summer vacation

Everyone knows about NASA or the San Antonio riverwalk. But I wondered where some of the lesser-known family fun vacations in Texas were.

Austin has many great places the whole family will enjoy, from the Cathedral of Junk to the Barton Creek Greenbelt or nearby rivers in San Marcos for tubing. Waco has the Dr. Pepper museum & an outstanding zoo. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch & Caverns on the way to San Antonio are also well worth visiting.

But that’s just scratching the surface of what Texas has to offer for families. So let’s keep going!

In this article, we’re checking out some of the best places in Texas, my home state. We’ll explore some well-known spots as well as some lesser-known gems.

Ultimately, we’re focused not only on Texas but specifically on family fun vacations in Texas.

Let’s get started!

Check out all my best travel resources and recommendations which can save you time and money on your next vacation!

Co-authored with Zack Davisson, travel expert over at AllTheRooms. 

Where can I take my kids in Texas?

Texas is HUGE. Almost 30 million people inhabit the 268,000 square miles. The 2nd largest state in the United States (Alaska is 1st), is roughly the same size as all of France.

So all that is to say, there’s a lot of ground you can cover and a wide variety of stuff to see; especially with kids.

My family and I live in the Hill Country outside of Austin. I have 3 kids (a toddler a teen, and a tween).

Here are some of our favorite places to go:

• Enchanted Rock State Natural Area – A breathtaking pink granite mountain range outside of Fredericksburg less than 2 hours from Austin
• The Waco Zoo – A world-class Zoo, and hour and a half north of Austin, that we actually prefer over the San Diego Zoo (click to read my article that explains why)
• Big Bend National Park (more on this below)
• Six Flags (outside of Dallas or San Antonio)
• NASA Space Center in Houston
• The Kemah Boardwalk (near Houston but close to Galveston) – A great old-school amusement park and boardwalk near the ocean, similar to what you see along the New Jersey shores.

What can kids do in the Hill Country?

I live in the Hill Country with my 3 kids, so I know a thing or two about this!

Specifically, I live in Wimberley, which is less than an hour from Austin and about halfway between Dripping Springs and San Marcos.

The Texas Hill Country is defined as “a geographic region of Central and South Texas, forming the southeast part of the Edwards Plateau”. In plain English, it starts just west of Austin and stretches down almost reaching San Antonio, sticking to the west.

It’s much hillier than the eastern parts of the area and features rocky ground and features a lot more cactus, bald cypress, live oak, mesquite, and Ashe juniper (cedar) trees.

But for family fun, my wife, kids and I love the following spots:

Blue Hole Regional Park in Wimberley

Swim in a spring-fed area along Cypress Creek surrounded by huge bald cypress trees. Rope swings, picnic areas, and a nearby playground complete the area. Reservations required.

Jacob’s Well Natural Area in Wimberley

Jacob’s Well used to be privately owned, but now is run by the city and requires a reservation.

Basically, it’s an area along Cypress Creek that opens up in 1 spot and goes down, hundreds of feet, to an elaborate system of caves (professional divers are the only ones allowed cave access). Jump off the nearby rock cliffs into the year-round 68° spring-fed water.

Luckenbach Texas

Not just for Willie Nelson anymore, this “town” just has a quintessential Texas feel to it and is very family-friendly. Grab a beer and some grub, listen to some live Texas music, shop the general store, or just stroll around the grounds with the roosters.

Hamilton Pool Preserve

West of Austin lies this favorite swimming hole. Like the other’s I’ve mentioned, it usually requires reservations (but some months only on weekends) as they have all gotten extremely popular.

The good news is the reservation system ensures you’ll enjoy your visit and it won’t be overcrowded. It’s a giant swimming hole with an encroaching rock cliff formation that partially covers it from high above. Check out those enormous turtles swimming with you!

Jellystone Park

This is a chain that has campgrounds all over the place, including 3 in the Texas Hill Country (Canyon Lake, Fredericksburg, and Kerrville).

Much more than a campground though, they have cabins, campsites, disc golf, tubing on the river, basketball, heated pools, water parks, and much more. Tons of fun!

What is there to do in Fredericksburg for kids?

Fredericksburg is about 75 minutes from Austin, to the southwest.

It’s a quaint little town big on its German heritage, so expect lots of businesses with German or German-esque names (think restaurants with the word “haus” at the end.

Tons of shopping, antique stores, boutique candy shops, and tasty restaurants. 

