family trip report

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80+ family travel & tourism statistics (2023).

Family travel and tourism is one of the largest sub sectors within the travel industry.

This is especially true as more people realize the importance of spending quality time and experiencing new things with one’s family.

Family travel statistics reveal that millennials take an average of 2.6 trips annually, and those with families tend to travel more than couples or even solo travellers .

And did you know that the average family spends $3,835 per year on travel ?

Below, you will find a comprehensive summary of the most interesting statistics about family travel, including the average annual budget, booking trends, popular activities, and top destinations they visit .

Sources : I have included the source of each data under the stats, and you can go to the end of the post for a complete list of all the articles and sources used.

Travellerspoint

What do you mean by family tourism?

Family tourism simply refers to the act of travelling and going on holidays with members of one’s family. This could be in the form of a nuclear family, skip generation (just the grandparents and grandchildren), or multi generation trip.

What is the most popular family travel destination?

Overall, Europe has the most international tourist arrivals in 2021, with the Americas coming in second.

But the most popular family-friendly destinations are Osaka, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Bordeaux, and Athens .

How much do families spend on travel each year?

The average annual spending on family travel is $3,835. In terms of a family of four, the average trip is estimated to cost $4,580.  

What are the effects of family vacations on family relationships?

Some of the proven benefits of taking vacations as a family is improving communication, strengthening marriage and family bonds, as well as boosting wellbeing for adults and children. Travelling is also a great way to create lifelong memories for the family.

Family Travel & Tourism Key Statistics

• France , Japan, Greece , Thailand, and Malaysia are the top 5 family-friendly destinations.
• The average annual spending on family travel is $3,835.
• Families with a household income of more than $100,000 per year are slightly more likely (20%) to have used a travel adviser than families with lower income brackets.
• The majority of millennial travellers (62%) brought children under the age of five to travel with them.
• In the next 24 months, more people are planning to take family vacations with children (44%) than with friends (40%).
• 43% of American families have vacationed to a National Park with their children.
• Generation Alpha has a huge role in influencing travel decisions in family trips.
• Plane (54%) and car (47%) are the most popular means of transport for family travels.
• In 2020, only 44% took a family vacation. This is well below the 70% prediction in 2019.
• In 2021, 88% of parents said they were likely or very likely to travel with their children in the next 12 months.

Top family travel destinations

What are the top family travel destinations?

1. The top five family-friendly destinations are Osaka, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Bordeaux, and Athens.

[Resonance]

The top five family-friendly destinations, according to Google, are Osaka, Japan; Bangkok, Thailand ; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Bordeaux, France ; and Athens, Greece.

2. Beach resorts are the top destination for 41% of millennial parents with children.

3. The second most popular destination for millennial parents is major metropolitan locations (36%).

4. the top destinations for families looking for adventures and outdoor fun are arenal volcano national park in costa rica, jim corbett national park in india, and serengeti national park in tanzania..

[TripAdvisor]

5. Cancun, Bali , and the Dominican Republic are the favorite beach destinations.

6. zermatt, switzerland, jackson, wyoming, and banff (alberta) , are among the best places for families to go skiing., 7. meanwhile, foodie families love rome, london, and paris as they offer michelin-starred and rising-star experiences..

Rome is a top destination for family travellers who are into food and cuisine.

8. Finally, the top 3 City Lovers Destinations include Dubai, Istanbul, and Barcelona .

Family travel spending statistics.

How much does the average family spend for travelling?

9. Based on estimations, the average trip for a family of four costs $4,580. 

[CreditDonkey]

Including transportation, vacation rentals , food, and entertainment, the average vacation cost is $1,145 per person, which amounts to $4,580 for a family of four. 

10. The estimated average cost of a family vacation makes up around 8% to 9% of the average household income.

11. in reality, the average annual spending on family travel was $3,835. the median amount was $2,435..

[Family Travel Association]

12. While on vacation, a family of 4 has to spend an average of $132 daily on food alone.

The figure excludes alcohol, snacks, or tips. This is why experts suggest hotels with kitchen facilities or renting Airbnbs .

13. In 2019, the average family travel budget is reported to be around $2,500.

14. families with a household income of more than $100,000 per year are slightly more likely (20%) to have used a travel adviser than families with lower income brackets., 15. 44% of people traveling with family expect to spend more on future domestic travel, while 43% expect to spend about the same. .

Only 13% of those polled expect to spend less money on domestic travel.

16. In contrast, only 22% of respondents anticipate spending more on future international trips, 36% anticipate spending the same, and 42% anticipate spending less.

17. people are willing to pay more for accommodations that offer free cancellation, rather than those that prioritize pandemic safety..

[Morning Consult]

This shows that hesitation to travel due to the Coronavirus pandemic is beginning to diminish.

18. Travellers are slightly more willing to pay a premium for accommodation flexibility and safety than they are for transportation (especially ground travel). 

Of course, not all travellers are eager to pay for the upgrade & instead opt for ways to find cheap hotels .

19. Lodging costs make up about 26% of total travel expenses for domestic trips and 21% for international trips.

[Value Penguin]

20. Overall, in family travel, people tend to agree that experience is more important than expense.

[Expedia Group]

21. 80% of visitors who spend a lot of money on travel are between the ages of 18 and 34, compared to 56% of travellers over the age of 50.

Younger families tend to spend more when traveling compare to their older relatives.

Family travel demographics

What is the average family who travels like?

22. The majority of millennial travellers (62%) brought children under the age of five to travel with them.

23. the average millennial takes 2.6 trips per year, and those with families travel significantly more than couples or singles..

According to data from the TMS Family Travel Summit in 2016, there are 80 million millennials in the U.S., all of whom take an average of 2.6 trips each year . Those with families travel significantly more than couples or singles.

24. 62% of millennial parents are traveling with children younger than five years old.

Experts infer that this is because children under five aren’t yet limited by a school calendar.

25. In the next 24 months, more people are planning to take family vacations with children (44%) than with friends (40%).

26. Across the world, travellers with Generation Alphas take at least three family trips per year.

27. 52% of respondents intend to take a multigenerational trip, while 11% intend to take their children on a skip-generational trip with their grandparents. , 28. 45% of respondents are planning a trip with family members other than their parents and in-laws..

29. All in all, 62% of all travellers are planning to visit family and friends.

In a family travel survey by NYU, 62% of respondents say that they are travelling to visit family and friends.

30. Out of travellers who go on family trips, 34% are taking multi-generational vacations.

This means that grandparents are getting to spend quality time with their grandkids.

American family travel statistics

What is family travel like in the United States?

31. The majority of Americans (23%) intend to travel abroad this spring.

The top three popular international travel destinations in spring are the well-known European cities: Paris , London, and Rome .

32. 35% of Americans want to take a vacation of 50 miles or more away from home with two or more immediate family members.

33. 43% of american families have vacationed to a national park with their children., 34. the top domestic travel destinations in 2022 for americans were orlando, destin, gatlinburg, pigeon forge, panama city, and maui., 35. the top international travel destinations in 2022 for americans were riviera maya, playa del carmen, tulum, rome, bali, london, and paris., 36. four-wheel drive, atv & off-road tours, day trips, cultural tours, and snorkeling are the top experience categories that americans are booking for spring 2022., 37. this spring in the us, road trips remain the most popular type of getaway (44%) followed by beach vacations (39%), and shopping vacations (30%)., 38. over half (51%) of americans who traveled in spring of 2021 intend to do so again, with nearly a quarter (23%) planning to spend significantly more., family travel planning and booking .

How do families plan and book their travels? Why do they travel?

39. To help them decide where to visit, millennial parents refer to online peer evaluations and ratings on websites like TripAdvisor and Yelp (37%), and social media posts by family members and friends (29%).

40. for millennials, the less contact with people there is while booking a hotel or vacation, the better..

Nearly half (47%) say they prefer booking through particular hotel, resort, and airline websites, while two-thirds (64%) say they prefer booking through travel websites .

41. Free Internet/WiFi Passes (68%), privacy (57%), and swimming pools (50%) are among the most sought-after hotel amenities.

The single most sought-after hotel amenity by guests is free Internet.

42. The educational benefit of family travel is highly valued by US families (4.6/5).

American families who travel tend to value the educational benefit of family trips.

43. Generation Alpha has a huge role in influencing travel decisions in family trips.

Generation Alpha includes anyone born in and after 2010.

44. In a 2021 survey, 65% of respondents would consider using a travel advisor when it comes to family travel in the next two years.

45. in the last five years, only 1 out of 4 families have used a travel agent. .

46. 46% of families say that they’ve brought their kids on trips for family reunions.

47. 95% of family travellers prioritize keeping their families entertained and happy..

[ShortTermRentalz]

48. 89% of family travellers prioritize deals and values when planning their travels.

49. 85% of family travellers think that outdoor activities, planning around school holidays, and near major attractions or theme parks are equally important., top family travel trends.

How do families like to travel?

50. 52% of families choose their transportation based on speed, while 34% do so based on cost.

51. as such, plane (54%) and car (47%) are the most popular means of transport for family travels., 52. the top travel trends in family travel include adventure trips, multigenerational trips, beach resort stays, celebration travels, and various tours., 53. 49% of families who travel state their main priority during a family vacation is visiting new places and exploring together., 54. 42% of families say that the priority in a family trip is to relax and unwind together., 55. meanwhile, 6% of them state that being active and outdoors together is the main priority., 56. domestic tourism and close-to-home travel, as well as open-air activities, nature-based products, and rural tourism, are among the major travel trends that shaped tourism in 2022., 57. shopping and attending concerts/festivals are both declining in popularity..

Only 6% and 7% of respondents named those activities as their top choices for 2022, respectively.

Coronavirus impact on family travel

How did the Covid-19 pandemic impact the way families travel?

58. In 2020, only 44% took a family vacation. This is well below the 70% prediction in 2019.

59. 80% of family travellers changed their travel plans. .

The 2019 US Family Travel Survey revealed that 80% of respondents changed their travel plans.

60. From those, 64% of domestic travel arrangements were canceled or postponed, while 23% international travel arrangements were canceled or postponed.

61. international travel is still a top choice for 27% of tourists, despite the ongoing restrictions..

This reveals a growing interest in overseas travel and for families to expose their children to international cultures.

62. Travellers are not avoiding areas with historically higher COVID case counts.

Despite the high case count, the U.S. coastal south ranked first (nearly 40%, a margin of 10% higher than any other area) among places travellers want to visit next year.

63. Those who did continue to travel frequently despite the ongoing pandemic adjusted their trips: 36% chose a destination they could drive to instead of flying, 31% adjusted their trip to accommodate travel restrictions, and 28% chose a destination where social distancing would be easier.

64. 43% of those who reported cancellations received a full refund, while 27% received full travel credit.

65. in october 2022, the majority of experts (64%) expect international arrivals to return to pre-pandemic levels only in 2024 or later..

This is actually an increase from just 45% in September 2022.

66. In 2019, 68% of respondents said they intended to visit a museum or cultural attraction; that figure has now dropped to 36%. Cruises were also reduced from 36% to 10%.

67. family vacations were planned by 64% for the summer of 2021 and 56% for the summer of 2022., 68. us families agree that having to forgo travel during the pandemic has made them appreciate the importance of family vacations (rated 4.1 out of 5)., the future of family travel and tourism.

What is the future like for family travel and tourism?

69. In the next two years, the same percentage of millenials (40%) are most likely to go on vacation with friends and to stay with friends/family when travelling.

This might hint at the growing trend of multiple families going on a vacation together.

70. In 2021, 88% of parents said they were likely or very likely to travel with their children in the next 12 months.

Travel intent in 2021 was higher than in 2019 (70%) and 2018 (79%). For families who do not intend to travel, affordability concerns actually trump COVID concerns.

