Weekend getaways are typically less expensive than full-blown vacations, since you’re only typically away for two to three nights. But, for budget strapped travelers, or just those who want to be able to maximize their travels by saving a little more on those short stays, there are some cities that can give you a little more bang for your buck by letting you get a weekend away for less than $150.
To determine which cities would fit this bill, we took a look at places that had plenty of free attractions, inexpensive essentials like food and transportation, and excluded bigger variables like hotel costs and airfare.
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San Antonio, Texas
When it comes to inexpensive places to stay, San Antonio ranks high on the list thanks to the number of free experiences you can enjoy during your stay. According to the Daily Dive, visitors can enjoy the following free attractions:
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Japanese Tea Garden: The public garden offers a tranquil experience that includes waterfalls, koi ponds, and zero cost to enter
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The Alamo Church: History buffs will love taking a free stroll through the free landmark, which is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. local time
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San Antonio River Walk: The waterfront promenade is free to walk, but you may find yourself spending a little bit if you decide to enjoy any of the other attractions in the area, including canal rides and the must-try restaurants
If you have a little wiggle room in your budget after checking out those free attractions, you may want to splurge a bit on some of the areas more affordable dining options, which include the El Milagrito Café where you can treat yourself to breakfast tacos for less than $5. But, you won’t have to factor the cost of an Uber into your weekend expenses, since the city is considered extremely walkable.
Related: Three trip ideas for budget travel this fall
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Another southwest city worth mentioning, Albuquerque has a lot to offer visitors on a budget thanks to the number of inexpensive cultural experiences you can enjoy during your stay. You’ll find no shortage of things to do, according to the city’s official visitor’s guide, which includes low cost options like:
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Historic Old Town: You’ll find walkable galleries, the Old Town Plaza, boutiques that are perfect for window shopping, and the area’s first food hall which is located in the Sawmill Market
When you get hungry, you can head over to the Frontier Restaurant, where you can get local favorites like the Carne Adovada Burrito for just $2.85.
Memphis, Tennessee
Are you looking for a place that can offer you music, culture, and some of the best Southern food you can buy? You may want to head to Memphis. According to a local tourism guide, the region is home to more than 100 different BBQ spots. Want to save your money so you can savor some of these spots, according the James Beard Award-nominated chefs Andrew Adams of Acre and Drew Bryan of Blue Honey Bistro? Check out some of these free or low cost experiences that can help you make the most out of your dining budget while you visit the city:
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Graceland: The home of Elvis Presley offers free-admission to the Meditation garden
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Memphis Zoo: Tennessee residents get in free Tuesday afternoons
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Mighty Lights: Every night the Hernando de Soto and Harahan bridges put on a show above the Mississippi River
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National Civil Rights Museum: Another location where Tennessee residents can visit for free on certain days, this location is a must-see for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of the country’s civil rights movement, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination (non-Tennessee residents can buy tickets for around $20)
Photo by WLDavies on Getty Images
Washington, D.C.
Are nation’s capital may typically be an expensive place to live, but thanks to all of the national monuments and parks, there’s actually a whole lot of things you can do for free while you’re in town. According to Travel View USA, D.C. is one of the top options for those looking to get away for a low-cost weekend, and some of the inexpensive things you can do include:
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Visiting Smithsonian museums: These facilities are all free, and include popular options like the Air & Space Museum, the Natural History Museum, and more
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National Mall monuments: These are also free to visit, and offer visitors a look at some of the country’s most iconic monuments
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Capitol tours: Want an inside look at the Capitol? Consider calling your state representative to request a tour, or book one through the U.S. Capitol’s Visitor Center (prices may vary)
Want to scope out some inexpensive eats while you’re in town, consider stopping at the Picnic on the Mall, checking out some of the city’s food trucks, or visit local markets (like Eastern Market) where you can usually find budget-friendly options.
This story was originally published by TravelHost on Nov 27, 2025, where it first appeared in the Attractions section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.