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Cheap Places to Travel During Christmas in USA: Hidden Gems That Won't Break the Bank
Let’s be honest – planning a Christmas getaway usually comes with a hefty price tag. Between sky-high flight costs, packed hotels, and tourist-trap attractions, the holiday season can feel more like a burden on your wallet than a festive escape. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to drain your savings account to experience the magic of Christmas travel across America.
I’ve spent years discovering some of the country’s best-kept holiday secrets – destinations where the Christmas spirit runs high but the prices stay surprisingly low. These places might not be the first to pop up on your Instagram feed or travel magazines, but that’s exactly what makes them special (and affordable). While everyone else fights the crowds and premium prices in New York City or Aspen, savvy travelers are discovering these hidden gems that offer all the holiday charm without the tourist-trap prices.
The key to finding cheap places to travel during Christmas in USA isn’t just about picking the right destination – it’s about knowing when and how to visit. Each place I’m about to share has its own sweet spot for timing, whether it’s booking right after Thanksgiving or waiting until that perfect window between Christmas and New Year’s. And while some travelers might turn their noses up at less famous destinations, I’ve found that these places often offer more authentic experiences and warmer welcomes than their expensive counterparts.
What makes these destinations particularly special is how they each bring their own unique flavor to the holiday season. From Southwestern luminarias to Southern hospitality, from mountain cabin coziness to historic coastal charm, these places prove that Christmas magic comes in many forms – and doesn’t need a luxury price tag to shine bright.
So pack your holiday spirit (and keep your wallet full) as we explore six destinations that prove you can have a memorable Christmas vacation without maxing out your credit cards. Whether you’re traveling solo, planning a romantic getaway, or organizing a family trip, these affordable gems offer something for everyone.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
This Smoky Mountain town is a hidden gem for cheap places to travel during Christmas in USA, especially if you split a cabin with family or friends. The Trolley Ride of Lights costs just a few bucks, and walking through the winter wonderland of downtown is completely free. Catch the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade early in December, where you can watch from any spot along the parkway without spending a dime. Many cabins offer full kitchens, so you can save money cooking instead of eating out.
The real magic of Gatlinburg during Christmas lies in its natural surroundings. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has no entrance fee, and winter hiking trails offer stunning views with fewer crowds. Look for last-minute cabin deals on sites like VRBO or Airbnb – owners often slash prices to fill empty dates. The SkyLift Park, while not free, offers an all-day pass that’s worth it for the views and the glass bridge experience. Local craft shops often offer free demonstrations, and you can spend hours watching artisans work their magic without spending anything.
Learn more about Christmas in Gatlinberg here.
Savannah, Georgia
While everyone else battles snow and ice, you could be strolling through historic squares draped in Spanish moss and holiday lights. Hotel prices in Savannah dip during December, making it one of the more affordable cheap places to travel during Christmas in USA. The weather stays mild, perfect for exploring on foot. Don’t miss the Boat Parade of Lights on the riverfront – it’s free to watch and absolutely spectacular. The Historic District’s holiday decorations feel like you’ve stepped into a Dickens novel.
Budget travelers should look into staying in the Starland District or near Forsyth Park – both areas offer cheaper accommodations while still being walkable to main attractions. The city’s hop-on-hop-off trolley tours often run holiday specials, and they’re a great way to get oriented while learning about the city’s history. Local tip: grab picnic supplies from Forsyth Park Farmers’ Market and enjoy lunch in one of the squares. Ghost tours take on a special Christmas twist in December, sharing holiday haunting tales. Many historic homes offer special evening tours by candlelight – while not free, they’re worth splurging on for the unique experience.
One of the city’s newest holiday traditions is the Plant Riverside District’s Christmas Market, which transforms the riverfront into a European-style winter wonderland. While some activities here might cost a bit, you can browse the festive stalls and soak in the atmosphere completely free. The market features local artisans selling unique gifts, and the district’s dramatic lighting displays reflect beautifully off the river. Time your visit for the early evening when they light up the giant Christmas tree – it’s a perfect photo op that doesn’t cost a dime. Street performers and carolers often add to the festive atmosphere, making it feel like a slice of Germany right in the heart of the South. If you’re looking to save money but still want to enjoy the market, pack a thermos of hot chocolate and skip the vendor prices.
