Stars, Stripes, and Staycations: Hot Domestic Destinations Worth Staying Stateside For
Key insights
- U.S. destinations can offer high-value experiences without international travel costs.
- State parks, national parks, and local resorts are ideal for families and retirees seeking a balance between affordability and enjoyment.
- Financial planning can support flexible, purposeful travel—whether you’re winding down a career or building memories with your kids.
If you’re debating whether to book a trip abroad this year, consider this: some of the best destinations for family vacations and wellness retreats are right here in the U.S. With international airfare surging and the U.S. dollar fluctuating overseas, more travelers are opting to stay stateside.
As a wealth advisor, I get this question often: “Where can I travel without derailing my
financial plan?” The answer is easier than most people think. If you’re strategic—
especially about timing, location, and how you book—domestic travel can deliver big
experiences without the big-ticket price tag.
Below are high-value U.S. travel ideas for young families, retirees, and anyone seeking cheap flights, meaningful escapes, and some well-deserved peace of mind.
SoCal beaches: reliable, affordable, and family-friendly
You don’t need to fly to Hawaii to get beach time. Southern California beaches like
Laguna, Encinitas, or San Clemente deliver sun, surf, and access to local dining without
the cost of resort chains.
Why it works:
- Many offer public parking and no resort fees
- Walkable downtowns reduce rental car needs
- Easy to pair with other stops (Disneyland or Sea World)
Budget tip: Look for bundled hotel and flight packages into John Wayne Airport or San
Diego International for the lowest fares and package incentives. With the airlines, they
often have vacation packages for popular destinations with discounts included!
National parks: Grand Teton, Acadia, and Zion’s Narrows
The National Park Service provides unbeatable access to natural beauty for a modest
cost. Three standout spots for 2025:
- Grand Teton (Wyoming): Great for boating, wildlife spotting, and proximity to Jackson Hole.
- Acadia (Maine): Perfect for East Coast families—hiking, cycling, and coastal
views. - Zion (Utah): Home of The Narrows, one of the most unique day hikes in the
country.
Why it works:
- A one-time $80 annual parks pass gives access to over 2,000 parks
- Senior annual pass – $20
- Senior lifetime pass – $80
- Military lifetime pass – Free
- Camping and budget lodges are available nearby
- Ideal for multi-generational trips and wellness-minded retirees
Don’t overlook state parks—hidden gems with big value
State parks are often skipped over, but they offer camping, glamping, and well-maintained amenities at a fraction of resort prices.
Examples include:
- Silver Falls State Park (Oregon): Waterfalls and hiking loops for all skill levels
- Devil’s Lake State Park (Wisconsin): Beach, forest, and picnic-perfect scenery
Hocking Hills State Park (Ohio): Affordable cabins and scenic gorges
Why it works:
- Less crowded than national parks
- Many offer RV sites, tent pads, and lodge-style cabins
- Great for families with pets or kids needing space to roam
Staycations done right: local resorts and off-season deals
Sometimes the best retreat is just down the road. Staycations at local resorts can feel luxurious without the stress of air travel.
How to do it smart:
- Look for mid-week rates or “locals-only” promotions
- Consider day passes to spas or golf clubs instead of full overnight stays
- Use credit card travel portals to redeem points and earn cashback
Staycations are especially ideal for:
- Parents of young kids not ready for full-scale travel
- Couples needing a quick wellness reset
- Pre-retirees balancing work and lifestyle shifts
A few travel tools we love
Here are some go-to apps and gadgets that can help you save money and simplify logistics:
- Skyscanner – Finds cheap flights and alerts for price drops
- Google Trips – Organizes your itinerary and documents
- “TravelWifi” & eSIM.sm – Provides mobile Wi-Fi without international roaming
- Airbnb & VRBO – Offers local lodging and curated experiences
- Get Your Guide – Discover local tours and last-minute bookings
Plan the trip, protect the budget
If you’re in your 30s or 40s, you’re likely juggling travel with budgeting, debt payoff, and saving for the future. If you’re in your 50s or 60s, you’re thinking about retirement income and how travel fits into your bigger picture.
Here’s how to make domestic travel part of a healthy financial plan:
- Build it into your annual cash flow plan
- Use a travel-specific savings account with automatic withdrawal
- Avoid credit card debt—use points, not payments
You don’t have to cross oceans to enjoy a meaningful break. Some of the best family vacations, wellness retreats, and financial wins are just a road trip or short flight away.
Domestic travel isn’t a downgrade. It’s a strategic choice that helps you stay connected, stay rested, and stay within your financial means.
If you’re thinking about your next trip—or how it fits into your long-term plan—we’d be happy to help.