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| 15 Budget-Friendly Weekend Getaway Ideas Across America |
Life gets busy, but we all need a break sometimes. Luckily, you can relax and recharge without breaking the bank by taking a quick weekend trip. Studies show that even short vacations have mental and physical health benefits, like reduced stress and improved focus.
Planning an affordable getaway might sound difficult, but with some research you can find perfect destinations close to home. This article suggests budget weekend trips you can take from 15 major cities around the country. We cover everything from activities and sightseeing to dining and lodging recommendations. Keep reading for inspiration on where to go to enjoy a thrifty but fun-filled trip!
West Coast Weekend Escape Ideas
Los Angeles to Hermosa Beach
[Hermosa Beach Pier]
Hermosa Beach is less than 30 miles from LA, but feels worlds away. Check into a laidback hotel like Sea Sprite right on the sand, then spend your days beachcombing, biking The Strand path, or trying beachfront restaurants like The Lighthouse Cafe. Don't miss the comedy club that launched many big names.
San Francisco to Paso Robles
[Golden Paso Robles Vineyards]
Wine lovers adore Paso Robles wine country, located just a 3 to 4 hour drive from the Bay Area. Stay downtown at The Piccolo or a local B&B, then visit acclaimed wineries like Alta Colina and Thacher. With lush vineyards and small town charm, Paso Robles is a perfect quiet getaway.
Seattle to San Juan Island
[Boats in Fossil Bay, Sucia Island]
Trade Seattle's sights for a more natural scene at San Juan Island, just a few hours north. Hike, kayak, or visit a cidery, brewery or winery for tastings. At the dog-friendly Lakedale Resort you can stay in a yurt, cabin, or even a luxury canvas tent right on the lake.
East Coast Weekend Trip Recommendations
New York City to Montauk
[Montauk Point Lighthouse]
Trade the concrete jungle for the ocean breezes of Montauk, the easternmost point of Long Island, about 115 miles from NYC. Check out the rocky shores and historic Montauk Point Lighthouse, go fishing, visit wineries, or try affordable hotels and locally-owned restaurants.
Philadelphia to Richmond
[Richmond Virginia Skyline]
Richmond Virginia's historic charm and modern foodie scene make it a fun getaway just a few hours south of Philadelphia. Learn about the city's history and stroll along the James River, then explore the artsy River District and try acclaimed restaurants like Mama J's without draining your wallet.
Washington D.C. to West Virginia
[Harpers Ferry National Historical Park]
The mountains of West Virginia offer scenic drives, hiking, fishing and small towns with spas and shops, just two hours from the city. top at Harpers Ferry National Historic Park to see where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet. Rustic cabins and family-run inns provide cozy, affordable places to stay as you enjoy the state's natural beauty.
Budget-Friendly Trips in the Central U.S.
Dallas to Oklahoma City
[Oklahoma City Bricktown at dusk]
Oklahoma City offers an affordable getaway less than 3 hours north of Dallas. Go stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking along the Oklahoma River, explore the revitalized Bricktown area, or visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum to dive into cowboy history. With wallet-friendly hotels and fun free attractions, Oklahoma City makes for an easy weekend escape.
Chicago to Indiana Dunes
[Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore]
Escape Chicago to Indiana Dunes National Park, which hugs 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline just an hour from the city. Hike wooded trails to the beach, try daring challenges like climbing Mount Baldy, or camp out under the stars. Close by towns offer cozy accommodations when you want a break from the tent.
Denver to Fort Collins
[Old Town Fort Collins]
The charming college town of Fort Collins is just an hour north of Denver, perfect for a quick Colorado getaway. Tour breweries and distilleries, hike or bike on scenic trails, explore Old Town's shops and restaurants, and stay at dog-friendly hotels like the Armstrong. An outdoor paradise, Fort Collins offers mountain air that will leave you refreshed.
Weekend Trips in the South
Atlanta to Asheville
[Downtown Asheville]
Artsy Asheville North Carolina is an easy mountain getaway 200 miles from Atlanta. Browse galleries and studios in the River Arts District, satisfy your sweet tooth at Vortex Doughnuts, hike mountain trails, or stay at unique historic hotels, cabins and B&Bs. With its thriving culinary and arts scene, Asheville delights visitors without draining wallets.
New Orleans to Meadville
[Meadville Mississippi Countryside]
Trade New Orleans' lively streets for the peaceful pine forests around Meadville, Mississippi, just a few hours drive north. Getaway Cabins provide a budget-friendly escape, with basic amenities but no WiFi or distractions. Bring your pup and settle in for a quiet weekend of hiking, wining or simply relaxing among the scenic Homochitto National Forest views.
Nashville to Blue Ridge
[Downtown Blue Ridge]
The mountain town of Blue Ridge, about 200 miles from Nashville, delights country music fans seeking natural beauty and small town charm. Go whitewater rafting, visit Mercier Apple Orchard, ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway past vibrant fall leaves, or stay in a cozy cabin. Outdoorsy adventures paired with downhome hospitality make Blue Ridge an ideal trip.
Weekend Excursions out West
Las Vegas to Phoenix
[Downtown Phoenix Skyline at Dusk]
Phoenix makes a nice change of pace from Vegas, with beautiful desert scenery instead of neon lights. Check out native plants at the Desert Botanical Garden, tour Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home Taliesin West, then dine on superb Sonoran-style cuisine from restaurants like Bitter & Twisted or Pizzeria Bianco. Hotels ring Camelback Mountain, offering epic views along with affordable rates.
San Diego to Solvang
[Danish-style Solvang Village] Channel your inner Danish spirit in Solvang, just a few hours up the California coast from San Diego. Ride a trolley to tour the European facades and architecture, explore over 100 nearby wineries, and stay at a cute local hotel, inn, or cottage at reasonable rates. From bakeries to beer halls to boutiques, Solvang brings Danish charm to the West Coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the benefits of taking a short weekend getaway?
A: Studies show that even brief 1-3 day vacations reduce stress, improve mood and focus, boost creativity, and strengthen personal relationships. Making time to travel and relax is important self-care.
Q: How do I plan an affordable weekend trip?
A: Look for destinations within driving distance to save money, research deals on hotels and activities, travel in the off-season when rates are lower, and take advantage of free attractions like parks, beaches, hiking trails and museums.
Q: Where can I find good budget travel tips?
A: Check discount travel sites for deals and budgeting advice. Travel bloggers and influencers share great recommendations for affordable destinations and saving money while traveling. Guidebooks also suggest wallet-friendly places to help you keep costs low.
Q: What are fun things to do on a inexpensive weekend trip?
A: Outdoor activities like hiking, biking and kayaking offer entertainment without big costs. Tours of historic sites and museums are often cheap or free. Local festivals, walking tours and street fairs make great sightseeing too. And you can cap off frugal days with budget meals from food trucks, bakeries and other casual eateries.
Q: Are short weekend getaways healthier for you?
A: Definitely! Studies find that even brief vacations reduce the stress hormone cortisol along with blood pressure and heart rate. Getting away also boosts motivation, wellbeing, mood and mental health by offering a change of routine and environment.
Final Thoughts
As this article showed, affordable weekend trips abound across the U.S. By picking destinations close to home and taking advantage of less costly activities, you can plan a quick budget-friendly getaway to any of these 15 cities that will re-energize your mind and body.
What other cheap weekend destinations would you add to the list? Share your top places for accessible weekenders in the comments! For those seeking more thrifty travel tips and ideas for easy U.S. escapes, check back on our blog regularly or join our email list.
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