Travel in the U.S. has a reputation for being expensive.
Flights spike during peak seasons. Hotel prices jump without warning. Rental cars feel like luxury purchases. And suddenly, a “budget” trip costs more than your monthly rent.
But here’s what I’ve learned after planning low-cost trips across the country: it’s not about avoiding travel — it’s about choosing smarter destinations.
Some cities naturally offer lower lodging rates. Some national parks cost almost nothing once you’re inside. Some beach towns feel high-end without the high-end price tag.
This list focuses on places where your dollar stretches further — without sacrificing experience.
Let’s start with the first ten.
1. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville feels artsy and upscale, but it’s surprisingly manageable on a budget.
The Blue Ridge Mountains surround the city, which means hiking is free and views are constant. The Blue Ridge Parkway costs nothing to drive. Waterfalls? Also free.
Downtown Asheville is compact, so you won’t spend much on transportation. Street performers, local art galleries, and affordable breweries create entertainment without expensive tickets.
If you visit in spring or fall instead of peak summer, lodging rates drop noticeably.
Budget tip: Stay slightly outside downtown and drive in — parking is easier than you think.
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2. San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio offers something rare: a big-city experience with mid-sized prices.
The River Walk is free to explore. The Alamo costs nothing to visit. Many historic missions are open without entry fees.
Food is another win here. Tex-Mex and local spots are far more affordable than comparable restaurants in coastal cities.
Hotel rates tend to be lower than Austin or Dallas, especially outside peak events.
If you want culture without coastal prices, this is a smart choice.
3. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah feels romantic and historic — but it’s surprisingly budget-friendly.
Walking through its famous squares costs nothing. Forsyth Park is free. Many historic streets can be explored without tours.
Savannah rewards slow travel. You don’t need attractions every hour. Just wandering feels like an experience.
Visit in late winter or early spring for lower hotel rates.
4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina)
This is one of the few national parks in the U.S. with no entrance fee.
That alone makes it one of the best inexpensive travel destinations in the U.S.
You’ll get waterfalls, wildlife, scenic drives, and hiking trails without paying gate fees. Lodging in nearby Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge can be affordable if booked early.
Camping is especially cost-effective here.
If you want maximum nature for minimum cost, this is hard to beat.
5. Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque offers desert landscapes, mountain views, and cultural depth at a lower cost than many Southwest destinations.
The Sandia Peak Tramway is affordable compared to other scenic attractions nationwide. The Old Town area is walkable and free to explore.
Hotel rates remain lower than Santa Fe, which makes this a smart alternative.
Visit outside balloon festival season for the best prices.
6. Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis blends music history with affordability.
Beale Street is lively but doesn’t require expensive tickets. Many live music spots have minimal cover charges.
The National Civil Rights Museum is reasonably priced, and several historic sites are accessible without major costs.
Food is affordable and filling. Barbecue here won’t break your budget.
Memphis offers culture without the price tag of Nashville.
7. Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado can get expensive fast — but Colorado Springs stays manageable.
Garden of the Gods is completely free. Hiking trails are abundant. Scenic views cost nothing.
Hotel rates are far lower than Denver or Aspen.
If you’re willing to skip ski resorts and focus on nature, this city delivers big landscapes on a smaller budget.
8. St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine feels like a European getaway without international airfare.
The historic district is walkable. Beaches are free. Many attractions are inexpensive or optional.
You can build a full day just exploring old streets and waterfront views.
Travel during shoulder seasons to avoid peak Florida pricing.
9. Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City doesn’t always top travel lists — which keeps prices reasonable.
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is free. The city’s barbecue scene offers affordable meals. Jazz clubs often have low cover fees.
Hotel rates remain lower than most major metro areas.
If you want culture without crowds, this is a strong option.
10. Portland, Maine
Maine feels expensive — but Portland can be done right on a budget.
Walking the Old Port costs nothing. Lighthouses and coastal views are free. State parks nearby have small entry fees.
Seafood can be pricey, but casual lobster rolls and local spots are still manageable.
Avoid peak summer for better lodging deals.
11. Tucson, Arizona
Tucson gives you desert beauty without Scottsdale prices.
Saguaro National Park surrounds the city, and entry fees are reasonable. Many scenic drives and hiking trails cost nothing. The sunsets alone feel like a paid attraction.
Food is another win. Tucson is known for Sonoran-style Mexican food, and local spots are far more affordable than upscale resort dining you’ll find elsewhere in Arizona.
Visit in late fall or early spring for the best balance of weather and pricing.
12. Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati surprises people.
