Fact: 42 percent of Americans can't afford a vacation. That's almost half the population! And when you calculate the average cost of a domestic flight ($359) and mid-range hotel room ($250 per night), this sad truth isn't that surprising. But if you're worried about your budget, we've got some good news for you. There are a handful of wallet-friendly destinations right in your own backyard, from a quaint coastal town in New England to an artsy enclave in New Mexico. Don't let that precious PTO go to waste!
1 | The Finger Lakes, New York
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) or Hancock International Airport (SYC)
When you think of a wine-filled getaway, you probably imagine somewhere expensive like Napa Valley or Bordeaux, but the Finger Lakes Region in upstate New York is a scenic and exciting wine region you can visit without spending a fortune. Reserve an afternoon to taste riesling from the surrounding wineries like Ravine Wine Cellars, Fox Run Vineyards, and Dr. Konstantin Frank winery. There are also a handful of breweries and distilleries like Myer Farm Distillers and Lake Drum Brewing. Back in Geneva, you’ll find relaxed and affordable restaurants like Red Dove Tavern and Ports Cafe.
Where to stay: Snag a room at Belhurst Castle in the town of Geneva for as low as $90 per night.
2 | Louisville, Kentucky
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Louisville International Airport (SDF)
A visit to this southern city right near the heart of the Kentucky Bourbon trail can be tailored to just about any budget. Louisville is the perfect destination for food-minded travelers: Butchertown Grocery, Galaxie, and MilkWood are three must-try spots for the best bites in town. Take a day trip to visit Huber Winery, where there’s wine tasting for adults and fruit- and vegetable-picking for kids.
Where to stay: Rent an Airbnb in The Highlands of NuLu and you’ll be just steps away from the best restaurants, shopping, and nightlife in the city. Or book a room at the historic Dupont Mansion Bed and Breakfast for less than $200 per night.
3 | Portland, Maine
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Portland International Jetport (PWM)
Though Maine’s largest city can get pricey in the summer months, it’s a very affordable destination in the shoulder seasons—late spring and early fall—when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are sparse. Try the New England seafood and lobster rolls at Eventide Oyster Co, small plates at Central Provisions, and amazing Italian food at Fore Street. Downtown Portland is full of cute boutiques and galleries perfect for window shopping, and make sure to take a trip to Cape Elizabeth, a coastal town with a famous lighthouse and Lobster Shack at Two Lights. Portland is also a perfect starting point from which you can explore the nearby beach towns of Kennebunkport, Ogunquit, and Rockport.
Where to stay: For a cute nautical retreat, look no further than the Portland Harbor Hotel in the historic Old Port district.
4 | Taos, New Mexico
Gimas / ShutterstockWhere to fly: Albuquerque International Airport (ABQ)
A trip to Taos feels like leaving the U.S. without actually crossing the border. This desert town in the so-called Land of Enchantment sits at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and it’s known for its artistic community, pueblo style architecture, and free-spirited nature. Thanks to constant sunshine and warm temperatures, there’s no bad season to visit. Art-lovers especially will appreciate Taos flourishing creative scene: There’s the Harwood Museum of Art and the Millicent Rogers Museum in addition to lots of galleries and hand crafted pottery shops. You won’t have to spend much to eat well in Taos: Head to Doc Martin’s for great chiles rellenos, Taos Mesa Brewing for wood-fired pizzas and house beers on draft, and Michael’s Kitchen for breakfast enchiladas smothered in green chile.
Where to stay: To truly experience the pueblo-style architecture this city is known for, book a casita in the El Monte Sagrado resort.
5 | San Luis Obispo, California
ShutterstockWhere to fly: San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP)
When you picture California, you might imagine an expensive weekend in Los Angeles or the vineyards of Napa Valley, but there’s a whole lot more to The Golden State. San Luis Obispo, or SLO as its called, sits between Big Sur and Santa Barbara. It’s home to surfing beaches, three underrated wine regions, hiking spots, California’s best farmer’s market, and more. Pass a few hours watching the surfers at Pismo Beach, hike the three-mile trail at Bishop Peak, catch a concert at the historic Fremont Theatre, and taste local Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs from nearby Edna Valley, Paso Robles, and Arroyo Grande.
Where to stay: Drop your bags at the Madonna Inn, considered one of the quirkiest hotels in America.
6 | Providence, Rhode Island
ShutterstockWhere to fly: T.F. Green Airport (PVD)
Often overshined by its northern neighbor, Boston, the city of Providence Rhode Island is the perfect place to spend a long weekend without breaking the bank. Home to both Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design, Providence has a thriving art scene and progressive, young population. Visit the RISD Museum where you’ll find works by Cézanne, Monet, and Picasso, and walk around historic Federal Hill with its Italian eateries and bakeries. You can also easily escape to the beaches of Newport, Narragansett, or Westerly for the day. Great food is everywhere you look downtown, but seek out Birch for seasonal plates, Al Forno for amazing Italian fare, and Nick’s on Broadway for the best breakfast in town.
