Summer is the perfect time to explore the diverse and beautiful landscapes of the United States. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or both, the USA has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll cover the top summer destinations, essential travel tips, and hacks to make your summer vacation unforgettable.
Top Summer Destinations in the USA 2024
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
- Highlights: Geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife.
- Must-See: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Lamar Valley.
- Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds, and always carry bear spray when hiking.
- Carla Tip: Rent an SUV from Carla for a comfortable and spacious ride through the park.
- Price Per Day Starting from $41
Miami, Florida
- Highlights: Stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Cuban culture.
- Must-See: South Beach, Little Havana, and Art Deco Historic District.
- Tips: Book beachfront accommodations early and explore local food trucks for authentic Cuban cuisine.
- Carla Tip: Choose a convertible from Carla to enjoy the scenic drives along the coast.
- Price Per Day Starting from $16
San Diego, California
- Highlights: Beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions, and year-round sunshine.
- Must-See: San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and La Jolla Cove.
- Tips: Purchase tickets for attractions online in advance to save time and money.
- Carla Tip: Rent a minivan from Carla for a family-friendly option with plenty of space for everyone.
- Price Per Day Starting from $69
New York City, New York
- Highlights: Iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and endless entertainment.
- Must-See: Central Park, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty.
- Tips: Use public transportation to get around, and consider purchasing a CityPASS for discounted entry to major attractions.
- Carla Tip: Rent a compact car from Carla to navigate the city streets easily.
- Price Per Day Starting from $77
Honolulu, Hawaii
- Highlights: Pristine beaches, volcanic landscapes, and rich Hawaiian culture.
- Must-See: Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and Pearl Harbor.
- Tips: Plan activities early to avoid afternoon crowds, and try local dishes like poke and loco moco.
- Carla Tip: Choose a jeep from Carla to explore Hawaii's rugged terrains.
- Price Per Day Starting from $76
Grand Canyon, Arizona
- Highlights: Breathtaking views, hiking trails, and rafting adventures.
- Must-See: South Rim, Bright Angel Trail, and Havasu Falls.
- Tips: Book guided tours to learn more about the park, and bring plenty of water for hikes.
- Carla Tip: Rent a sturdy SUV from Carla to handle the desert roads easily.
- Price Per Day Starting from $41
Chicago, Illinois
- Highlights: Architectural marvels, vibrant arts scene, and diverse food culture.
- Must-See: Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and The Art Institute of Chicago.
- Tips: Take an architectural boat tour and explore the city’s neighborhoods for unique dining experiences.
- Carla Tip: Opt for a luxury car rental from Carla to cruise through Chicago in style.
- Price Per Day Starting from $22
More Affordable Car Rentals Across the US
Here are some more top car rental options available in various cities:
| Brand | Location | Car Segment | Price Per Day |
| Hertz | Seattle, WA | Compact Car | $58 |
| Sixt | Seattle, WA | Intermediate SUV | $267 |
| Thrifty | San Francisco, CA | Intermediate Car | $62 |
| Dollar | San Francisco, CA | Intermediate Car | $69 |
| Hertz | Denver, CO | Economy Car | $54 |
| Budget | Denver, CO | Intermediate Car | $49 |
| Avis | Atlanta, GA | Full-Size SUV | $123 |
| Hertz | Atlanta, GA | Luxury Car | $100 |
- Seattle, WA: Whether you prefer a compact car from Budget for $116 per day or an intermediate SUV from Avis for $157 per day, Seattle offers a range of options to suit your needs.
- San Francisco, CA: For visitors to the Bay Area, Thrifty offers an intermediate car for just $82 per day, while Dollar provides a similar option for $93 per day.
- Denver, CO: Explore the Rockies with an economy car from Hertz for $149 per day or an intermediate car from Sixt for $205 per day. These cars are perfect for both city drives and mountain adventures.
- Atlanta, GA: In Atlanta, you can rent a full-size SUV from Avis for $123 per day or opt for a luxury car from Budget for $138 per day, ensuring a comfortable and stylish ride.
Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Summer Vacation
Plan Ahead
- Book Early: Secure your flights, accommodations, and popular attractions in advance to avoid last-minute price hikes. This way, you can focus on enjoying your vacation without any worries.
- Flexible Dates: Be flexible with travel dates for cheaper rates and fewer crowds.
Pack Smart
- Essentials: Sunscreen, reusable water bottle, comfortable walking shoes, and a lightweight jacket for cooler evenings.
- Travel Size: Use travel-size toiletries to save space and comply with airline regulations.
Save Money
- Deals and Discounts: Look for deals on travel websites and consider using reward points for flights and hotels.
- Local Eats: Save money by eating at local diners, food trucks, and farmers' markets instead of touristy restaurants.
Stay Safe
- Health Precautions: Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and know local health guidelines.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance for peace of mind in case of unexpected events.
Travel Hacks to Enhance Your Experience
Maximize Your Time
- Early Start: Begin your day early to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. This simple hack can significantly enhance your sightseeing experience.
- Off-Peak Visits: Visit popular attractions during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
Tech Tools
- Travel Apps: Use Google Maps, TripAdvisor, and Yelp to find the best routes, attractions, and restaurants.
- Offline Access: Download maps and guides with limited internet access for offline use.
Stay Connected
- Portable Charger: Keep a portable charger handy to ensure your devices stay powered throughout the day.
- SIM Cards: To stay connected, consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international data plan.
TL;DR
Summer 2024 is your chance to explore the best the USA offers. From stunning national parks to bustling cities, there’s a destination for every type of traveler. You can make the most of your summer vacation by planning, packing smart, and using a few travel hacks. Let Carla help you make your trip even better with convenient and affordable car rentals. So, plan your trip now and prepare for an unforgettable summer adventure in the USA!
Ready to start your summer adventure? Book your travel with Carla and enjoy exclusive car rentals and more deals! Download the Carla App now and plan your perfect summer getaway.
