{"id":292960,"date":"2024-03-04T11:32:11","date_gmt":"2024-03-04T16:32:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.etrafficlane.com\/60dollarmiracle\/31-cheap-places-to-travel-in-the-us-that-wont-break-the-bank"},"modified":"2024-03-04T11:32:30","modified_gmt":"2024-03-04T16:32:30","slug":"31-cheap-places-to-travel-in-the-us-that-wont-break-the-bank","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.etrafficlane.com\/60dollarmiracle\/31-cheap-places-to-travel-in-the-us-that-wont-break-the-bank","title":{"rendered":"31 Low cost Locations to Journey within the US That Gained\u2019t Break the Financial institution"},"content":{"rendered":"


\n<\/p>\n

Cheap places to travel in this economy? It\u2019s more likely than you think. Despite rising costs, some places in the United States remain affordable and, therefore, accessible to all kinds of travelers. Whether you\u2019re looking for a romantic getaway, bachelorette trip, or solo adventure, our list of cheap places to travel will have you ready to pull the trigger on booking that flight. The only thing you\u2019ll need to worry about is what to pack while you\u2019re away!<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Scenic,Autumn,Landscape,In,Grand,Tetons,From,Oxbow,Bend
Image Credit: Shutterstock\/SNEHIT PHOTO.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

National parks make great vacation destinations precisely because they\u2019re usually inexpensive to visit, and Grand Teton National Park is no different. Although the entrance fee is usually $35 per car and covers up to 15 passengers, there are multiple days each year when fees are waived. Camp-style, co-ed accommodations at resorts like the <\/span>Climber\u2019s Ranch<\/span><\/a> start at just $35 per night.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. St. Augustine, Florida<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"The
Image Credit: Averette, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Culturally rich cities with historic sites to visit always rank high in terms of affordable travel, and St. Augustine is the oldest in the United States. With its public beaches, <\/span>Fort Matanzas, Castillo de San Marcos, and Fort Mose<\/span><\/a>, St. Augustine is the perfect cheap place to travel. The forts afford beautiful views, nature trails, and live demonstrations.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Yachats, Oregon<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Yachats,
Image Credit: Carol M. Highsmith, Public Domain\/Wiki Commons.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Located on the Oregon Coast, Yachats is full of wildlife, natural beauty, and tons of free outdoor activities. Visitors will love Tillicum Beach, just four miles north, with plenty of parking and public restrooms. There are also <\/span>multiple local hotels and inns<\/span><\/a> to choose from.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Cuyahoga
Image Credit: Erik Drost – CC BY 2.0\/Wiki Commons.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Cuyahoga Valley<\/span><\/a> offers a great day trip from Cleveland, Ohio, or as a standalone outdoor adventure. There are more than 125 miles of hiking trails available, ranging from easy to challenging. For cheaper accommodations, camping is available less than 10 miles away from the park.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Moab, Utah<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Titled
Image Credit: Brooke.ramos, CC BY-SA 4.0\/Wikimedia Commons.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Another excellent choice for multi-talented adventurers, <\/span>Moab<\/span><\/a> offers hiking, mountain biking, and river rafting in the Colorado River. Visitors can enjoy free art trails and a fare-free transit service that serves the city. You\u2019ll also love the unique, rust-colored desert views and vistas!<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Detroit, Michigan<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Detroit
Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

There are so many free things to do in Detroit it\u2019s impossible to list them all, but one must-see is the <\/span>Belle Isle Aquarium<\/span><\/a>, the oldest original aquarium in the country! Although a $5 donation is encouraged, it isn\u2019t required. Over 16 months of the pandemic, the aquarium invested $1.2 million in renovations and new exhibits, so there are tons of brand new water creatures and wildlife to spy.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Branson, Missouri<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"missouri
Image Credit: Explore Branson.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

