O’Fallon and St. Charles Make inkl.com’s List of “America’s Most Budget-Friendly Tourist Destinations”
Saint Charles County, MO – October 16, 2025 — In a new study published via inkl.com, two cities in the St. Louis region — O’Fallon, Missouri and St. Charles, Missouri — have been added to the list of America’s Most Budget-Friendly Tourist Destinations.
The ranking, originally sourced from GOBankingRates and republished by inkl.com, identifies 30 U.S. destinations where a modest three-night, two-adult vacation (meals, lodging, drinks, airfare) can be achieved for $1,600 or less.
O’Fallon is ranked #26, with an estimated vacation cost of $1,514 and St. Charles is ranked #27, with a total estimated cost of $1,516 – these costs include meals, drinks, hotels, and airfare.
These figures reflect an attractive combination of affordability and accessibility, positioning both cities as compelling options for travelers seeking cost-conscious destinations that still offer cultural, historical, and recreational appeal.
“Being recognized alongside other budget-friendly destinations is a major win for the St. Charles area,” said Scott Tate, President & CEO of the St. Charles Regional Chamber. “Our region offers incredible value — from the charm of historic Main Street and vibrant festivals to Missouri’s scenic wine country and outstanding boating opportunities along the Mississippi River. Visitors can enjoy a rich, authentic experience without a high price tag, and this recognition helps share that story with travelers across the country.”
Local tourism and business leaders say the inclusion in such a list can boost regional visibility, encourage weekend getaways, and attract visitors from nearby metro areas seeking lower-cost alternatives.
About the inkl.com / GOBankingRates Study
The study analyzed a portfolio of destinations drawn from reputable sources such as Travel + Leisure, TripAdvisor, U.S. News & World Report, and travel blog rankings, then estimated 2025 travel costs (meals, drinks, lodging, airfare) for a hypothetical three-night trip for two adults (August 7–10) using average pricing data.
For additional background, and to view the full ranked list of 30 destinations, see the original piece on inkl.com.