10 Cheap Family Vacations in the U.S. That Won’t Break the Bank

Last Updated on 04/25/2025 by Nell Marie

Planning a fun family vacation doesn’t have to mean draining your savings.

There are plenty of incredible places across the U.S. where you can make lifelong memories without spending a fortune.

From national parks to charming small towns, here are 10 cheap family vacation ideas that are big on fun and easy on the wallet.

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Cheap Family Vacations

As a mom, I’ve learned that you don’t need to spend a fortune to create amazing family memories. Some of our favorite vacations have been the simplest ones—camping by a quiet lake, road-tripping through small towns, or spending the day exploring a state park with a packed cooler and hiking shoes.

It’s not about fancy hotels or big attractions; it’s about being together, unplugging from the everyday hustle, and laughing around a campfire or discovering something new as a family.

Those are the moments my kids still talk about, and they cost far less than a traditional vacation.

If you’re looking for ways to travel on a budget, know that you can still have meaningful adventures without breaking the bank.

1. Explore the National Parks

You can’t go wrong with a national park getaway. Places like the Great Smoky Mountains, Yellowstone, and Zion offer breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, waterfalls, and tons of space for kids to explore.

You can save money by camping or staying in nearby budget lodges, and many parks offer free entrance days throughout the year.

Pack your own meals and spend your days hiking, swimming, and wildlife spotting.

Here are a few great national parks to consider for a budget-friendly family trip:

• Great Smoky Mountains (Tennessee/North Carolina) – Free entry, kid-friendly trails, waterfalls, and plenty of wildlife.
• Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming/Montana/Idaho) – Geysers, hot springs, and endless outdoor exploration.
• Zion National Park (Utah) – Stunning canyon views, shuttle system, and easy hikes for families.
• Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado) – Mountain lakes, scenic drives, and lots of space for outdoor play.
• Yosemite National Park (California) – Iconic views, waterfalls, and family-friendly campgrounds.
• Acadia National Park (Maine) – Coastal beauty, carriage roads for biking, and tide pools to explore.
• Badlands National Park (South Dakota) – Otherworldly landscapes, fossil exhibits, and scenic overlooks.
• Shenandoah National Park (Virginia) – Skyline Drive, forest trails, and close proximity to the East Coast.

These parks offer both adventure and affordability, making them perfect for unforgettable family memories.

2. Camp Out at the Beach

Looking for sun, sand, and surf without the resort price tag? Head to budget-friendly beach spots like Gulf Shores in Alabama or Padre Island in Texas.

Many beach areas offer public campgrounds or inexpensive cabin rentals close to the shore.

Bring your own food, a cooler, and some beach games, and you’re set for a relaxing, affordable family beach vacation.

Here are a few more affordable U.S. beach destinations to consider:

• Gulf Shores, Alabama – Family-friendly beaches, calm waves, and plenty of rental options.
• Padre Island, Texas – Peaceful and spacious, with beach camping and wildlife watching.
• Outer Banks, North Carolina – Beautiful stretches of sand, free beach access, and cozy beach cottages.
• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – Budget resorts, boardwalk fun, and lots of kid-friendly attractions.
• Cape San Blas, Florida – Quieter than most Florida beaches, with affordable rentals and clear waters.
• Tybee Island, Georgia – Just outside of Savannah, it’s charming, affordable, and walkable.
• Ocean City, Maryland – A classic beach boardwalk, free events, and budget-friendly motels.
• Huntington Beach, California – A laid-back vibe, free beaches, and options for affordable nearby stays.

These spots are great for families who want that beachy fun without the high prices of more touristy destinations.

3. Take a Road Trip Full of Free Attractions

Hit the road and make the journey part of the adventure. Plan a route with fun (and free!) roadside attractions, nature stops, and unique photo ops.

Apps like Roadtrippers and Google Maps can help you find hidden gems along the way.

Save money by staying in budget motels, camping, or even visiting friends or family for a night or two.

