6 Surprisingly Inexpensive U.S. Cities To Visit

If you think you need to break the bank for an amazing all-American vacation, think again. While coastal hot spots such as New York City and San Francisco regularly draw hordes of tourists, they also attract attention for their eye-watering prices. Many of the country’s most desirable destinations welcome visitors with incredible experiences and surprisingly inexpensive prices. These cities are packed with enticing culinary scenes, stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and unrivaled cultural attractions. From the musical heritages of Memphis, Nashville, and Kansas City to Washington, D.C.’s free world-class museums, these budget-friendly destinations show that memorable vacations don’t have to command a premium price. Here are six of our favorite surprisingly affordable U.S. cities to visit.

Kansas City, Missouri

It’s easy to see why this Midwest gem consistently ranks among America’s most affordable major cities to visit. Located less than three hours by plane from either coast, Kansas City offers an easy and affordable way to gather friends and family in one central location.

In particular, the city’s cultural attractions often punch well above their price point. From fountain tours (KC has more public fountains than any city except Rome) to free brewery samples, impressive museums, and an extensive parks system, Kansas City delivers top-notch experiences at reasonable prices. 

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art offers free admission to its world-class collections, and the National WWI Museum and Memorial charges just $18 for adults. The historic 18th & Vine Jazz District provides free outdoor concerts during summer months. Baseball games at Kauffman Stadium start around $15, and the Power & Light District offers free entertainment year-round. From the free Hallmark art workshop Kaleidoscope to the award-winning Science City at Union Station, there’s plenty of affordable fun to be had in Kansas City. 

And then, there’s the food. Sizzling steaks, handcrafted cocktails, and fresh, local produce — you’ll find it all in Kansas City. The city’s legendary barbecue scene offers incredible value; at spots such as Joe’s Kansas City and LC’s Bar-B-Q, diners can expect to enjoy hearty meals for less than $25. And don’t forget the free streetcar system, which connects downtown attractions and cuts down on transportation costs.

Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital might seem expensive, but it’s actually one of America’s best travel values when you consider what’s free. Attractions that might command over a hundred dollars for a family elsewhere cost nothing here: All Smithsonian museums, the National Zoo, some Kennedy Center performances, and many monuments are absolutely free. The excellent and affordable Metro system makes getting around easy (and also makes suburban stays in nearby Virginia and Maryland an attractive option for lodging).

Although D.C. boasts many Michelin-recognized restaurants, food trucks and casual spots regularly offer meals for well below $20. The diverse international dining scene provides excellent affordable and midrange options, including cuisine from Iran, Colombia, Croatia, and more.

Tours of the Capitol, Supreme Court, and Library of Congress are also free, and even visiting the Washington Monument costs only a dollar. Countless cultural events — including the National Cherry Blossom Festival and Fourth of July celebrations — similarly cost nothing, while biking or strolling the Tidal Basin and National Mall are a great way to explore the country’s history.

Memphis, Tennessee

Delivering authentic culture at affordable prices, Memphis should not be missed. Hotels are generally affordable in the “Home of the Blues” — even a night at the landmark Peabody Hotel can be enjoyed for less than $200. (And don’t miss the legendary duck parade!)

Barbecue joints like Central BBQ and Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken serve generous portions for reasonable prices. Another highlight is the soul food at the Four Way: The restaurant was a favorite of leaders of the Civil Rights Movement, such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Rev. Jesse Jackson. To this day, the affordable home cooking can’t be beat.

After you enjoy a meal, the iconic musical history of Memphis begs to be explored. Graceland tours start at $42, but the Blues Hall of Fame is just $15 for adults, and many outdoor concerts at Tom Lee Park are free. The city is also a nonstop whirl of festivals bringing in nationally known performers: Check out RiverBeat, Shell Fest, and the International Blues Challenge for a taste.

Many clubs offer free live music during the early evening hours, while legendary music venues along Beale Street often have minimal cover charges of around $5 to $10. Memphis’ compact downtown makes many attractions walkable, and the free trolley system connects major points of interest.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Combining stunning natural beauty with reasonable costs, Colorado Springs offers a Rocky Mountain vacation priced significantly lower than destinations such as Aspen or Vail. The city is home to the iconic Broadmoor Hotel, and even if you’re not splurging for an overnight stay, you can still enjoy a drink in the opulent lobby and a stroll around the immaculate grounds.

For a mountain destination, dining costs in Colorado Springs remain modest. The craft brewery scene offers excellent value, with tasting flights often costing less than $15. Local stores also stock hiking supplies and picnic ingredients at reasonable prices, making it easy to take advantage of the area’s natural attractions.

The world-famous hiking and rock formations at Garden of the Gods are completely free, and even touring by car provides an accessible glimpse at the park’s grandeur. The cog railway to the top of Pikes Peak’s purple mountain majesty costs a steep $58, but for those willing to splurge, it offers an unforgettable experience. On the other hand, driving your own car up the winding road to the top costs $18 per adult (or $65 per vehicle for up to five passengers), plus a $2 timed-entry permit during peak season. (No matter how you get to the summit, be sure to indulge in a “donut in the sky” while you’re there.) 

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio consistently ranks among America’s most affordable major cities, and the compact downtown keeps transportation costs to a minimum. Mouthwatering Tex-Mex cuisine offers plentiful portions at pleasing prices, happy hour specials abound, and the city’s numerous food halls provide tasty variety on a budget. 

The city has plenty of free and low-cost attractions, too. The picturesque River Walk costs nothing to explore, while narrated boat tours run approximately $15 to $25. The four historic Spanish colonial missions at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park charge no admission, and many festivals throughout the year are free to attend. 

The San Antonio Museum of Art, meanwhile, offers free admission for residents and discounted days for visitors. Historic Market Square hosts free cultural events, and the King William Historic District provides excellent and affordable walking tours. With a low-cost public transportation network and free parking in many areas, Alamo City delivers rich cultural experiences and historic significance at budget-friendly prices.

Nashville, Tennessee

While Music City has been gaining popularity in recent years, it’s still possible to find affordable lodging, transportation, and dining options — which means that your Nashville getaway doesn’t have to break the bank. Nashville’s legendary music scene often offers incredible value: Many honky-tonk venues on Broadway provide free live music daily, while cover charges at premium venues rarely exceed $15. The Country Music Hall of Fame costs $26, but the city hosts numerous free outdoor concerts year-round, especially during CMA Fest and other festivals. 

Famous hot chicken spots such as Hattie B’s serve generous portions for under $20, while emerging neighborhoods including the Gulch and Music Row provide excellent midrange dining options. Free activities abound, from exploring the full-scale Parthenon replica at Centennial Park to walking around the vibrant murals throughout the city.