Looking for a getaway this year that won’t break the bank? You’re in luck! There are great vacation spots you can visit that won’t rack up the bills like a trip to Paris or New York City would. These vacation spots could be a long weekend getaway, a great spot to stop on a road trip or a longer summer stay, but they all have lots of sights and sounds (and food!) to explore. So pack your bags, grab the kids (and even the dog!) and head out to one of these budget-friendly vacation destinations.
Poughkeepsie, NY
Upstate New York is a picturesque destination at any time of year, but Poughkeepsie is especially beautiful when the weather is warm and the trees are lush. There are dog friendly retreats and lots of trails to hike and explore. You can visit the home of FDR (also pet-friendly — he was a big dog lover!) and trek across the Walkway Over the Hudson, the world’s longest elevated bridge.
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta might not have the hustle and bustle of New York, but it’s a major city with lots to explore — and way less crowds! You can stay in the Omni Atlanta hotel overlooking CNN studios to really feel like you’re in the heart of the action. For the kids, there’s the Georgia Aquarium, the largest in the U.S., and the Coca-Cola Museum.
Hot Springs, SD
The Black Hills are the biggest tourist attraction in South Dakota, with Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial, Wind Cave National Park and Custer State Park all within driving distance. Whether you’re a history buff or want to spend your vacation hiking, canoeing or even digging for fossils, South Dakota should be on your bucket list.
Sandusky, OH
Two words: Cedar Point. The theme park is one of the largest in the world with massive roller coasters and one of a kind attractions. The lines won’t be as long as Disney World, and accommodations will be cheaper than Orlando, making Sandusky any coaster junkies dream vacation spot.
Savannah, GA
Savannah’s historic district is a blast from America’s past. There are boutiques, restaurants, and galleries to explore in between all the museums and stately homes. And if good eating is what you’re looking for, you’re in luck — Savannah is one of the best foodie towns in the south! Chow down on all the shrimp and grits your heart desires.
Montreal, QC
Looking for a European trip for half the price? Head over to Montreal, Quebec. The bilingual city (you can get by with just English, we promise!) has cobblestone roads and promenades by the water that feel more like you’re in Europe than Canada. The city is also renowned for its nightlife, so drinks downtown are a must.
Williamsburg, VA
While the Brooklyn equivalent is the Mecca of hipsters, Virginia’s Williamsburg is much quieter and more family-oriented. The city is steeped in its colonial history, with historic re-enactments at Colonial Williamsburg and the Jamestown Settlement. You can up the authentic by staying in a hotel dating back to the 1700s!
Mystic, CT
This charming east coast seaport is the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway. You can stay in a bed & breakfast to immerse yourself in the feel of this coastal town, and check out the top attractions — unsurprisingly sea themed. You can spot beluga whales at the Mystic Aquarium, and visit the Seaport Museum for a cruise along the Mystic River on a coal-fired steamboat.
San Antonio, TX
This city can be forgotten between the expanse of Houston and the cool allure of Austin, but San Antonio is a perfect spot for a Texan getaway. It’s a foodie’s paradise with barbecue and TexMex galore, and those of age can wash it all down with a trip to the local favorite Pearl Brewery.
Philadelphia, PA
It’s no surprise that the City of Brotherly Love is a great spot for families. There are the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall for an educational lesson, as all as the Franklin Institute and the Academy of Natural Sciences. Don’t think that means this is a dry, dull trip though! Kids can dig in sand pits for dinosaur bones and walk through a giant heart like they’re in an episode of the Magic School Bus. Learning can be fun!
