trips for young families

50 Best Family Vacation Ideas on a Budget for 2024

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

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

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

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

Mexico and the Caribbean

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

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya, Mexico

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

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

Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

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

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Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic

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

Beaches Negril Resort & Spa, Negril, Jamaica

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

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

RELATED: 20 Best Caribbean Resorts for Families to Visit

Fairmont Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

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

Rock House Resort, Turks & Caicos

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

Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort

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

New England Cozy

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

Quisisana Resort, Lovell, ME

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

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

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

Hidden Pond, Kennebunkport, ME

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

Smugglers' Notch Resort, Jeffersonville, VT

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

Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club, Brewster, MA

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

Sebasco Harbor Resort, Phippsburg, ME

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

Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge, Stowe, VT

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

California Dreamin'

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

Los Angeles, CA

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

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

San Diego, CA

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

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

Monterey, CA

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

Disneyland Resort and California Adventure, Anaheim, CA

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

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The Family Vacation Guide

18 Family Vacation Ideas for 2023 That the Kids Will Love

posted by James Brockbank on February 22, 2022 // last updated on January 13, 2023

Are you looking for family vacation ideas to inspire your next trip with the kids?

We’ve rounded up 18 ideas that the whole family are guaranteed to love, whatever you and the kids are into and wherever you fancy heading in the USA .

Top Tips for Planning the Ultimate Family Getaway

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Make your future family vacation less stressful by reading through our tips on the most commonly faced problems. Learn how to choose the perfect family vacation spots for traveling with children, how to sustain a long airplane flight, and how to find the best guesthouse or resort deal. Traveling with children can be a lot of fun if everyone involved has a good time doing it. 

Begin by thinking about what your family likes to do, and then decide on a few of the best vacation ideas for you. Sand beaches with gentle waves are popular with younger children who can play in the sand and catch waves to build sandcastles. Many pre-teens and teens are drawn to resorts with various activities, including water slides, teen spa treatments, and kids’ clubs with video games. 

As each family is unique, finding the ideal location will necessitate some forethought. Lastly, searching for last-minute hotel deals and vacation packages can save families a significant amount of money on their vacation. Before your departure, make sure to book all of your favorite activities, particularly during peak holiday seasons.  

Identify the perfect family vacation ideas focused on everyone’s interests. Whether you’re flying to the Caribbean , Europe, or staying at a local resort, your family’s age and ability to travel by car or plane will play a role in your decision. Budget, the length of your vacation, and the type of destination you and your family find most exciting and fun all play a role in choosing the best kid’s vacations. 

All-day long, babies and children will be content crawling around on a sandy beach with a bucket of seawater. In general, everyone enjoys spending time by the water, whether a lake or an ocean, as long as they have something to do. You can find even more family-friendly getaway suggestions in the following sections.  

The Best Ideas for Family Vacations

Following are some of the best destinations to enjoy vacations with the family that everyone will enjoy.  

Orange County’s most populous city is in Irvine, California , where an urban lifestyle and preserved natural areas coexist harmoniously. The FBI has designated it as “America’s Safest Big City” since 2005, making it an ideal destination for families searching for long weekend getaways. 

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of cuisines, shopping, and outdoor recreation, including hiking and bicycling, in the area. In addition, it is only a 30-minute drive from popular tourist destinations, including Disneyland Park and Knott’s Berry Farm, making it a great vacation spot. Other attractions include the San Joaquin Wildlife Refuge, the Orange County Safari, and the Irvine County Park.  

Franklin is a legendary town going back to 1799. This tiny village joins a big city venue that provides many unique attractions. The city offers Victorian and antebellum heritage, many museums, and a lively city center with outstanding shopping, world-class eating, spectacular entertainment, and cultural events. 

Remarkable Civil War structures are Franklin’s most considerable appeal, including Carter House, Lotz House, and Cranton — an 1864 historic residence and war site – all must-see attractions. Various tour choices encompass ghost and vampire excursions, gastronomy tours, and cultural and archeological tours. 

Hiking, cycling, & zip lining, hot air balloon excursions, mystery room experiences, and various agricultural destinations contribute to the city’s entertaining activities.  

Small town charm meets big-city sophistication in Ann Arbor, where a wide range of tourist spots make it an ideal place to visit for a long weekend with the whole family. The Nichols Arboretum, a woodland garden with a peony orchard and multiple boardwalks, the Creature Conservancy, and the Matthaei Botanic Garden are just a few of the city’s science-focused attractions. 

Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum (a children’s museum), the University of Michigan Natural history Museum (showcasing dinosaur bones), and the Ann Arbor Zoo are just some of the museums that families can enjoy. Domino’s Farms has a Nickels Arcade, a Petting Farm, and a Scavenger Hunt.  

Located on the coast of North Carolina , Wilmington is a charming seaside town with a river walk that circles the Cape Fear River or a bustling riverfront. This historic town is also a beautiful place to visit, thanks to the State Register Historic District encompassing more than 230 blocks of moss-draped oak trees. Some of the attractions include beautiful cruises, horse-drawn carriage rides, & guided tours. 

Even if you’re not interested in the nightlife, you can still find boutique boutiques, fine dining establishments, and Broadway shows in the riverside district of New York. Family-friendly attractions like waterparks, aquariums, and historical buildings like WWII battleships are great options.  

Fayetteville, Arkansas, is a great place to spend a long weekend because of its proximity to nature, cultural attractions, and local breweries. Among the many attractions are the Locomotion Fun-Filled Park and Fast Lane Amusement. 

One-stop-shops offer a wide variety of entertainment, such as arcade activities, go-karts, and mini-golf. Local artists teach a wide range of different classes at an inexpensive cost at the Communities Creative Center, and dramatic religious events like the Great Passion Play are not to be missed. The Cosmic Cavern is a rare hidden gem with stunning rock structures and two underground waterways that should not be missed.  

An old-world charm town like Galena in Illinois is ideal for families looking to reminisce about simpler times. With its rolling hills and magnificent views of the Galena River, this natural haven is a popular destination for beautiful drives through history. 

The most popular activities for youngsters include walking, trolley, wacky ghost tours, and scenic river cruises. When the parents want a night out without the kids, there are numerous art museums, boutique shops, ancient stores, wineries, and spectacular live entertainment shows. It’s a great idea to take the whole family zip lining with Big Hollow Canopy Tours and visit Lenmar Gardens, Dittmar Farmhouse, and Ehrler Ranch.  

If you’re looking for a town that caters to families, artists, and adventurers, you’ll want to check out Grand Marais. Outdoor adventures and tourism abound in the area, located among Lake Superior & the Sawtooth Mountains. Families will have a blast on the many miles of trails for biking and hiking. 

They can also go kayaking, canoeing, or horseback riding— Minnesota’s oldest art colony, with numerous galleries, museums, and shops. The Grand Portage State Forest, Judge C. R. Magney Recreation Area, and even the Grand Marais Lighthouse are its most prominent natural features. The most popular activities for youngsters include mini-golf, game centers, Segway excursions, and fishing charters.  

At the base of Mount Spores, Carbondale, Colorado , is a town that sits on a broad plain where the Roaring River & Crystal rivers meet and confluence. Penny Hot Springs and a beautiful mountain setting await guests in the middle of the Mountain Range in this lovely retreat. 

Families wishing to disconnect will find much to do in and around Carbondale, including hiking, bicycling, kayak, cross-country skiing, snowmobile, and snowshoeing, to name just a few activities. Skateboarding or gold-medal fly-fishing are also popular pastimes in the area. In addition to the Power Art Center and the Carbondale Public Artists Commission, these are some of Carbondale’s most popular cultural attractions.  

Families seeking a long weekend getaway will find much to do in San Antonio, the seventh populous metropolitan area in the United States. A wide range of natural, historical, cultural, scenic, and modern attractions ensures that everyone in your family will find something to enjoy. 

The Alamo Missions in San Antonio, Texas , a famed fort and historical museum, and the historic San Antonio RiverWalk, which features numerous restaurants, hotels, and stores along the river, are a few of the top choices. Children will enjoy SeaWorld San Antonio, San Antonio Safari, Aquarium, and Six Flags Fiesta Texas.  

As the southwest corner of the U. S., Key West is recognized for its beachfront, watersports, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife. It’s the perfect vacation spot for families with young children, as it offers something for everyone. 

The most excellent method for families to see the area’s incredible architecture, gardens, and courtyards is the foot. Eco-Discovery Center, Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarter, Vandenberg Wreck, Key West Cemetery (for its wacky headstones), and Dry Tortugas National Park are among the most popular attractions in the area. Tourists should not miss the Ernest Hemingway House & his favorite eatery, Sloppy Joe’s Bar.  

Naples, a city in southwest Florida on the Gulf of Mexico, is well-known for its modern age culture, upscale shopping, and top-notch dining. At the same time, though, it’s among the most budget-friendly family vacation spots, appealing to both beach bums and outdoor adventurers. 

Attractions for children include the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, the Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, the NGALA Wildlife Preserve, and Sun-N-Fun, a six-acre waterpark. Many tours are available for families, including an eco-boat journey to the isolated Manatee Hideout for six people. Art galleries, boutiques, and waterfront eateries are all within walking distance in the historic downtown district.  

The city of Chattanooga is situated on the Tennessee River in the Southeastern Tennessee Mountains. Known as one of the most beautiful cities in the country, it doesn’t take long for visitors to fall in love with it. Recreational adventures, world-class food outlets, and spectacular attractions await families in the area. 

It’s one of the most economical places to spend a few days away from the city. Rock City, a route through ancient rocky outcrops and meadows, and Ruby Falls, a 145-foot-high subterranean cascade, are two of the area’s most popular attractions. Several museums, state parks, archeological sites, and art museums await curious visitors. In addition to the Chattanooga Zoos at Warner Park, the city’s best family-friendly attractions include Lake Winnipesaukee Theme Parks and Coolidge Park.  

Dallas is the ninth-largest metropolitan area in the American States, home to the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys, and among the most diversified cities in America. This city’s numerous sights and activities are incredible for a long vacation with the family. 

The Dallas Arboretum & Botanic Garden, the Dallas International Aquarium, and the Dallas Safari are just a few of the city’s cultural, artistic, and historical attractions. The Perot Museums of Science and Nature, Pioneers Plaza, and the Frontier of Flight Museum are just a few of the kid-friendly attractions in Dallas. Other interests in the vicinity include national parks and historic plazas that tourists can explore.  

Does Dallas spark your interest? You might find our list of the best family hotels in Dallas handy when planning your vacation.

All of the red rock formations that protrude from the desert floor of Sedona’s Red Rock Country are multi-colored, producing a spectacular mood that changes with the changing light. 1.8 million acres of the forested area around this sacred area make it the ideal location for a relaxing vacation away from family. 

Activities such as bicycling, hiking, and bouncing jeep rides are every day here. Around 40 galleries, numerous spas, wineries, and vortex energy centers may be found in the vicinity. Among the must-see attractions in this region of Arizona are Montezuma Castle National Park and Tuzigoot National Monument, and the Dead Horse Ranch State Park.  

There are hundreds of miles of magnificent coastline, beaches, and distinctive neighborhoods in San Diego, making it an excellent place for families. The LEGOLAND theme park, the nearby San Diego Zoo, and the historical beachfront Belmont Park in Balboa Park are just a few of the many family-friendly attractions in the area. 

Ground to Sea Seal excursions, Macarthur military ship visits, and historical Old Town tours all take place in the area, which offers a wide range of recreational options for all ages. Neighborhoods like Little Italy and Point Loma have distinct attractions like the Sunset Cliffs and Petco Park. Downtown and Mission Beach also have attractions like the Pacific Beach Pier and Pacific Beach 

Walt Disney World is the most well-known attraction in Orlando, Florida, and it is easy to see why. Even though this city is the “happiest place on Earth” because of Cinderella’s castle, there is much more to do and see here. It appeals to a wide range of interests, including foodies, luxury shoppers, adventure seekers, and everyone in between. 

The Coca-Cola Orlando Eye, a 400-foot glass capsule, offers breathtaking city vistas. The Daytona 500 is a popular annual family event. Madame Tussauds Orlando, the Great Escape Room, and the Exotic Animal Adventure are just a few examples of the city’s unique attractions.

As a Gulf of Mexico island, Sanibel Island is known for its opulent resorts, gorgeous sunsets, and lighthouses. There are various beaches where shelling is commonplace, making it a popular alternative for families with young children. Swimming, snorkeling, sailing, and fishing are all popular pastimes in this area. 

San Carlos Bay-Bunche Beach Nature reserve, J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Reserve, and Lighthouse Beach Park are some of the area’s most popular attractions. The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, the Sanibel Heritage Museum and Village, the Pine Island Sound Aquatic Conservancy, and the Everglades are a few more must-sees in Fort Myers and the surrounding area.  

When it comes to bucking stereotypes, Louisville is the place to be. The only one of its kind, the Urban Bourbon Experience comprises a city-wide trail lined with artisan cocktail establishments, award-winning micro-distilleries, and displays, all of which contribute to the experience’s uniqueness. 

A variety of family-friendly activities, like the Louisville Slugger Museum & Foundry, the Churchill Downs, and the Muhammad Ali Center, can be found in this city that’s known for its horse racing. Children’s activities and attractions include Go Ape Zip Line & Treetop Adventure, Jefferson Memorial Forest, and Derby Dinner Playhouse. 

You can plan a vacation with a baby or even a young child during September and otherwise early May because they do not go to school, enabling you to save money by booking a room at a lower rate. Spring break and summer vacation are the best times to get away with your kids if they are in school. 

In the summer, many beaches are overcrowded, but cities tend to be less crowded, making them ideal for family vacations. Smithsonian museums in Washington DC are a great place for teenagers interested in learning about the history of the United States.  

To keep costs down, look for a vacation spot that will appeal to all your family members and isn’t too far away. Cities and family vacations mostly on East & West Coasts, the Midwest, the South, and the Upper Midwest. Spend less than $100 per night in a national park cabin, campground, or online cheap vacation rentals if you’re on a limited budget. 

You can save a lot of money by cooking some of one’s food if you have access to a kitchen. Choosing a destination that offers a variety of free activities, such as hiking a scenic trail, an outdoor swimming pool, games, or a children’s club, is the most cost-effective option.  

Visit Maine’s scenic coast, a Vermont family resort, a New Hampshire Road trip, a Cape Cod beach vacation, and other family-friendly destinations during the summer. 

Family-friendly restaurants and outdoor theater performances are a great way to spend time with your kids while visiting New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia. Plan a winter vacation to a New England hill station like Stowe, Killington, or Sugarbush to teach your children how to ski, cross-country ski, or snowboard.  

Visit the beautiful coastal towns of California, have a blast at Disneyland, see the sights of Hollywood, and unwind for a few days at a full-service spa resort. Mammoth, Badger Pass, and Snowmass are some of the West Coast’s best family-friendly ski resorts. 

San Diego is a famous tourist destination for families with young children, with amusement parks and beaches, the New Children’s Museum, the Maritime Museum, and the city’s zoo to keep them entertained.  

In the $5,000 to $10,000 price range, you have the freedom to be as picky about your family vacation as you want to (although that will not include a business class plane ticket). For a villa in Fiji, the nightly rate can reach $900 for a palace in a five-star resort, with prices starting at $350. Families looking for a luxurious beach vacation should look no further than Barbados, Paradise Island, and Maui. 

Look for all-inclusive prices at Sandals resorts in Jamaica and Turks & Caicos, where kids of all ages can enjoy a wide range of exciting activities to save money. Much different room and suite arrangements are available for families, giving them the option to find the right balance between price and functionality. Consider family-friendly activities such as golf, spas, and fine dining when planning your luxury family vacation. 

Club Med’s Ixtapa luxury hotel in Mexico has a Baby Med plan that incorporates a cot, bottle warmers, and sanitary products in the room if you’re traveling with a young child.  

Remember that toddlers possess limited attention spans, are easily worn out, and require simple, entertaining activities like dumping water or transporting beans to keep them occupied. To keep them entertained for an extended flight, you will have to put in considerable effort, but it is possible. There is a good chance that they will want to share a hotel room with you, but they may not enjoy the food at the resort. 

As long as they’re not exhausted or hungry, having a lot of exciting things to recognize and do would be exciting. To make the most of your long weekend, choose an easy-to-reach destination that doesn’t require flying or dealing with jet lag. Longer trips can take advantage of great beaches where your child can run around freely, play in the water, and generally have a great time.  

If you consider talking to kids about many activities kids are involved in is truly astounding. A chef at the hotel might be willing to teach a 12-year-old how to cook with farm-fresh flavorings in a food festival. A local zoo’s polar bear exhibit may appeal to a 5-year-old-desire to observe a polar bear in action. 

A trip to Legoland may be the ultimate dream vacation for a 3-year-old fascinated by building various machines out of blocks and Legos. Fun memories are made on holidays that include a dash of adventure. Safari West in California is a great place to see a wide variety of animals in their natural habitat. 

Take a trip on the Disney Fiction, a big super ship with a lot to do and comfy staterooms with an additional half bath. Kids can experience horse riding and learn about the workings of a dude ranch at the Vista Verde Ranch in Colorado. Chile’s Lake Villarrica is a gorgeous lakeside retreat with a volcano view. 

You can go horse riding and tour a zoo while visiting the Pikes Peak area of Colorado. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly family vacation, Yellowstone, as well as Jackson Hole, are great options.  

Disney Cruises are so popular with children. Onboard each of Disney’s four ships is a theatre and a cinema where children can watch their favorite Disney films. Pools with water activities and other attractions are available. 

An acrylic tube covering four decks of the Dream and Fiction ships and over the edge of the boat provides passengers with a view of the ocean from the water. While your children participate in the children’s program, you can relax in the spa by yourself. There are several age groups for children: infants, 3 to 4, 5 to 7, 8 to 9, and 10 to 12. 

There is a private club for teens with couches, games, and a soda bar. You can find even more family-friendly getaway suggestions in the following sections.  

Don’t forget to look for discounts and special offers, particularly if you intend to pursue a last-minute trip with children. Resort discounts are becoming more common, even during peak season, so don’t be ashamed to call the accommodation or resort immediately and ask for a mutually beneficial arrangement before booking. 

Discounts on hotel rooms, credits for dining and activities, and free shuttle service to and through the air terminal are all possibilities. You can stay updated on the children while still having some personal space on vacation by booking connecting rooms at most hotels. To get a great deal on a weekend stay in a major city like New York or Chicago, look for a hotel that offers a discount on vacations when there are no international tourists. 