The kids might get bored with all the antique and home decor shops, but history buffs will love the Nimitz Museum. Officially, it’s called the National Museum of the Pacific War.

Named for Admiral Chester Nimitz (who was born in Fredericksburg) the museum has over 33,000 square feet dedicated to the US presence in World War II, specifically in the Pacific. There are 40 multi-media installations, over 900 actual artifacts, and hundreds of pictures. 

Plus there is the Plaza of Presidents and the Japanese Garden of Peace.

Beyond that, you’ll for sure want to hike up nearby Enchanted Rock State Natural Area which ought to be an actual National Park. It’s known for its pink granite mountains that are fairly easy to climb, the tallest one in the middle has a cave at the top that my kids love to explore.

But there’s also easy hiking around the base, and you can camp there as well (reservations are a must). They also hold star parties occasionally too. We’ve done those, and it’s a blast getting to look through all the giant telescopes.

What is there to do in Dripping Springs for kids?

Dripping Springs is about 20 minutes from my house, on the way to Austin.

Originally a quiet little town, it’s grown a lot due to how close it is to Austin. Austin is so expensive these days (compared to when I was a kid) so many have moved further north or south. Dripping Springs makes for a perfect commuter town.

While there are lots of distilleries, wineries, and restaurants, it’s a tad light on activities for kids. That being said, most wineries are kid-friendly.

Luckily, it’s close to a lot of nearby areas, but here are some of the things we like to do there:

• Almost Grown Play Cafe – Basically an indoor play area for younger kids where parents can sit in the nearby cafe and keep an eye on things
• Loco-motion Inflatable Play – A typical (but fun) inflatable bounce house park (technically Austin, but close to Dripping Springs)
• Little Speedsters – Dirt Bike classes for kids (also, technically Austin, but close to Dripping Springs)

And the Austin Java here has a playground and great food & coffee!

So here is the . . . 

13 Family Fun Vacations in Texas You May Not Have Known About

1. Big Bend National Park

Even Texas’ national parks adhere to the “Everything is Bigger in Texas” moniker.

This is most evident in Big Bend National Park. Big Bend likes to brag about being about the size of Rhode Island.

In the main tourist destination, the Chisos Mountains, families can embark on a number of hikes of varying difficulties and visit a fossil discovery exhibit.

The hike known as the Window Trail leads to an especially breathtaking view!

2. Caverns of Sonora

Explore #Texas underground and check out the limestone caverns of Sonora, Texas! ⭐? Located between San Antonio and Big Bend National Park, it’s a great pitstop to explore! ?? #TravelTX #HowdyFolks #BigTex https://t.co/VrocHPtLfA pic.twitter.com/zql9s8YPla

— State Fair of Texas (@StateFairOfTX) June 14, 2018

The Natural Bridge Caverns may be slightly busier because of their vicinity to San Antonio.

However, many will argue that the Caverns of Sonora are the real underground gem of Texas. The names of the stalactites and stalagmites, like Popcorn and Bacon, are silly and accurate enough to get some laughs from the younger crowd.

Money a little tight this year? Remember, it’s easy to still have a great time when you vacation on a budget. If that’s the boat you’re in (been there, done that), check out that post on the Middle Class Dad site which walks you through just how to do that.

3. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Outside of San Antonio, on the road from Austin, is the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, a long-time favorite for local and visiting families.

Travelers are able to drive their car through the ranch that harbors a number of wild animals. So don’t be surprised to get paid a visit by wildebeest, giraffes, zebras, and ostriches.

The Natural Bridge Caverns listed above are right next door, and both attractions are easily completed in a single afternoon. Both are well-worth being on anyone’s family fun vacations in Texas list.

4. Float the Rivers around Austin

fun and relaxing day floating down the comal river! ?? pic.twitter.com/DmfqzfOzDX

— ally (@allytye) July 1, 2016

For the really young ones, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is a good option as the waters are still and create a number of shallow swimming holes.

For those with slightly older children, consider floating a bigger river.

The San Marcos River just outside of the city is probably the most family-friendly option, although the Guadalupe & Comal rivers are closer and more popular. The day of splashing, relaxation, and soaking up the sun is sure to make the whole family bronzed and happy.

5. Cockrell Butterfly CenterThis is a beautiful tropical atrium adjacent to the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

The inside of the Cockrell Butterfly Center is a lush rainforest complete with a fifty-foot waterfall. The main attraction — the butterflies — fly freely throughout the exhibit, and with many hundreds of colorful species, as well as other insects, visitors will be hard pressed not to be wowed by the display.

