9 Budget-Friendly Vacation Spots for Thrifty Seniors in 2024

Summer is approaching rapidly, and many folks have a vacation on their mind! While most of us are ready to pack our bags and head for our favorite vacation destinations, a couple of barriers might be standing in the way of us and the trip of a lifetime. For some, it’s family or health issues. For others, it’s money. Unfortunately, vacation isn’t free and can sometimes be costly. So, does that mean vacation is an unattainable dream for the average person? Of course not! You can still enjoy a nice trip to a beautiful location without breaking the bank. You’ll want to stick around for this article if that piques your interest. Here are 9 budget-friendly vacation spots for thrifty seniors in 2024!

Beaufort, South Carolina

“Born homeless, I’ve tried to make Beaufort, South Carolina my home. To me, these islands didn’t exist until I found them. I invented the marshes, the oyster banks, and the ink-dark creeks . . . “ These words, written by The Great Santini author Pat Conroy, capture the beauty and low-country majesty of beautiful Beaufort. Christened the “Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands”, this historical city is picturesque and affordable.

Why you’ll love it: Rich in history and stunning views, Beaufort has a little something for everyone! The historic Point Neighborhood is filled with historic, well-preserved homes and one that made history for another reason. It was used in the movie The Prince of Tides, starring Barbara Streisand. For nature lovers, there’s Hunting Island State Park and Lighthouse, an incredible 5,000-acre state park. If you’re a literary buff, you won’t want to miss out on a visit to the Pat Conroy Literary Center.

Where to stay: The Quality Inn At Town Center costs just $76 per night, which includes breakfast. While a slightly more expensive option, The Beaufort Inn boasts a convenient location near Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park and Beaufort Park. Plus, it’s pet-friendly!

Budget tips: According to Budget Your Trip, a one-week trip to Beaufort usually costs around $919 for one person and $1,838 for two people. Many activities in Beaufort are FREE, such as the Hunting Island Nature Center and the Old Sheldon Church Ruins. Try to do as many free activities as possible to save some money.

Tucson, Arizona

Home to Arizona University and the heart of the Sonora Desert, Tuscon is the perfect destination for budget-friendly seniors and their families. No matter what time of the year you plan your visit, you’ll always have a plethora of things to do. March is the season for the Tucson Festival of Books, one of the world’s largest book fairs. November kicks off the annual All Souls’ Procession, an event that incorporates Mesoamerican, Spanish Roman Catholic, and Mexican rituals and traditions to honor the dead.

Why you’ll love it: Tuscon is the perfect blend of metropolitan charm and rugged desert views. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is often named one of the best things to do. It’s more of a zoo than a museum, housing a botanical garden, animal exhibits, and an aquarium. However, if indoor activities are more your style, you can visit the Pima Air & Space Museum. Of course, Old Tuscon is also a fun option, especially for anyone intrigued by the Old West!

Where to stay: The El Presidio Bed & Breakfast Inn is an excellent, convenient option that also happens to be affordable! Of course, if B&Bs aren’t your thing, you can always give the Ramada by Wyndham Viscount Suites Tucson East a try. It’s also on the affordable side at $89 per night and boasts both a pool and a hot tub.

Budget tips: Like Beaufort, Tuscon offers plenty of free activities! For example, you can check out the San Xavier Mission at ZERO cost! The Southern Arizona Transportation Museum, which is perfect for anyone with an interest in trains, is also free. Additionally, the Greyhound Bus offers budget-friendly transportation options.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Is Indianapolis the hidden gem of the Midwest? We’ll let you decide! Known as the “Racing Capital of the World”, this capital city is the best thing since sliced bread. No, really—Wonder Bread was invented by Indianapolis’ very own Taggart Baking Company in 1921!

Why you’ll love it: The Children’s Museum is fun and interactive, perfect for both the young and the young at heart. Of course, animal lovers have to visit the Indianapolis Zoo. Foodies will also love Indianapolis’ culinary culture. You can enjoy a wide array of dining options, from food trucks to fine dining. It was named one of America’s hottest foodie cities for a reason!

Where to stay: The My Place Hotel is a great, pet-friendly option. If you’re looking for something a little different but still within your budget, you might want to give La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Indianapolis Airport West a try. Both breakfast and parking are included!

Budget tips: Calling all car buffs! The Stutz Car Museum is the perfect, inexpensive place for you to check out. Or you can visit the Crown Hill Cemetery, which is the third-largest cemetery in the United States. The city itself offers murals and art that are completely free to the viewing public, as well!

Holland, Michigan

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Holland but it’s a little outside of your budget, consider compromising with a trip to Holland, Michigan. Sure, it’s not as exotic, but it’s every bit as beautiful. It, too, is awash in tulips, scenic views, and enough European inspiration to make you feel like you’ve taken a trip overseas.

Why you’ll love it: Tulips! Lake Michigan! Windmills! This truly feels like a slice of the Netherlands right within a pocket of America. From the Holland State Park to the oft-photographed Big Red Lighthouse (pictured above), there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Visit in May, and you’ll get the chance to participate in the Tulip Time Festival, an event that draws upon the city’s Dutch heritage.

