Looking for an amazing vacation that will recharge your inner being, all while not spending a fortune? You are in good hands, my friend; there are plenty of places to see that will keep your wallet happy. Whether you want to sit by a pool, hike a mountain, or learn new facts in a museum, I’ve got you covered for your next getaway.
1. Washington, D.C
Want a fun family vacation that will also be a cool learning experience? Why not check out our Nation’s capital in Washington, D.C. The town has some free stuff to do, so you can keep some of that hard-earned money in your pocket. Most of the museums are free, as well as the National Zoo. Walk along the city streets and see the White House and other National monuments.
2. Crystal River, Florida
Enjoy some fun in the sun on your next vacation. Florida has some of the best weather in the country. Still, the main attraction for Crystal River is the Manatee population. You can actually swim with these gentle giants. How many people say they have swam with the famous sea cow? Get on out to Florida now.
3. Southern Utah
Suppose you are an avid hiker or consider yourself an outdoorsy person. In that case, Southern Utah should be on your future vacation list. With National Parks like Arches, Bryce Canyon, and Zion, you can have one incredible road trip exploring this state. Rent a camper van and ditch the expensive hotels as you camp your way through these breathtaking parks.
4. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Enjoy a great time in the water or cruising the boardwalk in this southern beach town. If you like water sports or golfing, you will have a great time in Myrtle Beach. Many of these golf courses will let anyone under 16 play free with an adult. That’s a great deal. The beach town also has a bunch of free art shows and music performances throughout the year.
5. Glenmont, Ohio
Why would anyone consider a family vacation to Ohio? I always thought it was a fly-over state, but I was wrong. This rural town is an adventure lover’s dream. Take your pick between hiking, mountain biking, zip-lining, and canoeing down the Mohican River. There is an Amish town nearby where you can take your kids to teach them what hard work looks like, and you can threaten to leave them there if they don’t get off their iPads.
6. New York City, New York
Yes, you can have a frugal vacation in New York City if you know what you are doing. Please buy tickets to the Broadway shows on the day when tickets are their cheapest. Take advantage of some of the free museums and music venues. Also, Central Park is free. Walk around and people-watch. There are some serious characters in the big city.
7. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
There is a bunch of fun stuff to do for free in Philadelphia. You can see the Liberty Bell and re-learn some of our Nation’s history you have forgotten since grade school. After that, you can tell everyone you are a tourist when you run up the Rocky Steps and get your picture taken. Ensure you eat a greasy cheesesteak daily for the authentic Philadelphia experience.
8. Los Angeles, California
California is expensive, but you can have a budget-friendly vacation in Southern California. Los Angeles is home to some of the prettiest beaches in the state. Spend the day sunbathing in Malibu or Santa Monica. Talk a free hike up to the Hollywood sign or among the Walk of Fame. Grab a famous In-n-Out burger, and people watch down in Venice Beach.
9. Bozeman, Montana
Nestled in the mountainside of Western Montana, this charming town is becoming popular with tourists. Walk down the charming Main Street, which has many boutiques, ice cream and chocolate shops, and great local restaurants. It is also just a two-hour drive to Yellowstone. Take a drive through one of the most beautiful places in our country. Pro-tip: don’t be silly and try to pet the Bison. They will kill you.
10. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas can be a very cheap destination if you aren’t blowing all your money at the tables and the bars. Whether you are with friends or family, there is a bunch of cheap stuff to do. There are all the free light and water shows but also roller coasters and virtual reality simulators. Find a discounted show, or wander the strip until you bump into a party. Drinks are cheap; remember to hydrate.
11. Holland, Michigan
Has your significant other been wanting to go to Amsterdam, but you can’t afford it? Take her to Holland, Michigan, the Amsterdam of the West. No, seriously, this town has a serious European feel. They have windmills and tulips to make you feel like you are in Amsterdam. Enjoy the shores of Lake Michigan and feed the goats at Neil’s Dutch Village. Amsterdam isn’t going anywhere. You can go there next year.
