My kid auditioned at 6 schools several years ago on what might be considered the super low budget tour. The only overlap of schools on your list is USC, but he did travel to Boston, NYC and Philadelphia.
Not for everyone, but mine opted to travel without a parent. Partly to reduce cost but mostly because he is an independent and responsible kid and it made him feel more confident to go alone.
Some ideas for cost savings:
Consider using an airline affiliated credit card. I dislike credit cards, but we were able to get the last few flights on points.
USC, as well as schools you have in Boston, NYC and Philly are all easy to access by Uber from the airport. All but USC are easy to sight see on foot or with public transportation. USC is a lovely campus, but other areas of LA (beaches, Hollywood) are not adjacent. The area has less than stellar public transportation.
Philadelphia to NYC is very close by train. Mine was able to audition in Philly, grab dinner to go and audition in NYC the next morning.
In terms of lodging, mine either stayed with a friend in the dorm/city or I was able to book through Airbnb.
I can’t tell you much in about things to do as my kid generally was not in any city for more than a full day. He did treat himself to a nice meal and I think a museum or two when he had time.
Hope this helps.
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