Cheapest Family Hotels in the U.S. with Kids’ Activities

Planning a family vacation can be exciting, but the costs can quickly add up, especially when it comes to accommodation. Finding a hotel that caters to both your budget and your kids’ entertainment needs can seem like a daunting task. But fear not! This guide is dedicated to helping you discover some of the cheapest family hotels in the U.S. that offer fantastic kids’ activities, ensuring a memorable and affordable vacation for the whole family.

Understanding the Landscape of Affordable Family Hotels

Before diving into specific hotel recommendations, it’s important to understand what factors contribute to the affordability of a family hotel and what kind of activities you can typically expect at this price point. The term “cheap” is subjective, but for the purposes of this article, we’ll focus on hotels offering average nightly rates below $150, while still providing a comfortable stay and engaging activities for children. Rates can fluctuate significantly based on seasonality, location, and special events, so always check current pricing before booking.

When considering affordable family hotels, keep an eye out for amenities such as:

• Free breakfast: A great way to save money on food costs, especially for large families.
• Swimming pools: Always a hit with kids, and often a standard feature in budget-friendly hotels.
• Game rooms or arcades: Provides entertainment for kids of all ages.
• On-site playgrounds: Ideal for younger children to burn off energy.
• Kids’ clubs or organized activities: Some hotels offer structured programs for children, allowing parents to relax.
• Free Wi-Fi: Essential for staying connected and entertaining older kids.

It’s also crucial to read reviews from other families who have stayed at the hotel to get a realistic idea of the quality of the accommodations and the effectiveness of the kids’ activities. Look for comments on cleanliness, staff friendliness, and the overall experience.

Top States for Affordable Family Hotels

Certain states in the U.S. consistently offer more affordable accommodation options than others. Here are a few that are worth considering for your family vacation:

• Florida: Beyond the theme parks, Florida boasts numerous family-friendly hotels, especially along the Gulf Coast, with lower prices compared to Orlando.
• Texas: With vast landscapes and diverse cities, Texas offers a wide range of affordable hotels, often with pools and outdoor spaces.
• Georgia: Savannah and other cities offer historic charm at affordable rates, with hotels often featuring family-friendly amenities.
• North Carolina: The Outer Banks and other coastal regions provide budget-friendly beach vacation options.
• Tennessee: Home to family-friendly attractions like Dollywood and Graceland, Tennessee offers hotels at varying price points, with many affordable options.
• Arizona: Outside of peak tourist seasons, Arizona’s desert regions can offer surprising deals on hotels with pools and outdoor activities.

These states often have a larger supply of hotels, which drives down prices, and they also tend to have lower overall costs of living compared to states like California or New York.

Recommended Affordable Family Hotels (By Region)

Now, let’s delve into some specific hotel recommendations across different regions of the U.S., focusing on those that consistently receive positive reviews for affordability, cleanliness, and kids’ activities. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate, so it’s always a good idea to check current rates and availability before booking.

Southeast Region

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Panama City Beach, FL

Panama City Beach is a popular destination for families, and the Country Inn & Suites offers a comfortable stay at an affordable price. The hotel features an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center. They also offer a complimentary hot breakfast, which is a great way to start the day. The beach is just a short walk away, and there are plenty of family-friendly attractions in the area.

Kids’ Activities: Outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, close proximity to the beach and local attractions like Gulf World Marine Park and Shipwreck Island Waterpark.

Hampton Inn & Suites Savannah/I-95 South, GA

Located just a short drive from historic Savannah, this Hampton Inn & Suites offers a convenient and affordable base for exploring the city. The hotel features an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary hot breakfast. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, making it a comfortable choice for families.

Kids’ Activities: Outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, close proximity to Savannah’s historic sites and family-friendly activities like trolley tours and riverboat cruises.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Myrtle Beach-Broadway at the Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach is a classic family vacation destination, and the Holiday Inn Express & Suites provides an affordable option close to the action. The hotel features an outdoor pool, a lazy river, and a complimentary breakfast. It’s located within walking distance of Broadway at the Beach, a popular entertainment complex with shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Kids’ Activities: Outdoor pool, lazy river, complimentary breakfast, walking distance to Broadway at the Beach with attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium and WonderWorks.

Southwest Region

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Airport, TX

San Antonio is a great city for families, with attractions like the Riverwalk and the Alamo. The La Quinta Inn & Suites near the airport offers an affordable and comfortable stay. The hotel features an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, making it a good choice for families.

Kids’ Activities: Outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, close proximity to the San Antonio Riverwalk and family-friendly attractions like the Alamo and Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Phoenix Airport, AZ

While Embassy Suites are often associated with higher prices, the Phoenix Airport location can be surprisingly affordable, especially during off-peak seasons. The hotel features a spacious suite layout, a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast, and an evening reception with snacks and drinks. The outdoor pool area is also a big hit with kids.

