If you live in Texas, San Antonio is the spot to go. There are plenty of things to do, and it only costs a little over $100 a day for an adult to stay in town. The Alamo is there, one of our nation’s most important attractions. Then you have unique things like the Toilet Seat Art Museum, a Japanese Tea Garden, and a gorgeous Riverwalk area.
For outsiders interested in Texas, you'll find this the most travel-friendly city in general. One of the most popular activities is the San Antonio River Walk, which is totally free - but it's also 15 miles, so be sure to have a decent pair of walking shoes. Getting there is also cheap as you can find flights for around $53.
San Diego is one of our more expensive “cheap cities,” but if you’re looking for a big theme park, Disney-style vacation for a fraction of the price, this is the place for you. There are day passes that range for adults in the range of $100 a day or $140 for two.
These passes let you into one of our nation’s finest Zoos, an aquarium, LegoLand, SeaWorld, and a number of fantastic museums. If that’s not your thing, there are gorgeous beaches and beautiful state parks in the area! San Diego is easily one of the most stunning cities in California.
Kansas City is the pride of the Midwest. It’s a bustling city full of energy and creativity. It’s called the “City of Fountains” because of, well, all the fountains. The parking garage beside the library has been painted to look like a massive bookshelf. Boulevard Brewing gives free tours every Wednesday, and there’s plenty of other free things to do, like visiting the Nature Center or Legacy Park.
Also known as the "Paris of the Plains," this vibrant city offers a blend of Midwestern charm and cosmopolitan culture. From world-class museums and art galleries to delicious barbecue and jazz music, Kansas City has something for everyone. Take a stroll through the historic Country Club Plaza district, catch a game at Kauffman Stadium or Arrowhead Stadium, or explore the lively Westport neighborhood. Whether you're a foodie, history buff, or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, Kansas City won't disappoint."
Atlanta is a fantastic city in the heart of Georgia. Their aquarium is one of the best you’ll find. They have an Atlanta Cyclorama, a revolving painting that depicts the Civil War Battle of Atlanta. There’s a Planetarium in the city, along with an African-American Art Museum. Top everything off (no pun intended) with a 72-story glass elevator ride to the revolving Sun Dial Restaurant, and you’re bound to have a great time!
Atlanta, Georgia is a city that should definitely be on your travel bucket list. Take a walk through the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and learn about the Civil Rights Movement or visit the World of Coca-Cola museum and taste different varieties of Coca-Cola from around the world. Sport fans can catch a game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium or SunTrust Park. And don't forget to indulge in some southern cuisine like fried chicken, grits, and peach cobbler. Whether you're traveling solo or with family and friends, Atlanta is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
The home of the Philly Cheesesteak is also a great place to have a not-very-expensive getaway. The city is home to a UNESCO World-Heritage site: Independence Hall, the place where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. There’s a Museum of the American Revolution, the Liberty Bell, a Jewish History Museum, and the Edgar Allen Poe National Historical Site. Basically, if history is your thing, this is the place to be.
Known as the birthplace of America, Philadelphia offers visitors the chance to explore iconic landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Take a stroll through Reading Terminal Market and indulge in some delicious local cuisine like cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and hoagies. For art enthusiasts, visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art or take a walk through the Magic Gardens. And don't forget to catch a game at Citizens Bank Park or Lincoln Financial Field if you're a sports fan.
Houston may be massive, but you don’t have to go broke to visit. It’s perfect for people who love all things science and living frugally. Houston is an astronaut’s town, so go visit the Space Center or the Museum of Natural Science. There’s a zoo, aquarium, and the Arboretum and Nature Center for all you nature lovers. Houston’s Outdoor Theatre is fantastic, as is the Water Wall in the Galleria. And if you want to play your cards right, there’s great day passes available as well.
Known for its rich history in the oil industry, Houston has transformed into a hub for arts and culture. Take a stroll through the Museum District and explore world-class institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. For outdoor enthusiasts, visit Buffalo Bayou Park or take a trip to Galveston Island for some beach time. And don't forget to indulge in some mouth-watering Texan cuisine like barbecue, tacos, and kolaches. With its warm weather and southern hospitality, Houston is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all types of travelers.
New Orleans is a city full of history and nestled in a unique corner of nature. The city has great historical spots like the Jackson Square or the Saint Louis Cathedral, but there are fantastic nature spots as well. These include City Park, with its trees that are over 600 years old, and the Jean Lafitte Park. Street performers are everywhere, and a well-known opera group puts on a free show every second Wednesday of the month.
