Affordable Midwest Family Vacations You’ll Love
Discover the best budget-friendly Midwest family vacations. From lakeside retreats to scenic parks and fun-filled small towns.
I may be frugal, but I LOVE traveling with my family. Since we have added more children, we have had to get creative with our vacations. Gone are the days of Disney World and airplane tickets. Now, we try to go places that are within about 6 hours. There are so many amazing midwest family vacation destinations.
Your Midwest Adventure Starts Here
Family vacations don’t have to mean pricey theme parks or cross-country flights. The Midwest is full of budget-friendly destinations that deliver on fun, scenery, and family bonding—without maxing out your credit card. From charming small towns to epic lakes and parks, here are 16 affordable Midwest family vacations you’ll love.
1. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Why it’s affordable: Lodging often includes waterpark passes
Known as the Waterpark Capital of the World, Wisconsin Dells is a year-round favorite for families. Many hotels and resorts offer package deals that include access to indoor and outdoor waterparks, saving you money on activities.
Kelsey Says: We travelled here in August 2017. It was honestly one of my favorite trips. The motel we stayed at was awesome. It had a heated adult and children’s pool, playground, volleyball and basketball courts, and free unlimited tickets to the water park: Noah’s Ark Waterpark. It was seriously one of the cheapest trips we have ever taken and tons of fun!
2. Hocking Hills, Ohio
Why it’s affordable: Free state parks and budget cabin rentals
This hidden gem in southeastern Ohio offers hiking trails, waterfalls, caves, and scenic views—all free to explore. Rent a cozy cabin and enjoy an unplugged, low-cost nature retreat.
3. Branson, Missouri
Why it’s affordable: Tons of family entertainment at low cost
Branson is packed with family-friendly shows, amusement rides, and outdoor fun. Look for combo passes or off-season deals on attractions like Silver Dollar City, mini-golf, and live music shows.
Kelsey says: We loved Branson! We enjoyed the Alpine Coaster, Wonderworks, Sight and Sound Theater, mini golf, and more!
4. Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
Why it’s affordable: Low entrance fee and free beach access
Just an hour from Chicago, Indiana Dunes offers 15 miles of sandy beaches along Lake Michigan, plus hiking and nature centers. It’s an ideal cheap beach vacation in the Midwest.
5. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Why it’s affordable: No cars, no stress, and tons of charm
While you’ll pay for the ferry over, once on Mackinac Island you can explore by foot or bike, see historical sites, and enjoy nature for little to no cost. Pack snacks and stay in nearby Mackinaw City to save on lodging.
6. Badlands National Park & Wall, South Dakota
Why it’s affordable: Budget camping and stunning views
The Badlands offer dramatic rock formations, hiking trails, and wildlife. Nearby Wall Drug is free to visit and a quirky roadside attraction kids love. Camping or staying in nearby budget motels keeps costs low.
7. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Why it’s affordable: Affordable cabins and free outdoor fun
A top destination for lake-loving families. Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. Many resorts offer kitchenettes, which help families save by cooking meals.
8. Cincinnati, Ohio
Why it’s affordable: Family fun with free festivals and scenic views
Enjoy the Cincinnati Art Museum (free entry), Smale Riverfront Park, and nearby hiking trails. Walk across the Roebling Bridge, explore Findlay Market, and grab skyline views—all without spending much.
Kelsey says: Being a Reds & Bengals fan, I may be a bit biased, but I absolutely love Cincinnati. Kings Island is one of the top theme parks in the country and must be experienced at least once!
👉A trip to Cincinnati isn’t complete without visiting Jungle Jim’s International Market—a massive, one-of-a-kind grocery store that feels more like a theme park. With foods from over 70 countries, animatronic displays, and fun for all ages, it’s a free and fascinating experience your family will love exploring.
9. Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota
Why it’s affordable: Free museums and outdoor activities
The Twin Cities offer free art museums, nature centers, and the massive Mall of America, which has an indoor theme park (with free entry, pay per ride). Explore lakes and parks without spending a dime.
10. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin
Why it’s affordable: Low-cost adventure and stunning scenery
Take a cheap ferry to Madeline Island, hike sea caves, and enjoy kayaking on Lake Superior. Stay in nearby Bayfield for rustic lodging or camping.
11. Springfield, Illinois
Why it’s affordable: Free Lincoln historical sites
Learn about Abraham Lincoln’s life at multiple free sites, including the Lincoln Home, Old State Capitol, and Lincoln Tomb. Combine history and education on a tight budget.
12. Kansas City, Missouri/Kansas
Why it’s affordable: Free attractions and family-friendly BBQ
Visit the free Kansas City Zoo on certain days, explore Science City, and relax in Loose Park. Don’t forget to sample affordable and delicious local BBQ joints.
13. Ludington, Michigan
Why it’s affordable: Beach town charm and outdoor fun
Located on Lake Michigan, Ludington offers a beautiful state park, free beaches, and affordable campgrounds. Watch the car ferry arrive or take a hike through the sand dunes.
Kelsey says: Michigan was probably my favorite trip of all time. We went in July 2023. The weather there is absolutely perfect at that time of year. We went to Ludington Beach State Park and the beaches were clean and amazing. No sea creatures! We loved riding the sand dunes. Lewis Adventure Farm was my absolute favorite and I can’t wait to go back! We also stopped by Nelis’ Dutch Village on the way up and it was a blast. Affordable, good family fun.
14. Columbus, Ohio
Why it’s affordable: Free parks, budget attractions, and hands-on fun
Visit the Columbus Zoo, splash at Zoombezi Bay, or explore free outdoor spaces like Scioto Mile and Topiary Park. Many museums offer free or discounted admission days.
Kelsey says: We just got home from Columbus with our field trip group. There is so much to do in Central Ohio. We certainly didn’t see it all! The Zoo and COSI are top Must-Dos for kids. If you want some free options, we enjoyed visiting the Lego store and walking around the Easton Mall area.
15. Door County, Wisconsin
Why it’s affordable: Free beaches, lighthouses, and nature trails
This picturesque peninsula offers cherry orchards, quaint towns, and state parks. Explore beaches, hike in Peninsula State Park, and visit charming lighthouses—all for little to no cost.
16. Chicago, Illinois
Why it’s affordable: World-class fun with plenty of free attractions
Chicago offers big-city excitement without blowing your budget. Families can enjoy free activities like Millennium Park, Lincoln Park Zoo, and summer events at Navy Pier. Walk the Lakefront Trail, snap a selfie at “The Bean” (Cloud Gate), and watch the Buckingham Fountain light show—all for free. Plus, many museums have free admission days.
Bonus Tips to Save on Midwest Family Vacations:
- Travel in the shoulder season (spring/fall) for lower rates and fewer crowds.
- Book budget lodging with kitchens to cook your own meals.
- Use city passes or combo deals for attractions.
- Pack smart to avoid overpaying for convenience items.
How to Travel on a Budget
Big Adventures, Small Price Tags
You don’t need to travel far or spend a fortune to create lasting memories. These cheap Midwest family vacations prove that with the right destination, fun and affordability go hand in hand.