71. In 2021, 80% of respondents say that they will only book from companies with flexible cancellation policies.

72. following the pandemic in 2021, 85% of visitors from britain or germany who clicked on hotels on tripadvisor intended to travel overseas. , 73. just over half (53%) of all hotel clicks by american tourists during the same time period went to overseas countries., 74. the percentage of international hotel clicks in countries like australia (14%) and japan (10%) were far lower. , 75. 70% of unvaccinated families intend to visit theme and water parks in the next 12 months (tying with beach vacations as their top choice)., 76. meanwhile, only 59% of partially vaccinated families and 50% of fully vaccinated families intend to visit theme and water parks in the next 12 months..

This proves that families who are vaccinated tend to also fall under the category of people worried about contracting Coronavirus.

77. Families will pay more attention to cancellation policies (56%) and health and safety considerations on future travel plans (55%). 

78. even after covid-19 has been contained, 26% of respondents say they will be less likely to consider a cruise., 79. 15% of them are also less likely to consider international travel..

Interestingly, respondents who indicate that their family is fully or partially vaccinated are more likely to report these long-term apprehensions than respondents with unvaccinated families.

80. Due to the pandemic, 15% of respondents are still unwilling to fly internationally.

81. In 2021, 45% of family respondents state that they’re not planning to travel overseas at this time.

81. as the number of american households who own a pet grew by 14% between 1988 and 2022, we can expect more families to be travelling with their pets in the future..

In 2022, 90.5 million households owned a pet, which has grown by 14% from 1988. Considering that 37% of pet owners travel with their pets , it's possible to see a growth in the number of family travellers who bring their pets on trips.

It’s clear that family travel will remain a crucial trend in the future.

While the Coronavirus pandemic has caused many to cancel their plans and bookings, we can see that a lot of families are planning to take a vacation together soon.

We hope these statistics could help you understand more about family travel and tourism.

Did we miss any important aspects around this subject?

Drop us a comment below!

Check out more interesting stats:

• Female Travel Statistics
• Digital Nomad Statistics
• Glamping Statistics
• Media.resonanceco
• Family Travel Association
• CreditDonkey
• ShortTermRentalz
• TripAdvisor 1
• TripAdvisor 2
• Morning Consult
• Value Penguin

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The Family Vacation Guide

Family Travel Trend Report 2023

posted by Liv Day on February 6, 2023 // last updated on February 4, 2023

Exploring the most popular family vacation destinations to visit in 2023

Taking your family on vacation can be one of the most rewarding parts of being a parent, showing your children something completely different and opening their eyes to the wider world. Childhood family trips are some of the most memorable moments of our lives and can leave a lasting impact on young minds, which is why it’s worth putting some real thought into where your next family vacation will take you.

However, there are so many possible destinations to consider, each with its own unique attractions and appeal, that planning a family holiday can be a rather stressful process. Whether you’re planning on traveling within the USA with kids or taking your family abroad, the choice is almost endless.

When searching for the perfect destination for some quality time with the family, you should also consider how their interests match up with the activities available in each location. Will your kids enjoy a few days exploring the sights and museums of New York City? Or would they rather explore some of the country’s amazing natural wonders?

There are many different types of family holidays, but whichever one you choose, be sure to plan as much as possible. Taking kids on holiday is an extremely rewarding experience, but can also be quite stressful if things don’t go to plan. For instance, if you’re planning your first family camping trip , there’s a lot to consider aside from the location. From remembering all your supplies and equipment to having activities planned that will keep the kids entertained, there’s a lot of preparation involved to make things go smoothly.

To help you plan the best family vacation you’ve had to date, we’ve conducted a study to find out which locations and types of vacation are set to be the most popular in 2023. Whether you want to vacation abroad or explore the US, this study can provide plenty of inspiration for your next family getaway.

The top countries for family vacations in 2023

Family Vacation Popularity Score: 9.03

Spain is set to be the top country for family vacations in 2023, having received a fantastic Family Vacation Popularity Score of 9.03! Spain is one of the most sought-after countries for family vacations, with an average of 5,730 searches each month in 2022. 

When it comes to vacations, Spain really does have something for everyone. The famous Costa del Sol has some of the most popular beaches and resort towns in Europe, while its major cities offer a wealth of cultural delights, such as the Museo del Prado in Madrid and Barcelona’s awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia.

Family Vacation Popularity Score: 8.98

Turkey is also an excellent choice for a family trip abroad, with a Family Vacation Popularity Score of 8.98. Interest in Turkey surged by a huge 322% in 2022 compared to the previous year, making this the perfect time to plan your Turkish adventure.

There are plenty of family-friendly activities to be had in Turkey, with the exquisite beaches that line the country’s shores attracting families from all over the world. More adventurous activities such as watersports and hiking can be found in abundance, while the sprawling city of Istanbul offers visitors some amazing cultural experiences including the iconic Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar market and the impressive Topkapi Palace.

Family Vacation Popularity Score: 8.93

Following closely on Turkey’s heels is the beautiful country of Italy, which received a Family Vacation Popularity Score of 8.93. Italy is a highly popular family vacation destination, with an average of 4,673 searches per month.

Italy is a country bursting with history and cultural attractions, from the ancient ruins of Pompeii to the grand Renaissance architecture of Florence. There are countless cities in Italy with magnificent museums, architecture and history to explore, though that’s not all the country has to offer. You might consider enjoying the quiet life in a Tuscan villa, exploring the winding canals of Venice, or sunning yourself on the luxurious Amalfi Coast.

The top global cities for family vacations in 2023

• Paris, France

The most sought-after city in the world for a family vacation is Paris, which received a Family Vacation Popularity Score of 9.03. While the French capital is widely known as being one of the most romantic cities on the planet, there is also a huge variety of things for families to enjoy.

Filled with sightseeing opportunities such as the grand Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, world-class museums such as the Louvre, and being just a short trip away from the magnificent Palace of Versailles, Paris is a city steeped in history and cultural attractions. On top of this, the city is also home to Disneyland Paris, Europe’s only Disney resort and one of the best vacation experiences kids can hope for.

• Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Family Vacation Popularity Score: 8.62

The second highest-scoring family vacation destination is Dubai, which received a Family Vacation Popularity Score of 8.62. Dubai is one of the most modern cities in the world and is known for its luxurious shopping and incredible beaches.

There are plenty of activities available for families on vacation in Dubai. You could enjoy the spectacular view from the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, take a camel ride into the desert, or let your kids have the time of their lives at the Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark.

• Rome, Italy

Family Vacation Popularity Score: 8.22

Rome is the third highest-scoring family destination with a Family Vacation Popularity Score of 8.22. If your kids are history enthusiasts, then Rome is a surefire win due to the endless Roman ruins to explore in the city. Two of the most famous Roman sites to visit are the Colosseum, the huge arena where gladiators fought before crowds of thousands, and the Roman Pantheon, the grand temple where ancient gods were worshipped.

Aside from ancient Roman attractions, of which the list is near endless, Rome is full of beautiful places to visit such as the Vatican City, Piazza Navona and the city’s botanical gardens. Rome is also famous for its fantastic food, and offers a wide variety of Italian cuisine, with proper Roman carbonara being a must-try experience.

The most popular states in the US for family vacations in 2023

Family Vacation Popularity Score: 8.37

Hawaii is the top US state for family getaways, earning a US Family Vacation Popularity Score of 8.37. The Hawaiian archipelago is the most remote US state, situated in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. This gives the state a completely unique culture to experience and some of the best weather in the country.

Family trips to Hawaii should definitely include some time on the fantastic beaches, where there are plenty of water sports to enjoy with your kids. No trip to Hawaii would be complete without an exploration of the state capital, Honolulu, as well as a visit to the nearby Pearl Harbor Museum. Hawaii is also home to some fantastic wildlife, as well as two stunning national parks, giving nature lovers plenty to explore.

F amily Vacation Popularity Score: 7.61

The second most popular US state for family vacations is Texas, which earned an overall score of 7.61. Texas is the largest state in the country, and therefore has a huge amount of family-friendly attractions and activities to enjoy.

The island city of Galveston offers excellent beaches as well as the famous Moody Gardens, home to all manner of creatures from sharks to tropical butterflies, as well as free-roaming monkeys and sloths. There are also plenty of great family attractions in the major cities of Texas, such as The Alamo in San Antonio and Houston’s Space Center.

• Florida, US

Family Vacation Popularity Score: 7.55

Florida is the third most popular US state for family vacations with an overall score of 7.55. If your kids like theme parks, then a trip to Orlando should definitely be on the table. The city is home to a huge number of theme parks including Walt Disney World Resort, LEGOLAND Florida Resort, and Universal Orlando Resort, which also includes the magical Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

A family trip to Florida could also include a trip to Miami to enjoy some Cuban culture and cuisine, or a visit to Daytona Beach to check out the attractions at the Daytona Beach Boardwalk or the NASCAR races at the Daytona International Speedway.

The top cities in the US for family vacations in 2023

• San Diego, California & Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

US Family Vacation Popularity Score: 8.37

Two locations are tied as the most sought-after US cities for family vacations, as both San Diego and Myrtle Beach top the table with US Family Vacation Scores of 8.37. California’s San Diego boasts an excellent climate which makes it a great choice for a beach holiday, while also having some great sights to see such as the expansive San Diego Zoo, the USS Midway Museum and many other museums and galleries.

Over on the East coast in South Carolina, Myrtle Beach is a much smaller vacation spot, which can be a blessing when vacationing with kids as they can be overwhelmed and stressed out if they’re not used to big cities. Despite being a smaller location Myrtle Beach is brimming with family-friendly activities including plenty of excellent resorts. No trip to Myrtle Beach is complete without some beach time, but family holidaymakers should also enjoy the Family Kingdom Amusement Park, the boardwalk arcades, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the iconic SkyWheel, one of the country’s largest Ferris Wheels.

       3. Washington DC, District of Columbia

US Family Vacation Popularity Score: 7.71

The third most popular family vacation destination in the US is Washington DC, which received an overall score of 7.71. A trip to the nation’s capital is a great way to entertain the kids and educate them about the history of the United States. The city is full of important national landmarks such as the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, to name but a few.

There are also loads of kid-friendly museums to explore including the Smithsonian, the world’s largest museum complex, which is home to the National Zoo and 21 museums including the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Museum of American History. That’s not to mention some of the other great educational institutions in the city, such as the International Spy Museum and the National Building Museum.

The most popular types of vacations in 2023

Vacation Type Popularity Score: 9.44

The type of vacation with the highest popular interest is a cruise, which received a Vacation Type Popularity Score of 9.44. Cruises are a great way to relax and unwind while getting the chance to experience numerous different locations along the way. 

Cruise ships have a huge variety of entertainment available, so you don’t need to worry about the kids getting bored, and there are many family-friendly cruises available from all the major cruise lines.

Vacation Type Popularity Score: 9.24

City breaks are the second most popular vacation type, with a popularity score of 9.24. City breaks are great for their ease and flexibility, as there are so many ways to make them your own and you can even squeeze one into a weekend without having to book any annual leave.

Cities have so much to offer families, from cultural attractions like museums and galleries, to entertainment such as theater and shows. Many major cities have their own zoos and aquariums for the animal lovers in the family, as well as beautiful parks and botanical gardens to explore. Simply encountering the buzz of different cities, as well as their different cuisines, architecture and atmospheres can be a great experience for kids that opens their eyes to the diversity of the world.

