Cut Gas Costs: Vacation Near Mass Transit

The price of gas doesn't have to spoil your vacation plans -- especially if you can take public transportation.

Taking mass transit will allow you to avoid, or at least minimize, those expensive trips to the Exxon (XOM Quote - Cramer on XOM - Stock Picks) or Conoco (COP Quote - Cramer on COP - Stock Picks) stations.

You won't have the problem of dull destinations, either. Whether you're visiting the Statue of Liberty or the White House, there are convenient ways to get around some of the nation's major cities that don't involve a car.

Here are five cities with some of the best deals around for a vacationing family of four, as well as some estimates of the costs, and savings to be had.

Chicago

How to Get Around

Check out the Chicago Transit Authority for information on trains and buses to take you around the city. The daily cost of travel for four with an unlimited pass is $5 per person.

Highlights in Chicago include the Sears Tower, the Magnificent Mile and the shore of Lake Michigan.

Public Transport Cost (Per Day): $20

Washington, D.C.

How to Get Around

Take the Metro, which can carry you from the National Mall to the Pentagon City Mall (and to many points in between). The Washington Area Transit Authority provides directions for navigating the nation's capital. The daily cost of travel for four with an unlimited pass is $7.80 per person.

Highlights in Washington range from the National Archives and Smithsonian to Arlington National Cemetery and chic Dupont Circle.

Public Transport Cost (Per Day): $31.20