Affordable vacations: the best weekend trips around the United States

Welcome to the world of budget adventures in the United States! Here you will find the most exciting and impressive weekend trips that will not only refresh you and give you unforgettable experiences, but also won't make a dent in your wallet.

You can say goodbye to your endless budget constraints and forget about the fact that traveling equals bankruptcy. We've gathered all the most interesting ideas for inexpensive weekends in the US, so you can enjoy the beautiful moments of life, bypassing accountants and treasurers.

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure that won't break your budget? Then let's get started on this exciting guide to the best weekend trips in the US on a tight budget!

San Francisco, California

This is one of the best destinations for a weekend getaway on a tight budget. The city is known for its beautiful views, cultural diversity and historical sites. You can enjoy tons of activities and adventures without spending a lot of money.

What to see in San Francisco:

1. Golden Gate Bridge. It is the symbol of the city and one of the most famous bridges in the world. You can walk or bike across it, enjoy breathtaking views of the bay and the city, and take unforgettable photos.
2. Alcatraz. A former prison on the island where the most dangerous criminals were once held. Visit it on a tour that includes a ferry ride, audio guide and a tour of the prison cells, corridors and courtyards.
3. Rope Trams. One of the most unique and fun means of transportation around the city. You can ride them through the hilly streets while enjoying the views and atmosphere. Visit the Ropeway Tramway Museum and learn about the history and operation of this transportation.
4. Chinatown. One of the largest and oldest Chinatowns in the United States. Immerse yourself in Chinese culture and traditions, visit temples, stores, restaurants and teahouses. See the famous dragon gate, which is the entrance to the neighborhood.

Where to stay in San Francisco:

1. Hotel Caza Fisherman's Wharf. It is a hotel with an outdoor pool, a fitness center and free bike rentals. It is 400 meters from Ghirardelli Square, in the heart of the famous Fisherman's Wharf. Price per night from $133.
2. Comfort Inn By the Bay Hotel San Francisco. This is a hotel with free breakfast, Wi-Fi and parking. It is a 5-minute walk from Lombard Street and 1.6 km from Fisherman's Wharf. Rates start at $120 a night.
3. The Urban. This is a hotel with free Wi-Fi and coffee. It is located across from the Dragon Gate in Chinatown and 1.3 km from Union Square Park. The price per night is from $60 per night.

The most pleasant time to visit San Francisco to avoid the crowds of tourists is spring and fall, when the temperature is between 15 and 20 degrees and there is little rainfall. You can enjoy sunny weather, flowers and colorful foliage.

Orlando, Florida

This is the place for those who love entertainment and adventure. You can visit the world's theme parks like Disneyland, Universal Studios, Sea World, enjoy the beauty of nature, culture and history of the city without spending a lot of money.

What to see in Orlando:

1. Disneyland. This is a dream for any child and adult who wants to dive into the magical world of Disney. Visit four theme parks, Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom, as well as two water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Visit your favorite characters, see fantastic shows and parades, and ride thrill rides.
2. Universal Studios. An amusement park dedicated to the movie industry and popular films. You can visit two parks, Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, as well as the Universal CityWalk entertainment complex. You can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Harry Potter, Shrek, Minions, Transformers and other franchises, ride unique rides, watch exciting shows and concerts.
3. Sea World. This is an amusement park and oceanarium where you can see and meet a variety of marine animals such as dolphins, killer whales, sea lions, and sharks. You can watch educational and entertaining shows, take part in interactive programs, ride water rides and slides.
4. ICON Park. This is an entertainment complex where you can enjoy views of the city from the ICON Park Ferris wheel, which is the tallest in Florida. You can also visit Madame Tussauds wax museum, SEA LIFE oceanarium, illusion museum, comedy dinner show and many restaurants, bars and stores.

Where to stay in Orlando:

• Hotel Monreale Express I-Drive Orlando. It is a hotel with an outdoor pool, fitness center and free Wi-Fi. It is 400 meters from ICON Park and 2.5 km from Universal Studios. The price per night is from $50.
• Hampton Inn Orlando/Lake Buena Vista. This is a hotel with free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking. It is a 5-minute drive from Disneyland and a 15-minute drive from Sea World. The price per night starts at $98 per night.

To avoid the summer heat and humidity, as well as fall storms and hurricanes, it's best to go to Orlando in winter or spring. The city is full of surprises and fun that await at every turn.

Orlando is one of the best places for a weekend getaway on a tight budget.

New York

This is the city that never sleeps. You can enjoy the incredible atmosphere, visit famous museums, theaters, parks and monuments for free or for a small fee.