Here are some budget-friendly tips for a successful family road trip:

• Pack your own snacks and meals to avoid costly (and unhealthy) fast food stops.
• Bring entertainment for the kids—think audiobooks, downloaded movies, coloring books, or travel games.
• Use gas price apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest fuel along your route.
• Stay flexible with your itinerary so you can jump on spontaneous, free attractions you find on the way.
• Look for free rest stops or picnic areas for breaks instead of eating out every time.
• Create a road trip playlist to keep the mood fun and upbeat.
• Bring a small cooler for drinks, sandwiches, and snacks to keep your crew happy and hydrated.
• Consider staying just outside major cities where hotel prices tend to drop.

These simple steps can make your road trip smoother, cheaper, and way more fun!

4. Discover a Small Town Gem

Sometimes the best trips are in the places you’ve never heard of.

Towns like Asheville, NC or Bisbee, AZ offer local charm, unique shopping, good eats, and often fun seasonal festivals.

Lodging tends to be more affordable than in big cities, and you get a chance to explore local culture in a relaxed way.

Here are more small towns worth exploring for your next affordable family trip:

• Galena, Illinois – A picturesque historic town with charming shops, scenic views, and family-friendly attractions.
• Eureka Springs, Arkansas – Known for its quirky vibe, natural springs, and Victorian architecture.
• Leavenworth, Washington – A Bavarian-style village nestled in the mountains with seasonal festivals and outdoor fun.
• Boone, North Carolina – Perfect for mountain lovers with trails, waterfalls, and small-town friendliness.
• Marfa, Texas – A tiny town with a big art scene, desert beauty, and mysterious lights.
• Deadwood, South Dakota – A Wild West town with history, hiking, and budget lodging.
• Lanesboro, Minnesota – A bike-friendly river town with B&Bs and peaceful Midwest charm.
• Harpers Ferry, West Virginia – Full of history, scenic views, and great hiking opportunities.

Exploring these off-the-beaten-path places often leads to some of the most memorable and affordable adventures.

5. Stay Close to Home at a State Park

You don’t have to go far to have fun. Your nearest state park is likely full of nature trails, picnic spots, lakes, and sometimes even waterfalls.

Most state parks have super affordable campsites or even cabins you can rent for the weekend.

It’s a great way to unwind and reconnect as a family without a long drive or a big bill.

Here’s a list of great state parks across the U.S. that are perfect for a family vacation and won’t break the bank:

• Silver Falls State Park (Oregon) – Known for its “Trail of Ten Falls,” this park offers stunning waterfalls, lush forest hikes, and camping.
• Custer State Park (South Dakota) – Wildlife viewing (bison included!), scenic drives, and gorgeous lakes make this a family favorite.
• Fall Creek Falls State Park (Tennessee) – Home to one of the tallest waterfalls in the Eastern U.S., plus hiking, boating, and a nature center.
• Hocking Hills State Park (Ohio) – Beautiful caves, cliffs, and hiking trails, with affordable cabins and family-friendly campsites.
• Valley of Fire State Park (Nevada) – Dramatic red rock formations and scenic drives just an hour from Las Vegas.
• Devil’s Lake State Park (Wisconsin) – Swimming, hiking, rock climbing, and camping with stunning lake views.
• Hunting Island State Park (South Carolina) – A peaceful beach escape with a lighthouse, nature trails, and beachfront camping.
• Big Bend Ranch State Park (Texas) – Remote and rugged with desert views, river access, and starry night skies.

These state parks offer natural beauty, outdoor fun, and budget-friendly accommodations—perfect for your next family adventure.

6. Visit Washington, D.C.

Believe it or not, Washington, D.C. is one of the best budget-friendly vacation spots for families. All the Smithsonian museums and most of the monuments are completely free.

You can walk the National Mall, visit the National Zoo, and explore the neighborhoods like Georgetown without spending much at all. Just find a budget hotel or Airbnb just outside the city and take public transit in.

