Must-Visit Cities for a Budget-Friendly US Road Trip

The thrill of the open road, the ever-changing scenery, and the freedom to explore new places – nothing captures the spirit of adventure quite like a classic American road trip! However, planning a road trip that’s kind to your wallet can be a bit of a challenge, and from gasoline prices to accommodation costs, travel expenses can quickly add up. Luckily, the United States is full of budget-friendly cities that offer the opportunity to explore without breaking the bank.

But what are the best cities in the United States for the budget-conscious traveler? We’ve compared data from 89 different cities to bring you the best spots for an affordable road trip, and whether you’re looking for culture or adventure, there’s something for everyone.

We researched data to reveal the best cities for tourists that can be visited on a budget. We created an index to score 89 of the most populated US cities on factors: quality of life, purchasing power, cost of living score and travel popularity on TikTok. The scores across each category were added up to reveal the total out of 100. Take a look:

Top 10 affordable tourist cities for your next road trip

1. Chandler, Arizona

Head to the sunny state of Arizona and you’ll find Chandler, a city that (according to Numbeo) has the best purchasing power on our list, meaning that your money will go further than almost anywhere else in the country. It also scored best for quality of life, so you know that this is going to be a comfortable, enjoyable place to visit.

But what is there to do in Chandler? According to TikTok influencers and previous visitors to the city, it’s the markets, shops, and restaurants that really stand out. Chandlers Farmers Market is a particular favorite and a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture, with fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and delicious food on offer. Or, if you’re more of a history buff, a visit to the Arizona Railway Museum is the perfect place to learn more about the region’s railroading history.

2. Peoria, Illinois

Peoria is a paradise for food lovers, with TikTok influencers and previous tourists raving about the ice cream parlors and trendy brunch spots located throughout the city. It’s also an awesome place to visit if you’re a whisky aficionado, with J.K. Williams Distilling and the Peoria Brewing Company being unmissable attractions.

Another thing you’ll find in Peoria is a thriving art scene, with several galleries and theatres that showcase local talent. There are also museums to explore, and one of the most popular is the Peoria Riverfront Museum, with its interactive exhibits and planetarium, offering a fun and educational experience for people of all ages.

3. Houston, Texas

Houston, the largest city in Texas and the most popular destination for budget-friendly cities on TikTok has lots to see and do. One of the most popular attractions here is the Space Center Houston, where you can dive into the wonders of space exploration and even get the chance to meet real-life astronauts!

The culinary scene here is also impressive, offering everything you could possibly want, from authentic Tex-Mex to mouthwatering Vietnamese cuisine. Once you’ve satisfied your hunger, wander through the Historic District to experience old Houston or head to the Houston Zoo for a fun-filled day with your family.

4. Virginia Beach, Virginia

If you’re looking for a coastal adventure, a trip to Virginia Beach offers plenty of opportunities for some fun in the sun. The beaches here are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or surfing, while the nearby Monument Park offers a glimpse into the city’s history. Top attractions recommended by TikTok influencers and previous visitors also include dessert shops, mazes, fairgrounds, and the iconic Cape Henry Lighthouse.

It’s not just beachside fun that you’ll find here, though – there are also lots of parks and nature reserves to explore, including the First Landing State Park, which is ideal if you want to spend a day hiking or bird watching. When you’re done exploring for the day, head to the boardwalk, where you’ll find bars and restaurants with live music and street performers.

5. Little Rock, Arkansas

The capital of Arkansas, Little Rock, is another popular destination among roadtrippers looking for an inexpensive adventure. There is a real mixed bag of things to enjoy here, from shopping outlets and malls to sports activities, and according to TikTok and TripAdvisor, The Old Mill is one of the most recommended places to visit, which features in the opening scenes of the 1939 film “Gone with the Wind”.

The Big Dam Bridge is also another recommended spot to visit in Little Rock, and for outdoor activities, you can’t go wrong with a hike in Pinnacle Mountain State Park or kayaking on the Arkansas River. After all that adventure, head further into the city and refuel with Little Rock’s burgeoning food scene, which features Southern comfort food and international cuisine that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

6. Cincinnati, Ohio

With the best cost of living score across affordable tourist cities in the United States, there’s no doubt that this is a must-visit destination for any traveler keeping an eye on their travel budget. There’s so much to do here as well, and the city’s zoo and botanical gardens are amond the oldest and most respected in the country, providing an excellent day out for families and animal lovers alike.

Another must-visit attraction here, according to TikTok influencers and previous visitors, is Cincinnati’s historic Findlay Market, which also happens to be Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market, where you’ll find a huge range of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local delicacies. Art enthusiasts will also appreciate the city’s street art scene, while music lovers shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit the Black Music Walk of Fame – a tribute to Cincinnati’s musical legacy.

7. Boise, Idaho

Seeking an outdoor adventure on a budget? Look no further than Boise! Surrounded by rivers and lakes, the city offers numerous opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking, while the nearby Rocky Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for hiking, snowboarding, and mountain climbing.

You don’t necessarily need to be an outdoor adventurer to enjoy a visit to Boise, though, as the arts and crafts scene here is another draw. There are lots of different art studios and galleries to visit, including Boise Art Glass and Freak Alley Gallery. There’s also an annual hot air balloon festival that fills the skies above the city skyline with color!

8. Huntsville, Alabama

Often referred to as “Rocket City”, Huntsville offers budget-conscious travelers the perfect mix of urban allure and natural beauty. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking in the Monte Sano State Park or exploring the Huntsville Botanical Gardens are must-dos, and both offer the opportunity to stretch your legs after a long drive while immersing yourself in nature.

If you’re drawn more to the urban scene, be sure to wander through the art galleries and art stores or pay a visit to the Huntsville Museum of Art—a highly recommended place on both TikTok and TripAdvisor. There’s a fantastic food scene in Huntsville, too, with an eclectic mix of cuisine on offer, from local treats to international favorites.

9. Ann Arbor, Michigan

Despite having some upper-middle-class areas and being home to the prestigious Michigan University, Ann Arbor has some excellent budget-friendly spots. The Michigan Stadium, for example, which is one of the largest in the country, is a particularly popular attraction and isn’t only a must-visit for sports fans but one of the most recommended places to visit on social media and by previous visitors to the city.

It isn’t all about sports, though. There are theatres, gardens, and museums to explore that are not only inexpensive but offer the opportunity for a cultural experience. The food scene here is awesome, too, and you’ll find bars and restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines, including the well-reviewed Pacific Rim by Kana.

10. Des Moines, Iowa

If you’re drawn to that small-town feeling but still want all of the amenities offered by a city, Des Moines in Iowa is another fantastic budget-friendly destination. The Downtown Farmers Market is a particularly popular spot here and ideal if you’re hunting for souvenirs and mementos that won’t cost you too much.

The Iowa State Fairgrounds are also one of the best-reviewed attractions on TikTok, but just keep in mind that it is only a fairground for 11 days in August. Outside of this, it’s a showground for events, concerts, and more, which only adds to its appeal and means there’s always something to do or see. Or, if you’re looking for an opportunity to learn more about the history of Des Moines, it is highly recommended that you visit Terrace Hill – the historic Governor’s mansion.

Final Thoughts

Each of the budget-friendly cities listed above has something different to offer, making it possible to plan the perfect US road trip without worrying about stretching your budget too far. But before you start planning your itinerary, get in touch with Travellers Autobarn to learn more about hiring a campervan with unlimited miles so you can hit the road and explore these cities in comfort and style. Happy exploring!