Now that you know how to save money on your summer vacation to California let’s head north to the breathtaking state of Oregon. I like to call this trip beauty on a budget. Oregon’s coastal highway provides access to some of the most spectacular views in the nation and the best part—they’re free.
All of the beaches along Oregon’s coast are open to the public and access is guaranteed by law. Which means you can pull over, park, unpack your picnic and spend the afternoon whale watching, looking for agates, crabbing, surfing, strolling, or exploring shipwrecks anywhere along the 363-mile coast without spending a single dime.
Oregon’s coast is also home to a world-class aquarium and a family oriented marine science center, both of which are relatively affordable to visit. If you are really strapped for cash consider opting for a chance to search for legendary buried treasure along the coast or dig through your pockets and in between the seats of your car for coins that you can use to try your luck at tribal casinos that dot the coastline.
U.S. Hwy. 101 in Oregon is also where you will find affordable motels that offer modest and clean rooms in the $35-$50 range. You can save even more money by staying at one of Oregon’s state parks, which feature camping facilities ranging from the very basic to lavish cabins. Rates vary and in the summer especially, reservations are advisable through the Oregon State Parks Department.
The drive from Portland to Astoria along the Columbia River is known for its incredible views. The trip will take you about two hours provided you keep your stops to a minimum. Once you get to Astoria take a couple hours to tour the Columbia River Maritime Museum. It’s open daily and is a wonderful place to expose your children to hands-on displays that teach them why the nearby river’s mouth is called the “Pacific Graveyard.”
If you get back in your vehicle and drive just south of Astoria you’ll find Fort Clatsop where the Lewis and Clark expedition spent the winter of 1805-1806. It’s part of the national park system and contains a replica of their fort and an interpretive center and bookstore. You can save on admission, but the books will cost you.
Related Articles:
Saving Money on Your Summer Vacation: Spending Less in California
Enjoy a Spring Fling in Oregon
Family Travel: Time To Stop and Smell The Roses
Visiting Crater Lake National Park