New Orleans is a city like no other, with its unique blend of history, music, and cuisine. Known for its lively nightlife and vibrant culture, New Orleans offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Take a stroll through the French Quarter and explore iconic landmarks like Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral. For music enthusiasts, visit Preservation Hall or catch a show at one of the many jazz clubs around town. And don't forget to indulge in some delicious local cuisine like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets. With its festive atmosphere and rich history, New Orleans is sure to provide an exciting adventure for all types of travelers.
People are flocking to Colorado now like never before. It’s definitely an expensive state, but there’s plenty of ways to visit without breaking the bank. If you go to Denver, the Rocky Mountains are a short car-ride away, complete with the extremely steep Pike’s Peak Rail Car and the Rocky Mountain National Park. They have a great Art Museum and a Nature and Science museum, neither of which are very expensive. And while you’re there, don’t forget to see if something is going on in the Red Rocks Amphitheater!
For those looking to explore the city, you can visit the Denver Art Museum or take a stroll through the trendy neighborhoods of Lower Downtown and River North. And don't forget to indulge in some delicious craft beer from one of the many local breweries. With its combination of natural beauty and urban charm, Denver is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all types of travelers.
Phoenix is one of the best spots in the Southwest. It’s a unique desert town in a country that’s mostly not desert. Basically, the place stands out. The Desert Botanical Garden proudly highlights those differences. They also have a great art museum that is free after 3 PM on Wednesdays and a Native American art museum. If you’re worried about how your kids handle the heat, there are splash zones all around the city!
Phoenix, Arizona is a desert oasis that offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor adventure and urban sophistication. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Phoenix is the perfect destination for those looking to soak up some rays while exploring the great outdoors. Take a hike in Camelback Mountain or paddleboard on Tempe Town Lake.. With its warm weather and diverse cultural offerings, Phoenix is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all types of travelers.
Memphis is a great spot for a few days of fun. The zoo is super cheap and so good that it’ll ruin other zoos for you. It’s one of the best in the nation, and it’s always growing. Bass Pro’s headquarters are located inside a massive pyramid on the Mississippi River, complete with a simulated outdoor experience throughout the store and a 28-story free-standing glass elevator. Top off your visit with Shelby Farms, the largest city park in the nation. You won’t regret going!
Memphis, Tennessee is a city steeped in history and culture that offers visitors a unique blend of southern charm and urban energy. Known as the birthplace of rock 'n' roll and home to the iconic Graceland mansion, Memphis has a rich musical heritage that can be explored at places like Sun Studio and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. For those looking to indulge in some delicious southern cuisine, Memphis is famous for its barbecue and fried chicken.
Grand Canyon Village’s primary attraction is, unsurprisingly, the Grand Canyon. That said, there’s so much to do when you visit. The canyon itself is breathtaking, and you can see it perfectly from Mather Point. Havasu Falls are amazing. If you get bored of looking at rocks, you can also go rafting in the canyon itself. What an experience!
historic El Tovar Hotel, which boasts panoramic views of the canyon and has hosted famous guests like Theodore Roosevelt and Albert Einstein. And for those looking to learn more about the canyon's history and geology, check out the exhibits at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. With its breathtaking scenery and endless opportunities for adventure, Grand Canyon Village is a must-visit destination for any nature lover or adventurer.
Glacier National Park may not be a city, but it’s considered one of the prettiest places in the country. Since it’s a park, you won’t be spending a lot on attractions. While there, you can hike, go on scenic drives, visit waterfalls and glaciers, or even go floating if the weather permits.
With over 1 million acres of pristine wilderness, this national park boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in the United States. Take a drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which offers stunning views of alpine lakes, rugged mountains, and glaciers. Hiking opportunities abound with over 700 miles of trails to explore, including the popular Highline Trail and Grinnell Glacier Trail.
Williamsburg is a history buff’s dream vacation spot. It was once the capital of the Virginia Colony, and it’s only a 15-minute drive from Jamestown. You can explore the living-history museum of Colonial Williamsburg. There’s a church that has been around for about 350 years. If you get bored of the history, there’s a Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum as well!
The historic area of Williamsburg features beautifully restored 18th-century buildings, costumed interpreters, and live demonstrations of trades such as blacksmithing and weaving. For those interested in American history, nearby Jamestown and Yorktown offer even more opportunities to learn about the country's early days. Williamsburg a is a charming destination that offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience life as it was during the colonial era.
