The 21 Best U.S. Destinations for a Limited Budget

2022-12-29 04:30:59 - Drany Macley Drany Macley, the senior editor of Vytravels.com, brings extensive journalism background and over eight years of experience in travel writing and editing to the site, offering practical insights and first-hand knowledge through articles on innovative hotels, backed by a BA in Journalism from Ithaca College.
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If you know where to go and how to find the hidden gems once you arrive at your destination, traveling and exploring the world don't have to be expensive.

The most affordable places to travel in the US are frequently undetectable. The USA is full of opportunities for experiencing culture, rich history, and incredible sights along the way, from national parks to free attractions. Find out more about the best places to travel cheaply in the US by reading on.

Best Budget Travel Destinations in the US

1. the city of Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City Skyline

Oklahoma City, also known as "The Big Friendly," is a fantastic vacation spot for frugal travelers. There are many activities you can do that will only cost you a little money. It's one of the least expensive places to travel in its area.

You can drive down a significant portion of the famed Route 66 in Oklahoma City to see the infamous Arcadia Round Barn and Pop's Soda Shop. Explore the grounds of the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum as a way to pay respect to the victims of the 1995 bombing in Oklahoma City.

For less than $20, visit downtown OKC and attend a Minor League Dodgers game at Bricktown Ballpark. Spend the day at Scissortail Park and take in the free outdoor performances, the splash pad, and the delicious food trucks that are nearby. Admire the historic architecture by taking a free tour of the legislature.

Budget for Oklahoma City Travel: Approximately $350:

  • Flights on Skyscanner start at just $59
  • Food: An average restaurant meal costs about $11. The Garage in OKC is a well-liked, budget-friendly restaurant serving burgers and beers at reasonable prices.
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as .
  • Getting around: Use a Lime scooter to tour the city or order an Uber to safely get home. A three-day car rental can be had for as little as $252.

The best places to visit in the US are listed below.

San Antonio, Texas, second

San Antonio Cityscape

San Antonio is a must-visit destination if you want to experience real Texas culture, American history, and Mexican culture. It's a year-round tourist destination that is very affordable. Texas is one of the most affordable states to travel to, and it has a lot to offer tourists.

The San Antonio River Walk, one of the city's most popular attractions and activities, is free. Put on your walking shoes because the River Walk is nearly 15 miles long.

Discover one of the many public parks, such as Brackenridge Park, Japanese Tea Gardens, and Botanical Gardens, as well as Eisenhower Park. Visit The Alamo, one of the most historic sites in the US, for a history lesson.

For cave tours, check out Natural Bridge Caverns. The $30 San Antonio Ghost Tour is well worth it. Visit Pickrell Park for a swim or Crescent Bend Nature Park for a picnic.

San Antonio travel spending: APPROXIMATELY $325 total:

  • Flights on Skyscanner start at $53
  • Food costs approximately $13 per meal when eating out. Schilo's offers delicious options at great prices for budget-friendly dining.
  • Hotel stay: On Booking.com, rates as low as
  • VIA Metropolitan Transit should be used for local transportation. Also accessible in the city is Uber For only $222 for three days, you can rent a car.

See also: Top US Destinations for Travel in Your 20s

Salt Lake City, Utah, third

Salt Lake City Cityscape

If you're planning a fall vacation and want to cut costs, Salt Lake City, Utah, should be at the top of your list. The city is a budget-friendly destination thanks to its free parks, museums, and churches. Salt Lake City is supreme in Utah.

Salt Lake City, which is well-known for having a sizable Mormon population, has Historic Temple Square in its downtown area, which is open to visitors for free. Do not skip a trip to the Henry J One of the final farmsteads from the 19th century, Wheeler Farm is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Take a free guided tour of the Utah State Capitol Building when you go there. From the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, take in breathtaking views. Enjoy a day at Sugar House Park where there are children's playgrounds, three miles of bike paths, sports fields, and more.

Approximately $350 will be spent on travel to Salt Lake City:

  • Flights on Skyscanner start at $33
  • Food: At budget restaurants, meals cost on average $14. Try Chunga's Mexican Restaurant in Salt Lake City for inexpensive dining.
  • Hotel stay: 2 nights on Booking.com for $142
  • Getting around: The Utah Transit Authority (UTA) offers day passes for $5. Uber is based in the city. $3 day car rental is $197.

