16 Top Inexpensive Weekend Getaways on the East Coast

Posted on April 27, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on May 7, 2024

Are you feeling the urge to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but don’t want to break the bank on an expensive vacation? Fortunately, the East Coast offers a plethora of budget-friendly weekend getaway options that are sure to provide you with the much-needed relaxation and adventure you’re seeking.

From charming coastal towns and beach destinations to scenic state parks and historic sites, the East Coast has it all. Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat or a fun-filled family vacation, there are plenty of destinations to choose from. And with many of these destinations located within driving distance of major cities like New York, Boston, and Washington D.C., you can easily plan a weekend trip without the added expense of airfare.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best and most affordable weekend getaway options on the East Coast. Discover the best budget-friendly places to stay and cheap or free things to do. So pack your bags, grab your loved ones, and get ready for a weekend of adventure and relaxation on the East Coast!

Keep on reading to discover all the best inexpensive weekend getaways on the East Coast.

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Truman Gillet House B&B – Granby, CT

Average rate: $115 a night – Book here

The Truman Gillet House B&B is a great place to stay if you’re on a budget as it’s one of the best-rated affordable getaways on the East Coast. The house is beautiful and features comfortable rooms, each with a private bathroom, and some with a spa bath.

You can enjoy the garden, the fireplace in the common lounge, and a tasty homemade breakfast.

Nearby, you can visit the Lost Acres Vineyard. Located in the picturesque hills of Granby, the Lost Acres Vineyard is a great place to visit if you’re a wine lover. The vineyard offers tastings, tours, and live music events throughout the year.

Explore the McLean Game Refuge, a beautiful nature preserve that offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and bird watching. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for some peace and quiet in the great outdoors.

Another option is the Enders State Forest, a beautiful natural area that features waterfalls, hiking trails, and picnic areas. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for a scenic hike or a peaceful picnic.

In town, make sure to check out the Granby Farmers Market, a great place to shop for fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. The market is open on Saturdays from June through October.

You can also learn about history at the Salmon Brook Historical Society showcasing the history of Granby and the surrounding area with exhibits on local industry, farming, and the Civil War.

In winter, go skiing at the Ski Sundown located in the nearby town of New Hartford.

You can also plan a day trip to visit the nearby town of Springfield. There, you can visit the Basketball Hall of Fame, take a stroll in Forest Park, explore the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, check out the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, and visit the Springfield Museums.

Whispering Oak Mansion – Bear, DE

Average rate: $110 a night – Book here

The Whispering Oak Mansion is a well-rated and inexpensive weekend getaway destination on the East Coast. The guesthouse is beautiful with an extensive garden and outdoor area for guests to enjoy. The rooms are clean and spacious, some with a shared bathroom. Breakfast is included.

A short drive will take you to Lums Pond State Park, a 1,790-acre park that offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, boating, hiking, and mountain biking. The park’s centerpiece is Lums Pond, which is the largest freshwater pond in Delaware.

Nearby, you can also visit Fort Delaware State Park known for its well-preserved fort, which was used as a Civil War prison camp for Confederate soldiers from 1862 to 1865. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its history through guided tours and living history demonstrations. There are also hiking trails, picnic areas, and a ferry service that transports visitors to and from the island.

Another option for outdoor recreation, the Glasgow Regional Park is a 250-acre park located in nearby Newark that features several hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a fishing pond.

Lastly, the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal runs through town, there’s a paved trail along it where you go for an easy hike or bike ride. If you’re on bike, you can go all the way to the C & D Canal Museum.

Oceanfront Sea Scape Motel – Melbourne, FL

Average rate: $140 a night – Book here

If planning a weekend beach getaway on a budget, the Oceanfront Sea Scape Motel in Melbourne, Florida, is a perfect option! Offering apartments with full kitchens and rooms with a kitchenette, the motel has direct beach access and provides guests with sunchairs, umbrellas, and beach towels.

There’s free parking as well and you’ll be within walking distance of restaurants and shops.

Of course, one of the best things to do there is to enjoy the beach. Melbourne is home to several beautiful beaches, including Indialantic Beach, Melbourne Beach, and Paradise Beach. These beaches offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and other beach activities. Make sure to try to catch a sunrise!

Historic Downtown Melbourne is a charming shopping and dining district that features over 20 restaurants and more than 40 shops and boutiques. The district is also home to several art galleries and hosts a variety of special events throughout the year.

