10 Best Budget Road Trip Ideas – Where to Road Trip Cheap

If you’ve decided to hit the road, but need something cheap, I’ve put together my 10 favorite budget road trip ideas.

Hi, I’m Tonya. And if you don’t know me already, I have been road tripping with my family for the last 2 decades. We’ve traveled much of the US, ever since my children were babies.

I love a good road trip and I’m always trying to save money. These budget road trip destinations provide scenic drives, free or cheap attractions, and affordable accommodations and dining.

With gas price fluctuations, finding an affordable road trip can be tricky, but it’s still a great way to travel cheaply and see the USA.

These road trips are great for families, couples, or in a few instances, solo trips that are not too long.

I’ll break down each destination into sights to see, route to take, and a couple of dining and accommodation options.

Let’s get to it.

1. Forks, WA to Cannon Beach, OR (Olympic Peninsula)

This is one of my most recent budget friendly road trips I took with my daughter and I fell in love with the area. From the Twilight famous town of Forks, through lush Olympic National Park, down the Washington Coast, to Haystack Rock most famous for being in Goonies.

This is a budget-friendly drive through nature with tons of free, or relatively inexpensive attractions like beaches and rainforests.

Keep in mind, much of the area is part of Olympic National Park and certain sections are free, such as those around US 101. However, if you’re going to venture into the Hoh Rainforest, you will need either a National Parks Pass or pay the $30 vehicle fee.

Highlights:

• Drive through Forks and look for vampire references.
• Visit Rialto Beach for large driftwood barriers
• Stop at Ruby Beach for a scenic overlook
• Detour into Hoh Rainforest for lush tropical hikes
• Stop at Beach 4 during low-tide to seek starfish
• Come as You Are into Aberdeen
• Find the World’s Largest Frying Pan at Cape Disappointment
• Do the Truffle Shuffle in Astoria
• Look for One-eyed Willie at Cannon Beach

Driving Tips

• Follow U.S. 101 along the coastline for beautiful views and lots of scenic overlooks
• Keep going to Seaside for the official End of the Trail from Lewis and Clark

Free or Cheap Activities

• Explore Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach for free.
• Visit the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center for $5
• Take in the beauty of Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock.

Budget Lodging Options

• Campgrounds within Olympic National Park or affordable homestays like this one in Cannon Beach.

Affordable Dining

• Grab a burger at Sully’s Drive-in in Forks
• Bridgewater Bistro is right on the docks in Astoria. Pick and choose, as some items are not budget friendly, but some great options are.

2. Upper Peninsula, Michigan

I’ll admit, I haven’t done this route since I was very young. Lately, however, I’ve seen a lot of friends and family hit the open road in the U.P. and I must say I’m jealous.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, or the U.P., is a hidden gem for nature lovers and budget travelers. You won’t find busy interstates here.

It’s known for its waterfalls, lakes, and dense forests.

Highlights:

• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
• Tahquamenon Falls
• Lake Superior – The largest of the Great Lakes
• More Falls – there are over 300 falls in the U.P. and you can find a comprehensive list here.

Driving Tips

• Take M-28 across the U.P. with drives north to Tahquamenon and Pictured Rocks
• Gas stations can be sparse in the more remote parts—plan ahead to save on fuel.

Free or Cheap Activities

• Visit waterfalls like Tahquamenon Falls and Munising Falls for free.
• Scenic drives through Hiawatha National Forest and along Lake Superior’s shoreline.
• Enjoy Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with free hikes and vistas.

Budget Lodging Options

• Campgrounds in state parks or budget motels in Marquette and Munising.
• Consider VRBO cabins for an affordable stay in the wilderness.

Affordable Dining

• Dine at local cafes or diners offering fresh fish and Yooper pasties (savory pies).
• Stock up on groceries for picnic meals near the lake.

Experience two iconic American landmarks on this stunning Southwest road trip. This trip is budget-friendly with lots of free outdoor activities, including hiking in the Grand Canyon and exploring the unique rock formations in Monument Valley.

As with many National Parks, Grand Canyon charges a per-vehicle fee of $35, unless you have a National Parks annual pass.

