14 American Vacation Spots Where Virginians Can Sleep in Style for Under $100 a Night
Some U.S. vacation destinations are all hype and no substance. Others may be beautiful, but good luck finding a room that doesn’t cost more than your plane ticket out of Virginia.
Whether you’re craving mountains, beaches, or a lively downtown scene, there are surprisingly chic places to stay for less than $100 a night.
The following destinations prove that a memorable vacation doesn’t have to come with a scary price tag.
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St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine is the oldest city in America, but it’s far from boring. You can explore centuries-old forts, take a ghost tour through cobblestone streets, or spend the afternoon lounging on the beach.
There’s even a pirate museum if you want to learn about swashbucklers in a totally air-conditioned setting.
What makes St. Augustine extra appealing is how easy it is to plan an affordable trip. Many small motels, B&Bs, and inns offer rooms for under $100 per night if you book in advance or travel during the week.
Some even include breakfast and free parking.
Beyond history, St. Augustine offers live music, unique boutiques, and trolley tours that make getting around easy.
You’ll also find plenty of seafood joints where dinner often costs less than a souvenir t-shirt.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Tucked in the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs looks like something out of a fairy tale. The Victorian architecture, winding streets, and forested hills give it a storybook appearance.
It’s the kind of place where every storefront is cute, every cafe smells amazing, and there’s always live music floating through the air.
Lodging here is famously affordable. You can often score a charming cottage or historic inn for under $100 a night, especially in the spring or fall.
Some even have balconies overlooking the town or outdoor hot tubs tucked into the trees.
Beyond the scenery, Eureka Springs has hiking trails, art galleries, and quirky museums. There’s also a passion play that’s been running for decades, a ghost tour through the Crescent Hotel, and even underground city tours.
Bisbee, Arizona

If you’ve never heard of Bisbee, you’re not alone, but you’re missing out.
This artsy mining town near the Mexican border is packed with murals, galleries, vintage shops, and quirky cafes. It’s also known for being cooler temperature-wise than the desert cities around it, thanks to its elevation.
Bisbee is one of those places where $100 goes a long way.
You can stay in funky hotels with retro charm, like converted boarding houses or old inns with creaky floors and clawfoot tubs.
There’s also a surprising amount to do: mine tours, historic walks, live music, and trails with views that stretch for miles.
You don’t need a lot of money to enjoy Bisbee. Just a love of creativity, color, and old-school Americana.
Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City might not be the first place that pops into your head for a vacation. And that’s exactly why it’s still affordable.
It has a downtown full of fountains, jazz clubs, barbecue joints, and museums that don’t cost a fortune.
Hotels there are surprisingly upscale for the price. With a bit of planning, you can find boutique-style accommodations or chain hotels near all the action for under $100 a night.
Some even include breakfast or indoor pools.
While you’re in Kansas City, try its world-famous BBQ, check out the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, and listen to live jazz in the historic 18th & Vine district.
Families can spend a day at Science City or the zoo, while art lovers will enjoy the massive Nelson-Atkins Museum.
Taos, New Mexico

Taos is an artist’s dream. The adobe buildings, mountain views, and creative energy make it feel magical.
You’ll find galleries on every corner, stunning sunsets, and a culture that blends Native American, Spanish, and American traditions.
It’s also surprisingly affordable if you know when to visit. Off-season stays—especially spring and late fall—often cost less than $100 a night. You can find stylish casitas, rustic lodges, or charming motels with courtyard gardens.
Activities range from hiking and hot springs to exploring the centuries-old Taos Pueblo.
There’s also skiing in the winter, rafting in the summer, and festivals year-round. The food is rich and flavorful, and even nicer restaurants offer hearty meals without painfully high prices.
Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola is often overshadowed by bigger beach cities. But that just means fewer crowds and better prices.
Its white-sand beaches are postcard-worthy, and the warm Gulf waters are ideal for swimming, kayaking, or just floating lazily.
Many beachfront motels and inland hotels offer rooms under $100, especially in the shoulder and low seasons. Some even have pools, beach access, or free breakfasts.
Beyond the beach, you can tour the historic downtown, visit the Naval Aviation Museum, or catch a minor league baseball game.
There’s also fishing, sailing, and dolphin-watching tours for a reasonable price. It’s the kind of destination where every day feels like Saturday.
Deadwood, South Dakota

This Wild West town isn’t just for history buffs. Deadwood has saloons, reenactments, casinos, and trails through the Black Hills.
It’s equal parts kitschy and cool, with just enough grit to keep it interesting.
Deadwood’s hotels, especially the historic ones, often have deals under $100. Look for specials in the spring and fall, or check out B&Bs with breakfast included.
Many are right in town, so you can walk to most attractions.
In addition to touring old gold mines and watching shootout reenactments, you can also explore nearby Mount Rushmore or Spearfish Canyon.
It’s a great home base for anyone who loves a mix of natural wonders and western nostalgia.
Fredericksburg, Texas

