Travel does not have to be expensive, but sometimes it is worth splurging. The best way to plan is to match your destination to your budget. Some places to go in USA are perfect for travelers watching every dollar, while others are worth saving up for. This guide sorts fun places to go in USA into three groups: budget, mid-range and splurge.
Budget Places to Go in USA (Under $100 a Day)
These places to go in USA offer cheap lodging, free attractions and inexpensive food.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
No entrance fee, hundreds of trails and cheap cabins in nearby towns make the Smokies one of the best budget places to go in USA.
San Antonio, Texas
The River Walk, the Alamo and the missions are free. Tacos and Tex-Mex are cheap and delicious.
Washington, DC
Free Smithsonian museums, the National Zoo and the monuments keep costs low. Stay in a hostel or nearby suburb.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Cheap hotels, desert hikes and green chile food make Albuquerque great value.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
White-sand beaches at much lower prices than many Florida towns, especially off-season.
Memphis, Tennessee
Blues music on Beale Street and some of the best barbecue in the country.
Mid-Range Places to Go in USA ($100 to $250 a Day)
These places to go in USA cost more but offer great experiences for the money.
Chicago, Illinois
World-class architecture, museums and food. Use the train system to save on transport.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Jazz, food and festivals. Prices rise during Mardi Gras, so visit at other times for better value.
Nashville, Tennessee
Free live music on Broadway and plenty of affordable food.
Denver and the Rockies
Explore the city, then take day trips to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Charleston and Savannah
Historic charm, beaches and great Southern food.
Utah National Parks
Zion, Bryce and Arches are affordable with camping or motels in nearby towns.
Splurge Places to Go in USA ($250 or More a Day)
These places to go in USA are worth saving for.
New York City
Broadway shows, fine dining and luxury hotels make New York a classic splurge, though you can save with free attractions.
Hawaii
Flights and hotels cost more, but beaches, volcanoes and snorkeling are unforgettable.
Alaska
Cruises, glacier flights and wildlife tours are pricey but once-in-a-lifetime.
Napa Valley
Wine tastings, gourmet restaurants and boutique inns make Napa a luxurious getaway.
Aspen and Vail
Top ski resorts and mountain luxury in winter, with hiking and festivals in summer.
How to Save at Any of These Places to Go in USA
- Travel in shoulder season for lower prices.
- Stay outside city centers and use transit.
- Eat one big meal out a day and use grocery stores for the rest.
- Use free attractions like parks and museums.
- Buy an annual national parks pass for park-heavy trips.
- Book refundable rooms early and watch for price drops.
These tips make all places to go in USA cheaper, even the splurge picks.
Places to Go in USA for Families
Families should look for places to go in USA with free or cheap activities. Washington, DC, San Antonio, the Smoky Mountains and Gulf Shores are great budget picks. Orlando is a fun splurge for theme park fans. Renting a condo with a kitchen saves money on meals.
Places to Go in USA for Couples
Couples will love Savannah, Charleston and Asheville for romance on a moderate budget. Hawaii and Napa are perfect for honeymoons or anniversaries.
Places to Go in USA for Solo Travelers
New Orleans, Chicago, Washington, DC and Austin have hostels, walking tours and lively social scenes.
How to Plan a Trip on Any Budget
Start by setting a total budget for your trip, including transport, lodging, food and activities. Lodging usually takes the largest share, often 40 to 50 percent. If you are driving, add gas, parking and tolls. If you are flying, remember baggage fees and airport transfers. Once you know your budget, choose destinations that match it, rather than squeezing an expensive destination into a small budget.
Next, decide how long to stay. Shorter trips to nearby places to go in USA save on transport and time off work. Longer trips let you slow down and often get weekly rates on rentals.
Free Experiences at Places to Go in USA
No matter where you go, look for free experiences. National forests, state parks and city parks offer hiking and picnics. Many museums have free days. Beaches are free in most states. Cities host free concerts and festivals, especially in summer. Walking tours on a tip basis are a great way to learn about a new city.
Smart Ways to Get Around
In big cities like New York, Chicago and Washington, DC, use public transit instead of renting a car. For national parks and rural areas, a rental car or your own car is essential. Compare rental prices at airports and city locations, as city branches are sometimes cheaper. Carpool with friends to split costs on road trips.
When to Book
Book flights about two to three months ahead for domestic trips. Reserve national park lodging and campsites as early as possible. Refundable hotel bookings let you lock in a rate and rebook if prices drop.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cheapest places to go in USA?
The Smoky Mountains, San Antonio, Albuquerque and Memphis.
Which places are worth a splurge?
Hawaii, Alaska, New York City and Napa Valley.
How much should I budget per day?
Under $100 for budget trips, $100 to $250 for mid-range and $250 or more for splurges.
When is it cheapest to travel?
Late winter and fall, outside holidays.
Final Thoughts
There are fun places to go in USA for every budget. Start with a budget-friendly trip, save up for a splurge and remember that some of the best experiences, like sunsets, hikes and free museums, cost nothing at all.
Whatever your budget, there are exciting places to go in USA waiting for you. Choose one that fits your wallet, plan ahead and enjoy every moment of the journey without money worries.