Cheap Places to Travel in the US: The Ultimate Guide to Affordable US Vacations

Sometimes, it can feel that a trip abroad is cheaper than traveling somewhere in the US. However, there are many amazing destinations in America that don’t break the bank. From iconic cities to serene beach getaways, we will highlight the cheapest places to travel in the US by month, season, and travel type, ensuring you can create lasting memories without overspending.

Finding cheap flights is key to reducing your vacation costs. Tools like Going are game-changers for finding the best deals on domestic flights. With real-time alerts for continental US destinations, Going’s Limited membership is a must. Our members save an average of $200 on every domestic deal, helping you make the most of your travel budget.

Cheapest US destinations by month

January

Charleston, SC: Charleston's cobblestone streets and eclectic architecture make it a charming winter escape. January’s mild temperatures and post-holiday flight deals make it an ideal time to explore this historic Southern city. Stroll along the waterfront, savor Lowcountry cuisine, or take a peaceful walk on Folly Beach.

• Average flight price: $139 roundtrip
• Nearby airport: Charleston International Airport (CHS)
• Must-visit attractions: Rainbow Row, Magnolia Plantation, and Folly Beach

February

Tampa, FL: Known for its vibrant cultural scene, Tampa offers a mix of stunning beaches, exciting attractions, and diverse cuisine. February’s pleasant weather makes it ideal for strolling the Riverwalk or exploring Busch Gardens.

• Average flight price: $158 roundtrip
• Nearby airports: Tampa International Airport (TPA) and St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE)
• Must-visit attractions: Busch Gardens, Tampa Riverwalk, and Clearwater Beach

March

New York City, NY: Spring begins to bloom in March, and lower flight prices make visiting the Big Apple more affordable. Take a walk through Central Park, enjoy world-class art at The Met, or catch a Broadway show. The city’s energy and endless attractions make every visit unique.

• Average flight price: $152 roundtrip
• Nearby airports: JFK International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
• Must-visit attractions: Central Park, Broadway shows, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art

April

Orlando, FL: April is an ideal time to visit Orlando’s world-famous attractions without the peak-season crowds. Experience the magic of Disney or the thrill of Universal Studios, or unwind with a scenic boat tour in nearby Winter Park. Orlando’s family-friendly vibe makes it an excellent destination for all ages.

• Average flight price: $142 roundtrip
• Nearby airports: Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
• Must-visit attractions: Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Kennedy Space Center (1 hour drive)

May

Washington, DC: May brings perfect weather and affordable flights to the nation's capital. Walk the National Mall to explore iconic landmarks, visit free-entry Smithsonian museums, or enjoy the Georgetown waterfront. This month also brings tons of outdoor events and cultural activities to the nation’s capital.

• Average flight price: $150 roundtrip
• Nearby airports: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Dulles International Airport (IAD), and Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI)
• Must-visit attractions: Lincoln Memorial, Smithsonian museums, and Georgetown

June

Chicago, IL: Chicago is lively in June, with affordable flights, lakefront activities, and lively neighborhoods. Visit Millennium Park, take an architecture boat tour, and indulge in iconic deep-dish pizza. The pleasant weather and buzzing events make Chicago a perfect destination for early summer.

• Average flight price: $154 roundtrip
• Nearby airports: O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW)
• Must-visit attractions: Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute of Chicago

July

Minneapolis, MN: Discover the “City of Lakes” in July, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Minneapolis offers a mix of urban attractions and natural beauty, with abundant parks, trails, and waterways.

• Average flight price: $151 roundtrip
• Nearby airport: Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
• Must-visit attractions: Minnehaha Falls, Mall of America, and Chain of Lakes Regional Park

August

Atlanta, GA: Summer ends with affordable flights to Atlanta. Visit world-class attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, or explore the vibrant BeltLine trails. The city’s culinary scene and lush green spaces also make it a top summer destination.

