fun day trips with toddlers near me

• Last Updated On
• October 17, 2023

17 Best Vacations for Toddlers – Kid Friendly Places & Ideas for Families

Traveling with toddlers can be an enriching experience for the whole family, providing opportunities for bonding and exploration.

It should strike a balance between relaxation and adventure, offering activities and amenities that cater to their specific needs.

From beach resorts to urban getaways, each destination offers unique experiences and attractions that will delight you and your family.

Apart from that, these vacations also create lasting memories for the entire family.

Choosing the best vacations for toddlers might be challenging, especially if many destinations pique your interest.

But you don’t have to worry.

I am here to help you select the best destinations by giving comprehensive reviews.

I have traveled with my family and experienced many activities in each place.

Likewise, I have included the destinations’ ratings based on safety, kid-friendly activities, affordability, and other essential factors.

So, prepare for a fun-filled vacation with your loved ones and check out the best destinations in our reviews below.

Best Vacations For Toddlers Compared

From beachfront resorts to bustling cities, there are various excellent destinations for toddlers around the country and across the borders.

Check out our list of the top destinations below.

Editor’s Choice

Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront

If you’re looking for an excellent hotel with spectacular views and services, consider visiting Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront.

• list of criteria

#2nd Best Choice

Park Hyatt Vienna

Park Hyatt Vienna is a prestigious hotel in the heart of Vienna, Austria, at Am Hof 2.

• Safety: 5/5
• Kid-Friendly Activities: 3.5/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Ease of Travel: 4/5
• Accommodation Options: 4/5
• Food Diversity: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Cedar Cove Resort & Cottages

Have an exciting beach vacation with your kids at Cedar Cove Resort & Cottages.

• Safety: 4/5
• Kid-Friendly Activities: 5/5
• Affordability: 3/3
• Ease of Travel: 3.5/5
• Accommodation Options: 4/4

Here are the top vacations for families with toddlers.

1. Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront (Editor’s Choice)

1401 SW Naito Pkwy Portland, OR 97201 (503) 226-7600 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Kid-Friendly Activities: 4/5
• Food Diversity: 4/5
• Spectacular views of the city skyline
• Relaxing and peaceful ambiance
• Limited dining options

Its waterfront location will grant you a front-seat view of the beach and the city skyline, creating a captivating and memorable experience.

This hotel is an excellent choice for your next family vacation because of its various kid-friendly activities that will entertain your kids.

The hotel also has a welcoming and accommodating staff to ensure you and your kids have a pleasant stay.

Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront provides easy access to the vibrant city’s attractions, shops, and dining establishments.

2. Park Hyatt Vienna

Am Hof 2 1010 Wien, Austria (122) 740-1234 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Convenient location to popular attractions
• High safety standards for children
• Crowded during peak seasons

Its central position will provide easy access to renowned cultural attractions, historical landmarks, and upscale shopping areas.

Their rooms have luxurious furnishings, state-of-the-art technology, and plush bedding to ensure you will have a comfortable stay.

The hotel will impress you with its facilities, including a world-class spa, spacious fitness center, and multiple dining options.

Also, you don’t have to worry about the safety of your kids.

The staff is attentive and provides high safety standards for children, ensuring that you can relax and enjoy your stay.

Related: Good Restaurants in San Diego

3. Cedar Cove Resort & Cottages

2710 Gulf Dr N Holmes Beach, FL 34217 (800) 206-6293 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Direct access to the beach and water activities
• Various kid-friendly amenities
• Limited availability of cottages during busy periods

This resort offers a tranquil setting for a memorable vacation.

The well-appointed cottages offer a cozy and home-like atmosphere with modern amenities.

The resort also features a swimming pool, barbeque area, and well-maintained grounds for relaxation and recreation.

You and your toddlers will appreciate the various kid-friendly amenities, such as playgrounds and beach toys.

What’s more, you will love the supervised water activities and sandcastle building at the resort.

You can also relax knowing that your little ones are in a secure environment since Cedar Cove focuses on safety.

4. Four Seasons Chicago

120 E Delaware Pl Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 280-8800 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Four Seasons Chicago is a luxurious hotel located in downtown Chicago, Illinois.

The hotel prides itself on delivering excellent service and top-notch amenities.

You will be amazed by their spacious and elegantly designed rooms with stunning city views.

Their amenities include a fitness center, spa, and indoor pool that will ensure you have access to relaxation and wellness facilities during your stay.

The hotel can also arrange in-room amenities and services tailored to young guests, such as babysitting services and a children’s menu.

Additionally, the hotel’s commitment to safety will offer a secure environment for your little ones.

5. Durham, New York

Durham, NY Open in Google Maps

Another toddler-friendly getaway that offers a ton of old-school fun, Durham is among the top family-favorite destinations to visit with toddlers.

Nestled amid the peaks of the breathtaking Catskill Mountains in New York, families vacationing at Durham have a variety of activities on offer—if you’re an “outdoors” family, try one of the many kid-friendly hikes or visit the ultra-cute Hull-O petting farm!

It’s not all old-school at Durham, though; visit the Zoom Flume Water Park for fun and thrilling rides that’ll have the kids screaming their lungs out (in the best way)!

Recommended Hotel: Best Western New Baltimore Inn

6. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

Lake of the Ozarks, MO 65065 (800) 386-5253 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re wondering where to go for a fun weekend trip with the whole brood, consider Lake of the Ozarks, a popular spot for families with toddlers.

Lake of the Ozarks boasts 1,150 miles of lakeshore, presenting many opportunities for lovely lakeside walks and picnics.

On a sunny day, go canoeing on the lake or explore the Lake of the Ozarks State Park.

If your little one is in the mood to stay indoors, don’t fear—there’s still plenty of fun to go around, from the games at Miner Mike’s Adventure Town to stalactite-stalagmite exploration at Bridal Cave.

Recommended Hotel: WorldMark Lake of the Ozarks

7. Carlsbad, California

Carlsbad, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Carlsbad is a veritable wonderland—the city has a plethora of themed fun on offer, making it one of our favorite destinations for families with young kids.

Spend a fun day at Legoland California—though it’s a great option for kids of all ages, the toddlers especially will love the rides and the themed areas, tailored just for the little ones.

From becoming miniature Ross Gellers and digging up “dinosaur bones” to a boat ride on Fairy Tale Brook to a gigantic sandbox, a kids-playground-essential, there are over a dozen such themed areas at Legoland.

Apart from this, the city’s aquarium and miniature park are also great spots to explore.

Recommended Hotel: Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, A Hilton Resort & Spa

8. Port Angeles, Washington

Port Angeles, WA (360) 452-2363 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

At Port Angeles, there’s every opportunity to be right at the heart of nature, right from the sky-high trees of Olympic National Park to the lovely tide pools that overlook the Strait of Juan de Fica.

The little tots will enjoy the many kid-friendly hiking routes in the ginormous Olympic National Park, extending right to the edge of the city.

After this, you can head to the tide pools and check out these little bits of the sky on land!

In short, every chance to get up close and personal with nature while enjoying a toddler-friendly vacation!

Recommended Hotel: Olympic Lodge

9. Langhorne, Pennsylvania

Langhorne, PA Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The tots will love the chance to meet Bert, Elmo and the rest of the Sesame Street gang at the colorful Sesame Place, as well as the many kid-friendly rides on offer, making it one of the best spots for family vacations with toddlers.

The city’s downtown area takes you on a trip back to its founding days in the 17th century; however, you’ll still find plenty of outlet shopping opportunities in the area.

Additionally, Langhorne is just a few hours’ drive away from Philadelphia, making it a great option for a quick weekend getaway from the latter.

Recommended Hotel: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Philadelphia Langhorne

10. Orlando, Florida

Orlando, FL Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

You could spend one day every day of your trip exploring a different theme park in Orlando and still not be done by the end!

Exaggeration aside, the little ones will love the magic of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter (you can even get them their own Hogwarts acceptance letter!); also, visit SeaWorld for the shows (though you might want to consider the ethics of this).

However, nothing beats the original definition of fun in Orlando—Disney World! Get a Disney World Assistant to look after the kids while you catch a little break.

Recommended Hotel: Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

Related: Restaurants in Orlando, Florida

Related: Best Disney Resorts for Toddlers

11. Williams, Arizona

Williams, AZ (928) 635-4451 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Quoting Bobby Troup, “get your kicks on Route 66”in Williams, Arizona.

Barely an hour away from the Grand Canyon (a great day trip option), you can also treat little ones to their first glimpses of real-life wolf and bear cubs at the Bearizona Drive-Thru Wildlife Park; there’s also a petting zoo with super-cute bunnies, horses and other farm animals!

Oh, and don’t forget to take a ride on the historic Grand Canyon Railway in Williams’ old-school railroad depot—nostalgia abounds here.

Recommended Hotel: Red Garter Inn

12. Jeffersonville, Vermont

Jeffersonville, VT Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

One of the best places to go to in the U.S regardless of the season, Jeffersonville is a great option if you’re an extremely active, ‘outdoorsy’ family, serving up a ton of family-friendly year-round activities.

Enjoy an extremely kid-friendly stay at Smugglers’ Notch Resort which holds the distinction of being the most kid-friendly resort in not just the area, but the entire East Coast.

While kids learn to take their first turns on the beginner terrain, parents can enjoy mogul runs and the awesome backcountry that Vermont’s mountains offer.

Recommended Hotel: The Lodge at Spruce Peak

13. Chincoteague Island, Virginia

Chincoteague Island, VA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Chincoteague Island has all the trappings of a laid-back vacation; you can spend relaxing days under the sun gorging on delicious ice cream in many parlors or just set up shop on a nice spot on the beach and unwind.

For a unique experience, join a tour to spot the herds of beautiful wild ponies that roam freely on the island; if you and the kids are the adventurous types, go looking for clams and crabs!

If nothing else, you can still have your quintessential summer fun, building sandcastles and splashing around in the water with the tykes.

Recommended Hotel: Marina Bay Hotel & Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection

14. Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City, MI (231) 947-1120 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re wondering where to travel for a fun, loud family summer vacation, Traverse City is a must consider.

Come the warm summer months, Traverse City boasts a plethora of outdoor concerts and family movie nights.

Another great reason to visit Traverse City is its world-famous cherries; you and tots can gorge on and stock up on as many cherries as you desire during the National Cherry Festival.

Owing to Traverse City’s location on the bays of Lake Michigan, the kids can also enjoy a beach vacation; don’t forget to check out the unique dog-jumping contests!

Recommended Hotel: Bayshore Resort

15. Washington, D.C.

Washington, DC (202) 789-7000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Delve into American culture in the country’s capital city; Washington, D.C is rich in historical significance and has been the seat of many events that shaped the nation.

One of the best parts about D.C. is the number of free attractions, monuments and museums on offer; you can join a tour and check out the main sites or even better, explore on your own via the city’s reliable public transport.

All 7 attractions of the Smithsonian are also free; toddlers are sure to be awed by the interactive displays and exhibits, ranging from whales to airplanes to dinosaurs.

Recommended Hotel: Mandarin Oriental Washington DC

Related: Places to Eat: Washington DC

16. Captiva Island, Florida

Captiva Island, FL (239) 472-1080 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Just off southwestern Florida’s coast, Captiva Island is known for its calm emerald-green waters and range of kid-friendly activities, making it an excellent spot for a beach vacation with toddlers.

Families can enjoy building sandcastles or collecting the colorful seashells that generously dot the beach or simply chasing the Gulf of Mexico’s gentle waves as they retreat.

Many beachfront condos offer kid-friendly activities such as coconut painting and kite making, making for a fun family stay.

There are also plenty of spacious vacation homes on offer, ideal for large families.

Recommended Hotel: Captiva Breeze

17. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Pigeon Forge, TN (865) 453-8574 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Nestled amid the peaks of the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge exudes oodles of small-town vibes with an extremely inviting atmosphere permeating the whole city.

Enjoy the Appalachian wilderness via the many hiking trails that snake through the lush forests, or rent a bike instead.

The place also abounds in a ton of swimming holes that you can take a dip in.

If you’re left craving for city life, don’t worry—just head to Pigeon Forge’s happening downtown area with its many attractions, family-friendly theme parks and the melodious country music wafting through the area.

Recommended Hotel: Margaritaville Island Inn

Vacationer’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

When selecting the best vacation destinations for toddlers, there are many factors you need to think of.

You should keep in mind the security that each place provides.

Also, compare each destination’s rates, services, and drawbacks.

The Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront offers breathtaking views of the beach and the city skyline.

Its serene and peaceful ambiance ensures you can relax and unwind during your stay.

But the hotel has limited dining options, which might require guests to explore nearby restaurants for more variety.

The Park Hyatt Vienna in Austria is a luxurious hotel that conveniently places guests near popular attractions.

The hotel also maintains high safety standards, especially for families with children.

However, the hotel tends to be crowded during peak travel seasons.

Cedar Cove Resort & Cottages is a charming destination with direct beach access and a plethora of water activities.

However, the availability of cottages may be limited during busy periods, so planning and securing reservations in advance is necessary.

If you’re searching for an alternative to Park Hyatt Vienna with more kid-friendly amenities, consider Four Seasons Chicago.

Its only drawback is that it can get pretty noisy during busy periods.

How I Picked The Destinations 

As a travel enthusiast, I always make time to travel with my family.

When going on trips, we select the best destinations that are kid-friendly.

We stayed at hotels and resorts that are suitable for toddlers, and I did some research about each place.

I also conversed with other families and guests to make sure that my reviews would have additional reliable information.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these vacations based on the following criteria:

• Safety: I use this criterion to evaluate the overall safety of every vacation destination. Does it have a strong safety record? Does it provide child-friendly safety measures? These are the questions I ask myself when evaluating safety.
• Kid-Friendly Activities: I use this criterion to evaluate the availability and quality of kid-friendly activities. Does the destination offer a variety of engaging activities? Is it near theme parks, zoos, museums, nature parks, and beaches? Is it both educational and fun? I consider these factors when rating this criterion.
• Affordability: This assesses the affordability of the family vacation. Is it expensive? Are the accommodations, activities, meals, and transportation affordable? Are there family-friendly discounts? These are the questions I take into account to rate affordability.
• Ease of Travel: I use this to rate the accessibility and ease of getting around the area. Is it easy to navigate? Does it offer family-friendly transportation options? Do we need to fly to get to the destination? I ask myself these questions in order to evaluate ease of travel.
• Accommodation Options: This assesses the availability and quality of accommodations. Does it provide spaces that separate adult and child sleeping areas? Are there amenities like a kitchen, laundry, and swimming pool available? These are the questions I ask when evaluating accommodation options.
• Food Diversity: This criterion evaluates the availability of kid-friendly food options. Does it cater to different dietary preferences? Are there child-friendly menus? I consider these factors when rating food diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What do toddlers like to do on vacation.

