In today’s post, I will share with you our favorite weekend family getaways for those on a budget. Make the most of your three-day weekend (or less!)
I’m sure you’ll agree that trying to decide where in the U.S. to visit is overwhelming. If you’ve ever started planning your escape and given up instead, you know it’s because choosing the perfect vacation spot is too complicated when you’re on a budget.
1. Perfect Budget Weekend Itinerary for Niagara Falls, New York
Finding the perfect 48-hour itinerary for families visiting Niagara Falls, New York, can be overwhelming. Luckily, this blog post will maximize your time with recommendations for restaurants, attractions, and vantage points to see the falls. We review the top 21 must-do activities and help you plan the perfect three-day itinerary. If you’re into trying the local fare, check out the beef on weck. Make the most of your weekend family getaways but snagging your complete itinerary in one place.
2. Squire’s Castle in Cleveland, Ohio
While this may not be the perfect tourist’s getaway, heading to Cleveland in the non-winter months is a treat. There are farmer’s markets, breweries, and an incredible literary scene (I swear!)
However, our must-do is Squire’s Castle, the historic shell of a building in the Cleveland Metroparks. The gatekeeper’s house has a green expanse perfect for hiking and picnicking in the North Chagrin Reservation. Explore this structure, hike the reservation, and stay the night in a Beachwood hotel on the east side of Cleveland.
3. A Birthday in the Walt Disney World Resort
One of our favorite weekend family getaways, this trip will take you to the most magical place on Earth! Much of Disney’s birthday magic comes from the dusting of pixie dust by cast members in Walt Disney World. However, these birthday freebies give you free treat coupons on those expensive Disney trips. (Also, here is a gratuitous look at our daughter’s Minnie-themed first birthday party with polka dot smash cake!)
4. Great Wolf Lodge Day Pass (or Stay in the Off-Season)
Great Wolf Lodge resorts span the U.S., a must-do for anyone craving waterparks and warmth during the cold winter. If you cannot afford to spend the night, get a day pass and stay in a cheaper resort. We visited the Sandusky, Ohio resort on the shores of Lake Erie because this waterpark packs every square foot with fun. There are delicious restaurants on the ground of the resort, but if you’d like to see money- we often head to the local grocery store or use coupons in fast food apps for a cheap meal.
5. Cherry Creek outside of Denver, Colorado
What’s not to love about Denver? The mountains are majestic, the people are pleasant, and the ghosts are world-famous. However, we usually stay away from the super expensive Denver downtown. The crowds make us a bit nervous. Keep in mind that marijuana tourism is gigantic here. Let that guide you whether you are a fan or not.
Cherry Creek is a suburb with beautiful green spots. The best part about staying in Cherry Creek is the location. This quaint city is less than 20 minutes from downtown Denver and features the Cherry Creek trail. This post will give you all the tips and tricks about where to stay, where to go, and how close you are to Denver.
6. A Dreamy Georgia Beach Getaway Itinerary
We are saving the absolute best for last because Jekyll Island is heaven! Our family loves the hometown feel of Jekyll Island, a nature preserve in Georgia. Jekyll Island was a vacation home (and hunting club) to the Rockefellers and Pullitzers.
There are so many family-friendly activities that are affordable- or free! Activities range from seeing the famous Driftwood Beach to exploring the ruins of Horton House to a trolley tour. I’ve even created a free downloadable PDF for readers, featuring everything families need to know to make the most of their trip to Jekyll Island.
Conclusion
What’s not to love about exploring this incredible country on your long weekend? And those are my top 6 posts on budget weekend trips for your family. I hope these posts are launchpads for your memorable future travels.
Let me know which one was your favorite and why in the comments! Don’t forget to sign up for our email list.
Great easy ideas and a wide range of locations. Got the brain cells flowing for sure.
Great Wolf Lodge! We’ve been meaning to go… hopefully this month! Thank you for the ideas! 🙂
I love that this is focused on 3 day weekends – so many people blog about vacations or longer adventures and this is perfect – I am always trying to find something to do for a weekend or three day weekend adventure!
There are some great ideas here. We did the Great Wolf Lodge near us and it was perfect for our preschooler. So fun!!
Thanks for the tips. I love budget friendly traveling! It’s the only way to go.