fun trips for 19 year olds

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19 family vacation ideas that will have even your teenager smiling in photos

Traveling with a teenager isn't the easiest thing in the world. For starters, they’re too young for adult fun and too old for the plethora of activities geared toward the easy-to-please 12-and-under crowd.

But just like there are plenty of places to take the kids before they’re grown , there are several destinations — both within the United States and internationally — ideal for families with teens if you're still in the process of booking flights and travel arrangements. Many could be considered bucket list spots for teens, but why not splurge for the occasion? It may be the last family vacation before your kid(s) fly the coop.

From beach resorts to Northern Thailand, here are several teen-friendly getaways to visit as a family.

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Best vacation spots for families with teens

Best for ages: 13-18

Here’s why: Teens are notoriously moody, but that won't stop them from enjoying Costa Rica , often called the happiest country on earth. Show them rainforests, volcanos, white sand beaches and what the "pura vida" life is all about.

Do this: Soar through the canopy in Monteverde, the high altitude cloudforest where ziplining for tourism was pioneered and the rest of the world followed suit. Sky Adventures Monteverde Park also has an aerial tram and a hanging bridges tour where you can see the levels of the cloudforest and its biodiversity up close. Teens who want to say they’ve climbed a volcano can do so at Cerro Chato, next to Arenal, the country’s most famous volcano and one of the most active in the world. No trip to Costa Rica is complete without a visit to its beaches, stretching for miles along both the Caribbean and Pacific. Learn to surf in the funky town of Tamarindo at Iguana Surf where the instructors all speak English and no one goes home without having caught their own wave. Hike in the tropical waterfront paradise that is Manuel Antonio National Park — Costa Rica’s answer to Yellowstone. (You can laugh at them, but don’t feed the monkeys.)

Stay here: If your teens are feeling a need to binge their favorite show while on vacation, they’ll love the turbo speed Wi-Fi at Tierra Magnifica , a luxury boutique property in the surf community of Nosara. (You’ll love the panoramic views and sense of safety.) If an all-inclusive is more your speed, teens will appreciate dining options and beachfront activities at The Westin Reserva Conchal.

Tierra Magnifica

More info: VisitCostaRica.com

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Here’s why: There are several reasons Myrtle Beach welcomes nearly 20 million visitors annually. For starters, there are more than 50 beaches to choose from, several world-class golf courses to conquer and one of the country’s biggest boardwalks selling limitless fun.

Do this: Teens anxious to drive can get behind the wheel of their own go-kart and race on six different tracks at the Broadway Grand Prix . Teens aspiring to join the PGA Tour will want to play at one of the area’s 90 golf courses which host junior opens throughout the year. (There’s also a Top Golf if you can’t get a tee time.) Meanwhile, young fans of "The Walking Dead" won’t want to miss the AMC hit show-themed escape room , and fans of "The Simpsons," The Simpsons in 4D . Teens wanting to hang out with other teens can easily do so on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade , home to one of the country’s tallest Ferris wheels. Of course, there are also plenty of beach activities including surfing, wakeboarding and horseback riding to choose from.

Stay here: Homewood Suites by Hilton Myrtle Beach has an on-site waterpark with different areas for young and old kids. Meanwhile, the beachfront Grande Cayman Resort has 10 pools and four on-site restaurants.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Myrtle Beach

More info: VisitMyrtleBeach.com

Porto, Portugal

Best for ages: 16+

Here’s why: Practically crime-free, extremely cheap and small enough to be walkable, Porto is the perfect European city to give teens a taste of independence. Located where the Douro River meets the Atlantic, its proximity to the beach and the Douro Valley ensures there is plenty to do.

Do this: Visit the world-famous “Harry Potter library” — Livraria Lello . Teens not afraid of sharks can learn to surf with Onda Pura . Take a scenic boat or train ride to the Douro Valley, the world’s oldest demarcated wine region where teens (16+) are legally allowed to taste wine and — more importantly — learn how it’s made.

Stay here: The breakfast buffet at The Lodge Wine & Business Hotel will satisfy any growing teen, and its picturesque outdoor pool is a rarity in this city founded in 1123.

The Lodge Wine & Business Hotel

The Lodge Wine & Business Hotel

More info: VisitPortugal.com

Space Coast, Florida

Here’s why: Just an hour from Orlando , Florida’s Space Coast is an inspirational beach destination where teens can learn about everything from space exploration to manatee conservation.

Do this: Get a trip to Disney World , Universal Studios and Epcot out of the way. Then head southeast to the childhood home of Kelly Slater (it’s the East Coast's Surf Capital) for some beach time. Explore further inland on a kayak or SUP tour winding through tunnels of mangrove trees. Sea turtle sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the Space Coast does have a huge concentration of them. Teens obsessed with LED lights will be in awe in the bioluminescent lagoon . The Space Coast is one of very few places in the world to see this phenomenon where the tiniest of marine creatures emit a neon blue light for protection. Teens who want to work for NASA will never want to leave the Kennedy Space Center with its rocket garden, 3D space films, shuttle launch experience and journey to Mars. For a really memorable experience, book some add-on "enhancements" that includes immersive training courses and even a casual chat with an astronaut.

Stay here: The family-owned and operated Surf Studio Beach Resort in Cocoa Beach has clean, low-cost accommodations that include kitchens (because teens are always hungry) and a private bedroom for the parents. Cape Winds Resort Rentals in Cape Canaveral also offers private beach access in addition to tennis courts, a basketball court and a pool.

Surf Studio Beach Resort

More info: VisitSpaceCoast.com

Denver, Colorado

Here’s why: The Mile High City is a must for families with teens who want to play in the mountains but have big city amenities.

Do this: Social media mavens can start the day at the Denver Selfie Museum where the backdrops are just as Insta-worthy as the surrounding Rockies. Or capture those tricks for TikTok at the 60,000-square-foot Denver Skate Park . Aspiring artists will want to check out the myriad collections at the Denver Art Museum (18 and under are free). In the winter, adrenaline junkies can’t skip a trip to Ruby Hill Rail Yard, an urban terrain park and snowboarder’s paradise.

Stay here: For golf fans, the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver has a “Grip It and Rip It” package for City of Denver Golf and is within walking distance of most of the city's downtown sites.

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver

More info: Denver.org

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Here’s why: Jackson Hole is a year-round vacation destination and convenient home base for exploring two of the country’s most popular national parks. With its small-town setting (population 10,500) where everything is within walking distance, teens can easily explore on their own.

Do this: Ski or snowboard together at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort , one of the most iconic ski resorts in the world. Rent bikes and ride 56 miles of paved paths or 115 miles of mountain bike trails, most with striking valley views. Since a family who rafts together stays together, battle the rapids on the Snake River or go for a scenic floating safari in search of moose, elk, bears and more. No trip to Jackson is complete without venturing into Yellowstone National Park via the equally stunning Grand Teton National Park .

Stay here: Located at the base of Snow King Mountain Resort , Snow King Resort is Jackson Hole’s best option for families who want immediate access to all kinds of outdoor adventures. Ski, snowboard, tube or — if you visit outside of winter — ride the mountain coaster and alpine slide. There’s also a massive mountain-top ziplining course, fly fishing and stargazing readily available for the curious teen.

Snow King Resort

More info: VisitJacksonHole.com

San Diego, California

Here’s why: Whether or not you agree with its nickname “America’s Finest City,” you’ll agree San Diego has beautiful year-round weather and so much to keep your teen(s) happy they’ll ask about going to college there.

Do this: Beach hop your way around the city’s nearly three area beaches, or cave hop via kayak or SUP . Take a self-guided street art tour , stopping to pose in front of massive murals — often illustrating important messages — for pics for the ‘gram. Ride the Giant Dipper roller coaster at the oceanfront Belmont Park or watch an interactive film in its 7-D high tech theater. Other must-consider attractions include the San Diego Zoo , San Diego Air & Space Museum , San Diego Automotive Museum and the Comic-Con Museum .

Stay here: The Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay welcomes RVs in addition to its fully-furnished tiny home rentals complete with fire pits and front porches. Between the on-site arcade, food trucks, poolside movie screen, basketball courts and indoor/outdoor fitness center, teens will never find themselves bored on vacation.

Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay

More info: SanDiego.org

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Here’s why: Wisconsin Dells is the waterpark capital of the world. Families can stay for two weeks and still never ride all the slides.

Do this: Visit the bottom of the ocean (or outer space) thanks to the underwater virtual reality experience at Kalahari , one of the country’s largest indoor waterparks. Race each other on the Raja king cobra-themed, side-by-side slides at Noah’s Ark . (It’s six stories high!) Visit Mt. Olympus to take on the nine-foot-tall waves at Poseidon’s Rage, one of the world’s largest wave pools or float on The River Troy, the world’s fastest manmade river. Tired of water-based activities? Attempt the Wizard Quest, the first fantasy team-building (or family-bonding) game in the country or unleash your inner Viking at Asgard Axe Throwing .

Stay here: While several area resorts boast their own waterparks, the top-rated property on TripAdvisor is the family-owned and -operated Black Hawk Motel & Suites . All guests get free admission to Timbavati Wildlife Park and a Wild Fun Zone attraction pass.

Black Hawk Motel & Suites

Black Hawk Motel & Suites

More info: WisDells.com

Butler County, Ohio

Best for ages: 13-16

Here’s why: This best of the Midwest destination proves that even inner-city teens can have fun in flyover states. Butler County also makes for a great halfway point for families coming from different coasts.

Do this: Teens who identify as foodies will love the aptly named Donut Trail where they can get their donut passport stamped at each of the funky boutique donut shops along the trail. (There is exactly a baker’s dozen!) Teens who collect all 13 stamps can collect a free T-shirt. Aspiring equestrians can get their horse fix at any of the area’s stables where they can rent horses or join a group ride. Teens who want to learn or practice wakeboarding will have a blast at Wake Nation . With its unique cable-tow system, no boat is required and beginners can learn at slower speeds. And for the ultimate rush, drive 30 minutes south to Cincinnati for indoor skydiving at iFly .

Stay here: Hueston Woods Lodge and Conference Center is just a few minutes by car from Miami University — one of the oldest public universities in the U.S. Guests can enjoy archery, community bonfires, badminton, nature trails and access to Acton Lake and Heuston Woods State Park .

Hueston Woods Lodge and Conference Center

More info: GettoTheBC.com

Tenerife, Spain

Here’s why: A trip to Tenerife is a rite of passage for most European teens. American teens will love the Island of Eternal Spring and its lively beaches, ethereal national parks and top-rated zoo and waterpark for the same reasons.

Do this: Ride the cable car up to the top of Teide, the world’s third-tallest volcano and crown jewel of Europe’s most visited national park . Snorkel while on a SUP or kayak tour in the shade of the cliffs at Los Gigantes, home to dolphins and sea life galore. Ride the zero gravity slide at Siam Park , the no. 1 rated waterpark in the world according to TripAdvisor, or head out on a quad safari en route to Spain’s highest village. Of course, there are also miles of beaches to explore (made of white sand imported from the Sahara or local, black volcanic sand).

Stay here: Families with older teens will enjoy the adults-only (16+) atmosphere at Iberostar Selecion Sabila , where luxurious, minimalist design meets beachfront all-inclusivity. Families with younger teens with small siblings can stay up the road at Iberostar Selecion Anthelia which boasts six pools and a kids’ camp.