For the butterfly-obsessed kid who doesn’t get their fill in Houston, head down south to the National Butterfly Center in Mission, near the Mexican border.

6. Sea Turtle, Inc.

Have you ever wondered just how big sea turtles can get? Find out at Sea Turtle Inc.! https://t.co/oBsRXpjE6I #TexasBestBeach
?@ veronicam0613 pic.twitter.com/Erbkg30hSq

— Visit South Padre (@visitsouthpadre) July 29, 2018

An incredible project on South Padre Island, Sea Turtle Inc is a center that focuses on the rehabilitation and conservation of the world’s sea turtles.

Take a casual trip to see the resident turtles or plan to stop during one of their many releases. The most amazing visitors see either a reintroduction of a rehabilitated adult or an early morning hatchling “frenzy” where newborn sea turtles make their run to the sea.

7. Zero Gravity Thrill Park

Calling themselves “the most extreme theme park in the world”, this Dallas destination is definitely for families with a collective adrenaline addiction.While a couple of rides do have height requirements, most of the attractions only require a parent signature for kids to participate. This eliminates the often dream-crushing minimum age requirement.

A favorite is the “Nothing but Net” experience, which is basically bungee jumping without any ropes.

That’s right, participants free-fall 130 feet, or 16 stories, into a landing net without the help of any parachutes or straps or cords. Parents watching may have to be braver than the kids jumping.

8. Mineral Wells Fossil Park

Mineral Wells Fossil Park – This former #Texas landfill is flush with 300 million-year-old fossils that provide fossil enthusiasts, paleontologists, and students an excellent opportunity to see and collect. #OffbeatAmerica #VisitUSA #DekhoAmerica pic.twitter.com/kskIj7kkm1

— US Consulate Mumbai (@USAndMumbai) February 25, 2018

For families who like to get their hands dirty, consider a trip to Mineral Wells Fossil Park.

Mineral Wells (birthplace of Middle Class Dad founder Jeff Campbell) is about an hour outside of Dallas.

The large rocky bowl allows kids and adults to sweep through the gravel for fossils. The park is one of the very few places in the world that allows people to remove and keep their findings.

If you routinely find yourself paying for vacations on a credit card, there a better way! Paying cash for a vacation just takes the right vacation planning steps. Trust me, it’s easy to just reach for the plastic (been there, done that). But eventually the bill comes due and if you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself heavily in debt.

9. Dallas Cowboys Fan Experience

This Lil guy is ready! Suit him up @dallascowboys @thestarinfrisco had a good time out at the @NFL draft fan experience this evening. #cowboynation #DallasCowboys #NFLDraft #americasteam pic.twitter.com/iDzWis1LJj

— Carlos Ornelas (@Los_1931) April 28, 2018

The Cowboys are nicknamed “America’s Team”.

Nearly everyone in the country has a strong reaction to the Dallas Cowboys — whether it’s admiration or absolute repulsion.

Whatever your feelings may be, it’s a fact that the Cowboys are the most valuable sports franchise in the world and have the stadium/sports palace to match. AT&T Stadium is plenty famous for being the biggest domed structure in the world but not everyone realizes they give tours of the behemoth space.

Young sports fans are sure to love taking a look around the locker room and stepping onto the field surrounded by 80,000 seats.

10. The Magicians Agency

Many magic shows are in clubs that feature cheeky, inappropriate comedy in an adult-only atmosphere. However, this San Antonio show is welcoming to everyone aged four and older.

The shows are usually an hour long.  You’ll see magicians wandering around the venue before and after the show to entertain crowds. The show itself is funny and baffling, and sure to inspire young’uns who can later buy a training video with their allowance money to get their tricks started.

11. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

This one is up in the panhandle of Texas, somewhat close to Amarillo.

Palo Duro Canyon retains the calling card “The Grand Canyon of Texas” and offers tremendous opportunities to go camping with the family. The heart of winter and summer can bring about extreme weather, so plan accordingly!

12. Cathedral of Junk

The famous Cathedral of Junk in Austin. The creator, Vince, had been building it in his backyard since the 80s. #keepaustinweird pic.twitter.com/hmESO7KQBA

— Nomadic Matt (@nomadicmatt) June 23, 2017

More of an oddity worth a visit than a concrete destination, the Cathedral of Junk could be the poster child for the “Keep Austin Weird” movement.

Towering in the backyard of Vince Hannemann, a South Austin resident, this undertaking began in 1989 and has grown from a casual collection to a head-scratching monument of human consumption. In fact, no list of family fun vacations in Texas would be complete with this one.

