Photo by Nick Fox at Shutterstock
As we approach the end of the fall season, those beautiful colored leaves are rapidly giving way to the magic of winter. If you’re looking for something memorable to do this season, why not consider a budget-friendly winter road trip?
Must See Places found quite a few routes that are perfect for a fun excursion in the colder months. And even though our list includes a couple of options in warm areas year-round, some are in nippier locations.
So keep in mind that due to the rapidly changing weather in some places, it might be a good idea to have any required equipment, including winter tires or chains, for some routes that are a bit further north.
And don’t forget to double-check road conditions before heading out because we all know that they can sometimes change rapidly. Now, what are we waiting for? Continue reading for 8 of the most magical, budget-friendly winter road trips in the US!
-Budget-friendly hotels: Motel 6 Los Angeles, Pacific Inn, Motel 6 Carlsbad
-Places to eat: Big Sur Roadhouse, The Village, Sunset Lounge,
The prized Pacific Coast Highway will take you through the Californian Coast. Beginning in San Francisco, this picturesque road has some of the best stopovers you can imagine. You’ll find less snow on the West Coast side than in other areas.
But this budget-friendly winter road trip perfectly balances cold and hot temperatures. Along the route, you’ll be able to stop to take a scenic hike through Yosemite National Park, which charges an affordable fee of $35 per automobile and is valid for 7 days.
Roadtrippers can also spend some time exploring Malibu and San Francisco and end their trip in the City Of Angels.
-Time: 4-5 days
-Distance: 125 miles
-Budget-friendly hotels: Smitty’s Hideaway
California’s Pacific Highway is an excellent drive with amazing stops, no matter the season. But going inland can be just as rewarding, and you won’t be greeted with overbearing heat in the winter. This budget-friendly winter trip begins in LA to Joshua Tree National Park.
Once you arrive, you’ll pay $30 per vehicle or $25 if you’re on a motorcycle, and it’s valid for an entire week to explore the park. Travelers are welcome to visit Ryan Ranch Trail and climb rocks for free.
But for a more desert-like experience, drive north to Death Valley National Park, which is incredible in the winter months, or head west to Highway 395 to check out our nation’s historic towns.
-Budget-friendly places to eat: Le Bayou Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Leah’s Pralines
-Best stays: Courtyard by Marriot in Houma
There is no better time to take a budget-friendly winter road trip in Louisiana than winter. It’s one of the more affordable states during the colder months, and the temperatures are perfect, allowing visitors to spend their time outdoors.
Your trip would begin in lively New Orleans, after which you can meander to Bayou to enjoy the rural area. The first few days can be spent sightseeing and exploring what NOLA has to offer.
Some free places include the Garden District, Jackson Square, and Frenchmen Street. Then, head over to the Bayou to explore some adorable rural towns.
It’s best to book your nights from Thibodaux or Houma to enjoy the everyday life in Louisiana. But since you’re already in the area, be sure to make a few stops in other cities like Henderson and Lafayette.
-Where to eat: The Stoned Crab, Lighthouse Grill, La Nina Restaurant
-Budget-friendly hotels: Parmer’s Resort
This is the best route for those looking for a drive in a place with mild winter conditions or a shorter, budget-friendly winter road trip. The Overseas Highway will take you through the scenic Florida Keys, starting in Key Largo and ending in Key West.
There are numerous beautiful stops along the way on this route, such as John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where you can kayak, hike, paddle a boat, and enjoy the colorful reefs… all in an affordable way!
Curry Hammock State Park, Long Key State Park, and Mile Bridge are just a few other amazing pull-offs.
-Budget-friendly places to eat: Oscar’s Café, MeMe’s Café, Moab Diner
-Budget-friendly hotels: Zion Park Motel, Red Cliffs Lodge
The beginning of winter doesn’t have to mean that sunny days are completely over. If you’re dreaming about warm, sunny days, you should head to desert regions. This budget-friendly winter road trip will take you through red rocks, slot canyons, and the Capital Reef.
As you admire the scenery, you can find many spots to grab a drink. The trip begins in Zion National Park, a free park where you can catch snow-capped peaks and red rocks.
You’ll want to stop for photos here. Then proceed to Moab along the Arches scenic drive before ending your trip at Dead Horse Point to enjoy the stunning sunset.
-Where to eat: Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
-Where to stay: The Russell, The Lodge at Buckberry Creek
The East Coast mountains have a vibrant history and can be accessed all year round since they’re lower in elevation.
This budget-friendly winter road trip will take you through the wilderness while enjoying the gorgeous views of Mammoth Cave, Shenandoah Skyline Drive, and Nashville’s historic downtown.
Our favorite stop is in Shenandoah National Park, which charges parking for $30/car for 7 days.
You can spend your time sightseeing and hiking here, then continue on your way to the famous Blue Ridge Parkway, which leads you to the Great Smoky Mountains, an outstanding area for skiing and camping.
Then, we highly recommend taking a free self-guided tour of Mammoth Cave National Park.
-Budget-friendly places to eat: Moab Diner, Arches Thai, Desert Bistro
-Where to stay: Archway Inn, Hampton Inn Moab, Field Station Moab
Arches National Park, considered Moab’s most picturesque gem, is gorgeous any time of the year, and this budget-friendly winter road trip takes you to the park’s best places.
In the winter months, the area is filled with soft winter light and snow, which offers many prime spots for snapping some memorable pics. But this particular route provides easy access to the park’s attractions.
Once you get there, park in the Windows Section and wander through the North Window or Double Arch below to catch some fresh air. Then, continue driving until you get to the Wolfe Ranch. Take a leisurely hike to the Delicate Arch. Just be careful of the ice on the trail.
-Distance of trip: 216 miles
-Best eats: Lake Champlain Chocolates, Cold Hollow Cider, Ben & Jerry’s Cabot Cheese
One of the best budget-friendly winter road trips to take in Vermont, Route 100 is a trip that allows you to explore the charming small towns of New England. You’ll also get to see the Green Mountain National Forest, several ski resorts, and beautiful state parks.
Many low-cost recreation opportunities exist, too. And you’ll have lots of places to dine, shop, and lodge. Traveling here in the winter months is more adventurous than any other season.
Begin your journey at the mountain village of Wilmington, where there are quite a few interesting boutiques and restaurants. And if you’re a ski lover, you should consider going to Mt. Snow for some fun.
Then, head north and stop in Weston to check out the well-known Vermont Country Store. Just remember that the farther you go north, the more you’ll be covered in snow!
Which one of these budget-friendly winter road trips would YOU choose? Leave a comment and let us know. But don’t leave yet! Must See Places has much more to offer its readers.
For instance, if you’re looking for some other ideas on how to spend this winter, we highly recommend also checking out: 6 Blissful Winter Vacation Destinations for Families That Don’t Ski
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