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50 Best Family Vacation Ideas on a Budget for 2024

From all-inclusives in the Caribbean to quick getaways in the U.S., there's something for every traveler in your group.

For the four in five parents who plan to take a trip with the kids in 2024, behold our heavily researched, expert-vetted list of the best family vacation destinations to visit now, many of which are winners of Good Housekeeping's 2024 Family Travel Awards . Many of these kid-friendly locations used downtime at the beginning of the pandemic to rethink, renovate or both. Some upgraded their pools, others refreshed guest rooms and many revamped their activities and amenities or rolled out convenient tech features. A few were even built from scratch in an eco-conscious way.

It's not lost on us that travel, like everything else, is getting more expensive, so we focused many of our picks on properties that provide great value. When we feature splurgy spots, rest assured they're worth every penny.

Whether you're looking to chill out at an all-inclusive resort , get active in the great outdoors , check out new attractions at a theme park, hit the beach or cozy up at ski resort , there's a destination or experience here to match every vacation vibe and party size. After all, bringing the grandparents comes with so many benefits, not the least of which is babysitting so you can score some much-needed time for an interruption-free dinner, spa treatment or romantic walk on the beach.

Use this guide to help narrow down your options, and then check out the Good Housekeeping Institute 's tried-and-tested list of essential travel gear and accessories to get ready for your trip. You can also consult our guides on how to choose a family-vacation hotel as well as how to keep all ages entertained . Since the early bird gets the best deal, shore up your spring break and summer vacation plans now.

Mexico and the Caribbean

Spend your days rolling in the waves, relaxing by the pool or enjoying quiet time (thanks to some superior kids' clubs) at these island resorts.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya, Mexico

With massive waterparks, daily slimings and Nickelodeon characters galore, the kids have it made at the all-inclusive Nickelodeon Hotels & Resort Riviera Maya, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Award Winner. But grown-ups aren’t left out of the fun. Tequila tastings, spa treatments and romantic dinners can be on your agenda thanks to the supervised club for kids ages 4 to 12. And while you probably wouldn’t be booking a SpongeBob-themed room if you didn’t have the kids in tow, the decor is as mod and classy as it can be. All the accommodations are suites that sleep up to five and have two bathrooms. Suites have direct access to a pool from the balcony. (Yes, even on the top floor!)

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RELATED: Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana Is the Best Place to Travel With a Baby and a Sibling

Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

Winner of a 2024 Family Travel Award, Atlantis is a top choice for families of all ages looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Its adrenaline-pumping waterpark features high-speed slides, including a one-of-a-kind tube slide down a Mayan pyramid. Animal encounters, like getting up close to a dolphin, are thrilling in a different way. But on the other side of the massive resort, the beaches are super chill. The gentle water is just perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. Supervised clubs for kids, tweens and teens truly wow, so adults can enjoy the casino and a meal at one of the resort's fine-dining restaurants.

Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic

Movies under the stars, trapeze lessons, windsurfing — with cool activities like these, kids will never want to leave this newish resort in the lush, away-from-it-all part of the island. Supervised clubs for babies through teens keep the good times rolling while you’re at the adults-only Zen pool or doing treetop yoga. (Yes, that’s a thing.) Solar panels, recycling, plastic-free water bottles and other sustainable initiatives are part of the eco-minded resort culture.

Beaches Negril Resort & Spa, Negril, Jamaica

While this all-inclusive resort and 2024 Family Travel Award-winner caters to all ages, toddlers and preschoolers will be star-struck. Sesame Street characters entertain them with story times, dance parties and even puppet-making! That’s on top of the mini water slides, splash areas and a playground that makes little ones squeal with glee and wears them out, so they’ll hit the sack early.

Private childcare and supervised kids’ clubs (for babies through teens, including those with special needs) are an option when you want a spa treatment, a quiet dinner or just to read a book on the resort's idyllic 7-Mile Beach. All the rooms and suites got a glow-up in 2020, plus there are new villas with butler service (sign us up!)

RELATED: 20 Best Caribbean Resorts for Families to Visit

Fairmont Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

When it comes to baby and kid gear, this luxury resort has you covered. Need a bottle warmer? They got it. How about a step stool for a toddler to reach the sink? Yours for the asking. With these worries aside, you can concentrate on the beauty of the surroundings (the resort is surrounded by a lush mangrove forest) and incredible bucket-list activities, like kids’ carnivals and night kayaking. All the rooms have received a glow-up and there's a sleek new beach club to boot.

Rock House Resort, Turks & Caicos

Your family may never leave the water at this Mediterranean-inspired oasis , which opened in May 2022. In addition to a full kitchen and roomy living room, many of the villa-style accommodations feature a spacious private pool. (Yes way!) And if your crew ever tires of it, fun awaits at the resort’s oceanfront infinity pool and stretch of white sand beach, which is exclusively for resort guests. Just note that while a cliffside setting makes the resort incredibly picturesque, it’s impossible to navigate with a stroller — so bring the tweens, teens and even grandparents if they don’t have trouble climbing stairs.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort

A brand that's popular with families because it offers separate sleeping spaces for kids and adults, Embassy Suites recently opened a location in Aruba. (Pinch us now.) The 330-suite hotel boasts a kids' pool and playground and is just steps away from the iconic Eagle Beach. A breakfast buffet (with made-to-order items) is included in the price, which is already a value. Rooms also feature a kitchenette, so you can stash drinks and snacks and save your budget for the island's many incredible water activities.

New England Cozy

Lakes, lighthouses and hiking trails make New England a great place to visit in almost any season.

Quisisana Resort, Lovell, ME

Kids will get a digital detox at this all-inclusive lakefront resort , but they’ll be too busy playing to miss their devices. Without TV or a Wi-Fi signal in the comfortable, air-conditioned rooms and cabins, they’ll be fully immersed in the slew of included activities — from paddle boating to tennis to sandcastle-building. They might even learn to kayak or catch their first fish.

At night, music fills the resort. Broadway-style shows, held in a new outdoor theater, entertain all generations. There’s something about the fresh air and a choice of lollipops that keeps most kids from getting too wiggly, and the caliber of the performances is at least on par with good community theater.

The three included daily meals — with menu items like lobster rolls and Maine blueberry pie — will leave your crew’s bellies happy and full. And if you do need Wi-Fi occasionally, you can pop in the main lobby for a signal. Shh: The kids will be fine without it.

Hidden Pond, Kennebunkport, ME

Open from May to October, this nature-focused retreat provides a refuge from city life. Yoga sessions in the garden, a shed filled with arts and crafts supplies for kids, guided nature walks and outdoor art classes are easy-going yet exciting at the same time. Cottages with fireplaces foster togetherness, and complimentary breakfast arrives at your door every morning so there's no need to rush out for coffee.

Smugglers' Notch Resort, Jeffersonville, VT

Nestled in the Green Mountains, this resort is just as fun in the summer months as it is during prime ski season. Besides eight heated pools (some with waterslides!), the action-packed lineup of family activities has plenty to do whether you’re traveling with a toddler, teen or both. Sing-a-longs, magic shows and scavenger hunts keep little ones entertained while older kids will welcome the chance to take a guided hike, design and launch a water rocket or play glow-in-the-dark volleyball. A GH 2024 Family Travel Awards winner, condos at this property accommodate up to five bedrooms, making it possible for extended family and friends to stay together.

Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club, Brewster, MA

Beach, pool, eat, repeat — that’s how your crew will spend laid-back days at this Cape Cod gem . The private beach has gentle surf and at low tide, kids can spy little sea creatures in the tide pools. When the tide changes, head to the heated outdoor or indoor pools. Outdoor movies are the perfect wind-down to bedtime. And if you can pry the kids out of the water, activities like scavenger hunts, curated by the resort’s new director of fun (for real!) await. Just make sure to stay in the “mansion” section of the resort because that’s the part with private beach access.

Sebasco Harbor Resort, Phippsburg, ME

Kids will never forget sleeping in a lighthouse next to the ocean. The resort’s 1945 lighthouse contains recently renovated guest rooms with amazing views, sea breezes and conveniences like a fridge and microwave. The lighthouse rooms are also near the resort’s iconic oceanfront saltwater pool, which recently got a makeover. A vintage bowling alley, weekly pirate cruise and old-school kids’ club add to the New England charm.

Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge, Stowe, VT

A fantastic value, this new '70s-inspired cozy lodge is perfect for families who want to explore Vermont's Green Mountains. The scenic trails of Cady Hill Forest are just steps away and downtown Stowe is about a 10-minute walk. Two- and three-bedroom cottages at Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge have plenty of space for families and a kitchen to boot. A game room, fire pits for s'mores roasting and a pool make hanging at the lodge a nice respite in between nature activities.

California Dreamin'

Choose your Cali adventure: You can find bustling cityscapes, tranquil trails, stunning beaches and even a fairytale castle.

Los Angeles, CA

Tweens and teens won’t roll their eyes if you suggest a vacay in L.A. — where, trust us, they’ll ask you to eat at In-N-Out-Burger (look cool and say you already had it on the list). Some more must-dos: Visit the Griffith Observatory for the out-of-this-world exhibits and a stellar view of the Hollywood sign, and if you're an outdoorsy family you can hike down from the observatory to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and famous TCL Chinese Theaters .

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures , where anyone 17 and under gets in free, is conveniently located near the classic La Brea Tar Pits and the cool LACMA ( Los Angeles County Museum of Art). Some outdoor shopping at The Grove L.A. and a beach day in Santa Monica with a spin on the iconic wheel at the Santa Monica Pier will get you more well-deserved parent cred. Or, you can take a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood , where, for now, you can find the only Super Nintendo World open in the United States. Stay at The Garland in North Hollywood, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Awards winner. It has a swanky trolley that transports guests to and from Universal, as well as other kid perks like dive-in movies and a retro-chic family suite with bunk beds.

San Diego, CA

Can’t decide between heading to the beach or exploring a big city? San Diego has the best of both worlds, with near-perfect weather to boot. Make your home base a beach resort like the Kona Kai San Diego Resort & Spa , San Diego Mission Bay Resort or, if you're bringing a big group, Shore House at Del, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Award winner. Intersperse oceanside fun with short drives to the city’s famous zoo and museums in Balboa Park. Plan to spend at least a half day at Liberty Station , a cultural attraction that has many places to eat and shop. New stores and restaurants are open at Seaport Village , which has a classic carousel for kids to ride.

RELATED: The Best Things to Do in San Diego With the Whole Family

Monterey, CA

The number one reason to book a vacation in this coastal town: the aquarium. Yes, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is that good. It levels up the typical touch tank experience by letting little kids crawl through tunnels surrounded by tropical fish displays and use squirt toys to learn how animals stand up to big waves. There’s even a padded zone with eye-level exhibits for toddlers! And the whole family will be wowed by the aquarium’s newish exhibition, "Into the Deep: Exploring Our Undiscovered Ocean." Some of the creatures in the 21 live exhibit areas are newly discovered and haven’t even been named yet. Mind blown! Stay at the hotel next door, InterContinental The Clement Monterey .

Disneyland Resort and California Adventure, Anaheim, CA

If you're looking for a Disney trip with young kids, Disneyland may have the edge over an Orlando vacay. Here are some reasons why: You can get on more rides without as much walking in California, so that means fewer tired and cranky kids. Summer weather is also usually better in Anaheim than in hot-and-humid Florida. And rides like Radiator Springs Racers, which looks like it’s right out of the movie Cars , are Cali-exclusive. The new Villas at Disneyland Hotel offer options that sleep up to 12 guests plus the decor is whimsical.

The former senior editor at Parents who started the brand’s awards programs, Karen Cicero is a seasoned journalist who specializes in travel, book, lifestyle and food coverage.Cicero has visited almost every state with her family (look out Wyoming, she’s coming for you next!) She recently presented at several travel industry conferences, including PRSA and the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Alliance. A mom who goes overboard for all the holidays, Cicero lives in the Christmas city itself: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

Olivia (she/her) is a senior reviews writer and analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , overseeing product testing and covering tech, travel, home, fitness, parenting, health and more. Since joining GH in 2021, she has continued to leverage her extensive product reviews experience by staying on top of the industry’s latest innovations and helping readers make better buying decisions. Olivia is a graduate of the George Washington University, with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

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22 Best Family Travel Destinations Worldwide (Vacation Inspiration)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 23, 2024

Looking for some family travel inspiration ? This guide features some of the all-time favorite family vacation destinations by families that live and breathe travel. This list includes family-friendly vacation spots from all over the world.

We are always looking for nice destinations to visit with family. In this quest for new ideas for family travel destinations, I decided to reach out to other traveling families and ask them to share their all-time favorite, best family travel destinations worldwide.

I received a variety of responses covering an amazing variety of family-friendly destinations from all over the world. From winter holidays in the Arctic to desolate beaches in the Pacific, from city breaks to ski resorts – there is something in here for everyone.

I’m happy to say that some of the world’s most well-traveled families have helped with this article. These are one by one families that have seen a lot of the world and they share their absolute favorite places to travel with family that they keep on going back to .

With their help, this guide to the world’s best family travel destinations was born. In this post, you’ll find some great family trip ideas and plenty of inspiration for family vacations for many years to come.

Read about the travel bloggers’ favorite family travel destinations and scroll all the way down to the bottom to find out our personal favorite as well!

Featured image by Eric Stoen from Travel Babbo

Some of the best family travel destinations worldwide:

1. Daintree Rainforest, Australia

Recommended by Caz and Craig from YTravelBlog.

One of our favorite destinations for families is the Port Douglas Daintree region in Tropical North Queensland .

Port Douglas has the largest reef system and the oldest rainforest in the world to explore. What more can you ask for? Our girls loved snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, zip-lining over the canopy of the Daintree Rainforest, playing on stunning beaches, searching for wild crocodiles on riverboat cruises, and enjoying delicious exotic ice cream made from the rainforest fruits.

It’s a relaxed and beautiful tropical destination with plenty for all members of the family to love.

TIP: You can also easily visit Daintree as a day trip from Cairns or Port Douglas. You can find the best selection of organized tours here .

Here you can find everything you possibly may want to know about visiting the Daintree Rainforest .

READ ALSO: Australia with Kids

Recommended by Kevin and Christina from Wandering Wagars.

There are few places in the world that offer the opportunity for a family adventure like Iceland .

Where else can you spot Blue Whales from a schooner, swim in ice-cold glacier water while continents tear themselves apart around you, and feel the roar of Europe’s largest waterfall, all within a few hours drive of each other. If that isn’t enough to whet your appetite, Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world. You can even lookup the Prime Minister in the phone book.

Icelandic people understand the unique needs of children and families. It’s rare to find a restaurant that doesn’t have an area set aside for children to play.

Furthermore, Iceland is really easy to visit on your own. In summer, you can drive the entire Ring Road , or just focus on the South Coast attractions – there’s plenty to see and do, also with kids. If you don’t feel like driving in Iceland in winter , you can just stay in Reykjavik and make a couple of day trips.

You can read more about Kevin and Christina’s family trip to Iceland on their blog.

Our experience: We have been to Iceland multiple times and in all seasons and indeed, it’s a great place for a more adventurous family trip! On our blog, you can find a huge selection of Iceland destination guides, itineraries, and practical tips. Check our Iceland travel guide for the complete overview.

LEARN MORE: Top Places to See in Iceland

3. Bali, Indonesia

Recommended by Eric from Travel Babbo.

Bali has become one of our favorite family travel destinations the past couple of years. There’s a perfect mix of beaches and culture, and there’s always something to do, from attending festivals (which seem to take place all the time) to visiting water parks to hiking through rice fields.

The weather is warm year-round, although the rainy season (November through March) is exactly what it sounds like. The food is excellent and inexpensive. My 10-year-old’s favorite restaurant in the world is Cuca, near Jimbaran Beach.

Bali’s hotels are amazing, and virtually all welcome kids. We’ve stayed at hotels on the beach, but also in villas with private plunge pools overlooking river valleys and villas surrounded by rice fields. We always try to do activities through our hotels, like fish feeding, anti-gravity yoga, rice planting, ceramics, and local walks. We’re never ready to check out.

Even though there are more tourists every year, Bali never feels touristy. Ubud retains a really cool, artsy vibe. Plus there’s a monkey forest there – what kid doesn’t want to be surrounded by monkeys?

You can find more tips for visiting Bali with kids on Eric’s blog.

4. Costa Rica

Recommended by various families, including us.

Costa Rica is one of the most recommended family travel destinations in the Americas. It has all the ingredients for a perfect family-friendly travel experience: tropical climate, beaches, rainforests, lots of sightseeing possibilities, fun adventurous activities, and a big variety of wildlife.

No matter what kind of a family travel experience you’re looking for, Costa Rica makes it all possible.

Looking for a relaxing family vacation at a beautiful resort? Head to one of the many coastal destinations.

Looking for an adventure and action-filled vacation with teens? Check out the La Fortuna – Arenal area , aka the adventure capital of Costa Rica.

Want to see wildlife? Visit the famous Manuel Antonio National Park !

Or plan a road trip and see the best that Costa Rica has to offer, and add some relaxing pool/beach time to make it fun for the whole family.

The good thing about Costa Rica is that it’s an extremely family-friendly destination. And – if you’re coming from the USA, you won’t have to cross too many time zones. It’s also a place that you can visit the whole year round (a tropical rain shower is always possible, however).

Here you can find a sample 2-week Costa Rica itinerary that covers some of the best places, gives you plenty of opportunities to see wildlife, get to know the culture, try some fun activities such as zip-lining or wild water rafting, and also plan some relaxing time by the pool or at the beach.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Costa Rica

5. Crete, Greece

Recommended by Paul from A Luxury Travel Blog.

The Greek island of Crete is somewhere we’ve frequently holidayed as a family. Crete has everything we could possibly want – a lovely climate, pure relaxation, great beaches, excellent food, and a beautifully slow way of life. There are some superb hotels on the island too!

We’ve often been drawn to a small fishing town Elounda which has some excellent luxury accommodation and plenty to see and do.

If you are looking for a family-friendly destination in southern Europe, a place that has is all, then you can’t go wrong with the Greek Islands and especially Crete!

Check Paul’s blog for all things luxury travel .

6. Whitefish, Montana, USA

Recommended by Nicole – The Passport Kids.

If you are thinking about experiencing what a winter wonderland would be like, our recommendation is the Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort in Montana, USA. The resort offers many family-friendly amenities and activities including daycare and kids ski & ride school directly on the resort.

Enjoy some outdoor winter fun with snowboarding, skiing, snowshoeing or sledding; then cozy up by the fire with some hot chocolate.

The resort and city of Whitefish offer a small-town American feel where life slows down for a while but still offers a great selection of hotels, restaurants and shopping.

Check Nicole’s blog for more information about Whitefish ski resort .

7. Gulf Shores, Alabama, USA

Recommended by Karen from Family Travels on a Budget.

Gulf Shores, Alabama is perfect for families because it’s got all the beach without all the crowds!

We love Gulf Shores for its white sand, seashells, sunsets, and seafood. But what makes it special is the space — wide beaches and smaller crowds mean we have more space to unwind.

Gulf Shores is more than a beach, though. We also enjoy hiking and biking the trails at Gulf State Park, catamaran day trips, paddle boarding and sunset dinners at local restaurants. It’s our home away from home — at the beach!

Read more about Alabama Beaches here.

8. Cape Town, South Africa

Recommended by Keri from Baby Globetrotters (and one of our personal favorites too).

Everything about Cape Town is simply breathtaking! Nestled beneath the unmistakable Table Mountain, many start their South African adventure at the lively V&A Waterfront.

Near to the city, you will find the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens and Tree Canopy Walkway, the Table Mountain Cable Car or why not take a ferry and tour around the now infamous Robben Island?

Heading further out of Cape Town for a couple of days is a must – head to where the oceans meet at the Cape of Good Hope, visit the Penguins at Boulders Beach and spot the seals at Hout Bay.

Next head east to the Stellenbosch wine region – so many family-friendly wine farms it’s hard to choose where to start. Finish off your Cape Town adventure with a simply breathtaking sunset over the Atlantic Ocean from Signal Hill or Camps Bay.

Find out more about Cape Town family vacation on the Baby Globetrotters blog.

Our experience: We completely agree with Keri – Cape Town and the whole of South Africa is amazing with kids and one of our own personal favorite places in the world. Here you can find more tips for visiting South Africa with young kids and here you can find a sample itinerary for the best of South Africa .

LEARN MORE: Best Places To See in South Africa

Recommended by several families, including us.

If you are looking for a truly unique family vacation destination, then definitely consider Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. It’s such a special place (and totally different from anything else on this list), but it has so much to offer for families!

From beaches to deserts, impressive skyscrapers, and sensational attractions for the whole family, there’s so much to see and do in Dubai that you can easily fill several family vacations here and never get bored.

Visit the world’s highest building, ride a camel in the desert, spend time at one of the many theme parks, or go swimming at some of the world’s most impressive water parks… These are just a few of the amazing things to do in Dubai with kids !

And while visiting a destination like this with the whole family can quickly get quite expensive, there are quite a few really nice free and cheap things to do in Dubai as well.

Furthermore, Dubai enjoys warm weather the whole year round (albeit a bit too hot in the summer months), and it’s a perfect family vacation destination for off-season travel as well.

What we also love about Dubai is that it’s extremely multicultural, and kids can get in touch with different traditions. We were pleasantly surprised by the food in Dubai as well! With so many cuisines and middle-eastern touches, the food is absolutely delicious. It’s also another great way to introduce your children to different cultures.

