In the great US of A, there are plenty of amazing places to visit with your family that won’t break the bank. From charming small towns to big cities full of culture and adventure, these 10 underrated destinations are perfect for a memorable and budget-friendly getaway.
- Lewiston, ID: This scenic city in northern Idaho is just a short drive from Yellowstone National Park and is full of family-friendly activities. Go camping, hiking, fishing, or rafting in the summer, or hit the slopes at one of the nearby ski resorts in the winter. There’s also a great selection of museums and historic sites to explore.
- Chattanooga, TN: Chattanooga is surrounded by beautiful mountains and has plenty to offer families looking for an outdoor vacation. Take a scenic hike or bike ride through Lookout Mountain, go whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River, or explore one of the many caves in the area. In town, you can visit the Chattanooga Zoo, the Tennessee Aquarium, or the Creative Discovery Museum.
- Albuquerque, NM: With 300 days of sunshine per year, Albuquerque is a great place to vacation with your family any time of year. Visit Old Town Albuquerque for a taste of traditional New Mexico culture, take a hot air balloon ride over the city, or explore the Petroglyph National Monument. There are also several great museums, including the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History and the Ralph Edwards’ ABQ Biopark Zoo.
- San Diego, CA: San Diego is a great destination for families who enjoy spending time outdoors. Visit Balboa Park, home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo, take a hike through Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, or spend a day at the beach. There are also plenty of San Diego attractions for kids, including the USS Midway Museum and SeaWorld San Diego.
- Boulder, CO: Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Go hiking or mountain biking in the nearby foothills, take a scenic drive on the Peak to Peak Highway, or go camping in one of the many state parks in the area. You can also visit the University of Colorado Boulder campus or catch a show at the Boulder Theater.
- Portland, OR: Portland is a great city for families who enjoy the outdoors and urban amenities. Take a stroll through one of the many green spaces in the city, such as Washington Park or Tom McCall Waterfront Park, go for a hike or bike ride in Forest Park, or visit the Oregon Zoo. Downtown, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly attractions, including the Portland Children’s Museum and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.
- Savannah, GA: With its Spanish moss-draped oak trees and antebellum architecture, Savannah is a charming place to vacation with your family. Stroll through Historic Downtown Savannah and visit some of the city’s many museums and historic sites, such as the Savannah History Museum and the Andrew Low House. You can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city or go for a leisurely paddle down the Savannah River.
- Kansas City, MO: Kansas City is a great place for families who enjoy both urban and outdoor activities. Visit one of the many parks in the city, such as Swope Park or Kauffman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals, take a scenic drive down Country Club Plaza, or explore the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Families with kids will also enjoy visiting Legoland Kansas City and Crown Center.
- Indianapolis, IN: Indianapolis is a great destination for families looking for a mix of urban and outdoor activities. Visit White River State Park, home to the Indianapolis Zoo and the NCAA Hall of Champions, take a walk or bike ride along the Canal Walk, or explore one of the many museums in the city, such as the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis or the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art.
- Austin, TX: With its live music scene and abundance of outdoor activities, Austin is a great place to vacation with your family. Take a stroll down South Congress Avenue, visit one of the many parks in the city, such as Zilker Park or Barton Springs Pool, or go for a hike or bike ride on one of the many trails in the area. Families with kids will also enjoy visiting the Austin Zoo and the Thinkery.
How to Prepare for Your Family Vacation
Now that you’ve decided on a destination, it’s time to start planning your trip. Use the following tips to help you prepare for your family vacation:
- Choose the right accommodations: When choosing accommodations for your family vacation, it’s important to find a place that is comfortable and conveniently located. If you’re traveling with young children, look for a hotel or resort that offers child care services. You should also make sure to choose a hotel or resort that has plenty of activities and amenities for families, such as a pool, a kids’ club, and babysitting services.
- Pack wisely: When packing for your family vacation, it’s important to pack light. Bring only the essentials and make sure to pack items that will keep your family entertained, such as books, toys, and games. If you’re traveling with young children, be sure to pack plenty of diapers, wipes, and formula.
- Plan your activities: Before you leave for your trip, make a list of the activities you want to do and the places you want to visit. This will help you make the most of your time and ensure that everyone in your family has a good time.
- Stay safe: When traveling with your family, it’s important to take precautions to ensure everyone’s safety. Make sure to research your destination before you go and familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep your belongings close to you. If you’re traveling with young children, always keep them within your sight.
- Have fun: The most important thing to remember when taking a family vacation is to have fun. Enjoy your time together and make memories that will last a lifetime.