14 Cheap Travel Destinations With Kids in the US
Traveling with kids can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be! There are plenty of amazing places in the US where you can have a great family vacation without breaking the bank.
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1. Myrtle Beach, SC
Myrtle Beach is a sandy hotspot with miles of coastline, amusement parks, and mini-golf galore.
The boardwalk buzzes with energy, offering rides, arcades, and plenty of snack shacks.
It’s easy to fill a day with affordable fun, from Ripley’s Aquarium to Family Kingdom Amusement Park.
Where to Stay: Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort. Affordable oceanfront rooms with pools and easy beach access.
2. Great Smoky Mountains, TN/NC
The Great Smoky Mountains are all about epic mountain views and free outdoor fun.
Hike easy trails, spot deer in Cades Cove, and drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
The national park doesn’t charge an entrance fee, so you can save your cash for ice cream and souvenirs.
Where to Stay: The Park Vista – a DoubleTree by Hilton. Offers breathtaking mountain views and family-friendly amenities like an indoor pool. Kids stay free, too!
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3. Wilmington, NC
Wilmington’s riverfront downtown is packed with history, cool shops, and tasty eats.
Families can tour the Battleship North Carolina, stroll Airlie Gardens, or splash at Wrightsville Beach.
The city’s laid-back vibe and budget-friendly activities make it a winner for families who want both city and sand.
Where to Stay: Best Western Plus Coastline Inn. Comfortable rooms close to the beach with family-friendly amenities.
4. Tybee Island, GA
Tybee Island is all about chill beach days and outdoor exploring. Kids can climb the Tybee Island Light Station, wander Fort Pulaski, or hunt for seashells at Back River Beach.
Affordable eats and lodging make it easy to stretch your vacation dollars while soaking up the sun.
Where to Stay: The DeSoto Beach Hotel. A charming beachfront hotel with a relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly services.
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5. Daytona Beach, FL
Daytona Beach is where sandy toes meet high-speed thrills. The 23-mile stretch of beach is perfect for sandcastle contests and boogie boarding, while the Daytona Beach Boardwalk delivers arcade games and classic eats.
Don’t miss the free concerts at the Bandshell or a walk on the iconic pier. It’s a spot where family fun doesn’t cost a fortune.
Where to Stay: Perry’s Ocean Edge Resort. This beachfront hotel stands out for its indoor pool and free donuts every morning.
6. Bethany Beach, DE
Bethany Beach keeps things chill with its clean, family-friendly shoreline and a boardwalk lined with ice cream shops and mini golf.
The calm waves are great for younger kids, and the town hosts free movies and concerts on the beach during summer.
It’s all about simple, classic beach days without the big crowds or big prices.
Where to Stay: Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn. Spacious suites and a prime boardwalk location make this hotel a winner for families.
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7. Branson, MO
Branson is packed with things to do for every age, from the wild rides at Silver Dollar City to cool shows and museums.
The city’s budget-friendly attractions include the Branson Landing fountains and Table Rock Lake for swimming or fishing.
It’s a place where you can fill your days with fun and still have money left for souvenirs.
Where to Stay: Grand Country Resort. This hotel has an indoor waterpark and mini golf, all under one roof.
8. Bucks County, PA
Bucks County is a mix of small-town charm and outdoor fun. Families love the Sesame Place theme park, scenic bike trails, and the quirky shops in New Hope.
The county’s parks and covered bridges are perfect for exploring without spending a lot. It’s a spot where history and nature come together for a laid-back family trip.
Where to Stay: Golden Plough Inn. This inn stands out for its historic village setting and cozy, family-sized rooms.
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9. Gainesville, FL
Gainesville is a hidden gem for families who love animals and the outdoors. The Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo is a hit with kids, while Kanapaha Botanical Gardens and the free Florida Museum of Natural History keep the fun going.
Affordable eats and lots of green space make this college town a smart pick for budget travelers.
Where to Stay: Hotel Eleo at the University of Florida. Modern style, campus views, and a friendly vibe make this hotel unique for families.
10. Lancaster, PA
Lancaster is all about Amish country charm and hands-on fun. Kids can munch on fresh treats at Lancaster Central Market, hop on a buggy ride through rolling farmlands, and get creative at the Hands-on House Children’s Museum.
The town’s laid-back pace and wallet-friendly attractions make it a top pick for families who want a mix of learning and outdoor adventure.
Where to Stay: The Lancaster Arts Hotel. Local art on every wall and a friendly vibe make this spot stand out.
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11. San Antonio, TX
San Antonio packs history, flavor, and fun into every block. The Alamo is a must-see, and boat rides along the River Walk keep everyone entertained.
Don’t skip the San Antonio Zoo or the splashy fountains at Hemisfair Park. With tons of free or low-cost things to do, this city is a win for families on a budget.
Where to Stay: The Hotel Contessa. Spacious suites, a rooftop pool, and a location right on the River Walk.
12. Yellowstone National Park, WY/MT/ID
Yellowstone is a wild world of geysers, hot springs, and roaming bison. Families can watch Old Faithful erupt, hike easy trails, and snap photos of elk and waterfalls.
The park’s entrance fee covers days of adventure, and camping or rustic lodges keep costs low for nature-loving families.
Where to Stay: Old Faithful Inn. A historic lodge steps from the famous geyser, full of rustic charm.
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13. Williamsburg, VA
Williamsburg is where history gets hands-on. Kids can chat with blacksmiths and watch reenactments at Colonial Williamsburg, then ride coasters at Busch Gardens.
Affordable eats and plenty of hotel choices mean you can fill your days with learning and thrills without blowing your budget.
Where to Stay: The Historic Powhatan Resort. Spacious suites, a pool, and a location close to all the action.
14. Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis is packed with cool museums, green parks, and sports fun. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is the world’s largest, and White River State Park is perfect for picnics and bike rides.
With budget-friendly attractions and comfy hotels, Indy makes family travel easy and exciting.
Where to Stay: The Alexander. Art-inspired rooms and family-friendly perks make this hotel a standout pick.
