Dan Grogan. Compact and walkable, the city is easy And because its not a controlled habitat like a zoo, your animal encounters could happen anywhere and spark delight at unexpected moments. The enormous U.S. region includes 12 states: Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Designed for family fun, this resort offers an on-site indoor park with wave pools, lazy river, water slides, and spray areas. Afterward, head to Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill for dinner with a view, or catch the sunset at Sedona Airport Overlook. Encourage the kids toget involved in Yellowstones Junior Ranger Program (offered at all national parks). London also offers some one-of-a-kind theme parks, like the Warner Bros. zrfphoto/Getty Images. WebAll these factors will help you decide the best family vacation spot for your family. Best Family Vacations The Grand Canyon is worthy of a visitdont get us wrongbut Sedona is equally beautiful and far less crowded. The perfect destination for families with kids who have recently completed a U.S. history class, the District of Columbia appeals to visitors of all ages. Baseball fans can head to Wrigley Field to catch a Chicago Cubs game, and active families can hit the 18-mile Lakefront Trail, ending at Montrose Beach for some time on the sand. The hotel is conveniently close to Ocean Citys boardwalk, restaurants, and shopping. Family Vacations in Orlando, Florida With its abundance of theme parks and attractions, Orlando earns top billing as a best family vacation spots in the U.S. La Jolla, California. Grand Haven, Michigan. Nested between Sanibel Island and Amelia Island, Cayo Costa is often overlooked. Located southwest of famous Bar Harbor (Bah Habbah), Acadia is one of the best family vacation spots in the U.S. because of its many beaches, islands, rocky shorelines, and scenic walking trails and hiking trails, not to mention a historic carriage road system and the tallest mountain on the Atlantic Coast, Cadillac Mountain. Beware they reach temps of 142 degrees Fahrenheit, though! WebTop 8 Family Vacations in America. Make the trek to Mount Hood, stop at Multnomah Falls, and/or follow the Fruit Loop, a trail that will take you to the areas fruit farms and vineyards. Luckily, the best family vacation spots in the U.S.have enough variety to appeal to a lot of different interests. Visit the Badlands and Black Hillsof South Dakota to see wildlife up close; a Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour through Custer State Park is a must! While you cant actually soak in the famous springs that drew people to this area in the 1700s, you can certainly touch them. If Vernal Falls is too big of a trek, take the trail part way for the reward of the Vernal Falls footbridge. MOA also has a SEA LIFE Aquarium, Crayola Experience and simulated FlyOver America ride. And thats even before mentioning the Philadelphia Zoo and Adventure Aquarium. (That's right, you won't have to tip-toe around in the dark after the kids' bedtime!) If you have time, cross over to the Lake Erie Islands for more adventures. The Little River Inn has ocean views and plenty of amenities. For more live entertainment, dont miss the Carolina Opry or the Alabama Theater. USA Take the kids to Story Land amusement park, go kayaking on the Saco River, and whatever you do, dont miss a ride aboard the Mountain Washington Cog Railway for views of the famous Mount Washington Valley. The resort also includes several fun on-property restaurants and free made-to-order breakfast. Our team of parents and travel experts chooses each product and service we recommend. Honolulu - Oahu. Free museums and important monuments are fun and educational. Its tough to choose a favorite destination in New York, where iconic destinations include the Catskills, Cooperstown,Lake Placidand of course, New York City. Climb the towering dunes, relax on the beach and explore the the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Head to Gatlinburg, a mountain town known as the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park (three park entrances are conveniently located right downtown). The accommodations are one- to three-bedroom condo suites with a fully equipped kitchen and washer and dryer. Washington, D.C. Danita Delimont, Getty Images / Gallo Images. Destin Travel Many of the most iconic hikes can be customized for different ages and physical abilities. It's one of the best family vacation spots in the U.S. because it's an ideal year-round The beach is clean, calm and hardly ever feels crowded, and a small amusement park (Fantasy Island) and water park (Thundering Surf Waterpark) are at the ready come summertime. Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean 22 Myrtle Beach. Know your airline's carry-on luggage size restrictions before you fly. If you have sticker shock over the price of hotel rooms in Maui this summer, check out the Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows. Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S Consider renting a paddle boat to explore the pond at the heart of this lovely area. The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea caters to guests of all ages, thanks to multiple pools, kids programming, and babysitting services. For a family trip that combines fun with education, Williamsburg cant be beat. It is the highest cog railway in the world! Top Yellowstone National Park is an incredible place for adults, but its geysers, bison herds and rock formations can be especially magical through the eyes of a child. The Best Destination to Take Your Kids at Each Age From Infants to College Graduates, 25 Best Mother-daughter Trips Around the World, How to Plan a Family Trip to Wine Country That's Fun for Both Kids and Parents. Hilton Head Island offers 12 miles of beaches, and families can embrace the summer heat with activities like watersports and boating. The Boston Public Garden is packed with fun family activities like the famous Swan boats (Photo: Kyle Klein/Boston USA) With historic attractions, interactive museums, and ample green space, Boston is catnip for any family seeking East Coast vacations with an urban feel. Top Olympus Water and Theme Park, with its 100-foot geyser and nine-foot-tall wave pool; and Wilderness Resort, which offers go-karting, rope courses, and bumper boats, along with water slides. Take in a live performance at the Sweet Fanny Adams Theater, or marvel at the penguins, sting rays, and sharks at Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies. Its especially festive at Christmastime! How to get there: Drive 200 miles northeast of Las Vegas, Nevada, via I-15; or 200 miles north of Flagstaff, Arizona, via US-89. From educational wilderness programs to hayrides, campfires, archery, and tie-dye art, theres something to keep everyone busy at this rustic resort. Keep your cameras at the readyfor shots of local wildlife likeelk, deer, and even the occasional black bear. 1. At no extra charge, 5- to 12-year-olds can take part in an evening kids' club so you have a few child-free hours to enjoy a romantic dinner or even a nap and room service. If youre traveling with very little ones, you can also request high chairs, a baby bathtub, and step stools from the front desk if youve left anything off your baby packing list. Stay at the lakefront Mission Point Resort which offers evening storytime in the lobby, mini golf as well as horse and carriage tours. Best This family-friendly resort is tucked into the trees and offers serene views of the Ozarks. Here are the spots we love and think you will too. BEACH VACATIONS: 10 Best Family Beaches in North Carolina. Take in live music at the Anaheim Garden Walk, or watch an Angels baseball game or Anaheim Ducks hockey game while youre in town. Washington, D.C. A visit to our nations capital is a must for families. Located just minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, downtown Gatlinburg,and attractions such as Dollywood, kids will love the resorts large indoor/outdoor water park. FIND A DEAL: 10 Best Hotel Booking Sites for Cheap Prices. When you're not lounging on sandy stretches like the kid-friendly Ballston Beach, sign up for a whale watching tour (peak migration occurs from June to September) or take the family for a leisurely bike ride along the Shining Sea Bikeway. FLORIDA FUN: 10 dreamy beach resorts in Florida that are perfect for families. South Dakota road trip. Trying to get the kids off their iPads and interested in the natural world? Want to camp under the stars, cozy up in a tent cabin, or sleep at an iconic national park lodge? Best So are a wealth of water parks, including Great Wolf Lodge and Kalahari. Unique to Williamsburg, Virginia, is Colonial Williamsburg, a living history playground with attractions, museums and events that bring the 1700s to present day. Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. The sunny Southeast offers many destinations for a fun family getaway. Families can also explore Anaheim's lesser-known theme parks, such as Adventure City and Knott's Berry Farm. 3. 