Where to stay: If you’ve never seen a Holiday Inn that has the feel of a rambling Victorian farmhouse, then allow us to introduce you to Holland’s Holiday Inn. It’s beautiful and fairly cheap with a fitness center. Oh, and it’s FREE for kids to stay there!

Budget tips: Check out the Holland Farmer Market or the De Graaf Nature Center! Of course, if you plan your visit in May, you can also enjoy the Tulip Time Festival and take in some truly spectacular views at zero cost.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Two words: Amish Country. Lancaster is an eclectic blend of Amish people, pop culture iconography, and historical attractions. The tenth-most-populous city in the state of Pennsylvania is the perfect place for any traveler. Whether you prefer more pastoral landscapes or urbane views, you’ll be able to find both in Lancaster.

Why you’ll love it: Lancaster’s biggest tourist draw might be Amish Country and its plethora of farms and beautiful, unblemished countryside. However, if you’re more of an adrenaline junkie, you can always check out the Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park. The Boulders Miniature Golf Course also offers fun for visitors of all ages. The city boasts plenty of historical tours that will appeal to any history buff.

Where to stay: Have you ever wanted to stay in a steamboat-turned-hotel located conveniently close to downtown Lancaster? Then look no further than the Fulton Steamboat Inn! Not only is it unique, but it’s also fairly affordable at around $105 per night!

Budget tips: It doesn’t cost a dime to pet miniature horses at The Li’l Country Store and Miniature Horse Farm. Gardens at Conestoga House is free on the last Wednesday of the month. The Green Dragon Farmers Market & Auction is also free to browse. Though, of course, you might buy some wares while you’re there!

Riviera Maya, Mexico

If you have your passport and an itch to travel out of the country, then Riviera Maya, Mexico might be the perfect destination for you! It’s a tourist’s dream, boasting everything from all-inclusive resorts to pristine beaches to Mayan ruins.

Why you’ll love it: Picture a place that has both Indiana Jones-esque archeological sites and sprawling water and theme pictures. That’s Riviera Maya in a nutshell. If you’re up for a little adventure, you can always try diving in an underground cave. Of course, the beaches are beautiful, with white sand and crystal-clear water!

Where to stay: The Barceló Maya Tropical is all-inclusive, which means that you get to enjoy free food, drinks, and complimentary shuttle services. Amenities include a spa, fitness room, tennis court, and a water park.

Budget tips: If you want to get the most bang for your buck, plan your trip for the off-season! You can get better rates, and you won’t have to deal with as many crowds. It’s a win-win!

Golden, Colorado

If you want a big city feel without all the big city crowds and pollution, then add Golden, Colorado to your travel list. It’s close enough to Denver that you can still experience everything in Colorado’s most populous city but also offers enough entertainment and tourist attractions to keep you entertained!

Why you’ll love it: Golden is an ideal vacation spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Its mixture of hiking trails, fishing spots, and museums means there’s something for everyone. The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave will appeal to any Old West fans while the shopping district offers more modern conveniences. The Lakeside Amusement Park is also a must-visit sort of destination for the entire family!

Where to stay: La Quinta Inn by Wyndham is a cheaper option that also has a pool and complimentary breakfast. While slightly more expensive than the previous option, Aiden by Best Western Denver West/Golden comes with high reviews and a hot tub.

Budget tips: Visit the Mines Museum for an enthralling and FREE experience. Or you can take in some artwork at the Foothills Art Center!

Old Orchard Beach, Maine

This beach town has a little of everything, including historical attractions, amusement parks, and golf courses. Of course, the biggest draw is probably Old Orchard Beach, with its beautiful sandy shoreline and seaside resort.

Why you’ll love it: If you love the beach and New England, then you can have the best of both worlds in Old Orchard Beach. It’s filled to the brim with specialty shops, local restaurants, and food stands. Additionally, it boasts a quirky pier, packed with all the amenities that make piers such a tourist draw. Those who enjoy live music and entertainment will want to mosey down to The Seaside Pavilion while they’re in town.

Where to stay: The Alouette Beach Resort is the perfect seaside resort. While it’ll run you around $129 a night, it boasts both indoor and outdoor pools, excellent dining options, and some truly spectacular beachfront views.

Budget tips: Take advantage of the beach and pier while you’re there! Both are FREE. Well, unless you pick up some souvenirs or candy at one of the pier shops, of course!

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States and for several good reasons. One, it boasts some beautiful truly beautiful beaches. Two, it’s known as one of the most affordable vacation spots on the entire eastern seaboard. Three, it’s an excellent place for any golfing enthusiast to spend a week or two. What more could one want?

Why you’ll love it: Be sure to check out Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, where you can dine with a mermaid and meet some penguins. Broadway at the Beach is an ideal place to pick up souvenirs. Of course, there are more than enough amusement and water parks to keep the whole family entertained!

Where to stay: Myrtle Beach boasts a lot of affordable options, including the Sandbar Hotel and the Homewood Suites by Hilton.

Budget tips: You can explore Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park and all they have to offer for just $8 or less per person. Murrells Inlet MarshWalk is a great place to take a stroll or admire the beautiful scenery. The Market Common is also free to explore, though you might want to pick up something at one of its many shops and boutiques!