Here you can find more information and fun facts about Dubai , read more about the best tours in Dubai , and also find out how expensive Dubai is .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Dubai

10. Cambodia

Recommended by Alanna from The Travelling Hams.

Most people don’t think of Cambodia as a family-friendly destination, but we wholeheartedly disagree! The country is full of stunning nature and some of the most beautiful temple ruins in the world.

Our toddlers loved exploring the ruins as much as we did! For our kids, the ruins were the ultimate playground. Each equipped with crumbling stairs to climb, plenty of rocks and leaves to play with, and even some wildlife to watch. It’s a great way to challenge their senses and it gives you a chance to enjoy them yourself – a double bonus!

Cambodians are some of the friendliest people in Southeast Asia. They love to stop you and chat about your children and give friendly pats and pinches. For those with really young ones- they even help to watch your children while you get a few mouthfuls of food in!

11. Rovaniemi, Finland

Recommended by Erin – Travel with Bender.

If you ask our kids out of the 67 countries they have been to in their 6 years of life, which was their favorite, they would unanimously agree – Finland . More specifically Rovaniemi to the North of Helsinki. Why? So many reasons!

First, it’s where the real Santa lives. When you send a letter to Santa it goes here. You can see all the pigeon holes from around the world with letters to Santa. You can even post your own! You can spend an evening with the elves in the forest, decorating trees, baking cookies, and learning Santa secrets.

In addition, when you are not visiting Santa, you can spend days doing all kinds of fun winter outdoor activities. Ride husky sleds through a winter wonderland, take a reindeer sleigh through the forest, opt for a snowmobile safari that also visits reindeer and huskies, or go snow tubing down giant hills and through ice caves.

Top that with snowmobiles to capture a glimpse of the Northern Lights and a hot dinner of reindeer meat and what could be more perfect?!

Here you can read more about winter holiday in Roveniemi Finland .

12. Portugal

Recommended by Alex – My Life Long Holiday.

Central Portugal has been a family favorite for us since my parents emigrated there a few years back. The area has such a laid-back vibe, great food, culture, and beautiful scenery.

For adventurous families, there are activities like cycling, hiking, and kayaking. But my kids equally like exploring little old villages up in the mountains which haven’t changed for ages, so long as there’s ice cream at the end of it!

The Portuguese love children and you’re welcomed wherever you go with genuine smiles and warm hospitality. Add to this the warm sunshine and you have the formula for a relaxing, easy holiday.

Check Alex’s blog for more inspiration for a trip to Portugal.

Our experience: Inspired by Alex’s suggestion, we decided to visit Portugal with kids . And we were hooked – it’s one of the most beautiful and family-friendly travel destinations in Europe! In fact, we loved it so much that we went back to Portugal and the Portuguese islands several times.

Nowadays, we go to Portugal a few times a year and the whole family loves it. Here you can read about one of our absolute favorite destinations – Algarve with kids . And here, you can find an overview of our Portugal travel tips .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Portugal

13. Philadelphia, USA

Recommended by Eileen – FamiliesGo!

Philadelphia is close enough to home that it has been a frequent day trip for us. Now that we travel with a child we have begun to stay for a night or two, which has given us a new appreciation for all that this city has to offer for families.

Federal Hall is a must-see on your first visit (the Declaration of Independence was signed here). The city also has a lot of family-friendly museums.

Please Touch Museum will be a hit with younger kids, while school-going children will appreciate the Franklin Institute and the sprawling Museum of Art.

Philadelphia is also known as a great city for eating out. I recommend Federal Donuts near Rittenhouse Square, Hawthorne’s near South Street and Reading Terminal. Great city break for families.

Here you can read more about Philadelphia with kids .

LEARN MORE: How to See the Best of Philadelphia in One Day

14. The Canadian Rockies

Recommended by Melissa – Parenthood and Passports.

As a family who wants to see as much of the world as possible, it’s rare for us to visit the same destination twice. But there is one place we return time and time again: The Canadian Rockies .

The Canadian Rockies are one of the most naturally beautiful wonders on earth. The mountains have a rugged, majestic appeal. Nestled between them are glacial lakes that shimmer a vibrant shade of blue.

Banff National Park, located in the heart of the Rockies is one of the most family-friendly places we’ve ever visited. The establishments are very accommodating to children, and the area is great to explore with kids.

Banff is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. You’ll find everything from easy hikes to backcountry camping and winter mountain sports. We love exploring outdoors and hope to instill that same passion in our daughter. I can’t think of a better place to do so.

Read more about visiting Banff here.

15. Cook Islands

Recommended by Karilyn – No Back Home.

One of our favorite family destinations is the Cook Islands in the South Pacific . For West Coast travelers it’s a short overnight flight with only a 3 hour time change.

The largest and main island, Rarotonga, is actually quite small with a ring road only 29 miles long! You will be welcomed to the island by beautiful white beaches with excellent snorkeling in calm lagoons and lush green mountains as your backdrop.

With plenty of adventure activities from hiking to buggy driving to kayaking to private islands, your family will have the time of their life in this island paradise!

Read more about the family-friendly Cook Islands here.

16. Glacier National Park, USA

Recommended by Craig and Bryanna – Crazy Family Adventure.

Glacier National Park is one of the most visited National Parks in the USA and for a good reason. It’s also an amazing family travel destination! The views are out of this world, hiking is amazing, and there are so many fun activities for the whole family!

We really enjoyed driving the scary yet breathtaking beautiful Going to the Sun Road. You can see glaciers, waterfalls, and stunning mountains. There is also so much wildlife and you may even see a mountain goat, bighorn sheep, or a bear! We really enjoyed hiking to Hidden Lake, on the Trail of Cedars, and Apakuni Falls.

Each hike has something to offer from being able to step into the frigid cold glacier water, to seeing amazing waterfalls, or a lake surrounded by mountains. Everywhere you turn in Glacier National Park you are met with a view more beautiful than the last!

Read more about visiting Glacier NP .

LEARN MORE: Glacier National Park itinerary suggestions

17. Big Island, Hawaii, USA

Recommended by Bethany – Flashpacker Family.

Our family’s new favorite destination is the Big Island of Hawaii . Hawaii is such a special place but the Big Island really takes the cake. You can do everything here!

You can swim with turtles , stay in beautiful resorts, enjoy a luau, go whale watching and snorkeling, hike to waterfalls, visit a volcano, and even sail in a submarine.

The Big Island is great for families because it’s easy to rent a car, drive around and enjoy something new every day. There’s no excuse to be bored on the Big Island!

TIP: If you are planning a trip to Hawaii, don’t miss Maui – one of the most beautiful islands. Here you can find Maui itinerary suggestions and here you can read about the very best Maui activities . It’s a wonderful destination for families as well!

18. Florence, Italy

Recommended by Scarlet – Family Focus Blog.

Our favorite family travel destination so far has been Florence in Italy . And yes, it’s a city, but Florence is wonderful for families because there is so much to do and see both indoors and outdoors!

It is a great city to walk around in and explore and make memories that will last a lifetime. The whole family will enjoy the delicious Italian food, culture, and attractions.

In addition, Florence is located in the heart of Tuscany region with the beautiful rolling hill landscapes, charming little towns, and the most friendly locals that absolutely adore children!

More tips for a family trip to Italy .

Our experience: It’s not a secret that Italy is one of our absolute favorite countries in the world and we have visited with and without kids countless times. Tuscany is indeed a wonderful region for a family vacation and Florence is the most beautiful of the Tuscan towns . Rent a villa or look for a nice hotel with a pool, and you can have the best family trip ever – a perfect combination of sightseeing and a relaxing vacation.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Florence & Tuscany Itinerary

19. Hamilton, New Zealand

Recommended by Nadine – Le Long Weekend.

Our favorite family travel destination is Hamilton in New Zealand . Hamilton is New Zealand’s best-kept secret when it comes to family holidays.

Our favorite activities include the Waikato Museum with its dedicated kid’s discovery areas; the Zoo where cheeky Kaka land on your shoulder in the walk-through aviary; and the themed Hamilton gardens which will transport you into a new civilization at every turn!

But what really sets Hamilton apart are the many ‘destination playgrounds’. These amazing parks have the usual fun fixtures, water features, in-ground trampolines, and multi-story playhouses. Great for keeping the little ones busy while you enjoy coffee from a nearby cafe!

Read more about Hamilton, New Zealand on Nadine’s travel blog.

20. Florida Keys, USA

Recommended by Carrie Anne – Everything Mom .

When thinking about traveling to Florida with the kids the first place to pop into your mind is probably Orlando. Perfect if you’re looking for thrill rides, but the Florida Keys can offer families the chance to experience the more natural side of the state, specifically Marathon .

Take in a little history exploring the oldest home in the Florida Keys outside of Key West as well as remnants of the Flagler Railroad that connected all of the Florida Keys.

Kids, especially those too young to enjoy more adventurous water pursuits, will love a nature scavenger hunt, swimming with fish, or meeting rescued birds at the Wild Bird Sanctuary. You can even enjoy lunch under a large tiki hut restaurant just off of the scenic Seven Mile Highway.

Marathon also makes a great family destination due to how close it is to the other islands such as Key West and Islamorada. This amazing place proves that your Florida family vacation adventure doesn’t have to include any roller coasters.

21. Dordogne, France

Recommended by Kirsten – Kids are a Trip.

The Dordogne region in France is one of our favorite places to explore as a family. With beautiful castles, rivers for canoeing, and medieval towns for exploring, it is the perfect place to get away from everything and spend some quality time with your kids.

We especially enjoyed the bucolic landscape and the friendliness of the locals and found there was plenty to do for families.

If you want to learn more, please read Kirstin’s post about her family visit to Dordogne .

22. Swiss Mountains

Our personal recommendation.

This list wouldn’t be complete without me sharing at least one of our personal favorite family destinations as well. And if I have to choose just one, it has to be Switzerland!

Switzerland in general, and the Swiss mountains , in particular, has been one of our favorite travel destinations for years. We just love the Swiss Alps!

We try to go to Switzerland at least twice a year: skiing in winter and hiking in summer , and every time we don’t want to leave. Kids have asked several times if we could just move to Switzerland…

Charming mountain villages and small towns have such an amazing atmosphere that is hard to find anywhere else in the world. Add to that stunning landscapes, great food, and a huge variety of things to see and do for families with children, and you cannot go wrong planning a family trip to Switzerland.

TIP: Some of our favorite places include the Lucerne area , Zermatt , Mt Titlis , Grindelwald , Jungfraujoch , and Schynige Platte , to mention just a few.

Here you can read more about some of our favorite places in Switzerland .

LEARN MORE: Perfect Switzerland Itinerary for First Trip

So, this is a small selection of great vacation destinations for families. I hope you found some inspiration for your next family vacation!

What’s your favorite family destination? Let us know – leave a comment below!

READ ALSO: Best Travel Gear for Kids – family traveler’s favorites.

TIP: For more family travel ideas, please check our guides to the best spring break destinations in the USA and the best spring break destinations in Europe .

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Saturday 13th of January 2024

Thank you for this list. I will be using it to plan our upcoming family vacations.

Monday 15th of January 2024

Glad to help, Jay. Happy travels!

Chitra Gupta

Friday 23rd of June 2023

Hi, we are a family of 4, kids aged 19 and 14 and have been to switzerland, dubai, milan, honkong, paris, istanbul already. We are unable to decide our next travel destination for November. What would you suggest?

Saturday 24th of June 2023

Hi Chitra, that's a tough choice indeed. Purely season-wise, I'd look into Southern Hemisphere for November I suppose. South Africa is amazing for a family trip and Namibia as well. Also Thailand could be a great option or Australia if you have more time. There are so many options. It also depends on where you live and how much time you have. We have quite some articles about the destinations mentioned above on our website, you can use the search button for some inspiration. Good luck!

world nomad

Friday 19th of May 2023

What an amazing article Wish I could go to all these places Your suggestion for sightseeing that is not tropical for August around the world? Cities and sightseeing is the focus

Monday 22nd of May 2023

There are many places that are not too warm in August. UK, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Scandinavia, also pretty much anywhere in Poland or Baltic States. If you are looking for destinations around the world, consider South Africa or Namibia (more nature), and certain parts of Australia (also cities). There are plenty of options. :) Good luck!

Tuesday 25th of April 2023

Beautiful locations, please share more.

Ha ha, I could easily add a few dozen other places to this list. There are so many amazing destinations all over the world, and more places are family-friendly than people tend to think. Our personal favorite countries to visit with kids are Italy, Portugal, and Switzerland. Happy travels!

Thursday 3rd of March 2022

Hi Jurga, thanks for all the suggestions. It's not easy to decide where to go next. We are a family of 4, kids age 8 and 11, and were thinking of Costa Rica, but are also considering Iceland. Thoughts?

Monday 7th of March 2022

Iceland vs. Costa Rica? They are so different... CR is warm, tropical, with beaches and pools, lots of fun outdoor activities, wildlife, and it's rather cheap compared to Iceland. Iceland is amazing but in a very different way - incredible vast landscapes, the most beautiful waterfalls, glaciers, great hot springs and geothermal pools to swim in... But - depending on when you travel - it can be really cold and - in winter - also dark. Even in summer, you'll usually need sweaters, jackets, etc. Iceland is also much more expensive... I think you should do a bit more research and see what interests you the most, or let it depend on the season - Iceland in summer and Costa Rica in winter. But if it's your first family trip, I honestly think that the entire family, and especially the kids will enjoy Costa Rica more, even if just for the weather. But after you do that trip, definitely do Iceland next - it's one of a kind!

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Life is short, take the vacation: 40 best destinations, including my family’s favorite

Remember what a typical day in your childhood looked like? Probably not, but we bet you can vividly recall a family trip that blew your young mind. I [Wise] have fond memories of building sandcastles at the beach and walking piers with my parents.

While many of us are contemplating our big travel plans for the next year, now might be an excellent time to let those long-dreamt-about family vacation ideas come to fruition.

If you want your child or teenager to experience the same magic on vacation as I [Wise] had, take them to any of these family vacation destinations. From glaciers to beachfronts , dinosaurs to Disney characters, there's something here for everyone — even the kid that's hard to please.

Theme parks and activity centers | Beaches | Outdoorsy adventures | Major cities | Historical outings

Best family-friendly vacation spots of 2024

Shop today favorites:, aspen snowmass, colorado, cedar point amusement park, cooperstown, new york, denver, colorado, disney world.

• Florida's Space Coast

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Jackson hole, wyoming, miami beach, florida, niagara falls, new york, plimoth plantation, massachusetts, san diego zoo, sesame place.

• The Strong National Museum of Play

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

• Waikiki Beach

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Theme parks and activity centers

" Cedar Point has gorgeous views of the Lake Erie shore, especially from the top of some of the best roller coasters around. There’s also a water park that’s fun for everyone." — Laura Millar, an NBC Page at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 6-18

Why go? It’s the roller coaster capital of the world with more than 10 miles of track!

What to do: Ride the Blue Streak — a historic wooden roller coaster dating back to 1964. Or, opt for more modern thrills like the Millennium Force (rated one of the best steel coasters around), suspension coasters (your feet dangle from the floorless Raptor) and — new for 2024 — Top Thrill 2, the world’s tallest and fastest triple-launch strata coaster. Younger kids will find fun at Snoopy’s Space Race and the Kite Eating Tree.

Where to stay: Cedar Point’s Hotel Breakers , located on Lake Erie beach, offers early entry into the park. Five miles inland, Great Wolf Lodge has an indoor water park.

More info: CedarPoint.com

"Of all the places to take kids, Disney probably requires the most amount of planning. The two biggest things that helped make the trip enjoyable for us was using a free (!) Disney concierge planner — they have intimate knowledge of everything from restaurants to lesser-known gems hiding in the park, like a great place to sit to watch fireworks — and designating someone in the group to become a pro at understanding and executing the Fast Pass, Lightning Lane-type offerings. Disney World is massive; we took it slow to prevent meltdowns, and even baked in days to just recover at the hotel in between park visits." — Rebecca Brown , a deals editor at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 2-14

Why go? You’ll never forget the first time your princess-loving child catches their first glimpse of the real Ariel or Belle or watches fireworks explode over Cinderella’s Castle. Disney is fun for parents, too!

What to do: Check the Magic Kingdom classics off your list first, then head over to Disney’s Animal Kingdom . At Disney Springs , experience the Vintage Amphicar and Aerophile.

Where to stay: Good times at Disney’s properties — including Disney’s Beach Club Villas — are always a given, or try the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld for rooms at half the price.

More info: DisneyWorld.Disney.go.com

Florida’s Space Coast

"If your kid is into space and planets, this corner of Florida is a must-visit. There are several cities that compiles Florida’s Space Coast , including Cocoa Beach and Port Canaveral, but Cocoa Beach is probably my favorite. They have the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier, where locals meet to watch the spaceship launches and the Kennedy Center is also nearby. It’s a wonderful place for all ages and kids will definitely enjoy the space tours, the beach and the sightseeing." — Jannely Espinal , a commerce writer at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 5-15

Why go? Where else do you get to be an astronaut for a day?

What to do: You can feel what it’s like to rocket into the stratosphere on the Shuttle Launch Experience flight simulator . Take mission control tours, have lunch with an astronaut and even train with one in a family Astronaut Training Experience (ATX) program.

Where to stay: Both the Homewood Suites by Hilton Cape Canaveral and the waterfront Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach have pools and breakfast. The Radisson Resort at the Port isn’t oceanfront, but there’s a pool with a built-in playground!

More info: VisitSpaceCoast.com

Legoland, New York

Best for ages: 2-12

Why go? Kids (and kids-at-heart) won’t be able to resist the colorful attractions and hands-on exhibitions, all revolving around the iconic playset series.

What to do: Play all day! The theme park destination is currently open for their festive Holiday Bricktacular through Dec. 31, but their newest — and wettest — attraction, the Water Playground , allowing kids to splash, slide, build and get doused with a gigantic 318-gallon water bucket, is well worth another trip. The park has also become a Certified Autism Center , partnering with The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to train employees and providing low-sensory guidance and accommodations to children with cognitive disabilities.

Where to stay: The park’s namesake resort — Legoland Hotel — extends the family fun everyone is having, from offering nightly entertainment to crafting the perfect build in the Creative Workshop. For something a little more low-key and affordable, Sleep Inn & Suites Monroe provides free breakfast every morning and is in close proximity to sites like Bear Mountain and Woodbury Commons .

More info: legoland.com/new-york

"The San Diego Zoo ended up being much bigger than I’d imagined. One thing we did that really stood out to me was making a lunch reservation ahead of time. We sat outside near a waterfall and honestly it felt like a vacation in it of itself. It was great to have a place to plop down and just recharge." — Rebecca Brown , a deals editor at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 1-11

Why go? It’s one of the world’s best zoos — and one of the few places in the U.S. to see the world’s smallest bear.

What to do: Don’t miss Elephant Odyssey and Northern Frontier to see polar bears and arctic foxes. Also noteworthy is the Africa Rocks exhibit (baboons, leopards, blue-eyed lemurs, etc.).

Where to stay: In October, “Kids Free San Diego” features dozens of hotel deals. Year-round, Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa has great water sports rentals and Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is practically next door to The New Children’s Museum .

More info: SanDiegoZooWildlifeAlliance.com

"I grew up going to Sesame Place about once every summer and have fond memories of lounging on the lazy river! I have two young nephews now who had a blast on a day trip there last year." — Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil , a senior editor of partnerships at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 2-5

Why go? The world’s best park for toddlers and preschoolers is scaled to young fans of Elmo and the gang.

What to do: Spend your time on water attractions like The Count’s Splash Castle, Big Bird’s Rambling River and Bert & Ernie’s Splashy Shores during the summer. Then dry off and do the rest: Take a dizzying ride in Flying Cookie Jars, ride Flyin’ Fish and Peek-A-Bug (in Elmo’s World) and explore Sesame Neighborhood via Oscar’s Wacky Taxi Rollercoaster. Plus, new for 2024: the imaginative and interactive 123 Playground!

Where to stay: The pet-friendly Red Roof Inn Philadelphia Oxford Valley is affordable, or get a little more space at Langhorne’s top-rated hotel, SpringHill Suites Philadelphia Langhorne .

More info: SesamePlace.com

The Strong National Museum of Play, New York

My [Wise| niece and I visited the Strong National Museum of Play over spring break and had an absolute blast! This place is a kid’s (and adult’s) paradise. You and the family can spend all day here and still not scratch the service. From the Barbie exhibit to the slew of nostalgic pinball games, guests will be in their glory. There is even a mini Wegmans where kids can (pretend) shop and play cashier.

Best for ages: 4-12

Why go? It’s devoted to every kid’s favorite thing to do!

What to do: Celebrate superheroes at the museum’s American Comic Book Heroes exhibit or walk through the world’s largest pop-up book in Reading Adventureland. Visit the Toy Halls of Fame and play your way through the history of video games at eGameRevolution.

Where to stay: Book a room at the Hyatt Regency Rochester , which is a five-minute drive or short walk to the museum. Other family-favorite hotels include the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Rochester , which features a large indoor pool, and the Hilton Garden Inn Rochester University & Medical Center which is connected to the College Town shopping complex.

