Top 51 Budget-Friendly Discoveries in America for 2025

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Alabama – Florence

Florence, Alabama is the largest city in an area known as ‘The Shoals,’ which is the most legendary music town you haven’t visited. Some of music history’s largest acts have recorded here: Aretha Franklin, the Rolling Stones, Etta James, and Paul Simon, to name but a few. Music lovers will find a plethora of historic recording studios they can tour, as well as live music from all corners of the region. History lovers will appreciate the rich tapestry of the region’s past, from sacred Native American burial grounds to Civil War landmarks.

Alaska – Anchorage

There’s never been a better time to visit Alaska, and Anchorage is the perfect place to “anchor” your adventure while you explore the breathtaking landscapes that define this state. Anchorage provides access to 4 of Alaska’s National Parks, as well as transportation options to the rest of the state. Don’t forget to discover the local culinary and arts scene for some unique flavors and wares.

Arizona – Sedona

Sedona, Arizona, is a spiritual pilgrimage. The striking red rock formations that dot the desert landscape provide a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers seeking a deeper connection with nature. The community in Sedona is deeply focused on conserving the environment and encourages visitors to embrace the “leave no trace” principle.

Arkansas – Hot Springs

Hot Springs, Arkansas, is renowned for its thermal baths, which have been believed by many to possess healing properties. The hot springs have been preserved through time, allowing visitors to indulge in mineral bath spa treatments after a long day of hiking the trails. Hot Springs National Park is celebrating its 100-year anniversary in 2021, featuring several exciting events.

California – Mono Lake

Mono Lake is an otherworldly spot located in the eastern Sierra Nevada, just beyond the eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park. The high salinity of the lake has created a unique ecosystem for local wildlife and impressive structures called ‘tufa towers’ that rise from the lake’s surface as if from another planet. Mono Lake is also in proximity to Mammoth Mountain, a tourist town that features excellent snow sports in winter and fantastic hiking trails in summer.

Mono Lake is an ancient saline lake near the eastern Sierra Nevada. ©thepicthing/Getty Images

Colorado – Durango

Durango, Colorado, is strategically located in the San Juan Mountains and provides excellent access to some of the most breathtaking attractions in the state. Consider taking the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for an unforgettable trip through picturesque mountain scenery. Adventurers will also appreciate the opportunity to explore the ancient Pueblo ruins of Mesa Verde National Park and take a scenic road trip along the ‘Million Dollar Highway’, often hailed as one of the most scenic drives in America. Outdoor enthusiasts will relish the hundreds of miles of mountain biking and hiking trails accessible from downtown Durango.

Connecticut – Fairfield

Fairfield, Connecticut, is a charming coastal New England town that provides access to five distinct public beaches. Golfers will discover a haven boasting six public and private golf courses for an enjoyable 18-hole game. Art lovers can delight in a leisurely stroll through the myriad of art galleries that dot the downtown area.

Delaware – Wilmington

Wilmington, Delaware, is the largest city in the state, and visitors can enjoy some of the finest museums, restaurants, and cultural experiences in the northeast USA. Venture outside the city to explore the Brandywine Valley, where you can step back in time at one of the grand estates built by the Du Pont family in the 19th century.

Florida – Key Largo

Key Largo serves as the first key along Florida’s legendary Overseas Highway, connecting Key West to Miami. With more affordable options than nearby Key West, Key Largo is a favored destination for some of the best scuba diving and sport fishing opportunities in the state. The abundance of state and federal parks safeguards the wildlife, ensuring its conservation for future generations. Don’t forget to sample a key lime daiquiri before your departure!

Georgia – Lake Lanier

Lake Lanier, located less than an hour north of Atlanta, is a resort town known for its engaging resorts and family-friendly activities. From golf courses and adventure courses to white sand beaches and an array of water sports, the options are plentiful. Its accessibility to Atlanta and Chattanooga creates an ideal backdrop for day trips or weekend getaways.

Hawaii – Kailua

Kailua, found on the Kona Coast of Oahu, Hawaii, proves to be a budget-friendly way to experience the Aloha spirit. Enjoy the stunning Kailua Beach, where the water remains a perfect 75 degrees year-round. Embark on a hike to the island’s summit, where you can explore concrete bunkers from WWII and marvel at breathtaking Hawaiian coastal views. Don’t miss the chance to explore historical shops and museums in the downtown area to delve deeper into the rich history of the Hawaiian Islands.

Kailua Bay, Hawaii is on Oahu’s Kona Coast. ©Tony Shi Photography/Getty Images

Idaho – Idaho Falls

Idaho Falls, Idaho, sits in the shadow of the Grand Tetons, yet often provides more budget-friendly accommodation options than nearby Jackson Hole. Visitors will discover a charming Western town full of art, delicious cuisine, and great mountain hiking opportunities. Idaho Falls also serves as an excellent base camp for exploring Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, just a short drive away.

