15 Expensive Tourist Spots in the U.S. (and Why They’re Worth It)
We’ve all been there—scrolling through Instagram, daydreaming about the perfect getaway, only to realize that your dream destination comes with a steep price tag. Exploring some of the U.S.’s most iconic locations can be expensive, but the experiences and memories are often worth every penny.
That doesn’t mean you have to drain your savings to enjoy them. With the right strategy, you can still experience these must-visit spots without overspending. Here are 15 of the most expensive tourist destinations in the U.S., why they cost so much, and smart ways to enjoy them on a budget.
New York City, New York
The Big Apple consistently ranks as one of the most expensive cities for tourists, but its iconic attractions make it worth every penny. According to Local Content, international visitors made up 13 million of the total arrivals in 2024 and contributed to roughly 50 percent of spending across the five boroughs. The city offers unparalleled experiences like ascending the Empire State Building, exploring world-class museums like MoMA, and taking in a Broadway show.
Central Park provides a welcome respite from the urban hustle, offering 843 acres of green space in the heart of Manhattan. New York City delivers an unforgettable urban adventure with its diverse neighborhoods, cutting-edge culinary scene, and 24/7 energy.
Maui, Hawaii
Maui, the second-largest Hawaiian island, is a tropical paradise with a hefty price tag but offers unparalleled natural beauty and cultural experiences. The Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism reports that visitor spending rose to $563.6 million in December 2024, a 20.3% increase from $468.4 million in December 2023. The island’s stunning beaches, like Kaanapali and Wailea, offer perfect sunbathing, snorkeling, and whale watching spots.
With its 620 curves and 59 bridges, the Road to Hana provides a breathtaking journey through lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls. Maui’s rich Polynesian culture, showcased in luaus and local festivals, adds depth to the island’s allure.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco’s high costs match its steep hills, but the city’s unique charm and iconic sights make it a must-visit destination. Budget Your Trip recommends budgeting around $251 per day for a vacation in San Francisco. The city’s famous cable cars offer a nostalgic ride through diverse neighborhoods, while the Golden Gate Bridge provides stunning bay views.
Once home to notorious criminals, Alcatraz Island now offers fascinating historical tours. San Francisco’s culinary scene delights food enthusiasts worldwide, from Michelin-starred restaurants to the bustling Ferry Building Marketplace.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas, the Entertainment Capital of the World, offers a glittering, high-stakes experience that can be costly but unforgettable. Statista reports that in 2023, visitors to Las Vegas spent an average of $570.15 per trip on food and drink. The city’s famous Strip dazzles with its themed resorts, world-class shows, and gourmet restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs.
Beyond the casinos, attractions like the Neon Museum and the Mob Museum offer unique glimpses into the city’s colorful history. For thrill-seekers, the High Roller observation wheel and the Stratosphere’s sky-high rides provide adrenaline rushes with spectacular views.
Orlando, Florida
Orlando, home to world-famous theme parks, can be expensive, but its family-friendly attractions offer unparalleled entertainment value. Road Genius reports that Orlando welcomed 74 million visitors in 2023, remaining the nation’s top destination, with international visitors rising 25% to 6.13 million. Walt Disney World Resort, with its four theme parks and two water parks, provides magical experiences for visitors of all ages.
Universal Orlando Resort offers thrilling rides and immersive worlds, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Beyond the parks, Orlando offers top shopping at Disney Springs and the Mall at Millenia, plus unique experiences like the nearby Kennedy Space Center.
Washington D.C.
As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., can be expensive, but its wealth of free museums and historical sites offers incredible value. Accommodation and dining can be pricey, but many of the city’s top attractions are free. The Smithsonian museums, including the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of American History, offer world-class exhibits at no cost.
Iconic monuments like the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument provide potent connections to American history. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, from historic Georgetown to trendy Shaw, offer unique dining and shopping experiences.
Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage, the gateway to Alaska’s wilderness, can be costly, but its breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences justify the expense. Travel Earth reports that the average traveler spends around $200 daily in Anchorage. The city offers easy access to five national parks, including Denali, home to North America’s tallest peak.
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with chances to see moose, bears, and whales in their natural habitats. Anchorage’s museums, like the Alaska Native Heritage Center, provide insights into the state’s rich cultural history. The long summer days, with up to 22 hours of functional daylight, allow for extended outdoor adventures in this last frontier.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen, known for world-class skiing and luxury resorts, is among America’s priciest destinations, but its beauty and activities make it worth the splurge. Budget Your Trip reports that visitors to Aspen typically spend $155–$677 per day per person and $311–$1,355 for two people. The town’s four ski areas offer over 5,500 acres of terrain for winter sports enthusiasts.
