10 Cheapest U.S. Cities for a Weekend Getaway
Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive—especially when you know where to go. The United States is filled with vibrant cities offering affordable accommodations, free attractions, and delicious budget-friendly food. Whether you’re craving historic charm, outdoor adventure, or a lively cultural scene, these 10 cheapest U.S. cities for a weekend getaway provide great experiences at a fraction of the price.
From coastal escapes to mountain retreats, here’s where to go for a fun and wallet-friendly weekend.
1. Kansas City, Missouri – BBQ, Jazz, and Free Museums
Kansas City is a hidden gem for budget travelers, offering free attractions, low-cost entertainment, and some of the best barbecue in the country. With a lively jazz scene and historic charm, it’s an affordable weekend getaway filled with culture and great food.
Budget-Friendly Attractions:
- National WWI Museum and Memorial – One of the most well-regarded museums in the country, admission is just $20.
- Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art – Free entry to a world-class collection of art and its famous outdoor sculpture park.
- 18th & Vine Jazz District – Enjoy free live jazz performances at local bars and music venues.
Cheap Eats:
- Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que – A legendary spot for burnt ends sandwiches under $10.
- Town Topic Hamburgers – A 24-hour diner serving classic burgers for under $5.
Affordable Accommodations:
- Budget hotels start around $80 per night, with great deals at Hotel Indigo or Hampton Inn Downtown.
2. San Antonio, Texas – Culture and History on a Budget
San Antonio offers a rich history, beautiful riverfront scenery, and plenty of free attractions, making it an ideal budget-friendly weekend escape.
Budget-Friendly Attractions:
- The Alamo – A must-visit historic landmark, and entry is completely free.
- San Antonio River Walk – Stroll along the scenic waterfront promenade at no cost.
- Japanese Tea Garden – A tranquil public garden with koi ponds and waterfalls, free to visit.
Cheap Eats:
- El Milagrito Café – Famous for breakfast tacos under $5.
- The Original Blanco Café – Delicious Tex-Mex platters for under $10.
Affordable Accommodations:
- Budget-friendly hotels, such as La Quinta Inn & Suites, start at $90 per night.
3. Albuquerque, New Mexico – A Budget-Friendly Southwest Escape
Albuquerque is a dream destination for budget travelers, with affordable food, free cultural attractions, and stunning desert scenery.
Budget-Friendly Attractions:
- Old Town Albuquerque – Walk through historic adobe buildings, art galleries, and street performances for free.
- Petroglyph National Monument – Hike among thousands of ancient rock carvings for just $3 per vehicle.
- ABQ BioPark – A zoo, aquarium, and botanic garden for just $14.50 per person.
Cheap Eats:
- Frontier Restaurant – A local favorite for green chile cheeseburgers and giant cinnamon rolls under $10.
- El Modelo – Home to authentic tamales and burritos for under $5.
Affordable Accommodations:
- Budget-friendly motels and hotels start around $70 per night, with great options like The Monterey Motel.
4. Memphis, Tennessee – Music and BBQ Without the Price Tag
Memphis is one of the cheapest major cities in the U.S., offering free music experiences, affordable attractions, and legendary BBQ.
Budget-Friendly Attractions:
- Beale Street – Enjoy free live blues music at bars and outdoor venues.
- National Civil Rights Museum – A powerful experience for just $18 per adult.
- Mud Island River Park – A free outdoor space along the Mississippi River.
Cheap Eats:
- Central BBQ – Huge portions of pulled pork sandwiches and ribs for under $12.
- Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken – Delicious Southern-style fried chicken under $10.
Affordable Accommodations:
- Downtown hotels like The Peabody can be pricey, but motel stays and Airbnb rentals start at $85 per night.
5. Savannah, Georgia – Southern Charm for Less
Savannah offers romantic, cobblestone streets, historic homes, and picturesque parks—all at a low cost.
Budget-Friendly Attractions:
- Forsyth Park – A beautiful, tree-lined park with a famous fountain, perfect for a free stroll.
- Bonaventure Cemetery – A historic and scenic resting place, free to visit.
- First Friday Fireworks on the River – A free fireworks display over the Savannah River.
Cheap Eats:
- Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room – A Southern-style feast for under $15.
- Leopold’s Ice Cream – A historic ice cream shop serving generous scoops for $5.
Affordable Accommodations:
- Budget-friendly B&Bs and motels start around $90 per night, with great deals at The Thunderbird Inn.