No\u00ebl Russell, CXO and co-founder of <\/span>Whimstay<\/span><\/a>, a budget-friendly platform for booking last-minute vacation rentals, calls Branson \u201ca blend of entertainment and serene landscapes.\u201d Russell encourages visitors to enjoy a meal at BillyGail’s Cafe, known for massive, delicious pancakes and country-style meals at affordable prices. Tickets at the Titanic Museum are reasonably priced and offer family-friendly fun. As if to underscore her point, Branson was previously featured in a shorter Wealth of Geeks collection of <\/span>affordable travel spots<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n

8. Chattanooga, Tennessee<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Chattanooga,
Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Chattanooga is an outdoorsy city home to the ever-popular Lookout Mountain and Ruby Falls. Tours of the falls, which utilize a glass-front elevator to descend more than 260 feet below the surface, cost just $39. With multiple attractions within 15 minutes of each other, you could spend all day with your family and not see the entire thing!<\/span><\/p>\n

9. Broken Bow, Oklahoma<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Broken
Image Credit:City of Broken Bow.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Russell says Broken Bow is \u201ca treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventures.\u201d Beavers Bend State Park is free to access and offers hiking trails, which visitors can follow up with affordable meals at Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Tap Room. The Forest Heritage Center Museum, with its nominal entrance fee, offers insights into the region’s rich forestry history. Affordable cabin rentals abound in Broken Bow, ranging from tiny rustic hideaways to sprawling estates. With Whimstay, Russell says travelers can expect an average savings of at least 24 percent.<\/span><\/p>\n

10. Gulf Shores, Alabama<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Gulf
Image Credit: Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you\u2019re in the mood for a beach vacation but don\u2019t want the high prices of other coastal cities, Gulf Shores<\/a> has all the amenities you\u2019re craving at lower costs. With miles of public beach and hotels and condos that range from affordable to fancy, there\u2019s something here for every budget range. Gift shops, restaurants, mini-golf courses, and other activities abound.<\/span><\/p>\n

11. Louis, Missouri<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"St.
Image Credit: James Roblee\/Shutterstock.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

St. Louis is known for its pizza style, but one of its most popular attractions is the City Museum. Single-day tickets to the multi-story extravaganza cost $20, but kids under two play for free. Basic passes cost $45 and include access to many special events, plus come with a parking discount. Of course, you\u2019d be remiss to miss out on taking a tiny elevator tube up to the top of the St. Louis Arch!<\/span><\/p>\n

12. Raleigh, North Carolina<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Raleigh,
Image Credit: Kevin Ruck\/Shutterstock.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Much like Detroit, Raleigh is packed full of free activities that families and solo travelers will love. There\u2019s no admission fee for the African American Cultural Center, Buckhorn Disc Golf Course, or the City of Raleigh Museum. While there are nicer boutique hotels available, there are also easily accessible and more affordable chain hotels as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

13. Gatlinburg, Tennessee<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Great
Image Credit: Mark Ordonez – CC BY-SA 2.0\/Wiki Commons.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

According to Russell, one of many key highlights in Gatlinburg is the Gatlinburg Trail, one of the few dog-friendly trails in the area. It\u2019s dotted with old settlements, and Russell calls it a \u201chiker\u2019s paradise.\u201d Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers admission for around $35, as well as discounts for children and seniors. Using Whimstay, guests could expect to save an average of 22 percent on hotel accommodations. <\/span><\/p>\n

14. Sedona, Arizona<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Untitled
Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Surrounded by seven wilderness areas, Sedona is the spot for hikers, outdoor lovers, and anyone interested in Native American heritage and history. Sedona is about three hours away from three separate tribal parks and has six national monuments within a three-hour drive. You\u2019ll love having so many day trip options \u2014 perfect for a multi-night stay!<\/span><\/p>\n

15. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Myrtle
Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

For a taste of local flavor, Russell says visitors should check out River City Cafe for mouthwatering burgers at wallet-friendly prices. Families and solo travelers will love the SkyWheel, a towering Ferris wheel with stunning views that offers affordable ticket options. The Carolina Country Music Fest brings the beach to life with tunes and ocean breeze each summer. <\/span><\/p>\n

16. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania <\/span><\/h2>\n
\"view
Image Credit: Visit Pittsburgh.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

With 250 blooming cherry trees in North Park, Pittsburgh<\/a> comes alive with a beautiful pink color each spring. However, visitors can enjoy the 60-acre <\/span>Pittsburgh Botanic Garden<\/span><\/a>, complete with a lotus pond, all year long. Admission starts at just $15, and there are multiple discounts available.<\/span><\/p>\n

17. Big Bear Lake, California<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Big
Image Credit: n Murphy, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Big Bear Lake offers outdoor adventure all year long, in any season. Travelers will love snowboarding, fishing, skiing, mountain biking, hiking, and more. From cozy rental cabins to resorts, private homes, and bed and breakfasts, there are also <\/span>accommodations<\/span><\/a> to fit every price range.<\/span><\/p>\n

18. Bailey, Colorado<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Bailey,
Image Credit: Sasquatch Outpost.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Bailey is home to the uber-funky Sasquatch Outpost, only a couple hours\u2019 drive away from the larger city of Denver. Enjoy the quirky museum with interactive exhibits on a day trip, then head to the small downtown area to refuel at Aspen Peak Cellars. The winery features tastings, pick-up dinner nights, and even live bluegrass music.<\/span><\/p>\n

19. Memphis, Tennessee<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Memphis,
Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Memphis is the far more affordable sister to the state capitol of Nashville. A stroll down historic Beale Street offers live jazz and blues drifting from bars and restaurants at no cost, and visitors will love seeing the daily Duck March at the Peabody Hotel.<\/span><\/p>\n

20. Fredericksburg, Texas<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"dietz
Image Credit: Fredericksburg Convention & Visitor Bureau.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

With its unique German heritage and picturesque Texas Hill Country scenery, Russell says Fredericksburg is one of the most enchanting cheap places to travel in Texas. Wine enthusiasts will adore the affordable tastings at local vineyards like Grape Creek Vineyards. Each spring, the town comes alive with the vibrant Fredericksburg Crawfish Festival, and the beauty of Wildseed Farms, a stunning display of Texas wildflowers, is always free.<\/span><\/p>\n

21. Washington, D.C.<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Pennsylvania
Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

One of the best parts about Washington, D.C., is all the free historical sightseeing and museums. Whether you stroll down Pennsylvania Avenue to see the White House or ponder the giant statue of founding father Abe Lincoln at the Lincoln Memorial, there\u2019s something here for every history buff.<\/span><\/p>\n

22. Ocean City, Maryland<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Boardwalk
Image Credit: David – CC BY 2.0\/Wiki Commons.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Ocean City is a haven for beach lovers and budget travelers, according to Russell. The Ocean City Boardwalk offers endless free entertainment, from people-watching to stunning ocean views. Thrasher’s French Fries, a beachside staple, is known for its simple yet delicious fries. For a tranquil escape, visit Northside Park, a perfect spot for a serene stroll or picnic by the bay.<\/span><\/p>\n

23. Kansas City, Missouri<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Kansas
Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Kansas City features an excellent, free streetcar that has 16 stops in the <\/span>Crossroads Arts District<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>Power & Light District<\/span><\/a>, and <\/span>River Market<\/span><\/a>. After 2 pm, get free admission to Deanna Rose Children\u2019s Farmstead, which hosts hundreds of animals families will love to pet and learn about.<\/span><\/p>\n

24. Pensacola, Florida<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Pensacola
Image Credit: Visit Pensacola Florida.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Pensacola offers all the beachy activities of Miami at a fraction of the cost. With dozens of hotels, inns, and condos that span a giant price range, you\u2019re sure to find something in your budget. Although travelers will enjoy the stereotypical gift shops and seafood restaurants, the city also features late-night Irish pubs, dive bars, and other forms of nightlife.<\/span><\/p>\n