What to see in New York City on a weekend on a tight budget:

1. Statue of Liberty. It is the symbol of the city and one of the most famous sculptures in the world. You can visit it as part of a tour that includes a ferry ride, a climb to the observation deck and a tour of the museum. Tickets cost $23 for adults, $18 for seniors and $12 for children. You can also see the statue from shore, such as from Battery Park or Gouverneur's Island.
2. Times Square. This is the most colorful and lively square in New York City, where you can feel the pulse of the city. You can admire neon signs, watch street performers, visit stores, cafes and theaters. Times Square is also the site of many holiday and cultural events such as New Year's Eve carnival, concerts and festivals.
3. Central Park. This is an oasis of greenery and tranquility in the heart of Manhattan where you can take a break from the hustle and bustle. You can stroll along the picturesque paths, visit the zoo, botanical garden, museum of history and art, take a boat ride or ice skating, look at monuments and fountains.

Where to stay in New York:

• The Pod Hotel. It is a hotel with modern and cozy rooms equipped with Wi-Fi, TV and safe. It is located 1.6 km from Times Square and 2.4 km from Central Park. The price per night starts at $50.
• HI New York City Hostel. This is a hostel with free breakfast, Wi-Fi and parking. It is 1 km from Central Park and 2.5 km from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The price per night is from $60.
• The Jane Hotel. This is a hotel with historic charm and free Wi-Fi. It is located 2.4 km from Times Square and 3.2 km from Statue of Liberty. The price per night is from $65 per night.

New York City is one of the best destinations for a weekend getaway in the US on a tight budget.

Las Vegas, Nevada

This is the city of sin and gambling. You can try your luck in casinos, see exciting shows, visit grand hotels and attractions.

But in Las Vegas you can make the most of a trip on a tight budget. The city offers plenty of entertainment without costing a lot of money. You can visit famous casinos, shows, museums and monuments that can be viewed for free or for a small fee.

What to do in Las Vegas on a tight budget:

• The Strip. This is the most famous and bustling street in Las Vegas, home to the most luxurious and spectacular casinos, hotels and entertainment centers. You can stroll along it on foot or by bus, admire the neon lights, see the Bellagio Fountains, Mirage Volcano, Luxor Pyramid and other architectural marvels. You can also visit miniature replicas of famous world landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty, Venice Canals and the Colosseum.
• Fremont Street. This is the historic center of Las Vegas and is home to the oldest and most atmospheric casinos, bars, stores and museums. You can check out the giant LED screen that covers the entire street, watch street performers, visit the neon sign museum, the mob museum, the gold nugget and other interesting places.

Where to stay in the city of lights:

• Circus Circus Hotel, Casino & Theme Park. This is a hotel with a casino, theme park, and free Wi-Fi. It is located on the Strip, a 5-minute drive from the Las Vegas Convention Center. Price per night starting at $25 per night.
• Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino. This is a hotel with a casino, rooftop pool and free Wi-Fi. It is 300 meters from Fremont Street and a 10-minute drive from the Strip. The price per night is from $40 per night.
• The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod. This is a hotel with a casino, pool, fitness center and free Wi-Fi. It is located on the Strip, 4 km from Fremont Street. The price per night is from $60 per night.

The most comfortable time to visit Las Vegas, when the temperature is between 15 and 25 degrees and rainfall is low, is spring and fall.

Plan an unforgettable vacation in Vegas in advance, and remember that this city is the best place for a budget weekend getaway.

New Orleans, Louisiana

One of the best destinations for a weekend getaway on a budget. New Orleans is famous for its unique culture, music, cuisine and architecture. You can visit historic neighborhoods like the French Quarter and Garden District, enjoy jazz and blues on French Street, sample local specialties like shrimp and grits, beignets and gumbo, and take in famous festivals like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest.

What to see in New Orleans:

1. National World War II Museum. This is one of the most visited and impressive museums in the US, dedicated to America's role in the global conflict. It features rare exhibits such as airplanes, tanks, weapons and uniforms, as well as multimedia shows, interactive displays and personal stories of veterans.
2. The Old Mint. This is a historic building where coins for the United States and Confederacy were minted in the 19th century. It now houses a museum dedicated to the history and culture of New Orleans, as well as a jazz museum where you can listen to live music.
3. Long View House and Gardens. This is a gorgeous classicist mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains. You can take a tour of the house to see its luxurious interior and stroll through the gardens to enjoy the flowers, trees and sculptures.