The Over-the-Rhine district offers walkable streets, affordable dining, and local breweries. The Cincinnati Art Museum is free. Smale Riverfront Park offers scenic views without a ticket price.
Hotel rates stay reasonable year-round compared to larger Midwest cities.
It’s one of those places where you can fill a weekend without draining your budget.
13. Olympic National Park, Washington
If you want dramatic landscapes without Yosemite-level pricing, Olympic National Park is a smart choice.
You’ll find rainforests, mountains, and rugged coastline in one park. Entry fees are standard national park pricing, and camping options are affordable.
Stay in nearby Port Angeles for lower lodging rates compared to Seattle.
Nature here feels massive — and surprisingly affordable.
14. Charleston, West Virginia
Not to be confused with Charleston, South Carolina.
West Virginia’s capital offers river views, mountain access, and very manageable hotel pricing. The state capitol building is free to tour. Hiking trails nearby cost nothing.
If you want Appalachian scenery without Asheville crowds, this is worth considering.
15. Sedona, Arizona (With Smart Planning)
Sedona can get expensive. But here’s the trick: focus on hiking.
Most of Sedona’s beauty comes from its red rock trails, which cost little or nothing beyond parking fees. Skip luxury resorts and stay in nearby Cottonwood for better hotel pricing.
You’ll get iconic desert views without paying resort-level rates.
16. Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville blends bourbon culture, history, and affordability.
The Kentucky Derby Museum is reasonably priced. Many historic neighborhoods are walkable and free to explore.
Food and lodging costs remain lower than in major Southern cities.
If you’re interested in culture and good food without high-end pricing, Louisville delivers.
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17. Outer Banks, North Carolina
Beach vacations often mean inflated prices. The Outer Banks can be different if you time it right.
Travel in late spring or early fall to avoid peak season pricing. Many beaches are free. Lighthouses and scenic coastal drives cost little.
Renting a house with friends can dramatically lower per-person costs.
It feels like a classic beach trip — without Miami-level expenses.
18. Boise, Idaho
Boise is clean, outdoorsy, and refreshingly affordable.
The Boise River Greenbelt is free and scenic. Hiking trails are close to downtown. The city is compact, so transportation costs stay low.
Hotel prices are moderate compared to larger Western cities.
If you want mountain-town vibes without ski-town pricing, Boise works.
19. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee offers lake views, brewery culture, and reasonable pricing.
Many museums have low entry fees. Lakefront walking paths cost nothing. Summer festivals often have minimal ticket prices.
Hotel rates stay manageable compared to Chicago.
It’s a Midwest gem that often gets overlooked — which helps keep it affordable.
20. New Orleans, Louisiana (With Strategy)
New Orleans can get expensive during peak festivals. But outside Mardi Gras and major events, it becomes far more budget-friendly.
Walking through the French Quarter costs nothing. Street music is free. Many cultural experiences happen right on the sidewalk.
Food ranges from upscale to affordable po’ boy shops. You don’t need fancy dining to eat well here.
Timing matters — but when done right, New Orleans offers huge cultural value for moderate spending.
Final Words
Travel doesn’t have to mean draining your savings.
The key isn’t avoiding great destinations — it’s choosing places where lodging, food, and experiences naturally cost less. National parks with low entry fees. Walkable historic districts. Cities with strong food scenes but lower overhead. Beach towns outside peak season.
Inexpensive travel destinations in the U.S. aren’t about sacrificing quality. They’re about choosing smarter.
Plan around shoulder seasons. Stay slightly outside tourist cores. Prioritize free outdoor activities. Split lodging when possible.
You’ll be surprised how far your budget can stretch.
FAQ: Inexpensive Travel Destinations in the U.S.
What is the cheapest state to travel in?
States in the Midwest and parts of the South often offer lower lodging and food costs. Places like Tennessee, Missouri, Kentucky, and West Virginia consistently provide better value compared to coastal states.
When is the cheapest time to travel in the U.S.?
Late winter and shoulder seasons (spring and fall) usually offer lower airfare and hotel rates. Avoid peak holidays and major events if you want to save.
Are national parks affordable?
Many national parks charge reasonable entry fees, and some — like Great Smoky Mountains National Park — are free. Camping is often one of the cheapest lodging options available.
How can I save money on hotels?
Stay slightly outside downtown areas. Book mid-week stays. Compare local inns and boutique hotels instead of major chains.
Are beach vacations always expensive?
Not always. Visiting beach destinations outside peak summer months significantly lowers lodging costs. Places like the Outer Banks or parts of the Gulf Coast can be affordable with proper timing.
