Are you tired of paying an arm and a leg for a getaway that is packed with tourists and long lines? Rising costs of vacations are causing iconic but over-glamorized destinations to be out of reach for many, and destination dupes are the newest travel craze. Discover hidden gems in the United States that come with a lower price tag but the same amount of fun, if not more, than mainstream vacation destinations.
The price of wanderlust
Though the quarantine rules placed during the pandemic ended years ago, people are still catching up on their travel plans and satisfying their craving for adventure and new experiences. The surge in travel interest, coupled with inflation, is fueling the cost of tourism, and it’s probably making you second guess whether you really need that getaway.
According to the U.S. Travel Association, the travel price index increased by 19% from 2019 to 2023. This index includes the cost of services like airline fares, lodging, recreation and food. With these rising prices, old travel budgets have become a distant memory, and the affordability of trips is making family travel more difficult.
Iconic destinations and their costs
Sipping on coconuts while surrounded by the serene green and lush nature of Hawaii is anyone’s dream vacation — until you start doing the numbers for how much it’ll drain your bank account. According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, the average cost per person on a trip to Hawaii if you’re coming from the east of the U.S. is $2496.20. Now, imagine going with a family of four; that number quickly becomes burdensome.
The bustling streets of New York are another glamorized destination with the iconic Times Square and Broadway shows. But with the price tag of around $2150 per person for a four-day trip, as per Travellers Worldwide, you’ll start to question whether the Big Apple is worth it.
You can’t think of iconic destinations without mentioning Disneyland. Unfortunately, the most magical place on the planet isn’t for free. Nerd Wallet estimates that the average Disney World vacation would cost a family of four with a moderate travel style $3636 for just three nights.
Destination dupes: Affordable alternatives
Dupes, or finding cost-effective alternatives to things, have become all the craze. You get the best of both worlds — a similar experience as the popular vacation spots without having to worry if you’ll be able to recover financially from the trip. Here are a few suggestions for lesser-known but comparable locations within the U.S. for each iconic destination mentioned.
Instead of New York City, try Philadelphia
New York isn’t your only option if you’re looking to visit a bustling city on the East Coast. As the birthplace of Philly cheese steak, Philadelphia has a charm that will win over your heart and at a lower cost than New York.
With a large Italian population, visiting the historic Italian Market is a must to truly experience the community and culture. Grab some authentic food from the local vendors — it’s likely that you’ll find the best pasta there, whether it be a unique chipotle pasta or a traditional carbonara.
After getting some food in your system, take a walk along the waterfront and stop by the beautifully designed Rittenhouse Square or the Independence National Historic Park. If you’re looking to be surrounded by beautifully sculpted gardens that make art out of nature, you have your choice between the Magic Gardens or Longwood Gardens. There are many things to do and see in this city, and on an affordable budget. Unsurprisingly, the travel guide Lonely Planet listed it as one of the best U.S. cities to visit in 2024.
Instead of Hawaii, explore the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys is the perfect destination dupe for Hawaii. As the only living coral barrier in the U.S., the Florida Keys is teeming with marine life, beautiful beaches and exciting water activities.
Accounting for accommodation, food and transportation, the average daily cost per person in Key West is $189 compared to $274 in Hawaii, according to The Travel. In this case, a lower cost doesn’t mean lower quality. Diving, snorkeling, fishing and watersports are just the tip of the iceberg of all the fun activities you can do at Key West.
As an island, freshly caught seafood like conch, spiny lobster and pink shrimp is a big part of the local cuisine. If you have a dietary preference or restriction, there are restaurants that also offer seafood-free options. Head to The Breakfast Club for a tasty French toast breakfast before getting suited up to go diving in the ocean.
There really is no place like the Florida Keys with all of its outdoor adventures, incredible seafood and its rich history. You won’t regret opting for this Hawaii destination dupe for a tropical getaway on a more affordable budget.
Instead of Disneyland, consider regional theme parks
Disneyland is not the only way to have fun at an amusement park. Regional theme parks like Dollywood in Tennesee are comparable destination dupes.
Dollywood, owned by country music singer Dolly Parton, has more than 50 rides and attractions, with music and entertainment shows. Located in the mountains, Dollywood is highly praised by visitors for its scenic surroundings and high-quality rollercoasters. A three-day regular adult pass costs around $129 per person at Dollywood compared to over $400 at Disneyworld; the savings are substantial.
If you have spare time after visiting the theme park, there’s plenty to do and eat in this Southern state. Indulge in some comfort food like hashbrown casserole and creamy mac and cheese. Stop by the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum or take in some breathtaking views at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The path less traveled
Visiting less crowded destination dupes is an economical way to enjoy an exciting travel experience. You don’t have to worry about there being too many tourists or spending an enormous amount of money for what should be a relaxing vacation. Consider these alternatives for your next trip to discover hidden gems in the U.S. on the road less traveled.
Mandy Applegate is the enthusiastic creator of the vegetarian website Splash of Taste; she makes meat-free cooking fun and easy. When Mandy’s not cooking and writing, you’ll find her traveling, exploring countries and cuisines and spending time with her chihuahua.