11 Most Budget Friendly Vacations for Active Retirees

9) Gulf Shores, Alabama

Dreaming of white sand whites and tropical warm waters? Fulfilling this fantasy doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank on a Caribbean vacation. Enjoy the Gulf of Mexico from a unique and less expensive location – Alabama. Warm weather (even in February), fishing, and golfing are three things that you can expect on a holiday in this lovely location. The Gulf State Park is the perfect place for beach-goers. Other ways to stay entertained include a visit to Alligator Alley where you can see hundreds of alligators gathering all in one place. Take a dolphin cruise from The Wharf (an attraction unto itself), or get away from the beach entirely and go horse back riding at Oak Hollow Farm. There are so many activities to do that you’ll find it hard to pack them all in. The bonus: Alabama’s low cost of living means a vacation here is also affordable.

10) Williamsburg, Virginia

If history is your thing, Williamsburg is your place. This colonial city offers a plethora of ways to learn about the country’s birthplace. Visiting Colonial Williamsburg is highly recommended. Discover shopkeepers, townsfolk, and politicians dressed up in colonial garb, eager to share facts about America’s history. Here you can dine on authentic 18th-century food and shop for historically-inspired souvenirs. A 3-day pass is $50.99 allowing entrance to the buildings and museums. However, the grounds are completely open to wander around, meaning you can enjoy the atmosphere and historical interpreters for free. Other free things to do in Williamsburg include a ride on the Jamestown Ferry, a drive along the scenic Colonial Parkway, or a hike on the historic paths in the Greensprings Greenway Interpretive Trail. Visit in summer and you can enjoy free outdoor concerts and free trolley transportation around the area.