Inexpensive Family Vacations

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When an economy begins to suffer, few industries get hit harder than the tourism industry. Typically, vacationers choose to stay home during a recession, as money is tight and futures are less certain than during economic boom times.

Considering the current state of the economy, it's no surprise many families are choosing to save money this year and forgo their annual vacations. However, families staying home this vacation season don't have to spend that valuable vacation time on the couch. The following inexpensive ideas can help families make lasting vacation memories while protecting their bottom line as well.

* Visit family: Visiting relatives for vacations can be a great way to reconnect with family and save money at the same time. If planned ahead of time, families can arrange to visit their relatives and save money by staying with family rather than in a costly hotel. Even if you need to fly, the money you save on hotel accommodations can make the cost of flying much easier to handle.

* Do some local sightseeing: Though you might not realize it, the country has history nearly everywhere you look, including in your backyard. Appreciating the country's history doesn't have to be limited to costly vacations to tourist attractions such as Ellis Island or the Liberty Bell. Chances are, there's just as much local history to explore and appreciate in your own neck of the woods, and doing so won't force you to break the bank. Day trips to local historical sites can be as valuable an experience as traveling far and wide to experience the nation's vast and storied history.

* Visit the local amusement park: For kids, few days are better than days spent at the amusement park. And it doesn't have to be Disney World for kids to have fun. The local amusement park will suffice for kids and parents alike, and it will do so at a fraction of the cost of traveling to more popular and expensive amusement parks.