Where to stay in New Orleans on a tight budget:

• The Pontchartrain Hotel. This is a hotel with charm and history located in the Garden District neighborhood. It offers cozy and stylish rooms equipped with Wi-Fi, TV and refrigerator. It also has several restaurants and bars, including the famous Carousel Bar for cocktails and appetizers. Price per night from $180 per night.

• The Mercantile Hotel. This is a hotel with a modern design and atmosphere, located in the Arts Warehouse District neighborhood. It offers spacious and bright rooms equipped with Wi-Fi, kitchen, living room and bathroom. It also has a fitness center, business center and laundry facilities. The price per night starts at $160 per night.
• The Jane Hotel. This is a hotel with historic charm and free Wi-Fi located in the French Quarter neighborhood. It offers comfortable and elegant rooms equipped with air conditioning, TV and safe. It also has a restaurant, a bar and an indoor pool. The price per night is from $150 per night.

Going to New Orleans in spring or fall will allow you to visit the most popular festivals such as Mardi Gras in February or March, Jazz Fest in April or May, and the Francophone Festival in October.

Chicago, Illinois

It is the third largest city in the United States and offers many attractions, museums, parks, restaurants and shopping. You can enjoy the view of the city from the Willis Tower skyscraper, visit the famous Millennium Park, see the Cloud Gate art object, and stroll along the Lake Michigan waterfront. Chicago is also the home of improvisational theater and comedy.

Where to go in Chicago on a tight budget:

1. Millennium Park. This is one of the most popular and beautiful parks in Chicago, where you can see the famous Cloud Gate sculpture that reflects the cityscape, see the Buckingham Fountains that project the faces of Chicagoans, and visit the Jay Pritzker Concert Hall, which hosts music shows and festivals.
2. Skyscrapers. Chicago is famous for its high-rise buildings that create a unique skyline for the city. You can visit observation decks at the Willis Tower and John Hancock Center skyscrapers, which offer stunning views of the city and Lake Michigan. You can also learn about Chicago's architectural history and styles by taking a cruise on the Chicago River or visiting the Center for Architecture.
3. Museums. Chicago has many museums to suit every taste and interest. You can visit the Museum Campus, home to the Museum of Natural History, Planetarium and Aquarium, or visit the Art Institute of Chicago, which has one of the largest and most diverse art collections in the world. As well as the Museum of Science and Industry, which showcases various scientific and technological advances.

Where to stay:

1. Hotel EMC2. It is a hotel with a modern design and ambience located in the Arts Warehouse District. It offers spacious and bright rooms equipped with Wi-Fi, kitchen, living room and bathroom. It also has a fitness center, business center and laundry facilities. The price per night is from $100.
2. Chicago Getaway Hostel. This is a hotel with modern and cozy rooms equipped with Wi-Fi, TV and safe. The price per night from 60 dollars.

When you come to Chicago in the summer, you'll catch the most popular festivals like Lollapalooza in August, Taste of Chicago in July, and the Chicago Marathon in October.

Chicago is one of the best destinations for a weekend getaway in the US on a tight budget.

Seattle, Washington

It is a city that combines modernity and nature. You can visit Seattle's symbol, the Space Needle, which offers panoramic views of the city, Lake Union and Mount Rainier. Or check out the world's largest farmers' market, Pike Place, which sells fresh fish, fruit, flowers and souvenirs. Seattle is also known for its music scene, especially in the grunge style.

Where to go in Seattle:

1. Space Needle. This is the symbol of Seattle, a 184 meter tall tower that was built for the 1962 World's Fair. From its 160-meter-high observation deck, you can enjoy stunning views of the city, lake and mountains. You can also visit the restaurant and bar, which rotates around the tower's axis, or walk on the glass floor to see the ground beneath your feet.
2. Pike Place Market. This is one of the oldest and most famous farmer's markets in the United States and has been in operation since 1907. Here you can find fresh produce, flowers, crafts, antiques, books, clothing and more. You can also check out the famous fish market, where vendors throw fish at each other, or visit the first Starbucks coffee shop, which opened here in 1971.
3. Dale Chihuly Glass Museum. This is an amazing museum dedicated to the work of famous glassblowing artist Dale Chihuly, who was born in Tacoma, near Seattle. Here you can see his colorful and unusual glass sculptures, which are located inside the museum and outdoors. You can also watch a live glassblowing demonstration or participate in a workshop.
4. Pop Culture Museum. This is a museum dedicated to different aspects of popular culture such as music, movies, television, comics, literature and video games. Here you can see exhibits on celebrities and franchises such as Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, Star Wars, The Avengers, Harry Potter and others. You can also check out interactive displays, simulators, movie theaters and studios.
5. Seattle Library. This unusual and impressive building is one of Seattle's architectural masterpieces. The glass facade reflects light and a complex internal structure that creates different spaces and perspectives. It houses more than 2 million books, magazines, audio and video materials, as well as free Wi-Fi, computers and events.