Iberostar Selecion Sabila

More info: WebTenerife.com

Louisville, Kentucky

Here’s why: Underground ziplines, a baseball museum, the Muhammad Ali Center and a bridge allowing travelers to be in two states at the same time are just a few of the memorable experiences families with teens will enjoy in Louisville , aka Derby City.

Do this: Tech-savvy teens will want to visit Ovrdrive , a state-of-the-art center with racing simulators and more than 100 virtual reality games. (Those ages 12 and up can also throw axes.) Head to the Louisville Slugger Museum and take home a personalized bat as a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Cool off in the Louisville Mega Cavern boasting nearly 20 miles of underground tunnels and the world’s only ziplines that are entirely underground. Finally, check out Churchill Downs where teens can learn about the art and sport of horse racing by either attending a race or visiting the Kentucky Derby Museum (whose interactive exhibits include a horse race simulator).

Stay here: All rooms at the Homewood Suites by Hilton Louisville Downtown come with separate TV rooms so teens can stay up late watching their favorite shows. The property also offers free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and is only a block from Museum Row.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Louisville Downtown

More info: GoToLouisville.com

Reno Tahoe, Nevada

Best for ages: 15-18

Here’s why: Reno Tahoe is a unique destination where mountains meet desert. It’s where annual events include the Zombie Crawl, the Great Reno Balloon Race, the National Championship Air Races and — last but certainly not least — Burning Man.

Do this: Venture downtown to take iconic Instagram shots of the murals (there are more than 100) and to pose for pics with the Burning Man sculptures . Embrace your inner Flintstone and bowl at the National Bowling Stadium , also called the "Taj Mahal of Tenpins." Another good rainy day activity for teens is a trip to Need 2 Speed , an indoor go-kart racing track open seven days a week. It also boasts blacklight mini golf and a VR game. Beautiful weather? Drive to nearby Lake Tahoe to kayak in the crystal clear water or hit the slopes at one of the area’s renowned resorts. Teens can also explore hundreds of miles of hiking and mountain biking trails year-round.

Stay here: The coolest hotel in town (and perhaps Nevada) is Whitney Peak Hotel . It has a bouldering park on-site and is home to one of the world’s tallest climbing walls where teens can climb up for a bird's-eye view of the Reno Arch.

Whitney Peak Hotel

More info: VisitRenoTahoe.com

Whistler, Canada

Here’s why: Billing itself as an international mountain sports mecca, Whistler is another family vacation bucket list destination. It gives teens unlimited opportunities for adventure and — just as important — a greater appreciation for nature.

Do this: Drop into a teen group ski or snowboard lesson at Whistler Blackcomb , a venue for the 2010 Olympic Games. Those not wanting to try snow sports can hang out at the teen youth center: three rooms of video games, movies, skateboarding and special events. In the summer, junior golfers (16 and under) golf free with an adult on Whistler’s award-winning golf courses. Older teens qualify for a highly discounted green fee. Teens can also sign up for Summer Gravity mountain biking camps where they’ll learn from the pros and meet other teens obsessed with MTB.

Stay here: The best option for families wanting to stay at base camp is Fairmont Chateau Whistler . Guests ages 16+ are allowed on daily excursions sans parents (just signed permission slips). They include paddle boarding, hiking, biking and frisbee golf.

Fairmont Chateau Whistler

More info: Whistler.com

Seattle, Washington

Here’s why: The city that birthed the grunge music movement is an artsy, alternative place most teens will feel so welcome in they’ll want to move there.

Do this: Seattle's vacation ideas are vast and plentiful! For starters, take the popular Underground Tour to see what’s beneath the city via its vast network of interconnecting tunnels. Next, visit the Museum of Pop Culture , home to exhibits like Contact High: A Visual History of Hip-Hop, the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame and Indie Game Revolution. Teens developing a taste for coffee will also want see the many coffee shops in the city that birthed Starbucks and a growing trend toward artisanal brews. Don’t forget to catch the famous flying fish show at Pike Place Market — home to several pop-up murals that would look great on the ‘gram. Finally, adventure seekers can get their fix at the indoor ninja course at Elevated Sportz in nearby Bothell or on the miles of trails in the surrounding evergreen forests. There are also plenty of water sports to try in Puget Sound.

Stay here: Thompson Seattle is a luxury waterfront property within walking distance of Seattle’s top attractions including everything from Pike Place Market to hip vintage shops. Parents will appreciate the floor-to-ceiling views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountain Range while the kids are looking at their devices.

Thompson Seattle

More info: VisitSeattle.org

Los Cabos, Mexico

Here’s why: With several daily nonstop flights from major cities in the U.S., it’s easy and affordable to reach this beautiful international beach destination. Los Cabos is a drier alternative to Cancun, plus you don’t have to worry about hurricane season.

Do this: Between the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific, take advantage of the year-round swells and learn or practice surfing in Los Cabos. There are approximately 1,000 miles of coastline, so it’s never too crowded. Teens keener on marine life can snorkel and dive alongside the likes of friendly sea lions and ominous-looking, yet harmless, hammerhead sharks. Other animal encounters include camel safaris in the outback. Despite its proximity to water, Los Cabos’s breathtaking landscape includes a desert playground. For a high-speed tour, opt for an off-road ATV or UTV excursion with Cactus Tours . For the best value, buy the Park Pass at Wild Canyon Adventures , which gives teens access to unlimited ziplining, horseback riding, bikes, a hanging bridge and more. The price even includes an ATV or UTV tour, as well as a bungee jump or giant swing ride.

Stay here: Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection has a teen club with a recording studio. Grand Velas Los Cabos ’ teen club has lots of games (including an Xbox Kinect), a bar serving non-alcoholic drinks and even an in-house DJ spinning the latest beats every night until midnight.

Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection

More info: VisitLosCabos.travel

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Here’s why: Chiang Mai is a safe, affordable, entry-level destination in Asia where families can learn about one of the most welcoming cultures on earth. It’s also where you can feed growing teenage boys on $10 a day.

Do this: Volunteer at one of Chiang Mai’s many elephant sanctuaries. While most weekly programs are only for ages 18+, Elephant Nature Park has one-night programs open to families with kids of all ages. Spend the day watching the elephants bathe in the river before helping to feed and walk them, and rest during the night in a traditional bamboo hut. In the ancient walled city, visit Chiang Mai’s 117 Buddhist temples, and even sign up for a monk chat at a wat to learn more about the religion and how most Thai boys spend their early teenage years becoming monks. Sign up for a Muay Thai camp or a cooking class including a shopping trip to some of Southeast Asia’s most colorful markets. Schedule your trip for November if you think your teen will love the world-famous Yi Peng Lantern Festival or in April for Songkran , the world’s largest water fight (where weapons include everything from buckets to squirt guns and hoses) held in conjunction with the Thai New Year.

Stay here: With its rooftop pool, a rarity in Chiang Mai, it’s hard to beat Akyra Manor . Teens will appreciate its location in the hip, artist-influenced neighborhood of Nimman. Between its spacious suites and being within walking distance of the lively night market, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort is also teen-approved.

Akyra Manor

More info: TourismThailand.org

The Maldives

Here’s why: You don’t have to be on your honeymoon to visit the Maldives . With its 1,190 islands, it's a tropical paradise with lots for teens to do. An obvious bucket list destination, it’s also easy to justify taking when it could be your last vacation as a family.

Do this: Try new watersports like wakeboarding, kitesurfing, jet blades and even hydrofoils (which could be deemed more of an air sport). Become PADI-certified (ages 10+) and take an underwater family holiday card you’ll never forget. Since every other kid wants to be a marine biologist when they grow up, why not learn about conservation by transplanting coral, planting a tree or helping rehabilitate endangered sea turtles? Treat them to a treatment at Spa by ESPA at Joali Maldives where there’s a special menu for teens.

Stay here: Amilla has a program for older kids and teens including fire dancing lessons, guitar lessons, mocktail making classes and even nighttime glow rider bicycle tours. One & Only Reethi Rah also has a teen program, One Tribe, with dedicated teens-only chill space. And for adrenaline lovers? Stay at the Four Seasons at Landaa Giraavaru , which boasts a Mastercraft X55 boat that makes its own surf and comes complete with sound system.

Amilla Maldives Resort & Residences

Amilla Maldives Resort & Residences

More info: VisitMaldives.com

African Safari

Here’s why: Simply put, teens deserve to be treated to the ultimate dream family vacation before they fly the coop.

Do this: Book an all-inclusive package with flights (dealing with logistics in Africa can be tricky) offered by a tour operator like The Luxury Safari Company . For families with teens, they recommend visiting Sosian Lodge in the north of Kenya. In seven nights, families can strengthen bonds and have one-of-a-kind experiences while fly camping (sleeping in the bush), river tubing, working on an African cattle farm and even visiting with predator research teams. Of course, there are plenty of game drives and walking safaris, so teens can get the most epic of photos for Instagram.

Stay here: Ask for the Family Cottage at Sosian Lodge , set on 60,000 acres of Kenyan wilderness meets working cattle ranch. Another great option is Puku Ridge Camp in Zambia. Teens staying at this lodge in South Luangwa National Park will appreciate the private plunge pools and opportunities to meet school children in local villages. Finally, for the teen who insists on having good Wi-Fi and access to tennis courts or mountain biking (not easy to find in the African bush), there’s Feline Fields in Botswana’s Kalahari Desert.

Puku Ridge Camp

More info: TheLuxurySafariCompany.com

Disney Cruise Line

Best for ages: 13-17

Here’s why: Cruises remain popular with families with teens for a reason; they’re less stress for you and teens love the independence. Thanks to owning everything from the "Frozen" franchise to "Star Wars" and Marvel, Disney can keep all kids — from toddlers to teens — entertained.

Do this: Book any Disney Cruise Line voyage on Disney Dream or Disney Fantasy. (Family Caribbean or Alaskan cruise in 2024, anyone?) Both ships promise “ultra-cool plush pads” designed exclusively for teens. The official teen club, Vibe, is a 9,000-square-foot indoor and outdoor oasis that only teens, using their Key to the World card, have access to. Vibe (ages 14-17) has a fountain bar, a 103-inch LCD TV, plenty of video game pods and two pools. Edge, the lounge for tweens (ages 11-14) has similar amenities as well as a lighted dance floor, a 10-foot-tall cinema, a photo booth and individual computer stations.

Disney Cruise

Disney Cruise (For 2 Adults and 2 Teens)

More info: DisneyCruise.Disney.Go.Com

10 Best Vacations for Teens to Take Before College

They say we only have eighteen summers with our kids. In reality, it is even less. When our kids become teenagers, things like athletics, friends, and jobs start stealing them away long before they leave for college. If you want to make the most of the time you have, create memories that you will all treasure on these best vacations for teens.

Who knows, your teens may enjoy your family trips so much that they even want to continue traveling with you after they fly the nest!

Family vacation ideas for teenagers aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some of us have adventurous teens, while others have teenage kids that are homebodies and need to be coaxed into trying something new. Just like all family travel, you need to find the right balance that appeals to their interests.

We have found that the best memories are created when we break our bad habits from home (primarily our phone addictions) and spend time actively engaged in experiences together. It doesn’t always take something epic or expensive to break those bad habits, but it does take something special and these ideas for vacations with teenagers are a good start.

