family vacations within 6 hours of me family vacations within 6 hours of me

Budget tip:Dont forget to bring your National Parks Pass, which grants free access to your full car into the gorgeous Rockies. In the summer, those same mountains turn a lush green and beckon outdoor enthusiasts to hike and bike and enjoy the sun-filled days. 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. Dont forget to browse through the best all-inclusive family resorts before booking your next vacation. Camping is around $30 per night (plus an additional fee for pool access). Take the gondola up Peak 8 to engage in fun activities including bungee jumping, obstacle courses, mini-golf, mountain slides and more. It is also home to Great Lakes Aquarium, the only freshwater aquarium in the US. Budget tip:Martin Luther King Jr. Budget tip: Pack your own lunch and visit Cascade River State Park for an afternoon of bird-watching and trail hiking. Known as The Orlando of the Midwest, youll see it regularly featured on best places to visit in the US lists. 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. Are you looking for the best places to visit for foodies? Why youll love it:Conroe is a perfect escape from the crowds and fast pace of Houston, located about an hour away. The Sex and the City star once said that Cincinnati, and I really mean this, is a great city.. Budget tip:Be sure to ride the historic wooden streetcarsa ton of fun for kids! Plan a vacation amid the best of American culture, entertainment and historic experiences located within 500 miles of Ohio. Search for vacation spots within driving distance for a day trip or weekend getaway. Check out these budget airlines when booking your ticket. Enjoy the warm weather at the rooftop, resort-style pool, or check out the romantic library, where afternoon tea is served. If you have more time, consider embarking on a Million Dollar Highway road trip. Where to stay:The stunning AC Hotel on Main Street features five unique food and beverage concepts, including Paloma tapas restaurant, a 16,000-square-foot rooftop indoor/outdoor bar, a speakeasy cocktail bar called The Press Room (accessible only by secret code) and Social Burger walk-up burger and milkshake bar. With dozens of live performances, Silver Dollar City, one of the best theme parks globally, and a historic downtown district, Bransons sheer number of family-fun activities in Branson draws people year after year. Budget tip:El Morro, the walled fortress in Old San Juan, is a must-visit; the kids will love playing among the ramparts and watching the seas for pirates. One of my favorite family golf vacations was a road trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, with my dad. Why youll love it: You can choose your own adventures in this Upstate New York getaway. Budget tip:The Lincoln Park Zoo, which features waddling penguins among its highlights, is one of the few free zoos in the country. Escape to a Great Lakes island or visit world-famous museums . Why youll love it: A perfect getaway from Los Angeles, its just 35 miles east, but completely without all the traffic that plagues the city. 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. Budget tip: A Denver CityPASS gives you discounted access to kid-friendly city highlights, including the aquarium, zoo and museums, starting at $36 for kids ages 3 to 11, and $43 for adults. And Sirenian Bay has an impressive mini-golf course, pickleball courts, kayaking and SUP, plus dive-in movies, included in the rate. Book lovers will want to step foot into the Moravian Book shop, the oldest continuously operating bookstore in the world, dating back to 1745. Guided hikes are free for kids 18 and under and just $8 for adultsand that price drops down to $5 for sanctuary members. Van Buren State Park. In fact, these mini-breaks pack lots of vacation vibes into just a few days and allow you to travel on a budget. 7 hour drive from Saint Louis. Waddle back to your suite at the Residence Inn by Marriott, which includes full kitchens, a complimentary hot-breakfast buffet, an indoor pool and an outdoor SportCourt and BBQ patio. She covers topics ranging from family travel and Disney to honeymoons and romantic beaches and everything in between. The hotel is also located right across from Discovery Green. Long Island. Family-friendly attractions include one of the nations best zoos, fun-filled childrens museums, and Franklin Park Conservatory, home to the nations top childrens garden. The hotel also offers myriad complimentary activities for hotel guestseverything from pineapple cutting to hula lessons. Or opt for a quieter getaway with time at the luxe spa, the zero-entry lagoon pool (where you can also order a cocktail and snack to your lounge chair) or in a private cabana with everything from HDTVs to lounge chairs and refrigerators within steps of the pool. A kids camp, great for ages 4 to 12, is available for an extra fee, as is horseback riding, biking and guided hikes. 