10 Cheapest Places to Travel in USA 2025 Traveling across the USA doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a little planning and smart destination choices, anyone from students and solo adventurers to families and retirees can enjoy a rich travel experience without breaking the bank. In this guide we highlight the 10 cheapest places to travel in the USA to and share practical tips to help you make the most of your journey.
Why Travel Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive
It’s a common myth that travel is only for the wealthy. In reality, too many U.S. destinations offer rich cultural experiences to stunning nature and vibrant city life all at very affordable prices. Whether you’re a college student on a shoestring budget or a large family looking to create lasting memories, traveling smart can open doors to meaningful experiences for 10 cheapest places to travel in USA 2025.
How We Chose These Destinations
Our list of the cheapest travel spots is based on several important criteria for 10 cheapest places to travel in USA 2025:
- Low average cost of accommodation and meals
- Availability of free or low cost attractions
- Affordable or free public transportation
- Off season travel affordability
- Safety and accessibility
Top 10 Cheapest Places to Travel in USA
1. San Antonio to Texas
A blend of culture to history and affordability.
Why It’s Cheap: San Antonio is known for its historic missions to include the Alamito and the scenic River Walk, both free to explore for 10 cheapest places to travel in USA 2025. Budget hotels and authentic Tax Mex street food are widely available.
MusttoDo:
- River Walk stroll
- Alamo tour (free)
- Visit Market Square for souvenirs
Average Daily Budget: $55–$75
2. Albuquerque to New Mexico
An artsy desert escape with deep Native American and Hispanic roots.
Why It’s Cheap: Affordable food to budget friendly hotels and dozens of free art galleries and public festivals.
MusttoDo:
- Walk through Old Town
- Ride the Sandia Peak Tramway
- Check out local hot air balloon events
Average Daily Budget: $50–$70
3. Kansas City to Missouri
BBQ capital with a thriving music and arts scene.
Why It’s Cheap: Many museums are free to include the acclaimed NelsontoAtkins Museum of Art. Local food is both delicious and inexpensive.
MusttoDo:
- Kansas City Jazz District
- BBQ tasting tour
- City market stroll
Average Daily Budget: $55–$80
4. Savannah to Georgia
Charming to walk, able to and loaded with southern hospitality.
Why It’s Cheap: You can explore much of Savannah’s historic downtown by foot. Accommodations range from hostels to cozy B&Bs.
MusttoDo:
- Forsyth Park
- Bonaventure Cemetery
- Free walking ghost tours
Average Daily Budget: $60–$85
5. Augustine to Florida
America’s oldest city with gorgeous architecture and beaches.
Why Ittos Cheap: Many of the historical sites are free or low cost. Budget motels and family-town restaurants offer great deals.
MusttoDo:
- Castillo de San Marcos ($15 entry)
- Free beach access
- Historic district exploration
Average Daily Budget: $60–$90
6. Salt Lake City to Utah
Perfect for nature lovers and families.
Why It’s Cheap: Salt Lake offers numerous free hiking trails to budget lodgings and public transit options.
MusttoDo:
- Great Salt Lake visit
- Hiking in City Creek Canyon
- Temple Square tour
Average Daily Budget: $55–$75
7. Memphis to Tennessee
Bluesto BBQto and budget friendly adventures.
Why Its Cheap: Affordable hotels to cheap eats and free blues shows on Beale Street for 10 cheapest places to travel in USA 2025.
MusttoDo:
- Walk Beale Street
- Visit the National Civil Rights Museum
- Explore Mud Island River Park
Average Daily Budget: $60–$85
8. Oklahoma City To Oklahoma
A hidden gem with western charm.
Why Ittos Cheap: OKC offers free events to low cost museums and some of the cheapest accommodations in the country.
MusttoDo:
- Bricktown Canal Walk
- Myriad Botanical Gardens (free)
- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Average Daily Budget: $50–$75
9. Las Vegas to Nevada
More than just casinos, affordable when timed right.
Why It’s Cheap: Book in the summer or midweek for massive hotel discounts. Many shows and attractions are free for 10 cheapest places to travel in USA 2025.
MusttoDo:
- Bellagio Fountain show
- Fremont Street Experience
- Visit local hiking spots like Red Rock Canyon
Average Daily Budget: $70–$90
10. New Orleans to Louisiana (Off toPeak)
Culturetorich and surprisingly affordable outside festival season.
Why It’s Cheap: Food is cheap and authentic to many attractions are free and off peak hotel prices drop significantly. Best to USA travel agency.
MusttoDo:
- French Quarter walk
- Free jazz shows in local bars
- Visit City Park or Garden District
Average Daily Budget: $65–$90
Cheapest Travel Insurance for Students 2025 (USA & UK Guide)
Tips to Save Even More
Tips for 10 cheapest places to travel in USA 2025
- Travel during shoulder season (spring/fall)
- Use public transit or walk
- Stay in hostels to budget hotels or Air
- Cook your own meals or eat at local diners
- Look for city passes and attraction bundles
Cost Comparison Table for 10 cheapest places to travel in USA 2025
| City | Lodging + Meals | Attractions | Total Daily Cost |
| San Antonio | $55 ($35 + $20) | $10 | $65 |
| Albuquerque | $50 ($30 + $20) | $10 | $60 |
| Kansas City | $65 ($40 + $25) | $10 | $75 |
| Savannah | $70 ($45 + $25) | $10 | $80 |
| St. Augustine | $75 ($50 + $25) | $15 | $90 |
| Salt Lake City | $60 ($35 + $25) | $10 | $70 |
| Memphis | $70 ($40 + $30) | $10 | $80 |
| Oklahoma City | $55 ($30 + $25) | $10 | $65 |
| Las Vegas | $80 ($50 + $30) | $10 | $90 |
| New Orleans | $80 ($50 + $30) | $10 | $90 |
Best Times to Visit Cheaply
| Season | Travel Benefit |
| January to March | Post holiday price drops to fewer crowds |
| April to May | Mild weather to peak for most places |
| September | End of summer deals to school back in session |
| October | Fall colors to discounted hotels |
FAQs
What is the most affordable city for tourists in the USA?
Cities like Albuquerque to Oklahoma City and San Antonio consistently rank as the most budget-friendly with daily costs under $70 for 10 cheapest places to travel in USA 2025
How can students or solo travelers cut costs even more?
Use student ID for discounts to travel with a backpack only and opt for hostel stays or shared Airbnb.
Are there any free things to do in major cities?
Absolutely. Parks to art museums to walking tours to and city festivals are often free.
When is the best time to find cheap flights within the USA?
Book 4 to 6 weeks in advance. Travel midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday) for the lowest fares for 10 cheapest places to travel in USA 2025.