Traveling across the USA doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Whether you’re seeking a beach getaway, a mountain retreat, or a city break, there are plenty of affordable destinations to choose from. Here are eight of the most budget-friendly spots across the United States where you can get the most out of your vacation without emptying your wallet.
1. Austin, Texas
Austin is a vibrant, eclectic city that manages to offer a laid-back atmosphere, thriving arts scene, and exciting nightlife without high costs. Known for its motto, “Keep Austin Weird,” the city is a mecca for music lovers, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts.
What to do:
- Live Music Venues: Austin is famous for its live music scene. Many venues on Sixth Street and in the Rainey Street Historic District offer free entry or minimal cover charges. Venues like The Continental Club and Mohawk Austin host regular performances without high ticket prices.
- Barton Springs Pool: A natural spring-fed pool located in Zilker Park, Barton Springs is a local favorite and costs just a few dollars for entry. It’s the perfect spot to cool off in the Texas heat.
- Lady Bird Lake: This scenic lake provides a great opportunity for a low-cost outdoor adventure. You can rent kayaks or canoes at affordable rates or simply walk or bike around the lake for stunning views of the skyline and nature.
- Texas State Capitol: Take a free guided tour of this historic building and explore the stunning grounds.
Affordable Tips:
- Food Trucks: Austin is known for its food trucks offering everything from tacos to gourmet burgers, often at a fraction of the cost of sit-down restaurants.
- Public Transportation: The city offers a range of affordable public transport options, including buses and bike rentals.
2. Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City is often overshadowed by its natural beauty, but it’s a hidden gem for budget travelers. Located at the foot of the Wasatch Mountains, the city offers everything from outdoor activities to cultural experiences, all without the hefty price tag of larger cities.
What to do:
- Temple Square: Visit the iconic heart of Salt Lake City. The historic church buildings, including the Salt Lake Temple, are free to tour, and you can even listen to the famous Tabernacle Choir during their rehearsals.
- Big Cottonwood Canyon: This is a must-visit spot for nature lovers. Hiking here is free, and the scenery is breathtaking, especially in the fall when the leaves change color.
- Utah Olympic Park: This site, once the host of the 2002 Winter Olympics, offers free entry and a chance to explore the museum and learn about the history of the games.
- The Great Salt Lake: Take a day trip to the Great Salt Lake and enjoy its surreal beauty. The park offers easy access to its beaches, and it’s one of the best places to take in stunning natural views.
Affordable Tips:
- Salt Lake City is a compact city with affordable public transportation, including the TRAX light rail and buses.
- Many of the outdoor attractions like hiking and lake visits are free, and public parks are abundant.
3. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is a city that oozes culture, from jazz music to Creole cuisine. While it’s famous for its Mardi Gras celebrations, the city offers a rich cultural experience year-round with plenty of free or inexpensive things to do.
What to do:
- French Quarter: Stroll around the French Quarter to admire its historic buildings, colorful houses, and vibrant street performances. The atmosphere is free to enjoy, with plenty of live music on the streets.
- Jackson Square: Spend time at this historic landmark, where artists and performers create a lively open-air gallery. The St. Louis Cathedral here is also free to enter, showcasing beautiful architecture.
- City Park: This 1,300-acre park offers walking trails, free art exhibits at the New Orleans Museum of Art on select days, and a great place to picnic or take in nature.
- Louis Armstrong Park: This park honors New Orleans’ jazz heritage and is a perfect place to enjoy free outdoor concerts and performances, especially during the summer months.
Affordable Tips:
- Many restaurants in New Orleans offer inexpensive local food such as gumbo, po’boys, and crawfish dishes, especially if you opt for local dives and markets.
- Walking tours of the French Quarter are a great way to take in the sights without spending much money.
4. Nashville, Tennessee
Known as the “Music City,” Nashville is the epicenter of country music, with plenty of free or inexpensive ways to soak up the city’s musical heritage and culture. Nashville is also home to great food, charming neighborhoods, and an ever-growing arts scene.
What to do:
- Country Music Hall of Fame: While tickets to the Country Music Hall of Fame may have a small cost, you can enjoy free entry to nearby attractions like the famous Broadway Street, filled with honky-tonk bars that feature live music all day long.
- The Parthenon: Nashville has its own full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Centennial Park. The park offers free admission to the park itself, and you can enjoy the outdoors, sculptures, and architecture without spending much.
