Top 10 Budget Summer Getaways

Whether it's a barbecue in your own backyard or a trip cross country, you'll want to check out our list for inspiration. Limited funds or not―we’ll show you where you can still squeeze a long weekend into a tight budget with top-rated restaurant and hotel picks at 10 of our favorite Southern destinations.

Art Meripol

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1: Outer Banks, NC

This is a great place to spend an early-summer weekend. You can be strolling a harbor boardwalk, surfing, or kicking back in your beach chair within a 30-minute radius―Beaufort, Morehead City, and Atlantic Beach join to create a jumping-off point for the southern tip of the Outer Banks.

Where to Stay: Blackbeard’s Lodge
A pirate theme abounds at this Outer Banks classic. Check in at a boat-front desk under a statue of Blackbeard himself. Rates range from $43-$275.
111 Back Road, Ocracoke; 1-800-892-5314 or www.blackbeardslodge.com

Where to Eat: Cox Family Restaurant
You may have a little wait for breakfast at Cox’s in Morehead City, where locals crowd the booths and tables daily. Nothing fancy here (just about everything is less than $5), but if you’re looking for bacon and eggs served all day, you’re in the right place.
4109 Arendell Street, Morehead City; (252) 726-6961

Things to do in Outer Banks, NC