Washington, D.C. is an exciting and educational destination for families! Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip with kids:

• Plan a Visit to Free Museums – Many of the Smithsonian museums in D.C. are free, including the National Museum of Natural History, the Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of American History. These are fantastic for kids and offer plenty of interactive exhibits.
• Take Advantage of the National Mall – The National Mall is a great place to explore with kids. You can walk between monuments and memorials (like the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument), and there are lots of open spaces for them to run around.
• Ride the D.C. Circulator Bus – For a budget-friendly way to get around the city, hop on the D.C. Circulator Bus. It’s a cheap and easy way to visit major attractions without the hassle of parking.
• Visit the National Zoo – Part of the Smithsonian, the National Zoo is free to visit and has over 1,500 animals, including giant pandas. It’s a perfect spot for younger kids to burn off some energy.
• Explore the U.S. Capitol – The U.S. Capitol is a fun and informative visit, and guided tours are available to give kids a peek into American history. Don’t forget to book a tour in advance!
• Check Out the Kid-Friendly Monuments – Some monuments and memorials are especially captivating for kids, like the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. The sculptures and water features will hold their attention.
• Visit the National Air and Space Museum – The museum is a must-see for space-loving kids, with plenty of interactive exhibits, model airplanes, and even some real spacecraft.
• Plan Breaks at Parks – D.C. has some great green spaces like Lafayette Park or the nearby Tidal Basin, where you can take a break from sightseeing and let the kids play.
• Go on a Guided Tour – There are kid-friendly tours available that mix education with fun. Consider a family-friendly bike or scooter tour of the monuments, or even a guided walking tour that caters to children.
• Stay Near the National Mall – To minimize travel time and make sightseeing easier, try to find accommodations close to the National Mall. This will allow you to easily return to your hotel for breaks, especially with younger kids.

These tips should help you and your family enjoy everything Washington, D.C. has to offer while keeping it fun and manageable for the little ones!

7. Experience Amish Country

Want something different? Try a trip to Amish country in Lancaster, Pennsylvania or Holmes County, Ohio. These areas are peaceful, scenic, and offer a peek into a slower way of life.

You’ll find farm tours, handmade goods, buggy rides, and homemade meals. Plus, lodging and food tend to be very reasonably priced.

• Explore Amish Farms – Take a guided farm tour to see how the Amish live and work, often with opportunities to pick fresh produce or purchase homemade goods.
• Experience Horse and Buggy Rides – Ride in an authentic Amish buggy through picturesque countryside for a fun and unique experience.
• Shop for Handmade Goods – Visit local shops offering handcrafted quilts, furniture, candles, and other artisanal goods that make for special souvenirs.
• Enjoy Homemade Meals – Savor hearty, home-cooked meals at family-owned restaurants or Amish-owned inns, often featuring dishes like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and fresh-baked pies.
• Visit Farmers’ Markets – Browse local farmers’ markets for fresh produce, jams, and Amish-made treats, perfect for snacking or taking home.
• Learn About Amish Culture – Visit local museums or cultural centers to learn more about Amish history, traditions, and lifestyle.
• Take a Scenic Drive – Drive along peaceful back roads to admire the beautiful farmland and rolling hills, with the chance to spot Amish buggies and farm animals.
• Stay in Cozy Bed and Breakfasts – Enjoy affordable and charming accommodations in a cozy B&B or guesthouse, where you’ll experience warm hospitality and peaceful surroundings.
• Attend Local Festivals – Depending on the time of year, you might catch local festivals or craft fairs that showcase Amish culture, music, and food.

These experiences will help you immerse yourself in the simple, slower-paced life of Amish country while enjoying the scenic beauty and local traditions!

8. Plan a Lake Vacation

Lakes are often overlooked in favor of the beach, but they’re often more affordable and just as fun.

Try places like Lake Ouachita in Arkansas or Lake Lure in North Carolina.

You can rent a cabin or find a budget motel nearby, go kayaking or paddleboarding, and relax by the water without the crowds or high prices.

