The 15 most underrated foodie cities in the US

Albuquerque, New Mexico hot air balloons

Shutterstock / Michael E. Halstead

You don't have to spend a ton of money or travel far to enjoy great food.

Some of America's smaller cities and towns boast delicious cuisine — and are totally affordable to visit.

We asked our friends at Hotels.com to curate a list of some of the best foodie destinations in the US where average hotel prices are under $100.

The list is based on the actual prices consumers paid when booking through Hotels.com in the first half of 2015, regardless of star rating.

Keep scrolling to see where you can spend on food but save on accommodations.

15. Mesa is Arizona's third largest city and it's also home to an eclectic food scene with an emphasis on farm-to-table dining. Average hotel prices here are around $100 per night.

Facebook / Red, White, and Brew - MESA

Click here to learn more abut Red, White and Brew >

14. The historic capital of Missouri, Jefferson City offers hotels for an average price of $98 per night. It's a great place for authentic barbecue, and wine lovers can take a trip to the many wineries that sit along the Missouri River.

iStock / gnagel

13. An ideal spot for beer lovers, Kalamazoo, Michigan, has recently experienced a flourish in craft breweries — there are six within walking distance of each other in the city's downtown area. Average hotel prices are around $98 per night.

Bell's Brewery

To learn more about Bell's Brewery, click here >

12. Knoxville, Tennessee, is a college town that sits at the foot of the Smoky Mountains, but it's also home to a growing culinary scene thanks to the chefs who've graduated from the nearby renowned Blackberry Farm. A one-night stay in Knoxville costs an average of $98.

Facebook / Blackberry Farms

Click here to learn more about Blackberry Farm >

11. Little Rock, Arkansas, is a hidden gem for foodies — there are plenty of eclectic restaurants serving specialty cheese dips as well as some of the best barbecue joints in the country. Visitors will spend around $97 for a one-night stay.

Yelp / Ivan S

To learn more about Whole Hog Cafe, click here >

See the rest of the story at Business Insider

See Also:

• The 50 best B&Bs in America

• These three travelers visited 22 states in 24 hours — here's the route they took

• 21 incredible restaurants everyone should eat at in France

SEE ALSO: The 25 best cities for foodies around the world

SEE ALSO: 12 destinations where you can stay in a 5-star hotel for less than $200 a night