Toddlers often appreciate visiting playgrounds, exploring child-friendly attractions such as zoos or aquariums, and spending time outdoors in parks or at the beach.

Are There Any Beach Destinations That Are Particularly Toddler-friendly And Offer Calm Waters And Shallow Areas?

Yes. These include South Seas Island Resort, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, and Ocean Edge Resort and Spa.

Conclusion 

Based on the ratings and experience, these places are the best vacations for toddlers.

The Park Hyatt Vienna made us feel like royalty with its elegant setting and excellent services.

We were pleasantly surprised by the hotel staff who gifted my toddlers coloring books upon check-in to keep them busy.

Honestly, that was genuinely thoughtful of them.

We also loved the beach access of Cedar Cove Resort & Cottages.

The kids were happy building sandcastles, and we enjoyed the provided board games in our cozy cottage.

We were also impressed with the luxury and sophistication of Four Seasons Chicago.

But the Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront was the best destination we’ve been to.

We were captivated by the breathtaking views of Portland’s skyline.

And my little ones were enamored with the beach view, which is a perfect distraction during meals.

The peaceful ambiance of the hotel also allowed us to unwind and relax after a long day of exploring the city.

17 Toddler-Friendly Vacations That Are Just as Much Fun for Parents  

By: Author Elizabeth Ciobanu

Posted on Published: 07/25/2023  - Last updated: 03/05/2024

As a parent of a toddler, you know your little  “threenager”  or  “terrible two, terrific terror”  thrives on routine and has their own way of pacing their day.

Therefore, any vacation you plan with a toddler in tow needs to offer a measure of routine but with plenty of opportunities for unexpected adventures to keep things interesting as well.

Of course, it’s an added bonus if mom, dad, and the rest of the family are also having fun. To give you a few ideas to get you headed in the right direction, consider the following 17 toddler-friendly vacations that are just as much fun for parents:

1. National Parks: Olympic National Park

Going to a national park is not likely your first thought when brainstorming toddler-friendly destinations. However, this type of vacation offers a good mixture of activities and options for parents as well as little ones.

This is an especially good trip if you consider yourself outdoorsy. Experts recommend visiting this area in the fall and summer.

What You Will Like

You will love visiting a national park because it is simply really cool. There are coastal tide pools and bike paths at locations like Port Angeles , Washington at  Olympic National Park  for example.

There are also stroller-friendly hiking trails, which allow the whole family to get out and enjoy the beauty of nature together.

There is even a neat mineral water-wading pool that is ideal for little ones and refreshing after being in the heat. The area also boasts picnic areas spread throughout, and there are plenty of lodging options both in and outside the park.

What They Will Like

This national park features some amazing creepy crawlies that will keep toddlers entertained while hiking. There are skittering salamanders, and bright yellow banana slugs, just to name a few.

In addition, the park features a visitor center with a Discovery Room that features a Ranger Station pint-sized playhouse, interactive touch tables, dress-up clothes, and puppets.

East Beach in the park also has a shallow swimming area and sandy shore, where your little one can dig to their heart’s delight along with playing in the already mentioned wading pool.

2. Ranch: Rocking Horse Ranch

Most kids will one day dream of riding a pony or being a cowboy, and most grownups still secretly wish to see their own similar childhood dream fulfilled.

Therefore, visiting a ranch, such as the  Rocking Horse Ranch  in Highland, New York, is a great option that is both toddler-friendly and fun for the rest of the family as well.

This is an all-inclusive resort, meaning when you get here, you won’t have to worry about driving to and from any attractions, or hauling all your gear and luggage.

In addition, there is an in-room babysitting service available, as well as a nursery for kids under the age of 4.

Whether you want to take advantage of this is completely up to you, but it does at least offer you the option of having a quiet meal or experience with your spouse while on vacation with your young child. There are also custom meals available for anyone with food allergies as well.

What They Will Like 

Ponies and wagons, need I say more? There are wagon rides and pony rides available for all kids over the age of two.

There is also an indoor water park, ski program, and tubing available, as well as an interactive playground designed with toddlers and babies in mind.

3. Pigeon Forge

While the excitement and entertainment options of a large city are noteworthy, toting a toddler through a huge, bustling city like New York, for example, can be a bit overwhelming. Therefore, when toddlers are in tow, why not opt for visiting a small city with big charm?

There are many options to choose from, and you can always choose one that isn’t that far from your home to cut down on travel time. Visiting a more laid-back area, yet one that still offers activities, can be a great way to introduce a tiny traveler to the love of adventuring.

I recommend  Pigeon Forge , Tennessee, and nearby  Gatlinburg  as examples of this type of destination.

There is plenty to do right in town, lots of lodging options, restaurants, and more. You can choose from a wide variety of activities and even visit some museums and aquariums all without leaving town.

However, right outside of town, there is easy access to hiking trails and streams as well.

There are countless reasons for a toddler to love Pigeon Forge. Dollywood is located there, for one, which also has its own separate water park.

This is a family-friendly amusement park with an entire children’s section with rides designed especially for them.

There are also fun family-friendly shows like magicians and bubble shows, as well as plays. It is a very entertaining place to spend a day, and that is just one of many options in the area.

4. Resort Near Attractions

You can choose from many zoos all over the nation for a fun family adventure. However, why not combine a visit to the zoo with a grand resort adventure for the best of both worlds?

You can visit  Loews Coronado Bay Resort  in San Diego, California for a wonderful experience that allows you to visit a zoo and other nearby attractions.

Since the beach is nearby too, this means you can combine the excitement of attractions with the relaxation of the beach. You can visit year-round, but will find the best rates in fall.

The resort was recently renovated and has a private feel. However, it is mere minutes from both SeaWorld and San Diego Zoo along with countless other attractions located downtown.

In addition, the resort will accommodate young kids when you tell them in advance. This includes childproofing before your visit as well as having special “baby is sleeping” signs to prevent nap interruptions, potties, swings, stools, and more.

You can even ask for baby food to be homemade just for your toddler!

While it’s easy to understand why any toddler would love visiting the animals at the zoo or SeaWorld, they will also have plenty of fun right at the resort itself.

There is a kiddie pool designed just for them to use, a playground and even singalongs and animal shows.

The resort also joins the Silver Strand State Beach, which means there will be plenty of opportunities for building sand castles.

5. Barrier Island Getaway

If you like the idea of a beach vacation, but would rather have an even more chill experience, you can instead opt to visit the Barrier Islands.

One of the best locations to visit is  Captiva  and  Sanibel  Islands in Florida. A great place to stay when visiting this area that is toddler-friendly is  Captiva’s South Seas Island Resort .

If your family likes to chill at the beach and/or pool and doesn’t require a hopping nightlife and lots of overly structured activities, this is ideal for you!

It’s laid-back, quiet, and relaxing. In addition, if you opt to go to the resort mentioned, you are nearly right on the beach and can be  “at home”  in your fully stocked beach villa. This means it’s super easy to get back to your room for lunch breaks, naps, etc.

Also, this beautiful Gulf of Mexico beach features on-site restaurants, shops, and even a hot dog boat that pulls up at the south end of the beach during lunchtime.

If your tiny tot loves to collect shells to take back to grandma and grandpa or even collect them to decorate their newest sand creation, then they will absolutely love this beach destination.

In addition, there is also a family-friendly water park nearby, and you can even have your little one take swim lessons if they are 6 months of age or older.

There is also plenty of entertaining wildlife to observe, like pelicans dive bombing for fish, dolphins, which you can see on a cruise, or crabs running across the sand.

There are even manatees that frequently hang out at the dock, all of which are fascinating finds for young kids.

6. Hawaiian Disney Resort

While I have listed several beaches back-to-back here, there is something different about a Hawaiian destination that deserves its own place on my list.

Visiting the  “Aloha”  state can be a great family-friendly gateway with plenty to do for all ages. This is especially true if you live on the West Coast and travel time isn’t bad.

If you plan on visiting, I recommend the  Aulani Resort and Spa  in Oahu, Hawaii, as a toddler-friendly, Disney-branded spot.

Well, for starters, it’s Hawaii! How could you not love it? More specifically, though, you will be surrounded by lagoons and lush mountains, serene grounds, and enjoy Disney Magic within the rooms.

Also, the Laniwai spa is there, where you can get a massage for the whole family. There are also poolside cabanas you can reserve for an extra fee, along with parent-child playdates with character meet and greets.

Aunty’s Beach House also provides childcare for potty-trained kids aged 3 and older.

They can meet their favorite Disney characters at breakfast as well as enjoy Toddler Splash and Play on the beach, where they can dig for treasure or build sandcastles.

They can also dance away with various Disney characters at the Shake Shaka Pool Party or enjoy the shallow refreshing waters of the Waikolohe Pool, which offers kid-friendly zero-entry.

7. Farm-Stay

This idea is a bit different from the luxurious resorts and beautiful beaches mentioned previously.

However, if your tiny traveler loves animals, you live in the city, or perhaps have never experienced farm life, then visiting a farm and staying on-site can be a unique, interesting, and even educational vacation.

One of the best locations to visit is  Hull-O Farms Family Farm-Stay Vacations   in Durham, NY.

This allows you to introduce the wonders of a working farm to your toddler and let them see the field-to-fork connection.

It is also an opportunity to find out once and for all if your toddler really does wake up before the rooster crows!

You will absolutely love the cottages you can rent on-site, just a short walk from the barn, allowing you and your kids to enjoy all the farm has to offer.

They can help with simple chores on the farm and enjoy visiting with, petting, and caring for goats, pigs, turkeys, cows, horses, and more. They can even feed baby animals.

Your toddler will also get to help with gathering freshly laid eggs, pulling produce out of the ground, or watching a cow being milked.

If this is something they have never seen, it can be a very exciting and entertaining prospect, all with a low-key vibe that isn’t hurried or rushed.

8. Train Travel

There is something magical about combining the wonder and awe of the toddler years with the thrill of railway travel.

Traveling via train can be a great experience that can get you to a destination. Instead of having your toddler strapped into a car seat for hours or on a plane, they can enjoy the thrill of travel via the railways and use this to get to your desired destination.

A good example of this type of trip would be  Amtrak’s Coast Starlight  Line. This travels from Seattle to Los Angeles.

No long airport lines, flight delays, or cancellations. You can sit and enjoy the views with your toddler instead of having to worry about navigating.

There are also no restrictions on bringing liquid for your toddler to drink while on a train. You will also love that any kid under the age of 2 can ride for free on your lap!

It takes the yucky part of a vacation away, the  “are we there yet”  experience.

Instead, you and your entire family can look out at the Pacific shorelines, lush forests, towering peaks and more as you travel from one location to the next and make traveling your favorite part of the experience, not the part you have to get through.

9. Family-Friendly Disney Cruises

There are many types of cruises with various lines that you can enjoy, and that will offer you a great experience when traveling with a toddler.

However, there is simply no substitution for a Disney Cruise experience. Disney Wish  is the company’s newest ship and offers a mind-boggling amount of activities.

What You Will Like 

The all-inclusive nature of cruising is ideal for a busy, stressed family. You pay ahead for your food, choose your activities and more, then you simply board the ship and prepare to enjoy!

There are also built-in babysitters onboard these lines that keep your kids entertained while you enjoy a drink or a lounge by the pool.

It’s all things Disney. If you can take the magic of a Disney experience and then put that on water, that’s what you get when going on a Disney Cruise. It is simply magical.

There are many activities for all ages of kids, along with a fantastically appointed ship that features hidden gems all over. You cannot go wrong with this experience.

10. Camping

While you can camp virtually anywhere across the nation, it’s important when traveling with little ones to have some specific provisions in mind.

For this reason, I recommend visiting the  Santee State Park in South Carolina  and enjoying a family camping adventure.

Keep in mind, though, that if it’s easier for you to get to, you can always visit a camping site closer to home.

You can also opt to rent an RV, but be sure to watch the movie  RV  with the great, late Robin Williams beforehand to truly appreciate the trek you are about to take!

Also, make sure you check for any necessary precautions you need to take when in the great outdoors to keep your littles safe.

Don’t worry about hauling camping gear, setting up a tent, or bear-proofing your campsite. You can rent a cabin on sight, giving you the experience of camping without the sleeping on the ground element.

Of course, if you opt for another camping destination, many state parks offer semi-rustic cabin rentals.

Aside from sleeping in the wilderness in an adventurous setting, your toddler will also enjoy the flat hiking available for all age groups at this destination.

Take this time to teach them how to fish, how to roast smores, and how to tell a good story around the campfire.

This is an ideal getaway for a little one who loves to explore, see the banks of rivers and creeks, pick up sticks, and find interesting bugs.

11. The Mountains

If snow-capped peaks and skiing sound more fun than the beach, pool, or camping, then you might instead head for the mountains and stay at a beautiful resort like  Smugglers’ Notch Resort   in Jeffersonville, Vermont.

If your family loves being outdoors, biking, winter sports, hiking, and more, this can be a great choice.

This amazing resort offers a ski program for kids aged 2 ½ to 3 years of age. There are also full-day ski programs for kids who are potty trained.

There are many family programs and babysitting options as well as pagers and security cards for parents to give you peace of mind when your kids aren’t with you if you opt to use this service.

This is a different kind of adventure. Kids can enjoy skiing on the Magic Carpet Life or snow tubing in the winter.

Or in the summer, they can enjoy a spray zone water slide or the 4,000 square-foot playground and FunZone, which is an indoor family entertainment center, that features nightly singalongs and story times.

Therefore, regardless of the time of year you go, this destination is a bit different than your typical family-friendly spot.

12. Traditional Theme Parks

This one can get a bit tricky as the long lines, huge crowds, and loud noises that typically make up theme parks can easily overwhelm a toddler.

The important element to remember when planning this type of vacation is to choose a theme park that isn’t overly crowded and to remember to break your day up into sections so your little one doesn’t get too overstimulated.

While, of course,  Disney World  in Orlando, Florida is a beloved family destination and worthy of visiting, you might find yourself enjoying something smaller even better.

For example, Universal’s Islands of Adventures Seuss Landing  in Orlando, Florida is a good option.

Universal Studios offers plenty of rides for older kids, making it a fun adventure for families. If your kids love Harry Potter, you will especially love this destination.

However, with the little kid’s section designed in Dr. Seuss style, little ones will love the colorful displays and the themed rides.

If you stay at a resort, there are also pools and activities you can enjoy outside of the park in your resort.

While it is a big amusement park, the little kid zone will offer a respite from the crowds and allow your small adventurer to enjoy rides designed just for them.

The vivid colors and design of the fanciful area will also hold their attention and encourage exploration.

13. Sesame Place

The Sesame Place  Theme Park in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, deserves a mention all on its own, because it is known as the most toddler-friendly amusement park in the nation and is one of the few theme parks that prioritizes young kids in their design.

