Numerous colorful hot air balloons fly above a city
Albuquerque is home to the world-famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
Photo Credit: iStockPhoto / carterdayne

These Cheap US Travel Destinations Have Something for Everyone

Big Cities Can be Affordable Too

While most of us wanderlusters have a bucket list full of exotic travel destinations, it might not make financial sense to book a trip abroad if you’re trying to vacation on a budget. There are tons of affordable places in your own backyard that won’t break the bank.

However, you don’t have to be bored in the countryside in order to save a few bucks; big cities can be affordable too. Plus you’ll save even more if you combine budget-friendly destinations with other money-saving tactics, such as knowing what traveling essentials you can get from the dollar store.

We’ve compiled a list to help you travel cheap in the USA, inspire your next getaway and get you back on the road in no time.

Albuquerque, NM

Named one of Hotwire.com’s top value cities, Albuquerque is one of the best places to travel in the US on a budget. Home to the world famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, general admission tickets only cost $10 a person. The Balloon Fiesta is one of the reasons why Albuquerque is considered a fantastic fall destination for couples.

There are lots of free things to do for kids and families (especially during the summer) such as local history museums, community events and cultural presentations in the Old Town district. Visitors can travel on the historic Route 66, which offers a window into the past, and visit one of the many national parks where entry costs less than a cup of coffee.

A photo of an Arizona city is taken from a small mountain in Piestewa Park during the dayPhoenix, Arizona is known for its outdoorsy and adventurous trips.Photo Credit: iStockPhoto / lokibaho

Atlanta, GA

Although it’s considered a major city, Atlanta doesn’t have to break the bank like Los Angeles or New York City. Taking its place among other cheap destinations in the USA, Atlanta has tons of free outdoors festivals and activities throughout the year.

Since it’s a state capital, you can tour government buildings in the area for free including the Capitol Building and Governor’s Mansion. It’s also home to one of the Six Flags theme parks, which is about a third of the cost of a trip to the Disney parks.

Since its airport is used as a hub for many airlines, it’s also pretty cheap to fly into, with tickets typically ranging from $125 to $225 no matter what city you fly in from.

You May Also Like:

An aerial view of the Denver skyline with the famous mountains in the backgroundDenver is full of art, historic buildings and museums, beautiful scenery, and can tailor a trip to you or your family’s specific interests.Photo Credit: iStockPhoto / milehightraveler

Denver, CO

As cheap US destinations go, Denver, CO is one of the best. Full of art, historic buildings and beautiful scenery, you can tailor a trip to you or your family’s specific interests.

Museums are typically less than $15 per person with many offering free days during the year. The Buffalo Bill Museum offers a glimpse into the Wild Wild West for $5, and the Denver Story Trek provides free tours of the city.

Nearby Golden and Englewood also have rivers you can float down on the inflatable of your choice for less than $10. Denver’s also an up and coming foodie city, which means cheap, delicious eats no matter what your taste.

Comments +