Where to stay in Seattle:

• The Belltown Inn. This is a hotel with free Wi-Fi, bicycles, and an airport shuttle. It is a 10-minute walk from the Space Needle and a 15-minute walk from Pike Place Market. Price per night from $135.
• Green Tortoise Hostel Seattle. This is a hostel with free breakfast, Wi-Fi and parking. It is 100 meters from Pike Place Market and 1.6 km from the Space Needle. The price per night is from $40 per night.

If you want to attend popular festivals like Bumbershoot in July, Seattle Art Faire in August, and Bight of Seattle in September, plan the perfect weekend in Seattle for summer and fall.

Denver, Colorado

The city at the foot of the Rocky Mountains attracts lovers of outdoor activities and extreme sports. You can go skiing, snowboarding, biking, hiking, rafting or kayaking. Denver also has many cultural and historical attractions such as the Museum of Art, Museum of Nature and Science, Zoo and Aquarium.

What to see in Denver:

1. Colorado State Capitol. This majestic neoclassical building is the center of Colorado's legislative and executive branches of government. You can take a free tour of the building to see its lavish interior decorated with marble, gold, and stained glass, and climb to the dome for panoramic views of the city and mountains.
2. Denver Museum of Natural History. This is one of the most visited and impressive museums in the US, dedicated to science, nature and culture. You can see more than 4 million exhibits including dinosaur skeletons, mummies, gemstones, animals and plants, as well as check out multimedia shows, interactive displays and temporary exhibitions.
3. Red Rocks Park. This is a unique natural park located 24 km from Denver, where you can see the red rock formations that serve as the backdrop for one of the most famous amphitheaters in the world. Visit the museum or walk the trails that lead to scenic views of the city and mountains.
4. Denver Zoo. This is one of the oldest and largest zoos in the United States, where you can see more than 4,000 animals representing over 600 species in natural and spacious enclosures. You can see lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, pandas, penguins and other animals, as well as visit interactive areas where you can feed, touch or play with some of them.
5. Denver Art Museum. This is one of the largest and most diverse art museums in the United States, with over 70,000 works of art, from ancient to modern, European to American, Asian to African. You can see masterpieces by artists such as Monet, Picasso, Van Gogh and others, as well as view the museum's unique architecture that resembles mountains and crystals.
6. Denver Botanic Gardens. This is one of the most beautiful and popular botanical gardens in the United States, with over 20,000 plants representing different climates and regions of the world. You can stroll along scenic trails, visit greenhouses, greenhouses and gardens where you can see tropical, desert, alpine and other plants, as well as view fountains, sculptures and art installations.

Where to sleep in Denver on a tight budget:

• Hostel Fish. Located in the heart of downtown Denver, it offers comfortable and stylish rooms at an affordable price. The hostel also has a common area where guests can meet and get to know each other. Rates per night start at $60.

• 11th Avenue Hostel. Located in an old historic building, this hostel offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. There are various stores, restaurants, and attractions in close proximity to the hostel. Rates per night start at $50 per night.
• Ember Hostel. Located in the Five Points area and provides guests with cozy and stylish rooms. The hostel also has a shared kitchen where guests can prepare their own meals, as well as a common area with game consoles and board games for entertainment. Rates per night start at $55 per night.

The best time to travel to Denver on a tight budget is during the months of spring and fall, as well as the winter season. Lower demand for lodging and tourist services prevails during this time, which can lead to lower prices. However, you should avoid the high season in summer and during special events or festivals, when prices can be significantly higher. Book early and look for special offers and discounts to save money on lodging and entertainment.

Boston, Massachusetts

This is one of the oldest and most historic cities in the United States and played an important role in the American Revolution. You can walk along the Freedom Trail, which connects 16 historical sites such as the Old State House, Old North Bridge, and the Old Ship Constitution. Boston is also a cultural and educational center, home to famous universities such as Harvard, MIT, and Boston College.

