10 Best Budget City Breaks in the US
How to Spend Less While in the US?
Travelers love roaming the dynamic and diverse US. Fortunately, that diversity extends to how much you need to spend during your adventures. High-quality vacations don’t need to come with a hefty price tag, not with the abundance of budget city breaks on offer within this vast country.
These city breaks will take you to under-the-radar locations that offer an enticing mix of attractions, accommodations, and dining, all at a fraction of the cost of staying in the big tourist hotspots. Check out our suggestions, which enable you to stretch your vacation dollars even further.
1. Tulsa, Oklahoma
Artworks aplenty in this lively city
Good for: Budget, Families, History
Anchored along the Arkansas River, Tulsa, Oklahoma is a lively city that feels like the world’s largest small town. Known for its distinct art deco architecture, you can admire the grand buildings in the Deco District on a self-guided walking tour thanks to the free map from Visit Tulsa.
There’s also no admission fee to explore the Gathering Place, a 66.5-acre riverfront park laced with nature trails, gardens, art installations, and an adventure playground. Housed in an Italianate villa, visits are complimentary at the Philbrook Museum of Art, home to hundreds of Renaissance paintings and a fantastic, landscaped garden. However, what we love most about Tulsa is its abundance of affordably priced hotels in desirable areas.
Location: Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States
Tulsa, Oklahoma
2. Salt Lake City, Utah
Iconic Rocky Mountain views and history tours
Good for: Budget, Families, History
Salt Lake City, Utah, is a big draw for nature lovers and history buffs. One of Utah’s most famous attractions, Temple Square, is the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. If you take the free tour, try to coincide your visit with a choir rehearsal or organ recital at Salt Lake Tabernacle and experience the exceptional acoustics.
The Utah State Capitol building is a spectacular sight, as is the Gilgal Sculpture Garden, and both are free. The spectacular Rocky Mountains aren’t far from Salt Lake City, nor is the Great Salt Lake, whose ancient shores welcome hikers and bikers. Go for a night hike or star party to see incredible clear views of the Milky Way.
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
Salt Lake City, Utah
3. Daytona Beach, Florida
Bargain beach breaks and sweet savings
Good for: Budget, Families, Food
If you’re hankering for a wallet-friendly, white sand beach break, consider this your cue to hit up Daytona Beach, Florida. Sporting one of the world’s most famous beaches, a vacation here means you’ll have 23 miles of sandy shores at your disposal.
Daytona Beach offers a ton of free-to-visit attractions for the budget-conscious traveler. Explore the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, plus the specialized exhibits at the Southeast Museum of Photography. You can also attend free tours of the Rockefeller period rooms at The Casements, the winter home of multi-millionaire John D. Rockefeller. End your trip on a sweet note with a complimentary chocolate factory tour at Angell & Phelps Chocolates, which includes a free sample.
Daytona Beach, Florida
4. Greenville, South Carolina
City strolls along Liberty Bridge
Good for: Budget, Food, Shoppers
One of America’s fastest-growing cities is also one of its most inexpensive. Greenville, South Carolina may be steeped in Southern charm, but an abundance of global companies means the city sports a diverse population, which translates to a wide variety of culinary options. Most of Greenville’s restaurants are locally owned, quite casual, and won’t break the bank.
You can walk off a hearty meal while admiring the many public art installations dotted throughout downtown. In Falls Park, you can walk across Liberty Bridge, the only single-suspension bridge of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. While strolling along Main Street is pleasant, you can also hop between stores on the city’s red and blue trolleys for free Friday through Sunday.
Greenville, South Carolina
5. Knoxville, Tennessee
Nature-based workouts with the sound of jazz
Good for: Budget, Families, History
Built in 1982, World’s Fair Park in Knoxville, Tennessee is a popular destination thanks to its green spaces, fountains, and splash parks. Locals love to play and dine at Market Square, and you can soak up the vibrant atmosphere at a complimentary outdoor concert.
For an edgy alternative to downtown, explore the Old City if you’re a fan of independent boutiques, live blues, and jazz. Then there’s Ijams Nature Center, a wildlife sanctuary near downtown that offers easy access to hiking, biking, and inexpensive canoe rentals. There’s no need to pay for a pricey workout class, as Ijam’s Primal Playground offers nature-based workouts for all ages.
Knoxville, Tennessee
6. Washington, D.C.
Historic monument viewings for free
Good for: Budget, History, Photo
The great thing about visiting a capital city is that many of its museums and civic attractions are free to visit. Such is the case in Washington, D.C., where you can dive into science, history, art, and culture without paying a cent. There are no less than 7 stunning free museums, including the National Museum of Natural History, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, and the National Gallery of Art.
Refresh your senses at the U.S. Botanical Garden, on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol. It won’t cost you anything to take a tour of the Capitol and The White House, though reservations are recommended. There are also many memorials in this historic city where you can pay your respects.
Washington, D.C.
7. Albuquerque, New Mexico
The world’s hot air ballooning capital
Good for: Couples, History, Unusual
The image that often comes to mind when thinking of Albuquerque, New Mexico is hundreds of brightly colored balloons floating above the desert landscape. Host of the autumn Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, this is the hot air ballooning capital of the world. Your chances of spotting those whimsical objects floating in the sky are high and the experience is completely free.
Affordable attractions on the ground include downtown walking tours, exploring the Petroglyph National Monument, and wine tasting. Hotel stays in the atmospheric Old Town are reasonable, and the district is flush with historic adobe buildings and crafts from local artisans.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
8. El Paso, Texas
Where money goes further
Good for: Couples, Food, Budget
Sample one of El Paso’s massive breakfast burritos each morning and you’ll probably still be full come lunchtime. El Paso is a popular destination for road trippers wanting to explore West Texas or those wanting a pitstop on the way to Mexico. Scenic Drive Overlook is one of those Instagram-worthy, breathtaking vistas you can’t miss. Additionally, you’ll want to pull over at the 3 historic Spanish missions within 9 miles of each other.
Art lovers will appreciate the 100+ murals downtown, where restored historic buildings line the revitalized San Antonio Street. Make sure you don’t miss the Plaza Theatre, a Spanish Colonial Revival gem with spectacular interiors, even if you don’t pay to see a show.
El Paso, Texas
9. Athens, Georgia
A cultural haven for travelers
Good for: Budget, Couples, Nightlife
College towns are great places for budget-conscious travelers, and Athens, Georgia is no exception. Students don’t have a lot of money to spend, but they do like their live entertainment, happy hour specials, and college sports. If catching a show on campus isn’t your thing, get into the groove along the Athens Music Walk of Fame.
The Georgia Museum of Art and the State Botanical Garden are both free of charge. Their children’s garden is not to be missed, especially as it’s an easy day trip to Atlanta from Athens. With an abundance of outdoor attractions like Walker Park, Sandy Creek Nature Center, and the Firefly Trail for biking, there’s plenty to do for free.
Athens, Georgia
10. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
History and culture abound
Good for: Budget, Couples, Families, History
The great thing about visiting Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is that many restaurants offer BYOB, which certainly helps the food budget. And given the size of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich, you probably won’t have any trouble sharing one with a friend. Afterward, you’ll want to imitate Sylvester Stallone and pose on the famous Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Try and pack your sightseeing into 24 hours to take advantage of Southern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority’s affordable 1-day pass for trains, buses, trolleys, and subways. Additionally, the city sports a number of free historic sites including The President’s House and The Liberty Bell. For an atmospheric stroll, wander down Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in the US.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.