Summer is the best time to find all-inclusive vacation packages and low prices in the Caribbean.

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.

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TPG’s 8 top family vacation destinations for 2024

Deciding which eight destinations across the globe deserve a spot on TPG's list of best family vacation destinations to visit this year was no easy task.

We researched new resorts, activities and events and pulled from our own extensive travel experience to find the spots your family will still be talking about years after you return home from your trip.

Related: Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel

Of course, we also had to throw in a few of our dream destinations.

Whether your family prefers cities, beaches , theme parks or the great outdoors, you'll find your perfect family vacation spot on this list.

With four major theme parks in the area, Orlando bills itself as the "theme park capital of the world." Because those parks are always competing for the top spot in travelers' hearts (and their wallets), there's always something new to do.

Disney is nearing the completion of Epcot's multiyear makeover with the recent opening of Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana and the debut of an all-new nighttime spectacular called "Luminous The Symphony of Us."

Related: Why Epcot is now Disney World's must-do park

In 2024, the focus will shift to Magic Kingdom, with the opening of Tiana's Bayou Adventure. The attraction is expected to open in late 2024. Perhaps more important than any new attraction, beginning Jan. 9, 2024, a Disney World visit will feel much like it did before the COVID-19 pandemic. This date marks the end of theme park reservations and 2 p.m. park-hopping restrictions , as well as the return of the Disney Dining Plan .

At Universal Orlando, 2023 saw the debut of Minion Land and the new Illumination's Villain-Con Minion Blast attraction. This is just Universal's first step to introduce more kid-friendly programming. In 2024, Universal Studios Florida will open a land themed to DreamWorks Animation films like "Shrek," "Trolls" and "Kung Fu Panda."

SeaWorld Orlando has been on a regular cadence of adding new attractions every year and 2024 is no different. After opening the Ice Breaker coaster in 2022 and Pipeline: The Surf Coaster in 2023, the marine-themed park will open a family-friendly launch coaster called Penguin Trek in 2024.

The Orlando area is also home to the headwaters of the Everglades, which provides ample opportunities for outdoorsy families to explore the flora and fauna that call the Everglades home. Both Wild Florida and Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures offer airboat tours where you're almost guaranteed to spot a few alligators. Or, you can take it slow on a kayak tour in one of Get Up and Go Kayaking's clear kayaks.

Where to stay

The Evermore Orlando Resort will open next door to Disney World on Jan. 1, 2024. The resort will feature a variety of accommodation types, from vacation villas to luxury hotel rooms at Orlando's first Conrad Hotel, as well as a 20-acre tropical beach complex with an 8-acre lagoon for swimming and water sports.

Room rates at the Conrad Orlando start at around $580 or 90,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Also near Disney World, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando recently completed property-wide renovations, including transformed guest rooms, new restaurants and dining menus, a reimagined spa and golf club and more. Room rates start at around $560 or 90,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Oahu, Hawaii

From swimming in the jewel-toned waters of the Pacific Ocean to hiking through lush green landscapes and experiencing Hawaii's rich history and time-honored traditions, Oahu has so much to offer families in search of a tropical beach vacation.

You are likely to stay at a resort with beach access, so let's explore some of Oahu's top attractions off the beach. If your kids are up for a hike, they'll be rewarded with picture-perfect views and a peek into Hawaii's military history on the Diamond Head State Monument . There is a small entry fee of $5 per person (free for Hawaii residents and children ages 3 and under).

About 30 minutes away by car, you can visit Pearl Harbor . Here, you can visit the Pearl Harbor memorials, explore a large collection of aircraft in the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, discover the USS Bowfin Submarine and so much more. Guided tours and individual ticket packages are available.

With six "Jurassic Park" films released in the past 30 years, your kids are likely as big fans of the franchise as you are. At Kualoa Ranch , you can visit some of the real-life filming locations from these films, along with other popular movies like "Kong Skull Island" and "50 First Dates."

Related: Save money: How you can book flights to Hawaii using points and miles in 2024

If you are a Disney family through and through, there's no better place to stay than Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa . You can spend your days swimming in the pool, snorkeling in the hotel's private lagoon and playing on the beach or check out the Disney offerings like character meet-and-greets, animation classes or movies under the stars. Kids ages 4-12 can visit Aunty's Beach House, a kids club included in the cost of your stay.

Room rates start at around $569 per night when booked with cash or from about $336 if booked with rented points from a site like David's Vacation Club .

Related: 11 best family resorts in Hawaii for a relaxing vacation

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort offers families direct access to Duke Kahanamoku Beach, but also has a smaller, calm lagoon that may be more popular with younger kids. This resort has five outdoor pools — some with waterslides — hula and lei-making lessons, fish feeding and luau feasts with traditional Samoan, Tahitian and Hawaiian dancing every Sunday through Thursday.

Rates at Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort start at around $250 or 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Families who want to enjoy Arizona's natural beauty and year-round warm weather have a lot of new options to choose from in 2024 when it comes to places to stay and play.

In addition to timeless landmarks like the Grand Canyon , Monument Valley and Camelback Mountain, President Biden recently designated one million acres of land near the Grand Canyon as the Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni – Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument , ensuring the land, which is home to several native tribes, remains protected. In addition, Chiricahua National Monument in Willcox, Arizona, may soon be Arizona's newest National Park.

Related: What to pack and where to stay: TPG's ultimate Grand Canyon family vacation guide

Slated to open sometime in 2024, Mattel Adventure Park in Glendale, Arizona, will feature attractions based on favorite toys like Hot Wheels, Barbie and more. There will be an entire land themed to "Thomas & Friends," two thrilling Hot Wheels roller coasters and a life-size Barbie Beach House with a rooftop bar and restaurant.

The Mattel Adventure Park mentioned above will be located at the also-soon-to-open Vai Resort . Vai will be the state's largest resort, with more than 1,100 rooms and suites, a world-class concert venue and a 6-acre swimming complex with a sandy beach.

In other recent opening news, the 141-room Global Ambassador Hotel opened on Dec. 6 at the crossroads of Paradise Valley, Scottsdale and Phoenix. This luxury property has a world-class spa and fitness center, select guest rooms with views of Camelback Mountain and a climate-controlled pool. Room rates start at around $560 per night, and it will also be part of Chase's Luxury Resort & Hotel Collectio n and Mr & Mrs Smith , beginning Jan. 1, 2024.

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

The Guanacaste province of Costa Rica is a destination where eco-conscious families can combine lazy days on the beach with outdoor adventures in the region's lush, tropical rainforest.

Related: 6 adventurous activities in Costa Rica for families

Playa Tamarindo — along with nearby beaches Playa Grande and Playa Langosta — is well-known for its surf-ready waves, even if you have little (or no) experience on a surfboard. A number of local surf shops offer surfing lessons or boogie board rentals if you aren't quite ready to brave the waves while standing.

If you can pull yourself away from the surf (and you should), there are ample opportunities to experience the jungles of Costa Rica.

Related: Epic wildlife and sustainable luxury define travel to Costa Rica in 2024

You'll need to travel a decent way inland, so the easiest option is to book a half-day or full-day tour that leaves from Guanacaste. Spend a day in the treetops of Monteverde's Cloud Forest, see some of Costa Rica's breathtakingly blue waterfalls or visit Arenal Volcano National Park.

If you book through Viator, you can get up to 10% cash back through the Rakuten shopping portal or earn miles through the Delta SkyMiles or AAdvantage portals .

Related: Frontier Airlines' unlimited all-you-can-fly pass now valid for kids, includes $200 flight credit

If you are looking for an all-inclusive option, check out The Westin Reserva Conchal on Playa Conchal. The resort has a dedicated section for families that is close to the pool, beach, restaurants and the included kids club. Family suites have bunk beds, a sofa bed and a queen bed so everyone can sleep comfortably. All-inclusive rates at The Westin Reserva Conchal start at $425 or 73,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night, based on double occupancy.

Related: The 13 best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica for beach visits or hiking trips

The JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa is another family-friendly option located on the shores of Playa Mansita, just a short drive from the town of Tamarindo. You can spend your days soaking in the large oceanfront pool, playing in the sand or exploring the shopping and dining in town. The JW Adventure Kids Club is open to kids ages 4-12 and offers supervised activities and a playground. Room rates start at around $617 or 36,800 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Disney's Lighthouse Point, Bahamas

While not a traditional destination you can drive or fly to and stay overnight, Disney Cruise Line's newest private island deserves a spot on this list. Beginning in June of 2024, select Disney Cruise Line itineraries will include a stop at Lighthouse Point. The inaugural sailing will be a seven-night sailing on the Disney Fantasy that stops at Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay, but all other sailings that visit the new island will be on board the Disney Magic .

Related: Port alert: These 2 cruise lines are building new private destinations in the Bahamas

Lighthouse Point was thoughtfully planned and built to incorporate environmental and cultural awareness into its design and amenities. Disney partnered with local artists to create murals, sculptures and other elements of the island and also plans to offer programming in the island's Arts and Cultural Pavilion that honors Bahamian traditions and shore excursions developed in partnership with local tour operators.

Lighthouse Point will have a family beach with a water play area for kids and an adults-only beach with a dedicated bar and dining area. Cabanas are available to rent in both sections. Guests can also play volleyball, borrow bikes and water sports equipment or explore nature trails.

Paradise Coast, Florida

Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades comprise Southwest Florida's Paradise Coast, an area where you can experience the full breadth of what Florida has to offer. In Naples and Marco Island, you can enjoy five-star accommodations and pristine beaches; in the Everglades, you can immerse yourself in the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S.

At Everglades National Park , you can view wildlife including alligators, birds, otters and more, on one of the park's many hiking trails or on a guided tram, kayak or airboat tour .

Related: TPG's favorite national parks: A month-by-month guide

Families will also enjoy the educational fun at Golisano Children's Museum of Naples (especially if you are in need of a rainy day activity) and the wet and wild excitement of Naples' Sun-N-Fun Lagoon . If you aren't staying directly on the beach (or just want to hop around and explore), Vanderbilt Beach is a popular spot for swimming, shelling and watersports that's also close to shopping and dining. If you travel about 20 miles north of Naples to Lovers State Park, you can swim in more seclusion than the popular in-town beaches or soak up the dog days of summer with your canine companion at Dog Beach Park.

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples reopened in July of 2023 after an extensive transformation. The hotel added three new dining outlets, newly designed guest rooms and a redesigned pool area with four pools, luxury cabanas and immersive water features. What hasn't changed are Ritz-Carlton's extraordinary guest service and the breathtaking ocean views.

Room rates start at around $783 or 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Beginning in October 2024, families can visit the newest location in the Great Wolf Lodge water park resort family. Guest suites in this 500-room resort are designed with families in mind. Standard family suites have two queen beds and a sleeper sofa, but we recommend opting for one of the themed suites with a queen bed for parents and a separate bunk bed area for kids. Admission to the resort's 100,000-square-foot indoor water park is included in your stay. Room rates start at around $200 per night.

Regardless of when you visit the City of Light , you'll be greeted with endless museums, historical landmarks and sprawling green spaces to discover. There is one very special reason to visit in 2024 that may dominate your time in Paris, but it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those lucky enough to be there in person.

Related: 2024 Paris Olympics: How I used points and miles to save money on business-class flights and hotel nights

The 2024 Summer Olympics are being held in France from July 26-Aug. 11, and the opening ceremonies will kick off along the Seine in Paris. Some events will require you to travel outside of the city, but some are taking place right in the heart of Paris. You can watch beach volleyball near the Eiffel Tower, fencing and Taekwondo at the Grand Palais and tennis at the 95-year-old Roland-Garros Stadium.

While you're in town, you can get to Disneyland Paris by bus or train in under an hour. If you prefer to spend more than one day at Disneyland Paris, you can stay in one of the park's eight themed hotels, including the recently reimagined five-star Disneyland Hotel .

Securing hotel reservations in Paris during the Olympics could almost be a Games event in itself. Your best option is likely going to be an official Olympics travel package , which includes a hotel stay and tickets to one or more events.

Related: The best hotels in Paris

Indianapolis

All eyes will be on the sky in Indianapolis this spring. On April 8, 2024, millions of Americans will be in the path of a rare total solar eclipse , though only a handful of major cities will be along the path of totality with up to four minutes of dark skies.

Indianapolis is one such city along the so-called path of totality, and they are planning a full weekend of fun, including educational films and lectures, games, live entertainment and more between April 5–8, 2024. The best viewing spots will be at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and White River State Park, but events are being held all over town.

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis and the Indianapolis Zoo are also getting in on the action. These also happen to be two of the best attractions for families visiting Indianapolis any time of year. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis recently renovated its interactive dinosaur exhibit, and the Indianapolis Zoo has rides and attractions in addition to animal habitats.

The JW Marriott Indianapolis is located within walking distance of White River State Park. Guest rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of downtown so you can enjoy the city skyline when you aren't looking up at the sky. Rates start at around $150 or 31,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Families can sleep in a converted 1920s Pullman train car at the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown Union Station for a unique stay. Traditional rooms are also available, along with an indoor pool, two restaurants and nods to the property's former life as the country's first Union Station. Room rates start at around $170 or 22,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Bottom line

At TPG, we are on a never-ending quest to provide travelers with vacation experiences that fit their budget, family size and travel style. Families have endless vacation destinations to choose from, and we've compiled the best of the best to help you create your dream getaway.

Related reading:

• 21 best all-inclusive resorts for families
• The top credit cards for families
• Spare yourself the hassle and stress with these 8 perfect family staycation destinations
• 13 best family attractions in the US
• 25 best all-inclusive resorts in the world, according to frequent travelers

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From theme parks to national parks, we found 40 vacation spots the whole family will love

Remember what a typical day in your childhood looked like? Probably not, but we bet you can vividly recall a family trip that blew your young mind. While many of us are contemplating our big travel plans for the next year, now might be an excellent time to let those long-dreamt-about family vacation ideas come to fruition.

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

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

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Best family-friendly vacation spots of 2024

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

• Florida's Space Coast

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

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

• The Strong National Museum of Play

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

• Waikiki Beach

Theme parks and activity centers

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

Best for ages: 6-18

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

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

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

More info: CedarPoint.com

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

Best for ages: 2-14

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

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

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

More info: DisneyWorld.Disney.go.com

Florida’s Space Coast

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

Best for ages: 5-15

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

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

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

More info: VisitSpaceCoast.com

Legoland, New York

Best for ages: 2-12

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

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

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

More info: legoland.com/new-york

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

Best for ages: 1-11

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

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

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

More info: SanDiegoZooWildlifeAlliance.com

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

Best for ages: 2-5

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

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

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

More info: SesamePlace.com

The Strong National Museum of Play, New York

" This place is a kid’s (and adult’s) paradise. You and the family can spend all day here and still not scratch the service. From the Barbie exhibit to the slew of nostalgic pinball games, guests will be in their glory. There is even a mini Wegmans where kids can (pretend) shop and play cashier!" — Allie Wise , a Rochester, New York native and an associate editor at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 4-12

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

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

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

More info: MuseumOfPlay.org

"The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has rides and experiences that’ll satisfy everyone in the family. Enjoy thrill rides like 'The Forbidden Journey' or relax with a butterbeer at the Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley. Being there really makes you feel immersed in the world of Harry Potter. I’ll never forget buying a wand at Ollivanders!" — Laura Millar, an NBC Page at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 8-13

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

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

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

More info: UniversalOrlando.com

Wisconsin Dells

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

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

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

More info: WisDells.com

Beach vacations

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

Best for ages: 8-12

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

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

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

More info: MiamiandBeaches.com

Best for ages: 12-17

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

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

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

More info: VisitNicaragua.us

Riviera Maya, Mexico

More info: NPS.gov/glac

Best for ages: 4-14

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

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

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

More info: VisitMexico.com

Best for ages: 10-18

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

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

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

More info: StLucia.org

Virginia Beach

Best for ages: 5-17

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

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

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

More info: VisitVirginiaBeach.com

Waikiki Beach

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

Best for ages: 11-16

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

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

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

More info: GoHawaii.com/Islands/Oahu

Outdoorsy adventures

An alaskan cruise.

Best for ages: 9-16

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

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

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

More info: TravelAlaska.com

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

Best for ages: 4-18

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

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

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

More info: AspenSnowmass.com

Canada’s Rockies by Rail

Best for ages: 8-15

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

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

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

More info: CanadianTrainVacations.com

Colorado Springs

Best for ages: 7-13

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

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

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

More info: VisitCOS.com

Dinosaur Valley State Park, Texas

Best for ages: 5-11

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

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

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

More info: Texas.gov

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

Best for ages : 11-16

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

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

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

More info: NPS.gov/havo

Glacier National Park, Montana

Best for ages: 8-18

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

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

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

Grand Canyon National Park

Best for ages : 8-13

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

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

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

More info: NPS.gov/grca

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

Best for ages: 6-16

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

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

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

More info: VisitJacksonHole.com

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

Best for ages: 5-12

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

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

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

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

Pacific Coast Highway Drive

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

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

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

More info: CentralCoast-Tourism.com

Redwood National & State Parks

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

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

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

More info: NPS.gov/redw

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan

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

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

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

More info: NPS.gov/slbe

The Black Hills, South Dakota

Best for kids ages: 5-15

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

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

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

More info: TravelSouthDakota.com

Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota

Best for ages: 6-12

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

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

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

More info: NDTourism.com

Yellowstone National Park

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

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

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

More info : NPS.gov/yell

Yosemite National Park

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

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

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

More info: TravelYosemite.com

Major cities

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

Best for ages: 8-16

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

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

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

More info: Denver.org

Millennium Park, Chicago

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

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

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

More info: ChooseChicago.com

New Orleans’ French Quarter

Best for ages: 3-17

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

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

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

More info: NewOrleansOnline.com

Tenerife, Spain

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

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

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

More info: WebTenerife.com

Historical outings

Buckingham palace.