The best day trips from Salt Lake City, Utah, are listed below.

Fourth, Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas Cityscape

Jazz, amiable locals, and delectable barbecue are Kansas City's most well-known attractions. A vibrant downtown area has fantastic stores, eateries, and attractions. Visit the Crown Center in the city for some time to enjoy some fun activities and people-watching.

Wander through the City Market, a public market where local vendors in Kansas City sell goods such as groceries, presents, produce, spices, and more. Look at BBQ Shack Worth HD if you want to find some affordable barbecue. One of the most affordable states to travel to is Missouri, and its barbecue is some of the best in the nation.

Go shopping at Country Club Plaza. Experience Union Station and take in the beautiful architecture. Visit SEA LIFE Kansas City to see some sea life, and stop by the Power & Light District for a free concert. Chaz on the Plaza offers free access to a jazz concert.

Budget for Kansas City travel: approximately $350:

  • Flights on anner.pxf.io/c/2483746/1027991/13416?associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&u=https://www.skyscanner.com/flights-to/mkca/cheap-flights-to-kansas-city.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Skyscanner start at just .
  • Food: An inexpensive restaurant's standard meal costs $11. Try Pigwich in Kansas City for inexpensive dining (as seen on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives). )
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as $59
  • Using the public transportation system, RideKC, a ride costs $1. 50 The downtown core is traversed by the free KC Streetcar. $3 day car rental is $166.

Best Skyscanner Alternatives for Travel Booking

Fifth: Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque Cityscape

We advise booking a trip to this southwestern paradise full of Native American history because Albuquerque, New Mexico, is one of the least expensive cities you can visit in the US.

Fantastic, educational, and entertaining museums are available in the city of Albuquerque, and admission is free. Visit Albuquerque's Old Town to learn about the area's past, window shop, and explore.

The Petroglyph National Monument in Albuquerque, New Mexico, which preserves rock carvings created by Native Americans and Spanish settlers between 400 and 700 years ago, is a must-see if you're looking for other places to visit in New Mexico.

At the public park Open Space, outdoor enthusiasts can go biking or hiking for the day. Visit the University of New Mexico museums to learn about the history, culture, and ecological impact of the region. Visit Tingley Beach to go fishing

Travel to Albuquerque on a $250 budget roughly:

  • Flights on Skyscanner start at just
  • Food: The typical restaurant meal costs $13 Don't miss Frontier Restaurant in Albuquerque for inexpensive meals.
  • Hotel stay: On Booking.com, rates start at $55
  • Getting around: A one-way ride on an ABQ Ride city bus costs $1, and a day pass costs $2. You can get to Santa Fe, which is the state's capital, by taking the New Mexico Rail Runner train. Additionally offered are Uber and Lyft. A three-day, $200 car rental

See Related: Colorado vs. New Mexico: Which Is Better?

Charleston, South Carolina, number 6

Charleston Cityscape

You might not think of Charleston, South Carolina, as one of the most affordable cities in the US. However, if you make the necessary preparations and go during the off-season, you'll discover that it's a great tourist destination without breaking the bank. Charleston offers a lot of entertaining things to do.

Enjoy the breathtaking views, waterfront parks, easy access to Folly Beach, and unmistakable southern charm wherever you go. Wander the four blocks of the Charleston City Market, where locals and small businesses sell goods.

Take a stroll along The Battery, Charleston's defensive seawall and promenade lined with renowned antebellum homes. Enjoy the harbor and the Cooper River from Charleston Waterfront Park's vantage point. Don't miss a look at Rainbow Row, with thirteen pastel-colored historic homes in South Carolina, while taking a guided walking history and bar tour.

Travel to Charleston on a $400 budget roughly:

  • Flights on Skyscanner start at just $57.
  • Food: A typical restaurant meal costs $18. Try the Brown Dog Deli in Charleston for inexpensive meals.
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as
  • Getting around: 3 day, $246 car rental CARTA is the city's public transportation system, and a one-way trip costs $2. $15 buys a week's pass. There are also Uber and Lyft in the city.

Best Restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina, as Related

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at No. 7

Philadelphia Cityscape and Sunset

On your family vacation, the city of brotherly love would love to have you stay with us. We know you'll have a great time exploring this huge city, which is full of awesome attractions.

