Calling all Minneapolitans! Are you in need of quick, cheap vacation this summer? Well, Minneapolis is a great starting point for some cheap and exciting last minute vacations. Whether you are looking for a beach getaway, a city break, or an adventure in the great outdoors, there are plenty of affordable options for travelers of all budgets. With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect impromptu vacation leaving from Minneapolis. Keep reading to get some great ideas for your next last minute getaway!
Finding Last Minute Flights from MSP
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The first step to planning a cheap vacation is to iron out the most inexpensive way to get there. If you want to go somewhere far away, this may mean taking a flight, as there aren’t many better ways to get all the way across the country for a quick trip. Fortunately, finding last minute flights from MSP (that’s Minneapolis−Saint Paul International Airport) isn't rocket science, it just takes a little research and flexibility. Flight prices tend to fluctuate quite a bit, and getting your flight last minute can actually benefit you as the airlines try to sell any remaining seats that they have.
To make the most of your trip, it can actually be a good idea to plan the entire thing at the last minute. This way, you can be flexible with your destination and pick a vacation spot based on where the deals take you. Savvy globetrotters know that the more flexible with your options you are, the more money you will save, and thus the more places you will get to visit. The deals at MSP are definitely out there, you just have to be willing to jump on them when they show up!
MSP to Denver
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When it comes to taking a short vacation, few cities offer as much to explore as Denver, and it happens to be one of the most traveled to destinations from Minneapolis. Located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a vibrant city that offers a wealth of activities and attractions. From its chic downtown area to its world-class museums and galleries, Denver is the perfect destination for an unexpected getaway.
A day in Denver could include a morning spent exploring the many boutiques, shops, and restaurants of the 16th Street Mall, followed by an afternoon of sightseeing. In the historic LoDo district, visitors can explore the city’s many art galleries and its iconic Union Station. For those looking for a more active adventure, Denver offers a variety of outdoor activities, from biking along the Platte River to snowshoeing in the nearby Rocky Mountains. After a day of exploration, visitors can take in the stunning views of the city from the observation deck of the Denver Art Museum, or dine at one of the city’s many acclaimed restaurants before heading back home.
MSP to Phoenix
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Phoenix, Arizona is another frequent destination for Minneapolitans, so there are plenty of opportunities for travel deals from MSP. Phoenix is a bustling city with plenty of attractions to explore. For a cost-effective vacation, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options available, such as hostels and Airbnb's. Additionally, the city is home to many museums, galleries, and parks that cost little or no money to visit, making it easy to take in the sights while still saving money.
For a cheap outing, sightseeing around the city is a great way to explore. There are many free walking tours available that can provide insight into the city's history and culture. Or take a day trip out to the nearby mountain ranges for a picturesque landscape. If you're feeling adventurous, head out for a day of hiking, biking, or horseback riding. Whatever you choose, there's plenty of affordable activities to do in Phoenix.
MSP to Orlando
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Orlando, Florida is an ideal destination for a cheap vacation. With a wide variety of attractions and activities, there is something for everyone. From theme parks like Disney World, Universal, and SeaWorld to attractions like the Kennedy Space Center, there is no shortage of things to do in Orlando. Additionally, the city offers great deals on accommodations. Whether you choose to stay in a hotel or vacation rental, you can find reasonable rates that make a vacation to Orlando very affordable.
For those looking to eat out on a budget, Orlando also offers plenty of great options. There are many fast-food restaurants as well as affordable family-style eateries. If you want to go all out, you can try one of the many fine-dining restaurants that the city has to offer. Regardless of your budget, you can find delicious food at reasonable prices. With the great deals available, Orlando is the perfect destination for a cheap vacation.
Take a Road Trip Instead
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In the event that you can’t find any last minute travel deals, there’s always the option of jumping in the car and heading out to find some cheap or free adventures out on the open road. If you already own a car and won’t need to rent one, that would be ideal. But even if you have to rent one, you can still end up saving money by camping out and visiting free attractions. Head up to lake superior for an endless amount of wallet-friendly activities, from hiking and mountain biking to canoeing and fishing. It’s about a 4-hour drive, and there are tons of places you could visit, like Apostle Islands National Lakeshore or the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Conversely, you could head in the other direction and take a road trip down the Great River Road, a scenic route that runs along the Mississippi River from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. This is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region, with plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture, see the sights along the way, and indulge in a wide variety of regional cuisine. Along the way, visitors can stop in charming towns and cities, camp in state parks, fish in the Mississippi River, take a Mississippi River cruise, and much more. With plenty of affordable lodging options, from cheap hotels to free campsites, you can easily find a place to stay that fits your budget. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or an extended road trip, the Great River Road is a great destination for a budget vacation out of Minneapolis.