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

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

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

More info: Royal.uk

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

Best for ages: 8-17

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

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

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

More info: ThisIsCooperstown.com

The National Mall

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

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

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

More info: Washington.org

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

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

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

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

More info: Plimoth.org

• Massachusetts
• Pennsylvania
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Washington D.C.
• Washington State
• Niagara Falls
• Playa Del Carmen
• Paris, France
• Rome, Italy
• Venice, Italy
• Florence, Italy
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Madrid, Spain
• Barcelona, Spain
• Seville, Spain
• London, U.K
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Cayman Islands
• Saint Lucia
• Turks and Caicos
• United Arab Emirates
• Cartagena, Colombia
• New Zealand

• All Inclusive
• National and State Parks
• RV Vacations
• Skiing/Winter Activities
• Summer Vacation
• Winter Travel
• Spring Break
• Animal Encounters
• City and Culture
• Virtual Vacations
• Weekend Getaways

• Packing Tips
• Road Trip Tips

Family Travel Tips

• Travelling With Babies
• Travelling With Toddlers
• Gifts and Gear -Travel Gift Ideas
• Submission Guidlines

20 Best Destinations In The United States To Visit With Young Kids

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One of the best things about traveling in the United States with young kids is that there are so many great destinations to choose from! From the beaches of Florida to the mountains of Colorado, there are plenty of kid-friendly attractions and activities to keep even the youngest travelers entertained. Whether you’re looking for a beach vacation, a city break, or a nature getaway, there’s sure to be a perfect spot for your family. Of course, with so many incredible options can be tough to decide where to go, especially if you have young kids in tow. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with this list of the Best Destinations In The United States To Visit With Young Kids. Stay tuned to learn more! 

Best Places to Visit on the East Coast With Young Kids

If you’re looking for the perfect family vacation destination, you can’t go wrong with the East Coast of the United States. From the beaches of Cape Cod to the historical sites of Philadelphia, there are plenty of places to keep everyone in the family happy. Here are just a few of our favorite picks for the best places to visit on the East Coast with kids! 

Philadelphia, PA

With its rich history and abundance of kid-friendly activities, Philadelphia is the perfect destination for a family vacation. This charming city in Pennsylvania has kid-friendly attractions, from exploring historical sites to visiting excellent museums. Plus, it’s extremely walkable and easy to navigate via public transportation, making it ideal for visiting with young kids! 

One of the best things to do with young kids in Philadelphia is to visit the Philadelphia Zoo , home to more than 1,000 animals. Kids will love seeing all the different animals, and they can even feed some of them. Another great activity for kids in Philadelphia is to visit the Please Touch Museum. This museum is all about hands-on learning, and kids will love playing with all of the interactive exhibits. If you’re looking for something a little more educational, learn more about United States history at iconic landmarks like Independence Hall , the Liberty Bell , and Betsy Ross House , all of which are located within the city. Other unique sites are sure to please families, too, between Shane Confectionery , America’s oldest candy store, The Magic Gardens , and Fireman’s Hall Museum . 

Philadelphia also puts families close to other destinations like Sesame Place. No wonder it’s one of the best destinations in the United States to visit with young kids! 

Visiting during the winter? Here are the 14 Things To Do In Philadelphia With Kids During Winter !

Where to Stay in Philadelphia with Kids

Philadelphia has plenty of places to stay with kids! Families love The  Sonesta Philadelphia  because it has the largest heated outdoor pool in the city. Meanwhile, the  Four Seasons Philadelphia  has the highest pool – on the 57 th  floor. In the Old City, stay at the conveniently located  Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District .  A bit further from downtown, consider the  Chestnut Hill Hotel ,  in a great neighborhood for shopping and dining.

Lancaster, PA

Lancaster County is home to some of the best family attractions in Pennsylvania! Located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, there are a variety of activities and sights to see in this historic area, particularly for young children. Whether you’re looking for history, arts, or just some good old-fashioned fun, Lancaster has something for everyone in the family! 

The Amish Farm and House is a great place to start your visit to Lancaster. This working farm allows visitors to experience what life is like for the Amish community. Families can take a wagon ride, milk a cow, or even churn their own butter. Lancaster is also home to several family-friendly museums, including the Lancaster Science Factory and the Lancaster History Center. Art & Glassworks is another must-see, featuring whimsical pieces of glass from all over the world. Nearby, families will also find the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania in Strasburg. The Lancaster Central Market is another great place to take kids. Explore the various stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other goods. Lancaster also has several parks and playgrounds, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants that are perfect for young families. 

Of course, no trip to Lancaster would be complete without a visit to Hershey Park and Dutch Wonderland. These amusement parks are filled with rides, shows, and attractions that are perfect for young kids! 

Lancaster is also one of 9 Exciting Weekend Getaways Near DC for Families !

Cape Cod, MA

​​If you’re looking for a quintessential New England experience with your young kids, look no further than Cape Cod . This popular vacation destination in Massachusetts is home to miles of sandy beaches, charming seafood shacks, and quaint seaside towns. And there’s plenty for kids to do, from exploring the Cape Cod National Seashore to mini-golfing and more. Plus, when you want a quick and scenic day trip, you can take a ferry to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket!

Families love making locations like Yarmouth or Barnstable their home base in Cape Cod. Both offer a variety of family-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and things to do. Lovely beaches line both the north and south coasts of Yarmouth. Here, the surf is quite also gentle and ideal for young swimmers. In Barnstable, families love Sandy Neck Beach and Covell’s Beaches , to name a few.

Though a bit more expensive, Provincetown is another great option. When the weather is nice, relax on Race Point Beach, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. Kids will also love the many museums and historic sites on Cape Cod, including Provincetown Lighthouse or Provincetown’s Pilgrim Monument . In the summer, families can also whale watch at MacMillan Wharf.

Or, explore more of Cape Cod by renting a bike and riding along Rail Trail . Also, don’t miss Wellfleet Cinemas for a drive-in movie, Pirate’s Cove for mini-golf, and Monomoy Island for a seal cruise. Then, get a sweet treat at Sundae School Ice Cream or a lobster roll at Dennisport’s Sesuit Harbor Café. Seafood lovers will be in heaven at The Chatham Pier Fish Market or Hangar B Eatery in the Chatham Airport . 

Don’t miss adding these 15 Best Things To Do In Cape Cod With Kids to your itinerary!

Where to Stay in Cape Cod with Kids

For somewhere to stay on Cape Cod with kids, we suggest Chatham Bars Inn for its upscale, secluded setting. Another great option is Wequassett Resort and Golf Club , known for its scenic oceanfront location and kids’ program.

New Hampshire

Young kids will love exploring the beautiful state of New Hampshire ! With its vast mountains and valleys, there is so much to see and do in this New England paradise. This state is also full of natural beauty, charming small towns, and plenty of attractions to keep kids entertained! Particularly in the summer or fall, New Hampshire has plenty of outdoor activities that kids will love, such as hiking and camping. 

White Mountain National Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. With over 800 miles of hiking trails to explore, including easy hikes suitable for young children, it’s the perfect place to get some fresh air and exercise. From swimming and boating in the summer to ice skating and sledding in the winter, there’s also no shortage of things to do at Lake Winnipesaukee. New Hampshire is also home to many kid-friendly theme parks, such as Santa Land , a magical place where young kids can meet Santa Claus and his reindeer, visit elf school, and take a ride on the Santa Express Train. Kids can also meet their favorite characters like Jack and Jill or Humpty Dumpty at Story Land , an imaginative world of fairy tales and Nursery Rhymes that come to life. 

And don’t forget about the history and culture of New Hampshire – from the USS Albacore Submarine Museum to the Strawbery Banke Living History Museum , there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the state’s rich past. Kids will especially love Castle in the Clouds , a 16th-century-style castle, which sits on 135 acres of beautiful grounds.

Take in the autumn views at these 19 Exciting Places to See Fall Foliage in New England with Kids!

Where to Stay in New Hampshire with Kids

New Hampshire boasts plenty of places to stay as a family! For a luxury resort, consider the upscale Mountain View Grand Resort and Spa , which is located mountainside in Whitefield . Then, there’s also the Omni Mt. Washington Resort , which features two golf courses, an indoor pool, and lots of summer amenities. Families can also rent homes on Airbnb or Vrbo .

Vermont is a delightful destination for young families looking to enjoy nature without sacrificing any comforts of home. The Green Mountain State offers an array of kid-friendly activities, from hiking and biking trails to swimming holes and playgrounds. In the warmer months, families can explore one of Vermont’s many state parks. Or, take a scenic drive through the picturesque countryside to see the fall foliage. And in the winter, it’s also home to some of the best ski resorts in the United States for families!

No matter what time of year, Vermont features charming small towns to explore. Stowe is home to Stowe Mountain Resort and endless hiking and outdoor adventures. There’s also a gondola up Mt. Mansfield for stunning views of the surrounding area. For a truly unique experience, ride the Green Mountain Railroad through the scenic Green Mountains. If you’re headed to Stowe during the winter, be sure to read our Guide to Skiing in Stowe with Kids .

In Waterbury , families can visit the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory. Little ones will love seeing how their favorite ice cream flavors are made and even taking some home! Waterbury Center State Park is also a great place to hike, picnic, and swim. Then, in Shelburne , enjoy a vast art collection at The Shelburne Museum . Or, learn how adorable stuffed animals are made by hand on a tour of the Vermont Teddy Bear Company Factory . 

Burlington is situated on Lake Champlain and has plenty to keep families busy too. Kids will love visiting the Burlington Children’s Space on a rainy day. Or the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain during warm weather, where they can learn about local wildlife and go on boat rides. And don’t forget to check out the farmer’s market – it’s one of the best in the country!

Those traveling to Vermont during the autumn will love these 14 Perfect Fall Foliage Vacations for Families .

Where to Stay in Vermont with Kids

Families searching for a kid-friendly place to stay in Vermont are in luck! You’ll be in good hands at Smugglers’ Notch Resort just outside Stowe , which features winter skiing, summer hiking, and everything in between! Another great option is The Lodge at Spruce Peak , which has amazing views and even better amenities. Families also adore the quaint and cozy Trapp Family Lodge overlooking Stowe . Other fantastic options for the best hotels in Vermont for families include Topnotch Resort , Woodstock Inn & Resort , and the Tyler Place Family Resort . Or, spread out by booking an Airbnb or Vrbo . Here is more information on some of the best Vermont hotels for families .

Williamsburg, VA

Virginia’s colonial capital of Williamsburg is a great destination for young kids! With its 18th-century architecture and old-fashioned charm, this historic city is full of Revolutionary War-era landmarks and sites, as well as kid-friendly museums, restaurants, and shops. And there is no shortage of things to do, from visiting one of the many museums or historic homes to taking a leisurely stroll through one of the beautiful parks.

For families interested in learning about the history of America, Colonial Williamsburg is a must-see. This living history museum allows visitors to experience what life was like in the 18th-century colonies. Families can explore historic homes and shops like Governor’s Palace, watch artisans at work, and learn about 18th-century life through interactive exhibits and numerous activities daily .

Then, Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown are also great options for families looking to learn about the history of the United States. These living history museums offer visitors the opportunity to explore early American life through hands-on exhibits and demonstrations. Families can also participate in historical reenactments, watch blacksmiths at work, and much more. In neighboring Newport News, there’s the Virginia Living Museum , which showcases the state’s natural heritage. 

Want something more fast-paced? Busch Gardens is a must-visit for any family looking for a thrill! With over 50 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and live shows, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Water Country is another great option for families looking to cool off in the summer heat, featuring over 30 rides and attractions, including slides, pools, and a lazy river! 

Best Places to Visit in the South with Young Kids

When traveling with young kids, the United States south has so much to offer! From the stunning beaches of Florida to the charming small towns of Tenessee, endless options exist for family-friendly fun. Here are just a few of the best destinations to visit in the South of the United States with kids! 

Houston, TX

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with your family in Houston ! This vibrant city in Texas has something for all ages, from world-class museums and attractions to great restaurants and shopping. And with its mild climate, Houston is a great place to visit any time of year. Of course, families can’t miss the chance to sample the delicious Tex-Mex cuisines the city is known for! 

One of the best things to do in Houston with kids is to visit the Museum of Natural Science . This interactive and educational museum features exhibits all about science and nature. Of course, kids will love learning all about space at the Space Center Houston or visiting The Children’s Museum of Houston. Another great option for animal lovers is the Downtown Aquarium or the Houston Zoo . The zoo has a variety of animals, plus several educational programs.

For families looking for outdoor fun, Houston also has many parks that are perfect for young kids. Hermann Park , for example, has a playground and picnic areas. Memorial Park is another great option and features a playground, walking trails, and a lake where families can go fishing. If your kids are into sports, they’ll enjoy visiting Minute Maid Park , home of the Houston Astros baseball team! 

Families doing a multi-city itinerary can also check out these Fun Things To Do In Dallas That Kids Will Love !

There’s no doubt that Florida is a great vacation destination for families with young kids! From the world-renowned theme parks of Orlando to the beaches of the Gulf Coast, there’s something for everyone in the Sunshine State. Plus, the weather is usually warm and sunny, making it a great place to visit all year round.

Orlando is home to some of the most popular theme parks in the world, including Walt Disney World , Universal Studios Orlando, and SeaWorld Orlando . These parks offer various attractions and rides for kids of all ages.

For a more laid-back vacation, consider the variety of museums, historic sites, and parks in Florida’s capital, Tallahassee . And, of course, no trip to Florida would be complete without spending some time at the beach. Whether you want to explore Amelia Island on the Atlantic Coast or enjoy Sarasota or Destin on the Gulf Coast, you’ll be rewarded with soft sand and crystal-clear waters.

Key West is also a great destination for families with young children who love the outdoors. Try water sports like jet skiing, kayaking, snorkeling, and more at Dry Tortugas National Park or Fort Zachary Taylor State Beach Park . Those headed to Key West can’t miss these Fun Things to Do in Key West with Kids .

Looking for an epic family adventure? The Everglades is a must-see when visiting Florida. You can take an airboat tour through the wetlands, go on a hike, or even try your hand at fishing!

Where to Stay in Florida with Kids

Families have so many choices when it comes to accommodations in Florida. If you want to stay near Disney, you can choose from Disney Deluxe Resorts for families , like Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge or Disney’s Beach Club Resort . There are also more moderate options, like Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

Then, on the gulf coast, families will also find plenty of hotels with a water park or lazy river ! We suggest The Ritz-Carlton, Naples , Tradewinds Island Grand Resort , and Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina . Key West also has some fantastic hotels , like the Key West Marriott Beachside .

Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg, TN

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are both excellent destinations for families with young children. These two picturesque towns, nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, are home to some of the best attractions in the country and offer tons of family-friendly activities, attractions, and affordable lodging options. You can usually find several deals on hotels and attractions if you plan your trip in advance! 

Start your trip in Pigeon Forge by heading to Dollywood , an adrenaline-pumping amusement park featuring dozens of rides, shows, and attractions. Little ones will especially love exploring the park’s Wildwood Grove, as well as the two play areas on Owens Farm: Granny’s Garden and the Lil’ Pilots Playground. Not to mention, munching on yummy cinnamon bread. Then, visit the Titanic Museum to learn all about the ill-fated ship and its passengers.

Gatlinburg is home to Great Smoky Mountains National Park , featuring hiking to Grotto Falls and Laurel Falls . Or, visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies , which showcases over 10,000 exotic sea creatures. Other popular attractions in Gatlinburg include Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park, Anakeesta , and the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. After a day of thrills, treat the family to some delicious southern cooking at one of the area’s many restaurants.

Looking for more things to fill your days in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg? Check out this Exciting Family Itinerary For Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge .

Atlanta, GA 

Most people think of Atlanta as a bustling city with a vibrant nightlife. However, there is so much more to Atlanta than that! This city is also home to some of the best destinations in the United States to visit with young kids! From world-class museums and historical attractions to outdoor activities and lots of fantastic food, your family will indeed have a memorable vacation in Atlanta.

One of Atlanta’s most popular tourist attractions is the World of Coca-Cola, where kids can find interactive exhibits about their favorite beverages. The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world and is a must-see for any family visiting Atlanta. Kids will love getting up close and personal with all of the amazing marine life, and they will even have the opportunity to pet some of the animals! Zoo Atlanta is also worth a visit for young animal lovers to spot lions, tigers, gorillas, and more. Then, the Center for Puppetry Arts is another great option for families with young kids. This interactive museum offers puppet shows, workshops, and even classes so kids can learn about puppetry. They also have a giant puppet store on site where you can purchase your very own puppet! 

With many nearby parks and green spaces, like the Atlanta Botanical Garden or Centennial Olympic Park , Atlanta is a great place to get some fresh air and stroll. Plus, there are plenty of things to do outside of the city limits as well. Try taking the kids to Stone Mountain Park or Six Flags Over Georgia for a day of fun! 

Plan your itinerary with these Best Things To Do In Atlanta With Kids ! 

Best Places to Visit in the Midwest with Young Kids

There are so many great places to visit in the Midwest with kids! Depending on your interests, you can find everything from interactive museums to outdoor adventures. Below are some of our top picks for places to visit in the Midwest with kids – each one has something unique to offer your family! 

Bloomington, MN

When it comes to family-friendly vacation destinations, it doesn’t get much better than Bloomington, Minnesota! Located around 10 miles south of downtown Minneapolis, this Midwestern gem is home to world-famous attractions that are sure to be a hit with your little ones. From outdoor adventures to one of the world’s largest shopping malls, Bloomington has it all!

Bloomington is known for housing the Mall of America , a huge indoor mall with many kid-friendly stores and attractions. Be sure to stop by for a day of shopping and check out the SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium ! Of course, young kids can’t miss the Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park , where they can meet all their favorite cartoon characters and enjoy fun rides. The Mall of America also offers endless shopping, as well as mini-golf, an arcade, restaurants, and more.

Beyond the big-name sights, Bloomington is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of green space to explore and go hiking, like places like the Hyland Lake Park Reserve (which includes one of the best playgrounds in the Twin Cities) and the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. And don’t forget about the city’s kid-friendly museum scene, which you can experience at The Works Museum . Bloomington has a great selection of parks and playgrounds for families to enjoy, including the Hyland Play Area and Running Park .

Don’t miss adding some of these 18 Amazing Things to Do in Minneapolis Families Will Love to your itinerary.

Where to Stay in Bloomington with Kids

Bloomington is super kid-friendly and has lots of places to stay! For indoor fun at a water park, we suggest the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Minnesota . Families who want to stay near one of Bloomington’s biggest attractions, the Mall of America, can also book a stay at Radisson Blu Mall of America .

Looking to add a few more stops to your Minnesota itinerary? Here are 45+ Exciting Places To Visit Within 3 Hours Of The Twin Cities With Kids .

Chicago, IL 

If you’re looking for an exciting and educational destination to take your young kids to, Chicago is the perfect place! From world-renowned museums to interactive attractions, your children will love exploring this vibrant city in northern Illinois. Plus, Six Flags Great America isn’t too far away when families want a thrilling day trip from Chicago! 

