With summer just around the corner, a fun-filled family vacation is at the top of everyone’s mind—kids and parents alike. However, finding a nice vacation spot with multi-generational appeal, enough room to accommodate groups and plenty of kid-friendly amenities is no easy feat. Planning a vacation that won’t put a dent in your pocket is even harder. This is why we have compiled this list of the top 10 budget-friendly family vacation spots based on traveler feedback as well as factors like sights, accessibility, and affordable attractions. Rest assured, you won’t have to break the bank to take your kids on a memorable trip this summer.
Here are our top 10 picks for families traveling on a budget:
1. Winter Park, Colorado
Winter Parks, although considered winter vacation destinations, are great for summer holidays too if you are looking for a way to beat the heat. And the best thing about Winter Park, Colorado is that it is cheap and accessible, especially for families with kids. Not only will you be able to enjoy hiking, ropes courses, gondola rides, and wall climbing, but you can also avail of a family discount on their day passes.
If that’s not enough, the nearby Snow Mountain Ranch has the United States’ only summertime tubing hills along with miniature golf and swimming pools to keep everyone in your family busy.
2. Outer Banks, North Carolina
What draws most families to this vacation spot is its uncrowded and free beaches. The Outer Banks of North Carolina oozes with history and your family can explore some of the most amazing historical sites like the Wright Brothers National Memorial. The ticket to the memorial is free for kids under 16 and $10 for adults. You can also visit the Bode Island Lighthouse or Currituck Beach Lighthouse for an affordable fee.
After you are done beaching, you can stroll through Duck’s boardwalk and go ghost-crabbing. Try to find lodging near the coasts and attractions and save money by booking a few months in advance.
3. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
If you are thinking of a budget-friendly family vacation, the Grand Canyon National Park should definitely be on your list. Yes, it can be a little busy during summer, but you can easily avoid the crowd by heading to the North Rim of the Park. There, you can dump your luggage and cozy up at the Grand Canyon Lodging. However, make sure to book in advance to secure your room.
Grand Canyon is also a great place if you have a hiking or camping trip in mind. You can book your site at the North Rim Campgrounds for affordable prices.
4. Wisconsin Dells, Southern Wisconsin
Lying on the Wisconsin River in a region of a glacier-carved sandstone formation, this kid-approved town is also known as the “Water Park Capital of the World”. Among its many theme parks and entertainment centers include, Noah’s Ark Water Park. You can also take your kids kayaking at Mirror Lake State Park.
You can book your vacation package at Wisconsin Dells Resort to save money on lodging. After an active day, leave kids to rest at the resort with plenty of amenities and enjoy a quiet stroll with your partner along the scenic Wisconsin River.
5. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone, sitting on top of a dormant volcano, is home to more hot springs and geysers than any other place in the world. It offers families a great opportunity to experience natural wonders like the Yellowstone Grand Canyon and amazing wildlife such as America’s biggest buffalo herd, grizzly bears, and wolves.
The entrance to the parks is mostly in Wyoming but also in Idaho and Montana. The entry ticket is affordable, however, lodging can be a little hefty during peak seasons. In such a case, you can bring your tents along and opt for relatively cheaper campsites.
6. Washington, D.C.
The bustling city of Washington D.C. is a great option for families traveling on a budget. All the Smithsonian Museums, National Zoos, and Monuments are free including outdoor spots like Rock Creek Park and US National Arboretum.
To make your trip truly worth remembering for the kids, you can register through your home state representative’s office for a free tour of the White House.
7. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
If your kids love beaches, then look no further than this quaint seaside town, boasting over 50 courses. Not only is access to the beach free, but there are plenty of entertainment options for kids, including water parks, slides, mini golf courses, and aquariums. In addition to this, the 350-acre broad-way hosts complimentary concerts and events throughout the summer, which you can enjoy with your family.
8. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a great budget-friendly vacation spot as it offers an all-in-one city and beach trip. You can hop on board a funicular and climb the steep hills for very cheap and witness the scenic view of the city laden with distinct neighborhoods, castles, and palaces. For kids, there are plenty of activities like the Money Museum and 10 other city Museums that are completely free.
9. Branson, Missouri
Branson is popular for its amazing theme parks and ample outdoor opportunities. Your kids fall in love with Silver Dollar City –a unique theme park catering to kids of all ages and boasting musical performances and fun rides.
Other than this, Table Rock Lake is also free, where families can spend time fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Before heading out, you should check Branson’s Tourism Board website for family packages and discounts.
10. San Diego, California
San Diego is a go-to family vacation destination hosting 70 miles of beaches, museums, and waterparks. Get the Go-To All Attraction Pass to get a discount while visiting popular attractions like the San Diego Zoo, Harbor Cruises, and Legoland California.
We hope that these budget-friendly vacation spots will help you pick out an affordable spot for the next family vacation. For more such tips, you can visit Thecreativewannabe blogs.