More info: MuseumOfPlay.org

“I practically grew up with the Harry Potter movies, so a trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter was pretty high on my bucket list. My mom and I finally went a few years ago and my youthful heart grew five sizes bigger the moment we stepped into iconic scenes like Diagon Alley — the level of detail they put into every last inch is a monumental feat in itself. P.S. If you’re able to go during Halloween Horror Nights and can handle some magical frights, you absolutely should.”— Jess Bender , senior editor at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 8-13

Why go? Your Potter lovers will go Hog(warts) wild to see Hogsmeade and Hogwarts recreated in amazing detail.

What to do: Get there first thing in the morning. Ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey first: Muggles meet Dumbledore, join a Quidditch match and encounter a Whomping Willow. Next, conquer the ultra-fast Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure coaster and the tamer Flight of the Hippogriff; then go wand shopping at Ollivanders (if you’re lucky, the wand will choose you).

Where to stay: On-site properties like Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel offer guests free Universal Express Unlimited passes to skip lines. Or, for about half, you can stay at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes — the kids’ club has a 500-acre scavenger hunt.

More info: UniversalOrlando.com

Wisconsin Dells

Why go? It’s the water park capital of the world, year-round!

What to do: Get a day pass for Noah’s Ark Water Park (America’s largest) and race down the Raja, which ends in the mouth of a king cobra. Or book one of the wet and wild resorts, like the African-themed Kalahari (the Sahara Sidewinders looping slides literally drop you through the roof) or Mt. Olympus (the Lost City of Atlantis water fortress has slides, geysers and monster dump buckets). Afterwards, kids won’t get enough of the robust (and cheesy) offerings at Macs .

Where to stay: In addition to the resorts with indoor water parks, there are quieter options like Black Hawk Motel , Wingate by Wyndham and Hilton Garden Inn .

More info: WisDells.com

Beach vacations

"I grew up in Miami for 20 years and going to the beach every weekend was a ritual. There are many family-friendly spots including 17th street and Collins avenue, or you can stroll around Lincoln Road Mall and stop for a coffee break. The Botanical Garden is also a nice escape from the party scene, and if you want a more bohemian experience, take your family to Nikki Beach during lunch time. The food at this restaurant is exquisite (try the pistachio affogato dessert if it’s still on their menu) and the beach is just a few steps away." — Jannely Espinal , a commerce writer at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 8-12

Why go? Although it’s often associated with a party crowd or retirees, Miami Beach also has plenty of kid-friendly activities.

What to do: Miami Beach has the most tropical beaches in the continental United States. As you drive to Miami Beach from Miami, you hit must-see attractions like Wynwood Walls and the Pérez Art Museum Miami . Indoors, the Miami Children’s Museum shares an island with Jungle Island .

Where to stay: At the north end of the island, Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour has the best kids’ beach club. At the south end, Hilton Bentley Miami/South Beach has direct beach access and sits between two public parks.

More info: MiamiandBeaches.com

Best for ages: 12-17

Why go? Hailed as “the next Costa Rica,” this Central American country is enjoying a transformation.

What to do: Fly into Managua , and from there, head to the Spanish colonial town of Granada on the shores of Lake Nicaragua — the 19th largest lake in the world and home to two island volcanoes you can hike. In Cerro Negro near Leon, kids can sandboard (basically snowboard) down the volcanic ash sides. End your trip at One Love Surf School in the Pacific coastal town of San Juan Del Sur or head to the Caribbean side to explore the Corn Islands.

Where to stay: With its private beach, private farm and resident monkeys and sloth, there’s no place on earth quite like Morgan’s Rock Hacienda and Ecolodge . At Jicaro Island Ecolodge Granada , you feel like you have the island to yourself — until the birds wake you up in the morning.

More info: VisitNicaragua.us

Riviera Maya, Mexico

More info: NPS.gov/glac

Best for ages: 4-14

Why go? Snorkel in freshwater cenotes (natural pools), swim with manatees and climb ancient Mayan ruins all before the sun sets.

What to do: Fly into Cancun and then head to Playa del Carmen, the perfect launching point for all of Quintana Roo’s adventures. Float the underwater river at Xcaret Eco Theme Park and stay late for the musical show, “Xcaret Mexico Espectacular.” Then, taxi or bus to Dolphin Discovery in Puertos Aventuras where the kids can splash and play with dolphins, manatees and even sea lions! Finally, explore the clifftop ruins in Tulum. Further inland, take a day trip to Chichen Itza . For beach time, check out Aloha Paddle Club’s water sport rentals in Playa del Carmen or take the ferry to nearby Cozumel.

Where to stay: Outside of town, Barcelo has everything from its impressive all-inclusive Barceló Maya Tropical (five family-friendly hotels in one, plus an adults-only one for a parents’ weekend away) to its more intimate Allegro Playacar where babysitting is always available. In Cozumel, Allegro Cozumel has a pirate-themed water park on site.

More info: VisitMexico.com

Best for ages: 10-18

Why go? This Caribbean Island has the world’s only “drive-in” volcano.

What to do: Rent a car and head for the crater! After hiking around La Soufriere Volcano ’s hot springs, let the kids throw mud at each other in a mud bath. (You can relax in the mineral waters beneath a waterfall.)

Where to stay: Zoëtry Marigot Bay St. Lucia has a kids’ activity program and a tween-driven mani-pedi spa. Bay Gardens also ranks well for its activity-loaded water park and beach access.

More info: StLucia.org

Virginia Beach

Best for ages: 5-17

Why go? It’s got beaches, boardwalks, American history and a military aviation museum.

What to do: First, take a ride in an open cockpit biplane at the Military Aviation Museum . Then, hit the beach and Neptune’s Park where the kids could compete in a sandcastle building contest if your timing is right. Finally, drive to Fredericksburg to walk in the footsteps of our first president at his boyhood home, Ferry Farm .

Where to stay: The top-rated hotel choice is the oceanfront Hyatt Place , which is within walking distance of boardwalk attractions. Barclay Towers Resort Hotel is a bit farther, but every room is a suite.

More info: VisitVirginiaBeach.com

Waikiki Beach

" Waikiki Beach looks exactly like how you would imagine Hawaii to be! On the beach, you can rent surfboards and try out surfing for a few hours. Waikiki is actually perfect for learning how to surf since the water is pretty shallow for what feels like ages. You look out into the water and surfers are everywhere trying to catch the perfect wave. The neighborhood is incredibly walkable with stores, hotels and shops dotting the entire road. Pick a direction to walk and I guarantee you’ll stumble upon the classic ABC convenience stores filled with everything from snacks to souveniers and even spam musubi! Major bonus is that Waikiki is under 30 minutes from the hotel, making it convenient to get to." — Anita Chomenko, a social media video producer at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 11-16

Why go? Thanks to warm, shallow and relatively calm waters, there’s no better place to take your first surf lesson.

What to do: Sign up for a lesson at one of the Star Beach Boys stands , located on the sand in front of the statue of Duke Kahanamoku. (This Hawaiian hero is considered the father of modern surfing.) Or try one of the local surf schools, like Big Wave Dave and Surfer Girl Academy . While on Oahu, visit the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites including the USS Arizona Memorial .

Where to stay: With its airport transportation, on-site pool and free breakfast, Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach could not be more convenient. Further inland, the Oasis Hotel offers boutique vibes.

More info: GoHawaii.com/Islands/Oahu

Outdoorsy adventures

An alaskan cruise.

Best for ages: 9-16

Why go? Besides heli-tours, cruising is the closest you can get to Alaska’s calving glaciers.

What to do: Crystal Cruises , the first cruise company to complete the entire Northwest Passage, has several options. For example, its Glacier & Gold Cruise visits the Inside Passage where it parallels the tallest coastal mountains in the world. On port days, kids can learn about the historic Gold Rush in the frontier town of Skagway or go dogsledding or take a floatplane to fish in a remote inlet.

Where to stay: Book a stateroom on the luxurious, all-inclusive Crystal Serenity or Crystal Symphony . If you extend your trip and check out Denali National Park where you can see Mt. McKinley, consider Aurora Denali Lodge .

More info: TravelAlaska.com

"I just went on a trip to Aspen and it’s no secret it’s a huge ski town, however, it’s also kid friendly! If you’re looking for a family ski trip, Buttermilk Mountain offers group or individual ski lessons, and Panda Peak is so cute. The kids can hold little stuffed animals on the ski lift! I was tempted to ask for one on my first run down on the bunny slopes." — Shannon Garlin , an associate commerce editor at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 4-18

Why go? Between its four different mountains, Aspen Snowmass has something for all skiers and snowboarders.

What to do: First, check out the resort’s daily child-friendly programming and packages . Then, drop the 2-4-year-olds at The Treehouse Kids Adventure Center for their lessons and then head to Camp Aspen with the older kids and preteens. In the afternoon, meet up to ski together, go tubing or take a free naturalist tour. End the day with schnitzel and burgers on the mountain or family dogsledding and dinner at a remote cabin.

Where to stay: If you don’t want to rent a car, stay at Stonebridge Inn , a Destination by Hyatt Hotel where everything Snowmass-related is within walking distance. Or reserve a room at the town’s only ski-in, ski-out property, The Little Nell . Sometimes you can get two complimentary ski passes for each night you stay!

More info: AspenSnowmass.com

Canada’s Rockies by Rail

Best for ages: 8-15

Why go? If your kids haven’t outgrown their fascination with trains, you’ll be parent of the year in their eyes.

What to do: Book Fresh Tracks Canada’s Vancouver to Toronto train trip. It’s an 11-day itinerary stretching across the Canadian Rockies. Begin in Vancouver on a drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Then, travel by rail across the country, watching the glaciers turn into cowboy country, wheat fields and finally, the city of Toronto. Older kids will demand extra time to see the Stanley Cup at the Hockey Hall of Fame and get their hearts rate up at the Stingray Experience at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada .

Where to stay: Spend all 14 nights in a Prestige cabin on VIA Rail’s flagship transcontinental train, The Canadian. If you just want to explore Western Canada, Rocky Mountaineer makes a great home away from home.

More info: CanadianTrainVacations.com

Colorado Springs

Best for ages: 7-13

Why go? Nestled at the base of America’s peak, this town showcases Colorado for kids.

What to do: Watch athletes train for upcoming events at the Olympic Training Center . Then, hand-feed the giraffes at the country’s only mountain-top zoo, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo . Older kids can hike to the summit of Pikes Peak — the mountain that inspired the lyrics to “America the Beautiful” — and cross North America’s highest suspension bridge at The Royal Gorge. Finally, explore the geological wonders of Garden of the Gods .

Where to stay: Ride mules up to your cabin or fire tower accommodations at Cloud Camp , part of The Broadmoor Resort . Down in Colorado Springs, the Great Wolf Lodge boasts the state’s first indoor water park.

More info: VisitCOS.com

Dinosaur Valley State Park, Texas

Best for ages: 5-11

Why go? This state park just 75 miles southwest of Dallas boasts some of the best preserved dinosaur tracks in the world.

What to do: In addition to walking in the humongous footprints left in the Paluxy River, take a covered wagon tour, mountain bike the trails, borrow a fishing pole from the park’s Tackle Loaner Program and visit the museums in downtown Glen Rose , the Dinosaur Capital of Texas.

Where to stay: Pitch your tent or park your RV at Dinosaur Valley State Park, or consider Best Western Dinosaur Valley Inn & Suites .

More info: Texas.gov

" Volcanoes is not the easiest to get to, but the views are worth the journey! Located on the island of Kona, you could truly spend days exploring this national park. You can drive to overlooks, explore flat pathways, hike down into a crater, explore lava tubes and maybe even see an active volcano! If you’re prioritizing the park, you should stay on the eastern side of the island. You can drive from the west but it is more of a trek. Either way, you should also make a stop at Punalu’u Bake Shop, the southernmost bakery in the United States for sweet breads!" — Anita Chomenko, a social media video producer at Shop TODAY

Best for ages : 11-16

Why go? Two massive volcanoes are here, including Kilauea — one of the world’s most active. Trails take you past smoking steam vents, black lava rock and enormous craters.

What to do? Stop at the Kilauea Visitor Center to pick up maps, check current conditions and learn how the volcano came to be. Ask if rangers are leading walks or set out on your own hike. The Earthquake Trail (Waldron Ledge) is an easy hike with great views of the Kilauea Caldera. Don’t miss the Thurston Lava Tube, an underground tunnel where the hot stuff once flowed. (Drive there, then hike in, through a mossy fern forest.) Return to the park at night to see the gorgeous glow from the Halema’uma’u Crater.

Where to stay: For a dramatic crater view from your room, stay across the street from the Visitor Center at the Volcano House . If you don’t mind staying 29 miles outside of the park and want to be closer to town, one of Hilo’s top properties is SCP Hilo Hotel .

More info: NPS.gov/havo

Glacier National Park, Montana

Best for ages: 8-18

Why go? Thanks to climate change, North America’s few remaining glaciers are disappearing.

What to do: Hike! The Going-to-the-Sun Road — one of the most scenic in the world — is also fun to bike, but it's best ridden early or late in the season when car traffic is minimal. The open-top Glacier Park Red Bus Tours (open seasonally) allow kids to see wildlife from a safe distance. To get out on the glacial lakes, rent canoes or kayaks or book a boat tour with Glacier Park Boat Co .

Where to stay: Spend a few nights in a cabin at the no-frills Apgar Village Lodge . Then, splurge at the luxurious, all-inclusive and dog-friendly The Resort at Paws Up located on the edge of the scenic Flathead National Forest.

Grand Canyon National Park

Best for ages : 8-13

Why go? This great gorge is 277 miles long and 6,000 feet deep in some spots, with rocks that are millions of years old.

What to do: Don’t just stand there! Bike along the South Rim (rent from Bright Angel at the visitor center) or hike into the canyon on free ranger-led tours. To explore by mule with Xanterra , reserve at least a year in advance.

Where to stay: The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon is only one mile from the popular South Rim entrance. At the bottom of the canyon, check into a cabin at the historic Phantom Ranch .

More info: NPS.gov/grca

" Jackson, Wyoming is for the outdoorsy kid who loves skiing, snowboarding or simply building a snowman. I’ve only visited during winter time and is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been. They have the National Elk Refuge and is an iconic place to take pics and watch wildlife up and close. My favorite activity was riding on a fat bike and just enjoying the scenic views with the Teton Mountain Range as the backdrop." — Jannely Espinal , a commerce writer at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 6-16

Why go? Jackson Hole is home to Grand Teton National Park and a world-class ski resort.

What to do: Jackson Hole boasts more outdoor activities than there are hours in the day. You can raft the scenic Snake River , tube down the runs at Snow King Resort or explore the magical ice castle and ice skate in Teton Village .

Where to stay: Hotel Terra Jackson Hole and Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa are within walking distance of the chairlifts. Both properties have ski packages in the winter and national park packages in the summer.

More info: VisitJacksonHole.com

" Niagara Falls is breathtaking, especially the first time you see it. The backdrop offers unbeatable photo opportunities for the whole family, too." — Laura Millar, an NBC Page at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 5-12

Why go? Six million cubic feet of water thunders over the massive falls every minute.

What to do: Bring your passport so you can view them from the Canadian and American sides; to visit both, cross Rainbow Bridge. Kids who aren’t afraid of heights will love the view from Skylon Tower .

Where to stay: The most exciting option is the Sheraton Fallsview with its family suites complete with bunk beds! Its Reef Beach Club has a shark tank and a coral reef lagoon, and is attached to the Rainforest Café .

More info: Niagara-USA.com ; NiagaraFallsTourism.com

Pacific Coast Highway Drive

Why go? Curvy Highway 1 winds along California’s craggy coastal cliffs, high above the ocean.

What to do: Take it slow and make lots of stops — whether you conquer the whole thing (about four days) or just tackle small portions. Kids will be wowed by the Santa Cruz Boardwalk (ride the wooden coaster!); Monterey (go kayaking and see the Aquarium ); Carmel’s Pt. Lobos State Natural Reserve (otters, seal lions and whales hang here); Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (great hiking and camping); Hearst Castle , in San Simeon, and the elephant seals on the beach just north.

Where to stay: The pet-friendly boutique Laurel Inn is in San Francisco’s Pacific Heights neighborhood. In Southern California, stay within walking distance of Disneyland at the Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim , which has a waterpark and rooms with bunk beds.

More info: CentralCoast-Tourism.com

Redwood National & State Parks

Why go? The California parks are home to the tallest, most majestic trees on earth.

What to do: Stroll through the mile-long Lady Bird Johnson Grove, a mossy jungle of sky-high sequoias — some of them 2,000 years old (kids can crawl through the hollow ones). See if Roosevelt elk are grazing in Elk Meadow, then pick up the path to Trillium Falls. On coastal trails, take guided tide pool walks. You may spot whales from December through April.

Where to stay: The Best Western Plus Northwoods Inn is located right off of Redwood Highway and includes breakfast. View Crest Lodge has cozy cottages for less than $200 per night.

More info: NPS.gov/redw

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan

Why go? You’ll never see sand dunes like these! Some are nearly 500 feet high, with views of Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands from the top.

What to do: Climb the dunes, of course! Run (or roll) down these majestic sand mountains. Cool off with a swim at Esch Road Beach where the pristine Lake Michigan water is brisk but refreshing. There’s great kayaking and tubing on the warmer Platte River (gear up with Riverside Canoe Trips ). Or, sign the kids up for a freshwater surf lesson from Sleeping Bear Surf .

Where to stay: Duneswood Resort is a short walk to the Dune Climb, and they rent bikes, buggies and strollers. If you’re based in Traverse City , stay at Great Wolf Lodge for its indoor water park.

More info: NPS.gov/slbe

The Black Hills, South Dakota

Best for kids ages: 5-15

Why go? Mount Rushmore ! Plus, these mountains and badlands are some of the most underrated destinations in the country.

What to do: The kids will love the hands-on American history lessons offered at Mount Rushmore. (Stay for the evening flag ceremony during the summer.) There’s also buffalo to be seen, ghost towns to be explored and the world’s largest collection of reptiles .

Where to stay: Stay at the KOA camping resorts in Rapid City , Mount Rushmore or Badlands/White River . Or, find modern rooms at the Hampton Inn Deadwood at Tin Lizzie Gaming Resort .

More info: TravelSouthDakota.com

Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota

Best for ages: 6-12

Why go? North Dakota just may be the most underrated and understated state!

What to do: Sleep under the stars in the national park named for Theodore Roosevelt , who once lived here. These dramatic badlands are home to the Painted Canyon; see who can spot the most bison or elk. Prairie dog barking is audible and just outside of the park is Medora , a town where horses are still a form of transportation.

Where to stay: Lodging is pretty limited, but it’s got character! The Rough Riders Hotel in Medora has a pool and a two-story rock fireplace. Badlands Hotel , also in Medora, is further from downtown but the rooms are slightly bigger and it’s only two blocks from Medora Children’s Park.

More info: NDTourism.com

Yellowstone National Park

Why go? It’s America’s very first national park and has the highest concentration of geysers in the world!

What to do: See Old Faithful , which shoots steam sky-high every 90 minutes, and then move on to the other geysers, stinky mud pots and multicolored hot springs within walking distance. Bison, elk, bears, wolves and Bighorn sheep all hang out here. In winter (when it’s easiest to spot wildlife), take the kids on their first snowcoach tour . In summer, fly high at Yellowstone Aerial Adventures .

Where to stay: The Summit at Big Sky puts you just outside the park. A more rustic option is Chico Hot Springs .

More info : NPS.gov/yell

Yosemite National Park

"I’ve been to Yosemite a handful of times, both on family trips and with friends. It’s such a beautiful and fun place to visit, no matter the season. If you are someone who likes an active vacation, there are endless opportunities for hikes and while some of them are hard, the views always pay off. I’ve also had just as much exploring the area at a lower elevation, casually strolling the paths in the valley." Emma Stessman , a commerce writer at Shop TODAY

for ages: 6-12

Why go? This national park is a scenic superstar: Think thundering waterfalls in spring and early summer and seriously steep granite cliffs.

What to do: Get your bearings on the free park shuttle around Yosemite Valley — home to famous sights like the Half Dome, El Capitan and Yosemite Falls; hopping on and off as you please. Set aside a half day to hike the Mist Trail alongside majestic Vernal Falls, climbing 600 granite steps to the top. (Pack a waterproof poncho!) Raft the rivers around the area with Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions .

Where to stay: The charming mountain town of Mammoth Lakes makes a great home base, or check out the highly-rated Juniper Springs Resort or The Village Lodge . Both properties have a pool!

More info: TravelYosemite.com

Major cities

" Denver is definitely for the adventure-friendly family. There’s so much to see and explore in this city, and the food is A plus. Denver Biscuit Co. is my go-to spot when I visit for juicy biscuits smothered in gravy. Also, you can make it a half day of outdoor activities and take a drive through Guanella Pass — one of the most scenic byways in United States." — Jannely Espinal , a commerce writer at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 8-16

Why go? The Mile High City has tons of experiences for the 48-inches-and-under crowd.

What to do: One of Denver’s top attraction is the Denver Zoo . It’s more than 100 years old! At the Children’s Museum of Denver , younger kids can experiment in a test kitchen, cool off in an outdoor splash zone and dance in a room of bubbles. Older kids will appreciate the exhibits and the Phipps IMAX 3D Theater at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science . When they get tired, ride in the free open-air Denver Trolley.

Where to stay: The Limelight Hotel is in the heart of downtown (and a stone’s throw from Union Station). The Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center is just one block from the 16th Street pedestrian mall and has an indoor pool.

