Traveling while in college can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it often comes with the challenge of managing a tight budget. Fortunately, there are numerous destinations across the United States that offer enriching experiences without breaking the bank. Here are some of the best cheap places for college students to travel in the US, packed with tips on how to make the most of your visit without overspending.
1. New Orleans, Louisiana
Why Go
New Orleans is a city rich in culture, music, and history. Known for its vibrant nightlife, jazz music, and historic French Quarter, it offers a unique blend of experiences that can’t be found anywhere else.
Budget Tips
- Free Street Performances: Enjoy live music and performances on Bourbon Street and in Jackson Square.
- Affordable Eats: Savor local delicacies like po’boys and beignets from budget-friendly eateries such as Café du Monde.
- Inexpensive Accommodations: Stay in hostels or budget hotels like the India House Hostel, which offer affordable rates and a chance to meet other travelers.
Must-See Attractions
- French Quarter: Explore this historic district known for its vibrant nightlife and colorful buildings.
- St. Louis Cathedral: Visit the oldest cathedral in North America.
- City Park: Relax in one of the largest urban parks in the country, which includes free botanical gardens and outdoor sculptures.
2. Austin, Texas
Why Go
Austin is famed for its live music scene, delicious food trucks, and outdoor activities. It’s a city that perfectly blends urban life with natural beauty.
Budget Tips
- Free Live Music: Many bars and venues in Austin offer free live music performances. Check out the schedule at The Continental Club.
- Food Trucks: Enjoy a variety of affordable food from the city’s numerous food trucks. Popular options include Torchy’s Tacos and Veracruz All Natural.
- Parks and Outdoor Activities: Visit Zilker Park for a picnic or take a dip in the Barton Springs Pool, which has a nominal entry fee.
Must-See Attractions
- South Congress Avenue: Known for its quirky shops, restaurants, and live music venues.
- Lady Bird Lake: Rent a kayak or paddleboard, or enjoy a scenic hike or bike ride around the lake.
- Blanton Museum of Art: Offers free admission on Thursdays.
3. Asheville, North Carolina
Why Go
Asheville is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is known for its stunning natural scenery, vibrant arts scene, and craft breweries.
Budget Tips
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Enjoy scenic drives and hikes for free. The parkway offers breathtaking views and numerous trails.
- Free Art Galleries: Many local galleries have free admission. The River Arts District is a great place to start.
- Affordable Eats: Check out local favorites like 12 Bones Smokehouse for budget-friendly meals.
Must-See Attractions
- Biltmore Estate: Although the main estate has an admission fee, the surrounding gardens and winery are worth a visit.
- Downtown Asheville: Explore local shops, street performers, and the historic Pack Square Park.
- Pisgah National Forest: Offers a variety of hiking trails, waterfalls, and free camping spots.
4. Portland, Oregon
Why Go
Portland is known for its quirky culture, craft breweries, and an abundance of outdoor activities.
Budget Tips
- Parks and Gardens: Visit the International Rose Test Garden and the Japanese Garden, both of which offer free or low-cost admission.
- Food Carts: Portland is famous for its food cart pods, where you can find diverse and affordable meals. Try the carts at Alder Street or Cartlandia.
- Public Transit: Use Portland’s efficient public transportation system to get around the city affordably.
Must-See Attractions
- Powell’s City of Books: The world’s largest independent bookstore is a must-visit and free to explore.
- Forest Park: One of the largest urban forests in the US, offering numerous trails for hiking and biking.
- Voodoo Doughnut: Indulge in unique and inexpensive doughnuts that are a Portland staple.
5. Nashville, Tennessee
Why Go
Nashville, the capital of country music, is known for its lively music scene, delicious Southern cuisine, and rich history.
Budget Tips
- Free Concerts: Centennial Park often hosts free concerts and events. Check their schedule ahead of time.
- Affordable Southern Food: Enjoy hearty meals at places like Hattie B’s Hot Chicken and The Pharmacy Burger Parlor.
- Budget Accommodations: Look for hostels like the Nashville Downtown Hostel, which offers affordable rates.
Must-See Attractions
- The Parthenon: A full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, located in Centennial Park.
- Honky Tonk Highway: Experience live music at iconic venues, many of which do not charge a cover fee.
- Country Music Hall of Fame: Offers student discounts and showcases the history of country music.
6. Savannah, Georgia
Why Go
Savannah is known for its historic charm, beautiful squares, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Budget Tips
- Free Walking Tours: Many companies offer free walking tours of the historic district. Just remember to tip your guide.
