Taking a break from work doesn't necessarily mean taking a break from pinching pennies and stretching every dollar.

As the southwestern Connecticut residents continue to reel in their spending, local towns hope the trend of stay-cations continues this summer. With Memorial Day weekend unofficially kicking off the season for most summer hotspots, hopes are high that more expensive trips will be replaced with a short drive and fun local trips.

Bridgeport has a wealth of attractions, especially for families on a budget. The Barnum and Discover museums, Beardsley Zoo and Captain Cove Marina all offer cheap but hearty thrills. Norwalk offers both the Stepping Stones Museum and Maritime Aquarium, while the Bruce Museum in Greenwich also offers the same close to home, but out of this world value.