How to celebrate on vacation this summer despite the rising costs of travel

Let’s Celebrate! Yes, but… gas prices and rising airfares are putting a crimp in our travel style this summer. And many of us are nervous about international trips with the war in Iran continuing.

Yet, vacations are too important for us to forego! Although we may switch gears a bit this year.

Campspot, a leading booking platform for RV, tent and glamping campgrounds, reports in its new survey that nearly 70 percent of travelers say higher costs are disrupting summer travel plans. The majority are reducing air travel and are more likely to choose drive-to getaways than last year.

Forty percent of us express concern that high gas prices will greatly impact travel plans, according to the American Travel Sentiment study from Longwoods International. The war in Iran is influencing decisions for international travel, though 90 percent of American travelers still plan to travel in the next six months.

Certainly, there are many reasons to travel this summer, even closer to home. The kids will only be this age once. There is a special anniversary or birthday to celebrate. And there are many celebrations going on this summer starting with the 250^th anniversary, Colorado’s 150^th birthday, and Route 66’s Centennial, to name a few. (Johnny Jet offers an excellent Guide to America 250 Events Worth Traveling For. . And if you can afford tickets, of course, there is FIFA with big fan festivals  in cities across the country where matches will take place including Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Seattle, and Kansas City.

Hilton is kicking off Hilton Honors America Experiences with 12 road trips for only 250 Hilton Honors Points, gas included. new Hilton Honors America Experiences will be added throughout the summer.

Wherever you go and for however long, invest in travel insurance, According to Squaremouth, interest in Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage has surged roughly 27% since the start of March amid recent global events.. This benefit functions as an extension of standard cancellation coverage, allowing travelers to cancel for reasons standard policies typically exclude, including government-mandated airspace closures and visiting regions with level 4 travel advisories, and still receive partial reimbursement for prepaid, non-refundable trip costs.

There are plenty of options for you to join the celebrations, stay within your budget and stay closer to home. Here are 12 of our picks:

WASHINGTON DC is center stage for the country’s 250^th birthday:

• It’s actually a year-long celebration with free events, special exhibits, openings and more, including the city’s neighborhoods, as well as the National Mall. (My Kid’s Guide to Washington, DC can help you explore.)
• The Thomas Jefferson Memorial, surrounded by the National Mall’s Tidal Basin, is bordered by the famous cherry blossom trees and will showcase new exhibits this summer. Thomas Jefferson, of course, not only wrote the Declaration of Independence but was the nation’s third president.
• A new museum beneath the Lincoln Memorial is slated to open in July, if not sooner.
• Use the National Park Service app to enhance your visit here and to the other monuments on the National Mall.
• See the Declaration of Independence at the National Archives where there is the Free and Independent exhibit through July. The Declaration’s Promise opens July 3 at the Library of Congress, complete with Thomas Jefferson’s rough draft of the Declaration of Independence and Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.
• See the official flowers of each U.S. state and territory at America’s State Flowers – U.S. Botanic Garden, through Oct. 1. Great American State Fair – National Mall, June 25-July 10 All 50 states and territories will showcase their food, culture, and pride.
• At the National Museum of American History, a new three-floor exhibit, In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness is open.
• Also coming at the end of June is a new National Geographic Museum of Exploration with interactive experiences.
• In July, there a massive renovation of the National Air and Space Museum will be completed with five new galleries.

MOUNT VERNON and MONTICELLO

• George Washington’s Mount Vernon has a new shuttle service from the King Street Metro station in Alexandria, Virginia, offering a convenient and direct connection to the historic estate. You can also travel by boat. Visit George Washington’s Farm, the final resting place of George and Martha Washington, the historic area where more than 50 enslaved men and women worked and a new exhibit George Washington :A Revolutionary Life and the Patriots Path, with a Revolutionary War encampment where you can chat with soldiers and learn about life as an 18^th -century soldier.
• Celebrate America’s 250^th at Thomas Jefferson’s Home Monticello near Charlottsville VA with special tours and family including a revamped hands-on discovery room and the new exhibit 1776: Road to the Declaration. It explores the challenges and uncertainties of the year the United States proclaimed independence. Visit Mulberry Row and learn about the lives of the plantation’s enslaved community.

