Exploring the Best Cheap Places to Travel in the US

Unveiling the Best Cheap Places to Travel in the US

Are you worried about discovering the hidden secrets of traveling to the best cheap places to travel in the US and how to unravel the splendor of the cheapest places to visit in the US? Let’s revamp your dreams and prove that exotic traveling can be experienced even in the most budget-friendly destinations. 

If you’re rooting for a trip to new places and don’t want to exploit your budget, you’ve come to the right guide. Join us as we unveil hidden secrets and pocket-friendly destinations that prove traveling to your dream destination won’t necessarily cost a fortune.

1. Charleston, South Carolina

The vibrant city of Charleston, South Carolina can be explored without overspending your money. So, grab your travel accessories and embark on a budget-friendly journey:

Pocket-friendly Accommodations and Conveyance:

Traveling on a budget to the best cheap places to travel in the US primarily requires reasonable accommodation to stay, B&Bs like Jasmine House or hostels like King Street Hostel which cost $50 nightly, are perfect options. For a homely feel, you can also consider Airbnb as an option.

Renting a bike as a means of transportation can also save you a lot of money, guaranteeing your freedom to travel wherever you want.

Destination Highlights:

Visiting Charleston City Market is a major attraction for tourists yearning to travel economically. Rainbow Row is also another spot where you can witness architectural masterpieces free of cost. 

Picturesque Spots:

Preserving your memories with your camera lens doesn’t only require a camera and its accessories, it also demands several dollars. There are cost-effective picturesque spots like the iconic Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, rainbow-colored Boone Street Steps, and Morris Island Lighthouse enter the chat and serve you with enticing backdrops for your pictures.

Favorite Tourist Activity:

Tourists traveling to Charleston, South Carolina, love to visit spooky places. Ghost & History Tours are its most common example, which cost only around $ 25. You can enjoy it here to the fullest without compromising on your experiences.

 Meals:

Charleston, being one of the best cheap places to travel in the US, features several eateries that offer culinary delights without exploiting your spending limits. The famous dining spots that top the list, include local cafes like Hyman’s Seafood or Rodney Scott’s BBQ. You can also grab food from food trucks and Lowcountry Boil, which costs around $20 only.

Souvenirs:

You can shop for low-cost souvenirs like Sweetgrass Baskets, Charleston-themed artifacts, and much more to preserve your memories.

Free Tours and Bike Rentals:

Free Tours & Bike Rentals allows free walking tours or exploring the destination on two wheels via the Lowcountry Bike Tour or Holy Spokes can also be a good option for traveling on a budget.

2. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, aka the Steel City, owns a rich industrial history. Without costing you a fortune, this budget-friendly destination allows you to unravel your hidden explorer.

Pocket-friendly Accommodations and Conveyance:

Hostels like the Pittsburgh Backpackers Hostel and The Priory feature bedding for under $20 per night.

You can travel to Pittsburgh on foot or by bike. Renting a bike costs $15 on average or availing of the public bus system service is also a smart choice to make.

Destination Highlights:

Among the major budget-friendly attractions for tourists, the Andy Warhol Museum stands as one of the cheapest places to visit in the US. Here pop art is showcased in full swing, and it is free on Thursdays from 5-8 pm. Heinz History Centre is a great place to acquire insights on industrial heritage and it only costs adults $8.50.

Picturesque Spots:

Clicking beautiful pictures at serene spots like Grandview Park and Roberto Clemente Bridge costs zero money and allows you to relax for a while.

Tourist Favorite Activity:

Pirates Baseball, games at PNC Park, Kayaking, and Yoga are all the activities that one can enjoy while visiting Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania without costing your fortune.

Meals:

Enjoying pocket-friendly cuisines is easily accessible in Pittsburgh at restaurants like Primanti Brothers. Here you are served dishes like sandwiches and fries under $10. Dining options like food trucks and strip district markets are also good options for eating on a budget.

Souvenirs:

You can purchase souvenirs at reasonable costs at local shops and this will also be of great support for Pittsburgh’s independent artists and makers at shops like Assemble.

3. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia, with its astounding cobblestone streets and rich history, is a popular tourist destination for people avoiding spending a lot of money.

Pocket-friendly Accommodations and Conveyance:

Opt for affordable accommodation like Eliza Thompson Inn or The Gastonian for under $100 nightly. Hostels like The Globe Savannah also offer dorm beds for budget-conscious travelers.

Savannah is a pedestrian realm. You can rent a bike for under $15/day or utilize the free DOT shuttle for easy and budget-friendly travel.

