As we age our budgets become tighter, but that’s no reason to cloister yourself away. America has a host of vacation destinations that will keep seniors amused without draining their bank accounts.
Orlando in Florida is a popular retirement destination, and it offers just as much to elderly tourists. Busy travelers can see theme parks like Disney World and Sea World or take cheap tours of the city. If you prefer a more leisurely stay, Daytona and Melbourne Beaches outside the city limits offer that too. Look to International Drive for Orlando’s most affordable hotels, dining, and outlet shopping opportunities. Orlando enjoys tropical weather for much of the year, so avoid the crowds and the inflated costs and travel outside the summer school vacation period.
You’ll never be bored in Washington D.C. Many of its best attractions are free, and the ones that aren’t tend to offer hefty seniors discounts. All the Smithsonian museums are free, including the American History Museum and The Air and Space Museum, and it also won’t cost you anything to see the World War II and Vietnam Memorials. Washington D.C.’s public transport is also easy to navigate, and it’ll drop you at the door of most major landmarks. It can take some searching to find affordable dining options in the city, but you’ll find some cheap eats in the back streets.
The French influenced feel and food of Louisiana’s New Orleans keeps guests coming back. The city is one of the oldest in America’s south, so there are plenty of historical attractions to keep elderly visitors entertained. Tours of the city will inform you of the heritage that’s all around. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, visit the opulent houses and sprawling greenery of the Garden District, or take a leisurely stroll along the Mississippi River. Make sure you try the seafood gumbo, but do it in a restaurant off the tourist track to get the best price. It’s also smart for seniors to visit outside Mardi Gras period; the city swells with tourists and the prices rise sky high.
Most people think of Las Vegas as a place to lose money, but if you plan your stay it needn’t become a cash drain. The Nevada capital has much more than casinos to keep visitors amused. Take a trip back to yesteryear with The Freemont Street Experience, a free show which combines the pictures and music of the past. The fountains outside the Bellagio resort also put on a spectacular show at least every half hour, depending on the time you visit. While you’re in the area, it’s also worth taking a trip to the Hoover Dam. It’s located just outside the city so it makes an excellent day trip. The city hopes to entice gamblers, so Las Vegas hotel deals are common and restaurant food is generally inexpensive. If you’re a member of AAA and AARP you may find even bigger savings on accommodation and the casino shows. And if you save enough, perhaps you can even afford to have a flutter at the tables!
Missouri’s Branson isn’t as well known as the other cities we’ve profiled, but it’s a great spot for seniors. The discounted rates travelers enjoy in Las Vegas are also seen in Branson, but the city’s pace is much more laidback. There are antique shops and underground caves to explore and several golf courses for wiling away the hours. The area also has great entertainment tailored to the senior citizen set, including the Beatles’ themed Liverpool Legends and Western style Dixie Stampede Dinner and Show.
Life doesn’t have to slow down because you’re getting old and feeling the financial squeeze. Treating yourself to a vacation at one of the cities above is the perfect way to spend some of your hard-earned retirement funds.