7. Anything you need for a relaxing vacation is provided, including beach chairs, umbrellas and towels; complimentary cruiser bicycles; a variety of wellness activities, from yoga to meditation to nature walks; and even nightly fire pits and smores. Why youll love it: Its a city with a sandy beach right downtown! Located on the Indiana state line, you can see an entire fossil bed on the bluff overlooking the Ohio River. Looking for a getaway that really feels like youve left home, even if you only have the weekend to work with? 5. Plus, its only a 15-minute drive from Sam Houston National Forest. In addition, dozens of authentic food trucks serve cuisines from Mexico, Central, and South America, and draw long lines. Heres the best time to book a flight. Looking to save some cash? Indulge in big-city life and enjoy New York Citys buzzing vibe while dining at exquisite restaurants, taking in live music and even basking in the neon lights of Broadway. This quirky city on the rise has incredible street murals, the Nevada Museum of Art and a place in the Guinness Book of World Records for Tallest Outdoor Rock Climbing Wall at the Whitney Peak Hotel. Broadway At the Beach is South Carolinas most visited attraction, packed with entertainment, shopping, restaurants, and attractions. Set in the Pennsylvania countryside, Lehigh Valley, is an affordable and family-friendly destination is within a day's drive of 73% of the US population. 15 Things to Do in Barbados From Someone Who Has Visited More Than 10 Times. Weve gathered places to visit in the U.S. within one days drive for more than a majority of people. Where to stay: Book your stay at Cascade Lodge on Lake Superior. 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. Sandusky. Budget tip:Spend an afternoon gallery hopping to see fabulous works of art for free. Visitors can hike to panoramic mountain views from Buffalo Mountain Park, walk the historic Tweetsie Trail, rent a bike, and head to Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park. Yosemite National Park. Cap off a day of exploring with a stroll through Main Street Square, a community hub featuring year-round free events for travelers to enjoy, as well as public art such as The Sculpture Project. 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. And culture hounds will love the dozens of museums, galleries and performance spaces. An old steel mill turned events center, the facility hosts festivals, concerts, outdoor movies, and more all summer. 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. We played some unique courses, and the weather in Myrtle Beach was incredible, said Jeff Fang, a top player and Founder ofFinancial Pupil. Hikers and bikers have almost 200 miles of trails to explore in the foothills just above Boise, with trailheads right in town. Melissa Klurman is an intrepid explorer and award-winning travel journalist with more than 25 years of experience. Kids and adults of all ages will love to splash year-round at Wilderness at the Smokies indoor/outdoor waterpark resort and the new 50-acre Soaky Mountain Waterpark. Why youll love it: You can explore more than 300 miles of shoreline jetting out into Lake Michigan and Green Bay in Door County, all dotted by charming communities and a Midwestern friendliness that will make you feel like you stepped back in time. My Kids' Ages By proceeding, you agree to our . Why youll love it: Known for its natural beauty, sustainability and outdoor activities, Portland is a favorite option for affordable family vacations. Kids will love the free Friday drum circles in Pritchard Park, where they can bang a drum and dance along (the festivities get rolling around 6 p.m.). Reserve a day in your itinerary for Forest Park, home to many free attractions. Why youll love it: Located within a days drive of nearly half the U.S. population, Columbus, Ohio, is known as The Hippest City in the Midwest due to its variety of cant-miss activities and attractions, from visiting the Columbus Museum of Art to walking the Scioto Mile and perusing the boutiques and galleries of the Short North Arts District. Or explore Delmar Loop, a buzzing entertainment and dining hub with an eclectic mix of noodle bars, BBQ restaurants, Korean and Mexican eateries, cocktail lounges, and pubs. Budget tip: Theres plenty to do for free in Rapid City: Visitors can participate in a free, interactive walking tour of the City of Presidents, a series of life-size bronze statues of our nations past presidents along the citys streets and sidewalks. Budget tip: Theres free live music, fireworks and family entertainment throughout the summer along the Boardwalk, and free concerts at Plyler Park. (573) 237-3672. There are also 104 parks in the city, or you can hop on a bike to visit beer, wine and cider tasting rooms located near Boises Greenbelt, a 25-mile trail along the Boise River that goes right through the city. And the skys the limit for activities here, including hikes into neighboring RMNP, horseback rides, archery, roller skating, and arts and crafts (some activities have a fee). How cool is that? In addition, families will love the new Art Climb at the Cincinnati Art Museum, the award-winning Cincinnati Zoo, and the walkable downtown area thats easy to explore. #2 in Best Cheap Family Vacations. Just a short drive from L.A. and San Diego, this is a hidden wine country with beautiful vineyards and plenty of outdoor activities in a near-perfect climate. Their long list of live entertainment includes rock, country, tribute bands to magicians, illusionists, variety, and comedy shows. Tiny St. Martin (often referred to as SXM, for the airports call letters) sports 37 stunning soft-sand beaches along more than 43 miles of