Summer is a good time to skip the airport. If you want to explore without overspending or sitting through security lines, plenty of the best summer destinations in the U.S. are within reach by road.
From beach escapes to small towns with character, this guide highlights destinations across the country that a group can reach comfortably and affordably by bus.
Pack your sunglasses and a weekend bag, and start planning.
Why travel by bus this summer?
For a group, traveling by bus is often cheaper than flying, lower in emissions per passenger and far more relaxing than airport security and connecting flights.
A private charter bus typically gives you:
- Reclining seats with legroom on most motorcoaches
- Power outlets and Wi-Fi on many coaches (your quote confirms the amenities)
- One pick-up point and one schedule for the whole group
- Door-to-door travel to the summer destination you choose
For long-distance and multi-day trips, driver lodging is quoted separately; drive hours follow federal limits.
1. Asheville, North Carolina – Blue Ridge scenery and breweries
Why go? Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville has an artsy downtown, great hiking and plenty of breweries for an easygoing summer trip. Expect lively streets, scenic trails and rooftop bars.
What to do:
- Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
- Try a tasting flight at New Belgium Brewing
- Tour the Biltmore Estate
Average summer temps: 75°F – 85°F
Within driving range of: Atlanta, Charlotte and other Southeast cities
2. Traverse City, Michigan – a small town with big summer appeal
Why go? Known as the Cherry Capital of the World, Traverse City also has beaches, wine tours and pleasant summer weather. It is an underrated summer destination with a lot to do for its size.
What to do:
- Relax on Lake Michigan’s beaches
- Hike the trails at Sleeping Bear Dunes
- Attend the National Cherry Festival (verify dates)
Average summer temps: 70°F – 80°F
3. Santa Fe, New Mexico – art, culture and desert sunsets
Why go? Santa Fe is where the desert meets design. It is warm, walkable and very photogenic, and often less crowded than other Southwest destinations.
What to do:
- Explore the art galleries on Canyon Road
- Try green chile in as many dishes as you can
- Watch a desert sunset from the Cross of the Martyrs
Average summer temps: around 85°F, with dry air
4. Charleston, South Carolina – Southern charm with a sea breeze
Why go? Cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses and plenty of iced tea. Charleston brings history, hospitality and summer sunshine together in one place.
What to do:
- Walk through the Historic District
- Have seafood by the harbor
- Spend an afternoon at Folly Beach
Average summer temps: 80°F – 90°F
5. Portland, Maine – cool weather and lobster rolls
Why go? When the South heats up, head north for cool breezes, lighthouses and fresh seafood. Portland is a New England coastal city with plenty of charm.
What to do:
- Visit the Portland Head Light
- Eat lobster rolls
- Explore the Old Port
Average summer temps: 68°F – 78°F
Within driving range of: Boston, NYC, Philadelphia
Sources: Travel + Leisure, Lonely Planet
Here are five more destinations, each with its own experiences, for travelers looking for affordable summer trips across the U.S.
6. St. Simons Island, Georgia – coastal charm and quiet
Why go? St. Simons Island is a calm barrier island known for winding bike paths, large live oaks and quiet beaches. It keeps a relaxed feel even in peak season.
What to do:
- Explore historic sites like Fort Frederica
- Kayak through the salt marshes
- Relax on uncrowded beaches (gofargrowclose.com)
Average summer temps: 85°F – 90°F
Within driving range of: Atlanta, Savannah, Jacksonville
Sources: nypost.com, thetimes.co.uk
7. Door County, Wisconsin – lakeside calm and cherry orchards
Why go? On a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County has small villages, cherry orchards and a scenic shoreline. It is a good mix of relaxation and adventure.
What to do:
- Visit lighthouses and limestone cliffs
- Go sailing or kayaking
- Explore the local food and culture
Average summer temps: 70°F – 80°F
Within driving range of: Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison
8. Bozeman, Montana – gateway to the outdoors
Why go? Set in the Rocky Mountains, Bozeman is a great base for nature lovers. With hiking trails, clear streams and plenty of wildlife, it suits an active and affordable summer getaway.
What to do:
- Explore nearby Yellowstone National Park
- Fly fish on the Madison River
- Walk the lively downtown
Average summer temps: 75°F – 85°F
Within driving range of: Salt Lake City, Denver, Spokane
9. Chattanooga, Tennessee – the Scenic City
Why go? Chattanooga mixes outdoor activities, culture and Southern hospitality. Set along the Tennessee River, it is known for its landscapes and lively arts scene.
What to do:
- Walk across the Walnut Street Bridge
- Visit the Tennessee Aquarium
- Head up Lookout Mountain
Average summer temps: 80°F – 90°F
Within driving range of: Atlanta, Nashville, Birmingham
10. The Ozarks, Missouri and Arkansas – natural beauty and Americana entertainment
Why go? The Ozark Mountains have rugged terrain, waterfalls and caves, a great backdrop for outdoor activities. Branson, Missouri, adds classic live entertainment.
What to do:
- Explore Dogwood Canyon Nature Park
- See a show in Branson
- Hike and fish at Withrow Springs State Park
Average summer temps: 80°F – 90°F
Within driving range of: St. Louis, Kansas City, Little Rock
Bonus mentions
Burlington, Vermont – cool breezes and good food
Want cooler summer weather and lakefront views? Burlington, on Lake Champlain, has a strong food scene, bike-friendly paths and independent shops.
What to do:
- Walk the Church Street Marketplace
- Rent a kayak on Lake Champlain
- Try local cheeses and craft beers
Average summer temps: 70°F – 80°F
Within driving range of: Boston, Albany, Montreal
Covington, Kentucky – underrated and unexpected
Across the river from Cincinnati, Covington is quietly becoming a summer favorite. It combines Southern charm, creative restaurants and German-influenced architecture without big-city prices.
What to do:
- Walk the Roebling Suspension Bridge
- Have dinner on the riverfront with skyline views
- Explore the MainStrasse Village historic district
Average summer temps: 75°F – 88°F
Within driving range of: Indianapolis, Louisville, Columbus
Tips for summer bus travel
- Book early
Vehicles book up quickly on peak summer weekends. Booking ahead gives you more choice and often better prices. - Travel midweek
Fewer crowds and often lower prices for both transportation and hotels. - Pack smart
Light layers, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle and headphones. - Explore like a local
Skip the tourist traps. Follow local blogs and tourism sites for free events, happy hours and good picnic spots.
Why a charter bus works for summer group trips
- Your itinerary, your route – A charter goes where your group wants to go, from big cities to small towns.
- Luggage travels with you – Bags go in the under-floor bays, with no airline baggage fees.
- Less stress – No security lines or missed connections. Just sit back and ride.
Ready for your summer trip?
Whether you are planning a long weekend, a family reunion or a friends’ trip on a budget, these destinations are all within reach by road.
Planning a summer trip for a group? CharterMyBus can arrange a charter bus with a driver; call (929) 831-5150 or email info@chartermybus.com.
