Finding an affordable vacation is hard these days. Not to mention, finding one the whole family will enjoy makes choosing feel impossible! However, there are many hidden gems across America that are both budget friendly and fun for the whole family. But where are they? The great outdoors! And no, we don’t mean camping. These destinations feature a wealth of recreation and beautiful sights that cost little to nothing to enjoy. From the magnificence of the Grand Canyon to the sleepy Smoky Mountain range, there’s plenty of memories to be made (and money to save) in the beauty of nature. So, continue reading to check out our top five choices for vacations for families on a budget, as well as great places to stay nearby.
Planning Cheap Family Vacations
Who doesn’t want to save money on travel? And though it might feel difficult to do so, there are a couple tips and tricks you should have up your sleeve, especially when choosing a resort and destination. Of course, you’ll want to choose a location with plenty to do nearby. However, if you’re looking to save money, a vacation near expensive theme parks may not be the way to go. That’s why we suggest vacationing near national parks, in a beach town, or near historic sites. These locations are relatively inexpensive forms of entertainment, are family-friendly, and appeal to most travelers.
After choosing your destination, it’s crucial to select a resort that offers great amenities and spacious suites to accommodate the entire family. This way, you’ll have something to occupy the young ones during downtime, as well as room to spread out and decompress. Now, let’s dive into our first of five vacations for families on a budget.
Grand Canyon National Park
The magnificent Grand Canyon National Park draws millions of visitors each year to admire and explore the natural wonders of the landscape. Not only does the park offer awe-inspiring views of the expansive valley, but it provides plenty of recreation to be enjoyed by the whole family. Plus, general admission only costs around 20-35 dollars and is good for seven days!
Sign up for guided walking tours, venture down hiking trails for scenic overlooks, or stop for bike rentals and breeze down Hermit Road. For even more adventure, take the family horseback riding through the valley, or book a smooth water rafting trip down the winding Colorado River. However you choose to experience the canyon, the dramatic natural beauty combined with unforgettable adventure makes this a top pick among vacations for families on a budget.
Club Wyndham Flagstaff
Just eighty miles from the Grand Canyon National Park is Club Wyndham Flagstaff, a sprawling 2,200-acre secluded property nestled in the shadow of Arizona’s mountains. Known for its rich Native American history, dramatic landscape, and for being the First International Dark Sky City, Flagstaff is a dreamscape for those with a curious mind and love for adventure. Of course, this Wyndham resort puts you in the midst of the wonder.
At this Wyndham resort, you’re just minutes from downtown and the famous SnowBowl Ski Resort, which is popular in the winter. But on-site, there’s plenty of fun to be had. Get outside and play a round of golf at the 18-hole and 9-hole courses on-site, as well as a putting green and mini golf for the kiddos. Other amenities include walking trails, swimming pool, hot tub, sports courts, game room, arcade, and more. Not to mention, you’ll find casual dining opportunities and a bar on-site. So, you never have to go far to cure rumbling tummies. Explore family-worthy accommodations below.
Accommodations
- One-Bedroom: features a queen bed, queen sleeper sofa, one bath, full kitchen, washer/dryer, and balcony/patio. Accommodates four.
- One-Bedroom Deluxe: features a king bed, double sleeper sofa, one bath, full kitchen, washer/dryer, and balcony/patio. Accommodates four.
- Two-Bedroom Deluxe: features a king bed, queen sleeper sofa, two baths, full kitchen, washer/dryer, fireplace, balcony/patio. Accommodates six.
- Two-Bedroom Lockoff: features a king bed, a queen bed, a double sleeper sofa, a queen sleeper sofa, two baths, full kitchen, washer/dryer, fireplace, and balcony/patio. Accommodates eight.
- Two-Bedroom Loft: features two king beds, two twin beds, a queen sleeper sofa, two baths, full kitchen, washer/dryer, fireplace, hot tub, and balcony/patio. Accommodates eight.
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Next up on our list is peaceful Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This destination is in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, just twenty minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and is ideal for a family vacation. This ancient stretch of the Appalachian Mountains is full of family fun (and free fun) in the great outdoors. Enjoy free admission to the park, then spend the days admiring rushing waterfalls, rock climbing, hiking, and biking. You’ll also find whitewater rafting opportunities and scenic drives around every corner.