Destination Highlights:

The major highlights of Savannah that attract several tourists who are trying to avoid extravagant spending, include Forsyth Park where you can catch a sight of the iconic fountain and admire its beauty, all for free. Walking along the Savannah Riverwalk and watching the beautiful sunset for free is also a good option.

Picturesque Spots:

You can capture the serenity of Savannah’s ancient architecture and lush green scenery with your camera. Snapping photos of pastel-colored houses at Rainbow Row is also worthwhile.

Tourist Favorite Activity:

Activities that tourists enjoy the most are Savannah Ghost Tours and Greyline Savannah Ghost Tours, where you can embark on a spooky nighttime adventure for only $25 per tour.

Meals:

Enjoy the iconic Southern cuisine at local spots like Mrs. Wilkes Dining or Lady & Sons Savannah for under $20. You can also enjoy budget-friendly burgers, fries, and local brews at dive bars like The Original Pinkie Master or The Jinx.

Souvenirs and Tour Operators:

Savannah-themed art and crafts are the perfect souvenirs you should carry back home on a budget.

Get insights from experts regarding free walking tours or explore the city on two wheels with Savannah Slow Ride or Bike Walk Savannah, which costs only around $10-15 per day.

4. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans aka the Crescent City, is renowned for its jazz, creole cuisine, and vibrant cultural heritage. This Louisiana gem offers a plethora of experiences beyond extravagant mansions and high-end cocktails.

Affordable Accommodations and Conveyance:

Economical inns like The Frenchmen Hotel or historic B&Bs like The Eliza House are available under $ 100 nightly. Hostels like HI New Orleans French Quarter offer dorm beds for budget-conscious explorers.

New Orleans can be toured easily on foot or a bike. You can also opt for the road trips by hiring historic streetcars that cost $1.25 one-way.

Destination Highlights:

Many New Orleans attractions cost under $100 or are free. You can tour the French Quarter to observe the intricate architecture just for free. Mississippi Riverwalk is also an option for costless viewing of stunning sunsets and catching a glimpse of passing steamboats.

Picturesque Spots:

Click pictures at Jackson Square to shoot the beauty of iconic iron balconies or sit beside Lake Pontchartrain to capture breathtaking views of the city’s skyline.

Tourist Favorite Activity:

People visiting New Orleans love to indulge themselves in the symphony of NOLA’s lively music scene with affordable live jazz at Preservation Hall for $20 as a cover charge or zydeco tunes at The Spotted Cat either for zero money or just $10 for the cover charge.

Meals:

Experience the savory New Orleans breakfast at Cafe Du Monde or Morning Call for under $10. You can also grab fresh groceries from the French Market or local stores to enjoy a home-cooked lunch under lush and green City Park oaks.

Souvenirs:

Shop for souvenirs like handmade jewelry, Mardi Gras beads, and voodoo dolls at local markets like the French Market or Frenchmen Street Fair.

Get assistance regarding free walking tours or explore the city on two wheels with Big Easy Bike Tours or Free Wheelin’ Adventures, costing around $10-15/day.

5. Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas is known as the Live Music Capital of the World. It captivates travelers with its charm and soothing live music. Apart from pricey brisket tacos and rooftop bars, this Texas gem has several thrilling experiences to offer.

Affordable Accommodations and Conveyance:

Hostels like Bunk or Hi Austin Downtown offer bedding for under $50 per night. Consider B&Bs or Airbnb options for a local feel.

For traveling in Austin, you can rent a bike for around $10/day or access the Capital Metro Bus system which costs $1.75.

Destination Highlights:

You can visit the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum, as it is one of the major attractions of Austin, Texas. Blanton Museum of Art is also a place that allows you to uncover various unique art collections, with free entry every Thursday evening.

Picturesque Spots:

Mount Bonnell of Austin serves tourists beyond scenic views. It offers people panoramic backdrops for their photos and lets them preserve their memories in a camera. You can also take snapshots of the lush greenery of Barton Creek Greenbelt.

Tourist Favorite Activity:

Tourists show great interest in free live music at Zilker Park or Auditorium Shores, outdoor movies in Butler Park, and festivals like the Eeyore’s Birthday Party or Pecan Street Festival. 

Checking the Austin Chronicle calendar for the latest happenings, hiking, or biking through scenic trails, renting paddle boats on Barton Creek Greenbelt, or relaxing on the grassy knolls are some of the many free activities featured in Austin Downtown.

Meals:

Budget-friendly meals can be enjoyed at Taco Deli or Veracruz All Natural, where you will be served yummy tacos. For BBQ freaks avoiding extravagant meals, Franklin Barbecue and Rudy’s are the perfect spots for people in search of the cheapest places to visit in the US.

