When you think about going on an amazing vacation, you may initially believe you have to travel outside of the U.S. to find what you’re looking for. If you’re on a budget, that may not be feasible for you, however.
If so, why not look within the United States at some of the great budget-friendly destinations that don’t require a passport or maybe even a plane ride?
The following are some great options if you want to stay on budget and still get a fabulous vacation.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is an excellent travel destination, and especially if you have a budget in mind. If you’re planning a trip to Myrtle Beach, you’ll find around 60 miles of beaches. The waves are fun for everyone in the family, and the sand is expansive.
Myrtle Beach offers a variety of inexpensive attractions for all ages as well such as the recently built Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade. There’s also Broadway at the Beach, which is a massive shopping, dining and entertainment complex, and during the summer the weather is often in the 80s and sunny.
There are a lot of different types of accommodations available including motels, hotels, suites, houses, and condos.
Waco, Texas
Just a few years ago you might not have considered visiting Waco, Texas, but now since Chip and Joanna Gaines came onto TV screens on the show Fixer Upper, it’s become a favorite travel destination and an inexpensive one at that.
Not only can you visit their Silo District for shopping, a bakery, and regular events, but the central location of Waco makes it easy to travel to other parts of Texas as well.
You can visit the Texas A&M football stadium or make your way to cities like Houston or Austin within a relatively short drive.
New Orleans
New Orleans is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. You can find accommodations to fit nearly any budget, and you don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy all there is in New Orleans.
For example, much of the entertainment including live jazz music can be found right on the streets from performers. You can get around town on the street cars, or it’s a city that’s manageable on foot.
You can tour the cemeteries and historic mansions, or take a bike tour of the city to check out the stunning architecture.
Grand Canyon, Arizona
It doesn’t get more American than a trip to the Grand Canyon, and you can do it in a budget-conscious way as well. In fact, the Grand Canyon is often ranked number one among cheap destinations to travel to in the U.S.
The Grand Canyon is up to 18 miles wide at points, and a mile deep. It is northern Arizona, and it’s managed by the National Park Service as well as being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Around six million people visit each year.
The South Rim is the area of the Grand Canyon that’s usually most crowded as it’s where Grand Canyon Village is located. It’s also where you’ll find the popular Bright Angel Trail. If you want something quieter and away from crowds, you might be happier at the North Rim.
Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix is another inexpensive Arizona gem. Phoenix is the 5th largest city in the U.S., so you get an urban feel, but much more. Phoenix is located in the Sonoran Desert, which is considered the “gateway” to the Grand Canyon.
Phoenix has more designated park and preserve land than any other big city in the U.S., and there’s also plenty of culture including museums and theater.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Finally, Gatlinburg is in the Smoky Mountains on the eastern side of Tennessee. It’s where you’ll find one of the nation’s most popular national parks—the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As a result, there are a lot of great outdoor activities, many of which are budget-friendly. There’s hiking, white water rafting, swimming kayaking and horseback riding to name a few.
The area is also known for its artisan community called the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, and there are family-friendly attractions such as Ober Gatlinburg and Dollywood. Themed dinner shows are popular in the area.
If you are on a budget, camping is very popular in Gatlinburg and the surrounding areas. There are also budget and moderately-priced hotels and inns, or you can rent a cabin. If you go off-season, you’re likely to find wallet-friendly deals.