Now comprised of some 60 tons of trash, the Cathedral is an amazing place for anyone, young and old, to explore for an afternoon.

Since it’s in his backyard, you can’t just show up whenever you want. Call (512) 299-7413 to set a time to visit.

13. Dr. Pepper Museum

If you’re like me, and love Dr. Pepper (it’s the only soda/pop I’ll drink) you should know there’s a Dr. Pepper museum in Waco, Texas! Check out what I learned during my recent visit => https://t.co/qPcyT5xWP8 @wacotxlive @DrPepperSnapple #travel pic.twitter.com/J27Y8Hm16Y

— Bill On The Road (@ontheroadwithbc) August 1, 2018

The Dr. Pepper Museum in Waco is not just a tribute to a favorite American beverage, it’s also a fun, interactive experience for kids.

While the museum offers a number of traditional tours, kids love the Little Peppers Tour or the Create a Soft Drink Tour, where the little ones work in teams to bottle their own creative take on soda, and then design its logo.

Whatever tour guests choose, everyone will be pleased to know it comes with some free Dr. Pepper.

Final Thoughts

In this post, we walked you through some of the coolest, most amazing & least known gems in Texas.

These family fun vacations in Texas are a little off the beaten path. That means they’ll be less crowded and more enjoyable. Whether you spend 2 weeks in Texas or just a few days, there really are some amazing things to do and see.

These spots will have your family talking about this trip for years to come.

Check out all my best travel resources and recommendations which can save you time and money on your next vacation!

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About the co-author of this post:
Zack works for AllTheRooms, the world’s first vacation rental search engine and is a recovering technical recruiter who traded in his suit and tie in Silicon Valley for salsa music and a passion for writing in Medellin, Colombia. When not writing for AllTheRooms you can find Zack with his nose in a book, puttering around nature, or getting ultra-competitive while watching Jeopardy.

Want to write for Middle Class Dad too? Check out everything you need to know on my Guest Blog Page.

My family of 5 loves to go on vacation, but vacations can get expensive! So I decided to look into some affordable family vacation destinations.

Our list of affordable family vacation destinations includes Washington DC, San Antonio, Costa Rica, Charleston, and Nashville, TN. Those cities have extensive activities for families at much lower prices than other comparable destinations.

These are long on fun, beauty, and relaxation, but short on being costly.

So today, we’re looking at all the best tips on vacation planning for the budget-conscious. We’ll not only explore the best times to plan, the best sites to book travel through and the average travel expenses people are paying.

But specifically, we’re looking at the best and most affordable family vacation destinations for you to consider.

That way you can put aside budget concerns and just get about the business of having fun!

Check out all my best travel resources and recommendations which can save you time and money on your next vacation!

What are good inexpensive family vacations?

Wanting a great inexpensive family vacation is something MANY families want. Before we dive in fully, let’s look at some recent family vacation statistics:

• 40% of families are planning to go on vacation this year (according to a recent AAA travel survey)
• 68% of those families will do a summer vacation
• 53% of those families will be road-tripping versus flying (to keep costs down)
• Gas prices affect 33% of family vacationer’s decision to fly or drive

On average, a family of 4 in the US spends $4,580 total per vacation according to a recent travel survey by American Express. That amounts to $1,145 per person.

Now let’s look at the cost breakdown by category for your family vacation:

• FOOD – $132/day (for a family of 4 eating all meals at restaurants)
• LODGING – $116/night (according to hotels.com)
• AIRFARE– $224/each (domestic flights originating in the US, based on the Consumer Expenditure Survey )
• TAXES & FEES – These vary, but often in the hundreds of dollars

Where you go makes a big difference, so in this article, we’ll be looking specifically at affordable family vacation destinations that come in below the averages, in some cases, significantly lower.

I have covered other aspects of vacationing on a tight budget before, so you may want to also check out my post about great ways you can have a Great Vacation on a Budget (click to read on my site).

How can I plan a family vacation for cheap?

I know.  As much as we want to plan 6 months or more ahead of time, all too often we wait till the last minute.

Earlier, I posted specifically about the importance of planning ahead for summer vacations, so I highly recommend you check that post about the crucial Steps to Plan a Vacation (click to read my article).

Whether you’re looking for cheap vacation destinations or not, it can still help with your planning this year.  AND if you bookmark it, it can help with next year too!

