Nothing says summer more than a fun family road trip. Unfortunately, the dismal economy has many clans looking for alternatives to traditional treks across the country. If you are on the hunt for wallet-friendly activities that will keep your kids happy and help preserve your sanity, consider the following: BACKYARD VACATION Who says you have to drive hundreds of miles to a national park to experience adventures in the great outdoors? Save money and create your own Camp Wannahavefun in your own backyard. You can purchase a fire pit from a home-improvement store like Lowe’s for as little as $60. … Continue reading →

The calendar may still say spring, but with most of the country experiencing temperatures in the 80s and 90s, summer fever is already in full swing. It’s almost time for students to trade in their books for the beach, and for parents to start planning for the clan’s annual summer getaway. If you are looking for activities that will delight the entire family in the coming weeks, consider the following: GREAT AMERICAN FOOD AND MUSIC FEST This annual one-day event has something for everyone. Foodies will be in heaven sampling everything from authentic buffalo wings from Anchor Bar in Buffalo … Continue reading →

Since the majority of kids are still in school until June, most families stick closer to home during the long Memorial Day weekend. However, this year, the flailing economy is also contributing to families looking for fun, affordable activities that don’t require traveling long distances. If you are looking for Memorial Day family-friendly fun that won’t put a strain on your family’s budget, consider the following: Take me out to the ballpark: Minor league baseball is an inexpensive way to enjoy time with the family. According to AAA, the average cost to buy tickets for a family of four is … Continue reading →

The Indianapolis 500 roars into the Midwest on May 24th. While the race is one of the biggest events hosted by the city, it is not the only reason to visit. With the economy still in disarray, Indianapolis tourism officials hope budget-conscious travelers will consider the city a gas tank getaway. More than half the nation’s population lives within a day’s drive of Indianapolis, according to tourism officials, which is why the city is nicknamed the Crossroads of America. In addition to the iconic speedway, which remains the world’s largest spectator-sporting facility, Indianapolis boasts a plethora of other fun family-friendly … Continue reading →

Why spend thousands of dollars on a summer getaway to some far-off locale when you can have a blast in the good ol’ U.S.A. for free? Check out these sizzling hot summer attractions for families that don’t cost a penny to visit: ALABAMA During the month of June local Alabama dignitaries will be leading walking tours of the state’s historic districts for free. The 60-minute tours weave through 30-plus communities and highlight local landmarks. In addition, the local luminaries share their own memories of growing up in sweet home Alabama. ALASKA The 49th state is sparkling this summer thanks to … Continue reading →

Just because the rough economy has you pinching pennies doesn’t mean you can’t have fun in the sun this summer. There are hundreds of free family-friendly activities waiting for you to take advantage of this season. Take a look at just a few: ARIZONA Gather the clan at head out to the Sonoran Desert for a night of stargazing. The Kitt Peak National Observatory, located about 60 miles southwest of Tucson on the Tohono O’odham Reservation, is home to the world’s largest collection of optical research telescopes. The observatory is open to the public daily from 9 a.m. to 4 … Continue reading →

If April showers bring May flowers, then local florists should prepare for the worst, because our city will be covered with tulips and daffodils by next week. Who needs to shop for Mother’s Day bouquets when you can gather blossoms by the dozens in your own backyard? If your neck of the woods hasn’t been soaked by spring storms, then consider having fun in the May sun by visiting local botanical gardens for a chance to take in the colors of the season. This year New York City and New York State are celebrating their roots as a Dutch colony … Continue reading →

Celebrating special occasions has never been more affordable thanks to some generous hotels, restaurants and other family-friendly attractions. Take a look at the deep discounts and freebies being offered right now for individuals commemorating major milestones: MOTHER’S DAY Moms get free admission to the Franklin Park Zoo in Massachusetts on Mother’s Day. (This freebie is being duplicated at hundreds of zoos nationwide. Check with your local zoo to see if mom can get in free on her special day.) BIRTHDAY Get free admission any time during the month of your birthday at one of the nine Medieval Times dinner theaters … Continue reading →