coastline, so you and the kids can try a new one every day! Prices start at $1,780 in 2023 (slightly less for kids). Budget tip:Visit Saguaro National Park, where kids can participate in the Junior Ranger Program and earn a special badge. Where to stay: Check out Tanque Verde Ranch, a family-owned property that provides an authentic Wild West experience with horseback riding (and much more) through Arizonas most breathtaking desert landscapes of the Rincon Mountains. Stop for a picnic brought from town, and enjoy it with great views of the Sierra Nevadas and the Lake. Here you can witness nature at its best, explore acres of pristine hiking trails and scenic terrain and immerse yourself in outdoor adventure. Why youll love it: The insider secret of southern California locals,Temeculahas all the charm, wine and food of Napa and Sonoma, without the crowds or high prices. 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. Where to stay: The Anaheim Marriott offers cant-miss deals, like packages that include a double room, free shuttle to the park, a $25 food and beverage credit at the hotel and even a $50 gift card to Disney for every night you stay. Then, attend a free WaterFire event this summer, where as many as 80 small bonfires are set ablaze along Providences three rivers for the annual summer events, creating a one-of-a-kind light show that lasts from just after sunset until about 12:30 a.m. In addition to 60 miles of free beaches, the area also offers a slew of no- or low-cost activities for the whole family. Yosemite's numerous hiking trails, rushing waterfalls and giant sequoias are just a few reasons why this California national park appeals . Visit the observatory, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the downtown area, or take a ferry ride. Be sure to indulge in some home cooking at a meat-and-three, Nashville fried chicken joint or Southern soul food spot. Long Island is more than just amazing beaches and summer fun! Sirenian Bay also owns local tour company Captain Jaks, and youll get a discount (plus an amazing experience) for local excursions into the rainforest or snorkeling in the clear waters. 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! A three-hour drive from New Orleans will get you to Orange Beach, Alabama where you can take a parasailing tour, go fishing on a boat ride, or even get airborne in a helicopter. Stop by the St. Louis Zoo, Laumeier Sculpture Park, one of the first and largest sculpture parks, or escape the summer heat in the St. Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, or the Saint Louis Science Center. 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. Find cities within a 6 hours radius of me in Oklahoma City and look for places to visit within a 6 hours drive. Budget tip:For great free souvenirs, go shelling along the pristine barrier island sands of Tigertail Beach Park on Marco Island. The free Virginia Museum of Fine Arts has 50,000 works from 6,000 years, is open every day of the year, and the Virginia Museum of History and Culture is reopening on May 14, 2022, after completing a $30 million renovation. The Notch Grille offers New Hampshire brews and comfort food such as short-rib tacos and a towering Mt. While you may know this destination as the home of the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and the Indy 500, its also home to the worlds largest childrens museum and its new oversized Dino Exhibit. Your personal family vacation planning starts now Get expert advice, handpicked recommendations, and tips for your family all year round! Despite being an 8-hour drive from 60% of the U.S. population, the West Virginia way of life is crowd-free. Not to mention live theater and music venues and a slew of exceptional restaurants. 19. Where to stay: Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown offer spacious digs with kitchens with full-size refrigerators, microwaves and stove cooktops (perfect for making healthy meals when youre not eating pizza). Budget tip:One of the most fascinating U.S. national parks is located way up in the clouds at Haleakala National Park, a dormant volcano. Why youll love it: The hidden gem of the Caribbean, the Placencia Peninsula is an easy entry into Central America, with turquoise Caribbean waters, access to the second largest barrier reef in the world for snorkeling, rainforest adventures (including zip lining and river tubing) and plenty of family-friendly activities. RVA, as locals call it, is Virginias State Capitol, 100 miles south of Washington DC and filled with just as much historical significance as one of Americas oldest cities. Where to stay: The charming Cottage Inn by the Sea offers Pacific Ocean views, a pool and free breakfast with double rooms. Peep the parks wonderful public art too! This city oozes small-town, Southern charm in a hilly setting that is especially beautiful during the fall. Why youll love it: During the winter, Park City is a veritable wonderland of skiing, snowboarding and outdoor adventure. Before you go, brush up on these unspoken etiquette rules of RV camping. Its a great destination for teens, who will enjoy biking around the city like a local or taking in the sites on the great public transportation system, including a cool funicular. Pack up the family and head to sunny Anaheim to meet Mickey and his pals. 