Traveling doesn't have to be expensive. Some of the best attractions in the United States are completely free, and it's possible to find a cheap hotel room while still looking chic. Do you need a rental car? Avoid it by visiting a city within walking distance.
To find the best budget-friendly options, a panel of travel experts and USA TODAY 10Best editors selected their top picks in five budget travel categories, then readers voted on their favorites over four weeks — and the results are in.
Click on each category below to see the full list of winners:
Best Budget Hotel Brand: Motel 6
Enjoy quality accommodations at an affordable price at Motel 6 — Photo courtesy of Motel 6
Highly regarded and easily recognized by those traveling the roads of the United States, Motel 6 has made a name for itself by being clean, friendly, reliable and most importantly affordable. Extensive cable TV and pet-friendly rooms make this hotel a good choice for those looking to stick to their budget. Free morning coffee makes getting up and going a pleasure.
Full list of winners: Best Budget Hotel Brand »
Best Buffet Restaurant: Shady Maple Smorgasbord in East Earl, Pennsylvania
Feast on the impressive Shady Maple buffet — Photo courtesy of Angela Kotsell // Getty Images
Shady Maple Smorgasbord, claiming to be “America's Greatest Buffet,” serves delicious Pennsylvania Dutch fare in East Earl, Pennsylvania. The well-prepared comfort foods are offered on a 200-foot-long buffet and the space is designed to provide a cafeteria-style ambiance. A gift shop is open to visitors and their birthday specials are popular.
Full list of winners: Best buffet restaurant »
Best Bus Service: Yankee Line
Yankee Line Ranks No. 1 for Providing the Best Bus Service in the Country — Photo courtesy of simonapilolla / iStock / Getty Images Plus
In business for over 45 years, Yankee Line serves the Northeast from Boston to New York City. Additionally, the company offers charter services for corporate events, school trips, and more. Their fleet of custom-built coaches includes free Wi-Fi, onboard restrooms, and power outlets.
Full list of winners: Best bus service »
Best Free Attraction: Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach, Florida
Get an up-close look at sea turtles or other marine life at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center — Photo courtesy of Sarah Edwards, Loggerhead Marinelife Center
Located in Juno Beach, the Loggerhead Marinelife Center focuses on ocean and sea turtle conservation. It is free and open to the public daily. Since the goal is to save and return wildlife to their natural habitat, the number of resident sea turtles will vary between tours. Plus, there are plenty of other sea creatures to observe, and volunteers are helpful and willing to answer visitors' questions.
Full list of winners: Best Free Attraction »
Most walkable city to visit: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has been named the most walkable city in the United States for the second year in a row — Photo courtesy of Dan Knoll for Visit Philadelphia
Philadelphia is popular for its cultural and historical attractions, and its walking opportunities are enjoyed by residents and visitors. Tourists will likely enjoy strolling around downtown, which is home to historic Old Town and the beautiful Rittenhouse Square neighborhoods.
Full list of winners: The most walkable city to visit »
Congratulations to all these winners! Don't forget to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote for more Readers' Choice Awards.