4. If your children have an affinity for exotic animals, check out the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, or head to La Jolla to see sea lions piled up together for a sun-soaked snooze. And theres no better way for families to mark the end of the school year and the start of summer than a visit to one of Americas best coastal towns or seaside villages. The iconic red lighthouse at the top of Mohegan Bluffs offers spectacular views of the ocean, and the downtown area where ferries dock is a hub of activities with plenty of restaurants and boutiques to keep you occupied. Yes, thats the name of the town! After a day spent exploring the nations history, enjoy modern amenities at theKingsmill Resort. SPLASH ZONE: 14 Best Indoor Water Park Resorts in the U.S. Most visitors head to this national park's South Rim for its assortment of amenities (including Grand Canyon Village), but families in search of thinner crowds and a more rustic experience should consider exploring the national park's North Rim. To be in the heart of the action, stay at the Pendry Chicago or Palmer House, a These 20 resorts nominated by a panel of travel experts as the best family resorts in the Best known for the majestic natural wonder and sheer power of Niagara Falls, the town of Niagara Falls in New York offers families thrilling, water-logged voyages on the Maid of the Mist, stellar views from the Prospect Point Observation Tower, guided tours of Cave of the Winds, and hiking into the Niagara Gorge. There's something for everyone! This chain of towns lies off the coast on a series of barrier islands that offermiles of stunning beaches. The streets are lined with colorful Victorian houses that exude a kind of old-fashioned grandeur and charm. Boasting incredible mountain scenery, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is a great option for families who want to immerse themselves in nature. Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf has 91 unique holes, plus a playground and picnic area. Chicago, Illinois. It wouldnt be a list of best family vacation destinations in the U.S. without mention of "The Happiest Place On Earth." When youre not engaged in water sports, kids will love exploring the upside-down world of WonderWorks, complete with laser-tag, a ropes course,and a discovery lab. Recommended Hotel: La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Sandpoint. Chicago also has a beach along Lake Michigan! Tell us where youll be t, The best smartwatches for kids. This vibrant city is one of the mostamazing family vacation spots in the U.S. Of course, youll want to hit all the iconic landmarksthe Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, the Empire State Building,andthe Museum of Natural Historybut there are many kid-centric destinations, too. While grown-ups will appreciate stunning views of theAtlantic Ocean and the Currituck Soundoffering both sunrise and sunset viewingkids will love the resorts huge pool. 1. And of course, kids always enjoy staying at the top Orlando hotels with swimming pools. Activity booklets (available for purchase at one of the visitor centers) outline the requirements, which include sitting in a real-life ranger talk and going on a hike. Stay at The 1661 Inn, which has 24 rooms spread across four buildings and a petting zoo featuring camels, llamas, and yaks. To be near all the action, stay at the newly opened Moxy Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Rent kayaks or paddle boards on the beach, or take a Light-N-Up LED Paddleboard tour. Take a ride through the Ozarks forest on the Branson Scenic Railway, a historic train with cars dating from the mid-20th century. Beeline it to Mystic Seaport, the largest maritime museum in the U.S., and go see beluga whales at the Mystic Aquarium. Getting around is a breeze, as you can walk between landmarks on the National Mall like the Washington Monument, the U.S. Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial though you'll definitely want a travel stroller for little legs. Several subway stops are within walking distance, making it easy to get around the city. Stay inside Glacier National Park at the iconic Swiss chalet-styleLake McDonald Lodge, constructed in 1913 on the shores of Lake McDonald about 10 miles inside the national park. Book the Bunk-Bed Suite, which offers a queen bed, twin bunk beds, an eat-in space,and a chalkboard. Stroll the historic downtown area, take a ghost tour and attend one of the towns many festivals, including the annual Newport Seafood Fest in October. Of course, a visit to the Space Needle should be tops on your list, too, for views of Mount Rainier National Park in the distance. Blast back to the past at the Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament, or