VIRGINIA’S HISTORIC TRIANGLE is a 200-square-mile area on the Virginia Peninsula:

• It contains three major colonial sites—Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown—linked by the scenic Colonial Parkway.
• It offers a comprehensive look at early American history, from the first permanent English settlement (1607 at Jamestown) to the Revolutionary War’s final battle (1781 at Yorktown).
• Colonial Williamsburg, celebrating its centennial, is an expansive living history museum that depicts life before and during the American Revolution with many hands-on experiences (Join the Revolutionary Army!)
• The Crawford Archaeology Center is a hands-on working lab that gives visitors a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how historians and archaeologists uncover and interpret 18th-century life.
• The Great American Birthday Quilt is a remarkable 500-foot-long installation created from submissions across the country and displayed in Merchants Square throughout 2026.
• Tour the Yorktown Battlefield where British Forces surrendered in 1781, visit a farm from that era and the interactive American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.
• The newly launched free Virginia 250 Passport encourages visitors to commemorate America’s 250th by exploring 70 premier historic sites and museums across five regions of Virginia.
• Busch Gardens Williamsburg continues its popular Food & Wine Festival Thursdays to Sundays through June 21, featuring more than 135 international flavors and headlining concerts from artists including Hoobastank and Skillet.

PHILADELPHIA was our nation’s first capital:

• It is where the Second Continental Congress adopted the name “United States of America” in 1776 and where the Declaration of Independence was written.
• See The Declaration’s Journey at the Museum of the American Revolution and the opening of two brand new galleries at the National Constitution Center. There is a new First Bank of the United States museum.
• Kids will love the Universal Theme Parks exhibit at The Franklin Institute, a behind the scenes look that goes into each park with eight immersive galleries.
• A new exhibition at the Independence Seaport Museum explores how our new nation built its economy back up in the aftermath. A Nation of Artists debuts at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts showcases over 300 years of American art.
• The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History marks the Semi quincentennial with a special exhibition, The First Salute, takes a look at never-before-told stories of the Jewish community’s connections to the American Revolution.
• Philadelphia’s World Cup Fan Fast will run through July 17, giving soccer fans a great place to meet up while Wawa Welcome America festival is expanding to a 16 day festival from June 19 to July 4 to commemorate the country’s 250^th birthday, said to be the country’s largest July 4^th celebrations and one of the largest free festivals in the country.
• From Memorial Day to Labor Day, Historic Philadelphia will be filled with modern-dressed storytellers and period-costumed History Makers, offering visitors and locals alike a chance to witness history brought to life right where it happened. Don’t miss Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival in Old City with dozens of massive, intricate, and handcrafted lanterns and installations constructed by Chinese artisans.

VALLEY FORGE NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK AT 50:

• The Continental Army spent the challenging winter of 1777 at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, so they could protect nearby Philadelphia from British attack. While General George Washington counted on the farms within the 3,500-acre site to support his troops, many died from starvation and illness during the brutal cold. The dense forest was cleared away to create a pastoral state park — a place of remembrance — in 1926. Feel the endurance and bravery of those who stayed to fight for the cause of independence. For the Bicentennial, President Gerald Ford declared it a national historic site.
• From July 3-5, the NPS celebrates its 50th year here with special Independence Day events, guide talks, re-enactors and more throughout the park.
• Free shuttle buses will be provided from outlying parking areas to manage the crowds. Tour it anytime with guided trolley tours or rent the National Park Service audio guides and drive yourselves.

NEW YORK CITY, once the new nation’s capital, at 250 and 400:

• The Big Apple goes all out July 1-8 in commemoration of America’s 250. New Yorkers will argue whether they love the Macy’s Fireworks July 4 better than the tall ships that visit the harbor.
• There’s more of both this summer with the Blue Angeles flight crew joining Sail4th250 parade of more than 70 tall ships and international naval craft. The flotilla circles the Statue of Liberty and overtakes the southern end of the Hudson River daily from July 3-
• The Times Square ball drop will “fall” eight times hourly starting July 3 — one for each US territory and time zone — to make the dawn of July 4.

BOSTON is the “Cradle of Liberty”:

• That’s because it was the center of colonial resistance, at or near the war’s first major battles (Bunker Hill, Lexington, and Concord) and the economic and maritime hub of colonial America.
• The British sought to control Boston while the rebellious colonists organized boycotts and demonstrations like the Boston Tea Party.America 250 programming builds on existing landmarks like the Freedom Trail. Learn more at Boston National Historic Park.
• Visit Meet Boston’s America’s 250^th Anniversary to learn about reenactments to citywide celebrations and 7 FIFA matches. Come for Boston Harborfest (July 2-4).
• Take a tour along Boston’s Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route that connects 16 important Revolutionary sites including Paul Revere House, the Bunker Hill Monument and Faneuil Hall.
• There are many Walk into History tours led by costumed interpreters.

