The Cheapest Places to Travel in the USA
The United States is not known for being a cheap place to travel, and there are not many cheap places to travel in the US. In fact, venturing around the US can become a very costly affair, which is one of the reasons we love to travel abroad. However, there are some US destinations and cities that are cheaper than others. And if you look hard enough, you’ll be able to find some awesome hidden gems and experiences that won’t break the bank! From hiking in the beautiful US National Parks to enjoying a free museum, or eating a Philly Cheesesteak, there are plenty of inexpensive attractions and sights everywhere you look. Keep reading for all the best affordable vacation spots in the US, including some tips to travel on a budget in America.
1. Phoenix, Arizona
Cheapest Places to Travel in the USA / Phoenix
Phoenix Travel Details
- Daily Budget: $159 pp
- Budget Accommodation: SpringHill Suites Phoenix North
- Best for: City Desert Vibes, proximity to Tucson, starting a Southwest road trip
- Cheap eats: There are a lot of great Mexican eats in Phoenix. Try Los Dos Molinos, La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop, or Chino Bandido
- Cheap Things to do: Hike Camelback Mountain, see the murals and street art in Roosevelt Row, Japanese Friendship Garden
Phoenix is known for its sunny warm weather but it’s also one of the cheapest places to travel to in the United States. Airfare and hotel prices are below average when compared to other major metropolitan areas around the U.S. It’s relatively cheap to travel around Phoenix once you’re there too and makes for a great jumping-off point for an Arizona road trip! Watch for free museum days when certain museums offer free entry. Some museums are free all the time like the Arizona Capitol Museum, and the Phoenix Art Museum offers free admission on Wednesdays from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. and on the first Friday of each month from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Other cheap attractions include Enchanted Island Amusement Park, Papago Park, and the Desert Botanical Garden. Escaping the city is easy too. Just head to the South Mountain Park and Reserve and spend some time hiking the trails.
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