Independence Hall is a must-see and is completely free, so save money while learning about American history there. Consider yourself in the 1776 room where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Independence Hall National Historical Park offers the opportunity to see the Liberty Bell in person.

Spend some time in Franklin Square or Spruce Street Harbor Park to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine. Visit well-known pieces of public art in Philadelphia, including the iconic LOVE sculpture and the Rocky Statue. Wander through Elfreth's Alley, where colonial Philadelphians lived in the 18th century. Take a candlelit ghost tour with a guide.

Approximately $400 is the travel budget for Philadelphia:

  • Flights on Skyscanner start at $44
  • Food: A $14 restaurant meal is the standard price. Try High Street on Market in Philadelphia if you want to eat cheaply.
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as $35.
  • Getting around: The best way to see Philadelphia is with SEPTA (train, bus, trolley, and subway). Rides one way cost $2. 50 There are ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. For $36 per day, rent a car.

Fun & Best Things to Do in Fayetteville, North Carolina, as Related

8. California's San Diego

San Diego La Jolla Neighborhood

San Diego, California may not be the most affordable destination on this list, but if you go during the off-season, you might be in luck. Spend more money on a luxurious hotel room rather than saving some money on travel.

Beaches, parks, and waterfront views are all free to enjoy in this famous West Coast town. This alone should be enough to convince cheap vacationers who enjoy the sun to book a trip.

San Diego offers a variety of activities, such as exploring Seaport Village and taking in the breathtaking ocean views. Investigate Casa de Aguirre, the oldest house in the storied Old Town. Visit the National Historic Landmark Casa de Estudillo. A walking tour of Balboa Park is recommended. Take in the San Diego Bay's yachts and ships from the Embarcadero while having fun in the Gaslamp Quarter.

San Diego travel spending is expected to total $450:

  • Flights on Skyscanner start at $33
  • Food: The typical restaurant meal costs $15. Try The Kebab Shop in San Diego for affordable and delectable food.
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as
  • Getting around: For $2, take the trolley. 50 a ride There is a free shuttle in downtown San Diego called FRED (Free Ride Everywhere Downtown). On a Lime scooter, cruise the city. There are also taxis, Uber, and Lyft options. A three-day, $300 car rental

Best Museums in San Diego, California, as Related Reference

9. Louisiana's New Orleans

Jackson Square in New Orleans

Contrary to what travel guides claim, New Orleans, Louisiana, is one of the least expensive cities to visit—just avoid going there during Mardi Gras. New Orleans fulfills all requirements for travelers on a budget. Incredible food, incredible culture, and reasonable hotel rates

No matter what time of year you go, you must take a stroll through the French Quarter. On Bourbon Street, take in the live music, rowdy crowds, and delectable drinks. If you're looking for inexpensive restaurants, venture outside of the French Quarter. You'll find reasonable prices for drinks and food there.

Woldenberg Riverfront Park should be explored. Spend $2 to ride the Canal Street Ferry. Bourbon Street is a spectator street. Investigate the unique stores on Magazine Street. At the Jazz Museum, listen to live jazz music. Go on a tour; ride a bicycle along the Lafitte Greenway. Take a free walking tour.

Travel expenses to New Orleans are expected to total $425:

  • Flights on Skyscanner start at $52
  • Food: The typical restaurant meal costs $14. Try Parran's Po-Boys Uptown for genuine Louisiana cuisine at a reasonable price.
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as $58
  • The majority of visitors navigate New Orleans on foot. Another well-liked mode of transportation is the streetcar. Take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to the airport. Three days of car rental costing $162

The Best Restaurants In The French Quarter Of New Orleans

Savannah, Georgia, at 10

Savannah Cruise

One of the most affordable vacations you can take is to Savannah, Georgia, where there are so many activities that are totally free. There are no major attractions to drive up the prices during specific seasons, so hotel rates are fair. Any time of year, you'll enjoy the lovely southern charm and exploring the city itself.

Visit the various parks and squares in the city's center as you stroll through the lovely Forsyth Park. To find out more about the history of the city, go on a free walking tour.