It’s worth noting that Sesame Place is the first theme park that was designated as a Certified Autism Center. Therefore, there are quiet rooms along with low sensory areas spread throughout the park.

In addition to the many mild rides that your toddler will love, there is also an onsite water park featuring Bert and Ernies Splashy Shores that is included in the admission price.

There are cabanas and changing rooms as well, meaning you can enjoy getting wet without having to stay in your wet gear all day.

There is so much to do as all the rides are considered mild, with even the coasters being more family-friendly.

The tallest required height is 40 inches for Oscar’s Wacky Taxi coaster, and others have even less of a height requirement, meaning little ones can enjoy nearly every ride in the park which will keep them entertained.

14. Monterey Bay Aquarium

Located just a few hours south of San Francisco is the Monterey Bay Aquarium  in Monterey, California.

There are 45 interactive exhibits, crawl-through tunnels, low exhibit windows designed with little ones in mind, as well as a Splash Zone section in this fun aquarium.

While you will likely just spend a day at the aquarium, you can combine this fun experience with a trip to  Gilroy Gardens , which is a nearby family-friendly theme park. This makes an ideal short vacation, which can be beneficial for toddlers.

You will love all the exhibits and design of the aquarium as it will keep your toddler fascinated. You will also appreciate the many sea creatures yourself.

Again, there are 45 interactive exhibits, textured walls, a touch pool with sea urchins, abalones, and other sea life, along with games, buttons, levers, and more for your toddler to push and pull to their heart’s delight.

There is also a dress-up area with seahorse costumes and more fun options relating to sea creatures, located right next to some real-life seahorses in a tank.

There is also a cornered-off padded play area called Coral Reef Kingdom that is designed for kids under 34 inches tall.

15. Desert Getaway

Deserts offer a unique vacation for families, including little ones. The pools look especially breathtaking and welcome set against the brilliant blue sky, canyons, and cacti.

That’s to say nothing of the desert terrain and the many adventures that can be found. While you can visit many locations, one of the best destinations that presents the desert in a family-friendly atmosphere is the  Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale  at Troon North.

If the idea of exploring southwestern America appeals to you and your family enjoys pool time, nature treks, and more, you will love this destination.

This resort features a Kids for All Seasons center which offers supervised kids programs for those aged 5 and up.

However, for the little ones, the resort provides diapers, in-room fridges, strollers, wipes, lotions, washcloths, and more.

You can even ask for pureed baby food to be prepared by the house chefs. In addition, the resort’s concierge is happy to arrange babysitting if you so desire.

This resort features the cutest kids’ pool complete with pint-sized lounge chairs and robes. They serve fresh fruit, and make smores on Saturday.

There is also a nearby park in Phoenix called the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park that features antique train rides and a carousel.

16. The Beach

While I have already mentioned a few beaches and even some resorts, a list of the most toddler-friendly family vacations would not be complete without listing a few beach destinations in particular.

After all, a beach vacation is one of the best options for toddlers. Where you go is up to you, but there are a few that cater to families a bit better than others.

For example,  Myrtle Beach , South Carolina  Grand Haven , Michigan,  Outer Banks , North Carolina  Gulfport , Mississippi, and  Virgina Beach , Virginia, in addition to the many  Florida beaches  available, are all ideal for family getaways.

» MORE: 11 Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S .

Be sure to choose a beach destination that gives you easy access to the beach. You don’t want to be hauling gear for miles or across roads with little ones.

Also, if they have kid-friendly options like kid’s programs, activities, or the like, that’s even better. Be sure to find a hotel or resort that also has a small pool that is shallow enough for your toddler to enjoy, or a splash pad of some sort.

If you choose a location that also has other attractions like zoos, aquariums, boat rides, and more, that’s even better, as you can stagger your beach days to give your family a break from the sun and heat.

It’s the beach! If they love exploring, trying to find shells, looking for crabs, and making creations out of sand, they will love a beach destination.

Keep in mind, though, that you will still want to maintain some form of routine when vacationing with a toddler. 

I know this is easier said than done, so any place you stay should have chairs or cabanas you can rent so your toddler can get out of the sun and nap.

17. Lion Country Safari

Last but certainly not least on our list of 17 toddler-friendly vacations you will want to try, consider  Lion Country Safari  in Loxahatchee , Florida.

This destination is located around 20 miles west of West Palm Beach. It is a 600-acre safari and adventure park and allows kids aged 2 to 10 to interact with animals and have a great experience.

You get to drive through seven natural habitats and see lions, ostriches, giraffes, zebras, and more. There is also a water park and a giraffe feeding area along with a petting zoo for kids who are old enough to enjoy those activities.

For the little ones, there are splash pads, the Rio Grande Train, and a carousel as part of the adventure park.

Animals galore will be available for them to see right outside your window, all from the safety of their car.

In addition, they can enjoy a ride on the carousel or train or opt to cool off in the water park via the splash pad. It is a full day of fun adventure and a great add-on to a nearby destination.

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• Moscow Travel and City Excursions

Our 20 Best Moscow Day Tours of 2022

See all that Moscow has to offer by choosing one or more of our incredible Moscow day tours. Visit Red Square , St. Basil’s , the Kremlin or perhaps a vodka museum and the fantastic Moscow metro system , we have it all. Our expert, informative and fun guides will help you get to know Europe’s largest city. Please click on the day tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page.  You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous Bolshoi Theatre, and the former KGB headquarters...

• Schedule Daily 09:00 - 20:00
• Languages English-speaking guide is guaranteed. Other languages are on request.
• Walking tours Transportation is not included
• PRIVATE TOUR This is a private tour, there won't be other people in your group

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will escort you on a route that includes Vorobyevi...

• Schedule Daily 09:00 - 18:00
• Tours by car Transportation by private car/minivan is included

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious life of different Jewish families, as well...

• Schedule Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday 11:00 - 20:00 Friday 10:00 - 14:00 Saturday not available

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened to two and a half times its original size,...

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to the victims of the repression. You will then...

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the street’s many craftsmen....

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury and the workplace of the Russian President....

• Schedule Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Thursday not available

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and 19th century including works by Rublyov, Karavak,...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10:00 - 20:00

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure served as a convent for women of noble birth...

• Schedule Daily 09:00 - 17:00

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians themselves and for visitors from abroad....

• Schedule Daily 10:00 - 17:00

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was here that Donskoi celebrated his victory over...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Saturday 11:00 - 18:00

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra) was built in the first half of the 1340s by...

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic gothic style. The complex includes a landscape...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 11:00 - 17:00 Saturday 11:00 - 19:00 Sunday 11:00 - 18:00

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history dates back to 1715, when the village of Kuskovo...

• Schedule Monday, Tuesday not available Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 - 18:00

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone centuries. You will get to know the story...

• Schedule Daily 10:00 - 19:00

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy and his family including books and personal...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Thursday 12:00 - 19:00

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's collection includes more than three thousand...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12:00 - 19:00 Thursday 14:00 - 21:00

Express to Russia specializes in Moscow city excursions, an essential part of your Moscow travel itinerary. We offer a large variety of day excursions throughout Moscow and its suburbs. From  Red Square  and the  Kremlin  to a city tour of Moscow’s  Old Arbat Street  or the  Moscow metro , an excursion specializing in Stalin and the KGB and much more. No travel to Moscow is complete without taking a few of our day tours that most meet your interest in Russia.

Moscow City Tours

Our Moscow day excursions can be organized on foot or with transport. All of our excursions are led by an experienced guide, specializing in the subject matter of the tour. Excursions are privately run and can be booked for 1 traveler all the way up to large groups of travelers. We run our Moscow city tours in every season. This is because travel to Moscow is excellent in any season. In the summer take a stroll through  Gorky Park  or take a riverboat tour along the Moskva River. In the winter, see Moscow’s winter wonderland of ice and snow and then settle in for a cozy lunch or dinner with a hot bowl of borsht. In winter, spring and fall, you can beat the crowds at all of Moscow’s main attractions and museums. Regardless of when you come, Express to Russia will make sure that your trip is one of your best vacations ever.

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8 Fun and Simple Day Trips for Toddlers and Preschoolers

Are you aching to get outside? Just because you have toddlers or preschoolers doesn’t mean you can’t get out and have some fun! Here are some day trips that you and your tiny companions will enjoy! Who said big kids get all the fun anyway?

Psst! I kept these ideas super simple. Why? Because you’re a mom and some days we need simple — just to function. I’m talking frozen pizza and goldfish for lunch simple. So don’t see the words “day trip” and feel like you need to run and hide your head under the pillow. You won’t have to plan a million outfits or three meals. But, you will want to take your camera to catch all your favorite, fun memories!

So, get outside your home and enjoy some outings with your kids. Yes, you will have to change out of your jammies, but trust me, you WILL be glad you did. So get your toddler and preschoolers ready to have some simple fun — outside your home!

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Fun, Simple Day Trips for Preschoolers

• The local zoo. Pack some sunscreen, bottled water, snacks, a camera and head out as early as possible for this day trip. Don’t forget to take along some spending money in case you spy some really cute souvenirs at the gift shop. This was one of my fave parts of a zoo trip when I was a munchkin!

Preschoolers love seeing animals up close and learning about them so take extra time to read your kiddos the information that is available about each exhibit. Many local zoos also offer a farm-life area that is hands-on where kids can feed lots of baby animals. What preschooler doesn’t love feeding the baby goats a bottle of milk!

• A berry farm. Check out your local farm for some good pickin’! Pick the juiciest strawberries and head home and bake pies, strawberry shortcake or try out some strawberry smoothies!
• The library. Libraries today offer more than just books. There are DVDS, books on CD and other fun things to check out. Many libraries also offer special shows and activities during the summer. Some have special activity rooms where kids can knit, crochet, paint, make bead necklaces and other hands-on educational activities . The library is also a nice place for moms to relax. Enjoy the quiet while your child plays some computer games, board games or checks out the newest books for his or her age group. Libraries also offer summer reading programs that offer fun perks like free meals, free treats, free toys and even some free passes to favorite play areas .
• The park. Recreational parks are adding more and more cool stuff everyday. Some add long bike trails, fish ponds, amazingly tall slides and of course the classic favorite — swings. The park is best enjoyed early in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid the bees, hot sun and crowd.
• Indoor playgrounds. This option is fun for parents and kids. Most indoor playgrounds offer a cozy nook for the parents to enjoy some Joe and read some books while the kids jump, run and jump in a supervised, air-conditioned facility. Once you locate your favorite spot, keep an ear out for upcoming deals and promotions. Some of these playgrounds offer seasonal discounts that can save your family a good bit of money.
• Children’s Museum. These museums are full of sensory learning experiences for all ages. Many have pretend grocery stores, IMAX theaters, craft areas and fish petting areas. These tend to be a little bit more expensive than other day outings, but well worth a planned visit. You could also include the grandparents to make this a more memorable trip.
• Special shows. Check out your city’s popular entertainment coliseum to see when special kid-friendly shows are available. Winnie the Pooh, Sesame Street and other favorites often have fun kid performances country-wide during the summer to provide top-notch entertainment for small children.
• Build-a-bear. Spend the day making stuffed animals! Kids love to create things, and making a teddy bear or other stuffed animal is no exception. Your child will be able to pick out their own stuffed animal, help stuff it and place a heart inside. Your child will also be given the important responsibility of naming the stuffed animal. Special keepsakes and a certificate will be given to your child as well that he can keep to remember this special outing. The Build-a-bear stuffed animals are also high quality and can last for quite a while. Definitely worth the experience and memories!

What day trips make your preschooler smile? Share your ideas on social media with the other moms in our community!

More Inspiration Just for You

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?

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The Family Vacation Guide

12 of the Best Vacation Spots for Families with Toddlers

posted by James Brockbank on February 21, 2022 // last updated on February 21, 2022

Your love for travel doesn’t have to come to a standstill because you’re a parent. Believe it or not, you can still visit unique destinations with your toddlers. While some locations are more of a challenge than others, there are several places that can give you and your family a great vacation . 

So let’s dust off those passports and look into these best vacation spots for families with toddlers that offer everything from beautiful views to informative tours.

Club Med Sandpiper Bay

Winnetu oceanside resort, willard intercontinental washington, martinhal cascais resort, azul beach hotel and resort, antlers at vail, beltane ranch, grand velas riviera nayarit, fort wilderness resort and campground, omni la costa resort & spa, smugglers’ notch resort, worldmark lake of the ozarks.

The Sandpiper Bay Resort in Florida is a fantastic vacation destination for families with toddlers. The resort sits on the St. Lucie River, where you’ll not only enjoy the sun and the sand but you’ll also experience lush vegetation. For adults, there are three outdoor pools and the Club Med Spa by SOTHYS. 

No need to worry about the toddlers as the resort offers on-site childcare for children four months of age or older, which will give you and your sweetheart time to reconnect while on vacation. 

Whether you feel like relaxing or getting out to some action on the tennis or volleyball court, you’ll find it here. There are also three water slides at the pool, so your toddler will have tons of fun. 

This all-inclusive resort takes good care of its guests with activities catered to each age group from infants to twelve years. In addition, they offer family activities that everyone can enjoy together, like pancake parties and picnics.

The resort’s Baby Club Med is a fully supervised daily program for children between 4-23 months. Their philosophy is to ensure that your baby has a stimulating environment where they will experience lots of comfort and interaction. Some of the things your toddler will experience are colors and sounds.

Club Med is one of the best vacation spots for families with toddlers who want to visit Florida. They also have locations in Mexico and the Dominican Republic.

The Winnetu Oceanside Resort is one of the best vacation spots for families with toddlers because it’s in the magical seaside town of Edgartown on Martha’s Vineyard. You’ll enjoy a touch of New England history as well as the beauty of New England.

The Winnetu Oceanside Resort is located right on the Atlantic Ocean, so there are plenty of things to do just by stepping outside your door. In addition, there are miles of trails to explore when you get tired of the sand or sunbathing on the beach. 

Their complimentary Children’s Day Program is excellent for toddlers. It’s a great way to have fun with your toddler while on vacation and enjoy the Winnetu Oceanside Resort. Some of the activities in the program include strength and motor coordination, imagination, and creativity. 

Strength and motor coordination activities include tunnels, balance beams, obstacle courses, and parachute play. Imagination and creativity activities include dress-up, painting, musical instruments, and play kitchen. There is even a once-a-week field trip that you can participate in. 

The Children’s Day program is complimentary, meaning that’s one less thing you have to worry about during your vacation. Instead, you can focus on enjoying your time off, making the resort one of the best vacation spots for families with toddlers.

The Willard InterContinental Washington is in the heart of Washington D.C . With so much to see and do in Washington, D.C., you’ll never run out of things to do, making it one of the best vacation spots for families with toddlers. 