Souvenirs and Tour Operators:

Find unique souvenirs like cowboy hats, quirky T-shirts, and handmade jewelry at South Congress shops or the Austin City Limits Hall of Fame gift shop.

Get valuable insights on free walking tours or explore the city on two wheels with Austin Biking or Zilker Metro Bike Share, which costs around $10-15/day.

6. Denver, Colorado

Denver, also known as the Mile High City, owns some scenic mountain views, colorful streets, and a gigantic Rocky Mountain. Grab your hiking boots and get ready to paint your budget-friendly masterpiece in Denver.

Affordable Accommodations and Conveyance:

If you are looking for a budget-friendly accommodation option in Denver, Hostel, or HI Denver for under $50 nightly have got your back.

Denver is walkable and a bike-friendly destination. Rent a bike for $10 and enjoy a bike ride for the whole day. If you utilize the extensive RTD bus and light rail system, it will cost $3-9 on average. Free shuttles like the 16th Street Mall Ride or free weekend trolley rides in LoDo offer additional options.

Destination Highlights:

Major highlights of the destination are the Denver Art Museum and Civic Centre Park, where you can admire the iconic State Capitol building and witness free events throughout the year.  Discovering historic landmarks like Union Station is also liked by many.

Picturesque Spots:

Capturing the mountain sunsets at Washington Park while breathing in the city’s lively atmosphere with minimum expenditure of money is a groundbreaking deal.

Tourist Favorite Activity:

You can experience Denver’s thriving craft beer scene, enjoy tastings, and learn about the brewing process, for only under $25.

Meals:

Grab a heavenly slice of pizza from Benny Blanco’s or Pizzeria Lola. You can also find food trucks installed at different locations offering Asian cuisine or gourmet hot dogs.

Souvenirs:

Discover iconic souvenirs like Colorado-themed jewelry, handmade pottery, and nature-inspired prints at RiNo art galleries or the Denver Art Museum gift shop.

 Get authentic information and assistance on free walking tours or explore the city on two wheels with Denver Bike Tours or Free Tours by Foot Bike Tours which costs only $10-15 per day.

7. Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles, dazzling with celebrity sparkles and sun-basked beaches, parallels with high costs.  So, without further due, put on your swimsuit and get ready to embark on your budget-friendly trip.

Affordable Accommodations and Conveyance:

Charming guest houses like Sunset Marquis Hotel or Hollywood Highland Hotel cost under $100 nightly. Hostels like HI Los Angeles Downtown offer dorm beds for budget-conscious travelers. 

 L.A. is more walkable than you can imagine, renting a bike for an entire day just for $10 is also a smart choice to make. You can also utilize the Metro Bus system and light rail for $1.75. Free shuttles like the Culver City Bus and Downtown L.A. DASH bus offer extensive options.

Destination Highlights:

LA has a plethora of amazing attractions to offer, including Griffith Observatory, Venice Beach & Boardwalk, and Getty Centre. These tourist spots are the ultimate escapes from your bustling lives and on a budget.

Picturesque Spots:

Runyon Canyon Park, Santa Monica Pier, Mulholland Drive, and Baldwin Hills Scenic offer many scenic spots to capture beautiful pictures.

Tourist Favorite Activity:

Tourists enjoy hiking on a range of diverse trails around L.A., from Runyon Canyon’s urban hikes to Griffith Park’s scenic paths; this all costs zero money.

Meals:

Fuel up on original Mexican spices at local taquerias like Tacos 1986 or El Tepeyac Cafe for just under $10. Happy Hour Deals allow you to enjoy low-priced bites and drinks at restaurants offering happy hour specials throughout the city.

Souvenirs:

Find unique souvenirs like handmade pottery, vintage vinyl, and L.A.-themed art prints at Melrose Trading Post or Abbot Kinney Boulevard shops.

You can also hire free rentals and bike tours to explore the city on two wheels.  Bike Tours or Free Tours by Foot Bike Tours cost around $10-15 per day).

8. Moab, Utah

Moab is home to some of the most stunning national parks in the US. It is one of the best cheap places to travel in the US for budget-conscious travelers who want to experience the beauty of the American Southwest without crashing the bank.

Affordable Accommodation and Conveyance:

Finding a budget-friendly place to stay is no longer a problem, within Arches National Park campsites are offered for $30 per night, or BLM campgrounds around Moab for $10-20/per night. Hostels like Canyonlands Campground & Hostel offer dorm beds for budget-savvy travelers under $30 per night.

