When it comes to planning a fun family vacation without breaking the bank, the United States is at the top of the list of ideal options.
From the golden beaches of Florida to the majestic mountains of Colorado, the best cheap family vacations spots in us offer amazing experiences for the whole family. These destinations feature a variety of activities that combine fun and exploration at affordable prices, making them the perfect choice for adventure seekers and budget-conscious people.
Get ready to explore unforgettable destinations that will make your family vacation full of wonderful memories.
There are many options for families looking to enjoy the perfect vacation without breaking the bank. In this article, we will take you on a tour of the best fun inexpensive family vacations in the United States.
From picturesque national parks to vibrant cities, there are many destinations that offer you comfort and fun while keeping travel costs affordable.
Table of Contents
Orlando – Florida:
Orlando is not only the entertainment capital thanks to Disney and Universal Studios, but it also offers budget options. Families can explore parks like Lake Eola Park or enjoy nature at Wekiwa Springs State Park.
When it comes to food, enjoy a brisket sandwich or a hearty burger at affordable local restaurants like 4Rivers Smokehouse. The city offers a range of activities for the whole family without breaking the bank.
Activities:
- Explore Lake Eola Park.
- Walking around Wekiwa Springs State Park.
- Visit the Orlando Science Museum.
- Take a tour of local markets like Winter Park.
- Attend free music performances at CityWalk.
Hotels:
- La Quinta Inn & Suites.
- Holiday Inn Resort Orlando.
- Rosen Inn International.
- Floridian Express Hotel.
San Diego – California:
San Diego is known for its great coastal atmosphere and free beaches. Families can visit Balboa Park and the famous zoo. For food, try the fresh Mexican tacos, which are available at many affordable restaurants.
Street food outlets also offer great options like fresh fish and seafood. The city is full of fun family activities without breaking the bank.
Activities:
- Visit Balboa Park.
- Enjoy beaches like Coronado Beach.
- Explore the Children’s Museum of San Diego.
- Hike Mission Trails Regional Park.
- Take a tour of Old Town Historic District.
Hotels:
- Kings Inn San Diego.
- Wyndham Garden San Diego.
- Motel 6 San Diego.
- Comfort Inn San Diego Old Town.
Great Smoky Mountains – Tennessee:
This natural destination offers endless fun for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore the stunning mountains and mountain trails at no extra cost. As for food, local cuisine includes smoked meats and fresh barbecue at affordable prices at family restaurants like The Peddler Steakhouse. This area is perfect for families who want to experience nature and adventure.
Activities:
- Hike in Great Smoky Mountains Park.
- Explore Laurel Falls.
- Tour Tuckaleechee Caverns.
- Raft in mountain rivers.
- Visit local history museums.
Hotels:
- Valley Forge Inn.
- River Edge Inn.
- Sleep Inn & Suites.
- Baymont by Wyndham Pigeon Forge.
Washington – D.C:
The U.S. capital is known for its free museums, like the National Museum of Nature and famous monuments. In addition to culture, you can enjoy simple meals like pizza and burgers from local restaurants.
The Georgetown area is famous for its many restaurants that serve fresh seafood at reasonable prices. Washington offers fun and free experiences that make it ideal for families looking to learn about culture and history.
Activities:
- Visit the free Smithsonian museums.
- Stroll the National Mall.
- Tour the White House.
- Explore the National Zoo.
- Walking around Georgetown on the river.
Hotels:
- Hampton Inn Washington, D.C.
- Capitol Hill Hotel.
- The Darcy Hotel.
- Pod DC Hotel.
St. Louis – Missouri:
St. Louis is an ideal destination for families, thanks to its free zoos and historical landmarks. Enjoy a visit to Forest Park and the famous zoo. You can enjoy a local barbecue experience like “St. Louis-style BBQ” at affordable restaurants. The city is full of entertainment places that make a family vacation a fun experience.
Activities:
- Visit the free zoo.
- Explore the St. Louis Art Museum.
- Stroll through Forest Park.
- Ride a boat on the river.
- Visit the Gateway Arch.
Hotels:
- Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis.
- Pear Tree Inn St. Louis.
- City Place St. Louis.
- Hampton Inn & Suites St. Louis.
Niagara Falls – New York:
Niagara Falls offers an amazing experience for families. You can enjoy watching the giant waterfalls and strolling around the surrounding area. For food, try traditional American dishes like burgers and sandwiches at local restaurants.
Additionally, there are fun outdoor activities that make this destination an ideal family vacation destination.
Activities:
- View the falls from the Maid of the Mist boat.
- Hike in Niagara Falls State Park.
- Visit Goat Island.
- Take tours of local chocolate factories.
- Explore the observation tower.
Hotels:
- Comfort Inn The Pointe.
- Wingate by Wyndham Niagara Falls.
- Quality Hotel & Suites.
- The Red Coach Inn.
San Antonio – Texas:
The city is known for its rich history and landmarks like the Alamo and the Riverwalk. Families can enjoy the famous Mexican tacos at local restaurants for reasonable prices. San Antonio is full of activities for the whole family, making it an ideal destination for an inexpensive vacation.
Activities:
- Stroll along the Riverwalk.