More info: Denver.org

Millennium Park, Chicago

Why go? It's an amazing green gathering place.

What to do: Strike a pose in the reflective Cloud Gate sculpture (affectionately known as The Bean). Splash around in the animated Crown Fountain, which literally makes faces at you. Join one of the free activities (family yoga, anyone?) on the big lawn or rent bikes from Bike and Roll Chicago or Divvy Bikes Millennium Park to ride to nearby Navy Pier .

Where to stay: Both the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel and the Swissotel Chicago on the Riverwalk are within three blocks of Millennium Park.

More info: ChooseChicago.com

New Orleans’ French Quarter

Best for ages: 3-17

Why go? The Mardi Gras spirit lasts all year long in this family-friendly city.

What to do: There’s lots of free PG-rated fun in Jackson Square , where magicians, jugglers, mimes and jazz bands make the street their stage. Grab an outside table at Café du Monde , famous for its sugar-covered beignets . A stroll along the Mississippi River leads to the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and the Audubon Butterfly Insectarium . Hop the St. Charles streetcar to the lovely Garden District and the Audubon Zoo where kids can feed giraffes.

Where to stay: The Homewood Suites by Hilton in the heart of the French Quarter has free buffet breakfast. The pet-friendly Quarter House rents suites with fully equipped kitchens.

More info: NewOrleansOnline.com

Tenerife, Spain

Why go? This Canary Island is home to Europe’s No. 1 water park, its most visited national park and world-class beaches featuring sand imported from the Sahara!

What to do: Head to Siam Park , voted the best water park in Europe. Ride the water slide that travels through a shark tank or relax at the world’s biggest wave pool. Drive a rental car across the island to paddle board, kayak and snorkel with Teno Activo at Los Gigantes . Also check out Loro Parque and visit the volcano in Teide National Park .

Where to stay: In between Siam Park and the beach, Iberostar Selection Anthelia has a free breakfast buffet and a kids club. Or, rent a poolside apartment from Apartamentos Casablanca .

More info: WebTenerife.com

Historical outings

Buckingham palace.

Why go? When you tell kids a real king lives here, their ears will perk up!

What to do? Start monitoring flights months in advance and consider European airlines. (Low-cost carrier Norwegian Air often has round-trip, nonstop London flights from several major U.S. cities for less than $500.) On your first full morning in London, check out the Changing of the Guard where the soldiers march out in their trademark red coats and fuzzy black hats. It starts at 11 a.m. (10 a.m. on Sundays) but get there at least a half-hour early so the little ones can see. If the royal flag is flying, the King is in residence. St. James Park is a stone’s throw away and has a lovely playground.

Where to stay: Located opposite the Royal Mews, The Rubens at The Palace could be to London what the Plaza Hotel was for Eloise. The Resident Victoria is just steps from Buckingham Palace.

More info: Royal.uk

"If you’re a baseball family, the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown is a can’t miss destination. The Hall of Fame is interactive, informative, and perfect for the young all-star in your family to dream big about making their mark in the MLB. As the little sister in the family I got dragged to too many baseball games to count, but this museum remains one of my favorite family trips to date." — Kate McCarthy , the senior social media editor at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 8-17

Why go? It’s home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum .

What to do: Practice those swings at Barnyard Swing Miniature Golf . Climb aboard the Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad or cruise Otsego Lake on the Glimmerglass Queen .

Where to stay: Stay on the water at Lake ‘N Pines Motel where guests have an outdoor pool, an indoor pool and a video arcade room. Downtown, The Railroad Inn has lofts that comfortably sleep families of six.

More info: ThisIsCooperstown.com

The National Mall

Why go? If there’s ever a place to instill a sense of American pride in your young one, it’s here.

What to do: In spring during the famous Cherry Blossom festival, The National Mall is where most of the action and colors are. Hit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History , the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Smithsonian National Museum of American History . There are also several art museums — ideal for older kids — and the International Spy Museum .

Where to stay: With a No. 2 ranking on TripAdvisor, The River Inn near Foggy Bottom metro station is a great affordable option. Closer to the National Mall, you a comfortable room at Sofitel Washington, D.C.

More info: Washington.org

“As a Massachusetts native, Plimoth Plantation was a hot field trip destination during my school years, and for good reason. The outdoor recreation of a 17th-century village makes kids (and adults) feel like they’re stepping back into time. The best part is that there are actors who fully stay in character like it’s the year 1627, so while there are plenty of moments to learn about what life was like then, kids will also get a kick out of asking them questions about modern life and seeing the confusion on the actor’s faces.” — Kate McCarthy , the senior social media editor at Shop TODAY

Why go? It’s like stepping back in time to the 17th century, when the pilgrims arrived here from England.

What to do: Get a look at Plymouth Rock, where colonists first set foot on American soil. You won’t believe how tiny it is. Costumed actors recreate what it was like on the crossing and in the settlement. Learn about Native American cooking, crafts and culture at the Wampanoag Homesite. Visit the nearby Plimoth Grist Mill where you can see how they grind corn and even buy it to take home!

Where to stay: Pilgrim Sands on Long Beach has a waterfront view of Warren Cove. In colder months, consider the Hilton Garden Inn Plymouth , which has a great indoor pool.

More info: Plimoth.org

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• Hotels + Resorts

15 Best Family Resorts in the U.S., According to Parents and Travel Experts

From beachfront properties to luxury mountain retreats, these are 15 of the best resorts in the country for a family vacation.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Four Seasons Resorts

As a mom and travel writer, family travel is something that I’m super passionate about. People often say, “It’s not a vacation once you have kids," — but I disavow that statement. Yes, there will be challenging moments. That’s a given. But exploring new places or returning to tried-and-tested favorites as a family is the stuff that becomes core childhood memories. And even if your kids are too young to remember, you will — and that matters. Plus, they can look back on the photos later.

While I subscribe to the philosophy that you can find interesting and age-appropriate stuff to do with kiddos almost anywhere, the truth is not that everyone wants to spend hours searching the internet for kid-friendly activities and accommodations. For many parents, it’s about picking an awesome resort that takes the stress out of planning — and executing — a family vacation. So, what does that look like exactly? Well, it needs spacious accommodations (bonus points for in-room perks like high chairs and tiny robes), ample amenities that cater to guests of all ages, dining options to please palates big and small, and ideally, a kids club. By culling down the consideration set to just domestic destinations, you don’t have to worry about passports, long-haul flights (well, save Hawaii ), exchanging currency, or visa requirements. There are so many incredible vacation-making resorts across the country, from sprawling properties minutes from Disney World to luxury mountain lodges.

Whether you’re looking for recommendations for an upcoming trip or stockpiling inspiration for the future, scroll on for the best family resorts in the United States, according to parents and travel pros.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Maui

Also available to book at Expedia.com

Attentive service and tons of extras for little ones make this an excellent pick for families with small children.

The hotel can get pretty busy during the school holidays.

With a list of accolades that’s even longer than its extensive activity schedule, the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Maui — one of the best resorts in Hawaii for 2023, as voted by T+L readers and a WBA Hall of Fame honoree — is a legendary luxury family vacation destination. Keikis spend the days running between the pools and the sparkling azure blue waves, playing tennis, and hanging with pals at the complimentary kids' program. Interactive experiences like torch bearer rituals and Hawaiian star stories teach visitors about local culture. Complimentary pool playpens, beach toys, personalized stuffed animals, strollers, baby monitors, and swings for little ones certainly help ease packing woes and prevent overstuffed suitcases. Parents’ vacation fantasies come true while indulging in stress-melting massages at the spa and sipping cocktails by the adults-only infinity pool.

The Details:

• Standout amenities: Beach access; three pools; complimentary pool playpens, beach toys, and in-room amenities for little ones; complimentary Kids for All Seasons program; Hawaiian culture activities
• Location: Maui, Hawaii
• Starting rates: $1,500 per night

Montage Laguna Beach

The kids club welcomes guests as young as two years old.

This is one of the pricier resorts on this list.

Families flock to Montage Laguna Beach. Voted one of the best resorts in California by Travel + Leisure readers, the 262-key property delights guests of all ages with its laid-back seaside charm that reflects the Laguna Beach lifestyle, stellar service, and recreation opportunities. While you could easily spend the whole time sprawling out on the beach or lounging by the saline swimming pools, the wealth of activities —  snorkeling, kayaking excursions in the Pacific Ocean, and surf lessons — makes a compelling case for exploring beyond the cabanas. Half-day Paintbox sessions and collecting Montage merit badges will keep kids thoroughly engaged (and off their iPads). The residential-style villas provide an ideal haven for families. Exceptional baby-friendly in-room amenities include Bloom crib mattresses and diaper pails.

• Standout amenities: Direct beach access; three saltwater swimming pools (including a children’s pool); beachfront accommodations; Paintbox and Paintbox Petite children’s programs; Montage Merit badges; UPPAbaby rental program; teen spa treatments; 24-hour in-room dining
• Location: Laguna Beach, California
• Starting rates: $1,100 per night

The Ranch at Rock Creek

Ranch at Rock Creek

Outdoor activities abound in truly gorgeous landscapes.

The resort is 90 minutes from Missoula International Airport.

“Surrounded by mountains, meadows, and streams, The Ranch at Rock Creek allows families to spend quality time together in nature — far away from the distractions of the fast-paced modern world,” says Carolyn Addison, head of product at Black Tomato and a mom of two. With horseback riding, sporting clays, fly fishing, mountain biking, and a bowling alley, there's really something for everyone. Morning and afternoon sessions at Flint’s Forest Rangers Kids Club gives youngsters a chance to peep at wildlife, learn about cowboy history, mine for sapphires, ride ponies, and go geocaching. The luxurious private homes and cabins within walking distance of the main lodge and glamping cabins are a hit with families. The property also provides car seats, high chairs, cribs, pack ‘n plays, and babysitting services.

• Standout amenities: Flint’s Forest Rangers Kid’s Club; horseback riding; sapphire mining, swimming pool; bowling alley; private homes and cabins; glamping tents
• Location: Philipsburg, Montana
• Starting rates: $2,300 per night (all inclusive) for two guests; $900 additional nightly charge for guests age six and over

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

Courtesy of Four Seasons Resorts

Also available to book at Hotels.com

The luxe resort is just a short complimentary shuttle ride away from the theme parks.

This property is more expensive than many nearby Disney resorts.

A visit to Disney World tops the travel wishlist for many kids (and adults). What makes a trip to “The Most Magical Place on Earth” even more, well, magical? Staying at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort , a World's Best Awards winner in 2021. After all the rides and live entertainment at the park, the five-star property is the perfect place to relax and continue the fun. The family-fave highlights include the five-acre waterpark with slides, a lazy river, and breakfast with Goofy and his pals. While kiddos are off having a blast at the complimentary Kids For All Seasons supervised children's camp, parents can take a well-deserved break by the adult-only pool, play 18 holes of golf, or relish spa treatments. Plus, the rooms are luxurious and super spacious, so families have plenty of space to spread out. “Don’t miss Capa for rooftop Michelin-starred dining that offers views of the nightly Disney fireworks,” says Elizabeth Rhodes , T+L special projects editor, of her recent stay. 

• Standout amenities: Spacious rooms with private terraces; five-acre waterpark; complimentary Kids for All Seasons program, tennis courts; 18-hole golf course; adult-only pool; kids under five eat free at select restaurants; breakfast with Goofy; complimentary transportation to the parks
• Location: Orlando, Florida
• Starting rates: $1,295 per night

Turtle Bay Resort

There's plenty to do on-site, including 12 miles of hiking trails.

Meals can be expensive, but kids menus are available.

One of the best hotels in Hawaii for families , Turtle Bay Resort is a slice of pristine paradise on the North Shore of O‘ahu. The sprawling property boasts seven sun-drenched beaches, three main swimming pools (including a kids' pool with water slides), nine restaurants, stables, and a 468-acre working farm. It’s also famous for having a boredom-busting lineup of activities,  ranging from snorkeling with sea turtles and learning to surf alongside a pro to hula lessons and pony rides. My best friend recently went with her daughters, who especially enjoyed Kariel's Mermaid Academy. All the rooms have ocean views, and most also feature a lanai or balcony, which is particularly nice to use while little ones nap. For families seeking even more exclusivity, there are 42 ocean bungalows steps from the sand.

• Standout amenities: Ocean-view rooms, three swimming pools; seven beaches; stables; championship Arnold Palmer-designed golf course; 468-acre farm; hula and ukulele Lessons; beach cruisers
• Location: O‘ahu, Hawaii
• Starting rates: $700 per night

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples

The beachfront location is hard to beat.

Keep an eye on the forecast during hurricane season.

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, is a longtime family favorite. Thanks to a $100-million renovation, the five-star resort on beautiful Vanderbilt Beach has even more guests of all ages to love. According to T+L editor-in-chief Jacqui Gifford, the refurbished property “feels like a relaxed country club” with a game lawn, kid-centric sign-up activities like stuffed animal-making, and a made-to-order guacamole cart. Add to that water sports and serviced beachside cabanas. The new air-conditioned poolside bungalows are ideal for mid-day naps or a break from the sun (and maybe an episode of Bluey on the flat-screen TV). Rooms with balconies and ocean views wow. Book one of the accommodations in the new Vanderbilt Tower for access to food, drinks, and the kid's play area in the largest club lounge in North America.  

• Standout amenities: All rooms have balconies and ocean views; watersports; poolside bungalows; beach cabanas; club lounge; Ritz Kids programming; complimentary shuttle service to The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón
• Location: Naples, Florida
• Starting rates: $699 per night

The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection

Auberge Resorts Collection

The resort has endless space for kids to roam free.

Activities may be better suited to older kids.

Admittedly, I visited The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection — a repeat winner in our World’s Best Awards — solo while pregnant with our second baby. But the entire time, I kept saying I wanted to return with Miles. I thought of him whenever I saw smiling kids running up the gravel paths on a nature scavenger hunt, swimming in the pool, or coloring and eating burgers on the outdoor restaurant terrace. The spacious, contemporary Earth Suites mean families have plenty of stylish space to spread out. And the outdoor fire pits are perfect for roasting s’mores. For animal lovers, there’s a 30,000-square-foot indoor equestrian center and a horse rescue sanctuary. Older adventurers can do e-biking and axe throwing. It’s also super cool to take kids to Gracie's Farm to learn about organic agriculture. 

• Standout amenities: Hiking; fly fishing; clay shooting; heli-skiing; organic farm; 30,000-square-foot indoor equestrian center; Saving Gracie horse rescue sanctuary; farm-to-table restaurant; nature-driven spa; on-site High West Whiskey distillery
• Location: Wanship, Utah
• Starting rates: $1,299 per night

Montage Deer Valley

Spacious accommodations are especially attractive with reasonable off-season rates.

Some amenities and activities aren’t available during the off-season.

Park City is one of my absolute favorite shoulder season destinations . This past fall, we brought Miles to Montage Deer Valley and discovered it to be ideal for families. The luxury mountain resort and 2023 World’s Best Awards winner offers activities like archery lessons and snow tubing, a pub with arcade games and a bowling alley, a kids club, and direct access to hiking paths and groomed slopes. Our toddler had a blast playing with the canine ambassador, and I’ll never forget the glee on his face when he saw the adorable in-suite camping setup. Thanks to indoor and outdoor pools, guests can swim year-round, and adults will love the serene oasis of a 35,000-square-foot spa. Active types can rely on Compass Sports to take the guesswork out of adventuring with gear rentals and lift tickets, and the nightly s’mores around the fire is a sweet way to end the end.

• Standout amenities: Mountain-view rooms and suites; ski-in/ski-out access; indoor and outdoor pools; six dining options; Paintbox children’s program; Montage Merit badges; UPPAbaby rental program; Compass Sports
• Location: Park City, Utah
• Starting rates: $450 per night

Ojai Valley Inn

Unique and engaging programming, including private golf and tennis lessons.

Camp Oak doesn’t accept kids under four years old, and many activities cost extra.

Even though then-11-month-old Miles was too young to join in on the fun at Camp Oaks during our Ojai Valley Inn stay, the offerings — which include arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, and science experiments — are sure to delight young guests (ages 4 to 12) during the day and weekend night sessions. I watched little swimmers playing with noodles and paddling around in the Pixie Pool before digging into a plate of delicious-looking chicken fingers and fries. The artist cottage and apothecary hosts daily craft hours to make soaps, terrariums, tie-dye, and more. Horseback riding, tennis clinics, in-room game night baskets, s’mores, and events like face painting and balloon twisting mean even more opportunities for family bonding. The adults-only pool, spa, and championship golf course are great spots for parents to escape.

• Standout amenities: Family pool; adults-only pool; golf course; kid’s camp; mountain-view rooms with fireplaces, tubs, and terraces; spa; artist cottage and apothecary
• Location: Ojai, California
• Starting rates: $709 per night

C Lazy U Ranch

It's an 8,500-acre ranch with tons of outdoor activities.

It's two hours and 15 minutes from Denver International Airport.

Saddle up for Wild West-themed family fun at C Lazy U Ranch, an all-inclusive, four-season dude ranch in the Rocky Mountains. Voted among the favorite resorts in Colorado of 2023 by T+L readers , the property promises an adventure-packed vacation that city slickers and cowboys will appreciate. Guests can try horseback riding, cattle pushing, archery, axe throwing, fly fishing, mountain biking, and ziplining. Prefer more leisurely pursuits? Head to the creekside spa for massages or a soothing soak in the hot tub. The excellent kids and teens program gives cowpokes a first taste of ranch life through age-appropriate activities supervised by trained counselors. At the end of the day, everyone comes together to swap stories around the campfire before retiring to cozy cabins for a restful slumber.

• Standout amenities: Cabins with wood-burning fireplaces; C.O. Bigelow bath products; horseback riding; cattle pushing; archery
• Location: Granby, Colorado
• Starting rates: $392 per night

The Resort at Paws Up

The resort offers a huge variety of activities, plus round-trip airport transfers.

A deposit is required to book.

A surefire way to get the kids off their iPads? Book a trip to The Resort at Paws Up. At this cattle ranch turned luxury family-friendly retreat and WBA honoree in the Blackfoot Valley, outdoor recreation trumps screen time. More than 35,000 acres of Montana wilderness is the backdrop for endless adventure. Spend days exploring 100 miles of walking trails, fly fishing on the river, ride go-carts, learn horsemanship skills, and do mosaic workshops with your crew. During half- or full-day sessions at the Kids Corps of Discovery, children ages 3 to 12 get to swim, paint, go geocaching, and more. That gives parents plenty of time to relax at the spa or participate in an adult-only wilderness activity. Vacation homes and glamping sites with deluxe tents (open mid-May through mid-October) are the ideal home base for families who want to be immersed in nature without sacrificing creature comforts.

• Standout amenities: 70-plus activities; 100 miles of trails; meals are included; all home accommodation guests have access to a Lexus SUV; round trip airport transfers
• Location: Greenough, Montana
• Starting rates: $2,265 per night for two adults and two children

The Cloister at Sea Island

Also available to book at Kayak.com

Plenty for kids and adults to do together or apart; Camp Cloister starts at age three.

One-hour drive from Jacksonville International Airport; you may need to rent a car.

Named among T+L readers’ favorite resorts in the South , The Cloister at Sea Island is one of the true grand dames of family resorts. Guest rooms, suites, and residences have creature comforts like wood furnishings, deep-soaking tubs (ideal for bathing littles), and Mediterranean-style arched windows. “From tennis to crabbing, the 50-acre property supplies an array of activities tailored to all members of the family,” says Addison. Itineraries for nature enthusiasts include falconry, hawk walks, and visits to the nature center. Relaxation seekers can chill out at the beach club. “We relished the Kids Nights Out program, which ensures an escape for both the young ones and parents seeking a child-free evening.” While bingo night and family paint parties promise endless laughter and memories. “Horseback riding on the beach was the highlight of a wonderful recent trip to Sea Island, and I loved the family pool,” said Rhodes.

• Standout amenities: One-, two-, and three-bedroom accommodations; Molton Brown toiletries; outdoor swimming pool; tennis courts; beach club; bike rentals; family paint parties; Kids Nights Out program
• Location: Sea Island, Georgia
• Starting rates: $600 per night

Big Cedar Lodge

Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com

The resort offers great value with loads of indoor and outdoor fun.

It can feel a bit like an amusement park.

Few places match the family fun potential of Big Cedar Lodge, a lakeside resort and repeat WBA winner in Missouri's Ozark Mountains. There are many ways to enjoy the great outdoors — whether renting a boat, fishing, swimming, playing mini golf, or rolling out a blanket for movies on the lawn. Fun Mountain, the 30,000-square-foot entertainment zone, ups the ante on indoor excitement with underwater-themed bowling, rock climbing, a ropes course, arcade games, go-karts, and laser tag. The waterfront cottages, log cabins, enormous suites, and glamping tents accommodate groups large and small. So invite the grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Why not plan a family reunion ?

• Standout amenities: Entertainment zone with underwater-themed bowling, rock climbing, a ropes course, arcade games, go-karts, laser tag; mini golf; glamping site
• Location: Ridgedale, Missouri
• Starting rates: $369 per night

Chatham Bars Inn

The beachfront hotel is just a short walk to Main Street.

Many amenities are seasonal.

