Budget tip:One of the most fascinating U.S. national parks is located way up in the clouds at Haleakala National Park, a dormant volcano. . Families can enjoy Wet-n-Wild Water Park, obstacle course & ziplining at Safari Nation, The North Carolina Zoo, All a Flutter Butterfly Farm, and Piedmont Environmental Center. Where to stay: A visit to a national park is the perfect time to fire up an RV (either your own or a rented one) for a cheap family vacation. If you are in town for a short time and want to combine many experiences into one, you can travel around town to see the Mending Walls public mural art project on a self-guided journey or bicycle tour. Set in the Pennsylvania countryside, Lehigh Valley, is an affordable and family-friendly destination is within a days drive of 73% of the US population. Where to stay: Book your stay at Cascade Lodge on Lake Superior. Where to stay: One Ski Hill Place, a Rock Resort, is located right at the base of Peak 8 and offers multi-room suites that function as private condos, with full kitchens and living rooms, perfect to spread out in. Budget tip:Pack a refillable water bottle and some on-the-go snacks to cut back on additional park costs. Indulge in big-city life and enjoy New York Citys buzzing vibe while dining at exquisite restaurants, taking in live music and even basking in the neon lights of Broadway. Energize your vacation with an ATV drive on 5.5 miles of beaches open to off-road vehicle use in Oceano Dunes, the only California State Park where vehicles may be driven on the beach. Get family travel & tips from our experts Enter Email Address. We are trying to find a place to go that is around 5 hours away. Boise is also known as a North American Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) destination. The hotel is also located right across from Discovery Green. Budget tip: Reno Tahoe is an awesome place to be outside, so take advantage of free entry to the areas great hiking and biking trails. New River Gorge National Park & Preserve is 70,000 acres of public land full of rich history and prime for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting. Where to stay:Naples Grande Beach Resort features views of the Gulf surrounded by beautiful lawns, gardens and reflecting pools. Plus, they have free bikes for exploring and offer pool use at the nearby sports club. Are you looking for the best places to visit for foodies? Budget tips: Bring your bicycle with you for some of the best peddling in the country. Snag a one-bedroom villa with plenty of room to spread out and a kitchen where you can save money by making breakfasts and easy meals. There are so many things to do in Helen Ga, and it ranks among our favorite North Georgia Mountain Towns because of the number of outdoor adventures. The town has a vibrant arts and culture scene as one of only 13 cities in the country with its own ballet, opera, fine art, symphony, theater companies, and museums. Budget tip: All beaches are free and open to the public in Placencia. One of my favorite family golf vacations was a road trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, with my dad. Utica, New York: 2 Hours and 5 Minutes Within a 500-mile radius from half of the U.S. population, theres a little bit of everything in this centrally located destination. Branson is a one-of-a-kind family vacation destination nestled in the lakeside beauty of the Ozark Mountains and within a 12-hour drive for about 50% of the U.S. population. Explore the mountains and waterfalls in DuPont State Forest, view four states from Jump Off Rock, and end your day on their award-winning Main Street with extra-wide sidewalks, brick planters, park benches, public art, alfresco dining, galleries, shops, boutiques, and the Appalachian Pinball Museum. Dont miss these top family travel destinations in every state. In addition, you can sample the worlds food without a passport on their International Cuisine Trail, with Hungarian, West African, Turkish, Greek, and Italian Cuisine all within just a few blocks downtown. And exploring ABQ BioPark, a unique environmental museum comprised of an aquarium, botanic garden and zoo, is always a hit too, as are the free fishing lakes at Tingley Beach. If youre looking for an urban destination, Columbus, Ohio, is now Americas 14th largest city, with more residents than San Francisco, and offers months worth of activities. So if youre looking to scratch that National Park itch but have no interest in exploring nature along with record-level park crowds, consider all that The Mountain State offers up to vacationers. Why youll love it: The hidden gem of the Caribbean, the Placencia Peninsula is an easy entry into Central America, with turquoise Caribbean waters, access to the second largest barrier reef in the world for snorkeling, rainforest adventures (including zip lining and river tubing) and plenty of family-friendly activities. Why youll love it: TheLake