dine with seafaring scoundrels at the Pirates Voyage Dinner and Show. It will feature fudge-making demos, fudge-inspired food and cocktails, an outdoor movie, family games, and more. Come with U.S. News on a tour of The Langham, Boston. Spend time absorbing local culture, too: Book a show at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, explore the National Gallery of Art, and dont miss the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture. LONE STAR STATE: 9 Texas family resorts with the best kid-friendly amenities. Book a surf lesson or attend a beachside author series, where beloved childrens book authors visit for a reading. But when it comes to families, Long Beach Island(LBI) reigns supreme with families. MAKE MEMORIES: 20 Best Places to Go with Kids This Year. Hiking through the red rocks promises to be a bonding experience. From the La Jolla Cove to the warm sands of Coronado Beach to the waves and people-watchingat Mission Beach, youll find miles of gorgeous Pacific Ocean beaches on a California family vacation. Named for Cornelius Jacobsen Mey, who founded the town in 1621, Cape May is also revered as the nations oldest seashore resort. Stay at The Pridwin Hotel and Cottages, a waterfront property that originally opened in 1929. Many adults still remember their first visit to Disneyland, one of the country's top amusement parks, so it's no surprise that Anaheim is an outstanding summer destination for families. One of the best lake destinations in the Badger State, Wisconsin Dells comes up big in the family fun department. Theres a good reason this Florida city is known as the world capital of theme parks. Best Places to Visit in the USA for 2023-2024 | U.S. News Travel ATLANTIC COAST: 11 best seaside villages and coastal towns in New England. Everything from day trips to week-long excursions are available, and many Grand Canyon rafting trips are tailored to families with kids. The Lavender Festival, July 14-15, brings traditional music, dancing, and lavender-based delicacies. The unspoiled beaches of St. Simons Island beg families to dig their toes in the sandand do little else. Early August is extra fun in the Dominican Republic because of the country's annual Santo Domingo Merengue Festival. You could probably get the kids to approve of the trip by just showing them photos of the 80,000-square-foot indoor water park at Great Wolf Lodge. Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada. Many major cities have kid-friendly attractions, but Philadelphia takes it to the next level. Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida Kids flock to the giant swimming pool at Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge (Photo: @klintarnold See our privacy policy. Kids will also enjoy an afternoon at the Cape May County Zoo, which is free and relies on donations. Note that some amenities/attractions mentioned here may be closed or have limited hours due to the pandemic, so always confirm operating hours before visiting. After clocking countless steps between the myriad monuments, museums, parks, and botanic gardens, return to the Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown, a family-friendly hotel with connecting rooms, an indoor swimming pool, and a canine ambassador named Georgie. Stop by the landmark for a family photo, then stroll the historic streets lined with pastel-colored homes. A small island of about 27 square miles, New Yorks Shelter Island is only accessible by car ferries that depart from the cities of Greenport and North Haven. Boat rides out of the seaport are available, too. How to Choose the Best Hawaiian Island to Visit, 33 Books Like Harry Potter to Binge on Your Next Vacation, Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort and Water Park, 11 Scenic Family Road Trip Ideas That Kids and Adults Will Love, 11 Beach Essentials You Need for Every Sun-Soaked Vacation, 10 Best Outdoor Activities and Things to Do Near Branson, 10 Best Vacation Ideas for Families with Teenagers, 16 Best Flight Booking Sites for Cheap Airfares, hut-to-hut hiking through Glacier National Park, Top 5 Splash Pad Water Parks in the U.S. for Kids, Williamsburg Ghosts Tour or the Williamsburg Witches and Pirates Tour, 19 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for Families, 10 Best Hotel Booking Sites for Cheap Prices, 11 Best Outdoor Movie Screens and DIY Tips for a Backyard Staycation. Branson, Missouri. Situated along the Washington coast about two and a half hours from Seattle, the idyllic beach town of Seabrook is perfect for families looking to be close to the water. We love to share inspiration