10 Insanely Cheap Places to Visit in United States – Guide for Budget Travelers

No need to dream anymore! The USA is calling you. While all remaining metropolises may suck the last drops of money out of your pocket, a heap of cheap gems is waiting to be discovered across America.

These budget-friendly places are a lovely mix of culture, food, and adventure, from the jazz-filled streets of New Orleans to the hipster haven of Portland. Be it a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast; we surely have a city on our list that will pull your heartstrings and save your money.

Come; join us as we travel through the Top 10 most affordable places to visit in United States while discussing the selection criterion for each of these budget-friendly wonders, including the music capital that is Nashville and tech-smitten Austin, your next great adventure (that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg) is just around the corner!

Criteria for Selecting Affordable Cities

Cost of accommodation

While choosing to travel to budget-friendly cities in the U.S.A, one major factor that needs to be considered is the cost of accommodation. Affordable accommodation can make a huge difference in reducing the overall travel expenditures. Some cities have many screening options- affordable hotels, hostels, and vacation rental of different price bands. Some cities might give you good value with great living options from Airbnb and such-like where you get to stay in residential areas and experience local life. Go there during off-peak seasons since hotels would tend to charge lower rates.

Food and dining expenses

One of the key considerations for an inexpensive city trip is the cost of food and dining. Cities with a diverse culinary scene often have a fair amount of choice for most budgets. Look at destinations famous for their street food, food trucks, and cheap eats. Many inexpensive-touched U.S.A. cities have fantastic farmer’s markets that let you stock up on local produce and go self-catering, saving on overall costs.

Transportation costs

Depending on where you’re going, public transport costs may well make your trip even more expensive than you anticipated. So, consider cities where public transport is reliable and affordable. Look for destinations with a good network of buses/metros, bike-sharing programs, or simply downtown areas that allow for walking. Some cities offer day passes or tourist cards that give you unlimited public transport for a fixed price, which could save you dollars’ worth of exploration.

Free or cheap attractions

Affordable cities in the U.S.A. usually boast a plethora of free or inexpensive attractions. Look at destinations with parks, museums that have free admission days, historical sites, and cultural events that don’t charge out of the roof to go in. Many places offer free walking tours, giving you a great opportunity to explore and learn about the city without burning a hole in your pocket. With that, let’s proceed to what we’ve covered after the big factors from the list of affordable cities.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Rich Cultural Heritage

New Orleans is a melting pot of cultures, with French, African, Spanish, and Caribbean influences all melding together. Its gorgeous French Quarter, a historic place signified by vibrant architecture and wrought-iron balconies, gives a peek into its past. Tourists have the chance to visit the Oldest Catholic Cathedral in the U.S.A., the St. Louis Cathedral, or to take a leisure stroll along the beautiful Garden District lined with splendid antebellum mansions.

Vibrant Music Scene

Jazz is at the heart of music coming from New Orleans, with none to rival the music scene anywhere else. Budget-conscious travelers can enjoy free live performances on Frenchmen’s Street or Jackson Square. Or maybe they’d prefer the various musical festivals in town that would normally include Jazz Fest-all with free ways to spend a fun, lively afternoon.

Cheap Creole Cuisine

New Orleans may be a paradise for good eaters; indeed, Creole and Cajun food is a balance of eclectic flavors. Cheap yet good eats await the budget travelers’ palate-be it gumbo, jambalaya, or beignets! Restaurateurs offer reasonably priced po’boys and muffulettas for a brilliant and cheap meal.

Bargain accommodations

Despite its popularity, one can correctly assume that New Orleans is also impressed with a handle of hotels on a low budget. Budget travelers are not left out in New Orleans, as reasonably priced hotels are usually found in the Central Business District, while more charming guesthouses in neighborhoods like Marigny or Bywater are well known for their affordable yet always-like-finding-a-diamonds-in-the-rough ratings. The adventurous can go for authentic experiences at the city’s historical bed-and-breakfast-a far cheaper yet a memorable option.

With its rich cultural legacy and lively beats, Creole food that is both palatable and cheap, and lodgings that do not come at an extortionate price, New Orleans fits right up the alley of all inquisitive travelers looking toward experiencing one of the unique cities in America at an affordable price. Next, we look into another Southern jewel that offers good valves to budget-friendly travelers.