“I grew up going to Cape Cod, so it has a special place in my heart. And I love returning with my family. Our go-stay is the charming Chatham Bars Inn, an elegant and timeless oceanfront resort in the quintessentially quaint town of Chatham,” says Addison. “I fondly remember sitting out with my kids on the oceanfront veranda and watching the sunrise.” The property has a private sandy beach ideal for lounging, building sandcastles, and swimming. There’s also a zero-entry pool with cabanas, a kiddie pool, tennis clinics for all ages, and summer kids programming. The on-site dock and fleet of boats are perfect for family excursions such as whale watching, sailing, fishing, and lobstering. While authentic clambakes give off nostalgic New England vibes.

• Standout amenities: Private beach; zero-entry pool with cabanas; kiddie pool; on-site dock with a fleet of boats; tennis clinics; complimentary supervised Kids Crew with interactive programs
• Location: Chatham, Massachusetts
• Starting rates: $650 per night

Know Before You Go

Decide what kind of vacation you want..

From the mountains of Colorado to the beaches of Hawaii, the United States is massive and filled with diverse scenery. Equally varied are the types of family holidays available to travelers. Do you prefer lounging by a sun-splashed pool? Perhaps an alpine escape steeped in rugged adventure is more your speed? Maybe it’s the thrill of adrenaline-pumping rides and snapping photos with costumed characters?

Consider travel time and logistics.

Traveling with kids can be stressful — especially regarding red eyes, changing planes, and tight connections. The more logistics, the greater the chance that someone might have a meltdown (and I’m not just talking about little ones). Depending on your kids' ages and jet-setting experience, it might be more feasible to hop on a long-haul plane to Hawaii. Some parents (and kids) do better with jet lag than others, so the time difference is also something to consider. It’s also essential to think about logistics on the ground. Do you need to rent a car? What’s public transportation like? Does the resort provide a shuttle service to and from the airport? 

Be mindful of budget.

Many luxury resorts (with price tags to match) do a phenomenal job of catering to families. But there are plenty of more wallet-friendly options as well. You can also save money by skipping peak periods like summer vacation and winter break and visiting during the off-season.

How We Chose These Hotels

Lindsay Cohn is a travel journalist and mom of two young boys. The resorts on this list were chosen based on her personal experience and research and the first-hand accounts of Travel + Leisure editors and industry professionals — all of whom are parents. Many of these resorts have also been voted into their respective categories in the World’s Best Awards by T+L readers.

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Get up and go: These are the best family vacations to take with kids at every age

Where should we go on vacation is a great debate in family living rooms around the world.

Should we go visit grandparents or head to the beach? Maybe we should visit a theme park or take a cruise? Or perhaps we should trek to a far-flung exotic destination with lots of hiking?

There's an endless list of possibilities and factors to consider, with one of the important being the age of your children. Each developmental stage certainly presents its own challenges, but you can still have a fun-filled, memorable trip if you know how to handle those challenges and decide which family vacations are best suited for kids in each age group.

TPG surveyed real-world parents and staffers for their first-hand advice on navigating family travel to bring you the best family vacations with kids at every age and stage.

Best types of trips with an infant

Travel challenges.

Congrats — you have a new baby in the family! The good news is babies don't need much in the way of formal entertainment, though traveling with an infant isn't without its challenges.

While it isn't always picture-perfect at this stage, don't discount traveling with a baby. Once babies have a pretty solid sleep schedule, they can make for great travel companions.

If you are planning a long road trip, you'll need feeding supplies, diapers, wipes and multiple "just in case" changes of clothes for yourself and your baby. For a trip that involves flying, you'll need to find out the airline's policies for flying with an infant and bringing baby equipment like strollers and car seats.

No matter your method of travel, you'll want to choose a destination with baby-friendly amenities, a relaxed atmosphere and maybe even bonus perks like onsite babysitting so you can enjoy a parents' night out.

All-inclusive beach resort

A vacation where everything is taken care of ahead of time and you don't have to venture away from your resort is the epitome of convenience for new parents.

Many all-inclusive resorts , including Cancun's Finest Playa Mujeres , have dedicated water play areas for kids and complimentary baby care amenities like cribs, strollers and baby monitors.

If you want to get away for a walk on the beach or a romantic meal, infant child care with nannies accredited by the International Nanny Association is available at resorts like Beaches Negril .

When it comes to accommodations, a multibedroom suite or room with a separate area where your baby can sleep in a dark, quiet atmosphere will help keep that schedule you've worked so hard to create from getting too far off track. If you can't get an entire separate room, some family travel veterans have been known to make unconventional spaces like oversized closets and bathrooms work as makeshift nurseries .

Related: Best all-inclusive resorts you can book with points

Mountain cabin rental

Consider a peaceful cabin rental in the Great Smoky Mountains, Big Bear or the Rocky Mountains if you prefer a cool mountain breeze to the salty sea air. Most cabins offer full kitchens and many comforts of home -- and maybe even game rooms or hot tubs..

With the help of a home rental service like Vrbo or Airbnb , you can easily filter out cabins that are too small or large until you find one that's just right for you and your family. You may even consider making it a multigenerational trip that includes the grandparents so they can bond with their new grandchild.

Road trip to visit the grandparents

Alternatively, for that first trip away from home, you could hop in the car and take a road trip to visit your child's grandparents in their hometown (especially if it's as picturesque as the above destinations). Depending on your family dynamics, it can be a great way to get some practice in on packing and sleeping away from home, but with some friendly faces and arms waiting on the other side.

Some parents may be ready for a visit like this right away, while others may feel more comfortable waiting until they've mastered the basics of baby care. One thing's for sure, though: You can't beat the built-in babysitting.

Advice from parents who've been there

If you've recently had a baby, going on vacation is probably the last thing on your mind, but once you've settled into a routine and are feeling up to it, a change of scenery may be just what the doctor ordered.

TPG's director of travel content and mother of two, Summer Hull, remembers that, for some, the 3-6 month range is a golden window when going almost anywhere is doable with a baby who has a good sleep schedule. "Just put them in a carrier, and away they go," Hull said.

Once they become mobile, everything changes, so take advantage of their lack of mobility while you can.

Best trips to take with a toddler

As infants transition to toddlerhood, they become more aware of the world around them and require more entertainment and stimulation throughout the day.

That can be difficult while buckled up in a car or in an airplane seat for hours. A backpack full of board books, mess-free coloring kits and a trusty tablet can help alleviate the boredom. We're going to be honest, though: Of all the ages, the 18 months to 3 years range is the hardest for travel , as it requires the most active work from the parents.

You may also be in the midst of potty training and wondering how to manage such a monumental task while away from home.

Plan ahead by packing extra clothing, emergency pull-ups and possibly a portable potty chair if you are camping or traveling by car. If you know you have a big trip coming up, you may want to tackle potty training before your trip (still pack those emergency pull-ups just in case).

Despite these challenges, there is also plenty of joy that can come from traveling with kids at this age. After all, this is the time when they're full of wonder.

Because toddlers are inquisitive and energetic, any destination where they can explore their little heart out should fit the bill.

Beach vacation

Whether you opt for a beachfront resort suite or a home-away-from-home rental, a spot at the beach is an easy place to set your toddler to safely dig, splash, collect shells and search for sea life.

Although it won't be the same as the relaxing beach vacation you enjoyed pre-baby, taking a trip where you can observe your toddler indulging their sense of curiosity is still pretty fun. Just be sure you do all that is necessary to ensure water safety.

You probably won't want to spend the entire day in the sun, so choose a destination with other family-friendly activities to fill your time. In addition to its award-winning beaches, St. Petersburg, Florida , offers proximity to Fort De Soto Park, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and the Sunken Gardens' tropical botanical gardens. Meanwhile, San Diego boasts its world-famous San Diego Zoo, museum-filled Balboa Park and the USS Midway Museum.

The 30-A section of Florida is also a fantastic, laid-back place to vacation on the beach with the whole family.

Legoland Resort is the only theme park specifically designed for families with kids age 2 to 12.

With locations in California, Florida and now New York, each Legoland park has attractions, shaded play areas, interactive exhibits and on-site hotels that cater to younger children, including toddlers. Staying on-site puts you steps away from the fun and comes with special perks like free breakfast, early theme park entry and character interactions. (But remember, perks vary by location.)

Mitchell Stoutin, TPG's director of engineering, took a unique approach to travel with his toddler.

Before visiting Sitka, Alaska, with his then 2-year-old and 4-month-old, Mitchell prepared for a struggle to keep his kids seated without getting fussy. Since neither child liked being strapped into a car seat, Mitchell purchased a Thule Chariot multiuse stroller and bike trailer to use while traveling around the small island. "We arrived with the stroller and rented bikes from the bike shop downtown so we could tow the kids around," he said. "We spent the week exploring trails, sipping coffee, eating fresh seafood and hanging out by the water."

This could be a stellar option if you are traveling to a similar destination that's easy to get around.

Related: Guide to flying with kids of every age

Best trips to take with a preschooler

Preschoolers are generally easier to travel with than toddlers because they have longer attention spans. However, they also sometimes see themselves as tiny adults.

This means stronger opinions, self-determination and the subsequent tantrums that come with not getting their way. To manage unexpected outbursts, keep your schedule loose and flexible, include plenty of breaks and pack more snacks than you think you'll need.

Your child may also be getting to the age where you debate leaving the stroller at home rather than lugging it around on vacation. Consider the amount of walking you'll be doing each day and whether you'll be out and about during nap time or after bedtime when the stroller can be used to hold your sleeping child.

If you want to test out leaving the stroller behind, research stroller rental options at your destination ... just in case.

As kids get older, more mobile and more independent, a whole new world of vacation options opens up. Now's the time to try new things on an extra-special family vacation.

Disney park

A Disney vacation can be fun at any age, but preschoolers are at that magical age where they believe in, well, magic.

It also helps that they are old enough and tall enough for many of the attractions. When you hit something they are not ready to do, Disney offers a rider switch service so parents can experience attractions their kids are too short for without having to wait in line twice.

Whether you visit Walt Disney World in Florida or Disneyland in California, max out the magic by staying on-site, booking a character meal and packing their favorite Disney character costume to wear in the parks.

But remember, these kiddos are still pretty young, so you'll want to build in lots of downtime for swimming and resting at your hotel to avoid the aforementioned tantrums, even if your kid has otherwise outgrown regular naps.

Ski vacation

For the most part, preschoolers are too young to be overly scared of trying something new. That makes now the perfect time to take them to the mountains for a ski vacation .

Look for a ski resort that offers ski school with small classes for this young age or even private lessons. In some cases, the length and cost of private lessons is reduced for children in that 3- to 5-year-old age range. For example, at Winter Park, Colorado, a half-day lesson for children age 6 and up starts at $699, while that same lesson for younger kids is $404.

Look for family-friendly lodging — preferably with a hot tub for soaking sore muscles — that offers on-site dining and easy access to groceries and other necessities. If there's ever a time to spring for a room at the best spot on the mountain, it's now. The Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa , which sits just steps from Beaver Creek's ski school, can be booked with points for an excellent rate.

Go on a cruise

Once a kid is 3 years old and potty trained, the world of complimentary kids clubs, including ones on several cruise ships, begins to open up.

Certain cruise lines are a better match for families than others thanks to their exceptional kids programming. Norwegian Cruise Line's free program for preschoolers includes activities like treasure hunts, arts and crafts projects and parades. Norwegian also has fun family amenities like bowling lanes, a miniature golf course and waterslides.

MSC Cruises offers similar child care and family activities, with its kids clubs divided into small age ranges, such as the Mini Club for kids age 3-6. This line also has a partnership with Lego, meaning your little ones will enjoy access to Lego play areas in the kids club and a dedicated Lego-themed day during each cruise.

Then, of course, there's Disney Cruise Line , which excels at keeping kids entertained. Onboard activities range from Disney cartoons showing in the movie theaters to character meet-and-greets to the Oceaneer Club, which is available to kids ages 3-12.

While traveling with his boys in preschool, Michael Gum learned that his kids especially loved hotel rooms with bunk beds and electronic drawing tablets for inflight entertainment.

Florida-based writer and mom Dani Meyering recommends parents invest in TSA PreCheck to breeze through security, as children 12 and younger can accompany parents with TSA PreCheck through the expedited security lane. Lots of credit cards you may already have in your wallet even offer a credit toward getting PreCheck.

On a recent trip, Meyering and her husband kept everything in order at the airport by designating one parent to manage the luggage and the other to be in charge of their son.

Both Gum and Meyering extolled the value of packing more snacks than you think you'll need. "It's survival mode on travel day," Meyering said. "Bring plenty of snacks."

Best trips to take with elementary-age kids

The biggest obstacle at this age is finding the right balance of fun and hands-on activities without overtiring them.

This is also the age where school absences and working around an academic calendar become realities for many families. While planning your vacation, be conscious of your child's limitations and don't book too many back-to-back activities. Even though these kids can make it through a busy day at home, leave time for some rest and recuperation in between marquee activities.

Best types of trips

At this age, kids are largely self-sufficient and able to handle a full day of adventures. By age 6 or 7, you can start mixing in more active outings like hiking, horseback riding and exploring new cities by foot.

Dude ranch or glamping resort

Dude ranches and glamping resorts let you experience all the fun of the great outdoors while staying in luxurious accommodations. Most offer a wide range of activities like fishing, boating, archery, cycling and swimming in an idyllic, natural atmosphere.

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo in Polk County, Florida, (about an hour south of Orlando) has air-conditioned glamping tents and luxe covered wagons, among other accommodation options, plus a weekly rodeo. The Ranch at Rock Creek in Philipsburg, Montana, offers skiing and snowmobiling in the cooler months and mountain biking and hiking during the warmer months.

If you have some Hyatt points to spend, the Rawah Ranch in Colorado has a kids program for those ages 4-10.

Bahamas resort

If you are ready to venture a bit farther from home for a beach vacation, the Bahamas is a worthy contender. Resorts like Baha Mar in Nassau have multiple hotels to choose from, some of which offer fun amenities like water parks and are bookable with World of Hyatt points , such as the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar.

The Atlantis resort complex, which sits just a few miles away, is also an option that has thrilled kids for decades. Since some of the towers are affiliated with Marriott, you can reserve select accommodations with Marriott Bonvoy points.

International adventure

This is an opportune time for your child's first big trip out of the country.

They're old enough to handle a long-haul flight (and yes, even kids love lie-flat seats !), and they are better able to appreciate the defining characteristics of your chosen destination, whether that's snorkeling in Bora Bora or enjoying afternoon tea in London.

Jessica Stephens, a mom of two, warns parents not to over plan. "Go in with an open mind and have a short list of things you must accomplish on your trip," Stephens said. "The other fun things you get to do are just bonuses!"

Best trips to take with tweens

When kids get into the double digits, they will probably want more space and privacy than they did when they were younger. If toddlers are the toughest age to travel with logistically, tweens may be the toughest age group to please.

If possible, you'll want to seek out accommodations with individual bedrooms or even a living room with a pullout sofa where your child can unwind at the end of a long day. Finding a space with an extra bathroom or two wouldn't hurt, either.

These kids are also entering an age where fun with others their age can outrank fun with mom and dad or younger siblings. This makes the tween years a great time to double up and take a trip with another family or cousins or go somewhere that has a club specifically for the tween age.

Even in the world of theme parks, resorts and cruise lines, some are better suited for tweens than others.

Outdoor adventure

If you've been holding off on long-distance hikes or other iterations of "roughing it," now might be the time. A U.S. national park is a good place to start.

From mule treks in the Grand Canyon to beachfront camping in Florida's Dry Tortugas National Park to discovering dinosaur fossils at Dinosaur National Monument in Colorado and Utah , each U.S. national park offers something special for everyone, including tweens. Remember that the National Park Service also makes park passes available for free to those in the fourth grade.

Speaking of (almost) free, kids in fourth through sixth grade qualify for a $59 Colorado ski pass that's valid at a variety of resorts .

Universal Orlando Resort

You can certainly bring younger kids to Universal Orlando Resort , but by the time they reach the tween years, they should often reach the height requirements for most attractions and won't be as scared off by the tall, looping coasters that far surpass the intensity of even Disney's most thrilling rides.

We recommend staying on-site in one of Universal's Premier Hotels since they are closest to the parks and provide everyone in your party with complimentary Universal Express Unlimited access to skip the standby lines during your visit. If you want to enjoy a real treat, go all out on a Universal VIP experience .

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line knows how to make guests of all ages feel special, but tweens can be a tough group to charm.

Luckily, Disney has this down to a science thanks, in part, to their club for guests aged 11-14. Tweens will feel like teens while making fun projects with provided art supplies, partaking in dance parties, singing karaoke, watching movies, playing video games and more.

Mom Shana Loveday advises parents to let their tweens help plan the trip. She also recommends teaching them the invaluable skill of reading a paper road map. "Teach them how to read the map and let them have markers to track progress," Loveday said.

Best trips to take with teens

Like so many aspects of parenting a teen, the biggest travel challenge with this age group can be getting them excited and willing to participate. Balancing their potentially busy school and work calendars can be tough, too. Asking for their input on where you travel and what you do while there can go a long way. Allowing them to bring a friend may even earn you non-sarcastic "cool parent" status for at least a few days.

The sky's the limit at this point in terms of where you go and what you do. The training wheels are gone, and you can probably take the types of trips you used to go on before you had kids — just with a teenage twist to the plot.

New York City

There is so much to see and do in New York City. Not to mention, there are quite a few opportunities to sneak in U.S. history lessons while you're there.

We can help you choose a hotel and from there, it's up to you and your teen to decide which Broadway shows to see, museums to visit and landmarks to go to the top of for perfect panoramic views of the city for social media.

California road trip

California is well known for its theme parks and beaches, but it's also one of the best states for an epic road trip.

In addition to its general travel tips and visitor information, Visit California (the state's tourism board) offers a variety of road trip itineraries for every type of traveler. You can stick with the Highway One Classic road trip for unparalleled views of the California coast, or you can choose a trip that satisfies your family's specific interests, such as the Amazing Desert Oddities road trip or a Movie Locations Tour .

European adventure

Nobody wants to deal with jet lag, but it is true that teens are probably better equipped to handle it than their younger counterparts.

If your teen is taking European language classes in school, you could choose a destination where they could get in some real-world practice. Or, you can bounce from country to country, which is surprisingly convenient and affordable by train or plane.

Writer, podcaster and parent Jana Seitzer loves letting her teens help plan their vacations. "We've found over the years that when they are invested, they enjoy the trip more," she said. "When everyone gets to provide input on activities and locations, everyone gets at least something they want."

Best trips to take with your college-aged 'kids'

If your college-age kids have flown the coop, planning a vacation where they have the freedom they are used to can be difficult. Keep them involved throughout the planning process and try to keep the reins loose during your trip, with pre-arranged meeting times throughout the day. As long as you land on something that sounds mutually enjoyable that works for their schedule, odds are they'll be thrilled to take a trip on their parents' dime — especially if a friend can come along.

Consider how your kid in college likes to spend their free time, and tailor your plans to their favorite activities. You could spend a day lounging on the beach or trying more active pursuits like zip-lining or parasailing.

All-inclusive resort

Because the cost includes (almost) everything, an all-inclusive resort gives everyone the freedom to do what they want, when they want, without worrying about money.

Excellence Resorts in Cancun, Mexico; Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; and Montego Bay, Jamaica; are ideal options for families with kids in college. The adults-only section of Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya is another terrific option, as it caters to guests 18 and older. There are plenty of points-friendly all-inclusive properties, too, such as the Hyatt Ziva Cancun .

Multigenerational ski vacation

Whether you've been skiing together for years or you're all learning together for the first time, the college years are an excellent time to bring the grandparents (and maybe some cousins, aunts and uncles) along for a big multigenerational ski vacation .

Rent a spacious ski home close to the slopes so everyone has plenty of room to spread out when they're not shredding powder on the mountain as often as they choose during the day. You can even book a semi-private ski lesson for your whole group and tailor it to your current skill level.

Seitzer is an enthusiastic proponent of multigenerational trips, no matter your kids' ages. "Multigen travel is a fantastic way to spend quality family time with multiple family units making memories together," she said.

Traveling with kids of different ages

If you have multiple kids with significant age gaps in between, your biggest challenge will be finding a destination with a wide range of activities that will entice children from various age groups. Your best bet is a cruise or resort where the activities and entertainment are built right in.

Adventures by Disney

While you may feel sticker shock when you initially see the price tag, if you have a mix of ages in your family and the budget to support it, Adventures by Disney vacation packages can be a fantastic solution.

They offer guide-led trips on land and by cruise to destinations ranging from Wyoming to Antarctica . They take care of most of the details and work, and the price covers all meals and outings. Additionally, there are likely families there with kids of all ages so your group could blend right in.

Hawaiian resort

A sprawling resort with lots of activities and accommodations designed for large families will ensure everyone has an enjoyable vacation. The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is an amazing deal with Hyatt points. Plus, it offers daily activities like yoga, lei making and golf, as well as one of the best family pool complexes in the U.S.

There's also a kids club (for a fee) if you find yourself in need of child care for the younger members of your travel party.

Travel writer Sarah Gilliland has 10-year-old twins and a 2-year-old son. Her advice is to save her older kids' favorite activities for their little brother's nap time.

"When he sleeps in the stroller or I head back to our hotel with him for a nap, it's go-time for them," Gilliland said. "It helps their time with us feel special, especially since they had our undivided attention for eight years." She also recommends having a grandparent, another family member or a babysitter travel with you so they can help care for the younger kid(s) while you spend time with the older ones.

