Spring breaks are a time that brings many chances to collect memories with your loved ones and make your spring trips special—stressed about the destination and budget? Oh! No need to worry, the world is home to budget-friendly travel destinations that you can explore with family on your desired budget.
The best spring break destinations for families on a budget rely on cost-effective accommodation, and local cuisine considering the time to visit the destinations is crucial to making your adventures cheap.
In this post, we will discuss the top 10 spring break destinations that are not only perfect budget-friendly family destinations but also offer tips on how to save money. Let’s get started!
1. New Orleans, Louisiana
Spring break is a time to immerse yourself in the vibrant and scenic Frenchmen streets. The mouthwatering cuisine and historical architectural landmarks make New Orleans one of the most adventurous and budget-friendly tourist spot for spring break.
Budget-Saving Tips you need to consider
- To stay on budget, choose hotels or vacation rentals in neighborhoods like the Garden District.
- Opt for free or low-cost things to enjoy like enjoying street performances and exploring the French Quarter.
Best Budget-Friendly Hotels
- French Market Inn
- The Queen Anne
- Pelham Hotel
- Hotel St. Pierre French Quarter
- Le Richelieu in the French Quarter
Where to Eat?
- Cafe du Monde
- Parkway Bakery & Tavern
- Cochon Butcher
- Central Grocery & Deli
- Dat Dog
Best Time to Go
Late spring, from April to May, is the best time to enjoy mild weather and lower lodging rates than peak tourist seasons.
Free Things to Enjoy
- Enjoy live music and performances in local parks
- Discover the French Quarter
- Visit Jackson Square
2. Sedona, Arizona
Enjoy the scenic hikes and breathtaking red rock formations of Sedona. It is a place where sandstone cliffs offer sweeping vistas of the desert landscape. Visitors can discover the town’s thriving arts sector, which features Native American crafts and Southwestern-inspired artwork.
Two Tips for Saving Money
- Choose rental accommodation to stay near a destination that is away from the downtown area.
- Discover free outdoor attractions like hiking trails and scenic natural viewpoints.
Best yet Cheap Hotels
- Bell Rock Inn by Diamond Resorts
- GreenTree Inn Sedona
- Sedona Summit Resort by Diamond Resorts
- Arroyo Pinion Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
- Wildflower Inn at BellRock
Where to Eat?
- Hideaway House
- Cafe Jose
- Elote Cafe
- The Hudson
- Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill
Best Time to Visit
Spring season starts in April and remains till May, offering a pleasant climate and fewer crowds as compared to peak seasons like summer and fall.
Free Things to Enjoy
- Go to the Chapel of the Holy Cross
- Hike the Red Rock State Park trails
- Discover the scenic viewpoints along Oak Creek Canyon
3. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg offers plenty of activities and endless fun, in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Gatlinburg is a family-friendly destination that not only attracts visitors but also matches your pocket capacity. Take a zipline drive that will take you above the treetops, or discover hiking trails that lead to spectacular waterfalls and picturesque views.
Budget-Saving Tips
- Search for rental cabins or budget-friendly hotels outside of peak tourist periods.
- Opt for the free Gatlinburg SkyLift Park rather than pricier attractions that increase your budget.
Best low-budgeted Hotels for family
- The Edgewater Hotel
- Econo Lodge Gatlinburg
- Mountain House Motor Inn Downtown
- Glenstone Lodge
- River Terrace Resort & Convention Center
Where to Eat?
- Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que
- Pancake Pantry
- The Local Goat
- Cherokee Grill
- Big Daddy’s Pizzeria
Best Time to Go
April to May is considered an off-peak season that offers lower accommodation rates
Free Things to Enjoy
- Explore the Gatlinburg Arts
- Hike the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Visit the Gatlinburg Striking Trails
4. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is a famous spring destination for families seeking a reasonable beach vacation. Visitors can save money on lodging by booking and by staying at an inexpensive hotel. Moreover, Myrtle Beach offers numerous free things such as strolling along the boardwalk, visiting the Myrtle Beach State Park, and visiting the Market Common complex.
Budget-Saving Tips
- Take benefit of free or low-cost activities like free of cost visiting the Myrtle Beach State Park and exploring the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.
- Look for holiday rentals or budget-friendly hotels off the beachfront.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels
- Coral Beach Resort & Suites
- Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort
- Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort
- Ocean Reef Resort
- Dayton House Resort
Where to Eat?
- River City Cafe
- ART Burger Sushi Bar
- Mellow Mushroom
- Croissants Bistro & Bakery
- Sea Captain’s House
Best Time to Go
April and May offer a lovely season and fewer crowds, leading to lower rates of activities along with accommodation.
Free Things to Enjoy
- Relax on the beaches
- Wander along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
- Travel Through Brookgreen Gardens
5. Charleston, South Carolina
Discover Charleston’s historic charm by traveling back in time. The city’s historical buildings and flagstone streets tell the story of its memorable history. Well-known sites like Rainbow Row and the Battery, verdant gardens, and old plantations mouthwatering Savor offer the warm southern friendliness atmosphere that welcomes visitors all over the world.
Money-Saving Tips
- Enjoy free attractions like strolling the Charleston City Market and visiting historic sites.
- Consider low-budget accommodations in areas like West Ashley or Mount Pleasant.
Family and Budget-friendly Hotels
- King Charles Inn
- Hyatt Place Charleston Historic District
- The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel
- Holiday Inn Express Charleston Downtown – Ashley River
- Comfort Inn Downtown Charleston
Where to Eat?
- Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
- The Early Bird Diner
- Hominy Grill
- Husk
- Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit
Best Time to Go
Late spring, to enjoy pleasant weather and lower accommodation rates and that is April to May.
Free Things to Enjoy
- Explore the Angel Oak Tree
- Walk Around the Battery and Waterfront Park
- Go to See the Charleston Tea Garden
6. San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio is a family-friendly spot with plenty of affordable activities. Visitors can save money on lodging by booking a room at one of the many hotels in downtown San Antonio. Families can enjoy free activities.
Budget-Saving Tips
- Explore the free attractions like the San Antonio Zoo and the Tower of the Americas.
- Consider staying in low-rate hotels or vacation rentals near the inner city.
Best Hotels at Low Rates
- Drury Inn & Suites San Antonio Riverwalk
- Comfort Suites Alamo/Riverwalk
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Riverwalk
- Red Roof PLUS+ San Antonio Downtown – Riverwalk
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Antonio Downtown/Alamo Plaza
Where to Eat?
- Pete’s Tako House
- Rosario’s
- Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia
- The Station Cafe
- Biga on the Banks
Best Time to Go
March and April offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, especially for spring adventure
Free Things to Enjoy
- Visit the historic Alamo
- Travel the San Antonio River Walk
- Enjoy the Natural Bridge Caverns entrance fee waiver on your birthday
7. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe is an ideal spring break attraction because of its spectacular natural beauty and limitless amusing options.
When the weather becomes warmer, take benefit of the lake’s glistening waters for boating, fishing, and kayaking, or just kick back on its perfect beaches.
Budget-Saving Tips
- Consider staying in budget hotels that are away from the lakefront.
- Take benefit of free outdoor activities like hiking and beach activities.
Low Budget Hotels
- Rodeway Inn Casino Center
- Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel
- Best Western Station House Inn
- Basecamp Tahoe South
- Forest Suites Resort at Heavenly Village
Where to Eat?
- The Red Hut Cafe
- Base Camp Pizza Co.
- Himmel Haus
- Blue Dog Pizza
- Artemis Lakefront Cafe
Best Time to Go
Late spring, around May, offers lower hotel rates before the peak summer or after the winter season.
Free Things to Enjoy
- Visit Sand Harbor Beach
- Explore Emerald Bay State Park
- Hike the Tahoe Rim Trail
8. Outer Banks, North Carolina
Discover quaint coastal collections like Duck and Nags Head, or stop by aquatic museums and olden lighthouses. Take a wild horse ride to observe the famous wild mustangs that stroll the beaches, or test your skills at kiteboarding and windsurfing in the sea wind.
Budget-Saving Tips
- Choose vacation rentals away from beachfront properties.
- Prefer free beach access and outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
Best Hotels to Stay in Budget
- Sea Ranch Resort
- Surf Side Hotel
- Colonial Inn Shutters on the Banks
- Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kill Devil Hills-Mariner
Where to Eat?
- JK’s Restaurant
- Fish Heads Bar & Grill
- Owens’ Restaurant
- Mulligan’s Raw Bar & Grille
- Sam & Omie’s Restaurant
Best Time to Go
May offers nice mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower room rates.
Free Things to Enjoy
- Discover the Wright Brothers National Memorial
- Relax on the beaches
- Visit Jockey’s Ridge State Park
9. Savannah, Georgia
Spring break in Savannah is an idyllic spot because of its picture-perfect setting and captivating history. Savor classic Southern fare at old-world cafés and graceful dining launches. Visitors can see the city’s famous sites, like Forsyth Park and Bonaventure Cemetery.
Budget-Saving Tips
- Opt for affordable places in the Historic District or nearby areas.
- Take advantage of free outdoor tours and explore the city’s squares and parks.
Best Budget-Friendly Hotels
- Planters Inn on Reynolds Square
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Savannah Downtown/Historic District
- Thunderbird Inn
- East Bay Inn
- Holiday Inn Express Savannah-Historic District
Where to Eat?
- Zunzi’s
- Wilkes’ Dining Room
- The Grey
- Crystal Beer Parlor
- Leopold’s Ice Cream
Best Time to Go
Late spring, from April to May, offers enjoyable weather and lower space rates than peak tourist seasons.
Free Things to Enjoy
- Visit the Bonaventure Cemetery
- Walk around the Historic District and Forsyth Park
- Go to the Savannah Historic Museum
10. Portland, Oregon
Portland provides a unique spring break experience with its vivid energy and creative spirit. Discover the lush green areas of the city, such as the extensive and famous International Rose Test Garden. Visit local farm-to-table food restaurants serving, and spend a restful time.
Budget-Saving Tips
- Stay in budget hotels like Southeast or North Portland.
- Go to free attractions like hiking in Forest Park.
Best Low Budget Hotels
- Ace Hotel Portland
- Jupiter NEXT
- Inn at Northrup Station
- McMenamins Crystal Hotel
- Residence Inn by Marriott Portland Downtown/Pearl District
Where to Eat?
- Pok Pok
- Pine State Biscuits
- Lardo
- Nong’s Khao Man Gai
- Tasty n Alder
Best Time to Go
Late spring, from April to May, offers mild weather and fewer crowds as compared to winter or summer.
Free Things to Enjoy
Visit Powell’s City of Books
Explore the International Rose Test Garden
Walk along the Willamette River waterfront
In a Nutshell
A memorable spring break doesn’t need a heavy price tag. The world is full of the best spring break destinations for families on a budget. By choosing the right hotels, dining options, and timing, you can enjoy and make the most of your journey without breaking the bank. So pack your bags, call your loved ones, and go for an unforgettable spring break without worrying your wallet.
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Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.