7 Tips for the Best Teen Vacations

Stay busy! We have found that one of the tricks for traveling with teens is keeping them busy. It is way too easy for the grumbling and whining to start the second they feel bored. So don’t let them get bored. Keep them moving, active, and interested. Then when you do have downtime, it feels precious and welcomed.

But don’t forget the downtime. I found the sweet spot for family travel to be between the ages of eight and twelve. Before that, kids tire easily and after that, we have found that teenagers actually need more downtime than tweens. So don’t push it, if they like to sleep late then don’t schedule early morning activities. Make sure there is at least one day without a scheduled activity. Give them time (and space) to decompress at the end of the day.

Take a tech break. Our family has found that forced technology breaks (e.g. “no phones on vacation”) just don’t work — for any of us. But the easiest way to get a real break from technology is by staying busy and doing activities together. Because when we are actively doing something, we don’t have any hands free to hold our phones.

This gets a whole lot easier when you are somewhere that doesn’t have great cell service or WiFi during the day (e.g. national parks, international trips with cellular turned off). Since we live our lives online, we always allow time for everyone to reconnect over WiFi at the end of the day, so no one is going cold turkey on breaking the phone addiction. That balance has been enough to keep our teen happy.

Engage in activities and experiences together . I like to plan activities where we are doing things “shoulder-to-shoulder” when thinking about where to go on vacation with teenagers. This could be climbing a mountain, paddling a raft, taking a cooking class, or learning Moroccan drumming.

The idea is that you are doing it together and it gives you the opportunity to struggle, fail, succeed, or show how to handle fear or challenges. But most of all, these experiences tend to be where the stories come from — the funny things that happen, the silly thing someone said, or the way you worked together on a task.

Give them their space. When teens have full-grown (or nearly full-grown) bodies they need more space and privacy. It gets harder to share a bed with a sibling or get a good night’s sleep on a pull-out couch or rollaway cot. Too many bodies in too small of a space is going to get on everyone’s nerves. This is the time to splurge on the suite, get two rooms, or book an Airbnb/ vrbo to give everyone some extra space.

Plan something special. Give your teen bragging rights or an Instagrammable moment, or just something that will stick in their memory bank with a “wow” experience. It could be high tea in London, an art class in Florence, rafting through the Grand Canyon, bungee jumping, or anything that matches their interest.

Capture the memories! Time goes too fast (trust me) and we aren’t good at getting family photos. A family vacation is a perfect time to get photos of the whole family with a photo shoot. I always use Flytographer. Get $25 off your first photo shoot with CODE57715 or use my referral link .

10 Best Vacations for Teens

I’ve put together a list of some of our best vacations with teens, and if you aren’t in the teen years yet, here are some recommendations for the best vacations for kids too. And, if you are planning a special graduation trip , I have some ideas for those as well.

1. For Outdoorsy Teens: Dude Ranch Vacation

We did a dude ranch vacation at the Nine Quarter Circle Ranch in Montana a few years ago and it is still one of our best teen vacations. There is just something about the way the teens and adults come together and bond over a week-long experience in nature. It is a great way to disconnect, enjoy nature, and have some good old-fashioned fun as a family.

Dude ranches come in all levels of luxury and amenities so you need to pick wisely to best match your family. I would recommend a ranch vacation for families with tweens and younger teens, but call ahead and find a week when many other teens will be visiting. Some ranches offer a wide range of activities such as waterskiing, ziplining, hiking, fishing, boating, and more, while many focus primarily on horseback riding, fishing, and hiking.

And while dude ranches are most popular with families in the summer, they can also be a lot of fun when there is snow on the ground, either around the holidays or if you have a February or March break. We spent a March spring break at the Vista Verde Ranch in Steamboat Springs, Colorado and it was incredible to enjoy snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, snow tubing, horseback riding, and other snow activities in the Rocky Mountains. Plus, Vista Verde Ranch has an amazing culinary program — I’d go back just to enjoy the food and bring only my stretchy pants.

2. For Active Teens: National Parks Trip

When you are looking to take a break from the busy, technology-filled life, there is no better place than our wonderful National Parks for the best vacations with teenagers. But don’t just drive through on road trips, make sure you stop and get outside.

Most parks offer amazing hikes and wildlife viewing and others have access to activities like horseback riding or kayaking. Often there will be a state park nearby that has even more opportunities for adventure and will be much less crowded. Given the popularity of national parks in recent years, be sure to check the park website or social media to learn if you need reservations to enter (especially Rocky Mountain National Park and Glacier National Park) or a permit to do certain hikes (like in Arches National Park).

Some of our favorite national park road trips have been:

• Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota (no crowds, beautiful scenery, and great wildlife)
• Smith Rock State Park in the Bend area in Central Oregon (amazing rock climbing and not too far from the stunning Crater Lake National Park
• Grand Teton National Park (great hikes and lakes)
• Yellowstone National Park (amazing wildlife, landscapes, and thermal features)
• Custer State Park in South Dakota (as well as Badlands National Park ) in the Black Hills
• Glacier National Park and Western Montana

3. For the Theme Park Lover: Orlando, FLorida

Yes, you may have done the obligatory theme park trip when the kids were young, but it can be a whole different experience with teens. Instead of Princesses and Character Meet and Greets, it is all about the rides and immersive experiences. As the Universal Orlando commercials show, some parks are more for big kids.

Between the thrill rides, Wizarding World of Harry Potter , and special age 13+ events like Halloween Horror Nights, Universal Orlando is a great pick for teens. And if they love water parks , Volcano Bay and Margaritaville’s H2O Live both offer truly innovative features and attractions.

And now, Disney has certainly stepped things up with the addition of Galaxy Edge for Star Wars fans and the immersive Pandora – The World of Avatar , in Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World. I know plenty of “big kids” (ehem, young adults) that still love a theme park vacation — including my nephews who have gotten engaged at Disney or have taken a honeymoon to Disney.

But don’t worry, if you don’t love theme parks, there are still plenty of other fun things to do in Orlando . Here are my teen’s picks for the best Disney rides for teens .

4. For Beach Lovers: All-inclusive Resorts

All-inclusive resorts are great for when you want to plan a multi-generational trip to make memories with the whole family. However, I have found that it helps to either bring a friend for older teens if they don’t have any family members the same age, or make sure you find a very teen-friendly resort.

Plus, an all-inclusive resort gives teens a little independence and you don’t need to worry about the tab they are running up for virgin Pina Coladas at the swim-up bar.

Two amazing resorts for teens are the Grand Velas Riviera Maya and Beaches Turks and Caicos . Grand Velas has a tricked-out teen club and tons of activities. Beaches is the only resort that I’ve seen that includes activities like snorkeling and scuba diving (as well as a gigantic X-Box Lounge.)

We have tried some luxury resorts like the Ritz-Carlton Aruba and the Four Seasons Costa Rica, and even the kid-centric Atlantis that have been nice too, but the kids really love the relaxing atmosphere and freedom they can have at a stand-alone, all-inclusive resort. My friend Kirsten has some great suggestions for all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica .

5. For the Thrill Seeker: Outdoor Adventure Trips

National Parks are great, but if you want to kick the adventure up a notch, an active adventure trip will keep everyone going. Perfect for adventurous teens, these outdoor trips offer opportunities for family bonding in a way that few others are able to. And remember, if you aren’t sure if a full-on adventure trip is for everyone in the family, just pick a destination that offers a variety of outdoor adventure activities and mix these in between other sightseeing or relaxing.

Some great outdoor adventure trips (both domestic and international) include:

• A multi-day rafting trip with OARS. You will spend most of the day on the river and then camp at night. It is good for families that like to camp or aren’t afraid to try roughing it for a different experience. If you aren’t ready to commit to that long of a trip, you can always add white water rafting into a vacation to many different destinations.
• Another option that keeps you active but has a little more comfort is a multi-day biking trip with Backroads . You will bike by day through beautiful settings like the Black Hills of South Dakota, and then head to a hotel at night to relax.
• Some families might also enjoy a sailing adventure, like a Maine Windjammer Cruise or a Caribbean sailing charter.
• A great outdoor adventure destination is Iceland . If you have the budget, Iceland is an excellent choice because of its proximity to the USA, amazing landscapes, and fantastic once-in-a-lifetime experiences like glacier hiking, ATVing on a black sand beach, snowmobiling on glaciers, taking a zodiac boat between icebergs and riding a super jeep through rivers.
• Costa Rica is another great vacation destination for moderate budgets with activities including rafting, hiking, waterfall rappelling, and ziplining.
• If you are looking for a more affordable alternative to Iceland, try the Canadian Rockies . You can zipline, climb a Via Ferrata , hike, go horseback riding , glacier hike, and more for much less (especially thanks to the weaker Canadian dollar.)
• Another affordable Canadian destination that is packed with adventure is New Brunswick , where you can hike, rappel off cliffs, kayak, glamp, and even surf the tidal bore.
• For summer hiking, we have also loved our trips to the Adirondacks and Lake Placid in New York

6. For City Lovers: CITY BREAKS

Not every kid is cut out for outdoor adventure or wants to spend their time sunning on a beach. If you have a kid that loves art, theater, museums, and food, a city trip is just the thing. Visiting a big city is a perfect way to learn some valuable life skills too, like safety awareness/street smarts and how to navigate public transportation.

When visiting a city, it is important to do some research and have a plan before you go because just wandering aimlessly can get tiring and boring — unless that is exactly what they had in mind. Look up food tours, Instagram spots, street art tours, scenic lookouts, and other cool, new attractions that would appeal to teens. Remember, being the first to post from a cool spot like the Vessel, the Highline, or the Summit in NYC gives a teen great street cred.

Some of our favorite USA city trips have been to:

• New York (Broadway, museums, scenic spots, and everything else — see the best things to do in NYC with teens and my complete guide to New York City with kids .
• Chicago (affordable theater, great museums, public art…)
• Milwaukee (remember, sometimes the smaller cities can be more affordable and manageable)
• Minneapolis (food, history, shopping at the Mall of America and Prince’s Paisley Park)
• Atlanta (great food , history, and attractions)
• San Francisco (ride the street car, cross the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Chinatown)
• Los Angeles (Santa Monica pier, Griffith Observatory, Hollywood, LACMA…)
• Miami (Wynwood Walls, Little Havana, South Beach)
• Seattle (MoPop, Space Needle, Pike Place)
• Nashville (music, great food , street art)

7. For the TRavel Lover: European Experiences

If your teen hasn’t been to Europe yet, there may be some eye rolls and sighs after too many museums or churches. However, if you find fun interactive  cultural experiences , they can learn and have fun at the same time.

Italy , England , Spain , Portugal , France , and Greece are all great for the first trip to Europe and offer recognizable landmarks and historical sites. Companies like Global CommUnity offer experiences like laser tag in Cold War bunkers in Russia and painting in Italy. There are also cooking classes like baking macarons in Paris and unique experiences like learning to row a gondola in Venice . All these experiences help create deeper, more meaningful experiences.

See our tips on visiting these European cities with teens:

• Amsterdam with teens
• Florence with teens
• London itinerary
• Lisbon itinerary
• Paris itinerary
• Venice itinerary
• Dublin with teens
• Vienna itinerary
• Budapest itinerary

8. For the Culture Seeker: Cultural Immersion

For a more immersive experience, help your teen gain a better appreciation of the world and different cultures in a non-Westernized country with a strong local culture. A few good “beginning” experiences in cultural immersion would be in Japan , Peru (hike the Inca Trail), Thailand (jungle, city, and beach), Israel and Jordan, or Morocco .

