10 best budget family vacations that give the best bang for the buck

You're eager to plan a family getaway, but your wallet says, "Hm, let's think about this." Sound familiar? You're not alone. Last year, we asked more than 400 moms about their top vacation-planning challenges, and the verdict was loud and clear: keeping costs down is the biggest hurdle, by far. In fact, 62% call it a struggle. But hey, there’s no rule that you have to break the bank to have a memorable family vacation.

Back in 2019, I took my 18-month-old son to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, so we could have a Disney World-like vacation without the Disney prices. The attractions at Dollywood wowed both him and me (who doesn't love Dolly Parton?), we made some memories of a lifetime, and we still came home under budget. The whole experience reminded me that you don't need to empty your wallet to have a great family vacation. 

So if you're looking to create some core family memories away from home, here are the best budget-friendly vacations you can take with your little ones. 

How we chose the best family vacations on a budget

With a passport with more stamps than a post office, I've navigated the challenges of traveling with a young child. My 5-year-old and I have explored 23 countries, learning a thing or two about budget-friendly travel along the way – like asking for a room with a large bathroom makes it easier to pop up a travel crib and have some privacy without paying for a suite. 

I also searched the BabyCenter Community for valuable tips and recommendations – proving once again that collective wisdom is priceless – and spoke to other moms about their recent family vacations that ticked all the boxes: affordable, fun, and unforgettable.

Lastly, I spoke to five experts in family travel:

• Jo Piazza, a mom of three and author of globe-trotting books such as The Sicilian Inheritance 

• Parker Gioia, a travel publicist who knows the ins and outs of budget travel locations

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• Julie Hong, a travel publicist who specializes in off-the-beaten path destinations

• Sydney Bernard, a travel publicist who shared data on the best family-friendly spring break trips

• Camryn Jun, a publicist who represents dozens of family-friendly hotels

Factors to consider when planning a family vacation on a budget

In selecting the ultimate budget-friendly family vacation spots, I considered several critical elements to ensure that every recommendation fits your budget and enriches your family's travel experience. Here's what influenced the final list:

• Affordable attractions: My top priority was finding destinations brimming with free or low-cost attractions that still offer rich cultural experiences, educational opportunities, or recreational fun. 

• Accommodation costs: I looked high and low for places that had lodging options for less than $200 a night.

• Daily expense threshold: I narrowed down the list to spots where you could spend less than $400 per day on meals, admission tickets, and other costs.

• Location accessibility: I prioritized easily reachable destinations spread throughout the country, reducing travel time and increasing family fun time.

Best camping vacation: Glacier National Park and Yellowstone

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Stretching more than 400 scenic miles through Montana and Wyoming, this classic family road trip route is a testament to enjoying America's natural wonders on a budget. You can venture from Glacier National ParkOpens a new window to YellowstoneOpens a new window with a lot of control over your expenses, whether you camp out under the stars at Many Glacier CampgroundOpens a new window or prepare a cookout surrounded by nature at Lake McDonaldOpens a new window. (Just remember to budget for gas!) 

Both parks' entry fees are modest, especially if you buy an America the Beautiful PassOpens a new window, which covers all national parks for a year at a fraction of the cost of individual entries. (It's $80 per adult; all children 16 and under can get in for free.) Budget-friendly stops like Logan PassOpens a new window and the Grand Prismatic SpringOpens a new window offer free, enriching experiences that rival any costly attraction.

Heads up: Accommodations in and around the parks can fill up quickly, so booking campsites or budget-friendly lodges like Roosevelt Lodge CabinsOpens a new window well in advance is crucial. Also, consider packing meals for portions of the trip (like PB&J supplies or simple breakfast options), as dining out in tourist areas can add up. 

Parents say: "If you like scenic drives, hikes, and nature, Yellowstone is one of our favorite places … It's so beautiful and [kids] love to see the animals."

"Definitely check out Old Faithful and the other geysers and such; they're pretty neat … Bring lots of activities for the little ones in the car; you're gonna be doing a lot of driving at slow speeds to get from one part of the park to the other."

