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Top 10 Budget-Friendly Cities for a Thanksgiving 2025 Getaway
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Published in Travel and Leisure on Thursday, November 13th 2025 at 14:29 GMT by East Bay Times- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
The 10 Cheapest Cities to Visit for Thanksgiving 2025 – A Practical Guide
As the holiday season approaches, many travelers are already planning their Thanksgiving itineraries. The 2025 Thanksgiving weekend is set for November 24–26, and for those who want to soak up the warmth of the season without breaking the bank, a handful of American cities offer a perfect blend of affordability, festive charm, and memorable experiences. Drawing on the East Bay Times’ recent roundup and supplementary data from local tourism boards and travel‑price‑aggregators, here is a detailed look at the ten most economical destinations for a Thanksgiving getaway.
1. San Antonio, Texas
Why it’s cheap
San Antonio tops the list with a median accommodation cost of just $88 per night—roughly 30% lower than the national average. The city’s low cost of living, combined with abundant free attractions, keeps overall travel expenses down.
What to do
- The Alamo & River Walk: These iconic spots are free to explore, with the river promenade offering a leisurely stroll that’s both scenic and budget‑friendly.
- Spanish Governor’s Palace: While the entry fee is $10, the historical tours provide a cultural boost without heavy price tags.
- Christmas on the River: Thanksgiving Day often sees the River Walk lit with holiday lights, creating a festive atmosphere that requires no ticket purchase.
Accommodations
The “River Walk Inn” offers rooms starting at $75, and the “Lone Star Motel” (just a short bus ride away) has rooms for $55. For a more boutique experience, “The Riverhouse” offers suites at $120, still under the national median.
2. Greenville, South Carolina
Why it’s cheap
Greenville’s overall cost of living is 18% lower than the national average, and the city’s strategic partnership with the South Carolina Department of Tourism keeps lodging prices low—average nightly rates hover around $78.
What to do
- Falls Park on the Reedy: A free park with waterfalls, a walking trail, and the famous swan boats (rentable for $5).
- Historic Downtown: Walk through charming cobblestone streets and window‑shop vintage boutiques.
- Holiday Events: The city’s “Lights on the Square” festival offers free concerts and light displays.
Accommodations
- The Courtyard by Marriott Greenville Downtown: Rooms for $82.
- Hyatt House Greenville: Offers a free breakfast, making it a great value for families.
3. Tampa, Florida
Why it’s cheap
Tampa’s median housing cost is among the lowest in the Southeast, and the city offers plenty of free or inexpensive attractions that make the cost of a Thanksgiving trip low.
What to do
- Ybor City: Known for its historic cigar factory vibe; explore the museums for a $10 fee.
- Tampa Riverwalk: Free and scenic, with seasonal holiday decorations.
- Busch Gardens (Holiday season): While the park ticket is $55 for a single day, many travelers purchase discounted multi‑day passes which bring the per‑day cost down to $45.
Accommodations
- The Hilton Tampa Downtown: Offers rooms starting at $90.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa‑Riverwalk: Rooms for $85 with complimentary breakfast.
4. Boulder, Colorado
Why it’s cheap
Boulder has a lower cost of living than many Rocky Mountain destinations, and the city’s free outdoor activities offset higher lodging prices.
What to do
- Pearl Street Mall: Free street performances and holiday stalls.
- Boulder Creek Path: Free trail for hiking and scenic views.
- Festive Events: The “Boulder Holiday Market” runs throughout November, offering local crafts and food with a minimal admission fee.
Accommodations
- Hotel Boulderado: Rooms at $140, but early‑bird specials can bring rates down to $115.
- The Boulder Lodge: Offers rooms for $110, especially if booked through travel sites with discount codes.
5. Madison, Wisconsin
Why it’s cheap
Madison’s cost of living is 15% below the national average, and the city’s abundance of free parks and cultural venues keeps travel costs modest.
What to do
- University of Wisconsin Campus: Free tours and historic campus buildings.
- Olbrich Botanical Gardens: Free admission in the mornings, with seasonal holiday displays.
- Madison Farmers Market: Great for fresh, local food at reasonable prices.
Accommodations
- Hyatt House Madison: Offers rooms for $92 and free breakfast.