Vacation Type Popularity Score: 8.37

In third place, with a Vacation Type Popularity Score of 8.37, are beach vacations. When it comes to childhood vacations, there’s nothing more quintessential than a trip to the beach. These holidays are great for all the family, whether you’re building sand castles, enjoying the water, playing some volleyball or just soaking up the sunshine.

Methodology

We wanted to find out which destinations in the US and overseas will be the most popular in 2023, as well as which vacation types are set to take the year by storm.

To find this out, we put together long lists of potential destinations, including countries, US states and both global and US cities. We then used Google Keyword Planner to find the average monthly search volume that each location had for 2022 when searched for as a family vacation destination.

From these results, we took the top 50 countries, global cities and US cities, as well as all 50 US states, and calculated the change in monthly searches from the previous year, both as a simple figure and a percent difference.

We then went to Instagram and collected the number of vacation-related posts for each location, and combined this data with the 2022 monthly searches, annual change and percent difference to produce an overall Family Vacation Score. We used this score to rank the locations in each category, revealing the top 20 in each section.

This process was repeated with 50 different types of vacation, revealing those that could be the most popular in 2023.

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How to Spend 4 Days in London with Kids

Posted on Last updated: May 4, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » England » How to Spend 4 Days in London with Kids

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Planning a trip to London with kids and want a totally do-able itinerary? Keep scrolling to check out my kid-friendly 4 days in London itinerary from my last trip to England!

This kid-friendly 4 days in london itinerary was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Planning a trip to London with your family?

We just spent 4 days in London and had a blast! Our 8-year-old and 5-year-old loved all of the activities we did. Keep scrolling to see our exact London itinerary. Spoiler alert: they want to go back!

You will too once you see how much fun these activities are. All of them are perfect for kids of all ages. And don’t worry – we have tips for traveling with kids included too.

Scroll down now to check out our 4 day London itinerary and to find out some awesome things to do for kids in London that your whole family will enjoy!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of London blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting London with kids.

Popular London Tours/Activities

• London Eye (this is a relaxing adventure where you can see a birdseye view of London)
• Double-Decker Bus Tour (this one has a 2-hour guided tour option)
• Harry Potter Walking Tour (this one is especially for families)
• WB Studios in London (this is a MUST-DO for any Harry Potter fan)
• Afternoon Tea (this one takes place on a vintage double-decker bus)
• Flytographer Photo Shoot (this is an easy and affordable London photography option)

Kid-Friendly London Hotels

• Crowne Plaza London Kings Cross (this is right by Kings Cross Station, which is really convenient)
• The Clermont London (this is an easy walk to the London Eye and Buckingham Palace)
• Georgian House Hotel (this is perfect for Harry Potter fans)

4 Days in London with Kids

Before I really get into the London in 4 days itinerary, I wanted to note that we spent the week prior visiting Paris so we had recovered from jet lag by the time we got to London.

We took the Chunnel from Paris , which is a great way to get from Paris to London. They even served us a meal and hot tea!

We arrived in London in the evening, walked to a pub for dinner, and then went right to bed. This itinerary starts the very next day.

DAY 1: Bus Tour, London Eye, & Photo Shoot

Double decker bus tour of london.

When you think about visiting London with kids, you probably picture touring around on one of those iconic double-decker buses, right?

That’s the main reason we booked a 2-hour London bus tour . We did one with a live guide instead of the audio tour because we always have a hard time with audio guides. It was fantastic!

We had tickets for 10 am and we were able to find seats on the upper deck, which offered amazing views of famous London sights like Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and Parliament.

I hadn’t visited London since I was a teen and my husband went in his early 20s and neither of us really remembered how the city was laid out.

Doing this double-decker London bus tour was really helpful to orient ourselves. We also liked doing this vs the hop on hop off bus tour because we didn’t have to wait at a bunch of stops. Check the latest rates and availability .

Lunch at Fishcotheque

Our London bus tour ended near the London Eye. Since we still had 5 hours before our London Eye tickets, we decided to find lunch nearby.

We knew we wanted to find fish and chips since that’s one of the most famous English foods. Luckily, Fishcotheque was within walking distance and they have the #2 best fish and chips in London!

I’m so glad we went there because the food was SO GOOD! It really was the best fish and chips I’ve ever had. It was crispy on the outside and the fish was nice and flaky.

The rest of my family also enjoyed the food. And we liked getting mango juice, which can be hard to find at most restaurants.

The staff members were also super friendly and chatted us up while we were there. I highly recommend stopping at Fishcotheque for lunch in London!

Get Our FREE London Travel Planner

London souvenir shopping, carousel, and break.

The kids saw some souvenir stands and shops on our way back from lunch, so we stopped to check a few out.

I grabbed some adorable picture frames and we bought little Union Jack flags to use for our evening London photo shoot.

We also took a ride on the big carousel next to the London Eye. It was really fast and we had a blast!

Then, we headed back to our hotel so everyone could get a nice break. This gave the kids time to zone out on screens for a bit while I got ready for our London family photo shoot.

When traveling with kids, it’s always nice to add in some breaks so they can rest up and have enough energy to last the rest of the day.

London Eye with Kids

When I asked my kids about things to do in London, my 8-year-old told me riding the London Eye was on his London Bucket List. He’s been wanting to do it for the past few years, so we made it a priority to get tickets.

There are actually several ways to get London Eye tickets and all types of price points.

We booked Fast Track tickets for 5 pm. We decided it was worth spending a few more dollars in order to cut down the time waiting in line. I’m so glad we did this because the line was insanely long when we arrived.

Our tickets came with mini binoculars that were awesome for our kids!

We got on board with maybe 16 other people for the 30-minute loop on the London Eye. Even though the rotation is very slow, the 30 minutes really flew by.

We took lots of selfies and moved around to the different areas of the cabin.

There was also a London Eye Champagne Experience in the carriage right in front of us that people could rent for a private experience. It would be great to do for a big family trip to London.

Our whole family agreed that riding the London Eye was worth it. I’m not sure we’ll need to do it on a future trip to London, but we all had a great time! Check the latest rates and availability .

Flytographer Photo Shoot in London

After doing the London Eye, we had about 20 minutes to walk across the river to meet our London family photographer.

I booked the 90-minute London photo shoot for our family specifically because I want to capture as many iconic London landmarks as possible.

Not only did we get tons of amazing photos but we walked in areas that most tourists wouldn’t even realize existed. Check out our full London photo shoot .

It was fun to chat with our London photographer about all types of things as he told us stories about all the places we went to. It really was like doing a guided tour and a photography session combo!

We always use Flytographer when we travel. They are usually the most affordable photography service we can find. And you can save $25 off your first session .

Book a Family Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND guarantee that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

DAY 2: Harry Potter Walking Tour & Afternoon Tea at Harrods

Harry potter store at platform 9 3/4.

One of the main reasons we wanted to visit London with kids is because they are huge Harry Potter fans. So, we knew we wanted to do at least one Harry Potter tour in London.

We found a cool Harry Potter walking tour that met at King’s Cross Station at Platform 9 3/4. I did some research and realized that there’s a huge Harry Potter store there.

So, we headed there about 45 minutes before our Harry Potter walking tour started to have time to peruse the shop at our own pace. Plus, it gave us time to get the boys changed into the Hogwarts robes and scarves.

The Platform 9 3/4 Harry Potter store is really awesome! They had different merchandise than the Harry Potter Store in NYC as well as what we’ve seen at Universal Studios. And we didn’t even see some of the stuff at the Harry Potter WB Studios either.

They have a full section of the store where you can purchase character-specific wands. My kids chose Draco Malfoy and the Sword of Gryffindor.

This is also where you’ll find a cool photo op where you can push the cart into the wall of the train station. They have a staff member there and even super long Hogwarts scarves so you can get the ultimate photo.

We knew we were doing the Harry Potter studio tour the next day, so we didn’t do the photo op. But our tour guide told us it’s best to go early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid a long line. It’s one of the coolest Harry Potter attractions in London !

Harry Potter Walking Tour

Once we were done shopping, it was time for our Harry Potter Walking Tour . We met right outside the store, which was super convenient.

From there, we walked down to the actual platform where they filmed Harry Potter. Our tour guide chatted with some people who let us go right up and touch it. It was super cool!

We also walked over the the train station where they filmed all the exterior shots, like when Ron and Harry drove the magical car to Hogwarts. And our guide was able to show up photos of the scenes, which was helpful!

During this two-hour tour , we saw tons of Harry Potter filming sites including the exterior of Gringott’s Bank, Grimmauld Place, and the inspirations of Diagon Alley and Knockturn Alley.

This tour was really informative and our guide peppered our kids with Harry Potter trivia questions which kept their attention. We all loved this tour and highly recommend it!

It was definitely a highlight of our 4 day trip to London. Check the latest rates and more information .

Afternoon Tea at Harrods

I had afternoon tea on my London bucket list and the most iconic place is afternoon tea at Harrods. Fortunately, I made reservations about a month in advance to guarantee our spot.

We hopped in a taxi to drop us off at the most famous department store in London. And it was even exciting to go up to the 4th floor to visit the Harrods tea rooms.

We were a little early for our reservation, so we wandered around the 4th floor for a bit. That’s where we discovered that they had a whole hallway full of Harry Potter merchandise that was fun to look at.

But the real treat was the whole afternoon tea at Harrods experience. If you want to do a fancy afternoon tea in London with kids, this is the place to go!

We got to pick our hot beverages (we did tea and the kids did hot chocolate), but everything else was a set menu.

The kids absolutely loved their teddy bear presentation of savory items and bite-sized treats. And my husband and I couldn’t get enough of the finger sandwiches and desserts.

We were almost too full to enjoy the scones, jam, and clotted cream!

This is definitely one of the pricier afternoon teas in London, but it was a highlight of our trip to London with kids. It was simply marvelous!

Shopping and Break at Hotel

After we did afternoon tea, we headed down to the Harrods gift shop. We were all feeling a bit tired to peruse the entire store, so we decided the Harrods gift shop would be our best bet.

They had so many adorable items including their signature teddy bears, branded food items, teas, Christmas ornaments, bags, and so much more.

It was raining by the time we finished, so we headed back to hotel for a break. We were all feeling a bit worn out from all the travel but if we had more energy, we probably would have visited the British Museum.

Dinner at Seafresh

We took a really long rest at our hotel and then walked over to a restaurant near our hotel called Seafresh. It had great reviews.

The food was really tasty! My oldest son and I ordered fish and chips, my husband got the lobster thermador, and my youngest got a big bowl of mussels.

DAY 3: Warner Brothers Studio Tour

Since our family appreciates all things Harry Potter, we knew we needed to check out the Warner Brothers Studio in London .

I waited to get tickets until about a month before our trip and they were sold out. It was like a punch to the gut.

Thankfully, I was able to get 3rd party tickets that even included transportation from London. The studio is actually about an hour outside of the city so this actually was a blessing in disguise.

The WB Studio Tour in London is epically cool and my kids said it was the highlight of their London vacation.

Our tour allowed 4 hours to explore and we used up the entire 4 hours. This is the real studio where they filmed all the Harry Potter movies and it’s packed with interactive experiences, movie sets, props, and so much more.

The studio is massive and they have a cafeteria about halfway through the tour where you can get lunch and butterbeer (or butterbeer ice cream). And they have a really cool gift shop at the end of the tour.

This is definitely one of the coolest things to do in London for families. Check the latest rates and more information .

DAY 4: Changing of the Guard, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, & Afternoon Tea on a 1960s Bus

Changing of the guard tour.

Another iconic thing to do in London is see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. I remembered seeing it as a teen but I wasn’t sure how to do it on our own.

When I saw an affordable Changing of the Guard tour on Airbnb Experiences , I knew it would be perfect for our family.

