Between rising airfare and rising hotel prices, any travel, even a short trip, can feel like a major expense. But the good news is that getting out of town doesn’t always have to mean draining your bank account.
Budget travel is about smart choices. Think about free museums instead of expensive excursions, walking tours over costly group packages, and cities where your dollar stretches further. It's the type of travel that feels good both during the trip and when you check your bank account afterward.
So, where are people planning to go when money’s tight but travel is calling?
To find out, Ipsos iSay asked members across the U.S. to share their favorite budget-friendly destinations, attractions, and activities for 2025. Their answers are full of local charm, practical insights, and even a few surprises.
If you’re looking to stretch your travel dollars without sacrificing the fun, this article is your new packing list.
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Budget Travel Cities in the U.S.
When money’s tight but wanderlust is strong, knowing where to travel on a budget makes all the difference. Regardless of whether you're planning a long weekend, booking a flight and hotel, or scoping out the best budget hotel near a vibrant downtown, the right city can offer big value without a big price tag.
According to a recent Ipsos iSay poll, here’s where travelers in the U.S. most want to go when sticking to a small budget:
Beale Street, Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis, Tennessee – 20%
Memphis tops the list, and for good reason. Known for its rich musical heritage, soulful food, and walkable downtown, this city offers travelers a true Southern experience without high travel expenses. You can tour blues bars on Beale Street, check out live music for free, or grab some BBQ that costs less than most airport snacks. With affordable hotel rooms, Memphis delivers big on culture without draining your wallet.
River Walk, San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio, Texas – 17%
San Antonio blends history and hospitality. The River Walk alone is worth the visit, lined with shops, local restaurants, and public art, it's a great way to enjoy the city at a low cost. The city’s star historical attraction, The Alamo, is free to enter, and even during peak season, you can find accommodation and Airbnb options well-suited for a tight budget. For a warm-weather getaway that won’t blow your average costs, San Antonio is a top pick.
Portland Head Light, near Portland, Maine
Portland, Maine – 17%
This seaside city is a travel destination that offers charm without the crowds. Portland is perfect for those who like immerse themselves among scenic coastlines, lighthouses, and a highly regarded food scene. Portland’s walkable streets and easy local transportation help you save both time and money.
Sacramento, California – 16%
Often overshadowed by its flashier neighbors, Sacramento is one of the best places to visit if you're looking to travel across California on a tight budget. With thriving farmers markets, affordable food, and loads of free events, it’s a great option for families, students, or solo travelers who want to plan a trip with fewer travel expenses. Bonus: it’s also well-connected to other cities for anyone looking to add a layover or day trip.
Salt Lake City, Utah – 10%
Salt Lake City is an outdoor lover’s dream. Nestled between mountains and lakes, it's full of scenic views, and many of the top things to do don’t cost a dime. The warmer months in Salt Lake City are packed with free festivals, hiking opportunities, and scenic drives. For those with flexible summer plans, this city offers a smart mix of nature and affordability.
Louisville, Richmond, and Detroit
Sometimes the best value is in the places you least expect. Cities like Louisville, Kentucky (9%); Richmond, Virginia (8%); and Detroit, Michigan (5%), round out the Ipsos iSay community's list of destinations for travelers seeking exclusive discounts on hotel rooms, vibrant arts scenes, and historic neighborhoods full of local character.
- Louisville connects travelers with horse racing, bourbon tours, and Southern hospitality, all with great per-night rates on lodging.
- Richmond brings together history, hiking trails, and affordable dining in one of the East Coast’s most underrated capitals.
- Detroit offers affordable museums and a growing food scene that make it perfect for a weekend trip on a budget.
Budget Travel Attractions in the U.S.
When it comes to planning unforgettable trips on a tight budget, certain places are most likely to deliver the best bang for your buck. From scenic parks to historic districts, each attraction below was rated a must-visit for travelers on a budget by the Ipsos iSay community – and none require deep pockets to enjoy.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
Great Smoky Mountains National Park – 31%
Topping the list is Great Smoky Mountains National Park, chosen by nearly one in three respondents (31%). It’s not hard to see why because entry is free, and the views are priceless. Think misty mountains, majestic waterfalls, and scenic overlooks that make it feel like you’ve taken a trip to somewhere truly special. This park is a favorite among travelers seeking natural beauty without a big price tag.
For those planning a full itinerary journey or a quick getaway, the Smokies offer some of the best value in North America. Bring your hiking boots, your camera, and your sense of adventure!
Route 66 Road Trip – 18%
Recommended by 18% of Ipsos iSay voters is the classic Route 66 road trip. This timeless journey continues to be one of the best ways to travel on a budget while soaking in America's scenery. Spanning multiple states from Illinois to California, this iconic drive is perfect for travelers who like to build their own itinerary, skip pricey flights, and chase that open-road feeling.