6. Richmond, Virginia – History and Culture on a Budget
Richmond is packed with history, a growing food scene, and plenty of free outdoor spaces, making it a great budget destination.
Budget-Friendly Attractions:
- Virginia Museum of Fine Arts – One of the best free art museums in the country.
- Hollywood Cemetery – A historic cemetery with stunning views of the James River.
- James River Park System – A free outdoor area with hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Cheap Eats:
- Mama J’s – Authentic Southern comfort food for under $10.
- Cobra Burger – One of the best burgers in town for just $7.
Affordable Accommodations:
- Budget hotels and Airbnbs start at $80 per night, with deals at Graduate Richmond.
7. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – Western Charm at a Low Price
Oklahoma City is affordable, welcoming, and filled with unique attractions for budget travelers.
Budget-Friendly Attractions:
- Oklahoma City National Memorial – A moving tribute that’s free to visit.
- Stockyards City – Experience real Western culture with free rodeo shows.
- Bricktown Canal – A picturesque district filled with street art and cheap eats.
Cheap Eats:
- Cattlemen’s Steakhouse – A historic spot with steaks under $15.
- Empire Slice House – New York-style pizza by the slice for $4.
Affordable Accommodations:
- Budget hotels start at $70 per night, with great stays at Aloft Oklahoma City Downtown.
8. St. Louis, Missouri – Free Attractions & Affordable Fun
St. Louis is one of the best-kept secrets for budget travelers. The city offers an abundance of free attractions, inexpensive entertainment, and great local food, making it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway that won’t drain your wallet.
Budget-Friendly Attractions:
- Gateway Arch National Park – Marvel at this iconic landmark for free, or take the tram to the top for just $15.
- Forest Park – One of the largest urban parks in the U.S., offering free entry to world-class attractions like the St. Louis Zoo, Missouri History Museum, and Saint Louis Art Museum.
- Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour – Take a complimentary brewery tour and enjoy a free beer tasting.
Cheap Eats:
- Pappy’s Smokehouse – Famous for its Memphis-style ribs and brisket platters for under $15.
- Crown Candy Kitchen – A historic soda fountain offering massive malt shakes for under $5.
Affordable Accommodations:
- Budget-friendly hotels start around $80 per night, with excellent options like Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis.
9. Greenville, South Carolina – Scenic Beauty & Southern Hospitality for Less
Greenville is a charming Southern city known for its picturesque downtown, scenic parks, and thriving food scene—all at an affordable price. Whether you want to explore nature, enjoy a relaxing stroll along the river, or indulge in delicious Southern eats, Greenville is a perfect low-cost escape.
Budget-Friendly Attractions:
- Falls Park on the Reedy – A stunning urban park with waterfalls, suspension bridges, and walking trails, all free to explore.
- Swamp Rabbit Trail – A 22-mile scenic biking and walking path that runs through downtown Greenville and beyond.
- Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum – Learn about the legendary baseball player for free.
Cheap Eats:
- The Beacon Drive-In – A classic Southern diner serving up heaping plates of chili cheeseburgers and onion rings for under $10.
- Henry’s Smokehouse – A local favorite for pulled pork sandwiches and mac & cheese under $10.
Affordable Accommodations:
- Stay at budget-friendly options like Tru by Hilton or Comfort Inn, with rates starting at $85 per night.
10. Louisville, Kentucky – Bourbon, Horses, and Affordable Fun
Louisville is rich in history, home to the Kentucky Derby, and filled with exciting attractions—all while being one of the most budget-friendly destinations in the country. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast, a sports fan, or a lover of Southern culture, Louisville offers plenty of low-cost activities for a fantastic weekend getaway.
Budget-Friendly Attractions:
- Louisville Mega Cavern – Take a guided underground tram tour of this massive limestone cavern for just $16.
- Louisville Waterfront Park – Enjoy scenic river views, walking trails, and free festivals throughout the year.
- Evan Williams Bourbon Experience – A $15 tasting tour that introduces you to Kentucky’s famous bourbon scene.
Cheap Eats:
- Hammerheads – A casual spot known for BBQ tacos, burgers, and craft beer for under $12.
- Wagner’s Pharmacy – A historic diner near Churchill Downs serving Southern breakfast platters under $10.
Affordable Accommodations:
Budget hotels like Galt House Hotel and Homewood Suites start at $90 per night.