I’m so glad we booked it because it actually started raining that morning, which alters the whole ceremony. And there are places you can and cannot stand, which our guide knew all about.

Seeing the actual Changing of the Guard was pretty cool. There was no music when we went (due to the rain) but it was still worth seeing.

But the real reason we appreciated the tour was getting to hear all kinds of stories about the royal family and even info about the Netflix series The Crown . Check the latest rates and availability .

However, you can actually go inside Buckingham Palace on a State Room tour for 10 weeks each year. Talk about a London Bucket List item!

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

After the Changing of the Guard, our family headed back to our hotel to re-group.

My husband and 8-year-old got ready to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child . My 8-year-old and I were lucky enough to see it on Broadway earlier in the year, but it was an abridged version.

London still has the 2-part play and we thought it would be a great opportunity for my husband and oldest to get some bonding time.

They had an amazing time and talked about it for weeks afterward. If you’re able to get tickets and you love Harry Potter, this is a must-do!

Afternoon Tea on a 1960s London Bus

Since our 5-year-old was a little young for the play, I looked for a unique London activity for just the two of us. When I came across this afternoon tea on a 1960s London Bus experience with Brigit’s Bakery, I knew it was perfect.

We hopped on at Victoria Coach Station and did a 90-minute tour around London in a double-decker bus.

But, they also served us afternoon tea complete with hot beverages in re-usable to go cups.

My son had hot chocolate while I had Earl Grey tea. And I even got a glass of bubbly!

The food was really tasty and there was a lot of it. They even gave us boxes to bring home the leftovers, which was a nice touch.

The whole experience was a ton of fun and we’d definitely do this again! It’s one of the best things to do in London with a 5 year old who loves vehicles! Check the latest rates and more information .

Tips for Visiting London with Kids

Stay near london attractions you want to visit.

We chose a hotel that was within walking distance of Victoria Station and Victoria Coach Station. This was really handy because we had several tours that met there and it was nice to just be able to walk.

Getting a taxi in London can be hit or miss. We found ourselves running late a few times because places were too far to walk and we thought we could just hail a cab.

Ask Your Kids What THEY Want to Do

Kids love to be included in planning trips and it makes them more excited about the itinerary. Our kids really wanted to do the Harry Potter Studios Tour, the Harry Potter Walking Tour, and the London Eye.

Those were the activities they had the most fun doing and they loved getting a say in our London itinerary!

We asked the kids about visiting some museums, doing a Thames river cruise, or taking a day trip to Bath but they weren’t interested in any of those suggestions.

It was a good thing we checked because those were on our original itinerary. I’m glad we swapped them for things the kids actually wanted to do.

Bring Layered Clothing

Even though we visiting London in summer, we still needed multiple sweaters and long pants. I think their latitude runs the same as Canada, so keep that in mind.

It also rained on us several times so I was glad we had closed toe shoes and bought some umbrellas on the trip. I regretted not packing our rain jackets though.

Try an English Breakfast

My 5-year-old thought it was so cool that he could get baked beans for breakfast that he ordered it every single day!

It’s things like this that make traveling with kids fun. It totally changed his mind about what could be considered breakfast.

London Itinerary with Kids FAQs

Absolutely! London is a very kid-friendly city in Europe and you’ll see tons of families out and about there. You’ll have no problem finding kid-friendly restaurants, playgrounds, activities, and attractions. And it’s perfect for Harry Potter fans!

You could make 3 days in London work, depending on what you want to see/do. There can be a lot of traffic in London, so you’ll want to be strategic about your activities and group them based on location. And if you want to do the WB Studios Tour for Harry Potter, that’s a full-day excursion.

Springtime can be a lovely time to visit London because the temperatures are usually mild (similar to Seattle) and the parks and gardens are starting to bloom. Summertime is the most popular time for families to visit London, but that’s also when it’s most crowded and expensive.

London Family Vacation Wrap Up

I hope this London 4 day itinerary helped you figure out what to do with kids in London, England! This was one of my favorite kid-friendly trips in Europe and we can’t wait for our next family trip to London!

If we had 5 days in London, we probably would have done a day trip to Bath to see Bridgerton filming sites! In fact, there are so many other cool places to add to a kid-friendly England itinerary .

I recommend checking out some London tours for kids , as well as fish and chip spots, fun carousels, and anything else you can’t find in your hometown.

Looking for more London content? Get my top London tips for newbies , kid-friendly hotels in London , best hidden gems in London , top London Instagram spots , London day trips , London vs Paris , things to do in London at night , 11 Terrific Things to Do in London with a Toddler , things to do for kids in London , 1 day in London , and how to book a London photographer !

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“Let’s Keep a Little Optimism Here.” - A Family Trip Report

We are back again this summer! This time we are celebrating my son’s high school graduation. Our trip includes my husband (Don), daughter (Bethany), son (Brandon), and me! My parents are not along this time. My mom was recently diagnosed with kidney cancer and just had surgery a few weeks ago. She’s doing well, so we decided to keep the trip with her blessing and leave her in the capable hands of my sisters. It’s been another tough year for us, but we’ve made it through with a lot of support, including many of my good friends here on touring plans!

I’m not at all sure that I know what I’m doing with Genie and all that nonsense, but I’m going to give it a go tomorrow for our first park day - Epcot! We drove all the way from PA (not my choice) and are staying at a Disney Springs hotel tonight. We drove through the night, so it will be an early bedtime tonight.

Have a great trip!

Well, we spent tonight at guest services in Disney Springs because all of a sudden Brandon wasn’t named Brandon anymore in our MDE. A totally different first and last name. Hopefully, that’s fixed!

Is that the place you did that photo re-creation that they put on the wall?

Yay! I’m glad you’re doing a TR. Looking forward to following along… Have a blast!!!

I’m a little sleep deprived but what photo?!

I am seriously the only one awake! They turned off The Last Jedi and all fell asleep at 6:30. Bethany made it to 7!

Rest, Friend.

Tomorrow you have all the fun.

The one where the kids ordered the same dessert and posed the same way they had years earlier.

Ooh, where was the Bucees? We want to stop at one too!

We passed two. The first one we missed because you couldn’t really see it until you passed the exit. I think the second one was around Daytona. I’ll double check when people are wake!

I am so happy it wasn’t just me and Marie!

One is near St Augustine and one near Daytona.

Does anyone know how early we can drop off our stuff at FQ before heading to Epcot?

Other TouringPlans Resources

Protect Your Trip »

24 top all-inclusive resorts in the u.s. for 2024.

These amazing all-inclusive resorts offer activities and amenities galore.

(Courtesy of Alila Ventana Big Sur) |

Enjoy hassle-free travel at these all-inclusive getaways.

All-inclusive properties may not be as common in the U.S. as they are in vacation hot spots like Mexico or the Caribbean , but there are still plenty of luxurious American resorts perfect for guests seeking a relaxing all-inclusive vacation . These top properties include the cost of meals, drinks and activities in the room rate or offer optional all-inclusive meal plan packages for travelers to select.

From expansive ranches to remote wellness retreats to family getaways across America, these all-inclusive resorts in the United States – many of which also appear on the U.S. News Best Hotels rankings – provide guests with unforgettable experiences.

Alila Ventana Big Sur: Big Sur, California

Set on 160 acres of land in beautiful Big Sur , Alila Ventana Big Sur is an impressive wellness-focused all-inclusive resort ideal for travelers looking for rest, relaxation and an escape into nature. Guests can enjoy numerous on-site amenities and activities, including a spa, a fitness center, ample hiking trails, and several pools and hot tubs with sweeping views of the Pacific Coast landscape.

The cozy accommodations at Alila Ventana Big Sur range from guest rooms to suites – all the sleeping quarters include balconies or patios, and select rooms include fireplaces or hot tubs. The all-inclusive rates here cover meals, nonalcoholic beverages, daily snacks, a welcome amenity and access to a variety of wellness classes. Previous travelers say the setting is gorgeous, the service is stellar and the dining options are delicious.

(Courtesy of Brooks Lake Lodge) |

Brooks Lake Lodge: Dubois, Wyoming

Described as "perfection," "paradise" and "heaven on earth" by recent guests, Brooks Lake Lodge is a 100-year-old historic resort set about 60 miles east of Jackson Hole, Wyoming . The accommodations, which offer mountain views, include classic wood-accented lodge rooms with Wi-Fi access as well as cabins.

No matter the time of year, there are plenty of things to do at this ranch-style retreat: Horseback riding, hiking, canoeing, fishing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and skiing are just some of the outdoor pursuits visitors can enjoy. Those seeking relaxation can head to the spa for a massage (at additional cost) or unwind in the dry sauna or hot tub for free. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea with snacks and dinner are covered by the all-inclusive package.

(Courtesy of Cedar Lakes Estate) |

Cedar Lakes Estate: Port Jervis, New York

Open for an all-inclusive stay on weekends from November through April, Cedar Lakes Estate in New York's Hudson Valley is an excellent choice for a winter or early spring getaway. A variety of quaint cottages, cabins and suites await travelers across 500 scenic acres of land. All meals are covered in your stay at this all-inclusive resort: Expect breakfast, lunch boxes for a picnic meal and sit-down dinners, with an exclusive Saturday Supper multicourse meal as well. Plus, the property's Treehouse Lounge features complimentary afternoon snacks and alcoholic beverages for purchase.

When it comes to activities, visitors can go hiking, snowshoeing, sledding, ice skating and more, or grab a drink and a good book to relax by the outdoor fire pits. Recent visitors call Cedar Lakes Estate a hidden gem, highlighting its excellent food, comfortable accommodations and beautiful grounds as reasons that it gets top marks.

(Courtesy of Triple Creek Ranch) |

Triple Creek Ranch: Darby, Montana

Triple Creek Ranch is an all-inclusive ranch resort – and if you are looking for a serene, luxury experience, this property will certainly fit the bill. Past guests laud the resort's stunning setting: Located in western Montana, Triple Creek Ranch is surrounded by acres of untouched wilderness and home to plenty of wildlife. As such, there are plenty of engaging experiences to immerse yourself in no matter the season, including horseback riding, whitewater rafting, scenic drives and walks, river float trips, snowshoeing, cross-country and downhill skiing, and more.

Other on-site amenities include a pool and hot tub, a dry sauna, a fitness center, a tennis and pickleball court, and lawn games like bocce and badminton. On the culinary side, there are Chef's Table dining opportunities and wine tastings. Breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner, house wine, spirits and beer are included in the nightly room rate, and many say the gourmet dining is a highlight of a trip here. Accommodation options at Triple Creek Ranch include suites and cabins outfitted with rustic decor.

(Courtesy of Lake Austin Spa Resort) |

Lake Austin Spa Resort: Austin, Texas

A secluded and peaceful lakefront getaway, this sprawling adults-only resort sits a little more than 20 miles northwest of downtown Austin . The all-inclusive package covers three meals per day and unlimited beverages like smoothies, juices, tea, coffee and lemonade. Guests at Lake Austin Spa Resort can enjoy access to lake and fitness activities, complimentary in-room Wi-Fi, free parking, yoga, guided hikes and group boat outings. The hotel's on-site spa provides a variety of treatment options, and facilities include pools, steam rooms, saunas and hot tubs.

The resort's rooms, which offer either garden or lake views, come equipped with outdoor patios, coffee makers, robes and slippers, soaking tubs, safes, and freshly cut flowers. Travelers appreciate this resort's exclusive feel (there are only 40 rooms on-site) and its scenic setting; many say the staff and activities are superb as well. Guests must be at least 16 years of age to stay here.

