Need a budget-friendly vacay from LA? Here are some cheap destinations just in time for winter break:
Los Angeles is a great travel spot, but as a resident, it can be pretty expensive to get away for a long weekend or that week of PTO.
Thankfully, there are several fun destinations that still have cheap airfare with direct flights out of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). From San Francisco to Salt Lake, Denver to Dallas – here are ten cool destinations according to The Travel that won’t break the bank. (Pro tip: Check Google Flights for when to book the cheapest flights to all of these great destinations).
Chicago, IL / Although farther away, flights to Chicago are still affordable at around $170 roundtrip. There’s no shortage of things to see here – like 360 views from the Willis Tower Skydeck or the top of the Hancock. Take an architecture tour boat down the famous Chicago River or stroll down the riverwalk, and don’t miss free admission to the Art Institute on Thursday nights. The must-see “Bean” is in Millennium Park, very walkable from the shops on Magnificent Mile. The Windy City has every cuisine and price point on earth – from their famous pizza and Italian Beef to high-end bistros.
Dallas, TX / Hey y’all! Visit budget-friendly Dallas for some southern hospitality, great food and lots of fun. Fly there for under $120 roundtrip and see why they say “Everything’s bigger in Texas”. Take in the museums and the BBQ, then enjoy big skyline views from Reunion Tower, then enjoy live music and amazing restaurants in Deep Ellum. If it’s history and culture you love, it’s free to explore and learn about Dealey Plaza where JFK was assassinated and visit the AT&T Stadium – home of the Dallas Cowboys. Hop on over to Fort Worth for a true Texas adventure in the Stockyards, where you can see a live cattle drive.
Denver, CO / The Mile High city and surrounding areas are perfect for adventure-lovers and foodies alike – and you can get there via roundtrip flight for about $100! Without leaving Denver, you can bike 85 miles of urban trails (yes, they rent bikes), visit the Colorado State Capitol, or take in the beautiful Denver Botanic Garden. Discover all the gems outside the city, too – like the Coors Brewery in Golden and Garden of the Gods down in Colorado Springs. Plus, quaint mountain towns like Breckenridge and Silverado are a short drive on I-70 into the front range of the Rockies.
Salt Lake City, Utah / For a budget-friendly experience with natural beauty to boot, get away to Salt Lake City for around $100 roundtrip. Whether you’re hiking through Big Cottonwood Canyon in warmer months, or skiing in Park City on winter holiday, you can enjoy Utah’s splendor without breaking the bank. Free attractions include Liberty Park, The Temple Square, The Tabernacle, Cathedral of the Madeleine, Utah State Capitol and City Creek Center.
Portland, OR / Much like Seattle, Portland has green spaces and coffee to spare, but is arguably a bit more eclectic. Fly here for around $170 roundtrip and spend the rest of your budget at food trucks and craft beer. World-class museums are free or at least very affordable, and Forest Park offers hikes and unique footbridges across the Willamette River. Explore Portland’s downtown scene or take the MAX light rail to discover hip neighborhoods.
Seattle, WA / You don’t need a lot of green to go somewhere greener. Grab a coffee and hop on a roundtrip flight to Seattle for around $150. Grab some more caffeine at one of the city’s 843 coffee shops, then visit the original Starbucks store for a dose of history (and more coffee). You can get a free walking tour of historic Pike Place Market and catch live music from almost every corner. From mountains to shore, Seattle offers a culture-filled respite from the every day.
San Diego, CA / Why fight traffic going south when you can fly for around $130 roundtrip? Sunny San Deigo is just the ticket for a laid-back long weekend with plenty of sunshine. Hike Torrey Pines State Reserve or explore Coronado Island…or just people-watch on the boardwalk or Mission Beach. Balboa Park is home to countless sites, including the famed San Diego Zoo and several iconic museums. Find an affordable hotel near the Gaslamp Quarter and discover tasty restaurants and historic pubs.
San Francisco, CA / Flights to Cali’s iconic city to north can be as low as $100 roundtrip. Walk the city to save on funds (and get your exercise on those hills!), then splurge on delectables from their world-famous restaurants – which are destinations in themselves. Take in the sights of the Golden Gate Bridge and park, one-of-a-kind architecture, Fisherman’s Wharf and the famous twists of Lombard Street. San Fran has affordable fun for everyone.
Phoenix, AZ / If you want the desert experience without the bling, give Phoenix a try. You can fly to their perfect winter-month weather (usually in the 70s) for under $170 roundtrip. And what’s cheaper than going on a hike along a beautiful desert trail? Learn more about your surroundings at the Desert Botanical Garden, then take your pick of amazing restaurants and museums. Remember to pack your layers and best sneakers to fully enjoy this desert jewel.
Las Vegas, NV / And last but certainly not least: While it’s pretty easy to drive to Vegas, if you can fly for the same or less than you spend on gas, why not? If you’re willing to fly budget airlines, there are roundtrip flights to Las Vegas from LAX for around $80. And, from all-you-can-eat buffets to affordable hotels, there are many affordable ways to soak up this go-to desert destination.
