There are plenty of fun and affordable options if you want the best cheap weekend getaways.
You can travel cheap, but you can also save money by picking affordable destinations where you can have fun at a much better price.
Here are 23 cheap weekend getaways that will allow you to have a lot of fun while saving money.
Best Cheap Weekend Getaways
The best weekend getaways don’t have to be expensive! Many people enjoy taking a staycation to have a cheaper vacation, but you can still enjoy weekend trips nearby or far away without overspending.
If you’re looking for a fun destination this weekend, consider these cheap weekend destinations!
15 U.S. Cities For A Weekend Getaway
According to TripAdvisor, many of the cities we are featuring offer great romantic weekend getaways at a fraction of the cost of other destinations.
Not only that, but the U.S. is known for great destinations with amusement parks, so if you’re looking for a great family vacation, these cities will have plenty of options for you!
1. New York City
NYC is one of America’s most popular tourist destinations, with over 50 million people visiting each year. It’s one of the most diverse cities in the world and is home to many incredible attractions.
You can visit famous landmarks like Times Square or Central Park, go shopping on Fifth Avenue, check out the Empire State Building, catch a Broadway show, or explore one of many excellent museums.
There is a diverse selection of restaurants, from cheap diners to five-star eateries offering international cuisine. The food alone will make a weekend trip to NYC worthwhile; you could take food tours and have a blast!
Even if you don’t stay in a hotel or plan on spending a lot of money while there, a short visit to the city can be very rewarding. Antique shops, the historic district, and more could be exactly what your family needs for a cheap weekend getaway!
With so much to do in NYC any time of year, you’ll never get bored- and you won’t go broke either!
2. Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina, is a city that offers something for everyone.
It’s no secret that Charleston is one of the most beautiful cities in America. It’s also one of the oldest, founded by British settlers in 1670 and just an hour away from Savannah, Georgia.
Charleston offers visitors a taste of Southern hospitality with its historic architecture, cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and Victorian-era homes set alongside lush gardens.
And trust me that you should stay at a beautiful Charleston boutique hotel or bed and breakfast to really feel pampered!
You can enjoy beautiful blooming flowers in full bloom throughout the city in the spring. During fall, Charleston offers visitors some of the most stunning foliage outside New England. In the summer, it’s one of America’s top destinations for festivals and parties.
Visitors can spend their days exploring museums like The Gibbes Museum of Art or touring sites like Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, dining at some of Charleston’s top-rated restaurants, or simply relaxing on the beach.
3. Atlanta
Atlanta is an excellent place for people looking to have an affordable getaway. You can find plenty of things to do in the city without spending a lot of money, making it perfect for those on a budget.
Atlanta has tons of parks and open spaces that are free or cheap to visit, so you’ll never be bored with what’s available. Take a bike ride on the Beltline, visit Piedmont Park to play Frisbee or kick a ball around, enjoy an outdoor concert at Chastain Park, and spend the day exploring Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.
It also offers many different types of cuisine, from southern BBQ to all kinds of international cuisines like Mediterranean food at Mamounia Grill & Cafe. Also, be sure to check out Sweet Auburn Curb Market for affordable dining options.
If you’re into sports, there is no shortage either- Atlanta hosts professional football (Falcons), baseball (Braves), and basketball teams (Hawks). Its college sports teams include the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and many others.
4. Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is a popular destination for people looking to get away for the weekend without going broke.
There are many affordable attractions and activities to enjoy along the Grand Strand, including Barefoot Landing, Broadway at the Beach, and the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.
Take a stroll on the Boardwalk, which extends over a mile along the beachfront. While you are there, be sure to visit the restaurants and shops that line the boardwalk.
Next, visit Broadway at the Beach, home to attractions such as Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Ripley’s Aquarium, Hard Rock Café, WonderWorks, Legends in Concert, and more.
Barefoot Landing is another great destination that is home to specialty shops and restaurants. Different events and festivals are also held at Barefoot Landing throughout the year.
The Market Common is a lovely outdoor shopping and residential district. It has plenty of shops to explore, as well as an area for residents to dine outdoors or take a stroll along the scenic waterfront.
