Taking a break from everyday life doesn’t have to cost a lot. Here are the top 10 most affordable places to travel in the USA, listed from the most budget-friendly to the least. These places are great for a cheap getaway, offering a mix of charm, easy access, and good value.
Moab, Utah
Why It’s Cheap: Moab is the entrance to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, with beautiful red rock views and lots of outdoor fun. You can go hiking, mountain biking, or take scenic drives without spending too much. The area has budget-friendly campgrounds and motels, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers who want to save money.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Why It’s Cheap: Glacier National Park is famous for its dramatic views, including glaciers, lakes, and mountains. Affordable activities include hiking and watching wildlife, and entrance fees are pretty low. Nearby towns like Kalispell and Whitefish offer reasonably priced places to stay, and camping in the park is a cost-effective option.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Why It’s Cheap: Grand Teton offers stunning mountain views and lots of outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching. The park has affordable camping options and low entry fees. Nearby Jackson also has budget-friendly places to stay, making it a great choice for travelers who want to keep costs down.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Why It’s Cheap: Cannon Beach is known for its beautiful coastline and the famous Haystack Rock. The beach has free activities like beachcombing, exploring tide pools, and hiking in Ecola State Park. Affordable lodging options, including motels and vacation rentals, make this coastal town a great value.
Sequoia National Park, California
Why It’s Cheap: Home to giant sequoias, this park offers inexpensive activities like hiking among the big trees and scenic drives. With reasonable entrance fees and affordable camping, Sequoia National Park is a budget-friendly destination. The nearby town of Three Rivers also has budget places to stay and eat.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Why It’s Cheap: As the gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor offers affordable outdoor fun like hiking and exploring the harbor. Visiting off-season can save you a lot on places to stay and eat. The town also has a range of budget-friendly inns and restaurants.
Olympic National Park, Washington
Why It’s Cheap: Olympic National Park has diverse landscapes and many free or low-cost activities like hiking and beachcombing. Entrance fees are modest, and the park has lots of budget-friendly campsites. Nearby towns like Port Angeles also offer affordable lodging and dining options.
Destin, Florida
Why It’s Cheap: Destin is famous for its white sandy beaches and emerald waters. Many beach activities like swimming and sunbathing are free. The city offers a range of affordable places to stay and eat, especially during the off-season when prices drop.
St. Augustine, Florida
Why It’s Cheap: As the oldest city in the U.S., St. Augustine is rich in history and offers lots of free or cheap attractions. Explore historic sites, enjoy walking tours, and relax on beautiful beaches without spending much. The city has various reasonably priced places to stay and eat.
Asheville, North Carolina
Why It’s Cheap: Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene and outdoor activities. Enjoy hiking trails, free festivals, and budget-friendly places to stay. The city’s mix of galleries and local events offers plenty of low-cost entertainment.
These destinations offer a mixture of activities and places to stay that make them both accessible and affordable. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or a relaxing beach escape, these spots provide great value for your travel budget.
How We Rank Destinations
Our evaluation process includes factors like attractions, places to stay, and dining options. We use scores based on traveler votes and editor reviews, where our team rates destinations across categories like sights, culture, and food. This balanced approach ensures that our rankings offer reliable recommendations for different travel needs.
What We Consider
Seasonality: We assess destinations for their suitability during different seasons, helping you pick the best time to visit.
Affordability: We evaluate hotel rates, flight costs, and local expenses. Destinations with nightly rates of $150 or less qualify as affordable, while those with rates of $200 or more are considered luxury options.
Conclusion:
By combining these factors, we provide a complete guide to finding the perfect destination, whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic retreat, or a budget-friendly adventure. Cast your vote to influence future rankings and explore our recommendations for top hotels. Don’t forget to consider travel insurance to protect your vacation investment and ensure a smooth, enjoyable trip.