and advice with readers, and we do not sell our list. Offers may be subject to change without notice. #15 in Best Places to Visit in December 2023. The other bonus of visiting Hershey? Best This park is over 4000 square kilometers of forests and lakes, traversed by sub-ranges of the Rockies. Bonus: There are some pretty cool hotels in North Conway, too, including Adventure Suites, which features themed guestrooms. Visit Website. Recommended Hotel: Residence Inn Santa Fe. Once a traditional vacation spot for Hawaiian royalty, the independently-owned property on popular Kaanapali Beach offers rooms that start at $359 per night. Take the kids on a Pink Jeep Tour of the Red Rocks, and be sure to look for Snoopy Rock, a rock that closely resembles Snoopy lying on his back! Here, youll find resorts, entertainment, and eateries galore along the Grand Strand. Here are 99 must-see places around the United States to take your family on vacation. Dont miss Rockefeller Center, where you can see a popular TV show being filmed, explore the Channel Gardens, and (in the winter) glide around the famed ice skating rink. Take in a show at the Performing Arts Center or browselocal art at the Ocean City Center for the Arts. While this New England retreat has cozy vibes all year long, the month before school starts is a great time to bring the kids for lawn games, swimming, s'mores and tide-pooling at the beach. With Alder Lane Beach and Coligny Beach Park, your entire family will stay busy for hours. The Windy City packs a punch in terms of family-friendly attractions. These are the 50 best family vacations in America. You can also ski at nearby Taos Ski Valley, or visit White Sand DunesNational Park, designated a national park in 2019. Come with U.S. News on a tour of the Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston. The very first inhabitants of this thriving beach community are believed to be the Lenni-Lenape tribe, as recorded by the explorer Henry Hudson in the early 1600s. Walking distance to Niagara Falls State Park and adjacent to Old Falls Street USA, Sheraton Niagara Falls USAis centrally located close to all of the action. Among our favorites are the cute, funky, and totally remodeled 1960s motor lodge The Astro in Santa Rosa; the beautiful Timber Cove Resort, which looks out over the ocean; and the pretty and chic H2 Hotel in Healdsburg. Best Places to Visit in January Rehoboth Beach is the quintessential beach vacation for families, with a beautiful stretch of sand and surf, and a boardwalk with old-school amusements and delicious eats at family-owned Funland. Among the highlights are the Deanna Rose Childrens Farmstead and Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. In any other state, its seven miles of sandy beaches would elevate it to the top of every list. Families with older kids can spend the day enjoying water sports like snorkeling with sea turtles in Oahus Hanuama Bay Nature Preserve or taking surfing lessons in Kihei, Maui. You can walk to the beach from many of the island's adorable .css-1me6ynq{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:0.0625rem;text-decoration-color:#125C68;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:#125C68;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;}.css-1me6ynq:hover{color:#595959;text-decoration-color:#595959;}vacation rentals. And when parents need a break, the kids camp offers outings to various destinations around town. Plan to go in spring (March is an especially nice time to visit) to see the iconic cherry trees in bloom. Recommended Hotel: Southernmost on the Beach. Travel + Leisure is published by Meredith Corporation under license from Travel + Leisure Co. Another classic beach destination, Myrtle Beach has a fantastic boardwalk with rides and amusements that include a giant Ferris wheel. 14 best indoor water park resorts in the U.S. 7 fall beach vacations where summer never ends, 10 most beautiful Caribbean beaches (and where to stay near each), Beaches Resorts vacations: What to know before you book, Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. Theres also a fun Mardi Gras museum in town. Recommended Hotel: King & Prince Beach & Golf Resort. Best Family Migis Lodge, South Casco, Maine (one of the best New England family resorts) 2. Niagara's location between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie on the U.S.-Canada border makes it easy to reach during a road trip from cities like New York, Philadelphia, Cleveland and Detroit. Whether you're traveling with toddlers or teenagers, use this ranking to jump-start your family vacation planning, and vote for your choice destination below. Recommended Hotel: Omni La Mansion del Rio. Other highlights include Jockey Ridge State Park (bring a kite! indoor and outdoor parks to choose from, including some of the nations largest. 