Family Spring Break Staycations in Southern Indiana

If the budget is tight this year, consider a staycation for spring break. Staying close to home can cut down dramatically on cost, giving you more spending money in your pocket. If this is the case, southern Indiana offers many ideas for family fun on a budget.

French Lick: French Lick Resort offers a spa, luxury hotel and golf. With two hotels to choose from, you can take in the sights, relax, or visit the casino. The resorts offer quality entertainment, pampering, and first-class restaurants. Head to the stables for horse and pony rides, or take a romantic carriage ride through town. There are special activities for kids offering fun and creative activities, such as cooking, playing the Wii, and bowling, supervised by trained counselors. Venture out of the resort and visit the winery. Take the kids for some splashing fun at the Big Splash Adventure Indoor Waterpark and Resort. Offering 40,000 square feet of water park attractions, Big Splash is open year-around. The historic hotels and scenic surroundings will make this a staycation to remember. Visit the website here for more information about rates, availability and package offers.

Nashville: For a more laid-back time with a small town feel, Nashville is the place to go. Located in beautiful scenic Brown County, Nashville is bustling with artisans and antiques on brick-lined streets. This tourist town offers numerous bed and breakfast options for a staycation, but the best by far is the Cornerstone Inn, located downtown on Franklin Street. For family fun, stay at the Rawhide Ranch Buck Inn. The Coachlight Theatre and the Dance Barn both offer great entertainment, and Salt Creek Golf Resort offers a quality 18 hole course. Head outdoors for hiking, biking, or horseback riding at Brown County State Park and Rawhide Ranch. The whole family can have a great time at Paintball Valley. Contact theBrown County Visitor's Bureau for more information.

Evansville: For a fun and educational getaway, try Evansville, Indiana. Hit the museums, such as the Koch Family Children's Museum of Evansville, the Evansville African American Museum, or the Evansville Museum of Arts, History, and Science. Visit the Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden, making sure not to miss the AMAZONIA exhibit. This climate-controlled South American rainforest is a balmy 76 degrees all year, showing plants and animals found in the rainforest. Angel Mounds State Historic Site offers another educational spin to your stay, as does Burdette Park and Aquatic Center. Head outdoors to Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve to experience over 190 acres of virgin hardwood forest. Contact the Evansville Visitor's Bureau for more information.

These are only a few of the many things that southern Indiana has to offer. From resorts to retreats, from sports to museums, you're sure to find something that suits your family's wants and needs.