Mom Christy Kelley shared a helpful tip for keeping the boredom away while en route to your destination. "A friend once suggested that I take paper lunch bags and fill each with one activity and one snack for each hour of the trip so the kids always have something to look forward to," she told TPG. "It's great for kids of any age."

Bottom line

Naturally, these recommendations aren't set in stone. Some kids and families are ready to level up their travel early, while others like to keep things simple for a little longer. There's no right or wrong time for most types of trips, just general age ranges when some things tend to be easier than others.

If you want to head to Europe with your toddler, go for it. Or, if you want to head to Disney World with your grown kids, do it. Odds are high that great memories will be made no matter what you take on, as long as you're willing to go with the flow and keep your kids' wants and needs high on the priority list.

So, where to next?

Family tours

Who needs a buffet and a ball pit when you've got the whole world to play in?

Designed by parents for kids, both big and small, our family trips are the kind you’ll reminisce about for years to come. Full of authentic cultural experiences, the kids will have plenty to brag about at school. Think: playing soccer with Maasai warriors in Kenya , learning ancient martial arts with Buddhist monks in South Korea or sleeping in a traditional Navajo hogan in Monument Valley. With child-friendly accommodations and a local leader to handle the logistics, you can focus on making core memories. Your sense of adventure doesn't disappear when you have kids, so why should your family vacation options be limited?

Our teenage family trips have a minimum age of 10 and offer more active itineraries for older children.

If your little ones love fairytales, they’ll love waking up in the regal rooms of a 17th-century palace in Alsisar, Rajasthan. Nestled in a desert town full of legendary stories, this hotel oozes history and grandeur with manicured gardens, colorful courtyards and dazzling dining rooms you could spend hours exploring. 

Learn how to play the taiko, an ancient instrument traditionally used to initiate ceremonies and call soldiers to battle. Made from large wooden barrels with animal skin stretched over both ends, it produces a thunderous sound that vibrates through your entire body. Watch the experts play before grabbing a pair of bachi wooden sticks and having a bash yourself. 

Say ahoy! (or xin chao) to your Vietnamese captain and set sail around the karst-studded waters of Ha Long Bay. Cruise among hundreds of limestone islets, drop anchor to explore caves filled with stalactites and jump in for a swim with an epic backdrop. After enjoying a tasty dinner, head out to the deck where you’ll be wowed by a sky speckled with stars.  

Who needs video games when you have an ancient city to explore? Angkor Thom, home to the iconic Angkor Wat, was once the largest pre-industrial city in history. Hop in a tuk-tuk with a guide from Driver Srey – a female-owned social enterprise empowering local women – and watch the ruins come alive. Then, wind through Ta Prohm’s maze-like passageways tangled with giant tree roots. 

Saddle up for a sunset camel trek through the stunning Sahara. After journeying along the windswept dunes, you’ll be greeted by our local friends for a night in a desert camp. Enjoy a feast of traditional foods like tagine, couscous and pastilla before settling into the silence of the desert and gazing up at the Milky Way. If you’re lucky, you may see a shooting star (or 10)

These trips are for families only – including any grandparents, aunts or uncles who’d like to join, of course. As long as you’re traveling with a child aged between 5 (or 10 for some itineraries) and 17, you’re a family in our eyes. Plus, all travelers aged 17 and younger receive a 10% discount .

Our groups are small enough to avoid the crowds and reach out-of-the-way places, but big enough for a good social mix. Our average group size of 10 allows us to hop aboard local boats, buses or trains, eat at family-run restaurants, and stay in traditional guesthouses and homestays. 

Traveling with us is a bit like traveling with old friends. You’ll join a group of 3 to 5 families from all over the world, and the kids tend to hit it off straight away so you can enjoy some well-earned R&R. We often find that families stay in touch long after the trip ends. 

Boredom? Nope. The biggest challenge of traveling with kids is keeping them entertained, which is why our trips have plenty of fun activities and free time. We try to keep traveling time to a minimum and use hotels with pools. Your leader can also suggest activities based on your kid’s hobbies or curriculum.

Our leaders are specially trained to run family adventures, so you and the kids will be well taken care of. You can also rest easy knowing we conduct safety assessments on all our activities to meet local standards as well as our own comprehensive safety policy.

As the world’s largest travel B Corp , we use travel as a force for good. We give back to the communities we visit, carbon offset our trips and take our social and environmental responsibilities seriously. When you travel with us, you travel with purpose.

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32 epic bucket list family vacation ideas

Last updated on September 29, 2023

We love all sorts of family travel – from annual holidays in classic seaside towns to epic bucket list trips that broaden everyone’s horizons.

For this post, we’re focussing on the latter. We asked expert family travel bloggers to help us put together an ultimate round-up of bucket list family vacation ideas . From African safaris to a trip to Lapland , these are dream family trips to inspire your own family bucket list.

Some of them are ones we’ve done ourselves, and others are most certainly in our future plans. We’d love to hear which ones you’d love to do most. And are there any you think we’ve missed?

Europe family vacations

Visiting santa in lapland.

By Victoria

If the kids were creating a travel bucket list, this would surely be on it. Visiting Santa in Lapland is a dream come true for little ones, and there’s so much more to it than meeting the big man himself. It’s one of the most fun vacations for families.

Whizz around the forest on a sled pulled by huskies, or a sleigh pulled by reindeer . Ride snowmobiles , visit an amethyst mine and play in the powdery snow. You could even stay in a glass igloo beneath the stars or, even better, the Northern Lights !

We did this trip before we had kids and it was magical even as adults. We can’t wait to take Otis and Arlo (we’re thinking 4 and 6 could be a good age for it). See our full 4-day Lapland itinerary .

Whenever we go to London , it always blows Otis’ mind. I think it’s the sheer enormity of the place and the endless excitement of things to do. It’s a place where just being there is exciting.

London suits all ages, from toddler to teen to grandparent, and we recommend it for any family group. Take advantage of the free entry to museums and get your fill of history by simply wandering along the South Bank of the River Thames. There are galleries to explore, epic parks to play in, theatre shows to enjoy and no end of amazing food.

As Samuel Pepys said: If you’re tired of London, you’re tired of life”. See our guide to how to spend 7 days in London with kids . It’s the kind of place you could easily spend weeks, but it’s equally perfect for a weekend family trip with toddlers.

Iceland is one of those epic destinations that almost feels like being on another planet. And going there will tick boxes for kids and adults alike. Above all, it’s a place to absorb yourself in the majesty of nature, exploring everything from waterfalls to glaciers to ice caves.

Because of the abundance of outdoor adventures, we recommend going with slightly older kids who can hold their own on an icy hike. It would be a great one to do with teens who will love zipping around on snowmobiles and enjoying the steamy lagoons.  

We went in winter, which meant we had the chance to see the Northern Lights and explore the ice caves . But summer is also a great time to visit when you can drive the ring road and explore more of the country.

Iceland is an expensive destination, but also one that’s worth every penny – it’s definitely a trip worth saving for. Here’s our guide to how to spend five days in Iceland in winter .

Barcelona is brilliant for kids – they’ll love the fantastical architecture of Gaudi, the copious ‘churros con chocolate’ and the beachside location. Plus the city is well set up for kids with playgrounds in every neighbourhood and a culture that embraces families.

You’ll often see kids out late at night, playing in the squares while their parents eat tapas and converse at the local bars. It makes for a holiday that kids and adults will enjoy in equal measure.

We’ve put together a guide to the best things to do in Barcelona with kids , but some of the highlights include CosmoCaixa (the science museum), riding one of the gondolas and visiting the Sagrada Familia (Otis still talks about it now!).

You could also combine your trip with a visit to the Costa Brava where there are plenty of family-friendly seaside villages such as the very pretty Calla de Palafrugell. Or perhaps pick one of these epic Spanish road trips .

Spain as a whole is one of the best vacation spots for younger families as the culture is so family-friendly and there are plenty of vacation resorts with loads of kids’ activities. Majorca is another brilliant option (we particularly loved Puerto Pollensa ).

Italy adventure

By Chontelle at Mom’s Little Explorers

Italy is one of the most popular family vacation spots, perfect for people who love good food, culture and history. And what kids don’t love pizza, pasta and ice cream?!

From the big cities to smaller towns, lakes, beaches and mountains, Italy has something for everyone of all ages.

You could spend a few weeks to a few months there and still not see everything (although you could certainly try).

There is so much to do in Italy with kids . Some of the main attractions that families will love include the Colosseum in Rome , the gondolas in Venice , the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Uffizi Museum in Florence .

If you visit during the warmer months, the coastal areas, such as the Almalfi Coast and Cinque Terre are great places to visit for beautiful beaches too.

For those who love the mountains, the Dolomites in the north have great hiking tracks in summer and fantastic skiing conditions in the winter.

If you’re after a real cultural experience, Tuscany has some fantastic farm stays with spectacular views too. Italy is great all year round, but the time you should visit depends on what you want to do and see. The summer months from June-August are fairly hot and are great for beach holidays, but not so comfortable for exploring cities.  Winter is from December- February and it can get quite cold. In the north and near the mountains it snows during this period so it’s fantastic for snow trips and Christmas markets.  Spring and Autumn are great times to visit Italy if you’re planning to move around and like the milder weather. Our favourite time to visit is September, still warm enough for beach days, but cool enough to explore.

[Note from Victoria: We’ve travelled extensively in Italy (but not yet with kids) – see our guides to the best Italy road trips , plus itineraries for an Amalfi Coast Road Trip and one that includes Lake Como and Cinque Terre )

Backpacking Europe

By Bryanna at Crazy Family Adventure

If you’re looking for a bucket list family trip, we highly recommend a backpacking trip around Europe. We visited 13 countries in three months with our four kids aged 15, 12, 12 and 10 and it was a magical trip. We were able to see and experience so much together as a family while also learning how to live out of a backpack, stay in hostels (family rooms) and use public transportation everywhere we went.  If you can’t swing three months, go for however long you can! We recommend planning your trip in the off season when things are less busy and the weather isn’t hot. Carrying a backpack around gets heavy and hot so cooler weather is much better. We did our trip from March-June and it was the perfect time.  On our trip we covered Portugal , Spain , Italy , Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Germany , Belgium, Netherlands , France , England , Scotland , and Ireland . With our youngest turning 10 on the trip and our oldest being 15, it was the perfect age since they could all carry their own bags and walk for miles every day (which we did!).  You can get tips on how to plan your trip in our guide to how to plan a trip to Europe

Ireland road trip

By Janelle at Make the Trip Matter

Ireland is a beautiful country full of picturesque views and rich history. And an Ireland road trip is an ideal way to take in all that the Emerald Isle has to offer, from breath-taking coastlines to rolling green hills and ancient ruins. It’s also easy to tailor the trip so that everyone in the family, from toddlers to grandparents, can find something to enjoy. 

There are countless outdoor activities to explore in Ireland, such as kayaking and hiking, plus urban attractions like museums and art galleries, and relaxing beaches to rest on.

Make sure to stop in Galway. It’s one of the most kid-friendly cities with attractions such as the National Aquarium Galway and Loughwell Farm Park . 

Driving through Ireland  for a week or two will allow you ample opportunity to explore the gorgeous countryside and popular natural attractions. A few of the top stops include the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and a trip out to the Skellig Islands.

For a unique idea, stay at one of the ancient Irish castle hotels. The whole family will love feeling like royalty for a night or two!

The best time of year to visit Ireland is spring through early fall when the weather is warmest and the days are longer.

By Annabel at Smudged Postcard

France is a fantastic place for travel lovers and one of the best places for a vacation with family. There’s so much to see – from its beautiful capital to the chateaux of the Loire, the fairy tale towns of the Alsace region to the chic resorts of the south. 

Summer is a great time for a  family holiday in France  – the 14 th  July sees locals across the country take to the streets to celebrate the French Revolution. And it’s a brilliant time to hit the coast. Enjoy the stunning rocky scenery in Brittany, experience excellent surfing on the Atlantic coast, and explore lovely islands by bike. Ile de Re is particularly good fun for families to explore on two wheels.

There are some brilliant theme parks in France including Parc Asterix near Paris and Puy du Fou near Nantes – where history and pyrotechnics ensure kids will be captivated by France’s turbulent past. And of course, there’s Euro Disney too.

If you’re looking for a winter city break, Paris is at its most exquisite at Christmas time when its streets and squares sparkle. Wintertime is when the French hit the ski slopes. There are some excellent resorts for families in France including Meribel and Alpe d’Huez. 

[Note from Victoria – we’re going to Ile de Re this year, so will be sure to report back. And we’ve also spent some lovely time in Colmar and on the French Riviera while doing the most colourful road trip in Europe !]

European Christmas markets

By Jenn from  ThoseJohnsonBoys.com

Looking for the ultimate trip to celebrate the holidays with your family? Planning a European getaway to enjoy the Christmas markets is the perfect way to celebrate. The magic of Christmas really comes to life while making your way through Europe, and kids of all ages will be able to enjoy themselves. Think quaint towns, mulled wine, hot chocolate fairy tale towns brought to life.

You can make the trip as short or as long as you’d like, as there are plenty of Christmas markets to visit around Europe. You could pick just one, or this  Christmas market itinerary  will send you on a two-week journey across three countries and five cities in the Czech Republic, Germany and Austria. 

While you can visit most Christmas markets any time from late November through Christmas, planning your trip around Saint Nicholas Day makes it extra special. On 6 December, many countries in Europe celebrate this holiday, allowing you and your family to experience a celebration that you may not see at home. 

Make sure to buy a souvenir from the markets as memento to decorate your tree at home. Your family will be talking about the memories made for years to come. 

North America family vacations

California road trip.

A California road trip is the stuff of dreams for kids and adults alike. Drive the iconic Pacific Coast Highway , stopping at gorgeous beaches, charming towns, redwoods, and cities along the way.

And then head inland for Yosemite, the gold rush towns of Tuolumne and lesser-known gems like Yolo and the Shasta Cascade region . And of course there are the world famous theme parks, including Disneyland and Universal Studios California .

There are endless fun things to do in California with kids and you can pick and choose a California road trip itinerary to suit you, perhaps focussing on the great outdoors or getting in a good mix of nature and city time. We’ve travelled extensively in California, both when the kids were babies and older, and it’s been a hit every time.

See our guides to things to do with kids in San Diego , Los Angeles , San Francisco , Sacramento and Tuolumne County .

Southern USA road trip

Another great USA road trip is to explore the Southern States, taking in Charleston, Savannah, New Orleans and more. The southern states are a riot for the senses, filled with picturesque towns, exquisite local food and the sounds of country, jazz and blues.

Kids can enjoy horse and carriage rides through Charleston, explore the art of Savannah and go to the amazing Mardi Gras museum in New Orleans (or even better, catch the real thing!).

The Blue Ridge Parkway is another fantastic place to explore, basing yourself in the hip and outdoorsy town of Asheville from where you’ll find plenty of kid-friendly hikes. It’s particularly gorgeous in the fall.

We did a southern road trip , starting in Atlanta and looping through the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville , Charleston , Savannah and New Orleans. A good extension would be to add Nashville and Memphis too, perfect for music-loving families.

New York City

New York City is a bucket list destination for all ages with plenty to do for kids and adults alike. Children will likely be awed by the sheer size of it and all its skyscrapers. And older kids will get a kick out of spotting sights from their favourite movies or TV shows.

There’s an abundance of famous museums, galleries and sights, plus no end of kid-friendly attractions, from zoos to Central Park.

Go at Thanksgiving for the Macy’s Parade, or visit around Christmas to see all the lights. It gets fairly hot in the summer, so perhaps best saved for spring or fall.

We loved visiting New York with a baby as it’s easy to navigate and it was the perfect age for allowing us to do all the things we wanted to do as grown-ups! We even ate a Michelin Star restaurant !

Another great option for a USA city break is Chicago – see our guide to the best things to do in Chicago with kids .

Orlando’s theme parks

By Cora at Inside Our Suitcase.

Orlando, Florida is a fantastic bucket list destination for families and one of the most fun family vacations. After all, what child doesn’t want to go to ‘The Most Magical Place on Earth’.

The city is perhaps best known as the home of the Walt Disney World Resort , which includes four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios and EPCOT) as well as two waterparks.

Honestly, the Walt Disney World Resort is more than enough to keep most families entertained for at least a week.

However, being Orlando, the family entertainment capital of the world, there’s still more to see, do and experience, including the epic Universal Studios Orlando Resort, home to Universal Studios Florida , Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay, SeaWorld, Gatorland, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, the Orlando Eye, and WonderWorks .

Meanwhile, just a short drive away you’ll also find Kennedy Space Center , LEGOLAND Florida and a number of incredible, white sandy beaches. 

The climate in Orlando, Florida is tropical so during the summer months (June to August) you’ll experience severe heat and humidity, while in the fall you may experience hurricanes and tropical storms. As such, it’s well worth planning your travel times well in advance and opting for Winter/Spring if possible.

(If you’re heading to the West Coast instead, we’ve written a full guide to visiting Disneyland with toddlers , including how to reduce wait times and save money).

By Marcie Cheung at Hawaii travel with kids

One of the best family vacation destinations is Hawaii. It has everything from amazing kid-friendly beaches to Hawaiian luaus to shave ice to swimming with dolphins.

The main four islands are Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. Read our post to find out about the  best Hawaiian island for kids , since the answer varies depending on the age of your kids and their interests. But Hawaii is definitely a blast with kids of all ages, including babies and toddlers.

It’s spectacular any time of year, although the winter months tend to get a decent amount of rain. Ideally, your trip will be 7-10 days, or 2 weeks if you plan on island hopping.

I recommend staying at a resort with an amazing pool area and possibly a kitchen and/or laundry facilities. The Disney Aulani Resort or the Hilton Hawaiian Village are great kid-friendly resorts on Oahu.

On Maui, the Honua Kai Resort & Spa or the Hyatt Regency Maui are popular options. The Grand Hyatt Kauai or the Koloa Landing Resort are amazing on Kauai. The Hilton Waikoloa Village or the Fairmont Orchid are top family resorts on the Big Island.

Key West, Florida

By Victoria of Florida Trippers

One of the top bucket list family beach vacations is Key West Florida. Just be sure to visit sometime between March and May. This way the weather will still be relatively mild and you’ll also be able to avoid the intense crowds of winter.

Try to spend at least 3 to 4 days here, so you can enjoy some of the best things to do in Key West like the Key West Aquarium , the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory , and Mallory Square. 

Mallory Square is especially lovely at sunset when the area comes alive with vibrant performances, from musicians, jugglers, and more – making it a true delight for adults and kids alike. 

But the real highlight of any family vacation to Key West is a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park. It’s an incredible natural oasis that’s only accessible by either seaplane or ferry, so even getting there is pretty exciting. If you book tickets aboard the Yankee Freedom ferry, your meals are also included. So no need to worry about packing lunch. 

Then, upon arrival, explore historic Fort Jefferson before enjoying the park’s pristine beaches and coral reefs.

No trip to Key West with the family would be complete without a tasty treat. So be sure to head to Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe and sample the town’s signature dessert, Key Lime Pie. 

The National Parks of Utah

By Stephanie at The Unknown Enthusiast

Doing a road trip around southern Utah is a great bucket list trip for families, full of epic landscapes and hikes.

There are five national parks in Utah (Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Zion, and Bryce Canyon). While these are all family friendly, I think Arches and Bryce Canyon are best for children, because there are plenty of easier hikes, and the rocks formations you’ll see when hiking in Arches and Bryce are unforgettable.

The smaller Goblin Valley State Park, between Canyonlands and Capitol Reef, is also perfect for kids as they can freely wander and explore the small, squat rock formations (the goblins) clustered throughout the valley. Or go explore narrow slot canyons found throughout the region.

Visiting in spring and fall are the best times as the weather isn’t too hot yet. If you do visit in summer, take advantage of the cooler mornings and evenings, and rest during the middle of the day. About 5-7 days is enough time to see and do a lot in Utah. 

This trip is best with kids who can hike and climb safely by themselves. This will vary from kid to kid, but elementary school and up is a great age range for exploring southern Utah. 

The Archway Inn in Moab (near Arches) is a great hotel, as it offers large family rooms and has a pool and playground on site. 

Canadian Rockies road trip

By Anu Agarwal of Destination Checkoff

A Canadian Rockies road trip is a bucket list family vacation to experience during the summer months of June to September. During summer the lakes are a beautiful turquoise and the towns of Banff and Jasper are alive with locals and tourists. 

Flying in and out of Calgary airport is the best way to do this road trip if you’re not local to Alberta. From there, go through the beautiful Banff and Jasper National Parks, the picturesque Lake Louise, and the scenic Icefields Parkway Drive. 

First stop is Banff National Park. Moose Hotel and Suites in Banff town is a great family friendly hotel with suites. And Banff gondola, Banff hot springs and hiking are some popular  activities to do in Banff in summer .

Next stop is Lake Louise, which is the most beautiful lake in this region surrounded by mountains. Then you will drive on the scenic Icefields parkway , which is one of the most beautiful drives in the world, to reach Jasper National Park.

Jasper has Maligne Canyon and Maligne Lake to explore, as well as excellent hiking. Tekarra Lodge is a great place to stay with families in Jasper.  

Kids of all ages will enjoy the scenic road trip, but older kids and teens might enjoy and appreciate the excellent hiking opportunities, lakes, glaciers, and waterfalls. All ages will enjoy walking on the Athabasca glacier in Icefields parkway. 

