11 Best Weekend Getaways for $500 or Less
Ah, the elusive weekend getaway. A time to escape the never-ending “Mom, I’m bored” chorus and embrace a blissful 48 hours where your biggest decision is whether to nap or sip wine (or both). But let’s be real—most of us don’t have the budget to book a luxury spa weekend at some overpriced resort that Instagram keeps trying to shove down our throats. That’s where this list comes in. I’ve rounded up some fab weekend getaways that are easy on the wallet, but heavy on the fun.
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1. Asheville, North Carolina
For $500, you’ll get: fresh mountain air, an artsy downtown scene, and possibly a newfound love for craft beer. Asheville is known for its cool vibe and outdoorsy activities. Hike the Blue Ridge Mountains by day, and by night, treat yourself to some amazing food (hello, farm-to-table everything). With affordable boutique hotels and VRBOs aplenty, you can live your mountain life fantasy without sacrificing your kids’ college fund.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have kids or manage to escape them for a weekend, this is the perfect place to explore a few breweries. Because there’s nothing like a nice IPA after a 7-mile hike.
2. San Antonio, Texas
A city full of culture, history, and the chance to ride a boat through the River Walk (so fancy, right?), San Antonio is a great spot for a budget-friendly getaway. You can check out the Alamo for free (history lesson: ✅), walk the River Walk, and enjoy some killer Tex-Mex for under $10. You can easily find a decent hotel deal if you book ahead, leaving you enough cash to splurge on margaritas or a visit to SeaWorld (because nothing says “vacation” like overpriced dolphin shows, right?).
Pro Tip: Try to visit during off-peak times if you’re hoping to avoid the crowds and get better pricing.
3. Joshua Tree, California
If you need to recharge your soul (and phone battery), Joshua Tree is calling your name. Channel your inner desert goddess and stay in a quirky VRBO or a budget-friendly motel (yes, they exist). Spend your days hiking and checking out rock formations that seem like they belong in another galaxy. At night, you can gaze at the stars and remind yourself that life is bigger than just chauffeuring your kids to soccer practice.
Pro Tip: Bring your own food to avoid spending too much on dining out. Plus, what’s more fun than roasting marshmallows under the desert sky?
4. New Orleans, Louisiana
Yes, NOLA on a budget is possible! You can wander the French Quarter, soak in the live music (for free!), and eat beignets for every meal without breaking the bank. Hotels here can be shockingly affordable if you plan ahead, especially if you steer clear of peak party times like Mardi Gras. Spend a lazy afternoon people-watching in Jackson Square, take a ghost tour, or pop into a local dive for some Cajun food. There’s more to New Orleans than the Bourbon Street chaos—unless that’s your thing. In which case, carry on.
Pro Tip: Save money on breakfast by making a meal out of those beignets at Café du Monde. Powdered sugar has some nutritional value, right?
5. Nashville, Tennessee
If you love live music and are down to explore a city with a little Southern charm, Nashville’s your spot. Sure, it’s known for country music, but there’s something here for everyone. Stroll down Broadway and take in the street performances (for free!), or pop into a honky-tonk for some live tunes. You can find budget-friendly hotels if you look outside of the downtown area. And as for food? Hot chicken. Just trust me.
Pro Tip: Rent a scooter and zip around downtown for cheap. It’s way more fun than sitting in traffic, and you’ll look like you know what you’re doing. Probably.
6. Portland, Oregon
Ah, the land of food trucks and hipster vibes. Portland is perfect for a quirky, budget-friendly weekend. Stay in an affordable hotel or VRBO and spend your time exploring the city’s many parks, quirky boutiques, and, of course, the famous Powell’s City of Books. Don’t forget to grab a donut from Voodoo Doughnut—it’s practically a rite of passage. Also, take a day trip to the Columbia River Gorge for waterfall hikes that will make you feel like you’re in a fairy tale.
Pro Tip: Skip the rental car and take advantage of Portland’s great public transportation. And yes, bring a reusable bag because they WILL judge you for plastic.
7. Charleston, South Carolina
Cobblestone streets, Southern charm, and a weekend of pretending you’re in a Nicholas Sparks novel? Yes, please. Charleston offers history, beautiful architecture, and some of the best Southern food you’ll ever eat (shrimp and grits, anyone?). Take a walking tour of the city or just wander the streets and take in the old-world beauty. Plus, the beach is just a short drive away. Stay in a cute boutique hotel or a budget Airbnb.
Pro Tip: Charleston gets humid—plan your visit in the spring or fall to avoid turning into a sweaty puddle as you tour those historic homes.
8. Denver, Colorado
For a weekend of fresh mountain air and outdoor adventures, Denver is an easy pick. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or sipping craft brews in a laid-back brewery, Denver has something for everyone. You can find affordable hotels in the city, and outdoor activities like hiking or strolling through Denver Botanic Gardens won’t cost you a dime. Plus, it’s the perfect city for both foodies and fitness buffs (yes, those people actually exist).
Pro Tip: Head to Red Rocks Amphitheatre for a killer hike with a view, or even catch a concert if you’re lucky. Just bring good shoes—nobody wants to be that person slipping on the stairs.
9. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
If you’re craving mountain views and some quality time with nature (or just a break from kids yelling over Wi-Fi issues), Gatlinburg is calling your name. Nestled right at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s perfect for a budget-friendly escape. Spend your weekend hiking gorgeous trails, like Alum Cave or the Gatlinburg Trail, or take the scenic drive through Cades Cove for free. If nature isn’t your thing, Gatlinburg’s got plenty of quirky attractions, like Ripley’s Aquarium, to keep you entertained (just don’t spend your entire $500 on fudge, moonshine, and tourist traps).
Pro Tip: You can save money by staying in a cozy cabin just outside of town or camping if you’re feeling adventurous. And if you do buy fudge, consider it an investment in your happiness.
10. Georgetown, Texas
If you’re looking for a charming small town that won’t break the bank, Georgetown is your spot. Located just outside of Austin, this gem offers a laid-back vibe with picturesque downtown squares and historic buildings. You can explore the Inner Space Cavern for a unique underground adventure or take a stroll around Blue Hole Park for a relaxing day by the river. Georgetown’s restaurants and wineries are surprisingly affordable, and you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly hotels like the Sheraton and VRBO options.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Georgetown Square, where you can browse boutiques, grab a coffee, and pretend for a moment that you’re living the quiet, simple life—before reality (aka kids) comes rushing back.
11. Chickasaw Country – Oklahoma
Yes, Oklahoma. Don’t roll your eyes just yet. Chickasaw Country is one of those why didn’t I do this sooner? destinations that delivers more than you’d expect—for way less than $500. Located just south of Oklahoma City, this area is packed with natural beauty, culture, and budget-friendly activities that won’t require you to sell a kidney. You can hike at Turner Falls (home to Oklahoma’s largest waterfall), soak in the mineral-rich waters at the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, or rent a paddleboat and pretend you’re outdoorsy. There’s also cultural experiences like the Chickasaw Cultural Center—because yes, educational travel can actually be fun (especially if it involves a stomp dance demo and fry bread).
Pro Tip: Stay at a local inn or lodge, eat like royalty at small-town diners, and still have enough money left over to bribe your kids to behave in the car on the drive home.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! Ten fabulous weekend getaways for $500 or less that don’t involve camping in your backyard. Because let’s be real, if I’m spending the weekend away from home, I want a real bed and no kids waking me up at 6 a.m. Just remember, budget-friendly doesn’t have to mean boring. Happy (affordable) travels!
And no, the Maldives still isn’t on this list. Maybe next time.