• Average flight price: $143 roundtrip
• Nearby airport: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
• Must-visit attractions: Georgia Aquarium, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, and Piedmont Park

September

Providence, RI: Experience New England charm in Providence, with its cobblestone streets, rich history, and vibrant culinary scene. September brings cooler weather and beautiful fall foliage, making it an ideal time to visit. Don’t miss WaterFire, an iconic art installation lighting up the city’s rivers.

• Average flight price: $151 roundtrip
• Nearby airport: T.F. Green Airport (PVD)
• Must-visit attractions: WaterFire, Roger Williams Park Zoo, and Federal Hill

October

Houston, TX: October is the best time to explore Houston, thanks to pleasant weather and a thriving cultural scene. From the Space Center to the Museum District, the city offers a mix of educational and entertaining experiences. Enjoy the outdoors at Buffalo Bayou Park, or indulge in Houston’s renowned culinary diversity.

• Average flight price: $130 roundtrip
• Nearby airports: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)
• Must-visit attractions: Space Center Houston, Houston Museum District, and Buffalo Bayou Park

November

Dallas, TX: Visit Dallas in November to find mild temperatures and affordable airfare. Explore the city’s history at the Sixth Floor Museum, or take a stroll through Klyde Warren Park. Dallas also offers a vibrant art scene and incredible Tex-Mex cuisine.

• Average flight price: $144 roundtrip
• Nearby airports: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Dallas Love Field (DAL)
• Must-visit attractions: The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, Klyde Warren Park, and Reunion Tower

December

Phoenix, AZ: Escape the winter cold with a warm getaway to Phoenix in December. Enjoy scenic desert landscapes, mild weather, and holiday festivities. Outdoor-lovers can hike Camelback Mountain, while culture-seekers will appreciate the Heard Museum’s Native American art.

• Average flight price: $154 roundtrip
• Nearby airport: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
• Must-visit attractions: Desert Botanical Garden, Camelback Mountain, and the Heard Museum

Cheapest US destinations by season

Winter (December–February)

The Carolinas: Experience Southern charm with budget-friendly flights to Raleigh ($126 RT) and Charleston ($131 RT). Enjoy mild weather, historic architecture, and plenty of winter festivals.

Miami, FL: Escape the cold with sunny skies in Miami. January offers cheaper airfare, averaging $157 roundtrip, perfect for beaches and vibrant nightlife.

Spring (March–May)

Florida: Springtime means family-friendly fun and warm weather in Tampa ($141 RT), Orlando ($145 RT), and Fort Lauderdale ($157 RT). These destinations are ideal for beach days and theme park adventures.

Austin, TX: Known for its live music and food trucks, Austin comes alive in spring. With flights averaging $184 roundtrip in March, it's the perfect time to explore the city's vibrant culture.

Summer (June–August)

Texas: Fly to Houston ($131 RT), Dallas ($154 RT), or Austin ($184 RT) to enjoy world-class BBQ, museums, and lively events. Summer brings plenty of activities for families and solo travelers alike.

Denver, CO: Cool mountain air and outdoor adventures await in Denver, with flights as low as $167 roundtrip in the summer months. The capital of Colorado is perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Fall (September–November)

The Great Lakes Region: Fall foliage and crisp weather make Chicago ($145 RT), Minneapolis ($155 RT), and Detroit ($151 RT) prime destinations. Upstate New York also offers scenic escapes with flights around $180 roundtrip.

Savannah, GA: Experience the beauty of Savannah in October when cheap flights and pleasant weather align. Enjoy ghost tours, historic squares, and waterfront dining.

Ready to explore the US on a budget? Get free access to Going’s domestic deals with a Limited membership!

Cheapest US destinations by travel type

Adventure travel

Denver, CO: Known as the gateway to the Rockies, Denver offers stunning outdoor adventures. From hiking and mountain biking to exploring nearby Rocky Mountain National Park, it’s a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Average flight price: $167 roundtrip

Salt Lake City, UT: Famous for world-class skiing in the winter, Salt Lake City also serves as a jumping-off point for Zion National Park and other breathtaking natural attractions.

