Florida has always been an attractive destination for Americans, and it continues to draw travelers today, but some are now considering alternatives to its beautiful beaches. Costs such as hotel accommodations, airfare, and tourist attractions have increased, so when you add crowded beaches, it may not be an appealing option as many Reddit users have discussed. Here are some Florida alternatives: national parks, mountain towns and alternative beaches where you won’t find so many people.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
If you’re tired of Florida, you can travel to Myrtle Beach, a vacation spot with much cheaper hotel prices in South Carolina. This beach town offers attractions like mini golf, amusement parks, and entertainment venues. One of these Florida alternatives is also easily accessible by land because it connects to other popular cities. Reddit user spinblackcircles commented: “The beaches are nice enough and I’ve never had any issues with people being rude or super rowdy, drunk, feeling unsafe or anything I’d label as ‘trashy’.”
Gulf Shores, Alabama
In Gulf Shores, Alabama, you’ll encounter far fewer people than in Florida, and you’ll also discover white sand beaches that some visitors consider superior to other beaches. Even during peak tourist season, you can find lodging, food and attractions that are more affordable than in Florida. Visitors to Gulf Shores typically come from the Midwest and Southeast, enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, fishing and boating. Reddit user graphiteguy1 remarked: “Things are quite rural inland. Some of those areas are challenging, but people are generally nice. Culture is similar to those of lower Alabama and Georgia.”
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
The Smoky Mountains continue to attract millions of tourists, and Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge in Tennessee, located near the Great Smoky Mountains, also receive a significant influx of visitors as one of the Florida alternatives. In these two towns, outdoor activities can be combined with entertainment at reasonable prices. It’s a popular destination for travelers who prefer mountain scenery to the beach. Reddit user MarbleDesperado observed: “It’s a nice area to grow up, it’s beautiful, particularly in the fall, and if you go away from town or get a mile into a hike you can leave 99% of the tourists behind.”
Outer Banks, North Carolina
The urban development of Outer Banks is not the same as in Florida, so visitors appreciate being able to see nature and enjoy more relaxed beaches. The appeal of this North Carolina destination lies in its vacation homes, while fishing, boating and spending the day at the beach are also popular activities. Its relaxed atmosphere and the sense of unhurried activity are what travelers find in Outer Banks. Reddit user popepsg noted: “It’s quite peaceful during the off season and beautiful. It is incredibly seasonal as in it used to feel very empty during the off season months.”
San Diego, California
If you can’t decide between outdoor activities, urban attractions or beaches, San Diego offers it all. Many visitors explore the zoos, museums, and cultural attractions when they arrive in the city while enjoying the region’s mild climate, which is one of San Diego’s biggest draws. Reddit user it_bromo_nerd revealed: “Our weather can’t be beat, in December it dipped into the low 40s overnight but 73 during the day. Our beaches are something special, each with its own personality and community.”
Trending on Cheapism
Puerto Rico
If you’re American, you can fly directly to Puerto Rico; you don’t need a passport. You’ll visit an island that offers beaches, rainforest adventures, and historic neighborhoods for a complete tropical experience. Puerto Rico’s beaches rival those of Florida and the rest of the Caribbean, but without the hassle of international travel. Reddit user Illustrious-Cyclce708 observed: “Puerto Rican people cook delicious, they sing when they talk and are a bit loud.”
Charleston, South Carolina
The city of Charleston attracts many visitors with its rich culinary history, beautiful architecture, and walkable beaches. One of these Florida alternatives destinations frequently appears in rankings of the best destinations in the United States and boasts a panorama of islands that are easily accessible. Reddit user MyShoulderDevil mentioned: “It is a warm, sunny city full of friendly people, breathtaking beauty, outstanding cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.”
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is quite different from the cities we’ve already mentioned. In this region of Tennessee you’ll enjoy music, food and nightlife. One of its main attractions is the live music that fills its streets, which is why many bachelor and bachelorette parties end there. It’s an alternative to Florida, but if you’re looking for completely different activities. Reddit user Pterodictyl said: “The locals I met were amazing, but meeting locals was also near impossible, even in cool dives and local places, just because on the weekends when I wanted to go out everywhere is touristy.”