Here are the best steps to plan a cheap family vacation:

1. Get online fare alerts (most airlines offer this free service)
2. Book airfare on Tuesdays at 3 pm (the insider tip for when most airlines discount flights)
3. Go to off-season locations (Vail, Colorado is beautiful during summer)
4. Stay at hotels with free parking, breakfast & wifi
5. Carry on luggage only (to avoid checked baggage fees)
6. Stock up on snacks (at your destination, hit a grocery store and stock up on snacks and drinks to cut down on eating out)

But even if you are planning at the last minute doesn’t mean that affordable family vacation destinations don’t exist or are all booked up.

It just changes how we go about looking and booking them.  Many places don’t fill up and the closer it gets to go time, the more likely they will be to offer some great deals!

Does it cost more to vacation during the holidays?

The short answer is yes.

My wife is a teacher so she pretty well gets the whole summer off as do our kids.  However, where I work, we only close the week of 4th of July.  Thus, if I want to take any large amount of time off, it has to happen during that week.

Guess who else goes on vacation around the 4th of July?

That’s right; most of the rest of the world!  Now I’ve done Disneyland during that week and we had a blast.  But it’s not cheap and it is crowded.  So if we are looking for affordable family vacation destinations and that is the week we can go, we have to get creative!

I actually checked the costs for hotel, flight, and rental car for the same specifics (family of 4 for a 1-week vacation) during fall, during the 4th of July, and during the Christmas holiday season. I used the same to and from cities for flights and the exact same hotels.

Here are the changes I saw:

• Doing a vacation during the 4th of July week was 92% MORE expensive
• Vacationing during the Christmas season in mid-December was 41% more expensive

So the short answer is, if you want some affordable family vacation destinations, try to avoid going there during major holidays.

We have to take the road less traveled, to paraphrase Robert Frost.

In other words, we have to think outside the box and look for places that might not be on everyone else’s radar.  Little known gems that aren’t highly sought after and thus not going to break the bank.

Pricing on all aspects of a vacation; airfare, hotel, family auto rental, and gas are all based on 2 things.  Supply and demand.

When supply is low (like a hotel that is 95% booked up) and demand is high (like everyone wants to go to Disneyland), you can bet that destination is going to be expensive.

So while Disney tickets are in high demand and low supply, there are lots of other options that will be more in your favor.

Think about off-season places. Perhaps choose a mountain destination instead of a beach?  Maybe camping at a state park instead of the highly sought after Yellowstone and Yosemite destinations?

Every year, American Express releases its GLOBAL BUSINESS TRAVEL FORECAST.

In that report, they take a look at air, hotel, and rental car and make projections world-wide about supply, demand, and pricing for the coming year.  In the most recent report (linked above) you can see some current takeaways like:

1. Car rental rates are expected to stay flat in the US (so renting a car might make more sense than flying when money is tight)
2. Airfares across Europe & Asia are also expected to stay flat
3. Hotel prices are expected to remain flat except in Latin America where they will drop

Which is the cheapest country in Europe for family vacations?

For many families, a European vacation seems out of reach. After all, prices in places like London or Paris can get a little crazy for us average Middle Class Dads and Moms.

But you’d be surprised to learn that there are some European countries that can be very affordable to visit.

It is true that for people traveling from the US, a European vacation is going to cost a little more than staying in the US. So check out these affordable European family vacation destinations and see if some might make sense for your family and budget.

1. Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, Spain – A national park, so it does have campsites, but it also boasts hotels, swimming pools, and restaurants. Or book yourself a cabin at the foot of a mountain and just explore
2. Porec, Croatia – Croatia is becoming popular, but it’s still amazingly affordable too! Once part of the Roman empire, this area is also rich with ancient historical sites to see. Horseback riding and other outdoor activities are everywhere but you can also take a boat to Venice! But before you start your boating journey, make sure to check the marine battery of the boat.
3. Alvor, Portugal – Beautiful beaches line this amazing fishing village. Walk the cobblestone streets, canoe the rivers, or for a faster pace, head to the theme parks and resorts in nearby Algarve.
4. Qawra, Malta – An island off the coast of Sicily in Italy, Malta has a lot of ancient history to see. But it’s also home to a few filming locations for Game of Thrones fans too! Boating, fishing, snorkeling, and other island-based activities are everywhere

Check out all my best travel resources and recommendations which can save you time and money on your next vacation!

But now let’s get to my list of . . . 

9 Affordable Family Vacation Destinations You Must Visit?

1. Charlottesville, Virginia

Known primarily for Thomas Jefferson’s home Monticello as well as what he called the “Academical Village” (the University of Virginia).

