The Northeast Megalopolis, also referred to as the Boston-Washington Corridor, has the world’s largest economy and a population surpassing that of California and neighboring states. Consequently, East Coast vacations can be expensive due to high demand and standards. However, budget-conscious travelers can find opportunities thanks to excellent public transportation and a compact area to explore. The key is to be savvy in choosing accommodations and opting for cost-effective activities. Although it’s possible to visit any city without spending much, the reality is that it might not be as enjoyable.
Washington DC Weekends
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Washington.org says, “D.C. is the capital of free museums and interactive exhibits, from groundbreaking cultural museums to art galleries and so much more.” We agree, which is why it’s our lead-off budget destination for the East Coast. Combine the free stuff with paid tours and an outstanding international food scene catering to foreign dignitaries, and you can have all kinds of fun without the funding.
Visiting DC on a budget starts when you arrive. Reagan National is much closer to the tourist areas than Dulles, so keep that in mind if you’re flying. Also, Union Station is right in the heart of everything, with outstanding train connectivity to the Megalopolis. Once you arrive, you’ll probably use the Metro, but be careful of surge pricing during rush hour. Pick your hotel wisely for the trip you want to have.
Catskills Vacations
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The Catskill Mountains lie in southeastern New York State, about a 2-hour drive from New York City. The area is known for the wildlife and hiking trails in the Catskill Forest Preserve, and ski resorts, including Hunter Mountain and Belleayre Mountain. Sites like Kaaterskill Falls and Sunset Rock inspired 19th-century landscape painters, and farm-to-table restaurants are bountiful. Here you find New York sensibilities and amenities in a rustic setting.
It’s not only the proximity to The City that makes the Catskills a popular budget destination. You’ll find super cute boutique hotels and a thriving culinary scene at a fraction of the city’s pricing. There are also plenty of things to do, including outdoor activities and touring the Hudson River School Art Trail. Many of these are cheap or free, and they’re all less than you’d pay in town.
Poconos Romantic Getaways
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The Poconos is a mountainous area in northeastern Pennsylvania, about two hours east of NYC. It’s a historic honeymoon destination overflowing with scenic beauty and fun-filled year-round activities.
The affordable, luxurious accommodations make the Pocono Mountains the perfect place for a romantic stay. What started with heart-shaped tubs has grown into world-class luxury spas incorporating the scenography of the region’s breathtaking natural surroundings. From quaint bed and breakfasts to adult-only resorts, couples can find the perfect place in the Poconos.
Niagara Falls Vacations
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There was a time before air travel when Niagara Falls was the honeymoon capital of the world. Today, budget travelers can find all that romance without the cost of airfare. You can (and should) bring your passport and cross into Canada to make this a true budget international vacation.
Niagara Falls is filled with fun things surrounding the falls, like boat tours, zip lines, and even walking behind the falls. Niagara-on-the-Lake is in the heart of wine country for a driving (or cycling) tasting tour. Romantic hotels abound, especially on the Canadian side. Maybe Niagara Falls is no longer a world-class honeymoon location, but it’s a fabulous East Coast road trip.
Great Smoky Mountains Getaways
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Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most visited park in the system by a long margin. Every year about 13 million people visit, which is almost as many as the next three parks combined (Grand Canyon, Zion, Rocky Mountain). People come for hiking, waterfalls, cycling, romantic getaways, and even theme parks—anything for more mountains and less Megalopolis.
The trick to a great Great Smoky getaway is planning. The Parkway in Gatlinburg is a fascinating melting pot between Southern sensibility and East Coast attitude, with many more people than you’d expect on a mountain vacation. Consider a cabin in Sevierville, a day of hiking, and dining along Art Loop over the humanity along the Parkway. Family-friendly isn’t always compatible with romance.
Coastal Maine Route 1 Road Trip
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Maine’s Route 1 road trip is to the East Coast, as California’s Route 1 drive is to the West Coast. The “Lobster Trail” is filled with lighthouses, fishing villages, scenic views, and, of course, a crustacean or two. It’s only two hours north of Boston, but you could spend a week or more exploring everything the area offers and eating your fill of lobster.
Our strategy for a budget coastal Maine Route 1 road trip is to plan your overnight stops well. Leave enough room in your budget to enjoy yourself, but consider splurging for extraordinary views or a spa day to work out the kinks from the road. Also, check out the Boston Freedom Trail at one end of your trip. There are only a few paid stops, and the walk alone will introduce you to two-hundred years of Boston History.
Vermont 100 Road Trip
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The Vermont 100 road trip is an iconic Northeast journey. It’s a 200 miles voyage along the Green Mountains with 4 hours and 340 minutes of driving time, but many people spend a whole week exploring all the nooks and crannies.
You’ll find tours of every description, including ski resorts offering summer operations, hiking, and agro-tourism. Don’t rush your way through. Relax, find romantic places to stay, and let the beauty of the natural landscape soothe your soul. Also, take comfort in the fact that this extraordinary getaway didn’t require air travel.
More Cheap Vacations for Couples:
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There are many reasons for couples to take cheap vacations. You may be on a budget and trying to retire early or want to balance expenses on a trip between luxury stays and heart-pounding adventures. Most importantly, you shouldn’t sacrifice your fun just because you’re looking for low budget vacation ideas.