Traveling within the United States can be an affordable experience. With a bit of strategy, you can traverse stunning scenery, amazing landmarks and lively cities for a negligibly small bite of your budget.
Asheville, North Carolina
Budget Activities:
See spectacular scenery with a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway (Free).
Wander Asheville’s downtown street art + live music (Free).
Go to the North Carolina Arboretum (Entry with minimal fee)
Hike to Craggy Gardens or Looking Glass Falls (Free)
San Antonio, Texas
Why Visit?
San Antonio combines history, culture and affordability, making it a top destination for travelers on a budget.
Budget Activities:
Stroll the San Antonio River Walk (Free)
Explore the historic Alamo (Free).
Visit San Fernando Cathedral at night to catch the free light show.
Why Visit?
With breathtaking mountain scenery, Salt Lake City provides visitors with affordable, outdoor activities for all seasons.
Budget Activities:
Discover the Great Salt Lake and its unique ecosystem (Free).
Hike up beautiful Big Cottonwood Canyon or Ensign Peak (Free).
Visit the Utah State Capitol and take advantage of the panoramic views (Free)
Visit Temple Square, one of the city’s most famous landmarks (Free).
New Orleans, Louisiana
Why Visit?
New Orleans is famous for its vibrant music, historic streets and fantastic food — all at reasonable prices.
Budget Activities:
Stroll through the French Quarter and watch free street performances.
Check out City Park, featuring beautiful trails, gardens and free attractions.
Free Jazz concert at the French Market, weekends.
A free ferry ride across the Mississippi River offers great views of the city.
Denver, Colorado
Why Visit?
Denver serves as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains, with stunning views and an active outdoor lifestyle at a cost you can’t beat.
Budget Activities:
Hike Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater (Free)
Explore free gallery events at Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe.
Self-guided tour of the Colorado State Capitol (free).
Visit Washington Park for some nature + hiking or biking (Free)
Savannah, Georgia
Why Visit?
Savannah is among the most beautiful and fun destinations in the South, complete with cobblestone streets, historic squares and a friendly vibe.
Budget Activities:
Stroll through Forsyth Park & check out the iconic fountain (Free)
Savannah’s historic district: A self-guided walking tour.
Explore Bonaventure Cemetery, famous for its sculptures and history (Free).
Visit Wormsloe Historic Site (Entry fee small).
Portland, Oregon
Why Visit?
Portland is a paradise for budget travelers, with free outdoor activities, unusual food, and an active arts scene.
Budget Activities:
International Rose Test Garden (Free)
Go hike to Multnomah Falls, one of Oregon’s most popular waterfalls (Free).
Visit Powell’s City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world (Free to browse).
Explore the Portland Saturday Market and watch for street performers.
