Las Vegas Together With Fort Worth, Orlando, Baltimore, Myrtle Beach, Denver, Austin, Niagara Falls and More Emerges as the Go-To Cities for Cheap but Amazing Getaways in US – Travel And Tour World

Las Vegas together with Fort Worth, Orlando, Baltimore, Myrtle Beach, Denver, Austin, Niagara Falls and more emerges as the go-to cities for cheap but amazing getaways in the US, according to a new travel cost study by GOBankingRates that ranked 55 destinations nationwide based on total vacation costs for two adults. These cities not only offer hotel stays, meals, and airfare at significantly lower prices than most popular tourist spots, but they also deliver rich experiences—from neon-lit entertainment and historic harbor strolls to mountain views and beachfront escapes—proving that travelers in 2025 don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability.

The average cost of visiting these cities ranges between $1,200 and $1,500, making them ideal for travelers looking to stretch their budgets without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re in the mood for nightlife, nature, history, or live music, this list of cities offers a wide variety of experiences at low cost. Let’s take a closer look at why each of these eight cities has earned its place among America’s most affordable—and most exciting—places to visit in 2025.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas might be best known for its neon lights, casinos, and extravagant shows, but it has quietly become one of the most affordable travel destinations in the country. With a total trip cost of just $1,286 for two adults over three nights, it offers an excellent deal for anyone craving entertainment and excitement. The average hotel stay costs a mere $135, and round-trip airfare totals $583, making it one of the best-value cities in the study. Once you’re in the city, options for inexpensive food, free attractions like the Bellagio fountains, and affordable drinks help keep expenses manageable.

Beyond the casinos, Las Vegas is a playground for culture and spectacle. You can explore the quirky exhibits at the Neon Museum, enjoy scenic views from Red Rock Canyon, or take a stroll down the Fremont Street Experience, which offers free nightly light shows and live music. With so much to do on a budget, it’s easy to see why Las Vegas continues to attract travelers looking for fun without the financial hangover.

Las Vegas, Nevada: The Entertainment Capital for Less

Overview:
Las Vegas may sparkle with luxury, but savvy travelers know it’s one of the most affordable cities for nonstop excitement. Whether you’re drawn to the Strip or exploring local gems, Vegas delivers a vibrant mix of entertainment, nightlife, and iconic scenery—often at surprisingly low prices.

Must-See Attractions:

• The Bellagio Fountain Show (free)
• Fremont Street Experience with live music and light shows
• The Neon Museum and Mob Museum
• Red Rock Canyon for hiking and scenic drives

Local Food Highlights:
Try budget-friendly bites like shrimp cocktails at local diners, $1.50 tacos off the Strip, or world-famous buffets with weekday lunch deals.

Budget Travel Tips:
Skip resort fees by booking non-casino hotels downtown, use the Deuce Bus for cheap Strip transportation, and enjoy free attractions and happy hour specials.

Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth, often seen as Dallas’s more laid-back neighbor, delivers an authentic Texas experience at a fraction of the price. A three-night stay for two costs about $1,462, with airfare averaging $835 and hotel stays at only $162. Fort Worth’s charm lies in its ability to blend classic Western heritage with modern attractions, from cattle drives at the historic Stockyards to the impressive exhibits at the Kimbell Art Museum. Affordable dining, from smoked brisket to Tex-Mex joints, adds to the city’s travel appeal.

What really sets Fort Worth apart is its welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of identity. Visitors can enjoy live country music at local saloons, catch a rodeo, or stroll through the Fort Worth Water Gardens—all for little to no cost. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Fort Worth gives you a taste of Texas without draining your wallet.

Fort Worth, Texas: Western Heritage With Modern Charm

Overview:
Fort Worth blends authentic cowboy culture with cutting-edge art and architecture. It’s a relaxed, welcoming city where the Old West meets new experiences—and it’s perfect for travelers looking for depth, charm, and affordability.

Must-See Attractions:

• The Fort Worth Stockyards with daily cattle drives
• Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth
• Sundance Square for live music and shopping
• Fort Worth Water Gardens (free)

Local Food Highlights:
Don’t miss Texas barbecue at places like Heim or Panther City BBQ. You’ll also find excellent tacos, Tex-Mex, and Southern comfort food at affordable prices.

Budget Travel Tips:
Check for free museum days, walk the Trinity Trails, and use rideshare apps instead of renting a car if you’re staying near downtown.

Orlando, Florida

While Orlando is often associated with expensive theme parks, it’s actually one of the cheapest cities to visit in 2025 when you look beyond the resort gates. With a total trip cost of $1,288, including $575 for airfare and only $180 for hotel accommodations, Orlando offers plenty of attractions that won’t cost a fortune. Local parks, public gardens, art installations, and lakeside strolls offer visitors relaxing alternatives to Disney or Universal Studios. Plus, the city’s abundance of hotels keeps lodging competitive, especially for travelers willing to stay just outside the resort zones.

