Traveling may seem out of reach for many, as inflation and soaring rates have put a strain on savings, leaving little room for extras.
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In fact, 90% of Americans planning to travel during spring break said price and affordability were a priority, leading to 77% of travelers saying they have not yet booked their trip, according to Hopper. And the numbers can be scary: As GOGO Charters reported, the average vacation cost for a single person in the United States in 2024 is $1,984 and $3,969 for a couple. If you're traveling in a group of four, you can expect to pay upwards of $7,936.
Yet personal finance expert Rachel Cruze said in a blog post that there are still many cheap places to travel in the United States.
Here are his favorites.
Saint Louis
Cruze said she ranks the city high on the list because it's a driveable destination for many people in the South and Midwest.
“The best part is that Gateway City (as they like to call it) has lots of free activities to do once you get there. This is my kind of town! ” she wrote.
Free attractions include the St. Louis Zoo, Forest Park and Purina Farms.
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Washington, D.C.
According to Cruze, “If you book a cheap flight and an affordable Airbnb, this is one of the most economical places to go! »
Free attractions include the White House, Smithsonian museums and the Library of Congress.
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Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan
Cruze said the dunes are great for families with scenic hikes, drives, campsites and canoe and kayak tours.
Free attractions include fishing and the Pierce Stocking Scenic Byway.
New Orleans
The Big Easy is always fun, but she recommended avoiding going there during Mardi Gras because hotels double or triple their rates.
Free attractions include the French Quarter, City Park and St. Louis Cathedral.
Phoenix
The city has a lot to offer, from desert landscapes to shopping and architecture. Free attractions include Papago Park, Camelback Mountain and Fountain Park.
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Virginia Beach, Virginia
According to Cruze, the city made the list because it offers several affordable lodging options. Free attractions include the Cape Henry Lighthouse and the Virginia Legends Walk.
Seaside, Oregon
“Seaside is a charming, family-friendly waterfront town. It’s on my list of cheap places to travel because it offers so many unique things to do for little to no cost,” according to Cruze.
Free attractions include Arcadia Beach State Recreation Area and the Tillamook Head Trail.
Tulsa, OK
Cruze calls this city a “gem” and says hotel rates are among the best of any major city.
Free attractions include Gathering Place and Woodward Park.
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Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Despite its nickname “Taxachusetts,” Massachusetts isn't even close to being the worst state for retirees when it comes to taxes. In fact, it beats 22. For starters, MA doesn't tax Social Security benefits — and its 6.25% sales tax rate is lower than the majority of states. However, its property tax rates are among the highest.
Raleigh, North Carolina
She said it was a no-brainer because it's fashionable and perfect for families and couples. Free attractions include Pullen Park and the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.
Pittsburgh
Cruze said the city has “undergone a transformation” and now has several world-class museums and parks.
Free attractions include Point State Park and the Frick Art Museum.
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San Antonio
“Looking for a Texas-sized adventure in the Lone Star State? San Antonio has it all, y’all,” Cruze said. Free attractions include The Alamo and River Walk.
This article was originally published on GOBankingRates.com: Rachel Cruze shares her 12 cheapest places to travel in 2024
