Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on exciting and memorable experiences. For those living on or visiting the West Coast of America, there are plenty of affordable destinations that offer stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures. In this article, we will explore 15 of the cheapest destinations to visit from the West Coast of America, catering to a variety of travel preferences and budgets.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Known for its bright lights and bustling casinos, Las Vegas offers a unique experience that doesn’t have to break the bank. With low-cost flights from major West Coast cities and a plethora of budget-friendly hotels, Las Vegas is an affordable destination for a weekend getaway.
Key Attractions: The iconic Las Vegas Strip, the Fremont Street Experience, and the Bellagio Fountains.
San Diego, California
San Diego’s laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and diverse cultural offerings make it an appealing destination for travelers seeking sun and relaxation. With numerous low-cost accommodation options, San Diego can be an affordable option for a West Coast escape.
Key Attractions: Balboa Park, the USS Midway Museum, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.
Portland, Oregon
Portland is a vibrant and eclectic city known for its unique culture, thriving food scene, and beautiful surrounding nature. With affordable flights and a range of budget-friendly accommodation options, Portland is an excellent choice for a budget-conscious city break.
Key Attractions: The International Rose Test Garden, Powell’s City of Books, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.
Salt Lake City, Utah
As a gateway to Utah’s stunning national parks, Salt Lake City offers an affordable base for exploring the state’s diverse natural beauty. The city itself is home to a variety of cultural attractions and affordable accommodation options.
Key Attractions: Temple Square, the Natural History Museum of Utah, and the nearby Great Salt Lake.
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
With its breathtaking natural surroundings and vibrant city life, Vancouver is a popular destination for West Coast travelers. By taking advantage of low-cost flights and budget-friendly accommodation options, visitors can experience the best of Vancouver without breaking the bank.
Key Attractions: Stanley Park, Granville Island, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix’s warm climate and diverse landscapes make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With low-cost flights from major West Coast cities and affordable accommodation options, Phoenix is an accessible and budget-friendly destination.
Key Attractions: The Desert Botanical Garden, the Heard Museum, and Camelback Mountain.
Los Cabos, Mexico
For travelers seeking a beach getaway, Los Cabos offers stunning coastal landscapes and a lively atmosphere. By taking advantage of low-cost flights and affordable all-inclusive resorts, visitors can enjoy a memorable Mexican vacation without spending a fortune.
Key Attractions: The Arch of Cabo San Lucas, Medano Beach, and the Art Walk in San José del Cabo.
Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage serves as a gateway to Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness, offering a unique destination for nature enthusiasts. With affordable flights and accommodation options, visitors can experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Alaska without breaking the bank.
Key Attractions: The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, the Anchorage Museum, and the nearby Chugach State Park.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans’ vibrant culture, rich history, and unique culinary scene make it a popular destination for West Coast travelers. By taking advantage of low-cost flights and budget-friendly accommodation options, visitors can experience the best of the Crescent City on a budget.
Key Attractions: The French Quarter, the National WWII Museum, and the Garden
District.
Denver, Colorado
Denver’s combination of urban attractions and proximity to the Rocky Mountains make it an appealing destination for a variety of travelers. With affordable flights from the West Coast and numerous budget-friendly accommodation options, Denver is an accessible and affordable destination.
Key Attractions: The Denver Art Museum, the Denver Botanic Gardens, and the nearby Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre.
Guadalajara, Mexico
As Mexico’s second-largest city, Guadalajara offers a rich cultural experience, vibrant arts scene, and delicious cuisine. With low-cost flights from the West Coast and affordable accommodation options, Guadalajara is an excellent choice for a budget-friendly trip to Mexico.
Key Attractions: The Guadalajara Cathedral, Tlaquepaque, and the Instituto Cultural Cabañas.
Boise, Idaho
Boise’s combination of urban amenities and outdoor recreation opportunities make it an appealing and budget-friendly destination. With low-cost flights from the West Coast and a range of affordable accommodation options, Boise is an accessible and affordable destination.
Key Attractions: The Idaho State Capitol Building, the Boise River Greenbelt, and the World Center for Birds of Prey.
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio’s rich history, diverse cultural offerings, and lively atmosphere make it a popular destination for West Coast travelers. By taking advantage of low-cost flights and budget-friendly accommodation options, visitors can experience the best of San Antonio without breaking the bank.
Key Attractions: The Alamo, the San Antonio River Walk, and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque’s unique Southwestern charm, vibrant arts scene, and stunning desert landscapes make it an appealing destination for budget-conscious travelers. With affordable flights from the West Coast and a range of budget-friendly accommodation options, Albuquerque is an accessible and affordable destination.
Key Attractions: The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the Sandia Peak Tramway, and the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta’s beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant culture make it a popular destination for West Coast travelers seeking a tropical getaway. By taking advantage of low-cost flights and budget-friendly accommodation options, visitors can experience the best of Puerto Vallarta without spending a fortune.
Key Attractions: The Malecón, the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and the Vallarta Botanical Gardens.
Conclusion
With a variety of destinations catering to different interests and budgets, the West Coast of America offers numerous affordable options for travelers seeking unique experiences. From bustling cities and picturesque beach towns to awe-inspiring natural landscapes, these 15 destinations provide unforgettable adventures without breaking the bank. Whether you’re planning a weekend city break, a beach vacation, or an outdoor adventure, these budget-friendly destinations are sure to provide lasting memories and inspire a lifetime of wanderlust.
