Puerto Rico - 5 Suitcases

Family vacations don’t have to cost a fortune to be memorable. With a little planning, you can treat your kids to new adventures, beautiful sights, and fun activities without maxing out your credit card. Whether you’re looking for beachside bliss, theme park thrills, or cultural experiences, these ten destinations are budget-friendly and full of family magic.

Here are ten affordable places to travel with kids that offer maximum fun for less money.

U.S. Destinations

1. Orlando, Florida

You can do Orlando without blowing your budget—yes, even with the theme parks! While Disney and Universal can be pricey, there are tons of ways to save with off-site lodging, ticket deals, and alternate attractions.

Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Frequent flight deals, discounted theme park bundles, and budget-friendly hotels.
Best Time to Visit: January–February (off-season, fewer crowds), late August–October (cheaper park tickets).
Why kids will love it:
- Meeting favorite characters at Disney World or Universal Studios.
- Splashing around at free hotel pools or water parks.
- Exploring LEGOLAND Florida (especially great for younger kids).

Top Family Activities:
Walt Disney World (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios)
Universal Orlando Resort (Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Volcano Bay)
ICON Park (The Wheel, Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE Aquarium)

Free & Low-Cost Activities: Lake Eola Park, Disney Springs, Winter Park boat tours
Savings Tip: Use discounted Disney/Universal tickets via Undercover Tourist, book an Airbnb with a kitchen to save on meals.

2. San Diego, California

San Diego is a laid-back coastal city packed with free or low-cost fun. With sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and family-focused attractions, it’s a fantastic spot for all ages.

Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Free beaches, outdoor attractions, and citywide GoCity Pass discounts.
Best Time to Visit: March–May (fewer crowds, great weather), September–November (cheaper flights & hotels).
Why kids will love it:
- Visiting the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park’s kid-friendly museums.
- Playing in the sand at Coronado or La Jolla Shores.
- Exploring tide pools and spotting sea lions.
Top Family Activities:
San Diego Zoo (one of the best in the world)
Balboa Park (museums, gardens, playgrounds)
La Jolla Cove (seals, sea caves, snorkeling)
USS Midway Museum (historic aircraft carrier)
Free & Low-Cost Activities: Mission Beach, Torrey Pines hiking, Old Town San Diego
Savings Tip: Kids get free admission to major attractions in October (San Diego Kids Free Month!).

3. Washington, DC

The ultimate destination for free museums and American history. D.C. is perfect for curious kids and budget-conscious parents.

Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Many free museums and landmarks, great public transportation.
Best Time to Visit: Late March–June (cherry blossoms, great weather), September–November (fewer tourists).
Why kids will love it:
- Seeing rockets and dinosaurs at the Smithsonian Museums.
- Watching animals at the (free!) National Zoo.
- Climbing the steps of the Lincoln Memorial or walking by the White House.
Top Family Activities:
Smithsonian Museums (Air & Space, Natural History, American History – all free!)
National Zoo (home to giant pandas – free admission)
National Mall (Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, U.S. Capitol)
Spy Museum (fun for kids, small entrance fee)
Free & Low-Cost Activities: Changing of the Guard at Arlington Cemetery, paddle boating in Tidal Basin
Savings Tip: Stay in Arlington, VA, or Silver Spring, MD, for cheaper hotels but easy metro access. Most of D.C.’s best attractions are free. Use the Metro to save on transportation and stay just outside the city for better lodging prices.

4. Denver, Colorado

If your crew loves the outdoors, Denver is a dream. It’s an easy-going, sunny city at the edge of the Rockies, packed with affordable family adventures.

Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Tons of free outdoor activities, affordable ski resorts in winter.
Best Time to Visit: June–September (hiking, national parks), December–March (budget skiing).
Why kids will love it:
- Visiting the Denver Museum of Nature & Science or the Children’s Museum.
- Exploring nearby mountains for hiking, biking, or even snow play.
- Catching a Rockies game or paddle boating in City Park.
Top Family Activities:
Rocky Mountain National Park (hiking, wildlife watching)
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater (free trails, scenic views)
Denver Museum of Nature & Science (interactive exhibits)
Denver Botanic Gardens (huge kids’ area)
Free & Low-Cost Activities: City Park, Union Station, 16th Street Mall
Savings Tip: Buy a Denver CityPASS to bundle museum & attraction tickets at a discount. Denver has a walkable downtown and great public transit. Outdoor activities in nearby parks and trails are free!

5. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Affordable beachfront fun is Myrtle Beach’s specialty. It’s filled with family-friendly hotels, amusement parks, and entertainment options—many with wallet-friendly pricing.

Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Cheap beachfront hotels, free beaches, and affordable attractions.
Best Time to Visit: April–May (warm weather, lower prices), September–October (fewer tourists, cheaper stays)
Why kids will love it:.
- Splashing in the waves or collecting seashells on the beach.
- Riding the SkyWheel or playing mini golf.
- Visiting Alligator Adventure or the Pirate’s Voyage dinner show.
- Top Family Activities:
  Broadway at the Beach (shops, entertainment, kid-friendly shows)
  Ripley’s Aquarium (shark tunnel, glass-bottom boat rides)
  Family Kingdom Amusement Park (budget-friendly rides & water park)
  Free & Low-Cost Activities: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, Huntington Beach State Park
- Budget tip: Look for all-inclusive hotel deals with free breakfast and water park access. Off-season (spring or fall) travel is both cheaper and less crowded.

Caribbean & Mexico Destinations

6. Cancun, Mexico

A tropical vacation that’s affordable? Say hello to Cancun. With stunning beaches, tons of resorts, and kid-approved excursions, it’s a great choice for families looking to relax or explore.

Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Frequent cheap flights, all-inclusive resorts with kid-friendly amenities.
Best Time to Visit: April–June (low season, better deals), late August–November (cheaper but hurricane risk).
Why kids will love it:
- Swimming in cenotes or snorkeling near coral reefs.
- Exploring ancient Mayan ruins at Tulum or Chichen Itza.
- Enjoying kid-friendly pools and beach games at family resorts.
Top Family Activities:
Xcaret Park (eco-park with underground rivers, wildlife, and Mayan culture)
Isla Mujeres (beautiful beaches, snorkeling, golf carts for easy travel)
Chichen Itza (Mayan ruins, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World)
Free & Low-Cost Activities: Playa Delfines (free public beach), Cenotes (natural swimming holes)
Savings Tip: Stay at family-friendly all-inclusives like Grand Palladium or Panama Jack (kids stay free deals).

7. San Juan, Puerto Rico

No passport needed if you’re coming from the U.S.—Puerto Rico is a Caribbean gem packed with culture, natural beauty, and affordable adventure.

Why It’s Budget-Friendly: No passport needed for U.S. travelers, affordable street food, free beaches.
Best Time to Visit: April–June (cheaper than winter high season).
Why kids will love it:
- Playing on Condado or Luquillo Beach.
- Exploring the colorful streets and forts of Old San Juan.
- Visiting El Yunque Rainforest for easy hikes and waterfalls.
- Top Family Activities:
  Old San Juan (colorful colonial streets, El Morro Fort)
  El Yunque National Forest (rainforest hikes, waterfalls)
  Bioluminescent Bay (kayaking at night)
  Free & Low-Cost Activities: Isla Verde Beach, Paseo de la Princesa promenade
- Savings Tip: Free beach access and inexpensive local eats (hello, mofongo and empanadillas!) make San Juan very family-budget friendly.

8. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana offers classic Caribbean vibes with all-inclusive resorts that cater specifically to families—think kids’ clubs, water parks, and themed dinners.

Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Many all-inclusive family resorts with kids’ clubs, free meals, and activities.
Best Time to Visit: May–June (off-season deals, warm weather).

Why kids will love it:

Building sandcastles and snorkeling in turquoise water.
Watching live shows or dancing at resort events.
Playing in resort water parks or kid zones.
Top Family Activities:
Bavaro Beach (calm waters, great for kids)
Scape Park (ziplining, caves, cenotes)
Dolphin Explorer (interactive marine life experiences)
Free & Low-Cost Activities: Hoyo Azul (natural swimming hole), Macao Beach
Savings Tip: Look for kids-stay-free deals at all-inclusive resorts like Royalton or Melia Caribe Beach.

9. Montego Bay, Jamaica

Jamaica combines vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and family hospitality. Montego Bay, in particular, is home to plenty of budget resorts and exciting activities for all ages.

Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Direct flights from the U.S., family-friendly all-inclusive resorts.
Best Time to Visit: April–June (cheaper than winter season).
Why kids will love it:
- Riding river tubes or bamboo rafts.
- Visiting the animal farm or playing at water parks.
- Dancing to reggae music or tasting sweet Jamaican patties.
Top Family Activities:
Dunn’s River Falls (waterfall climbing)
Dolphin Cove (swim with dolphins, sharks, and stingrays)
Mystic Mountain (bobsled ride, ziplining)
Free & Low-Cost Activities: Doctor’s Cave Beach, Montego Bay Marine Park
Savings Tip: Book an all-inclusive resort with airport transfers included to save on transportation.

Budget-Friendly Europe Destinations

10. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is one of Europe’s best family travel bargains. It’s walkable, colorful, and packed with things to see—without the high price tag of other Western European cities.

Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Cheap flights, affordable public transport, free attractions.
Best Time to Visit: March–May or September–November (cheaper & good weather).
Why kids will love it:
- Riding the yellow trams up the steep hills.
- Exploring castles, towers, and pirate-y forts.
- Snacking on sweet pastel de nata (custard tarts).
Top Family Activities:
Tram 28 ride (scenic old town tour)
Oceanário de Lisboa (Europe’s largest aquarium)
Sintra day trip (fairy-tale castles & palaces)
Savings Tip: Lisbon’s food, transport, and lodging are very budget-friendly, especially if you stay in a vacation rental and travel outside summer peak season.

