Best Affordable U.S. Destinations
Just because money is tight these days doesn't mean you have to settle for a stay-cation. The United States is home to plenty of vacation spots that offer the escape you need -- complete with one-of-a-kind hotels, mouth-watering restaurants and plenty of things to do -- and prices that won't make you cringe. According to experts and travelers, here are the best values America has to offer.
Why go: With plenty of natural attractions and low-price camping areas, Yosemite offers refuge for those looking to escape their hectic urban lives. Like Yellowstone, Yosemite offers access to extensive hiking trails and breathtaking scenery for a small entrance fee, and travelers can avoid high hotel prices by simply packing a tent. If the city calls, San Francisco is just a few hours away by car.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Yosemite»
Why go: Forget hotel rates and bring your own accommodations. Yellowstone is home to breathtaking natural attractions that many agree are enjoyed by visitors of all ages. With miles of hiking and skiing paths, erupting hot springs and belching mud pools, not to mention the numerous roaming animals, experts and fellow adventure-seekers agree that the entrance fee is a small price to pay for a walk on the wild side in America's oldest national park.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Yellowstone»
Why go: Low prices are just one of the perks of planning a trip to this Southern city, not to mention the picturesque architecture and a large number of restaurants dishing out hearty portions of Southern fare. Experts say that this southern gem has a split personality -- mixing traditional southern culture with a hint of contemporary flair -- which can be experienced by simply strolling along the city streets. With budget-friendly room rates, recent visitors agree that there's no excuse not to stay a few extra nights.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Savannah»
Why go: Known for offering some of the lowest hotel prices in the South -- not to mention some of the most satisfying barbecue in the country -- Nashville allows bargain hunters a laidback getaway filled with down-home fun. However, you may find that it's easier to splurge on a rental car rather than trying to navigate the city on foot or by public transportation.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Nashville»
Why go: Although hotel prices are not always budget-friendly, travel writers say that those who are patient can generally find a room to suit both your taste and budget. And with a wide variety of free museums and monuments, visitors can spend a couple of guilt-free days perusing the dozens of Smithsonian museums along the National Mall, or head into the lion's den at the National Zoo. At the end of the day, grab a meal at one of D.C.'s many budget friendly restaurants before a night on the town.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Washington D.C.»
Why go: Sitting at the heart of the Lone Star State, Austin's fun-filled atmosphere, outdoor attractions and notorious nightlife draw crowds from all over the country. Not to mention a wide variety of lodging and dining options make the quirky "Live Music Capital of the World" a great year-round budget-friendly vacation spot. Because this is a university town, Austin's prices cater to student budgets. Bargain-hunters will not have to lose out on an authentic Austin experience, since price tags are low at the majority of hotels and restaurants, most of which are said to be just as "weird" as the city itself.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Austin»
Why go: Home to numerous golf courses, beaches and family-friendly attractions, Myrtle Beach's budget-friendly hotels and restaurants make a trip to this city on the shore even more enjoyable. Recent travelers have taken advantage of the many stay-and-golf deals offered by a good number of Myrtle Beach hotels, while those looking for sand and sun can spend their days sprawled out along the city's public beaches.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Myrtle Beach»
Why go: There are plenty of fun (and affordable) ways to stay dry in rainy Seattle. Caffeinate at the world's first Starbucks, peruse the Pike Place Market or stretch your legs on the trails in the Olympic Mountains. If you don't mind the cold, you can find some great deals on Emerald City hotels during the fall and winter.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Seattle»
Why go: Just because this city boasts a sense of newly found glamour doesn't mean Chicago doesn't cater to the bargain-hunter. Windy City is home to plenty of free attractions like Millennium Park, the Lincoln Park Zoo and Navy Pier. And don't worry about spending a fortune on food: Sink your teeth into a slice of Chicago's renowned deep-dish pizza or a loaded hot dog (both are very affordable).
Read on: Top Things to Do in Chicago»
Why go: America's Playground is littered with inexpensive hotels and all-you-can-eat buffets, making this city an affordable place to stay. Add to that a number of public pools and rows of quarter slots and you've got yourself a great value destination. But unless you're extremely disciplined, you may find yourself shelling out more than you expected. A dispute with Lady Luck by the blackjack table may leave your bank account suffering.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Las Vegas»
Why go: Easily accessible by air and ground transportation, San Antonio welcomes approximately three million visitors per year, according to Lonely Planet. Home to the legendary Alamo, River Walk and San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, not to mention a host of lively honky-tonks and rock clubs, this city is constantly buzzing with things to do. While hotels and restaurants in the heart of the city will charge a pretty penny for their convenient location, travelers on a budget shouldn't have any problems saving on lodging and dining in surrounding neighborhoods like King William and Alamo Heights.