Sign up for our newsletter
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
When summer arrives and you’re looking for fun for your family without suffering too much from the heat, Wisconsin Dells is a viable alternative to Florida. This region of Wisconsin offers indoor water parks, which are different from the larger, crowded theme park vacations. Those who travel most to Wisconsin Dells are residents of the Midwestern United States, and especially families. Reddit user LucyGoose9 revealed: “You may prefer sit out in the deep woods because it’s very touristy. There will be plenty to do, water parks, mini golf and the Ducks guided tour.”
Cancún, Mexico
Cancún isn’t one of the cheaper Florida alternatives; its all-inclusive resorts are quite expensive, although a positive point is that you have direct flights from the United States. Cancun’s beaches in Mexico attract millions of tourists from all over the world, and the competition between the resorts helps visitors see the entertainment options at each one, from high energy-parties to fitness and mixology classes for relaxing. Reddit user Lamaberto revealed: “Cancun is a different Mexico. If you find the right spots, you can visit Mayan ruins, cenotes and beautiful beaches.”
Sedona, Arizona
Another Florida alternative is Sedona, Arizona. Travelers flock to this region to enjoy the mountain scenery and hiking trails offered by this rapidly growing tourist destination. Social media has amplified the image of its rocky landscape, making it a popular choice for those who aren’t beach lovers and prefer a drier climate, such as retired couples and young couples. Reddit user spiralout1123 commented: “If you want access to canyons and red rocks, and it’s what you love and make your time all about, it’s the best place in the world.”
Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City offers a more relaxed climate during the summer, unlike the oppressive heat of many other destinations. It’s an alternative to the beaches because Lake Michigan offers outdoor activities in the northern part of the country, as well as wineries, a beverage that attracts many tourists. Reddit user iiciphonize stated: “Downtown is nice with lots of little shops and places to eat. Kind of isolated, as the nearest major metros would be Grand Rapids, Detroit. Waterfront is beautiful.”
Branson, Missouri
Families seeking entertainment during their vacation might choose Branson, Missouri, as their destination, surrounded by lakes and opportunities for water activities. This is another alternative to Florida that is much cheaper in terms of accommodations, and its lands are easily accessible by car. Reddit user Jibs1979 expressed: “It’s big enough that within 10 min you can be out of town at home, and you can avoid most tourist traffic with alternative routes and staying off the strip.”
Lake Tahoe, California/ Nevada
Visitors to Lake Tahoe enjoy hiking, boating and other lake activities, which is why it attracts tourists year-round. This lake, shared by California and Nevada, boasts an attractive landscape that is a true magnet for travelers seeking relaxation. Reddit user Acrobatic-Tennis-625 noted: “It’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve lived in. You have unreal access to nature and skiing is decent but not the best in the US.”
Montreal, Quebec
One of the Florida alternatives outside the United States is traveling to Montreal, Canada. It won’t be a long trip because it’s located just north of the U.S. border, and you’ll enjoy the food there. Montreal’s summer festivals attract thousands of tourists, and the walkable neighborhoods offer a European atmosphere right next to home. Reddit user Komiksulo revealed: “Montreal is awesome. Along with the rest of Quebec, it knows the value of and cherishes the arts. Also you have music and festivals!”
Costa Rica
Costa Rica presents itself as an eco-friendly tourism option thanks to its natural beauty, encompassing beaches, rainforest, and wildlife. This unique Florida alternative experience focuses on adventure activities that appeal to travelers. Furthermore, you can take a direct flight from the United States to reach this country. Reddit user [borrado] noted: “I wouldn’t call it overpriced. The wildlife is simply unbeatable, like half the country is a rain forest and there are monkeys, sloths, reptiles, birds and insects everywhere. It is also one of the safest countries in Central America.”
Bigger Picture / Why It Matters
Travelers have been valuing the experiences they have rather than the familiar destinations they might choose. Those mild climates, where they don’t have to worry about the heat, are becoming a destination that could very well be considered one of the Florida alternatives. The value of the food they’ll receive, the affordable accommodations, and the unique experiences are relevant factors that lead them to leave Florida for these other cities.
