Looking to escape for a weekend without breaking the bank? The US is brimming with affordable destinations that promise relaxation, adventure, and unique experiences. From relaxing coastal towns to scenic mountain getaways, these domestic weekend getaway ideas won’t disappoint.
Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a blend of outdoor adventure and artsy city life.
Explore the Biltmore Estate, hike the scenic trails of the Blue Ridge Parkway, or wander through the eclectic shops and art galleries downtown. As the sun sets, find a happy hour at one of the best rooftop bars in Asheville to take in breathtaking views.
With affordable lodging options and plenty of free activities, Asheville is an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Austin, Texas
Texas’ capital, Austin, is renowned for its music scene, delicious barbecue, and outdoor spaces. Some of the top things to do in Austin include taking a stroll around Lady Bird Lake, exploring the vibrant South Congress Avenue, and catching some live music at one of the city’s many venues.
Three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in this Texan city. Over a long weekend, you can experience all of Austin’s highlights.
Groups traveling to Austin will benefit from splitting the cost of an Airbnb instead of booking individual hotel rooms. Austin has several houses on the booking platform that are far less per night for groups than traditional hotels.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona, famous for its stunning red rock formations, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike the scenic trails of Red Rock State Park, go on a vortex tour, or simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking views. There are plenty of things to do in one of the US’ most jaw-dropping destinations.
As one of the most popular destinations in Arizona, Sedona can get pricey. Save money by choosing to camp or stay at a local lodge instead of an upscale resort. For those who are more hesitant about roughing it at a campsite, Airbnb and casual bed and breakfasts are also good options for saving on accommodation.
Portland, Oregon
Portland, known for its quirky culture, craft beer scene, and beautiful parks, offers plenty of inexpensive entertainment options. Explore the iconic Powell’s City of Books, wander through the Portland Saturday Market, or take a hike in Forest Park.
A visit to this destination can easily last far longer than a weekend. Extend your trip by embarking on one of the leading day trips from Portland such as Silver Falls State Park or Willamette Valley.
Public transportation and budget-friendly restaurants help make Portland far more affordable that other cities in the Pacific Northwest.
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, the Music City, is a must-visit for music lovers on a budget. Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, catch a live performance at the famous Grand Ole Opry, or wander through the vibrant neighborhoods of East Nashville.
Self-guided Nashville mural tours have become one of the most popular things to do in the city, thanks to social media, and are totally free.
Many of Nashville’s music events are free, so you don’t need to spend a lot to experience local culture. Save money on hotels in Nashville by opting to stay at an Airbnb in the city instead.
San Diego, California
San Diego, with its beautiful beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and abundant outdoor activities, is a fantastic choice for a budget-friendly beach getaway.
Spend the day surfing at Pacific Beach, exploring the historic Gaslamp Quarter, or visiting the famous San Diego Zoo. To keep your budget intact, partake in free outdoor activities and stay off the beach at a vacation rental in a residential neighborhood.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans, with its rich history, vibrant music scene, and delicious Creole cuisine, offers a unique and affordable weekend getaway.
Explore the historic French Quarter, catch a live jazz performance on Frenchmen Street, or indulge in some beignets at Café du Monde before heading back to your rented apartment or budget hotel.
Charleston, South Carolina
Explore the historic streets of downtown Charleston, one of the most charming places to go in the South. Then, relax on Charleston’s beaches, such as Folly Beach, or indulge in some traditional Lowcountry cuisine.
Book your trip to Charleston during shoulder season, such as in October, March, or April for the best rates.
Denver, Colorado
Denver, known for its outdoor activities, craft breweries, and vibrant arts scene, is an affordable base to explore Colorado.
Hike the beautiful parks and trails of the Rocky Mountains, wander through the lively neighborhoods of LoDo and RiNo, or visit the Denver Art Museum.
Denver has CityPASS, which will save you admission to tons of the top attractions in the city that require purchasing tickets.
Reasonably priced flights to Denver can typically be found all year round, but you’ll save the most by avoiding peak ski season and summer break months.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, Georgia, with its cobblestone streets and historic charm, is an ideal weekend getaway.
Wander through the city’s well-preserved historic district, filled with beautiful antebellum homes, museums, and picturesque squares. Experience the city’s rich history through guided tours or ghost walks in the moonlit streets.
For those looking to unwind, Savannah’s vibrant food scene offers a mix of Southern comfort food and innovative cuisine, and its cozy cafes and riverfront views provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation.
Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is famous for its clear blue waters and breathtaking mountain scenery.
In the winter, it transforms into a winter wonderland with world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities at resorts like Heavenly, Northstar, and Squaw Valley. During warmer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, water sports, and relaxing on the lake’s pristine beaches.
Beyond outdoor activities, Lake Tahoe boasts charming lakeside towns with boutique shops, art galleries, and a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to gourmet restaurants.
Lodging in Lake Tahoe is most affordable in the off-season. If traveling during peak season, book your resort or Airbnb months in advance to save the most.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is often hailed as one of the best weekend getaways in the US, and for good reason. Positioned in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of New Mexico, this city is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and cultural events showcasing Native American, Hispanic, and contemporary art.
One of the highlights of a visit to Santa Fe is exploring the historic Plaza, the heart of the city, surrounded by adobe buildings, shops selling traditional crafts, and renowned restaurants serving up delicious New Mexican cuisine. The city’s architecture, characterized by its Pueblo-style buildings and Spanish colonial churches, adds to its distinctive appeal.
Nature enthusiasts will also find plenty to love in Santa Fe, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the stunning landscapes of the Santa Fe National Forest.
Miami, Florida
Miami is an exciting weekend getaway destination in Florida. While it can be known for its luxury, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Miami on a budget.
Consider visiting during the off-season, typically from June to November, when hotel rates are lower. Look for affordable accommodations in areas slightly away from South Beach, which can offer better deals without sacrificing comfort.
Take advantage of the city’s free attractions such as the beaches, the Wynwood Walls street art, and the vibrant Little Havana neighborhood, where you can soak in the Cuban culture without spending a dime.
To save on transportation costs, use public transportation instead of renting a car. Many of Miami’s attractions are easily accessible by bus or the Metromover, a free downtown people mover.
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio, known for its historic missions and delicious Tex-Mex cuisine, is a perfect destination for a budget-friendly weekend getaway.
Visit the city’s free attractions such as the historic Alamo, the San Antonio River Walk, and the vibrant Market Square. For paid attractions, consider purchasing a San Antonio Explorer Pass, which offers discounted admission to several things to do, including the San Antonio Zoo, the Natural Bridge Caverns, and the Tower of the Americas.
Portland, Maine
Quaint Portland, Maine has real New England charm without the price tag of some of the region’s more popular cities, like Boston.
One of the highlights of a trip to Portland is its bustling Old Port district, lined with boutiques, art galleries, and seafood restaurants serving the freshest catches from the Gulf of Maine. Stroll along the waterfront and take in the breathtaking views of the harbor dotted with fishing boats and sailboats, or embark on a scenic cruise to explore the nearby islands and lighthouses.
Portland serves as a gateway to Maine’s stunning natural beauty, with opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and whale watching just a short drive away. The city’s numerous parks, including the Eastern Promenade and the Portland Head Light at Fort Williams Park, offer tranquil green spaces to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
It’s time to escape to the beach
Don’t get your passport out yet—these affordable beach getaways in the United States will have you living your tropical dreams without breaking the bank.
Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
