Where to stay:Enjoy swim-in movies, life-size games and smores at the beachside fire pit at beachfront Sandpearl Resort. With private access to a 12-mile swath of pristine beaches and an array of outdoor resort pools and amenities, the hotel feels like a tropical island vacation, but one you can drive to! 9679 W State Park Rd, Mears, MI 49436, Phone: 231-873-3083. Budget tip:Sedona is less than a two-hour drive (100 miles) from the Grand Canyon, making it an easy day trip or a pit stop on anArizona road tripwithout the added expense of spending the night at pricey accommodations near the national park. WITHIN HOURS Find places 1 hour 1-1/2 hours 2 hours 2-1/2 hours 3 hours 3-1/2 hours 4 hours 4-1/2 hours 5 hours 6 hours 50 miles 100 miles 150 miles 200 miles 250 miles 300 miles 350 miles 400 miles from me You might only know this destination as the home of the iconic Kentucky Derby or the birthplace of Bourbon, but it has so much more for vacationers. 5 Short Trips From St. Louis for Families | Family Vacation Critic Summer is the time for festivals: Artown in July features musical performances, interactive workshops and art exhibits; the Shakespeare Festival, at Lake Tahoe, puts on multiple traditional Shakespeare plays, including versions for kids; and then theres the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-Off, the countrys best rib competition. All Rights Reserved. Long Island. Here are 51+ of the Best Family Weekend Getaways in the Southeast! Nature lovers can hike and bike along hundreds of miles of free trails, and at night the stars put on a spectacular show, no ticket required. Where to stay: One Ski Hill Place, a Rock Resort, is located right at the base of Peak 8 and offers multi-room suites that function as private condos, with full kitchens and living rooms, perfect to spread out in. Opening in mid-May, Dorney Park and its waterpark and Planet Snoopy offer over 100 rides for young ones. Be swept away by Belle Isle, a 987-acre island park featuring three lakes, 150 acres of wooded . Why youll love it: This cosmopolitan Canadian city is just a 90-minute trip from 60% of the United States, so its one of those accessible quick trips for many. The Childrens Museum of Houston is one of the best in the country, with indoor and outdoor spaces where they can have hands-on fun. It really is a perfect Midwest vacation spot. Dont pass up its oversized gondola Ferris wheel 200 feet tall and WonderWorks filled with 100 hands-on exhibits perfect for those beach-break days. Budget tip:Lace up your hiking shoes to explore the 128 miles of trails inSam Houston National Forest. The property has multi-room suites and villas, so you can plan a multi-generational getaway. Where to stay: Margaritaville Lake Resort will keep you entertained for your entire stay. History buffs will enjoy a family-friendly and budget-friendly road trip to Johnson City. Or explore the city via The Richmond Beer Trail, sampling ciders, wines, and meaderies from almost 40 local breweries. After Staying in 25 Worldmark Resorts a Traveler Picks His Top 10, 15 Fun Things to Do & Reasons to Visit Yorktown Beach (Outside Williamsburg, VA). Where to stay: The Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino offers double rooms, a location that lets you easily explore Old San Juan and front-row access to the new Entertainment District, plus theres a super cool infinity pool with great views over the San Juan lagoon. The Mall of America. Where to stay: The Glen House sits at the base of the Mt. Where to stay: Lodging includes DuPont Lodge, the Cottages and Woodland Rooms, which have free access to the indoor pool and also include free meals for kids 5 and under at the restaurant. Why youll love it: With silky-soft, snow-white sand and gentle Gulf of Mexico water, Clearwaters beaches are multiple award winners and some of thebest beaches in Floridaperfect for those who want to spend their quick trip splashing in the surf. Stop for a picnic brought from town, and enjoy it with great views of the Sierra Nevadas and the Lake. Here are some of our other favorite family-friendly beaches around the country. (Atlanta CityPASS offers a reduced-price package that includes all these must-visit spots.). 11 Road Trip Destinations Within 6 Hours of Columbus - Cutler Real Estate When youre not sunning and swimming, theres fabulous, low-cost picnics to be crafted from the French-influenced shops. Due to significant fashion brands headquartered in town, Columbus is a surprising fashion mecca. Then learn about the power of water at the freeNiagara Power Vista Center. Basically, it is the definition of a charming lakeside town. Thinking of flying to Montauk? 13. Find out how to budget for a road trip. Why youll love it:Known as charm city, Baltimore is an enchanting destination loaded with history and a worthy stop on anyAtlantic Coast road trip. Where to stay: The Inlet Inn is right on the waterfront in Beaufort and offers water-view rooms with private porches and continental breakfast delivered right to your room every morning. 