Disclosure: In any review for a product or service, products or compensation may have been provided to me to help facilitate my review. All opinions are my own and honest. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC Guidelines. Please see “Disclose” and "Terms of Use" tabs for more information.
As the nation slowly recovers economically, families are learning ways to cut the budget while
keeping everyone entertained. If you’re not yet ready to fork out cash for a Hawaiian cruise or
Disneyland, here are some alternatives for anywhere you live that the whole family can enjoy.
1. Caves
Caves are a great family outing for several reasons. First, the weather will never dampen the trip
because caves remain a constant temperature year round. Most caves tours are affordable, and
many offer extra things to see and do before and after your tour. Also, caves are fascinating for
even the youngest family members.
Visit the website before planning your trip. You can often get great package deals for a family
to tour the cave and enjoy some of the rides and attractions on site at a low rate. Some extra
activities include putt putt golf, bumper cars, and pining for gemstones. Most also offer picnic
grounds and camping areas for a day long or multi day excursion.
2. State Parks
State parks offer everything from lakes to hiking trails, fishing to picnic areas, and playgrounds
to historical sites. Day trips to a state park are inexpensive outings filled with natural sights,
chances to see native wildlife, and opportunities to learn about vegetation and geological
formations that make your state unique.
For a longer vacation, consider an RV rental or family sized tent. Most state parks have stores
where you can buy extras like fishing tackle, snacks, or bags of ice. Perhaps the best thing about
visiting a state park is how much room the family has to run and play. Nobody ever looks at your
screaming toddler like he doesn’t belong.
3. Lakes and Rivers
There are different ways to enjoy your local lakes and rivers, depending on how adventurous
your family is and how much you want to spend. Most local marinas offer boat rentals if you
don’t own a water vessel. Some areas also offer rentals of kayaks, canoes, or Sea-Doos. Or, see if
a whitewater rafting tour is available.
However, you don’t have to get on a watercraft at all to enjoy your local lakes and rivers.
Consider a day fishing off the pier, or lounging on a lake beach. Most provide picnic areas in the
shade, where parents can sit in comfort while kids frolic in the water.
4. Day Hikes
Hiking trails aren’t always strenuous treks. There are lots of easy trails where families can get out
and enjoy nature without travailing steep hills or navigating treacherous rocks. Call your local
forest service and ask about easy day walks for families. Most will provide you with a map of
well-marked, low intensity trails, and some are even accessible with a stroller.
5. Road Trips
fun stops along the way. If your vehicle isn’t up for the task, consider a fuel-efficient model from
Arrigo Automotive in West Palm Beach Florida. Check with your state tourism department.
Many states produce maps with suggested road trips, points of interest along the way, and even
discounts and coupons to save money on attractions and lodging.
All of these activities are ideal for all sizes of families and any age kids.
[…] also have plenty of alternative choices when it comes to family activities other than going to the beach or a theme park. You could, for example, explore a cave, visit a […]