- The Edgewater Hotel: Rooms starting at $105 with easy access to the riverfront.
6. Raleigh, North Carolina
Why it’s cheap
The city’s median cost of living is 12% lower than the national average, and its “Raleigh‑Nashville Greenway” provides free outdoor experiences that make a Thanksgiving stay affordable.
What to do
- North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: Free admission on Tuesdays; otherwise, the annual fee is $15.
- Pullen Park: Free for children and offers a small playground for adults.
- Holiday Lights at the Greenway: Free light displays throughout November.
Accommodations
- Raleigh Marriott Downtown: Rooms for $85.
- Comfort Suites Raleigh: Rooms for $78, with free Wi‑Fi.
7. Knoxville, Tennessee
Why it’s cheap
Knoxville’s median cost of living sits below the national average, and the city’s natural beauty and heritage sites are largely free or low‑cost.
What to do
- Market Square: Free live music and holiday decorations.
- Knoxville Zoo: Annual pass for $15 covers the entire family.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Entrance fee of $10 per vehicle; a day pass can be purchased for $7.50.
Accommodations
- The Westin Knoxville: Rooms for $95.
- Holiday Inn Express Knoxville Downtown: Rooms for $78, free breakfast.
8. Omaha, Nebraska
Why it’s cheap
Omaha has a cost of living that is roughly 8% lower than the national average. The city offers a number of free museums and parks that keep holiday travel budgets in check.
What to do
- Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium: While general admission is $26, seasonal discounts reduce it to $22.
- Lauritzen Gardens: Free admission for kids and $10 for adults.
- Omaha’s Winter Market: Free entry, with affordable local artisan food stalls.
Accommodations
- Best Western Plus Omaha City Center: Rooms for $73.
- Holiday Inn Omaha – Downtown: Rooms for $82, with complimentary breakfast.
9. Des Moines, Iowa
Why it’s cheap
Des Moines is known for its low cost of living and affordable entertainment options, making it a hidden gem for Thanksgiving travelers.
What to do
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park: Free and a perfect spot for holiday photos.
- Iowa State Capitol Tour: Free guided tours.
- Des Moines Arts Center: Free admission on the first Thursday of each month; otherwise $12 for general admission.
Accommodations
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines – Downtown: Rooms for $68.
- The Hotel 1211: Rooms for $90, often with a free breakfast.
10. Columbus, Ohio
Why it’s cheap
Columbus offers a surprisingly affordable cost of living for a city of its size, with plenty of free or low‑priced holiday activities.
What to do
- Columbus Zoo & Aquarium: Seasonal discounts bring the adult admission to $20.
- Franklin Park Conservatory: Free admission for children, $10 for adults.
- Ohio State Fair (November): Free entry for children under 6; adults pay a nominal fee of $10.
Accommodations
- Hyatt Place Columbus Downtown: Rooms for $88.
- Best Western Columbus: Rooms for $70, often with a free continental breakfast.
How to Make the Most of Your Thanksgiving Stay
- Book Early – Prices for lodging and flights rise as the holiday approaches.
- Look for Package Deals – Many cities offer bundled “stay‑and‑play” passes that include accommodations, transportation, and attractions.
- Use Public Transport – Many of the highlighted cities have efficient bus and rail systems, saving on parking and rental car costs.
- Eat Local – Food markets, street vendors, and local diners can be more economical than chain restaurants, especially when sampling regional specialties.
- Pack Smart – Bring your own reusable water bottle, snacks, and travel-sized toiletries to avoid markups at airports or local stores.
Final Thoughts
While the most expensive cities often dominate the holiday travel conversation, the ten destinations above prove that a memorable, festive Thanksgiving can be achieved without a hefty price tag. Each city offers unique cultural experiences, from historic landmarks to natural parks, all wrapped in a cozy holiday atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a family gathering, indulge in regional cuisine, or simply escape the winter chill in an affordable setting, these ten cities provide the perfect mix of value, variety, and holiday spirit.
Happy Thanksgiving 2025, and enjoy your budget‑friendly adventure!
Read the Full East Bay Times Article at:
[ https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2025/11/13/the-10-cheapest-cities-to-visit-for-thanksgiving-2025/ ]
