Families Find Budget-Friendly Getaways in US College Towns
With average vacation costs up by $1,400 since 2024, one unexpected travel trend is gaining momentum: college towns. Source: Photo credit: Depositphotos.

Families Find Budget-Friendly Getaways in US College Towns

Kimberly Stroh READ TIME: 4 MIN.

According to The Motley Fool, the average vacation is projected to cost $7,249 in 2025, up nearly $1,400 from the year before. Instead of cutting back on fun, many families find a smarter solution: college towns. These destinations deliver culture, history and entertainment without the big-city price tag.

The irresistible charm of college towns

Big cities may dazzle with skyscrapers and flashy attractions, but they also bring traffic jams, shoulder-to-shoulder crowds and steep prices. College towns offer a refreshing contrast with a mix of nostalgic charm, youthful energy and surprising affordability.

In Chapel Hill, North Carolina, that charm is on full display along Historic Franklin Street, the social hub of the University of North Carolina. Here, families can sip coffee at the century-old Carolina Coffee Shop, browse independent bookstores or pop into locally owned boutiques.

Each fall, the street comes alive during Festifall, a community event featuring local artists and live performances. It's a celebration where visitors get a true taste of local culture, an experience that's rare in sprawling urban centers. That same campus energy drives many college towns, fueling festivals, food scenes and creative events that feel approachable for visitors of all ages.

Affordable lodging that won't break the bank

While big-name cities like London, New York and Paris may be bucket-list destinations, they aren't cheap. As of August 2025, average nightly hotel rates reach $247, $178 and $174, respectively, making them out of reach for many families.

However, college towns were built with visiting parents, alumni and game-day crowds in mind. That means plenty of budget-friendly accommodations, such as cozy inns, well-rated motels and short-term rentals, within walking distance of campus attractions.

In Bozeman, Mont., families can wake up to mountain views without luxury-hotel prices, while in Athens, Ga., budget stays place visitors steps from both campus and downtown nightlife. Some universities even rent out dorm rooms during the summer, making lodging even more accessible.

Free and low-cost attractions

Many college campuses are home to cultural gems that rival those of major cities, minus the hefty admission fees. The Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven, Conn., is home to one of the most comprehensive collections in the country, from ancient artifacts to modern masters, and admission is always free. In the Midwest, the University of Michigan Museum of Art draws visitors with its rotating exhibits and interactive, family-friendly programming, also at no charge.

Nature lovers aren't left out, either. The State Botanical Garden of Georgia in Athens spans 32 acres of walking trails, koi ponds and terraced gardens, which are open to the public year-round and free.

"With Downtown Athens sitting just across from UGA's historic North Campus, visitors are immediately immersed in the vibe of a true college town," said Katie Williams, executive director of Visit Athens. "Both the Georgia Museum of Art and the State Botanical Garden are free experiences on campus. From there, visitors can head downtown to explore places like the iconic 40 Watt Club, fun festivals like Wild Rumpus and AthFest, incredible restaurants and public art around every corner. Athens' college town spirit and creative community make it such a fun place to visit, all at a great value."

Budget-friendly eats the whole family will love

Towns built to serve students are naturally designed for affordable dining. Instead of splurging on a high-priced big-city restaurant that may not live up to the hype, families can enjoy a diverse mix of local diners, global cuisines and beloved neighborhood staples.

In Charlottesville, Va., Bodo's Bagels has earned a following for its made-from-scratch, New York-style bagels, served fresh and generously topped, all for under $10. Over in Gettysburg, Penn., the Lincoln Diner serves a classic American menu with award-winning, all-day breakfast and a retro charm that's been drawing locals and college students for more than 60 years. Whether it's tacos from a campus food truck or pancakes at a decades-old diner, meals in college towns stretch travel dollars further while still delivering local flavor.

From party town to family destination

Despite their affordability and charm, college towns are often associated with stereotypes of tailgate parties and rowdy nightlife. To counter this image, local tourism boards are highlighting the family-friendly aspects of these communities.

In Ann Arbor, Mich., the Hands-On Museum keeps kids entertained with interactive STEM exhibits. Each summer, when students leave the University of Michigan campus, the Ann Arbor Summer Festival brings the community together with outdoor concerts, family movie nights and free activities for all ages.

In Lawrence, Kan., home to the University of Kansas, families can explore the natural history museum's dinosaur displays without ever buying a pricey ticket. These attractions highlight what residents already know: college towns are not just affordable; they're vibrant, family-friendly communities.

Family travel doesn't have to be complicated

Vacations are becoming increasingly expensive, stretching family budgets thin. However, college towns prove you don't need luxury hotels or extravagant attractions to create lasting memories. With free museums, affordable dining, lively festivals and a welcoming community spirit, these destinations deliver big experiences at small-town prices. So, don't be surprised if your next vacation brings you back to campus; college towns are proving they're much more than student hangouts.

Kimberly Stroh is an Atlanta-based family travel writer and the founder of Savvy Mama Lifestyle. Since 2015, she has been sharing expert travel tips, destination guides and parenting insights tailored for modern families. Her content is syndicated to over 10 million readers through platforms like MSN. With a strong social media presence, Kimberly has built a vibrant community of travel-savvy Millennial Moms who trust her for real-world advice and inspiration on making family travel memorable and manageable.


by Kimberly Stroh

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