The national average for a gallon of gasoline has hit another high. On Monday it was $3.71. Most of Michiana has already seen gas prices well over that amount. And with prices climbing, economists expect more folks to stay closer to home this summer and forget about long road trips.

Because the numbers are going so high on the gas pumps, economists predict that the number of miles vacationers are driving are expected to shrink this summer. Economists predict more people will be looking at local destinations for summer fun. Newscenter 16 caught up with some shoppers and business owners in Three Oaks, Michigan on Monday.

The owner of Froehlich's, a popular eatery and shop, expects the gas crunch to actually help her business. Colleen Froehlich is hoping more locals take time to explore the communities in Harbor Country, in southwest Michigan.

Meantime, city and county parks are expected to see more activity than usual this summer season. St. Patrick's County Park is free to residents during the week. They have everything from trails, to playgrounds, even canoeing on the St. Joseph River. “I think already people are staying closer to home. If there is any nice weather, people come out, I don't think they're travelling near as far if gas was cheap and weather was nice," says Colleen Froehlich.

"I'm going to have a garden this year, going to do things I normally haven't done. Maybe the gas crunch is good, have good effect on families staying closer together," says Diana Ashcraft. Ashcraft says she’s already cut back her driving.

“And with more research showing kids should spend time outside, the parks have more interpretative programs, and everything from kites to throwing boomerangs," adds Evie Kirkwood, Director of St. Joseph County Parks.

Boaters will also be affected by the high gas prices, making canoeing or kayaking even more affordable options for water-lovers.

Looking for an idea on a local destination? Local visitor's bureaus and tourist magazines have plenty of free brochures and magazines.