I like the idea of shooting some more macro stuff but not the idea of investing a huge chunk of money into a lens. What options are there that are lower budget?
I saw some pics that said the used a 18-55 kit lens with a macro filter lens and got great results. What options are there and how will the macro filter/lens change the minimum focus?
My 18-55mm can get pretty close up but the 70-300mm i have needs several feet before it can focus.

If an inexpensive add on is all i need for some cool shots than its something im definitely interested in

look at macro extension tubes, that's the route many ppl go
you will then be using manual focus, but that's better anyway as auto focus isn't always right with those small margins

there is also the option of reverse mounting a 50mm, but that can be a pain

just a few hours ago i flipped the rear element on a - minolta 50 1.7 - and is now a macro lens. consider picking up cheap manual lens and a cheap adapter and doing the same. on dslr you have to worry about infinity focus but on macro it wont matter