2023 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award. 21. Shop and dine at the Old Port Royale before climbing into the Disney Skyliner, a gondola that whisks your family between the Caribbean Beach Resort, EPCOT, and Disneys Hollywood Studios. Social Media. Aloft Ocean Cityoffers a stylish-yet-family-friendly place to stay in Ocean City. So, dust off your suitcases and get ready: Heres where to go with the kids in 2022. With miles of beaches and sweet little towns aplenty, North Carolina's Outer Banks are a fantastic family #15 in Best Places to Visit in January 2023. 12 Best Beach Resorts in the U.S. for Families, 11 best seaside villages and coastal towns in New England, 13 thrilling outdoor water parks where you can beat the summer heat, 10 dreamy beach resorts in Florida that are perfect for families, Shelter Island Whales Tale Dessert Cafe and Miniature Golf Course, 10 best all-inclusive beach resorts in the world, 7 West Coast vacations with something for everyone in the family, 9 Texas family resorts with the best kid-friendly amenities. Set kiddos loose for some free-range (but still supervised) exploration at Mirror Lake State Park. Let the games begin! Rent bikes and water sport gear from the hotel. TickTalk 4; b, This hillside neighborhood in Laguna Beach provide, Heres the scoop on Aulanis restaurants and e, These sturdy totes offer all kinds of hidden featu, With a list like this, youre sure to have your, Looking for an all-inclusive family vacation this, Mothers Day is this Sunday! San Antonios RiverWalk beckons families to stroll the shops and restaurants that line it. Read on and get acquainted with 14 of the most popular family vacation spots in the U.S. 1. Washington, D.C., is one of the best family vacation spots in the U.S. thanks in large part to the manylandmarks on the National Mall. The Jersey Shore offers a wealth of family-friendly beaches, each with their own distinct character. The hotel even created its own guest-only sunrise canoe experience that allows your crew to paddle on the famous lake before the crowds. Other highlights inside the park include playing on the beach at Lake McDonald and hiking at Hidden Lake. Copyright 2022 Travel + Leisure Co. All Rights Reserved. TheCabins at Green Mountainoffer two- or three-bedroom villas near all the action in Branson. Not ready for the hike to the top of Yosemite Falls? California is home to many of the best coastal towns in the U.S., but Laguna Beach is an absolute must-visit destination for families. Here are the top 25 family vacations in East Coast. WebU.S. We combine expert opinions and user votes to determine the best travel spots in a variety of categories. If you prefer snow over sand, consider taking a trip to Aspen, Colorado, one of the best places to travel in January. Theres a guaranteed wait at the restaurant, but thats half the fun considering this local institution offers a giant sandbox and even ziplining! If youre craving time on the sand or in the water, take a short drive to one of the many beaches near Orlando for swimming and sunbathing. You can also rent kayaks and explore the Wisconsin River, or marvel at the remarkable architecture and awe-inspiring views at House on the Rock. Kids can play on the beach and swim in the indoor and outdoor pools. Keep in mind that COVID-19 restrictions vary by state, and be sure to follow all quarantine rules and travel restrictions when crossing state lines. Yes, send me expert advice, handpicked recommendations, and tips for my family. When it's time to burn off some energy, parks like Kensington Gardens and The Regent's Park offer playgrounds and idyllic flower gardens. And, some of them may be in your back yard! 15 Best Summer Family Vacations | U.S. News Travel Keep the kids distracted by booking a whale-watching cruise or kayaking tour. San Diego, CA With sunny beaches, fantastical theme parks, and the worlds largest comic book convention, there's no such thing as bored children in sunny Best Family Vacations in the Southeast 2023 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC. performed by actors in period dressat the shoemaker, wigmaker, and even the Public Gaol, where prisoners once lived (and died). Offset the sugar rush by going on a kayaking adventure or exploring some of the island's 70+ miles of hiking and biking trails.
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