(Alisal Ranch | Courtesy of Victoria Pearson)

Alisal Ranch: Solvang, California

Cozy rooms, awe-inspiring scenery, delicious dining and a long roster of activities are just a few things that characterize Alisal Ranch. Set about 40 miles northwest of Santa Barbara , this all-inclusive ranch resort is situated on 10,500 acres of land. Studios, cottages and houses make up the stay options at Alisal Ranch, and the nightly rates cover breakfast and dinner, plus house wine, beer, cocktails and nonalcoholic beverages. The property offers what it calls "ranch-style dining," with chefs using many ingredients from the surrounding region.

In terms of activities, Alisal Ranch offers pretty much anything you can imagine: Archery, biking, fishing, family bingo, golfing, guided fishing trips, hiking, horseback riding, pickleball and ropes courses are just some of the options to try out. The property also features a pool and spa for relaxing. Travelers say you won't regret a vacation here, citing the outstanding staff, delightful meals and ample activities as reasons to return.

(Courtesy of Blackberry Farm) |

Blackberry Farm: Walland, Tennessee

An incredibly popular and highly lauded resort, Blackberry Farm in eastern Tennessee is an all-inclusive luxury experience. A stay here includes accommodations in a room, a suite, a cottage or a house, as well as three meals daily. Many say the delicious food, the warm and welcoming employees, the luxurious atmosphere, and the serene scenery are the highlights of a stay here.

There are scores of activities visitors can take part in during a stay at Blackberry Farm (though select activities incur an additional fee). You can go horseback riding and hiking or try archery and fly-fishing. Those seeking more relaxing endeavors can take a yoga or meditation class before settling in at the spa for a massage or full body treatment. Cooking demonstrations, wine tastings and whiskey tastings are other offerings at this resort. There's even an on-site brewery serving up everything from Pilsners to pale ales.

(Courtesy of Bungalows Key Largo) |

Bungalows Key Largo: Key Largo, Florida

Bungalows Key Largo, a top resort in the Florida Keys , is the perfect escape for a typical warm weather all-inclusive vacation. Whether you're looking for an all-inclusive honeymoon resort, a beautiful hotel for a girls getaway , a self-care solo vacation or a parents weekend away, this adults-only property fits the bill. Bungalows Key Largo offers 135 private waterfront or garden bungalows with verandas, soaking tubs and outdoor showers. Room rates cover welcome drinks and snacks on top of all meals and top-shelf beverage options at five restaurants and several bars. You can also enjoy complimentary cocktails and small bites while soaking up the sun by the pool.

Morning yoga classes, spa treatments (which cost extra), water sports equipment like paddleboards and snorkeling gear, and a full gym with Peloton equipment round out some of the top offerings at Bungalows Key Largo. Plus, the staff can arrange local activities in Key Largo like boat tours or scuba diving excursions. Recent guests say the hotel is beautiful, the staff is accommodating and atmosphere is incredibly relaxing.

(Courtesy of Migis Lodge) |

Migis Lodge on Sebago Lake: South Casco, Maine

A classic family vacation spot that often draws repeat visitors, Migis Lodge on Sebago Lake stands out thanks to its delicious on-site food offerings, its welcoming staff and its variety of daily programming, according to past guests. The property offers three meals a day plus access to ample activities, ranging from water skiing, kayaking and sailing to nature walks, arts and crafts, and swimming. Those seeking wellness options can take advantage of fitness classes led by personal trainers or book a massage.

Accommodations here consist of private cottages or lodge rooms, all of which include porches, fireplaces, wet bars and fresh flowers. In addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner in the main dining room, Migis Lodge hosts cocktail hours, breakfast and lunch cookouts outdoors at select times of the year, and occasional specialty meals like lobster bakes. The lodge overlooks Sebago Lake and is located in southwestern Maine, about 25 miles northwest of Portland .

(Courtesy of Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa) |

Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa: Tucson, Arizona

This adults-only property in Tucson caters to health-conscious travelers. Along with an award-winning spa, Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa boasts a team of fitness, sustainability, culinary and outdoor experts that lead dozens of guided activities dedicated to health, wellness and adventure. These include Pilates classes, kickboxing, meditations, hands-on beekeeping courses, cocktail-making classes and more. Plus, the resort's impressive desert vistas enhance its atmosphere of relaxation and mindfulness. The extensive spa offerings and three on-site pools add to the rejuvenating amenities.

Nightly rates include three healthy meals a day; unlimited smoothies and snacks; airport transfers; and access to wellness activities, lectures and classes. Reviewers say this is truly the place to be if you're seeking rest and relaxation, with many calling the service impeccable and the classes engaging. Miraval also operates all-inclusive resorts in the Berkshires in Massachusetts and in Austin, Texas .

(Courtesy of The Lodge at Woodloch) |

The Lodge at Woodloch: Hawley, Pennsylvania

An adults-only resort specializing in spa getaways, The Lodge at Woodloch offers a relaxing respite in the Poconos . The spa here is expansive: It features several treatment rooms; a hair and nail salon; separate men's and women's locker rooms; saunas; whirlpools; and fireplace lounges. All room rates cover three meals a day from the on-site TREE Restaurant and Bar, but guests can also upgrade to packages that include daily spa credits. Plus, visitors focused on wellness will appreciate the complimentary fitness, yoga and meditation instruction from the lodge's certified experts.

Visitors highly recommend the resort's spa treatments, and many past guests were impressed by the variety of on-site activities available. Several even said that they make time every year to return. Guests can enjoy everything from cooking classes and expert-led lectures to hiking, kayaking, tennis and more. Other activities rotate by season and are covered by your room rate.

(Courtesy of Woodloch Pines) |

Woodloch Pines: Hawley, Pennsylvania

Woodloch Pines is the family-friendly counterpart to The Lodge at Woodloch. This popular all-inclusive family resort is set in the Poconos and features numerous on-site activities and amenities all year round. The resort boasts 30-plus daily activities and events, ranging from pool games and bingo to snow tubing, go-karting, paintballing and more. Woodloch Pines is also home to indoor and outdoor pools, an indoor splash zone, mini-golf, playgrounds, hiking trails and more.

Meanwhile, the hotel's rooms can accommodate up to six guests and are equipped with patios or balconies, as well as amenities like coffee makers and televisions. Select vacation rentals are available as well. Guests must select either a two- or three-meal daily dining plan as part of the room rate. Overall, families praise the variety of activities available for adults and kids of all ages at this Poconos resort .

(Courtesy of Preferred Hotels & Resorts) |

The Clement Palo Alto: Palo Alto, California

This all-inclusive luxury hotel (part of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts portfolio) is situated in downtown Palo Alto, near Stanford University. With just 23 suites on-site, The Clement Palo Alto offers a quiet respite from busy Silicon Valley. Recent travelers rave about their stays here, saying that the staff members are kind and helpful, the food and drinks that are part of the inclusive rate are delicious, and the well-equipped accommodations allow for ultimate relaxation.

The one- and two-bedroom suites are outfitted in neutral tones of cream, tan and brown, with Nespresso coffee machines, large flat-screen TVs and stocked fridges; the spacious bathrooms are equipped with separate showers and soaking tubs, plus heated floors. Guests have access to a rooftop pool, a private conference room and a 24-hour guest pantry, which features complimentary snacks and drinks. The Dining Room, which serves American fare with local California flavors, is the main on-site eatery for meals.

(Courtesy of Little Palm Island Resort & Spa) |

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa: Little Torch Key, Florida

Book the "Culinary Indulgence" package at this resort to enjoy an all-inclusive experience in the Florida Keys, complete with a welcome bottle of Champagne; breakfast, a three-course lunch and a four-course dinner for two each day; and a $100 spa credit per person per night. The adults-only private island resort stretches across 4 acres and features charming thatched-roof bungalows, an on-site spa, a relaxing pool and a small beach.

Travelers can go snorkeling, kayaking or sailing. You can even book a dolphin experience (for an additional fee). The Dining Room dishes out fresh, local cuisine – with the option to dine indoors or alfresco – along with stunning sea views. Guests can also organize private dining or choose to dine in the comfort of their rooms. Previous visitors say Little Palm Island Resort & Spa is an ultra-romantic hotel with top-notch food, a scenic setting and all-around superb attention to detail.

(Courtesy of The Ranch at Rock Creek) |

The Ranch at Rock Creek: Philipsburg, Montana

The Ranch at Rock Creek gives guests access to a life of rugged luxury on 6,600 acres in western Montana. The all-inclusive rate covers airport transportation, meals, snacks, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, transportation around the massive ranch, and similar expenses. Plus, the room rate at The Ranch at Rock Creek includes daily guided activities, such as horseback riding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, fly-fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing. You'll also find nightly entertainment and fun at the on-site Silver Dollar Saloon, such as karaoke, billiards, bowling and poker.

Meanwhile, kids ages 4 to 12 can have endless fun at Flint's Forest Rangers club, where they are treated to educational and active experiences about Montana's forests, wildlife, fish and ranches. Accommodations here range from rooms in the Granite Lodge or Historic Barn to glamping cabins or standalone luxury homes. Previous visitors can't say enough great things about this upscale resort, calling it "magical," "dreamy" and "an incredible experience." They also say the staff members go above and beyond to ensure travelers have a wonderful stay.

Courtesy of Twin Farms |

Twin Farms: Barnard, Vermont

Spread across 300 acres in central Vermont, Twin Farms provides opportunities for fun and relaxation year-round. In the fall, you can marvel at magnificent New England foliage while canoeing on the resort's pond or biking on leaf-covered paths. In the winter, enjoy private cross-country and downhill ski trails or lounge by the fireplace in your room. In the spring, treat yourself to a spa service (the only part of the resort billed separately from the all-inclusive experience) or try your hand at archery and ax throwing. And in the summer, you can play tennis at the resort's courts or go for a hike, among plenty of other activities.

No matter the season, your room rate will cover any activity you'd like, along with three farm-to-table meals a day, wine pairings and spirits. Recent guests rave about the cozy accommodations, the friendly staff members, the stunning scenery and the wealth of on-site activities at Twin Farms, saying a vacation here is nothing short of perfection.

(Courtesy of Red Mountain Resort) |

Red Mountain Resort: St. George, Utah

An ideal retreat for fitness-oriented travelers, the Red Mountain Resort is located in southwestern Utah among red rock cliffs and canyons. This resort offers various retreat packages that include three healthy meals a day, along with access to perks like daily fitness classes and guided hikes. You can also book a package that comes with a spa credit or other amenities.

Accommodations at Red Mountain Resort include rooms or villas, all of which feature complimentary Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs and views of the impressive Southwest landscape. The scenic atmosphere, top-notch customer service, and proximity to national and state parks were a few highlights for recent travelers.

(Courtesy of Skytop Lodge and Historic Hotels of America) |

Skytop Lodge: Skytop, Pennsylvania

Skytop Lodge is perched in the Pocono Mountains on 5,500 acres of land, offering visitors plenty of nature to explore and outdoor activities to take part in year-round. Adventure travelers will appreciate the treetop ropes course, snowshoeing, kayaking, hiking and paintball, while those looking for more of a relaxing getaway can chill by the indoor or outdoor pool, play a leisurely round of golf, or curl up with a good book in front of the fire in the lounge area. Skytop Lodge, part of the Historic Hotels of America, also hosts many events throughout the year, including a beer festival and a food and wine weekend.

When it comes to food, the resort offers an optional all-inclusive plan (the Modified American Plan), which includes breakfast and dinner on-site. Dining options range from casual spots like The Taproom to upscale offerings like Lakeview and Windsor. Finally, when it's time to rest, guests can retreat to their room or suite at The Lodge or The Inn; there are also multi-room cottages that work well for families. Most accommodations offer excellent views, and some include gas fireplaces or balconies. Recent travelers say Skytop Lodge is perfect for a weekend getaway , with many praising the plethora of on-site amenities and outstanding staff members.

