Whether it’s a long-awaited family vacation or just a weekend getaway, you want it to feel like a special, truly memorable time away. You want to be sure the whole crew is having fun, and that you’re spending quality time together without any distractions. But that can be difficult, especially if you don’t have the time to take a big trip or are pressed for money.
Fortunately, there are some great options for families of all sizes that fit the bill. These destinations offer the best in both quality and variety, from adventure to culture to relaxation.
For example, if you’re a thrill seeker, head to the world-famous Orlando theme parks, with their roller coasters and water slides. Or go for something more tranquil, and visit one of the many family-friendly resorts around the area.
The city’s pier is the perfect spot to catch a sunset cruise or try out some water sports, and the city’s beaches are free to enjoy. Plus, there’s a zoo to explore and a handful of museums to check out.
It’s not easy to find a vacation destination that has it all, but San Francisco does! This cosmopolitan city, home to some of the greatest restaurants in the country, is also a treasure trove of family fun.
You’ll find everything from quirky art to classic Hollywood films at the Museum of the Moving Image and the Golden Gate Bridge, as well as a huge variety of museums for kids. For those who prefer to stay active, there’s a bike trail that runs through the city for cyclists of all ages.
Why you’ll love it: This is an incredibly affordable vacation destination, thanks to a low cost of living and low taxes. It’s an excellent choice for families with teens who want to experience a new culture and get outdoors.
In fact, Portland is a prime family travel destination for a reason: its sustainability, natural beauty, and fun public transportation system make it a perfect place to take a multi-generational family vacation. For instance, the city’s funicular railway gives a unique perspective of the city, while kids can ride bikes in Portland’s bike-friendly neighborhoods or try ice cream at one of several food truck parks.
What’s more, the city isn’t a hard one to explore; you can easily take in all of its charms on foot or with a bike, and you can even hop on a ferry for a day at an island! Then, the family can spend a night at a funky hostel or an eco-friendly bed and breakfast.
The best thing about these spots is that they’re all within a reasonable driving distance. This means they’re an ideal pick for families who don’t have a lot of time or money to spare but still want to pack lots of excitement into their trip.
For more ideas for cheap family vacations, be sure to check out our other posts. Ultimately, your budget and schedule will determine which one is the best for you!