Visit Alligator Adventure, where you can view over 100 alligators from different areas in North America.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has something to offer everyone at an affordable price.
5. Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is a great place to visit for those looking for a weekend getaway that won’t break the bank.
Of course, Salt Lake City also offers plenty of things to do that don’t cost a thing, including tours of Temple Square and visits to The Gateway. Visit the Salt Lake City Main Library to learn about the history of Salt Lake.
Go for a bike ride along the Jordan River Parkway Trail, which runs through 20 miles of parkland surrounding the river. You can also hike at City Creek Canyon or walk along historic Trolley Square.
Visit City Creek Center for a wide variety of shopping and dining options. The shopping center is home to over 100 stores and restaurants.
For history lovers, tours of The Salt Lake Mormon Tabernacle are available Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Other historical attractions in the area include the Family Search Center and The Utah State Capitol Building Museum.
6. San Antonio
Whether you like getting outdoors or staying indoors, San Antonio is a great weekend getaway in the Texas Hill Country that has something for everyone.
Visit the Missions: there are four missions located throughout the city, each offering its benefits and amenities. Admission to all four missions is entirely free, and they are open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Take a tour of The Alamo and experience one of the most historic sites in San Antonio for free. Or, take it at your own pace with an audio tour available on site. Tours of The Alamo last approximately 45 minutes and include the entire grounds and the church.
In addition to the missions, San Antonio offers many other free attractions and activities, including Market Square, The Riverwalk, La Villita Historic Arts Village, The Witte Museum, and more.
The city also offers many different parks, most of which are home to trails perfect for hiking or biking. The majority of these parks do not require any admission fee either.
Make sure to visit the River Walk, where restaurants and shops line the banks of the San Antonio River. The River Walk is a walkway system that meanders through the city’s center and is free to enjoy with many different things to do, along with delicious food.
An excellent place for art enthusiasts to visit at an affordable price is the Museum of Art. The museum offers free admission to residents of Bexar County, Texas, on Tuesdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., while everyone else can visit for $20.
The McNay Art Museum is a great place to indulge in some culture at an affordable price for those who want to stay indoors. It only costs $20 for adults and offers unique exhibits throughout the year.
Located 20 miles west is SeaWorld, home to shows, rides, and attractions for all ages. Other notable attractions include The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum, Ripley’s Haunted Adventure, and the San Antonio Botanical Gardens.
7. Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a popular place to visit due to its glamorous strip filled with casinos and restaurants.
Visitors can also enjoy things such as outdoor concerts, music festivals, symphony performances, and more throughout the city. With activities ranging from the artsy Fremont Street Experience to catching an action-packed show on The Strip, this lively city has something for everyone.
Visitors can also enjoy the outdoors while admiring all of its natural beauty on one of several trails surrounding the area, some even hike-able year-round. Other free outdoor attractions include:
- Hiking up to Mount Charleston
- Biking along the trails at Springs Preserve
- Simply picnicking among picturesque scenery
Visitors can also participate in the many different celebrations and events that occur throughout Las Vegas each year. From New Year’s Eve to the 4th of July fireworks, there is always something going on for visitors to enjoy during their stay.
Las Vegas is home to over 200 restaurants ranging from quick grab-and-go options such as Tacos El Gordo to exquisite fine dining like Craftsteak by Tom Colicchio.
8. Nashville
Located in the heart of Tennessee, Nashville is an excellent choice for those looking for a fun and cheap weekend getaway. There are many things to do and see close to the hotel you book, from visiting world-class museums to taking in live music!
A tour of the city is a great way to explore and learn more about popular sites such as The Hermitage (homeplace of President Andrew Jackson), Ryman Auditorium (original home of the Grand Ole Opry), a tour of The Johnny Cash Museum, and Belle Meade Plantation (one of the oldest plantations in the U.S.).
Some other live music venues in Nashville include The Bluebird Cafe and 3rd & Lindsley, while visitors can enjoy the Bicentennial Capitol Mall, State Park.
The Adventure Science Center offers a full day of fun for children and adults alike. Visitors can explore hands-on exhibits or enjoy one of the many different shows and attractions.