Illinois – Woodstock

Woodstock, Illinois, is beloved for its picturesque town square and its world-renowned opera house, which hosts concerts, plays, workshops, and operatic performances regularly. Travelers seeking Americana charm will enjoy partaking in one of the many festivals held in Woodstock throughout the year.

Indiana – Indiana Dunes

Indiana Dunes National Park lies on the southern shores of Lake Michigan, ideally positioned only 40 miles from Chicago. Visitors will be captivated by the stunning views of the sand dunes and the glacially-formed Great Lakes, complete with beautiful white-sand beaches and wilderness hikes. With 9,000 years of American history to explore, from indigenous peoples to European settlers, visitors will uncover a wealth of unique experiences here.

Iowa – Ames

Ames is centrally located in Iowa and is widely regarded as one of the best college towns in the nation, largely due to Iowa State University. The university’s strong emphasis on student-centered research is evident throughout Ames. Visitors will notice incredible street art adorning the downtown area, complementing the charming, vibrant community that invests in itself and its students.

Kansas – Oakley

Oakley, Kansas, is located between Denver and Topeka, and is known as the town where the iconic Buffalo Bill Cody hailed from. The town features a visitor’s center dedicated to Buffalo Bill, and the region is filled with unique museums celebrating the rich history of manifest destiny. Just south of Oakley lies the Kansas Badlands, complete with stunning stone structures that once formed the bed of a marine sea millions of years ago.

Kentucky – Cumberland Gap

The Cumberland Gap National Historical Park in Kentucky is regarded as the mountain gateway to Appalachia – a route famously traversed by Daniel Boone and other frontiersmen. Today, this park offers remarkable hiking and camping opportunities for families and explorers alike. Contrary to popular song lyrics, the Cumberland Gap is located east of Johnson City, TN.

The Cumberland Gap at sunrise from the Pinnacle Overlook at the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. ©Joshua Moore/Getty Images

Louisiana – Lafayette

Lafayette, Louisiana, isn’t as renowned as nearby New Orleans, yet it possesses a unique charm that captivates visitors. Known as the “happiest city in America” according to the Wall Street Journal, Lafayette boasts a rich culinary scene inspired by traditional Cajun cooking and infused with the creativity of a new generation of talented chefs.

Maine – Bangor

Bangor, Maine, is made famous by Stephen King, who resides in town and often draws inspiration from its scenery for his thrillers. Fans of King can embark on tours of over 30 locations that inspired his works. Positioned in close proximity to the pristine beauty of Northern Maine, Bangor serves as a gateway to mountains, highlands, rocky coastlines, and lush forests. After indulging in horror-themed attractions, visitors can further explore the gorgeous Acadia National Park on the East Coast.

Maryland – Assateague

Assateague Island is a must-see for horse enthusiasts. The 37-mile island, lying between Maryland and Virginia, is famed for the wild horses roaming its shores. Each July, the annual pony swim auction showcases younger horses, a necessary measure to maintain the island’s wild horse population sustainably. Visitors can hike, bike, or explore more than 14,000 acres of the Assateague Natural Wildlife Preserve. Daily cruises around Chincoteague Island provide opportunities for spectacular pony viewing.

Massachusetts – Salem

Salem, Massachusetts, is widely recognized for its historical role in the Salem Witch Trials of 1692, making it a unique destination for American history. The town has fully embraced its witchy identity, offering historical tours of local witch houses and engaging reenactments of witch trials. October is the best time to visit, as the town fills the month with “haunted happenings,” providing family-friendly fun!

Michigan – Traverse City

Traverse City is nestled on the northern edge of Lake Michigan, surrounded by stunning lakes and rivers. This city embodies the culture of lakeside living. Visitors are welcome to relax on the beach, hike the nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes, or simply enjoy the fresh air.

Rural housing with a vineyard and cherry blossoms at Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula Orchard near Traverse City. ©ShriramPatki/Getty Images

Minnesota – Grand Marais

Grand Marais is located in northern Minnesota, near the Canadian border on Lake Superior. The town is filled with character, providing visitors the opportunity to wander the local streets and explore unique shops and art galleries. Moreover, Grand Marais serves as one of the entrance points for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a vast wilderness area popular for canoe trips.

Mississippi – Biloxi

Biloxi is found along what Mississippi calls “the secret coast,” a 61-mile stretch of beautiful beaches making up the state’s southern border. The area is known for its numerous casinos and budget-friendly accommodation options, making it an ideal jumping-off point for exciting coastal adventures. Don’t miss nearby Ocean Springs with its charming downtown, or consider antiquing in Bay St. Louis. Science enthusiasts and families will enjoy the INFINITY Science Center, which offers insight into NASA’s rocket launches from the coast.