(Phillip Murdaco | Courtesy of The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island)

The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island: St. Simons Island, Georgia

This beautiful all-inclusive resort is surrounded by 11,000 acres of wilderness in southeastern Georgia, about halfway between Savannah, Georgia , and Jacksonville, Florida . Recent visitors described the hotel as the perfect experience for nature lovers, with many praising the scenic setting and relaxing atmosphere. The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island's all-inclusive rates cover three daily meals, with menus that feature local ingredients, as well as accommodations and a variety of amenities and excursions.

Visitors staying here can enjoy kayaking, hiking, birding, biking and fishing – or head to the saltwater pool or beach to relax. Accommodations include individual rooms or cottages. What's more, this resort can only host 32 guests at a time, which means you can expect plenty of peace and quiet and a relaxed atmosphere at this all-inclusive.

(Courtesy of The Tyler Place Family Resort) |

The Tyler Place Family Resort: Highgate Springs, Vermont

A family-friendly all-inclusive resort in northern Vermont, The Tyler Place Family Resort receives rave reviews from recent guests. Many praise the friendly staff members and abundance of activities, with several travelers noting that they return year after year and enjoy an incredible vacation each time. The resort sits on 165 acres of land, which is also home to gardens, woods and pools, and it overlooks a bay. Water activity options include kayaking, sailing, fishing, wakeboarding, tubing, water skiing, paddleboarding and more.

All meals are covered by the nightly rate, plus accommodations, activities and kids programming. Adults can take advantage of amenities like fitness classes, bonfire nights with free beer and wine, and live music shows. Accommodation options at The Tyler Place Family Resort include a variety of suites and cottages.

(Courtesy of Rocking Horse Ranch Resort) |

Rocking Horse Ranch Resort: Highland, New York

An activity-filled all-inclusive family resort, Rocking Horse Ranch Resort is sure to please parents and kids no matter the time of year they visit. The resort offers horseback riding across 500-plus acres of trails, rock climbing, mini-golf, shuffleboard and more. There's even an exotic wildlife exhibit where kids can see goats, zebras, donkeys and Scottish Highland cows. In winter, take advantage of opportunities for skiing, snow tubing and ice skating.

Indoor activities include an indoor water park and a game room, plus nightly entertainment for the whole family, such as live music, magic shows, fireworks displays, and comedy and juggling performances. Meanwhile, accommodations have flat-screen TVs, minifridges and free Wi-Fi access; some family-friendly rooms include fun bunk beds for kids. Rates include lodging, all meals, on-site activities and amenities.

(Courtesy of Vista Verde Guest Ranch) |

Vista Verde Guest Ranch: Clark, Colorado

An all-inclusive resort made for outdoor enthusiasts, Vista Verde Guest Ranch in northwestern Colorado is a treat for travelers of all ages. In fact, the property carves out certain times of the year for adults-only getaways and the remainder for family-friendly trips. Rates here include three meals a day, an assortment of drinks, activities, accommodations and more.

As one of the U.S. News picks for the best all-inclusives for teens , the ranch offers a bevy of warm weather activities, including paddleboarding, horseback riding, archery, hiking, mountain biking, yoga and more. When the temperatures cool down, visitors can go skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and snow tubing. Or, stay inside and sign up for a cooking class or wine tasting. You'll have your pick of cabins or lodge rooms, which previous visitors hail as cozy, spacious and comfortable. Travelers also praise the delicious on-site dining and the beautiful Colorado setting.

(Courtesy of David Akoubian) |

Triangle X Ranch: Moose, Wyoming

This all-inclusive dude ranch is located within Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, meaning there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Recent guests highly recommend booking the guided float trip, which takes visitors on a large raft down the Snake River to soak in the surrounding scenery. Many say the guides are incredibly knowledgeable and make the atmosphere fun for all ages. While the float trip is an additional fee, dozens of free activities are available at Triangle X Ranch, including square dancing, hiking, fishing, snowshoeing, wildlife viewing and more.

Guests typically see wildlife like elk, bison, mule deer and coyotes – and occasionally moose, wolves, bald eagles, grizzly bears and black bears also appear. All meals at this ranch are covered as part of the room rate. As for accommodations, the cabins range from one to four bedrooms and include porches with sweeping views; you won't find TVs or Wi-Fi access here because the property encourages visitors to disconnect and enjoy a "traditional dude ranch experience."

(Courtesy of Fair Hills Resort) |

Fair Hills Resort: Detroit Lakes, Minnesota

Overlooking Pelican Lake in western Minnesota (about 200 miles northwest of Minneapolis ), Fair Hills Resort is a popular family-friendly getaway with all-inclusive rates from mid-June to mid-August. The property offers more than 100 accommodations, ranging from motel-style connecting rooms to cabins with up to four bedrooms; select cabins even have kitchens. During the summer all-inclusive season, guests have the option of the all-inclusive American Meal Plan or the dinner-only One Meal Plan. Meals are served at specific times each day, enabling resort guests to mingle.

On the resort's campus, there is no shortage of fun activities for guests to take advantage of. Scavenger hunts, boat rides, tennis, golf, volleyball, fishing, talent shows, ice cream socials and family campfire nights appeal to kids, teens and parents alike. The resort also hosts select adults-only activities. Previous guests loved how the focus of a vacation here is family and say they really enjoyed the atmosphere, activities and experiences that Fair Hills Resort provides.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Erin Evans is the managing editor of Travel at U.S. News and has been reviewing, writing and editing hotel content for over a decade. She used her research expertise, the U.S. News Best Hotels rankings and dozens of review sites to create this list of the top all-inclusive resorts in the U.S.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top All-Inclusive Resorts Where Kids Stay Free
• The Top Affordable All-Inclusive Resorts
• The Top All-Inclusive Cruises
• Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resort
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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Get a Passport

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• Both parents or guardians must approve that we can issue a passport to a child, and go with the child to apply in person.
• If one or both parents or guardians cannot apply with their child, you will need to show us more documents.
• You cannot renew your child's passport using Form DS-82.
• Passports for children under age 16 are only valid for 5 years. 

Steps to Apply

1. fill out form ds-11 and print it.

Use our Form Filler tool  to fill out your child's form on a desktop or laptop computer and then print it. If you are experiencing technical issues with the Form Filler, download a PDF . 

Tips to complete your child's form :

• Do not sign your child's form until asked to do so by a passport acceptance agent or employee. 
• You can apply for a passport book , a passport card , or both documents.
• You may ask for a larger passport book with more visa pages, at no extra cost, by checking the 'large book' box at the top of the DS-11.

2. Get Evidence of U.S. Citizenship (and a photocopy)

Your evidence must be an original or replacement copy. The document must have the official seal or stamp of the office which issued it. You must submit one of the following documents for your child:

• Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
• Lists applicant's full name, date of birth, and place of birth
• Lists the parent(s)' full names
• Has the date filed with registrar's office (must be within one year of birth)
• Has the registrar's signature
• Has the seal or stamp of the city, county, or state which issued it
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
• Certificate of Citizenship
• Please note you must also provide a document, such as a birth certificate, that lists the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child. Full validity means the document is or was valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16. 

If you cannot submit one of these documents, go to our  Citizenship Evidence page  for more information.

Paper only : You cannot submit digital evidence of U.S. citizenship such as a mobile or electronic birth certificate. You must submit physical evidence of U.S. citizenship and a photocopy of the document. 

Returning your child's document : We will return your child's document in a separate mailing up to 8 weeks after you receive the new passport.

Tips for making a photocopy :

• Black and white (no color)
• Use 8.5 inch by 11 inch paper
• Use a single side of the paper

If you do not submit a photocopy, you must submit a second copy of your citizenship evidence. We will keep this copy for our records.

3. Show Your Relationship to Your Child

You must submit a document that lists the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child. Examples include:

• U.S. birth certificate (also evidence of U.S. citizenship)
• Foreign birth certificate
• Adoption decree
• Divorce or custody decree
• A court order

Some documents, like a U.S. birth certificate, show  both  U.S. citizenship and parental relationship. These documents must be originals or certified copies (not photocopies).

You and your child may have different last names, as long as the document showing your relationship to your child lists your full name.

If your name is different than the one on the document showing your relationship to your child, submit proof of your legal name change.

4. Get a Photo ID (and a photocopy)

Both parents or guardians must bring a physical, photo ID and a photocopy of it. If your photo ID is from a different state than the state in which you are applying, bring a second photo ID. 

You must show at least  one  of these photo IDs:

• Valid or expired, undamaged U.S. passport book or passport card 
• In-state, fully valid driver's license or enhanced driver's license with photo
• Certificate of Naturalization 
• Certificate of Citizenship 
• Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)
• U.S. military or military dependent ID
• Current (valid) foreign passport
• Matricula Consular (Mexican Consular ID) used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
• U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
• Trusted Traveler IDs (including valid Global Entry, FAST, SENTRI, and NEXUS cards)
• Enhanced Tribal Cards and Native American tribal photo IDs
• In-state, fully-valid learner's permit with photo
• In-state, fully-valid non-driver ID with photo
• Temporary driver's license with photo

If you do not have one of these photo IDs, go to our  Identification page  for more information.

5. Show More Documents (if both parents or guardians cannot apply)

• Both parents or guardians must approve that we can issue a passport to a child, and go with the child to apply in person.
• If one or both parents or guardians cannot apply in person with their child, you will need to show more documents.

Important : Submit  Form DS-3053  and other notarized statements within three months of signing them.

6. Provide a Photo

You must provide one photo with your child's application. Go to our  Passport Photo page  for photo requirements and to see examples of photos. 

• Do not attach or staple your child's photo to the form. The acceptance agent or passport employee will review the photo and staple it to your form.
• Some  passport acceptance facilities
• A company which offers photo services
• Home. Ask your friend or family member to take your child's photo. Print it on glossy or matte photo quality paper. 

7. Calculate Fees

When applying using Form DS-11, you will pay two separate fees - an application fee and an execution (acceptance) fee. You will pay the application fee to the U.S. Department of State, and the execution (acceptance) fee to the facility which takes your application. 

• Add $60 to your application fee if you want  expedited service .
• Add $19.53 to your application fee if you want us to ship your completed passport in 1-2 days after we issue it.  

Child Applicants :

For more information on how to pay and a full list of fees, go to our  Passport Fees  page.

*How to fill out your check and pay the application fee to the U.S. Department of State. Please note you must pay a separate execution (acceptance) fee. 

Families may write one check or money order to the U.S. Department of State if they are applying at the same time. The check or money order must include the name and date of birth of each applicant.

8. Find Location to Apply

In the United States:

• Traveling in more than 3 weeks?  Go to a  passport acceptance facility  such as a post office, library, or local government office. Check with the facility to see if you need to make an appointment. 
• Traveling in less than 3 weeks?   Make an appointment  to apply at a passport agency or center.

In another country:

• Contact your  U.S. embassy or consulate .

9. Track Your Application Status

You can  subscribe to email updates  about your application status, and  learn more about each status update .

It may take 2 weeks from the day you apply until your child's application status is “In Process.” 

Frequently Asked Questions

How will you send my child's passport and supporting documents.

You will get multiple mailings. The number of mailings depends on what document(s) you asked for.

Passport Book : You may get your new passport and citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We will return the passport book using a trackable delivery service.

Passport Card : You may get your new passport card and your citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We only send the passport card via First Class Mail. We do not send cards using 1-2 day delivery services.

