Tips for cheap family travel

Venturing out with the kids? It pays to book early, shop for bargains, watch for freebies and consider a hostel stay.

Christmas in July -- and every other month too

The sprawling Bronner's emporium in Michigan maintains an all-seasons yuletide policy.

A family break by the lake

Five great retreats that are casual, affordable and fun for the whole family.

On the trail of vampires

Even before 'Twilight' and 'True Blood' helped raise their pop-culture profiles, vampires had left their marks in many places. The garlic is...

California's coast beckons vacationing families

Moderate pricing makes these options relatively affordable stops, from San Diego north to Mendocino.

Bargain hotel rates can be had for the entire brood

And if not, you can always rent a condo or an RV.

Travels with a toddler: It can be done

A family of three takes a trip to New Zealand, China and Europe and discovers the world through a child's eyes.

Vintage Roadside gear brings lost landmarks to life

T-shirts sport images of bygone attractions -- kitschy and cool -- that flourished along the byways of yesteryear.

Julian mining its history with Gold Rush Days

Today Julian is known for apples, but gold put it on the map. The picturesque mountain town celebrates its origins with a weekend of...

Newport Beach for kind of cheap family lodging

A studio 'camping cottage' at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina starts at $69 in the off-season. Bigger cottages start at about $149.

Road trip: More families set to hit highways this year

Gas prices down, money tight, so destination spots bracing for road warriors.

Legoland's own small world

The recently upgraded park offers a gentle intro for younger children. But bring your plastic -- costs stack up fast.