Orlando’s cultural side often gets overlooked, but it shouldn’t be. The Orlando Museum of Art, Lake Eola Park, and the Ivanhoe Village District are all low-cost or free options to enjoy. The city’s diverse population also means food options are varied, affordable, and packed with flavor. From Vietnamese pho to Cuban sandwiches, Orlando’s food scene lets you travel the world without leaving the city—or stretching your budget.

Orlando, Florida: Beyond the Theme Parks

Overview:
Orlando is more than just theme parks. With serene lakes, botanical gardens, and cultural neighborhoods, it’s a multifaceted city with budget-friendly appeal for families and couples alike.

Must-See Attractions:

• Leu Gardens (free entry first Monday of the month)
• Lake Eola Park with swan boat rentals
• Winter Park’s scenic boat tour
• East End Market for local culture and bites

Local Food Highlights:
Affordable Cuban food, food trucks, and hidden gems like Mediterranean sandwiches in downtown Orlando make it easy to eat well on a budget.

Budget Travel Tips:
Book hotels outside the park zones for better rates, use I-Ride trolleys for cheap travel, and explore state parks for a taste of wild Florida.

Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore delivers a powerful mix of history, culture, and coastal charm—and does it all on a reasonable budget. With a total three-night cost of $1,516 for two adults, the city’s affordability stems from a hotel average of $217 and airfare around $769. It’s a city that embraces its maritime roots while offering easy access to walkable attractions like the Inner Harbor, the historic ships docked along the waterfront, and cultural gems like the Walters Art Museum, which offers free admission.

Beyond the harbor, neighborhoods like Fells Point, Hampden, and Mount Vernon are packed with personality. Street murals, jazz clubs, and local seafood joints define Baltimore’s creative edge. With soft-shell crab sandwiches, quirky boutiques, and harbor cruises all within reach, Baltimore proves that even a big city can provide a small-budget getaway full of local flavor and unique charm.

Baltimore, Maryland: Harbor Views and Historic Streets

Overview:
Baltimore’s waterfront charm, historic streets, and rich arts scene make it a surprising and affordable East Coast getaway. Whether you’re exploring museums or relaxing along the harbor, the city offers more for less.

Must-See Attractions:

• The Inner Harbor with historic ships and the National Aquarium
• Federal Hill Park for city views
• Fells Point’s cobblestone streets and live music
• The Walters Art Museum and Baltimore Museum of Art (both free)

Local Food Highlights:
Enjoy steamed Maryland blue crabs, crab cakes at Faidley’s, or budget-friendly Chesapeake seafood at local pubs and markets.

Budget Travel Tips:
Use the Charm City Circulator (free shuttle buses), explore free cultural festivals, and dine in neighborhood joints for cheaper meals.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach stands out as one of the most affordable beach destinations in the country, with a total cost of $1,343 for two adults over three nights. Airfare averages $619, and hotel stays are around $244, but the real savings come from the endless list of free and low-cost activities. From sunrise walks along the sand to free concerts on the boardwalk, Myrtle Beach is all about relaxing in a laid-back environment that doesn’t pressure your budget.

Known for its 60 miles of uninterrupted coastline, the city also boasts family-friendly entertainment such as mini golf courses, arcades, water parks, and the SkyWheel. Visitors can explore nature at Huntington Beach State Park or enjoy fresh seafood at oceanfront diners without paying resort prices. For anyone craving sunshine and ocean breezes without overspending, Myrtle Beach hits the mark.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Affordable Ocean Escape

Overview:
Myrtle Beach offers miles of sandy shoreline, family-friendly fun, and endless attractions that don’t demand a big budget. It’s a relaxed destination for couples, families, and beach lovers.

Must-See Attractions:

• Myrtle Beach Boardwalk with arcades and free events
• SkyWheel for panoramic views
• Huntington Beach State Park for nature lovers
• Broadway at the Beach for shopping and entertainment

Local Food Highlights:
Enjoy fresh seafood platters, fried oysters, and budget-friendly Southern comfort food. Don’t skip out on classic boardwalk fare like funnel cakes and hot dogs.

Budget Travel Tips:
Visit during shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for better deals, stay in family-run motels, and take advantage of beachside happy hours and free concerts.ty Circulator (free shuttle buses), explore free cultural festivals, and dine in neighborhood joints for cheaper meals.

Denver, Colorado

Denver is proof that a metropolitan city can offer high-altitude experiences without high-end prices. With a total trip cost of $1,526, this Rocky Mountain gateway is one of the best-value urban escapes. Round-trip airfare for two averages $745, and hotels come in at $223—very reasonable for a city that offers so much. Downtown Denver is bursting with public art, breweries, and food halls, and the walkability of neighborhoods like LoDo and RiNo helps travelers save on transportation.

One of Denver’s biggest draws is its access to the great outdoors. Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Rocky Mountain National Park, and nearby hiking trails offer breathtaking views and fresh mountain air—all just a short drive away. Whether you’re exploring the city’s historic Union Station or sipping a craft IPA on a rooftop bar, Denver manages to blend outdoor adventure with urban cool, making it a top destination for budget-conscious explorers.