25. . Its home to Mammoth Cave National Park, the worlds largest underground cave system, and the Lost River Cave, which offers Kentuckys only underground boat tour, as well as Chaneys Dairy Barn, a real working dairy farm that also happens to make the best ice cream in Kentucky. Budget tip: Driving to the Cape? Why youll love it: On the furthest eastern shores of New Yorks famed Hamptons beaches, Montauk is where to go when you want to escape the crowds and enjoy the sun and surf. If you want a sand break, head to free Shadmoor State Park, which offers hiking and biking trails throughout its scenic bluffs. Heres How This Caribbean Island Can Be Surprisingly Affordable. In addition, Columbus has an incredible park system with outstanding hiking and green spaces, including 175 acres of green space in the heart of the city, hundreds of miles of bike/hike and running trails, and one of the worlds only Audubon Centers in the middle of downtown. Budget tip: Kids in tow? No town, not even Fayetteville, has more than 50,000 people. Extra bonus: Since Belize is a former British colony, this is an English-speaking destination. Take in all the beach scenery, attractions and vacation snacks while strolling the free 1.2-mile Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade. Why youll love it: Bowling Green, located just an hour north of Nashville, is tucked in among the rolling green hills of South Central Kentuckys Cave Country. Where to stay: Circus Circus Reno is a fun and quirky property thats home to the Midway, a massive arcade and carnival-themed area, with old classics like skee ball, Whac-a-Mole and air hockey. Their rustic lodgings are well-equipped with all the comforts needed to enjoy a break from the city. Plus, its only a 15-minute drive from Sam Houston National Forest. Where to stay: Lovingly referred to as Hawaiis Most Hawaiian Hotel, the Kaanapali Beach Hotel prides itself on the stewardship of Hawaiian culture and is one of the longest-standing independent properties on the famed three miles of shimmering sand that comprise Kaanapali Beach. Find places to go within a day's drive of me and plan a quick day trip from my hometown. For over 160 years, travelers have driven more than a mile into the sky to reach the highest point in the Northeast for views of the Atlantic Ocean and into Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, New York and even Canada. Why youll love it: This western city offers a special treat: a true, old-fashioned dude ranch offering an Old West vacation at throwback prices. Kids will love exploring the Gray Fossil Site, dating back 5 million years. Where to stay:Green-from-the-ground-up Element Boston Seaport and forward-thinking Aloft Boston Seaport both offer families a strategic Seaport District locale just minutes from the best of the city. 9 hours from Saint Louis. Budget tip:Explore the extensive, and free, beauty of the Central New York Region, the perfect setting for outdoor adventures, from hiking along 350 miles of trails to paddling down the historic Old Erie Canal or even mining for diamonds. Why youll love it: The entry point to the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a funky mix of breweries (the most per capita in the United States), great food, arts (the River Arts District is a fun and free way to spend a day), history (the Biltmore Estate), free-spirited hippie culture and spectacular nature. Learn to skimboard on Naples Beach, then take a stroll to the iconic Naples Pier, where fishermen hang their lines in hopes of a bite. Budget tip:The summer months are filled with free outdoor movies and music at spots such as Land-Grant Brewing and Easton. With sticker shock gas prices, its a bonus that Lehigh Valley is a one-tank trip for those in the Northeast. Home to the most visited National Park in America, The Great Smoky Mountains, these vacation spots welcome 15 million guests a year to their natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and an almost endless list of fun, family-friendly attractions. 9 Cheap Family Vacations Near Ohio | Family Vacation Critic Monica Fish helps her fellow adventurers live a financially savvy life so they can travel and explore our beautiful world no matter their budget. Distance: 116 miles, 2 hours 30 minutes What to Do: The city of Sandusky boasts 22 miles of shoreline within its city limits, and is known for its perfectly manicured parks and architecture. Its free, but be sure to throw a few dollars in the tip jar for the hardworking musicians. This 6,500-acre serene park features 35 miles of hiking trails, nature education programs, horse trails, fishing, and outdoor recreation activities such as camping, canoeing, orienteering, and climbing a 52-foot Alpine Tower. The American League of Bicyclists named the island a Gold Level Bicycle Friendly Communityand summer is the perfect time for a pedal. Where to stay: For a southern getaway in the heart of historic downtown Savannah, check into Perry Lane Hotel, an art-filled abode bursting with both charm and style. Travel time from me. With the second-largest Somali population