From tasting deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s to parks or sports games, you’ll find endless ways to entertain your kids. One of the most popular attractions for young kids is the Lincoln Park Zoo. It’s home to all sorts of animals, from lions and tigers to penguins and polar bears. Families can visit the nearby Brookfield Zoo or the Shedd Aquarium for more animal adventures. Or, take kids to a family-friendly museum, like the Museum of Science and Industry , the Field Museum , The Art Institute of Chicago , or the Chicago Children’s Museum .

On a sunny day, wander Chinatown Square , Pilsen’s 16th Street Murals , and Navy Pier. Or, take a boat tour and spend the day at Chicago beach . Save time for Millennium Park , home to a famous sculpture, “The Bean,” aka Cloud Gate ! Finally, don’t forget about these Fun Things to Do in Chicago with Kids .

Where to Stay in Chicago with Kids

Stay in the heart of downtown Chicago at the  Palmer House, A Hilton Hotel ,  The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago , and the  Park Hyatt Chicago . Each has unique accommodations and extra perks for families, like a pool, spacious rooms, or rooms with kitchenettes. If you want to stay by the Navy Pier, check out  The Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago Downtown / River North  or  Loews Chicago Hotel . Families also love  The Langham, Chicago . Here’s why we think you should Stay at The Langham, Chicago, for an Exciting Chicago Vacation with Kids ! Or book an Airbnb or   Vrbo ! Check out our list of family hotels in Chicago   if you want more options.

Wisconsin Dells, WI

If your family loves the outdoors, Wisconsin Dells is the perfect destination! This city in southern Wisconsin has plenty to keep young ones entertained, from waterparks and river cruises to nature-focused adventures. Whether you want to go swimming, boating, fishing, or something else, it’s undoubtedly one of the best destinations in the United States to visit with young kids!

When you want to cool off, Wisconsin Dells showcases several waterparks, including Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park , and the largest waterpark in America, Noah’s Ark Waterpark . The whole family can have a blast with slides, pools, and lazy rivers! For a different kind of outdoor adventure, take a river cruise to spot beautiful sandstone cliffs and plenty of wildlife along the way.

Several companies offer cruises on the Wisconsin River, including Dells Boat Tours, so that you can choose one perfect for your family. Or, hike through one of the many trails at Mirror Lake State Park. Additionally, you don’t want to miss taking your kids to the Wisconsin Deer Park! Visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium or tour the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory – an interactive science museum that all ages will love. 

Wisconsin Dells is one of the Best Places To Visit In Wisconsin For Families ; find out who else made the list.

Where to Stay in Wisconsin Dells with Kids

You’ll find plenty of fun places to stay in Wisconsin Dells with kids! If you want one with an indoor or outdoor waterpark, consider  Wilderness Resort.   From lazy rivers to fast slides, it truly has it all! Some other great water park hotels in Wisconsin Dells include Kalahari Resorts & Conventions – Wisconsin Dells  and Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Wisconsin Dells .  

Branson, MO

When it comes to family-friendly destinations, Branson is hard to beat! Situated in the Ozarks, this welcoming Missouri city boasts more than 60 live music shows, seven theme parks, three water parks, and numerous museums and attractions. Whether your kids are into roller coasters or performances, they will find something to love in Branson!

Start your trip with a visit to Silver Dollar City , an 1880s-themed amusement park with over 40 rides, shows, and attractions. Kids will love riding the rollercoasters and exploring the many shops and restaurants. Then, head to Splash Country Indoor & Outdoor Water Park for a day of slides, swimming, and splashing around!

Adventure seekers can explore caves at Talking Rocks Cavern , while those who prefer a more relaxed pace can take a scenic riverboat cruise or Table Rock Lake (one of the Best Lakes in the Midwest for Families ). Go fishing, swimming, boating, or enjoy a picnic lunch on the shore. Tour the Titanic Museum to see a selection of historical artifacts for educational fun. And no trip to Branson would be complete without seeing a live show! From country music to magic acts, there’s something for everyone at one of the many theaters in town. 

Find out why Branson is one of the most Magical Christmas Towns in the U.S. for Families !

Best Places to Visit in the Mountain States with Young Kids

When traveling in the United States, the mountain states, such as Colorado, are some of the most beautiful places in the country. From hiking through gorgeous scenery to wildlife encounters, they also offer plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. Here are some of the best destinations to visit in the United States with young kids! 

Estes Park, CO

Estes Park is the perfect destination for young kids and their families! With its incredible mountain views, friendly people, and endless activities, this charming mountain town is home to Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the most popular national parks in the country. It’s also the perfect base camp for exploring all that the park has to offer. And while Estes Park is beautiful to explore at any time of year, it’s especially magical in winter. Families will love enjoying the breathtaking scenery of the Rocky Mountains while spending quality time together! 

There are plenty of fun winter activities to keep kids entertained in Estes Park. Go tubing, skiing, or snowboarding at nearby resorts to soak up the scenery of this winter wonderland. ​​Winter sledding is also a popular family activity. The best spot for sledding is in Hidden Valley in Rocky Mountain National Park . Of course, no visit to Estes Park would be complete without spending some time in Rocky Mountain National Park . No matter the season, families can enjoy anything from hiking to wildlife watching. Some kid-friendly trails include the Bear Lake Loop and the Emerald Lake Trail.

In the summer, try white water rafting down the Big Thompson River or get a birds-eye view from The Estes Park Aerial Tramway! Additionally, the town of Estes Park itself is filled with charming shops and restaurants for the whole family. Check out local favorites like Elkhorn Avenue, The Estes Park Riverwalk , and The Stanley Hotel .

Want to explore more of Colorado? Use this One-Week Colorado Itinerary For Families: Excellent for Summer!

Where to Stay in Estes Park with Kids

Families who want somewhere to stay in Estes Park can book an upscale room at The Stanley Hotel , where The Shining was filmed. Or, for a more affordable option, check out YMCA Of The Rockies Estes Park , which features hiking, biking, and so many more activities!

Colorado Springs, CO

Colorado Springs is a charming city in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. It’s also a popular destination with families with young kids because of its many kid-friendly attractions, including zoos, museums, and amusement parks. And, since it’s located in the Rocky Mountains, there are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, like hiking and biking. No wonder it’s one of the best destinations in the United States to visit with young kids! 

One of the most popular attractions in Colorado Springs is the Garden of the Gods , a large public park with numerous hiking trails and stunning rock formations. You can explore via a trail or take a Jeep, ATV, or segway tour. Young kids will also love visiting the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo , home to over 750 different animals from around the world. Colorado Springs is also situated near the base of one of the most famous mountains in North America – Pikes Peak . The mountain offers stunning vistas and is perfect for a family hike. There are also great options for other outdoor activities, such as ziplining, white water rafting, and rock climbing.

For an indoor or rainy activity, the Pioneers Museum , the National Museum of World War II Aviation , and the Money Museum are all fantastic options. 

Where to Stay in Colorado Springs with Kids

Book the iconic Broadmoor , which has summer activities for all ages to stay on the beautiful shores of Cheyenne Lake. For a homier feel, try the Cheyenne Mountain Colorado Springs, A Dolce Resort , located on a private lake. Want to stay inside a private country club near the best sights in town? You’ll like the Gardens of the Gods Resort and Club . Of course, kids will love the indoor water park at the Great Wolf Lodge Colorado Springs ! For more suggestions on where to stay, read our list of hotels in Colorado Springs that families will Love .

Best Places to Visit on the West Coast + Hawaii with Young Kids

The West Coast of the United States is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. There are many beautiful places to see, and the weather is usually very mild. Enjoy theme parks in California or glittering beaches in Hawaii – the choice is yours as long as you keep reading. Here are the best destinations in the United States to visit with young kids!

San Diego, CA

San Diego is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States to visit with young kids, and for a good reason! Not only is the weather beautiful year-round, but this southern California city also offers a wide variety of big attractions, activities, and experiences that are perfect for young kids. Plus, San Diego is home to some of the best beaches in the country! 

Families can enjoy spending time at Mission Beach or Pacific Beach , showcasing swimming, surfing, boogie boarding, building sand castles, and more. Kids will also love getting up close and personal with the sea lions at La Jolla Cove! You can see them from a distance or, with older kids, take a kayaking tour. For a truly unique experience, ride on the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster at Belmont Park .

Or, explore Balboa Park, home to museums, gardens, and the iconic San Diego Zoo . This world-renowned zoo is home to more than 3,700 animals, making it one of the largest zoos in the world. Kids will love seeing all of the different animals and learning about their habitats! Animal lovers can also experience shows, rides, and more at SeaWorld San Diego . Here’s how to have a Fantastic 1-Day Guide to SeaWorld San Diego with Kid s . Then, no trip to San Diego would be complete without visiting nearby LEGOLAND California ! Finally, for a delicious, family-friendly dinner, remember to explore the quaint streets of Little Italy.

Use this 7-Day San Diego Itinerary with Kids to plan your trip!

Where to Stay in San Diego with Kids

Wondering where to stay in San Diego with your kids? Situated on 400 sprawling acres, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar is centrally located, kid-friendly, and even has four pools. Families who want to stay directly on the beach will love Hotel Del Coronado, Curio Collection By Hilton . It’s housed on a Victorian property and is only five miles from downtown San Diego. For more San Diego hotel suggestions, read our article on the best waterfront hotels in San Diego for families.

Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles is a prime destination for travelers with young kids. From world-famous theme parks to kid-friendly museums and zoos, the city offers a wealth of wonderful activities and attractions for families. Plus, you can’t beat the weather in Los Angeles — it’s sunny almost year-round, so it’s the perfect place to beat the cold! 

Little ones can marvel at all their favorite celebrities on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame and even take pictures with their stars. Your kids will also love touring Universal Studios Hollywood to see how some of their favorite movies come together. Indeed, Harry Potter fans can’t miss The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter! Other theme parks nearby include Disneyland or Knott’s Berry Farm , ideal for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Then, Griffith Park , one of the largest urban parks in the United States, also features several attractions, including the Griffith Observatory. Here, enjoy stunning views of Los Angeles and beyond! Families can also spend a day at one of the many beaches in the area, such as Venice Beach or Santa Monica Beach. Or, spot exotic animals at the Los Angeles Zoo , home to species and habitats from all over the world! 

Seattle, WA

There are many great destinations in the United States to take your young kids, but Seattle is one of the absolute best. The Emerald City has a ton to offer families, from world-class museums and attractions to outdoor adventures and more. Summer boasts long days at the beach or hikes in the nearby mountains. Meanwhile, in the fall and winter, there’s no shortage of rain, but that doesn’t stop Seattleites from getting out and enjoying all the city has to offer. And springtime is when the tulips bloom in nearby Skagit Valley – a sight not to be missed! 

The Space Needle is the most iconic landmark in Seattle, and it’s a must-visit for any family vacation. The Observation Deck offers stunning city views, and kids will love riding the elevator to the top. More fun also awaits your family at the Seattle Aquarium . Located on Pier 59, it showcases over 800 species of marine life and daily penguin feedings. Woodland Park Zoo is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Seattle with young kids.

Additionally, Seattle is home to many great parks, such as Occidental Square Park and Volunteer Park , ideal for exploring and playing in. Of course, don’t forget to stop at Pike Place Market for delicious food ​​and fresh local produce. Kids will love the Gum Wall! 

For more outdoor adventures, enjoy a stunning sunset at Golden Gardens Park . Or, go kayaking, biking, and hiking in the nearby Cascade Mountains, Olympic National Park , or head east to Mount Rainer National Park . Families can also take a ferry to Bainbridge Island, only a scenic, 45-minute boat ride away. 

Discover more of the Best Hikes Near Seattle And Portland For Families !

Where to Stay in Seattle with Kids

Wondering where to stay in Seattle with kids? We love  Fairmont Olympic Hotel – Seattle , which has babysitting services, as well as other amenities like kids’ menus and children’s bathrobes. Then, the  Sheraton Grand Seattle  offers standard rooms and suites, as well as a pool and fitness center. The  Hyatt At Olive 8  is within walking distance of Pike Place Market, but they also have a pool, fitness center, and spa. Families also love  Silver Cloud Hotel – Seattle Stadium  and the  Four Seasons Hotel Seattle , featuring a special welcome for children. For more hotel suggestions in Seattle, read our list of the best hotels in Seattle for families. Or, check sites like  Vrbo  or Airbnb for home rentals!

​​ Maui is one of the perfect destinations in the United States for young kids! With its sandy beaches, tropical jungle landscapes, and active volcanoes, this Hawaiian island is a dream come true for many families. In addition to being a great place to learn about Hawaiian culture and history, Maui also has so much to offer in terms of exciting activities. Get the best of both worlds: relaxing at the tranquil pace of island life and epic adventures! 

Wailea Beach, Baby Beach, and Kapalua Bay Beach are great places to start your trip. There’s plenty to see and do, from swimming to sunbathing or playing in the sand. Maui Ocean Center is another great place to visit with young kids. They’ll learn about Hawai’i’s marine life, including turtles, sharks, and coral reefs. And they can even touch some of the animals!

Maui is also home to fantastic hikes, including the idyllic Pipiwai Trail & Waimoku Falls. If you’re looking for some more adventure, Haleakalā National Park is a must-see. You can hike through lava fields and rainforests, see an inactive volcano, and even camp overnight in the park. Maui has many other thrilling activities for brave young kids, from flying over waterfalls in a helicopter to parasailing. Don’t forget to drive the famous Road to Hāna , experience a traditional luau dinner, or have other family adventures on Maui !

Where to Stay in Maui with Kids

Maui offers families a variety of accommodations. In Kaʻanapali Beach, there’s the  Hyatt Residence Club Maui, Ka’anapali Beach , and  The Westin Maui Resort & Spa . These oceanfront hotels in Maui make it easy to jump into the water, and maybe even swim with a turtle.  Wailea , on South Maui, is home to  Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort , the  Fairmont Kea Lani Maui , and  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea .  Kīhei , between Ka’anapali and Wailea, is where most rental condos   are located for those who would rather have space over amenities. Be sure to also check out these fantastic hotels in Hawaii!

Happy Travels!

We hope this article on the Best Destinations In The United States To Visit With Young Kids inspires you to start planning your next adventure! From the theme parks of Florida to New England state parks, West Coast beaches, and so much more, there are endless ways to get your little ones out and about while appreciating this vast country. Enjoy exploring these destinations in the United States with your young kids! 

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the attractions, accommodations, or things to do on this list may be closed. Please ensure availability before making your decision. 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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7 Best Vacations with Kids Under 7

Remember the days when you backpacked through Europe alone or honeymooned in the Caribbean with your spouse? Well, vacationing with kids is different than that—way different. There's the additional gear to pack (car seats, snacks, portable DVD players) and extra factors to consider, like getting the bulkhead seat on the plane or making sure the hotel has a clean pool. Add to that the frustration that comes with the 15 millionth "Are we there yet?", and you may start to wish you had just stayed home.

But think of it this way: Young kids haven't quite learned to eye-roll. In most cases, mommy and daddy are still heroes, so you might as well capitalize on that while you can. Go on: Impart your worldly wisdom, share your interests, and infect your kids with the travel bug before it's too late! Here are seven vacations that ideally suit young families looking to get away and make memories together.

… for natural beauty

Can you imagine the privilege of introducing your kids to "the purple mountains majesty?" In Estes Park, Colo. (a.k.a. the "Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park"), you'll get to do exactly that. While getting there may cost a bit more than a trip to the big city, you can make up for the price of the rental car by bringing your own lodging. You can relish the savings while your kids savor some s'mores. During the day, stretch your legs along the trails (the paths around Bear Lake are easier for little ones) and make a game of spotting animals like bighorn sheep and marmots. And when you're craving sugar after all your exertion, follow the river into town and grab a cone of homemade ice cream at places like Hayley's or Munchin House.

… for an all-American getaway

Family travel isn't always cheap, so it makes sense that Washington D.C. draws vacationers in droves because of its affordability. Our Nation's Capital boasts lodging and dining options for a variety of budgets, while its mass-transit system makes getting around both cheap and easy. And when it comes to staying busy, D.C. has no shortage of things to do for both the young and the young-at-heart. Enjoy the pleasant summer weather during a visit to the National Zoo , or let the kids burn off some energy along the National Mall. Should you encounter a rainy (or extremely hot) day, stay dry in one of the Smithsonian Museums—the Museum of Natural History and the Air and Space Museum are sure home-runs with the little ones. If you're not yet convinced, bear in mind that many of Washington's top attractions are free to visit.

… for kid-friendly Southern hospitality

About a two-hour drive southeast of Nashville is Chattanooga, home to a surprising number of family-centric activities. This Tennessee town features a zoo with adorable animals (like snow leopards) and an aquarium with freshwater touch tanks and two types of penguins. The Creative Discovery Museum —with exhibits geared toward younger children—is also worth a visit. Kids can also take a ride on a carousel and cool off in the "dancing water fountains" at Coolidge Park. When it's time to hit the sack, you might want to choose the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel & Complex , where train cars double as hotel rooms.

… for theme-park fun

You can give your underage kids their first sip of beer—butterbeer, that is—at Universal Studio's Wizarding World of Harry Potter. But if Cinderella and Buzz Lightyear are more your son and daughter's style, Walt Disney World is at your service. And while you might be cringing at the price tags that accompany a Disney getaway, bear in mind that cheap flights to this Florida hotspot are almost always easy to find. Plus, Orlando hotels cater strongly to family travelers, often offering discounts on theme-park admission and kids-eat-free deals. While they may not appreciate the complimentary grub, children will go gaga for the in-house entertainment provided by Orlando 's themed resorts; for instance, Nickelodeon Resort has daily "slimings."

… for cowboy boots and 10 gallon hats

If you're raising city-slickers, Texas Hill Country might be your family's perfect escape. Once you've arrived in the Lone Star State, hop on a trusty steed to whisk you and your little ones off to one of the many dude ranches found here. For example, head 40 miles northwest of San Antonio , and you'll find the Flying L Guest Ranch , a 700-acre property perfect for young cowboys and cowgirls. Kids will especially love the western-themed activities, like wagon rides, arts and crafts, and scavenger hunts. In the evenings, families can prop up their boots and enjoy nightly Western-style entertainment and s'mores. And best of all, many of these ranches are all-inclusive, so you won't have to worry about denying dessert in order to pinch pennies.

… for the beach and more

It's a well-known fact (among seasoned parents) that toys and other manufactured amusements are no match for the delights found in nature. For those who don't wish to journey to Africa to walk on the wild side, head to the famed San Diego Zoo and Safari Park . Lion King fans of all ages will love getting to know the zoo's 4,000 full-time residents, which include elephants, pandas, and of course, lions. You can even go on a safari to get up close and personal with the kings of the jungle. San Diego is also home to SeaWorld, where your little ones can witness whale and dolphin shows or cool down at the water park. And for those of you on a budget, you can save yourself some coin by skipping the waterslides and heading to beautiful (and safe) Mission Beach instead.