Known for its iconic Space Needle and Pike Place Market, Seattle has much more to offer than just its famous landmarks. Take a stroll through the trendy neighborhoods of Capitol Hill or Fremont, where you'll find unique shops, bars, and restaurants. Visit the Museum of Pop Culture or the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit for an immersive arts experience.
Seattle is a city that everybody should visit if they get the chance. Their food is great, and their beer is fantastic. Many breweries offer free tours. And you also can't forget the importance of coffee in Seattle, as you'll find numerous cafes in the area as part of their huge coffee scene. If you like parks, Olympic National Park is right outside the city, as is Mt. Rainer. Plus, the city has a flight museum featuring Sputnik 1 and Wonder Woman’s Invisible Jet!
Portland is the quirky city of America, and it’s a fantastic place for a budget-friendly vacation. Portland's living room, officially known as Pioneer Courthouse Square, is in the middle of downtown and is a must-see. Then you have Powell’s City Books, one of the world’s largest independent bookstores. And don’t forget about the city’s hundreds of food trucks!
And for those looking to experience Portland's legendary craft beer scene, there are over 75 breweries in the city to choose from. With its commitment to sustainability and emphasis on local products, Portland also offers an abundance of farm-to-table dining options and artisanal shops. Whether you're interested in exploring nature or immersing yourself in urban culture, Portland is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an authentic Pacific Northwest experience.
Visiting New York City, is decidedly an expensive vacation, but Jersey City offers a much cheaper alternative with plenty to offer travelers. Plus, it's just 20 minutes away, so you can see both if you want to! Hotel rates are under $100, and the average meal when eating out is around $12.
In Jersey City, you’ll still have an amazing view of the New York skyline and the Statue of Liberty. Parks include Lincoln Park and Hamilton Park, which are perfect for romantic walks or a nice picnic. Forget Rockefeller center and go ice skating at Pershing Field Park.
Oklahoma City has been nicknamed “The Big Friendly,” due to their excellent hospitality, making them an ideal location for a stress-free vacation. Those who enjoy road trips will get the most out of this trip, however, as Oklahoma City is home to the largest stretch of the historic Route 66.
Visit Arcadia Round Barn and quench your thirst at Pop’s Soda Shop, which has practically every soda you can imagine. Hotels in the area are available for as low as $80 and the average price for a meal is around $11. Enjoy burgers, beer and all the comforts of home.
Enjoy a variety of free activities at Salt Lake City. From parks to museums, Salt Lake City offers budget-conscious travelers plenty to do in the most thriving city in Utah. Its also home to the historic Henry J. Wheeler Farm, one of the only remaining 19th century farmsteads in the country!
Interestingly, Salt Lake City has one of the largest Mormon populations, and is the location of the Historic Temple Square in Downton Salt Lake – which is also free to explore. You can evben take a free tour of the Utah State Capitol Building. With so many free activities, all you really need to worry about is hotel and food.
Probably best known as the spot were Bugs Bunny made a wrong turn and where chemistry teacher Walter White broke bad, Albuquerque has more to offer than you might think. From free museums to window shopping, the city of Albuquerque has much to explore.
The most interesting place to visit would have to be the Petroglyph National Monument in Albuquerque which features historical rock carvings made by both Native Americans and Spanish settlers as far back as 700 years ago! On top of that, there’s a very lively hiking and biking scene.
Charleston, South Carolina is the largest city in the state with a population of around $150K. It was named after the Scottish king, Charles II, when it was called simply Charles Town in 1670. However, it was eventually relocated and grew rapidly, eventually losing its town designation and becoming Charleston.
Because of the city’s extensive historical significance, you’ll find there are plenty of historical sights to take in on your adventure in addition to Charleston’s natural wonders and waterfront parks. On top of that, there’s the Charleston City Market and Folly Beach. Coming here is exceedingly affordable and there are plenty of things to do that don’t require any money at all.
Savannah, Georgia is another location with numerous free activities to enjoy, especially the breathtaking parks scattered throughout the city. There’s also a free walking tour that details the city’s rich history, as well as a tour of the Ghost Coast Distillery.
If you want to explore some of the city’s natural wonders, you might want to check out the botanical garden or Tybee Island. Stay at a hotel in the area for as low as $75 per night. Affordable dining is available at Fire Street Food or you can indulge in something a little pricier.
