Where are some good places to go on vacation while on a budget?

A friend of mine and I really wanted to go to Hawaii but it seems to expensive so now we've decided to take a road trip this summer but we have no idea where to go. We both want to see some scenery whether it's mountains, waterfalls, or the grand cannon, etc. I don't have much traveling experience and can't afford to spend more than $1000 so I know it can't be much of a trip, though I figure going with a friend and splitting the cost of gas and hotel room will help. Can anyone recommend a good place to go or know a cheap way to visit Hawaii?