Free Family Road Trip Starter Kit

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Don’t forget to grab our FREE Family Road Trip Starter Kit — packed with printable checklists, kid-approved games, and snack ideas for your next adventure!

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Packing checklist
I Spy game
Travel Bingo boards
Snack list
Activity ideas

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Affordable family travel isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about finding destinations that offer rich experiences, natural beauty, and built-in entertainment without hefty costs. Whether you’re beach-hopping in the Caribbean, museum-hopping in D.C., or castle-hopping in Portugal, these kid-approved spots offer big value and even bigger memories.

So pack those snacks, grab the favorite stuffed animals, and set off on a journey that proves family fun doesn’t have to come with a sky-high price tag.

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If you’re looking to step back in time and learn about the history of San Juan, you have to visit the San Juan National Historic Site in Puerto Rico. It’s home to some of the most stunning and historically significant sites in the Caribbean. The fortifications in San Juan are the oldest European structures in the New World.

Prepare to be blown away by Castillo San Felipe del Morro, an epic fortress that fought off pirates and is full of fascinating tales. You’ll have the chance to walk through tunnels and imagine yourself as a brave defender of the fort. The view from the walls is one you’ll remember forever- #pictureperfect doesn’t even begin to describe it.

And it doesn’t end there. Castillo San Cristóbal is an even larger fortress that played a major role in defending the city during momentous battles. The sheer size of this monument will leave you in awe.

Trust me, if you’re looking for a jam-packed sightseeing adventure, the San Juan National Historic Site is an absolute must-visit. You’ll witness some of the most impressive examples of Spanish military architecture on the planet. Even the kids will enjoy visiting the San Juan National Historic Site. Don’t hesitate- book your trip now to see it all for yourself!

When we visited the San Juan National Historic Site, we started with a visit to El Morro and finished with San Cristobal. You can visit the forts in either order, we chose to visit the one furthest from the port first. The two forts are located just over a mile from each other. You could easily walk from one fort to the other, but we chose to use Uber, instead.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro

Castillo San Felipe del Morro, also known as El Morro, is a beautiful historic fortress located in San Juan, Puerto Rico. It was built in the 16th century by the Spanish to protect the city from seaborne attacks, and it has since become a cultural landmark that attracts visitors from around the world.

The castle is well-preserved and features stunning architecture and breathtaking sea views. Visitors can explore the fort, climb its winding staircases, and learn about the history of the area through informative exhibits and displays.

One of the most impressive features of El Morro is its defense system, which includes moats, drawbridges, and cannon batteries. It’s easy to imagine the soldiers who manned the fortress, standing guard against potential invaders and protecting the city from harm. Our kiddos enjoyed imagining what it would have been like to live in the fort.

In addition to its historical significance, El Morro is also a great place to enjoy some outdoor recreation. The surrounding grounds are perfect for picnicking and kite-flying, and there are plenty of scenic walking trails to explore.

Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and educational day trip, Castillo San Felipe del Morro is a must-visit destination in Puerto Rico.

Castillo San Cristobal

Castillo San Cristobal, located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a historical fortification that dates back to the 18th century. Constructed to protect the island from potential attacks, it is one of the largest fortresses built by the Spanish in the New World.

Visitors can explore the fortress and its many exhibits, including the history of the fortification, the daily life of soldiers, and the role of Puerto Rico in the Spanish-American War. You can also take in stunning views of the city and Atlantic Ocean from the top of the castle walls.

The Castillo San Cristobal is a symbol of Puerto Rican pride and resilience. It has withstood various natural disasters, such as hurricanes and earthquakes, throughout the centuries and still stands as a testament to the perseverance of the island’s people. It is a historical and cultural gem that any traveler would be remiss to miss.

Getting to the San Juan National Historic Site

Honestly, getting around San Juan couldn’t be any easier. Whether you’re arriving via airplane or cruise ship, you’ll find taxis waiting just outside of the terminal. The taxis in San Juan have regulated fares, so you don’t have to worry about getting ripped off.

Perhaps an even easier way to get around San Juan is by using Uber, especially if you’re already familiar with the app.

During our visit (in November 2023), we used both cabs and Uber. We arrived at the Port of San Juan via cruise ship and followed the signs for taxis. Right outside of the port area, there’s a small stand where you can request a taxi. We told them where we wanted to go (the forts) and they spoke to the driver on our behalf.

After we visited Castillo San Felipe del Morro, we took an Uber just up the street to Castillo San Cristobal. One of the park rangers told us it would be cheaper than taking a cab (and they were correct!). Next time we’re in San Juan, I think we’ll just stick to Uber since it’s super easy and convenient and I can pay right through the app.

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Whether you’re visiting San Juan via plane or on a cruise, you should take the time to visit the iconic San Juan National Historic Site. There’s not better way to learn about the history of this important Caribbean port than by strolling around its ancient fortifications.

For future reference, be sure to save Exploring the Rich History of San Juan National Historic Site! Pin one of the images below to Pinterest. Go ahead and follow 5 Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

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