The United States is home to a wide range of vacation spots that offer ample activities at reasonable prices. U.S. News, with the help of expert opinions and user votes, ranked the best cheap vacations in the U.S. Whether you're seeking a fun national park adventure, a beach escape or a small-town getaway, you'll discover plenty of budget-friendly vacation options on this list. Use it to help pick your next affordable domestic destination, and don't forget to vote for your choice getaway below to help shape next year's ranking.
Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2023-2024
- Grand Teton National Park
- Moab
- Glacier National Park
- Cannon Beach
- Sequoia National Park
- Bar Harbor
- Olympic National Park
- Destin
- St. Augustine
- Grand Canyon National Park
- Asheville, NC
- The Finger Lakes
- Nags Head
- Gatlinburg
- Santa Fe
- Colorado Springs
- Flagstaff
- San Antonio
- Williamsburg
- Gettysburg
Grand Teton National Park
#1 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
Get the most bang for your buck on a vacation to Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park by traveling via car – the $35 entrance fee covers all passengers in the vehicle and is valid for seven days after purchase. Once there, you can enjoy activities like kayaking, hiking and mountain climbing, or go for a leisurely drive along Teton Park Road for prime wildlife-spotting opportunities and stunning views of the Teton Range. Be sure to stop by the Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center before you leave to learn more about the park's unique history.
Moab
#2 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
You'll find no shortage of adventurous pursuits in Moab. Situated between Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, this quiet town in eastern Utah offers opportunities for hiking, biking and rafting down the Colorado River. Save money on lodging by staying overnight at one of Moab's campgrounds, which range from well-maintained sites with several amenities to primitive spots in remote wilderness areas. An added bonus? Camping is the best way to observe Moab's clear night skies without light pollution.
Glacier National Park
#3 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
A favorite destination for hikers, Glacier National Park is an incredibly scenic vacation spot that borders Canada from the northern edge of Montana. After paying the $35 entrance fee, you can hike, swim and climb to your heart's content. Also take advantage of the park's free ranger-led activities, including daylong hikes and stargazing at Logan Pass, and save time for a scenic drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road, which is open during the summer season. There are nature centers and picnic areas to rest in after you've exhausted yourself.
Cannon Beach
#4 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
This coastal town, situated approximately 80 miles northwest of Portland, Oregon, is the perfect place to unwind in nature. Whether you're hiking through the verdant forests of Ecola State Park or investigating tide pools at iconic Haystack Rock, there are countless ways to enjoy Cannon Beach's tranquil atmosphere without breaking the bank. Spend an afternoon observing the region's rare bird species, including tufted puffins and varied thrushes, or visit during winter or spring for the chance to see 18,000 gray whales during their annual migrations between Mexico and Alaska.
Sequoia National Park
#5 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
This park in central California is best known for its giant sequoia groves, and you're guaranteed to see hundreds of the massive namesake trees when you drive through the park. What's more, Sequoia National Park's varied terrain is home to all kinds of wildlife, including mountain lions, bobcats, gray foxes, bears and several bird species. Though you'll need to pay a fee of $35 per vehicle to enter the park, you can make the most of your money by hiking or signing up for a free ranger-led program.
Bar Harbor
#6 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
Known as the gateway to Acadia National Park, this quaint seaside destination on Maine's Mount Desert Island is a charming respite for budget-minded travelers. Stroll the Shore Path for scenic views before stopping for a picnic lunch at waterfront Agamont Park. Exploring Acadia National Park's granite cliffs and beautiful beaches is a must; with a $35 vehicle pass, you can cover the cost of entry for your whole car – up to 15 people – for seven days. Keep in mind, Bar Harbor comes alive with tourists during summer, so save some coin by traveling during the offseason. Luckily, Maine's whale watching season lasts from mid-April through October.
Olympic National Park
#7 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
With nearly 1 million acres to explore, Olympic National Park in northwest Washington state offers visitors panoramic views of glacier-capped mountains, picturesque beaches and temperate rainforests. Popular affordable activities include fishing, exploring tide pools, hiking and stargazing. Travelers may even get the chance to spot wild animals like elk, black bears, bald eagles and several species of whales while making their way through the park. For the warmest weather and mostly sunny conditions, visit between July and August. Just keep in mind, this is the park's busiest time of year, so expect crowds.
Destin
#8 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
This Florida Panhandle locale boasts miles of white sandy coastline with many public access points, making it the perfect low-cost getaway. Soak up the sun at the Shores at Crystal Beach Park or shell out a few dollars to enjoy Henderson Beach State Park's pristine Appalachian quartz sand. After a day of lounging on the beach, take a short walk along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk or enjoy a free alligator show at Fudpucker's Gator Beach. You can snag a room at some of Destin's best hotels for less than $200 per night, but for the cheapest rates, avoid visiting during the busy summer season.
St. Augustine
#9 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
When travelers think of Florida, their minds might drift to Orlando's theme parks or upscale Miami Beach's buzzing atmosphere, but they'd be remiss to overlook the country's oldest city. St. Augustine is packed with historical landmarks, including Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the Old Jail and St. George Street. Cheap accommodations are easy to come by, whether you'd like to stay in a boutique hotel or a cozy vacation rental. Plus, downtown St. Augustine sits about 5 miles northwest of St. Augustine Beach, a family-friendly shoreline with a splash park and a fishing pier.