This Texas Hill Country town is best known for wine, peaches, and German charm.
Fredericksburg’s downtown is lined with tasting rooms, boutiques, and beer gardens, all set against rolling green hills and blue skies.
It’s easy to find cozy inns or motels for less than $100 a night, especially if you travel midweek. Some places even offer wine tastings or garden patios as part of the stay.
Visitors can enjoy wine tours, hike at Enchanted Rock, and explore the National Museum of the Pacific War.
There’s also a farmer’s market, live music events, and festivals that celebrate everything from spring wildflowers to fall harvests.
Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Just across the bridge from Biloxi, Ocean Springs is a colorful coastal town full of art, seafood, and southern hospitality.
It has beautiful beaches, charming shops, and a walkable downtown that’s packed with character.
Lodging in Ocean Springs is refreshingly affordable. You can stay at small hotels, cottages, or even guesthouses for under $100 a night if you plan ahead.
Many are just blocks from the beach or downtown area.
Spend your days swimming, biking, kayaking, or exploring nearby nature preserves. There are even art walks, outdoor concerts, and some of the best po’boys in the region.
Athens, Georgia

Athens is a college town, but don’t let that fool you. It’s packed with culture, music, and food that rivals any big city.
The downtown is full of cool coffee shops, record stores, and street art, all within walking distance of each other.
Because it’s a university town, lodging can be surprisingly affordable, especially when school’s out. Many boutique hotels and budget-friendly motels come in under $100 a night, while offering unique touches and southern charm.
Athens is also famous for its live music scene. You can catch a great show just about any night of the week.
Add in botanical gardens, historic architecture, and inventive cuisine, and you’ve got an American vacation spot that punches way above its price point.
Cedar City, Utah

Known as the Gateway to the National Parks, Cedar City gives you access to Zion, Bryce Canyon, and more, without high tourist prices.
It’s also home to the Utah Shakespeare Festival and Southern Utah University, which bring in a steady stream of culture and performances.
Hotels and motels here offer a solid value, with many under $100 per night, even in summer. Plus, it’s cooler temperature-wise than the desert towns below due to its higher elevation.
Outdoor lovers can hike, bike, and take scenic drives through the canyons.
If you’re into stargazing, the nearby dark sky parks offer unbeatable nighttime views. It’s nature meets the arts, all on a budget.
Traverse City, Michigan

On the edge of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is known for cherries, wine, and water views.
In the summer, it’s buzzing with beachgoers, but spring and fall are perfect times to visit for less. Many inns, motels, and vacation rentals drop under $100 per night during the shoulder and low seasons.
Some even have lake views or access to bike paths and wineries.
There’s a historic downtown with boutiques and ice cream shops, plus outdoor markets and craft fairs. You can kayak on the bay, hike sand dunes, or explore lighthouses along the coast.
It’s a Northern escape that feels polished but still affordable.
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Harpers Ferry is where the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers meet—and where history and adventure collide. The town is tiny but packed with charm, cobblestones, and views from the Appalachian Trail.
Local inns and guesthouses often come in under $100, and many are in historic buildings with porches or fireplaces. It’s cozy and full of personality.
You can tour Civil War sites, hike through national parks, or go tubing down the river in Harpers Ferry.
There’s also shopping, snacks, and incredible photo ops everywhere you turn. It’s ideal for anyone who wants nature, history, and peace all at once.
Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Nestled in the Rockies, Glenwood Springs is best known for its giant hot springs pool. But it’s also got caves, rafting, and a charming downtown that makes it feel like an alpine getaway.
Budget-conscious travelers can find motels, lodges, or budget hotels for under $100 during shoulder and low seasons.
Some even offer discounted passes to local attractions.
Besides soaking in the springs, you can take a scenic train ride, hike up to Hanging Lake, or explore the historic Glenwood Caverns.
It’s a great mix of relaxation and adventure. And, most importantly to budget travelers, it’s easier on the wallet than Aspen just down the road.
🧳 Plan Your American Getaway for Less
Whether you’re flying to a small town or booking a family road trip across the U.S., you can find flights, hotels, and car rentals without overspending. Use our favorite travel tools below to compare deals and lock in your next budget-friendly vacation.
Save smart, sleep in style, and enjoy more of what makes your getaway great.
15 “Polite” Things Passengers Do That Flight Attendants Secretly Hate

Flight attendants love polite and considerate passengers, but sometimes good intentions turn into less-than-ideal behaviors. If you want to be seen as an all-star passenger, make sure you avoid these in-flight habits.
15 “Polite” Things Passengers Do That Flight Attendants Secretly Hate
15 “Polite” Things Passengers Do That Flight Attendants Secretly Hate

Flight attendants love polite and considerate passengers, but sometimes good intentions turn into less-than-ideal behaviors. If you want to be seen as an all-star passenger, make sure you avoid these in-flight habits.
15 “Polite” Things Passengers Do That Flight Attendants Secretly Hate
Find Your Perfect Travel Decade
Can’t decide whether your dream vacation sounds more like an old-school road trip or a glam ’70s beach escape? Take our Decade DNA Quiz and find out which classic era your personality was made for.
From 1940s adventure seekers to 1980s beach bums, there’s a decade that fits your getaway dreams.
Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)
