Budget Weekend Getaways for Connecticut Families - The Basics

Booking ahead will typically ensure the best rates on accommodations. You can save time (and filter for lowest prices) with metasearch sites like trivago.com and Kayak.com. However, some deals can be found at the last minute with sites like hoteltonight.com. Last minute cancelations can open up opportunities for deals on vacation rental sites like airbnb and vrbo.

Many hotels offer breakfast as part of the rate, so it's worth factoring that into the total cost. You can often find a better deal by staying a little further from the action. A waterfront hotel will invariably cost more than one that's a short walk from the beach. And a hotel with a pool provides hours of entertainment!

Camping is often the best deal for overnight stays—provide you have the equipment. Check with family and friends to see if they have gear you can borrow.

Don't forget to check your membership discounts. Everything from AAA to your credit cards or union membership can provide discounts to lodging and activities. And local libraries often have passes for area attractions.

Budget Weekend Getaways for Families in Connecticut

1. Mystic

With a quaint town center (complete with some of the region's best ice cream) Mystic has loads of budget-friendly activities. Mystic's hotels can definitely get expensive, but nearby North Stonington and Niantic offer cozy spots for a comfier price. The Mystic Aquarium and Mystic Seaport Museum are both top Connecticut destinations that won't break the bank. Located a short drive away, Hidden Acres family campground has cabins for under $165 per night.

 
A day at the beach is an easy way to save money and still have enormous fun. Norwalk beach photo by Ally Noel

2. Norwalk

Norwalk has fabulous beaches, free museums, and more! The Maritime Aquarium and Stepping Stones Museum are both great destinations for families; both are pretty reasonably priced. If hotel rates in Norwalk aren't accommodating, nearby Stamford often has good prices.

 
Kids can get a full day of fun at the Connecticut Science Center. Photo courtesy of the Connecticut Science Center in Hartford

3. Hartford 

The capital has a range of activities, accommodations, and places to eat. A full day of fun at the Connecticut Science Center costs under $100 for a family of four. And children under 6 get into the Mark Twain House for free. Hartford is large enough to make bargain hunting on sites like Hotwire a very good option. The state capitol and surrounding Bushnell park are worthy of a fun and free excursion.

4. Waterbury

The Brass City has year-round family fun, from bowling and laser tag to performances from the Arts and Culture Collaborative. Waterbury hotels can be a bargain on the right weekend. Gentiles Campground in nearby Plymouth has a range of amenities (including a pool, sports fields, and playground) for very reasonable rates.

5. New Haven

From strolling the grounds at Yale to enjoying free festivals throughout the summer, New Haven lets families enjoy high culture at low prices. The city has some spectacular parks, too. From the beaches (and carousel) of Lighthouse Point, to the heights of East Rock Park, New Haven has outdoor attractions that are easy on the wallet. And there are some good deals on hotels to be found while the university is on break.

Budget Weekend Getaways for Families Near Connecticut

6. Springfield

From the Dr. Seuss Museum to the Basketball Hall of Fame, Springfield has something for everybody. The Dr. Seuss Museum is one of 5 attractions bundled into one very low price. The Dr. Seuss sculpture garden is also free. With all those deals, you might feel like splurging. And Six Flags New England is right down the road! 

7. Naragansett

Narragansett has enough attractions to fill several weekends. From the beaches to the towers, and Point Judith Lighthouse, the sights are many and free. Spend some of those savings on some incredible seafood! Compared to nearby Newport, the hotels in Narragansett are a steal. And Fisherman's Memorial State Park has camping facilities.

8. Providence

Providence is another walkable New England city with history, dining, and family activities. Free Play Arcade has family day on select Sundays, with unlimited video games for one low price. Rhode Island's capital has one of New England's finest zoos, and the surrounding Roger Williams Park is perfect for picnicking!

 
The Berkshires have some exquisite state parks for hiking and more! Photo courtesy of Pittsfield State Park 

9. Berkshires

From the central city of Pittsfield, families can explore the natural wonders of Western Massachusetts. The region has extensive hiking trails and camping opportunities. Stockbridge is also home to Tanglewood, the performance center where families can enjoy a picnic and a show; tickets are as low as $24.

10. Cape Cod 

Sure, upscale communities like Chatham can get pricey, especially in the summer. But there are always deals to be found on the Cape, particularly outside of the summer season. You can find the best prices on lodging if you stay at one of Cape Cod's camping sites. Cape Cod has plenty of affordable fun, from beaches to ice cream and rounds of mini-golf! There are also state parks and wildlife refuges where the family can spend the day exploring nature.