Florida Joins Texas, North Carolina, Tennessee, Kansas, and Arizona to Become Fall Destinations Across US if You are Tight on Budget: What You Need to Know

Published on October 25, 2025

Traveling on a budget this fall? Consider visiting Brownsville, Texas, known for its affordable accommodations and scenic coastal views. Fort Lauderdale, Florida offers uncrowded beaches, free cultural events, and a vibrant dining scene, all at a low cost. In Asheville, North Carolina, explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, enjoy free outdoor activities, and savor local brewery fare on a budget. Chattanooga, Tennessee combines affordable attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium with stunning outdoor adventures. Wichita, Kansas offers free public events, the Wichita Art Museum, and cheap dining options. McAllen, Texas is home to affordable food, cultural sites, and outdoor beauty, making it a great low-cost getaway. For budget accommodations, look for budget hotel chains like Motel 6 or Airbnb. For meals, enjoy food trucks and cafes. Many cities offer free festivals, outdoor parks, and public transportation, helping keep your costs down while offering a fantastic travel experience.

1. Brownsville, Texas

Brownsville is one of the most affordable U.S. destinations for travelers. Located in the southern tip of Texas near the Mexican border, this city offers a combination of low-cost accommodations and rich culture. The average cost for a three-night stay for two in Brownsville is around $1,336, making it an attractive option for budget travelers.

• Highlights: Brownsville is known for its historic downtown, Gladys Porter Zoo, and beautiful coastal scenery. The area’s rich history offers a glimpse into the past, and the proximity to the Gulf of Mexico means plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
• Budget Tips: Affordable local eateries and public transportation help keep your expenses down. Look for free walking tours and enjoy the scenic beaches without the crowds.

2. Fort Lauderdale, Florida

While Florida is often associated with expensive vacations, Fort Lauderdale is surprisingly affordable. In fact, the average combined cost for flights and hotels here is just around $367, making it one of the most affordable destinations in the state.

• Highlights: Fort Lauderdale boasts uncrowded beaches, a vibrant dining scene, and free cultural events like the Riverwalk Fall Festival. You can stroll along the beachfront promenades, visit the Las Olas Boulevard, and experience the vibrant nightlife without breaking your budget.
• Budget Tips: Take advantage of free events and enjoy the beach activities that cost nothing. Dining in local cafes and food trucks will help you savor delicious meals on a budget.

3. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is known for its stunning fall foliage, making it the perfect destination if you’re looking for budget-friendly fall travel. Asheville was recently ranked as the most affordable destination for fall foliage, with average airfare to the city hovering around $170. This picturesque town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains offers an array of outdoor activities at little to no cost.

• Highlights: Hiking the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the best ways to experience Asheville’s natural beauty, and it’s completely free. For a taste of local culture, visit the Biltmore Estate, or explore the numerous local breweries that Asheville is famous for.
• Budget Tips: Many outdoor activities are free, including hiking, mountain biking, and visiting the National Forests nearby. Asheville also offers great farm-to-table dining at reasonable prices. Look for happy hour specials and food trucks to save on meals.

4. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga, Tennessee is a hidden gem for budget-conscious travelers. Known for its friendly vibe and affordable cost of living, this city offers a mix of cultural attractions and stunning natural scenery. From museums to hiking trails, there’s no shortage of things to do without spending a fortune.

• Highlights: Visit the Tennessee Aquarium, walk across the Walnut Street Bridge, or explore the North Shore district. Chattanooga is also famous for its outdoor activities, such as kayaking on the Tennessee River and hiking in the Lookout Mountain area.
• Budget Tips: Many museums offer free admission days, and outdoor attractions like parks and hiking trails are accessible at no cost. Dining at local diners and cafes is affordable, and there’s a great variety of options to satisfy any palate.

5. Wichita, Kansas

Wichita offers a great mix of culture, outdoor recreation, and budget-friendly accommodations. As one of the most affordable cities in the Midwest, Wichita’s cost of living is lower than many other U.S. cities, making it an excellent choice for those looking to stretch their travel budget.

• Highlights: The Wichita Art Museum is a great stop for art lovers, and the Sedgwick County Zoo is perfect for families. If you’re a film buff, be sure to attend the Tallgrass Film Festival held in the fall.
• Budget Tips: Wichita has numerous free public events and low-cost attractions. Take advantage of the city’s extensive public parks and bike trails to explore the area on foot or by bike.

6. McAllen, Texas

Another fantastic city in the Rio Grande Valley, McAllen is known for its affordable accommodations and cheap local food. A three-night stay here averages around $1,405, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to explore the Southern U.S.

• Highlights: McAllen is home to the International Museum of Art & Science, the historic Quinta Mazatlán, and a great local food scene that features Tex-Mex dishes. The city’s cultural and historic sites are perfect for those looking to enjoy a rich experience at little to no cost.
• Budget Tips: McAllen is full of budget-friendly dining options, including street food and food trucks. You can also enjoy the outdoor scenery at local parks and along the Rio Grande River for no charge.

Tips for Saving on Your Fall Travel

1. Accommodation: Consider staying in budget hotel chains such as Motel 6 or America’s Best Value Inn for affordable lodging. Alternatively, check out Airbnb for local experiences at a fraction of the cost of traditional hotels.
2. Dining: Seek out local food trucks, diner-style restaurants, and cafes for affordable and delicious meals. In many cities, there are happy hour specials that offer great food at discounted prices.
3. Activities: Many cities offer free festivals, museums with free admission days, and a variety of outdoor activities that cost nothing. Plan your visit around these events to maximize your savings.
4. Transportation: Instead of renting a car, use public transportation or rent a bike to explore the city. Many cities also offer walking tours that are free or inexpensive.