In the summer time expenses can add up. Going out to eat with friends, retail therapy, and trip costs are just a few ways fees can start to stack on.
Trips are usually the most expensive activities. It’s hard to find a balance between budget friendly and exciting. To help, here are five spots (local to the midwest) that won’t empty out your wallet but will be super exciting!
Starved Rock State ParkÂ
Starved Rock is a state park of Illinois located in LaSalle county. There are many hiking trails, often inclusive of incredible views, waterfalls, and many canyons. It was formed by glacier meltwater. Â
The park offers lodging as well as camping grounds, with camping being the more cost friendly option. Â
Starved rock would be a fun trip with family or friends! Their trails range in difficulty and length, suitable for varied preferences.Â
Apostle Islands, Wisconsin
The Apostle Islands are a group of over a dozen islands in Wisconsin off of the Bayfield Peninsula in Lake Superior. Many islands are open to hike, kayak, or camp, nearby or on. Â
The sea caves have been noted to be a must-see. They can be visited via boat-cruise or kayak. The caves visually change a lot throughout the seasons, it could be worthwhile to visit again in the winter!
The Apostle islands also hold many lighthouses. Raspberry Island Lighthouse has been noted by many to be worth visiting
Mammoth Cave National ParkÂ
Closer to the south, Mammoth Cave is located mostly in Edmonson county, Kansas. The national park offers cave tours, camping, kayaking, hiking and more.Â
The cave has been named a UNESCO heritage site. This is because the park is the world’s longest known cave system. It also has a high rate of biodiversity, and visitors can observe evolutionary history.Â
The summer is a great time to get out on the water and go kayaking, canoeing, or boating!
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is located in Michigan and offers beaches, sand dunes, fishing, hiking trails, and scuba diving.Â
There are also islands located in Lake Michigan that are open for hiking and camping, these are called the Manitou Islands. However, in 2026, visitors will have limited access to the islands due to a construction project.
Videos of the dunes have circulated online due to their steepness and height. The fine for being recused (which can add up to $3,000), has also received attention online.Â
Summer trips do not have to be expensive to be fun. Staying local and exploring new spots can be just as fulfilling as traveling out of the country. Try a few of these spots this summer, with family or friends, and report back!