Denver, Colorado: City Energy With Mountain Backdrops

Overview:
Denver offers the perfect combination of urban flair and easy access to the outdoors. With affordable accommodations and walkable districts, the city is a haven for travelers who want variety on a budget.

Must-See Attractions:

• Union Station and the surrounding LoDo district
• Red Rocks Amphitheatre for concerts or hiking
• Denver Botanic Gardens and the Denver Art Museum
• Day trips to Rocky Mountain National Park or Boulder

Local Food Highlights:
Grab a green chile-smothered burrito, try bison burgers, or sample from one of the city’s dozens of gourmet food trucks and breweries.

Budget Travel Tips:
Use RTD light rail for getting around, plan hikes close to town, and seek out free museum admission days and outdoor festivals. free concerts.

Austin, Texas

Austin has long been a magnet for creatives and music lovers, but its affordability keeps it on the map for smart travelers. A three-night trip for two costs just $1,533, with incredibly low hotel costs averaging $153 and airfare at $855. The city’s laid-back vibe, combined with its thriving arts scene and outdoor beauty, makes it a perfect destination for couples or solo adventurers looking for fun and freedom on a budget.

With more than 250 live music venues, iconic murals, and food truck parks around every corner, Austin offers nonstop entertainment for next to nothing. You can paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake, hike to the summit of Mount Bonnell, or spend a day at Zilker Park—all free or very low cost. And of course, no visit is complete without sampling the local barbecue and breakfast tacos, which are both famous and cheap.

Austin, Texas: Live Music and Laid-Back Vibes

Overview:
Austin pulses with creative energy and live music, making it a top choice for travelers who want cultural depth and natural beauty. It’s a budget-friendly hub where food trucks and free concerts define the local experience.

Must-See Attractions:

• Live shows on 6th Street or at Zilker Park
• Barton Springs Pool for swimming
• South Congress Avenue for boutique browsing
• Mount Bonnell for panoramic city views

Local Food Highlights:
Feast on barbecue at Franklin’s or Terry Black’s, try tacos from Torchy’s, or explore cheap eats at the city’s many food truck parks.

Budget Travel Tips:
Many concerts are free, public transportation is efficient, and locals love BYOB parks and trails for low-cost weekend hangouts.

Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls remains one of the most iconic natural wonders in the country—and also one of the most affordable. The total trip cost comes in at just $1,413 for two adults, including $352 for airfare and $418 for hotel stays. From the roaring power of the falls to the scenic trails and lookout points surrounding them, most of the area’s top attractions are low-cost or free. Even the Maid of the Mist boat tour offers one of the most memorable experiences in North America at a modest price.

The city also offers old-world charm, local wineries, and peaceful green spaces away from the main viewing areas. Visitors can walk through Niagara Falls State Park, explore local shops, or enjoy a sunset from Goat Island. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or a family retreat, Niagara Falls delivers high-impact beauty with low-impact spending, making it a solid pick for affordable travel in 2025.

Niagara Falls, New York: Natural Wonder at a Bargain

Overview:
Few destinations offer a view as iconic as Niagara Falls—and even fewer do so on a budget. From breathtaking boat rides to scenic trails, the area caters to couples and families seeking wonder without the price tag.

Must-See Attractions:

• Maid of the Mist boat tour
• Cave of the Winds walkway
• Niagara Falls State Park for hiking and viewpoints
• Goat Island for picnic spots and panoramic photos

Local Food Highlights:
Enjoy hearty American diners, local wineries, and affordable pizzerias. Grab a view-side lunch at the Top of the Falls restaurant without overspending.

Budget Travel Tips:
Stay in hotels on the U.S. side for lower rates, walk instead of driving across the area, and check for combo attraction passes to save money.

Las Vegas together with Fort Worth, Orlando, Baltimore, Myrtle Beach, Denver, Austin, Niagara Falls and more emerges as the go-to cities for cheap but amazing getaways in the US because each offers a full vacation experience under $1,600 for two adults—including airfare, hotels, meals, and entertainment—making them ideal for travelers seeking high value without high costs.

In a time when travel costs are rising across the board, these eight cities—Las Vegas, Fort Worth, Orlando, Baltimore, Myrtle Beach, Denver, Austin, and Niagara Falls—stand out as rare gems that offer the perfect balance of affordability, accessibility, and unforgettable experiences. From neon lights to natural wonders, live music to historic harbors, each destination delivers something unique while keeping total trip costs comfortably under $1,600 for two people. Whether you’re craving a weekend escape or planning a longer vacation, these cities prove you don’t have to spend big to travel well.

What makes these getaways truly special isn’t just their budget-friendly price tags—it’s the richness of the experiences they offer. These places remind us that adventure, connection, and discovery aren’t reserved for luxury travelers. With the right destination and a bit of planning, an amazing vacation is within reach for anyone. So pack your bags, book smart, and get ready to explore some of the best cheap travel spots the U.S. has to offer in 2025.