It's amazing how expensive a long weekend getaway can get. Families need options for affordable weekend trips that don't break the bank. This article helps you plan your next weekend getaway using an affordable, comfortable RV.
Skip the expensive vacation rentals and costly activities with an RV. Drive right up to natural wonders, hop to a nearby city, and save money. Read on to find the top 10 getaways for RV travel and the tips you need to make your next trip affordable.
10 Top Cheap Weekend Getaway
1. Key West
Key West is a one-of-a-kind destination. It's got beach vibes and endless opportunities for fun. Families spend their days exploring historic gems like the Hemingway House or President Truman's Little White House, then hop between live music spots along Duval Street. Don't miss a stop at the iconic Southernmost Point or the sunset celebration at Mallory Square—your little ones will especially love the street performers.
RV Bonus: Taking an RV to Key West means you can enjoy waterfront camping, sunset views from your site, and flexible access to the Keys' many hidden gems.
2. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas has more than just casinos. It's a playground of lights, art, and entertainment. From the dazzling Bellagio fountains to street performers on Fremont Street and the nearby Seven Magic Mountains, there's plenty to enjoy without spending a dime.
If the budget allows, splurge on a show (think Cirque du Soleil or something kids of all ages will enjoy) or a day trip to the Grand Canyon, a truly natural beauty of the world. RV travel gives you the freedom to stay just outside the Strip for less while still enjoying all the action with easy day access.
3. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is one of those awe-inspiring natural landmarks that every family should see at least once, and it doesn't have to strain your budget. Viewing the thundering falls from the observation decks is free, while boat tours like the Maid of the Mist offer affordable, unforgettable up-close experiences. The surrounding area is rich with scenic hikes, wildlife spotting in state parks, and even family-friendly wine tastings along the Niagara Wine Trail, so the road trip is full of fun activities. Niagara Falls State Park also has kid-friendly programs and scenic picnic areas.
RV Bonus: Several nearby RV parks offer riverside spots or wooded seclusion just minutes from the falls, giving families the flexibility to cook meals and enjoy campfire evenings while skipping the cost of hotels. Who needs a free breakfast hotel when they have open-fire cooking right outside?
4. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is rich in history, and families don't need a big budget to enjoy everything it has to offer. Visitors can explore the historic French Quarter filled with street performers, enjoy hot beignets and chicory coffee at Café du Monde, and admire the stately homes of the Garden District.
Live jazz spills into the streets in the evenings, creating a festive, free soundtrack for wandering. Affordable eats like po'boy sandwiches and bustling spots like Frenchmen Street add flavor and rhythm to the experience.
RV Bonus: RV parks on the city's edge offer convenient access to downtown while giving you a quiet, comfortable space to return to each night. Many campgrounds include shuttle services, full kitchens, and scenic spots to relax after a day of adventure, so RV travel one of the most flexible and affordable ways to experience the magic of New Orleans.
5. Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Eureka Springs feels like stepping into a storybook. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, it's known for its preserved Victorian architecture, artsy downtown, and peaceful natural setting. The Ozarks are ideal for RV travel. The full-hookup sites have scenic views, starry skies, and affordable lodging just minutes from the heart of town.
When you get into the city, stroll past gingerbread-trimmed houses and soak in the area's natural springs. Outdoor lovers will appreciate nearby hiking trails, mountain biking, and fishing spots. Local events and parades make this small town big on personality year-round.
6. San Francisco, California
San Francisco is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of city. Families can ride a cable car up steep hills, sample sourdough at Fisherman's Wharf, or tour Alcatraz Island. Nature lovers will find tranquility at the Presidio or among the towering redwoods in nearby Muir Woods. For something extra, take a short drive to Napa or Sonoma for wine country views (even kid-friendly vineyards exist!).
Look for RV parks near Marin County or Pacifica. They have ocean views and easy access to public transit, letting you explore without paying San Francisco hotel prices (which are exorbitant).
7. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is a mesmerizing destination where you can hike or bike through stunning landscapes like Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock and take a jeep tour to discover the more remote and rugged scenery. Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross for panoramic views and spend a quiet morning soaking in the scenery at the Church of the Red Rocks.
Downtown Sedona is lined with crystal shops, galleries, and cozy cafes to round out your stay. With numerous RV campgrounds surrounded by Sedona's iconic red rocks, you'll wake up to sunrise views and end your days with peaceful desert skies. This city is more geared toward families with older children (think more outdoor activities and less amusement parks).
