Affordable Winter Getaways for Minnesota Metro Families
No matter where you live or what you do, a vacation will always be something to look forward to. For those who live in places like Florida or California, who are lucky enough to have perfect summer weather nearly year-round, an escape to a tropical getaway might not be as needed as someone who lives in a colder climate.
For example, if you and your family live in the beautiful and cultural state of Minnesota, you may find yourself planning your winter getaway sooner than later. While Minnesota has so much to offer, including over 10,000 lakes and modern museums, sometimes a little bit of sunshine is the only thing that will satisfy your soul in the winter.
So, if you live in the Minnesota metro area and are looking for your next winter destination, look no further. Below are the top places to visit for an out of country-like vacation experience in the middle of a winter season. Lucky for you, the MSP airport takes the cake for the 16th busiest airport for passengers and 15th for aircraft operations. Although this may sound hectic, you’re likely to find many travel options and amenities.
1. Golden Isles, Georgia
Our first pick is one that has an island feel without having to travel across the globe to get it. The Golden Isles lie along Georgia’s beautiful Atlantic coast with 4 different barrier islands to choose from: St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island. These islands are all connected by highways or boat rides and are known for their sandy beaches and Southern hospitality.
If you take a trip to this paradise, you can get the chance to stroll through Driftwood Beach, learn about sea turtles and their conservation, and even see a few historical monuments. If you have friends or family who live near the Golden Isles, that would be ideal. However, if you don’t, you and your family will need a place to stay.
We suggest booking your night’s stay at Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Jekyll Island for around $83 a night. Their rooms are beach themed with family-friendly accommodations, and one of the most relaxing spots on the beach to soak in that vacation time. If you’re really eager to start planning, Frontier Airlines offers a plane ticket for about $100 for a nonstop flight per person.
2. Port Isabel, Texas
If your heart is in Mexico but your wallet is within the borders of the United States, we have the perfect remedy for you. This year, take a trip out to Port Isabel, Texas. This vacation spot sits right on the Gulf of Mexico and isn’t too far from the US-Mexican border. Imagine waking up every morning and seeing palm trees smile at you during the winter months. Doesn’t that sound magical?
What’s most wonderful about this place – there is actually a long list of wonderful things here – is that it’s a highly rated vacation spot by tourists, yet also one of the most affordable. Pack up your bags and take your family to Texas for the time of your lives. Flight tickets can cost an upwards of $150-$450 depending on when you want to travel, so make sure to buy tickets in advance.
Another option would be to take a nice road trip with the family. You can stop at a few places along the way and make your trip even more memorable – it’s only about a 24-hour drive! When you arrive, you’ll notice that there aren’t too many hotels. For family-friendly fun, however, the Southwind Inn seems to be the best option with an outdoor pool that everyone can enjoy at only $30 a night.
3. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Last but not least, our affordable winter getaway list ends with the grand slam of vacation spots – Myrtle Beach. Located on South Carolina’s Atlantic coast, this Grand Strand beach wonderland stretches a whopping 60-miles. It has everything for the entire family: outdoor shopping and entertainment centers, a beachfront boardwalk equipped with restaurants and arcades, a towering Skywheel and light show, and an entire amusement park.
There are plenty options, whether you’re in the market for a large suite inside a Myrtle Beach resort or a pet-friendly extended stay including Anderson Ocean Club, Bay Watch Resort, and The Patricia Grand. The rates for these resorts are as low as $49 per night! Spirit Airlines offers the most competitive airfare priced at around $145 per person during the month of December. However, if you don’t fly on Christmas day, chances are that your airfare will drop significantly!
While these top three affordable winter getaways are wonderful, they are absolutely not the only ones around! Go wherever your heart takes you! However, if you and your family want to get out of the Minnesota Metro area for a budget and kid friendly vacation, our top three picks are guaranteed to show you all a good time. Keep in mind that hotel, resort, and flight prices are often highest during holidays – so book early and always look for the best possible rates! We hope that our list of destinations helped you choose your next favorite vacation spot. Pack your bags!
Article Written by Haley Kieser
