With holiday rates and peak seasons, winter can be expensive to travel, but visitors can still stay home. Plenty of affordable destinations in the U.S. are perfect for frugal winter getaways. From warm southern cities to cooler northern urban hubs, these ten locales offer budget-friendly accommodations, free attractions, and cheap exploration options.

Bundle up and head to these ten charming and wallet-friendly spots across America for an unforgettable winter escape without breaking the bank. Take advantage of lower off-season rates, fewer crowds, and experiential activities that cost little to no money. Visitors will find everything from renowned museums to beautiful parks and nature trails that dazzle even in the colder months. Enjoy southern warmth or frosty northern charm in these diverse destinations that all share one thing in common – easygoing and economical winter appeal.

10
Chicago, Illinois

One of the most breathtaking winter destinations in the Midwest, Chicago shines in the winter with festive holiday spirit and cold-weather attractions like ice skating on Maggie Daley Park’s ribbon. Stroll or skate through the heart of downtown for free and take self-guided walking tours of the magnificent architecture. See Cloud Gate, known as “The Bean,” in Millennium Park and immerse themselves in world-class art at the Art Institute of Chicago, which offers free admission on Thursday evenings. Experience the city’s holiday magic with light displays, Christmas markets, and more.

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9
Atlanta, Georgia

Mild winters make Atlanta a go-to southern destination. Learn about the city’s history and civil rights movement at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, including his childhood home. See the town above at the CNN Center’s studio tours and look inside the 24-hour news cycle. Downtown Centennial Olympic Park, with its Fountain of Rings, is a prime spot for events and ice skating. Quench their thirst for knowledge at the World of Coca-Cola and sample drinks worldwide.

8
Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. dazzles in the winter with festively lit monuments and free, world-class museums at the National Mall. Visitors admire the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial, with reflective pools turned icy. Pop into the Smithsonian Institution’s many museums and galleries, all free to enter, spanning art, space, and culture. Tour the U.S. Capitol Building to learn about Congress and the architecture for free or low cost. D.C.’s long winters mean fewer crowds, discounted hotel rates, and magical holiday experiences.

7
New Orleans, Louisiana

Wander the historic streets of the lively French Quarter, and the sound of jazz will warm their soul in New Orleans. Stop to people-watch and snap photos in iconic Jackson Square, admire the St. Louis Cathedral, and indulge in beignets at Cafe Du Monde. City Park offers romantic walking paths around majestic oaks, or take a free streetcar to the Garden District to admire the gorgeous antebellum architecture. Come for Mardi Gras season for parades, costumes, and celebrations.

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6
Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix boasts warm sunny days and blooming desert flora in the winter months. Check out cacti and succulents from around the world at the well-crafted Desert Botanical Garden and marvel at towering saguaro cacti. Learn about Native American art and culture at the Heard Museum. Dine al fresco and admire the artwork at the Thursday night Scottsdale ArtWalk. Take a hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran landscape at sunrise for breathtaking views. With hiking trails and spa resorts, Phoenix is a rejuvenating winter escape.

5
Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas glitters in winter with holiday decor and lower hotel rates, giving travelers many reasons to explore the city. Stroll downtown Fremont Street to catch lively music shows, zip line under the neon canopy, or step back in time at classic casinos like the Golden Nugget. See the dancing fountains at Bellagio, take in sweeping city views from The High Roller, and indulge in world-class shows, all for less-than-peak rates. For a break from the Strip, head to Red Rock Canyon for scenic hikes or tour the mighty Hoover Dam.

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4
San Diego, California

San Diego enjoys mild, sunny days in the winter months, perfect for exploring Balboa Park’s gardens, trails, and over a dozen museums. Come face to face with exotic animals at the renowned San Diego Zoo featuring giant pandas and koalas. Cruise across the bay on the ferry to Coronado Beach for a seaside getaway or head north to posh La Jolla to admire rocky bluffs and sea lions. Enjoy discounted hotel rates before peak spring break and summer crowds arrive.

3
Orlando, Florida

Orlando is a theme park dream with top draws like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios that dazzle year-round but offer shorter lines and discounted rates in the winter. Come for EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays, featuring cuisines and entertainment worldwide. Meet rescued animals up close at SeaWorld or channel their inner astronaut at Kennedy Space Center. With amusement parks dressed up for the holidays and mostly pleasant weather, winter is one of the best times for budget-friendly Orlando fun.

2
San Antonio, Texas

History comes alive in San Antonio, from the legendary Alamo battlefield to lively Mexican markets. Wander the picturesque River Walk and hop aboard a riverboat for a relaxing cruise beneath stone arch bridges. Visit Natural Bridge Caverns to explore spectacular stalactite formations on a guided tour. With a compact and walkable downtown, San Antonio offers wallet-friendly adventures, Tex-Mex cuisine, and seasonal events like tamale-making classes.

1
Miami, Florida

Iconic South Beach heats up in the winter with events, entertainment, and pleasant beach weather by day. Admire colorful Art Deco architecture on Ocean Drive and soak up the flashy vibe. Take a walking tour or stroll the boardwalk and beaches and stay for a stunning sunset. Escape the city buzz with a day trip to the peaceful Everglades National Park for airboat rides, nature trails, and wildlife spotting. With cheaper rates before snowbirds flock and spring breakers arrive, winter is the perfect time to enjoy Miami.