- Live Music on Broadway: Head to Broadway Street, where you’ll find dozens of honky-tonk bars with live performances. Many bars have no cover charge, and the music is free for anyone who wants to stop in.
Affordable Tips:
- Nashville’s public transit system, which includes buses and affordable ride-sharing services, makes it easy to get around on a budget.
- Look for free festivals throughout the year, including free concerts at public parks and the annual CMA Music Festival.
5. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, with its moss-draped oak trees, antebellum architecture, and laid-back southern charm, is a city that’s both affordable and beautiful. Savannah’s streets are packed with history, making it the perfect spot for anyone wanting to soak in southern culture.
What to do:
- Historic District: Wander through Savannah’s Historic District, home to many of the city’s historic squares and beautifully restored homes. It’s free to explore, and you’ll find yourself lost in the charm of the old town.
- River Street: Stroll down River Street, a cobblestone street with shops, galleries, and restaurants. It’s free to browse and enjoy the atmosphere.
- Forsyth Park: Forsyth Park is a large public park in the Historic District, where you can enjoy the gardens, fountains, and scenic walking paths without paying a dime.
- Bonaventure Cemetery: Known for its stately oak trees and historic graves, Bonaventure Cemetery is one of the most iconic and tranquil spots in Savannah.
Affordable Tips:
- Savannah has a free trolley tour that gives you an overview of the city’s main attractions.
- You can easily enjoy the beauty of Savannah by walking around and taking in the sights, as much of the beauty is free to admire.
6. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is one of the most historic cities in the United States, and it’s an ideal destination for those interested in history, culture, and art. Many of the city’s top attractions come with low or no entry fees, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers.
What to do:
- Independence Hall and Liberty Bell: Visit the birthplace of American independence. Both Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are free to visit. You can take a guided tour of the hall or explore the area on your own.
- Philadelphia Museum of Art and Rocky Steps: The Philadelphia Museum of Art offers free admission on the first Sunday of every month, and you can also climb the famous Rocky Steps for a photo opportunity.
- Spruce Street Harbor Park: This waterfront park is the perfect place to spend an afternoon without spending a lot of money. The park offers free hammocks, games, and sometimes live music during the summer months.
Affordable Tips:
- Philadelphia’s SEPTA system is a cheap and convenient way to get around the city. You can purchase a day pass for unlimited rides on buses and trains.
- Many of the city’s attractions, including museums and historical landmarks, offer discounted or free entry on certain days of the month.
7. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is a vibrant, world-class city with something for everyone. From stunning architecture to an incredible food scene, Chicago can be affordable if you know where to look. With its free parks, lakeside views, and museums with free admission days, you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy this iconic city.
What to do:
- Millennium Park and Cloud Gate (The Bean): Millennium Park is a must-visit and free to enter. Cloud Gate, the park’s famous reflective sculpture, is a popular photo stop.
- Lakefront Trail: The Lakefront Trail offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, and you can walk, jog, or bike along the 18-mile path free of charge.
- Museum Free Days: Many of Chicago’s world-class museums, including the Field Museum and the Art Institute of Chicago, offer free entry on certain days.
Affordable Tips:
- Chicago’s CTA public transportation system is affordable, with daily passes and cheap fare options available for tourists.
- You can also take advantage of Chicago’s many free festivals, including the Chicago Blues Festival and free outdoor concerts in the summer.
8. Denver, Colorado
Known for its beautiful mountain views and outdoor activities, Denver is an affordable destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With an abundance of parks, walking trails, and free attractions, this city offers an excellent escape at a budget-friendly price.
What to do:
- Red Rocks Amphitheatre: Whether you’re catching a concert or just enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations, this iconic venue is a must-visit, and you can explore the park around it for free.
- Denver Botanic Gardens: The gardens are free to enter on certain days and provide a peaceful escape from the urban bustle.
- City Park: This large urban park offers walking trails, a lake, and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, which has free entry on select days.
Affordable Tips:
- Use Denver’s RTD light rail and bus system to get around at an affordable price.
- Many of the city’s outdoor attractions, such as hiking trails, parks, and free festivals, are accessible without an entry fee.
Final Thoughts
Traveling on a budget is entirely possible, even in the USA. These destinations prove that you don’t need to spend a fortune to see some of the best the country has to offer. From charming small towns to vibrant cities and breathtaking natural landscapes, there’s no shortage of affordable options for every kind of traveler. Keep these tips in mind when planning your next budget-friendly getaway, and you’ll be sure to enjoy your trip without overspending.