… for tropical paradise

You might spark a lifelong love for Mother Nature by taking your kids to Hawaii's Big Island . Here, they'll experience midnight-black beaches at Punalu'u , smoking craters at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park , and gushing waterfalls at the Akaka Falls State Park . And while Hawaiian hotels have cultivated a luxurious (a.k.a. not the most kid-friendly) reputation, resorts like Hilton Waikola Village and the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu offer special perks for families, like kids' camps, family programs, and even kids-eat-free policies.

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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The 19 Best Beach Resorts for Families

Looking for the perfect family beach vacation in the U.S. or Caribbean? These resorts offer awesome ocean views, nonstop family activities, and comfy rooms—all at a price that won't leave you feeling burned. 

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Trying to plan the best beach vacation for your family? We don't blame you! There's something extra special about bringing your crew to the ocean. Your kids can spend the day splashing in the waves, creating sand castles, and playing on the shore. Parents can also join in the fun—or they can relax with a fruity beverage and good book.

When vacationing at the beach , resorts can help make the experience less stressful all around. That's because many resorts include on-site restaurants, kid-friendly activities, and top-tier amenities that cut down on planning time.

After an in-depth review of more than 200 resorts in the U.S. and Caribbean, Parents uncovered these best beach resorts for families. Some pump up the energy, others have a laid-back vibe, and all are great fun for both you and the kids! No matter which one you choose, you'll have a memorable family beach vacation!

Note that rates and offerings are subject to change. Contact each resort for the most up-to-date information.

Montage Kapalua Bay (Maui, Hawaii)

Treat your family to the "aloha" spirit at Montage Kapalua Bay in Maui, Hawaii . The resort features luxurious one- to four-bedroom amenities, multiple swimming pools, and access to the pristine Kapalua Bay Beach.

While parents are lounging poolside or at Spa Montage , kids can spend the day at Paintbox children's program , specifically designed for those ages 5 to 12. Half-day and full-day sessions are available, where your little one might explore tide pools, make instruments, observe sea turtles, and more. Kids can also compete for "Montage Merit" badges by completing Hawaii-focused activities.

The entire family will enjoy Hawaiian cultural offerings—such as lei-making, "Talk Story sessions, and ukulele lessons—led by the Montage Kapalua Bay's onsite Cultural Ambassador. When it's time to eat, families can dine at a variety of onsite restaurants, including the signature Cane & Canoe. They may also choose to cook in their full-sized kitchen or travel just 10 miles to the historic town of Lahaina.

South Seas Island Resort (Captiva Island, Florida)

Practically all beach resorts in the Sunshine State offer summertime specials, and this charming one located at the edge of the Gulf Coast is no exception. The South Seas Island Resort offers an impressive array of accommodations from the amazing tennis courts to nature activities, and family outings to luxury rentals a stone's throw from the beach.

Speaking of the water, the waves at the beach are mild, the white sand is teeming with shells, and chances are good that you'll see dolphins and manatees offshore at least once during your trip. In fact, this 330-acre resort, more than half of which is preserved, is a nature lover's paradise.

Kids have their own pirate adventure when they use the Scout About Treasure Map to explore the island or sign up for the Sanibel Sea School where little ones can make fun ocean discoveries.

Club Med (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)

Club Med Punta Canta offers a diverse and vast array of vacation packages that are flexible enough for families of every size. They offer plenty of perks like their babysitting service including the Pajama Club for little kids all the way up to teen-centered activities designed to give your oldest kids a vacay experience at their own pace.

While the kids are having the time of their lives, you can enjoy the coconut tree-lined beach, sailing, snorkeling, windsurfing, and fitness classes. Club rooms (the least expensive type) are comfortable, and families with infants automatically receive a changing table, baby bathtub, and bottle warmer in their room as part of the resort's "Baby Welcome" program.

Atlantis (Paradise Island, Bahamas)

When you rent one of the 2,000-plus rooms at Atlantis , you gain access to the mind-blowing water park and aquarium—attractions that would add up to at least a couple hundred dollars daily in the States.

In the resort's underwater tunnels and 14 lagoons, there are more than 50,000 sea creatures from more than 250 species, a number that rivals the grandest U.S. aquariums .

Many of the 100 acres of water attractions are thrilling—like the 50-foot water slide in total darkness—but require kids to be at least 48 inches tall. Smaller children will have a blast at several shallow pools and at Splashers, a Mayan-themed water-play area with a pirate ship and water canyons that is just for tots.

If you and the kids need to take a break from the sun, you could retreat to the Atlantis Theatre for a free G- or PG-rated flick or to the pottery studio. But this resort is really best for families who never seem to tire of the water and who have at least one child who is 6 or older so you're not paying for attractions that your children are too small to use.

Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort (Oranjestad, Aruba)

Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort

Aruba is known as "One Happy Island" and it definitely lives up to that title. The country has sunny weather almost year-round and, just 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela, it doesn't have a hurricane season making it the perfect locale for families looking to get away in the summer and fall. Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, situated 10 minutes from downtown Oranjestad, also fits this bill. On Eagle Beach with two restaurants serving American and Aruban-inspired foods, an adult pool, and a kiddie pool, the resort is one happy place.

Many of its newly-renovated one- and two-bedroom villas have views of the beach, just steps away, and a live stream of the resort ensures parents can let their teens loose for a late-night snack without worrying too much. Room keys are waterproof bracelets stamped with the hotel's logo. Sensible, since you'll likely be spending your time running around the island when you're not napping on your balcony.

Whether your family is lounging on one of Aruba's many beaches, visiting attractions like the all-inclusive water park at De Palm Island , where visitors can scuba dive and take submarine tours, or taking in wonders like flamingos and naturally-growing aloe, you'll thoroughly enjoy the vibes.

Pro Tip: If you're looking for a vacation spot during winter months, consider visiting during the island's January and February carnival season. Be sure to get a prime spot to watch the Kids' Parade with your little ones.

Disney's Vero Beach Resort (Vero Beach, Florida)

Two hours from the hustle and bustle of the Orlando theme parks, Disney offers a family experience that's easier on your feet and your wallet. Although Vero Beach is part of the Disney Vacation Club line, you don't need to buy into a time-share to stay there; a one-bedroom with a full kitchen and washer-dryer runs a couple hundred per night for nonmembers.

Family activities—including catching a glimpse of loggerhead sea turtles in their nesting sites, miles of unspoiled beaches and nature preserves, golf, games, movies, and more for everyone in the family.

A Mickey Mouse-shaped swimming pool plus a splash area for preschoolers round out the fun—and, yes, life jackets and pool toys are free.

Beaches Negril (Negril, Jamaica)

Set on what's arguably the best beach on the island, Beaches Negril is all about giving parents and kids an amazing vacation . While you take advantage of tennis, kayaking, windsurfing, the "Lazy River"—or simply collapse on the white sand—your kids can join a supervised program.

Babies hang out with trained counselors in a comfortable nursery setting while toddlers and preschoolers absolutely love Sesame Street-themed activities, as well as shell collecting, face-painting, and magic shows.

Since all your meals, most activities, and the kids' club are included in the price, you really need to take advantage of everything to get your money's worth. So this resort (and others like it) are best for parents who are looking to spend a couple of hours alone every day.

Hilton Hawaiian Village (Honolulu, Hawaii)

This family favorite spreads across 22 acres on Oahu, the easiest (and usually least expensive) Hawaiian island to get to from the mainland. Hilton Hawaiin Village's six pools, including a specially designated one for children, are the hub of the action here.

There are free snorkeling lessons for kids who know how to swim , plus lei-making classes and hula lessons for the whole family on the deck. Other no-cost activities include Friday-night fireworks, lawn bowling, and ukulele lessons. The resort is home to about 60 wildlife species such as flamingos, turtles, and koi fish.

Camp Penguin for kids offers field trips to the nearby Honolulu Zoo, Bishop's Museum, or Waikiki Aquarium as well as fun activities around the resort. Just be sure to bring along your child's birth certificate or passport; Hawaiian law requires proof of age for admittance into the club.

Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club (Brewster, Massachusetts)

Courtesy of Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club

At this affordable resort on Cape Cod , you'll find scavenger hunts, beach fires with s'mores, and baseball and soccer games on the front lawn. On weekdays, kids can do cool craft projects, like making kites and tie-dyeing shirts, for a small additional price.

Two of this resort's lifeguard-staffed outdoor pools are ideal for young children—as is the beach, with water that tends to be a little warmer and milder than on the other side of the Cape. And if the weather doesn't cooperate, the resort is the only property on our list that has an indoor pool; in fact, it's got two of them.

Loews Coronado Bay (San Diego, California)

A short walk or shuttle ride from quiet Silver Strand Beach, Loews Coronado Bay offers so many family activities—from cooking your own pizza to animal presentations to family movies shown poolside—that it has a separate kids' activity desk to help keep you informed.

The conveniences are as abundant as the activities. Every family who requests a crib also gets a baby swing and a lullaby CD. Rooms can be childproofed in advance; request it when making your reservation. If you have a toddler or preschooler, you're welcome to borrow a step stool, potty seat, stroller, and toys.

Other thoughtful features include children's menus that offer old favorites and adventurous options like mini eggs Benedict; free use of pool toys and sand buckets; and hourly-rate options for the children's program (unlike most resorts, which require a half- or full-day session).

Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort (Rio Grande, Puerto Rico)

Aloe-soaked towels and fresh fruit are the kind of greeting you'd expect at one of those resorts where one night costs more than your monthly mortgage payment. But in summer, rooms at Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico start around $200 daily, including the resort fee. Another cost-saver: You don't need a passport to get to Puerto Rico.

But it's the range of activities that makes this place special. Your family can go horseback riding, tour the nearby rain forest, learn how to do the salsa and other island dances, feed an iguana, and play tug-of-war at the beach—all in one day.

Or you could hang out at the lifeguard-staffed pool, which has a water slide and fabulous kiddie area. The entire hotel is nonsmoking, and rooms come with a mini fridge and a marble bath.

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa (Carlsbad, California)

The La Costa Resort & Spa comes with a children's program (known as Kidtopia ) and a water-play area. It's a great choice for families who want to split their time between the beach and Legoland, which are both just a short drive away.

You won't be bored with the hands-on activities available for the whole family. From hoola-hoop competitions to s'mores and "dive-in" movies there is plenty to do to keep everyone entertained and relaxed. The Kidtopia club for kids offers child care services, day camps, and a full range of games and activities for kids ages 6 months to 12 years.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa (Maui, Hawaii)

The Hyatt Regency Maui is set on 40 acres of beautiful Ka'anapali Beach where your family can spend hours exploring. The kids will love playing in their activity-packed children's pool with a sand island.

For an extra fee (but a lifetime memory) you can book tickets to join in an epic traditional lu'au. The site is also one of the world's best star gazing places on the planet, and your whole family can enjoy a guided star tour on the hotel's rooftop astronomy.

Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort (Hilton Head, South Carolina)

It's not on the beach, but just a five-minute shuttle ride away Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort is 3.5 miles of private oceanfront—featuring a beach house you can duck into for a break from the sun. Kids as young as 3 can learn about marshes and butterflies and can take part in nature scavenger hunts at this resort.

Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa (Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida)

The Sawgrass Marriott offers a mini golf course designed by Arnold Palmer, three kid-friendly swimming pools, shark-tooth hunts, and a small private beach. If your family has any big golf fans, then you'll love the special guest privileges of playing a round of golf (and even scoring a free lesson) at the famed TPC Sawgrass gold club.

Holiday Inn Montego Bay (Montego Bay, Jamaica)

Montego Bay is already a little slice of heaven, and the Holiday Inn Resort will let your family experience the highlights with the tropical gardens and white sand beaches. There are loads of freebies for kids like on-site entertainment, mini golf, pool games, and meals. And it's very close to the airport too.

The whole family can check out local tours that include glass-bottom boat rides, snorkeling and windsurfing, and more.

Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa (Riviera Beach, Florida)

Spacious, modern rooms, including a kitchen with a stainless-steel fridge, are what make the Marriott at Singer Island Beach near Palm Beach so cool. A pool with a waterfall and a supervised program for kids ages 4 to 12 doesn't hurt either.

Plus, the hotel features a cute Ocean Club for kids that include the Kids Zone where kids will get supervised activities and games, giving the parents a chance to duck out for a quiet dinner.

Beaches Ocho Rios (Ocho Rios, Jamaica)

At Beaches Ocho Rios , the kids will love the golf clinics and the large Pirates Island water park with a shallow pool, squirting sea horse, and misting crab. Plus, there's 22 acres of tropical gardens, white sand beaches, and plenty of gourmet restaurants that cater to family dining so you can explore the local cuisine without worrying if your kids will find anything they'll like.

Sebasco Harbor Resort (Sebasco Estates, Maine)

The closest beach is just a mile away from Sebasco Harbor Resort . But with a saltwater pool, ice cream stand, and supervised children's program, you and the kids may not want to leave the resort. The whole family can enjoy vintage candlepin bowling, schedule a cruise on the Atlantic with Captain Phil, and don't miss exploring the tide pools where kids can learn about all the magic of ocean life.

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I've visited 93 countries, 57 of them with kids. These 5 underrated spots are great places to enjoy with your family.

• Karen Edwards has traveled to 93 countries, and 57 of them have been with her young children.
• Edwards said that her family has had more fun exploring underrated spots than the popular ones.
• Her favorites include Tanzania for its safari tours and Abu Dhabi for its vibrant festival scene.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Karen Edwards , who blogs about her family's travels around the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

Since 2000, I've visited 93 countries and 57 of them have been with my four children who are all under the age of 10.

I am a nurse by background, but I have been blogging about traveling with my husband and kids since 2014. I cover a lot of off-the-beaten-track destinations and write itineraries for places I've been to, explaining how they work for families with children.

Many popular family destinations tend to be overcrowded. They're usually the ones that get a lot of media exposure or are shown in viral videos on social media. In America, it'd be places like Disneyland in California or Disney World in Florida, while for Europeans, it might be some of the Spanish resort areas.

Although my family and I have visited these places, we have always come away disappointed. They often lack educational experiences, feeling like pointless affairs.

I think traveling to underrated spots makes trips feel more exclusive and you can learn more about the cultures of the countries you visit — it also keeps you away from tourist traps.

We went on a safari tour in Tanzania

Our family visited Tanzania in 2019 in collaboration with a tourism brand. We were there for 12 days.

Our flights to the country were kind of expensive; we paid about $9,000 for our then-family of four, including a stop in Zanzibar at the end of the trip for a few days. However, overall, the entire trip didn't end up costing us that much.

We had some really unique experiences in Tanzania. We went to Mto Wa Mbu village , which is beneath a banana plantation, and we went on a safari tour in its Lake Manyara National Park .

Interestingly, Tanzania is one of the few places in the world where lions are known to climb trees. I remember seeing them sit in tall trees; it was quite unusual, but my kids really enjoyed how close they were to the animals.

Throughout our trip, we actually felt like we were experiencing life in Tanzania. Our campsite was on a river's edge in the depths of nature. It was nice not to feel surrounded by tourists.

My kids fell in love with Abu Dhabi's culture

Many people mistakenly believe that Dubai is a country, but in reality, it's a city in the United Arab Emirates, with Abu Dhabi being its capital.

My family and I moved to Abu Dhabi in 2021 and lived there for 18 months. The city does have a lot of similarities to glitzy and glam Dubai , but you get a more down-to-earth experience.

There are amazing festivals in Abu Dhabi where they display their culture in different formats, whether that be through local food or crafts. It does feel authentic because it's usually mainly locals participating and organizing them.

The city is also 1.5 hours away from Al Ain, which sits at the foot of  Jebel Hafeet , one of the tallest mountains in the region. Along the way up, you'll find many ancient artifacts, such as beehive huts, which have been there for thousands of years. At the top, you can watch incredible sunsets.

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The city also has the Al Ain Oasis , which uses an ancient irrigation system. It has these beautiful paved pathways that look like cobbled streets.

My kids loved Abu Dhabi and are constantly asking me to go back — they really liked all the cultural celebrations.

We love Sri Lanka so much, we're building a villa there

In 2022, my family and I moved to Sri Lanka from Abu Dhabi. We thought we'd have more family time here, and it was going to be an affordable place to live.

We're building a family-friendly villa here that should be completed by August. The area where we are building has a lot of nice cafes, bars, and restaurants nearby.

Overall, Sri Lanka is an amazing country that has so many diverse experiences. There are tea plantations, mountains, and beaches. As for wildlife, their national parks have loads of elephants and leopards.

On one occasion, we went on a safari boat tour to an isolated national park where we watched elephants swim across a lake and onto a tiny island. It was amazing.

The beaches in Sri Lanka are pristine. They have beautiful scenery with swaying coconut palm trees, clear water, and perfect waves. Our favorite is Kabalana Beach .

Because we're always on the beach, my children have learned how to surf. I think it's the most fun thing that we do on the weekends as a family.

The ski resorts and spas are amazing in Andorra

We visited Andorra in 2018 for about six days. It's a tiny country nestled in the Pyrenees between Spain. It's a two-hour drive from Barcelona and three hours from Toulouse, France.

The city has a unique fusion of cultures, though I think Catalonian is the strongest influence. During our trip, my family and I toured many ancient churches.

We also went to some amazing spas and resorts in Andorra. The hotel and ski system there is really family-friendly.

During our visit to the Grandvalira ski resort , my daughter learned how to ski and my husband got to snowboard — the resort has a kindergarten at the foot of its mountain, where kids can play or ski.

Andorra also has amazing spa facilities that are suitable for families and are sectioned off for different age groups.

Our trip was in collaboration with Andorra's tourism board, but I feel like it wasn't overly expensive in comparison to some other places around the world.

I was treated like family in Macedonia

Macedonia is a Balkan country just north of Greece. I haven't been there with children, but I wouldn't have any issues taking my kids there.

It has many beautiful small villages and it's great for skiing too.

The country is also home to one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe named Lake Orchid, which borders Albania. There's this beautiful, small village on the lake that has charming restaurant and a lovely atmosphere for relaxing and enjoying good food.

I visited the country in 2008, and then again in 2012 with my then-boyfriend and now-husband.

The first time I visited, I went with two girlfriends, and we were backpackers. We arrived in the middle of the night by bus and had no idea what we were doing. The bus driver just made a call, and a stranger came and picked us up in his car — I thought I was going to die.

