This article was written by Everly Mag Intern Londyn.

Whether on the East Coast, West Coast, or somewhere in between, summer is the perfect time to take the opportunity to travel. While traveling can be expensive, it doesn’t always have to be. You can gather a group of friends and take a road trip, check out buses such as the Megabus, which often have cheap fares, or even look for deals for trains and planes.

1. Washington, DC

Washington, DC is a great place to visit in the summer if you’re looking to have fun without spending all of your money! There are endless opportunities to explore without spending a penny. Be sure to check out the monuments including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Jefferson Memorial, which is a great place to watch the sunset. Also be sure to check out the many Smithsonian museums including the Air and Space Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, and the newest African American History Museum! If museums aren’t your thing, there are also so many diverse neighborhoods such as Georgetown where you can shop until you drop with your BFFs on M Street.

2. Big Sur, California 

If you’ve never heard of Big Sur before you may recognize photos of the beautiful California coastline. Big Sur is a great destination for a road trip with friends. If you’re more adventurous, and are looking for a place to camp, hike, and explore then this California coast is for you. This is also a great opportunity to disconnect from your phone for a bit, and enjoy the nature in front of you. 

3. Memphis, Tennesee

Nashville is known for being the musical city of Tennessee, but Memphis also has musical roots. To see what this musical city has to offer then be sure to go to Beale Street! It’s a lively street featuring many music venues, restaurants, and more. You’ll definitely be able to get a feel for the city, as you’ll be at the center of all the action. An added bonus of visiting Memphis is a visit to Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley, which is open to the public. 

4. Charleston, South Carolina

If you’re looking for a quaint city with a lot of charm than Charleston is the city for you. Southern hospitality is real in this South Carolina city where you can rent bikes to explore the city and live like a local. If you’re also looking to get some sun this summer, you can also check out the Charleston beaches. This charming city has so much to offer whether that be shopping, eating, or a history lesson. You’re bound to have fun. If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway then Charleston is perfect for you!

5. Chicago, Illinois 

Known as the windy city, Chicago is a great place to visit in the summer, as it warms up. One of the most famous cities in America, Chicago is filled with endless amounts of things to do. It’s a perfect place to visit if you’re looking to visit a city but might not want to visit a place such as New York. With famous landmarks such as The Bean, the Skydeck, and Wrigley Field you’ll definitely have many instagrammable moments. Also be sure to get a slice of deep dish pizza before you leave!

Which of these cities do you most want to visit?  Let us know in the comments!

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