Other free things to do in Nashville include:
- Visiting The Parthenon (a full-scale replica of Athens’ historic temple).
- Walking through Centennial Park.
- Admiring the Architecture of Downtown Nashville.
Nashville offers visitors plenty of opportunities to explore the past for history buffs. The Tennessee State Museum features clothing, folk art, toys, and more from state history. Visitors can also learn about Nashville’s past by visiting Fort Nashborough, a replica of the city’s original settlement founded in 1779.
Country music fans will want to take a tour of the Country Music Hall Of Fame And Museum, which features exhibits highlighting the history of country music, its roots in folk songs, and the stories behind the genre’s most influential performers.
9. San Francisco
San Francisco has always been known for its many famous attractions; the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Coit Tower, and more. But had you know that there are plenty of free things to do in the city!
The Exploratorium is a museum for all ages, while The Presidio offers beautiful scenery and a glimpse into California history. Visitors can also enjoy free hiking trails, biking paths, or even just taking in the beautiful views from the Golden Gate Bridge!
One of the most popular free activities on a weekend trip is taking a ride across The Golden Gate Bridge (an absolute must). Visitors can also ride an antique carousel or visit the historic Painted Ladies.
Must-see sights include Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, Lombard Street (the most crooked street in the world), and Golden Gate Park.
Other free things to do in San Francisco include walking tours, outdoor activities, and events such as yoga in the park and fitness festivals.
Visitors can also enjoy various public art displays, guided tours of public buildings, and two very popular landmarks; the Cable Car Museum and The San Francisco Railway Museum.
10. Kansas City
Visitors to Kansas City can expect a ton of fun for free, including shopping, dining, and plenty of live entertainment. And because the city is located only around 2 ½ hours from St. Louis, many getaway deals include free hotel nights, making it an affordable destination!
Kansas City features The Nelson-Atkins Art Gallery, The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Kansas City Arts Museum, all completely free.
Other free things to do in Kansas City include visiting outdoor attractions such as the Hallmark Visitors Center, Loose Park, and Swope Park and touring the famous Boulevard Brewing Company.
In addition to theme parks and museums, Kansas also offers visitors plenty of activities such as biking, boating, and hiking!
Other attractions in Kansas City include Crown Center- a shopping and entertainment complex home to some of the city’s most popular restaurants and bars.
11. Providence
Rhode Island has some of the best cheap weekend getaways in America, with so much to do for a low price!
As the capital of Rhode Island, Providence boasts plenty of exciting things to do for visitors, including free arts and culture events, one-of-a-kind museums, activities on The Waterfront, live concerts at Roger Williams Park Zoo, and more!
Visitors to Providence are encouraged to spend an afternoon at The Museum Of Natural History, where they can explore dinosaur fossils, study the stars in the planetarium, or dig for fossils of their very own.
The Roger Williams Park Zoo also features free admission on select days where visitors can see lions, tigers, flamingos, and more!
Other popular attractions include the Providence Performing Arts Center, an entertainment complex that features several nightclubs and restaurants, and The Arcade, America’s oldest shopping center.
12. Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores offers visitors the chance to enjoy several activities, including canoeing, kayaking, biking, fishing, and swimming. Outdoor enthusiasts are also encouraged to explore the many nature trails scattered through the area.
Visitors to Gulf Shores can also take a stroll along the white sand beaches that line the coastline or spend an afternoon shopping in one of the many outlet malls.
Visitors can also enjoy several spectacular outdoor attractions like the Gulf State Park and The Hangout- a popular nightlife and entertainment complex that features several nightclubs and bars, as well as restaurants.
Other popular attractions include Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, an 18-hole pirate-themed mini-golf course, and the Little Lagoon Water Park.
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo features exhibits for local and exotic animals and several other museums, including the U.S.S. Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, Fort Morgan, and Weeks Bay Nature Reserve.
13. Memphis
Memphis’ diverse cultural attractions, delicious restaurants, and exciting nightlife make it the perfect place for a weekend getaway.
