This Sunny Peninsula is the No. 1 Best Value U.S. Vacation Destination
Planning a vacation can be overwhelming, especially when trying to get the most bang for your buck. According to Cloudbed Hospitality Industry Report 30 factors were analysed across all 50 states to determine the best value vacation destinations in the U.S. They looked at everything from the average price of over 92,000 hotels and the average temperature to the number of bars and clubs by land area.
Alaska
The ‘worst’ value vacation destination is Alaska, with a score of just 8.96/100. Closely following are Wyoming and North Dakota, with scores of 22/100 and 27.34/100, respectively. Alaska is a playground for nature lovers, featuring stunning spots like Denali National Park and Glacier Bay where you can hike, watch wildlife, and see glaciers up close. It’s also rich in history and culture, with fascinating places like the Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Native Heritage Center to explore.
10. South Carolina
Average Score: 56.78/100. Known for its southern charm, historic cities like Charleston, and great beaches, South Carolina is a fantastic destination for those looking for history and warm hospitality on a budget.
9. Maryland
Average Score: 65.04/100. Maryland’s diverse regions offer everything from the historic streets of Annapolis and Baltimore’s Inner Harbor to the mountainous regions of the west and the sandy shores of the Atlantic.
8. Connecticut
Average Score: 65.84/100. Explore the maritime charm of Mystic Seaport, the impressive collections of the Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven, and the peaceful countryside throughout the state.
7. Rhode Island
Average Score: 65.70/100. Rhode Island, the Ocean State, offers beautiful beaches, maritime history, and the culinary delights of Providence, all in a compact and affordable package.
6. Hawaii
Average Score: 67.48/100. Hawaii might seem like a luxury destination, but affordable options in less touristy areas offer great value. Enjoy stunning beaches, volcanic landscapes, and unique Polynesian culture.
5. Massachusetts
Average Score: 70.07/100. Massachusetts is rich in American history with sites like Boston’s Freedom Trail and Salem’s witch trials, alongside vibrant cultural institutions and beautiful coastal towns.
4. New York
Average Score: 72.61/100. Beyond the iconic sights of New York City, the state offers stunning natural beauty in places like the Adirondacks and the Finger Lakes, perfect for hiking and wine tasting.
3. New Jersey
Average Score: 74.74/100. Known for the Jersey Shore and historic sites, New Jersey also boasts some hidden gems like the scenic Delaware Water Gap and the bustling boardwalks of Atlantic City. But it is also relatively close to New York City.
2. California
Average Score: 73.45/100. With diverse landscapes that range from the beaches of Southern California to the forests of the Sierra Nevada, California provides endless outdoor activities alongside world-class cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco.
1. Florida
Average Score: 75.04/100. Florida offers an abundance of attractions such as the pristine beaches of the Florida Keys, the vibrant nightlife of Miami, and the family-friendly theme parks in Orlando.
Emese Maczko is a travel blogger behind Eco Lodges Anywhere. Having explored several destinations around Europe, the US, Indonesia, and Australia, and resided in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Luxembourg, Emese possesses a keen understanding of diverse cultures and an appreciation for the beauty of each destination she visits. She advocates for sustainable travel and ecotourism.