saving money on your business travels

You don't have to wait until the kids are out of school for the summer to vacation with your family. Why not make the most of your family's four-day weekends and plan a few mini-vacations throughout the year? The great thing about mini-vacations is that they don't need to be elaborate. Check out these ideas to help you plan a simple weekend getaway that your family will enjoy.

Explore a Nearby City

If you live within driving distance of a metropolitan area, you could easily spend the weekend exploring the city. If you have small children, choose a nearby city that is home to a children's museum, a zoo, or a theme park that they would enjoy. If you have older children or teens, consider choosing a metropolitan area that is steeped in history for an educational trip or one that is known for its excellent shopping venues or sporting events.

Family-Friendly Resorts

Booking a family suite at the your closest family resort has several benefits. Most family-friendly resorts are situated in areas with plenty of family-oriented attractions, giving you plenty of activity options. Some family-friendly resorts even have amenities, such as indoor waterparks, so your family can enjoy a fun getaway without leaving the hotel. For added fun, look for resorts that offer family suites with a theme so that your kids can sleep next to murals of their favorite cartoon characters or on bunk beds in their own kiddie cabin.

Camping

If the weather is nice, take your family camping for the weekend. It's easy to find family-oriented campgrounds that offer activities such as swimming, fishing, and canoeing. If your family isn't the outdoorsy type, you can still enjoy the benefits of camping by renting an on-site cabin. Camping is a great choice for families that have trouble disconnecting from electronics, because you'll be able to enjoy activities that require your kids to put down the cell phones. Also, there's a good chance you may not get an adequate cell phone signal or Internet connection at the campground.

Explore Your Surroundings

There are probably plenty of places to explore right in your own backyard. So, if you're strapped for cash, plan a fun staycation for your family. During your family's next four-day weekend, choose a nearby place to explore. You could visit a local museum, go hiking at a nearby nature preserve, or take the family out for ice cream and a movie.

You don't need to plan a two-week trip for your family to enjoy the relaxing benefits a vacation provides. All you need to do is research places that are within driving distance of your home to find activities that your family will enjoy, and plan a weekend full of fun. To learn more, contact a company like Cascade Inn.