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25 Best U.S. Vacation Cities On the Cheap
Kayla Baxter, Alice Handley and Jill Hare | Excelle
June 11, 2009
#2: Las Vegas, Nevada
Ah, Vegas, the city that never sleeps. Although best known for housing over 90 casinos, the sheer number of hotels and stages mean there is always an attraction to see no matter what day of the week it is. The competitiveness of the casinos means room rates can be reasonable, and a little research before the trip will reveal there are often more things to see than time to see them.
While gambling in the casinos or sports books is the obvious attraction, that is far from all Las Vegas has to offer. There are over 14 major malls within the metropolitan area, many of which are adjacent to the hotels on “The Strip” (pictured). Even just wandering through the hotels is amazing – the Venetian is modeled after the Italian canal city of Venice, the Luxor is a giant glowing pyramid inside and out, and you can’t leave without seeing Bellagio’s dancing fountains and blown glass bubble ceiling. You don’t even have to be a guest to reap the visual benefits of being in this vibrant city.
Las Vegas also puts together its now customary art exhibit on the first Friday of every month. Local artists and musicians gather each month for the event to display or perform their art, and a $2 fee gives you access to both the official venues and outdoor block party.
Don’t Miss: The Pinball Hall of Fame on Tropicana is off the beaten path (i.e. “The Strip”) so your cabbie may not know where you’re trying to go, but this museum is well worth the effort, and a nice break from losing all your money on the slots.
DeHon
5 months ago
2 comments
Boston ? DC? for cheap vacations? That made me laugh! (And I've been to both as well as Dallas, Nashville and San Diego) However, as Teddy Kennedy is offering his "writing" of healthcare plan - it was just such a plan that broke the financial back of Massachusetts.... no kidding. So, it's probably going to be 'cheap' for awhile. As well as most other cities...
hpbayne
5 months ago
2 comments
Interesting articles - I would have thought that New York would make the list. There are inexpensive places to stay, lots to do without having to pay, incredible food and entertainment.
Account Removed
5 months ago
As a resident of Dallas, TX, I appreciate that it falls as #6 on the list. However one correction: the warehouse district which houses Club Clearview and Trees is called Deep Ellum (not Deep Elm)
FranLytle
5 months ago
4 comments
I've had the opportunity to visit Nashville twice in the past year for speaking engagements. Both times, I spoke at Gospel Music Week, mentoring Christian Radio Stations how to develop marketing initiatives that connect with women . . . since 80% of their listeners are women. Unfortunately, I didn't have as much time as I would have liked to be a tourist. But the time I did have convinced me it's a great getaway. It's definitely on the top of my list for a vacation . . . the food, the music, the people . . . a fun place.
bethanierose
5 months ago
680 comments
I'm not sure how Maui qualifies as a cheap US vacation...
Portland and Seattle are both dear to my heart, though.
And I am lucky enough to live next door to DC, with tons of free stuff to see and do every day of the year!
Excelle_Editor
5 months ago
546 comments
San Diego is, hands down, one of my favorite places to vacation in the whole country. Highly recommend it!