The opposite happened. He took us back to his home with his family, and we stayed there with them for a few days. We ended up extending the trip because he and his family were so amazing.

They didn't speak a word of English, and we couldn't speak a word of their language either. We'd just gesture at each other, and they'd give us food and red wine.

I just totally fell in love with them and their country.

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Explore Family Vacations

• Last Updated On
• June 10, 2023

17 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families – Kid Friendly Ideas!

Excited for the spring break season?

Do you already have a plan on where to take your kids for their much-deserved break from school?

If not, I’m here to help you plan your escape.

As we know, spring comes and goes on a whim.

It’s the perfect way to escape from the everyday routine and come out as a different person after.

But with so many things to consider and prepare for, choosing the right destination can understandably feel overwhelming.

As a parent who goes through this every year, I can relate to the struggle.

So, I want to help you discover the best spring break destinations for families by sharing my experience.

I will compare each destination’s pros and cons and use a set of criteria to ensure a fair review.

Pack your bags, and hit the road.

Discover the best spring break ideas for your family below.

Spring Break Ideas For Families Compared

Get ready for an unforgettable spring break experience with the whole family. 

Here are some destination ideas for the best spring break vacation:

Editor’s Choice

Delton Grand Resort and Spa

Delton Grand Resort and Spa is the perfect spring break destination for families.

• Affordability: 4/5
• Kid-friendly Activities: 5/5
• Safety: 4/5
• Accommodation Options: 4.5/5
• Ease of Access: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach

Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach offers everything you need for a fun spring break holiday.

• Affordability: 5/5
• Accommodation Options: 4/5
• Ease of Access: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Banyan Tree is a tropical paradise where luxury meets nature. 

• Kid-friendly Activities: 4/5
• Safety: 5/5

Here are the top 17 spring break destinations for families.

1.  Delton Grand Resort and Spa (Editor’s Choice)

670 E Lake Ave Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965 (608) 253-6049 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Beautiful lakefront views
• Luxurious spa and wellness center
• Some malfunctioning amenities

You can’t go wrong with a luxury condominium resort for spring break.

Get front views of the spectacular Lake Delton right from your private villa.

You and your kids will enjoy a fun swim at the resort’s lakeside heated pools.

If you’re in the mood for a beach day, it also provides easy access to sandy beaches.

Or, explore the local scene with the resort’s location nearby major attractions, including theme parks and ski hills.

After a full day of fun, relax your muscles at the waterfront Rhapsody Spa.

Also See: Best Hotels in The Caribbean Best Beaches in The Caribbean What to Do in The Caribbean

2. Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach

11127 Front Beach Rd Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 230-4080 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Stunning beachfront location
• Various activities for kids and families
• Rooms and facilities are in need of an update

Relax on a private beach with stunning sugar-white sands.

Watch your kids splash and paddle in the hotel’s lagoon-style pool with a beautiful waterfall.

The little ones will also love playing with other kids at the resort’s water playground, complete with slides, sprinklers, and splash buckets.

Want to have some adult-only fun?

Drop the kids off at the Under the Sea Activities Center for an arts and craft adventure.

You and your beau can relax in the oversized hot tub with a picture-perfect view of the Gulf Coast.

End the day by indulging in a delicious family dinner at SeaGlass Bar & Chips Seafood Grille.

Related: Restaurants: Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Also See: Fun Family Vacations in Wisconsin Top Beaches in Wisconsin Best Water Park Hotels in Wisconsin

3. Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Carretera Federal Chetumal Puerto Juárez Km 298 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo México, CP 77710 (984) 877-3699 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Luxurious villas with private pools
• Lush forest backdrop
• Costly accommodation

I remember stepping foot in Banyan Tree Mayakoba, feeling a sense of awe and serenity wash over me. 

Every corner was a snapshot of tropical paradise; lush greenery, serene waterways, and the refreshing vibe of Mexico’s Riviera Maya. 

We stayed in one of their elegant villas, my kids loved the private pool, and the outdoor living area became our hub for laughter and games. 

And oh, the spa. 

An unforgettable experience of traditional Asian therapies, it was an absolute treat for me after the fun-filled days. 

Not just a trip, it was an immersive experience that still brings a smile to my face.

So, you’re torn between Delton Grand Resort and Banyan Tree Mayakoba? 

Let me give you the lowdown. 

Delton Grand is a blissful retreat where you get to soak up lakefront views while savoring the luxuries of a wellness spa. 

Banyan Tree, on the other hand, is a tropical paradise where luxury meets nature. 

Think private villas and serene waterways. 

If you’re on a budget and crave a serene waterfront, Delton is your spot. 

But if you’re ready to splurge on a luxurious tropical getaway, Banyan Tree will make your heart sing. 

Remember, both will create unforgettable family memories.

Also See: Things to Do in Panama City Beach with Kids Best Hotels in Panama City Beach

4. Wyndham Reef Resort, Grand Cayman

2221 Queens Hwy East End, KY (888) 232-0541 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With gorgeous white sands and crystal clear waters, Wyndham Reef Resort, Grand Cayman is an outstanding alternative to Delton Grand Resort and Spa and Banyan Tree Mayakoba.

Enjoy water sports fun just steps outside your beach-nestled suite or villa right.

The resort’s secluded East End location is perfect for a quiet and peaceful spring break escape.

Explore the beauty of the area through the resort’s family-friendly excursions.

No trip is complete without swimming with the magnificent stingrays on the Stingray City Tour.

Parents will enjoy a full body massage and facial at the full-service spa overlooking the beach.

Watch out for the resort’s kids’ activities, including art, music, movie nights, and more.

Also See: Things to Do in Indianapolis with Kids Best Hotels in Indianapolis Top Family Resorts Near Indianapolis Best Beaches Near Indianapolis

5. Mayakoba, Mexico

77730 Playa del Carmen, Q.R (984) 873-4900 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for a small, secluded destination for your spring break vacation, you might want to consider the beautiful gated community of Mayakoba in Mexico.

It is along the Riviera Maya and is 45 minutes south of Cancun’s International Airport.

Mayakoba means the ‘village of water’ and is often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Caribbean’.

It lives up to that name with its network of canals, freshwater lagoons and, of course, gorgeous beaches .

The jungles and lagoons are spread over 620 acres of land.

You will also find some excellent resort options for your stay and it is all done while preserving the natural habitat of the place.

Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the local cuisine and some golf and beach clubs that only add to the landscape.

Recommended Hotel: Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Also See: Best Restaurants in The Riviera Maya Best Hotels in Riviera Maya Riviera Maya All Inclusive Family Resorts

6. Grand Cayman, Caribbean

Grand Cayman, Caribbean (345) 949-0623 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The gorgeous beaches of Grand Cayman, Caribbean are always inviting you to plan trips with kids.

This place has a familiar touch of home which is only one of the reasons a lot of folks like to go here.

The roads are easy to navigate even though they drive on the left-hand side.

There are a ton of familiar hotel chains and restaurants around George Town.

The Seven Mile Beach is a pretty amazing place for those who love white sand and blue waters.

Head towards the north of the island and you will find Rum Point.

We’ll leave it to you to find out what to do there.

You can also go on a tour in a boat with a glass bottom.

Visit the famous Stingray City Sandbar to snorkel with the friendly southern creatures.

Recommended Hotel: Wyndham Reef Resort, Grand Cayman

Also See: Top All Inclusive Waterpark Resorts in The Caribbean Best Luxury Family Resorts in The Caribbean Best Caribbean Resorts for Families Top All Inclusive Family Resorts in The Caribbean

7. Ogden, UT

Ogden, UT (800) 255-8824 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If skiing is your thing then you have to go to Ogden, Utah.

It’s 30 minutes north of Salt Lake City and has resorts which offer skiing programs for children.

There are three resorts that have about 11,600 acres for skiing alone.

You can also go hiking or mountain biking here.

Ogden offers a lot of options for shopping, dining and has exciting nightlife, especially along 25th Street.

The Wasatch Mountain Range is a visual treat while other parts of the town are rugged and rustic.

There are many hotels and out-of-the-way campgrounds here if you’re not a family of ski bunnies.

While the kids are busy, maybe you could hit the spa or check out Ogden’s fascinating history and perhaps catch some art at the local community theatre.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Ogden

Also See: Best Family Beaches in Utah Best Family Vacations in Utah Best Waterpark Hotels in Utah Utah Family Resorts

8. Titusville, FL

Titusville, FL (321) 567-3775 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’ve never heard of Titusville, that’s probably because the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, a few miles away, usually hogs the attention.

If you’re looking for ideas for places to go during the spring break, Florida’s Space Coast is highly recommended.

It has some of the most beautiful beaches along the Canaveral National Seashore.

It gives you a peek into Florida’s nature along the Indian River Lagoon.

The whole family could go into the lagoon.

While the toddlers spot manatees and dolphins, you will be paddling away.

Or strap on a lifejacket and go kayaking.

These tours are available at night too in the spring months and the water glows with comb jelly bioluminescence.

You can also try star gazing if you’re lucky enough to be around when a rocket blasts off in the night sky.

Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Center

Related: Spring Break Ideas for Families on A Budget

Related: Places to Visit in May in the USA

Also See: Best Hotels for Kids in Florida Hotels with Water Parks in Florida

9. Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico (787) 710-8280 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you can’t decide where to go this spring, picture this.

A place where the Old World meets the new and the result is a small island filled with immense beauty and you don’t need a passport .

That’s beachy Puerto Rico for you.

It is back in the game after the devastating Hurricane Maria in 2017.

Whether you want diving lessons in the west coast or walk on bike trails in the Cabo Rojo Salt Flats, Puerto Rico won’t disappoint you.

You can also head to the National Wildlife Refuge if you like bird watching.

And don’t skip exploring the rich history of old San Juan and the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, while you’re there.

Culture and cuisine here are exceptional.

The mountains pack both adventure and serenity making this a Caribbean paradise.

Recommended Hotel: Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

Also See: Best Beaches in Puerto Rico Best Hotels in Puerto Rico Puerto Rico All Inclusive Family Resorts Puerto Rico with Kids

10. Florida Keys, FL

Florida Keys, FL Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Florida Keys is a great place all year long. But in spring, the islands are a refreshing break from the mainland.

Set up your base in Key Largo or Key West and float around the islands in between.

At the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, children get to see sea turtles in a rehab.

In Bahia Honda State Park, you will find the best waterfront tent sites.

Try snorkeling at the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary which is home to some of the best-preserved reefs.

And top it off with a trolley tour in Key West.

You could also enjoy watching fishermen at work and maybe you’ll stumble upon a wedding.

Florida Keys is a great place to get a cocktail and relax while the little ones enjoy the sun and sand.

Recommended Hotel: Sunset Key Cottages

Related: Best Places to Travel in the US in March

Also See: Best Hotels in The Florida Keys Best Beaches in The Florida Keys

11. Hilton Head, SC

Hilton Head, SC (800) 523-3373 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you want to see what the tweens are up to on their spring break, head to Myrtle Beach but if you want quality family time, you want to go to Hilton Head .

It is just off the coast of South Carolina with 14 miles of beaches , 100 miles of biking paths and world-class golf courses.

It’s the perfect destination to find some peace and quiet.

But don’t worry, there’s plenty of activities to keep your babies engaged.

There are family-friendly hotels and beachside resorts that can take care of your needs.

Or you could rent a car and take a trip to Savannah or Charleston to experience the rich history of the Old South.

The family could go crabbing or spotting bottlenose dolphins.

Either way, it’s an excellent choice.

Recommended Hotel: Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa

Related: Places to Eat in Hilton Head, SC

Also See: Best Hotels in Hilton Head Things to Do in Hilton Head with Kids Myrtle Beach Activities for Kids

12. San Antonio, TX

San Antonio, TX (210) 244-2000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With its world-famous River Walk, San Antonio is now a popular holiday hotspot for families .

The shops and restaurants here make for interesting pit stops while you explore one of the five San Antonio missions, all of which are UNESCO heritage sites.

It’s a great opportunity for children to learn about the cultures of Texas and Mexico.

And for fun, you can take them to SeaWorld or check out the many thrill rides and shows at Six Flags.

Don’t forget to stop by the Barney Smith Toilet Seat Art Museum just outside the city.

That’s right, a toilet museum.

San Antonio is also home to the world’s first amusement park for those with special needs, Morgan’s Wonderland.

It has a lot of parks and green spaces where you can rest while planning your itinerary for the many seasonal events. When looking for things to do with kids in San Antonio , you’ll never be at a loss of fun activities to choose from.

Recommended Hotel: Grand Hyatt San Antonio

Also See: Best Hotels in San Antonio Best Restaurants in San Antonio Family Restaurants in San Antonio San Antonio Water Parks

13. New York City, NY

New York City, NY (212) 639-9675 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Summer, spring or winter, there’s nothing quite like a vacation in the Big Apple .

But since we’re looking at spring break, the city that never sleeps is a pretty perfect choice.

Kids will love its iconic landmarks and entertainment options.

The Empire State Building or Statue of Liberty?

You don’t have to choose.

Central Park or Time Square?

It’s all there.

American Museum of Natural History or a Broadway musical?

You will get to see both.

By the way, you can get a “Night At the Museum” experience with a sleepover.

Whether you want to go shopping or explore the nightlife and whether the kids want to check out the local attractions or sporting events, you will run out of time but not things to do because this is New York City.

Recommended Hotel: Mandarin Oriental New York

Related: NYC: Best Restaurants

Also See: Things to Do in NYC with Kids Beaches in NYC Best Hotels in New York City for Families Family Resorts Near NYC

14. Carlsbad, CA

Carlsbad, CA (760) 434-6093 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Beaches, parks, zoos, museums and sunny California .

Carlsbad has all of that and more for its visitors.

Carlsbad is a highly recommended spot for a family vacation .

It’s just 30 minutes from San Diego and has the choicest places for snacks and shopping.

And for that, get started with Carlsbad Village.

If you want sun and sea, head to the Carlsbad State Beach.

Make sure you reserve a day for your kids to spend at LEGOLAND and the San Diego Zoo.

Take the Carlsbad Coaster and head to the zoo which is filled with pandas.

You can get up close and interact with them, among other animals, if you go early in the morning, before the park opens.

Carlsbad has seven miles of coastline, which is lined-up with nine rather amazing breweries and restaurants that offer some unforgettable dishes.

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

Also See: Best Hotels in Carlsbad Best Restaurants in Carlsbad Fun Things to Do in Carlsbad with Kids

15. San Diego, CA

San Diego, CA (619) 232-3101 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you have some time left after Carlsbad, you should head to San Diego .

The blue skies and a welcoming vibe are a great boost to the soul.

And for the tots, SeaWorld is just the tip of the fun iceberg.

Stop at the San Diego Zoo and peep into safari park in Escondido.

San Diego has 70 miles of coastline filled with activities throughout the year.

Get some sun at Mission Beach or Pacific Beach or La Jolla .

If you want to take a walk, head to Coronado Beach.

There’s also some pretty spectacular Mexican food that you shouldn’t miss.

Also, don’t forget to spare a day for the 1,200-acre Balboa Park.

It is famous for its natural vegetation zones, gardens, museums, theaters, apart from the San Diego Zoo.

Recommended Hotel: The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego

Related: Nice Restaurants: San Diego

Also See: Best Hotels in San Diego Top San Diego Attractions Things to Do in San Diego with Kids All Inclusive Resorts in San Diego

16. Yosemite, CA

Yosemite, CA (866) 425-3366 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

No American is a stranger to the incredible beauty of Yosemite National Park.

With towering waterfalls, Sequoia trees, daunting cliffs and some unique rock formations, it is 1,200 square miles of awesomeness.

You could visit Half Dome and El Capitan, the more popular landmarks of the national park.

You will also find some amazing hiking trails here.

There are guided tours and if you’re feeling young and insane, you can take climbing lessons too.

The eight square miles of Yosemite Valley gets about 4 million visitors every year.

You should also check out the Tunnel View Outlook which is the gateway to the many attractions in Yosemite.

Check out Glacier Point while you’re here.

It’s on the south wall of Yosemite Valley at an elevation of over 7,000 feet.

Recommended Hotel: The Hotel at Black Oak Casino Resort

17. Honolulu, HI

Honolulu, HI (800) 464-2924 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

It’s the largest city in Hawaii and the scenery is more than reason enough to visit.

Go to Oahu if you want a blend of luxury and nature.

You will be thrilled to find many historical sites like the Iolani Palace and the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

Keep an eye out for the USS Arizona Memorial.

The Waikiki neighborhood is decorated with a skyline of resorts and sandy beaches at ground level.

Head to the North Shore and let the young ones see rural Hawaii.

The blue waters and hiking trails will leave them spellbound.

You can try the exquisite cuisine at any restaurant in town .

The city also has a very busy social calendar.

So don’t forget to check it, no matter what time of the year you plan your trip.

Recommended Hotel: The Modern Honolulu By Diamond Resorts

Related: Restaurants: Oahu, Hawaii

Also See: Resorts in Honolulu for Families Best Restaurants in Waikiki Hawaii with Kids Things to Do on The Big Island

Traveler’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

There are endless destinations for a fun spring break getaway with the family.

A thorough evaluation of the pros and cons of your options is key to choosing the right one for you.

Let’s dive into some comparisons. 

Delton Grand Resort is like a serene lakeside retreat, perfect for peace, while Banyan Tree Mayakoba gives you a lush, tropical luxury getaway. 

And if you’re a beach bum, Holiday Inn Resort in Panama City and Wyndham Reef Resort in Grand Cayman are your go-to spots. 

Each spot shines in its unique way, so really think about what your family craves this spring break. 

Is it serene lakes, lush tropics, or the inviting ocean? 

Remember, the best choice is the one that will make your family’s hearts sing.

How I Picked The Destinations

Here’s the scoop, my friend: I want you to have the best family getaway ever. 

That’s why I’ve dug deep, consulting local experts, scouring travel blogs, and even chatting up friendly locals during my own visits. 

From the hidden gems in Wisconsin Dells to the best time to visit Mayakoba, I’ve got the insider info you won’t find in your usual travel guides. 

Remember, it’s not just about the destination but the memories you’ll create. 

So let’s make your next spring break not just good but extraordinary. 

You deserve it.

Our Rating Method

I rate these destinations based on the following criteria.

