To many, being on vacation means leaving the state, or else checking out the attractions in their own location. Here are five different categories of fun you may want to experience with your family

To some people, the idea of a great vacation begins and ends with the mere thought that you don't have to get up and go to work the next morning. That's fine, but others like to do a bit more with their time off. For these people, being on vacation means leaving the state, or hitting up the attractions in their very own location. This is where you make memories that can last a lifetime. While every state has something different to offer, here are five categories of fun you may want to experience with your family.

National Parks

Nearly every state in the country has an assortment of national parks that can speak to the nature lover in all of us. Whether you're taking a stroll through the towering redwoods of California or airboating through the marshy wilderness of the Florida Everglades, national parks protect nature from the encroachment of man's progress. They can provide a wonderful glimpse into a simpler time.

Museums

Museums can be a wonderful way to expose yourself to culture, an opportunity that is becoming increasingly in our day-to-day lives. Take a moment, step back from our corporate world, and witness the creations of artists from today and yesterday. Of course, museums aren't limited to art. There are science museums, natural history museums, and museums dedicated to very specific subjects. Any and all can serve as enjoyable vacation attractions.

The Beach

For some, the beach is the ultimate vacation destination. Others are bored within five minutes of hitting the sand. One thing is certain: kids love the beach. And while finding a hotel near the surf is likely to be expensive, the beach itself is free of charge! This fact alone makes beaches some of the most popular attractions in the country.

Amusement Parks

On the other end of the financial scale are amusement parks. Whether you appreciate the thrills that come with a Six Flags type of park or the gentle magic of a Disney park, you won't have any trouble getting the kids interested in visiting these attractions.

Factory Tours

Want something off the beaten path? If you're the type of family that likes to do things out of the ordinary, look for factory tours in your area. Often given free of charge, these can offer a unique peek behind the curtain. If you're fond of TV shows where they explain how your favorite products hit the shelves, this is your chance to see it happen in person.