8. New York City, New York
There's no place like New York City for an action-packed family getaway. You could spend a whole day exploring Central Park (free), walking the High Line (free), or visiting the Met (suggested donation for entry). Enjoy budget eats from Chinatown dumplings to classic slices at Joe's Pizza in Greenwich Village. Ride the subway to Brooklyn for skyline views on the bridge and food truck eats at Smorgasburg. There's something for every age and interest.
RV Bonus: While you won't camp in Manhattan, RV parks in New Jersey or Long Island offer affordable, quiet accommodations with public transit access, making it easy to explore the city while saving on lodging costs.
9. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is for those craving Southern charm, historic beauty, and unforgettable comfort food. With cobblestone streets and sweeping views of the harbor, this coastal city invites families to slow down and soak it all in. Charleston's vibrant culinary scene makes it a food lover's paradise, and the Marion Square farmers market on Saturdays adds a delightful local touch.
RV Bonus: RV travelers can stay just outside downtown Charleston, enjoying peaceful campgrounds with easy access to the city.
10. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago offers big-city excitement in a more approachable, laid-back package. Plus, RV parks located just outside the city give travelers an affordable home base with easy train or bus access to downtown. The Windy City comes alive in summer, with lakefront trails and restaurant patios in full swing. Early fall is equally appealing, with crisp air and thinner crowds.
Catch live music or a Broadway show, stroll through Millennium Park, and, of course, snap a photo at Cloud Gate, known fondly as "The Bean." From shopping on the Magnificent Mile to taking in the skyline on an architecture river cruise, Chicago packs in urban adventure without overwhelming young families.
Best Deals, Tips, and How-To's for Affordable Travel
Taking a weekend getaway doesn't have to mean blowing your budget. With a little planning and creativity, it's entirely possible to enjoy an unforgettable trip without spending a fortune.
1. Travel During the Off-Season
One of the easiest ways to score cheap hotel rates and quieter experiences is to travel during the off-season. A quick Google search of your destination plus "off-season" will reveal the best times to go when prices dip and crowds thin. You'll often get better access to restaurants and tours.
2. Explore National and State Parks
Nature is often the most affordable (and memorable) attraction. National and state parks offer natural beauty, hiking, wildlife watching, and even educational activities—many at little to no cost. Pack a picnic, bring plenty of water, and spend the day soaking in fresh air instead of overpriced attractions.
3. Take Advantage of Free Local Experiences
Every city has free gems. Think: live music in the park, outdoor festivals, art walks, farmers markets, and scenic strolls. A quick search for "free things to do in [destination]" will bring up local favorites. Sometimes, getting lost on foot is the best (and cheapest) way to experience a new place.
4. Plan Ahead to Prioritize Your Budget
It pays (literally) to go in with a plan. Know what activities or meals you want to splurge on, and balance those with free or low-cost options on other days. For museum lovers, consider city museum passes. For nature lovers, research the best trails and free outdoor sites in advance.
5. Be Smart About Where You Eat
Avoid tourist traps by doing a little restaurant research beforehand. Instagram, local food blogs, and asking locals (especially baristas and rideshare drivers) can lead you to hidden gems that are both delicious and affordable. Food trucks, farmers markets, and bodegas are often more memorable than fancy sit-down meals—and far cheaper.
Happy hours are an ideal way to enjoy upscale spots on a budget. Many offer discounted drinks and small plates that can double as a full meal. It's a great way to taste your way through a city without racking up a huge bill. Alternatively, packing groceries and cooking in your RV is an excellent way to save.
6. Use Public Transportation
If the city is known for reliable transit—like New York, San Francisco, Washington D.C., or Chicago—use it! Subways, buses, or even rental bikes can save you serious cash compared to rideshares. And if your destination is walkable, skip the transportation altogether and explore on foot. Just don't forget the strollers for your little ones.
Best Cheap Weekend Trips with Cruise America
Cruise America RV rentals offer a smart, affordable way to elevate your weekend getaway. Combine your transportation and lodging into one cozy, mobile unit to save on hotel costs and flights. An RV makes the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.
With Cruise America, budget-friendly travel doesn't mean sacrificing comfort—it means making unforgettable memories on your own terms. Rent an RV for your next weekend getaway to a national park, big city, or coastal town.
