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Austin. Texas
With plenty of free access to lakes, hiking trails and parks, Austin is a prime summer vacation spot—not to mention home to a budget-friendly food truck scene, says Tyler Govaars, chief travel blogger at The Weekend Edit. Other frugal activities include catching sight of the largest urban bat colony in the nation as 1.5 million bats take flight at dusk from under the Congress Avenue Bridge and visiting Bartons Springs, a natural cold spring pool that's well worth the $3 entry fee.
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Portland, Oregon
Along with being a nature-loving, foodie hotspot, Portland also offers a reprieve from sweltering summer temps thanks to its coastal location. While you could arguably spend your entire trip visiting the countless craft breweries and eateries, make sure to trek into the wilderness. "Check out Multnomah Falls and the Columbia River Gorge or take a day trip to Mt Hood for epic views or Cannon Beach to feel the ocean breeze— all of which are outdoors and free!" says Govaars.
Denver, Colorado
Thanks to Denver's central location, flights are typically affordable from major cities, notes Govaars. Plus, the cool summertime temperatures in the mountains make it ideal for hiking, exploring and camping. In the city itself, you can also snag free tours of breweries like Wynkoop, Great Divide and Coors, or spend some time at Denver City Park—home to the impressive Museum of Nature & Science Museum, as well as the Denver Zoo where kids under the age of 2 are free.
Knoxville, Tennessee
According to Amanda Festa, editor at Cheap Flights, there are a number of cities where the airfare is showing as much as a 41 percent decrease in fares compared to last year. Knoxville, Tenn., is among those that make the list, where flights are down 17 percent from last summer. A few free things you can look forward to once you're there? Free live music six days a week at the Downtown Visitors Center and a free trolley through the 225-year-old city with stops at various Civil War sites.
Charleston, South Carolina
Another spot rumored to have great airfare deals this summer? Charleston, South Carolina. From Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor (the place where the first Civil War shots were fired) to the colonial seaside homes dating back to the 17th century, there's an incredible amount to explore. Their food scene is unbelievable! Also not to be missed is Market Street and the Magnolia Plantation.
Fort Yargo, Georgia
This is a camping trip your kids will be talking about for ages—even if you're newbies to camping. Fort Yargo State Park in Georgia offers furnished, heated and electricity-outfitted yurts that accommodate six people for $85 a night. As far as daytime activities, the park's 20.5 miles of trails and a 260-acre lake should keep everyone plenty busy.
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San Juan, Puerto Rico
"San Juan is a great under-the-radar escape that is surprisingly easy to access and affordable for an exotic beach getaway," says Govaars. "And since it's a U.S. commonwealth, travelers can avoid the hassle of passports, visas and currency exchange that come with most Caribbean destinations." When you need a break from the sun and sand, pay a visit to Old San Juan, a charming city with cobblestone streets and vibrant Spanish buildings.
Hilo, Hawaii
Paradise might not be as out of reach as you may think. This summer, flights to the big island are showing less expensive fares, according to Cheapflights.com, which could bring you and the family a few days amid rainforest wildlife, spectacular waterfalls and one of the best farmers markets in Hawaii. Other affordable activities include exploring the nearby Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, as well as the breathtaking Liliuokalani Gardens.
Spokane, Washington
Bypass Seattle and head to the eastern end of Washington this summer. Aside from a cheaper flight, Spokane offers so many fun (and inexpensive) activities at your fingertips, including walking along Spokane Falls, cycling the Centennial Trail, visiting the sculpture park (including Spokane's 26-ton red wagon), playing at one of their many splash pads or listening to a free concert at one of the city's many parks.
Montague, Michigan
Nothing says summer like a trip to sleepaway camp. And thanks to Camp Pendalouan in Western Michigan, families of all ages can partake in an authentic summer camp experience together. The affordable all-inclusive fee (which is $55 per person ages 13 and up, $30 per child ages 6-12 and free for children 5 and under) covers activities for the week, including zip-lining, archery and horseback riding, along with hot meals in the rustic Nikana Lodge.
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