What can I lay on top of my dining table that isn't too expensive?

Look at lueon (sp) or 1/4 inch plywood. Then stain to match the pedestal and seal. Pick out one with pretty grain. Inexpensive and beautiful

I would but all that's left of the tabletop are rough hewn poor quality wood slats about 1/4" apart. There's no repairing, refinishing or restoring them.

So, plan B?

Not really an answer but I think copper sheeting would be gorgeous (especially over time! It would take some careful hammering and tacking but man....I think I want to do mine now that it's in my head! I have these heavy vinyl tiles that would cut more easily (I bought them at re-store to replace the top of my tile table with something a bit more quiet)...they cut with a normal razor...I don't know how to exactly finish the edges to look finished b/c mine had wood already around the tile, but they look like real textured tile! Maybe that could be an option...

Yes they do. Mine charges for every cut, but in CA they are money grubbers. In other places they are less expensive and nicer.

I do not have a formal dining room in this house, I have an eat in kitchen. Also my end tables in the living room and the coffee table. I was tired of the hot or cold beverages on the wood tables, (even though there are ample coasters within an arm's reach), so I purchased glass tops for all of them. I also have a ton of pets and for me, makes it easier to keep things neat and tidy - and clean! Now I am moving on to my bedroom nightstands. Since they were custom made for me by my dad when he was alive, they will be more money as they have to be custom cut. I also want to do both my highboy dressers, but my dad made me those too. Saving my big pennies . . .

Also photos, old and new, look good under the glass. Just be mindful of direct sunlight with your photos.