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. Where to stay: The Riverside Hotel is nestled right on the Greenbelt, so you can lace up your shoes and be on your way in a flash. In the fall, hop on The Nickel Plate Express for scenic train excursions. Where to stay:The Hilton New Orleans Riverside has a great location out of the fray of the French Quarter, but close enough to take advantage of all the city has to offer. Kids under 2 ride for free, by the way. Illustrating its historical significance as the Crossroads of America, Indianapolis is second only to Washington D.C. for a total number of monuments and memorials. Plus, theres Carousel Gardens, where you can enjoy more than a dozen rides for kids, including a roller coaster and a historic carousel. Having a pleasant getaway with kids means keeping them busy and entertained. 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. Budget tip:Pack a refillable water bottle and some on-the-go snacks to cut back on additional park costs. Where to stay: Julies Park Cafe & Motel in Fish Creek gives you several options for budget-friendly lodging, including condominiums and cottages with multiple bedrooms (and bathrooms, a priceless bonus if you have teens). You can walk around Niagara Falls State Park (the oldest park in the country) for free, but experiencing the views of the thundering falls aboard the famous Maid of the Mist is what will be the most memorable way to take in the falls (including a soaked selfie). 30 mile radius of Saint Louis. Otherwise, now might be a good time to invest in a National Parks Pass. And, yes, it's even fun to visit Duluth in winter. Find places to go within a day's drive of me and plan a quick day trip from my hometown. Birthplace and Memorial is a National Park with free entrance; walking in the footsteps of history here will definitely resonate with your kids. The grove is easily accessible on State Highway 1 at the south boundary of the city limits of Pismo Beach. The park also encompasses the New River, one of the oldest rivers on the continent, and the worlds third-longest single-span arch bridge spanning 3,030 feet above the Gorge. Wash it down with an Old Fashioned or Mint Julep, too! Fishing enthusiasts know that Bass Pro Shops was founded in the region and built Bransons Big Cedar Resort, a beloved and iconic outdoor upscale resort that is a destination in itself. Where to stay: The Marriott Marquis looks like any other glass high-rise from the outside, but head up to the pool deck for a Lone Star State surprise: an outdoor lazy river pool in the shape of Texas (rooms with views of the pool are especially cool at night). Distance: 6 hours 30 minutes. New Haven, MO 63068. These are the best cheap family vacations near Ohio. Heres How This Caribbean Island Can Be Surprisingly Affordable. Where to stay: The Holiday Inn Asheville-Biltmore East feels more like a mountain lodge than a chain property, but it still has all the hallmarks that make Holiday Inn appealing: a great pool, and affordable deals that include kids 18 and under staying for free in their parents room, and up to four kids 11 and under eating free any time of the day at the on-site restaurant. The Lehigh Valley area consists of Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and other charming small towns with tons to see and explore. Base yourself near Beaufort, a 300-year-old town filled with pirate lore (Blackbeards sunken flagship,The Queen Annes Revenge,rests in its watery grave just miles offshore), and plan a trip to The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores for an up-close look at what lies beneath the seas. Why youll love it:A dynamic city with Old West charm, Denver has a vast array of kid-friendly attractions here, including an aquarium, zoo, botanical garden, art museum with a fabulous hands-on project space and the fascinating History Colorado museumall perfect for family vacations. Its not hard to see why its ranked one of the best places in the state for outdoor activities. Grab a baguette, some cheese, pastries for the kids and a bottle of wine for the grown-ups, and toast to the affordable tropical beach vacay. 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. . Where to stay:Housed in the historic former Baltimore & Ohio Railroad headquarters, Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore Inner Harbor is a kids dream, complete with Bunk Bed Suites and warm cookies at check-in. 9 hours from Saint Louis. We have already done: Branson. Or roll out a blanket and enjoy a leisurely meal at Three Rivers Parks, where the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers meet. Founded in 1931, its a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places featuring an American sculpture collection and a Lowcountry Zoo. Some options: hiking in the national park, booking a mountain bike ride, fly-fishing or river rafting experiencesjust to name a few. Budget tips: Bring your bicycle with you for some of the best peddling in the country. Families can enjoy Wet-n-Wild Water Park, obstacle course & ziplining at Safari Nation, The North Carolina Zoo, All a Flutter Butterfly Farm, and Piedmont Environmental Center. This destination welcomes approximately 9 million visitors annually, partly due to its plethora of attractions and activities and its location in middle America. Spend a day exploring the largest municipal urban forest in the country, Jefferson Memorial Forest. Opening in mid-May, Dorney Park and its waterpark and Planet Snoopy offer over 100 rides for young ones. Distance from Saint Louis, MO. 