• Affordability: This criterion evaluates how budget-friendly the location is. Does it offer free activities? What about the accommodations and meals? Are they expensive? I ask myself these questions when rating affordability.   
• Kid-friendly Activities: I use this to assess the availability and quality of kid-friendly activities in every destination. Does it offer amusement parks and interactive museums? Are there parks and beaches? These questions are essential when evaluating this criterion. 
• Safety: This criterion assesses the overall security of the destination. Does it have a low crime rate? Is it a generally safe environment? Will families feel comfortable and secure throughout their trip? I consider these factors to rate safety. 
• Accommodation Options: This is used to rate the accommodation options available in the area. Are there budget-friendly hotels? Does it have vacation rentals and homey options? Does it offer family-friendly options? I ask myself these questions whenever I assess accommodation options. 
• Ease of Access: I use this to evaluate the accessibility of every location. Does it have good transportation options? Is it located near airports or major highways? Are there restaurants and local attractions within walking distance? I ask these questions to evaluate the accessibility of the destination. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Where do most people go for spring break in the us.

The most popular destinations for spring break can vary each year, but some consistently popular choices include beach destinations like Cancun, Miami, and Panama City Beach.

What Are The Best Resorts To Visit During Spring Break For Families?

The best resorts to visit during spring break for families include Delton Grand Resort and Spa, Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach, and Banyan Tree Mayakoba.

I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing the best spring break destinations for families in Wisconsin, Florida, Mexico, and Grand Cayman.

During our most recent spring break family trip, we stayed at the Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach.

The kids had a blast at the colorful, action-packed water playground and showed off their craft skills at Under the Sea Activities Center.

My partner and I saved up for a luxurious stay at the Banyan Tree Mayakoba.

And I can assure you that the unforgettable paradise experience is worth every single dime.

We also had a lovely time snorkeling and diving at Wyndham Reef Resort, Grand Cayman.

But the grandest of them all was the Delton Grand Resort and Spa.

We had the perfect spring break at the resort with its stunning lake views and a cozy condo stay.

Start young. What families should know about visiting LEGOLAND Florida

I wish I’d brought my kids to LEGOLAND Florida sooner.

At 9 and 12, they were still in the park’s target age range on a recent visit, but I think they would have enjoyed it even more when they were younger, and we’d still have more prime park years ahead as a family. The whole resort, one of three LEGOLAND resorts across the country, is designed with kids in mind.

Here’s what I learned on our first trip and what other families can expect at LEGOLAND Florida.

1. The park is geared toward younger kids

Kids of all ages can enjoy LEGOLAND Florida, but the prime ages are 2 to 12. 

“If your child is looking for thrill rides, then our park may not be suitable for them,” the resort says on its website . 

My 12-year-old thrill-seeker prefers white-knuckle attractions, but we still had fun as a family. Her favorite ride was Mia’s Riding Adventure , a disc coaster with a 48-inch minimum height requirement . 

Several attractions at neighboring LEGOLAND Florida Water Park have similar or higher height requirements for safety reasons . 

What should I prepare for a family trip? The Bucket List Family knows better than most.

2. Grown-ups can have fun, too

Many attractions are meant to be enjoyed by the whole family, though kids can ride many unaccompanied. In fact, only kids are allowed in the Driving School and Jr. Driving School attractions . Adults have to watch from the sidelines.

Our family enjoyed walking through MINILAND USA , which recreates several iconic U.S. cityscapes and landmarks with LEGO bricks. We easily spent over 30 minutes marveling at the detailed builds, several of which feature interactive elements, like a conga line on the Little Havana side of the Miami section.

We also enjoyed Brickbeard’s Water Sport Stunt Show , which puts a LEGO twist on the water ski shows Cypress Gardens was famous for years ago when it occupied the land LEGOLAND Florida does now. 

3. Guests of all abilities are welcome

LEGOLAND theme parks pride themselves on their accessibility. LEGOLAND Florida, California and New York are all Certified Autism Centers . Guests will notice that every attraction has a sensory guide indicating levels of stimuli for each sense. Designated low-sensory areas are available for guests to reset.

Various accommodations are available for different access needs, including HERO Passes for guests who may have difficulty waiting in traditional lines. 

4. The Fastrack pass is really a fast track

You can buy a Fastrack Unlimited pass to skip the line at every ride except Pirate River Quest . It starts at $69.99 on top of park admission. 

A cheaper, limited Fastrack 3-Pack is also available for one-time access to three of the park’s roller coasters: Coastersaurus , The Dragon , and The Great LEGO Race . That starts at $23.99

5. There’s more to do than rides

The park’s newest attraction, LEGO Ferrari Build and Race , isn’t a ride but a themed space where you can build and test your own LEGO race car. Then you can upload the design into a race simulator to see how it fares against other guests’ creations. 

Guests can also sign up for interactive LEGO building classes throughout the park, watch 4D movies and meet larger-than-life LEGO characters.

My in-laws and I enjoyed walking through the botanical gardens that were once part of Cypress Gardens. Guests can also see some of the gardens on Pirate River Quest.

6. The resort is bigger than you may realize

The resort spans 150 acres. That includes neighboring LEGOLAND Florida Water Park, Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida and three themed on-site resort hotels.  

Make sure to grab a paper park map or to refer to the free MobileApp so you don’t miss out on entire parts of the park like we did. And wear comfortable shoes.

7. It is not close to Orlando

LEGOLAND Florida is in Winter Haven, about an hour’s drive from Orlando International Airport and about an hour and a half from Tampa.

Many families choose to spend multiple days at the resort, staying on property and visiting its other parks.

If you’re planning to visit other Central Florida theme parks on your trip, know that LEGOLAND Florida is not next door, and you'll need a car to get there. 

LEGOLAND is making awesome for everyone: Here's how and what guests can expect

8. Ice water is free, and outside food is allowed

Guests can get free cups of ice water anywhere dispensed drinks are sold. Ice-cold water is also available from Coca-Cola Freestyle machines throughout the park. Bring a refillable water bottle so you can stay hydrated. Plastic cups are available as a backup.

To save money, guests can bring in their own food and snacks. Theme park food is not cheap. A burger and fry combo at LEGO City Burger Kitchen was $15.95 during my visit. A kids meal, which also included a drink, was $13.19.

9. The park is cashless

Like a growing number of destinations, including some national parks , LEGOLAND Florida is now cashless . Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or Apple Pay.

The reporter on this story received access to the park from LEGOLAND Florida. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of reviews.

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4 Fantastic Fishing Trips For Kids

F or adults of a certain age, the thought of a family fishing trip might evoke memories of Andy Griffth walking along with a young Ron Howard.  Whistling as they strolled through the pines, headed off for a relaxing day on the lake just outside of quaint Mayberry, North Carolina.  In an effort to recreate this idyllic scene, you may even be tempted to pack up your family and strike out for the town in hopes of creating your own bonding time, much like Andy and Opie.  

The trip would be much shorter than most Californians would assume, as the scene was actually filmed in Franklin Canyon, a man-made reservoir turned recreation area just outside of Los Angeles.  Franklin Canyon is gorgeous, and while it is well worth a visit, you’re more likely to run into the Rolling Stones shooting an album cover than you are a father/son duo from a black and white 1960s television show.  

Before you rush off to create your own family fishing adventure, spend the time choosing the most important part….the destination!  We’ve put together several great locations spread around the country to help families sink their hooks into their own opening credit-worthy outing.

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Park City, Utah – The Lodge at Blue Sky 

There is no shortage of people who consider Utah the Promised Land, both figuratively and literally.  The rivers that formed the Martian landscape as they snaked through the desert are teeming with wading opportunities every angler will love.  Who knows, maybe the great fishing was the true reason for Brigham Young’s cross-country trek!

The Fishing

 Ok, let’s get to the meat and potatoes of the trip.  The fishing.

The Lodge at Blue Sky , part of the Auberge Resorts collection, has a flawless reputation in the fishing tourism industry, and with great reason. Their partnership with a local guide service provides the local knowledge you need to land a photo-worthy target fish.  It’s no wonder fishermen from around the globe flock to their locations.  They’ve put together some great packages for families to choose from based on goals and time constraints.  All of their trip options provide the necessary gear, waders, and transportation for a successful day on the water. 

Half-Day Wading Trip

There are two destination choices for a half-day wading trip. The Provo River (25-minute drive) and the Weber River (10-minute drive).  This is a great chance for a beginner fly fisherman to learn the basics of rod rigging, casting, basic knots, and fly tying, as well as the great diversity of trout species.  The whole trip takes roughly 3-4 hours, and all participants must be at least eight years of age .  Auberge also offers a full-day wading trip which travels further out to private property and includes lunch.  Offering a chance to further refine your family’s skills under the expert tutelage of your guide. 

Sometimes you gotta get wet if you wanna land the big on! © Gaspar Zaldo

High Alpine Driftboat Trip

Families looking for a little more adventure will love this family fishing trip.  After a scenic 1 hour drive through the mountains, you will arrive at your destination.  A private reservoir tucked away in privacy.  Spend 6 hours with your guide as you target the elusive Cutthroat Trout. If ever you had the opportunity to land one, this is it.  This trip will last an entire day (6 hours) with a Max of 2 guests per boat and also has a minimum age of eight .

Heli-Fishing Trip

You came here for the ultimate fishing experience, right?  Well, here it is.  Board a private helicopter right at the Blue Sky Lodge and enjoy a scenic flight high in the Uintas Mountains.  After touching down in a remote mountain meadow, guests make the trek to isolated lakes and streams.  Here, they can try their hand in some of the least worked waters available besides experienced guides.  Before heading back, take the opportunity to enjoy a rustic lunch by the lake and let the experience sink in.  This trip lasts 4 hours and has an 8-guest max.  

Is there anything cooler than a helicopter ride to go fishing? © Blue Sky Lodge

Gracies Farm

When Blue Sky first arrived, they found a beautiful landscape, excellent for artistic inspiration but ill-suited for farming.  The soil was hard-packed, over-grazed, and lacking essential nutrients.  Enter Blue Sky and their sustainable farming guru Lynsey Gammon.  A self-described ‘farmher,’ Gammon and her team of fellow farmhers have worked hard in pursuit of a successful grow operation without sacrificing their love of the soil.  You won’t see tractors pacing along straight lines for hours on end or sprayers misting fertilizer and pesticides in alternating increasing dosages.  Her all-natural approach has created an oasis of fertility and provides produce at the on-site farmers market from June-October.

Families wanting to add a little farm experience to their fishing trip can visit Gracies Farm on Tuesdays at 10:00 am. The farm offers a free 30-minute walking tour to all guests of the lodge.  This complimentary tour is an opportunity to learn more about their passion for sustainable farming.  If you don’t know the difference between a caterpillar tunnel and a high tunnel, this is a perfect introduction to a local small-scale farm.  If you’re looking to get a little more in-depth, maybe you’re a gardener yourself, then a private tour may be more your speed. Ask all the questions you’d like on a 90-minute guided tour to transform your garden back home. 

True farm to table at Blue Sky Lodge © Blue Sky Lodge

Little Vaqueros Camp

All parents traveling with kids have been there.  You’re away with the family on vacation and put together a much-needed day of wine tasting or fly-fishing for the adults, but struggle to shake that feeling of guilt for leaving the kids behind.  Blue Sky has found just the solution with their Little Vaqueros Camp.

Each day of the week is themed to provide a full day of activities with a focus on engaging young minds, bodies, and senses with nature.  Counselors take kids ages 5-12 outside for adventure-based activities to learn about the local environment, history, and culture.  While the adults are enjoying their time away, the young ones are learning the basics of fishing, horse care, cooking, farming, mining, and even yoga.  Kids won’t be in a rush to leave by the end of the day. 

The camp runs each day from 9:30 am to 3 pm with a provided lunch break from 11-12. Morning sessions of camp are complimentary. Afternoon sessions are an additional cost.  Full-day campers can enjoy a complimentary meal from the children’s menu. 

Orlando, Florida – Lake Tohopekaliga

Yes, it is a mouthful.  The name dates back to the Seminole Indians who once lived around the lake and gave it the name.  Tohopekaliga is Seminole for “We will gather here,” but the locals refer to it simply as Lake Toho or West Lake to differentiate it from the nearby East Tohopekaliga.  

Lake Toho, just outside Orlando, is considered one of the finest Bass fishing hotspots in the country, best known for the record catch set (with a five-fish limit) in the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society contest that came in at a total of a whopping 45 pounds 2 oz. 

For those of you who have never fished Bass before, a 10-pound lunker is entering trophy fish territory.  The Florida Wildlife Commission performed a study of the lake that showed an average of one bass over 10 pounds for every 10 acres of lake.  With numbers like that, you begin to understand why this 23,000 Acre lake is so productive.  That’s a mind-boggling 2,300 wall-worthy bass!

Why is Lake Toho home to so many monster fish?  The lake is fairly shallow, with a maximum depth of about 13 Feet. Providing ample acreage for the grass flats that Bass shelter in during the summer months when the water temperature rises. 

Freshwater fishing brings in billions of dollars each year for the state, so it is a priority for them to manage the health of the lakes.  This includes opening up the dam to allow large drawdowns in the Lake level to allow for man-made droughts to help control invasive plant species and ensure healthy algae levels.

Remember, kids, always cover your mouth when you yawn © Jeff Vanderspank

AJ’s Orlando Bass Guide

AJ’s Orlando Bass Guides team of full-time fishing guides will ensure a successful and safe day out on the water.  How well do they know the Lake? The company is run by two fishermen, who also happen to hold the Lake records for the largest, and second-largest fish.  One of which weighed an incredible 16 lb. 10 oz!

Freshwater Tours

They offer several varying length trip options from 2.5 hrs up to a full day of 8+ hours.  They recommend the 2.5-hour trip for families traveling with kids or for those short on time. 

All of their trips include the necessary gear and tackle for the conditions of the day.  A day on the Lake with the kids can be a great way to break up a hectic trip to Disney.  Just don’t be surprised when the kids rave about the fishing to the family back home and forget all about the Magic Kingdom.

Saltwater Tours

If you’re looking to head out on the ocean to cast a line, Aj’s still has you covered.  They offer 4,6 and 8 hour trips that leave at first light.  The tours head out to either Cape Canaveral or Mosquito Lagoon on the east central coast and have a maximum of 4 guests.  An added perk of Saltwater fishing in Florida is the lack of a Saltwater fishing license requirement.  

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Wild Willy’s Airboat Tours

Yeah, Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone, which is pretty cool.  Not sending communications by mail is nice, but you know what is even cooler? Airboats.  Who would’ve guessed that the guy who gave us the telephone was also capable of making something as inarguably cool as airboats?  Thanks Mr. Bell!

Picture your family loudly zipping across the shallow water, dodging marshy shorelines and alligators while looking like the coolest cats in town.  Have you ever seen someone on an airboat that wasn’t happy? No.

Wild Willy’s Airboat will guide your family around Lake Toho on one of his two Airboats depending on the group size.  One-hour smooth flying tours leave throughout the day.  Make sure to book an earlier trip if you’re worried about the midday Florida heat.  Most riders are surprised at just how smooth the ride in an airboat is. Even those prone to motion sickness are pleasantly surprised. 

There is no minimum age restriction , with kids as young as three months having enjoyed the trip.  Willy himself is a nature enthusiast and enjoys pointing out the Gators, Bald Eagles, and Snail Kites that call the Lake Home.  Don’t be surprised when he stops the boat to hop in the water and bring a creature up close for the kids to get a better look.  At the conclusion of your trip, take the opportunity to check out the animals on their property, including the chance to hold their two young alligators, Thunder and Half Stripe!

I bet if you zoom in, they’re all smiling! © Richard Sagredo

Where to stay near Lake Toho

Odds are this whole area would mostly be a swamp if not for the legendary House of Mouse.  Whether you intend on popping into the park to pay respect on your trip or not, the Disney Animal Kingdom Lodge makes a great base for your trip to Florida. A short drive to both Lake Toho and a plethora of theme parks, this resort features a stockpile of family-oriented activities in a fun atmosphere. 

Hakuna Matata Playground

Hakuna Matata, it’s a wonderful phrase and a wonderful playground.  Hotel stays with kids can go sideways fast.  The jumping from bed to bed and the bouncing off the walls can leave parents feeling crazed and worried about bothering the neighbors.  Having a playground on-site to take kids that are being…..well, kids, can feel like a miracle.  

The Hakuna Matata playground isn’t groundbreaking. It looks much like most playgrounds.  With two separate large features sized appropriately for their age groups.  There are various activities, such as a xylophone, a maze, and some speaking tubes.  The area is thoughtfully well-shaded to reduce the heat throughout the day, and the rubber mulch provides excellent drainage after the ever-present Florida rain showers.  Much like Yoda, don’t judge this amenity by its size.

Movies Under the Stars

Each night of the week, there is an outdoor movie available for guests of the lodge.  Luckily, Disney has no shortage of movie rights, and they are able to keep a fresh inventory in circulation.  The location of the movie is shared between the Hakuna Matata playground and the Pembe Savannah overlook.  Here is a handy site for checking the movie schedule, as well as a few extra tips for making the most of the evening activities.  The movies start at 8:30, which can be pretty late for the young ones, so you may want to consider putting on the pajamas before the opening credits. 

Montauk, New York – Deep Sea Fishing

We’ve looked at some dream destination fishing trips for kids, but we’ve been mostly hanging out inland.  Where can we go if we want to add a little salt to our lives? Montauk, New York, claims to hold more fishing records than any other port in the world! Is it true? I have no idea, but I do know this beautiful location is a highly productive sport fishing hotspot.

Montauk is located at the tip of Long Island and formed by the same glacial retreat that gave us Cape Cod and the Islands.  The sun, surf, and tourists should leave many West Coast travelers feeling right at home.  Let’s look at some great options for a family in Montauk.

Susie E II Charter Fishing

Capt. Burt Prince and his crew are ready to take families out on the waves to enjoy some of the finest sport fishing available.  The 48’ Susie E II is well equipped to carry up to 33 passengers out into the waters off Long Island.  Equipped for both inshore trips and long offshore days, the Susie II features the latest technology to ensure a successful day, as well as keep your family safe regardless of what the ocean throws your way.  

Susie E II Sportfishing offers several fishing packages that vary with target species as well as length of day and group size.  Their rates are based on a 6 passenger group, but they can accommodate larger groups for an additional fee.  Each trip includes top notch tackle and bait, as well as the Ice to keep the catch fresh.  Speaking of catch, their crew will clean and bag the keepers as families reel them in.  They will even handle camera duty so everyone can be in the pictures and parents can focus on savoring the moment and enjoying the day.