Read on: Top Things to Do in San Antonio»
Why go: It's been several years since Hurricane Katrina wreaked havoc on this Louisiana city, but now New Orleans is back and better than ever, offering visitors a culturally rich and sometimes scandalous getaway with prices that are much tamer than the city's reputation. Budget hotels are housed in historic buildings, and restaurants serve spicy portions of Cajun and Creole cuisine for a tiny price. However, travelers planning to visit in March will be scrambling for decent hotel rooms and sharing the city with rowdy Mardi Gras attendants.
Read on: Top Things to Do in New Orleans»
Why go: Puerto Rico offers visitors the chance to indulge in all of the perks of a Caribbean getaway for a fraction of the price without having to worry about international travel. Home to numerous all-inclusive resorts, beautiful sandy beaches and plenty of seafood to satisfy your appetite, not to mention a rich culture infused with traditional Latin rhythms, this American commonwealth is an excellent destination for bargain-hunters looking to lie in the lap of luxury. And with nonstop flights from many major U.S. airports, the Caribbean has never been so accessible.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Puerto Rico»
Why go: Historic monuments, museums and nightlife can keep visitors busy for days in this vibrant city. Easily accessible by plane, train or car, getting to Philadelphia is not a problem. And with plenty of budget-friendly accommodations and an abundance of bargain eateries, not to mention a convenient public transportation system, Philly makes for a unique and affordable getaway. However, like in any big city, finding a place to stay that won't break the bank takes patience and perseverance, and most of the major attractions charge entrance fees.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Philadelphia»
Why go: This sandy strip features numerous budget-friendly options within walking distance from the beach, while other attractions -- including a water park and wildlife excursions -- offer fun for the whole family. But because SPI's primary airport is small and located rather far from the island, getting there can be a hassle, not to mention that those traveling in March will have to share this otherwise relaxing beach destination with rowdy Spring Breakers.
Why go: Home to numerous affordable chain hotels and independent bed and breakfasts, Minneapolis offers plenty top-notch museums and sculpture gardens, a thriving theater scene and a large number of must-try restaurants. But unless you're willing to brave the sub-zero temperatures of Minnesota winters, you'll find your travel dates are rather limited, not to mention that summer rates rise to accommodate visitors to the city's annual Aquatennial festival.
Why go: Despite its high-end reputation, it is possible to experience the Big Apple on a budget. Hotels outside of Midtown offer bargain rates, the city's extensive subway system makes getting around easy and cost-efficient and you can avoid over-spending by passing the time in Central Park with a jumbo slice of pizza. But unless you plan on eating all your meals at street stalls, dining out is going to cost you, not to mention that some noteworthy New York experiences, like attending a Broadway show, can be pricey. If you're looking for an affordable big-city experience, head to Washington D.C. or Philadelphia instead.
Read on: Top Things to Do in New York City»
Why go: Baltimore is speckled with affordable lodging and dining options, not to mention the numerous attractions -- from museums to aquariums -- that provide entertainment to visitors of all ages. But because of its poor reputation in terms of safety, most travelers limit themselves to neighborhoods within the immediate vicinity of the Inner Harbor. Because this area sees the largest influx of tourists, hotel and restaurant prices here tend to be high. Bargain hunters can easily find low rates, but they can also prepare themselves for a somewhat lengthy commute to major attractions.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Baltimore»
Why go: Travelers looking to escape the winter chills and the high prices of other Florida cities should speed over Daytona, where the weather is just as warm and the beach is just as enjoyable. But travelers will find that the most affordable room rates can be found mainly at chain hotels, and rooms can be hard to come by during major sporting events like the Daytona 500 auto race. And unless you're a diehard car aficionado, you'll find that entertainment in this auto-centric city is rather limited.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Daytona»
Why Go: For an all-American vacation with swag, go to Kansas City. Straddling the border of Kansas and Missouri, this Midwestern city oozes friendliness, while the hardworking breweries keep the party hopping in the Power & Light District. Even better, a Kansas City getaway won't break the bank. The abundance of brand-name hotels keeps room rates low throughout the year.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Kansas City»
Why Go: When choosing a vacation spot, Richmond doesn't often come to mind. But it should. Virginia's capital is home to historic sites (like Maymont), museums (like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts) and entertainment spots (like Carytown). Richmond's low profile translates into big savings: Finding an affordable room here is extremely easy. This way, you'll have plenty of extra cash to treat the kids to a day at Kings Dominion.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Richmond»
Why Go: You don't have to worry about overstepping your budget on a visit to the Adirondacks. In fact, if you're devoted to staying in the Great Outdoors, the cost will come in well under budget. Campgrounds are extremely affordable, while the hiking trails are completely free to explore. With the extra dough you've saved, you may want to splurge on a canoe rental at St. Regis.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Adirondacks»
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