Where to stay: The Dean Hotel is a hip boutique property that houses a beer hall and karaoke bar.
7 | Moab, Utah
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
Most people associate Moab with the famous fiery red rock formations of Arches National Park. This desert city in southeastern Utah has lots to offer travelers, especially those seeking outdoor adventure. Downtown Moab is full of health-focused eateries like Peace Tree Juice Cafe, watering holes like Moab Brewery, and quirky shops like Moab Rock Shop. For those hoping to experience nature at its finest, camping sites are prevalent around Canyonlands National Park and Sand Flats Recreation Area.
Where to stay: If you can snag a good rate for one of the glamping tents at Moab Under Canvas, book it ASAP.
8 | Atlanta, Georgia
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Because Atlanta is the hub of Delta Airlines, you’ll always find extremely reasonable flights to this bustling metropolis. No matter what your interests, there’s so much to do in this southern city. For some fresh air, head north to the Chattahoochee River Recreational Area for dozens of hiking trails, fishing, and rafting. Catch a Braves game (or just eat and drink your way along The Battery), wander around Ponce City Market, and eat Atlanta BBQ at Fox Bros or sample soul food at Mary Mac’s. You should also plan your visit around one of the city’s many festivals like SweetWater 420 music fest or Atlanta Dogwood art Festival.
Where to stay: Midtown Atlanta is one of the most walkable parts of the city, so check out Stonehurst Place; this cute boutique hotel is in the center of all the action.
9 | Glacier National Park, Montana
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Glacier Park International Airport (FCA)
For an affordable outdoorsy vacation perfect for couples or families, consider visiting Glacier National Park in Northwestern, which offers over 700 miles of hiking trails and some of the most stunning vistas in the country. Make sure to rent a car and drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 50-mile scenic stretch that takes you past valleys, glaciers, waterfalls, and the continental divide at Logan Pass.
Where to stay: There are plenty of sites to set up camp within Glacier, but if you’re more of the hotel type, make your home base in nearby Whiteface or Big Fork, two small lake towns surrounded by the Rocky Mountains.
10 | San Juan, Puerto Rico
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)
OK, so Puerto Rico isn’t technically in the U.S., but it is a territory of the states, meaning you don’t need a passport to travel there. The city of San Juan is easily accessible and offers the ideal mix of beaches and culture. Spend your days lounging on the sandy shores of Isla Verde and Condado, exploring the colorful buildings and tiny cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, snorkeling off Cayo Icacos, and experiencing the nightlife in La Placita. Even if you aren’t a sun worshipper, there’s plenty to do, see, and eat in town. Sample dishes from dozens of local vendors at Lote 23, taste Puerto Rican specialties like fried mofongo at El Jibarito, and sip cocktails at La Factoria.
Where to stay: Book a room at The Dreamcatcher, a budget-friendly, bohemian guesthouse.
11 | Gatlinburg, Tennessee
ShutterstockWhere to fly: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)
This small mountain town is the perfect starting point from which to explore the gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains. The best time to plan a trip is during the fall when Gatlinburg glows in autumn colors, but during the winter months you can ski at Ober Gatlinburg and during the warmer months there’s hiking and white water rafting. There are tons of ways to entertain kids including Ripley’s Aquarium, gem mining in nearby Pigeon Forge, and breakfast at Log Cabin Pancake House. Plus, with Great Smoky Mountains National Park nearby, you’ll never run out of activities.
Where to stay: Although there are plenty of hotels, the best way to experience Gatlinburg is to rent a rustic mountain cabin.
12 | Hudson, New York
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Albany International Airport (ALB)
Two hours from Manhattan and three hours from Boston by train, Hudson feels as if you took Brooklyn and moved it to the suburbs. The vibe is hipster and stylish yet rustic. Think: a downtown made up of 19th century Victorian homes, antique shops, art galleries, small locavore restaurants, and quiet cafes. Spend the days hiking High Falls, taking a tour of Kinderhook Farm, or window shopping on Main Street. When you’re ready for a bite, sit down for wood fired pies at Oak Pizzeria Neopolitana or head to Lil Deb’s Oasis for tiki-style drinks and Latin American plates.
Where to stay: Check into handsome but well-priced hotels like Rivertown Lodge and Wm Farmer and Sons.
