Planning the perfect summer vacation

It's Memorial Day weekend, and with it comes the unofficial start of summer. Maybe you've squared away your family vacation already, but if not, here are some tips to plan some fun, budget-friendly getaways.

First, check out our roundup of the top 10 amusement park attractions in the country. Every corner of the nation is represented on the list, so odds are that something is within driving distance for you. (My personal favorite is Disney's Splash Mountain, pictured above. It has everything!)

If a water slide is more your speed, take a look at America's top family-friendly water parks. It seems like water parks are getting bigger and better all the time, and there's no better way to cool off on a hot summer's day. And yes, the rest of us do envy those of you who live near Wisconsin Dells.

Money is on everyone's mind these days. You've probably people talk about a "staycation" -- a way to have the vacation experience close to home, and for less money. We brainstormed some awesome staycation ideas. Remember what a vacation is really about: having fun as a family.

For more vacation ideas, travel games and activities, and summer safety tips, check out our family vacation homepage.

What are you and your family planning to do for vacation this summer? Let us know in comments.

Oh yeah -- enjoy your long weekend, everyone!