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. Why youll love it: One word: Disneyland! Theres also a number of unique festivals throughout the summer. Montreal, Canada: Drive Time 5 Hours and 20 Minutes. Where to stay:Enjoy swim-in movies, life-size games and smores at the beachside fire pit at beachfront Sandpearl Resort. 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. Budget tip:The U.S. dollar is strong against Canadian currency, so it will feel like the whole city is on sale. West Coasters may be a little bummed to read this list. Take in views of the city and the 500 plant varieties at the International Rose Test Garden. Duluth, Minnesota. 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. It really is a perfect Midwest vacation spot. Budget tip:Thousands of vibrant orange-and-black Monarch Butterflies gather in Pismo Beach annually (October to February), seeking shelter from the northern winter among a grove eucalyptus trees at Pismo State Beach. Foodies will enjoy City Foundry, an iconic and historically significant foundry building transformed into St. Louis first authentic food hall. 5. From adventurous climbs at Sunset Park to horseback riding at Enterprise South Nature Park or exploring the city on a bicycle, views of the Southeast Tennessee mountains and the Tennessee river are everywhere. A quick, easy, and family-friendly weekend getaway from St. Louis is Meramec Caverns, which is just over an hour from the city. Why youll love it:The City of Trees is a perfect destination when youre looking for a quick trip where you can enjoy the outdoors. Budget tip:Pack a picnic lunch and spend a leisurely afternoon in Forsyth Park. Stock Images Provided by Our Partner DepositPhotos Site Design Credit. Budget tip: Driving to the Cape? Budget tip:One of the best souvenirs here is free, if you know where to look: Cape May diamonds, silicone gems that appear naturally in the sand. The Mall of America. Where to stay:The Coronado Beach Resort is located directly across the street from the iconic Del Coronado Hotel (whereSome Like It Hot was filmed) and offers condo-style units with kitchenettes (youll also have complimentary access to all the amenities at the Loews Resort too.) Why youll love it: Head to the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior to make some amazing memories this summer. For fitness buffs, there are 18 miles of cycling and hiking trails through downtown, thanks to a fantastic rails-to-trails effort. Find cities within a 6 hours radius of me in Dayton and look for places to visit within a 6 hours drive. The city also has some great hidden gems youll appreciate. And foodies will want to taste their way through more than 40 specialty food products at the Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard, including cider thats been made for over 150 years in a water-powered mill. 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. Why youll love it:Its hard not to be impressed by the more than 3,000 tons of water that crashes over the falls every second. Travel time from me. In addition, the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia tells the stories of African American history in Virginia. They have miniature golf, an aqua park with a lazy river, boats and water sports to enjoy on the lake. One hundred miles southwest of Columbus is another one of Ohios fantastic vacation spots. Harvest Hosts is a unique experiential company offering RVers the opportunity to stay at any of their more-than-600 host locations across the United States. 9679 W State Park Rd, Mears, MI 49436, Phone: 231-873-3083. The parks grand, ninth-century cast-iron fountain, which was modeled after the fountains at the Place de la Concorde in Paris, is the perfect spot for a memory-filled selfie. Helen, Ga. The property also boasts a large pool and free breakfast, all for around $179 a night. Find out even more reasons Maui is the best island in Hawaii. Where to stay: The Walker Hotel in Greenwich Village is an Art Deco gem ideally located between Washington Square Park and Union Square, putting all the hip downtown restaurants, shops and sights right at your fingertips. Ask for a high floor facing the park (which is just a few blocks away) and youll be able to watch fireworks from your room. The Disney experts at UnderCover Tourist offer discounted tickets and additional money-saving tips at their site, as well as calendars about when to visit when its least crowded. Its central location draws road-trippers; more than 92% of people travel to this destination by driving, foregoing expensive plane tickets. Then learn about the power of water at the freeNiagara Power Vista Center. Kids will love exploring the Gray Fossil Site, dating back 5 million years. Museum-lovers have a lot to choose from in RVA! Fortunately, there are many family-oriented last minute destinations all around the United States. Why youll love it: Its the Big Apple! Why youll love it: Even though it may seem like a grown-up getaway, the laid-back vibe of the Big Easy actually makes it a perfect spot for a family vacation too (or even a nice Christmas getaway).