Sticking to domestic vacation spots is certainly not a bad idea, especially when there are so many affordable and diverse options to choose from. Here are 5 locations right in our own backyard where you can spend less and still enjoy all that the city has to offer.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Budget travelers will find that the Big Easy is a hidden gem when it comes to affordable places to visit in the U.S. This is significantly due to the fact that the most fascinating things to do in this city are free. From people watching in the French Quarter to live music on Frenchman Street, you can spend an entire afternoon enjoying the culture of this city without breaking the bank. You can also find beautiful hotels starting around $100 a night and tons of local deals at restaurants including SoBou and Commander’s Palace where martinis are just 25 cents each when you order lunch.
Atlanta, Georgia
To start with, flights to Atlanta are usually very affordable since its airport is a major hub for domestic and international flights. But beyond that, Hotlanta offers affordable dining options throughout the city as well as ample activities that don’t cost a fortune. Ponce City Market’s rooftop amusement park offers games, mini golf and a stunning view of the city with an impressive $10 cost of admission. The High Museum, with more than 15,000 works of art in its permanent collection, also offers free admission the second Sunday of each month.
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Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore tops the list due to its booming art scene and its reasonably priced gourmet restaurants. The city has dozens of historic churches, libraries, and monuments that are, of course, free to visit and art lovers will be thoroughly impressed by the caliber and volume of artwork in the cities’ top museums including American Visionary Art Museum and the Baltimore Museum of Art. The Cylburn Arboretum is also free and open to the public year-round.
Flagstaff, Arizona
Many of the best things to do in Flagstaff take place outdoors, making this a budget and adventure traveler’s paradise. According to travel.usnews.com, built along the railroad track – and what would become Route 66 – the Historic Downtown and Railroad District is a pedestrian-friendly area filled with historic 1900s-era buildings that have been converted to shops. There are also numerous hiking trails and eco-tours of the desert countryside and iconic red rocks.
Detroit, Michigan
After decades of stagnancy, Detroit is making a comeback with small local-run businesses, stylish hotels, and a noteworthy food and drink scene. As the city works to rebuild its reputation and draw in tourists, you will find some incredibly affordable options from hotels, to restaurants and even sporting events. While there, be sure to check out Takoi for their weekly happy hour that boasts $8 Thai-fried chicken sandwiches and $7 cocktail specials. The Siren hotel located on Broadway Street also offers rooms starting around $160 in a stylish and trendy venue.