12. Gulf Coast, Florida
The coast of Florida is a beach lover’s dream. The weather is as close to perfect, so hanging out at the beach is an all-year activity. Cities like St. Petersburg and Tampa are close to Disney World amusement parks, which can be pricey but worth it. Also, if you are a baseball fan, Spring Training is a great time to catch a ball game or two.
13. New Orleans, Louisianna
New Orleans is as vibrant of a city as there is. You can spend a lot of money eating in their fancy restaurants, but some of the smaller street foods are just as good and half the price. There is free music in almost every corner of the French Quarter, and the bars compete for the cheapest drinks. If you want to party on a budget, gather your friends and head to New Orleans.
14. Richmond, Virginia
All you history buffs will find Richmond, Virginia, a great vacation spot. There are too many historical sites to list, but you can have a day full of learning new historical facts to impress your dad. Take advantage of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, which has several pieces from Van Gogh. If you are not a history nerd, grab some tickets to see the local pro soccer team and enjoy one of the city’s many craft breweries.
15. West Yellowstone, Montana
This little city sits just outside Yellowstone National Park, where many park visitors stay. The town has charming shops and restaurants, but the real fun is in the park. Watch for wildlife like bison, grizzly bears, elk, deer, moose, and wolves. Keep your distance. This is not a petting zoo. Those animals will kill you.
16. Redwood Country, California
Northern California is one of the prettiest areas of our country. Redwoods are some of the biggest tree species in the world. Some are so big you can drive a car through them. Stay at one of the cheaper roadside motels that cater to tourists and explore the parks and endless hikes. Ensure you get a picture next to the famous Paul Bunyan Statue to make everyone know you are cooler than them.
17. Coeur D’Alene, Idaho
Coeur D’Alene reminds me of the towns you would see in a movie about kids going to summer camp. The town is centered around the lake, a dream come true for anyone who loves water sports. You can rent bikes and cruise into town for some homemade ice cream and fantastic little shops and restaurants. You’ll feel recharged and relaxed after a weekend of breathing in the fresh Idaho air.
18. Orange Beach/Gulf Shores, Alabama
Yes, I recommend you visit Alabama. There is so much more to this state than college football and Forest Gump. If the white sand beaches don’t satisfy you, the Ferris Wheel, zip lines, and mini golf surely will. Let Dad go fishing while you check out the wide variety of animals at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.
19. Fredericksburg, Texas
This Texas town sits just a few hour’s drive outside of San Antonio and Austin. There are two excellent museums in the city. The Pioneer Museum will teach you everything you need about German immigration. The National Museum of the Pacific War is one of the most prolific museums on WW II. The town’s downtown has all the charm you would want in a small Texas town. You’ll love the small town’s bars and restaurants.
20. Riviera Maya, Mexico
Hop over the border for a nice getaway in our southern neighbor of Mexico. Check out the numerous all-inclusive resorts. No hidden fees once you check in; you can relax and know you will have a great vacation without breaking the bank.
21. Golden, Colorado
Just outside of Denver is a great location for a family destination. The town has something for everyone. You can book a white water rafting adventure for the whole family or spend the day swimming in Clear Creek, which runs right through Golden. Mom and Dad might love to see the Coors Brewing facility tour, while the kids will want to check out the Lakeside Amusement Park.
22. Bar Harbor, Maine
You will surely feel refreshed after a long stay in Maine. Sitting just outside Acadia National Park, the town is the definition of quaint. Grab some of their world-famous ice creams after an adventurous day hiking in the woods.
23. Amelia Island, Florida
Sitting just across the border of Georgia, there is much to love about this Florida beach town. Of course, you get the warm sandy beach, but the city also has great fishing and daily sunset cruises. The main city is vibrant, with many art studios and local restaurants.
24. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Catch a cheap flight to the Dominican, and you will feel transported to a faraway land. Book an all-inclusive and leave your worries in the States because you will enjoy a picturesque beach filled with great food and drinks. The resorts have casinos, live music, and performances that will make your family love you even more than they already do.
