About 82% of Americans plan to travel this summer, and 42% expect to take more than one trip. The main question is: where is the best place to go?
You may already have a few destinations in mind, but your travel budget may not match up, especially considering how expensive gas and plane tickets can be. It’s ideal to find a place that allows you to have fun while keeping your expenses under control.
To identify the places that offer the most bang for your buck, WalletHub developed a ranking of the cheapest U.S. destinations that are also easy to get to. In total, they analyzed 100 of the largest metropolitan areas across 41 key metrics. The data set ranges from the cost of the cheapest flight to the number of attractions to the average price of a meal for two.
Atlanta stood out in this ranking, taking the top spot as the most affordable summer travel destination in the US.
Atlanta, the affordable gem for traveling in the US during summer 2024
Known for hosting the 1996 Olympic Games and home of the famous Coca-Cola, this city is the ideal place for those looking for a budget holiday.
WalletHub analysts singled out Atlanta as the most affordable option for travelers looking to save during the warmer months. The city beat out popular destinations like Washington DC and Orlando.
According to the report, “the Atlanta metropolitan area is the best destination for summer travel, in part because the cheapest flights from major cities don’t require any connections and can cost as little as $278.”
What to do in Atlanta during the summer
Atlanta offers a wide variety of activities both inside and outside the city limits, ensuring that visitors have an unforgettable experience without having to spend a fortune.
1) World of Coca-Cola
If you were planning on visiting the Acropolis or the Colosseum in Rome, you can change those plans and head to the World of Coca-Cola. This interactive museum at the home of the famous soft drink allows visitors to have a unique hands-on experience. Admission is $21 and up, offering a fascinating tour of the history and cultural impact of Coca-Cola.
2) Centennial Olympic Park
Centennial Olympic Park is another must-see. This park commemorates the 1996 Summer Olympics, which, although controversial, are an integral part of Atlanta’s history. Don’t miss the Ferris wheel, which offers spectacular views of the city skyline.
3) College Football Hall of Fame
Although summer isn’t football season, the College Football Hall of Fame offers an educational and interactive experience. This museum allows visitors to kick a field goal while learning about the history of college football, a sport that the American South prides itself on perfecting.
4) Atlanta Braves games
Baseball fans can enjoy an Atlanta Braves game. Although their stadium is located a county away and does not have train connections, attending a game is an exciting experience and a great way to immerse yourself in the local sports culture.
5) Gastronomy and Nightlife in Atlanta
Not only is Atlanta affordable, it also offers exceptional cuisine and a vibrant nightlife.
A visit to Atlanta wouldn’t be complete without trying the famous lemon pepper wings, a dish that has become an icon of local cuisine. For a more sophisticated dining experience, Atlanta boasts five Michelin-starred restaurants, making it a top culinary destination.
Nightlife in Atlanta is another of its big draws. The city has one of the freshest last-call hours in the country, with bars closing at 4 a.m. After a night of fun, head to a nearby Waffle House, a chain restaurant that rarely closes and is a true icon of the American South.
Cultural and Entertainment Attractions
Atlanta offers many cultural and entertainment activities that are perfect for the whole family.
1) Pop Culture Tours
Pop culture lovers can enjoy private tours of the filming locations of the popular series “Stranger Things.” These tours are a hit with visitors and offer a unique look at the locations where the series was filmed.
2) Vineyard Excursions
For those who enjoy wine, a day trip to North Georgia to tour local vineyards is a great option. These vineyards offer tastings and tours that allow visitors to learn about wine production in the region.
3) Six Flags over Georgia
Thrill seekers can visit the nearby Six Flags over Georgia amusement park. This park offers a variety of rides and roller coasters that are perfect for a day of family fun.
4) Shopping in Atlanta
If the summer heat becomes too much, Atlanta offers numerous shopping centers where visitors can take refuge and enjoy an exceptional shopping experience.
5) Mall of Georgia
The Mall of Georgia, located in neighboring Gwinnett County, is one of the largest shopping centers in the region, at nearly 2 million square feet. This mall offers a wide variety of shopping, dining and entertainment for the entire family.
Other affordable US cities to visit in summer
1) Washington DC
2) Orlando
3) Honolulu
4) Tampa
5) Austin
6) Philadelphia
7) Chicago
8) The Passage
Keep reading:
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* From New Jersey to a true tropical paradise
* The 10 most polluted beaches in the United States in 2024