9 Budget Friendly Places For Small Getaways

Traveling on a budget? These 9 budget friendly places for small getaways are perfect for adventurous twenty-somethings!

Is it just me or has life been a little too much lately? I think it’s time for a little break, don’t you think? I love traveling, but my bank account does not. If you are in a similar situation you’ll love today’s post. I’m sharing nine budget friendly cities and towns that make the perfect small getaways. The hard part is going to be deciding where to go!

3 Things To Keep In Mind Before Deciding Where To Go

There are a few things that you want to consider before determining where you are headed off to. By doing so it will make your travel time a lot less stress-free.

• Actually Give Yourself A Budget: Figure out how much you are spending on accommodations, transportation, and food first. Then determine how much you have left for the fun stuff.
• Plan Before You Go: While being spontaneous can be fun, you want at least a rough estimate of what you want to do to make sure you stay on budget. If planning overwhelms you, don’t worry, I created a worksheet for you to help you along.
• Consider The Time Of Year You Are Going: Certain cities have peak ties throughout the year (for example New Orleans during Mardi Gras). Find out the peak times of the places you are thinking of going. If you are trying to have a budget-friendly trip, visiting a city during its peak time is not the best idea.

9 Budget Friendly Places For Small Getaways

There are so many great destinations in the US. This list has a little of everything for any type of traveler. Whether you like the idea of laying out on the beach, marveling at the beautiful scenery, taking in the history through museums, or are a TV show buff, you’ll find somewhere to go on this list.

1. Knoxville, TN

Knoxville, Tennessee is the third biggest city in the state, and it’s also one of the more budget friendly. This city has around 50 miles of both dirt and paved roads for the outdoor lover to enjoy and the historic district of Market Square in downtown is a great place for the history and culture buffs – it’s even rated the #1 budget-friendly local sight on TripAdvisor. Downtown is also a great place to catch live music if that is your scene. On top of all these great activities, finding a place to stay can fit into your budget nicely too.

2. Salt Lake City, UT

This city is surrounded by the Wasatch mountain range, think of how beautiful the scenery is, and don’t forget about the lake – so it’s an outdoor-lovers dream place. In addition to the outdoor life, there is also great nightlife that Salt Lake City has to offer, at a fraction of the cost as other cities in the US. With all that being said I had to include Salt Lake City on my list of budget friendly places for small getaways. Some places you’ll want to check out while you are there include:

1. Temple Square
2. Utah State Capitol
3. Great Salt Lake
4. Red Butte Garden
5. Natural History Museum of Utah
6. Liberty Park
7. Hogle Zoo
8. The Tabernacle
9. Antelope Island State Park
10. The Leonardo Museum

These attractions offer a mix of cultural, historical, and natural sights that showcase the unique charm of Salt Lake City.

3. Myrtle Beach, SC

If the waves are calling to you, but you’re afraid you don’t have the funds for a beach vacation, fear not. Let me introduce you to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. There is a gorgeous beach for any mood that you are in, from party-central, to quiet and calm, and then of course adventurous, there is a beach for you here. There is also great free and affordable entertainment to keep you busy when you aren’t on the beach. 

4. Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. hosts a plethora of free activities to enjoy on your getaway, which makes it a given to include in this list. Some of the sights you can enjoy for free are the National Mall, attend a free show at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Millenium Stage, explore the scenic parks, and more. There are also ways to save on food, accommodations, and shopping to round out your trip.

5. Cannon Beach, OR

Cannon Beach is a beautiful, budget-friendly beach located on the west coast. When planning a visit here you’ve got to go take a look at the iconic Haystack Rock,a 235-foot rock formation situated on a sandy expanse. If you are in the mood for some budget friendly fun that doesn’t include the beach, check out the free concerts that City Park puts on weekly, or take a self guided art or history walking tour.

6. South Haven, MI

South Haven has a little something for everyone to enjoy, from relaxing at one of their beaches, getting your adventure on with kayaking and surfing, enjoying the nightlife, shopping the locally owned shops and weekly markets, and more. There are plenty of budget friendly activities to enjoy, like the historic downtown Michigan Theatre that has prices that haven’t changed since the 90’s.

7. Louisville, KY

Louisville is a great option for a budget-friendly city vacation. There are several low-cost options for entertainment if you enjoy the outdoors, art, and museums. There are also many budget-friendly accommodations and dining areas to explore during your visit.

8. San Antonio, TX

If you enjoy history and culture, you’ll want to make San Antonio your next vacation destination. From all of the different museums, to the historical sites (like The Alamo), there is plenty to do and see in this city. If you are an outdoor enthusiast you’ll fit right in as well with their numerous parks and the Japanese Tea Garden. 

9. Wilmington, NC

Fans of the shows One Tree Hill, Dawson’s Creek,  and The Summer I Turned Pretty will recognize this last city on our list. There is plenty to see and do in this town, from the Downtown Riverwalk and nearby beaches, to the art and history museums. Then of course there are the TV show landmarks that you have to visit if you are/were a fan of any of the shows.The budget friendly accommodations and dining options round out the many reasons why Wilmington would make a great getaway. 

If I didn’t have the travel bug before, I definitely have it now, I can’t wait to plan my getaway! Where will you be heading to? Let me know in the comments.

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