Cape Cod is the perfect destination for a memorable and inexpensive family vacation. Known for its historical heritage, scenic beauty, and cultural diversity, the Cape provides a wide variety of activities that will accommodate any budget and fill a holiday itinerary with fun and excitement.

We all love to escape the busyness of everyday life and spend time together. But when you factor in accommodations, entertainment, and restaurants, many of us are wondering if we can afford to take a family vacation this year. Cape Cod comes to the rescue!

Our beautiful little slice of paradise is the ideal getaway option, combining relaxation and great food, with family geared events and reasonable fares. Save yourself expensive hotel costs and rent a cottage instead. Close to the beach, plenty of space, and affordable weekly rates - what more could you ask for? With an abundance of events, festivals, outdoor activities, historical sites, and sightseeing opportunities, there's something to keep everyone in the family happy (even those finicky teens!). There are plenty of fun and inexpensive things to do on the Cape – some that cost nothing at all – and, as a bonus, you can often find free parking.

Boat Cruises. A visit to The Cape would not be complete without experiencing one of the spectacular boat cruises. You can take a Cape Cod Canal cruise, a Hyannis Harbor cruise, or a daytrip to Nantucket or Martha's Vineyard. Go deep sea fishing, jet skiing, and banana boat riding, or board a whale watching vessel and be entertained by whales, dolphins, seals, and various sea birds. Everyone will enjoy the fresh air and breathtaking sights, and on some cruises, children cruise for free.

Lighthouses. Nothing defines Cape Cod more than these beacons of seafaring safety. There are 18 lighthouses to choose from and each one has its own story to tell. Climb the circular staircases, learn interesting historical facts, and explore the terrain that boasts these icons of by-gone days. Visit the Highland Light in Truro, the Nauset Light in Eastham, and make the short trek over to the legendary Three Sisters. Take a shuttle boat ride out to Long Point and Wood End, or make the trip to Buzzard's Bay to view the open water Cleveland Ledge Lighthouse. Whatever you choose, you will not be disappointed by the uniqueness and character of these fascinating structures.

Outdoor Adventure. Cape Cod offers everything from water activities to birdwatching. Snorkel through crystal waters, kayak on tranquil bays and picturesque inlets, grab a rod and tussle with a feisty bluefish, jump in for a swim, or buzz along the waves on your sailboard. For landlubbers, take advantage of the miles and miles of scenic biking trails or challenge yourself with some climbing and hiking. Visit the sand dunes, wildlife sanctuaries, or fly a kite. Try geocaching (my new favorite "sport"), play a round of mini-golf, or take in one of the many concerts that entertain daily from Cape Cod's parks and beaches.

Museums and Exhibits. From the presidential train station in Bourne, to the wreck of the pirate ship "Wydah" in Provincetown, there's history from one end of the Cape to the other. And our museums aren't the boring kind that the kids groan at, either! Visit the Cape Cod Baseball League Hall of Fame and Museum, then take in a Cape League game and meet today's players who might make the Hall of Fame some day. (No charge to attend the games.) Spend a few hours at the Natural History Museum, and check out the whale exhibits, living bee hives and the osprey cam that gives a "people's eye" view into the nest. Explore the world of long ago when Pilgrims traded with the native Americans and discovered that lobster was actually good to eat. Admire the beauty of historic glassworks, or visit a 1654 grist mill where you watch corn being ground and buy cornmeal to bake your own treats. Whatever your preference, you can learn, have fun, and experience adventure without damaging your pocketbook.

Beaches. Aaaaah. What can I say about Cape Cod's beaches that hasn't already been said? Our beaches have been the subject of songs, and the setting for famous books and movies. Acclaimed as one of The Cape's biggest attractions, the allure of our beautiful, sandy beaches is irresistible. Pack a picnic lunch and visit a different one everyday. Swim in refreshing waters, soak up some rays, or stroll along the seashore in search of shells. And, don't forget to add Cape National Seashore to your list of must-see destinations.

Whether you want a laid-back, relaxing vacation or prefer to spend your time on the go - Cape Cod offers inexpensive family vacation options that will make your family getaway both memorable and affordable.