You should plan at least 6-7 days for this road trip so you can spend a few days in both Banff and Jasper National Park and take in the amazing sights. 

Caribbean cruise

By Ruby at A Journey We Love

I love an inclusive family resort vacation and not having to worry about cooking food after a long day of exploring. That’s why I think a Caribbean cruise is a great bucket list thing to do for a family. Just pick the number of days you want to go on vacation and then customise the trip how you like.

Want a more energetic and activity-packed trip? Some cruise lines have onboard waterparks, shows, flow riders, and other sorts of fun activities and games onboard. Want to relax by the pool and just watch shows? You can do this on all of them! 

The best part about cruising is that you pay once for everyone’s fare and then a lot of onboard activities are included. It’s often a really affordable vacation, plus it’s super convenient, giving you the ability to visit a few island countries without worrying about travel between them, finding hotels or working out what to do on the island.

Think of doing a cruise as a sampler of what each island has to offer without the commitment of staying longer than a day. Mexico is one of the more popular ports, where you can take  shore excursions in Costa Maya  or Cozumel. 

Cruises are also great for multigenerational travel. There are plenty of things to do for all ages, from toddler to grandparent. And the kids can also be left in a kids’ club, so you can have date nights with a loved one or have adults-only time together.

Asia family vacations

Japan is one of the most exciting destinations I can think of – a fantastic mix of historic culture and zany, futuristic excess. It’s perhaps not an obvious choice for families, but kids will get a lot out of experiencing such a different culture. Plus there are some incredible kids attractions.

Top of the list is Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea , often touted as Disney’s best theme park. And now there’s Ghibli Park, a theme park where you can immerse yourself in the world of Studio Ghibli. There’s also the Ghibli Museum and Universal Studios Tokyo .

We spent 10 days in Japan on a kid-friendly trip that we’d be happy to take Otis on now (aged 5), but would perhaps better save for when he’s around 8 and can appreciate the culture a little more.

Kid-friendly highlights from our trip include seeing the snow monkeys, staying in a Buddhist temple on Mount Koya-San, seeing the deer in Nara and riding on a bullet train.

By Pete at The Backpacking Family

One of our top bucket list trips for families is Sabah. Sabah has it all: nature, adventure and wildlife.

Start in Kota Kinabalu with an island-hopping trip to paradise. Just turn up at the jetty around 8am-9am to buy tickets (roughly $10 – $15 depending how many islands you want to visit).

Head to Kundasang and take a mountain homestay. Pogimpaan homestay is great value for money and has breath-taking views of Mount Kinabalu. 

Don’t miss Poring hot springs (kids $3 and adults $4) and canopy walkway (kids $1 and adults $2). If you’re lucky you can see a rafflesia flower in bloom at the Vienna Rafflesia Garden (around $5). These unique flowers are the biggest in the world.

Travel to Sandakan to visit the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary ($4 – $8). The morning feeding session is 10am and the afternoon feeding session is 3pm. Arrive around 2pm and you may be able to see the orangutans very close up on the walkways as they gather for lunch. If possible avoid weekends and public holidays.

If you have time, consider a wildlife boat trip on Kinabatangan River to see Proboscis monkeys and wild orangutans (you can book trips with the Kinabatangan Wildlife Lodge for around $20 per person). If you love diving and snorkelling, head over to Marbul island for some of the best diving and snorkelling in the world. 

Booking trips and tours in this area can be very expensive, so if you’re on a budget go independent. The most convenient way to get around is a car rental – especially if you’re planning to spend some time around the Kinabalu area.

There are long distance buses between Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan and Semporna. These journeys are long and can be challenging. You can also take cheap domestic flights with Air Asia. There are airports in Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan and Tawau. Sabah is intrepid, so we recommend this for a family with older kids (over 5 years old).  

Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary

By Babs at Mums on Flip Flops

When you think of a bucket list-worthy family trip, what comes to mind? Chances are, you’ll be thinking about exploring one of the new Wonders of the World or visiting one of the Disney Parks. But what about getting up close and personal with elephants? That’s exactly what Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand offers. This ethical sanctuary is perfect for visitors of all ages (even babies!) and offers an amazing opportunity to learn about these beautiful creatures.

Located just outside the city, Elephant Nature Park is easy to get to and you can visit for a day, book an overnight stay or volunteer for a week (if your kids are 16+). There are over a hundred elephants living at the park, each with their own unique story. You can learn about them all, as well as how the sanctuary works to protect them and keep them safe. There are also plenty of other animals at the park that you can meet, including horses, water buffalos, dogs, and cats.

One of the best things about Elephant Nature Park is that it’s an ethical sanctuary. This means the animals here have been rescued from terrible conditions elsewhere and are now able to live out their days in peace.

You’re not allowed to ride them obviously (that is animal cruelty!), but bathing, feeding, and petting them isn’t allowed either. The staff at the park works tirelessly to make sure every visitor leaves having learned more about these animals and why it’s so important to protect them.

You feel in everything they do that the animals come first, which means that you can enjoy your time at the park with a clear conscience. Observing and learning about the elephants along with your children makes visiting Elephant Nature Park an experience that’s hard to forget. It’s definitely a bucket list item for families!

By Asha Bhatia from HomeTravelGuide

We loved our time in Bali with the kids, In fact we loved it so much we ended up staying six months! 

This gorgeous tropical Island offers something for all ages – from snorkelling, surfing and exploring spectacular temples and rice paddies, to night markets, spas and visiting nearby local islands.

One of the highlights for us was visiting Uluwatu Temple during the sunset and watching a kecak dance performance with the backdrop of the sea. And then tucking into some delicious Indonesian food at a local warung. 

Ideally plan a two-week trip to Bali so you can visit a few different places on the Island. Some of our recommendations would be Ubud, Sanur, Uluwatu, Amed and Nusa Lembongan. The best time to visit Bali is the start or end of dry season between April to October. The weather is mildest during this time making it ideal for families with children.

There are also many ceremonies and festivals taking place in Bali all the time which are beautiful to see, but the most interesting ones are the festivals of Galungan and Kuningan and Nyepi (New Years Day in Balinese calendar) also known as the day of silence.

For a unique experience in Bali we recommend a homestay or renting a private villa with a pool.

[Note from Victoria: We lived in Bali for six months and can vouch for it as an amazing destination. I recommend this road trip in the centre of the island and this trip to the southern beaches )

By Emma at Wanderlust and Wet Wipes

Jordan is a bucket list destination for many people, but most don’t think of it as a family friendly country. Yet Jordan is one of the most family friendly places we’ve been to.

There is so much to do and see in Jordan. The most obvious is Petra, the famous capital of the Nabataean Arabs that was later annexed to the Roman Empire, and is now one of the seven wonders of the world.

From the views from the Siq (a narrow gorge leading to Petra’s entrance) to the incredible archaeological artefacts that are located there, this is a must-see place.

But there is much more to Jordan, including experiencing the sensation of floating in the Dead Sea and following in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia with a Bedouin tour through Wadi Rum followed by a night in traditional tents.

If time permits, your trip can extend to Jerash, a Roman city so well preserved under dust it is known as Jordan’s Pompeii. And visit Madaba to see ancient mosaics and the nearby Mount Nebo where Moses is said to have viewed the Promised Land.

In Amman, there are more impressive Roman ruins to explore. Should you require some R&R on your trip, head to Aqaba on the Red Sea for snorkelling and relaxing on the beach.

The best time to go to Jordan is usually in spring and autumn – the summers can get fiercely hot and the winters, while not brutal, aren’t the best time for wandering around ruins with kids. That being said, even in winter, it’s a very doable trip.

Kids of all ages can travel there although it’s not particularly stroller friendly around the ruins (take a carrier). An interest in walking and history is a plus.  Jordan itineraries  can be as long or as short as you make them, but anything from 5 to 14 days is ideal.

A top tip is to look up the Entertainer App which often has 2 for 1 deals on accommodation, including at the Mövenpick. You have to pay for the app, but it quickly pays for itself.

By Sinead at Map Made Memories

Mongolia isn’t the easiest place to explore, but the rewards far outweigh the challenges. Families can go trekking in the Gobi desert in southern Mongolia (the worlds’ sixth largest desert) and then visit world class museums and see enormous sculptures in the contrasting capital Ulaanbataar.

Explore the green wilderness of the Mongolian steppe, visit the Takhi (wild horses) in Hustai National Park, or go to historic Kharkhorin, Mongolia’s ancient capital.  

Mongolia is best visited in late Spring or early Autumn as its summers are very hot and its winters extremely cold. You should allow at least two weeks to explore this incredible country and, if possible, time your trip around the nation’s most popular festival, Nadaam, which takes place in early July.

Mongolians love children so kids of any age will be made welcome, but older children may be able to cope better with the long internal journeys on bumpy roads.

Legends Mongolia in Ulaanbatoor is a family friendly hostel and visitors should try to spend at least one night under a clear sky in a ger on the steppe. The stars are unforgettable. 

United Arab Emirates (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)

By Sarah Vanheel at CosmopoliClan

The United Arab Emirates, and the Emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi in particular, make for a wonderful and safe family travel destination. Dubai may have a reputation for attracting the insta-eager jet set, but it’s also packed with family-friendly activities.

Take a spin on the world’s tallest ferris wheel, watch the musical fountain shows, race down the slides at one of the exciting water parks, watch the city from the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, take a camel ride out in the desert, visit an aquarium. The list of kid-friendly activities is pretty much endless.

What’s more, some of the  best places to stay in Dubai  cater to kids of all ages. Hotels like the iconic Atlantis The Palm , even come with their own entire water parks. The same goes for Abu Dhabi. Go racing at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi , have fun at a theme park, visit one of the zoos, experience the scenic Jebel Hafit Desert Park, or go sandboarding in the desert. And why not add in a cultural trip to the spectacular Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?

Due to the scorching desert summers, it’s strongly recommended to plan your trip to the UAE between October and April. And if you visit during the first days of December, you can experience the national day festivities.

South and Central America family vacations

By Eileen at FamiliesGo!

Costa Rica envelopes you in nature almost every place you go. It has cool animals, beaches and outdoor activities, plus lots of kid-friendly foods and hotels that offer good value. It’s that rare destination that really can make kids across multiple age groups happy.

One essential all-ages activity is spotting wildlife in the national parks like Mañuel Antonio on the west coast. Who doesn’t get excited spotting a sloth or a family of monkeys in the treetops?

Families also like soaking in the hot springs that abound around Arenal, Rincon de la Vieja and other volcanos. Hotels and adventure centers have their own or you can buy day passes to pools fed by the springs.

Tweens and teens appreciate adventure activities like river tubing or zipline canopy tours, which you can find also find around Arenal and Rincon de la Vieja.

Take young kids who need a slower pace to ethical animal rescue centers like  Rescate Wildlife Center  near San Jose.

In the hills northeast of San Jose, agri-tourism farms like Corso Lecheria keep Jersey cows. Visitors watch the cows graze while enjoying the butter, cheese and amazing ice cream made from their high-fat milk.

You can count on kids of every age enjoying  Granizadas , a concoction of shave ice, red syrup and condensed and powdered milk sold from carts in the towns and on the beaches. Don’t leave without trying one!

Here’s a handy 10-day Costa Rica itinerary .

Machu Picchu and the Amazon in Peru

By Faith at 3 Tickets Please

From the wonder of Machu Picchu to the dense rainforest of the Amazon, Peru is an ultimate bucket list trip for families.  Adventurous families can sleep above a clay lick in a camouflage house under the Amazonian stars. Or train to Machu Picchu to one of the new seven wonders of the world. For foodie families, Lima has some of the best cuisine in the world.  Three weeks in Peru  is the perfect amount of time for this once in a lifetime trip.  Families wanting to experience the best of Peru should consider waiting until their children are 12. At 12, visitors to Machu Picchu can climb Huayna Picchu, the peak next to the ancient site for the best views. And while you can certainly take younger kids to the Amazon, tweens and teens will perhaps be better situated for the unique experiences of hiking and camping out in the forest. For your Amazon tour, be sure to choose local and sustainable companies like Bonanza tours. May through September is high season in Peru. But also most likely when families with school age children will visit. If you do visit Peru in June, be sure to coordinate your trip with the celebration of Inti Raymi, the Incan Sun God. The festival happens every year on 24 June during the Winter Solstice.

[Note from Victoria: We spent time in Peru before we had kids, and would also recommend visiting Lake Titicaca. If you have older kids, you could also travel down to Bolivia and the incredible salt flats, btu I wouldn’t do these with little ones as the trip and altitude is fairly challenging)

By Karilyn at No Back Home

One of the most epic family vacations you can take is to the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador . This once-in-a-lifetime trip is perfect for families who are looking for stunning landscapes, unique up-close views with wildlife and aquatic adventure.

Home to giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas and more, this paradise offers species not found anywhere else in the world, making it a true bucket list destination for animal lovers. Families can hike through lava tunnels, explore secluded beaches and snorkel with sharks and sea turtles. Ideally kids should be comfortable in the water as much of the sights here center around the ocean. 

While many think that the only way to see the Galapagos Islands is by a cruise, for families we highly recommend a do-it-yourself island hopping adventure. It’s not only more eco-friendly, it’s also economical. Fly into one island, such as Santa Cruz, take ferries to other islands for day trips and fly out of another island (San Cristobal) to get a feel for the various islands.

As the islands lie near the equator there is no bad time to visit. However the winter months in the northern hemisphere see the warmest waters. Regardless of when you go, you’ll experience amazing wildlife up close both on land and in the water, providing memories for life. 

Africa family vacations

Cape town and beyond.

By Rachel Collins, Mum With Wanderlust

Imagine a trip where you can experience some of the most incredible animal encounters on the planet and enjoy grown-up time while the kids have their own adventures, surrounded by stunning landscapes. All of this exists within a 4-hour drive of Cape Town in South Africa .

Travel along the Cape Peninsula to meet the African penguins that live on Boulders Beach. Head to Hermanus for a whale watching boat tour where you’ll see Humpback and Southern Right whales.

Stay at Gondwana Private Game Reserve for a family-friendly safari. Families with children aged under six are offered private drives to give younger guests the chance to see the wildlife safely.

Finally, visit a family-friendly vineyard in the Cape Winelands. Many have farms for the kids to explore. While the adults go wine tasting, the kids can enjoy adventure play areas, go horse riding, mountain biking and help with the farm animals.

You can visit any time of year, but whale season is only June – November. By October/November, the weather will be warming up which might take the trip more enjoyable for you.

I recommend going for 10 days –  you can read our 10-day South Africa itinerary in full here.  

[ Note from Victoria: We did our honeymoon in South Africa and have some good tips for places to stay and things to do that would still be relevant with kids. For example, don’t miss the gorgeous Babylonstoren ).

By Jenny from TraveLynn Family

Sub-Saharan Africa is perhaps not an obvious choice for a family holiday. Parents understandably worry about safety and the long drives. We spent 4 months traversing sub-Saharan Africa in a Land Rover when our boys were 1 and 3 years old, and if anyone asks me which African country to visit as a family for a first time, I always say to do  Namibia with kids ! Namibia is one of the most stable African countries, offers epic and diverse landscapes, and perhaps the best value (and easiest) wildlife viewing in all of Africa. Day entry for foreign adults to Etosha National Park is N$80 (£4.50) and children under 16 are FREE.

The low-growing vegetation over flat open plains promotes the best conditions for spotting the animals. You can literally see for miles! There is only the grass for animals to hide in, therefore spotting elephants, giraffe, zebras and even rhinos is pretty much guaranteed. Beyond a safari, there are shipwrecks to discover, massive sand dunes to run down, large seal colonies to discover – and, due to the German influence, some excellent bakeries.  The best way to get around is to hire a 4WD with roof tents and camping (Namibia has some superb campsites with excellent facilities). Just be prepared for long drives and stock up with food when you can. 

By Jenny from Explore Essaouira

Riding camels across the Sahara, sand boarding down dunes, hunting for fossils, trekking the Atlas Mountains on a mule, surfing the waves in  Essaouira , and shopping for spices in ancient medinas. Morocco offers epic experiences for kids, making it a superb bucket list trip for families.  We have visited multiple times with our kids, from when they were babies to more recently spending four months with them in Morocco aged 8 and 7.

Why do we keep going back? Because it’s easy to get around (either by public transport or hiring a car), Moroccans are extremely welcoming to families, and the colours, history, and general vibe make it feel so magical. As Morocco is just a three-hour flight from London, it’s accessible for just a long weekend if you’re based in Europe. Or you could easily stay for months at a time as most tourists are eligible for a three-month tourist visa.

Avoid the summer months of July and August as it’s unbearably hot. And note when Ramadan falls as most businesses close at this time, or have significantly reduced hours (although this is also a wonderfully quiet time to visit Morocco). 

Australasia family vacations

New zealand road trip.

Doing a New Zealand road trip is a quintessential bucket list vacation. Seeing as it’s such a far-flung destination, it’s one that’s best done when you have plenty of time, but you could also do a much shorter trip, focussing on a particular area.

We did a month-long New Zealand road trip, exploring both the North and South islands by campervan. It’s perfectly set up for road trips with plenty of excellent camp sites, making it a really easy place to travel with a family.  

The whole country is a beacon for outdoor lovers, filled with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, climbing and more. Queenstown is the adventure capital, and a place where older teens can brave adrenaline sports like bungee jumping or skydiving.

We also love the Bay of Islands where there are some lovely family-friendly boat trips, including one on a tall ship where you can pretend to be pirates for the day. See our full New Zealand itineraries for lots more inspiration: North Island itinerary and South Island itinerary .

Cairns to Sydney road trip

By Catrina at 24 Hours Layover

A  road trip from Cairns to Sydney on the East Coast of Australia  is an ultimate bucket-list vacation for many families. 

There are so many unique bucket-list experiences to be had and wonderful places to visit. From seeing kangaroos on Cape Hillsborough Beach to going on a boat ride to the tropical desert island ‘Pelican Banks’.

Visit Port Macquarie’s Koala Hospital , swim with leopard sharks in Byron Bay and see the iconic Sydney Opera House. Then ride a camel at Birubi Beach and feed wild dolphins at Tin Can Bay. You can even get the once-in-a-lifetime chance to swim with humpback whales in Hervey Bay!

Kids of any age will love this road trip, but try to avoid doing it in the summer months as the temperatures will be unpleasantly hot.

Seeing Australia is definitely best done on a road trip. Many families tend to do Cairns to Sydney over three weeks in a campervan. Staying in a campervan is cheaper and more convenient than hiring a car and staying in hotels, plus it gives you so much freedom and the kids will love having a house on wheels.

[Note from Victoria: I did this trip at 18 and absolutely loved it! I’d also recommend continuing on to Melbourne if you have the time]

Our top travel planning tips

If you’re planning a trip, be sure to have a look at all our top travel planning tips , including how to save money with the best credit cards, what to bring, and all our favourite tools and tricks.

For car rentals, we recommend booking with Discover Cars . We’ve found they always have the cheapest deals for mainstream retailers.

If you decide to book any Airbnb apartments, use  this link , as it’ll give you £25 off your first trip.

We found great last-minute deals on  Booking.com , getting a discount of up to 60%.

Have you ever considered a home exchange ? It’s our favourite way to travel (and the most affordable).

Our favourite place to book flights is  Skyscanner  – again, they always have great deals.

Don’t forget your travel insurance! We recommend  True Traveller  who offer reliable, comprehensive cover, including medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of adventure sports and activities. You can buy True Traveller insurance even when you’ve left home, which is unusual for travel insurance companies.

And if you’re travelling with a baby, see our survival guide to flying with a baby and all our best travelling with a baby tips .

Found this useful? Save it to Pinterest…

Creative family travel guides

We don’t think you have to sacrifice creativity and style when travelling with kids. Browse our guides for creative family travel around the world. We also have a whole section on cool places to stay with kids in destinations worldwide.

Family travel tips:  Tips for travelling with a baby  |  Baby packing list | Flying with a baby survival guide  |  Where to stay with a baby  |  Ultimate guide to Home Exchange  |  Bucket list family vacation ideas

UK :  Birmingham with kids  |  Bristol with kids  |  Cornwall with kids  | London with toddlers  |  Edinburgh with kids  |  Manchester with kids  |  UK family Christmas trips

Europe:   Barcelona with kids  |  Barcelona with a baby  |  Majorca (Puerto Pollensa) family holiday  |  Croatia (Sibenik) family holiday

USA:  Boston with kids | California with kids  |  Charleston with kids  |  Chicago with kids  | Florida with kids | Florida Keys with kids | Hawaii with kids |   Los Angeles with kids  |  Miami with kids | New York with a baby  | Orlando with kids |  Portland with kids  |  Sacramento with kids  |  San Diego with kids  |  San Francisco with kids  |  Savannah with kids  |  Tuolumne County with kids

Asia: Koh Lanta with kids | Phuket with kids | Thailand family holidays

Family road trip itineraries:  Boston to Maine |California road trip  | Florida Keys road trip | New England road trip |  Pacific Coast Highway road trip  | San Francisco to Seattle road trip |  Southern USA road trip  |  Portugal road trip

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Family-friendly adventures & stress free travel

Just because you’ve had kids, doesn’t mean your traveling days are over. We’ll take you to the best family vacation spots and beyond, with family-friendly stays and experiences that will spark the joy of travel, make real connections, and excite the whole family.

