Traveling on a budget is very rewarding. Who needs 5-star hotels, fancy restaurants, and expensive extras? I’ve found that my favorite vacation spots are close to home on American soil. Since I had such positive experiences, I wanted to share some of my favorite places with you. Even though I didn’t have to empty my savings account or go broke for these unique “low budget” destinations, they were worth every penny I spent. Here are 5 of my top places to travel, whether you’re on a tight budget or not.
1.Arizona
This American hotspot is a great place to go whenever you can get there. We all know the power of experiencing the Grand Canyon, but there’s so much more, whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter, Arizona gets a huge leg up on me from the incredible weather to the variety of affordable things to see and do. It can get very hot, so pack casual clothes. because if you’re like me, the best place to be is outside. The state has done an amazing job creating hiking trails, botanical gardens, camping, outdoor tours, and other nature-loving excursions. The state is full of big cities and small towns full of art, culture, history and delicious food. For example, Tucson, Arizona is steeped in Mexican and Southwestern heritage. There is little or no admission charge to see places like Sabino Canyon and Saguaro National Park and then head to Sedona, Arizona for the chance to see more than 100 art galleries and events happening all the time. They are amazing sites to see whether you are an art enthusiast or not.
2.Baltimore, MD
I have visited Baltimore many times and it is by far one of my favorite places to see. The seafood is fresh and delicious, as are all the dishes in town, and for those of us on a budget, a dollar goes a long, long way. Steamed crabs are like no other in the world. The National Aquarium is beautifully located right on the Baltimore Harbor and a day there is a day well spent. The beautiful and familiar sights, smells and sounds are one of a kind! The Harborplace and the Gallery is located close to the harbor and offers an amazing shopping and dining mecca where you can select what is right for your wallet and taste. Depending on the time of year (remember Baltimore gets cold in the winter), there is even free entertainment. The Museum of American Visionary Art is well worth the short trip from the port. They do charge a fee to enter, but the building itself and the property are full of sculptures and art to view for free. And there are so many other museums to visit during your stay in this family-friendly city.
3. Hershey, Pennsylvania
Hershey, Pennsylvania has become one of our country’s most popular destination spots, offering so many free and inexpensive things to do. There’s a world-class amusement park, an infamous day spa that can be a bit pricey, but there’s also plenty of memorable affordable things to do. Hershey Chocolate World, is a ride that is located on the grounds of Hershey Park but is completely free. It is a wonderful historical walk that is enjoyable and educational. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll get a free candy sampler at the end of the trip, where you’ll be dropped off right at the gift shop. There’s also the Hershey cart that will transport you around town with kiss-shaped lights lining the streets. It was started by Milton Hershey while he was planning the city and continues to this day…well worth his time. If you have time (and I suggest you do), visit ZooAmerica, Hershey Gardens, the Milton Hershey School, and other fantastic museums, all located in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
4.Dallas, Texas
In a city known for all things big, the cost of visiting isn’t too bad. We had a bit of an adventurous spirit, so we booked a City PASS which offered reduced prices on some of the most popular attractions in the city. We didn’t get to visit all of them, but we did see the George W. Bush Library and Museum (he was the president) and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. Great to add a bit of culture to your vacation. My fellow travelers enjoy visiting zoos so we went to the amazing Dallas Zoo and met two beautiful African elephants and fed a giraffe. There are so many family-oriented events and performances at this zoo that you may need to stay longer than one day. The Dallas Farmers Market is a must-visit market. The food, the vendors and the extremely memorable experience is unlike any other market you have ever been to. If you go, have a street taco at La Ventana or a tamale stuffed with chicharrón at El Mero Mero. I have to mention the Trinity River Audubon Center for all you hikers and outdoor enthusiasts out there. This urban hardwood forest is an escape from the city into the distinctive Texas terrain.
5. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, the home of country music, American history, and much, much to see and do. First, the must-see of all must-sees is the Country Music Hall of Fame and the infamous Grand Ole Opry. The view from the outside of these famous buildings alone is a must see. When country music fills you up, head out and walk around the beautiful college campuses of Vanderbilt University and Belmont University or head over to the Adventure Science Center or Belmont Mansion and spend the afternoon learning something new. The campuses are steeped in history and tradition and are a perfect place to enjoy the outdoors. And we haven’t even mentioned Nashville food. Nashville has to be a melting pot. There are all kinds of food to satisfy any palate. My favorites were at the food trucks that offered quick, delicious, and cheap meals to go. If you have room for cake, I recommend the peach or pecan one.