The Willard InterContinental, Washington, is surrounded by historical sights and attractions that will fascinate you and your toddler. There are many museums nearby that give you a taste of American history. Of course, if your toddler loves trains, the Union Train Station is a central landmark where you can take a tour of one of the historic trains. 

Not to mention when you buy two nights in one of their suites, you get one night free. If you are a member of their points system, you also earn points on your stay, and you get a welcome amenity gift upon check-in. The hotel is very upscale and designed to provide the perfect surroundings for you and your family to relax. 

You can even bring your furry companions with you during your stay. With luxurious amenities, it will be hard to leave the hotel grounds. You can enjoy one of their breakfast in bed options that let you relax and enjoy a full breakfast in your robe in front of the TV with your family.

The Willard InterContinental Washington will definitely be one of the best vacation spots for families with toddlers. The city of Washington D.C has so many things to offer at such a great price and a hotel atmosphere to recharge.

The Martinhal Cascais Luxury Resort is a great place to travel with your toddler. Located in the magical town of Cascais, it’s a quick drive to Lisbon and Sintra. When you and your family travel to the Martinhal Cascais Resort, the most stunning views of nature will surround you. 

With rolling hills, mountains, and a gorgeous coastline with surfing options, you can spend your days relaxing or having fun in the sun. 

One thing you’ll love about this resort is that it offers an array of activities and amenities for kids. In addition, they have their own baby concierge that lets you book baby equipment ahead of time, such as potties, safety gates, cots, and even baby baths. As you’ll know, this convenient service makes the traveling experience with your toddler much easier. 

We all know toddlers can be curious, and we wouldn’t want them to wander off and get lost. However, the staff at Martinhal Cascais understand what your young children need to stay safe while on vacation. They realize that vacation is a time to enjoy, not create additional stress.

The resort offers separate play areas for children and toddlers. There is an indoor playground with a ball pool, a Lego area, and arts and crafts. There is also an outdoor play area with a mini zip line and trampoline, where little ones will have the time of their lives.

The Azul Beach Hotel and Resort is in the Riviera Maya, Mexico . You’ll feel right at home when you get here since The Azul Beach Hotel and Resort is all about relaxation. Don’t think that your toddler might not get enough entertainment here, as they know that toddlers need to get out and about during the day.

This hotel is on the smaller side, but they make up for it by offering guests amenities, activities, and service. When you stay at the Azul Beach Hotel and Resort, you can rest assured that you will have everything you need for your lovely growing toddler. 

The Azul Beach Hotel and Resort team wants to take the guesswork out of your vacation preparation, from bottle warmers to gourmet baby food.

Not to mention they offer babysitting services on the beach all day long. They even have you covered down to in-room outlet covers, diaper genes, and toddler bathrobes. There’s no reason you and your toddler can’t dress alike while relaxing on that beach.

Baby’s require a lot of attention, and while you love your toddler, you also want to take time for yourself. The Azul Beach Hotel and Resort knows what it’s like to enjoy some well-deserved relaxation. They offer a complete spa for you and your partner to enjoy. You can even have a romantic dinner delivered to your room while your toddler stays with a babysitter for up to three hours at a time. 

The hotel offers a baby butler service that ensures your room remains stocked with all the amenities you need before you arrive. To add to the perks, you also receive regular check-ins to ensure you have everything you need for your toddler. 

You’ll feel right at home at the Azul Beach Hotel & Resort.

The Antlers at Vail is in the beautiful city of Vail, Colorado . They offer ski-in/ski-out luxurious accommodations that you’ll want to come back to after a long day of being active. The service at the Antlers is second to none, and you’ll feel right at home with your toddler.

The Antlers at Vail is a fantastic hotel/ condominium rental to bring your toddler because it genuinely feels like a home away from home. The studio hotels feature a full kitchen, dining room, and separate bedrooms. You’ll also enjoy perks like free transportation to the slopes, access to indoor/outdoor pools, restaurants, and spas. 

One thing that sticks out about the Antlers at Vail is that they offer free shuttles to local grocery stores. You can enjoy your vacation with your little ones, cook their favorite meal, enjoy it in your room, or head to the dining room and enjoy a made-to-order meal together in front of a funny movie. The choice is yours.

The condominium atmosphere gives you the opportunity to have your own privacy away from the kids. You’ll have a separate bedroom with a king-sized bed for you and your partner. The condominium even has a bunk room that sleeps up to four people. Perfect if your family includes more than one toddler.

The beautiful thing about the Antlers at Vail is that this ski town is very family-friendly. You’ll find places to eat and activities perfect for toddlers all over Vail!

You’ll find the Beltane Ranch in the beautiful Glen Ellen, California . The resort offers a serene setting for you and your toddler to truly enjoy nature together. The staff at the ranch is all about making sure you and your family enjoy a unique experience.

You’ll want to make sure you plan your days around the schedule of activities offered by the ranch. They have extensive agricultural experience for you and your toddler to learn more about wine grape growing, olive oil press, and cooking with their on-staff chefs. 

One thing you’ll love is all the rich history it offers on the property. The ranch has been on the same land and owned by the same family since 1895! You can take a tour of the old carriage house and the attached barns and even have a picnic on the historic front porch.

The Beltane Ranch is unique because they offer cottages for rent with beautiful views of the Sonoma Valley. You’ll love waking up in the morning and being greeted by nature. This serene setting is conducive to a peaceful family vacation. Think of this as an adult getaway with your toddler, but in California wine country!

You’ll find the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit in beautiful Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. This luxurious hotel is a family-friendly resort that offers you and your family the opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable vacation together.

The Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit provides you and your family with many activities to enjoy during your stay. They offer a kids club that includes pool games and outdoor and educational activities. Some of these activities are building sandcastles, watersports, and learning how to make crafts from local artisans. 

You’ll also find a variety of entertainment options for your toddler, like face painting and magicians. One of the most enjoyable experiences is resting in the beach’s hammocks with the family. It is truly a unique experience in Mexico!

The fantastic thing about the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is that this resort offers all-inclusive dining. You can truly enjoy the luxury of relaxing in your room without having to manage expenses for meals. Everything is right on site.

The Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit staff takes a lot of pride in making their resort a family-friendly vacation destination. It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy yourselves away from all the stresses of everyday life.

The Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground is in Disney World in Orlando, Florida. The Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground is an incredible place for your family to stay. You’ll enjoy gorgeous Lake Buena Vista and the rustic charm of all the activities this resort offers.

One thing to appreciate is that you can order your groceries ahead of time, and they will be waiting for you in your room when you arrive. Thankfully, if you have a little one with you, they will also have a pack-n-play and high chair waiting for them. In addition, the resort is pet-friendly so that you don’t have to leave your faithful companion at home either.

One of the best things about staying at Fort Wilderness is enjoying all the activities available to you and your toddler. You can enjoy the outdoor nature trails, the petting zoo, and even enjoy some fishing. You can also rent a golf cart big enough for four people to explore the vast resort and enjoy the gorgeous scenery.

The best part is that your toddler can even get in on all of the magic. You’ll want to make sure you sign them up for the Pirate Adventure Cruise, Mickey’s Backyard BBQ, and even enjoy the Hoop-de-do Musical Review. These are such special memories that you and your toddler will cherish forever!

The Omni La Costa Resort and Spa is in Carlsbad, California, in a lush oceanfront setting. You’ll genuinely enjoy the expansive views and rich history this resort has to offer. In fact, the resort was the very first hotel in Carlsbad!

When you stay at Omni La Costa Resort and Spa, you can truly experience the luxury and relaxation that it offers. You’ll enjoy beautiful ocean views and be delighted by all of the activities they provide for your family.

One of the best family experiences this resort offers is its Kidtopia program. Your toddler can enjoy crafts, storytelling, and even beach bonfires. Many parents have gotten to enjoy the Omni La Costa as a child, which means they’ll love showing all of their childhood memories with the rest of their family.

Another great thing about the Omni La Costa Resort and Spa is that they offer various dining options. You can choose from their excellent restaurants or enjoy the convenience of room service. It’s the perfect way to end a long day of exploring Carlsbad and spending quality time with your toddler.

The Omni La Costa Resort and Spa offers fun activities your family will enjoy. You’ll love relaxing in a beautiful setting and watching your toddler experience all the resort has to offer, like scavenger hunts, dine-in movies, limbo, and hula hoop competitions for overall family fun.

The Smugglers Notch Resort is the perfect place to go if you want a true ski-in, ski-out family experience. The moment you walk in the door of your room, you’ll be able to enjoy breathtaking views of either Camel’s Hump or Mt. Mansfield. You’ll also be delighted to see a pack-n-play and high chair waiting for your little one!

Additionally, you can take advantage of their ski and snowboard schools, so your toddler can get in some extra practice while you enjoy a break. Finally, there is plenty of room for all of you to wake up and enjoy a hearty breakfast together before hitting the slopes.

Children who are at least two and a half years old can enjoy their own unique experience at Smugglers Notch. They can take part in the children’s program and enjoy all the fun activities they offer like bonfire warm-up, pirate bingo, fireworks, and the winter carnival.

The winter carnival gives families the opportunity to enjoy great food, music, and games together no matter which day you visit.

Adults can enjoy the ice skating rink, tubing, and sleigh rides. There truly is something for everyone here. Then, after everyone has had their fun, they can curl up by the fire and make s’mores. It’s a perfect way to end a long day of skiing or snowboarding with delicious s’mores by the fire while spending quality time with your toddler.

You’ll love the Smugglers’ Notch Resort because of the convenience it offers. Being so close to the slopes saves you time and energy that you can use for more family quality time.

When you stay at WorldMark Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri , you’ll indeed be able to enjoy every moment with your toddler. The resort offers breathtaking views of the lake and fantastic decor that is unique and comfortable for every family member.

When staying at WorldMark Lake of the Ozarks, you’ll be able to enjoy room service and amazing dining options right in the comfort of your room. It’s the perfect way to end a long day exploring all that Lake of the Ozarks has to offer.

Additionally, you can take advantage of the exhilarating experiences of horseback riding and dolphin cruises. So whether you want to just sit by the pool, go fishing, or even ride a camel, this resort has everything you need.  

The WorldMark Lake of the Ozarks is a great place to stay because they truly have something for everyone. You’ll love that you can sit back, relax and take a break from all your adventures while still enjoying quality time with your little one in front of a view of the lake and a warm fireplace with the option of room service.

Try These Best Vacation Spots for Families with Toddlers

So what are you waiting for? Now is the time to take your toddler on the vacation of a lifetime and head to one of these fantastic resorts. They’ll experience new activities and create new family memories everyone can cherish forever. Your love for travel no longer has to be put on hold because you are a parent. 

These resorts offer you the amenities you need to save you money while traveling. They allow you to spend more time taking in the experience of their resorts and their surroundings than planning meals and buying amenities to keep your toddler safe. Let’s not forget they offer fun and safe activities for the entire family.

Dust off those suitcases and plan the adventure of a lifetime by visiting these best vacation spots for families with toddlers. Fun in the sun with your family has never felt so good!

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

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10 Best Fun Family Getaways and Day Trips with Kids

Posted by: NJ Kids - June 06, 2019

Guide to Family Getaways and Day Trip Attractions with Kids...

Looking to spend some quality family time with the kids? Perhaps a day trip, weekend getaway, or a week long vacation. Here are some top ideas for a fun time at nearby destinations just a short drive away from New Jersey.

PINE RIDGE DUDE RANCH

All inclusive family vacation destination at Pine Ridge Dude Ranch . Enjoy beautiful trails and horseback riding! Ride over miles of wooded trails overlooking the scenic Shawangunk Ridge with views of the Mohonk Mountain. There’s never a dull moment. Choose from a vast array of outdoor fun & activities, including paddle boats, bounce pillow, fishing, tractor rides, archery, sports and games. Plus kids will love the indoor heated pool with double flume waterslides and the outdoor Olympic size pool with waterslides. Overnight, groups and day trips. 30 Cherrytown Rd, Kerhonkson, NY, 866-600-0859.

STORYBOOK LAND

Storybook Land is a special place that keeps the spirit of childhood alive in an entertaining and educational atmosphere. Relive your childhood while introducing innocent themes of wonderment to your children. Literally walk through all-time favorite stories and nursery rhymes. Children’s classics are interspersed with exciting new family rides and attractions in a clean and enjoyable park setting. Book your birthday parties too. 6415 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ, 609.646.0103.

WOODLOCH RESORT

What will you find at Woodloch Resort ? 30+ scheduled activities daily, resort amenities including (indoor and outdoor pool, sandy beach area with water slide, row boats, paddle boats, canoes, paintball, race cars, bumper cars, skating rink, bicycling, wooded trails, golf course), nightly entertainment, 2-3 meals daily. Woodloch is a 4 season Poconos family resort nestled in a pristine mountain lake vacation setting. Rated in the top 1% on Trip Advisor. Hawley, PA, 800.Woodloch

SAHARA SAMS OASIS INDOOR & OUTDOOR WATERPARK

Sahara Sams is a family waterpark attraction with both indoor and outdoor water fun. Plenty of cool water slides, toddler & kiddie pools, arcades, outdoor beach club, wave pool, outdoor Splish Splash area just for small children and much more! Float downstream and meander down the Congo Bongo Adventure River. Try the Flow Rider, NJ's only indoor surfing simulator. Sit tight on a family water raft as you breeze through Mount Kilimanjaro. 535 North Route 73, West Berlin, NJ, 856.767.7580.

LEHIGH VALLEY ZOO

Children of all ages can experience some smart fun at Lehigh Valley Zoo and learn about animals. This zoo is all about wildlife conservation. Lehigh Valley is home to more than 325 animal ambassadors representing over 125 species, from alpacas, bisons, elks, owls, penguins, porcupines to zebras. 5150 Game Preserve Road, Schnecksville, PA, 610.799.4171.

DIGGERLAND USA

For Kids: rides & attractions in this Construction Adventure Park. For 18+ and adults, climb aboard a digger machine at Diggerland . Operate heavy machinery, drive skid-steers and climb the ropes courses. 100 Pinedge Drive, West Berlin, NJ, 856.768.1110.

LAND OF MAKE BELIEVE

Plan a day of fun with your kids at Land of Make Believe . Great amusement park for young children. Come check us out!! This theme park has rides the whole family can enjoy, with roller coasters, ferris wheel, a civil war train, flying dragon, carousel, boardwalk games and more! It also features an outdoor water park with slides, rides, and an awesome lazy river. 354 Great Meadows Road - Rt. 611, Hope, NJ, 908.459.9000.

SPLASHDOWN BEACH WATER PARK

Known as America's Biggest Little Water Park, SplashDown Beach is a family friendly outdoor water park. Non stop fun with water slides, water rides, family pools, lazy river, spinning buckets of water, monster wave pool, little kids lagoon area, cabanas, and a beach called Rock Beach. 16 Old Route 9 West, Fishkill, NY, 845.897.9600.

