15 Budget Friendly Spring Vacation Destinations

Spring is one of the best times to take a vacation. Unlike the peak summer season, planning a getaway during this less hectic time of the year means cheaper flights, cheaper hotels, attractive cooler weather, along with fewer crowds.

Plus, many summer and winter hotspots often offer their best deals of the year at this time. I’ve scored so many deals by traveling at this time especially at ski resorts. Listed below are a few of my budget friendly recommendations. All of these beautiful areas in my guide offer affordable lodging, plenty of free activities, and endless outdoor recreational opportunities.

1. Boise, Idaho

Idaho’s Capital city, Boise, is a great little vacation destination, often overlooked in favor of more popular Western mountain towns. It’s one of the most affordable cities, both for residents and visitors alike. In addition to super cheap hotel rates (spring rates can easily be found in the $60-70 range), the climate is great most of the year for all different recreational activities. I took many roadtrips here while living in Idaho Falls. It was a 4 hour drive, but so worth it.

In addition to the numerous activities you will find around town (a beautiful paved riverfront recreational path, museums, hiking trails, and various parks), Boise is conveniently located within a day’s drive to many exciting places including Yellowstone, Shoshone Falls, Mesa Falls, Sun Valley, Craters of the Moon National Park, and much more!

Budget friendly fun in the area

The Boise Greenbelt – Boise’s amazing paved path along the river is one of my favorite biking trail. It’s pretty lengthy at 25 miles and follows a beautiful tree-lined course around the river. The path is peaceful with gorgeous changing scenery throughout the year. Biking is the best way to explore the path, although you will notice joggers and walkers also enjoying the beautiful spring weather.

Because the path is flat and extremely scenic, you can keep going on without tiring at all. Great city attractions like the Boise Zoo, the Anne Frank Memorial, and Julia Davis Park can easily be accessed via the path (just park your bike and take a quick break!).

*Hiking in the Boise Foothills – It would be hard to visit Idaho and sit in your hotel all day. The scenery is too beautiful and the spring weather is just perfect for exploring the natural landscapes surrounding the city. You will find a variety of trails for all different ability levels, all with great views. There are more than 130+ miles of hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails. Visit the Ridge to Rivers website for a map of all trails.

*Zoo Boise- Boise’s zoo is not the biggest nor best, however, it is clean, very walkable, and well-maintained, not to mention affordable. Strolling the zoo is a great way to spend a few hours getting in a little fresh air, without filling up your entire itinerary or wearing you down. I like how you can hop off the greenbelt and explore.

*Seeing a play at Knock Em’ Dead Dinner Theater- It’s not a Broadway affair, however, a trip to the city’s unique dinner theater makes for an affordable night out.

More fun on a budget

Other budget friendly activities include a visit to the beautiful Boise Botanical Gardens ($14 per person), strolling around the shops and restaurants downtown, visiting the State Capitol Building, a quick stroll around the Boise Art Museum ($9 per person), and spending the day at any of the beautiful parks found throughout the city.

Easy day trips include a visit to beautiful Shoshone Falls “The Niagara of the West” ($5 per car), hiking and scenic drives at Craters of the Moon ($20 per car), and enjoying all sorts of recreation in Sun Valley (a 2.5 hour drive from Boise).

2. Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Surprisingly, a vacation to the Smoky Mountains, one of America’s most visited and beautiful parks, won’t cost you an arm and leg. Unlike many other overpriced tourist destinations, there is a mix of upscale and budget-friendly lodging, dining, and attraction choices. The beautiful Smokies regions, which lies on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, is home to a plethora of luxury cabin rental companies, many of which offer very affordable rates (especially during the off season).

Many cabin rental companies offer affordable rates outside of prime summer and holiday seasons. Additionally, because you have so much space available, you can easily split the cost of a rental with family and friends. Timber Tops is one fantastic option in the area.

Cabins range from 1-15 bedrooms with both cheap and upscale options available, including a range of luxury amenities like hot tubs, cozy fireplaces, secluded mountain views, pool tables, and much more! I love relaxing in a cozy hot tub while taking in the mountain scenery!

In addition to an impressive array of budget-friendly cabin rentals, you will be able to take advantage of free admission to one of America’s most gorgeous parks, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are many beautiful hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives to enjoy. You can check out my easy waterfall hikes guides for starters. Update: Parking is now $5.