What to see in Boston:

1. Freedom Trail. This is a 4-kilometer walking route that passes 16 historical sites associated with the founding and revolution of the United States. You can see landmarks such as the Massachusetts State Capitol, the Old North Church, the Boston Tea Party Museum, and more. You can walk the trail on your own or with a guide in period costume.
2. Boston Public Park and Public Garden. These are two green oases in the center of the city where you can take a break from the hustle and bustle and enjoy nature. Boston Public Park is the oldest public park in the US where you can see monuments, fountains, lakes and swans. The Public Garden is the first botanical garden in the US where you can see a variety of flowers, trees and sculptures. You can also ride a swan-shaped boat or a Ferris wheel.
3. Museum of Fine Arts. It is one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the United States with over 450,000 works of art, from ancient to modern, European to American, Asian to African. You can see masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, Degas, Picasso and others, as well as view the museum's unique architecture, which combines classical and modern styles.
4. Science Museum. This is a museum dedicated to science, technology, engineering and math that offers over 700 interactive exhibits, movie theaters, a planetarium and an observatory. You can learn about various scientific phenomena and principles such as electricity, magnetism, light, sound, gravity and others, as well as see live animals, robots, dinosaurs and spacecraft.
5. Phoenix Park. This is the largest and oldest park in Boston, which was founded in 1634. Here you can see historical sites such as the State House where George Washington worked, the King's Garden where the Boston Tea Party took place, and the Granite Obelisk commemorating the Battle of Bunker Hill. You can also visit the museums, churches, cemeteries and monuments that are located in the park.
6. Boston Children's Museum. This is a museum dedicated to children and families that offers many fun and educational activities, games, and exhibits. You can visit areas dedicated to art, music, math, physics, biology, geography, and other topics, as well as check out the live performances, workshops, and festivals that take place at the museum.

Where to stay:

• HI Boston Hostel: This hostel is centrally located and offers a variety of room types, including shared and private rooms. There is also a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and organized activities for guests. Rates range from $30 to $50 per night.
• Found Hotel Boston Common: This hostel is located near Boston Common and offers comfortable dormitory and private rooms. The hostel has a common area, laundry facilities, and free breakfast. Rates per night start at $50.
• Backpackers Hostel & Pub: This hostel is located in Boston's historic district and offers dorms and private rooms. The hostel has its own pub where guests can relax after a long day and meet other travelers. The price per night starts at $25 per night.

The best time to visit Boston on a tight budget is spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). During this time, demand for lodging and travel industry services is not as high, which can lead to lower hotel and ticket prices. More popular months like July and August, when the city comes alive with tourists, can be more expensive. If you plan to visit Boston during the high season, it's worth booking your accommodation in advance and looking for special offers and discounts. Also explore budget entertainment and dining options to save money.

San Diego, California

It is a city that is located on the border with Mexico and has a warm and sunny climate. You can enjoy beaches, surfing, boating and other water sports. San Diego is also known for its zoos, water parks, sea worlds and other family entertainment. San Diego also has plenty of cheap hotels, hostels and campgrounds.

What to visit in San Diego:

1. Balboa Park. This is the largest cultural park in the United States and has over 15 museums, gardens, theaters and other attractions. You can visit museums such as the National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of Natural History, National Gallery of Art and others. You can also enjoy nature, flowers and fountains at the botanical garden, Japanese garden, rose garden and other gardens.
2. San Diego Zoo. It is one of the most famous and visited zoos in the world, with more than 3,500 animals representing more than 650 species living in natural and spacious enclosures. You can see rare and amazing animals like pandas, koalas, elephants, gorillas, tigers and others. You can also visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park where you can see animals in their natural habitat in open spaces.
3. "Seaworld is San Diego's theme park. It is a park dedicated to marine life and oceanography that offers many rides, shows, exhibits and aquariums. You can see whales, dolphins, sea lions, sharks and other marine animals, and participate in interactive programs where you can feed, touch or swim with some of them. You can also test your courage on water slides, carousels and other rides.

Where to stay in San Diego:

• ITH Beach Bungalow Surf Hostel. Located near the beach in Mission Beach, this hostel offers different types of rooms at affordable rates. There is a shared kitchen, surfboard rentals, and plenty of activities and excursions for guests. The price per night starts at $30 per night.

• USA Hostels Ocean Beach. This hostel is located in the picturesque Ocean Beach neighborhood, close to the beach. It has a common area with a bar, game room, and terrace. The hostel also offers free excursions, barbecue facilities and bicycle rentals. Price per night from $35.
• Lucky D's Hostel. This hostel is located in downtown San Diego, close to downtown attractions. It offers comfortable shared and private rooms, as well as a common area with games and a kitchen. The hostel offers free Wi-Fi and a variety of activities. The price per night starts at $25 per night.

The best time to travel to San Diego on a tight budget is spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). During this period, the demand for hotels and tourist services is not as high, which can lead to lower prices for accommodation and entertainment.

As you can see, traveling is not always expensive.