Discover the Cheapest Places in America to Visit on a Budget

Are you dreaming of a vacation but worried about the costs involved? Don’t let a tight budget hold you back! From vibrant cities to scenic small towns, plenty of affordable destinations across America offer unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll explore some of the cheapest places to visit in the U.S. (Cheapest Places in America), complete with budget-friendly activities, accommodation options, and tips to help you maximize your travel dollars.

1. Las Vegas, Nevada

While Las Vegas is famous for its glitz and glamour, it’s also surprisingly budget-friendly – if you know where to look. The city offers free attractions galore, from the iconic Fountains of Bellagio to the mesmerizing Fremont Street Experience. Stroll along the Strip, marvel at the impressive hotel architecture, or explore the vibrant downtown area filled with quirky attractions and street performers.

Accommodation in Las Vegas can be incredibly affordable, especially if you’re willing to stay a bit off the Strip. Consider mid-range hotels like The D Las Vegas or Four Queens Hotel & Casino, which offer comfortable rooms at reasonable prices. Check out hostels like Sin City Hostel or Hostel Cat for an even more budget-friendly option.

2. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is a must-visit destination that won’t break the bank. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, delectable cuisine, and lively music. Start your journey in the French Quarter, where you can soak up the vibrant atmosphere, listen to live music from bars and clubs and indulge in mouthwatering Creole and Cajun dishes.

For affordable accommodation, consider staying in the Garden District or Mid-City neighbourhoods, where you’ll find charming bed and breakfasts and budget-friendly hotels like The Whitney Hotel or Hotel Provincial. Don’t miss out on free activities like strolling through Jackson Square and exploring the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.

3. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures, all at a reasonable price. The city’s crown jewel, the River Walk, is a must-visit attraction where you can stroll along the picturesque waterways, dine at riverside restaurants, and enjoy live entertainment.

For budget-friendly accommodation, consider staying in the Downtown or Riverwalk areas, where you’ll find hotels like Hotel Indigo San Antonio Riverwalk or Holiday Inn San Antonio Riverwalk. Don’t miss out on free attractions like the Alamo Mission and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.

4. Memphis, Tennessee

Music lovers will find themselves at home in Memphis, a city steeped in rich musical heritage and affordable attractions. Visit Beale Street, the heart of Memphis’ music scene, where you can catch live performances, browse quirky shops, and sample delicious barbecue.

For budget-friendly accommodation, consider staying in the Downtown or Midtown areas, with options like The Westin Memphis Beale Street or Holiday Inn Memphis-Downtown. Don’t miss out on free attractions like the National Civil Rights Museum and the Peabody Hotel Duck March.

5. Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a charming city that offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Explore the Downtown Asheville area, where you’ll find a vibrant arts scene, unique shops, and locally-owned restaurants serving delectable farm-to-table cuisine.

For budget-friendly accommodation, consider staying in the West Asheville or River Arts District neighbourhoods, where you’ll find options like The Residences at Biltmore or Sweet Biscuit Inn. Don’t miss out on free activities like hiking in the Pisgah National Forest or visiting the Basilica of St. Lawrence.

6. Portland, Oregon

Portland is a vibrant and affordable city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, quirky charm, and culinary delights. Known for its thriving food cart scene, you can indulge in various delicious and budget-friendly meals worldwide. Explore the Alberta Arts District for its colourful street art, eclectic shops, and lively atmosphere.

For affordable accommodation, consider staying in the Hawthorne or Division neighbourhoods, where you’ll find budget-friendly options like The Society Hotel or The Tailored Stay Hostel. Don’t miss out on free attractions like Forest Park, one of the most extensive urban forests in the U.S., or the International Rose Test Garden, which features over 10,000 roses.

7. Austin, Texas

Known for its vibrant music scene, outdoorsy lifestyle, and eclectic culture, Austin is a must-visit destination that won’t break the bank. Start your journey on 6th Street, where you can explore lively bars, music venues, and food trucks serving tasty bites.

For budget-friendly accommodation, consider staying in the East Austin or North Loop neighbourhoods, with options like Native Hostel or Holiday Inn Austin Town Lake. Don’t miss out on free activities like hiking or swimming at Barton Creek Greenbelt or exploring the Congress Avenue Bridge, home to the world’s largest urban bat colony.

8. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is a charming Southern city that exudes historic charm and hospitality. Stroll through the Historic District, where you’ll find beautifully preserved antebellum homes, moss-draped oak trees, and picturesque squares.

For budget-friendly accommodation, consider staying in the Historic District or Midtown areas, where you’ll find options like The Marshall House or Holiday Inn Express Savannah – Historic District. Don’t miss out on free activities like strolling through Forsyth Park or taking a self-guided tour of the Bonaventure Cemetery.

9. Denver, Colorado

Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is an outdoor lover’s paradise that offers affordable adventures and a vibrant urban scene. Explore the 16th Street Mall, a pedestrian-friendly promenade with shops, restaurants, and street performers.