Missouri – Lake of the Ozarks

Lake of the Ozarks, located in the heart of Central Missouri, ranks as one of the premier lake destinations in the nation. There, visitors can engage in adventurous watersports and enjoy vibrant nightlife. Families can delight in a plethora of activities, ranging from go-karts and mini-golf to excursions in waterparks.

Montana – Kalispell

Kalispell is proudly known as the “soul of Montana,” and its proximity to some of America’s most breathtaking landscapes reinforces that claim. Kalispell’s closeness to Glacier National Park makes it an excellent base for embarking on legendary hikes. Nearby Flathead Lake offers ample opportunities for outdoor water sports and fishing. Additionally, downtown Kalispell welcomes visitors with a charming atmosphere and diverse dining options.

Sunset on Mustard Fields in Kalispell, Montana. © gsbarclay / Getty Images

Nebraska – North Platte

North Platte, Nebraska, presents the perfect opportunity to experience the Old West. Once the home of Buffalo Bill, his legacy can be found throughout the town’s branding. Buffalo Bill’s ranch has been preserved as a State Historical Park where visitors can explore the landscape by horseback or take a tour of the famed cowboy’s mansion. Families will also find entertainment at one of the many amusement parks and carnivals in town.

Nevada – Carson City

Carson City is conveniently situated just minutes from the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Tahoe, providing visitors with more budget-friendly accommodations in the area. The beautiful landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. A new family attraction is a railbike tour, enabling visitors to traverse the beautiful Carson River Canyon on easy-to-pedal motorized rail bikes.

New Hampshire – Laconia

Laconia, New Hampshire, delivers a charming atmosphere filled with historical explorations. Visitors can spend a delightful day picnicking on Weirs Beach or take a tour of the Belknap Mill, a relic from the early 19th century. Stay at one of the many affordable resorts located near the town.

New Jersey – Tom’s River

Tom’s River is a small city in New Jersey, making it an ideal weekend getaway for families. Visitors can spend the day on the beach and later visit Insectropolis, the “bug museum,” to encounter a variety of fascinating creatures. To wrap up the day, head to the local planetarium for enlightening light shows and educational programs suitable for all ages.

New Mexico – Truth or Consequences

Truth or Consequences, named after a radio show, is a small resort town renowned for its hot springs. The first public bathhouse opened in the early 1800s, and today there are ten hot springs available to the public. Moreover, the town is conveniently located near Elephant Butte Lake State Park, known for its unique geological features and excellent hiking trails.

New York – Adirondacks

The Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York offer some of the most spectacular scenery on the East Coast. The state park is rich with opportunities for camping, hiking, and renting cozy cabins in the mountains with loved ones. Trails cater to all skill levels and distances. Visit Lake Placid to discover structures from the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics.

The Ausable Chasm in the Adirondacks is popular with outdoor adventurers. ©ujjwalstha/Shutterstock

North Carolina – Cherokee

Cherokee, located on the eastern edge of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, provides more budget-friendly accommodations than nearby Gatlinburg. Situated on the Qualla Territory, the land of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, several museums dedicated to Cherokee history and local attractions, including a recreated village from 1760, await visitors.

North Dakota – Devil’s Lake

The name Devil’s Lake is derived from the mirages that often appear on its surface. The nearby town of Devil’s Lake offers diverse activities for families and adventurers alike. Rent a boat and explore the lake’s hidden coves or relax at the swimming beach in Grahams Island State Park (don’t forget to pack a picnic!). Additionally, it is a golfer’s paradise and offers excellent sport fishing opportunities.

Ohio – Cincinnati

Cincinnati enchants with its abundant family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, featuring three separate museums and an OMNIMAX theater. Stroll along the riverfront to admire the stunning murals along the river wall. Don’t forget to visit the Cincinnati Zoo for an unforgettable experience. Cincinnati is home to several major sports teams, excellent local cuisine, and a charm that will keep you coming back!

Oklahoma – Norman

Norman is conveniently located just 20 miles from Oklahoma City and is home to the University of Oklahoma. Explore the charming downtown area, complete with unique shops. Go camping and swimming at nearby Lake Thunderbird, and experience the excitement of an NCAA football game on Saturdays during the fall season. Plan ahead to enjoy one of the many free festivals happening throughout the year.

Oregon – Hood River

Hood River, situated an hour east of Portland, lies nestled in the beautiful Columbia River Valley beneath Mt. Hood. The Columbia River Gorge presents some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in America, along with numerous hiking options. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby ‘fruit loop,’ a delightful drive leading to over 25 different fruit stands and wineries. Don’t miss the chance to savor locally-made wines and handpicked seasonal fruits. A visit to the Timberline Lodge on top of iconic Mt. Hood, famously depicted in The Shining, is a must.