The Orpheum Theater is a historic theater home to Broadway productions and concerts. Other activities in Memphis include:
- Exploring the National Civil Rights Museum exhibits details the civil rights movement.
- Take a stroll through the Memphis Rock’ n’ Soul Museum, which details the city’s rich musical history.
- Enjoying one of the many free events that are held throughout the year.
Visitors to Memphis can also spend an afternoon at The Dixon Gallery And Gardens. They can explore sculpture gardens, visit rotating exhibits, or check out The Memphis Walk Of Fame, which honors the city’s most famous musicians.
No trip to Memphis would be complete without visiting the King of Rock and Roll’s home. Graceland is Elvis’ former home and is open year-round for visitors. Visit Sun Studio, the home of many famous musicians, including Elvis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.
Other things to see in Memphis include the Bass Pro Shops, which is located in a massive outdoor shopping and entertainment complex, The Memphis Zoo – home to elephants, lions, and many other wildlife creatures, and The Metal Museum, which is dedicated to ornamental metals.
14. Portland
If you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing weekend getaway, Portland, Maine, is the perfect destination.
Portland is located on the coast of Maine and is known for its beautiful scenery and many people flock to this quaint downtown area. The city is home to several art museums, theaters, and a variety of restaurants and shops.
Portland is also known for its brewery and food tours, so if you like seafood delicacies, this is the place to be!
Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the gardens at Victoria Mansion or take in the views from atop Mount Washington. Other popular attractions include the Portland Museum Of Art, The Children’s Museum Of Maine, and The Wadsworth-Longfellow House.
The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including The Portland Jazz Festival, The Harvest on the Harbor, and The Winter Carnival.
15. Santa Claus
Santa Claus is a charming town and a popular destination for people of all ages and interests. Visitors can enjoy shopping at unique boutiques along Main Street or explore the many areas that are dedicated to Christmas year-round.
Visitors to Santa Claus can ride the Christmas Train to tour the village, visit Santa’s Candy Castle, which is full of candy and toys, take a trip down the Holiday Ice Slide, or enjoy one of many other festive activities.
Visitors can also enjoy lots of family fun, including Santa Claus Museum & Village, which features exhibits dedicated to Santa’s history and a ride on The Polar Express and Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari – A combination theme park and water park!
8 National Parks For Weekend Getaway
A national park is a great place to go for a weekend getaway. They are preserved land that the federal government manages to protect and preserve natural resources and wildlife. There are 59 different parks across the United States, and each one offers something unique and beautiful!
Consider renting a local RV to explore the parks, it’s a great way to save money on your traveling and still travel comfortably! Plus you spend less on places to stay!
Camping is inexpensive for vacations, plus a go-to idea for making great memories with your family.
Don’t want to camp? There’s sure to be an Airbnb nearby to stay in for an easy vacation rental!
Whatever you’re looking for, there’s sure to be a park nearby with your name on it!
1. Glacier National Park 
Located in Montana, Glacier National Park is known for its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. Visitors can take in splendid views of glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, pine forests, grasslands, wildlife, and mountains during the summer season.
Visiting in winter, or the “off-season”, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing or skiing through meadows while spotting animals like mountain goats!
Visitors to this park enjoy fantastic scenery from some of the best hiking trails in America. From hiking to backpacking trails, visitors can pick how much time they want to spend on the trail. They also get to experience this special place in all four seasons!
Visitors can also enjoy fishing opportunities, mountain biking, camping, skiing, snowboarding and sledding opportunities, and storytime at The Glacier Park Lodge.
Plus the Glacier Peaks Hotel can offer you a comfortable place to stay outside of nature- with a great hot tub to relax you after your hiking trip.
2. Olympic National Park 
The Olympic National Park is a rugged and majestic park. It is located on the west coast of Washington State and covers more than 1 million acres. But it’s not all rugged mountains!
Visitors are drawn to this park because of its astounding beauty and abundant wildlife. The diverse landscape offers fantastic beaches, temperate rainforests, and old-growth forests perfect for hiking or camping!
Other activities such as fishing or just plain old relaxing on the beach are popular amongst visitors to this park.
