5 Most Affordable Memorial Day Destinations for Families
Written by
Cynthia Measom
Edited by
Amber Barkley
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
With Memorial Day around the corner, many families are looking for budget-friendly places to travel. A recent Dollar Flight Club report, based on over 500,000 airfare data points and the preferences of more than 3 million members, highlighted the most affordable travel destinations for Memorial Day Weekend 2025, including average round-trip airfare costs.
Free activities can also help stretch the trip’s overall budget, giving families more room to spend on paid experiences if they choose.
Here are five cities perfect for a Memorial Day getaway — all with affordable airfare and free family-friendly activities.
San Diego
- Average round-trip airfare: $67-$223
San Diego is the land of opportunity for families who want to save.
They can watch sea lions at La Jolla Cove, stroll through Balboa Park’s free gardens or explore the waterfront trails along the Embarcadero. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve charges a $10 to $25 parking fee for access to coastal hiking trails. Cabrillo National Monument, where tide pools and scenic overlooks draw visitors, has a $20 entrance fee per car.
Charleston, South Carolina
- Average round-trip airfare: $86-$172Â Â
Charleston has many free activities that make it a good choice for families.
The Battery, a historic waterfront walkway, offers views of antebellum mansions and the harbor. White Point Garden, once a military fortification, now has shaded paths, cannons from the Revolutionary and Civil Wars and benches overlooking the water.
Waterfront Park covers more than eight acres along the river and has fountains, swings and plenty of green open space where kids can play. Families can also visit Johns Island to see the Angel Oak Tree, which stands 65 feet tall and is estimated to be 300-400 years old.
Tampa, Florida
- Average round-trip airfare: $78-$219Â Â
Families will enjoy Tampa’s free attractions, as well. The Tampa Riverwalk stretches for 2.5 miles along the Hillsborough River and connects to parks and play areas. It also offers easy access to Sparkman Wharf, which has food, live music and kid-friendly entertainment if you’re in the mood to open your wallet.
Another free attraction is the riverfront Water Works Park, with shaded picnic areas, a playscape and a splash pad. Families can also visit Bayshore Boulevard, one of the longest continuous sidewalks in the country, for a free scenic walk or bike ride along the bay. Benches, water fountains and bike parking are available.
Washington, DC
- Average round-trip airfare: $91-$209
Washington, D.C. has a long list of free attractions to help families manage travel costs.
Besides visiting the White House and the Washington Monument for free, families can explore the National Mall’s monuments and memorials, visit the Smithsonian museums, such as the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History, or walk the Tidal Basin trail. The National Zoo, featuring a variety of animals, is another free option for families.
Austin, Texas Â
- Average round-trip airfare: $106-$233
Austin also has plenty to do without spending money. Zilker Metropolitan Park has playgrounds, picnic areas and green space for outdoor fun. Trails around Lady Bird Lake offer city skyline views for walkers and bikers. Mayfield Park, known for its shaded gardens and roaming peacocks, is another free stop.
Families can also visit the Texas State Capitol for a free tour or climb Mount Bonnell for panoramic views of Lake Austin.
More From GOBankingRates
Sources
