There are plenty of cheap summer vacations for families out there. You just have to know where to look! Here are some of the best places to travel for a budget-friendly vacation this summer.


How Can I plan a Family Vacation For Cheap?
With a little planning, you can find plenty of cheap summer vacations for your family. Just remember to look for discounts and deals that will help you save even more money. Happy travels!
The southeastern United States is a great place to visit for a cheap summer family vacation.
The beach is always a classic summer vacation spot. Many affordable beach destinations offer family-friendly activities and accommodations.
If you’re looking for something a little more active, consider a camping or hiking trip. Many beautiful parks and trails are perfect for families.

Another great option for cheap summer vacations is visiting family or friends who live in another city or state. This can be a great way to explore new places and save on lodging costs.
Finally, don’t forget about all the great discounts that are available for families during the summer
Cheap Summer Vacations For Families
There are many cheap things to do in Pigeon Forge..
Some of the top discount attractions in Pigeon Forge include:
- The Island in Pigeon Forge: This massive entertainment complex offers something for everyone, from rides and games to restaurants and shops. Families can save big with the Island's "Pay One Price" wristband, which includes unlimited access to most of the rides and attractions.
- WonderWorks: This "upside down" attraction is a hit with kids and adults alike. Visitors can experience over 100 hands-on science exhibits, plus there's an indoor ropes course and a laser tag arena. Families can save 20% on admission by purchasing tickets online in advance.
- Dollywood: This world-famous theme park is a must-visit for any family vacationing in the area. Discounted tickets are available for purchase online, and several lodging packages include Dollywood tickets.
Read more below for more ideas on how to save money on your family vacation to Pigeon Forge.
Gatlinburg is a great place to visit for families. There are plenty of free and cheap things to do in the area. Here are some ideas:
- Visit one of Gatlinburg's many museums, including the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or the Gatlinburg Museum of Appalachia.
- Take a scenic drive through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Hike one of Gatlinburg's many trails, such as Chimney Tops Trail or Ramsey Cascades Trail.
- Visit the Gatlinburg Farmers Market for fresh produce and local goods.
Believe it or not, camping in Nashville, TN is a great way to see the city on the cheap!
And for cheap things to do in Nashville with your family, look no further than these great discount attractions!
- The Nashville Zoo offers discounts for families, making it a great cheap option for a day out.
- The Tennessee State Museum also offers discounted tickets for families.
- The Nashville Symphony offers cheap tickets for families.
- The Hermitage is another great cheap option for families looking to learn about Tennessee's history. This stately home offers discounts for groups, making it a great option for a family day out.
- The Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is a great cheap option for families looking to spend some time outdoors.
Virginia Beach is another great option for cheap summer family vacations. The beach town offers a wide range of activities, including swimming, surfing, fishing, and more.
Families can also enjoy budget-friendly attractions such as the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, and Sandbridge Beach.
To save even more money, look for discounts on lodging and activities, or purchase a family vacation package.
Myrtle Beach is a top destination for families seeking cheap summer vacations. The Grand Strand area offers more than 60 miles of beautiful beaches, as well as countless attractions. And, thanks to a wide variety of discount tickets, it's easy to keep your family entertained without breaking the bank.
There are plenty of cheap things to do in Myrtle Beach. Start your day at the beach, of course, where you can build sandcastles, splash in the waves, and collect shells. Then, head to one of the area's many family-friendly attractions.
Popular options include:
- Ripley's Aquarium
- Broadway at the Beach
- Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.
Branson, Missouri, is known as the live music show capital of the world, but did you know there are also many cheap things to do in Branson with families? From discounts on shows and attractions to free things to do, read on for the top 10 cheap things to do in Branson, Missouri, with families!
Orlando is a popular destination for families, and there are plenty of cheap things to do in the area. Many of the city's attractions are geared towards children, making it a great place to vacation with kids.
There are several free things to do in Orlando as well.
Many of the city's museums offer free admission on certain days, and several parks and playgrounds are free to visit.
If you're looking for cheap things to do in Orlando during the summer, consider visiting one of the city's many water parks. These parks usually offer discounts on their admission prices during the off-season.
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RECOMMENDED READING
- 18 Cheap Family Vacations in the US You Won’t Believe!
- Cheap Family Vacations in the South
- 8 Cheap Family Vacations in Florida
- 7 Cheap Family Vacations in Tennessee
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
If you’ve always been curious if it’s cheaper to RV or stay in a hotel, check out this post where I compare the costs side by side.
Want even more inspiration? Check out these US Summer Vacation Destinations.