CROISIEUROPE, the European river cruise company, is celebrating its 50^th anniversary:

• CroisiEurope offers a variety of itineraries that combine culture, scenery, and easy travel for families and multi-generational groups. Sailing on comfortable small ships with guided excursions and all-inclusive dining, families can discover multiple destinations while unpacking only once.
• During the summer season, CroisiEurope also offers special CroisiFamily Club cruises, designed specifically for families traveling with children and teenagers. These sailings include family-friendly excursions, adapted menus, and activities created for younger travelers.
• On ALL Family Cruises, kids under 16 cruise free (up to 2 free per paying cabin). There is also free single supplement for single parents traveling with eligible aged children.
• Those planning ahead can opt for one of the many Christmas Markets and holiday sailings Markets and Holiday sailing destinations – Andalusia, Venice, Amalfi Coast, Belgium as well as the ever-popular markets in France, along the Rhine and Danube.

COLORADO is celebrating its 150^th anniversary as a state:

• Summer brings festivals, treehouse stays, new museum exhibits and new hotels like the Kindred Resort in Keystone.
• Others include the inaugural Wildflower Festival in Breckenridge and the Moments That Made US exhibit at the History Colorado Center in Denver.
• A free Digital Passport Program is available on Colorado.com that encourages residents and visitors to explore Colorado’s attractions, businesses, and hidden gems to earn rewards, badges, and exclusive offers.
• A Statewide Anniversary Events Calendar includes nearly 150 celebratory drone shows in conjunction with some of the state’s most iconic events. These include Vail’s Go Pro Mountain Games, The Greeley Stampede and more.
• Red Rocks Amphitheatre is celebrating its 85^th year in operation. Just 15 miles from downtown Denver, the world-famous venue has nearly 10,000 seats flanked by 300-foot red sandstone rock formations, creating the best natural acoustics. This year’s lineup includes Rod Stewart, Paul Simon, The Avett Brothers, Hilary Duff, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Mt. Joy and many more.
• Colorado is home to 58 mountain peaks topping out at over 14,000 feet, known as “14ers.” Try climbing one – or even four in one day.
• Explore the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop, four National Parks, nine National Monuments, three National Historic Areas.
•  Did you know Colorado has more certified Dark Sky Places than most any other state?
• The Colorado Tourism Office has partnered with Wheel The World on a new Accessible Travel Program to amplify accessible travel across Colorado. In 2026, Wheel The World will offer new small group tours, the first of their kind in the U.S. And for Soccer Fans, The Colorado Rapids will host the largest soccer celebration in the city where fans can enjoy live viewings of every FIFA World Cup 26™ match, from the opening game on June 11 to the final on July 19.

THE CONSERVATION MOVEMENT TURNS 150:

• As the oldest conservation organization in the US, it’s fitting that AMC (formerly the Appalachian Mountain Club) is celebrating its 150th with a six-month-long cross- country relay! Whether you hike, bike, stroll or just enjoy hanging out in the great outdoors, there are free ways to participate in relay stages from Virginia to Maine.
• Some examples: Hike in from the ferry port and enjoy a beach day at their Fire Island hut on June 27. Paddle 11 miles from Lyme, New Hampshire to Norwich, Vermont on July 11.Hike in Acadia National Park on August 11. All events are free and there is rental gear for those new to the outdoors life. Free events and affordability are what unite members of the volunteer-run organization in presenting hundreds of guided activities each season. Learn more about them and their family outdoors programs here. 

SOCCER EVERYWHERE:

• There are 16 cities hosting games for the 2026 FIFA World Cup across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. That includes 11 US cities.
• You can view the full FIFA World Cup 2026 Match Schedule for exact dates but the tickets are notoriously expensive. The good news is that there are big fan festivals  in cities across the country where matches will take place including Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Seattle, and Kansas City.
• From June 11 through July 19, 2026, guests can step onto the LEGOLAND pitch and immerse themselves in a high-energy celebration packed with interactive games, an epic LEGO build and character experiences inspired by LEGO FIFA heroes.

CHICAGO is celebrating the opening of The Barack Obama Presidential Center:

• It opens to the public on June 19. It’s on a 19-acre campus aimed at inspiring, empowering, and connecting people to make change. It includes a Teen Action Lab, sports, wellness and city gardening programs for youth and adults.
• Visitors can engage with the Illinois250 Passport, encouraging exploration of historic sites throughout the region, Illinois250, programming will unfold throughout 2026 across the city’s leading cultural institutions and public spaces.
• Visit the Chicago History Museum to see “US at 250: Civic Action in Chicago,” and an exhibition exploring the city’s role in shaping movements.
• At the Chicago Botanic Garden, “America Grows: 250 Years of Garden Stories” (June through September 2026) will highlight the evolution of American gardening, including the legacy of victory gardens and community green spaces.
• Come for an outdoor concert at Millennium Park, the Chicago Gospel Music Festival (July 24-25), or the Grant Park Music Festival (June 10-Aug. 15, all free.