Both a Passport Book and Card : You may get three separate mailings:

• New passport book
• New passport card
• Citizenship documents

Contacting Us : If you have been waiting more than 8 weeks for your documents, call us at  1-877-487-2778  to report that you have not received your documents. 

If you want us to reimburse you for a lost supporting document, you must contact us within 90 days of the date which we mailed your passport. You will also need to provide a receipt to show the cost of replacing the document. 

Can I pay for faster delivery and return shipping?

Yes. You may choose one or both of the following shipment options:

• Delivering application to us : Pay for Priority Mail Express for faster shipping. The price for this service varies depending on the area of the country.
• Returning the passport to you : Pay $19.53 for 1-2 day delivery. This means you will receive your passport   1-2 days after we send it. Include this fee with your check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State. Do not submit a return envelope to us with postage pre-paid. 

You may receive your passport and supporting documents in separate mailings. If you are renewing a passport card, we will send it to you via First Class Mail. We do not use 1-2 day delivery services if you only applied for a passport card.

What countries require Form DS-3053 "Statement of Consent" to be notarized at an embassy or consulate?

In certain countries, a DS-3053 must be notarized at a  U.S. embassy or consulate  and cannot be notarized by a local notary public. Currently, these countries include:

Special Passport Fairs

Find a Special Passport Fair  near you!

We're holding special passport fairs all across the United States to help you get your passport more easily. New events are added to our site every week.

Most events are for first-time applicants and children, (who use Form DS-11). If you can use Form DS-82, you can renew by mail at your convenience!

Processing Times

Routine:  6-8 weeks*

Expedited: 2-3 weeks and an extra $60*

*Consider the total time it will take to get a passport when you are booking travel.  Processing times only include the time your application is at a passport agency or center.

• It may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive at a passport agency or center. It may take up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport after we print it. 
• Processing times + mailing times = total time to get a passport

Urgent Travel:  See our Get my Passport Fast page. 

How to Apply for your Child's Passport

Watch this video to learn how to apply in person for your child's U.S. passport!

External Link

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Massive 6.5-inch megalodon tooth unearthed in South Carolina by family of fossil hunters

Likely megalodon tooth discovered in deep sea exploration.

The possible megalodon tooth was found during a three-week Ocean Exploration Trust expedition to explore the deep-sea biology and geology of the Johnston Unit of the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument about 150 miles south of Johnston Atoll. (FOX Weather)

SUMMERVILLE, S.C. - The discovery of a monster's rare tooth, not seen in millions of years, was made last weekend in South Carolina .

A family from Florida unearthed the exciting find – a massive 6.5-inch megalodon tooth – during a fossil hunting expedition.

The Columbia family discovered a huge 6.5-inch megalodon tooth while on a Palmetto Fossil Excursions hunting trip near Charleston, South Carolina last Saturday. (Palmetto Fossil Excursions)

Paul Columbia and his family of four from Largo , Florida share a passion for hunting and collecting shark teeth, particularly in their home state.

So when they traveled to Summerville , South Carolina, on Saturday for their 12-year-old son's baseball tournament, it made perfect sense to plan a shark tooth-hunting trip with Palmetto Fossil Excursions . The company specializes in guiding people from around the world on fossil-hunting adventures in the greater Charleston area.

The family's dry dig exploration took place at a location known as "The Lightning Site," which showcases a variety of formations from the Pleistocene to the Oligocene and an abundance of Mega-toothed shark species.

"We dug and found a couple of nice-size, great quality makos within a half hour," Paul Columbia said. "We are accustomed to digging in soft Florida dirt to reach the gravel. 

DISCOVERED DINOSAUR BONE IN ENGLAND MIGHT HAVE BELONGED TO CENTURIES-OLD FIRST ROMAN FOSSIL HUNTERS

While he took a break from moving clay, his two sons and their tour guide continued to dig. After his break, Paul Columbia entered the pit and recalled saying to them, "Alright, pray to the meg gods that we hit the sought-after 7-inch meg."

Within 30 minutes, their guide led them to something not seen on Earth since the megalodon's extinction 3.6 million years ago.

"We originally thought it to be a 3-inch, then a 4-inch," Columbia added.

As the excitement grew, his wife jumped in the pit when they all yelled, "It's a 5-incher!"

As they gathered and slowly wiped away more clay, the sounds of excitement began as they discovered the megalodon tooth was well over 6 inches long.

GOLD RING WITH MARK OF CHRIST LOST 500 YEARS AGO RECENTLY FOUND IN EXCELLENT CONDITION

"We could not believe the size, the color or our luck," Columbia said. "What started as a baseball tournament trip became an experience of a lifetime."

After carefully securing the massive tooth of their dreams, the family expressed their eagerness to bring it back to Florida for cleaning and restoration.

LINK: Get updates and more on this story at foxweather.com.

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Day 3 of Hunter Biden's federal gun trial

By CNN's Holmes Lybrand and Marshall Cohen at the courthouse

Hunter Biden's ex-wife and ex-girlfriend testify in the federal gun trial. Here’s what happened in court

From CNN staff

Hunter Biden’s ex-wife and ex-girlfriend were on the stand Wednesday in his trial on federal gun charges. 

They testified about his drug use as the prosecution is trying to prove that Biden knowingly lied on a federal form when he purchased a gun in 2018.

The man who sold Biden the gun also took the stand and the revolver that Biden purchased was shown to the jury.

Here’s a recap of what happened in court today:

• Cross-examination of the prosecution's first witness : FBI special agent Erika Jensen was back on the stand with the defense arguing that there is no evidence in Biden’s memoir that he was using drugs when he bought the gun. She also said investigators couldn’t verify that Biden actually did what he claimed he was doing in several texts being used as evidence against him. 
• Hunter Biden’s ex-wife:  Hunter Biden’s ex-wife Kathleen Buhle testified that she first learned of his drug use in July 2015. She previously “worried” and was “scared” about possible drug use due to Hunter Biden’s 2014 exit from the Navy. Buhle also said she found drugs in  Biden’s car on multiple occasions . Under cross-examination, Buhle said  she didn’t know exactly when  she checked Biden’s car and found drug paraphernalia.
• Hunter Biden’s ex-girlfriend: Zoe Kestan told jurors she met Biden at a gentleman’s club in 2017 . She described him as “incredibly friendly” and “charming” and said Biden smoked crack almost constantly in private but not while out in public, where he was affable. Kestan testified that she sometimes helped him buy drugs and withdraw cash . Trying to make a connection to the timeline of the gun purchase, Kestan testified that she saw Biden doing drugs as late as September 2018 .
• Man who sold Biden the gun: Gordon Cleveland testified that Biden came into the gun store  “looking for a firearm.” He said he watched Biden fill out the federal form before he purchased the gun in 2018. Cleveland told Biden to take his time to avoid making mistakes, he said and watched Biden check “no” on the question of whether he used illegal drugs. He testified that Biden paid in cash and also bought ammunition .
• Remember: The indictment stems from a 2018 gun purchase . While buying the revolver in Delaware, Biden is accused of lying on a federal form, swearing that he was not using, and was not addicted to, any illegal drugs — even though he was struggling with crack cocaine addiction at the time of the purchase. If convicted on all counts, Biden could theoretically face as much as 25 years in prison and fines of up to $750,000, according to court filings. 

Jury excused for the day in Hunter Biden case 

From CNN’s Marshall Cohen and Holmes Lybrand   

The jury has been excused for the day in the Hunter Biden trial.  

The court will resume Thursday at 9 a.m. ET with Gordon Cleveland, an employee at the gun store, back on the stand.

First lady Jill Biden has left the courthouse

From CNN’s Kit Maher 

First lady Jill Biden has left the federal courthouse in Wilmington, Delaware, where she was supporting Hunter Biden during his trial.

She also attended the trial on  Monday  and  Tuesday .

Hunter Biden also bought ammunition when he purchased the gun, seller said

Gordon Cleveland, who was an employee at the gun store, said he also encouraged customers — including Hunter Biden — to buy ammunition when they purchased a firearm.  

Cleveland testified that he explained to Biden that hollow-point bullets — more expensive ammunition — were best for self-defense. He said Biden chose to purchase the bullets.   

The former salesman added that he “was making the same pay” whether someone bought a gun or not.

Gun salesman embraces reputation as someone who could close deals on expensive guns

The gun salesman, Gordon Cleveland, embraced his reputation as a “whale hunter,” chuckling when Hunter Biden's defense attorney brought up the term and bragging about his ability to close deals for pricey guns.  

The defense is pursuing this line of inquiry because in opening statements it told the jury that Cleveland essentially peddled the gun to Hunter Biden.   

“I could sell whatever you had. It’s just what I did,” he said, explaining why his colleagues called him a whale hunter. This included attempts to push his customers to buy more expensive guns, he conceded.  

But Cleveland said he did that because the pricier guns are more reliable and high quality.  

He wouldn’t peddle “junk” onto customers, Cleveland said.

Defense questions gun shop employee about how Hunter Biden arrived at the store 

From CNN’s Marshall Cohen and Holmes Lybrand  

On cross-examination, Hunter Biden's defense attorney Abbe Lowell pressed the man who sold Hunter Biden a gun in 2018 about how he saw him arrive at the store.

“Did you see through the wall?” Lowell asked.  

The gun store employee, Gordon Cleveland, said no, he eventually saw the car through the store window.   

Lowell said in opening statements that Hunter was only in the area to buy a new phone.

Cleveland testified that Hunter pulled into the parking lot of the gun shop from the direction of an AT&T store across the street.  

Gun shop employee says Hunter Biden paid in cash

Former gun shop employee Gordon Cleveland testified that Hunter Biden paid in cash for the gun he purchased in 2018.  

Cleveland said that Biden told him to keep the change left over, but he decided to leave the extra money in an envelope at the store.

“I don’t keep tips,” Cleveland said.  

Cleveland testified he stopped working at the store in 2021 due to health issues.  

He is now being cross examined by defense attorney Abbe Lowell.  

Meantime: House Republicans issue criminal referrals to DOJ against James and Hunter Biden

 From CNN's Annie Grayer

The Republican-led committees leading the impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden referred Hunter and James Biden to the Department of Justice on Wednesday, recommending they be charged with making false statements to Congress during closed-door interviews earlier this year.  

In a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland and special counsel David Weiss, who is leading the criminal investigation into the president’s son, the trio of Republican committee chairmen laid out their case for why the DOJ should pursue criminal charges of the president’s son and brother. 

The Republicans are seeking to tie their criminal referral of Hunter Biden to the ongoing trial, arguing that his criminal charge for lying on gun purchase forms should weigh on how the DOJ evaluates their accusations. 

Political maneuver: House Republicans are looking to go on offense, even if they don’t move the needle in their stalled impeachment inquiry into the president. Their investigation has failed to uncover evidence of wrongdoing by the president and Republicans lack the votes to impeach the president in their narrow majority. 

CNN has reached out to representatives of Hunter and James Biden for comment. DOJ acknowledged it has received the referrals but has no further comment.

Gun store employee testifies he saw Hunter Biden fill out the federal form at center of trial

Gordon Cleveland testified that he told Hunter Biden to “take your time” in filling out the required federal form before Hunter Biden bought a gun in 2018. 

Cleveland said he always told people to take their time with the form because some people would fill it out incorrectly and mess up the sale.  

The former gun store employee also said he watched Hunter Biden mark “no” on the question of whether he was a user of illegal drugs.  

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2 teachers resign after one shared photos in lingerie with student on trip

MADISON, Wis. ( WMTV /Gray News) - Two Wisconsin high school business teachers have resigned after a school district found inappropriate behavior between them and a student while on a class trip.

