For the individual traveling on a dime, the south is full of fun, history and beautiful scenery. No place in America has as much to give as the southern states do, and below are the best towns, full of southern hospitality, to visit on a budget.
5. Bardstown, KY– The official “Bourbon Capital of the World.” Couples or individuals looking for romance and history can enjoy a truly historic vacation in Bardstown. Take a day to explore the Bourbon Heritage center, open 10am-5pm; see how bourbon is made, this history of the classic liquor, and get delicious complimentary tastings, all for free! Or visit the Abbey of Gethsemani, a still functioning home for Trappist monks, and a spiritual destination for people all over the world. And while you’re in Bardstown don’t forget to visit the Basilica of St. Joseph, the first catholic cathedral west of the Allegheny Mountains, and the Civil War Museum, Kentucky’s largest collection of Civil War memorabilia.
4. Atlanta, GA– Home of the 1996 Olympic Games, Atlanta also houses the largest Olympic ring fountain in the world, and an Olympic Centennial Park that hosts free concerts, festivals, and family entertainment year round. While you’re there, visit the Georgia Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the world. General admissions start at just $26 for adults and $19 for children, with endless combo packs offered. Take a quick tour of Turner field, home of the Atlanta Braves, or if you visit anytime April-September, stay for a game. Atlanta has one of the most exciting night lives in the U.S., and offers endless family fun for cheap.
3. New Orleans, LA– The largest city in Louisiana boasts not only a rich heritage but also a notorious and thriving nightlife. New Orleans was voted friendliest city 2 years in a row by American tourists, and was voted the best weekend getaway for young couples. The National World War 2 museum opened in 2000, and nearby Confederate Memorial Hall currently holds the second largest collection of Confederate memorabilia in the world. Families or couples wanting to catch an unforgettable and free celebration should visit New Orleans on the last Tuesday before Lent to see the annual Carnival and all the music and festivities that are included. New Orleans hosts an unrivaled history. Once the location of the largest slave port in America, there are numerous free slavery museums open free to the public.
2. Williamsburg, VA– Williamsburg is one of the most exciting towns In the U.S., now has an exciting new partnership with Jamestown, the first American settlement, meaning twice the fun! Visit Williamsburg’s massive 301 acre historic site, which includes over 80 original 18th century buildings, and daily reenactments of everyday life in the 1770’s. While you’re there, talk to the blacksmith, play with the rare breed horses on the horse farms, and visit the numerous museums, many of which are free. Basic one day packages start at just $36 for adults and $18 for kids. Numerous discounted vacation packages are also offered online at http://www.history.org/visit/hotels/vacationpackages/ . Williamsburg is so full of history and culture, that it is the ideal place to vacation on a budget.
1. Washington DC– The number one place in America to visit on a budget is without a doubt Washington DC. There are so many free and nearly free things to do while on vacation in DC that they can’t all be named on one list. Here are some of the highlights though! Explore the beautiful0 National Cathederal, then take a Gargoyle Tour (April through October, $10/adult, $5/child, or $30/family), or visit the National Museum of American History. Visit the stunning Lincoln memorial and the Reflecting Pool at the WWII Memorial, and of course take a stroll past the Whitehouse, home of the president of the United States. Truly amazing packages are available at http://washington.org/visiting/browse-dc/package-deals . Plan your next trip for Washington DC, the perfect vacation for the couple or family not wishing to spend a lot of money.
Works Cited
http://www.visitbardstown.com/tourism/
http://www.atlanta.net/50fun/
http://www.georgiaaquarium.org/http://washington.org/visiting/browse-dc/attractions/100-free-things-to-do