Highlights:

• Grand Canyon National Park
• Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
• historic Route 89.

Driving Tips

• Stick to Highway 89 and 163 for direct, fuel-efficient routes.
• Enjoy the scenic desert landscapes but prepare for desert heat with plenty of water and fuel for your vehicle.

Free or Cheap Activities

• Free hikes like Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon.
• Ranger programs such as the Night Sky or cultural demonstrations
• Scenic viewpoints in Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.
• Visit Desert View Drive for stunning views of the Colorado River.

Budget Lodging Options

• Affordable camping at Mather Campground (Grand Canyon) or primitive camping spots in Monument Valley.
• Grand Canyon Railway Hotel starts at $162 a night.

Affordable Dining

• Stock up at local grocery stores in Flagstaff or Page and prepare your own meals.
• Grab inexpensive Navajo tacos from local food stands near Monument Valley.

4. Blue Ridge Parkway

This is hands down one of the most scenic drives in the U.S. and definitely one of the cheap road trip ideas you need to add to your list. The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches through the beautiful Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina and Tennessee, offering up free access to mountain views that will leave you in awe.

You’ll pass through spots like Great Smoky Mountains National Park, waterfalls galore, and plenty of charming mountain towns where you can stretch your legs and explore.

Highlights:

• Drive through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and soak in the scenic overlooks.
• Check out Linville Falls and Craggy Gardens for epic (and free!) hikes.
• Stop in Asheville for artsy vibes and free events happening downtown.

Driving Tips:

The best part? The entire drive is toll-free, which makes this trip easy on the wallet. Plus, the Parkway is full of scenic stops, so no need to veer off course and burn extra gas. Avoid the more touristy spots if you’re trying to save on fuel.

Free or Cheap Activities:

• Hike the Craggy Gardens trail for panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
• Check out the waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and nature trails — all free.
• Explore Asheville, NC, and you might stumble on a cool free festival or event.

Budget Lodging Options:

You’ll find plenty of affordable camping spots along the parkway, or you can snag a budget motel in one of the nearby towns. If you’re stopping in Asheville, look for last-minute deals on cabins or hostels to save some extra cash.

**2024 Note** This area experienced massive devastation due to Hurricane Helene. Please check local travel advisories before heading to the area. If you wish to help, donate to the Red Cross.

Affordable Dining:

Fuel up at farm-to-table restaurants or local diners serving hearty, budget-friendly meals. And if you want to keep it even cheaper, swing by a roadside stand for fresh produce and have yourself a picnic with mountain views.

5. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Glacier National Park)

If you’re looking for jaw-dropping alpine scenery, this is the road trip to take. Going-to-the-Sun Road cuts through the heart of Glacier National Park and gives you access to some of the most incredible mountain views you’ll ever see. Plus, outdoor lovers will appreciate all the free activities, from hiking to wildlife watching.

Once again, as this is a National Park, there is an entry fee of $30 unless you have a National Park Annual Pass.

Highlights:

• Drive up to Logan Pass for stunning vistas and endless photo ops.
• Hike the trails at Hidden Lake or Avalanche Lake for free, and you might even spot some mountain goats.
• Spend time at Lake McDonald — you can swim, canoe, or just relax by the shore without spending a dime.

Driving Tips:

The road is open seasonally, so plan ahead to make sure it’s accessible when you go. To save on gas and avoid parking headaches, hop on the park’s shuttle system — it’ll get you to all the major spots without the hassle.

Free or Cheap Activities:

• Hike the park’s free trails, like Hidden Lake and Avalanche Lake.
• Stop at Logan Pass and join one of the ranger-led programs — they’re free and offer great insights.
• Head to Lake McDonald for a refreshing swim or canoe session at no cost.

Budget Lodging Options:

Camping is the way to go in Glacier National Park. There are campgrounds right in the park, or you can find budget motels in towns like Kalispell nearby. If you’re visiting in the summer, definitely book campsites ahead of time to avoid missing out.

Affordable Dining:

Stock up on groceries in Whitefish and cook your meals at the campground. For a change of pace, check out some of the affordable diners or restaurants in Columbia Falls.

6. Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail

Take a journey through one of the most pivotal moments in American history. The Selma to Montgomery route follows the path of the 1965 marches for voting rights and gives you a chance to dive deep into civil rights history—all on a budget.

Highlights:

• Walk across the iconic Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, where the historic march began.
• Visit the National Voting Rights Museum and the Alabama State Capitol to complete your civil rights journey.
• Along the way, you’ll pass through historic sites and memorials that tell the story of the fight for justice.

Driving Tips:

The drive from Selma to Montgomery follows U.S. Route 80, a straightforward, budget-friendly route. There’s free parking available at most of the key historic stops, so no need to worry about extra costs there.

Free or Cheap Activities:

• Stand on the Edmund Pettus Bridge, a powerful landmark of the Civil Rights Movement.
• Check out the Selma Interpretive Center and the Lowndes Interpretive Center—both offer free entry and provide insightful exhibits about the marches.
• Once in Montgomery, take a self-guided tour of the historic sites downtown.

Budget Lodging Options:

If you’re looking to stay overnight, there are affordable hotel rooms and inns in both Selma and Montgomery. Or, for an even cheaper option, camp out at nearby state parks like Gunter Hill Campground, just a short drive from Montgomery.

Affordable Dining:

Make sure to stop at local soul food spots along the way for budget-friendly, hearty meals. You can also swing by local markets to grab snacks and pack up lunches for the road.

7. Skyline Drive (Shenandoah National Park)

Skyline Drive is a breathtaking journey through Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, offering an affordable escape into nature. With over 100 miles of scenic beauty, free hikes, and plenty of overlooks, this trip is perfect for those looking to soak up the outdoors without breaking the bank.

If you don’t have a National Parks Pass, entry fee for the entire vehicle is $30.

Highlights:

• Drive through Shenandoah National Park along Skyline Drive for 105 miles of uninterrupted mountain views.
• Hike part of the Appalachian Trail or explore the Dark Hollow Falls Trail for some easy, free nature time.
• Stop by Hazel Mountain Overlook for sweeping vistas, or visit the iconic Luray Caverns nearby.

Driving Tips:

Stick to Skyline Drive for your main route—it’s scenic and doesn’t require many detours. If you’re hoping to keep costs down, avoid the peak season when lodging and gas prices tend to climb.

Free or Cheap Activities:

• Lace up your boots and hike portions of the Appalachian Trail or take the Dark Hollow Falls Trail—both are free to explore.
• Stop at the many scenic overlooks along the way for incredible views without a price tag.
• Look out for wildlife, and don’t miss the ranger-led programs, which are free and full of interesting facts about the park.

Budget Lodging Options:

There are campgrounds within Shenandoah National Park that are budget-friendly, or you can find affordable cabins in nearby towns like Luray. If you prefer motels, Front Royal has some great low-cost options, and it’s right at the start of Skyline Drive.

Affordable Dining:

Bring a picnic! Stock up on groceries in Front Royal or Waynesboro before heading into the park. For something quick and affordable, local diners in Luray or Elkton serve up hearty meals that won’t drain your wallet.

8. U.S. Route 83: Texas to North Dakota

Take the road less traveled with this quirky adventure along U.S. Route 83, stretching from Texas to North Dakota. This rural drive offers a unique and budget-friendly way to experience small-town America and the natural beauty of the Midwest.

Highlights:

• Cruise through the wide-open spaces of the Nebraska Sandhills and catch the rugged beauty of the North Dakota Badlands.
• Discover charming small towns with unique stops like the Museum of the Plains in Texas.
• You’ll find plenty of quirky roadside attractions that add to the off-the-beaten-path charm of this trip.

Driving Tips:

Stick to U.S. Route 83—it’s a direct route, and by avoiding major cities, you’ll keep your fuel costs low. There are plenty of scenic stops along the way, so you won’t need to go far off course to take in the best views.

Free or Cheap Activities:

• Explore small-town museums like the Museum of the Plains in Perryton, Texas, for a glimpse into local history.
• Hike for free through the Nebraska Sandhills or the Badlands in North Dakota, both offering natural beauty at no cost.
• Stop at quirky roadside attractions and landmarks that make the journey even more memorable without adding to your expenses.

