The best vacation doesn’t have to be the most expensive, and rising prices shouldn’t stop you from taking a well-deserved trip.
If you’re looking to save a few bucks without cutting out travel, consider exploring some fantastic destinations right here in the United States.
The following list draws on U.S. News & World Report’s 2023 recommendations for the best cheap vacations in the US.
This list was compiled by taking into account the number of reasonably priced activities available in a destination, as well as reader votes and expert analysis. Nightly hotel rates and transportation costs were also factored into the selection process.
Here are 10 American vacation spots that won’t break the bank:
1: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park is described as an outdoor person’s dream, boasting 500 square miles of rugged wilderness. A single $35 entrance fee covers a carful of passengers and is valid for seven days.
This fee provides ample time to camp, kayak, hike, or simply drive through the Wyoming wilderness to spot bears, moose, and other amazing wildlife.
2: Moab, Utah
Moab offers an otherworldly landscape at corner store prices. It is described as being quieter and far cheaper than Salt Lake City.
Camping overnight in the park is recommended not only to save money but also to enjoy crystal-clear skies and almost unfettered access to the area’s incredible wildlife.
3: Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park, located in the heart of Montana’s Rocky Mountains, is a world-class hiking destination with endless ways to explore the outdoors.
Visitors can explore all the park has to offer by paying just the $35 entrance fee. Additionally, you can participate in some free ranger-led activities like guided hikes and stargazing sessions.
4: Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach is a beautiful spot nestled on the Oregon coast, ideal for nature lovers to unwind. Animal enthusiasts visiting Cannon Beach can explore tide pools, spot rare bird species along the shore, or watch a massive whale migration that passes through the area between winter and spring.
5: Sequoia National Park, California
In Northern California’s Sequoia National Park, visitors can spend a day among some of the world’s tallest trees.
A $35 entrance fee (per car, not person) grants you access to the famous sequoia groves. You can also take advantage of free ranger-led programs that can teach you all about these magnificent giants.
6: Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor is a charming coastal town that borders Maine’s Acadia National Park and is noted to check all the right vacation boxes.
The town offers free seaside strolls and ultra-fresh seafood on the cheap. Access to Acadia National Park is right on your doorstep for that handy $35 fee, meaning you can explore to your heart’s (and wallet’s) delight.
7: Olympic National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park covers one million acres and features everything from glaciers and mountains to beaches and rainforests, offering near-endless entertainment for a wallet-friendly price.
As with America’s other national parks, a single $35 entrance fee ensures you and a car full of your friends and family can see wildlife, go hiking, stargazing, and more for days.
8: Destin, Florida
For those looking for a more traditional beach getaway, Destin on Florida’s Gulf Coast is highlighted as a budget-friendly vacation destination.
This seaside town boasts white sand beaches and old-fashioned boardwalks. Destin also offers fun, kitschy surprises like a free alligator show at Fudpucker’s Gator Beach.
9: St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine, America’s oldest city, is packed with historical sites that will occupy travelers of all ages for barely a toll on your bank account.
You can stroll through the charming downtown area. Visitors can also head a bit further afield from the downtown area to enjoy a day at the beach for free.
10: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Visiting Grand Canyon National Park is described as a classic American vacation. The source suggests that opting to camp instead of renting a hotel room saves quite a few pretty pennies.
It is also noted that you can’t beat waking up to the sun rising over this world-famous natural monument.
Alicia Richards