40 of the Best Affordable Family Vacations in the U.S.
Finding a budget-friendly destination that makes the whole family happy just got easier.
In today's fast-paced world, family vacations are an opportunity to take a break from the daily grind and spend quality time together—but finding an affordable destination that makes the whole family happy can be a challenge. Luckily, the U.S. truly has something for everyone—including your wallet. From national parks and beaches to historic sites and cultural cities, there is something for every family to enjoy without breaking the bank.
National parks are always a top choice for low-cost travel, but don't forget about cities. Places like San Antonio, Nashville, and New Orleans offer unique cultural experiences and cost-friendly attractions, including museums, festivals, and delicious cuisine—and there are plenty of beach options (like Myrtle Beach, Gulf Shores, and Outer Banks) with modestly priced family-friendly activities, such as swimming, fishing, and exploring the coastline.
No matter what your family's interests are, there is a budget-friendly vacation spot waiting to be explored right here in the United States.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
With an affordable admission fee and reasonable camping and lodging costs, Yellowstone offers an incredible natural experience at a low cost. Visitors can stay at campsites within the park, like the stunning Bridge Bay Campground, and enjoy the park's many free activities, like hiking, wildlife viewing, and attending ranger-led programs.
San Antonio, Texas
A hotbed of Texas history, San Antonio has plenty of free and educational attractions for visitors of all ages. One of the city's most popular attractions is the historic Alamo, but you can also explore the River Walk—a scenic network of walkways along the San Antonio River and often a hub for street performers and live music. The city is also home to several parks and green spaces, such as the Brackenridge Park and the San Antonio Botanical Garden, and many museums and cultural institutions, like the San Antonio Museum of Art and the Institute of Texan Cultures. Plus, you can't beat the Tex-Mex!
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
If you're hoping for beach time this summer, Myrtle Beach is the way to go, with miles of sandy shores ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the waves. Visit the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk—which features numerous shops, restaurants, and arcades—and enjoy free events, like live music and fireworks shows. Not to mention, the town has plenty of affordable, family-friendly activities—think miniature golf and water parks—and welcoming resorts, like The Strand.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota
In South Dakota's scenic Black Hills—under an hour drive from Rapid City, an ideal place to anchor the family for the trip—enjoy the iconic presidential sculptures, attend ranger-led park programs, and explore hiking trails. Outside of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial and Custer State Park are also nearby.
Williamsburg, Virginia
You might be familiar with Colonial Williamsburg, the famed living history museum that re-creates life in the 18th century, but this Virginia city is home to several other affordable historical attractions, like the Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center. If you're itching for an active getaway, explore the Virginia Capital Trail, a 52-mile biking and walking trail that connects Williamsburg to Richmond.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
With white sandy beaches and warm Gulf waters, it's easy to visit Gulf Shores and not spend a dime. The area is also home to Gulf State Park, which has hiking and biking trails, alongside fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities. Other family- and summer-friendly activities include dolphin cruises, water parks, and miniature golf. Don't miss Matt's Homemade Alabama Ice Cream for a sweet treat after a long day in the sand.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
With so many free activities and attractions within the park, the Grand Canyon is a classic family vacation spot. Hike along the popular Bright Angel Trail, or stop at one of the breathtaking scenic viewpoints along the South Rim for the trademark canyon views. Camping within the park is an affordable option, with campsites starting at just $18 per night, and the many nearby towns and cities, such as Flagstaff and Williams, offer additional lodging and dining options at a reasonable cost.
Dollywood, Tennessee
Looking to pack a whole lot of attractions and activities into one trip? Head to Dollywood, an iconic theme park in the heart of Tennessee with more than 40 attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and shows. Bonus: There are plenty of free things to do here, including the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary and the Southern Gospel Museum and Hall of Fame.
Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
Whether you're visiting the California side or the Nevada side of this West Coast landmark, you can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing in the crystal-clear waters of the lake—and hiking or biking on the many trails around the lake—all accessible for free. Plus, Lake Tahoe has plenty of other attractions, like the Tahoe Science Center. If you're visiting during winter, the area is known for its ski resorts and other winter activities, like sledding and snowshoeing.