On a cultural trip , your family can see what it is like to be completely out of your element when it comes to language, food, and culture. Many of these destinations also offer opportunities for active adventure and the ability to interact with locals.

For example, on our Morocco trip, we took a cooking class that includes a visit to the souk to buy spices and ingredients on our own before we went to a local home to learn to cook traditional dishes. And in the Sahara Desert , we stayed in a tent and learned about the local culture along with a camel ride and some time spent sandboarding on the dunes.

9. For the Animal Lover: Wildlife Experiences

Another experience that brings smiles to teens’ faces is getting to see exotic wildlife up close and in their natural habitat. The teen years are the perfect time to visit the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador , take an African Safari, visit the penguins in Antarctica, or see the polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba, Canada.

These are all bucket list trips that may be best to save for a graduation gift , but if you keep a close eye out for good airfare sales and work with vetted local tour operators you can save thousands. And if that type of trip isn’t in the budget, but you have an animal lover, try to visit some of the national parks like Yellowstone , or plan a trip to places like Cumberland Island in Georgia or Assateague Island National Seashore in Virginia to see wild horses roaming free.

10. For the Giving Teen: Service Trip

If your teens need a big dose of reality before heading out into the world, how better to show them the advantages they have in life than with a service trip? The thing about voluntourism is to make sure that your efforts are actually helping the local constituents and not just something that makes you feel good.

Me to We offers student volunteer trips, but also family trips that allow you to work side-by-side with local families to build schools, carry water and learn the local culture.

Read my post about 20 Service Trips for teens to find more options for summer or school break service trips.

What do all these trips have in common besides the ability to create lasting memories? They all represent a significant investment and need to be insured.

Why you Need Travel Insurance

This post is written in partnership with Allianz Travel , my preferred travel insurance provider. All opinions are my own.

For the last few years, I have had an annual travel insurance plan with Allianz Travel . We always think about insuring large international trips that are paid in advance, but there are actually so many reasons to insure every trip.

Each year, I have had to use my travel insurance, both times for small domestic trips. But every time Allianz came through, once when I had to cancel a flight because I got the flu. The other when our flight was cancelled and rescheduled for the following day and I was able to utilize our trip delay benefits.

Here are just a few reasons why you should get travel insurance for your next trip:

• Trip cancellation — many trips, especially vacation packages, cruises, safaris, and custom trips require an upfront deposit and have strict cancellation and refund policies. The only way to protect yourself against the unexpected is with travel insurance.
• Trip interruption or delay  — if your trip is delayed due to weather, flight cancellation, or other reason, travel insurance can help cover your expenses such as hotel costs, food, transportation, etc.
• International Healthcare — many people don’t realize that often your U.S. health insurance plan does not cover medical care or emergencies overseas. A simple fall or illness can be devastating without insurance, especially if it requires emergency transportation or an upgraded seat on the flight home to accommodate a cast or laying flat.
• Delayed, Lost or Stolen Luggage —  travel insurance can reimburse you for the purchase of essential items if your luggage is delayed for 24 hours or more. And if it is lost entirely, the baggage loss and damage benefits will reimburse you for the cash value for the repair or replacement of lost items. Just keep in mind that different policies have different levels of coverage so if you have expensive bags and clothes, you may want to look for a plan with high benefits.
• TravelSmart app  and Travel Hotline — with Allianz you have access to a 24-hour hotline if you need help rescheduling your travel, reaching airlines, or managing your trip. The TravelSmart app also helps travelers with quick access to emergency numbers, a medical translator, location-based access to pharmacies, doctors, hospitals, police, etc. The TravelSmart app is available for everyone, but Allianz customers can also track claims online and contact Allianz customer service.
• Keep in mind that plans vary and not all plans include all of these benefits. When purchasing travel insurance, you will need to figure out your needs and work with Allianz to find the best plan with the benefits you are looking for.
• If you plan on traveling more than a few times a year, you should also look at the advantages of having an annual travel insurance plan.

Check Allianz plans and get more information about travel insurance.

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: November 21, 2022

1 thought on “10 Best Vacations for Teens to Take Before College”

Really nice article, thanks for sharing such information. I went on dude ranch vacation Before a couple of years with my family. That was really great experience and beautiful memories. Wide range of activities was there we enjoyed horseback riding, rafting, swimming pool plays, fly fishing, cattle work and many more. The food was awesome and accommodation was also great.

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21 Vacations With Teens And Tweens In The United States That Are Sure To Impress

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Have you ever worried about finding a travel destination that will actually impress your tweens or teens? There are so many wonderful places to visit in the United States, and it can be tough to narrow down the options when traveling, especially with tweens or teens in tow. Have no fear! You’ve finally found a guide for US vacation destinations that will impress even the pickiest or the coolest of teens. With the help of our family travel community ( 56K+ strong on Facebook ), we’ve curated this list just for you. From stunning national parks oozing with adventure to vibrant cities filled with culture, there’s something for everyone on this list. So start planning your next family vacation – your tweens and teens will thank you for it (just maybe not out loud!). Keep reading to discover 21 Vacations With Teens and Tweens In The United States That Are Sure To Impress .

Best Vacations for Teens and Tweens on the East Coast

If you’re looking for ideas for East Coast vacations with teens and tweens, you have no shortage of options. Families will love traveling to these East Coast cities, from trendy New York City to historical Washington DC. Keep reading to discover some of the best vacations with teens and tweens on the East Coast!

Discover 11 Unique NYC Restaurants and Dessert Spots that teens will love!

New York, New York

There is no shortage of things to do in New York City with tweens and teens. No matter what your teens are into, they’re sure to find something to their liking here. From art, culture, and museums to shopping and age-appropriate nightlife, NYC has it all!

If your teen is into fashion, they’ll be in heaven shopping on Fifth Avenue . Here, they can discover new trends at stores like Louis Vuitton, Zara, and Sephora. Then, for art lovers, a visit to The Metropolitan Museum of Art and MoMA is a must. If you have history buffs in tow, Museum Mile is sure to please. Spend your days exploring museums like El Museo del Barrio . And if your teen is looking for a little bit of everything, a tour of Central Park is the perfect way to see some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Finally, don’t miss out on destinations like Times Square , the Empire State Building , and the Statue of Liberty . These iconic, Instagram-able destinations are sure to excite your teen travelers. Indeed, no matter what your teen or tween is interested in, they’ll have a blast in New York City!

Looking for more NYC inspiration? Read this Exciting 7-Day NYC Itinerary With Kids of All Ages .

Where to Stay in New York City with Teens and Tweens

Families looking for somewhere to stay in New York with teens and tweens have their fair share of options! In Lower Manhattan, we recommend the Millennium Downtown New York Hotel in the Financial District or the trendy Greenwich Hotel in Tribeca. In Midtown Manhattan, try the Loews Regency New York or Omni Berkshire Place . Or, for a true luxury experience, visit the nearby St. Regis New York . Remember to check out other NYC hotels with pools and spacious suites . NYC also has many affordable Airbnb and Vrbo options in and around the outer boroughs. With so many options for accommodations, NYC is undoubtedly one of the top destinations for teens and tweens in the US!

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is a great place to travel with your teens and tweens. From art to culture, there is so much to see and do in this historic Massachusetts city. Indeed, Boston is a haven for everyone, from foodies to sports fans. Here are the teen hot spots in Boston!

To start, museum-loving teens and tweens will love exploring the Freedom Trail . This 2.5-mile trail takes you to 16 different historical sites, including Boston Common and the USS Constitution Museum . Then, be sure to add visiting the Museum of Fine Arts and Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum to your itinerary too. Alternatively, get a fright aboard the Boston Ghosts & Gravestones Night-Time Trolley Tour . Sporty teens can catch a baseball game at Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox. Or, see the New England Patriots play at Gillette Stadium . Families with a foodie in tow can meander through “ Little Italy ,” where authentic Italian bakeries line the streets. Plus, Boston is filled with a scrumptious array of fresh seafood (including lobster!). Finally, there are plenty of trendy places to shop for your family’s fashionistas, from high-end Newbury Street stores to unique finds in the South End .

Don’t miss adding these 25 Amazing Things to Do in Boston with Kids to your itinerary!

Where to Stay in Boston with Teens and Tweens

As one of the best vacations for teens and tweens in the United States, Boston has plenty of family-friendly hotels! For the most convenient locations, stay at the Fairmont Copley Plaza , Kimpton Nine Zero Hotel , or the Boston Marriott Long Wharf. All boast kid-friendly amenities such as pools and are located near the city’s best attractions. For more suggestions on where to stay at one of the top vacation ideas with teens, consult our list of the best hotels in Boston for families !

Washington DC

Tweens and teens love Washington, DC ! Here, teens can witness history come to life before their very eyes. Certainly, tweens and teens will love exploring all the different monuments, landmarks, and museums in DC – especially on wheels! No wonder this is one of the best vacations for teens and tweens in the United States.

It is well-known that Washington, DC is a great place to learn about history. Tweens and teens will appreciate seeing information from their textbooks become more real with context, experience, and connection. Firstly, check out some of the Smithsonian museums to learn about different topics like science, art, and culture. Whatever your teen is interested in, the Smithsonian has you covered with its many museums and galleries. Afterward, families can also tour the White House or the Capitol Building to see where the President of the United States and other politicians work and make history in real-time. Families can book a bike or segway tour to explore Washington DC on wheels to add a little whimsy to their learning. Finally, don’t miss wandering around Georgetown. Here, teens can shop til they drop and munch on trendy eats .

Looking for more teenager vacation ideas in DC? Use this Exciting Washington, DC, Field Trip Itinerary For Families With Tweens and Teens .

Where to Stay in DC with Teens and Tween s

Washington, DC, is home to an array of family-friendly hotels that are perfect for trips with teens and tweens! For an indoor pool, consider The Watergate Hotel . Meanwhile, The Ritz-Carlton Washington DC includes fun activities like a scavenger hunt around the city. Families can also stay near famous attractions like The White House or the US Capitol Building by booking a stay at the Hyatt Place Washington DC. Or, venture to DuPont Circle and stay at The Darcy . For more hotel suggestions, check out our list of family-friendly hotels in DC. Or, if you want a home and apartment rental, check out our Airbnb, Vrbo , and our recommendations for the best neighborhoods to stay in while visiting DC.

REALTED: Best Museums In NYC By Age For Families

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor offers one of the most adventurous destinations for teens and tweens. This low-key but charming town is located on the coast of Maine and is home to Acadia National Park . Here, families will discover plenty of things to do, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and more.

Start your adventure in Acadia National Park. Teens can embark on exciting hikes like Beehive Loop and Cadillac Summit Loop . Exploring tide pools, kayaking, and wildlife tours are also available. Coastal Kayaking Tours is one option to get teens on the water and having fun! Then, Bar Harbor is also a great place for teens and tweens to learn about history. In fact, the town was once one of the busiest ports in the US and was a major shipbuilding center during the Civil War. Several museums in Bar Harbor tell the story of the town’s past, including La Rochelle Mansion and Museum . Finally, if your teen or tween is looking for a place to relax, Bar Harbor is the perfect spot. There are several beaches where they can sunbathe or swim. When they get hungry, plenty of restaurants also serve fresh seafood.