25. Plains, Georgia<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"The
Image Credit: The Windsor Hotel.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Plains makes for a cute, cozy trip in the Southeast. It\u2019s the home of former President Jimmy Carter, so you can expect plenty of peanut-related merchandise paying homage to the peanut-farming executive at local gift shops. The Windsor Hotel is stunning and historic, and other chain hotels offer less expensive accommodations.<\/span><\/p>\n

26. Portland, Maine<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Portland
Image Credit: Darryl Brooks \/ Shutterstock.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Old Port district is the best of both worlds, combining pubs and nightlife with historic cobblestone streets, boutique shopping, and more. On Fridays, from 4 to 8 pm, the Portland Museum of Art offers free admission. There aren\u2019t many other places where you can see original Andy Warhol paintings at no charge!<\/span><\/p>\n

27. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"cannon
Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Much like Washington, D.C., Gettysburg is home to a history that\u2019s integral to the United States. The town might be quaint, but many of the downtown activities and even some of the memorials are still dog-friendly, a rare amenity while traveling. Gettysburg National Military Park is one such location, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of soldiers who fought on that spot more than 160 years ago. <\/span><\/p>\n

28. Salem, Massachusetts<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Salem
Image Credit: Salem Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour\/Christine Mill.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Although best known for its Halloween-themed activities, Salem<\/a> is a beautiful New England town all year round. The Salem Witch Trials Memorial is free to visit, as is Old Burying Point Cemetery. This quaint, albeit dark, town offers a bewitching getaway for travelers who don\u2019t mind getting a little spooked.<\/span><\/p>\n

29. Asheville, North Carolina<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Asheville
Image Credit: Nolichuckyjake \/ Shutterstock.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Asheville offers both outdoor and free historical adventure. Being nestled just outside the Appalachian Mountains, visitors can choose from literally hundreds of miles of hiking trails that begin around the city. With soccer fields, picnic areas, disc golf, walking trails, bocce courts, sand volleyball courts, and a playground, <\/span>Buncombe County\u2019s parks<\/span><\/a> are a cut above.<\/span><\/p>\n

30. Baraboo, Wisconsin <\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Devil\u2019s
Image Credit: jcantroot, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Baraboo makes the perfect day trip getaway from the busy Chicagoland area. It\u2019s best known for Devil\u2019s Lake, a beautiful glacial lake ringed by hiking trails that offer challenging treks and unique rock formations. Dogs are allowed, a rarity for parks and trails!<\/span><\/p>\n

31. Kissimmee, Florida<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"Kissimmee,
Image Credit: DanTD, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Just a stone’s throw from Orlando’s theme parks, Russell says Kissimmee offers its own affordable adventures. Explore the Shingle Creek Regional Park, where kayaking unveils Florida’s natural beauty and wildlife. Savor the flavors of Florida at Abracadabra Ice Cream Factory, where the treats are as magical as the prices. History buffs will enjoy the Osceola County Welcome Center and History Museum, which offers free admission.<\/span><\/p>\n

No matter which state you\u2019re from or hoping to visit, the US has some truly affordable day trips and cheap places to travel. While you should be on the lookout for cheap travel hacks that actually have the <\/span>potential to ruin your trip<\/span><\/a>, these destinations aren\u2019t a danger! Luckily, there\u2019s something on this list for both nature lovers and those who prefer to have fun indoors. From free museum admission to national parks and more, you can easily travel on a budget if you get creative.<\/span><\/p>\n


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Cheap places to travel in this economy? It\u2019s more likely than you think. Despite rising costs, some places in the United States remain affordable and, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-292960","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.etrafficlane.com\/60dollarmiracle\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/292960","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.etrafficlane.com\/60dollarmiracle\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.etrafficlane.com\/60dollarmiracle\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.etrafficlane.com\/60dollarmiracle\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.etrafficlane.com\/60dollarmiracle\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=292960"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.etrafficlane.com\/60dollarmiracle\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/292960\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.etrafficlane.com\/60dollarmiracle\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=292960"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.etrafficlane.com\/60dollarmiracle\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=292960"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.etrafficlane.com\/60dollarmiracle\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=292960"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}