9. Iowa
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- Composite score: 82.95
- Average hotel nightly rate: $120
- Average gas price: $3.95
- Cost of everyday expenses (compared to average): -12.2%
- Annual National Park Service visits: 163,584
- Total National Park Service sites: 2
- Arts, entertainment & recreation density: 4.7
- Share of roads in good condition: 56.9%
Iowa stands out as one of the most affordable destinations for a summer road trip, offering the fourth-lowest average hotel rate in the lower 48 states at $120 per night and everyday expenses 12.2% below the national average. While it has lower National Park Service attendance, Iowa offers a higher density of arts, entertainment, and recreation options than most other top budget states. Road trippers can explore unique landscapes along the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway or visit historic locations like the Amana Colonies.
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