Don’t miss these Amazing Things to Do in Bar Harbor with Kids !

Best Vacations for Teens and Tweens in the South

While the South may not be the first trendy vacation idea with teens that comes to mind, don’t overlook it! From New Orleans to Sedona, there are a few places in the South that are sure to WOW your tweens and teens! Here are the top three Southern vacations for teens and tweens in the United States.

Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are two great Tennesse cities for trips for teens and tweens. Located in the Great Smoky Mountains , they both offer plenty of activities to keep teens from uttering the dreadful “I’m bored” line.

Start your Tennesse adventure in the Great Smokey Mountains . Outdoorsy teens will love hiking to view Grotto Falls and Laurel Falls . White water rafting is another popular itinerary item near Gatlinburg with teens. Then, teens who aren’t afraid of heights can get a bird’s-eye view at Anakeesta Theme Park . Have a country music fan in your family? You can’t miss a trip to Dollywood , where families can enjoy amusement park rides and unique musical acts. Alternatively, Mysterious Mansion offers teens a thrilling scare as Gatlinburg’s year-round haunted house. Another excellent opportunity for teens and tweens in this area is exploring the Titanic Museum to learn about the ill-fated ship and its passengers. Finally, parents will also love that these cities offer very affordable destinations! In fact, you can usually find several deals on hotels and attractions if you plan your trip in advance.

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

New Orleans, Louisiana

Teens can often be fickle travel companions, preferring screens to scenes. However, New Orleans is sure to get them off their phones and enjoy a family vacation with you. Whether your tweens or teens are into foodie culture, haunted sights, or natural wonders, New Orleans has what you need for your next adventure together.

Start your family trip to New Orleans in the French Quarter , where foodie teens can munch on Cajun and Creole foods. Don’t miss the beignets at the iconic Cafe du Monde . After hours, meander the city at night on a haunted tour . Get your teen’s adrenaline pumping with spooky tales of vampires, pirates, and ghosts. Then, music lovers will adore hearing a show at Preservation Hall , which has been playing traditional New Orleans jazz since the 1960s. Looking for a change of pace? Airboat tours offer a thrilling day out for families. Alternatively, wildlife enthusiasts can embark on a bayou tour to see gators, birds, and more with Happiness Bayou Tours or Cajun Encounters .

Finally, there’s nothing New Orleans loves more than a great festival or party. Check their events calendar to see what unique upcoming events will pique your teen’s interest. Indeed, New Orleans ranks among the top vacation ideas with teens!

Add these 19 Exciting Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids to your itinerary!

Where to Stay in New Orleans with Teens and Tweens

Planning a trip to New Orleans with teens and tweens? Families love Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans, for its central location in the French Quarter and luxury hotel amenities. Then, Loews New Orleans Hotel is another option near the French Quarter. Or, stay within walking distance of Jackson Square in a historic building at Grenoble House .

If you’re looking for pool vacation ideas with teens in New Orleans, try Omni Royal Orleans . We also love Royal Sonesta Hotel New Orleans , Bourbon Orleans Hotel , and The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel . For more information, please read our article about family-friendly hotels in New Orleans. Families seeking additional room to spread out (with kitchen or outdoor space possibilities) can try Vrbo and Airbnb too.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is a great place for trips for teens and tweens. The area is filled with natural beauty, including its iconic red rocks and canyon views. Plus, there are plenty of activities to keep your teens and tweens entertained, from hiking and biking to exploring the local shops and restaurants.

Science-minded teens will have a blast in Sedona. Not only can they learn about the area’s unrivaled geology, but they can immerse themselves in pristine, natural beauty. Explore the area by hiking trails like Bell Rock Pathway , a 7-mile round-trip hike with up-close views of Sedona’s iconic rock formations. Don’t miss Palatiki National Heritage Site , the largest (and perhaps most famous) cliff dwelling in the area. Or, see Sedona with speed on a Pink Jeep tour. One of the most popular tours is the Scenic Rim Tour , a 2.5-hour adventure that teens will adore. Teens interested in astronomy will appreciate taking an out-of-this-world tour with Evening Sky Tours , a Sedona Stargazing Tour , or visiting Lowell Observatory . Plus, if you’re looking to broaden your adventures, you can take a day trip to the Grand Canyon. Finally, if your teens are into spiritual healing, Sedona is known for its many energy vortexes.

Use this Exciting 5-Day Sedona Itinerary For Families to plan your Sedona adventures!

Where to Stay in Sedona with Tweens and Teens

For somewhere to stay in Sedona with teens, check out the Enchantment Resort , a luxury hotel located in the heart of Boynton Canyon. In addition to an outside pool, a kids’ camp, and organized weekly activities for families, it provides an incredible view of Sedona’s stunning red rocks. Tucked in the red rock canyons, L’Auberge de Sedona offers a choice of rooms at its lodge or even more spacious cottages. We also recommend Adobe Grand Villas , Amara Resort and Spa , and Junipine Resort , among other hotels in Sedona, for fun vacations with teens.

The Florida Keys

For parents who really want to impress hard-to-please tweens and teens, a trip to the Florida Keys is an incredible option! From turquoise waters to friendly locals, there is a lot to love about this Floridian paradise. Here, active teens can swim, snorkel, go parasailing, and more!

The Florida Keys are a chain of islands off the southern coast of Florida. Key West is the most popular destination, but there are also many other smaller islands to explore. Teens interested in history can tour several historic lighthouse sites across the east coast of the Keys, including the Key West Lighthouse & Keepers Quarters . The Key West Shipwreck Museum is another great option for learning about local history. Then, adventurous tweens and teens can explore the area by water aboard kayaks , sailboats , jet skis , and more.

Don’t miss the chance to get in the water! Whether your teens love to wade in the ocean along pristine beaches , or snorkel with the fish amongst serene scenes of beautiful coral, you have many options here. Want to hear a few fishy ghost tales about pirates and treasure? Embark on a ghost tour with Ghosts & Gravestones Tour Key West . No wonder this is one of the best vacations for teens and tweens in the United States!

Where to Stay in the Florida Keys with Teens and Tweens

Enjoy fun in the sun during your stay in the Florida Keys! For family-friendly accommodations in Key West, consider Key West Marriott Beachside . With everything from simple guest rooms to three-room residences, it offers a bunch of activities like water sports. In Key West, families also love Parrot Key Hotel and Villas , the Casa Marina Key West, A Waldorf Astoria Resort , and ​​the Hyatt Centric Resort and Spa . On Key Largo, families can stay at Baker’s Cay Resort, Key Largo ,  or at Hawks Cay Resort on Duck Key. As one of the top destinations for teens and tweens in the US, there are many more options to consider. You can find them on this list of the best hotels in Key West and the Florida Keys .

Best Vacations for Teens and Tweens in the Mountain States

The mountains are calling, and you must pack your bags for more of the best vacations for teens and tweens in the United States! There is nothing outdoorsy teens love more than mountain views. Take your adventurous teens on a vacation to remember to one of these mountain state destinations.

Sun Valley, Idaho

Perhaps one of the most underrated destinations for teens on this list, Sun Valley , Idaho, is also one of the best outdoor destinations for tweens or teens. In fact, there are plenty of activities to keep them busy, including hiking, biking, and skiing in the winter. Sun Valley also has a great selection of shops and restaurants. Best of all? It’s located in an absolutely stunning setting that will please everyone in your family.

Start your summer trip with a bit of hiking. Teens will love the four-mile loop trail at Taylor Canyon , which is filled with wildflowers and mountain views. Okay with a bit of climbing while you hike? The Bald Mountain Trail is a great option! Afterward, snag a free ride down the mountain by gondola. Bikers can traverse the paved Wood River Trail , where you can bike four miles to the Sawtooth Botanical Garden . Families who love to ice skate will appreciate the outdoor skating rink (it’s open year-round!). Indeed, teens will adore moving across the ice under the warm summer sun. Alternatively, families can enjoy the Dollar Mountain ski area in the winter. Here families will find gentle slopes, as well as challenging terrain parks. More adventurous skiers can head to Bald Mountain . Other winter activities like ice skating, sledding, sleigh rides, and more. 

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Mountain views and thrilling activities make Colorado Springs one of the top destinations for teens and tweens. This Colorado town is well known for its proximity to Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods, as well as its wide array of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and more.

First, explore the many trails or outdoor ​​rock climbing opportunities of Garden of the Gods. Would you prefer to explore on wheels? Adventures Out West offers an exciting segway tour within the park. On the 2-hour tour, guides will take families to several stops to soak in views of the ancient rock formations, as well as share information about area flora and fauna. Jeep tours and ATV tours are also available in the area. Want to explore Colorado Springs by air? Take a Royal Gorge Zip Line Tour . Alternatively, explore by water aboard a white water rafting experience.

Then, just an hour away from the city, Pikes Peak is a must for teens and tweens. When you require an indoor activity, there are also several museums in the city, such as the National Museum of World War II Aviation and the Money Museum. No wonder Colorado Springs is one of the best trips for teens!

Want to see more of Colorado with teens and tweens? Take a Colorado road trip with teens using this One-Week Colorado Itinerary For Families: Excellent for This Summer!

Where to Stay in Colorado Springs with Tweens and Teens

Colorado Springs is brimming with family-friendly hotels! To stay on the beautiful shores of Cheyenne Lake, book the iconic Broadmoor , which has summer activities for all ages. For a cozier feel, try the Cheyenne Mountain Colorado Springs, A Dolce Resort , located on a private lake. The Gardens of the Gods Resort and Club offers guests a chance to stay inside a private country club near the best sights in town. Of course, tweens 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 .

Looking for more adventure-filled vacations with teens and tweens in the United States? Moab is sure to please even your most persnickety of travelers! This small town is located in the heart of Utah’s red rock country and is a haven for outdoor activities.

While you’re here, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore, as well as canyoneering and rock climbing. And if you’re really feeling adventurous, you can even go river rafting on the Colorado River . Moab is also home to Arches National Park , where you can see some of the world’s most impressive natural rock formations. There are over 2,000 natural sandstone arches in the park, as well as hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. Moab is also perfect for taking an off-roading adventure , which you can do in Canyonlands or Arches National Parks and other locations. Have an aspiring paleontologist in your family, don’t miss the Paleosafari Moab Giants or Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trails (where you can see fossilized tracks!). Finally, there are plenty of places to stay in Moab with tweens and teens, everything from hotels to RV parks and camping sites. 

Don’t miss these Adventurous Things to Do in Moab That Kids Will Love !

Where to Stay in Moab with Teens and Tween

If you need somewhere to stay in Moab with teens and tweens, you’re in the right place. For a typical hotel experience, try the Hyatt Place Moab , which has an outdoor pool and hot tub. Parents who want to stay close to Arches National Park will appreciate the convenience of the Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection By Hilton . For a more rugged experience in the wilderness, check out Base Camp Adventure Lodge , Under Canvas Glamping Tents Moab , and the Red Cliffs Lodge. Regardless of which spot you choose, you’re sure to have a fun vacation with teens!

Telluride, Colorado

There are plenty of reasons to visit Telluride , Colorado, with your teen or tween. The charming town is nestled in a beautiful mountain valley and is surrounded by picturesque scenery. Not to mention, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in the area, too, including hiking, biking, and skiing in the winter. 

