Are you ready to embark on an epic journey filled with adventure, learning, and plenty of budget-friendly fun? As an unschooler, you have a secret weapon for travel hacking: the ability to embrace shoulder and off-seasons like a boss! Let’s dive into some epic destinations and insider tips for your next unschooling travel escapade.
Before you get going, decide which is going to benefit your family more. Flying or driving. We prefer a good road trip over flying. But when time is of the essence a cheap flight is needed. Either way, pack your snacks and it will save a lot of money!
Pre-purchasing your national parks pass and any state park passes that may be needed will help lessen the budget for each trip. As will planning an outline of a few free things to do.
**San Diego: Sun, Surf, and Savings**
Ah, San Diego, where the sun shines brighter, the waves crash louder, and the adventures are endless. But wait, isn’t San Diego expensive? Not for savvy unschoolers like you! First things first, skip the peak season madness and opt for shoulder or off-season travel. Crowds? What crowds?
Now, let’s talk about lodging. Behold the majestic Kings Inn, a budget-friendly oasis nestled in the heart of San Diego. With its retro vibes and wallet-friendly rates, Kings Inn is your home away from home. Psst… Want to save even more? Consider flying into surrounding airports for cheaper fares. Your wallet will thank you.
I would rent a car for San Diego. There are so many things to do that aren’t in the city center that driving is the easiest. From Cabrillo National Monument to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park it’s a drive. Plus it is easier to hunt for good tacos that way! A stop at Tacos El Gordo and Ed Fernandez Birria is a must do!
But what about attractions, you ask? Fear not, fellow unschooler! Snag yourself a City Pass for access to San Diego’s top attractions at a fraction of the price. From the world-famous San Diego Zoo to the enchanting Balboa Park, your inner explorer will be in paradise. Don’t forget the tide pools!
**Crystal River, Florida: Manatees and Mysteries**
Welcome to Crystal River, where ancient ruins, gentle manatees, and boundless adventures await. Fly into Tampa or Orlando for maximum savings, then prepare to dive into a world of wonder. Look for hotels outside of Tampa for less traffic and cheaper rates. Orlando has some cheaper hotel options as well. Traffic around the house of mouse might be an issue. But, for those that want just a hint of Disney. Disney Springs is free to visit and browse.
Explore ancient ruins, swim with majestic manatees, and delve into the depths of local museums and state parks. Crystal River is a treasure trove of natural beauty and historical intrigue, perfect for curious unschoolers seeking hands-on learning experiences.
**New Orleans: Jazz, Jambalaya, and Joviality**
Laissez les bons temps rouler in the vibrant city of New Orleans! From the mesmerizing Aquarium of the Americas to the wild wonders of the Audubon Zoo, NOLA is a playground for unschoolers of all ages.
But let’s not forget the real star of the show: the food! Indulge in mouthwatering jambalaya, savory po’boys, and delectable beignets as you explore the colorful streets of the French Quarter. And don’t miss out on the eclectic performers and artists who bring the city to life with their street-side spectacles.
A visit to Johnnys Po’boys is a must! Catching a free walking tour will ease your budget and make room for more beignets!
**Galveston, Texas: History, Heroes, and High Seas**
Set sail for Galveston, where history comes alive and adventures abound. Explore the fascinating world of oil rigs at the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum, embark on historical tours recounting tales of floods and triumphs, and dive deep into maritime history at the Texas Seaport Museum.
But wait, there’s more! Step aboard the USS Cavalla and USS Stewart at the American Undersea Warfare Center, where unschoolers can explore real-life submarines and ships. Galveston is a playground for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.
**Lafayette, Louisiana: Cajun Charm and Cultural Delights**
Bonjour, Lafayette! Prepare to be enchanted by the rich tapestry of Cajun culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and captivating history that awaits in this charming Louisiana city.
Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Lafayette Science Museum, savor the spicy delights of boudin and gumbo, and let your imagination run wild at the Children’s Museum of Acadiana. Lafayette is a treasure trove of cultural immersion and educational adventures for unschoolers with a taste for the extraordinary. LARCs Acadian village is a good stop for some history. Kartchners Speciality Meats (pepper jack stuffed boudin balls) and Rabideaux’s Sausage Kitchen (this one is a bit more west) is a must stop for good boudin.
**So there you have it, fellow unschoolers: a whirlwind tour of five budget-friendly travel destinations guaranteed to ignite your sense of adventure and fuel your thirst for knowledge. From sunny San Diego to the mysterious depths of Crystal River, the world is yours to explore. So grab your backpack, embrace the unknown, and let the journey begin!
Leave a Reply