ROUTE 66 — The 100^th anniversary of the famous route:

• The actual Centennial is not until November, but all along the “Mother Road” there is plenty to see and do this summer.
• Loews Hotels is celebrating with a new campaign called Loews on 66, inspired by the original stretch of the Mother Road from Chicago to St. Louis complete with themed suites, a retro diner pop up in Chicago and soda fountain in St. Louis.
• RVshare offers a guide to the ultimate Route 66 road trip  including where to stay, special events and best sections to explore. There is a AAA Route 66 Road Fest in Tulsa, OK June 27 and 28^th including classic cars and kid-friendly activities.
• The Inn of The Five Graces, a Relais & Châteaux property located in the heart of Santa Fe, announces the launch of the Route 66 Grand Finale. This immersive seven-day road itinerary celebrates the final stretch of America’s most storied highway, from the historic heart of Santa Fe to the iconic “End of the Trail” sign at the Santa Monica Pier.
• With the longest continuous stretch of the Mother Road within a single city, Albuquerque NM is planning special Route 66 activations and events throughout 2026 to celebrate the centennial. We stayed on Route 66 in Albuquerque at the Arrive Hotel, a reimagined 6^th-story historic property overlooking the city’s landmark Robinson Park. (Come for the farmer’s market!).
• The road stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, spanning 2,400 miles and passing through eight states. This was the road those fleeing the Dust Bowl drove West in the 1930s and later, transporting troops and supplies during WWII. In the 1950s, this became the major road for car-crazed Americans on road trips with all varieties of attractions—everything from teepee shaped motels to frozen custard stands, reptile farms and fast food, including the first McDonald’s in San Bernardino, CA.
• President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal helped complete Route 66 and John Steinbeck coined the term “Mother Road.” This generation of kids, of course, knows it best from the animated Cars movies, Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park with Piston Peak, a new area inspired by Cars, coming to Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom with a National Park twist.

GET UNPLUGGED:

• According to the Kampgrounds of America 2026 Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report, many parents think camping with children is more relaxing than other vacations. And even with surging gas prices, camping and RV travel remains one of the most cost-effective ways to take a vacation, suggests Maddi Bougerie, a spokesman for RVShare.com which enables you to rent an RV directly from an owner.
• Also consider that these days, campgrounds can be more like resorts with pools, water play areas, dog parks, and activities. That’s not to say we are talking about camping in a tent pitched in the back country.
• Today, camping also means RVing and “glamping,” whether in platform tents with comfy beds and private bathrooms or cabins with full kitchens and Wi-Fi. You can stay in a custom Airstream at AutoCamp locations in California, North Carolina or Cape Cod, a Conestoga wagon in Utah, a yurt in Vermont’s Green Mountains or book a treehouse with Airbnb, among the options. (REI members can now get 20% off AutoCamp stays nationwide).

FESTIVALS EVERYWHERE:

• The Presidio of San Francisco today announced its 2026 summer event season, a dynamic lineup of mostly free festivals. NEW this season – Urban Jazz Dance Company presents the Bay Area International Deaf Dance Festival, a captivating performance featuring both deaf and hearing dancers.
• The International Folk Art Market (July 9–12): The world’s largest international folk-art market brings together 100+ artists from 50+ countries at Santa Fe Railyard Park. The Spanish Market (July 25–26): Founded in 1926, the Traditional Spanish Market celebrates its centennial with over 160 local artisans The Indian Market (August 22–23): The world’s largest juried Native art show features 1,000+ Indigenous artists from the U.S. and Canada showcasing jewelry, pottery, painting, and textiles.
• In New Hampshire, The Eastern Slope Inn will celebrate its 100th Anniversary with a week-long series of events from July 11–18, honoring a century of hospitality in North Conway.
• Milwaukee’s Summerfest, a nine-day celebration along Lake Michigan while the Joshua Tree Music Festival near the entrance of Joshua Tree National Park not only offers music but art, workshops, and plenty of kids’ activities.
• The World Food & Music Festival in Des Moines, IA highlights international cuisine as well as live performances.
• You are bound to find a festival wherever you are this summer.