Nestled In The Rio Grande Valley Is Texas' Affordable City With Family-Friendly Fun

Texas is a fantastic place to go for budget-friendly travel. McAllen, located at the southern tip of the state, is even the city with the lowest cost of living in America, not to mention a bustling southern foodie destination. And this isn't just a one-off. A quick, 7-minute drive away from McAllen, you'll find Pharr. Located in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, the city offers similarly irresistible prices, but you get endless family-friendly attractions and outdoor fun, too.

The cost of living here is 19% below the national average at the time of writing, and, as you'll see below, that influences travel-related expenses, too. But how do you reach such a great-value destination? The city is only six minutes away from San Juan (Texas), 35 minutes from Harlingen, and 38 minutes away from Reynosa (Mexico). That said, many fliers pass through McAllen International Airport, just 5 miles away. From here, you have two main options: you can take a direct bus that costs $2 per person at the time of this writing, or you can get a rental starting at less than $30 a day. If you're planning on staying in one of the central neighborhoods, the bus is the better choice. It's cheaper and lets you explore the city's more walkable parts on foot. If you want that extra flexibility or plan to explore the surrounding areas as well, a rental is the way to go. Keep in mind that the city itself can be a bit quiet, and most of the unmissable attractions are outdoorsy and nature-oriented.

Pharr is the prime example of "you don't have to spend an arm and a leg for a great vacation, even as a family." It's easy to find in-town accommodation for under $100 a night. As a matter of fact, most places around here charge between $45 and $75, and if you manage to score a seasonal deal, your total will be even lower. Take Texas Inn & Suites, for example. Its rooms are simple but clean and modern, and it offers free parking and an outdoor pool. Its rooms start at around $60, though it's always a good idea to book a bit in advance for those great deals. The staff is very welcoming, and you're within walking distance of grocery stores and restaurants.

According to Payscale, transportation in Pharr is also 8% cheaper than the national average, which is why a taxi to the airport often costs less than $15. Food is similarly affordable, with mom-and-pop restaurants offering great-value daily specials. Carmelita's, in particular, is a local gem. The small, family-owned Mexican restaurant is constantly praised for its perfect enchiladas, delicious menudo, flavorful gorditas, and excellent chilaquiles. Food and service are incredible, and the atmosphere is so cozy, it will make you feel like you're eating from a grandma's kitchen. It's open every day but Sunday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and a great meal here shouldn't cost you more than $10-$20. If you've liked what you've seen so far, you might want to plan a day trip to Weslaco, found just 18 minutes east of Pharr. Texas' affordable "city with the neon skyline" offers scenic nature areas and small-town charm.

Pharr is the ultimate family-friendly destination, so a day at the local Aquatic Center is non-negotiable, especially when you need to fight a hot Texan summer. This is a seasonal attraction, though, and it usually opens the first week of June. Considering the reasonable prices and the fact that you get to bring outside food and drinks, too, it might even be worth rearranging the timing of your trip to come here.

The family fun is far from over, at least not until you go to the local Main Event. The 58,000-square-foot venue promises everything from bowling and gravity ropes to laser tag, arcades, billiards, and, of course, food. It's the perfect place for birthday parties or just a special family outing — the games vary in age and experience, so everyone is bound to find something they love. Its menu has all the usual favorites, including loaded fries, chicken nachos, wings, sandwiches, burgers, and pizza. Prices are a bit higher than at your average mom-and-pop, but it's a great place for a fun time nonetheless.

Those looking to get more in touch with local nature will love going to Firemen's Park, just a 6-minute drive away from the city center. Here, you can find everything from a sand volleyball court and a playground to large BBQ pavilions with restrooms. It's the perfect place to walk, enjoy the lake, and go paddling in a rented boat. Just try to make time in your itinerary for a quick day trip, because the Estero Llano Grande State Park is just too good to miss out on. Located 19 miles away and deep in the Rio Grande Valley, this is a hidden gem state park that may be Texas' best spot for birdwatching.