DELAWARE WATER GAP NATIONAL RECREATION AREA

Nature is waiting for you at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area: take a walk along Dingmans Falls Boardwalk (about 1.5 mile) to view Dingmans Falls. The back trail is good for all skill levels and primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips and bird watching. Best time to go is from March to November. You’ll find sports activities such as boating, white water rafting, canoeing, swimming, and fishing. Also nearby is the Pocono Snake and Animal Farm. Head out to visit Bushkill Falls, the Niagara of Pennsylvania. Many waterparks are nearby including Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark, Kalahari, Great Wolf Lodge, Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark.

BATTLESHIP NEW JERSEY

Right across Penn's Landing in Philadelphia is the Battleship New Jersey . Learn all about the fascination history of the USS New Jersey and her veterans. Both kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring the deck of the battleship, going up and down ladders and learning how the sailors once lived. Take a self-guided Fire Power tour or a Turret II Tour. Group overnight trips also available. 62 Battleship Place, Camden, NJ, 856.966.1652.

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40+ Fun Places to Take Kids Near Me

By: Author Jacquie Fisher

Posted on Published: July 8, 2019

Categories Travel Fun

Get out & explore these 40 fun places to take kids near me – go with family, just the kids or plan a day trip!

If you have kids, you know it can be crazy to go anywhere! 

Every trip – to the grocery store, the park or the beach – always seems to require huge amounts of stuff.

But summertime means day trips & family road trips – a chance to go explore some new places and let your kids see another part of the world or have a new experience.

So today, we’re going to get your family ready for adventure by sharing a FREE printable list of 40+ fun places to go with kids and some great travel tips to get you out the door quickly!

40+ Fun Places to Go Near Me: Day Trips for Kids and Families

Today’s goals is to make day trippin’ a little easier for you!

Trust me, I’ve been carrying, carting and traveling with my kids for 20 years to nature centers, factory tours, historic sites, etc. 

We’ve had our share of Awesome! and not-so-great moments on the road (be sure to see our list of 27 Travel Hacks & Road Trip tips ).

There was the time we drove 2 hours to see the sites and when I opened the back of the van, I realized that I forgot the snack bag ( doh! ). 

My kids also remember when I locked my keys in the car during a visit to the Farmer’s Market in mid-July. 

And the day we took my son to a golf activity more than an hour away from home – my 3-year-old and I were set to explore the local kids center and nature area. 

But guess who decided to take her shoes off in the driveway before she got into the car? 

And guess who was in too much of a hurry to check and make sure both kids had on their shoes?

Yet every summer, my kids ask what fun places will we be exploring this year so I must be doing something right 😉

Here are some of our BEST tips, our favorite items to take with us along with affiliate links and a FREE printable list to inspire you to get out and adventure together!

What to Pack for a Day Trip with Kids

We have been caught too many times without something that would have made our trip much easier. 

So now we pack our ‘what if’ bag with items we MIGHT need for a great day –

• FUN activities – I’m a big fan of tech & non-tech ideas for the car so try these 15 Printable Road Trip Activities & Travel Games on your next trip!
• Bathing suits –  in case we find a water park or splash area and want to cool off.
• Extra socks – we always seem to need them for a bouncy house or as a back-up when our first pair gets wet.
• Portable electronics charger and/or multi-prong car charger – because something always needs to be charged or I forget to charge my phone before we leave
• Flip-flops – at the end of the day, we’d all rather ride home in bare feet than our sneakers.
• A change of clothes — if you have kids, you don’t even need to ask why;)
• Some Wet Wipes – these are my favorite because of the great scent!
• Medications — a must if you’ll be gone for a while.
• My AAA card – in case I decide to lock my keys in the car again (my Dad keeps telling me to get one of these key hiders since this is a yearly thing with me 😉
• First Aid Kit – aren’t these in every bag you pack for the kids?  Someone’s always getting cut on our trips (half the time, it’s my husband 🙂
• A large beach towel or waterproof picnic blanket – so many great uses for a beach blanket when you travel!
• An awesome insulated snack bag full of our favorite (healthy) snacks ( more on what we bring to eat below )!

Oh yes, and a big awesome bag to hold all the ‘what if’ items!

You can also find a free printable Summer Bag list here!

Car Activities: Keeping Kids Busy on the Way to Fun Places

Many of our trips require a drive — let’s face it, we live in the Midwest and most everything is more than an hour away! 

And not all those ‘fun places near me’ are super close — so encourage your kids to pack things to do while you’re on the road.

We limit the amount of tech time the kids get on trips — car rides are a great time to connect with each other which is really hard to do if the kids are always watching a movie.

For trips where we spend less than 3 hours in the car, we don’t bring any DVD players or iPads. 

Instead, our kids choose things like crayons, dry erase boards & markers , weaving, travel size etch-a-sketch and other creative activities they can do in the car.  When they were younger, I loved having the Water WOW! activity pads for the car too.

I also love putting together a road trip binder with 40+ free printable games & activities — including printables for any fun places we might be stopping that summer (like National Parks or historic sites).

We also enjoy car games –

• the License Plate Game ( free printable U.S. map for you !),
• Zig I’ve Got a Horse,
• vintage Car Ride BINGO
• Mad Libs on the Road are some of our favorites!

Another great life skill for older kids is to have them help you navigate on the trip!  Keep a kid-friendly atlas in the car and teach them how to read a map & road signs while you travel.

Headphones for kids are the first thing we grab since we all love music but we don’t necessarily love each other’s music;) 

Plus, they work to block out other noises if kids decide to take a quick nap on the trip or want to read without all the distractions. 

Travel Tip:   Keep a crate in the back seat of your van or car and load it up with ‘new’ library books before each of your trips!  A fun way to keep them reading 😉

Road Trip Snacks for Day Trips

Oh yea!  Totally gotta have snacks when you’re traveling with kids. 

Heck, my kids can’t seem to ride from the house to the library without telling me how they’re “starving” and need a snack.

And in all honesty, I usually get hungry every few hours so keeping Mom fed is a good thing too 😉

Water is the #1 item on any of our day trip/road trip lists – having a great reusable water bottle or drinking cup for each person is a must for our summer travels! 

Travel Tip:   Not only do we use water bottles in the car but since many of our day trips include places like nature centers, hikes and zoos, we always need to have water with us during the visit too so this saves us from purchasing extra drinks once we arrive.

As far as food items, we like to bring easy-to-eat pieces of fruit (bananas, apples, grapes) and quick snacks we can carry such as granola bars, protein bars or a healthy snack mix. 

You can see more healthy snack ideas and get a FREE car trip cheklist here !

Footwear for Day Trips & Fun Places To Go Near Me

I know you’ll be sitting in the car for a bunch of the trip but I’m sorry to say those flimsy flip-flops just won’t cut it on hiking trails or among the wood chips on the playground.

We are a pretty active family so most of our day trips include some type of walking, hiking or climbing. 

Sometimes it even includes a horse ride or wading through a creek too.  We always make sure that everyone has sturdy & comfy shoes for our day trips. 

Travel Tip:   I’ve learned over the years, plan the activity that requires the most energy for the morning — then move on to the other things you’d like to do that day. 

Especially during the summer, it’s always better to fit in a hike or trip to the playground in the morning when it’s cooler and then hit an indoor attraction in the afternoon. 

40+ Fun Places to Go Near Me

So now you have an idea of what to wear and what to bring on your next TOTALLY AWESOME day trip — but where can you go? 

Get this printable list of Day Trip Ideas for FREE & get out and explore someplace new your kids!

More Road Trip Ideas:

15 Printable Road Trip Activities & Travel Games

10 Things to do Before Your Next Road Trip {with free printable checklist!}

Travel Journal Ideas for Kids {with free printables!}

More Fun Things to do Near Me:

20 Amazing Summer Scavenger Hunts

105 Activities that Make Awesome Summer Memories

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101 family day trips and staycation ideas around the hudson valley.

Remember, it's always best to follow each link to get details about your visit directly from your destination, since some places operate seasonally or by reservation, as well as to check each venue's COVID requirements (masks, limits, social distancing) .

Free activities and splurges that are worth it. The coolest stuff for a staycation in town and road trips for less than a tank of gas from the Hudson Valley. Kids Out And About has tons of ideas for family travel, with places to explore, learn, and have fun!

KidsOutAndAbout is America's online guide to everything for kids, teens, and families! If you don't already receive our free weekly e-newsletter, sign up today to make sure you're in the know about free stuff, festivals, classes, camps, vacation ideas, and all the best events near you!

Explore Gardens & Sculpture Gardens

Get wild on a hike, time travel today, make life a beach, splash into some water fun, spend the day at a museum, explore these cities, all aboard planes, trains, and automobiles (and boats), grow some fun at the farm, treat yo' self, connect with nature, amuse yourself at these amusement parks, talk to the animals, explore the globe close to home, monkey around at the playground destinations, get active indoors, challenge yourself, shop your heart out.

Most of these destinations are within an hour from the center of our Hudson Valley region. For those that are a bit farther away:

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101 family day trips and staycations around the twin cities.

**Follow each link to get details about your visit directly from your destination, since some places operate seasonally or by reservation, as well as to check each venue's COVID requirements (masks, limits, social distancing).

Free activities and splurges that are worth it. The coolest stuff for a staycation in town and road trips for less than a tank of gas from Minneapolis-St. Paul. Kids Out And About has tons of ideas for family travel, with places to explore, learn, and have fun around the Twin Cities!

KidsOutAndAbout is America's online guide to everything for kids, teens, and families! If you don't already receive our free weekly e-newsletter, sign up today to make sure you're in the know about free stuff, festivals, classes, camps, vacation ideas, and all the best events near you!

Take A Deep Breath In the Garden

Get wild on a hike, time travel today, make life a beach, splash into some water fun, spend the day at a museum, explore these cities, all aboard planes, trains, and automobiles (and boats), grow some fun at the farm, treat yo' self, connect with nature, amuse yourself at these amusement parks, talk to the animals, explore the globe close to home, let's go chasing waterfalls, get active indoors, challenge yourself, shop your heart out.

Limiting our list to 101 ideas meant some great destinations may have been left off the list - if there is something you’d like to see added, email our publisher Debra Ross !

Most of these destinations are within an hour from the Twin Cities area. For those that are a bit farther away:

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• Activities for Babies & Toddlers
• Activities for Preschoolers
• Activities for kids in early elementary school
• Activities for 'tweens
• Activities for Teens
• Activities for the whole family
• CSAs - Community-Supported Agriculture
• Fun on the Farm
• Indoor Play Centers
• Local venues with memberships & season passes
• Preschools & Day Care
• Private Schools
• Music Organizations
• Performances & Movies
• Local Theater
• Dance Organizations
• Dance Performances
• Visual Arts Organizations
• Nature Centers & Zoos
• Amusement Parks
• Get Active: Sports & Fitness
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• General Day Camps
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• STEM, Language, and Culture
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• Cooking & Crafts
• Virtual/Online Summer Camps
• Classes by Subject
• Exercise & Health
• Sports & Fitness
• Horseback Riding
• Martial Arts
• Performing Arts
• Hands-on (Arts & Crafts & Cooking)
• Sign Language
• Academic (Science, Tech, Writing, History, Test prep, etc)
• Virtual/Online Classes
• Exhibits - current & upcoming
• Story times at libraries & bookstores
• Organizations focused on STEM or Culture
• Home schooling
• Master Guide to Summer Fun in the Twin Cities
• Master Guide to Fall Fun
• Halloween Fun
• Fall Festivals
• Apple Picking
• Pumpkin Patches
• Master Guide to Holiday Fun
• 101 Holiday Activities in the Twin Cities
• Christmas Tree Farms
• Subscriptions Boxes: Gifts That Keep on Giving
• Where to visit Santa
• FREE holiday events
• Christmas Activities
• Lightbulb Day
• New Year's Eve Activities
• Holiday concerts and performances
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• Winter Fun: Skiing
• Winter fun: Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
• Winter Fun: Skating
• Winter Fun: Embrace Winter Sports
• Upcoming online events
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Austin's online guide to everything for kids, teens, & families!

Search form

101 family day trips and staycation ideas around from austin.

Remember, it's always best to follow each link to get details about your visit directly from your destination, since some places operate seasonally or by reservation.

Free activities and splurges that are worth it. The coolest stuff for a staycation in town and road trips for less than a tank of gas from Austin. Kids Out And About has tons of ideas for family travel, with places to explore, learn, and have fun!

KidsOutAndAbout is America's online guide to everything for kids, teens, and families! If you don't already receive our free weekly e-newsletter, sign up today to make sure you're in the know about free stuff, festivals, classes, camps, vacation ideas, and all the best events near you!

Explore Gardens & Sculpture Gardens

Get wild on a hike, time travel today, make life a beach, splash into some water fun, spend the day at a museum, explore these cities, all aboard planes, trains, and automobiles (and boats), grow some fun at the farm, treat yo' self, connect with nature, amuse yourself at these amusement parks, talk to the animals, explore the globe close to home, get active indoors, challenge yourself, shop your heart out, explore some caves.

Most of these destinations are within an hour from Austin. For those that are a bit farther away:

• Share on Facebook
• Tweet Widget
• Free Events Today
• Free Events This Weekend
• Free Events Next Weekend
• Free Places to Take Your Kids
• Today's Events
• All Events This Weekend
• All Events Next Weekend
• Earth Day Events
• Mother's Day Events
• Activities for Babies & Toddlers
• Activities for Preschoolers
• Activities for kids in early elementary school
• Activities for 'tweens
• Activities for Teens
• Activities for the whole family
• CSAs - Community-Supported Agriculture
• Fun on the Farm
• Indoor Play Centers
• Local venues with memberships & season passes
• Preschools & Day Care
• Private Schools & Charter Schools
• Where to Pick Summer Fruit: Berries & More
• Music organizations
• Performances & Movies
• Local Theater
• Dance organizations
• Dance performances
• Visual Arts Organizations
• Nature Centers & Zoos
• Amusement Parks
• Summer Fruit Picking: Berries & More
• Get Active: Sports & Fitness
• Local Gyms & Rec Centers
• Sports Education
• Sports Teams
• Special Needs
• Parenting Hacks
• Local Reviews
• Vacation Reviews
• Product Reviews
• Book, Music, & Games Reviews
• Event Reviews
• Week by Week Guide to Summer Camps
• General Day Camps
• Overnight Camps
• Sports/Fitness
• STEM, Language, and Culture
• Visual Arts
• Cooking & Crafts
• Virtual/Online Summer Camps
• Classes by Subject
• Sports & Fitness
• Exercise & Health
• Horseback Riding
• Martial Arts
• Performing Arts
• Hands-on (Arts & Crafts & Cooking)
• Academic (Science, Tech, Writing, History, Test prep, etc)
• Virtual/Online Classes
• Exhibits - current & upcoming
• Story times at libraries & bookstores
• Organizations focused on STEM or Culture
• Home schooling
• Master Guide to Summer Fun in the Austin Area
• Master Guide to Fall Fun
• Halloween Fun
• Fall Festivals
• Pumpkin Patches
• Master Guide to Holiday Fun
• 101 Ideas for Holiday Family Fun in Austin
• Christmas Tree Farms
• Subscriptions Boxes: Gifts That Keep on Giving
• Where to visit Santa
• FREE holiday events
• Christmas Activities
• Lightbulb Day
• New Year's Eve Activities
• Holiday concerts and performances
• Master Guide to Winter Fun
• Ice Skating
• Zoo and Nature Centers
• Upcoming Online Events
• Virtual/Online Learning Resources & Classes
• 24/7 virtual experiences
• Top 20 Places to Take Kids as voted by Austin parents
• 101 Family Day Trips Around Austin
• Notes from Deb
• This week's newsletter
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Been There Done That with Kids

Finding fun places to take your kids in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Virginia

FUN FAMILY TRIPS

in the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond

15 Fun Day Trips with Kids near Pennsylvania

Keep in mind that reservations or advance tickets may be needed for some of these attractions suggested for day trips with kids near Pennsylvania. Always check the attraction’s website for current policies, hours, and ticket information.