The Telluride & Mountain Village Gondola is a gorgeous way to start your time here. This bird’s eye view of the area is sure to impress. Then, embark on a 5-mile hike in Bear Creek Preserve to see the 70-foot cascading waterfall, Bear Creek Falls . And, if your teen or tween is into adventure activities, they can even go zip-lining or try their hand at river rafting . Alternatively, winter visitors can hit the slopes at Telluride Ski Resort . Telluride is also home to several great museums and historical sites too. In fact, the Telluride Historical Museum is housed in a beautiful Victorian building and tells the story of the town’s mining past.

Have a foodie teen? Be sure to check out Brown Dog Pizza for some of the best local pizzas. Then, Baked in Telluride is great for a latte and a pastry to start the day. With so much to offer, this is undoubtedly one of the best vacations with teens and tweens in the United States.

Interested in fun vacations for teens with skiing? Here are the Best Ski-In/Ski-Out Resorts In Colorado For Families .

Lake Tahoe, Nevada/California

Lake Tahoe is an incredible destination for teens and tweens. Situated in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is known for its beautiful scenery, as well as for offering fun vacations for teens. Whether you’re on the Nevada side or the California side, there are plenty of recreational activities to keep your teen or tween busy, including hiking, biking, swimming, and boating.

Few places in the United States can rival the beauty of Lake Tahoe. It’s no wonder it’s a popular destination for families! The lake itself is stunning, with crystal-clear water and towering mountains. Challenge teens to plan a fun day at the lake for the whole family. They can select from activities like lakeside picnics, beachside games, swimming, or kayaking and paddle boarding. You can even take a clear-bottom kayak tour ! Then, sneak in an exciting day at Tah o e Treetop Adventure Parks , offering a series of courses and zip lines to traverse. Plus, don’t miss the chance to go rafting down the Truckee River ! The gentle 5-mile float offers stunning views and tons of fun in the sun. Consider booking with either Truckee River Raft Co. or Truckee River Rafting . Finally, those wanting to explore the area by horseback have several options, including Piping Rock Equestrian Center .

Traveling in the summer? Check out these ​​ Summer Activities in North Lake Tahoe That Kids Will Love .

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Looking for a place that offers several diverse, adventurous teenager vacation ideas? Look no further than Jackson Hole , Wyoming. Not only is it close to two national parks, but outdoorsy teens and tweens can spend their days hiking, biking, fishing, or kayaking.

First, head to Yellowstone National Park , home to various wildlife, including bears, bison, and elk. And, of course, no trip to Yellowstone National Park would be complete without seeing the geysers and other natural wonders. Next, Grand Tetons National Park provides miles of trails along the Snake River. Then, families can also try a thrilling experience like water-rafting , rock climbing , or horseback riding. If white water rafting is your jam, there are several options on the Snake River. If you’re looking to take in Jackson Hole from the skies, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Snow King Mountain Resort offer ropes course adventures that teens will love. Back in town, don’t miss catching the Jackson Hole Shootout . Looking for a truly unique experience that will impress teens? Head to Astoria Hot Springs , just 20 minutes from Jackson. Finally, don’t miss all the action at Jackson Hole Rodeo !

Planning to spend most of your time at the Grand Tetons National Park? Use our Ultimate Guide to Grand Tetons National Park with Kids .

Best Vacations for Teens and Tweens on the West Coast

If you want to impress your tweens and teens, go west! Along the West Coast, families will discover an array of fun vacations for teens and tweens. Here are two of our favorite West Coast options for vacations with tweens and teens in the United States!

Los Angeles, California

Next on our list of the best destinations for teens and tweens in the United States is Los Angeles . In this palm tree-lined teen utopia, there are plenty of activities to keep them busy and having fun, from sightseeing to shopping.

One of the most popular attractions in Los Angeles is the Hollywood Walk of Fame . Your teen or tween can explore the stars of their favorite movies and TV shows. Plus, they can also take a picture with their favorite star’s handprints! Film buffs will also enjoy checking out Universal Studios Hollywood . Indeed, Harry Potter fans can’t miss a chance to visit The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter ! For more thrills, check out nearby Disneyland or Knott’s Berry Farm .

Fashion icons in your family will find plenty of shopping in LA too. Many stores cater to teens, including Forever 21 and H&M . Then, trendy teens will also adore exploring Chinatown with its beautiful lanterns, historic architecture, and yummy restaurants. Finally, teens can also stroll the Venice Beach Boardwalk or take surf lessons . Other fun beaches near LA include Playa del Ray and Little Corona del Mar . Pleasing almost every travel style, it’s no wonder LA is one of the best vacations for tweens and teens in the United States!

Don’t miss these 10 Exciting Things To Do In Los Angeles With Teens and Preteens This Summer !

San Diego, California

Just a few hours south of LA, San Diego is another great option for vacationing with teens and tweens in the United States. This California city offers beautiful weather year-round, and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.

When you’re ready to start having fun, there are several famous attractions in San Diego, including SeaWorld , Legoland , and the San Diego Zoo . Plus, teens can leave San Diego sun-kissed and tan after lounging on one of the many nearby beaches, including Mission Beach and Pacific Beach . Active families can also rent bicycles from one of the many shops along Mission Beach and cruise the oceanfront bike path down to Belmont Park . If you really want to impress them in San Diego, embark on a sunset boat cruise around the harbor with Hornblower . Talk about Instagramable ocean views! Then, take nature-loving tweens and teens to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for a hike along the beautiful jagged hills. In nearby La Jolla, you can even book a kayak tour through sea caves with La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks . Not to mention, spot sea lions while you meander the beach area. 

Spending a week in the area? Use this Best 7-Day San Diego Itinerary with Kids .

Where to Stay in San Diego with Teens and Tweens

Wondering where to stay in San Diego with teens and tweens? 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, please read our article on the best waterfront hotels in San Diego for families.

Best Vacations for Teens and Tweens in Alaska and Hawaiʻi

Epic adventures await your family in Alaska or Hawaiʻi. While flights might be a tad longer than those in the Lower 48, teens and tweens can handle the distance in anticipation of these exciting destinations. If you’re still looking for some of the best vacations for tweens and teens in the US, keep reading.

While there are many great destinations for teens or tweens in the United States, Alaska is one of the best places to visit. Alaska is a great place to travel with teens and tweens because it offers so many different activities, including sea and land-based adventures. For example, your family can go hiking, fishing, canoeing, whale spotting, or even dog sledding. Plus, Alaska also has some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. 

Start your exploration of Alaska at Denali National Park and Preserve . Consider hiking trails like the 3.2-mile McKinley Station Trail , great for birders, or the scenic 4.6-mile McKinley Bar Trail . Want to take a bird’s eye view of the park? Take a flightseeing tour of Denali National Park by floatplane. If eastern Alaska is on your itinerary, teens will be thrilled to try climbing on the ice faces of Root Glacier at Wrangell-St. Elias National Park . Other unique outdoor adventures in Alaska include glacial pools, ice caves, and hiking along the ice fields in Kenai Fjords National Park . Alaska also has several teen-friendly museums, such as the Anchorage Museum and the Iditarod Dog Sled Race Museum . And, of course, no trip to Alaska would be complete without seeing fantastic wildlife, such as whales, bears, and eagles.

Try one of the 23 Exciting Cool-Weather Summer Destinations in the US for Families .

Maui, Hawaiʻi

If you’re looking for a tropical getaway with teens or tweens, look no further than Maui ! The second largest of the Islands of Hawaiʻi, Maui offers plenty of teen-friendly activities like snorkeling, hiking, surfing, biking, and kayaking. Certainly, Maui is also a great place to relax and enjoy beautiful beaches.

Start your trip by soaking up the sun. There are many beaches to choose from in Maui, including Kapalua Bay , Launiupoko Beach Park , and Nāpili Bay . While you relax on the beach, let tweens and teens splash, swim, and snorkel. There are also many scenic hikes that the whole family can enjoy. Consider beautiful trails like Pīpīwai Trail (located above the Oheo Gulch), Twin Falls Hike , or Wai’anapanapa Coastal Trail . For more outdoor adventures, add Haleakalā National Park to your itinerary (it’s a great place to catch a sunset!). To learn more about Maui’s local cultures and history, you can visit the Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii, or the Royal Lahaina Luau. Regardless of how you fill your days, Maui is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in the United States with tweens or teenagers.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for more active teenager vacation ideas, consider spending a few days in Honolulu , on the island of Oʻahu . For a quieter holiday, consider spending time on the island of Kauaʻi . This is undoubtedly one of the best vacations for tweens and teens in the United States!

Don’t miss experiencing the Road to Hāna, Maui with Kids – Exciting Half-Day Itinerary .

Where to Stay on Maui with Teens and Tweens

Parents love the family-friendly hotels in Maui! In Ka’anapali Beach, there’s the Hyatt Residence Club Maui, Ka’anapali Beac h , and The Westin Maui Resort & Spa . These oceanfront hotels in Maui make it easy to jump into the water and 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 awesome hotels in Hawaiʻi!

Best National Park Vacations for Tweens and Teens

Budding naturalists and outdoor enthusiasts won’t find anything to complain about when visiting the best national parks for tweens and teens. Across the US, teen travelers will have a blast embarking on epic outdoor adventures at these national parks. Whether you want hiking, fishing, camping, or rafting, these national parks can please even the pickiest of teens. Indeed, they rank highly amongst the best vacations with teens and tweens in the United States.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Located in Tennessee and North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best national parks for tweens and teens. Part of the Appalachian Mountains, families will have the opportunity to learn about and observe a variety of local plant and animal life here. Plus, the mountains offer a variety of activities that will keep your tweens and teens entertained during the whole vacation! There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives – to name a few things. Plus, your family can also enjoy horseback riding, fishing, and camping within the park. Inside the park, consider hiking trails like Abram Falls Trail, a popular 5.2-mile trail with a waterfall. Alternatively, Mount LeConte (via the Alum Cave Trail) is a beautiful 11-mile hike (arguably one of the most exciting trails in the park!).

After long days exploring the park, nearby attractions include Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum and the Gatlinburg Space Needle (which offers a 360-degree view of the mountains). Finally, families can also explore one of the best vacations with teens and tweens in the United States by ATV with Bluff Mountain Adventures .

Here are the 10 Best National Parks in the United States for Families .

The Big National Parks 5 in Utah

Looking for a truly epic adventure for your active tweens or teens? Take a family vacation to the Big 5 National Parks in Utah ! Teens and tweens are at a stage where they want to explore and have new experiences. What better place to do that than in some of America’s best national parks? The Big 5 encompasses Bryce Canyon, Zion, Arches, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands National Parks. All are known for their natural beauty and incredible outdoor adventures like hiking, rafting, camping, and more. Whether you visit one or visit them all, your tweens and teens are sure to be impressed! Here’s a brief breakdown of each park to learn more.

Zion National Park is one of the country’s most famous national parks, and it’s easy to see why. With its stunning red rock cliffs, hiking trails, and river rafting, there’s something for everyone in this park. Then, Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its beautiful hoodoos (rock formations that look like pillars or columns). It’s a great place to hike, take scenic drives, and stargaze. Arches National Park is home to more than 2,000 natural stone arches, making it a must-see for any teen or tween (and adults, too!). In addition to the arches, there are also hiking trails, canyoneering routes, and petroglyphs. Perhaps one of the most underrated parks, Capitol Reef National Park is worth visiting for its stunning canyons, domes, and bridges in the Waterpocket Fold. Finally, Canyonlands National Park showcases a primitive desert vibe with out-of-this-world views. 

