15 Cheap U.S. Flight Routes Leading to Surprisingly Scenic Getaways

Sometimes the best trips aren’t across oceans but just a short, affordable flight away. Hidden behind low fares are U.S. routes that deliver mountain views, beach escapes, or small town charm without breaking your budget. These routes prove that beauty doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. Whether you’re craving desert landscapes, misty coasts, or vibrant cityscapes, these flights make a stunning getaway possible for less than you’d expect.

1. Denver to Bozeman, Montana

This short flight takes you from the Rockies straight into the heart of Montana’s outdoor beauty. Bozeman sits between the Gallatin and Bridger Mountains, offering easy access to Yellowstone National Park, alpine hikes, and fly fishing streams. The route is often discounted thanks to high competition among regional airlines. Once there, you’ll find cozy downtown cafes, local breweries, and sweeping mountain views that make every budget traveler feel like they’ve scored a luxury escape.

2. Los Angeles to Reno, Nevada

Reno might not top your travel list, but the flight from Los Angeles often costs less than a dinner out. Beyond the casinos, Reno serves as a gateway to Lake Tahoe’s turquoise waters and the Sierra Nevada’s forest trails. You can hike, kayak, or even take a short drive to Virginia City’s Old West streets. Cheap airfare plus endless day trips makes this route one of the best for travelers who crave scenery and spontaneity without the hefty price tag of major resort towns.

3. Dallas to Colorado Springs, Colorado

A quick, affordable hop from Dallas lands you in one of the most naturally beautiful regions in the country. Colorado Springs combines dramatic mountain views with attractions like Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak. Flights remain budget friendly year round, especially on low cost carriers. The city’s mix of nature trails, quirky diners, and art galleries means you can spend little but experience a lot. It’s an ideal pick when you want a mountain escape without the Denver crowds or prices.

4. Chicago to Asheville, North Carolina

If you want mountain charm with a creative twist, this route delivers. Flights between Chicago and Asheville are often surprisingly cheap, connecting you to the Blue Ridge Mountains’ winding drives and cozy lodges. Asheville’s artsy downtown and craft beer scene feel worlds away from city life. It’s the perfect blend of small town character and outdoor adventure, and with deals appearing year round, it’s one of the most scenic, affordable getaways in the Southeast.

5. Phoenix to Santa Fe, New Mexico

This short desert route connects two very different landscapes at wallet friendly prices. Santa Fe’s adobe architecture, mountain sunsets, and thriving art scene make it feel like a world apart from Phoenix’s sprawling desert. The flight itself offers striking aerial views of mesas and canyons, and fares often dip below $100 round trip. Once there, you can explore Canyon Road galleries, savor green chile dishes, and enjoy a refreshing break from the heat.

6. New York City to Burlington, Vermont

Cheap fares on this route open the door to one of New England’s most photogenic corners. Burlington sits on Lake Champlain, framed by the Green Mountains. You can bike along the waterfront, browse local markets, or drive to nearby covered bridges and maple farms. It’s an easy, peaceful escape from city noise. Many airlines compete on this route, keeping it affordable even during peak foliage season when the scenery is unforgettable.

7. Seattle to Kalispell, Montana

Flights from Seattle to Kalispell are among the best kept secrets for travelers craving national park scenery on a budget. Kalispell is just outside Glacier National Park, where turquoise lakes and rugged peaks feel untouched. Airlines frequently discount this short route, making it a cost effective way to experience dramatic mountain beauty. Once you land, everything from scenic drives to quiet hikes feels refreshingly authentic and far from tourist crowds.

8. Miami to Asheville, North Carolina

This flight swaps palm trees for pines, giving you a budget friendly taste of mountain living. Asheville’s cooler weather, live music, and historic charm make it an appealing contrast to Miami’s beaches. Flights often drop below $150, and once there, the Blue Ridge Parkway and local art markets make it easy to fill your itinerary without overspending. It’s an affordable route for anyone craving a change of pace and scenery in just a few hours.

9. Las Vegas to Salt Lake City, Utah

A quick, inexpensive flight connects two starkly different landscapes: the neon of Las Vegas and the alpine calm of Salt Lake City. The route is consistently affordable thanks to high competition, and the scenery en route deserts giving way to snow capped mountains is worth the trip alone. Once you arrive, national parks like Zion and Arches are within driving distance, offering postcard perfect views without the crowds or costs of longer getaways.

10. Boston to Portland, Maine

This route might seem short, but it’s packed with charm. Flights from Boston to Portland often run under an hour and under $100. Once there, you’ll find cobblestone streets, working harbors, and seafood shacks serving fresh lobster rolls. The flight offers aerial views of the Maine coastline, and the destination rewards you with a slower pace and plenty of small town beauty. It’s proof that the most scenic trips don’t have to take you far.

11. Atlanta to Savannah, Georgia

This budget friendly route connects two of Georgia’s most distinctive destinations. In about an hour, you go from Atlanta’s urban sprawl to Savannah’s moss draped squares and riverfront beauty. Frequent discounts from major airlines keep the route affordable, and Savannah’s walkable historic district makes exploring easy on your wallet. It’s the kind of trip where you can relax, eat well, and soak up charm without needing a car or big budget.

12. Portland to Boise, Idaho

Flights between Portland and Boise are often cheap and quick, making them perfect for travelers who want small city energy and scenic surroundings. Boise’s foothill trails, riverfront paths, and lively downtown make it an underrated gem for outdoor lovers. Low fares mean you can spend your money on local food or a bike rental instead. It’s a simple route with real payoff for anyone looking to combine nature, good coffee, and affordability.

13. San Diego to Monterey, California

This short flight along the California coast delivers some of the most breathtaking views you can get on a budget. Monterey’s rugged cliffs, sea otters, and charming waterfront make it a peaceful contrast to San Diego’s buzz. Frequent discounts from regional airlines make the route surprisingly affordable. Once there, you can drive the Pacific Coast Highway or visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium without draining your savings.

14. Houston to Albuquerque, New Mexico

This route connects two distinctive desert cities at a fraction of typical travel costs. Flights are often under two hours and competitively priced. Albuquerque’s Sandia Mountains, hot air balloons, and colorful markets offer plenty of visual appeal. The contrast between Houston’s humidity and Albuquerque’s crisp air makes the trip feel like a reset. Affordable fares make it easy to enjoy scenic hikes and cultural experiences without splurging.

15. Minneapolis to Rapid City, South Dakota

For travelers seeking underrated beauty, this route is a hidden gem. Rapid City is the gateway to the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore, and Badlands National Park. Flights are short and frequently discounted, making it one of the best deals for nature lovers. Once you land, you can drive through rolling hills, visit old mining towns, and watch the sun set over striking rock formations. It’s an affordable escape that feels far bigger than its price tag.