Rising travel costs don’t have to derail your vacation plans. There are plenty of incredible destinations across the United States where you can enjoy memorable experiences without draining your savings.
Based on a list from U.S. News & World Report, these spots offer a blend of affordability and fantastic things to see and do, considering everything from activity costs to accommodation and transport.
Many of these budget-friendly gems are found within America’s cherished national parks, which often provide economical getaways.
1: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
This park boasts 500 square miles of rugged wilderness, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.
The entrance fee is set at a reasonable $35 per carload of passengers, and this fee remains valid for seven days, offering ample time for exploration.
Visitors can engage in various activities such as camping, kayaking, or hiking. Simply driving through the Wyoming wilderness is also a great option to spot amazing wildlife like bears and moose.
With the $35 fee covering access for an entire car for a week, it represents significant value for families and groups.
2: Moab, Utah
Moab is described as quieter and significantly cheaper than Salt Lake City, offering an otherworldly landscape at affordable prices.
Camping within the park is presented as a way to save money while simultaneously providing the chance to experience crystal-clear night skies. It also offers almost unfettered access to the area’s incredible wildlife.
The unique terrain combined with budget-friendly options like camping makes Moab an attractive destination for those looking to experience dramatic natural beauty without excessive costs.
3: Glacier National Park, Montana
Nestled in the heart of Montana’s Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Park stands out as a world-class hiking destination.
It provides countless opportunities to explore the outdoors. A single $35 entrance fee grants access to everything the park has to offer.
Visitors can also participate in free ranger-led activities, including guided hikes and stargazing sessions.
This combination of a relatively low entrance fee covering multiple days and free guided programs allows for extensive exploration without significant additional expense.
4: Cannon Beach, Oregon
Located on the picturesque Oregon coast, Cannon Beach is highlighted as a beautiful place for nature lovers to relax.
Animal enthusiasts will find plenty to do, such as exploring tide pools along the shore. It is also a great spot to observe rare bird species.
Additionally, the area is known for a massive whale migration that passes through between winter and spring, offering a spectacular viewing opportunity.
This coastal destination provides natural beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities without requiring expensive entry fees.
5: Sequoia National Park, California
A visit to Northern California’s Sequoia National Park offers the chance to spend time among some of the world’s tallest trees.
The park has an entrance fee of $35, which is charged per car rather than per person, making it budget-friendly for groups or families. This fee provides access to the famous sequoia groves.
The park also offers free ranger-led programs where visitors can learn fascinating facts about these magnificent giant trees. This allows for an educational and awe-inspiring natural experience at a modest cost.
6: Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor is a charming coastal town that borders Maine’s Acadia National Park. It checks all the boxes for a great vacation.
Visitors can enjoy free seaside strolls. The town also offers access to ultra-fresh seafood, often available on the cheap.
With Acadia National Park right on its doorstep, you gain access to another gorgeous national park for the convenient $35 fee.
This combination of a lovely town, affordable food, and nearby park access allows you to explore to your heart’s content without overspending.
7: Olympic National Park, Washington
Covering one million acres, Olympic National Park offers a diverse landscape ranging from glaciers and mountains to beaches and rainforests.
This variety provides near-endless entertainment options. Like other American national parks, it has a wallet-friendly $35 entrance fee.
This single fee ensures that you and a car full of companions can enjoy activities like seeing wildlife, going hiking, and stargazing for multiple days.
The park’s vast and varied terrain offers incredible value for its standard national park entry price.
8: Destin, Florida
For those seeking a more traditional beach getaway, Destin is presented as a budget-friendly option. Situated along Florida’s Gulf Coast, this seaside town is known for its beautiful white sand beaches.
It also features old-fashioned boardwalks, adding to its charm. Destin offers fun, kitschy surprises, such as a free alligator show at Fudpucker’s Gator Beach.
This destination provides classic beach vacation elements combined with some unique free entertainment, making it an economical choice for a coastal escape.
9: St. Augustine, Florida
Recognized as America’s oldest city, St. Augustine is filled with historical sites. These sites can easily occupy travelers of all ages without significantly impacting your budget.
Visitors can stroll through the charming downtown area. Heading a bit further afield allows you to enjoy a day at the beach for free.
The city offers a rich historical experience coupled with free activities like exploring the historic streets and relaxing on the beach, making it an affordable and engaging destination.
10: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
A visit to Grand Canyon National Park is described as a quintessentially American vacation experience.
To save money, opting to camp instead of renting a hotel room is highly recommended. Camping can save “quite a few pretty pennies”.
There’s also the bonus of waking up to the breathtaking sight of the sun rising over this world-famous natural monument.
The sheer scale and beauty of the Grand Canyon, combined with the cost savings of camping, offer an unforgettable and economical adventure.
Alicia Richards