The Janesville School District confirmed the board accepted the resignations of Alexsia Saldaris and Jennifer Larson on April 22. Both were business education teachers at Janesville’s Joseph A. Craig High School.

Saldaris worked for the district for one year, while Larson worked in the school system for 11 years.

WMTV uncovered a summary of the district’s investigation into the inappropriate behavior between the teachers and a student through an open records request.

The records reveal a timeline of events from a school trip that happened between April 7 and April 9, which Larson and Saldaris attended.

The document states both teachers were using Snapchat with “Student A,” indicating they wanted to cuddle and “have fun” with the individual. They also asked if another student would join.

Additionally, the report shows Saldaris gave keys for a district van to the student to “take a lap” in the parking lot.

On that same day, the report claims Saldaris was changing her shoes in the back of the district van when she shared “a half kiss” with the student.

On the evening of April 9, the timeline alleges Saldaris used Snapchat to send the student five photos of herself in lingerie and undergarments. The report also states text messages were found between Saldaris and the student referring to planning to meet on the weekend.

According to the school board’s document, Larson reported on April 10 to the principal, Dr. Alison Bjoin, that Saldaris let the student drive the van in the parking lot. That same morning, the report states Saldaris text the student and said their “relationship” needed to stop. The student apparently agreed.

The following morning, Bjoin received a report from another teacher claiming they confronted a group of boys laughing around a phone. That teacher said they were “95-percent sure” the photos the boys were looking at were of Saldaris in her undergarments.

When confronted by school officials, Saldaris admitted to sending the pictures to the student through Snapchat, according to the report. Larson admitted to Snapchat messages “involving cuddling, flirting, and the implication of alcohol.”

Both teachers were placed on paid administrative leave on April 12.

The school has concluded its investigation into the matter. Janesville police are now investigating to see if any criminal charges will be referred to the Rock County District Attorney.

Copyright 2024 WMTV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Family trip report on the go - Savannah Forum

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Family trip report on the go

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Dinner the first night was at River House seafood. Service was top notch, from the hostesses to our waitress to the manager. This place is very kid friendly, and also has enough interesting things to look at inside to help keep the, occupied The blue crab dip appetizer with house made chips was delish. The kids had cheeseburgers that looked good, and the adults had crab bisque (good but quite salty, and I like salt), flounder over goat cheese orzo (mediocre), and the bourbon pecan salmon (this is SO good).

The next morning we took advantage of the overcast skies and cooler temps to take a leisurely walk to breakfast. My kids are amazed by the size of the magnolias and the crepe myrtles, and I could spend all day looking at the moss covered trees. But we were hungry (as always) so made our way to B. Matthews for breakfast. Again, all the service was absolutely great. The kids were delighted with their fancy French toast plates that came with their own little syrup pitchers. I’ve spent the day scrubbing syrup off of their faces, elbows, hair, the works. The grownups ordered the crab cake Benedict and the fried chicken biscuit with sausage gravy, which were well worth the 12 million calories. I was going to get a Bloody Mary but learned they couldn’t serve them until 11 - not sure if that’s every day or just Sunday.

I was happy I hadn’t had a Bloody Mary afterwards when we were navigating the stairs down to river street. We poked in and out of shops for a while, made what I am sure is only our first visit to a candy store, and took a break to eat our treats on a bench and watch the boats on the river. We then made our way back to our rental, detouring toward everything that looked like a square that we saw.

After a break in the rental for a bit, we loaded up in the car and made the short drive to the Savannah Children’s Theater for their final production of the Wizard of Oz. This was such a fun experience! It was my kids’ first time at any sort of live theater/play production, and I was thrilled that they were so captivated. Highly recommend this place if you have kids. I wish my hometown had something like this, I loved being able to introduce them to theater in an environment specifically designed for kids.

Around 6:30 we walked to Huey’s on the River for dinner. The staff was a bit frazzled and the place smelled a bit but overall it was a good experience. We had the barbecue shrimp appetizer, grownups had a roast beef debris/red beans combo plate and the jambalaya pasta. Giant plate of beignets for dessert! All the food was good, I just wouldn’t go back there for it given the other options around.

The streetlights were coming on as we walked home, and we’re thinking about arranging a pedicab tour one night to see the HD twinkling at night. Hope our second day is as good as the first!

18 replies to this topic

Glad you enjoyed your day at Tybee Island. It is a different experience from the gulf coast.

See you are from Katy. My daughter lived in Pearland for a number of years so we enjoyed lots of trips to Galveston. We were spoiled by Killen's BBQ too.

Anymore installments, or was that your last day?

Sounds like a pretty successful trip.

yes thanks again

@PeachBelle8288 - love Killen's! Pearland is a bit of a trek from Katy but we do it for the food.

After breakfast, we called for an Uber over to the Savannah Children's Museum (we blamed it on the heat, even though it was really due to the 12 lbs of carbs for breakfast). We visit the children's museums wherever we go, and this one is unique. It's smaller scale (compared to Houston, San Antonio, New Orleans , etc.) and entirely outside. It's set within the walls of some of the old Georgia Railway buildings, with no ceilings and open to the sky, and it's gorgeous. Brick walls covered with climbing ivy and flowering vines, just a beautiful place. I could have packed a sandwich and a book and spent the day there. They have some of the activities you usually see at children's museums (e.g., the big blue foam blocks, giant legos,etc.), but also had some unique attractions. First, they had some craft stations set up that were actually manned by staff to help the kids. Good luck with that in Houston, the craft areas are like a mosh pit free for all with not an employee in sight. They staff here helped the kids make some super cute fish on popsicle sticks, and then showed them to a small puppet theater where they acted out plays with their fish. There is also a maze, a reading nook, and a garden with watering cans and a hose where my kiddos spent the longest time watering the plants, themselves and my shoes. We didn't have time but the railroad is literally on the same grounds and you buy tickets at the same counter as for the kid's museum, which I'd do next time.

We next Ubered over to City Market . Our driver was a lovely gentleman who retired with his wife from Atlanta to Savannah and was full of fun information. By this time we were sweating and needed AC so we ducked into the Cafe at City Market not knowing anything about it. Our waitress was again fantastic and so good with the kids. Either Savannah is just really nice to kids or we had good luck most of this trip. The kiddos had strawberry lemonade and the grown-ups were going to have iced tea but switched to Peach Sangria when we saw l2 other people with them. This was an excellent choice - so good, not too sweet either. The kid's meals were good quality. The grown-ups had the market chicken salad plate and the summer salad with grilled chicken, both were good.

We saw the sign across the street for Byrd's Tiny Crispy Cookies which we'd never heard of so made it our next stop. If you haven't been...it's a cookie and snack store with tons of flavors of tiny cookies where you can pick a box and fill it up with whatever flavors you want. How can you go wrong with that? We particularly enjoyed the cupcake cookies, salted caramel cookies, and all the flavors of cooler cookies. I got my MIL a wrapped gift pack of three flavors of cooler cookies.

From there, counting on the tiny cookies to placate the kids, we poked in and out of the art galleries and shops. Our favorites were the Signature Gallery - they have these huge pieces of art with 3D flowers, with the staff onsite explained was actually created out of layers and layers of stiff acrylic paint, I never would have guessed that. We also enjoyed the very eclectic A.T. Hun gallery. They have this really different piece on the back wall in the store which is hundreds of various 3D items behind glass. When you hold a phone up and view it through your lens, you realize it shows a picture of someone (won't spoil it if you haven't seen it!). Very unique. My kids were delighted by the really random collection of Pete the Cat paintings (so random!) and the gorgeous dog Hazel behind the counter that her owner kindly let us fawn over.

From there we made our way to Broughton Street, stopping in anywhere that looked interesting, and walked back down toward our rental so the kids could take a short nap.

That afternoon, we took a meandering route back down to River Street stopping in any squares we could fit into the walk and ogling the plants. My kids particularly like the ones we call tractor plants, which Google tells me are actually giant leopard plants. I have dwarf magnolias in my backyard at home, and continue to have serious tree envy over the giant magnolias and oaks.

We did some (semi) final souvenir shopping before dinner. I picked up earrings and bracelet at Savannah Handcrafted Jewelry in the River Street Market Place. The gentleman working there was very knowledgeable about the pieces and what the inspiration was behind them. We continued our tradition of choosing Christmas ornaments for our tree wherever we travel by picking a magnolia flower and a peach ornament at the Christmas store. We also made a stock up trip to the Savannah Candy Kitchen.

We had dinner at the Boar's Head Grill and Tavern. Our waiter, Kevin, was probably the best waiter I've had in the last year, anywhere. He said he was about 8 months shy of working there 14 years or so. Personable, wonderful, awesome. We ordered a specific pinot grigio, which he came back rather sheepishly explaining that they didn't have any cold due to an oversight in stocking before the dinner shift, but that he could recommend a sauvignon blanc he promised we wouldn't find offensive while he "aggressively chilled" our pinot grigio. Lol - he was funny. We started with she crab soup because we've never had it. We were out of time to try shrimp and grits in Georgia, so tonight was the night and I'm glad we waited - it was SO good. Perfectly cooked shrimp, flavorful sauce, super creamy and calorie laden grits. I scraped that plate clean.

When we left the restaurant, it was sprinkling. By the time we made it up the mountain goat stairs to Bay Street it was legitimately raining, and then it was POURING. I tucked the four-year old under my arm like a giant football and we all ran back through the rain laughing maniacally.

On our final morning before our flight , we went to Quinn's Breakfast and Lunch. This place has simple, breakfast diner-style food that hits the "I want home cooking" spot. Their grits are great, they make a really good Western omelet, and according to my kids they have good biscuits and scrambled eggs. In keeping with our good service theme, our waitress was a sweetheart. After breakfast we went back to our rental and packed up our stuff and loaded the car . Murphy's Law of Expanding Stuff made that a challenge, but we made it happen. After we had to check out, we parked in a garage and walked some of the streets a final time until we had to leave for the airport.

I am so glad we had the chance to visit this part of Georgia. Savannah is a unique and beautiful city, and the most gorgeous place to just endlessly walk (in the small part we got to see). From the mouths of babes, as my 6-year old said, "Mommy it's pretty here and I'm sad to leave." We packed in so much and there are still things we didn't get to - in particular, Jepson Center and Old Fort Jackson , and a slew of restaurants. Hoping next time!

In parting, I have a question for the locals - what is the view on VRBOs/Air BNB's/rentals locally? In some places we go (e.g., NOLA) those are very problematic for the locals and we only do hotels. I'd like to be better educated before a return trip on how rentals vs. hotels impacts the local population.

To those of you who gave tips and feedback, thank you for helping us make this a wonderful trip. :-)

I laughed when you described the Houston Children's museum because I am very familiar with it.

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4 people shot, including suspect, at mall in downtown Atlanta, mayor says

ATLANTA ( WANF /Gray News) - Police are investigating after four people were shot at Peachtree Center mall off Peachtree Street in downtown Atlanta.

Police said four people were shot at 235 Peachtree Street, including the suspect. All of those with gunshot wounds are alert, conscious and breathing.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said the shooting happened in the Peachtree Center mall’s food court after a fight between two people. He said the building was quickly put on lockdown during the incident.

After a brief altercation in the food court, the suspect shot a 47-year-old man from Grayson, a 69-year-old woman from East Point and a 70-year-old woman from Atlanta. That’s when an off-duty police officer intervened and shot the suspect.

According to the Atlanta Police Department, the suspected shooter was 34 years old and was a convicted felon who had been arrested nearly a dozen times.

Dozens of officers from several law enforcement agencies, including some wearing tactical gear and carrying rifles, are milling Peachtree Street as the investigation continues. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is conducting an investigation.

Copyright 2024 WANF via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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