Use this Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary For Families to help plan your trip!

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. And for a good reason! In fact, the Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, stretching 227 miles long. It’s truly a sight to behold. 

There are plenty of things to do at the Grand Canyon for families too. For teens and tweens, explore thrilling hiking trails, like the almost 13-mile Grand Canyon Rim Trail . Alternatively, another great option is the nearly 4-mile North Kaibab Trail to Supai Tunnel and Coconino Overlook . Then, you can also take a tour on a mule or go rafting down the Colorado River. The Grand Canyon is also a great place to learn about American history and culture. Numerous Native American tribes have lived in the area for centuries. Families will certainly appreciate learning more about their unique histories and seeing their traditional dwellings. If you’re looking for a place to travel with your teens and tweens that is both beautiful and educational, the Grand Canyon is a great option.

Decided on the Grand Cayon? Try this Amazing Sedona and Grand Canyon Itinerary For Families .

Happy Traveling with Tweens and Teens!

There’s no doubt that traveling with tweens and teenagers can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. If you’re looking for fun places to travel with your teens and tweens, we hope you found a great idea or two from this list featuring the 21 Vacations With Teens and Tweens In The United States That Are Sure To Impress . From national parks and epic outdoor adventures to historic cities and trendy shopping destinations, plenty of exciting US destinations are sure to impress even the coolest of teenage travelers. Have a great time exploring some of the best vacations for teens and tweens in the United States!

*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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25+ Top Teen Destinations in the USA for 2024

Catherine Parker

Planning a family vacation with teens can be a real challenge. But we’re always up for a challenge, especially if it means having one last big trip before that sweet child heads off to college! This list of the best vacations with teens includes the ones the writers at SheBuysTravel have taken with their kids. They’re teen-tested and parent-approved. From stunning national parks to adrenalin-fueled city visits, these top teen destinations will keep your teens tuned in to family time for a little longer.

Just remember: Your family vacation won’t be perfect. But it will be exactly the vacation your family needs. And those mistakes, missed turns and disasters? They’re the family vacation memories your teens will carry with them for the rest of their lives!

Best Beaches for Teens

Think the turquoise water is only found at the all-inclusive resorts , like the Turks and Caicos or Mexico’s Riviera Maya? Not at all!

You can find white sand a road trip away. And there are even all-inclusive resorts in Florida with amazing beaches and, even better with ravenous teens, all the food they can eat!

SheBuysTravel Tip: If you want an all-inclusive just right for teens, we heartily recommend this Hard Rock Resort in Mexico . They’ll feel so cool there, especially when they find out they can borrow a Fender guitar and amp to play during their vacation!

1. Navarre Beach, Florida

With four miles of perfect white sand beach, the Gulf of Mexico on one side and Santa Rosa on the other, Navarre Beach is the hidden gem of the Florida Panhandle.

This area offers bike paths for teens to explore and beach towns packed with ice cream shops and juice stands for hanging out. And there is plenty to keep teens from complaining they’re bored.

SheBuysTravel contributor Breeze Leonard went ziplining on her Navarre Beach vacation while SheBuysTravel writer Allison Taylor and her family learned to kayak — and no one fell in! You can also take surfing classes with your teen or join a night glow kayak session.

Add in water so blue you think it’s the Caribbean, and it’s easy to see why this area can become a family vacation favorite.

Best of all, it’s close enough to take a side trip to Orlando’s theme parks. With teens, we recommend Universal Studios.

Santa Monica Beach consistently ranks among L.A.’s top five cleanest family beaches. Photo Credit: Visit California

2. Southern California

Southern California has been a mecca for the young at heart since the dawn of TV. The beaches of SoCal created a culture that teens still crave.

Be the cool mom and sign up your teens for surfing lessons in Los Angeles or San Diego. Check out the piers and boardwalks, both packed with fun. Don’t forget Disneyland’s Star Wars attraction or take a Celebrity Homes Bus Tour! Or hit the water parks.

Recommended and teen-approved SoCal hotel: Margaritaville Palm Springs.

Collect those miles or book those companion fares to say Aloha . Each of the Hawaiian islands offers a different feel.

Oahu is the top teen destination with the urban wonders of Honolulu, the famous Waikiki Beach and the legendary surfing on the laid back North Shore of the island. Definitely spring for surfing lessons here. If nothing else, your teen will go home with a very cool t-shirt.

Maui offers beautiful beaches, immersive Hawaiian culture, the funky Lahaina waterfront town and the breathtaking drive along the Road to Hana. The drive is just 52 miles long. But with 620 curves and 59 narrow bridges, it can take a few hours. Along the way, you’ll see waterfalls, beaches and the charming town of Hana. It’s up to you whether you want to give your teen driver time at the wheel.

The Big Island of Hawaii has 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones. Active volcanoes, beaches, waterfalls, cultural sites and coffee farms are among the many attractions. The island has two airports: Hilo International Airport, and Kona International Airport. Consider flying into one and out the other. Don’t miss the famous black sand beaches or a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Kauai is the greenest of the islands and the filming location for the first Jurassic Park movie. Treat your teens to a helicopter ride over the interior or a boat ride to see the gorgeous Napali Coast from the water, home to those cute spinner dolpins. If your teens like to hike, this is the place. But start early. There are only a handful of parking spots at the trailhead.

These are our favorite Hawaii resorts .

Recommended and teen-approved hotel choice : Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club for its large two- and three-bedroom suites that will give teens their own space.

4. Michigan

The “Third Coast” as Lake Michigan boosters like to call it (yes, people surf on Lake Michigan – sometimes wearing wet suits) is home to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park near Traverse City.

SheBuysTravel contributor Kristin Shaw visited on a multi-gen family vacation with her parents and her tween son. They drove along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, which winds around itself like the entry road to Yosemite Park in California and stopped at Outlooks 8 and 9.

The first stop is the Instagram-worthy Glen Lake Overlook where they oohed and ahhed at the impressive vistas. Next is the Dunes Overlook, where you can take in a panoramic view of the North and South Manitou Islands, Pyramid Point, Sleeping Bear Bay, the Sleeping Bear Dunes, and more.

When SheBuysTravel Editor-in-Chief Cindy Richards visited with her teens, her track star son ran down the steep dunes and spent a challenging hour climbing back up. These days, there’s a sign at the top warning people against attempting that feat. If you attempt the dune climb and can’t make it back to the top, you’ll be charged $3,000 for the rescue.

Recommended and teen-approved hotel choice: Grand Traverse Resort and Spa for its two indoor and one outdoor pool, indoor waterpark, arcade, bowling alley, escape room and virtual reality activities.

Best Road Trip Vacations with Teens

There’s something special about road-tripping with teens — and it’s not just that they’re old enough to do some of the driving. Being in the car for all of those hours leads to long talks about nothing special, silly rounds of car games, belting out tunes and eating snacks .

The destination matters, of course. After all, you’ve got to convince the teens to spend days away from their friends and hours in the car with you.

SheBuysTravel Editor-in-Chief Cindy Richards liked to choose road trip destinations that required long stretches of driving through spotty cell service. Without a connection, her teens were more likely to talk to her. While it gets tougher all the time to find a place in America where “you can’t hear me now,” it’s still possible with these trips.

5. Chicago to Mount Rushmore

This classic Midwest road trip must include kitschy stops at the Corn Palace in Mitchell and the giant Wall Drug in Wall, South Dakota. Give the kids some money to spend at both places. You might be surprised by what they choose to buy.

Cindy’s kids spent an hour giggling and trying on cowboy hats — until a store clerk pointed out the sign that said “No Trying on Hats.”

If your kids are adventurous, add Wind Cave National Park to your itinerary and go below to check out the cool underground cave system.

Recommended and teen-approved hotel choice: Rock Creek Lodge and Cabins  in Custer, South Dakota

SheBuysTravel Tip: Don’t do this drive during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Week in early August unless you like the deep-throated roar of hundreds of thousands of Harleys while you’re trying to commune with nature in the Black Hills.

6. Los Angeles to Sequoia National Park

Plan this trip for the spring and stop at the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve in Lancaster. The red poppy field should be in full bloom then.

Once you get to Sequoia, impress the teens with the redwoods so tall they touch the sun. My kids had fun climbing through the trunk of a fallen giant. If your family is into camping, bring a tent or rent a cabin.

One of seven national parks near Los Angeles , Sequoia was the second park in the US National Park system, established in 1890. It’s where you can find General Sherman, the largest tree in the world.

Recommended and teen-approved hotel: Wuksachi Lodge .

7. New York to Vermont

What teen wouldn’t want to road trip for ice cream? There’s lots to do in Vermont, but the promise of a visit to the Ben & Jerry’s factory in Waterbury is a must. Don’t leave without paying your respects to the ice cream flavors resting peacefully in the Flavor Graveyard.

But that is just one Instagram-worthy stop on this Northeast road trip. There’s also lovely Lake Champlain and quaint small towns along the way that showcase white-steepled churches and historic storefronts.

Active teens will want a detour to neighboring New Hampshire to climb Mount Washington . Hiking up is not for everyone — Mount Washington has some of the worst weather in the USA — but everyone can get to the peak via the Mount Washington Cog Railway.

Recommended and teen-approved hotel: Omni Mount Washington Resort  in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

8. Albuquerque New Mexico to Amarillo Texas

Plan to stop along the way in Tucumcari, New Mexico , another Instagram-friendly spot. SheBuysTravel contributor Nasreen Stump discovered Tucumcari by accident on a New Mexico road trip. Hotels in Santa Fe were pricey. She and her family needed to be in Canyon, Texas, (near Amarillo) the next night. As she searched for motel rooms along a remote stretch of Historic Route 66, all options pointed to Tucumcari.

Back in the heyday of Route 66, Tucumcari was the place to stop along the way. Book a stay in one of the cool vintage motels, complete with nostalgic neon signs.

The goal of this road trip, though, is Cadillac Ranch . That’s the too-weird-to-be-believed desert installation of Cadillac chassis half-buried in a cow patch near Amarillo. Stop at the nearby Home Depot to buy cans of spray paint (or bring your own). The kids WILL be spray painting the cars. (You should, too!)

SheBuysTravel Tip: We like neon spray paints  (they show up well). If you’re trying to write and photograph a specific message bring  black  or  white spray paint  to make a base layer.

Recommended and teen-approved hotel: the vintage Motel Safari  in Tucumcari, New Mexico.

Best Vacations with Teens: Mountains Are Calling

The mountains are a great active family vacation destination with teens. In the winter, active snow-friendly activities abound — skiing, snowboarding, sledding, ice skating and more. In the summer, the mountains are in bloom and hiking and mountain biking are the activities of choice.

For active outdoorsy families, heading to the mountains is one of the best vacations for teens.

9. Colorado

Colorado’s Rockies top the continent with more than 50 peaks above 14,000 feet. Climbing a fourteener might be more than your teens can conquer. But Colorado offers an array of teen-friendly outdoor sports for families, like hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, rock climbing, ziplining and hot springs .

The mild summer temperatures offer a respite when most of the U.S. is sweating through their shirts. Although, as SheBuysTravel Editor Cindy Richards and her teens learned on a summer Jeep tour into the mountains above Vail, it can be warm at the resort, but snowing at the top, so plan accordingly!

