Cheap Vacation Spots in The US. has a plethora of incredibly unique places to explore, from exquisite National Parks to the coastline of California. However, they must all be fairly costly, don’t they? Nope!
If you’re traveling on a budget but don’t want to miss out on the best that the U.S. has to offer, we’ve got you covered. There are plenty of options available instead of taking on debt by booking a penthouse suite in New York City.
Below are the best cheap vacation spots in the U.S. that ensure an amazing journey without an enormous expense.
Cheap Vacations in the U.S.
If you live in the US and are looking for inexpensive trips to take on the weekend, you’ll find them here.
Additionally, you’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for inexpensive travel destinations in the US and you’re coming from another country.
Let’s get right to the top travel destinations in the US that are affordable.
1. San Luis Obispo, California
When you think of California, you might picture the glitzy Hollywood Boulevard and an outrageously priced cocktail at one of the local bars. Alternatively, you might picture yourself indulging in delectable meals at the nearby Youngtville restaurants and sipping fine wines in Napa Valley.
San Luis Obispo vacations will prove that a trip to California doesn’t have to be expensive.
San Luis Obispo (also known as SLO) has gorgeous beaches, hiking spots, and one of California’s best farmer’s markets. In addition, it is home to three lesser-known wine regions.
You can also find affordable accommodation around SLO. Check out the Peach Tree Inn for a comfortable stay.
Explore the Bishop Peak trail, hike Pismo Beach, sip Chardonnay in the nearby Edna Valley, or take in the surf and scenery.
The best part is that these events are totally free (well, except for the wine, which is reasonably priced even at that).
2. Moab, Utah
Although Salt Lake City usually comes to mind when people think of Utah, the state has a lot more to offer.
You’ll be in for a treat at Moab if you love the outdoors and want to take advantage of the stunning scenery Utah has to offer. This town is unique as it borders Arches National Park and Canyon lands National Park.
In Arches, you can admire the famous red rock sandstone formations, while Canyon lands boasts exquisite expansive desert landscapes. For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, Moab offers the best of both worlds.
If you’re a hiker, I highly recommend reading this post about the best and most stunning hikes in Moab, including the iconic Delicate Arch hike.
There are many affordable lodging options in and around Moab, ranging from motels and vacation rentals nearby to campgrounds inside the park. The Sand Flats Recreation Area is one of the best locations to set up your tent.
If you’re keen to grab a meal and a drink in Downtown Moab, you’ll be spoil it for choice with a number of health-focused eateries.
After enjoying a cold beer at the Moab Brewery, you should spend some time exploring the unique stores in the downtown area.
3. The Finger Lakes, New York
New York is one of the most expensive cities in the world, as everyone knows, so visiting the Big Apple may be expensive.
But don’t give up; there are plenty of reasonably priced sights and things to do in the Finger Lakes region of New York that will make you happy.
On the lakes in the area, boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports are all excellent ways to spend a day. You can also customise the activities to fit within your budget.
This is a great place to spend an afternoon wine tasting without breaking the bank, and it’s also a picturesque wine region.
There are lots of hiking trails that wind through the lakes in the Finger Lakes Gorge. Ahead of you lie tumbling waterfalls and breathtaking scenery.
The majority of the trails are free, but before choosing a trail to follow, be sure to find out if there are any additional fees or charges for parking at the beginning of the trail.
The Dorm Hotel is a great place to stay while in the Finger Lakes. It’s modern and comfortable but still affordable.
During apple picking season, if you’re travelling from New York City to the Finger Lakes by car, don’t forget to stop briefly at a farm in the Hudson Valley!
4. Albuquerque, New Mexico
New Mexico’s Albuquerque is a cultural mecca with abundant Native American influences and breathtaking, never-ending scenery. You won’t get tired of exploring the biggest city in this incredible state, from the sleek downtown to the charming Old Town with its stone buildings.
Joining one of the twice-monthly ART Scrawl gallery tours is a fantastic way to learn more about Albuquerque’s art scene without spending any money.
You’ll be able to find and visit some of the greatest art galleries in New Mexico for free with this.
This city is also home to a number of interesting museums, such as the Anderson Abruzzo International Balloon Museum and the American International Rattlesnake Museum.
Both museums make for fascinating day activities, and admission to each is nominal, with each charging a $6 admission fee.
Albuquerque is famous for being the hot air ballooning capital of the world, and if you’re willing to splurge – a hot air balloon ride is the way to do it.
The nine-day International Balloon Fiesta in October is the ideal time to view the balloons from the ground if that’s your preference.
It won’t cost you a thing to find a good spot to sit and gaze up at the colorful balloons floating across the sky.
P.S. Denver is another important place you can visit while in the region. Driving from Denver to Albuquerque is a beautiful and simple journey. It’s worth doing as a mini road trip between New Mexico and Colorado.
5. Glacier National Park, Montana
This is one of the best inexpensive places to travel in the US, so call all you passionate hikers and nature lovers. It’s the ideal outdoor adventure for families, couples, and single travelers—all at a reasonable price.
Glacier National Park is breathtakingly beautiful and offers over 700 miles of hiking trails meandering through valleys, glaciers, and waterfalls.
Plus, it’s much cheaper to visit than other National Parks like Grand Canyon National Park. You’ll need to pay an individual entrance fee of $15 or a private car fee (including all passengers) of $25; both are 7-day passes during the low season.
However, keep in mind that certain National Days are free admission days, so be sure to look these up if you want to visit the park without having to pay.
You can swim, climb and hike as much as you want once you’re in the park. Additionally, you can enjoy the free day hikes guided by rangers and stargazing at Logan’s Pass.
And, in case you’re not looking for strenuous hikes, there are plenty of easy hikes in Glacier National Park.
If you have a car with you, be sure to take a scenic drive on the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
There are plenty of great spots to set up camp within the Glacier National Park, so pack your gear and save on accommodation costs. If you’d rather stay just outside of the Park, Glacier Haven Inn is a great spot.
Also, you should explore the charming mountain town of Whitefish, Montana, for some outdoor activities, shopping, and sightseeing.
