Just 35 miles from Orlando, Florida's Space Coast combines NASA thrills and nature adventures -- with deals up to 50% off.

Boasting 72 miles of public beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, the region is an ideal oceanfront getaway for travelers on a budget. (Although, prepare to pay a little extra if visiting during a live shuttle launch.) Space Coast is a fun addition to a Port Canaveral-based cruise or an Orlando theme park vacation, too.

Laid-back cities like Cocoa Beach and Melbourne are launching pads (pun intended) to numerous family-friendly attractions -- ones that don't involve a famous mouse or boy wizard.