Or, if you’re looking for something a little more thrilling, visitors can always hike up Mount Olympus – the highest point in the park! Whatever brings you here to visit, we know you’ll love every minute of it!
3. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and is about 180 miles east of San Francisco. With an area size of almost 1,200 square miles, visitors are drawn to this park for its impressive waterfalls, groves of giant sequoias, and endless trails!
This famous park offers so much to do and see! Visitors can go biking, backpacking, fishing, and white water rafting.
Those who prefer to stay close to the ground can walk through Mariposa Grove, home to the largest grove of mature Giant Sequoia trees.
If that doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, you can always go for a walk around the stunning Yosemite Valley.
4. Zion National Park 
Zion National Park is a popular park in America, and for a good reason! With its stunning landscapes and abundance of activities, it’s the perfect place to go for a weekend getaway.
Located in southwest Utah, the park is known for its steep red cliffs and narrow slot canyons. Visitors can enjoy plenty of activities such as hiking, biking, camping, or taking a scenic drive through the park.
Angel’s Landing is a popular attraction that offers hikers a challenging but rewarding hike to the summit. The view from the top is definitely worth the effort!
5. Badlands National Park
The park is located in the southwestern region of South Dakota and covers about 244,000 acres and has an elevation that ranges from 2,500 to 3,500 feet above sea level. The topography consists of deep valleys with steep slopes carved by water erosion over thousands of years.
Visitors enjoy hiking the trails to see unique rock formations and wildlife such as bison, prairie dogs, and wild horses. There are also many opportunities for camping or just relaxing at one of the campgrounds situated along scenic overlooks or riverside locations.
This park offers so much more than just scenery, though! Visitors can explore miles worth of dirt roads to find geological features like hoodoos and spires. It is perfect for hiking, biking, camping, bird watching, or even horseback riding.
6. Yellowstone National Park
If you’re looking for an unforgettable weekend getaway, look no further than the Yellowstone! This park has something for everyone.
This iconic park is located in Wyoming and offers visitors a vast array of activities and attractions to choose from.
You can go hiking, biking, fishing, or take a walk through the beautiful forests and meadows. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can go white water rafting on the Snake River.
And don’t forget to visit Old Faithful– one of the most famous geysers in the world!
7. Bahia Honda State Park
If you’re looking for a beautiful and serene place to spend your weekend getaways, look no further than the Bahia Honda State Park!
Located in Florida, this park offers visitors miles of sun-drenched beach with amazing views of the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, where you can go swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or relax.
Visitors also enjoy spending time at the picnic area, where they can cook up some delicious food and watch the kids play! This is one place that everyone in your family will enjoy!
And there’s more to do than just swimming! Visitors can also go bicycling, bird watching, and camping. You can bask in the warm weather, and your quick trip could soon become a family-favorite vacation every year.
The park is open from 8 a.m. to sundown, but visitors are encouraged to make reservations ahead of time!
8. Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park is a stunning park located in Wyoming that offers visitors plenty of activities to enjoy.
This park offers visitors trails, lakes, and rivers to go kayaking or fishing. There are also many scenic overlooks throughout the park for visitors to enjoy incredible views of the mountains.
Visitors also enjoy visiting one of the visitor centers like Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center, where they can explore interactive exhibits about the park and browse through books and brochures.
The park is well-known for its beautiful mountains and valleys and offers hikers, climbers, and skiers plenty of challenging trails and slopes to explore.
Visitors can go fishing, boating, or horseback riding in the warmer months. And don’t forget to visit the incredible Jenny Lake!
Our Thoughts
An affordable weekend getaway provides the perfect opportunity to explore new places, have a romantic anniversary getaway, and enjoy some time away from home. And we always have great ideas to save money and tuck money away for your dream vacation!
Whether you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing place to spend your weekend or an adventure-filled park, we’ve got you covered with ideas that will fit in your budgeting plans.
Our list of some of our favorite cheap getaways is perfect for any weekend! So if you’re looking for a cheap weekend getaway or something more extravagant, make sure to visit one of these fantastic trip ideas!