Cumberland State Resort Parkis located on one of the largest man-made lakes in the country, and its one of the top vacation destinations in the eastern United States. Its Cultural District, located in the heart of Downtown, is home to nine theatres that showcase a world-renowned symphony orchestra, opera, dance, and award-winning plays. It is also home to Great Lakes Aquarium, the only freshwater aquarium in the US. The Steelstacks, located in Bethlehem, is one of the best places to spend an evening in the Lehigh Valley and one of the bestthings to do in Pennsylvania, said Melanie from Partners in Fire. While you may know this destination as the home of the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and the Indy 500, its also home to the worlds largest childrens museum and its new oversized Dino Exhibit. The 11 Best Destinations for Deep Sea Fishing in the U.S. 15 Things To Do in Arizona to Explore The States Beauty, 10 of the Best Things to Do in Tuscany Italy, 15 Things to Do in Maine To Enjoy the Summer and Explore The State, The Best Road to Hana Stops: 22 Tips, Eats, and Must-See Sites from Travelers, Stocking Stuffers for People Who Love New York City, Think Luxe Sint Maarten Is Out of Reach? Youll find dozens of galleries, major art museums, several massive live performance venues, groundbreaking offerings such as Shadowbox Live and the Wexner Center for Contemporary Art, and an exciting poetry scene. Search for vacation spots within driving distance for a day trip or weekend getaway. A kids camp, great for ages 4 to 12, is available for an extra fee, as is horseback riding, biking and guided hikes. When youre ready to dry off, hope on the free trolley to the Clearwater Aquarium, home to Winter and Hope, the dolphin stars of the Dolphin Talemovies. Heres How This Caribbean Island Can Be Surprisingly Affordable. Enjoy the warm weather at the rooftop, resort-style pool, or check out the romantic library, where afternoon tea is served. Then learn about the power of water at the freeNiagara Power Vista Center. Budget tip:Fourth-graders visit National Parks for free, so be sure to go online and register your current or rising fourth-grader, if theres one in your family. These landmarks are original 18th-century buildings from Moravian settlers who moved to Pennsylvania from the Eastern Czech Republic. This destination welcomes approximately 9 million visitors annually, partly due to its plethora of attractions and activities and its location in middle America. Poppys Pointe Family Resort. With James Beard-nominated chefs, the Findlay Market chock full of international cuisine, Oakely Food Hall, and Edward Lees new restaurant, youll eat amazingly well during your trip to Cincinnati. Why youll love it: This cosmopolitan Canadian city is just a 90-minute trip from 60% of the United States, so its one of those accessible quick trips for many. Despite being an 8-hour drive from 60% of the U.S. population, the West Virginia way of life is crowd-free. Yosemite National Park. Explore each citys distinct personalities and a long list of outdoor activities. There are also free beaches downtown to catch some summer rays. SARASOTA. Or sign up for the Cave of the Winds tour, where youll find yourself deep in the Niagara Gorge and face-to-face with the crashing water of the falls. For the latter, plan a picnic hike to the Craggy Mountains, stop to smell the berry bushes and take in the exceptional panoramic views of the Craggy Pinnacle Trail. Chattanooga is not called the Scenic City for nothing. Here are 51+ of the Best Family Weekend Getaways in the Southeast! Where to stay: Ocean Edge Resort offers a summers worth of fun on a sprawling 429 acres. This region, consisting of Greensboro, Winston-Salem, & High Point, is at the center of 4 state highways. Where to stay: The rustic-meets-luxe retreatMontage Deer Valley may make you want to skip the mountain entirely so you have time to enjoy the five restaurants, a bowling alley and the largest spa in Utahthe perfect spot to unwind with a massage. Only 90-minutes away from the nations largest city, New York City, 80 miles north of Philadelphia, and less than a 6-hour drive from most of the Northeast, Indianapolis, and Charlotte, its worth taking a look at for your next vacation. There are also 104 parks in the city, or you can hop on a bike to visit beer, wine and cider tasting rooms located near Boises Greenbelt, a 25-mile trail along the Boise River that goes right through the city. The dog-friendly boutique property is also just steps from the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center, which has 25 miles of biking, walking and hiking trails. The kids will love discovering and collecting them. In addition, the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia tells the stories of African American history in Virginia. Why youll love it: Head to the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior to make some amazing memories this summer. Fayetteville has been named Top 10 Coolest Small Towns in America by Budget Travel Magazine and Best River Town and is now a neighbor to the countrys newest national park the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Why youll love it:Not only does this destination feature 60 miles of gorgeous beaches and warm ocean waters, its also known as the mini-golf capital for its plethora of pint-size courses. Before dinner, take your chance to walk across the Ohio River via a converted railroad pedestrian bridge. Dont miss taking a spin on the swan boats in the lake at the Boston Public Gardens in Boston Common, and plan a stop at the New England Aquarium and Museum of Science too. Where to stay: Lodging includes DuPont Lodge, the Cottages and Woodland Rooms, which have free access to the indoor pool and also include free meals for kids 5 and under at the restaurant. 3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842, Phone: 419-994-4290. Where to stay: Julies Park Cafe & Motel in Fish Creek gives you several options for budget-friendly lodging, including condominiums and cottages with multiple bedrooms (and bathrooms, a priceless bonus if you have teens). Budget tip: Theres no need to travel overseas to get a taste of Basque culture; Boise has the largest Basque population in the United States. Enjoy the scenic Inner Harbor or watch a ball game down the block at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. You might only know this destination as the home of the iconic Kentucky Derby or the birthplace of Bourbon, but it has so much more for vacationers. This Fall, the Moonshot Museum opens at the headquarters of space robotics company Astrobotic Technology providing visitors with an up-close look at real lunar landers and rovers being built and readied to fly to the Moon. Why youll love it: This western city offers a special treat: a true, old-fashioned dude ranch offering an Old West vacation at throwback prices. Hikers and bikers have almost 200 miles of trails to explore in the foothills just above Boise, with trailheads right in town. Highlights: When John Wesley Powell traveled down the Green and Colorado Rivers in 1869 he marveled at the intermingling of . Budget tip: Visitors can go on a free self-guided walking tour of historic downtown Providence, which dives into the making of the now Creative Capital. Stop by the Free Play Bar & Arcade that includes more than 130 classic video games plus pinball, skeeball and air hockey, all for only $7 admission (you have to be 21+ to enter, though). Family-friendly attractions include one of the nations best zoos, fun-filled childrens museums, and Franklin Park Conservatory, home to the nations top childrens garden. Plus, its only a 15-minute drive from Sam Houston National Forest. It offers 60 different activities across its 250 acres, a variety of accommodations, restaurants, bars, and amenities like its swimming pool with a stunning overlook of the New River Gorge. RVA, as locals call it, is Virginias State Capitol, 100 miles south of Washington DC and filled with just as much historical significance as one of Americas oldest cities. Claremont Village is home to more than 150 shops and restaurants, and its where youll want to spend your evening. The Mall of America. Why youll love it:Conroe is a perfect escape from the crowds and fast pace of Houston, located about an hour away. Why youll love it:Its hard not to be impressed by the more than 3,000 tons of water that crashes over the falls every second. Why you'll love it: The "City of Trees" is a perfect destination when you're looking for a quick trip where you can enjoy the outdoors. Why youll love it: Located within a days drive of nearly half the U.S. population, Columbus, Ohio, is known as The Hippest City in the Midwest due to its variety of cant-miss activities and attractions, from visiting the Columbus Museum of Art to walking the Scioto Mile and perusing the boutiques and galleries of the Short North Arts District. Sirenian Bay also owns local tour company Captain Jaks, and youll get a discount (plus an amazing experience) for local excursions into the rainforest or snorkeling in the clear waters. Why youll love it: Nothing says summer like a trip to the beach, especially the expansive, and free, sandy shores of beautiful Cape Cod, a favorite destination of Boston-ites looking to escape the city. Where to stay:The Embassy Suites at Centennial Park puts you right in the middle of the action, provides you with a second room so you can close the door on your big kids, has a pool and includes a free all-you-can-eat breakfast. Flaming Gorge National Recreation, Utah. Just a short drive from L.A. and San Diego, this is a hidden wine country with beautiful vineyards and plenty of outdoor activities in a near-perfect climate. Kids and adults of all ages will love to splash year-round at Wilderness at the Smokies