Nashville, Tennessee

Live music everywhere!

Nashville, which is referred to as music city, comes with a unique experience for music-lovers on a budget. As you walk down the street, you will meet quite a number of talented musicians performing in the bars, restaurants, and even right there on the sidewalks. The famous Broadway strip is where honky-tonks line up with the possibility of taking in live country rock or blues without having to pay cover.

Low-cost entertainment options

Nashville offers many other attractions which are light on the pockets. Visit the iconic Parthenon in Centennial Park, which is basically a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek temple, for a small fee. Art-lovers find the First Art Museum worth exploring, as exhibitions change on free admission days. For history-lovers, the Tennessee State Museums offer free entry year-round to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Tennessee.

Affordable southern comfort food

“In Nashville, dining is heaven for budget-friendly impromptu food tours.” Enjoy the city’s famed hot chicken at local eateries like Hattie B’s or Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, all affordable. And for some true taste of southern hospitality hit meat-and-three restaurants that give you filling southern-style meat-and-three side-dish meals without burning a hole in your pockets! Do try “Meat and three” – Nashville’s specialty – at Arnold’s Country Kitchen or Monell’s Dining & Catering.

With Nashville’s budget-friendliness out of the way, let’s head to a different city that just goes ahead and does it a little brighter with great value for budget travelers.

Austin, Texas

Thriving food truck scene

Austin’s street food scene is a haven for money-savvy food lovers. Food trucks offer an array of worldly cuisine from various locations in the city, all within a modest budget. The trendy food trucks serve delectable tacos and creative fusion dishes, giving you upscale meals fit for a king, not a king’s ransom. Famous food truck parks that combine food with camaraderie include The Picnic and South Austin Trailer Park & Eatery.

Free outdoor activities

Everything from the budget we’ve saved on eating to the day we want to be outdoors to enjoy. With an abundance of parks and green spaces in Austin, this city might be heaven for nature lovers. Zilker Park is one such huge park where you can hang out, picnic, hike, or just relax along the lake. Take a dip in the famous Barton Springs Pool or hike/explore at the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail. Seeing the Congress Avenue Bridge bat colony in action at sunset is a truly free show you wouldn’t want to miss!

Cheap nightlife

Austin is not too bad on the nightlife side as well, with a range of various places that won’t burn a hole in your pocket. The famed Sixth Street has endless bars and live music venues that charge a reasonable cover charge or free entry. Packed bars with happy hour deals and cheap drinks are all worth checking out. Meanwhile, there is historic Rainey Street for a true taste of Austin, where a charming row of bungalows turned bars offers a relaxed atmosphere. Eclectic dive bars, dance clubs, and live music venues cater to all tastes—without a heavy price tag.

After an overview of Austin’s affordable wonders, take the road northwest to Portland, Oregon, a treasure chest of cheap thrills to explore.

Portland, Oregon

Unique neighborhoods

The diverse neighborhoods in Portland present an eclectic mix of charm and character. Each community has entered its trendy stage single-mindedly, from the trendy Pearl District with its converted warehouses and art galleries to the hip and bohemian Hawthorne District. The Alberta Arts District hosts colorful street art and indie boutiques. Mississippi Avenue is home to vintage shopping and live music venues.

Beer culture

Often considered “Beervana,” Portland is where beer-loving Genders will really have paradise on earth. A craft beer haven, with over 70 breweries within city limits, Portland spoils its visitors with choices. Visit any brewery or taproom, and make sure to take part in one of the yearly beer festivals. Don’t forget legendary joints like Deschutes Brewery, Cascade Brewing Barrel House, and Hair of the Dog Brewing Company.

Urban parks

Even as a bustling urban center, Portland is truly abundant with green parks. Among other things, Washington Park of some 410 acres houses the famed International Rose Test Garden and Portland Japanese Garden. Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the United States, complete with several hiking trails. For a quick nature fix, walk through the quaint Peninsula Park or settle down by the Willamette River at Tom McCall Waterfront Park.

Bizarre attractions

Portland very much welcomes its weirdness with open arms. Visit the most suspicious Freakybuttrue Peculiarium, a museum of oddities, or explore the world’s smallest park, Mill Ends Park-a mere two feet in diameter. And be sure to make a pit stop by Voodoo Donuts for its weird flavors and browse the mega Powell’s City of Books, encompassing an entire city block.