If you’re visiting with kids, head to Andretti Thrill Park, offering a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including go-karting, mini-golf, laser tag, arcade games, and more.

You can also go for a stroll at the Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden, a 15-acre garden located on the Florida Institute of Technology campus in Melbourne. The garden features over 200 species of plants and trees, as well as a variety of wildlife and bird species.

— CLICK HERE FOR MORE CHEAP WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN FLORIDA —

Grandeur Farm Retreat – Marshallville, GA

Average rate: $80 a night – Book here

If you want to disconnect for the weekend and spend some quality time with your loved ones without breaking the bank, consider booking a room at Grandeur Farm Retreat in Marshallville, a small town in central Georgia, located about 20 miles southwest of Macon.

The property is set on 28 acres and is surrounded by pecan groves, you can enjoy the garden and its hot tub, fire pit, and barbecue area, watch the sunset from the porch, and go for a stroll right from the house.

An à-la-carte breakfast is included, there’s a kitchenette with fridge, microwave, and coffee maker available to guests, and you can ask to use the kitchen. Bathrooms are shared.

There are many places to visit nearby when you’re ready to head out. Start by exploring the beautiful Massee Lane Gardens, known for its camellias. If you like hiking you can head to Montezuma Bluffs Nature Area where you can kayak as well.

There are also a couple of historic sites and museums in the area. The Andersonville National Historic Site is a former Civil War prison camp that is now a museum and memorial.

The Perry Area Historical Society Museum features exhibits on the history of the local area, the town’s founding, its role in the Civil War, and its growth over the years.

If you need to grab a bite to eat near the B&B, you can walk (or drive) into town. The Veg LLC is well-rated and offers American classics at an affordable price.

— CLICK HERE FOR MORE CHEAP WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN GEORGIA —

Robinson’s Cottages – Township of Edmunds, ME

Average rate: $120 a night – Book here

A great place to enjoy some peace and quiet and get away for the weekend, Robinson’s Cottages will make a perfect destination for an affordable weekend getaway on the East Coast. The cottages all feature a screened porch with a seating area and a view of the pond or river, as well as a full kitchen and bathroom.

The property has a private beach area, a garden and barbecue facilities, and you’ll find hiking and ATV/snowmobile trails just in front of it.

Located along the coast, Edmunds offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Nearby, you can visit Cobscook Bay State Park, featuring rugged coastlines, tidal estuaries, and several small islands that are home to a variety of plant and animal life. Explore the park’s many trails, which wind through dense forests and along the rocky shorelines.

Edmunds is also a popular destination for birdwatchers, as it is located along the Atlantic Flyway, a major migratory route for birds. The area is home to a variety of species, including eagles, ospreys, and puffins.

For something more relaxed, drive along the Bold Coast Scenic Byway, a beautiful route that runs along the coast from Milbridge to Lubec. The route offers stunning views of the rugged coastline, lighthouses, and wildlife.

Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge is located just a short drive from Edmunds and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching. The refuge is home to a variety of species, including moose, black bears, and bald eagles.

In nearby Dennysville, you can tour the Dennys River Historical Society Museum and its exhibits on the history of the area, including shipbuilding, fishing, and the lumber industry.

Overall, Edmunds is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a peaceful and inexpensive getaway with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.

Appalachian Motel, Vernon, NJ

Average rate: $110 a night – Book here

Surrounded by incredible vistas of the nearby mountains, the Appalachian Motel in Vernon is a perfect destination for an inexpensive weekend getaway on the East Coast. The motel offers basic rooms that can accommodate up to 4 people, each with a kitchenette and an attached bathroom.

Outdoor lovers will love spending their weekend there no matter the time of year.

In winter, you can ski, snow tube, or snowboard at Mountain Creek – or in summer, enjoy their water park. Most trails in the area will stay open for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, or snowshoeing.

The rest of the year, you’ll find plenty of hiking trails nearby for all levels. The Appalachian Trail runs through Vernon so you could hike part of it. A 10-minute drive will take you to Wawayanda State Park where you’ll find 60 miles of trails and a beach area. And you won’t be far from the Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge where you can hike and kayak.

Nearby, the Warwick Valley Winery and Distillery offer tastings of their wines and spirits, as well as live music on weekends.

— CLICK HERE FOR MORE CHEAP WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN NEW JERSEY —

The Casselman Inn, Grantsville, MD

Average rate: $100 a night – Book here

Grantsville is a small town located in western Maryland, near the Pennsylvania border, and staying at the charming Casselman Inn is a great idea if you’re planning an inexpensive weekend getaway in Maryland.