For budget-friendly accommodation, consider staying in the Capitol Hill or RiNo neighbourhoods, with options like The Ramble Hotel or Hostel Fish. Don’t miss out on free activities like hiking in Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre or exploring the Denver Botanic Gardens during their free admission days.

10. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is a historic city that effortlessly blends Southern charm, rich history, and coastal beauty. Stroll through the picturesque French Quarter, where you’ll find cobblestone streets, antique shops, and beautifully preserved homes.

For budget-friendly accommodation, consider staying in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough or West Ashley neighborhoods, where you’ll find options like NotSo Hostel or Holiday Inn Express Charleston Dwtn – Ashley River. Don’t miss out on free activities like exploring Waterfront Park or taking a self-guided tour of the Charleston City Market.

Comparison Table: Cheapest Places in America to Visit

To provide an updated comparison of these additional destinations, we’ve expanded our table:

Destination	Average Hotel Cost (per night)	Free Attractions	Budget-Friendly Activities
Las Vegas, Nevada	$50 – $150	Fountains of Bellagio, Fremont Street Experience, Streetmosphere	Exploring the Strip, Downtown Container Park, Neon Museum
New Orleans, Louisiana	$80 – $200	Jackson Square, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, Live Music on Frenchmen Street	Swamp Tours, Ghost Tours, Garden District Walking Tours
San Antonio, Texas	$70 – $180	Alamo Mission, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, River Walk	Natural Bridge Caverns, Pearl District, San Antonio Zoo
Memphis, Tennessee	$70 – $180	National Civil Rights Museum, Peabody Hotel Duck March, Beale Street	Graceland, Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum
Asheville, North Carolina	$80 – $200	Pisgah National Forest, Basilica of St. Lawrence, Downtown Asheville	Blue Ridge Parkway, Biltmore Estate, River Arts District
Portland, Oregon	$90 – $220	Forest Park, International Rose Test Garden, Alberta Arts District	Graceland, Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum
Austin, Texas	$80 – $200	Barton Creek Greenbelt, Congress Avenue Bridge, 6th Street	Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail, Mount Bonnell, Austin Bats
Savannah, Georgia	$90 – $220	Forsyth Park, Bonaventure Cemetery, Historic District	Coastal Beaches, Tybee Island Lighthouse, Savannah Riverboat Cruises
Denver, Colorado	$90 – $220	Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, Denver Botanic Gardens, 16th Street Mall	Rocky Mountain National Park, Coors Brewery Tour, LoDo Historic District
Charleston, South Carolina	$100 – $250	Waterfront Park, Charleston City Market, French Quarter	Fort Sumter National Monument, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, Folly Beach

This expanded table provides an overview of the average hotel costs, free attractions, and budget-friendly activities for each of the ten destinations covered in the article. This information lets you easily compare and choose the destination that best fits your travel budget and interests.

FAQ: Cheapest Places in America

1. What is the best time to visit these destinations for lower prices?

The best time to visit these destinations for lower prices typically falls during the shoulder or off-peak seasons (spring and fall). For example, Las Vegas and New Orleans are often more affordable during the summer when the weather is hot. San Antonio and Asheville offer better deals in the spring and fall, while Memphis can be more budget-friendly during winter.

2. Are there any free walking tours or self-guided tours available?

Many of these destinations offer free walking tours or self-guided tours. You can take a self-guided tour of the Strip or downtown area in Las Vegas. New Orleans offers free walking tours of the French Quarter and Garden District. San Antonio has a self-guided tour of the River Walk, and Memphis offers free walking tours of Beale Street and the Civil Rights Trail. Asheville also has self-guided tours of the River Arts District and downtown area.

3. What are some budget-friendly transportation options?

For budget-friendly transportation, consider using public transit systems like buses or light rail. Many cities also offer affordable rideshare options like Uber or Lyft. Additionally, renting a car and splitting the cost with travel companions can be cost-effective, especially for longer trips or visits to multiple destinations.

4. Are there any discount passes or city passes available for attractions?

Yes, many cities offer discounts or city passes that can save you money on attraction admission fees. For example, Las Vegas has the Go Las Vegas Pass, New Orleans has the New Orleans Sightseeing Pass, and San Antonio has the San Antonio Explorer Pass. These passes can provide significant savings if you visit multiple attractions during your stay.

5. Can you recommend any budget-friendly dining options?

Absolutely! Each of these destinations offers a variety of budget-friendly dining options. Look for local food trucks, hole-in-the-wall eateries, or casual diners serving delicious and affordable fare. Additionally, many cities have thriving food halls or night markets where you can sample a variety of cuisines without breaking the bank.

Following these tips and exploring the budget-friendly options in these destinations, you can embark on an unforgettable vacation without overspending. Remember, travelling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing experiences – it simply means being smart and savvy with your travel dollars. Happy exploring!

Ann

Admin Officer, blogger, freelancer, passionate about travel and versatile skills.

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The Cheapest Places in America to Visit on a Budget