Philadelphia Day Trip

There’s so much to experience in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas. Some ideas for fun activities in the city include the Franklin Institute and viewing the Liberty Bell. There’s also Fairmont Park with the Please Touch Museum and Smith Playground.

A bit further outside the city is Legoland Discovery Center Philadelphia . This is a LEGO-themed play place with a cute, interactive train that takes you into the Discovery Center. In the general Philadelphia area, there’s also Sesame Place . Sesame Place is focused on younger children and has many dry rides and water rides along with two, family-friendly roller coasters.

Kilgore Falls Day Trip

Kilgore Falls is located in Rocks State Park, which is just over the Pennsylvania border in Maryland. During summer weekends and holidays, it’s essential to reserve a parking spot that is adjacent to the trailhead for the falls. The parking lot is small, and park rangers oversee the entry into the parking lot during summer weekends and holidays.

Each parking reservation allows you to park and enjoy Kilgore Falls for a few hours. It’s a good idea to bring water shoes, as the rocks around the waterfall can be slippery.

Harrisburg Day Trip

The capitol city of Pennsylvania has a lot of fun options for day trips. There’s city island which features a baseball stadium, train, and the Susquehanna Pride riverboat.

In the city, the Pennsylvania State Museum is a good option for history buffs, while it also has an area that caters to kids. There’s the Whitaker Center with Kids Place and many other kid-oriented exhibits.

Allentown Day Trip

Allentown is home to Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom. In addition to this massive amusement park, there’s also the Da Vinci Science Center .

Nearby, the Crayola Experience in Easton, which is close to Allentown, is fun for the younger bunch.

Ricketts Glen Day Trip

Ricketts Glen is a state park located in northern Pennsylvania. This beautiful park has a waterfall trail that features over two dozen waterfalls. This hike is good for older children, around ages 8 or older who are used to longer hikes. There’s a lot of stairs and hills, but a ton of amazing places to explore.

After the over four mile hike, relax on the park’s sandy lake beach of Lake Jean. There are restrooms and a changing area at the beach. Be sure to bring a picnic meal and some inner tubes for some added fun.

Lancaster Day Trip

Lancaster has so many fun places to visit, it will be difficult to list all of them in this short description. First, there’s Tiny Town , a small indoor village for kids.

Of course, Dutch Wonderland , an amusement park catering to young children, is a favorite with kids ages 2 to 10. Next, check out all of the train-related fun with a trip to Strasburg Rail Road and the Choo Choo Barn.

Don’t forget that Cherry Crest Adventure Farm is located close to Strasburg Rail Road. The farm features so many activities, it could be a day trip by itself. There are over 20 fun activities for kids in Lancaster .

Seaside Heights Day Trip

Seaside Heights is a bit of a drive from Pennsylvania, but it is possible to do as a day trip (we’ve done it several times). The beach town features Casino Pier and Breakwater Beach .

This pier is filled with amusement rides, while the water park, Breakwater Beach, is located on the next block over from the pier. This is the home of an amazingly long chair lift with beautiful views of the ocean. Of course, it’s also fun to play on the beach.

Ohiopyle Day Trip

Ohiopyle is a state park located in the southeastern part of Pennsylvania, in the general Pittsburgh region. The park boasts amazing white water rafting, but is also known for a short hike to Cucumber Falls and natural water slides. Also in the area is Seven Springs Resort , which features skiing in the winter and a fun alpine sled run in the summer.

Reading Day Trip

Reading is an interesting day trip destination for kids. There’s the Pagoda that overlooks the city of Reading, an interesting and educational place to visit in the city. Also, nearby is The Works at Wyomissing, a place with go-karts, an arcade, and play place for kids.

Hershey Day Trip

Hershey is known as the sweetest place on earth. Even the streetlights in downtown Hershey are shaped like kisses.

Hersheypark is the highlight of a Hershey day trip, but there’s also plenty more to do in the Hershey area. Check out Indian Echo Caverns , ZooAmerica , The Hershey Story museum, and Hershey Gardens. A bit up the road is Lake Tobias , a popular animal safari and walk-thru zoo.

Chambersburg Day Trip

Chambersburg is the county seat of Franklin County. Though it’s a comparatively small town, there are some fun and unique activities nearby. This includes Chambersburg Aquatic Center , with its water slides, lazy river, and miniature golf course.

Beside the aquatic center is Chambersburg Memorial Park . This park features a unique toddler playground. Also worth checking out in the area is Norlo Park that features miniature train rides and Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium . While Chambersburg is a small town, there are quite a few fun day trips for kids in the area.

Baltimore Day Trip

Baltimore Inner Harbor is a fun place to walk around with the kids, and that area is also home to Port Discovery Children’s Museum .

More main attractions grace the harbor such as the National Aquarium and the Maryland Science Center. Both are fun visits for elementary-age children. There’s plenty do in the Inner Harbor as one of the day trips with kids near Pennsylvania.

Central New Jersey Day Trip

Diggerland , a construction-themed amusement park is a highlight of a central New Jersey trip for kids. Next door to Diggerland is Sahara Sam’s, an indoor waterpark.

Poconos Day Trip

The Poconos are known for their indoor water parks and skiing. However, the area can still be a good choice for a day trip either in the summer or winter. In the summer, Camelback Mountain is home to a water park, Camelbeach . There’s also Camelback Mountain Adventures which has thrilling zip lines and a mountain coaster. In the winter, Camelback features a giant tubing hill.

Strasburg Day Trip

Strasburg Rail Road offers short excursions on their train, as well as special events such as Thomas’ Day Out. If you take a train ride, you’ll pass Cherry Crest Adventure Farm , which has tons of fun activities for children.

Cherry Crest is also home to Sproutsville, a kid-sized village. Unique lodging in the area is the Red Caboose, which has hotel rooms in train cars and a restaurant made from a train.

More Fun Day Trips for Kids Near Pennsylvania

Looking for even more fun day trips with kids near Pennsylvania and other activities your kids with enjoy? Check out lists of places to go in New Jersey , Pennsylvania , Virginia , New York , and Maryland .

Post Author: karenbeth24

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The best trips from NYC with kids for home day adventures

For a hassle-free family getaway? Take one of these day trips from NYC with the kids.

You can keep the kids endlessly entertained, filling weekends and after-school hours with all the amazing things to do with kids in NYC . When they’re off school, however, that’s a great time to think about a day trip from NYC for some home day adventures. While there are plenty of options for weekend getaways to family resorts and other nearby attractions, a day trip means lots of fun without making reservations or packing a bag. These day trips for kids include epic options like sailing, hiking, biking and even foraging in the woods. Head to a museum, water park, amusement park or beach, all within a couple hours of the city, and you’re sure to have a blast on your next home day adventure.

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Day trips from NYC to take with kids

1.  Riverhead, NY

Travel time: 2 hours from NYC

This Suffolk County town boasts more than just the sprawling Tanger Outlet. It's home to the Long Island Aquarium ( longislandaquarium.com ), which houses penguins, otters, octopus and one of the largest all-living, closed-system coral reef displays. Children will love getting their hands wet in the touch tank and taking a look at the sharks (those who are brave enough can even cage dive with them)! Refuel at Turkuaz Grill   ( turkuazgrillriverhead.com ), a spot full of homey vibes, delicious Mediterranean fare and outdoor picnic tables. If the kids are itching to get into the water, Splish Splash Water Park satisfies that craving with 96 acres of water rides, pools and tube slides ( splishsplash.com ) . 

2.  Cape May, NJ

Travel time: 2.5 hours from NYC

This beachy destination, located on the southern tip of New Jersey, is full of great spots for families and curious kids. In addition to strolling along its white sand beaches, families can explore the remains of the U.S.S. Atlantus or venture out into the waters on a tour with Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center ( capemaywhalewatch.com ). Head to the Cape May Count Park & Zoo, ( cmczoo.com ) an admission-free park complete with trolley trains, a carousel, a rock climbing wall and the Tree to Tree Adventure Park. If you’re in town on a day with clear skies, pack a picnic lunch and climb the 199 steps to get to the top of the Cape May Lighthouse ( lighthousefriends.com ).

3.  Bucks County, PA

Whether your kids prefer indoor fun, outdoor adventures or close encounters with their favorite TV characters, this spot has it all. As the home of Sesame Place ( sesameplace.com ), children will love meeting Elmo, Big Bird and the rest of the furry gang while experiencing thrilling rides tailored just for them. The Bucks County Children’s Museum ( buckskids.org ) offers interactive educational exhibits where kids can dig for buried treasure, build their own race car and learn how to operate the Delaware Canal system .  Little ones can take a ride on the hand-carved wooden figures on the restored 1922 Grand Carousel at Giggleberry Fair before enjoying arcade games in the Game Room or strolling through the shops at 18th-century Peddler’s Village ( peddlersvillage.com ) . When hunger strikes, choose from the variety of dining options Peddler’s Village offers.

4.  Jersey City, NJ

Travel time: 40 mins from NYC

Moms and dads can keep the schlepping to a minimum by hopping across the Hudson for a hassle-free day with their little ones. Jersey City boasts some amazing family-friendly entertainment that can be tackled while keeping the Manhattan skyline within view. Hours of awe-worthy entertainment await at the Liberty Science Center ( lsc.org ) where curious kids will have a blast making their way through the various exhibitions.  

5.  Norwalk, CT

Travel time: 1.5 hours from NYC

Make your first stop in Norwalk the interactive Stepping Stones Museum for Children ( steppingstonesmuseum.org ) for kids 10 and under. The Energy Lab is one of the venue's must-see science-themed offerings. Next, be sure to hit up the impressive Maritime Aquarium ( maritimeaquarium.org ) where kids learn about marine animals that live in the Long Island Sound, meet several varieties of real, live dragons and even touch the tops of jiggly jellyfish. Afterward, choose from a varied selection of its epic IMAX films to enjoy.

6.  Wildwood, NJ

This Jersey Shore town is more family-friendly than MTV cameras led us to believe. Stay at El Coronado Resort ( elcoronado.com ) and enjoy poolside barbecues, movies and live entertainment. Morey's Piers   ( moreyspiers.com )   offers two parks for one price: Raging Waters and the Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club, a 10-minute walk or five-minute tram ride away. Those who want to remain on dry land can hit up carnival rides and other attractions at three amusement piers though combo tickets are available if your little ones can't decide. Grab a bite at Crab & Seafood Shack ( crabandseafoodshack.com ) before finishing up the day. 

7.  New Windsor, NY

Travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes from NYC

Families looking for a cultural getaway are free to traverse 500 grassy acres of large-scale sculptures at Storm King Arts Center, a modern art mecca located in the foothills of the Hudson Valley ( stormkingartcenter.org ). For lunch, stop by the The Storm King Café,   which uses locally grown ingredients in its salads, soups and sandwiches.

8.  The Hamptons, NY

The South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center ( sofo.org ) immerses kids in each exhibit by engaging all five senses. Kids smell foxes, touch marine animals and look through telescopes as they explore. The nature trail behind the museum connects to the nine-mile Long Pond Greenbelt—little ones will have a ball crunching fall leaves. The quaint Sip 'n Soda ( sipnsoda.com )   has typical diner fare, but their famous ice cream sodas are a must. Sugar Daddy’s Toy Store has a huge selection of Rainbow Looms, Disney Infinity characters and a life-size illuminated Iron Man that makes for fun photos.

9.  Lehigh Valley, PA

If the family can’t choose between thrilling amusement rides and swimming pools on a hot summer day, then an itinerary centered on Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom ( dorneypark.com ) will satisfy all. The older set will enjoy the twisting, turning dry and wet roller coasters while little ones enjoy Peanuts-themed rides.

10.  Greenport, NY

A picturesque former whaling village, Greenport boasts a walkable downtown of shops, galleries and restaurants featuring local seafood. At Preston's Dock, sign up for a cruise aboard the Glory ( greenportlaunch.com ), a 30-foot solar-powered sailing vessel. Just 15 minutes away, kids can swim at Orient Beach State Park, which has a restored lighthouse at its tip, while keeping an eye out for wildlife like great blue herons and osprey. Back in Greenport, chow down at Claudio's ( claudios.com ), a favorite since 1870. Dine on the catch of the day while kids sample fish filet sandwiches.

11.  Poconos, PA

No matter the season, the Poconos have something to offer—lakeside activities, skiing, great food, comfy accommodations and more. Plus, the adventurous will love the indoor waterparks and theme parks. Fortunately, each of the destinations we've rounded up aren't terribly far from NYC, so you won't have to stress about lengthy trips.

12.  West Point, NY

Travel time: 1.5 hours from NYC 

Our nation’s history and Gothic architecture await at the prestigious United States Military Academy (all visitors over 16 must present ID). Begin at the Visitors Center ( usma.edu ) where you can buy tickets for the one-hour bus tour (no self-guided tours are permitted; check westpointtours.com for schedule). The first stop is the massive granite Cadet Chapel, home of the world’s largest pipe organ as well as astounding stained glass windows. Trophy Point is another highlight, with its breathtaking vista overlooking the Hudson River. Post-tour, peruse the gift shop, which has an ample selection of kiddie-sized Army gear, from hooded sweatshirts to plush mascots and make a stop at the free West Point Museum, where weapons aficionados of all ages will gawk at the collection of swords, rifles and tanks from every time period. After leaving the grounds, head to the Ice Cream Shoppe in Highland Falls for cones or milkshakes.