Budget Lodging Options:

Affordable campgrounds and motels are easy to find in small towns along the route, including Valentine, Nebraska, and Minot, North Dakota. If you’re looking for something a bit different, check out Airbnb options in rural areas for a cozy stay.

Affordable Dining:

Stop in at local diners and cafes along U.S. 83 for hearty, home-cooked meals at reasonable prices. You can also pick up supplies from local markets and enjoy picnic-style meals in scenic spots along the way.

9. Santa Fe Trail: Missouri to New Mexico

Step back in time on this historic road trip along the Santa Fe Trail, stretching from Missouri to New Mexico. With a rich history and scenic landscapes, this drive is perfect for a budget-friendly adventure packed with outdoor experiences and cultural highlights.

Highlights:

• Discover history at Bent’s Old Fort and Pecos National Historical Park, where the past comes to life.
• Soak in the scenic mountain views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains as you journey through the Southwest.
• Explore the vibrant culture of Santa Fe with its historic plazas and adobe architecture.

Driving Tips:

Follow the well-marked Santa Fe Trail for a direct and fuel-efficient route. Rural areas can be sparse with gas stations, so plan your fuel stops in advance to avoid any hiccups on the road.

Free or Cheap Activities:

• Visit Bent’s Old Fort and Pecos National Historical Park for free and dive into the history of the Old West.
• Take a self-guided tour through historic Santa Fe and explore the city’s old plazas at no cost.
• Enjoy the scenic mountain drives and take short hikes in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains without spending a dime.

Budget Lodging Options:

You’ll find plenty of affordable motels along the trail, particularly in towns like Trinidad, Colorado, and Las Vegas, New Mexico. For an even more budget-friendly option, camp at state parks like Cimarron Canyon and sleep under the stars.

Affordable Dining:

Experience New Mexican cuisine at local diners and budget-friendly spots in Santa Fe. Smaller towns along the way also have local markets where you can grab supplies for a picnic meal, making it easy to keep costs low while enjoying the journey.

10. Route 66: Chicago to Santa Monica

Get your kicks on one of America’s most iconic road trips! If you want to road trip across the United States, this is the quintessential drive to take.

Route 66 stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, filled with nostalgic Americana, kitschy roadside attractions, and affordable experiences, making it perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

This is obviously a longer road trip. Just about any portion of the over 2000 miles is a fun budget-friendly adventure. Maybe tackle it by one of the 8 states (Kansas is the shortest at 18 miles) or do a 3-4 day road trip of about 800-1000 miles.

Highlights:

• Snap photos at Cadillac Ranch in Texas, where vintage cars rise from the dirt as a colorful art installation.
• Visit small-town Route 66 museums to learn about the road’s rich history.
• Walk the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge in St. Louis, an architectural gem along the way.

Driving Tips:

Stick to the main Route 66 path, avoiding detours to save on gas. Many attractions are free or require only a small donation, so you can enjoy plenty without stretching your budget.

Free or Cheap Activities:

• Check out Cadillac Ranch for a quirky, free stop that’s perfect for photos.
• Explore Route 66 museums in towns like Clinton, Oklahoma, where admission is either free or donation-based.
• Take in the classic sights like the Chain of Rocks Bridge without spending a dime.

Budget Lodging Options:

Classic Route 66 motels and vintage motor inns are part of the experience and are often affordable. For even cheaper options, campgrounds and RV parks dot the route, letting you stay on budget while enjoying the nostalgic charm.

Affordable Dining:

Dine at retro diners and drive-ins for budget-friendly, all-American meals. If you’re looking to save more, stock up at local grocery stores and enjoy picnic lunches at scenic stops along the way.

Tools to Plan a Budget Road Trip

One of my favorite tools to come up with budget road trip ideas is Roadtrippers.

Roadtrippers allow you to plan a road trip, whether starting from home or traveling to your destination for a road trip, I always get fresh ideas for where to go.

It’s free to use, but if you want to save more than 5 waypoints, (points of interest) I’d highly recommend upgrading to the paid version.

Try Roadtrippers for $5 off the Premium Price with my code: BTR5QTP