Also Read This (The Ultimate Guide for Budget Travel to Southeast Asia – 9 Genius Tips) for more budget-friendly tips!

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

A rich fabric of American history

Philadelphia, the very cradle of American democracy, brims with historical sites enough to awe any discerning traveler. Historical connoisseurs will be at home with historical landmarks, from the widely known Liberty Bell to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and signed. Cobbled streets and colonial buildings in the city take visitors hundreds of years back on a trip delving into the founding fathers’ minds during the American Revolution.

World-class museums

Art and culture lovers will be truly amazed by the astounding museum that Philadelphia houses. The Philadelphia Museum of Art left its mark in “Rocky” movies with a lot of artworks from the world over. For flavor, stop in at the Barnes Foundation; it has one of the most amazing collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings one can ever imagine. The Franklin Institute is an interactive science and technology museum that really should not be omitted by science fans.

Iconic food options

No visit to Philadelphia is complete without an introduction to its world-acclaimed favorites. Here there are cheesesteaks, a hearty sandwich with thinly sliced beef and melted cheese. Yet there is more to Philadelphia’s gastronomy. Reading Terminal Market serves roasted pork sandwiches, street vendors sell soft pretzels, and upcountrty tomato pie offers its own local pizza version.

Walk able downtown

Philadelphia’s civilized downtown, better known as Center City, is an easy place for walking around. The directions follow a grid pattern and people can explore little boutiques, up-lifting alleys, and people-friendly hangouts at their own pace. Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in America, is a must-walk street besides Rittenhouse Square, set in between fancy boutique shops and restaurants. There is so much to see and do just a stroll away.

San Antonio, Texas

The Alamo and River Walk

The enticing history of San Antonio comes alive in the Alamo, an iconic bastion of Texan independence. Admission is free for the visitors, and can be graced in a single visit, making it a good stop for budget travelers. Making a step further from the Alamo stands the River Walk, wherein a jubilant atmosphere can be enjoyed without breaking any monetary banks. Walk along beautiful pathways, enjoy some street performances, and just soak up the merry atmosphere-all free, my friends.

Tex-Mex cuisine on a budget

San Antonio is heaven for foodies and those who long for genuine Tex-Mex flavors. Plenty of restaurants and food trucks prepare really sumptuous tacos, enchiladas, and even tamales, but you can afford them well. While you are there, do not neglect to taste puffy tacos-specialty of San Antonio-at family-owned joints, there’s no trying to break your travel budgeting on this food.

Affordable attractions

Besides the Alamo, you have many more attractions in San Antonio, which will not break the bank. The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site, is free. Enjoy once again the serenity with family picnics in the peaceful Japanese Tea Garden and Brackenridge Park. There are even free local art museums for all the work to be enjoyed for free in San Antonio.

Cost-effective transport options

Getting around in San Antonio is refugee on the budget. Take the city’s massive bus regulating system over the neighborhoods, attractions, and the rest at very reasonable fares. Try the Rio Taxi on the River Walk to have a more unique experience-in these rides, you get to navigate through the downtown without burning some holes in your pockets whilst enjoying the views here and there. The bike-share scheme opening is yet another eco-friendly yet inexpensive means of exploring the city at your leisure.

Savannah, Georgia

The wonderful historic district

Savannah’s Historic District has a great collection of antebellum architecture filled with southern charm. Walking down the cobblestone streets while under moss-draped oak trees, you’ll immediately feel like you’ve taken a trip into another era. The historic district has more than 20 city squares, each with its own character and history. Places like Forsyth Park and the Forsyth Fountain are free to visit, making the area ideal for budget travelers.

The wonderful squares

There are 22 public squares in Savannah, and they represent the very heart and soul of the city. These quaint little parks are carefully maintained green spaces that offer a terrific escape from city life and a relaxed venue for gatherings in the community. Each square has its own story, typically honored by a statue or monument. Chippewa Square is one of the famous squares, being featured in the movie “Forrest Gump,” making it well worth a visit. These squares are not only stunning but are also free to visit, promising ample opportunities for picnicking and people-watching while soaking in the atmosphere.

