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Floating food, fun and entertainment are yours on Tennessee’s beautiful riverboats, like the Pickwick Belle at Pickwick Landing State Park.
Summer means it’s time to wet a line. Tennessee’s many beautiful lakes and rivers beckon to fishermen of all ages, like this pair at Kentucky Lake.
Tennessee’s Fourth of July festivities provide holiday fun and memorable moments for the whole family.
Here are some common sense tips to help you save money on your vacation.
Make a calendar and a budget when planning your trip; include plans for meals. The more you plan ahead, the freer you are to just enjoy when you go.
If you buy in bulk, consider the trip and activities. Put aside what you'll need for the trip to avoid buying what you could have brought from home.
Rent a car. What sounds expensive can actually often save you money. Consider renting a car instead of using the airport shuttle, then you have the flexibility of having available transportation. Also, if you are driving to your destination, consider renting a car, saving wear and tear on your car. Take advantage of coupons to upgrade to a larger automobile.
Use public transportation to see the sights once you reach your destination.
Eat breakfast where kids eat free; split meals. Kid-friendly restaurants are happy to accommodate special requests for extra plates.
Eat lunch in your room. You'll be surprised how good a fresh sandwich, chips and local fruit taste away from home. Everyone gets a needed break from the heat and crowds of tourist destinations. Take a cooler and 'cheese and cracker' it.
Take advantage of coupons. Whether for lodging, food, or attractions, coupons can make a difference. Find them online, in local newspapers, at grocery and convenience stores, hotels and motels. the options are there. Always read the fine print carefully for terms.
Bring your own stroller. This can save $7 to $10 a day at some attractions.
Bring along individual refillable water bottles. Refill bottles at the hotel and at attraction water fountains. Take along flavor packets to mix with water for variety.
Take advantage of multi-day passes at attractions. The deal is even better when passes can be used anytime. If you belong to a travel club, check on discounts before heading out.
Make your own reservations. Many hotels and airlines offer additional discounts and specials for booking online.
Give each child a set amount to spend. Tame the 'gimmes' and maintain pocketbook control by giving children a spending limit. Invest in a small scrapbook or 'idea book' (usually under $5) for each child to creatively capture trip highlights.
Spend the day away from attractions. Use the pool. Spend the day at the beach or a nearby museum. Shopping areas near attractions have children's play areas, providing inexpensive fun for little ones.
Don't overpack; it cuts into mileage efficiency.
Clean your car's air filter before you go; air up your tires; check fluid levels.
Learn about free days at local museums. Look into free concerts at parks; make a list of low-cost events and destinations.
Be your own chef. If camping or renting, cook ahead, freeze, pack, thaw and enjoy! Take a crock pot along; start on simmer in the morning, dinner is done when you get in from the day's outing.
Take advantage of Tennessee's beautiful city and state parks, lake areas, mountains and greenways.
Mark your calendar for July 18-19 & August 15-16, fee-free weekends for Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park and Shiloh National Military Park.
Take books for everyone, or small projects for those who must keep busy. Relaxation and rejuvenation happen during true leisure time. Here's a helpful link for visitors
