StudentUniverse.com

Nobody likes sitting at home all summer. Work, work, family barbecue, work, work; this isn’t how summer should be. When the movie theaters and shopping malls just aren’t cutting it for you here is a top 10 list of some pretty cool places that can fit any budget. Not sure you can manage to scrape some money together? Some of these cities may be close enough to drive to in a day or less. So what are you waiting for? Choose your next budget friendly trip and say goodbye to the lame and everyday.

St. Louis, Missouri

This slower paced city is perfect for a lazy vacation. Walk around the city and explore the various neighborhoods, foods, and old buildings. The Gateway Arch is the centerpiece and iconic landmark for the city. Forest Park is a must see and is one of the country’s largest parks. With sports, boating, fishing, running paths, an art museum and a zoo all open to the public, it is easy to see why a trip to St. Louis would be good for a person on a budget. If you happen to go during the forth of July weekend get ready for a great festival of colors and excitement.
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Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The beach is what draws college students in. One of the best places to travel on a budget, Myrtle Beach is not one of those crazy over-priced tourist cities. It caters to the everyman. Broadway is a combination of bars, restaurants, and shopping. This is your one-stop nightlife destination. If you are heading with a bunch of friends, look into condo and beach house rentals. You will be surprised how affordable they can be split between a few people.

Lake George, New York

Camping around this area is inexpensive. Plus you get the added perk of the lush scenery and being able to cook your own meals. There are free beaches at various points on the lake for swimming and laying out. Other free and inexpensive activities include hiking, kayak rentals, and paddle boats. The bars aren’t too bad either here. Enjoy dollar draft nights at some of the local bars. Or just grab a log next to the camp fire and enjoy some quality time with friends.

Washington DC

The country’s capital happens to be a relatively inexpensive place to visit. All outdoor monuments including the Lincoln and Jefferson are free to see. The National Mall is one of the most famous sites here as well. It connects to the White House, most monuments, the Holocaust Memorial, and the FBI building just too name a few things. Walk around, sit on one of the benches and take it all in. Accommodations aren’t bad either to make this a great budget trip.

Niagara Falls, Ontario

The falls are free to look at and walk around various gardens. Maid of the Mist, White Water Walk, and Journey Behind the Falls are the top sights and are fairly priced. Nightlife can be expensive or not depending on where you go. The main drag in downtown Niagara is the best place for bars. Many hostels are located around this area for cheap accommodations. And for other nightlife activities try out one of the casinos on the Canadian side.

New Orleans, Louisiana

If you are looking for a good, old southern fun time then head to New Orleans. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina this city is looking for business and is ready and willing to go above and beyond for tourists. College students love to come during Mardi Gras and Phat Tuesday, but don’t count out the summer for a fun budget trip. With the French Quarter and Bourbon Street and river ferries and cruises there is plenty to keep busy with. One of the most celebrated and historic cities in the southwest, New Orleans is a great place to visit.

Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta has a lot to offer to college students traveling on a budget. With inexpensive museums like Atlanta Cycloram and the Jimmy Carter library there is fun educational things to see and do. If that’s not your style there is always the World of Coca Cola complete with free samples. Then there is Turner Field and the Georgia Dome. No matter what there is a lot to see here. Downtown has great shops and cheap eats too like the Varsity with the world’s largest drive-thru.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Summer is the best time to visit Philadelphia or “Philly”. Grab a traditional cheese steak and hit the cobblestone roads for this fun trip. With non-stop outdoor festivals, concerts, activities, and yes actors dressed up in 18th century garb you know you will be having a fun time here. There are plenty of hostels and cheap hotels in the area to make this a very budget friendly place.

Grand Canyon, Arizona

Check out the North Rim and South Rim here. Take an audio tour with your own cell phone. Take a scenic ride overlooking the canyon. Then crash in your tent at your awesome campsite. The Grand Canyon is one of the most fun and inexpensive summer getaways. Outdoor activities is what makes this a place people keep wanting to come back for more. Besides gas money, you will not be needing to spend much of anything here.

Nashville, Tennessee

The country music capitol of the world, this place is a rumpin’ home style good time. But don’t let the fact that Nashville is country music haven turn you off. There are plenty of posh and sophisticated city things to do as well. Nightlife here is cheap and good. Not all places are going to be budget friendly, but there are enough to make this place find a spot on this list. Plus there are so many things to see and do and places to visit. Roam the streets and window shop to your heart’s content.