"We took our camper on a road trip to Glacier NP and Yellowstone NP.  It was a great experience. Glacier is AMAZING. I wish we had more time to spend there. Yellowstone was really cool too, but Glacier was just jaw-droppingly beautiful."

Best beach vacation: Palm Beaches, Florida

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The Palm BeachesOpens a new window in Florida stand out as a premier spring break destination that's kind on the wallet while offering an abundance of sunshine, culture, and entertainment. The area includes both Palm Beach and West Palm Beach as well as Boca Raton, Jupiter, Lake Worth, Delray Beach, and other neighboring cities. 

Direct flights from 34 U.S. cities make getting there a breeze — especially on budget carriers. (Check out the best airlines for flying with kids and tips for flying with a baby.) 

"Although the Palm Beaches are famous for their extravagant inhabitants, gorgeous beaches, and world-class dining, the region also offers a world of spectacular art, education, wildlife and cultural experiences," Gioia says.

The Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation SocietyOpens a new window showcases the wonders of wildlife, including a new Hoffman's two-toed sloth, at a fraction of theme park prices. Meanwhile, the Cox Science Center and AquariumOpens a new window has both a digital aquarium and 10,000-gallon tank with beautiful native fish, eels, stingrays, and seahorses. The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts Opens a new windowoffers budget-friendly (and kid-friendly) shows such as Shrek the Musical. Plus, the white sand beaches and vibrant art scenes offer more free or low-cost options for exploration.

Heads up: Buy tickets for the Palm Beach Zoo online, and you'll save $2 per person. Kids 0 to 2 also get in for free.

Parents say:  "Palm Beach and Juno Beach are beautiful …  [There are] two areas with free spray/fountain parks that coordinate to music (Clematis and Downtown) … [Go to] downtown Palm Beach for restaurants; live music and dancing; family friendly entertainment and date nights … There is also a bike trail along the Palm Beach Intracoastal [Waterway] behind the mansions. You could bike the trail or walk with a stroller. It is beautiful and quiet."

Best Disney alternative: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

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Perched in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge has all the magic and family fun you'd hope for in a vacation spot without the hefty price tag of bigger theme parks. 

At DollywoodOpens a new window, you'll find all of the rides, water slides, live shows, and theme park foods you'd expect, but for the relatively lower cost of $92 per adult and $82 per child. (Disney World admission rates fluctuate, but the tickets often cost twice as much – around $180 per adult and $175 for each kid.) You can even skip hiring a pet sitter by bringing your pup with you and having them stay at DoggywoodOpens a new window for the day. 

Balance out the bumper cars and funnel cakes with a trip to Great Smoky Mountains National ParkOpens a new window, located 20 minutes away. There's no shortage of adventures here: Camp, hike, and maybe even see a black bear (from a distance)! 

Heads up: Booking accommodations early can also snag you some great deals, especially if you're aiming for off-peak times in January, February, and March.

Parents say: "We were looking for a place that could offer fun for my son and some relaxation for us without draining our bank account. Pigeon Forge was perfect. From Dollywood to the hiking trails, we packed in a ton of activities and still came home under budget."

Best adventure vacation: Salt Lake City, Utah

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Salt Lake City is a spot where you can go sledding or hike the trails by day and catch a city vibe by night, all without blowing your budget. It's got all the makings of a perfect family getaway – outdoor fun and cultural spots set against a pretty epic mountain backdrop. 

Check out the wallet-friendly Home2 Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City-EastOpens a new window, which is just a short drive from the airport and close to nature's playground. Plus, they have great suite setups for families with sectioned-off living rooms, so you can fit the whole gang without having to pay a ton.

Heads up: Make the most of those daylight hours by scheduling your outdoor time in the morning and any indoor adventures for the afternoon. 

Parents say: "Utah summers are perfect for families! Near the zoo, This Is The Place Heritage ParkOpens a new window has fun activities like a mini train and pioneer exhibits. Don't miss the Natural History MuseumOpens a new window and Red Butte GardenOpens a new window nearby … For more adventures, head to Thanksgiving PointOpens a new window for its children's museum and gardens, or enjoy the new aquarium playground. Downtown, the free planetarium and accessible TraxOpens a new window[, the area's train system] make exploring easy. Try the family-friendly hike to Donut FallsOpens a new window, and consider staying in Sugar HouseOpens a new window or downtown for convenient lodging. Park City offers summer resort activities but is quieter for kids."