Kids’ Activities: Outdoor pool, complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast, evening reception with snacks and drinks, spacious suite layout.

Best Western Plus Dallas Hotel & Suites NW Hwy

Located in Dallas, this Best Western Plus offers a solid option for families seeking affordability and convenience. It boasts a pool, free breakfast, and is situated near family attractions. Reviews often highlight the friendly staff and clean rooms, making it a reliable choice.

Kids’ Activities: Outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, proximity to Dallas World Aquarium and the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.

Midwest Region

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Wisconsin Dells, WI

Wisconsin Dells is known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” and the Country Inn & Suites offers a comfortable and affordable base for exploring the area. The hotel features an indoor and outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a complimentary breakfast. It’s located close to many of the area’s waterparks and attractions.

Kids’ Activities: Indoor and outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, close proximity to Wisconsin Dells waterparks like Noah’s Ark and Mt. Olympus.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Chicago-Naperville, IL

Located in Naperville, a suburb of Chicago, this Holiday Inn Express & Suites offers a convenient and affordable option for families visiting the area. The hotel features an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast. It’s a short drive from downtown Chicago and many of the city’s attractions.

Kids’ Activities: Indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, close proximity to Chicago’s museums, parks, and attractions like Navy Pier and the Shedd Aquarium.

Baymont by Wyndham Sandusky, OH

Sandusky is home to Cedar Point amusement park, and this Baymont by Wyndham provides a budget-friendly stay for park-goers. The hotel features an outdoor pool and a complimentary breakfast, making it a practical choice for families focused on maximizing their time at the park.

Kids’ Activities: Outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, close proximity to Cedar Point amusement park and other Sandusky attractions.

Northeast Region

Hampton Inn & Suites Boston/Canton, MA

While Boston can be an expensive city, the Hampton Inn & Suites in Canton, just south of the city, offers a more affordable option for families. The hotel features an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast. It’s a short drive from Boston and many of the city’s attractions.

Kids’ Activities: Indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, close proximity to Boston’s museums, historical sites, and attractions like the Boston Children’s Museum and the New England Aquarium.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New Haven Wallingford, CT

Located in Wallingford, near New Haven, this Fairfield Inn & Suites offers a comfortable and affordable stay for families visiting the area. The hotel features an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast. It’s a short drive from Yale University and other New Haven attractions.

Kids’ Activities: Indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, close proximity to Yale University and other New Haven attractions like the Peabody Museum of Natural History.

Comfort Inn & Suites State College, PA

State College is home to Penn State University, and this Comfort Inn & Suites offers a budget-friendly option for families visiting the area. The hotel features an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast. It’s close to the university and other local attractions.

Kids’ Activities: Indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, close proximity to Penn State University and local parks and recreation areas.

Northwest Region

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Seattle Federal Way, WA

While Seattle itself can be pricey, the La Quinta Inn & Suites in Federal Way, just south of the city, offers a more affordable option for families. The hotel features an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast. It’s a short drive from Seattle and many of the city’s attractions.

Kids’ Activities: Indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, close proximity to Seattle’s museums, attractions like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, and the Wild Waves Theme & Water Park.

Holiday Inn Express Portland-Jantzen Beach, OR

Located on Jantzen Beach, this Holiday Inn Express provides a convenient and affordable base for exploring Portland. The hotel features an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast. It’s close to the Columbia River and other local attractions.

Kids’ Activities: Indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, close proximity to Portland’s museums, parks, and attractions like the Oregon Zoo and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI).

Super 8 by Wyndham Boise Airport

Boise, Idaho, offers a mix of outdoor adventures and city amenities, and the Super 8 near the airport provides an affordable lodging option. With a seasonal outdoor pool and free breakfast, it caters well to families on a budget. Reviews often note the convenient location and helpful staff.

Kids’ Activities: Seasonal outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and proximity to Julia Davis Park, which offers a zoo, a museum, and green spaces.

Tips for Finding the Best Deals on Family Hotels

Finding the cheapest family hotels requires a bit of research and planning. Here are some tips to help you snag the best deals:

