22 Smaller than normal Family Get-aways That Won't Burn up all available resources (Part-3)
These awesome excursions offer enormous fun on a little spending plan. We've gathered together options all around the nation, so a remarkable family excursion is constantly ideal around the bend, regardless of whether you just have multi-day or two.
(Continued from Part-2)
Crystal Coast, North Carolina
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Why you'll love it: Located along North Carolina's central shore, the Crystal Coast has been a favorite beach destination for generations and represents one of the few remaining natural barrier island systems in the world with 85 miles of sparkling beaches. Base yourself near Beaufort, a 300-year-old town filled with pirate lore (Blackbeard's sunken flagship, The Queen Anne's Revenge, rests in its watery grave just miles offshore), and plan a trip to The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores for an up-close look at what lies beneath the seas.
Budget tip: Kick back for a full day of free fun on the beach!
Where to stay: The Inlet Inn is right on the waterfront in Beaufort and offers water view rooms with private porches starting at $160 in summer, which includes a continental breakfast delivered right to your room every morning.
Atlanta, Georgia
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Why you'll love it: For families who love to explore museums and cultural sites, Atlanta is ideal. Middle schoolers will love seeing the massive whale sharks at Georgia Aquarium (the largest in the country), visiting the Heisman Trophy at the College Football Hall of Fame, and sampling soda to their heart's content at World of Coca-Cola. Teens will also appreciate the more mature tone of the Center for Civil and Human rights as well. (CityPass Atlanta offers a reduced price package that includes all of these must-visit spots.)
Budget tip: Martin Luther King Jr Birthplace and Memorial is a National Park with a free entrance; walking in the footsteps of history here will definitely resonate with your kids.
Where to stay: The Embassy Suites at Centennial Park puts you right in the middle of the action, provides you with a second room so you can close the door on your big kids, has a pool, and includes a free all-you-can-eat breakfast in the $197 price.
Niagara Falls, New York
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Why you'll love it: Kids of all ages will be impressed when they hear the more than 3,000 tons of water that crashes over the falls here every second. Here you can witness nature at its best, explore acres of pristine hiking trails and scenic terrain, immerse yourself in outdoor adventure. You can walk around Niagara Falls State Park (the oldest park in the country) for free, but experiencing the views of the thundering falls aboard the famous Maid of the Mist is what will be the most memorable way to take in the falls (including a soaked selfie). Or sign up for the Cave of the Winds tour, where you'll find yourself deep in the Niagara Gorge and face to face with the crashing water of the falls.
Budget tip: Old Falls Street is three cobblestone blocks filled with free family activities like outdoor movies and concerts. Kids will enjoy learning about the power of water at the free Niagara Power Vista Center.
Where to stay: Sheraton at the Falls has summer rates starting at $161, an indoor swimming pool that's the largest in the area, and is walking distance to many of the top attractions. Don't miss more of the best family vacations in each state.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
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Why you'll love it: As the hot air balloon capital of the world, the skies of Albuquerque are always filled with colorful inspiration for kids with a love for things that fly. Kids will really enjoy a ride on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway—North America's longest double-reversible aerial tramway—that travels to the top of the 10,378-foot Sandia Peak. (Kids under 5 are free; be sure to print out the $5 coupon from the website for you.) And exploring the ABQ BioPark, a unique environmental museum comprised of an aquarium, botanic garden, and the zoo is always a hit too, as is the free fishing lakes at Tingley Beach.
Budget tips: Summerfest is a series of free community events featuring live music, children's activities, climbing walls, a craft beer garden, food trucks, and vendors selling local, handcrafted goods.
Where to stay: The Nativo Lodge offers a pool to cool off in and creatively decorated rooms, including the #1INDN which offers two tented beds, sure to be a kid favorite; rates start at $81 per night.
Anaheim, California
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Why you'll love it: Sometimes the kids only want to go to Disneyland; never fear, we've found a way to visit Mickey without breaking the bank. The Disney experts at UnderCover Tourist offer discounted tickets and additional money-saving tips at their site as well as calendars about when to visit when it's least crowded. And of course Disney magic is always a hit with kids of all ages.
Budget tips: Pack a refillable water bottle and some on-the-go snacks to cut back on additional park costs.
Where to stay: The Anaheim Marriott is offering a can't miss deal for families this summer: A double room, free shuttle to the park, and a $100 gift card to Disney for every night you stay for only $269. (Make sure you enter promotional code THM). Ask for a high floor facing the park (which is just a few blocks away) and you'll be able to watch the nightly fireworks from your room, too.