13 | Savannah, Georgia
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)
Even with a limited budget, you can turn a trip to Savannah into the perfect getaway for the whole family, a romantic couple’s retreat, or a friends-cation. Explore the cobblestone streets of the historic district, walk around Forsyth Park, Browse affordable art at Roots Up Gallery and ShopSCAD, which features art and handmade jewelry by students and faculty of the University, and chow down on southern soul food at Mrs. Wilke’s dining room or The Olde Pink House.
Where to stay: For a swanky stay, try Perry Lane Hotel (starting at $197 per night). It has a rooftop pool with a bar and lawn games, a movie room, and a wine market that has regular tastings.
14 | Tuscon, Arizona
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Tucson International Airport (TUS)
This Sonoran Desert city has all the makings for a good getaway: A college town with a large artist population, Tuscon boasts a creative spirit, great restaurants, and plenty of options for those who like to party. Art lovers can visit the University of Arizona’s Center for Creative Photography, Museum of Art, or browse the many smaller galleries and studios like Madaras and Davis Dominguez. Visit Hamilton Distillers to taste locally made whiskies and Borderlands for craft beer. For a meal your stomach and wallet will appreciate, there’s breakfast at Welcome Diner or Tallboys and delicious Mexican food at The Little One.
Where to stay: Hacienda Del Sol is a ranch resort set on 35 acres in the foothills of the Santa Catalina mountains. Don't miss a stroll through the property's beautiful botanical gardens.
15 | Boulder, Colorado
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Denver International Airport (DEN)
This laid-back college town, home to the University of Colorado Boulder, attracts hippies, locavores, and nature-enthusiasts for its crunchy granola vibes and proximity to the Boulder River and Rocky Mountains. Walk around Pearl Street Mall, the main pedestrian shopping street where you’ll find Boulder Book Store, and Peppercorn a local favorite spot for home goods and gifts. Boulder boasts some of the best hiking in Colorado like the trails at Chautauqua Park and Red Rocks Park, and best of all, it’s absolutely free. There are plenty of places to catch an affordable concert like the gorgeous Red Rocks Amphitheater and Fox Theater. Boulder also has lots of places to eat and drink well on a budget like Odd13 Brewing, Bru, Santo, and Blackberry Butcher and Market.
Where to stay: Basecamp Boulder is a funky boutique hotel with perks like fire pits (with s'mores kits) and an indoor climbing wall. Rates start at $159.
16 | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
iStockWhere to fly: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
For an urban experience full of art, history, culture, and food, Philadelphia is a budget-savvy vacation choice. For art, check out the impressionist collection at the Barnes Foundation, and the vast collection at the Philadelphia Museum of Art where you’ll find works by Renoir, Picasso, and so much more. For history buffs, there’s The Liberty Bell, the National Museum of American Jewish History, and the National Constitution Center. Stroll around scenic Rittenhouse Square, the University of Pennsylvania’s leafy main green, and the Magic Gardens. The list of incredible and affordable eats are endless, but some must-tries include John’s Roast Pork and chicken and waffles from Federal Donuts.
Where to stay: Don't miss out on the artsy Kimpton Hotel Palomar, where rooms typically go for around $200.
17 | Outer Banks, North Carolina
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Norfolk International Airport (ORF)
The Outer Banks, a 130-mile stretch of Barrier Islands on North Carolina’s Atlantic Coast, are ideal for an affordable family-friendly vacation. Rent a house in one of the adorable towns of Duck, Cape Hatteras, Rodanthe, or Kitty Hawk to make your home base. There are dozens of free activities to choose from: Visit the five historic lighthouses that line the coast, stroll the lively Duck boardwalk, and watch wild horses graze along the shores in Corolla and Ocracoke Island. There’s no shortage of casual restaurants for a great yet affordable meal like Red Sky Café in Duck, High Cotton BBQ in Kitty Hawk, and Blue Moon Beach Grill in Nags Head.
Where to stay: The oceanfront Sanderling Resort is located in Duck, the more upscale and picturesque side of the Outer Banks.
18 | Brooklyn, New York
ShutterstockWhere to fly: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) or LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
A trip to Manhattan can get very pricy, but Brooklyn, its neighboring borough just across the East River, is a more affordable and exciting destination worth a trip of its own. You could easily travel to Manhattan by ferry or subway, but with so much to do in Brooklyn, you won’t need to. Catch a concert at Brooklyn Bowl, stroll the Botanic Garden, check out the latest exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum, check out street art in Bushwick, and eat your way through Smorgasburg. Brooklyn is basically a food-lover’s paradise, but if there’s one must-eat food, it’s pizza. From Lucali and Roberta’s to Di Fara and L&B Spumoni Gardens, Brooklyn easily boasts the best pies in the Big Apple.
