Spring break is just that — a much needed break from school for students and teachers — but it’s also an opportunity for families to take a memorable vacation. Though you might think spring break means long lines, crowds and big travel budgets, there are great alternative spring break trips across the U.S. that are less traveled and less expensive. Check out these four spring break ideas for families on a budget.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
How to Get There:
Pick up your rental car at Knoxville Airport and drive about 42 miles southeast to cozy, charming Gatlinburg.
Why You Should Go:
Gatlinburg serves as the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Get closer to nature, and save money, by pitching a tent at one of many nearby campgrounds. Drive about 4 miles northeast from downtown to Camp LeConte, an outdoor resort with a variety of lodging choices, including traditional tent camping sites, safari tents, luxury treehouses and even replica 1961 Shasta Airflyte 16SC Travel Trailers for “glamping.” The park is still in its off-season from March to May, which means you can enjoy fewer crowds while on this budget-friendly break.
What to See and Do:
The town boasts a variety of family-friendly attractions, like the 407-foot Space Needle observation tower. From up top, take in the panoramic views overlooking downtown and the Smokies; free viewfinders are available for better inspection. Don’t miss the Ober Gatlinburg, an affordable amusement park where you can glide down the mountain on an alpine slide or coaster, or even play all day in an arcade.
Feeling nostalgic? Head to Cooter’s Place, a museum dedicated to the television show “Dukes of Hazzard,” operated by former Cooter actor Ben Jones. Check out the memorabilia before playing mini-golf or riding the go-karts on-site.