- Historic Sites: Visit places like Forsyth Park and Bonaventure Cemetery, both free to explore.
- Budget Dining: Try inexpensive eats at local favorites like Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room and The Sentient Bean.
Must-See Attractions
- Historic District: Wander through the cobblestone streets and explore the beautiful squares.
- River Street: Enjoy the shops, restaurants, and views of the Savannah River.
- Telfair Museums: Offers a variety of art and historical exhibits with affordable admission prices.
7. San Diego, California
Why Go
San Diego offers beautiful beaches, a laid-back atmosphere, and numerous attractions.
Budget Tips
- Free Beaches: Spend the day at popular spots like La Jolla Cove or Pacific Beach.
- Balboa Park: This expansive park is home to many museums, gardens, and cultural institutions, many of which have free admission days.
- Inexpensive Eats: Enjoy fish tacos and other affordable meals at local spots like Lucha Libre Taco Shop.
Must-See Attractions
- San Diego Zoo: Offers student discounts and is one of the top zoos in the world.
- Old Town San Diego: Explore this historic area with free admission to many sites.
- Gaslamp Quarter: Known for its vibrant nightlife and dining options.
8. Denver, Colorado
Why Go
Denver is a city that offers a mix of urban excitement and outdoor adventure, with a vibrant craft beer scene.
Budget Tips
- Free Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of the many hiking and biking trails in and around the city.
- Affordable Breweries: Many local breweries offer tours and tastings at low costs. Check out the Denver Beer Trail for options.
- Public Transportation: Use the RTD light rail and buses to get around the city affordably.
Must-See Attractions
- Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: Visit this natural amphitheater for a hike or a free concert in the summer.
- Denver Art Museum: Offers free admission on the first Saturday of every month.
- Union Station: Explore this historic train station with shops, restaurants, and events.
9. Chicago, Illinois
Why Go
Chicago boasts world-class museums, stunning architecture, and a diverse food scene.
Budget Tips
- Free Museum Days: Many museums, such as the Art Institute of Chicago, offer free admission days.
- Millennium Park: Visit this iconic park to see Cloud Gate (The Bean) and enjoy free concerts and movie screenings.
- Affordable Eats: Enjoy Chicago-style hot dogs and deep-dish pizza at local favorites like Portillo’s and Lou Malnati’s.
Must-See Attractions
- Navy Pier: Offers stunning views of Lake Michigan, free events, and entertainment options.
- Chicago Cultural Center: Free art exhibits, concerts, and architectural tours.
- Lincoln Park Zoo: One of the few free zoos in the country, open year-round.
10. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Why Go
Philadelphia is steeped in American history and offers a vibrant arts scene and diverse neighborhoods.
Budget Tips
- Historical Sites: Visit the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, both free to the public.
- Affordable Dining: Enjoy a famous Philly cheesesteak from places like Pat’s King of Steaks or Geno’s Steaks.
- Free Museums: The Philadelphia Museum of Art offers pay-what-you-wish admission on the first Sunday of each month.
Must-See Attractions
- Reading Terminal Market: A historic market with a wide variety of affordable food options.
- Old City: Explore the birthplace of American independence with free walking tours.
- Spruce Street Harbor Park: A seasonal park with hammocks, games, and food vendors, perfect for relaxing.
Summary Table
| Destination | Key Attractions | Budget Tips |
|---|---|---|
| New Orleans, LA | French Quarter, Jackson Square | Free street performances, affordable eats |
| Austin, TX | South Congress Avenue, Lady Bird Lake | Free live music, food trucks, public parks |
| Asheville, NC | Blue Ridge Parkway, Downtown | Scenic drives, free galleries, affordable dining |
| Portland, OR | Powell’s Books, Forest Park | Parks and gardens, food carts, public transit |
| Nashville, TN | The Parthenon, Honky Tonk Highway | Free concerts, budget-friendly southern food |
| Savannah, GA | Historic District, River Street | Free walking tours, historic sites, budget dining |
| San Diego, CA | La Jolla Cove, Balboa Park | Free beaches, inexpensive eats |
| Denver, CO | Red Rocks, Union Station | Free outdoor activities, affordable breweries |
| Chicago, IL | Millennium Park, Navy Pier | Free museum days, affordable eats |
| Philadelphia, PA | Liberty Bell, Reading Terminal Market | Free historical sites, affordable dining |
Exploring these destinations can provide college students with memorable experiences without the burden of high costs. Students can make the most of their travels while staying within their budget by taking advantage of free and cheap attractions, cheap dining, and cheap accommodations।
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