Offering affordable rates, the inn features spacious rooms and a restaurant and you can pick between staying at the historic building or at the motel.

In town, you can visit the Grantsville Museum featuring exhibits on local history and culture, including exhibits on the area’s coal mining and railroad history.

Check out the Spruce Forest Artisan Village as well. This village is a collection of historic log buildings that have been converted into studios and galleries for local artists. where you can watch demonstrations and buy handmade crafts.

Stop by the Penn Alps Restaurant and Craft Shop, serving traditional Pennsylvania Dutch and German food, they also have a gift shop featuring handmade crafts from local artists.

Right next to it, you’ll find the small Casselman River Bridge State Park which features a historic bridge that was built in 1813. You can walk across the bridge and enjoy the views of the river and surrounding forest.

A bit further out New Germany State Park offers a lake for swimming and kayaking, as well as hiking and biking trails through the woods. The Savage River State Forest is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors.

— CLICK HERE FOR MORE CHEAP WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN MARYLAND —

Stonybrook Motel & Lodge, Franconia, NH

Average rate: $80 a night – Book here

Located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Franconia is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities making it one of the best destinations for a cheap weekend getaway. Book a room at the well-rated and inexpensive Stonybrook Motel & Lodge offering beautiful views and an extensive garden.

On-site you’ll find an indoor pool, a lounge with a fireplace, and a game room. The rooms are comfortable and clean, each with a private bathroom and mountain views. Breakfast is included.

One of the best things to do in Franconia is to visit Franconia Notch State Park to enjoy stunning views of the White Mountains, don’t miss the famous Franconia Notch, the Basin, and Flume Gorge. The 2-mile Flume Gorge hiking trail takes you through a beautiful natural gorge with waterfalls, pools, and towering granite walls.

If you’re up for a challenge, hike to the top of Mount Lafayette offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains from the summit.

For an easier trail, hike the Artists Bluff Trail which offers stunning views of Franconia Notch and Cannon Mountain.

The nearby Cannon Mountain is a popular ski resort in the winter but also offers hiking trails and a scenic gondola ride in the summer and fall.

In summer, you can enjoy the beach, go for a swim, or kayak at Echo Lake.

To learn about the history of Franconia and the White Mountains region, don’t miss touring the Franconia Heritage Museum.

— CLICK HERE FOR MORE CHEAP WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN NEW HAMPSHIRE —

Mulberry Bed & Breakfast, Wareham, MA

Average rate: $115 a night – Book here

A great base to explore Cape Cod on a budget, Wareham, located in Plymouth County, is known for its rich history and beautiful natural surroundings. The charming town offers plenty of fun things to do nearby to keep you busy over a weekend.

The Mulberry Bed & Breakfast is a cozy place to stay that won’t break the bank. There are only 3 rooms so it gives out a homey vibe, breakfast is included, and there’s a hot tub that guests can use. You can also spend some time relaxing in the garden.

In town, you can visit the Wareham Historical Society, showcasing the history of the town through exhibits and events, providing a glimpse into the town’s past.

Nearby, the picturesque Onset Beach offers a perfect place to relax and soak up the sun, swim, or take a stroll along the boardwalk.

You can also drive down to New Bedford to visit the Whaling Museum, Fort Rodman, and Neds Point Lighthouse – or, head to the Myles Standish State Forest offering miles of trails for hiking or biking.

A short drive will take you to Plymouth. There, you can tour the Plimoth Patuxet Museums, stroll around the town to see the historic buildings, or enjoy the beach.

Families can spend some time at the Edaville Family Theme Park. This amusement park features rides, attractions, and an old-fashioned train ride through the cranberry bogs.

— CLICK HERE FOR MORE CHEAP WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN MASSACHUSETTS —

Splendor Inn Bed & Breakfast – Norwich, NY

Average rate: $110 a night – Book here

The quiet town of Norwich awaits for a peaceful weekend getaway, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Book a room at the affordable Splendor Inn Bed & Breakfast, enjoy the small-town vibe, and explore the area.

The B&B features comfy rooms (some with shared bathrooms), friendly owners, and a tasty breakfast. If the weather is nice, you can hang out in the garden, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and relaxing together.