Learn more about Christmas in Savannah here.
San Antonio, Texas
Think mild winters (perfect for walking around), stunning holiday lights along the River Walk, and hotel rates that drop right after the busy Thanksgiving rush. The whole city transforms during December, with the Pearl District hosting free holiday markets and live music. Pro tip: catch the Ford Holiday River Parade if you’re there right after Thanksgiving – it’s a one-time fee for hours of entertainment. Mexican holiday traditions add a unique flavor to the celebrations, especially with tamale festivals popping up throughout December.
What makes San Antonio particularly budget-friendly is the abundance of free attractions. The historic missions, including the Alamo, are free to visit and often feature special holiday programming. Local food trucks offer affordable alternatives to restaurants, and you can sample amazing tacos and tamales without spending much. Consider staying in areas like Alamo Heights or the Medical Center, where hotels tend to be cheaper than downtown but still offer easy access to attractions. The San Fernando Cathedral’s free light show, “The Saga,” runs year-round but feels especially magical during the holiday season.
Learn more about Christmas in San Antonio here.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Here’s a surprising budget-friendly Christmas destination that often flies under the radar. While nearby ski resorts command premium prices, Salt Lake City itself offers incredible winter value. Downtown hotels drop their rates during December (except during key holiday weekends), and the city’s light rail system makes it easy to explore without renting a car. The crown jewel of holiday celebrations is Temple Square’s spectacular light display – completely free and featuring over a million LED lights that transform the 35 acres into a winter wonderland.
The city really shines with its mix of free or low-cost holiday activities. Every December, the Grand America Hotel puts on an elaborate holiday window display that rivals anything you’d see in New York City, but without the Big Apple prices. Think enchanted forests, mechanical toys, and whimsical scenes that change annually. The nearby Gateway shopping district hosts free concerts and holiday events throughout the season, plus you can warm up in their heated walkways while window shopping.
What makes Salt Lake City particularly budget-friendly during Christmas is its proximity to natural winter beauty. You can take the UTA ski bus to Brighton or Solitude for a fraction of what you’d spend at fancier resorts, or simply drive up Big Cottonwood Canyon for free winter hiking and snowshoeing trails. Local tip: check out the Natural History Museum of Utah on their free admission days – the view of the snow-covered valley from their observation deck is stunning. The City Creek Center’s retractable roof and heated sidewalks make outdoor shopping comfortable even in December, and their Olympic-size fountain shows are choreographed to holiday music. Don’t miss the Christmas markets at This Is The Place Heritage Park, where you can experience a unique blend of pioneer history and holiday traditions.
Learn more about Christmas in Salt Lake City here.
St. Augustine, Florida
America’s oldest city knows how to do Christmas on a budget. The Nights of Lights festival transforms the historic district into a glittering wonderland with over three million lights – and viewing them is completely free. December temperatures hover in the 60s, perfect for walking tours and beach strolls. Many hotels offer lower rates compared to their peak season, and you can find great deals on historic inns if you book in advance. The city’s holiday events, like the Christmas parade and light-up night, don’t cost a penny to enjoy.
To really maximize your budget in St. Augustine, consider staying on Anastasia Island – it’s just across the bridge from downtown and typically offers cheaper accommodations. The free shuttle during Nights of Lights helps you avoid parking fees. History buffs will love the free guided tours of Flagler College (a former luxury hotel) that run even during the holidays. Street performers and musicians add to the festive atmosphere along St. George Street, creating free entertainment as you explore. Local restaurants often offer early bird specials, and the St. Augustine Amphitheatre’s Winter Wonderland provides affordable family fun with ice skating and holiday movies.
Learn more about Christmas in St. Augustine here.
These cheap places to travel during Christmas in USA becomes even more affordable if you can be flexible with your dates. Sometimes shifting your travel by just a day or two can make a huge difference in flight and hotel prices. Each of these destinations offers their own unique take on holiday magic, proving you don’t need to spend a fortune to create amazing Christmas memories. Pro tip: sign up for local tourism board newsletters a few months before your trip – they often share exclusive deals and events that can help you save even more.