In summer, hiking trails like the famous Maroon Bells showcase stunning alpine scenery. Aspen’s thriving arts scene provides cultural enrichment, including the Aspen Art Museum and the Aspen Music Festival. The town’s high-end dining and shopping scenes rival those of major cities, all set against majestic Rocky Mountain peaks.
Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley, America’s premier wine region, can be an expensive getaway, but its world-class wineries and gourmet dining experiences offer unparalleled indulgence. Budget Your Trip reports that budget travelers spend an average of $146 per day, mid-range travelers $333, and luxury travelers around $638. The region boasts over 400 wineries, ranging from historic estates to cutting-edge boutique producers.
Michelin-starred restaurants like The French Laundry showcase the valley’s farm-to-table culinary prowess. Luxurious spas and resorts offer relaxation amidst picturesque vineyard settings. Hot air balloon rides provide breathtaking views of the valley’s patchwork of vineyards and rolling hills.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston, steeped in American history, can be a costly destination, but its blend of past and present offers a uniquely enriching experience. Road Genius reports that visitors spent $12.2 billion in Greater Boston, $2.12 billion in North Boston, and $1.82 billion in South Boston in 2023. The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile red-brick trail, connects 16 historically significant sites, providing a walk through America’s revolutionary past.
World-renowned institutions like Harvard University and the Museum of Fine Arts offer intellectual and cultural stimulation. Boston’s diverse neighborhoods, from the Italian-flavored North End to upscale Back Bay, provide distinct local experiences. The city’s passion for sports, evident in Fenway Park and TD Garden, adds to its vibrant atmosphere.
The Hamptons, New York
The Hamptons, a summer retreat for New York’s elite, are among the U.S.’s priciest vacation spots. It offers pristine beaches and luxury amenities. Budget Your Trip reports that budget travelers spend an average of $117 per day, mid-range travelers $267, and luxury travelers around $510. Like Cooper’s Beach in Southampton, the area’s beautiful beaches consistently rank among America’s best.
Charming villages offer high-end shopping and dining experiences, with farm-to-table restaurants showcasing local produce. Cultural attractions like the Parrish Art Museum and Guild Hall provide artistic enrichment. The Hamptons’ celebrity-spotting opportunities and exclusive events add to its allure as a see-and-be-seen destination.
Seattle, Washington
Seattle’s innovation and natural beauty make it a pricey but worthwhile destination with a unique urban-outdoor blend. The Downtown Seattle Association reports that tourists spend an average of $195 daily in downtown Seattle. The iconic Space Needle offers panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, and the distant Cascade Mountains.
Pike Place Market, one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ markets in the U.S., showcases the city’s culinary diversity. The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) celebrates the city’s contributions to music and popular culture. Seattle’s proximity to nature allows leisurely day trips to Mount Rainier National Park or Olympic National Park.
Savannah, Georgia
With its Southern charm and historic beauty, Savannah can be a pricey destination, but its unique atmosphere and cultural offerings provide excellent value. Budget Your Trip reports that budget travelers spend an average of $84 per day, mid-range travelers $202, and luxury travelers around $445. The city’s 22 historic squares, lined with moss-draped oak trees and antebellum mansions, offer a glimpse into the Old South.
Forsyth Park’s famous fountain provides a perfect spot for picnics and people-watching. Ghost tours capitalize on Savannah’s reputation as one of America’s most haunted cities. The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) contributes to the city’s vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and the SCAD Museum of Art.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago, the Windy City, can be an expensive urban destination, but its world-class architecture, museums, and culinary scene offer unforgettable experiences. Road Genius reports that tourism spending in Chicago reached a record $19.2 billion in 2023. The city’s skyline, best appreciated from a river architecture tour or the Skydeck at Willis Tower, showcases iconic buildings by renowned architects.
Millennium Park, home to the reflective “Bean” sculpture, provides a vibrant public space in the heart of downtown. The Art Institute of Chicago houses one of the world’s finest collections of Impressionist art. Chicago’s deep-dish pizza and gourmet hot dogs represent just a fraction of its diverse and innovative food scene.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston’s antebellum architecture and rich history make it costly, but its Southern hospitality and culture add great value. Budget Your Trip reports that daily expenses in Charleston range from $87 to $492 for one person and $173 to $985 for two people. The city’s Historic District, with its cobblestone streets and colorful row houses, offers a picturesque setting for strolls.
Fort Sumter, where the Civil War began, connects to American history. From traditional Lowcountry cuisine to innovative farm-to-table restaurants, Charleston’s thriving food scene delights culinary enthusiasts. The nearby beaches of Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island offer opportunities for relaxation and water activities.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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