Travel doesn’t have to be expensive. Some of the best attractions in the United States are free, and it’s possible to find a cheap hotel while still in style. A rental car? Jump into a walking city tour.
To find the best ways to use the wallet, a group of travel experts and editors of 10Best selected their top picks in six categories of budget travel, then readers voted for their favorite over four weeks – and the results are in.
Click on each category below to see the full list of winners:
Best Budget Hotel: Red Roof
Red Roof wins for being the best budget hotel – Photo courtesy of Red Roof
Red Roof is proud to be a leader in the hotel and motel industry. Large rooms with free Wi-Fi, work desks and additional payment facilities. Their upgraded Red Roof Plus rooms feature Serta mattresses, hardwood floors and stylish bathrooms. Linens and towels make all the difference as do extra inches of flat screen TV.
Full list of winners: Best Budget Hotel »
Top Restaurant: Der Dutchman in Sarasota, Florida
Der Dutchman takes the cake when it comes to the best restaurants in the US – Photo courtesy of zoranm // Getty Images
Located in Pinecraft, an Amish community in Sarasota, Der Dutchman is a popular restaurant that offers a daily buffet that combines quantity and quality. Diners can enjoy a variety of options, including their specialty noodle dish on top of mashed potatoes.
Full list of winners: Top Restaurants »
Free Tourist Attractions: The Alamo in San Antonio, Texas
The Alamo is the nation’s largest free attraction – Photo courtesy of the Alamo Trust, Inc.
The Alamo is located in what is now known as San Antonio, Texas, the Alamo is a historic landmark that was founded by Catholic missionaries in the 18th century. a major part in the famous 1836 battle of the Alamo – and parts of the battle can still be seen on the church grounds. Timed tickets to see the church are available for free.
Full list of winners: Best Free Downloads »
World’s Best Destinations on a Budget: Poland
International travelers should visit Poland on a budget-friendly trip – Photo courtesy of the Polish Tourism Organization
Poland is an affordable destination that offers plenty of things to see and do. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the country or visit some interesting museums. A very important historical site, the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a unique and important event that is at the top of many tourists’ must-see lists. In addition, the Crooked Forest is a natural wonder, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine is a real attraction.
Full list of winners: World’s Best Places on a Budget »
Best Places in the US on a Budget: Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis, Tennessee is the top place in the US to visit on a budget – Photo courtesy of Justin Fox Burks
Located along the Mississippi River in southwest Tennessee, Memphis is a historic city perhaps best known for its music and association with legendary musicians such as BB King and Elvis Presley. Despite being a popular vacation spot, the cost of living here is lower than in most American cities. Other interesting places to visit include Graceland, the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum and the famous Sun Studio.
Full list of winners: Best Places in the US on a Budget »
Most Walkable City in the US: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has earned top honors for being the most walkable city in the US – Photo courtesy of Albert Lee of the City of Philadelphia
Philadelphia is loved for its cultural and historical attractions, and its walkability is appreciated by residents and visitors alike. The busiest parts of the city are Rittenhouse Square, Washington Square West, Fitler Square and Center City East.
Full list of winners: Most Traveled City in the US »
Congratulations to these winners! Remember to visit 10Best.com daily to vote in our Readers’ Choice contests.
