As the price of travel continues to rise, fewer and fewer families are taking the vacations they deserve. But it doesn’t have to be this way. If you’re careful, you can plan a vacation to a fabulous destination for the whole family, without spending an arm and a leg to do it. In fact, some of the nation’s most sought-after vacation spots are actually quite reasonably priced, if you know how to go about it.
Ready to start planning your dream vacation, but not sure where to start? Many hostels even offer accommodations specifically for families – companies like HostelBookers can help you sort through the many options. But here are some the top budget-friendly vacation destinations in the U.S.
New York
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You might be surprised to learn that New York can actually be an extremely budget-friendly town for tourists. First, skip the expensive hotels and consider staying in one of the city’s many hostels. When it comes to entertainment, New York has plenty of low-or-no-cost options for families. In the warm summer months, take the Staten Island Ferry for free, close-up views of the Statue of Liberty. Take advantage of rush tickets for a night at the opera or the symphony.
Washington, D.C.
Famed as the seat of U.S. government, Washington D.C. is also a fun-filled, low-cost destination for tourists of all ages. Most notable are the city’s many museums, most of which are free to the public. Visitors can also tour the White House, Congressional Library, House of Congress, and many other government buildings. In addition, you’ll find many of the country’s most enduring monuments, including the Washington and Lincoln memorials. Time your visit in the spring to take advantage of the yearly cherry blossom festival, one of the city’s most breath-taking events.
Yosemite National Park
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When it comes to raw, natural beauty, it’s hard to find better in the continental U.S. than Yosemite. From glaciers to geysers, soaring peaks to rolling plains, Yosemite offers a landscape for every taste. The park’s trails are free for public use, and tours are quite inexpensive. For truly adventurous travelers, camping at the park is a cost-effective option that can help you build memories with your loved ones under the wide open sky.
Nashville
Love good music, great barbecue, or both? Nashville might be the right destination for your family. Nashville, the underdog music capitol of the country, offers some of the best live entertainment around – much of it free. In the summer, outdoor concerts are plentiful and open to the public. In between visits to the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame, consider taking a stroll through the Hillsboro Village area, which offers some of the best window shopping in the city.
Myrtle Beach
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When it comes to budget-friendly beaches, you won’t find better than Myrtle Beach. This South Carolina town lays claim to some of the cleanest and most expansive public beaches in the country – all free for public use. While the price can be intimidating in the heat of summer, shifting your trip just a month or two towards the “off” season can save you bundles; and you’ll enjoy less crowded beaches, too.
Las Vegas
If you can avoid losing your shirt at the slot machines, Las Vegas can be a surprisingly inexpensive family vacation spot. The fountains, magnificent hotels, and other sights of the famed Las Vegas strip are all free to see and enjoy. The well-touristed city center is compact enough that you won’t even need a car to get around – you can see it all on your own two feet.
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