This Is What a $1,000 Summer Vacation Looks Like in 5 US Cities
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This guide shows how far $1,000 can go in several U.S. cities, breaking down real costs for gas, lodging, food and activities and proving that a great vacation is still within reach.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Estimated Total: $973
Myrtle Beach remains one of the most affordable summer travel spots, offering oceanfront views and family-friendly attractions.
Transportation: For travelers within driving distance, a 300-mile round trip is estimated to cost around $60 in gas.
Accommodation: Mid-range hotel rates average $174 per night, according to PR Newswire. A three-night stay totals about $522.
Food: Average food spending is about $97 per day for dining out at typical mid-range restaurants, according to Budget Your Trip. Over three days, totaling approximately $291.
Activities: Beach access is free and affordable attractions like mini-golf, arcades and the boardwalk keep entertainment costs around $100.
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San Antonio
Estimated Total: $907
Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, San Antonio is a budget-friendly destination perfect for a Southwest road trip.
Transportation: Driving 300 miles typically costs about $60 in fuel.
Accommodation: Mid-range hotels average roughly $180 per night, according to TimeOut, making a three-night stay around $540.
Food: Setting aside $69 per day covers a variety of local favorites like Tex-Mex, barbecue and casual dining, totaling about $207 over three days, according to Budget Your Trip.
Activities: While highlights such as the River Walk and The Alamo are mostly free, including museum entries and guided tours brings activity costs to approximately $100.
Minneapolis
Estimated Total: $920
With its blend of urban culture and abundant green spaces, Minneapolis offers an affordable and engaging getaway in the Midwest.
Transportation: A 300-mile round trip drive generally costs about $60 in gas.
Accommodation: Mid-range hotels typically run around $180 per night, according to Kayak adding up accommodation costs to roughly $540 for a three-night stay.
Food: According to Budget Your Trip, allocating about $70 per day lets you experience local favorites such as craft breweries, diverse restaurants and casual dining, totaling roughly $210 over three days.
Activities: Many parks, museums and outdoor attractions are free or low-cost, but budgeting around $110 covers extras like guided tours, bike rentals and admission fees.
Washington
Estimated Total: $970
With its iconic landmarks, free museums and walkable neighborhoods, Washington, D.C. offers a culturally rich experience at an affordable price.
Transportation: A 300-mile round trip by car is estimated to cost about $60 in fuel.
Accommodation: According to Booking.com, mid-range hotels average $170 per night, according to Kayak. A three-night stay comes to approximately $510.
Food: A Reddit travel thread suggests budgeting around $100 per day for mid-range meals, which amounts to approximately $300 over three days.
Activities: Most of the city's top attractions, including the Smithsonian museums, National Mall and monuments, are free to visit. However, setting aside about $100 allows for extras such as guided tours, museum shows, Metro passes or bike rentals.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Estimated Total: $900
Known for its stunning natural beauty and geothermal wonders, Yellowstone offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Transportation: A 300-mile round trip drive typically costs around $60 in gas.
Entrance Fee: The park charges $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. Outside Online
Accommodation: Lodging near the park averages about $185 per night for mid-range options, according to Booking.com, totaling approximately $555 for three nights.
Food: Budgeting about $80 per day covers meals at local diners, casual restaurants and groceries, adding up to roughly $240 over three days, according to Budget Your Trip.
Activities: While many park trails and sights are free to explore, setting aside about $60 covers entrance fees, guided tours and rentals like bikes or boats.
Editor's note: Rates and fees are accurate as of July 28, 2025 and are subject to change. Gas prices are based on AAA's July 2025 national average of $3.16 per gallon.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: This Is What a $1,000 Summer Vacation Looks Like in 5 US Cities
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