12 Cheap Getaways in the US To Discover the Best of America on a Dime
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From sun-soaked beaches to alpine resort towns, there’s no shortage of incredible US destinations that won’t break the bank. These cheap getaways in the United States will make the perfect dream vacation.
Unless you love living it up in style, there’s no reason to spend a fortune on a US getaway. The country is full of affordable travel destinations for most travel budgets.n
If you’re looking for good deals, great amenities, and big thrills, it may be time to look at these exciting locations. Below are the top 12 cheap getaways in the US.
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Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is the home of Country Music and Nashville Hot Chicken. It’s also a gateway to some of the South’s most beautiful natural wonders.
You can visit iconic historical monuments such as the Grand Ole Opry. Then, walk down Printer’s Alley and sample the amazing comfort food. Afterward, don’t miss affordable museums such as the National Museum of African American Music and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
If you have time, take a drive north into Kentucky to see the impressive Mammoth Caves. Or, drive east to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for some of the country’s most intense natural scenery. All of this adventure will barely set you back.
Read also: Cheapest Places To Visit in the US
Orlando, Florida
Orlando is known as the theme park capital of the world and one of the epicenters for vacationers across the country. Aside from its famous all-inclusive hotels, you’ll have no problem finding affordable deals and nice places to stay.
Outside of the expensive major theme parks, Orlando is full of cost-saving activities. For family-friendly adventures, head to affordable museums such as the Museum of Illusions Orlando. Or check out dream destinations such as the Fun Spot America Theme Park.
When you’re not spending an arm and a leg in the big theme parks for food, you can afford all kinds of delicious cuisine in town. Take advantage of Orlando’s incredible food scene. Chances are, you’ll eat like royalty and have money to spare.
Read also: Cheap Beach Destinations in the US
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is where to go for gorgeous beaches and affordable accommodations. You can find a sleek beachside hotel or inn for a fraction of the price of other beachside destinations such as Miami.
Once you’re in town, you can choose between miles of beaches to relax in. The city has affordable theme parks such as WonderWorks Myrtle Beach and the Free Fall Thrill Park. These parks will give you plenty of thrills for cheap.
The city is home to affordable buffets and restaurants, so you’ll never be far from a delicious meal. At night, you can find live music for free or a small cover charge at many restaurants and bars. So, if you want to save money while enjoying the good life, this small coastal city may be the perfect place.
Read more: Amazing White-Sand Beaches in the US
San Juan Island, Washington
San Juan Island is an affordable getaway only a short drive from Seattle. Throughout the island, you can find budget-friendly hotels and inns with views of the Salish Sea.
Drive around the island and visit free historical sights like Lime Kiln Point State Park. Or, rent kayaks and go on an adventure searching for orcas along the coast.
If you bike, San Juan Island has endless biking and hiking trails that cross through forests, vineyards, and farmland. Take a break at a local tavern or craft brewery for some refreshments before continuing your affordable island exploration.
Read more: Hidden Gems in the US
Miami, Florida
Miami’s flashy cars, high-rise condos, and luxury fashion boutiques make it seem like an exclusive getaway, but don’t worry. This city is one of the best cheap getaways on the East Coast.
You can dine in luxury for cheap in places such as Little Havana. Even the famous South Beach is free to visit. Nearby, Miami Beach is full of affordable cafes and restaurants; you can lounge anywhere on the sand without spending a penny.
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Nearby, you can explore beautiful nature spots like Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. If the intense tropical heat gets too much, go museum hopping downtown. You can get in and out of this tropical paradise without spending a fortune because Miami is a major transportation hub.
Read also: Least Walkable Cities in the US
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs is a major outdoor sports destination with access to world-famous skiing and hiking. The city is far more affordable than places like Aspen, and there is much more to see and do.
Downtown, you’ll have your choice of amazing restaurants and craft breweries, such as Brass Brewing Company. You can find affordable dining options and free live music and events in many places.
Just a short drive away, you can visit the Rocky Mountains. Whether you love hiking or soaring down a slope in winter, you can find plenty of cost-effective adventures.
Read also: Safest Cities in the US
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is a mega-city for entertainment. Although it’s famous for its lavish hotels and high-rollers, you can find great deals throughout the city.
Some of the best attractions, including the nearby Hoover Dam, are affordable. Other activities, such as walking through the iconic Fremont Street Experience neon light show, are free.
Outside the city, you can find world-class hiking and outdoor activities. Drive to Red Rock Canyon or go afternoon golfing at one of the city’s many affordable golf courses.
Read also: Avoid These Tourist Traps in the US
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque is an amazing destination for beautiful desert landscapes, fun events, and affordable attractions. Plus, it’s only a short drive from major tourist destinations such as Santa Fe and Taos Pueblo.
The city has amazing cuisine that’s incredibly affordable. There are endless places to sample traditional Southwestern barbecue or authentic Mexican food. Also, many of the city’s bars and restaurants host live entertainment, so you may find yourself front and center to incredible talent.
Many people come to Albuquerque for the world-renowned Hot Air Balloon Festival. Here, you can watch the world’s largest collection of hot air balloons soar above the desert landscape, an affordable experience not to be missed.
Read more: American Road Trips
Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers looking to save money. Although Sedona might get all the attention, Phoenix and its surrounding countryside are full of natural wonders and Native American history.
Visit places such as the Desert Botanical Garden to explore the region’s plant life. Then, don’t miss epic art spaces like Yayoi Kusama Fireflies Infinity Mirror Room and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art.
No matter where you are, you’ll be close to amazing restaurants that won’t set you back. From Southwestern and Mexican to some of the best Asian food in the country, there are endless choices and a few world-famous establishments in case you’re a little too under budget on your travels.
Read also: America’s Surreal Places
Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
The famous Indiana Dunes National Park is just a short drive east of Chicago. This natural area is home to impressive dunes along the shores of Lake Michigan.
Come here to camp or hike through the forests before climbing down the massive dunes to the crystal blue shores of Lake Michigan. Check out the scenic Chicago World’s Fair Century of Progress Homes built in the early 30s.
After getting your fill of affordable natural highlights, you can drive along the coast into Michigan. Don’t miss destinations such as Benton Harbor for tasty food and beautiful lake views.
Read also: America’s Surreal Places
Richmond, Virginia
Richmond is the perfect cheap getaway for a mixture of history and nature. You can see historical buildings such as The Valentine or walk through the streets to see impressive 19th-century architecture.
You can go museum hopping and learn about the region’s history. Places such as The Poe Museum and the Maggie L Walker National Historic Site offer affordable tours and plenty of highlights.
Outside of the city, drive into the nearby countryside for epic views and hiking. Then, return to the city to sample Richmond’s renowned Southern cuisine and craft breweries.
Read also: Scenic American Villages
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is a wonderful destination full of historical places and beautiful architecture. It’s also one of the best cheap getaways in the US. While nearby cities like New York City and Washington D.C. will break the bank, the City of Brotherly Love won’t.
Start your Philly adventure in Old Town, where you can see monuments built before the American Revolution. Then, hop into the city’s famous museums such as Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Without spending a dime, relive film history in places like the Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps. Then, when you need to fuel up for more adventures, enjoy famous Philly dishes such as the Cheese Steak, an affordable sandwich you can find just about everywhere. Order fast because you will get sent to the back of the line if you take too long.
Read also: Fun Facts About the USA