However, in recent years, Charlottesville has also become a popular destination for its craft breweries and its historic downtown mall (an outdoor pedestrian mall that rivals any in the nation); feature amazing shopping and restaurants in a historic setting.

2. San Francisco, California

San Francisco may seem expensive, but it can actually be budget friendly if you know where to go. Many of the city’s attractions are free, such as Golden Gate Park and the Painted Ladies. Public transportation is affordable and efficient, and there are plenty of budget-friendly food options to try.

Additionally, for pet owners, San Francisco offers a number of pet-friendly hotels. This means you won’t have to sacrifice quality accommodations just to bring your furry friend along. From boutique hotels to major chains, you’re sure to find a place to stay that welcomes both you and your pet.

3. Salt Lake City, Utah

Float with ease on the salt lake (the salt content makes floating easier) while surrounded by mountains, listen to “America’s Choir”, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, check out their world-class zoo and visit Temple Square; the city’s most popular tourist destination.

The temple is not open to the public but some of the surrounding buildings such as the Family History Library are open to the public.

The Library is free to the public and hosts one of the most extensive genealogical databases anywhere; discover your entire family tree going back hundreds of years!

4. San Antonio, Texas

You’ve got The Alamo (don’t go down to the basement), the River Walk, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Sea World, world-class museums and zoo and so much more!

Outstanding food, shopping & culture and only an hour from Austin if you want to pop over to the Capital City.

Check out all my best travel resources and recommendations which can save you time and money on your next vacation!

5. Washington DC

What else do you need?  The United States’ most culturally rich city and our most treasured monuments.

But you’ve also go the world-class Smithsonian Institute (do the exhibits come alive at night?) including my childhood favorite; the Air & Space Museum.

Book yourself a nice room in hotels near Climate Pledge Arena and enjoy your trip to the fullest!

6. Charleston, South Carolina

In Charleston, you have it all!

Culture, great food, excellent shopping and outstanding beaches.  You’re also a short drive from the state Capital in Columbia.

7. Nashville, Tennessee

Austin and Nashville may have to duke it out for the title of music capital of the world, but there’s no denying Nashville’s music scene!

Live music abounds as does a rich music culture and history.  Beyond that, you have delicious food, Opryland and a full-scale replica of Greece’s Parthenon!

For those of you personal finance fans (like me) pop in to watch Dave Ramsey do his radio show live, get a chance to meet him and enjoy all the free hospitality in his waiting area.

8. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Stay in a 2 bedroom house on the beach for a little over $100/night! If you’re a US citizen you don’t even need a passport to travel here since it is a commonwealth territory.

Flamenco beach is considered one of the best beaches in the world!  Plus you’ve got outstanding food, people, culture, and music!

Check out all my best travel resources and recommendations which can save you time and money on your next vacation!

9. Las Vegas, Nevada

Once nicknamed “sin city” Vegas these days is both family friendly (in most places) and a culinary mecca for outstanding food!

Entertainment galore and because they hope you’ll spend most of your money gambling, the amenities are surprisingly affordable!

Enjoy almost full-scale replicas of the Eiffel Tower and New York, New York’s NYC skyline replicas.  Amazing water shows, and performances from some of the most popular entertainers in the world!

10. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is my family’s favorite place on Earth!

I’ve been 5 times and my family a total of 4 times.  We’ve mostly been in the state of Guanacaste (the northernmost state on the Pacific side), but we’ve also traveled south some as well.

Outstanding food, amazing beaches, zip-lining through the jungle, friendly people, rain-forests, mountains, and abundant wildlife are just a few of the reasons to visit.

It’s also one of the most ecological countries on the planet and these peace-loving “ticos” abolished their military in the 1940s to just live in harmony with nature and each other.

Want more on amazing Costa Rica?

I love it so much I created the ultimate guide about why you should Visit Guanacaste Costa Rica  That post is well worth checking out for more details.

Final thoughts

In this post, we took a detailed look at the world of family vacations and the best ways to save money and still have an amazing time.

Specifically, we looked at the very best affordable family vacation destinations; places you and your family can go that won’t break the bank and will still leave you with precious memories for years to come.

Check out all my best travel resources and recommendations which can save you time and money on your next vacation!

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Photo credits (that aren’t mine or which require attribution):

Folly Beach by daveoratox is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Condado Beach, San Juan, Puerto Rico by Breezy Baldwin is licensed under CC BY 2.0