Here’s a list of stunning lakes across the U.S. that are perfect for a family vacation or just a peaceful getaway:

• Lake Tahoe (California/Nevada) – Known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain backdrop, and year-round recreational activities, including swimming, boating, and hiking.
• Crater Lake (Oregon) – The deepest lake in the U.S., formed in a collapsed volcano, with breathtaking views, hiking, and boat tours.
• Lake Michigan (Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan) – One of the Great Lakes, offering sandy beaches, water sports, and charming coastal towns.
• Yellowstone Lake (Wyoming) – Located in Yellowstone National Park, this lake offers scenic views, fishing, and boating opportunities.
• Lake Powell (Arizona/Utah) – A massive reservoir surrounded by red rock canyons, perfect for boating, houseboating, and water activities.
• Flathead Lake (Montana) – The largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, offering boating, fishing, and camping in a peaceful setting.
• Lake George (New York) – Known as the “Queen of American Lakes,” with clear waters, scenic views, and activities like boating, fishing, and hiking.
• Lake of the Ozarks (Missouri) – A popular vacation spot with over 1,100 miles of shoreline, offering water sports, fishing, and family-friendly resorts.
• Lake Havasu (Arizona) – Famous for its iconic London Bridge, this lake offers great boating, jet skiing, and camping spots.
• Saranac Lake (New York) – A tranquil escape with boating, kayaking, hiking, and the charming Adirondack town to explore.
• Lake Superior (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan) – The largest of the Great Lakes, known for its rugged shoreline, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing.
• Lake Winnebago (Wisconsin) – A great spot for fishing, boating, and wildlife watching, located in a scenic area of Wisconsin.
• Shasta Lake (California) – The largest reservoir in California, perfect for houseboating, fishing, and water sports.
• Lake Champlain (Vermont/New York) – A beautiful lake offering boat tours, fishing, and scenic views of the Adirondack Mountains.
• Rattlesnake Lake (Washington) – A serene, picturesque lake perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking nearby.

These lakes offer a wide range of activities and breathtaking natural beauty, making them perfect destinations for family vacations or peaceful getaways!

9. Skip the Big Parks for Smaller Amusement Parks

You don’t have to splurge on big-name theme parks to have fun. Smaller local amusement parks or waterparks are way more budget-friendly and often less crowded.

Check for discount days or family passes, pack your own lunch, and skip the overpriced souvenirs. The kids will have a blast—and your wallet will thank you.

Here’s a list of smaller amusement parks across the U.S. that offer fun experiences without the big crowds or high prices of larger parks:

• Story Land (Glen, New Hampshire) – A family-friendly amusement park with gentle rides, interactive play areas, and classic fairy tale themes perfect for younger children.
• Kennywood (West Mifflin, Pennsylvania) – A historic park with a mix of traditional rides, roller coasters, and family-friendly attractions, offering a more laid-back vibe than larger theme parks.
• Silverwood Theme Park (Athol, Idaho) – A great park in the Pacific Northwest, with roller coasters, water rides, and a water park, offering a smaller and more affordable alternative to big parks.
• Lake Compounce (Bristol, Connecticut) – Known for being the oldest amusement park in the U.S., this park offers a combination of classic rides, roller coasters, and water attractions.
• Dutch Wonderland (Lancaster, Pennsylvania) – A family-friendly amusement park designed for younger children, featuring fun rides, live entertainment, and water play areas.
• Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum & Park (North Tonawanda, New York) – A unique spot dedicated to the history of carousels, where you can enjoy classic rides and learn about the craftsmanship of these historic attractions.
• Camelback Mountain Resort (Tannersville, Pennsylvania) – While mainly a ski resort, Camelback also has an outdoor waterpark and indoor amusement rides, perfect for a smaller-scale adventure.
• Santa’s Village (Jefferson, New Hampshire) – A charming Christmas-themed amusement park with rides, a petting zoo, and holiday cheer year-round.
• Wild Waves Theme & Water Park (Federal Way, Washington) – A smaller, family-friendly amusement park offering roller coasters, water slides, and live entertainment.
• The Enchanted Forest (Salem, Oregon) – A fairy-tale-inspired park with whimsical rides, an adventure village, and a quaint atmosphere perfect for families with younger kids.
• Stricker’s Grove (Crosby, Ohio) – A privately-owned park that’s open to the public on weekends, with old-fashioned rides, go-karts, and classic wooden roller coasters.
• Magic Springs Theme and Water Park (Hot Springs, Arkansas) – A combined theme and water park with roller coasters, water slides, and family-friendly attractions, all within a smaller and more relaxed setting.
• Ghost Town in the Sky (Maggie Valley, North Carolina) – A Wild West-themed park located in the Smoky Mountains, with scenic views, rides, and shows, offering a nostalgic trip back in time.
• Six Flags St. Louis (Eureka, Missouri) – While part of the Six Flags chain, it’s smaller than other locations, offering fun rides and attractions without the large crowds.

