With the holidays just around the corner, budgets may be tight, but with proper planning, you can fulfill all your gift lists and still afford a great group trip. 

Affordable Group Trip Destinations

When planning affordable group travel, look for a destination with affordable lodging and group activities. That means skipping the high-priced destinations like Miami and instead opting for the budget option like Myrtle Beach. Here are a few of the best budget group destinations you can visit in the US.

Go Camping At The Grand Canyon 

Camping is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the outdoors, bond with your group, and have a unique experience. You can roast marshmallows over the fire and share campfire stories while only paying $20 to $50 a day for a campsite reservation. There are spots inside Grand Canyon National Park and spots just outside for even cheaper. If you don’t already own camping gear, outdoor recreation stores such as REI rent overnight camping packs for a reasonable price. 

The Grand Canyon is one of the most awe-inspiring sights to see in the US and should be on everyone’s bucket list. During the day, you can hike down into the canyon, take photos along the various rim points, and view wildlife in the area, such as bighorn sheep and elk. 

Play In The Sand In Myrtle Beach 

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a top vacation spot for families because of its affordability. Condos rent for much cheaper than other beach areas in the US, and a family can dine out for an affordable price too. Family friendly activities are abundant such as the Ripley’s Aquarium, Escape Rooms, the Hollywood Wax Museum, Medieval Times dinner, and Legends in Concert performances. 

Myrtle Beach has beautiful sandy beaches to lay out, dig sandcastles, and collect shells. There are affordable boat and jet ski rentals along the intercoastal way and lots of entertainment, shopping, and dining. 

Sightsee On A Budget In Colorado Springs 

If you are looking for an outdoor adventure, a visit to Colorado Springs could be a fun and affordable destination. It is much cheaper than nearby cities like Boulder or Denver, but with many amenities and attractions. Colorado Springs is home to the popular destination, Garden of The Gods. It is also a drivable distance to many small mountain towns, hiking, skiing, and outdoor recreation. 

Indulge in History at Williamsburg

Williamsburg, Virginia, is a historical town where you can feel like you are in the early settler days. You can learn about the area’s history, how settlers lived, and even quirky details like early medicine practice at Colonial Williamsburg or a look inside an old insane asylum. All ages can learn and appreciate this experience. 

Rent A Houseboat in Dale Hollow 

Located in Kentucky, Dale Hollow is a gorgeous lake area known for boat parties and houseboat rentals. Compared to other houseboat destinations such as Lake Powell, Dale Hollow is a much more affordable option. When renting for a group, a houseboat is a unique experience that can be affordable when the cost is split. Some houseboats have a water slide, making this lake weekend the most exciting yet.

Hit The Slopes In Ogden

Utah is known for having some of the best powder for snowboard and ski conditions. Ogden is a quaint mountain town that is less popular and less expensive than other popular mountain towns such as Park City. Ogden has several ski mountains, but most are considered local mountains and don’t boast the resort pricing. Powder Mountain is the largest in the area and the largest ski terrain in the US.

Walk Around The French Quarter in New Orleans 

New Orleans is one of the most affordable big city destinations, except for Mardi Gras week. No matter what time of the year you go, New Orleans is great for groups with abundant activities and sights to see. The French Quarter and Bourbon Street are great destinations for incredible cajun style foods and non-stop partying. Grab a footlong strawberry daiquiri as you enjoy the gift shops on Bourbon Street. There are street performers on every corner, live music all around, and festivals across the whole year. 

Ride A Hot Air Balloon in Albuquerque 

Albuquerque, New Mexico, is the hot air balloon capital, hosting an annual festival and daily rides. If you have always wanted to ride in a hot air balloon, this is where to cross it off your bucket list. Albuquerque is a quirky and unique town with adobo-style architecture and western cultural influence. You can drive Route 66, shop the Old Town, check out local artisan and craft makers, and indulge in green chile.

Sip Craft Beer In Milwaukee 

Milwaukee is a charming midwestern city that sits along breathtaking riverfronts. It has a bustling craft beer scene, an abundance of affordable museums, and affordable lodging and dining compared to other metro areas. Milwaukee is known for its cheese curds, so be sure to try those out. Budget friendly activities include the Milwaukee Zoo, The North Point Lighthouse Museum, and the Lynden Sculpture Garden. These are just a few of our favorite budget group destinations. As you plan your group trip, keep in mind the less you spend on lodging and food allows for more souvenir money. We call that ballin’ on a budget! Whatever affordable group destination you travel to, GroupTools is here to help make your planning process safe and stress-free. Visit GroupTools to learn more or jump right into your planning today.