Best small town vacation: Cartersville, Georgia

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Located just 40 minutes outside of Atlanta, Cartersville merges historic charm with an array of budget-friendly cultural experiences. The Tellus Science MuseumOpens a new window offers exhibits like a hands-on educational journey through natural disasters, while the Savoy Automobile MuseumOpens a new window can delight car enthusiasts of all ages (minus the hefty price tag of larger city attractions). Additionally, Booth Western Art MuseumOpens a new window's free Thursdays allow families to visit at no cost.

Consider staying at the Barnsley ResortOpens a new window in nearby Adairsville; if you book the Family Fun PackageOpens a new window, you'll get breakfast included and a $200 activity credit to put towards horseback riding, archery, or another experience. For a lower rate, opt for Tru by Hilton CartersvilleOpens a new window, which has colorful decor and a pool the kids will love.

Heads up: While Cartersville offers many free and low-cost activities, you can save more by booking outside of the peak seasons: spring and summer. 

Best coastal vacation: Crystal Coast, North Carolina

Crystal Coast

Imagine an 85-mile stretch with Atlantic waves, golden sands, and stories of pirates that'll leave your kiddos spellbound. Welcome to North Carolina's Crystal Coast, a cluster of communities each with its own flavor, from the historic charms of Beaufort to the serene beaches of Emerald Isle. 

The Crystal Coast's lack of high-rise hotels contribute to its serene atmosphere and lack of crowds. Visitors can enjoy both value and tranquility with numerous public beaches and diverse lodging options, including vacation rentals and beachfront cottages. Activities centered on the area's natural beauty and historical sites offer plenty to do without shelling out for expensive Boardwalk-type entertainment.

For example, Cape LookoutOpens a new window – a public seashore recently certified as an International Dark Sky Place – invites you to gaze at the stars without the glare of city lights and see the Milky Way with your own eyes. During the day, take advantage of the beach by boogie boarding and building sand castles. You can also tour a restored Civil War fort at Fort Macon State ParkOpens a new window or see wild horses at Rachel Carson ReserveOpens a new window, both free.

Heads up: Plan your visit during the off season (the first week of September and through most of May) to enjoy the best rates and fewer crowds. Also, some attractions, like climbing the lighthouse at Cape Lookout, may have limited availability or require reservations, so be sure to check ahead.

Parents say: "We went to Emerald Isle, North Carolina, and we had the absolute best time – zero official plans, spent all week at a beachside condo … Spring break is considered off-season and is much cheaper. I spent way less than two grand and drove there."

Best Southern vacation: El Paso, Texas

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Heard about El Paso's latest accolade? It's the best spot in the U.S. for a cheap staycation, according to a recent study by SumUp, which means it’s a great budget-friendly destination to visit too! With the lowest average coffee price of around $3.67 and a meal for two at an impressive $65, El Paso is leading the pack in terms of affordability. 

There are a lot of options to fill your itinerary on the cheap, too. Explore the natural beauty of Franklin Mountains State ParkOpens a new window or take advantage of the free admission days at the El Paso Museum of HistoryOpens a new window and the El Paso Museum of ArtOpens a new window. Plus, El Paso's community calendarOpens a new window is full of events like outdoor movie nights and cultural festivals, often free, making every visit memorable without a hefty price tag.

Heads up: Check out schedules for free museum entry and community events ahead of time. Remember, El Paso's sunny days are plentiful, so pack essentials like water and sunscreen for those outdoor adventures.

Parents say: "El Paso is a pretty great place to go … The weather is better than every other area I've lived in, the mountains are beautiful … and most people are nice, warm, and welcoming." 

Best unexpected vacation: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

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Oklahoma City might just be your next favorite spot for an affordable family vacation. Visit sprawling parks like the Myriad Botanical GardensOpens a new window, where the kids can run free, and you can soak in the beauty without spending a penny. Then there's the Oklahoma City ZooOpens a new window, offering an educational and entertaining day out with animals. (You can find special discounts and family passes on its website.) Dive into the past at the Oklahoma History CenterOpens a new window, or get hands-on with science experiments at Science Museum OklahomaOpens a new window, both offering free or discounted days that make learning cool and cost-effective.