Where to stay: Airbnb is teeming with great rentals from Williamsburg to Red Hook, but there are also plenty of hotel options like Nu Hotel downtown and At Home In Brooklyn, an adorable B&B steps from Prospect Park.
19 | Memphis, Tennessee
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Memphis International Airport (MEM)
Nashville may be the obvious choice for an urban Tennessee getaway, but for a trip filled with live music, southern charm, and excellent food, consider Memphis. In the city known as the birthplace of rock ‘n roll, there’s no shortage of live music venues. Wander around Beale Street Historic District and you’ll find venues for live bluegrass, country, and rock-- just don’t miss Mr. Handy’s Blues Hall. Music-lovers will also appreciate Sun Studio where legends like Johnny Cash once recorded and the Memphis Music Hall of Fame. No trip to Memphis is complete without some BBQ and soul food, so check out Payne’s Bar-B-Que, Central BBQ, and Uncle Lou’s. If you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss the Memphis Zoo, the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum, and the Memphis Botanic Garden.
Where to stay: Opened in 1869, The Peabody Memphis is the city's most historic hotel and has hosted Presidents Andrew Johnson and William McKinley.
20 | Mt. Desert Island, Maine
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Bangor International Airport (BGR) or Portland International Airport (PWM)
The largest island off the coast of Maine, Mt. Desert island is home to the popular vacation town of Bar Harbor and to Acadia National Park. The town of Bar Harbor is full of small shops, low key restaurants like Cafe This Way, and ice cream parlors like Ben & Bills Chocolate Emporium, and on the periphery of town you’ll find no-frills lobster shacks like Abel’s. Of course, nature lovers could easily spend an entire weekend just exploring the ins and outs of Acadia. Don’t miss the trails around peaceful Jordan Pond, Cadillac Mountain with its impressive vistas and epic sunrises, and Thunder Hole, a jagged inlet where you can watch the crashing waves of the Atlantic.
Where to stay: Formerly a ship captain's home in the 1880s, Acadia Hotel is now a charming stay overlooking the quaint village green.
21 | Greenville, South Carolina
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP)
Charleston may be the obvious choice for a city vacation in South Carolina, but Greenville is an underrated and affordable spot that offers many of the same pleasures like excellent food, the great outdoors, a slow paced southern vibe, and family-friendly activities. Rent a Greenville BCycle and explore the 20-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail, taste your way through the Saturday farmer’s market, and take in the urban oasis at Falls Park on Reedy. Just outside the city you’ll find Paris Mountain and Table Rock State Parks for great hiking and boating. Greenville happens to be one of the hottest food cities in the south. Chow down on Southern classics like pimento cheese, fried oysters, and shrimp and grits at Sassafrass, and if there’s one splurge-worthy meal, it’s Sean Brock’s southern farm-to-table spot, Husk.
Where to stay: The Hyatt Regency is an upscale option with a relaxing pool and views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Rooms go for around $209 a night.
22 | New Orleans, Louisiana
iStockWhere to fly: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
New Orleans is one of those rare destinations that works for just about any situation like a family getaway, a romantic vacation, a friends-cation or a bachelor/bachelorette weekend. Best of all, it’s easy to experience the best of the Big Easy without spending a fortune. Explore the The French Quarter and rowdy Bourbon Street, listen to live music in Marigny, café hop and look at street art in Bywater, relax in City Park, and visit the New Orleans Museum of Art. Of course, you could spend a whole weekend just eating and drinking your way through the city. Legendary beignets at Cafe du Monde, shrimp po’ boys at Parkway, and the creole flavors at Dooky Chase’s are some must-visit spots.
Where to stay: Hotel Peter and Paul is a hip boutique spot set in a former church. You can snag a room for around $130.
23 | Miami, Florida
ShutterstockWhere to fly: Miami International Airport (MIA)
Miami might seem like a pricey area code, but in reality it can be a great budget vacation if you plan in advance and avoid holiday weekends. If you have a flexible schedule and can travel mid-week, Miami becomes even more affordable. Some of Miami’s best attractions like lounging on South Beach and seeing the Wynwood Walls are totally free. And there are plenty of affordable restaurants where you can eat incredibly well. A giant sandwich from La Sandwicherie, cubanos from Las Olas, al pastor from Coyo Taco, and fancy toast from Zak the Baker are just a few must-eats.
Where to stay: Rooms at the trendy Freehand Hotel start at under $100, as does the tropical Life House in Little Havana.
If you're looking to spend your next vacation abroad without putting a big dent in your bank account, check out the 17 Magical Destinations Where the U.S. Dollar Goes Further in 2020.