These parks offer a more intimate and relaxed experience, perfect for families looking for a fun day without the hassle of larger amusement parks.

10. Try a Farm Stay or Agritourism Trip

For a unique and peaceful vacation, look into staying on a working farm. Many offer family-friendly accommodations where kids can help feed animals, pick produce, or just roam freely.

It’s educational, fun, and a nice break from screens and city life. Many include breakfast or dinner in the price, making it an even better deal.

Here’s a list of some working farms in the U.S. where you can stay while enjoying a rural and authentic farm lifestyle:

• The Farm at Summit Farm (Franklin, Tennessee) – A charming working farm offering accommodations in restored cabins and farmhouses. Guests can participate in farm activities like milking cows, collecting eggs, and tending to animals.
• Twin Oaks Farm (Hickory, North Carolina) – A working farm offering rustic cabins where you can experience farm life, from tending to animals to helping out with daily chores. It’s a peaceful retreat in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
• The Inn at Turkey Hill Farm (Lenox, Massachusetts) – This historic farm offers cozy lodging and gives guests the opportunity to help out with farm chores, enjoy farm-to-table meals, and explore the beautiful Berkshires.
• Cedar Ridge Farm (Mariposa, California) – A working farm that offers a cozy bed-and-breakfast experience where you can engage in farm activities, including picking fresh produce, feeding animals, and hiking the property’s scenic trails.
• Wintersun Farm (Luthersville, Georgia) – Set in the rolling hills of Georgia, this working farm offers a serene getaway with opportunities to participate in farming activities like vegetable picking, horseback riding, and farm-to-table dining.
• Tanglewood Farm (Pine Mountain, Georgia) – A working alpaca farm that offers stays in cozy cabins. Guests can enjoy alpaca tours, farm tours, and get a hands-on experience with the animals.
• Thompson’s Homestead Farm (Camden, Maine) – A beautiful, historic farm offering farm stays where guests can experience life on the farm, from picking fresh veggies to learning about sustainable farming practices.
• Lazy R Ranch (Boulder, Montana) – A working cattle ranch where you can participate in ranching activities, enjoy horseback riding, fishing, and hiking, and immerse yourself in authentic Western life.
• Hidden Brook Farm (Anderson, South Carolina) – Guests at this working farm can stay in cozy cottages and participate in farm chores like feeding animals and helping with harvests, all while enjoying the tranquility of the countryside.
• Peaceful Acres Farm (Saratoga Springs, New York) – This farm offers a range of activities, including petting farm animals, horseback riding, and helping with farm chores. It’s a great place for a peaceful, hands-on getaway.
• Red Horse Mountain Ranch (Cataldo, Idaho) – While known for its horseback riding experiences, this ranch also offers opportunities to stay and help with cattle ranching, making it an ideal working farm getaway.
• Farm Stay USA (Various Locations) – Farm Stay USA is a network of working farms across the country offering visitors the opportunity to stay on farms, participate in agricultural activities, and enjoy rural experiences. You can find options for everything from dairy farms to organic produce farms.

Staying on a working farm is a great way to connect with nature, learn about sustainable living, and enjoy fresh, homegrown food, all while experiencing farm life up close!

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to spend a lot to create amazing family memories.

Camping under the stars, exploring a museum-packed city, or enjoying a weekend in a small town are just a few ways to vacation on a budget.

Pick a destination that fits your family’s style and go make some memories—without maxing out your credit card.

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