Adventure for all ages

Our family getaways feature experiences that keep everyone happy, from little ones to teenagers and adults. Visit the Harry Potter highlights like Platform 9¾, sail around the Greek Islands, become a medieval archer in Ireland or an archery pro in England, learn how to make (and eat!) pizza in Italy, or go ziplining on the slopes of a volcano in Costa Rica.

Enriching experiences

Inspire your family’s sense of adventure and watch your children light up with wonder. The best family vacations are full of pinch-me moments, like staying in an ancient castle in Wales or a ranch in the Wild West of America. Learn about wildlife conservation in Costa Rica, experience life on a family farm in Ireland, or learn about Roman history by transforming into a gladiator!

Taking the stress out of travel

With all the logistics and must-do experiences covered, the only thing you need to worry about is having fun, together. Expect quality stays, luxury transport and plenty of meals included - and that means a whole lot of full tummies and happy faces. Our expert Travel Directors unlock the magic of travel at every turn, so you can focus on making memories and exploring the world together.

All you need to know about Family Tours

How can i travel with my family on a budget.

With kid-friendly accommodation, meals and transport included on our family vacations, you can easily stick to your budget and focus on having fun. We also include all the must-do experiences, and let you know all the optional experiences before your family tour, so you won’t be hit with any surprise costs.

What's the best family vacation destination?

Family friendly vacations can be found all over the world, from the outback of the United States to the jungles of Costa Rica to the islands of Greece. Some of our favorite family vacation spots include Italy, Switzerland, France, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Costa Rica and the United States.

What are good family trips?

The best family vacations include adventures that are fun for the whole family. We love family beach vacations to places like Greece and Costa Rica, historical adventures like experiencing life as a gladiator in Italy, and nature trips like boarding an Old West train to the Grand Canyon.

Why is family travel important?

Travel is one of life’s greatest teachers. From grandparents to kids, everyone will learn new skills and discover a world of cultures and new ideas while spending precious time together, like only family vacations can bring. Your journey will also inspire a sense of wonder and connection for all, and we think that’s one of the most valuable things you can have in life.

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7 Tennessee Small Towns to Visit this Fall

Venture from Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis and Bristol for amazing small towns rich in history, outdoor adventure and family fall fun.

Explore some of Tennessee's prettiest small towns this fall. Tucked away by rivers and among rolling hills and mountains, you'll love these quiet escapes. Here are a few small towns to check out this season.

Jonesborough

If you want a fall getaway that reminds you of ‘Gilmore Girls’ look no further than Jonesborough . Tennessee’s oldest town rich with history. Get acquainted with the town by taking a guided historic walking tour with a costumed tour guide who will share stories and little known facts about the town. Speaking of stories, Jonesborough is the Storytelling Capital of the World, hosting the highly acclaimed National Storytelling Festival every October. In addition, you can catch the Teller-in-Residence at the International Storytelling Center – 26 of America’s best storytellers spend a week telling stories daily during daily matinees and special concerts every Tuesday through Saturday from May through October. Round out your visit with a delicious lunch at Main Street Cafe; grab a cup of coffee at The Corner Cup; and stock up on whimsical and locally made fall decorations, crafts and gifts at the boutiques housed in historic buildings. 

Originally founded in 1880 by British author Thomas Hughes , Rugby is a charming village in Tennessee’s Cumberland Plateau. Surrounded by gorgeous outdoor playgrounds such as Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area , Rugby preserves its historic heritage which is evident when you take a history walking tour Thursdays through Sundays  through town including stepping into the 1882 Thomas Hughes Free Public Library; 1880 Kingstone Lisle, 1887 Christ Church Episcopal and the 1907 Schoolhouse. Sign up for one of the After Dark Tours – the Haunted Village Lantern Tour or the Haunted North Village & Cemetery Tour offered five nights weekly. Enjoy shopping at the Commissary Museum Store, dining at The Canteen & Cottage Catering and a free tour of the 19th Century Print Shop.

If you love the outdoors, Erwin, Tennessee is your paradise. Raft through churning whitewater, mountain bike through the Cherokee National Forest and hit the links on an 18-hole golf course. Take in stunning fall views in Erwin – the town is near the Nolichucky River and tucked within the Cherokee National Forest. Stroll downtown and spend a day shopping in boutiques like Whiskey River Dry Goods Company , Valley Beautiful Antique Mall and Hunter Bleu + Mercantile . When hunger strikes, enjoy healthy options from The Groovy Smoothie, delicious baked goods from Steam Whistle Bakery diner classics from Whistle Stop Deli. When it’s time to rest, curl up in a cabin and gaze at constellations in clear skies at Nolichucky Gorge Campground & Cabins.

Springfield

Springfield is the ideal fall escape in Tennessee. Just 30 minutes north of Nashville , the town is full of boutiques, art, history and farm fun. The Square downtown is even listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Enjoy art in the Park in September at J Travis Price Park which features fine and folk arts like metalwork, pottery, jewelry and wood artisans. Enjoy the annual corn maze and pumpkin patch at Honeysuckle Hill Farm . Your kids will love the carousel, shows, giant slides and tractor playground. Take a scenic drive to see smoking tobacco barns. Enjoy the fall views on beautiful two-lane roads that wind you through the area farms. You’ll see tractors hauling cut tobacco from the fields and carrying it to the barns. Snap a picture with the downtown mural as your backdrop; then, enjoy local brews from BS Brew Works and coffee and treats from Deja Moo and Historic Perk .

Stroll Linden's historic Main Street to see restored historic buildings, quaint shops and restaurants. The award-winning Commodore Hotel is a great place to eat, stay, hear live music and sip cocktails at the speakeasy lounge. The town is situated along the Buffalo River, perfect for a kayaking adventure. Mousetail Landing State Park is nearby, ideal for hiking and drinking in stunning fall views. 

Collierville

Find relaxation in the small town of Collierville , outside of Memphis. The town is known for its charming train history. Climb aboard the trains on historic Collierville Town Square and learn more about the town’s history inside the Morton Museum of Collierville History . Enjoy nature along the boardwalk at Peterson Lake Nature Center. Dine at local restaurants and shop at boutiques, antique shops and more. You can’t leave Collierville without an Instagram-worthy photo taken at the picturesque gazebo located in the middle of the square.

Soak in picturesque, fall views while exploring Paris, Tennessee . The town, complete with a replica of the Eiffel Tower, offers an historic district, wines and shopping. Enjoy shopping at antique shops and boutiques. Get some fresh air at Paris Landing State Park where you can kayak, go hiking, boating, golfing and fishing. Don’t leave Paris without trying some amazing catfish from Southside Café.

Explore even more Tennessee small towns on your next vacation:

Take a Day Trip to These 9 Tennessee Towns

Tennessee's Hidden Gem Towns You Should Visit

Travel Solo in These Tennessee Towns

Explore the Small Towns of West Tennessee

10 Small Town Day Trips from Nashville

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Places in this article

Paris Landing State Park

Paris Landing State Park is an 841 acre park located on the western shore of the Tennessee River, which is dammed to form Kentucky Lake (160,000 acres). The park sits on the widest part of the lake making it the perfect location for all water sports such

Morton Museum of Collierville History

The Museum offers a variety of educational programming for children and adults.

Mousetail Landing State Park

This 1,247-acre area is located on the east banks of the Tennessee River. Tradition has it that Mousetail Landing received its name during the Civil War period when one of the area's tanning companies caught fire. The exodus of mice fleeing the burning ta

Commodore Hotel Linden

Conveniently located between Nashville and Memphis, The Commodore Hotel and Cafe, blends historic charm with modern comfort.

Buffalo River Resort

A great get away for a few days or a few weeks.

BS Brew Works

Craft beer, craft food, craft community

Honeysuckle Hill Farm

NOC Nolichucky River Whitewater Rafting

Paddle from North Carolina into Tennessee in the steepest river gorge east of the Mississippi.

Cherokee National Forest

In the Southern Appalachian Mountains of East Tennessee, Cherokee National Forest is ideal for outdoor recreation. Wander a scenic drive through the mountains. Enjoy watching wildlife. Catch the thrill of whitewater.

Historic Rugby

An 1880s Victorian Village on the National Register of Historic Places.

Historic Rugby Commissary

There are priceless treasures in all cultures.

International Storytelling Center

Inspiring and empowering people everywhere to capture and tell their stories.

The Kid-Friendly Tennessee Attractions You Should Visit

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A Made in Tennessee Journey to Knoxville

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Have you been to this local destination? It has been named a top alternative vacation spot

If you’re hoping to plan one last family trip before the weather turns, you don’t need to look any further than right here in the First State.  

A new survey just revealed the top “alternative bucket list” destinations in the United States, and a Delaware location stands among the ranks.  

Top alternative bucket list destination in Delaware 

Honest Eco, a Florida-based eco tours company, conducted a survey of 3,000 families to reveal their top hidden gem bucket list destinations. Out of their submissions, the top 150 destinations were compiled, encompassing a wide range of climates and awaiting adventures across the country.

Although they may be lesser-known experiences, these locations are still sure to pack lots of fun and lasting memories for the entire family.  

Delaware’s contribution to the list is Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge near Smyrna, coming in at No. 138. 

Honest Eco declares Bombay Hook a “perfect destination for nature enthusiasts” due to the relaxing atmosphere and biodiverse environment. Families can reconnect with nature by hiking through the site’s trails, watching birds and other wildlife at the refuge and dabbling in nature photography like many others who visit the grounds. 

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Top 10 alternative bucket list destinations in the US 

The top 10 hidden gem bucket list destinations across the country are: 

• Makapu’u Tide Pools in Hawaii, at No. 1
• Channel Islands National Park in California, at No. 2  
• Hoh Rain Forest (Olympic National Park) in Washington, at No. 3  
• St. Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge in Florida, at No. 4  
• Manatee Springs State Park in Florida, at No. 5  
• Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge in Nevada, at No. 6  
• Kaumana Caves in Hawaii, at No. 7  
• Guadalupe Mountain National Park in Texas, at No. 8  
• Oklahoma City Museum of Art in Oklahoma, at No. 9  
• Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, at No. 10  

The top 10, along with the rest of the list, showcase an interest in diverse natural landscapes and outdoor activities, according to Honest Eco.  

With alternative locations all around the U.S., Honest Eco found that families are looking for year-round travel options that include unique cultural and historical components. Each location also highlights a preference for off-the-beaten-path trips and places where crowds are hard to come by, allowing a more personalized and intimate experience, according to Honest Eco.  

Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krys'tal Griffin at [email protected] .   

LA family goes back to Universal Studios, using voucher from 3 decades ago

In the winter of 1990, the Kramer family from Los Gatos decided to drive down to Southern California for the spring break and take their 7-year-old son and 3-year-old daughter to Universal Studios.

But Mother Nature had different plans. It was pouring in LA then, forcing the park to temporarily close some of the most popular attractions. And when the kids started throwing a tantrum amid the cold and wet weather, Carolyn Kramer, the matriarch, decided to do something.

“We couldn’t even get out of the rain,” Carolyn recalled. “I just went up to customer service, and I said, ‘We’ve been planning this trip for a really long time, and we are so disappointed in Universal closing the shows.’”

To make up for lost time, a representative from the park gave the Kramer family a certificate for two adults and two children.

“They said it would last the rest of our lives.”

And it did — at least more than three decades.

Fast-forward to 2024, the then-7-year-old boy, Daniel, has grown up to be married with two children of his own. As his daughter, Isabella, turned 2 years old, the Kramer family started planning another trip to Universal. Then Carolyn thought of the vintage voucher.

“I just happened to keep it in my papers all those years because I was determined, if I ever went again, I was going to see if I could use it.”

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After spending about an hour with Universal representatives on the phone, the park officials told the Kramer family that they would honor the nearly 34-year-old certificate.

“I was like, ‘There’s no way they’re going to accept it,” said Daniel. “It was like this small, handwritten piece of paper!”

Luckily, the Kramer family’s trip to the park in 2024 was more pleasant with plenty of sunshine and not a single drop of rain.

Mama Kramer said she thought it was “impressive” that Universal Studios allowed them to use the decades-old voucher so she can spend more time with her young grandchildren.

“I don’t mind holding a kid or waiting,” Carolyn said. “When I get to go to the park, being with the kids and watching them enjoy, it’s the best.”

Helen Jeong is a reporter for NBC Los Angeles.

• Destinations
• Hotels & All-Inclusives
• Theme Parks

Why flights with stopovers can be great for families + the 5 best U.S. stopover cities

The thought of intentionally booking flights with stopovers (essentially flights with overnight layovers) when traveling overseas with kids might elicit some weird looks. Why would any family in their right minds want to add more time getting to their destination?

Depending on which direction of the world you’re heading, there might not be any direct flights available, which means you’ll need to stop at least once anyway. But instead of choosing a flight with say a five-hour connection just to get there faster, I’m suggesting you book one that includes a longer, overnight layover.

Minimize stress and save money by booking flights with stopovers overnight.

When you book a flight with a stopover overnight, your kids can benefit from more rest, you mitigate jetlag as you ease into the time changes, and everyone gets to experience a new city.

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Plus, flights with stopovers are generally cheaper than nonstops. This can apply whether you find one that already includes an overnight layover, or you savvily build your own itinerary with a long stop by booking separate flights.

The best U.S. cities for stopovers

Some of the U.S.’s most connected airports make for perfect opportunities to break up long journeys. Your chances of finding flights with stopovers here are also higher, as these airports offer multitudes of links to international destinations.

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Here’s my rundown of the best stopover cities in the U.S. that make it easy for families to pause, rest and recharge before they continue their adventures abroad. Each includes my top hotel pick, as well as ideas for nearby activities to make the most of your pre-vacation vacation.

• New York City

1. Atlanta: Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)

During an overnight layover in Atlanta, a quick and cost-effective way of getting from the airport to downtown is via the Marta train. At just $2.50 for a one-way ticket, it can whisk families to various locations throughout the city center in roughly 15 minutes. Boarding is right next to baggage claim, and trains depart frequently.

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Easy Atlanta Family Activities

Downtown Atlanta is home to myriad attractions that families on a time crunch can experience, without feeling rushed. Among them are the Georgia Aquarium, Children’s Museum of Atlanta, World of Coca Cola Museum and the Apex Museum. Centennial Olympic Park also puts on free, daily showings of The Fountain of Rings, its famous “dancing” water display.

Best Atlanta Hotel for Families

My pick for the best Atlanta hotel for families goes to the Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park . A short walking distance from the aforementioned Atlanta family activities, as well as from Marta’s GWCC/CNN Center Station, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more convenient stepping stone to explore downtown in one day.

The kid-friendly hotel’s Omni Junior Chef’s program is the cherry on top. Upon checking in, kids receive a tote bag with organic snacks and juice (an easy way to satiate little appetites on late arrivals), an activity book with crayons, and more.

2. Chicago: O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Downtown Chicago is about a 45-minute ride from the airport, by way of the city’s Blue Line “L” train. Tickets are only $5, and the train takes families directly to “The Loop” (the heart of downtown) for a fraction of what it would cost by rideshare, taxi or shuttle service.

Easy Chicago Activities for Families

The Loop is where you’ll find some of the city’s most sought-after landmarks, including Millennium Park, home of the Cloud Gate (also known as “The Bean”); The Chicago Riverwalk; Willis Tower, one of the world’s tallest buildings; and Maggie Daley Park, where family-friendly, recreational activities abound year-round.

Best Family Hotel in Chicago

With a layover in Chicago, what to do with the family in a short amount of time is an easy answer at the Fairmont Chicago Hotel . The property is nestled right in The Loop, a stone’s throw from the city’s must-see attractions. It’s also a swift walk to Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum and the American Girl Place store—all of which can make for quick yet fulfilling visits.

What also makes the Fairmont one of the best Chicago family hotels, however, are the perks inside. Kids under 5 eat free, while 6- to 11-year-olds get to chow down for half price at the on-site restaurant, Columbus Tap. Rooms offer generous square footage, and most of them have bathtubs (ideal for those with littles).

3. Seattle: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

For families arriving at SeaTac airport for an overnight layover, Seattle offers a handful of options to get downtown. The cheapest ways are via the Link light rail and ST Express buses. One-way adult fares range from $2.25 to $3.50 for the train and cost $3.25 for the bus. All kids 18 and under ride for free. It takes less than 40 minutes to get from the airport to downtown.

Easy Seattle Family Activities

When staying downtown with family, Seattle activities extend far beyond the globally acclaimed Space Needle—and many are within short walking distance. Other can’t-miss attractions that don’t require a ton of effort include the “Artists at Play” Playground, Seattle Children’s Museum, Pacific Science Center, Seattle Aquarium and Pike Place Market.

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Best Hotel in Seattle for Families

Maximizing your time is key, when it comes to making the most of any stopover, which is why I’d choose the Hyatt at Olive 8 for my short, overnight stay. Its location on the northern end of downtown (within the business district) puts you several minutes closer to the Seattle family activities mentioned above.

Kid-friendly amenities provided by the Hyatt at Olive 8 include spacious and eco-friendly rooms with techy features like free Google Chromecast and Bluetooth speakers, bathtubs in many of the categories, and cribs readily available; an indoor pool with a hot tub; and a dedicated children’s menu at its Tidal restaurant.

4. Denver: Denver International Airport (DEN)

With Denver having some of the priciest rideshare and public transportation rates in the U.S., families can save the most money by taking the 37-minute, “A” Line ride from the airport to downtown. Fares are still on the high end compared to the average, at $10.50 for a one-way ticket, but kids 6 to 19 receive a special youth discount of 70 percent off, while youngsters 5 and under ride for free.

Easy Denver Family Attractions

Downtown Denver comprises a collection of kid-friendly attractions, such as the Meow Wolf interactive art experience, Children’s Museum of Denver and Downtown Aquarium. Less than a 15-minute drive away, you’ll find more Denver family fun in City Park, home to the Museum of Nature and Science, the Denver Zoo, and various playgrounds and nature trails.

Best Denver Family Hotel

Choosing the best Denver family hotel for your overnight layover requires a bit of strategizing. Attractions are more spread out than in other cities, necessitating more walking, so it’s important to find a property that offers options to both explore by foot and take a short drive if desired. Behold: The Crawford Hotel .

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If your plan is to take the “A” Line to downtown, you’re already saving time; the hotel is actually located above Union Station, so all you have to do is head upstairs to check in and immediately immerse yourselves in the building’s storied past (there are even pullman-style rooms designed to make you feel like you’re on a vintage train). Standout perks include complimentary Tesla rides within a two-mile radius and yummy freebies from the station’s local food vendors—free ice cream, anyone?

5. New York City: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

An overnight layover at JFK is an opportunity no family should miss—one that, with patience and thoughtful planning, can turn a flight connection into the experience of a lifetime. The two cheapest ways to get from the airport to Manhattan are via the subway and the Long Island Railroad commuter train.

For either option, you’ll take the AirTrain ($8) from the airport to Jamaica Station. This is where you can choose between taking the subway “E” Line ($2.75 for a one-way ticket) or the commuter train ($7.75 to $10.75 for a one-way ticket, depending on the time of year you travel). The following youth discounts are available: A maximum of three kids less than 44 inches tall ride for free on the subway; on the commuter train, youngsters under 5 ride free, while 5- to 11-year-olds pay only $1.

Easy Things to Do with Family in New York City

In a city the size of New York, your first step will be to narrow down which borough and neighborhood you’ll want to spend your little getaway. My focus in this article will remain on Manhattan—and more specifically, Times Square—as it’s at the top of most families’ wish lists.

Consider kicking off your visit with a hop on-hop off bus tour. I know, it’s so touristy it’s almost painful, but it is a fun way to get a lay of the land. Then, work in whatever you can from the following: a Broadway performance (or The Museum of Broadway if you can’t swing a show); the Empire State Building, Disney Store, Madame Tussauds New York wax museum, Bryant Park, and Junior’s Restaurant and Bakery for a deli sandwich and slice of authentic New York cheesecake. Central Park is also a mere 25-minute walk from the heart of Times Square.

Best Family Hotel in New York City’s Manhattan Borough

It’s possible to stay in the center of it all and still catch z’s in the “city that never sleeps,” at the Moxy NYC Times Square hotel. Family-friendly room layouts with unique features like twin loft beds and bunk beds make the most of square footage that’s slightly on the smaller side, while giving kids their own personal space.

MORE HOTEL INSPO: Where to stay with kids in NYC

Other special treats include an ice cream vending machine, a pop-up pastry bar and retro-style game room. For parents who can briefly sneak away at night, the Magic Hour rooftop lounge is touted as the city’s largest, all-season, indoor-outdoor hotel rooftop venue — and affords an epic Manhattan hotel view to boot. The property is conveniently nestled only a couple blocks from Penn Station.

Stopover FAQ

Stopovers do require a bit of logistical wrangling. Here’s what you need to know before booking a U.S. stopover as the first stop on your international vacation.

Do overnight layovers include hotel stays?

Unlike some international carriers that provide hotel stays gratis for layovers longer than six to eight hours, U.S.-based airlines don’t cover accommodations for passengers with scheduled layovers. But since connecting flights tend to cost less than nonstop directs, you could potentially just think of that overnight hotel stay as a way of reallocating vacation funds.

What happens to checked baggage on connecting flights with long layovers?

Every airline has its own protocol when it comes to how long they’ll hold checked baggage on connecting flights. Typically, you’ll need to claim and re-check your bags during overnight and long layovers, commonly defined as more than 12 hours.

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