Visit Tybee Island to enjoy the beach and the sun. Take in the Botanical Garden's natural beauty or go hiking on the McQueen's Island Trail. Free admission to the Ghost Coast Distillery

Savannah travel spending: about $375 total:

  • On Skyscanner, flights from New York start at just $48.
  • Food: An average restaurant meal costs $18. At Fire Street Food, you can get food at a reasonable price.
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as
  • Getting around: You can either ride the Savannah Belles Ferry or use bicycles to navigate the city. If you need to rest your feet, you can take a Pedicab or the free DOT Bus to get wherever you need to go. Three days of car rental cost $258.

Websites for Finding Cheap Hotels AND Flights

Pensacola, Florida, at 11

Pensacola Cruise

Looking for a beach town that's also among the most reasonably priced places to visit Just south of Tallahassee, in Pensacola, you'll find some of the most immaculate, sparkling beaches you'll ever see.

At one of the numerous public beaches in Pensacola, dangle your toes in the water. Pensacola Beach, Perdido Key, and Gulf Islands National Seashore are among the locals' favorite destinations. Visit Dog Beach with your dog, or go to Fort Pickens Pier to see if the fish are biting. A s://www.viator.com/tours/s://www.viator.com/tours/Pensacola/Tour-of-Pensacolas-Landmarks/d23182-14232P1?pid=P00057290&mcid=42383&medium=link" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pensacola/Frisky-Mermaid-Dolphin-Tours/d23182-130605P3?pid=P00057290&mcid=42383&medium=link" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dolphin tour, a s://www.viator.com/tours/s://www.viator.com/tours/Pensacola/Tour-of-Pensacolas-Landmarks/d23182-14232P1?pid=P00057290&mcid=42383&medium=link" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pensacola/Ghosts-and-Graveyard-Tour-of-s://www.viator.com/tours/Pensacola/Tour-of-Pensacolas-Landmarks/d23182-14232P1?pid=P00057290&mcid=42383&medium=link" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pensacola/d23182-14232P5?pid=P00057290&mcid=42383&medium=link" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ghost and graveyard tour, and a guided tour of s://www.viator.com/tours/Pensacola/Tour-of-Pensacolas-Landmarks/d23182-14232P1?pid=P00057290&mcid=42383&medium=link" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pensacola's historic landmarks are all inexpensive attractions.

Visit parks open to the public, such as Big Lagoon State Park and Buccaneer State Park. Visit Blue Wahoos Ballpark to see a baseball game For a history lesson, visit the Pensacola lighthouse and stroll through Pensacola Historic Village. Explore nearby Santa Rosa Island for a day.

Pensacola travel spending – approximately $300 total:

  • Fly with Skyscanner for as little as $137.
  • Food: A typical restaurant meal costs about $16. The Dog House offers great food at reasonable prices.
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as
  • Getting around: 3 day, $168 car rental Use the ECAT bus system or the seasonal trolley. A single journey costs $1. 75 and $14 for a seven-day pass. 50

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Manteo, North Carolina, at 12

Manteo Aerial View

On the North Carolina Outer Banks, in a small beach town called Manteo, you'll find lovely beaches, a charming downtown, and helpful locals who will show you around.

Go fishing on the Rodanthe Pier, go swimming, and have a great time at Salvo Beach. The Outer Banks is a reasonably priced vacation spot if you're looking for a beach getaway, and there are plenty of towns and beach cities nearby Manteo that are simple to get to. Discover Mateo's downtown and its distinctive stores and eateries, which will take you to the Harbor.

Try a walking ghost tour for low-cost attractions. Visit JumpMasters OBX Fun Park to jump around. If it's raining, explore the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island. See the artifacts from the Lost Colonists who vanished in the 1500s at the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site.

Budget for travel: approximately $350:

  • Flights: Skyscanner has flights starting at $54 from Virginia.
  • Food: The typical restaurant meal costs $13 The Hungry Pelican offers affordable dining options.
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as $149
  • Getting around: After arriving at Virginia's Norfolk Airport, rent a car for $154 for three days, then drive to Manteo. Most places in town are accessible by bicycle or walking.

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Phoenix, Arizona, is 13.

Sunset and Phoenix Cityscape

Phoenix, Arizona, a desert town, is among the most affordable destinations, especially during the summer. Phoenix offers entertaining, affordable activities throughout the city and its surroundings if the heat doesn't bother you.

The nightlife in downtown Phoenix is fantastic and includes live music, interesting restaurants, bars, pubs, and event venues. Discover the expansive lawns and stunning structures on the campus of Arizona State University.