If you are looking for an inexpensive trip to Florida, skip Orlando and check out Pensacola, Florida. Pensacola is one of the cheapest cities in Florida to visit that is filled with some of the most exquisite beaches in the world. These public beaches are free to enjoy, except for any parking costs.
Local favorites include Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key, and there’s also a Dog Beach if you want to bring your fur baby with you. A ghost and graveyard tour, dolphin tour and the Pensacola Historic Landmarks tour are some affordable activities in the area. And if you are a sucker for lighthouses, the Pensacola lighthouse and Pensacola Historic Village is a must-see destination.
Interestingly, Manteo was named after a Native American of the Croatan tribe who traveled with the English in 1584 and became a liaison for the Roanoke settlers of the time. With its fascinating history, there’s plenty to learn about in this historical city, including the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, which contains lost artifacts from the Lost Colonists who disappeared sometime in the 16th century.
For some modern fun, you can check out the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island or expel some energy at JumpMasters OBX Fun Park. There’s also the walking ghost tour on the outer banks through downtown Manteo. Or, if you want to get your feet wet, Salvo Beach can serve as a fine beach vacation spot.
Virginia Beach offers a beachfront vacation you don’t want to miss. From Oceanfront Resort Beach to Sandbridge Beach, Virginia Beach offers some stunning beach views and plenty of fun for travelers. Best of all these beaches are completely free! It’s an especially great time in the summer months.
Catch live music, magic and more on the streets. Visit the Cape Henry Lighthouse or First Landing State Park. Learn about the early Virginian’s state history or get a glimpse of the city’s natural wildlife at False Cape State Park. Hotels are available for under $70 and the average price of a meal is under $10!
Perhaps best known for its racing exploits, Indianapolis is a favorite spot of car enthusiasts, in particular, its Formula One and Indy 500 races. But those are just a couple of things that Indianapolis has to offer. Its also a center for art and history.
Natural beauty and art come together at Indianapolis Art Center with its lush gardens and diverse collection of art. The city also has an extensive collection of war memorials where you can pay your respects to fallen war heroes. Free concerts are hosted throughout the year and, in the summer months, daily light shows.
Sioux falls, South Dakota is ideal for nature lovers. Renowned for its natural beauty, it draws in millions of visitors every year. One particularly popular spot is Falls Park, which offers some of the best views in the city. If you like waterfalls, this is the place to be.
If you want to put those legs to work, you can travel along the Sioux Falls Bike trails as you take in the scenery or take a hike through the Big Sioux Recreation Area. Other activities include snowmobiling, kayaking and camping. For just $14, you can check out the Butterfly House & Aquarium.
Portland, Maine is the most populated city in the state and that’s probably because it is one of the most thriving. Food lovers will really appreciate Portland for its lobster dinners and craft beer scene. A couple of the best spots include The Lobster Shack and DiMillo’s on the Water.
Art Enthusiasts will want to check out Portland Museum of Art, but the best time to go is Friday, because it’s free from 4pm to 8pm. Then ferry over from Portland to Casco Bay Islands. You’ll be surprised how much you can do with so little money.
Even cheaper than Seattle is Olympia, and more beautiful too! About 60 miles away, Olympia is just a bus or car ride away. If you are looking to take in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, Olympia’s conservation area provides some of the most breathtaking views in the state.
On top of the city’s natural environment, you can enrich your mind by visiting the Washington State Capitol to learn about the state’s history. Other activities include the Olympia Farmer’s Market and Priest Point Park. Average meal prices are around $15 and hotel stays are under $150.
You probably wouldn’t think of this as the first place when it comes to budget friendly trips, but when you consider how many free things there are to do, you quickly realize how you can spend a full day in Washington D.C. without spending any money at all.
Visiting all the numerous monuments and memorials will cost you almost nothing other than gas money. You can even take free tours of the Capitol Building and the White House. Check out the national mall and get a free Smithsonian Museum trip too! Hotels in the area can be found for as low as $50.
Tucson is one of the most thriving cities in the state of Arizona and there really is a lot to do. You can find hotels there for under $150, and get as drunk as you like on $4 beer. Enjoy delicious Mexican cuisine at a variety of restaurants in the city.
If you have pets, Tucson is easily the best place to bring your doggo thanks to hundreds of dog-friendly restaurants and shopping centers. Additionally, you’ll find an array of dog parks to choose from for a little closer bonding time with your pup – and so he/she can relieve themselves.
