Going on vacation doesn't have to cost a fortune. In fact, there are numerous destinations within the US that offer cheap prices and lots of entertainment. Whether you're looking for outdoor fun, a history lesson or a chance to relax under the sun, there are always places to visit that won't break the bank.
National parks offer plenty of activities for a small entry fee, and many allow camping or offer cabin rental within their limits, which usually reduces the cost of the vacation even more. While the well-known parks attract thousands of tourists a year, there are also smaller parks that charge little or no fees and offer a more roughed experience for less money. The Isle Royale National Park in Michigan is accessible only by boat and offers impressive wildlife that includes moose and wolves. The North Cascades National Park in Washington offers an Alaskan-like wilderness, plenty of glaciers and 400 miles of backpacking and hiking roads.
Florida has long been an affordable destination for those looking for warm weather and beach escapes. High season in Florida is wintertime, as most people head south when the weather in their own cities gets too rough. For additional savings, try to avoid the high season and instead head to Florida in summer or fall (avoid spring break time, as prices are also higher then). If you can avoid theme parks and other heavy tourist destinations, you can find plenty of beach towns for reasonable prices. Cocoa Beach, for example, is close to Cape Canaveral but offers cheaper accommodations and attractions than Orlando and Palm Bay. St. Augustine offers access to the beach, and it also has numerous historical attractions and ghost tours.
Most of the major tourist centers in the country are on the East and West Coasts. The center of the country, while full of great places to visit, is still less crowded and thus remains a cheaper destination. As long as you stay away from larger cities, affordable places for a vacation abound. Nebraska, South Dakota, Kansas and Wyoming are examples of affordable places to visit. Wyoming is a great destination for those interested in the Wild West, as the state has several museums and natural spaces dedicated to Buffalo Bill, Native American history and Old Trail towns. Nebraska is popular for its outdoor activities and its pioneer history, while Kansas offers a glimpse into the history of flying and numerous fossil sites and museums. Finally, South Dakota is home to the Black Hills and Badlands, as well as numerous Glacial lakes, all of which offer a variety of outdoor activities, from camping and climbing to water sports and historical railroads.