Average flight price: $159 roundtrip

Seattle, WA: Combine city life with outdoor escapades, from kayaking on Puget Sound to hiking in nearby Mount Rainier National Park.

Average flight price: $170 roundtrip

Family vacations

Orlando, FL: The theme park capital of the world is perfect for families, offering Disney World, Universal Studios, and plenty of sunshine.

Average flight price: $157 roundtrip

San Diego, CA: San Diego combines beaches, its world-renowned zoo, and kid-friendly attractions, making it a top destination for families.

Average flight price: $180 roundtrip

Washington, DC: Explore free Smithsonian museums, historical landmarks, and educational tours, creating a trip that’s both fun and enriching for kids and parents alike.

Average flight price: $188 roundtrip

City escapes

Chicago, IL: With Millennium Park, the Art Institute, or deep-dish pizza, Chicago has it all. Affordable flights also make it a must-visit for urban explorers.

Average flight price: $153 roundtrip

Providence, RI: This charming city boasts a thriving arts scene, historic neighborhoods, and some of the best seafood in New England.

Average flight price: $144 roundtrip

Atlanta, GA: From the Georgia Aquarium to vibrant neighborhoods like Little Five Points, Atlanta offers a mix of family-friendly fun and cultural experiences.

Average flight price: $163 roundtrip

Beach getaways

Charleston, SC: Known for its historic charm and nearby pristine beaches, Charleston is an ideal beach-and-culture combo.

Average flight price: $153 roundtrip

Tampa, FL: Tampa offers white sandy beaches, family-friendly attractions, and a vibrant food scene, making it a great all-rounder.

Average flight price: $158 roundtrip

Fort Lauderdale, FL: With its iconic waterways and bustling beachfront, Fort Lauderdale is a tropical escape that doesn’t break the bank.

Average flight price: $178 roundtrip

Tips for finding the best flight deals

Set up price alerts

Staying ahead of airfare changes is crucial for finding cheap domestic flights. With a Going Premium or Elite membership, you can set up price alerts to instantly know when prices drop and never miss a deal (you’ll also get access to international deals and coveted mistake fares). Going members save an average of $200 per continental US flight—perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking for exceptional value.

Get custom alerts for all the best flight deals, both domestic and abroad, when you sign up for a Premium or Elite membership.

Use flexible dates search

By adjusting your travel dates by even a day, you can often find significantly cheaper options. Platforms like Going help you compare fares across multiple dates, making it easy to find the cheapest travel options within your schedule. 

Consider alternate airports

Flying into or out of alternate airports can make a significant difference in airfare costs. Major hubs often come with higher demand, but nearby hubs or regional airports may offer cheaper flights due to lower passenger volume or varying competition between airlines. While it may involve some extra travel time, the savings can often make the extra effort worthwhile.

Monitor fare drops

If you are a regular traveler, you know that fare drops can happen anytime, and there’s no best time to book a flight. That’s why having alerts set ensures you don’t miss any unexpected drops. With Going’s real-time fare monitoring, you can rest assured that you’ll know when prices hit their lowest.

Discover our expert guide on how to find cheap flights.

Save on your flights around the US with Going

With Going, finding affordable flights becomes effortless. Our memberships are designed to cater to every traveler—whether you’re planning a family getaway, a solo adventure, or a quick weekend city escape. Going provides real-time alerts for unbeatable flight deals, helping you save time and money. Sign up for Going today, and turn your travel dreams into affordable adventures.

Methodology

To curate the destinations and flight prices listed in this guide, we analyzed data from Going’s travel experts and airfare trends between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024. Using Going’s deal database, we identified cities across the United States that consistently offer affordable fares throughout the year. We also considered factors such as seasonal travel demand, airport competition, and average fare fluctuations. Additionally, insights were drawn from user feedback and publicly available travel data to ensure the information is relevant and actionable for a wide range of travelers.

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