Visits to museums are among the best things to do in Phoenix. Free Museum Days are offered by many Phoenix museums, including the Children's Museum and the Desert Botanical Garden. Phoenix is filled with free public parks and splash pads; the best ones can be found in Gilbert, Mesa, and Queen Creek.

When compared to other zoos, the Phoenix Zoo's entrance fee of $26 is very reasonable. It takes about 3 hours and 40 minutes to travel to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix, but if you have the time, it's worth it.

Phoenix travel spending: about $375 total:

  • Flights on Skyscanner start at $32
  • Food: A $15 restaurant meal is the standard price. For inexpensive local food, try Maria's Frybread.
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as $40.
  • Getting around: 3 day, $209 car rental Both Uber and Lyft are accessible in Phoenix and nearby cities. Ride the Valley Metro light rail and buses for $4 per day or $20 for a seven-day pass.

The best day trips from Phoenix, Arizona, are listed below.

Virginia Beach, Virginia, is 14.

Virginia Beach Aerial View

Virginia Beach should be on your list of affordable getaways that you shouldn't skip. The list of affordable activities in Virginia Beach is extensive. Start by going to the beach. Public access to Sandbridge Beach, Oceanfront Resort Beach, and Chesapeake Bay Beach is all free.

Learn about famous Virginians from the state's history by visiting the Cape Henry Lighthouse, First Landing State Park, and strolling through the Virginia Legends Walk. Visit the farmer's markets in Virginia Beach, go kayaking, and take in the wildlife at False Cape State Park.

The Live in the Summertime On Atlantic Avenue, there is a ton of fantastic entertainment, including jugglers, magicians, and more.

Travel expenses to Virginia Beach are expected to total $350:

  • Flights: Skyscanner has flights starting at from California.
  • Food: A typical restaurant meal costs about . Visit Rick's Cafe in Virginia Beach for delectable, reasonably priced food.
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as .6
  • Getting around: In Virginia Beach, the city bus is operated by Hampton Roads Transit. One-day passes cost $1. 50 and $22 for a seven-day pass If you're staying in the Resort Beach area, you can get anywhere you want to go using the Wave Trolley or seasonal shuttles. Most visitors use bicycles or foot to get around. Additionally, taxis, Uber, and Lyft exist. Three days of car rental costing $154

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Indianapolis, Indiana, at 15

Indianapolis Cityscape

Indy attracts thrill-seekers from around the world thanks to its Formula One race and the Indy 500. We're sure you'll love all the fun, affordable places to visit in Indianapolis.

In the summer, go to Monument Circle to see a daily light show. First Friday in the Old Northside district eliminates admission costs to the local art galleries. Visit the Indianapolis Art Center in Broad Ripple to take in the expansive gardens and varied artwork. There are over 200 city parks in Indianapolis, so there are always free activities available.

A free public tour of Indiana landmarks is available. The Indianapolis Cultural Trail by foot or bicycle View the expansive murals on Massachusetts Avenue. Don't overlook Crown Hill Cemetery's beauty.

Pay your respects at one of the many war memorials in the city, take in a free concert, or take a long stroll along the Central Canal. One of the coolest and least expensive travel destinations in the US is Indiana, which offers a ton of history and culture.

Indianapolis travel spending cap, roughly $350:

  • Skyscanner has flights starting at $54 from New York.
  • Food: A typical restaurant meal costs $11. For cheap, neighborhood dining in Indianapolis, don't miss Steer-In.
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as
  • Getting around: The city provides Uber, Lyft, and taxi services. You can rent a car for $173 for 3 days. The public transportation is called IndyGo, and a day pass costs $4.

View Related: Best Budget Destinations | Cheap Places to Travel

Sioux Falls, South Dakota, number 16

Sioux Falls Nature Scenery

Even though Sioux Falls, South Dakota, receives millions of visitors each year, it remains one of the most affordable US cities for visitors. There are lots of enjoyable activities to enjoy in Sioux Falls.

Falls Park's waterfalls are one of the most recognizable sights in the city, and you can't miss them. Searching for a workout Ride the Sioux Falls bike trails and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Explore the city center while keeping an eye out for the sculptures made of metal, glass, and wood that are part of the ScultpureWalk.