When you’re up for some adventure head to Bowman Lake State Park where you’ll find 13 miles of trails for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing in winter and for hiking, outside of the snow season. The park is known for its birding opportunities, with over 100 species of birds calling the park home, so bring your binoculars. During summer, you can swim in the lake there as well and enjoy the small sandy area.

If you like nature, you’ll be spoiled with options, as the town is surrounded by forested areas where you can hike, bike, or snowshoe. Just be mindful of the hunting season.

For a unique experience, visit the Wolf Mountain Nature Center where you can take a docent-guided tour and encounter rescued wolves, foxes, and coyotes ($8 admission fee, tour included). Make sure to check opening times before heading there.

In town, don’t miss the Northeast Classic Car Museum if you like vintage cars and the Bullthistle Model Railroad Museum for train enthusiasts.

When it comes to eating out, you’ll be surprised by how many options you have. Some popular and budget-friendly restaurants include the Wild Owl, Bohemian Moon, and The Norwich Diner.

— CLICK HERE FOR MORE CHEAP WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN NEW YORK —

Bryson Inn – Mount Airy, NC

Average rate: $80 a night – Book here

Located along the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Bryson Inn is a perfect place to stay during an inexpensive weekend getaway on the East Coast. Rates are affordable, rooms are clean and comfortable, and the location is perfect.

Breakfast and free parking are included in the rate.

The inn is a short drive away from Mount Airy where you’ll find plenty of fun things to do.

Mount Airy is the inspiration for the fictional town of Mayberry from the classic television show “The Andy Griffith Show.” You can take a guided tour of the town and see several landmarks from the show, including the Snappy Lunch diner and Floyd’s Barber Shop.

Fans of the show can also visit the Andy Griffith Museum, which features a collection of memorabilia from Griffith’s career, including costumes, props, and personal items.

In Downtown Mount Airy, you’ll find several shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. There, you can tour the Mount Airy Museum of Regional History and the historic Gertrude Smith House.

Pilot Mountain State Park is located just outside of Mount Airy and offers several hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks. The park’s centerpiece is Pilot Mountain, a distinctive peak that rises 2,421 feet above sea level and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Open from May through October, the Mount Airy Farmers Market offers a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts. Visitors can sample local cheeses, honey, and other specialty foods, as well as purchase handmade jewelry, pottery, and other items.

Near the inn, make sure to check out the fun Scoops Ice Cream & Such and, if you like wine, go for a tasting at Round Peak Vineyards.

— CLICK HERE FOR MORE CHEAP WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN NORTH CAROLINA —

Victorian Charm Inn, Towanda, PA

Average rate: $80 a night – Book here

Located in the northern part of Pennsylvania. The Victorian Charm Inn is a beautiful place to stay for the weekend and, best of all, without breaking the bank. This affordable inn features a nice garden, a shared lounge, and comfy rooms with en-suite bathrooms. A tasty homemade breakfast is included.

Towanda is a small town, yet, you’ll find many things to keep you busy for a few days. Right in town, visit the Bradford County Historical Society, showcasing the history of the region with exhibits on local industries, the Civil War, Native Americans, and more.

Then, take a walk on the Towanda Riverfront, a scenic area with a walking trail that follows the Susquehanna River. There are picnic tables and benches to enjoy the views and watch the boats go by. You can also rent kayaks or canoes in town.

Nearby, visit the French Azilum Historic Site, which was once a refuge for French aristocrats fleeing the French Revolution. For a scenic drive, you can keep driving down the river, cross over in Wyalusing, and go back up. Make sure to stop by the Wyalusing Rocks Scenic Overlook. In Wyalusing, there’s a museum you can check out and wine lovers can drop by the Grovedale Winery.

West of town, make sure to check out Knapp’s Covered Bridge where you’ll also find many hiking trails (use the All T rails App to find them).

Make sure to check out what’s happening when you’re there as Towanda hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the River Fest in August, which features live music, arts and crafts, and food.

— CLICK HERE FOR MORE CHEAP WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN PENNSYLVANIA —

Magnolia House & Gardens, Clover, SC

Average rate: $125 a night – Book here

An awesome budget-friendly place to stay when looking to spend an inexpensive weekend getaway on the East Coast, the Magnolia House & Gardens is a beautiful bed and breakfast surrounded by a lush garden.

The rooms are decorated with taste, each in a unique way with shared bathrooms. Guests are welcome to use the kitchen, breakfast is included, and there are several restaurants within a short walk.

In town, you can visit Clover Community Park where you’ll find walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. The charming downtown area is also worth checking out and is a great place to go for a stroll.