Of course, Pigeon Forge is just one of many charming small towns in Tennessee, yet it stands out for its seasonal festivals, parades, car shows, concerts, and more free events. Not to mention, Pigeon Forge is Dolly Parton’s hometown, and Dollywood is top attraction in the area. So, consider including a trip to the theme park and water park in your itinerary if you have a little extra cash. Either way, Pigeon Forge is a great combination of nature and small town fun.
Sunrise Ridge Resort
The cozy Sunrise Ridge Resort is settled in the rolling foothills of the Smokies and is just twenty minutes from the entrance to the national park. As a Hilton Grand Vacations resort, this family-friendly lodging boasts amenities and simpler pleasures to entertain you and yours during slow parts of the day.
Soak up the sun poolside as the kids splash in the heated outdoor pool, or head inside on rainy days to the indoor pool and hot tub. You can even make it the perfect pool day and fire up the barbecue grill for some burgers and hot dogs, or simply head into town, minutes away for some affordable eats. A fitness center is also on-site, in case the hiking and biking hasn’t been quite enough exercise for you.
Accommodations
- One-Bedroom: features a queen bed, sleeper sofa, one bath, and washer/dryer. Accommodates two to four guests.
- One-Bedroom Deluxe: features a king bed, sleeper sofa, one bah, full kitchen, fireplace, and washer/dryer. Accommodates two to four.
- Two-Bedroom: features two king beds, sleeper sofa, two baths, full kitchen, fireplace, and washer/dryer. Accommodates four to six guests.
- Two-Bedroom Lockoff: features two king beds, two twin beds, a sleeper sofa, two baths, full kitchen, fireplace, and washer/dryer. Accommodates six to eight guests.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Who doesn’t love a beachside vacation? When it comes to vacations for families on a budget, you can’t go wrong with Myrtle Beach. Also known as the Grand Strand, this sixty-mile stretch of golden beach is the ideal place to let the kids splash in the surf, build sandcastles, and dig into a homemade PB&J. Meanwhile, you can work on your tan and relish the crashing of the waves.
But there’s more to Myrtle Beach than the sun and surf. Top attractions include the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, a 1.2-mile stretch of restaurant and shops along the beach, and Broadway at the Beach, a lively hub of entertainment, shopping, and dining. What’s more, you’ll find a ton of local breweries, live music, and water sports all around, making for an unforgettable trip with a little something for everybody.
HICV South Beach Resort
The Holiday Inn Club Vacations South Beach Resort is nestled just one street from the seashore, bringing the glittering Atlantic just a two-minute walk away. In fact, right on the sand is where you’ll find the private beachfront clubhouse, complete with a pool for when you’ve had enough of the salty surf. But back at the resort property, you and the whole family will love spending afternoons floating down the lazy river and zipping down water slides at Splash Cove, or sipping a libation from Captain Cliff’s Lagoon Bar in a lounger nearby.
Moreover, play a family game of basketball, volleyball, shuffleboard, or corn hole. Or, head to the arcade-style game room and challenge the high score. What’s more, let the little ones run out their energy on the playground, or stop in for free activities like arts and crafts, bingo, a movie, and more. Other on-site amenities include barbecue grills, marketplace, fitness center, as well as indoor/outdoor pools. Check out lodging options below, or check out other Holiday Inn Myrtle Beach resorts.
Accommodations
- Studio: features kitchenette, fireplace, living and dining area, oversize spa tub, private screened porch. Accommodates four.
- One-Bedroom: features king bed, full kitchen, fireplace, living and dining area, oversize spa tub, private screened porch. Accommodates four.
- Two-Bedroom: features king bed, full kitchen, fireplace, living and dining area, oversize spa tub, private screened porch. Accommodates six.
- Two-Bedroom Lockoff: features king bed, full kitchen, fireplace, living and dining area, oversize spa tub, private screened porch. Accommodates eight.
- Two-Bedroom Signature Collection: features upgraded furnishings, premium bath amenities and robes, premium linens, full kitchen w/ upgraded finishings and kitchenware, spa w/ hydro-jets, private patio w/ enhanced seating, washer/dryer, etc. Accommodates six.
- Three-Bedroom Lockoff: features king bed, queen bed, sleeper sofa, full kitchen, fireplace, living and dining area, oversize spa tub, private screened porch. Accommodates eight.
- Three-Bedroom Signature Collection: features upgraded furnishings, premium bath amenities and robes, premium linens, full kitchen w/ upgraded finishings and kitchenware, spa w/ hydro-jets, private patio w/ enhanced seating, washer/dryer, etc. Accommodates ten.