For only $14, you can go to the Butterfly House & Aquarium. For delectable treats, casual dining, and fascinating people-watching, visit the stores, cafes, theaters, and museums in downtown Sioux Falls.

At the Big Sioux Recreation Area, which is situated directly on the Big Sioux River, you can't miss the fun. Offering a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, biking, canoeing, and snowmobiling

Sioux Falls travel spending: about $375 total:

  • Skyscanner has flights starting at $54 from New York.
  • Food: A typical restaurant meal costs $13 Try the Phillips Avenue Diner for inexpensive dining.
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as .
  • Traveling: Take the city bus for $1. 50 for each ride, or $12 for a seven-day pass. 50 Additionally offered are Uber and Lyft. A three-day, $362 car rental

Related Article: USA's Most Notable Historical Sites

Jersey City, New Jersey, is 17.

Jersey City Architecture

Traveling to Jersey City is fantastic because it's a more affordable option than staying in New York City while still being only 20 minutes away. This means that staying in Jersey City will allow you to access all the exciting attractions while saving a little money on hotel costs.

View the Statue of Liberty and the New York skyline in some breathtaking panoramas from Liberty State Park. Visit The Empty Sky while you're there to pay your respects to the victims of 9/11.

If you want to find wonderful walking areas, playgrounds, and picnic areas, go to historic Hamilton Park or Lincoln Park. Visit Pershing Field Park during the winter to go ice skating.

You won't regret scheduling a tour of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty if you decide to travel to New York City.

Budget for travel to Jersey City: $400 approximately:

  • On Skyscanner, flights from Florida start at $42
  • Food: The typical restaurant meal costs $12. In Jersey City, Rumba's Cafe offers affordable meals.
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as
  • Traveling: If you intend to drive to New York City, you can rent a car for $191 for three days or take the train for $3. In Jersey City, numerous taxi services coexist with Uber and Lyft.

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Portland, Maine, at 18

Portland Cityscape

Portland, Maine's largest city by population, is a great destination for travelers on a budget. Portland will be a very memorable vacation destination and offers many inexpensive things to keep you busy.

Visit the Portland Museum of Art on Fridays from 4 to 8 pm when admission is free, explore the foodie scene in Old Port, sample regional craft beer on a brewery tour, or

Where you can, spend more on a special lobster meal rather than on hotels and attractions. DiMillo's on the Water, Luke's at Portland Pier, and Lobster Shack at Two Lights are Portland's top lobster restaurants.

Plan a trip to the Casco Bay Islands from Portland by ferry. Cape Elizabeth, 9 miles south of Portland, offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby lighthouses as well as inexpensive activities.

Budget for Portland travel: approximately $450:

  • Flights on Skyscanner start at $108
  • Food: The typical restaurant meal costs $15. Locals prefer Becky's Diner because of its reasonable prices.
  • Hotel costs as little as $199 on Booking.com, or per night for a bed at a nearby hostel.
  • Getting around: per day for a rental car If you pay with cash, you can take the Portland Metro bus for $1 per day ($2 otherwise). Both Uber and Lyft are based in Portland.

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Olympia, Washington (19.

Olympia Aerial View

Olympia, which is 60 miles southwest of Seattle, serves as the state capital of Washington. Whether you rent a car, take a bus, or use an Uber, the simplest way to get to Olympia is via Seattle.

Olympia is well-known for being a nature preserve, and there are many public parks and beautiful views for visitors to enjoy there. It's a fantastic location for outdoor enthusiasts on a budget.

Discover the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge to marvel at the plethora of wildlife and incredible photo opportunities. Discover Washington's history by going to the state capitol there.

Priest Point Park and Percival Landing are two free public parks in Olympia that are worth visiting. You can spend the entire day outdoors at Percival Landing because it is close to the Olympia Farmer's Market and has a nice boardwalk to explore.

Olympia travel spending: about $375 total:

  • On Skyscanner, flights from Philadelphia start at just
  • Food: A $15 restaurant meal is the standard price. Visit Rush In Dumplings in Olympia for affordable dining.
  • Booking.com offers hotel rooms in nearby Tumwater for as little as $128 per night.
  • Traveling: Seattle is the best gateway to Olympia. $3 day car rental is $177.

Memphis, Tennessee (20.

Memphis Cityscape and Sunset

You should put a trip to the birthplace of the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll on your list of inexpensive travel destinations. Investigate the University of Memphis and all of its opulent structures and culture. Visit the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art for $10 if you're looking for inexpensive things to do in the city.

