Looking to connect with America’s past while keeping costs low? These five summer road trips celebrate the nation’s heritage—from pioneering trails to civil‑rights landmarks—without breaking the bank. Discover entrance fees, campground rates, and must‑have planning apps to guide your journey.

1. Route 66: Chicago to Santa Monica

Why Visit?
Known as the “Mother Road,” Route 66 embodies classic Americana—vintage diners, neon signs, and small‑town charm. It’s the best way to relive mid‑century road‑trip nostalgia.

Route & Budget Tips:

• Fees: No tolls or entrance fees.

• Camping: KOA campgrounds along the route start around $30/night.

• Highlight: Snap photos at the iconic Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo and the Wigwam Motels in Holbrook.

2. Lewis & Clark Trail: St. Louis to Astoria

Why Visit?
Follow the footsteps of Lewis and Clark as you traverse rivers, plains, and mountains on this 4,000‑mile historic corridor.

Route & Budget Tips:

• Passes: No fee for National Historic Trail sites.

• Camping: Numerous BLM and Forest Service campgrounds average $15–$25/night; book in advance on Recreation.gov.

• Highlight: Visit the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center in Great Falls, MT (low‑cost admission).

3. Civil Rights Trail: Atlanta to Memphis

Why Visit?
This powerful route links key landmarks of the Civil Rights Movement, from the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site to the National Civil Rights Museum.

Route & Budget Tips:

• Fees: Most sites are free or ask for a small donation.

• Stays: Budget motels in Birmingham and Selma from $50/night; urban camping options via Hipcamp.

• Highlight: Attend a ranger‑led tour at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute for deep insights.

4. Gold Rush Trail: Sacramento to Yosemite

Why Visit?
Experience California’s Gold Rush heritage—from historic towns like Columbia to the awe‑inspiring beauty of Yosemite.

Route & Budget Tips:

• Entrance Fee: Yosemite Valley fee is $35/vehicle (7 days).

• Camping: Friday Campground outside Yosemite starts at $20/night; reserve on Recreation.gov.

• Highlight: Pan for gold at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park (modest admission).

5. Underground Railroad Byway: Cincinnati to Detroit

Why Visit?
Trace the secret routes to freedom used by enslaved people—visiting museums, historic homes, and river crossings along the Ohio River.

Route & Budget Tips:

• Fees: Entry fees vary; many key sites offer free admission days.

• Camping: Oak Openings Preserve SP near Toledo offers tent sites from $15/night.

• Highlight: Tour the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn for comprehensive exhibits (discounted online tickets).

Tips to Travel Cheap in Summer 2025

• Plan with Apps: Map your heritage journey in Roadtrippers, compare gas prices via GasBuddy, secure camping spots on Recreation.gov, and discover unique stays through Hipcamp.

• Book Early: Historic sites and nearby camps fill quickly in summer—reserve campsites and any timed‑entry tours as soon as possible.

• Combine Free & Paid: Alternate between free heritage sites and low‑cost attractions to stretch your budget further.

Final Thoughts

From neon Route 66 nostalgia to the solemn paths of the Civil Rights Trail, these heritage‑focused drives prove that exploring America’s history can be both enriching and affordable. With current fees, camping options, and four essential apps at your side, your Summer 2025 adventure awaits.