5 Fun Family Vacation Activities Your Kids Will Love

Whenever I think of vacation, my frugal self always has to think of ideas that are not only fun, but that are the least expensive as well. It is more than possible to have a fun family vacation without going into debt to do it. My parents certainly understood that. Our family was always on a tight budget, yet I have so many great memories of the things that I loved doing on vacation as a kid.

These are my top 5 favorite fun (and frugal) activities, in no particular order:

1. Tubing
My brothers and I had so much fun going tubing down the river. There is almost no cost involved other than the gasoline to get to the river and the price to rent a tube if you don't have one. If you prefer to spend a little more, you can go rafting instead. Both tubing and rafting can be done on as rough or as calm of a river as you prefer.

2. Camping
This is a great way to have affordable vacation lodging and let the kids have some fun all at one time.

3. Hiking
This activity is totally free depending on where you go. Look online to find hiking trails in the area you wish to hike. You'll find information about how long and strenuous the hikes are. This way you'll know which trails are appropriate for the ages of your children. Kids will enjoy getting their energy out and exploring nature along the way.

4. Historic Sites
Visit a local historic landmark. Many are free, and those that charge usually only charge a small fee. Though they may not admit it, the kids will enjoy learning, especially if you go to a place with hands-on activities or battlefield re-enactments.

5. Playgrounds and parks
Pack a picnic lunch and let the kids enjoy a day at a playground that is new to them. It will be free for you and fun for the kids!

Use the internet to research before you go. The kids will NOT have fun if you spend all day in the car driving aimlessly hoping you'll find a great park or hiking spot.

Your kids can have lots of fun without your wallet feeling a pinch. Spending time together as a family is what makes family vacation fun. Participate in these activities with your kids and they will have the time of their lives!

Find more fun vacation activities from other bloggers here.


I wrote this blog post while participating in the Williamsburg Tourism and TwitterMoms blogging program for a chance to get a $50 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.