13.  Six Flags in Jackson, NJ

Check out amazing activities from A–Z at Six Flags Great Adventure! You can zip down a log flume, brave a swinging pirate ship, brave a 15-story ferris wheel and even fly like Superman (not for the faint of heart). Plus, with the Safari Experience you can see 1,200 animals all from the comfort of your car. ( sixflags.com/greatadventure ).

14.  Boundless Adventures

• Theme parks

Travel time: 1 hour from NYC

Boundless Adventures is an enormous  aerial adventure park on a forested part of the campus of Purchase College in Westchester: There are nine courses with more than 90 bridges, 17 zip lines and a diverse terrain that will dazzle you with its natural beauty. New to aerial adventure parks? No problem. Boundless Adventures has four difficulty levels, which means every participant will be matched with the right course - plan on spending around four hours climbing, zipping and cruising through the trees!

15.  Governors Island

• Things to do

OK, so this is  technically  still in NYC, but a visit Governors Island makes for a spectacular day out. Located in the heart of New York Harbor, one of our go-to  family attractions  offers scenic views, a country environment and a plethora of outdoor activities for kids and adults (like one of the coolest kids' playgrounds NYC —with mighty impressive slides).

16.  The Land of Make Believe & Pirate's Cove in Hope, NJ

Land of Make Believe & Pirate’s Cove amusement park is just a short drive from NYC, making it a perfect pick for warm-weather weekends—the younger set will find plenty to do, including jumpy frog rides, a swaying tugboat ride, a splash park area with a fort and a 1000-gallon dump bucket, a lazy river ride with single or double tubes, a shallow wave pool with a pirate ship that has slides and spray showers, and some sumer fun water slides…just to name a few! ( lomb.com ).

17.  Hiking trails

Just because you live in the Big Apple doesn't mean you can't spend time in the great outdoors. There are amazing family-friendly hikes close to NYC—in fact, the Bronx River Greenway and Inwood Hill Park are right in the middle of the city! So: Check the weather, pack a picnic and make plans to visit mother nature with the fam. These hiking trails are great for children of all ages, from toddlers out for a stroll to bigger kids looking to go for a scramble. After all, it's up to you to make this summer great.  

18.  Strawberry picking

Nothing says summertime like a bowl of freshly-picked fruit. When the warm weather hits, grab the whole family and enjoy the best strawberry picking in New York. These extra-sweet destinations will certainly inspire delicious seasonal baking that the whole clan will love—plus time outdoors certainly beats a trip to the grocery store. These spots will leave you hungry for more, so don’t venture out on a full stomach!

19.  Cherry picking

There's a lot to love about summer vacation—the gorgeous weather, the carefree feeling and of course, the tasty treats that come with the season. Take a trip to your local farm or orchard for the best cherry picking NY has to offer. Not only will you come home equipped with delicious fruits (and plenty of supplies if you decide to bake) but you'll also have a great day outdoors with loved ones.  This summertime adventure are as irresistible as the sweet treats themselves. 

20.  Blueberry picking

While it's practically impossible to resist a sweet summer strawberry, let's not let the popular fruit hog all of the attention: Blueberry picking in New York—and the surrounding area—is equally as delightful, and if you're craving homemade sweets, stop by your local farm for a bushel of berries. July and August are the perfect time to head into the fields to gather some fresh produce.

21.  Peach picking

What's sweeter than peach picking near NYC? Well, blueberry and strawberry picking are equally as delightful during the summer. If you have a hankering for fresh produce and want to spend some time outdoors with the kiddos, check out the local farms in your area for PYO hours. Not only will you head home with a bushel of fruit, but the adventure makes for a great day trip.

22.  Sunflower picking

If you've exhausted all of the PYO fruit options, turn your attention toward beautiful blooms! We've rounded up great locales in New York (and beyond) for sunflower picking that deserve your attention. For those in search of a summer day trip away from the city, there are plenty of outdoor activities that await at these local venues in the North Fork of Long Island, the Hudson Valley and so on. (Think petting zoos, freshly-squeezed lemonade and farm tours.) Plus, you'll get to head home with a bouquet that's sure to make your digs feel like summer.

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17 Family-Friendly Day Trips From San Francisco

By: Author Leslie Harvey

Posted on Published: February 23, 2023

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Whether you are a local or a tourist, the city of San Francisco has dozens of family-friendly activities and events to keep you busy. But sometimes it’s rewarding to get out of the city and explore more of the greater Bay Area and Northern California. Day trips are logistically easy as well as a cheap way to explore the areas surrounding the City by the Bay. We regularly add day trips from our San Francisco home base into our family’s travel plans in the summer and on weekends to keep our travel costs down.

The trick with day trips is know just how far to go and how to time a particular trip around busy Bay Area traffic trends. So with that challenge in mind, I’ve chosen 17 kid-friendly destinations that are doable as day trips from San Francisco, with all my best tips for doing each trip smartly.

I’ve personally visited 16 of the 17 destinations on this list (some of them multiple times) so you can trust these recommendations! Plus, I’ve also included links to additional in-depth resources about each destination, either here on Trips with Tykes or written by travel bloggers I know and have verified who will give you the honest scoop.

Top Day Trips from San Francisco for Families

1. monterey.

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 2 hours
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Kid-friendly things to do in Monterey

With its world class aquarium, gorgeous beaches, and bustling waterfront scene, Monterey is as good as it gets for a kid-friendly day trip from the Bay Area. The Monterey Bay Aquarium and adjacent Cannery Row are hugely popular, especially on summer or warm weather weekends. Plan to arrive early to beat the crowds.

With toddlers and younger kids, be sure not to miss the Dennis the Menace Playground just a short drive away, which has a variety of play structures. Older kids may really enjoy a whale watching trip out on the bay or a trip to explore the quaint downtown of nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea.

The drive from San Francisco to Monterey is about 2 hours but can have substantial traffic, so plan your departure times accordingly. If you have flexibility, this is one day trip I recommend doing on a weekday if possible (leaving the Bay Area after morning rush hour).

2. Stinson Beach

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 1 hour
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Day Trip to Stinson Beach with Kids (510Families.com)

Stinson Beach in Marin County has long been a popular summer time beach retreat for Bay Area families. At less than 1 hour from San Francisco by car when the traffic cooperates, it makes for a quick trip that still feels like a real getaway. The wide sandy beach has plenty of room to build sand castles, throw a frisbee, or find space for a picnic. And the downtown has several family-friendly restaurants for grabbing a meal or ice cream treat (I recommend Breakers Cafe, which has a casual fare and a kids menu).

Check the weather before you go because, being in Northern California, Stinson Beach can really get socked in by fog. The road to Stinson, Highway 1 North, is quite curvy so be prepared if your kids are prone to car sickness.

3. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 1.25-1.5 hours
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Day Trip to Santa Cruz

It’s about an hour and a half to head south to laid back Santa Cruz , where a historic boardwalk with carnival rides and food galore await your adventurous kiddos. It’s one of the best theme parks in Northern California and bonus that it’s also full of history!

When we visited when our kids were toddler and preschooler age, they adored the rides but also simply enjoyed spending time on the beach in front of the boardwalk digging in the sand. Now that our oldest is a teen, she can’t get enough of the classic coasters and thrill rides.

I’m starting to sound like a broken record, but again, plan your trip around traffic. Parts of California Highway 17 to Santa Cruz from San Francisco are pretty narrow and hilly. On warm weekend days, everyone from San Francisco heads in that same direction! I recommend leaving the city early in the morning (by 8:00am ideally on weekends) to beat the traffic. Plus, you can snag the in-demand parking at the Boardwalk if you are an early bird.

4. Muir Woods

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 30-45 minutes
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Tips for Visiting Muir Woods National Monument

The natural beauty of Northern California is something that all kids should experience first-hand. The imposing redwoods of Muir Woods National Monument in Marin County north of San Francisco make for an easy day (or even half-day) trip. With several loop trails of different lengths through the trees, you can customize your hike to match the ages and ability of your kids.

Muir Woods is a National Monument run by the National Park Service so your kids can participate in the Junior Ranger program during their visit as well. And if you have an America the Beautiful annual parks pass, be sure to bring it for free admission (remember, 4th graders can get in free with the Every Kid Outdoors Program !).

Just be aware that parking reservations are now required at Muir Woods. So make a reservation in advance, and do so especially early if you hope to visit on weekends or holidays that regularly sell out.

5. Gilroy Gardens

• In-Depth Destination Guide : Gilroy Gardens Review & Tips

Northern California has a number of beloved amusement parks, but Gilroy Gardens might be the most well-kept secret of them all. This hidden gem of an amusement park in the tiny town of Gilroy (about 20 minutes south of San Jose) is perfect for younger kids. Rides are fairly easy going with lots for families to do together, with a couple of smaller coasters in the mix to help get your kids ready for the bigger thrills of other theme parks.

Admission is reasonably-priced and the beautifully landscaped grounds give even Disney a run for its money. Our family’s personal favorite thing to do is spotting the famous “Circus Trees,” created using unique tree grafting techniques that sometimes defy belief.

6. Roaring Camp Railroads

• In-Depth Destination Guide : Best Train Rides in Northern California

If you have kids who are in love with trains, a day trip from San Francisco to Roaring Camp Railroads in Felton (near Santa Cruz, about 1.5 hours from the city) will definitely be a huge hit.

Roaring Camp features historic refurbished steam trains running on several routes, including one through coastal redwoods (75 minutes roundtrip) and another that drops visitors at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (3 hours roundtrip). There is also a central “town” with kid-friendly western activities and dining.

The railroad hosts special seasonal events for nearly every holiday you can imagine, including A Day Out With Thomas in summer, Christmas lights trains, a fall harvest festival train, and more. Be sure to check Roaring Camp’s calendar and purchase tickets in advance because they can and do regularly sell out.

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 2+ hours
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Getting the Most out of Your Big Sur Day Trip (California Crossings)

South of Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea is the breathtaking coastal preserve of Big Sur. Although it’s far enough from the city that I’d recommend it as a full weekend getaway, parts of it can certainly be done from San Francisco as a day trip if you’d prefer.

Highlights include unspoiled beaches galore. Older kids will enjoy a tour of the historic Point Sur Lighthouse. A can’t miss stop offering the iconic Big Sur view most people have seen before in postcards is McWay Falls. View the waterfall from atop coastal cliffs by strolling on a short kid-friendly hiking trail in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. For dining with kids, I highly recommend the beloved and quaint Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn (delicious for brunch).

Most of Big Sur is accessible only on the very winding Highway 1 which can sometimes be closed by any and everything that Mother Nature throws its way – wildfires , floods, and mudslides! Always check road conditions carefully before planning a trip.

8. Half Moon Bay

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 40 minutes
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Thing to do in Half Moon Bay (365 Traveler) & How to Spend a Blissful Day in Half Moon Bay (Beautiful Brown Adventures)

On warm Bay Area days, head south along Highway 1 to the pristine beach town of Half Moon Bay. The beaches are easily accessible and free, with a fair amount of parking compared to other destinations along the Northern California coast. Watch surfers, whales, or just let your kids dig in the sand.

If you want to get active on your day trip, Half Moon Bay is teeming with hiking opportunities, many of which are doable for even younger kids. The Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail runs for 11.5 miles overlooking the coast with many dramatic views and is ideal for hiking and biking and walking between beaches.

While in Half Moon Bay, consider a visit to Lemos Farm for a train or pony ride. Lemos Farm is best known for its fall pumpkin patch, but it has lots of other kid-friendly activities on weekends year-round.

9. Sonoma County: Santa Rosa, Healdsburg, & Sonoma

• In-Depth Destination Guide : 15 Fun Things to Do in Sonoma with Kids (We3Travel)

Who says wine country is only for grown ups? Definitely not me! There is so much to do in Sonoma County with little ones while still allowing mom and dad to sample a sip or two along the way (with a responsible driver, of course). There are so many different areas even within Sonoma County with kid-friendly things to do that you could definitely tackle the area as multiple day trips.

Highlights include the kid-friendly amusement park Train Town in the village of Sonoma as well as the Charles M. Schulz Museum (of Peanuts cartoons) in Santa Rosa. Animal-loving kids will adore taking a tour of the animal park at Safari West, while families will also enjoy the quaint town square of Healdsburg with several ice cream shops on the town square perfect for a treat.

10. Calistoga & St. Helena (Napa County)

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 1.25 hours
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Complete Guide to Napa Valley Wine Country with Kids

Some parts of Napa County are decidedly not kid-friendly, but the smaller town of Calistoga north of the Napa main drag is a perfect fit for families. The city was founded as a spa retreat due to its geothermal activity, and that volcanic legacy makes for some engaging natural wonders and history to explore.

Our kids especially enjoyed seeing Old Faithful Geyser of Calistoga in action as well as the Petrified Forest – both attractions formed by volcanic activity. Another family-friendly stop (and one that tends to fly under the radar) is the Sharpsteen Museum . This tiny but captivating museum was founded by one of Walt Disney’s animators and houses some impressive Disney artifacts on display.

The next town over from Calistoga – St. Helena – is quite family-friendly as well, and is a spot our family recommends especially for dining. In particular, families will enjoy Gott’s Roadside and Pizzeria Tra Vigne.

If parents want to still take in the highlights of wine country, there are a few family-friendly winery options nearby to enjoy wine tasting in family-friendly surroundings. Consider a visit to Sterling Vineyards which has a gondola ride. Another family-friendly winery is Castello di Amorosa, which is a modern replica of a Tuscan style castle perfect for exploration.

11. Sacramento

• In-Depth Destination Guide : Visiting Old Sacramento with Kids

The capital of the state of California is located just 80 miles from San Francisco, making it an easy getaway in a single day from the Bay Area. You can easily spend the entire day in just Old Sacramento taking in the city’s Wild West history as a railroad town. The impressive California State Railroad Museum will captivate transportation loving kids for a couple of hours. I highly recommend a train ride on the Sacramento Southern Railway on the next block and a meal in a historic riverboat turned restaurant – the Delta King – on the riverfront.

Another hub of kid-friendly day trip activities is around the Sacramento Zoo. Next door to the Zoo is the adorable Fairy Tale Town, a small park with fairytale sets and scenes perfect for toddlers and young kids to explore. Also in the area is Funderland, another small amusement park with multiple carnival style rides, including a few with some mild thrills.

Need other Sacramento things to do on a day trip? In summer, be sure not to miss the Giant’s AAA affiliate, the Sacramento River Cats play a baseball game. And of course, squeeze in some education about California government and history with a tour of the State Capitol.

12. Pinnacles National Park

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 2-2.25 hours
• In-Depth Destination Guide : Guide to Visiting Pinnacles National Park (This is My Happiness)

Northern California has a number of magnificent national parks, but big names like Yosemite National Park or Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park are a little too far for day tripping. Thankfully, one of America’s newest national parks is a bit closer – within a 2 hr, 15 minute drive south of San Francisco.