indoor/outdoor waterpark resort and the new 50-acre Soaky Mountain Waterpark. Where to stay: Circus Circus Reno is a fun and quirky property thats home to the Midway, a massive arcade and carnival-themed area, with old classics like skee ball, Whac-a-Mole and air hockey. Foodies will be impressed by the number of locally owned and run restaurants, featuring a range of global flavors and nationally renowned chefs. Why youll love it: The entry point to the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a funky mix of breweries (the most per capita in the United States), great food, arts (the River Arts District is a fun and free way to spend a day), history (the Biltmore Estate), free-spirited hippie culture and spectacular nature. . Naturally, Boston is one of thebest cities for American history buffs. The Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology and the Folk Music Center are local favorites to visit, so keep an eye on the schedule for the latter to find out about live concerts that will hopefully be back soon. These are the best cheap family vacations near Ohio. 19. The Sex and the City star once said that Cincinnati, and I really mean this, is a great city.. Even if you aren't a beach person (but if you are, OMG, such beautiful beaches) there is plenty to do in South Florida's Sarasota. As a city where diversity is celebrated and new Americans are warmly welcomed, foodies will love the citys culinary offerings. Located halfway between New York City and Miami, Florida, on Interstate 95, Fayetteville, North Carolina, is within one days drive for 75% of the United States population. Find cities within a 6 hours radius of me in Dayton and look for places to visit within a 6 hours drive. Perfectly located on a mile-long cove on Lake of the Ozarks, 2 miles from Bagwell Dam, the Point Randall Resort is perfect for a weekend getaway. Budget tip:Spend time in the great (free) outdoors at Strawtown Koteewi Park, which features a canoe launch on the White River for boating and fishing, nature trails for hiking or cycling, equestrian trails, an archery center and a treetop course. Photo courtesy of Cedar Point Amusement Park. Why youll love it:If you think Houston is only a business city, youre in for a surprise when you visit with your family. Why youll love it: Known as the base camp to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), Estes Park is only 90 minutes from Denver International Airport but has an authentic Colorado mountain village feeling, with plenty of outdoor activities to suit any visitor. Your personal family vacation planning starts now Get expert advice, handpicked recommendations, and tips for your family all year round! While you might only know Pittsburgh for one of its sports teams or Three Rivers Stadium, The Purg is one of those under-the-radar vacation spots despite being a driveable destination for 57% of Americans. West Coasters may be a little bummed to read this list. She writes about smart timeshare ownership, vacation tips and tricks, NYC Metro Area trips and activities, and frugal, yet rich, living at PlannerAtHeart.com. Explore the Gateway Arch National Park and its surrounding grounds, and visit the recently renovated Museum at the Gateway Arch, a free hands-on experience. In addition to 60 miles of free beaches, the area also offers a slew of no- or low-cost activities for the whole family. There are also some unexpected things to do, like visiting Brookgreen Gardens. Known as The Orlando of the Midwest, youll see it regularly featured on best places to visit in the US lists. Budget tip: Live music fills the streets of Asheville, and you can listen to everything from old-time mountain music to new alternative rock just by dropping something in the tip jar. Where to stay: Providence Marriott, which has a bike program with preset routes. You can spend endless hours playing in the sand and surf without spending a dime! Why youll love it: Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial and Badlands National Park are all within driving distance, but Rapid City is a great destination for all ages, especially elementary school kids who will be able to relate their school lessons when they explore the City of Presidents sculptures and history. When youre not riding the rails, stop by Conner Prairie, the Smithsonian-affiliated living history museum and park, with hundreds of acres to explore, including four-story, interactive treetop outposts and an outdoor 1836 Prairietown where kids can visit with 1800s Indiana settlers, play games and learn a trade from the local interpreters dressed in period garb. How cool is that? Why youll love it: Located along North Carolinas central shore, the Crystal Coast has been a favorite beach destination for generations and represents one of the few remaining natural barrier island systems in the world, with 85 miles of sparkling beaches.
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