Moab’s Main Street and Arches National Park walkable heavens. Rent a bike for around $10 per day or utilize the free Moab Area Regional Explorer shuttles to visit Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

Destination Highlights:

Some of the major highlights of the destination include Arches National Park. This park features a diverse range of hiking trails. Canyonlands National Park is also a major attraction that offers breathtaking views of the Colorado River and is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

Picturesque Spots:

The cheapest place to travel to in the US doesn’t mean that you must compromise on your experiences. Some of the iconic spots, perfect for clicking pictures and admiring nature’s bounties include the Delicate Arch, Corona Arch, and Potash Road. Planning a road trip on these pavements offers breathtaking views of the Colorado River.

Tourist Favorite Activity:

One of the most famous activities in Moab is hiking. Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park offer a great variety of hiking trails in terms of difficulty and length, but all feature scenic views of the lush green landscape.

Meals:

Moab has a range of dining options that cater to all budgets. For budget-friendly options and a variety of culinary delights, Food Truck Park is the perfect place.

Souvenirs:

Moab has a range of souvenir shops where you can buy beautiful presents and souvenirs. For tour operators, you can check out the Moab Reservation Center.

9. Glacier National Park, Montana: 

Glacier National Park is in northern Montana, known for its serene alpine scenic and several opportunities to witness the spirit of the wild. The park houses two mountain ranges, more than 700 lakes, many glaciers and waterfalls, and various plants and animals.

Affordable Accommodation and Conveyance:

Opt for campsites within the park that offer economical stays for $20-$30 per night. You can also choose BLM campgrounds which are just outside the park, entrance is free or has minimal fees. Hostels in nearby towns like East Glacier Park Village offer dorm beds for under $50 nightly.

The park’s main village, Apgar, and the Going-to-the-Sun Road can be conveniently walked. You can also rent a bike for around $10/day or utilize the free park shuttle system to visit major attractions and trailheads.

Destination Highlights:

The major attractions in Glacier National Park that you might want to consider include Going-to-the-Sun Road, Grinnell Glacier, and Lake McDonald. These places offer various activities awaiting to be explored like deep or shallow fishing with fishing rods or questing for the wildlife marvels within the realm of parks.

Picturesque Spots:

Some of the major picturesque spots in Glacier National Park that are worth visiting include the lakes, glaciers, and vibrant city roads.

Tourist Favorite Activity:

Among the most popular activities to experience in one of these CS hiking on a diverse range of trails possessing different lengths and difficulty levels, but all promise a thrilling experience.

Meals:

Glacier National Park has a range of dining options that are perfect for every budget. For budget-friendly options, check out the stalls, shop for fresh groceries from the local markets, or visit a food truck.

Souvenirs:

Glacier National Park has a range of souvenir shops where you can shop for unique gifts and souvenirs.

For tour operators, you can seek assistance from Glacier Guides and Montana Raft.

10. Eagle Pass, Texas: 

Eagle Pass is an admirable city located in the southern part of Texas. The city is a great destination for budget travelers who want to enjoy their trip to the fullest with minimum expenditure of money.

Affordable Accommodation and Conveyance:

Enjoy cozy stays at family-run hotels like Country Hill Inn & Suites or Microtel Inn and Suites for under $75 per night.

Downtown Eagle Pass and historic Maverick County Park can be easily walked to. Rent a bike for around $10 per day or avail of the Eagle Pass Metro bus system for affordable transportation within the city for less than $2.

Destination Highlights:

The major pocket-friendly attractions in Eagle Pass that you might want to experience include Fort Duncan, which is now a museum that exhibits the history of the fort and the city. Visiting Plaza de las Culturas will let you observe a vast collection of sculptures and murals that showcase the rich cultural heritage.

Picturesque Spots:

Clicking some pictures at destinations like Maverick County Lake and Fort Duncan offers beautiful views and perfect backdrops.

Tourist Favorite Activity:

One of the most popular activities in Eagle Pass is visiting the Fort Duncan Museum. The museum portrays the history of the fort and the city and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Meals:

Eagle Pass has a range of culinary delights that cater to all budgets. For budget-friendly options, check out the Food Truck Park.

Souvenirs:

Eagle Pass has a range of souvenir shops from where you can get low-cost gifts and souvenirs. For tour operators, check out the Eagle Pass Chamber of Commerce.

Recap of Our Budget-Friendly USA Journey

As we sum up our quest for the best cheap places to travel in the US with Sarah’s guidance, you’ve unveiled a wealth of budget-friendly destinations. From magnificent venues to natural wonders, each place features a plethora of experiences without breaking the bank. Let Sarah continue to uncover the veiled secrets behind accomplishing a budget-friendly trip.