Low-cost ghost tours

With Savannah being known as one of the most haunted cities in the country, ghost tours are among the most popular and least expensive attractions. Many companies provide walking tours, which start from a measly $20 to $30 per person, with heart-stopping chills at low prices. This idea usually intertwines local history with creepy tales, and it makes for a fun and educational evening activity.

Affordable Southern food

Now that you’ve scattered through Savannah’s appeal, its spooky side awaits a taste-the Southern cuisine. With numerous options, you can find fabulously affordable food choices that will allow you to savor the local flavors without straining your pockets. Soul food joints that operate on generous portions, modifications of Southern dishes are quite good to fill some hunger without overpaying. Make sure you try local shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, or peach cobbler to get your real taste of Georgia.

Asheville, North Carolina

Free hiking trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains

This proximity to the lush Blue Ridge Mountains means Asheville has some of the best outdoor activities one can be in. It has a lot of nice hiking trails for any occasion. There are calm nature walks to strenuous mountain hikes. The famous Craggy Garden Trail boasts breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, and the moderate Graveyard Fields Loop offers scenic waterfalls and interesting types of forest growth.

Affordable craft beer scene

“Beer City USA”, Asheville, with a strong beer might is full of distinctive characters. The city features more than thirty breweries to visit. Many of those also offer free tours and beer samples. A happening South Slope Brewing District will let visitors find so many breweries that they can practically crawl from one to another. Notable stops include Wicked Weed Brewing, Hi-Wire Brewing, and Green Man Brewery, each offering beers sure to tickle your taste buds affordably.

Low-cost art galleries and street performances

The arty community is aflame in Asheville and makes sure that there’s plenty of culture for cost-conscious travelers. The River Arts District is filled with art galleries and studios where guests can browse the local artistic scene free of charge. On the weekends, the streets come alive with street performers who offer free performances through downtown. For the more formal art experience, the Asheville Art Museum features affordable entertainment and various events and exhibitions that showcase works from both regional to national artists.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Hotel for a bear penny

Though the little glamour is disappearing, Las Vegas remains colorful, thanks to a wide range of lower-budget accommodations which can give you a run on some money. Off-Strip hotels such as The Orleans, Gold Coast, and Circus Circus tend to offer comfortable accommodations at a fraction of the price of the luxurious Las Vegas hotels. Downtown Las Vegas will also save you money with economic hotels like Golden Nugget and Four Queens without compromising value.

Incredibly free stuff on the Strip

The Las Vegas Strip is a treat itself and is home to many free attractions. From marveling at the fountains of Bellagio to strolling through the Conservatory and Botanical Gardens at Bellagio, or witnessing the Volcano at The Mirage when in eruption, there is so much to check out. Street performers and musicians fill the air with their sounds, ensuring fun without parting with a dime.

The best budget buffets

Blessed with an all-you-can-eat buffet, hence considered one of its rich-stuff offers, Las Vegas provides a good variety of budget buffets. The Buffet served in Excalibur and Main Street Station Garden Court Buffets are most preferable for budget travelers. If looking for something a little more upscale but not too bad, go with the Wicked Spoon at Cosmopolitan or the Buffet at Wynn.

Get around cheaply

Transport does not have to threaten your pocket in Las Vegas. The city boasts good and affordable transportation using the RTC bus system to move from place to place on the Strip, as well as to downtown. For the unique experience, there is also the Las Vegas Monorail, offering quick and budget-friendly transport among major resorts. Alternatively, walking is easy, especially along the Strip, as you certainly get the chance to know the sounds and sights of the city at leisure.

Conclusion

The United States present several travel destinations that offer affordable prices for every taste or budget. From streets full of jazz in New Orleans to the ancient charms of Charleston, these ten cities embrace the verve and diversity of cultures, foods, and attractions that make America an exciting traveling destination. Although each destination on our list showcases a variety of experiences, none would cost a fortune, proving that memorable vacations oftentimes can be taken at affordable prices.

When planning your next getaway, some travel savvy decisions can save a lot of money without spoiling the fun. Armed with money-saving tips, choose destinations where prices won’t crush you and extend the reach of your travel budget to embrace the rich tapestry of experiences these cities offer. The U.S. sites on the list vary from music-soaked towns to history-filled cities and the nature-resplendent countries to culinary paradises. Once decided, budget yourself up for an escape and join others who have created unforgettable memories more stress-free.

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