Grand Canyon National Park
#10 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
It doesn't get more affordable than camping, and the views from the North Rim of Arizona's Grand Canyon National Park are priceless. After watching a free 20-minute film at the visitor center and trekking the trails that weave through this 277-mile-long park, peruse the shops and historic structures in Grand Canyon Village. The Grand Canyon's nominal entrance fee ($35 per vehicle for seven days) covers many of the park's attractions, but you can save even more by visiting on one of the National Park Service's free entrance days.
Asheville, NC
#11 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
Located in western North Carolina, Asheville appeals to nature lovers, adventure travelers and even those looking for a romantic getaway. Take a drive along scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, hike to breathtaking waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest or learn about Southern Appalachian plant species at the Botanical Gardens at Asheville. Save money on lodging by opting for a hostel or vacation rental downtown or test your wilderness skills on a camping trip. You'll also want to time your visit for summer when the town holds several free music festivals.
The Finger Lakes
#12 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
The 11 lakes that comprise the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York are an outdoor enthusiast's playground. Must-do activities that won't break the bank include fishing at Skaneateles Lake and hiking past Watkins Glen State Park's 19 waterfalls. Visitors can also learn about Harriet Tubman's life at the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park or tour the beautiful Cornell University campus. Money saved can be spent at the region's famous wineries.
Nags Head
Spending time in the sun is the main reason to make the trip to Nags Head, part of the Outer Banks region of North Carolina. The beach town's sky-high sand dunes in Jockey's Ridge State Park and great fishing spots in the surrounding Gulf Stream waters attract travelers with varying interests. When you aren't lounging on the sand, explore Nags Head lighthouses or look for birds, sea turtles and more at nearby Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge (on Hatteras Island). Fall and spring are the best seasons to visit thanks to fewer crowds and lower prices for accommodations.
Gatlinburg
It's all about the outdoors in this Tennessee town. Situated just outside of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg shines in fall when the leaves change colors. The town offers a variety of free places to go fishing, biking, bird-watching and hiking, making it a great vacation spot for budget-conscious families and groups. If the weather isn't ideal for outdoor activities, take in the views from the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway or spend the day watching Appalachian crafts being made in the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. What's more, you can find cheap eats at some of the best Gatlinburg restaurants.
Santa Fe
#15 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
You won't need wads of cash to visit New Mexico's capital city. Sitting in the shadow of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe's lively atmosphere can be enjoyed at any price point. Stroll through Santa Fe Plaza, admire the art galleries lining Canyon Road or marvel at Romanesque architecture at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi – all free of charge. Use your savings to buy a ticket to the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, which showcases more than 3,000 works from the late artist and offers free admission for visitors younger than 18.
Colorado Springs
#16 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
Sitting on the border of the Colorado Rockies and the Great Plains, Colorado Springs is easily accessible from all around the country. Once you arrive in this Colorado city, you'll be met with a bevy of free attractions. Picnic between the red rocks that make up the Garden of the Gods, hike or bike through North Cheyenne Cañon Park or enjoy a scenic drive. After spending your days in the wilderness, stroll around downtown Colorado Springs to see its unique street art.
Flagstaff
#17 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
Flagstaff, Arizona, is often overlooked, but this desert city features a wealth of fun budget-friendly activities. Outdoor enthusiasts should visit Walnut Canyon National Monument and Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument to hike and enjoy the scenery, then head to Lowell Observatory (one of Arizona's top attractions) to see the stars. Meanwhile, craft beer lovers can explore the Flagstaff Brewery Trail to sample the city's variety of cold brews. Regardless of their interests, visitors can easily find deals at Flagstaff hotels. What's more, the Grand Canyon is about 80 miles north, so travelers can plan a trip and tackle two cheap adventure getaways in one vacation.
San Antonio
#18 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
Home to the legendary Alamo and River Walk, San Antonio is continuously buzzing with things to do. On a sunny day, visitors can enjoy a relaxing picnic in Brackenridge Park or a leisurely stroll around the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, both of which are free to enter. Those who want to beat the heat by exploring Natural Bridge Caverns or splashing around Six Flags Fiesta Texas' water park should purchase a Go City San Antonio Explorer Pass to save money on entrance fees to these and other attractions.
Williamsburg
#19 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
This Virginia town is both affordable and educational. Williamsburg and the adjacent towns of Jamestown and Yorktown make up the Greater Williamsburg Area, which features more than 400 years of valued American history. Step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg, then head to the Williamsburg Premium Outlets for a discounted shopping spree. Visit in fall or spring to avoid uncomfortable temperatures and summer crowds. However, if you do decide to visit in summer, plan to take advantage of the free outdoor concerts in nearby Yorktown.
Gettysburg
#20 in Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2024-2025
Gettysburg is best known for its three-day battle in 1863 and former President Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. As such, the small Pennsylvania town appeals to history buffs and families eager to take a tour and learn about the blood, sweat and tears that once blanketed this momentous battlefield. But Gettysburg offers more than just historical attractions. Visitors can check out farmers markets, sign up for a ghost tour or browse boutiques, cafes and art galleries in downtown Gettysburg.
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