The days are shorter and colder, and the winter blues are setting in. Why not cure them with a family vacation? While a trip to an all-inclusive resort or one of our warm and sunny winter vacation ideas would be nice, our wallets don't always agree. Luckily, there are plenty of fun and affordable vacation spots that won't break the bank.

Here are 17 low-cost winter vacation ideas for families in the US and abroad. Many of these affordable vacation spots have lower prices and thinner crowds in the winter months, making winter the perfect time to visit—even during February break. For more fun family vacation ideas any time of year, check out our Family Travel Guide.

The Hudson Valley's sledding hills take on an aura of magic when the first blanket of snow covers the ground. What better way to enjoy it than by getting the kids out of the house for some fresh air and family fun at one of the many sledding hills in the Hudson Valley?

We have pulled together this list of the best sledding hills in the Hudson Valley, plus some tips on how to stay warm and dry and, of course, where to go for hot chocolate afterward.

If you're looking for more seasonal fun, we've got the skinny on sledding in Westchester County, winter hikes in the Hudson Valley, and outdoor ice skating region-wide.

These sledding hills on Long Island mean parents with kids eager to brave the winter elements can catch some wintertime thrills close to home. We've rounded up a host of local sledding hills on Long Island where you can challenge the powder.

Before sending kids careening down these Long Island sledding hills, be sure to check the surroundings for sticks, rocks, and other hazards. We recommend wearing helmets and proper snow gear for your sledding adventure, too.

We've got tons more seasonal fun in our Long Island Kids Winter Fun Guide, which has local skiing and snowboarding destinations, the scoop on local ice skating rinks, and more.

It's cold, slippery, and—if you're talking about hitting the sledding hills—ridiculously fun. New Jersey is home to plenty of perfect sledding hills for all ages, and we've compiled this list of 26 great sledding spots throughout the state. So, once the flakes have flown, it's time to break out your sleds, bundle up (helmets recommended!), and venture out to one of these great local sledding hills in New Jersey.

Don't forget the safety check! Take a minute to make sure your chosen sledding hill isn't too steep or bumpy for your child and that there's enough of a "landing" spot so your little sledder can safely glide to a halt. Avoid spots near ponds and trees, and be sure the sledding hill doesn't end in a street or parking lot. Skip rocky hills, too.

For even more winter fun, bookmark our Guide to Winter Activities for New Jersey Families.

Westchester is home to a host of outdoor ice skating rinks. And what these ice skating rinks—ranging from outdoor ice skating rinks to ice skating on local ponds—lack in upscale amenities, they make up for in old-school charm. In most cases, you'll need your own pair of skates to glide across these ice skating rinks in Westchester, plus below-freezing temperatures to ensure it's safe to set foot on the county's frozen ponds.

If you just can't wait for the ice to freeze, consider a visit to one of NYC's outdoor ice skating rinks, and find plenty more seasonal fun in our Winter Fun Guide.

Planning an Orlando theme park vacation is part of the fun of the trip! This is especially true in 2024, as several new or reimagined attractions, festivals, and dining options are opening or returning. To help you better navigate your theme park trip, check out our guide of the new and exciting experiences coming to Orlando theme parks for 2024. Note: Orlando theme parks opening dates can be vague and time frames can change at a moment’s notice.

What parent doesn't love FREE food?! Plus, there must be some weird trick where food just tastes better when its free (or at least discounted)! So in that spirit, we've rounded up our fave Atlanta restaurants where kids eat free. Before dining out, call the restaurant as specials can vary by location. Many Atlanta restaurants require dine-in service and the purchase of an adult entrée. 

Since many families are tightening the family budget after holiday spending, check out our Atlanta Free Things To Do Guide. And sign up for our free Mommy Poppins newsletter and discover all the fun events and activities near you.

Who needs to cook when kids eat free every night of the week at restaurants around the DC area? From popular chains like IHOP and Denny’s to neighborhood pubs, Italian bistros, and more, we’ve got you covered with kid-friendly meal deals that will help you enjoy an evening out with your family while saving money, too. 

Read on for our list of 15 restaurants where kids eat free in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia. For more great freebies, check out our Guide to Free Things to Do with Kids in DC, and look up our Kid-Friendly DC Restaurants Guide for more family restaurants throughout the area.