These are not simple economic times; many of us have had to make sacrifices and find ways to do more with less. For many, a vacation is an apparent sacrifice, but we're here to show you that you can travel and have a great time even on a tight budget.
These types of opportunities exist in every state and province in North America, but this article will focus on Virginia. The following list presents five awesome Virginia travel activities that will not break your budget.
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1. Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is a marked hiking trail that runs for approximately 2,184 miles from Mount Katahdin in Maine to Springer Mountain in Georgia. More than a quarter of the trail is in Virginia. Visitors can hike and bike the trail, and get access to secluded wilderness areas, national parks, formal campgrounds, and areas to fish.
Some of the parks and campgrounds charge fees, but most of the Appalachian Trail is free. You can easily create a family adventure that costs nothing other than food, supplies, and transportation to and from the trail.
2. Virginia Beach
Virginia offers a wide selection of beaches for tourists to enjoy. The most famous and popular is Virginia Beach. All public beaches in Virginia are free. They generally require a parking fee, but visitors can even avoid that if they're willing to walk a few blocks.
There are restaurants and vendors, especially near the boardwalks, but beachgoers can also bring their food and non-alcoholic beverages. Lifeguards are on duty from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Surfing and rollerblading on the boardwalk are allowed, and areas have been assigned for dogs.
3. Virginia Zoo
The Virginia Zoo is an excellent budget option. Kids from ages 2 to 11 get in for $9. Younger children get in free, adults for $11, and senior citizens for $10. The zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and a ticket gives you all-day access.
The zoo is immense, and there is so much to do that you likely can't do it all in a single day. Almost all of the zoo's activities are free, but the train, which is one of the most popular, costs an additional $2 per head.
The zoo offers many dining opportunities, but families can pack their own lunches and dinners. There are also picnic areas where you can relax and eat.
4. Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg is a wonderfully diverse area with a lot to do. Outside of the immediate area, there are numerous battlefields and historic sites.
The majority of these places are completely free to visit. Even places within Colonial Williamsburg that charge usually only charge a few dollars or so.
The most significant costs associated with the area are food and lodging. Bringing your own food can limit food costs, and staying at a motel just outside of Colonial Williamsburg can save you a lot.
5. Boating and Fishing
Virginia provides numerous opportunities for boating and fishing, and it is certainly possible to have a good time on a limited budget.
If you plan to captain a motorized boat, the state does require you to pass a Virginia boater safety course, but it also accepts the equivalent from another state or province. Also, Virginia does have freshwater fishing licenses, but they are only used in specific areas.
There are numerous lakes and rivers in the state where you can camp and fish without paying anything at all. So grab your backpack and head for a fun-filled adventure in Virginia!