- Four-Bedroom Signature Collection: features upgraded furnishings, premium bath amenities and robes, premium linens, full kitchen w/ upgraded finishings and kitchenware, spa w/ hydro-jets, private patio w/ enhanced seating, washer/dryer, etc. Accommodates ten.
Lake Palestine, Texas
This next destination is a hidden gem on the list of vacations for families on a budget: Lake Palestine, Texas. With a surface area of forty square miles, this massive freshwater lake is popular for its great fishing, thrilling water sports, canoeing, and boating. Not to mention, the rugged landscape surrounding Lake Palestine makes for scenic hiking and biking. So, if a day on the lake sounds like heaven to you, it doesn’t get much better than Lake Palestine.
Moreover, the surrounding town of Tyler features several museums that history buffs are sure to love. The Goodman Museum houses artifacts from the Civil War. What’s more, the nearby Tyler Rose Museums focuses on the history of the Texas Rose Festival. So, plan ahead and make sure to sign up for a guided tour. However, other top attractions in the area include Tyler State Park, Caldwell Zoo, and Tyler Rose Garden. With so much natural beauty to explore, as well as unique shopping, live music, and delicious plates in town, you’ll seldom hear “I’m bored.”
HIVC Villages Resort at Lake Palestine
Located just south of Tyler, Texas, and just minutes from the shores of Lake Palestine is Holiday Inn Club Vacations Villages Resort at Lake Palestine. With an 18-hole miniature golf course and year-round indoor water park, it’s no wonder families love this Holiday Inn resort. Outside of the wilderness-themed water park, indulge in three outdoor pools, complete with water features, and a hot tub. You can even rent boats and other water crafts on-site to enjoy on Lake Palestine!
But once you’re tired of the sun and water, grab lunch Harbour Grille by the marina, serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Grill is also on-site with tempting Texas lunch and dinner options. Other amenities include an arcade, activity center, barbecue grills, and fitness center. What’s more, this resort even offers covered wagon rides through the backwoods of Texas. Just stop by the activity center to grab a ticket for a small fee.
Accommodations
- Two-Bedroom: features king bed, queen bed, sleeper sofa, two baths, full kitchen, and balcony/patio. Accommodates six.
- Two-Bedroom Presidential Lockoff: features king bed, sleeper sofa, full bath, full kitchen, washer/dryer, and balcony/patio. Accommodates six.
Branson, Missouri
Settled among the Ozark Highlands is the mountain town of Branson, Missouri. Known as “America’s Top Live Music Show Destination,” Branson impresses with the Branson Strip & Theater District. This area features comedy and dinner shows, as well as nationally recognized musicals perfect for audiences of all ages. For something a little different, you and the family can score a three-day pass to Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure, featuring reptile exhibits and other educational opportunities. What’s more, Branson has ample opportunities for zip lines, cheap eats, and discovering local history at one of the museums in town.
And of course, being an Ozark town, outdoor recreation abounds here in Branson. Moreover, a local favorite is Table Rock Lake and Park. Whether you’re spending days on end at one of the many glittering lakes, hiking the lush wooded forests, bass and trout fishing, or canoeing and kayaking, there’s always another adventure waiting around the corner in Branson. Now, explore your Branson homebase below.
Palace View by Spinnaker
You and the family will settle right in to Palace View, a Spinnaker property nestled in a serene corner of the Ozarks. This charming resort is also just minutes from the Branson Strip, so entertainment is never far away. However, you’ll find plenty to keep the family occupied on-site. Daily, you can enjoy activities like candle making, dive-in movies, trivia, ping pong tournaments, tie-dye, and more.
What’s more, the on-site ticket agency offers discounted tickets to Branson attractions! So, make sure to stop by. Other resort amenities include basketball, pickleball, indoor and outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and game room.
Accommodations
- One-Bedroom: features one bath, full kitchen, washer/dryer, fireplace, and balcony/patio. Accommodates four.
- Two-Bedroom: features two baths, full kitchen, washer/dryer, fireplace, and balcony/patio. Accommodates six.
- Two-Bedroom Lockoff: features two baths, full kitchen, washer/dryer, fireplace, and balcony/patio. Accommodates six to eight.
- Three-Bedroom Lockoff: features three baths, full kitchen, washer/dryer, fireplace, and balcony/patio. Accommodates ten.
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