Visit Sun Studio, the recording studio where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and B B King produced enduring albums. Visit the Blues Hall of Fame to see unique albums and images of legendary blues musicians like Muddy Waters, Pee Wee Crayton, and others.

On a guided city tour through downtown Memphis, see the Pyramid and the Lorraine Motel for yourself. For $13, you can visit Memphis' Stax Museum of American Soul Music. Visit Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, if you're in the mood to indulge. Memphis is one of the USA's least expensive travel destinations and has the most culture and history.

Memphis travel spending cap of about $300:

  • Flights on Skyscanner start at $52
  • Food: A typical restaurant meal costs $14. Try Maciel's on Main in Memphis for inexpensive Mexican food.
  • Hotel stay: Booking.com has rates as low as $36
  • Locals use the MATA Transit, bus, or trolley system to get around Memphis. Day passes cost $2. In Memphis, Uber and Lyft are accessible. 3 days of car rental cost $196.

Recommended Activities & Destinations in Tennessee

Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. Aerial View

The cost of visiting the capital of our country need not be prohibitive. You just need to know where to look to find ways to cut costs while still enjoying DC's magic and history.

Joining tours is one of the best things to do in Washington, DC. For the best views of the White House, take a free tour of the US Capitol or a free walking tour. Take part in an immersive art tour to learn about DC's culture and art.

Explore Arlington National Cemetery by tram for low-cost attractions. Smithsonian Museum admission is free when you visit National Mall. Discover Georgetown's charming streets and vibrant homes. Visit the Lincoln Memorial to see the location of Martin Luther King Jr.'s renowned "I Have a Dream" speech.

Budget for travel to Washington, DC, estimated at $450:

  • On Skyscanner, flights from Dallas start at just .
  • Food: A cheap meal costs about $18 at a casual restaurant. Try Bub and Pop's in DC for affordable hoagies.
  • Hostel rates on Booking.com start at just $54 per night.
  • Using a scooter, walking, or renting a bike during your visit will get you around. The MetroRail train system is simple to use, and rides cost anywhere between $1 and .

View Related: Cheap Travel Advice for Washington, D.C.

Tips for Traveling on a Budget: How to Travel Cheap and Save Money

If you know where to look and are willing to be flexible with dates, destinations, and modes of transportation, you can locate the most affordable travel destinations in the US. These days, it may be difficult to find inexpensive vacations, but there are still some ways to see your favorite cities while saving money.

1. Make wise domestic flight bookings

Mother and Daughter in an Airport Terminal

On Monday evenings and Tuesday mornings, flights typically cost less, so set alerts and keep an eye out for deals for places on your bucket list of places to visit. Save a ton of money by flying with a low-cost carrier.

If you can, join Scott's Cheap Flights to have the best deals delivered right to your inbox. To receive limitless deals, you can sign up for a free trial or purchase a premium subscription.

2. Look for less expensive lodging options

Traveler in an Hotel Room

To save a ton of money on lodging, look into options like hostels, Airbnbs, and room sharing. Make sure the places you're thinking about are safe, clean, and what you expect by doing some research and reading reviews.

3. Apply for a credit card that rewards travel.

Teen Happily Holding a Credit Card

With a travel credit card, you can get the most out of your money spent if you enjoy traveling and use your credit card for daily purchases or larger purchases. Spending money on necessities can earn points for frequent travelers; each dollar spent is worth a certain number of points that can later be used for travel, lodging, and other expenses.

4. Be adaptable and impulsive

Smiling Traveler

Have a few must-see places on your itinerary when planning a trip, but leave one or two days open for spontaneity. This allows for impromptu adventures and last-minute attraction sales or discounts.

Related: Important Travel Tips for Vacation

5. Travel to pricey locations out of season

New Orleans Crowded Street

You'll discover that the popular US destinations are less expensive travel destinations during the off-season, whether it's New Orleans in the fall or Washington DC in the middle of winter. They may not always be the most affordable US travel destinations, but if they're on your list of must-see places, consider traveling during different seasons so you can still enjoy the location.

This list includes every affordable vacation spot in the United States. We are confident that with a little planning, diligence, and budgeting, you can arrange an unforgettable trip that won't break the bank.

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