Heads up: Keep an eye on local calendars for free community events, such as outdoor concerts and movie nights under the stars.

Parents say: "The Oklahoma Science Museum [is] so totally worth it! Big, giant, five-story playgrounds (that parents can also climb), big outdoor gardens, and private nursing rooms for moms … If you receive EBT/food stamps, your admission to the Oklahoma City Zoo is $3 … If money is tight, there are tunnels underneath downtown OKC called the Underground Concourse (or OKC Underground). It connects federal business buildings like banks and such but is free to explore and open to the public during day hours. There's a couple places to eat, grab a coffee, or check out the art down there. By the way every section of hallway is lit up in a different color. It's cute and climate-controlled. If you are more of the nature type, there's a free park called Martin Nature Center on the northside."

Best vacation for water parks: Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

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With more than 20 indoor and outdoor options, the city of Wisconsin Dells is often hailed as the waterpark capital of the world, but did you know it's also a haven for families looking for fun on a budget? 

Beyond the splash-tastic adventures in its famous water parks (such as Noah's ArkOpens a new window, the country's largest), Wisconsin Dells also offers stunning natural parks where you can hike, picnic, and soak in the beauty of the Dells. You can also check out affordable attractions like the Tommy Bartlett ExploratoryOpens a new window (a great indoor option for inclement weather) and the Wisconsin Deer ParkOpens a new window. The area also boasts scenic boat tours on the Wisconsin River that offer breathtaking views without a breathtaking price.

Heads up: While the big water parks are a draw, they can be pricey. Find discounts and BOGO offers through Wisconsin Dells Visitors & Convention Bureau's deals pagesOpens a new window. You can also price out booking an all-inclusive experience at Dells' major resorts, bundling your room rate and park passes for potential savings.

Parents say: "We used to go to the Dells every other year … We always stayed at Great Wolf [Lodge]Opens a new window. It was great. Many pools, indoor and out, lots of slides. We always went to Noah's ArkOpens a new window, but that’s definitely a lot of climbing and walking but a blast! We would also go to Devil's LakeOpens a new window and hike, paddle boat, and cook out." 

Best Northeast vacation: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Philly, the City of Brotherly Love, is a gold mine for families seeking an enriching yet budget-friendly getaway. Free attractions include Independence National Historical ParkOpens a new window (home of the Liberty Bell), the Rocky Steps, and the city's 4,000-plus murals. Kids 18 and under get into the Philadelphia Museum of ArtOpens a new window for free, and the first Sunday of the month and every Friday night are pay what you wish for adults as well. Don't miss the Please Touch MuseumOpens a new window in beautiful West Fairmount Park. Housed in a gorgeous building from the 1876 Centennial Exhibition, this museum has exhibits that cater specifically to the toddler, preschooler, and early elementary set. 

Plus, Philly's food scene offers deliciously affordable finds, from famous cheesesteaks to international cuisine – like Ethiopian eats in West Philly, tacos in the Italian Market, and Pennsylvania Dutch cooking in Reading Terminal MarketOpens a new window – that satisfy any appetite without breaking the bank.

Heads up: The PHLASH busOpens a new window runs between all of the top downtown attractions (as well as the Please Touch Museum) and costs just $5 per person for unlimited rides all day. 

Parents say: "We loved exploring the historic sites, and my son was thrilled with the Franklin InstituteOpens a new window. Finding budget-friendly places to eat was easy, and we even enjoyed a picnic in one of the city's beautiful parks. And it was all so much cheaper than visiting New York City."

Methodology

The Everyday Health Group Pregnancy & Parenting Talk to Moms® Monthly Poll was conducted by Everyday Health Group – Pregnancy and Parenting between July 5 and 7, 2023. We surveyed 406 U.S. respondents aged 18 to 44 who are currently pregnant or have at least one child up to 5 years old. The survey was fielded among the Dynata Research Panel.