10 Cheapest U.S. Cities for a Weekend Getaway

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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