Quick note from Carrie: Here’s a special treat for you all this week: a list of the top 10 most affordable U.S. travel destinations for 2024! This fantastic information comes from Noël Russel and the Whimstay team. The data here is based on the cost of a stay in each town from the Whimstay platform, which you should definitely check out! Use this link for your first stay, and we’ll both get $25 credit!
By Noël Russell, Chief Experience Officer & Founding Team member at Whimstay
Texas: Fredericksburg – Average nightly savings: 26%
Fredericksburg, a charming town in Texas, offers a unique blend of German heritage and Texan hospitality. It’s famous for its picturesque wineries, where you can enjoy affordable wine tastings and vineyard tours. Stroll down Main Street to explore local shops and enjoy traditional German fare at one of the many cozy restaurants. Don’t miss the Fredericksburg Herb Farm for a tranquil experience among fragrant gardens.
California: Idyllwild – Average nightly savings: 24%
Idyllwild, nestled in the San Jacinto mountains, is a haven for nature lovers and artists. This serene mountain retreat offers a plethora of hiking trails suitable for all levels, many of which are free or low-cost. The town itself is filled with quaint art galleries and artisan shops. Enjoy a low-cost outdoor concert or community event often held in the town center.
Arkansas: Mount Ida– Average nightly savings: 24%
Discover Mount Ida, the Quartz Crystal Capital of the World, offering a unique crystal digging experience at Wegner Quartz Crystal Mines. Enjoy the serene Lake Ouachita with its affordable outdoor activities. Savor the local charm with budget-friendly dining and end your day stargazing under the clear Ouachita skies.
North Carolina: Boone – Average nightly savings: 20%
Boone, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is ideal for outdoor sports enthusiasts of all ages. The area offers numerous hiking and biking trails with stunning views. Enjoy fishing or canoeing in the New River, often with minimal equipment rental fees. The downtown area hosts various free cultural events throughout the year.
Florida: Satellite Beach – Average nightly savings: 20%
Satellite Beach, near the Space Coast, is perfect for budget-friendly beach activities and water sports. Enjoy surfing, paddleboarding, or just relaxing on the beach. Keep an eye on the sky for occasional rocket launches, which are a spectacular, free sight. Visit the nearby Pelican Beach Park for a low-cost day of sun and fun.
Colorado: Winter Park – Average nightly savings: 24%
Winter Park is a year-round destination offering mountain sports in both summer and winter. During summer, enjoy affordable hiking, mountain biking, and the festive atmosphere at the top of the mountain. In winter, partake in budget-friendly snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The town itself hosts various free events and activities.
Oregon: Astoria – Average nightly savings: 26%
Astoria, a historic coastal town, is rich in culture and natural beauty. Visit the Astoria Column for a small fee and enjoy panoramic views of the coast. The Riverwalk, a scenic trail along the Columbia River, is perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. Explore the local maritime museum or enjoy fresh seafood at an affordable waterfront eatery.
Georgia: Jasper – Average nightly savings: 20%
Jasper, the gateway to the North Georgia mountains, offers a rich gold mining history. Enjoy free or low-cost visits to local parks and trails, perfect for hiking and picnicking. The town also hosts affordable gold panning experiences. Explore the quaint downtown area, which features local shops and eateries.
Alabama: Dauphin Island – Average nightly savings: 24%
Dauphin Island is a hidden gem offering a mix of serene beaches and unique water sports. Enjoy affordable kayak rentals or bird watching at the Audubon Bird Sanctuary. The island hosts a variety of seafood restaurants where you can taste local dishes without breaking the bank.
Virginia: Paeonian Springs– Average nightly savings: 18%
In Paeonian Springs, immerse yourself in the charm of rural Virginia. Opt for a budget-friendly farm stay experience, indulge in low-cost wine tastings in the Shenandoah Valley, and explore the scenic hiking trails. The area is known for its peaceful countryside and offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
About Whimstay
Whimstay offers guests the best deals on last-minute vacation rentals across North America, where total out-of-pocket expenses to the traveler are lower than other OTAs for bookings made within 30 days before check-in. On average, the company saves guests 23% and $234 per booking. Users and site visits have been up 10x over the past year across a broad set of demographics, bookings have been up over 5x, and growth is accelerating. Whimstay allows property managers to control more of the guest experience and capture a higher percentage of the economics. The company generates incremental demand and books nights that may have otherwise gone unrented throughout the year. Whimstay currently offers vacation rental homes, condos, cabins, villas, and resorts in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. www.whimstay.com
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