4 Best Vacation Spots for Middle-Class Retirees, According To Travel Experts
Having more time to travel is one of the best parts of retired life — and many retirees do take advantage of this perk. According to a 2024 AARP survey, nearly two-thirds (65%) of Americans ages 50-plus planned on traveling that year. Most older adults planned to travel within the U.S. (63%), while 37% said they planned to take at least one international trip.
For retirees, sticking to a budget will traveling is of the utmost importance. The AARP study found that older adults planned to spend $6,659 on vacations for the year. To make that budget stretch the furthest, consider traveling to these affordable vacation spots that cater to senior travelers.
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Santa Fe, New Mexico
Dean Van Es, founder and CEO of Fast Cover Travel Insurance, recommends visiting Santa Fe, New Mexico.
“Here, travelers will discover incredible scenery, a storied heritage and excellent attractions bound to keep an itinerary filled with exciting encounters,” he said. “Best of all, it’s noticeably cheaper to visit than many other popular destinations.”
Van Es said there is a little something for everyone at this domestic destination.
“If you’re into art and culture, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the Sante Fe Opera offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s creative scene,” he said. “Meanwhile, the region features numerous easy hiking trails, suitable for people of all fitness levels, like the Jemez Falls Trail. Finally, the Santa Fe Plaza is surrounded by great budget-friendly restaurants.”
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Gatlinburg, Tennessee
For retirees looking to explore the great outdoors, Jeff Powell, founder and CEO of the travel blog National Park Ventures, recommends visiting Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
“I would recommend any of the national parks, but specifically, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, for several reasons,” he said. “First, the cost. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has no entrance fee. Other than a small fee for a parking pass, the park is free to visit.”
There are also many options for lodging and restaurants in nearby Gatlinburg.
“There are plenty of options for the budget traveler, and plenty of options for those who are willing to splurge a bit,” Powell said. “Plus, there are plenty of dog-friendly options!”
Once you’re done exploring the national park, there is plenty else to do in Gatlinburg.
“Gatlinburg’s Parkway is just one shop after another after another, featuring everything you can imagine,” Powell said. “And just east of Gatlinburg is an arts community, where local artisans create Smoky Mountains-themed woodcarvings, paintings, pottery and much more.”
Corfu, Greece
For those looking to travel internationally, Van Es recommends Corfu, Greece.
“While the mainland cities are attractive, I’d head for a stunning island like Corfu to benefit from the peaceful way of life and affordable amenities,” he said.
There’s plenty to do on the island in addition to enjoying its idyllic beaches.
“The local tavernas make for an enchanting night out, with delicious Mediterranean cuisine served at reasonable prices,” Van Es said. “Corfu is also home to several fascinating experiences for older travelers. This demographic will love wandering the Old Town’s Venetian architecture or taking a boat out onto the water to catch the sunset.”
Aruba
The Caribbean is easy to get to and is an ideal destination for retirees on a budget.
“There’s no shortage of awesome vacation spots in the Caribbean for middle-class retirees, but Aruba is one of the best,” Van Es said. “The weather is incredible, with year-round warmth and enough distance from the hurricane belt, making conditions a little more predictable than on similar islands.”
There are hotels and short-term rentals available to fit any budget, and lots of activities for visitors of all ages.
“The island features a huge range of accommodations, with budget-friendly resorts and guesthouses offering retirees the chance to live it up without costing a fortune,” Van Es said. “While most people spend their days lazing on a beautiful white-sand beach, visitors will also find great spots to play golf, organize private boat tours or wander along the stunning coastline.”
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