Best Cheap Family Vacation Spots Across Missouri

School is almost out, and if you're like me, you're probably looking for an affordable place to take the family on vacation. With gas prices the way they are, planning a trip can be difficult, but there are still plenty of budget-friendly family vacation spots in Missouri where you can get away without draining your bank account.

Affordable Missouri Summer Getaways

St. Louis is a great place to spend a few days exploring. One year, we took a mini vacation there and visited places we normally wouldn’t stop at, like the Gateway Arch, the Saint Louis Science Center, and the City Museum. While some attractions do charge a small admission fee, there are also plenty of free places to visit in St. Louis.

Free Things To Do in St. Louis

Here are some St. Louis Favorites that you could look into for a vacation that won't break the bank.

• Forset Park - a massive park that includes trails, lakes, playgrounds, museums, and several major free attractions all in one place.
• St. Louis Zoo - Free Entry to one of the best zoos in the country
• Gateway Arch National Park - Walking the grounds and visiting the museum is free. The museum underneath the Arch is surprisingly kid-friendly and interactive.
• St. Louis Science Center - General Admission is free, with hundreds of hands-on exhibits for kids and adults.
• St. Louis Cardinals Game - Yes, you need a ticket, but you might get lucky and get a great price on last-minute tickets.

Budget-Friendly Kansas City Attractions

Kansas City also has a few hot spots for families looking to get away without spending a ton of money.

• City Market - Fun place to walk around with food vendors, markets, music, and events, especially on weekends
• KC Streetcar - park the car and take the free streetcar through downtown KC

Other great spots for family fun include Ha Ha Tonka State Park, Mark Twain National Forest, Elephant Rocks State Park, and Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park. Families can also enjoy destinations like Branson Landing, Purina Farms, and Turtle Park.

So no matter what kind of vacation you’re planning, or if you’re simply trying not to overspend, Missouri offers plenty of beautiful and fun places for families to enjoy this summer.