St. Augustine, Florida
The oldest city in the U.S., having been first settled in the 16th century, St. Augustine is an excellent budget-friendly family vacation spot because of its many free and low-cost attractions. Explore the historic district, which features landmarks such as the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and the Oldest Wooden School House. Other fun attractions include the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, and of course, the crystal-clear public beaches.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Vibrant and culturally rich, New Orleans truly offers something for everyone. It's easy to spend hours wandering around the historic French Quarter or exploring attractions, like the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and the Audubon Zoo. The city is also known for its delicious (and affordable!) food, with local favorites, such as beignets and po' boys stealing the show.
Niagara Falls, New York
This upstate New York hotspot delivers for anyone looking for outdoor adventure. It's always free to walk into the park and experience the falls, where the waters of four the Great Lakes convene into the Niagara River Gorge. (Pro tip: If you want to get up close and personal with the falls, check out Cave of the Winds, a remarkable natural cave behind Bridal Veil Falls.) Plus, Niagara Falls State Park, the oldest state park in the U.S., has ample trails and picnic areas for exploration.
Branson, Missouri
Full of fun for adults and kids alike, Branson is home to plenty of free activities, like Branson Landing, which offers a wide variety of shops, restaurants, a spectacular water and fire show, and the Lake Taneycomo beaches. Plus, don't miss the famous Silver Dollar City, a theme park with various rides and attractions, and the Titanic Museum, which offers a unique look at the historic ship. The city is also known for its live entertainment, which ranges from music shows, featuring local and national acts, and theater performances.
Custer State Park, South Dakota
Within the park's 71,000 acres, you can do everything from hiking and fishing to swimming and wildlife viewing—and you might even spot bison, pronghorns, and elk during your visit, most of which can be seen from many of the park's scenic drives and hiking trails. Lodging in the park is extremely affordable, with campsites starting at just $19 per night—and the park offers family-friendly activities, like scenic drives, horseback riding, and boat tours.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston boasts many free attractions, like the historic district, and affordable activities, like the South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston City Market, and walking the Ravenel. Plus, public beaches, inexpensive lodging options, and tasty seafood restaurants make it easy to enjoy a unique mix of history, culture, and beauty without breaking the bank.
Yosemite National Park, California
If you and your clan are hoping to explore the great outdoors, the park's iconic waterfalls, Half Dome, and Yosemite Valley offer incredible scenery and hiking trails for all skill levels. Plus, visitors can take a scenic drive through Tioga Road, explore the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoia trees, and stargaze at Glacier Point.
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
If you're looking for a history lesson and natural beauty all rolled into one, head to Gettysburg National Military Park. Visitors can explore the battlefield with a free self-guided tour or attend a ranger-led program. Meanwhile, nearby Catoctin Mountain Park offers hiking trails, trout fishing streams, and affordable campsites. The town itself is home to plenty of excellent attractions and restaurants, including the Dobbin House Tavern, a historic B&B loaded with Civil War history.
Asheville, North Carolina
An increasingly buzzy vacation spot in recent years, Asheville is set amid one of the East Coast's most beautiful natural settings. Hike and explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, or relax in one of the city's popular green spaces, like Pack Square Park and Carrier Park. Not to mention, Asheville has several affordable cultural attractions, such as the Asheville Art Museum and the Thomas Wolfe Memorial. The city is known for its vibrant food scene, including the always-popular Mamacita's Taqueria.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
A quintessential family vacation spot in Michigan's charming Upper Peninsula, Mackinac Island has activities for the whole clan. You can explore its charms on foot, by bike, or via horse-drawn carriage. Visit Fort Mackinac and the Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory, and don't leave the island without trying some delicious fudge. Family-owned May's Candy Shop is a favorite year after year.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Spend your days enjoying the idyllic Santa Fe Plaza, surrounded by shops and art galleries, or enjoy the city's plethora of museums, ranging from the Museum of International Folk Art to the Santa Fe Children's Museum. The city is also known for its colorful architecture and scenic outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, skiing, and more.
Laura Ratliff is a New York City-based writer, editor, and runner. Laura's writing expertise spans numerous topics, ranging from travel and food and drink to reported pieces covering political and human rights issues. She has previously worked at Architectural Digest, Bloomberg News, and Condé Nast Traveler and was most recently the senior editorial director at TripSavvy. Like many of us, Laura was bitten by the running bug later in life, after years of claiming to "hate running." Her favorite marathon is Big Sur.
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