Top 10 most affordable vacation spots for families

According to an AAA survey, nearly 66 percent of Americans say they plan to hit the road for a summer getaway. And they’re not planning just one trip. In fact, the average family says they’re scheduling three and a half vacations to span the summer months.

With so many summer adventures ahead, most families will agree that the costs of gas, food and fun pile up quicker than passport stamps. According to a travel study from Visa, 25 percent of Americans say they spend between $1,000 and $2,500 per vacation.

However, not every vacation needs to drain your bank account. If you’re looking for a popular summer travel destination, there are places you can visit on a budget, according to a study from gobankingrates.com.

The study, which looked at the top 50 vacation destinations in the United States, graded each according to the financial concerns of the traveler, such as hotel prices, food and drink costs, and airfare and ground transportation costs.

Here are the top 10 most affordable vacation spots in the United States:

Las Vegas, Nevada

The study found that Vegas offers travelers the most excitement for their dollar thanks to inexpensive buffets and hotel deals from every direction. The Las Vegas airport, which offers multiple flights in and out of the city each day, also boasts the lowest cost per flight of all surveyed cities.

Jacksonville, Florida

If you’re craving the chance to soak up some sun while enjoying soft sand and a gentle breeze, look no further than Jacksonville. The survey found that this city had the lowest overall hotel prices on all surveyed destinations.

Orlando, Florida

While food and drink is pretty pricey here, airfare and transportation costs are among the cheapest you’ll find. Take advantage of that by visiting Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Studios.

Kansas City, Missouri

Surprised a city from Missouri made the list? Don’t be. The survey found that hotel prices and food costs make Kansas City an affordable destination for the American family. Not to mention, it’s a great city for sports fans.

Detroit, Michigan

While Detroit probably isn’t a place you want to visit in the winter, during the summer you can enjoy the yearly Detroit International Jazz Festival and a few great camping spots. Hotels, food and drink are pretty cheap across the city as well.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

The study found that hotel and transportation fees are some of the lowest you’ll find in America. While you’re in Albuquerque, be sure to experience the fascinating history of the state by visiting the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Grand Rapids, Michigan

If you want to enjoy fresh water beaches or bike some of the nation’s most beautiful trails, head to Grand Rapids! The city is seventh on the list because of cheap hotel and transportation rates.

Salt Lake City, Utah

For breathtaking state parks, beautiful mountain scenery and a bustling downtown feel, Salt Lake City is the place to be. Although airfare prices getting into the valley are steep, inexpensive public transportation and cheap hotel rates make up the difference.

Memphis, Tennessee

If you’re in need of a dose of rock-n-roll music, this is the place for you. Memphis is home to Elvis Presley’s Graceland mansion, one of the city's main attractions. Not to mention, food and drink prices here are almost as cheap as it gets.

Denver, Colorado

Rounding out the top 10 is the city that offers beautiful ski slopes and outdoor theaters. Hotel prices here are a bit high, but airfare costs in and out of the city combined with low food and drink prices make this city attractive, the study found.

Email: tstahle@deseretdigital.com Twitter: @tstahle15