Sunset over Mt. Hood and the Hood River Valley, Oregon ©Anna Gorin/Getty Images

Pennsylvania – Harrisburg

Harrisburg, while serving as the capital of Pennsylvania, carries an inviting small-town charm. Offering a variety of options for everyone, visitors can explore the adventure trail, featuring biking and hiking paths. The entire family can enjoy a trip to nearby Hersheypark, an amusement park with over 70 rides and plenty of chocolate to indulge in!

Rhode Island – Greenville

Greenville, a village located near Providence, is rich with state parks and outdoor activities for the entire family. Take a trip to a local orchard for apple picking in the fall, or enjoy a glass of wine at Verde Vineyards. Venture into the city of Providence for a vibrant nightlife and fantastic dining options.

South Carolina – Beaufort

Beaufort is a coastal city in South Carolina, boasting beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing. The town has been featured in over 15 films, from Forrest Gump to The Big Chill, with available tours revealing filming locations. Be sure to enjoy fresh-caught shrimp and local beverages, and discover museums that illustrate the area’s unique history.

South Dakota – Deadwood

Deadwood, an old west town in the Black Hills of South Dakota, experienced a gold rush in 1876, attracting outlaws and gunslingers alike. Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane were prominent figures here. Today, visitors can find these characters reenacted by a theater troupe showcasing major historic events from that time.

Tennessee – Chattanooga

Chattanooga, Tennessee’s best-kept secret, is nestled in the mountains of Southeast Tennessee along the shores of the Tennessee River. With a plethora of unique attractions, visitors can embark on a riverboat cruise or take the incline railway to Lookout Mountain, where you can see seven states from the vantage point. Additionally, the underground Ruby Falls, a spectacular waterfall within a cave, is a must-see attraction for all visitors.

Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall located within Lookout Mountain. ©IrinaK/Shutterstock

Texas – Beaumont

Beaumont, Texas, is the birthplace of the first major oil field in the United States. This Southeast Texas town offers myriad opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Thrill-seekers can embark on an airboat ride through a swamp and even hold an alligator, or simply hike through the Big Thicket, a vast park stretching across multiple Texas counties.

US Virgin Islands – Charlotte Amalie

Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas of the US Virgin Islands stands as one of the busiest ports in the Caribbean. Moreover, it is considered one of the most affordable ways to explore the USVI. Wander the cobblestone streets and discover historic homes and 17th-century settlements. Explore Blackbeard’s Castle, once a watchtower safeguarding Charlotte Amalie, and be sure to stop by Emancipation Garden to see a replica of the Liberty Bell.

Utah – St George

St. George serves as the gateway to Zion National Park, which should be on everyone’s bucket list. This city is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with the fresh air and stunning red rocks nurturing the soul. Various unique hotels and several campgrounds in the National Park and nearby Bureau of Land Management areas (where camping is free!) provide excellent accommodations. Consider renting an ATV or enjoying a horseback ride to explore the timeless wilderness.

Vermont – Middlebury

Middlebury, Vermont, will warm the hearts of history and literature lovers. Robert Frost spent considerable time here, drawing inspiration from the picturesque surroundings of the nearby Green Mountain National Forest. Road trippers will love the 11 scenic byways traversing the state, leading to Lake Champlain and beyond.

Virginia – Luray

Luray, Virginia, is ideal for renting a cabin in the mountains with loved ones. Nestled neighboring Shenandoah National Park, visitors can hike, chase sunsets along Skyline Drive, and inhale the fresh mountain air. During the day, a visit to Luray Caverns reveals impressive underground caves to explore.

Washington – Forks

Forks, positioned at the heart of the Olympic Peninsula, is flanked by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Olympic Mountains to the east. This charming town features multiple beaches and a plethora of outdoor activities for adventure seekers. Additionally, fans of Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight series can find many significant spots from the popular novels.

West Virginia – New River Gorge National Park

As of December 2020, New River Gorge has officially attained the status of America’s newest National Park, making it a must-visit destination for all Americans. The New River, recognized as the oldest river in America, offers some of the finest whitewater rafting and rock climbing experiences on the East Coast.

The New River Gorge Bridge, as seen from Fayette Station Road. ©ESB Professional/Shutterstock

Wisconsin – Eau Claire

Eau Claire is recognized as the indie capital of the United States, serving as a haven for independent artists and entrepreneurs. The originality permeates through the town’s numerous arts attractions, including murals and sculptures visible around the area, as well as the Pablo Center’s art shows and vibrant local music festivals featuring some of the biggest names in indie music.

Wyoming – Cody

Cody promotes its identity as “the great American adventure,” and visitors will sense this town’s embrace of the Wild West spirit. Cody makes a perfect and affordable hub for exploring several world-renowned attractions, including Yellowstone National Park. With multiple museums dedicated to the history of the American West and access to five scenic drives through nearby mountains and into Yellowstone, families will have an abundance of activities in this charming town.