5 Budget friendly places to visit in USA

The USA is an extensive country with so many different things to experience. We have explored some of the most diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, from The Grand Canyon to New York City and Las Vegas all on a budget. 

Taking a vacation in USA doesn’t have to be expensive, with these budget friendly places to visit in the USA. 

Whether you want to get out for a hike in one of the national parks, or just visit the top tourist attractions in the city. This list will help you plan your next adventure.  

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Budget friendly places to visit in USA 

Start planning your adventure today and get ready to create lasting memories. 

New York City 

While New York City is one of the most expensive cities to visit in USA, it is possible to still visit the Big Apple without emptying your wallet.  

The city offers a blend of culture, history and entertainment.  

Take a stroll around the bright lights and bustling crowds of Time Square. Explore one of the largest parks in the heart of the city, at Central Park. Pack a picnic for the day in the park.  

Walk across Brooklyn Bridge, take the time to admire the views and explore different neighbourhoods. 

Reflect on the sad events at the 9/11 Memorial Pools, lay a flower or pay your respect to the people who lost their lives.  

Head below the Oculus for the large shopping and transportation hub. This has transformed over the years, since our last visit and one we are pleasantly surprised to see.  

New York City is a budget friendly destination to visit in the USA and one that should be added to your list of places to visit.  

Tip: Make the most of your trip to New York with at least one week in the city. Anything less and you might feel a little rushed.  

Wandering through Central Park in New York City
Wandering through Central Park in New York City

Grand Canyon 

The Grand Canyon is the ideal place to visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.  

This natural wonder formed over hundreds of years ago, which is evident with the layers of rock colour. A visit offers breathtaking views and a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels   

You can take a day trip from Las Vegas or plan a few days exploring the rim or hiking down into the canyon.  

Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture stunning vistas and vibrant colours of the canyon.  

The Grand Canyon in our opinion is a must visit destination for anyone visiting the USA and we can’t wait to get back there and spend a few days heading into the canyon.  

Tip: If you are short on time, then take this tour to the Grand Canyon. You won’t be disappointed.  

Visiting the Grand Canyon on a day trip from Las Vegas
Visiting the Grand Canyon on a day trip from Las Vegas

Washington DC 

The nation’s capital, Washington DC is a treasure trove of history and culture. But it’s also one of the best budget friendly places to visit in USA.  

The many attractions are free to the public.  

Wander around the National Mall, that is home to iconic landmarks such as Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Jefferson memorial and the U.S. Capitol just to name a few.  

Stay until early evening, to see the Washington monument light up. Get that Instagram shot of the reflection of the Washington monument in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.  

Finish the day, at one of these best places to eat in Washington DC. You’ve earnt it.  

Tip: We took a tour to Washington DC from New York City, which included the above free attractions.  

Visiting Washington DC on a trip from New York City
Visiting Washington DC on a trip from New York City

Niagara Falls 

Niagara Falls is the perfect day trip from New York City. The best way to experience the falls is with a guided tour.  

Take in the breathtaking natural wonder without breaking the bank.  

Wander around Niagara State Park which is completely free, and you can enjoy the awe-inspiring views from various vantage points.  

If time permits, stay for the sunlight to fade and wait for the bright lights, to dance across the falls.  

This is one of the most romantic spots to visit in the USA and one that you must include in your itinerary. 

Tip: Set a budget to include Maid of the Mist, which takes you close enough to the Falls to feel the mist at the bottom. This is a must do on a trip to the USA and well worth the splurge. 

Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls

Las Vegas 

Las Vegas might be famous for flashy casinos and great entertainment, but there is more to Sin City than meets the eye. 

Not only is there plenty of attractions to visit on your trip, but many of them you can do for free. 

The famous Las Vegas strip is where most of the action is. Enjoy the dazzling lights, street performers and the free attractions such as Bellagio’s water fountain display or Mirage volcano.  

Wander from hotel to hotel and enjoy the design of the exterior and interior of the building.  

If you want to splurge a little, then check out the hotel’s entertainment and nightlife. Spend a little bit of money in the casinos.  

We can’t wait to head back to Las Vegas for the entertainment, but on a shoestring budget.  

Las Vegas
Las Vegas

Conclusion 

The United States of America is a vast and diverse country that offers incredible destinations for all travellers to explore.  

Visit the iconic landmarks of New York City and the natural wonder of The Grand Canyon, to the bright lights of Las Vegas and politics in Washington DC. 

Each destination has something for everyone, and we can’t wait to head back to discover more budget friendly places to visit in USA. 

Have you visited the USA? What was your budget friendly place to visit and why? Is there a place that you would recommend that we haven’t included? Let us know, by leaving a comment below.   

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