6 Cost-Effective Honeymoon Ideas

With the months of stressful wedding planning behind you, it’s time to embark on your honeymoon. While a lavish getaway might sound appealing, you don’t need to spend a fortune to have a memorable and romantic experience. Here are six cost-effective honeymoon ideas to allow you to enjoy your time together without straining your budget.

Opt for a Staycation

The staycation industry has been booming since 2020, with over 60% of Americans taking them. A staycation can be a delightful and affordable way to celebrate your honeymoon without the stress of extensive travel planning. By staying local, you can explore hidden gems in your own area that you might have overlooked. Spend your days visiting local attractions, parks, museums and cafes and take in the evenings enjoying romantic dinners at your favorite nearby restaurants.

Consider Booking a room at a charming bed and breakfast or a boutique hotel to add luxury to your staycation. You can focus entirely on each other without the usual travel hassles such as packing, applying for visas, navigating airports or adjusting to different time zones.

It’s the perfect opportunity to slow down, relax and appreciate the simple pleasures of being together. You can tailor your getaway to your preferences, whether you’d like to indulge in a spa day, have a picnic in a local garden or enjoy a cozy movie night at home.

Consider adding these popular activities to your staycation itinerary:

Denver Botanic Gardens

Gold Belt Scenic Byway

Couples’ massage

Garden of the Gods

Colorado Jeep tours

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Denver Museum of Nature and Science

Photo Credit: Stevie Crecelius

Embrace Nature With a Camping Trip

A camping trip is a wonderfully adventurous and budget-friendly honeymoon option. Embracing the great outdoors allows you to disconnect from the everyday hustle and immerse yourself in nature. Imagine waking up to birds chirping, spending your stay hiking scenic trails and evenings cuddled by a campfire under the stars. Many national and state parks provide affordable camping options with breathtaking views, from mountains to forests to lakesides.

Whether you pitch a tent or rent a cozy cabin, camping provides an opportunity for deep connection and bonding — what a honeymoon is all about. Without the distractions of technology and city life, you can focus solely on each other, sharing stories and creating new memories.

Cooking meals together over a campfire and walking in nature can be deeply romantic and intimate activities. Additionally, camping's simplicity and minimalism help you appreciate the essentials and the beauty of being together.

Explore Nearby Destination

Visiting nearby destinations is convenient, allowing you to experience new places without the high costs and hassle of extensive travel. Colorado has plenty to offer, perfect for a memorable honeymoon. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures or quaint towns, there’s something for everyone within a short drive. Here are three nearby destinations that are ideal for your honeymoon escape:

Estes Park

Nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park’s east entrance, Estes Park is a picturesque town that’s the gateway to some of Colorado’s most stunning natural beauty. Here, you can explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, take in panoramic mountain views and spot wildlife like elk and deer.

Stay in one of the charming lodges or cozy cabins that offer romantic settings with spectacular views. Don’t miss the visit to the historic Stanley Hotel, the inspiration for Stephen King’s haunting novel “The Shining.” Pay a visit to room 217 for a truly chilling experience.

Aspen

Aspen is one of Colorado’s most renowned destinations and it’s obvious why. It’s famous for its stunning ski trails, making it a winter paradise for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Beyond the slopes, Aspen is vibrant year-round, hosting several massive arts and culture festivals such as the Aspen Music Festival and the Aspen Film Fest.

Manitou Springs

Located near Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs is a quirky and vibrant town known for its natural mineral springs and artistic community. Stroll hand-in-hand through the town’s iconic streets, explore unique boutiques and art galleries, and enjoy the eclectic dining options, from freshly sourced game to locally grown vegetables.

Visit the famous Manitou Incline, where you’ll gain 2,000 feet of elevation over less than one mile. For less of a challenge, take a scenic drive up Pikes Peak for beautiful views.

Photo Credit:Wandering Nomad

Glenwood Springs

Famous for its hot springs and outdoor recreation, Glenwood Springs is a rejuvenating destination for honeymooners. Relax together in the therapeutic waters of Glenwood Hot Springs or Iron Mountain Hot Springs, and let the stress of wedding planning melt away.

For more adventurous activities, try white-water rafting on the Colorado River, hiking to Hanging Lake, or exploring Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. The town also offers various dining and lodging options, from luxury resorts to quaint inns.

Consider Home Swapping

Home swapping is a unique way to experience a new destination and it’s now more popular than ever. Platforms like HomeExchange saw a 45% increase in subscribers at the beginning of 2023. These platforms allow you to stay in someone else’s home while they stay in yours, eliminating accommodation costs and often providing more comfort and amenities than a hotel.

Home swapping lets you live like a local, exploring neighborhoods, markets and attractions off the typical tourist path. It also offers the convenience of a home-like environment, perfect for cooking meals together and relaxing in privacy.

Plan a Road Trip

A road trip is an adventurous way to explore new places together. Choose a scenic route with interesting stops along the way, such as national parks, cute towns or historical sites. Pack your essentials, prepare a playlist of your favorite songs and set off with an open itinerary that allows for spontaneous detours and discoveries. You can camp or stay in budget-friendly motels along the way.

Take Advantage of Discounts and Deals

Discounts and deals allow you to enjoy more for less. Keep an eye out for special honeymoon packages, last-minute travel deals and seasonal promotions on flights, hotels and activities. Websites and apps dedicated to travel discounts are invaluable, offering substantial savings on everything from accommodation to dining. Sign up for newsletters from travel companies and follow deal sites to stay updated on the latest offers.

Share Your Love Within Your Budget

Your honeymoon is about celebrating your love and starting your married life together. With these cost-effective honeymoon ideas, you can have a romantic, memorable and stress-free getaway without overspending.

Author bio: Cora Gold is a wedding writer and editor of Revivalist magazine. She aims to inspire couples to achieve the wedding of their dreams. Connect with Cora on LinkedIn, Pinterest and Twitter.