Spring break is coming up fast, and you are searching for affordable spring break destinations for families. The good news is that there are plenty of places you can bring your kids over spring break, even if you are on a budget. Here are five amazing and affordable spring break destinations for families to consider.
Estes Park
If your family loves the great outdoors and mountain views, consider a spring break trip to Estes Park, Colorado. This quaint little town is the main access point to Rocky Mountain National Park, and there are tons of activities for families, including horseback riding, hiking, arts and crafts classes, biking, camping, and fly-fishing.
There are many accommodation options, but one of the most budget-friendly options is the YMCA of the Rockies. You can rent a two-bedroom cabin for around $118 per night, and you can prepare all your meals in the kitchen to save money. The YMCA offers complimentary activities as well, including yoga, wildlife classes, and guided hikes. They can also help you book activities of your choice.
Aside from amazing scenery and endless outdoor activities, Estes Park is a lovely town to explore. It has many restaurants, artisan shops, and excellent bakeries.
Rancho de los Caballeros
For a truly unique experience, arrange to spend spring break at Rancho de los Caballeros, a family-friendly dude ranch in Arizona. Rancho de los Caballeros has been giving families the chance to experience life on an authentic dude ranch since 1947. The ranch features many programs geared to kids, notably the children’s club.
The kids join ranch hands and other children for breakfast and horseback riding. They also get to participate in other activities like swimming, hiking and crafting while their parents enjoy time to themselves. The family comes back together after lunch to enjoy some time together in the afternoon. Then the kids return to the club for dinner and a campfire.
Most of the activities in the kids club are free and there are a variety of vacation packages you can choose from.
Washington, D.C.
For a wonderful, affordable springtime destination, Washington, D.C. is the place to be. If you can, plan a visit during the Cherry Blossom Festival, which will take place from March 20th to April 15th, 2018.
During this time, the cherry trees are in bloom, covering the city with beautiful pink and white flowers. There are many free events during the festival, like a parade, fireworks and cultural performances.
After enjoying the Cherry Blossom Festival, you can go sightseeing and explore the free museums and galleries of the Smithsonian Institution. Washington, D.C. is the ideal spring break vacation for families on a budget.
Sanibel Island, Florida
Sanibel Island is located just off the coast of Fort Myers, Florida, in the Gulf of Mexico, and is a wonderful place for an affordable beach vacation. In fact, February through April is widely regarded as the best time to visit. During these months there is excellent beach weather for lounging, surfing, or looking for seashells.
The island is noted for its incredible abundance of seashells, beautiful sunsets, and its historic lighthouse. It is a perfect destination for water sports, fishing, and biking, with 22 miles of bike paths.
There is a wide variety of accommodations and some good deals for families. You can choose to stay in a hotel, inn, beachside cottage or a rental. Many hotels offer kids’ programs, and there are also many kid-friendly and pet-friendly dining options.
All in all, Sanibel Island is a wonderful option for an affordable family beach vacation.
Montreal, Canada
Want to plan a trip to Europe but don’t have the budget for an expensive European vacation? For a more cost-effective way to have a European experience, consider giving Montreal a try. Many Amtrak lines in the Northeast have trains to Montreal, which is generally a more cost-effective option than flying.
In Montreal, there are affordable hotels and restaurants, and if you go in March or April you should have plenty of options to choose from. Enjoy the European charm of the city’s old town, Vieux-Montreal, as you enjoy the classic architecture. Montreal is the home of the Cirque du Soleil, and the organization La TOHU often sponsors free performances. If you can find a Cirque du Soleil performance, be sure to check it out!
These are just a handful of the affordable spring break destinations for families that are out there. Whether you prefer mountain views, a beach vacation, or exploring a new city, there are ways to plan a budget-friendly spring break vacation for your family.
What are your favorite affordable springtime destinations to explore with your family? Let us know in the comments section or on our Facebook page.