Low-Cost Vacation: Wilmington, NC

You won’t get bored in this historic town, which was hailed as one of the top US destinations on the rise on TripAdvisor. It has 3 nearby beaches and a Riverwalk full of shops and restaurants.

We recommend taking a stroll at sunset for a unique view of the Cape Fear River and walking down memory lane with visits to historic homes, museums, and the Battleship Carolina. Many of the attractions on this low-cost vacation are free.

And that includes two state parks, the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History and the Hanover County Arboretum. But don’t worry. Those that DO charge admission typically offer senior discounts.

There are six public golf courses and fishing off public piers. Off-season rates on accommodations are available in the spring and fall, starting as low as $64 a night at budget hotel chains.

Lucy