top-rated luxury hotels in Sonoma like the Farmhouse Inn or The Madrona. While in Sonoma County, don’t miss a visit to Falling for Dainty, a boutique shop known for its permanent jewelry, charm bracelets, and unique gifts.
This California wine country road trip offers scenic views, world-class wine, and charming towns—perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or relaxing vacations.
8. Road trip with the girls to Vegas
If you’re planning a fun and lively girls trip, Las Vegas is one of the best destinations to consider. While Vegas is known for its casinos and pool parties, there’s so much more to do—think world-class shows, exciting concerts, unique museums, and unforgettable dining experiences.
Starting your road trip from Salt Lake City? You’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the Virgin River Gorge, a stunning canyon filled with colorful rock formations. After that, you’ll pass through open desert landscapes until you finally see the famous Las Vegas Strip come into view—that’s when the real excitement begins.
For a fun and stylish stay, check out Paris Las Vegas or The Flamingo—both are top picks for girls’ trips on the Las Vegas Strip. When it comes to food, don’t miss The Bedford by Martha Stewart, known for its cozy, upscale vibe and farm-to-table menu. And if you’re a fan of Vanderpump Rules, you’ll love having cocktails at the Vanderpump Cocktail Garden.
Looking for adventure? Ride the High Roller Observation Wheel for amazing city views or book a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour for an unforgettable experience. The great thing about Las Vegas is that it truly has something for everyone—whether you’re there to relax, explore, or celebrate.