Pinnacles National Park is located on the San Andreas Fault, creating all sorts of weird and wonderful geological feature to explore. There are two entrances, not connected to one another within the park. The east entrance (south of Hollister) has the most kid-friendly hikes including one through Bear Gulch Cave that was a highlight for my family.

13. Oakland

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 15 minutes
• In-Depth Destination Guide : 50 Things to Do in Oakland with Kids

The city of Oakland is so close to San Francisco that a lot of locals and visitors don’t think of it as a day trip. But you should! It’s quick and inexpensive to get there, meaning you have more time and money for exploring and activities.

Depending on the kind of outing you are seeking, Oakland can be an urban escape or a trip focused on nature and the outdoors. If you want to explore more of the city with kids, the Lake Merritt neighborhood is a good place to start. It is home to Children’s Fairyland, a beloved local amusement park that was one of the inspirations for Disneyland. Not too far away in downtown is the Oakland Museum of California, a museum that celebrates and details three aspects of California history: art, natural sciences, and human history. It’s engaging for kids while still being fascinating and educational for adults.

For outdoor and nature adventures, Oakland has a number of glorious hikes hidden in the hills. Redwood Regional Park (to explore redwoods, naturally) and Tilden Regional Park (for a carousel and steam trains to ride) are two good places to start. My family has also especially enjoyed hiking in Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve which has a labyrinth and sits atop Oakland’s very own extinct volcano.

Finally, don’t forget about Oakland Zoo. With its new gondola and California Trail exhibits as well as the small amusement park and train rides by the entrance, it’s a destination where it’s easy to spend at least a half-day with kids of all ages.

14. San Jose

• In-Depth Destination Guide : Free and Cheap in San Jose (This Bliss Life)

Another big Bay Area city, San Jose, is often overlooked as a San Francisco day trip possibility. But the South Bay has lots to offer families as well.

The must-do attraction is the Winchester Mystery House. Built haphazardly by the eccentric heiress to the Winchester Rifle fortune who was perhaps trying to escape a curse, this house has dead ends, staircases to nowhere, and lots of mystery. Another family-friendly attraction in keeping with its Silicon Valley home is the Tech Interactive, San Jose’s museum focused on all things STEM.

San Jose has a number of family-friendly amusements as well. Happy Hollow Park and Zoo is the city’s beloved fairytale amusement park (similar to Children’s Fairyland in Oakland or Fairy Tale Town in Sacramento). The town next door, Santa Clara, is also home to a large scale theme park, California’s Great America .

15. Sausalito

• Drive Time from San Francisco : 20 minutes
• In-Depth Destination Guide : 15 Best Things to Do in Sausalito (Discover Sausalito)

Just over the Golden Gate Bridge in Marin County is the well-known bayside village of Sausalito. Sausalito is famous for its houseboats, and it’s definitely worth taking a stroll to see them along the waterfront.

Adults also tend flock to Sausalito for the quaint downtown full of boutiques and restaurants. Families should plan to grab a meal here at a waterfront restaurant, but the downtown area probably won’t hold kids’ attention for too long beyond that. Thankfully Sausalito and its immediate vicinity have several kid-friendly attractions, including the Bay Area Discovery Museum and Marine Mammal Center.

Part of the fun of a day trip to Sausalito is also just the getting there. Depending on the ages of your kids, there are several unique transportation options that can really add to their enjoyment of the trip. Older kids can visit Sausalito by biking to it over the Golden Gate Bridge. Bike rentals abound in San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood. Families with kids of all ages will enjoy another mode of access – taking the ferry (bikers can ferry back to San Francisco as well). The Blue & Gold Fleet runs ferries multiple times a day between Pier 41 and the Sausalito terminal. Third and finally, if you opt to drive, pull over on the first exit after crossing the Golden Gate Bridge at the H. Dana Bower Rest Area and Vista Point. From the vista atop the Marin Headlands, you’ll get a magnificent bridge and city view en route.

16. Pacifica

• In-Depth Destination Guide : A Local’s Guide to the Best Things to Do in Pacifica (Just Chasing Sunsets)

Spacious beaches, hikes with views, and the prettiest Taco Bell in America (not kidding!) make the seaside town of Pacifica a unique family travel destination. Just south of the city en route to Half Moon Bay, it’s easily reached in about 20 minutes. Its quick and drivable location makes Pacifica an ideal day trip for families with younger kids who still need to plan around nap times.

Pacifica can often be extremely foggy, but on days when the sun wins the battle, the beaches are some of the best in the state. You’ll have the best chance for sun visiting in August and September when the Bay Area has its traditionally warmest weather.

The most popular hike in the area is Devil’s Slide, which follows what used to be Highway 1 before the road was moved inland to bypass frequent rock slides. The coastal views are amazing and it’s doable with kids, as the trail is a paved road about 2.5 miles roundtrip.

17. Point Reyes National Seashore

• In-Depth Destination Guide : Things to do in Point Reyes (California Crossroads) & Family Fun in Point Reyes (Marin Mommies)

North of Stinson Beach on the coast of Marin County is another rugged coastal destination popular as a day trip for families. The Point Reyes National Seashore is full of outdoor adventures, from beaches to wildlife spotting to hikes and even a waterfall.

Point Reyes is run by the National Park Service, so kids should stop by the Bear Valley visitor center for a junior ranger booklet and to learn about the area. Families will also enjoy visiting the Point Reyes Lighthouse for views and a chance to whale spot. Sea lions can commonly be spotted at Sea Lion Cove.

Like a lot of the NorCal coast, fog is common at Point Reyes. You’ll have the best chance for sun and warmth at Drake’s Beach which has a sheltered location (be aware the beach can be closed during winter/early spring to protect elephant seal pups). Some of the beaches along Tomales Bay side are also more protected spots for families to enjoy.

What are your favorite kid-friendly Northern California day trips? Share your recommendations in the comments.

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Shalendra@Camping In Shimla

Sunday 15th of September 2019

San jose is the best place to visit with your children. There are lot of fun activities available at the Studio to do also you can spend some time with your children at the park catching butterflies.

Tuesday 3rd of September 2019

If you ever visit to San Francisco then never forget to visit Golden Gate park which stretches half miles way. The famous attraction in the park are Japanese Tea Gardens and Deyoung museum.

Monday 18th of September 2017

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29 Free Things to Do with Kids near me around Plano

Don’t we all want to have some fun? Yes, we do but we all also know that some kids activities can be very costly.

There are, however, fun and free things to do with kids near me, that don’t necessarily need to break the bank, that are either free or cheap! 

Kids are easy to please and I think you’ll agree that they enjoy more things when they’re with family and friends. There are great places for free activities for kids and kid-friendly activities nearby.

We have 29 free things to do with kids near me around the DFW area .

More: 10 of the Most Fun Things to Do in Dallas with Kids

Looking for “Free Things to do with Kids near me?”

Get out and explore nature.

Here in Plano Texas alone, we’ve got tons of parks that are full of fantastic natural beauty, just perfect for walking, jogging, hiking, and playing – perfect for family fun.

While the Dallas Arboretum isn’t free, it does have a beautiful children’s garden and is one of the best places for kids if you head Downtown. Klyde Warren Park is also a great place to visit and you can combine the two into one day trip.

But out in nature, there are some of the best places for kids near me!

Our favorite places to head outside are the many parks and trails we have closeby, including Arbor Hills Nature Preserve (which has a fun playground too), Jack Carter All Abilities Park , and Haggard Park

Go hike to nearby nature trails , and if you get lucky, you may be able to see some local wildlife (or a Pokemon) and enjoy one of our nearby dog parks.

Playgrounds to Run Around

The playground is always a huge hit for children!

Today, playgrounds are like miniature amusement parks for free. And, most of them are great for toddlers, kids, and tweens. Many of our Indoor playgrounds offer great free play options for kids.

Picnic at the Park

Weather plays an important part in planning a family picnic, Texas can be unbearable during summer, but spring or fall are great for picnics.

And, keep in mind that Plano’s surrounding areas have a lot of parks or green spaces that are perfect for setting up a picnic table. 

Check out the Plano Parks and its amenities.

Many offer covered areas for an ad-hoc small family picnic but also for a small fee you can reserve a spot for a larger party. 

Get wet at one of our local Splash Pads

Waterparks can be so expensive, and the crowd can be so overwhelming. So, skip the costly admission fees and long lines; cool off at the splash pads instead. One of our favorite free things to do with kids near me.

Most cities around DFW areas have added splash pads to their park, and during Summer, kids definitely will have a blast!

Fishing can be very calming and enjoyable; it is a perfect activity for generations of family members to have fun together.

Please double-check local park rules if you need a fishing license. Here is a link for reference, click here .

Fishing Lake Lewisville

Lake Ray Hubbard

Head to 10 of the best Free Museums near by in Dallas and Fort Worth

The Interurban Railway Museum

The Interurban Railway Museum is located in Plano’s Haggard Park by Historic Downtown Plano is FREE for everyone. You can enjoy a tour of Railway Post Office Car #360.

Every Friday at 10:30 a.m. the museum offers a children’s story time which is geared for preschoolers, it is hosted by professional storytellers.

Nasher Sculpture Museum

There is free admission at the Nasher every first Saturday of the month. It is excellent for everyone, so bring the whole family to enjoy some arts and make memories.

Each month features a rotating schedule of things to see and do.

Dallas Modern Museum

General Admission is FREE every day; it includes viewing the museum’s collection galleries and most exhibitions.

Special exhibits will normally $16 but discounted or free admission is available for the following groups: Seniors (65+): $14, military with DOD ID, $14, students with school ID: $12, DMA members: FREE, and children age 11 and under: FREE

The Crow Museum of Asian Art and The Kimbell Art Museum are very close together so you can visit both. Admission to the permanent collection of the Museum is always free .

North Park Center is a shopping mall but with a large selection of artwork.

NorthPark Center’s internationally acclaimed 20th and 21st-century art collection turns shopping into a world-class cultural experience.  Making museum-quality art available every day for your enjoyment.  

More: You’ll also need some great Kids eat Free ideas!

Cultivate the Love of Reading, for free

Check out Plano Public Libraries

Any of the 5 libraries in Plano TX are a great place to hang out with your kids, not just because it is free, but because they are fun as well. While big kids can dive into books or tablets there, there are also fun things for toddlers near us, too.

An ideal option and one of a few free things to do with kids near me! Besides reading and checking out piles of books, they have tons of activities for everyone in the family.

Barnes & Noble

Barnes & Noble is rewarding kids with a free book (kids can choose from several) after they read eight books and complete a reading journal this summer.

Movies in the Park

Downtown Plano continues to offer us a free movie in the park each summer.

Head out to Haggard Park at the end of every month, June through August, and watch some of the most beloved family-friendly movies.

Oh yeah… this can be so fun! Board games such as Monopoly or Pictionary and some card games can be super fun for the whole family. You can even invite friends to come and play together.

Head out for a fun Photo Shoot

We have a ton of great ideas where you can capture some Instagrammable photos around the area

And, here is the CHEAP Stuff

While many of the activities listed below have reasonable prices, some often have annual memberships with a break-even point of two visits.

It is also worth noting some have a free day once a month and you may even find budget-friendly discounts for kids’ fun near me, from sites like LivingSocial or Groupon.

Summer can be too hot to be out and about, so museums are great to cool off and at the same time learn something new.

7 Reasons you need to really need to visit The Heritage Farmstead Museum

It is a living history, and you can experience what life is like on the Blackland prairie back in 1891. They offer camps during summertime, but the fun at the Farmstead is not limited during summertime. They are open all year round and offers unique learning opportunities for everyone.

Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Preserve

The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Preserve is a piece of gem. It has 289-acre wildlife sanctuary and a natural science museum for the primary purpose of educating children about nature. 

For $10 adult admission and $7 for kids, you are learning new things at the lab, new exhibits to check out, walk at the trail and at the butterfly garden, and play at the pioneer village (this village features eight buildings in playhouse scale that emulate structures that would have been typical in prairie settlements in the late 1800s).

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

The membership is all worth it!

For the year, it includes free admission to all the exhibit halls, gives you discounts on parking, discounts to theater admissions and special exhibits, early members hour to skip the crowd, you get free admission to other 360 museums worldwide, some exclusive preview days to traveling exhibitions and pre-public access to special programs like Social Science and lectures.

Family membership for two adults and all children or grandchildren (17 and younger) is $130.  

Try out our new Scavenger Hunt !

It’s great for kids, ages 3-12 and makes a great option for toddler activities!

• Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve Scavenger Hunt $ 15.00 Add to cart
• Arbor Hills Scavenger Hunt $ 15.00 Add to cart
• Russell Creek Park Scavenger Hunt $ 15.00 Add to cart
• The Ultimate Plano Scavenger Hunt Bundle $ 45.00 Add to cart

Watch Movies and have Popcorn

AMC Theaters, the largest movie theater chain in the United States, has had Tuesday as its nationwide discount day. AMC Stubs members, including ones who had a free membership, were eligible for $5 standard 2D tickets every Tuesday and reduced prices for premium tickets.

At Studio Movie Grill $5 Tuesdays mean all of your favorite Hollywood releases are only $5 all day long!

At Regal Cinemas you can watch $1 family movies at Regal Cinemas every Tuesday and Wednesday.

Cinemark has a variety of discounts offered to you.

Summer means doing outdoor fun, but when the heat is unbearable, most notably here in Texas, then there are things to do most especially for our little artist.

It doesn’t cost much to explore, imagine, and create.

Crayola Experience

Check out their membership packages to get the most discounts or grab our exclusive discount too. It’s ideal for “Preschool activities near me”.

You can make creativity happen! Check out their classes and events for kids and adults.

Shakespeare in the Park

This is such a unique opportunity for people to enjoy and experience Shakespeare in a casual setting.

Kids Bowl Free App

Kids Bowl Free has been operating since 2007 and offers kids two free games of bowling a day all summer long at select bowling centers.

This program is designed by bowling centers to give back to the community and give kids a safe and fun way to spend time this summer.

Check out here to learn how it works.

Save 50% on the Annual Pogo Pass Membership

This is one steal of a deal for families!

Each pass includes free admission to kids’ activities at over 20 destinations around Dallas/Fort Worth for only $49.99 per person.

Give the gift of experiences all over DFW!

Use code PLANOMOMS or just use our link below to buy.

If you have Questions, we’ve written a huge guide to the Pogo Pass to help you!

Recreation Centers and Pools

There are so many classes offered at your nearest recreation center.

Most cities always make sure of creating a comfortable and fantastic experience for people of all ages and backgrounds in and around the city.

Have you discovered any others?? Share them with us!