 Budget Friendly Fun in the area

*Visiting the Great Smoky Mountain National Park – There is plenty of fun to be had in the Smokies, from hiking, biking, waterfall viewing, scenic drives, wildlife watching, and much more!

The park is home to one of the largest concentrations of black bears in the country with approximately 1500 bears calling the land home. If you are lucky you may even see a bear from your cabin rental.

I saw my first bear while hiking for the first time in the park which is quite crazy. We saw this bear and her cubs while hiking Laurel Falls. Be sure to read up on what to do in the case of bear encounters. Always carry bear spray and keep a close distance from any wildlife when out on the trails.

*Taking in the gorgeous views via a scenic chairlift or aerial tram rides – There is more than 1 way to take in the tremendous scenery of the area (outside from hiking and other recreational activities): scenic chairlift rides and aerial tram rides. Both of these affordable options offer a fun way to take in the beautiful scenery without much effort required. There is a new attraction called Skybridge where you take a chairlift ride and then walk across the highest pedestrian bridge to a pretty awesome viewpoint.

*Attending special yearly Events – No matter what time of year you plan your visit, you are sure to find an interesting lineup of activities including the Winter Trolley of Lights, The Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade, and the Taste of Autumn. Check the Gatlinburg website for a full lineup of events.

3. Camden, Maine

Coastal Maine is one of the most gorgeous places in the world. In the quaint coastal town of Camden, you will find no shortage of gorgeous natural scenery, from beautiful rolling green hills to picturesque views of the harbor. Camden, a picture perfect New England town, is aptly nicknamed “where the mountains meet the sea.”

Spring and winter are considered the off season, and thus, lodging tends to be much cheaper. Quiet cottages and inns can be reserved in the lower $100 price range. Oftentimes you can find specials deals on Groupon or Living Social as well. The area is charming, quiet, and historic – everything you would want in a peaceful spring vacation. I took many trips to this beautiful city during my time living on a nearby island called Islesboro.

Budget Friendly Fun in the area

*Exploring the many beautiful hiking trails at Camden Hills State Park – One of coastal Maine’s natural treasures, Camden Hills offers outdoor enthusiasts a beautiful place to hike, take photos, and simply enjoy being out in nature.

Miles and miles of trails with varying scenery and terrain can be found throughout the park, from an invigorating climb up Mt. Battie where 360 degrees view of the bay await you, to a relaxing stroll through blueberry fields. Admission is just $5 per car or free for residents. Read more about my experience hiking at this beautiful state park – I highly recommend the short but steep trek up Mt. Battie.

*Strolling around historic downtown –The quaint, historic waterfront downtown region is a fantastic place for a leisurely stroll. Grab a relaxing lunch at Camden Deli while you soak in great views of the harbor (their sandwiches are amazing). You will also find many unique independent shops and galleries.

Other budget friendly vacation ideas in the region include a day trip to Acadia National Park, about an hour and a half drive, although well worth it for what is considered one of the best parks in America. In addition to offering plentiful hiking and wildlife watching opportunities, the park is one of the best places in the state for finding seaglass.

Exploring other small coastal towns like Belfast, Lincolnville, and Rockland are other options for fun during your Mid Coast Maine vacation.

4. Amelia Island, Florida

Although most Florida towns are ridiculously overpriced year-round, there are a few budget-friendly choices for those looking for a more low-key vacation. Amelia Island, located near the Georgia border, is the perfect budget choice for beach lovers.

Beachfront hotels are affordable, especially during the spring and winter months. The area offers a multitude of free activities to enjoy during your vacation including beaches, state parks, and self guided history tours. Watching a beautiful sunrise, collecting colorful seashells, hiking local trails, and exploring local shops should keep you more than busy.

One of my favorite quiet destinations is Amelia Island which was a really nice change of pace from the Gulf crowds while I was living in Tampa. You can find everything from affordable local inns to pricey 4 star chains like the Four Seasons. Sometimes the best choice is to go local where you will benefit both in terms of reduced rates and friendlier service. What I love about this area are the many opportunities for budget fun in a quiet setting.