• Travel during the off-season: Hotel rates are typically lower during the off-season, when demand is lower. Consider traveling in the spring or fall, rather than during the peak summer months or holidays.
• Book in advance: Booking your hotel well in advance can often secure you a lower rate. Many hotels offer early booking discounts.
• Be flexible with your dates: If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may be able to find even better deals. Try searching for hotels on different days of the week to see if rates vary.
• Use online travel agencies: Online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia, Booking.com, and Hotels.com can help you compare prices from different hotels and find the best deals.
• Sign up for hotel loyalty programs: Hotel loyalty programs offer a variety of benefits, including discounted rates, free nights, and room upgrades.
• Consider alternative accommodations: In addition to hotels, consider alternative accommodations like vacation rentals or Airbnb. These can sometimes be more affordable, especially for larger families.
• Look for packages: Many hotels offer packages that include accommodation, meals, and activities. These packages can often be more affordable than booking everything separately.
• Read reviews carefully: Before booking a hotel, be sure to read reviews from other families who have stayed there. This will help you get a realistic idea of the quality of the accommodations and the activities offered.
• Contact the hotel directly: Sometimes, calling the hotel directly can yield better deals than booking online. Don’t hesitate to ask if they have any special offers or discounts available.
• Set price alerts: Use travel websites or apps to set up price alerts for hotels you’re interested in. You’ll be notified when the price drops, allowing you to book at the optimal time.

Beyond the Hotel: Free and Low-Cost Activities

While choosing an affordable hotel with kids’ activities is a great start, maximizing your budget involves exploring free or low-cost activities in your destination. Here are a few ideas:

• Parks and playgrounds: Most cities have numerous parks and playgrounds that offer free entertainment for kids.
• Beaches: If you’re traveling to a coastal area, spending time at the beach is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without spending a lot of money.
• Hiking trails: Many areas have hiking trails that are suitable for families. Be sure to choose trails that are appropriate for your children’s ages and abilities.
• Local libraries: Libraries often offer free story times, workshops, and other activities for children.
• Farmers’ markets: Visiting a farmers’ market is a great way to experience the local culture and sample fresh produce.
• Free museums: Some museums offer free admission on certain days or at certain times. Check the museum’s website for details.
• Picnics: Packing a picnic lunch is a great way to save money on food costs and enjoy the outdoors.
• Geocaching: Geocaching is a treasure-hunting activity that involves using GPS coordinates to find hidden containers. It’s a fun and engaging activity for kids of all ages.
• Attend free events: Many cities host free events throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals, and movie screenings.
• Walking tours: Consider a self-guided walking tour to explore historical sites or points of interest at your own pace.

Packing Essentials for a Family Trip

Efficient packing can make or break a family vacation, especially when you’re aiming for budget-friendly travel. Here’s a checklist of essentials to consider:

• Clothing: Pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched. Consider layering options for varying weather conditions.
• Toiletries: Bring travel-sized toiletries to save space and avoid the need to purchase them at your destination.
• First-aid kit: Pack a basic first-aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications.
• Snacks: Bringing your own snacks can save money on expensive convenience store purchases.
• Entertainment: Pack books, games, and other entertainment options to keep kids occupied during travel and downtime.
• Reusable water bottles: Staying hydrated is important, and reusable water bottles help you avoid buying expensive bottled water.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent: Protect your family from the sun and insects, especially when spending time outdoors.
• Comfort items: For younger children, bring along a favorite blanket or toy to provide comfort and familiarity.
• Travel documents: Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, such as IDs, passports, and reservation confirmations.
• Portable charger: Keep your electronic devices charged on the go with a portable charger.

Utilizing Hotel Amenities to the Fullest

Many budget-friendly hotels offer amenities that can significantly enhance your family vacation experience. Take advantage of these resources to maximize your stay:

• Free breakfast: Start your day with a complimentary breakfast to save money on dining expenses.
• Swimming pool: Enjoy a refreshing swim in the hotel pool to relax and unwind.
• Fitness center: Maintain your fitness routine with a workout in the hotel’s fitness center.
• Business center: Utilize the business center for printing documents or accessing computers.
• Laundry facilities: Do laundry on-site to avoid expensive dry-cleaning services.
• Shuttle service: Take advantage of complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport or local attractions.
• Wi-Fi: Stay connected with free Wi-Fi access throughout the hotel.
• Concierge services: Seek assistance from the concierge for recommendations on local attractions and activities.
• Game room: Many hotels offer a game room with arcade games, pool tables, or other forms of entertainment.

Creating Lasting Memories on a Budget

A family vacation doesn’t have to break the bank to be memorable. By choosing affordable accommodation, exploring free or low-cost activities, and utilizing hotel amenities to the fullest, you can create lasting memories that your family will cherish for years to come. The key is to focus on spending quality time together and embracing new experiences, regardless of the cost.

Remember to involve your children in the planning process, allowing them to choose some of the activities or attractions they’d like to visit. This will help them feel more invested in the trip and create a sense of excitement and anticipation. Also, be open to spontaneous adventures and unexpected discoveries along the way. Sometimes, the most memorable moments are the ones that aren’t planned.

Most importantly, prioritize creating a positive and supportive atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable and valued. A happy and relaxed family is the most important ingredient for a successful and memorable vacation, no matter the budget.

So, start planning your affordable family adventure today! With a little research and creativity, you can create a vacation that’s both budget-friendly and unforgettable.