As the holidays approach and prices sneakily increase to their yearly peaks, travelers are starting to become more budget-conscious, which means that lavish getaways at 5-star resorts are simply out of the question for many Americans looking to change their pace this winter.
Contrary to popular belief, though, a limited travel budget doesn’t automatically translate to a sub-par experience – it all comes down to making the right choice when it comes to the destination.
Through its newest report, Priceline revealed that there’s no shortage of fun, attraction-filled towns and cities scattered across the U.S. that promise travelers the holidays of a lifetime without breaking the bank.
These five destinations, in particular, need to be on every budget-conscious traveler’s bucket list right now:
1. Branson, Missouri
Boasting average nightly hotel fees of just $107 in December, Branson, Missouri takes its rightful place as the top destination on today’s list.
Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, the Midwestern town has always enjoyed a reputation as a hidden gem thanks to its vibrant live entertainment scene, reasonably-priced hotels, and cozy atmosphere.
However, music and theater enthusiasts are far from the only ones able to appreciate Branson’s allure.
Nature lovers can marvel at the picturesque landscapes surrounding the town of 13,000 people, of which the majestic Ozarks are by far the most eye-catching.
This time of year, the mountainous terrain gets adorned with a pristine blanket of snow, providing the kind of breathtakingly serene backdrop that you’ll be hard-pressed to find in bigger tourist hotspots.
2. Jacksonville, Florida
The Sunshine State recently broke its all-time tourism record, proving once again that a warm climate, a laid-back atmosphere, and abundant entertainment options are as appreciated as ever among American travelers.
There’s no better place to find all that and more than Jacksonville, a lively yet budget-friendly city known for its mild weather and quiet, gold-sanded beaches that allow travelers to sunbathe alongside the Atlantic Ocean without being bothered by chaotic crowds.
City trippers won’t want to miss out on the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, which offers an immersive cultural experience at a fraction of the cost of similar institutions in other, more tourist-packed cities.
3. Kissimmee, Florida
Just a 30-minute drive away from Orlando, you’ll find Kissimmee, Flordia’s second entry on today’s list, and a place that offers much more than what meets the eye.
By going to Kissimmee this winter, travelers can get the best of both worlds – they’ll be driving distance away from the state’s most iconic attractions, including Disney World and Universal Studios, while also enjoying the perks of staying somewhere where everything’s so reasonably priced.
It won’t be hard to find a hotel here for less than $128 a night, and that money will get you much more than just a place to stay in between theme park visits.
Here, you’ll also get to explore the area’s criminally underrated nature reserves (the Shingle Creek Regional Park, for example, is a must-see), dreamy airboat rides, and exciting outdoor events where you’ll create lifelong memories.
4. Atlantic City, New Jersey
While Atlantic City has long become synonymous with bustling casinos, the city offers much more than just high-stakes entertainment.
Now that winter is approaching, the place has started to transform into a peaceful, serene destination that invites travelers to experience the iconic boardwalk sans the suffocating crowds.
Don’t let the flashy exterior of the hotels and resorts here fool you – their prices are extremely competitive, allowing you to experience the gorgeous Absecon Lighthouse, Gardener’s Basin, and Steel Pier without breaking the bank.
5. Houston, Texas
The No. 5 spot in today’s list is held by none other than Texas’s largest cultural center and what many consider to be North America’s most diverse city – Houston.
The bustling metropolis makes for the perfect destination for those who want to feel the beat of a colorful urban center even though they’re on a budget.
With its mild temperatures and reasonable prices (especially compared to other destinations of its kind), Houston invites travelers to make the most out of their winter getaway and marvel at the iconic Museum District, Hermann Park, Space Center Houston, and the Houston Zoo.
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