 Budget friendly fun in the area

*Collecting seashells – Amelia Island is one of the premier beach-combing destinations in Florida. On any given beach, you will find assortments of shells in every shade imaginable. You could easily spend hours walking the peaceful shores searching for these beautiful treasures: the perfect free souvenir! Ft. Clinch State Park beaches are loaded with gorgeous shells. If you are lucky you may even come across a shark tooth! Here is a sample of just a few of the shells I collected during your visit.

*Watching a gorgeous sunrise – Get up early for sunrise and you may also get the opportunity to see dolphins swimming across the horizon. The views are incredible and the beaches are never overcrowded like many Florida destinations. There are 13 miles of beautiful Atlantic Coast beaches to enjoy during your visit. Here are a few pics I took during sunset; it’s one of the most gorgeous

*Enjoying local shops and restaurants in historic downtown Fernandina Beach – Fernandina Beach is one of the 2 communities found on this barrier island. Fernandina Beach is home to one of the most beautiful downtowns in Florida, a gorgeous area lined with trees and charming Victorian era architecture.

Here you will find an abundance of interesting shops to browse around, local dining establishments, Florida’s oldest saloon, and horse drawn carriage rides. I love historical Main Streets where I can support local businesses as opposed to chains. I love the old style Victorian architecture and surrounding tropical landscaping.

*Spending the day exploring Fort Clinch State Park – This large state park offers a bit of everything: hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, beaches, wildlife viewing opportunities and access to historic Ft. Clinch. Self guided tours of the 19th century fort are available for just a few bucks. Military reenactments take place once per month, so if you are lucky enough to visit at the right time you will have some extra entertainment.

Other must-dos while visiting Ft Clinch include biking or driving the gorgeous 3 mile path (lined with pretty Southern moss and oak trees), collecting seashells at the pristine beaches, and hiking the trails (alligators and deer are frequently seen). Admission to the park is just $6 – well worth it for the beautiful beaches, great history lesson, wildlife loaded park trails, and peaceful tree-lined roads.

Day trips from Amelia Island include the short drive over to Jacksonville (45 minutes), St. Augustine (1.5 hours), and St. Mary’s, Georgia (40 min). In Jacksonville, you have lots of parks, beaches, the Jacksonville Zoo, museums, and gardens. St. Augustine, which was established back in 1565, is the oldest city in the country. Here you will find amazing historical Spanish architecture, beaches and state parks, historic shopping and dining areas, and The legendary Fountain of Youth. St. Mary’s, Georgia is known as “The Gateway to Cumberland Island.” Georgia’s largest barrier island is known for it’s pristine beaches and great state parks.

5. Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is one of the most affordable beach destinations on the East coast. A diverse selection of budget friendly hotels, plenty of free natural attractions, and an abundance of parks make it a great inexpensive beach choice for outdoor loving families and couples.

Early Spring (excluding spring break) is a great time to visit and take advantage of lower hotel rates and less crowded beaches and attractions. We easily found a hotel right on the boardwalk for not much more than 100 bucks.

Budget friendly fun in the area

*Taking a bike ride, jog, or walk along the beachfront boardwalk – Virginia Beach is home to one of the cleanest, most well-maintained, and scenic beach boardwalks you will find in the country. The course is only 3.5 miles, which is great for leisurely vacation exercise when you want to keep your fitness routine without overdoing it.

Here you will have just enough of a workout to get your heart rate going, with the added benefit of taking in spectacular views. As an added bonus, the path is separated into a biking and walking path, so cyclists do not get into walker’s/runner’s way and vice versa. I really loved the scenery and flat terrain of this path. And the path is lit up at night for increased safety and visibility.

Enjoying the beaches – You will find miles and miles of clean, wide, sandy beaches for your enjoyment. There is plenty of space for everyone to spread out even during the busy summer season. Summer brings outdoor concerts and festivals while early springs brings virtually no crowds and cooler temps, so you can enjoy the space all to yourself. Best part of all -there are no fees at any of the beaches!

*Enjoying the peace & quiet at a national park or wildlife refuge – The city is home to a number of great parks and wildlife refuges. Check out the hiking trails at First Landing State Park or the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Both are great places for exploring natural habitats and wildlife in the area.

Other budget friendly activities include visiting The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, exploring the Old Coast Guard Museum, and climbing to the top of Cape Henry Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Atlantic coast.