in the U.S. and one of the countrys most diverse populations overall, in Columbus, visitors can enjoy Tibetan momos, Bangladeshi cuisine, a Pakistani bakery, and one of the best banh mi sandwiches in North America. Visitors are welcome to swim, boat, and fish in both Lake Michigan and Silver Lake, and there are several day-use areas where visitors can park to explore the dunes by foot. Fayetteville has been named Top 10 Coolest Small Towns in America by Budget Travel Magazine and Best River Town and is now a neighbor to the countrys newest national park the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Leave room in your itinerary to explore and learn about the Ohio River, including the National Landmark Falls of The Ohio. Be sure to indulge in some home cooking at a meat-and-three, Nashville fried chicken joint or Southern soul food spot. Utica, New York: 2 Hours and 5 Minutes Helen, Ga. Additionally, Johnson Citys historic downtown district includes local restaurants, breweries, retail shops, parks, and public art and, in the summer, features live music and large-scale festivals. While you might only know Pittsburgh for one of its sports teams or Three Rivers Stadium, The Purg is one of those under-the-radar vacation spots despite being a driveable destination for 57% of Americans. Where to stay: Sirenian Bay Resort is the perfect perch for families in Belize. Visitors can choose from a wide range of accommodations, including unique stays at Bottleworks Hotel, located inside the worlds former largest Coca-Cola Bottling Factory. Why youll love it:The gushing waters of Old Faithful, the swirling colors of prismatic springs, the steam of Mammoth Springs, the wildlife of Lamar Valley and the soaring views and waterfalls of Canyon Villagethis is the trip you will still be talking about for years to come. 19. This Jersey Shore gem has a pedestrian cobblestone mall with toy stores, ice cream shops and a small boardwalk with an arcade. The kids will love discovering and collecting them. Prices start at $1,780 in 2023 (slightly less for kids). Only 90-minutes away from the nations largest city, New York City, 80 miles north of Philadelphia, and less than a 6-hour drive from most of the Northeast, Indianapolis, and Charlotte, its worth taking a look at for your next vacation. Within Hours Budget tip: Pack a picnic and visit the gorgeous Falls Park on the Reedy, which boasts some seriously beautiful trails and gardens. The Steelstacks, located in Bethlehem, is one of the best places to spend an evening in the Lehigh Valley and one of the bestthings to do in Pennsylvania, said Melanie from Partners in Fire. Why youll love it: Providence is terrific for families, especially high school kids, since the capital city is home to a wide range of colleges (Brown University, Johnson & Wales, Rhode Island School of Design), where they can get inspired with campus tours and on-campus museums. For example, its also one of the best vacation spots in the U.S. for budget travelers. Columbus is home to multiple James Beard Award nominees, a recent Top Chef Contender, and the owner of what the New York Times called the best new restaurant in America. AUtah road trip to see its national parks is another option for a mini-vacation in the Beehive State. Perfectly located on a mile-long cove on Lake of the Ozarks, 2 miles from Bagwell Dam, the Point Randall Resort is perfect for a weekend getaway. These quick trips will hit the spot even if you dont have a lot of time, or money, to get away. Where to stay: Hotel Alex Johnson is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is right in the middle of Rapid Citya great spot for exploring. Peer through the periscope at Door County Maritime Museum with views of Sturgeon Bay and active shipyards, then enjoy hiking, biking and kayaking along the Mink River Estuary. West Coasters may be a little bummed to read this list. Why youll love it: One word: Disneyland! Make sure you also read up on these new hotel trends before booking your next place to stay. Budget tip:Free summer activities include exploring the national park on your own and Chaneys Ice Cream and a Moovie outdoor movie series. Pismo Beach Pier is the place to go to throw a line in the water and wait for a tug, while Pismo Beachs award-winning boardwalk is rife with delicious treats and colorful boutique shops. Explore the Gateway Arch National Park and its surrounding grounds, and visit the recently renovated Museum at the Gateway Arch, a free hands-on experience. This perennial family fave for a beach trip also makes for a cheap weekend getaway, with the average nightly hotel rate coming in at around $110. One of the countrys most affordable places to live, people can have a great vacation in Cincinnati with top attractions and fantastic dining without New York City or San Francisco prices. Where to stay: A visit to a national park is the perfect time to fire up an RV (either your own or a rented one) for a cheap family vacation. Start your visit at Discovery Green, an urban park designed for kids, with everything from