WASHINGTON, DC — Traveling over the Fourth of July is usually expensive, but budget-conscious travelers can still find lower-cost U.S. getaway options for 2026. NerdWallet highlighted cities with relatively cheap flights, car rentals, hotel rates and holiday events.
The list also comes as the country marks its 250th birthday, which many destinations are expected to celebrate with extra programming around Independence Day.
Palm Springs and Miami offer warm-weather trips with lower airfare
Palm Springs, California, ranked near the top of NerdWallet’s list of cheapest places to fly for the holiday. The tradeoff is triple-digit heat, which can make early-morning hikes in Indian Canyons or a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway more appealing than midday sightseeing.
Miami, Florida, was another lower-cost option for travelers who do not mind the heat. The city’s holiday appeal includes beaches, rooftop parties and waterfront fireworks, along with indoor stops such as Pérez Art Museum Miami.
Bozeman and Hilo suit travelers who want outdoor access
Bozeman, Montana, stands out for summer weather, with average highs in the low 80s and long daylight hours. It also puts travelers within about two hours of Yellowstone National Park and less than 40 miles from the Livingston Roundup Rodeo, a long-running Independence Day tradition.
Hilo, Hawaii, offers a quieter Big Island trip than Oahu, with volcanic craters, rainforest hikes and lava tubes. NerdWallet pointed to the Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, a DoubleTree by Hilton, as a points-friendly place to stay.
San Antonio packs July Fourth events into downtown, the River Walk and theme parks
San Antonio, Texas, combines a strong holiday lineup with walkable attractions and a major fireworks show at Woodlawn Lake Park. The city’s Houston Street celebration runs July 1–6 with food vendors, performances and military honors.
Other holiday activities include events at the River Walk, Historic Market Square and The Alamo. SeaWorld San Antonio and Six Flags Fiesta Texas are also adding fireworks and patriotic programming for the weekend.
Orlando and Las Vegas add fireworks, theme parks and summer programming
Orlando, Florida, remains a budget-minded option for travelers who want theme-park access without relying only on Disney. NerdWallet noted SeaWorld Orlando tickets start at about $70 for adults, compared with Disney’s one-day adult pricing starting around $120.
Las Vegas, Nevada, rounds out the list with multiple fireworks displays, including shows over Caesars Palace and at the Plaza Hotel & Casino. The city is also leaning into summer events such as dive-in movies and weekend fireworks tied to the nation’s 250th anniversary.
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