A 20-minute drive will take you to Lake Wylie where you’ll find several beaches where you can swim and places to launch kayaks. You can also take a scenic drive around the lake and enjoy the beautiful views.

You’ll be within a short drive of 2 state parks as well, Kings Mountain State Park and Crowders Mountain State Park.

Kings Mountain State Park offers several hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks, as well as a historic farmstead that provides a glimpse into life in the 1800s.

Crowders Mountain State Park is a popular destination for hikers, rock climbers, and nature enthusiasts, with over 20 miles of trails winding through rugged terrain. Some of the trails lead to the summit of Crowders Mountain, which is 1,625 feet high, while others take visitors to scenic overlooks and through forests filled with wildlife.

If you’re visiting with kids, you can tour the fun Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium in nearby Gastonia.

Inn by the River – Hardwick, VT

Average rate: $90 a night – Book here

Located near many hiking trails and ski resorts, the Inn by the River offers comfy and clean rooms with amazing views, each comes with a private bathroom and kitchenette. You’ll be within walking distance of a couple of good and affordable restaurants and stores.

You can enjoy the extensive property and hang out at the pool or explore the surroundings.

The inn is situated in Hardwick, a small town in a rural area, surrounded by forests, hills, and rivers, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

In town, you can visit the Hardwick Farmers Market which offers locally-made food products, including cheeses, maple syrup, and baked goods. The market is held every Friday afternoon from mid-May to October.

Just outside of Hardwick, go hiking along one of the Hardwick Trails, a network of hiking and mountain biking trails offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside and suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

The nearby Craftsbury Outdoor Center is located just a short drive from Hardwick and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and mountain biking. Smugglers’ Notch is also just a short drive away.

For something more cultural, visit the Vermont Historical Society Museum in nearby Montpelier. The museum features exhibits on the history of Vermont, including Native American artifacts, farming, and the state’s role in the Civil War.

Overall, Hardwick is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors and learn about the local history and culture.

Wolf Creek Farm Bed and Breakfast – Ararat, VA

Average rate: $120 a night – Book here

Wolf Creek Farm Bed and Breakfast sits on 102 acres of a mixed farmstead, woodlands, grassy plains, and rolling hills, and is one of the most affordable getaways for people on a budget.

Guests have access to an on-site swimming pool, plus 5 acres of lake to fish, swim, and canoe. There’s a fire pit for smores and good conversation in the evenings, as well as a hayride that you can schedule around the farm for you and your honey. There’s also a beautiful panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the farm’s hillsides.

The bed and breakfast offers a buffet-style breakfast of American favorites, like bacon and eggs with fresh-brewed coffee, fresh fruits, and a selection of pastries and juices. Other amenities include your choice of four stay types, like the caravan, mobile home, triple room, and deluxe queen suite.

Nearby you can visit the historic Mabry Mill where you’ll find an ancient mill in scenic surroundings and a couple of trails. If you like hiking, check out the easy trails at Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve (the parking lot is small so make sure to arrive early). On your way back, stop by the Lovers Leap Overlook and enjoy the stunning views over the mountains.

— CLICK HERE FOR MORE CHEAP WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN VIRGINIA —

Washington Street Quarters, Lewisburg, WV

Average rate: $130 a night – Book here

Located in the charming town of Lewisburg, the Washington Street Quarters is a perfect place to stay for a cheap weekend getaway on the East Coast. The house is a perfect blend of antique furnishing and modern amenities – with comfy rooms, some big enough for families, and a convenient location near shops and restaurants.

In town, tour the historic district where you’ll find the Barracks, the North House Museum, and Carnegie Hall. There are also many independent shops, art galleries, and coffee shops worth checking out – make sure to stop by Harmony Ridge!

The nearby Hawk Knob Appalachian Hard Cider offers tastings, food, and live music on some nights.

Nearby you can explore the Lost World Caverns, an underground cave system with a lake offering guided tours and stunning views of stalactites and stalagmites.

The surrounding countryside is beautiful, and there are several scenic drives in the area, including the Highland Scenic Highway and the Midland Trail, don’t miss the nearby Herns Mill Historic Covered Bridge.

If you want to go hiking, head to the Greenbrier State Forest where you’ll find several hiking and biking trails. Closer to town, you’ll find the start of the Greenbrier River Trail.

— CLICK HERE FOR MORE CHEAP WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN WEST VIRGINIA —

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