Affordable family getaways
We’ve gathered five great summer getaways for every kind of family—and all are under $200 a night.
Amusement Park Destination: Carlsbad, Calif.
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Stay at the West Inn, a boutique hotel just a five-minute drive from Legoland that has a fitness center as well as a heated outdoor pool and spa. An added bonus: Complimentary milk and cookies come at bedtime. Doubles from $159/night on weekends (rate includes parking, Wi-Fi, movie rentals, full hot breakfast and free shuttle service to Legoland or anywhere in Carlsbad).
(See also: Legoland Hotel opens in Carlsbad)
Camp for All Ages: Maine Camp Experience
A growing number of camps provide overnight camp sessions for the whole family—a great chance to have fun all together. Family Camp at Maine Camp Experience offers a range of camp options around the state. There’s plenty to enjoy: waterskiing, fishing, rock climbing, zip lining, archery, tennis lessons and arts and crafts, as well as sunset campfires and games organized by camp staff. Experiences range from specific two-night weekend sessions to lengthier, more flexible stays. Rates from $65/night per person ($55 for ages 6-11 and under 6 is free), includes accommodations, meals and activities.
City Trip: Chicago
Check in to the Hilton Chicago, a family-friendly hotel overlooking Lake Michigan and across from Grant Park. There’s a great indoor pool and a full service athletic club with an indoor running track. And the hotel is close to a number of attractions, such as the Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and Millennium Park. Family Packages from $159/night (good through June 24 and includes overnight accommodations, self-parking for one vehicle, one in-room movie, and children under 12 eat free at 720 South Bar and Grill, with purchase of an adult meal).
Waterfront Escape: Orcas Island, Wash.
The Rosario Resort on Orcas Island is an ideal Northwest escape for those who love nature, outdoor activities and cultural attractions. The resort is on the National Register of Historic Places and guest rooms come with views of East Sound and Cascade Bay on Orcas Island. Activities include kayaking and taking a whale watching and wildlife cruise on Puget Sound. The outdoor Marina Pool opens over Memorial Day; there’s also an indoor pool. Doubles from $119/night (April-June); from $149/night July-Sept).
Mountain Getaway: Ozark Mountains, Mo.
Located on a hilltop overlooking bass-filled Table Rock Lake, Big Cedar Lodge has well-appointed lodge rooms and 81 log cabins with wood-burning fireplaces and exposed-wood beams. Try paddle-boarding on the private marina, get a treatment at one of two spas, play tennis, splash around in one of the five pools, or go hiking in the Ozark wilderness. The lodge has its own horse stables and offers pony rides and trail rides. Doubles from $129/now; summer rates from $179/night (beginning Memorial Day).
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