kayak rides on gentle Kinder Lake to special toddler play-group hours. Make sure you also check out these must-see places in the U.S. to take your kids and teens. You can spend endless hours playing in the sand and surf without spending a dime! Stock Images Provided by Our Partner DepositPhotos Site Design Credit. If you feel like taking an all-inclusive trip to the Sunshine State, consider booking at one of these all-inclusive resorts in Florida. Looking to save some cash? Since its a National Park, you can get in for free if you have a National Parks Pass. We may earn a commission from your purchases. Spend a day exploring the largest municipal urban forest in the country, Jefferson Memorial Forest. The Poe Museum, with the most extensive collection of Poe artifacts, is celebrating its 100th Anniversary in 2022 with a year-long schedule of special events. The downtown features an entire city block dedicated to the Basque culture, the perfect spot to try out small tastes, or tapas, an inexpensive option for dinner. Bring along your bicycle to explore the free fun to be had on the 26-mile, car-free Cape Cod Bike & Rail Trail. Vacations Within 500 Miles of Ohio | USA Today Its also right around the corner from a Whole Foods, where you can pick up picnic supplies, and one of the citys most-beloved burger spots, The Cherry Cricket. Also, travel over to the neighboring harbor town of Grand Marais to visit shops and eat theWorlds Best Donuts. The minimum age for children is five years old, and there's a 10 percent discount for children 17 years and under. Budget tip: Houston CityPASS is just $68 (kids tickets are $56) and includes admission to Houston favorites such as the out-of-this-world Space Center Houston, the Childrens Museum and nearby Kemah Boardwalk Amusement Park on Galveston Bay, for the most summer bang for your buck. Home to the iconic Gateway Arch, St. Louis boasts an abundance of free, fun, and family-friendly opportunities to get to know the history of this part of the country. Home of former president Bill Clinton, Little Rock is one of the best weekend trips from St. Louis for families, as well as the surrounding states of Oklahoma, Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana. Intrepid's Thailand Family Holiday is available to book on multiple dates in 2023, 2024, and even 2024. Another one of Americas central vacation spots, Indianapolis is a regular on the most affordable U.S. destination lists. So whether youre looking for new vacation spots in your area or to go on a longer road trip, I hope this list of places to visit in the U.S. gives you a new idea! Only 90-minutes away from the nation's largest city, New York City, 80 miles north of Philadelphia, and less than a 6-hour drive from most of the Northeast, Indianapolis, and Charlotte, it . Where to stay:The DoubleTree Claremont has lots of budget-pleasing amenities, including warm chocolate chip cookies when you check in and a huge outdoor pool. Cross another national park off your list in St. Louis. Why youll love it: Known as the base camp to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), Estes Park is only 90 minutes from Denver International Airport but has an authentic Colorado mountain village feeling, with plenty of outdoor activities to suit any visitor. 5 hour drive from Saint Louis. Some options: hiking in the national park, booking a mountain bike ride, fly-fishing or river rafting experiencesjust to name a few. Why youll love it: Nothing says summer like a trip to the beach, especially the expansive, and free, sandy shores of beautiful Cape Cod, a favorite destination of Boston-ites looking to escape the city. There are amusement parks with attractions like the massive SkyWheel in Myrtle Beach, miniature train rides in Sonoma, museums of natural history with dinosaur bones, water parks with slides and lazy rivers, caves to . But its still affordable, with activities such as horseback riding and miniature golf within easy budget reach. Check out these easy-to-get-to destinations (both within the U.S. and abroad) and get ready to spring into fun. Photo courtesy of Cedar Point Amusement Park. Budget tip:Be sure to ride the historic wooden streetcarsa ton of fun for 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. Where to stay: The Otesaga Resort Hotel offers a range of recreational facilities, including a heated outdoor pool, lake canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding, bike riding, croquet and tennis courts. Where to stay: Perched on Hilton Head Islands iconic white-sand beaches and framed by swaying palmetto trees, Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa offers travelers a true Lowcountry oasis. Reserve a day in your itinerary for Forest Park, home to many free attractions. Why youll love it: For those who love to explore museums and cultural sites, Atlanta is ideal. Brewery lovers will want to make the trip to visit the Taj Mahal of craft breweries, Sierra Nevada Brewery, the largest craft cidery in the U.S., Bold Rock Hard Cider, and other tasting rooms on The Cheers Trail.