- Visit the historic Alamo.
- Stroll through Brackenridge Park.
- Explore the zoo.
- Visit local museums like the San Antonio Museum of Art.
Hotels:
- Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio.
- Riverwalk Plaza Hotel.
- Holiday Inn San Antonio.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites.
Miami – Florida:
Miami is known for its beautiful beaches and tropical atmosphere. Public beaches make it a cheap and fun destination for families. You can try fresh Cuban cuisine at local restaurants. There are plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy and let the Miami vibes take you on a fun adventure.
Activities:
- Relax on Miami’s public beaches.
- Walking around Little Havana.
- Visit the Miami Children’s Museum.
- Take a stroll through the Miami Botanical Gardens.
- Take a boat tour.
Hotels:
- Freehand Miami.
- Hampton Inn Miami Beach.
- Hotel Shelley.
- The Whitelaw Hotel.
Portland – Oregon:
Portland has a laid-back, natural vibe, with plenty of parks and gardens for families to explore for free. When it comes to food, the city is known for its food trucks that serve a variety of affordable cuisines. There are also plenty of outdoor activities that make this city a great destination for a budget-friendly vacation.
Activities:
- Explore the flower gardens at Washington Park.
- Take a bike tour of downtown.
- Hike Tabor Mountain.
- Visit the Portland Children’s Museum.
- Explore nearby waterfalls like Multnomah Falls.
Hotels:
- Jupiter Hotel.
- The Society Hotel.
- Staypineapple Hotel.
- Motel 6 Portland.
Denver – Colorado:
Denver offers nature-loving families plenty of parks and free activities like hiking in the mountains. You can try local cuisine like pizza or grilled meats at affordable restaurants. The city is an ideal destination for outdoor activities that suit the entire family.
Activities:
- Hike at Red Rocks Park.
- Visit the Denver Zoo.
- Ski in the Rocky Mountains.
- Hike at Denver Botanic Gardens.
- Visit the Denver Art Museum.
Hotels:
- Quality Inn Denver.
- Clarion Hotel Denver Central.
- Baymont by Wyndham Denver.
- Hyatt Place Denver.
Kansas city – Missouri:
Kansas City, Missouri is one of the best cheap family vacation spots in the Us , offering plenty of activities that families can enjoy without spending a lot of money. The city is famous for its delicious barbecue, especially the affordable “Kansas City-style BBQ” dishes available at local restaurants.
Families can also explore landmarks like the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art or take a tour of the famous Union Station. With ample public transportation, Kansas City is a fun and affordable destination to explore and enjoy great food.
Activities:
- Explore the Kansas City Zoo.
- Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
- Stroll through Swope Park.
- Catch a baseball or football game at a local stadium.
- Take a tour of Union Station and the Museum of Science.
Hotels:
- La Quinta Inn & Suites Kansas City.
- Best Western Plus Kansas City.
- Comfort Inn & Suites.
- Fairfield Inn Kansas City Downtown.
New Orleans – Louisiana:
New Orleans is an ideal destination for families looking to explore a unique and distinctive culture at a reasonable price. Enjoy delicious local cuisine like Po’boys and Cajun and Creole dishes at street restaurants for a reasonable price.
The city is full of activities like touring the French Quarter and exploring free museums, making it a great destination for a family vacation.
Activities:
- Walking around the French Quarter.
- Visiting the Children’s Museum of New Orleans.
- Boating on the Mississippi River.
- Attend a free jazz performance.
- Explore the botanical gardens at City Park.
Hotels:
- French Market Inn.
- Place d’Armes Hotel.
- Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery.
- Royal Sonesta New Orleans.
Austin – Texas:
Austin is known for its live music and rich culture, with plenty of free activities for families. Enjoy delicious food like tacos at local food trucks. In addition to great food, Austin offers plenty of free activities like hiking in Zilker Park and exploring nature trails.
Activities:
- Explore Zilker Metropolitan Park.
- Bike the Lady Bird Lake trails.
- Attend a performance on Sixth Street.
- Visit the LBJ Presidential Library.
- Hike in Mount Bonnell Park.
Hotels:
- Hyatt Place Austin Downtown.
- La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Austin.
- The Driskill Hotel.
- Hampton Inn Austin.
Asheville – North Carolina:
Asheville is a charming destination for nature lovers and rural beauty. Families can explore the Blue Mountains and enjoy hiking without breaking the bank.
Traditional Southern dishes like fried chicken are affordable at local restaurants. The city offers fun outdoor activities that make vacationing a special experience for families.
Activities:
- Hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Exploring Biltmore Gardens.
- Visiting the art museums downtown.
- Boating on the French Broad River.
- Hiking in Pisgah National Forest.
Hotels:
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson.
- Holiday Inn Asheville.
- Comfort Suites Asheville.
- The Omni Grove Park Inn.
In conclusion, the United States is an ideal destination for families looking for great travel experiences at affordable prices. Whether you enjoy sunny beaches, cultural cities, or stunning nature, these options offer you unforgettable opportunities without the need for a large budget.
Discovering best cheap family vacations in spots Us will provide you with fun and distinctive adventures that suit the whole family, making your next vacation an experience full of beautiful memories and exciting activities.