With roadside diners, quirky motels, and vintage gas stations dotting the way, this is a “choose-your-own-adventure” for those who travel it. It’s also an ideal trip for digital nomads, couples, or solo travelers looking for the best deals on accommodation and food.
Lincoln Memorial, Washington, D.C.
National Mall & Memorial Parks – 18%
Also earning 18% of the votes in Ipsos iSay's poll, Washington D.C.’s National Mall offers an unbeatable combo: history, culture, and free access. From the Lincoln Memorial to the Smithsonian museums, you could spend days here without spending much at all.
It’s the kind of place to stay if you’re looking to maximize learning and sightseeing. Plus, during high season or around the holidays, it’s still cheaper to travel here than many major cities, thanks to extensive public transportation and a wide range of budget travel options.
Bourbon Street, French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana
French Quarter – 10%
In New Orleans, the French Quarter’s mix of jazz, Creole cuisine, and centuries-old architecture has long drawn tourists, and 10% of Ipsos iSay visitors consider it a top spot for affordable exploration. Free street performances, historic walking tours, and vibrant nightlife make this area ideal for those on a tight budget.
Whether you're staying in a hostel, racking up hotel points, or splitting an Airbnb, the Quarter is the kind of destination that reminds you why you love to travel.
For travelers who prioritize cost savings, understanding Americans' views on discounts and payment options can help guide smarter travel decisions. For instance, using flexible payment tools, travel deals, or cashback offers can help you stretch your budget even further during these low-cost city adventures.
Favorite Budget-Friendly Activities
Some of the best travel memories don’t come from luxury resorts or five-star restaurants. They come from watching the sun set on a quiet beach, discovering a hidden mural on a backstreet tour, or dancing at a free music festival with strangers who feel like instant friends.
According to Ipsos iSay community members in the U.S. and Canada, these are the top low-cost activities that bring the most joy when traveling on a budget:
Kings Canyon National Park, California
Nature and the Outdoors
There’s a reason nature tops the list. Whether you're stretched out on the sand or trekking through the forest, Mother Nature doesn’t charge admission. Nearly one in three respondents (30%) say a day at the beach is their favorite budget-friendly experience. It’s a classic way to unwind without spending a dime – just pack a towel, a good book, and maybe your best travel clothes if you plan to snap a few sunset photos.
Hiking followed closely with just under a quarter of the vote (23%), proving that many travelers crave fresh air and open trails over crowds and cover charges. With national parks and scenic paths available all across North America, it’s a perfect activity for anyone with a backpack, a water bottle, and a little energy to burn.
Parks and gardens (11%), are also easy to access and usually free. These are great for travelers who want some peace and green space between stops on their itinerary.
A local food truck festival
Culture on a Dime
Not every traveler wants to hike or lounge outdoors. Some want stories, sounds, and sights, without the high price tag. Luckily, culture doesn’t have to be costly.
Free festivals were a favorite for one in five respondents (20%). Regardless of whether it’s a weekend jazz fest, a local food truck rally, or a seasonal art walk, these events deliver energy and vibrant nightlife without needing you to open your wallet.
Museums (10%) are another great choice, especially those that offer discounted admission or free days. It’s a smart way to explore a city's soul without overstretching your entertainment budget.
And for those who like to wander on their own time, 7% said self-guided walking tours are their go-to. You set your pace, skip the crowds, and often see more than you would on a tourbus. It’s the ideal way to discover local gems, especially for those planning trips around a limited budget or timeframe.
Where Will Your Budget Take You?
Budget travel isn’t about limiting your experience. It’s more about choosing to get the most from every dollar, mile, and memory. If you're looking to hike through national parks, explore walkable cities, or dance through a weekend festival, there’s a whole world of unforgettable moments that don’t require a big price tag.
So, let’s revisit our questions of the day so you can take a moment to think about your next adventure:
- If you were planning a budget-friendly trip, which U.S. city would you most want to visit?
- Which of these U.S. attractions is a must-visit for travelers on a budget?
- Which budget-friendly travel activity do you enjoy the most?
Your perspective might just inspire someone else’s perfect trip.
Ultimately, it’s not about spending more, but about experiencing more. With the right planning, the right destination, and maybe a few insider tips from the Ipsos iSay community, you can create the kind of trip that feels priceless, even if it was planned on a limited budget.
Wherever your travels take you next, may they be meaningful, memorable, and budget-friendly!
*These results represent Ipsos iSay web visitors in the U.S. and Canada from April 17 – 23, 2025, and may not reflect the views of the general population.
