I’ve always loved scouring for the best deals when it comes to travel.
There’s something about exploring someplace new on a budget that not only keeps you feeling content and worry-free but also gives you the opportunity to see far, far more than you would otherwise.
That’s why when this study on the cheapest (and most expensive) U.S. destinations was released, I ran there looking for some ideas on that next great place to add to my bucket list – and that’s exactly what I found.
Of the top 100 travel destinations in the nation that were analyzed, these ones promised the best touristy allure – low price point balance:
Spots 6-10
Before we move on to the top 5 or the crème de la crème, as I like to call them, let’s quickly go through the places that were ranked sixth to tenth in the report; sure, they might not be the absolute cheapest, but they’re still gorgeous hubs that are very much worth a look:
- Monument Valley, Utah
- Bend, Oregon
- Cape Cod, Massachusetts
- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Sedona City, Arizona
Now that that’s said, we can dive right into our No. 5 spot holder – Galtingurg, Tennessee.
5. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Don’t let Gatlinburg’s unassuming, small mountain town facade fool you – the Tennessee gem has been on almost every “Top Underrated Places To Visit In The U.S.” list this fall, and if this trend continues as is, you’ll soon be struggling to find a hotel to book.
That’s why for the best experience (and deals), I’d recommend coming here ASAP.
Sidney James Mountain Lodge has available rooms starting at just $58, the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival is just around the corner, and the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not only jaw-dropping this time of year, but free to enter, too!
4. Tybee Island, Georgia
If you feel like you’ve missed out on a relaxing beach getaway this summer, why not plan it now instead?
Located just a 30-minute drive from Savannah, this often-overlooked gem is actually the perfect place for those who want to go sunbathing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or even dolphin-watching (tickets start at just $27.95 per adult)!
Here, you’ll also find plenty of cute little restaurants that serve mouth-watering food at unbeatable prices – I, for one, will always have a soft spot for Sundae Cafe.
3. Helen, Georgia
This next one’s for all of you looking to experience a slice of Europe right here in the U.S., and most importantly, on a budget.
That’s exactly what you’ll find in Helen, a small Georgia town that was built to replicate a Bavarian alpine village and is, of course, home to one of the longest-running Oktoberfests in the country.
From now up until October 27th, the event will be running nightly, complete with traditional music, lively dances, indulgent food, and lots and lots of beer.
2. Outer Banks, North Carolina
Coming back to a more typical U.S. hub, the Outer Banks in North Carolina are what I’d describe as a slice of coastal heaven.
Here, you can spend your days strolling through Jockey’s Ridge State Park, exploring the Wright Brothers National Memorial, or going in the water to kayak, paddleboard, or even surf – the best part is equipment rentals are notably cheaper now that the summer rush’s over, so if there were ever a time to try your hand at something new, it’s definitely now!
1. Charleston, West Virginia
West Virginia is quickly establishing itself as one of the country’s trendiest hotspots, first by breaking its all-time tourism record and now by having its gorgeous capital nab the No. 1 spot as the best-value destination in all of the U.S. – no wonder so many people are coming here!
The great thing about Charleston is that there’s truly something here for everyone.
Outdoor lover? Coonskin Park and Kanawha State Forest are not only perfect for hiking, picnicking, and everything in between, but they’re also completely free to enter.
City tripper?
The Clay Center for the Arts and Science, the West Virginia State Museum, and the Capitol Market are all must-sees.
Foodie? Don’t miss out on the chance to try a pepperoni roll (my top recommendation would be Swiftwater Cafe).
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