The best budget-friendly America trips

Despite the tightening of belts, the allure of a stateside trip is as strong as ever.

The US remains the ultimate aspirational destination, from the vast open spaces in national parks to the big city lights.

Lesser-known is that travellers can enjoy many of the country’s most iconic experiences without breaking the bank.

Here’s how to maximise your travel experience without stretching your wallet.

San Francisco on a Budget
San Francisco invites travellers to explore its landscapes, history, and eclectic neighborhoods. As one of the most walkable cities in the U.S., it offers lush parks and scenic trails perfect for low-cost adventures. Early birds can enjoy free entry to the San Francisco Botanical Garden before 9am, while crossing the Golden Gate Bridge is free and unforgettable, with optional guided tours. New green spaces like Bayfront Park , China Basin Park, and Sunset Dunes, the largest pedestrianisation project in California adds to the city’s outdoor appeal with waterfront views and family-friendly features. From historic landmarks to public art, San Francisco blends affordability with memorable experiences for every type of traveler. sftravel.com

Purely Travel (https://www.purelytravel.co.uk/) return flights with BA from London to San Francisco 4 Nights @ 4* The Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf, room only, from £699pp based on 2 sharing.

Smart Stays by the Sea in Santa Monica 

Just outside the hustle of Los Angeles, Santa Monica offers a relaxed coastal vibe with stunning ocean views and affordable fun. The iconic Santa Monica Pier, home to Muscle Beach, provides free entertainment and sunset views. Families can enjoy splash pads, playgrounds, and beach volleyball at the Annenberg Community Beach House– all for free. With over 40 hotels, there are plenty of budget-friendly stays, including the updated Santa Monica Hotel and Days Inn by Wyndham. Dining is easy on the wallet too, from Bay Cities Italian Deli to Gilbert’s El Indio, where hearty Mexican meals are under $25. Getting around is simple with the Metro E Line, Big Blue Bus, and free electric shuttles. Over 100 miles of bike lanes and rental options make it easy to explore this beachside gem on two wheels without breaking the bank. santamonica.com

Purely Travel (https://www.purelytravel.co.uk/) return flights with BA from London to Los Angeles 4 Nights @ 4* The Viceroy Santa Monica, room only. From £949pp based on 2 sharing.

Live music and low prices in Nashville
Nashville mixes live music, culture, and outdoor fun. Known as Music City, it offers free daily performances on Honky Tonk Highway from 10am to late night with no cover charge. In summer, Musicians Corner hosts free concerts in Centennial Park, which also features a Parthenon replica and a mile-long trail. Beyond music, visitors can tour the historic  Bicentennial Capitol Mall or catch a baseball game with tickets starting at just $10 (£7.35). Assembly Food Hall offers a taste of Nashville with over 30 diverse eateries. Whiskey fans can enjoy $10 (£7.35) tastings at Ole Smoky Moonshine orTennessee Legend Distillery, often with discounts on merchandise. Outdoor lovers can explore Nashville’s many parks or relax at nearby Arrington Vineyards, which hosts live music and picnic spots in a scenic setting. visitmusiccity.com

America As You Like It (www.americaasyoulikeit.com four-night holiday to Nashville from £4,260 for two adults and two children (2-11), including return flights to Nashville on BA from London Heathrow and four nights at the Holston House Nashville.

Summer in Anaheim
Anaheim is packed with affordable activities, making it perfect for a budget-friendly getaway. In Downtown Anaheim, explore the city’s history at the Muzeo Museum for a small fee, with free access to its Carnegie Gallery. Nearby, Bowers Museum offers exhibits on topics from Ancient China to early California, with free entry for kids under 12. Nature lovers can visit the 26-acre Fullerton Arboretum, home to over 4,000 plant species, for a recommended $5 donation. In nearby Irvine, enjoy $10 hot air balloon rides at Orange County Great Park, offering sweeping 40-mile views. For just $1 take the ferry to Balboa Peninsula from Balboa Island and relax on three miles of classic California beach. visitanaheim.org

Purely Travel (https://www.purelytravel.co.uk/) has return flights with BA from London to Los Angeles 7 Nights @ The Peacock Suites, room only. From £889pp based on 2 sharing.

Budget-friendly New York City
As summer arrives, New York City offers a wide range of free and low-cost experiences across all five boroughs. Art lovers can visit the Frick Collection on the Upper East Side, now reopened after a $220 million renovation. Admission is pay-what-you-wish on Wednesdays from 2-6 p.m., and always free for ages 10-18, including access to the mansion’s second floor for the first time since 1935. In Brooklyn, Brooklyn Bridge Park celebrates its 15th anniversary with free and low-cost waterfront events running through October. For a beach escape, head to The Rockaways for surfing, swimming, and boardwalk fun. It’s easily reached via the A subway for $2.90 (£2.15) or the NYC Ferry for $4 (£2.97) one way. Food lovers can enjoy the return of NYC Restaurant Week from July 21 to August 17, with prix-fixe menus at hundreds of spots citywide. nyctourism.com

America As You Like It (www.americaasyoulikeit.com has a four-night trip to New York from £3,225 for two adults and two children (2-11), including return flights to New York on American Airlines from London Heathrow and four nights at the Millennium Downtown New York.

From city streets to national parks with Brand USA

The US offers endless budget-friendly adventures, from scenic road trips to free festivals and museum days. Visit during the off-season or explore lesser-known spots to save more. In autumn, places like Moab, Utah, with Arches National Park, and Sun Valley’s Trailing of the Sheep festival offer fewer crowds and stunning views. An $80  “America the Beautiful” pass grants access to over 2,000 federal sites. City passes also give discounts at top attractions. Free walking tours are a great way to explore historic neighborhoods like Boston’s Freedom Trail or New Orleans’ French Quarter. Major events such as Mardi Gras in New Orleans, the Cherry Blossom Festival in D.C., and Albuquerque’s Balloon Fiesta are free to attend. For iconic road trips, drive the historic Route 66 or cruise California’s Pacific Coast Highway. For a local stay, consider charming B&Bs listed by California’s CABBI for a cosy and authentic experience. thebrandusa.com/

America As You Like It (www.americaasyoulikeit.com has a fourteen-night holiday to California from £7,085 for two adults and two children (2-11). This includes flights to San Francisco returning from San Diego on American Airlines from London Heathrow, car hire, three nights at the Parc 55 San Francisco, two nights at Carmel Green Lantern Inn, one night at Inn at the Pier Pismo Beach, two nights at Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, three nights at Sonesta Anaheim Resort Area and three nights at San Diego Mission Bay Resort.

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