Cod Fishing trips

Cod might be the most popular fish in the Atlantic, but chasing it is not for the weak.  Peak season for Cod runs from December – April, which can lead to some frosty days.  Cod trips are a long day on the water, with the boat leaving the dock between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m. and returning 12 hours later.  Fighting Cod on light tackle is a wonderful way to spend the day, and the hearty family willing to take on the adventure are often rewarded with dozens of pounds of fresh fish to take home.

Shark Fishing

Everyone who has seen the movie Jaws knows sharks are the undeniable king of the ocean.  Their history predates trees by 100 million years and Dinosaurs by an additional hundred.  Seeing them in the wild can be a magical experience from the safety of a boat.  The powerful creatures are a favorite target species for fishermen looking for a worthy opponent.  

The water off Montauk predominantly features Blue, Mako, and Thresher Sharks.  These fantastic beasts will provide families with a workout that is as hard as it is exciting.  Imagine hooking a Mako shark, able to reach speeds up to 50 mph, and battling him back to the boat as he launches himself 20’ in the air.  Or you can tango with a Thresher shark and their long powerful tail, which earned them the nickname ‘sea bull.  Some of these Threshers will leave your family working for hours to finally get the 300-pound monster on board.   If you thought that speckled trout gave you a fight, imagine one of these creatures tugging on your rod and reel!  Old tradition holds you should kiss the first fish you catch for good luck. Maybe best to skip that on this trip, though!

We’ve put together great locations around the country for families looking to sink their hooks into fantastic fishing trips for kids.

Deep Hollow Ranch

You don’t want to travel all the way to Montauk and not explore some of the scenic beaches.  What better way to travel the sandy shore than horseback?  Deep Hollow Ranch offers tours as rich in history as they are in natural beauty.  

With options for the whole family, a stop at Deep Hollow will give everyone the chance to travel like a true cowboy.  Tours leave throughout the day 7 days a week, be sure to reserve early as tours can fill up fast.  

The 1.5 hr option is restricted to ages eight and above .  Guides teach visitors about the history of Long Island and give them the opportunity to travel along the waves.  For families looking for a more condensed option, there is a 30-minute tour that allows children over six that is also an excellent choice for beginners.  The little members of the family need not worry about being left out.  Pony rides run for several hours in mid-day for children five and under .  

Livin’ out their tiny cowboy dreams © Jamie Coupad

Where to stay in Montauk

Montauk is a long way from the West Coast.  After all that travel you’re sure to be a little weary and in search of a haven for relaxing with the family.  The Roudtree Amagansett will check all the boxes on your list.  Peace and luxury in a warm family-friendly atmosphere.  

Roundtree offers the opportunity to conveniently explore all the activities packed into the tip of Long Island.  Their ‘Signature Experiences’ service allows parents to sit back while they plan their day trips for you.  Let them put together a full day for the family with activities ranging from yoga and baking classes to tee times and massages.  They can even set parents up with a babysitting service and send them off on a tour of the area vineyards.  

As part of their family-friendly atmosphere, each night, there is a campfire providing equal parts smores and songs.  During the day, their beach shack is loaded with enough sand toys to keep the kids entertained on the beach for hours on end.  The Roundtree Amagansett’s convenient location and family-friendly personality make it a great option for your Montauk fishing vacation. 

McCall, Idaho – Shore Lodge

Every state is known for something. Florida has Disney, California has Hollywood, and New York has busy businessmen filling the sidewalks.  To many, Idaho is known as the land of potatoes, and it’s infamous 3-way tie for the state that most resembles a gun.  But fishermen around the country know the hidden truth about Idaho. It has hundreds of miles of deep rivers teeming with lots of fish.  Like good fishing spots around the world, spreading the word at the speed of a whisper has left many areas of Idaho largely uninterrupted.  

High on the bucket list of any serious angler is the steelhead.  Often mistaken for a salmon, the steelhead is actually a member of the trout family, though much larger than most of their smaller cousins.  Anyone lucky enough to land a steelhead likely has a tale to tell.  As these powerful fish are pound for pound the hardest fighting species coming out of our freshwaters.  They use their speed to spool out a fishing line, launching themselves above the surface several times in a display that is equal parts terrifying and beautiful.  

Sure, you’ve fished Spanish Mackerel off the Outer Banks and Mahi Mahi in Hawaii, but you know the key to a memorable day in a new fishing spot is a top-notch guide service.   

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Idaho Steelhead Guides

At some point in the timeline of their hobby, every outdoor sportsman has an entry-level existential crisis.  How can they love the land and still take joy in activities like hunting and fishing?  Over time, the outdoorsman adds techniques to their craft that ensure the species they admire can not only survive but flourish.  At Idaho Steelhead Guides , they not only strive to provide quality time for the entire family on the water but to do so ethically in a way that will preserve their waters for future generations.  Or, in wildlife conservationist Aldo Leopold’s words, “We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect.” 

Idaho Steelhead guides not only boasts of their several dozen years of experience on these waters, but they are also members of the ‘Keep em’ wet,’ the ‘Leave No Trace’, and the ‘Idaho River United’ initiatives.  So you can rest assured your whole experience will be as ethical as it is bountiful.

Single Day Trips

Their single-day trip options are perfect for families interested in adding a fly fishing trip to their family vacation.  The trips begin at dawn, and kids of all ages will have a great time soaking in the beautiful scenery as they float down the river in one of the crew’s several float options.  Tackle, rods, live bait, lunch, and life jackets are all provided by the team and included in their fee.  

Get those steelheads! © Shore Lodge

Multi-Day Trips

These trips are perfect for the high adventure family with short attention spans looking to spend five days catching lots of fishing and making memories.  You’ll spend the majority of the trip fishing, unburdened with cooking, gear transport,ing and planning that can often bog down long family fishing trips.  Imagine waking up in a private backcountry campsite, sliding into your waders at dawn by the light of the campfire, and setting off on the private charter.  

There are some Class IV rapids along the river, so you may want to wait a few years until the younger kids have a few more years under their belts.  The seasoned guides will safely navigate the rapids for you. Around mid-day, you may even see crew members leapfrog your boat off to set up the next campsite prior to your arrival.  

Where to Stay in McCall

Here’s a riddle.  What has 77 guest rooms, 5,500’ of elevation, and is conveniently located just 90 minutes outside of Boise?  If you guessed the Shore Lodge , congratulations, you are correct.  Shore Lodge is located right on Payette Lake, and its 5,000 acres of deep freshwater is filled with all types of fish.  Shore is the perfect place to take the young anglers in your life to get them out on the water.

Shore Lodge offers several room options.  Families traveling with young kids may find it helpful to have direct outdoor access to let them stretch their legs without corralling them down the hallway.  The Lake Front Suites offer immediate access to the lake with a private seating area in the room and an outdoor patio just outside the door.

In the colder months, kids will enjoy a hot fire after a long day of snowshoeing or snowmobiling on nearby Brundage Mountain.  Their Fireside Suites contain a fireplace in the comfort of the living room, with a dining table and a private outdoor terrace.  The Fireside Suites are available with king or double queen bed options.

Make family memories on the water and in the room © Blue Sky Lodge.

Shore Lodge prides itself on being a 4 season destination.  They make it a point to offer year-round activities for everyone.  Whether you’re enjoying a parent’s getaway or you’ve got a gaggle of young children tagging along, they’ve got you covered. 

Brundage Mountain

In the winter months, the proximity to Brundage Mountain pays off.  Here, guests can enjoy miles of snowshoeing and snowmobiling trails.  Hire a guide, and explore the snow-covered landscape or rent snowshoes to show the kids you’re still top dog.

Steelhead Guides

Come Spring, it’s the perfect time to book a kids’ fishing charter with Idaho Steelhead Guides.  If you aren’t afraid of getting wet, this is a great time of year to try on a rafting trip and learn why Idaho has earned the nickname “The Whitewater State.”  Take a trip down ‘Hell’s Canyon,’ the deepest gorge in North America.  

Hot Spring, Mines and Links

Don’t think for a second that the heat of summer slows things down at Shore Lodge.  Take out one of their canoes or paddleboards and explore the lake.  Or enjoy a guided 4-wheeler tour into the remote backcountry.  Ride out to take a soak in the Burgdorf Hot Springs or explore the Kimberly Mines .  If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed, why not hit the links?  As a guest of Shore Lodge you have exclusive access to Whitetail Club’s 18 hole 7,200-yard course.  

Ponderosa State Park

After a summer spent outside, the cooler fall air can be the perfect time to get out into the woods and put in some miles.  Ponderosa State Park offers 1,000 acres of recreation for you to explore.  Take a hike up to Osprey Point and enjoy the perfect view of the lake.  Or, rent a mountain bike for the day and cruise the seemingly endless trails.

A family fishing trip can feel like a game of Whack-A-Mole.  Fleeting moments of blissful serenity interrupted by pleas for juice and snacks in between sibling feuds.  Proper planning, which starts with choosing the best fishing locations, can set your family up for success as you introduce the little ones to a variety of fishing sports.  Thinking about this family trip as a kids’ trip instead of just a fishing trip will ensure you won’t go wrong at any of these great destinations!

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The post 4 Fantastic Fishing Trips For Kids appeared first on LA Family Travel .

Home - Language Homestay

• Language Homestay

About the Program

As a participant of this program Host family in Russia you may have a chance to live in Russia up to 3 months ant feel yourself not an ordinary tourist, but a local. The host family you choose to stay with will show you the real life of  Russians, their customs and traditions, tell more about culture and ‘mysterious’ Russian character.

You will live with them for free with  private room  accomodation  and full board. Instead you just should teach them your  native language 15 hours a week, not even grammar but simply conversational. You don’t need to prepare the detailed teaching plan,  you may discuss any topics you wish.   We also will provide you with teaching materials in case you need them.

If you  are keen on Russian culture and wish to explore it better you should use  a great opportunity to learn the conversational Russian.  Everybody knows that this is the best way to know any country better.  After 3 months stay you definitely will speak a bit of Russian language.

During your stay you may visit other cities in Russia, or combine your trip so as to live for a month with one host and then to change it. This option is really popular cause lets see more places and meet more new  people. Apart from Moscow and Saint-Petersburg there  are a lot of other cities with great tourist attractions and amazing nature. If you are interested in real Russian life more surely you will see it not in Moscow!

Why is  Language Homestay?

Teach and Learn

Nowadays such alternative ways as couchsurfing, working or volunteering abroad become more and more popular. The Teach and Learn program is a perfect mixture of all  that offers the deepest immersion in a real Russian life. You may explore Russians’ lifestyle, habits, history and character.

This experience is absolutely priceless cause every day you will be sorrounded by natives, not only your hosts , but also their friends, and everywhere — in shops, subway, in he streets.

That is why you may learn Russian language almost effortless but with a great result!

The Teach and Learn program provides you with an opportunity to stay in Russia almost for free — accomodation anf food will be free of charge. Add here the chance to update you CV as you will get the teaching experience in a family  and the program completion  certificate with a reference letter. This a good start for an international career!

Langauge Homestay

31- 90 days

91-180 days ( US citizens only)

Accomodation:

Host Family

What’s included?

• Placement throughout the country
• Volunteer tutoring position with a local host family
• 15 hours per week teaching experience
• Accommodation provided with a Russian speaking host family
• From 2 weeks to 3 months placement
• Start dates throughout a year
• Visa support letter included
• Two way airport transfer
• Three day travel pass in St. Petersburg or Moscow
• Weekly social program including full day local excursion every 2 weeks organised by the family
• Power adapters

What’s not included?

• Two way air tickets and visa
• Other traffic expenses
• Specific city placement
• Multiple family placement
• Meals outside the host family

Any questions? Feel  free to contact!

Your question

• Fill in the application form and attach your photos.
• Have a first skype interview with a person from our company.
• Tell about your preferences.
• Pay a $250 deposit
• Select several families.
• Have skype interviews with them.
• Select one or two if you are going to change them during your trip.
• Pay the fees.
• Apply for a visa.
• Buy your flight ticket and start your journey!​

” "I'd thought that famous Russian hospitality is a myth. But it turned out that you always feel like a real member of the family! So much kind and tenderness" Francesca De Cani Student

The Host Family

Living  with a host family is one of the main pros of this program.  It’s affordable from the view of money,  gives you an instant support system in country, and can help you learn the local language and culture.

Every host family is thouroughly interviewed and evaluated so only the best can participate in this program. You can be sure that they will be able to provide you with comfortable living and friendly environment.  At first they will show  you around the city and tell more about the country at a whole.

Every day you will eat national cuisine and get familiar better with eating habits of Russians: borsch, dumplings, pancakes and so on. No chance you wouldn’t  like it!

The host family in Russia is a great resource for practicing Russian language much faster and easier.  You will chat with the members of the family every day and not many of locals speak other languages fluently, so your own learning will be almost effortless.

You will be involved in all the events and celebrations: going to cinemas and theatres, visiting museums and art galleries, spending cosy evenings with family friends at home or even taking part in  national holidays celebration.  This is the best way to learn about Russian character  and traditions, to know more about history and customs. Russians are open minded and really easy-going  people so they will tell you everything with a great pleasure!

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US tourists face 12 years in prison for accidentally bringing ammo to Caribbean island

The u.s. state department is warning travelers about strict new laws in turks and caicos islands that carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years for bringing guns or ammunition to the island: "if you bring a firearm or ammunition into tci, even inadvertently, we will not be able to secure your release from custody", by leslie gaydos • published april 23, 2024 • updated on april 25, 2024 at 8:56 pm.

An Oklahoma woman was reunited Tuesday with her young children after being detained for almost two weeks in Turks and Caicos Islands for allegedly violating their strict guns and ammunition law. Her husband is being held in the British Overseas Territory near the Bahamas.

Ryan and Valerie Watson, who live in Oklahoma, left for Turks and Caicos Islands on April 7 to celebrate the 40th birthdays of Ryan and two friends. When they went through security for their return flight, their carry-on was flagged and searched and officials found a Ziploc bag of bullets.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for whitetail deer," said Ryan, "and I recognized them and I thought, oh man, what a bonehead mistake that I had no idea that those were in there."

The two shared their story virtually with NBC10 Boston last week before their first court hearing. They were stuck on the island, their passports confiscated, separated from their young son and daughter.

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"When I heard that, I immediately was terrified because I was like, we can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home. And this is such an innocent mistake that we didn't even know we weren't– we didn't even know it was there. So yeah, my immediate thought was our kids and them being, you know, parentless for, for that long," Valerie said.

The Watsons were questioned and charged with possession of ammunition. In 2022, Turks and Caicos passed an amendment with stiffer penalties for possession of weapons or ammunition, increasing the mandatory minimum prison sentence to 12 years.

This is something that we may never recover from Ryan Watson, American tourist charged with possession of ammunition in Turks and Caicos Islands

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Tourists' Caribbean arrests highlight value of US travel warnings, expert says

Virginia man is latest American charged with ammunition possession in Turks and Caicos

Last September, the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a travel alert warning Americans after a tourist from Indiana got an eight-month prison sentence for possession of ammunition.

The alert says: "We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI [Turks and Caicos Islands] and will result in your arrest.

"We strongly encourage you to carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing for TCI. If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody. You are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures," the alert continued.

Bryan Hagerich was detained by Turks and Caicos authorities after a family vacation in February when hunting ammunition was found in his luggage before he boarded a flight home. He said the ammunition was found in a bag he frequently used for weekend hunting trips.

"I've been here for almost 70 days now after posting bail. I've been out, right now just waiting to go to the hearing. That's where my case would be heard, then following that would be sentencing," Hagerich said.

Hagerich, who played baseball professionally and was once drafted by the Florida Marlins, lives in Pennsylvania with his wife and two young kids. He spent eight days in prison before posting bail and is awaiting a May 3 court hearing.

"It's incredibly scary. You know, you just don't know what the next day may bring. You know, what path this may take. You know, you're in a completely different culture, a different country by yourself. You know, it's certainly a lot different than packing your bags and going away with your family for a few days. It's been the worst 70 days of my life," Hagerich said.

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He and the Watsons are also dealing with the financial strain of paying for an extended stay and being away from their jobs.

"We've already talked, and we're like, what if, you know, what if we lose our house? Which, when we moved to Oklahoma, we built a home that we thought was our forever home. And to think that this is going to ruin us..." said an emotional Valerie.

"This is something that we may never recover from," Ryan said.

"I'm just very anxious, eager to get home to my family," said Hagerich. "This has been too long. You know, it's just had so much irreparable harm to my family, that, you know, I just can't continue to see them struggle anymore. I just want to hug my family and start this healing process together."

After their hearing yesterday, Ryan was sent to jail; he was granted bail at a hearing on Wednesday. Charges were dropped for Valerie on Monday and she is now back in Oklahoma with her two children.

The judges in Turks and Caicos Islands are able to make exceptions to the mandatory minimum sentence if they determine there are "exceptional circumstances" in a case.

NBC10 Boston reached out to the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands' tourism bureau about the Watsons' situation and have not heard back. We contacted the State Department and a spokesperson told NBC10 Boston they are aware of the arrest of U.S. citizens in Turks and Caicos and that, "The U.S. Department of State and our embassies and consulates abroad have no greater priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas."

The spokesperson added, "When a U.S. citizen is arrested overseas, we stand ready to provide all appropriate consular assistance. In a foreign country, U.S. citizens are subject to that country's laws, even if they differ from those in the United States… As our security alert from September 22, 2023 states, in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), firearms, ammunition, and other weapons are not permitted. TCI authorities strictly enforce all firearms related laws. The penalty for traveling to TCI with a firearm, ammunition, or other weapon is a minimum custodial sentence of twelve (12) years. If a traveler brings a firearm or ammunition into TCI, the U.S. Department of State will not be able to secure their release from custody. Travelers are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures."

The State Department said they are unable to provide the number of U.S. citizens charged with weapon/ammunition possession since the department is unable to track local arrests.

But law enforcement officials in Turks and Caicos Islands acknowledged Wednesday in a statement that three Americans are out on bail in such cases.

"The Firearms Ordinance applies to all persons present within the Turks and Caicos Islands regardless of status or origin," read the statement from the offices of the attorney general and the director of public prosecution.

pic.twitter.com/Kz31Ng5wJk — TCIG Communications Directorate (@TCIG_Press) April 24, 2024

Also Wednesday, the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a new statement urging all travelers to take care looking for weapons or ammunition when leaving the U.S.

" Carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing from the United States ," the warning says in bold, going on to note that enforcement in Turks and Caicos Islands is strict, legally declared weapons aren't allowed in the territory and TSA screening may not turn up ammunition in baggage on the way out of the country.

" If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, even inadvertently, we will not be able to secure your release from custody. You are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures," the statement said.

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