6 Cities in the US Where You Can Vacation Comfortably on $3K-$4K for 2 Weeks

Summer vacation is here! Where are you planning to go? Are you going to take a trip all by yourself to somewhere in the United States that you’ve always wanted to visit? Or are you planning to pack up the car and drive the family to an American destination that you can all enjoy?

Better question: how long are you planning to stay, and what does your budget for your trip look like?

These are all important points to ponder as you start to plan your summer vacation. The big question will be: Where can you go for solid two weeks that won’t break your bank?

GOBankingRates got in touch with some travel experts who drew up a few U.S. cities where you can vacation comfortably for two weeks for roughly $3,000 to $4,000, depending on if you are alone or with a family of four.

Here are the hot locations they recommend you visit this summer.

• Budget for Solo Traveler: $1,500 – $2,000
• Budget for Family of Four: $3,000 – $4,000

“Asheville offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences and culinary delights,” said Stephanie Webb, a travel expert and a travel guide from Tripshepard. “Solo travelers can explore the vibrant arts scene, hike in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains and indulge in farm-to-table dining without breaking the bank.”

For families, Webb highlighted that “there are plenty of affordable accommodation options, such as vacation rentals or campgrounds, and a plethora of kid-friendly activities, like visiting the Biltmore Estate, exploring the North Carolina Arboretum and splashing around in the French Broad River.”

• Budget for Solo Traveler: $1,850 – $2,000
• Budget for Family of Four: $3,700 – $5,000

San Antonio is a family-oriented city that is starting to gain a reputation for being one of the top vacation spots in America. One of the biggest reasons for this is that, when compared to other Texas cities such as Dallas, it turns out to be much more affordable.

“San Antonio is so much more than a spectacular fusion cuisine and an image of colorful umbrellas by the river,” said Mercedes Zach, a travel expert at Asaptickets, part of Trevolution Group.

According to Zach, this vacation destination is “full of history, Mexican culture, amazing food and outdoor fun, and there is plenty to do in San Antonio on a budget. Visit the popular Alamo Catholic mission, stroll along the popular River Walk, wander around the Pearl District, take a safari drive at Natural Wildlife Ranch, explore Natural Bridge Caverns or have a picnic at Brackenridge Park to get the most out of this wonderful city.”

For the family trips, Zach suggested one of the eight theme parks that San Antonio has to offer, including the world’s largest marine life park — Sea World — Six Flags Fiesta and DoSeum Children’s Museum.

If you are venturing to San Antonio solo, Zach noted that “the lively downtown is full of restaurants, shops and bars, with barges ferrying tourists up and down the river at all hours. But if you need a little break from the big city life, I suggest taking a quick day trip to Krause Springs, just about an hour and a half drive away.”

• Budget for Solo Traveler: $1,800 – $2,500
• Budget for Family of Four: $3,500 – $5,000

Known for its stunning red rock formations and spiritual energy, Sedona offers a tranquil retreat for solo travelers and families alike, according to Webb.

“Solo travelers can partake in affordable outdoor activities, like hiking, mountain biking and stargazing in the desert night sky,” Webb shared.

Webb also noted that “families can enjoy budget-friendly accommodations in cozy cabins or affordable hotels and explore attractions such as Slide Rock State Park, Chapel of the Holy Cross and Sedona’s vibrant arts and crafts scene.”

• Budget for Solo Traveler: $3,440 – $4,000
• Budget for Family of Four: $4,600 – $6,100

There is more than meets the eye when it comes to Utah’s capital city. Surrounded by skyscraping mountains, Salt Lake City is shaking off its reputation for being a buttoned up town and revamping itself as a place to come for fun, with or without your family.

“Zion, Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon or Antelope Island State Park are just some of the many must-see options around there that any adventurers will appreciate,” Zach explained. “The vibrant mountain city with a small-town vibe was home to the 2002 Winter Olympic Games and offers the free-admission Utah Olympic Park, which preserves Olympic venues and is home to two public museums.”

“Salt Lake City is a truly spectacular place that offers an effortless balance between nature and city living for those looking to plan a vacation trip around culture, natural beauty, a multicultural food scene and rich history,” she added.

Zach pointed out that Salt Lake City summers are “hot, dry and filled with exciting activities for travelers of any age. Besides, downtown is tourist-friendly and walkable, which means that you don’t need to spend a ton of money on public transportation or taxis.”

• Budget for Solo Traveler: $1,500 – $2,000
• Budget for Family of Four: $3,000 – $4,500

Portland’s laid-back vibe, thriving food scene and proximity to natural wonders make it an ideal destination for solo travelers and families looking for an eclectic urban getaway, in Webb’s professional opinion.

“Solo travelers can explore the city’s numerous parks, breweries and food carts on a budget,” explained Webb, “while families can enjoy affordable accommodations in charming neighborhoods like Northwest Portland or Southeast Portland.”

Webb highlighted attractions such as the Portland Japanese Garden, the Oregon Zoo and nearby Columbia River Gorge, concluding that “there’s something for everyone to enjoy without breaking the bank.”

• Budget for Solo Traveler: $1,800 – $2,500
• Budget for Family of Four: $3,500 – $5,000

New Orleans offers a unique blend of history, culture and cuisine that appeals to solo travelers and families alike, according to Webb.

“Solo travelers can explore the city’s historic French Quarter, enjoy live jazz music and sample Creole and Cajun cuisine on a budget,” Webb said.

“Families can find affordable accommodations in guesthouses or vacation rentals and immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural heritage,” she added.

Some top attractions to check out — whether solo or family traveling — are New Orleans’ Audubon Zoo, Mardi Gras World and steamboat cruises along the Mississippi River.