Winters offer world-class sports, like the teen fave, snowboarding, and skiing . Keep having fun with your kids longer and plan an annual ski trip. College students will flock home for the holidays if mom and dad pick up the tab for a ski trip!

Recommended and teen-approved ski resort: Vail Mountain

10. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe,  east of San Francisco in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, offers Olympic snow since it hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics. I love Tahoe for its mellow California vibe that attracts moguls and boarders alike.

During the summer, Lake Tahoe offers a crystal clear lake for water sports, yoga retreats and an epic hiking trail, the TRT, the Tahoe Rim Trail. It’s also a fun spot for celebrity spotting!

Recommended and teen-approved places to stay in Lake Tahoe: Edgewood Tahoe Resort and Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge & Spa.

11. Angel Fire New Mexico

This ski resort is a favorite of road-tripping Texans, including SheBuysTravel contributor Breeze Leonard.

She and her extended family — 17 of them! — went to Angel Fire where her family learned to ski. She liked that when you sign kids up for ski school, the ski rentals are included. The resort’s most teen-friendly feature: night skiing!

12. Big Bear Lake

Big Bear  is a mecca for skiers in the winter, but it really shines in the summer.

SheBuysTravel contributor Mimi Slawoff has been visiting Big Bear with her family (including the dog!) since the kids were little. As teens, they spend their days on the water, paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming and more. Rent a pontoon boat to take the whole family for a ride, or give the teens a thrill by renting jet skis for them to drive over the water or Segways for them to zip around on land.

SheBuysTravel Tip: If possible, avoid heading to Big Bear on a Friday afternoon, unless you really like sitting in traffic.

13. Northern Michigan

While Westerners turn up their noses at the idea of Midwest skiing, Midwesterners know that there is plenty of snow fun to be had in northern Michigan.

SheBuysTravel contributor Jamie Bartosch says Crystal Mountain Resort and Boyne Mountain Resort are great places for family vacations with teens in the summer as well as the winter. At Boyne Mountain, she and her family rode the ski lifts up to biking trails, ziplining (the awesome guides taught them how to go upside-down and hands-free) and a disc golf course.

At Crystal Mountain Resort in Thomasville, Michigan, they zipped down the mountain on the alpine slide. Treat the kids to a throw-back evening of fun at the nearby Cherry Bowl Drive-In movie theater in Honor, Michigan.

14. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Sometimes, one teen wants a mountain getaway with lots of outdoor activity while another wants a national park vacation. Just a handful of miles outside of Great Smoky Mountain National Park, these gateway towns offer both.

Find loads of activities from river rafting, mountain coasters and Dollywood , an affordable, family-friendly amusement park. With its quirky activities, like the Titanic Museum (check tickets here) , this area offers lots of dining, lodging and quaint cabins too.

Recommended and teen-approved hotel: Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort

Best Vacations with Teens: Stunning National Parks

North America does epic landscapes really well. The US National Park Service parks attract visitors from around the globe — and it is also one of the best vacations for teens. Really.

Expect the parks to be busy this summer. Plan to arrive at the park before 9 a.m. to get in and grab a parking place.

15. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, located in northwest Wyoming and 320 miles northeast of Salt Lake City, tops my list of best vacations for teens. Old Faithful Geyser and Old Faithful Inn offer must-sees. Kids love animals, so drive through Hayden or Lamar Valley to see bison, bear, elk and maybe even those elusive grey wolves.

Give Yellowstone at least four days; I prefer a week. Be prepared to picnic for lunch since the food service isn’t conveniently located near iconic sights or hikes. Don’t miss out on the Huckleberry ice cream.

Teen-approved places to stay near Yellowstone: West Yellowstone Condominium Resort , Clubhouse Inn   and Under Canvas Yellowstone .

SheBuysTravel Tip: Assign the teens to be the lookout, keeping their eyes on the horizon line in search of animals. And when you see a crowd along the road pointing at something, stop and park. The crowd has seen something you’ll want to see, too. Just remember to pull fully off the road.

16. Yosemite National Park

In the central Sierra Nevada mountain range of California and 200 miles east of San Francisco, Yosemite offers a convenient location and epic landscapes. But what’s the difference between the top two national parks?

Yellowstone is about its geothermal features, like geysers and mud pots, and the mighty mammals, like bear and bison. Yosemite offers an epic mountain landscape that even an amateur photographer can capture. The Yosemite Valley offers waterfalls, wildflower meadows and mountaintop vistas that inspire everyone, including Ansel Adams and naturalist John Muir.

Teen-approved places to stay near Yosemite: Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite , Hounds Tooth Inn , and Kildrummy Lodge .

17. Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore National Monument in southeast South Dakota and 380 miles north of Denver, Colorado, is an image that most Americans know. To experience the magnitude of the sculpture, have the teens take the walk close to the side of the mountain and have them look up — right into George Washington’s nose!

Don’t think of Mt. Rushmore as a quick road trip stop. It’s one of the best vacations for teens when you explore the Black Hills of South Dakota , where Mt. Rushmore resides. The Black Hills offer several days of western family adventure, including rock climbing, water sports and ziplines.

Teen-approved places to stay near Mount Rushmore: Black Hills Luxury Suites , Under Canvas Mount Rushmore , and Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Rapid City – Rushmore South .

18. Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon National Park, in northern Arizona and 215 miles north of Phoenix, offers one of the best vacations for teens. During the summer, the south rim seems like the international terminal of JFK with visitors from around the globe. Stay for a few hours or stay for a few days. The Grand Canyon offers hikes and views for everyone in your SUV. And I still stop every time I drive across northern Arizona. These are our favorite resorts in Arizona .

My active teens like white water rafting and kayaking; book a trip through outfitters.

Teen-approved places to stay near the Grand Canyon: The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon , Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel , and Holiday Inn Express Grand Canyon .

19. Redwoods

Redwoods National Park offers trees so big everything in their shadows seems small, even teen drama. I found redwood locations sprinkled throughout the West Coast with several different varieties of trees.

My favorite park is located north of San Francisco at the Redwood National and State Parks, close to the border of California and Oregon. Redwoods grow in Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks as well. Best family-friendly activities include horseback riding and biking, available through outfitters.

Teen-approved places to stay near the Redwoods: Holiday Inn Express Redwood National Park  and Freshwater Lagoon Retreat .

20. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

America’s newest national park in southern West Virginia is the place for adventure lovers. Of course, you can camp and hike there, but you also can go whitewater rafting on the New River and take the New River Gorge Bride Walk.

That requires walking 3,030 feet along a narrow catwalk underneath one of the longest single-span arch bridges in the world. At the center point, you’re 851 feet above the New River, looking down on the whitewater rafters below. Go the third Saturday in October for Bridge Day and you can watch BASE jumpers jump off the bridge, or pay for your teen to zipline down to the bottom.

Recommended and teen-approved place to stay near New River Gorge : Adventures on the Gorge

Cities to Visit with Teens

Teens have tons of energy, so head to the top cities of the United States for a getaway. Grab a metro card and explore by mass transit. With a maps app, it’s easy. Even better, get the teens to navigate.

Here are our favorite vacations for teens in big cities.

21. New York City

New York City packs energy that falls flat for younger kids, but teens possess the stamina for urban trekking at its finest. I lived in NYC for two years, but I didn’t introduce my kids to the metropolis until they were out of strollers and could walk all day without whining.

In a city that never sleeps, travel lessons abound. Use the subway to get around, a must-have skill for teens who will be exploring on their own in a few years. In my experience, the skills I learned in New York City helped me navigate any urban city around the globe, including Tokyo .

From parks to museums and shopping to snacking, New York City offers a week of teen fun.  And don’t forget a Broadway show.

Teen-approved places to stay in New York City: Mandarin Oriental New York and JW Marriott Essex House New York.

22. San Francisco, California

San Francisco offers vibrant culture and postcard landscapes with a mellower West Coast vibe. It’s easier to navigate by public transportation, like the famous street cars. And see American icons too, like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz , a favorite for teens. Then explore San Francisco by foot to see all the unique neighborhoods.

Teen-approved places to stay in San Francisco, California: San Francisco Marriott Union Square , Inn at Union Square, a Greystone Hotel , and Taj Campton Place . 

23. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston offers a maze of American History you and your teens can walk. Start in Boston Common, the park in the center of the city, and find the red line painted on the sidewalk. The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile urban trail, will walk kids and teens through the American Revolution.

Teen-approved places to stay in Boston, Massachusetts: YOTEL Boston , Revere Hotel Boston Common , and Hyatt Regency Boston .

24. Washington D.C.

Washington, D.C. , is another destination for older kids packed with history, culture and some of the best museums in the country, many of which are free. As the center of government, Washington is a must for future lawyers.

Teen-approved places to stay in Washington, D.C.: Eaton DC , Viceroy Washington DC , and WEST END part of Georgetown Collection .

25. San Antonio, Texas

It’s the top destination in Texas. Walk along the oasis-like Riverwalk that winds through the downtown area; it’s home to Tex-Mex restaurants, museums and historic areas.

Across the street from the River Walk, see The Alamo, the mission and fort where the Battle of the Alamo happened in 1836. It’s now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Find waterparks and amusement parks in San Antonio too.

Recommended and teen-approved hotel: Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort

26. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The City of Brotherly Love has the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, so it’s an excellent educational spring break destination. Teens love Philly’s murals and the famous LOVE sculpture; they make great Instagram backdrops.

You can hit several college campuses for tours, then head to a Phillies game or famous cheesesteak corner to try the city’s most popular sammie. End your visit with a run up and down the Rocky steps. It’s a classic (and free) thing to do in Philadelphia .

Recommended and teen-approved hotel: the stylish  Logan Philadelphia .

Best Vacations for Teens: Disney

27. disney.

My final teen destination is Disney. My advice: take them. It’s an American institution. If your family isn’t crazy about all things Mickey and Minnie, limit your time at the park to a day or two.

Disneyland in California offers better year-round weather and other family-friendly destinations besides theme parks, like the beach. Disney World , in Florida, offers a city dedicated to all things Disney.

Teens love the thrill rides but can still appreciate a nostalgic character from their childhood. Bonus: Teens can roam the parks on their own while parents sample, sip and explore nearby. Stay at one of these Disney hotels to get access to perks like early park entry or, for teens, late park nights!

SheBuysTravel recommends Get Away Today for discounted Disney tickets and vacation packages. Not only does the company have the lowest prices, it offers a best-price guarantee. If you ever find park tickets cheaper, Get Away Today won’t just match the price, the company will beat it. Even better, save $10 on a two or more night trip with code SheBuysTravel– just for SheBuysTravel readers!

After purchasing your tickets from Get Away Today someone will reach out to you to answer any of your Disney vacation questions or help you create an itinerary for your visit.

The bottom line: The best vacations for teens are the ones you take them on. The country is big, time is short, and travel will benefit your teen in all areas of life.

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The 10 best cruises for teens in 2024.

The best cruises for teens provide the right mix of autonomy and time with family.

The Best Cruises for Teens

Amy Smith | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Teen spaces on cruise ships foster friendships through games, music, events and more.

Cruises make the perfect family vacation, especially when traveling with teens. Teens can mix and mingle with others their age in teens-only clubs, play games, listen to music, or grab a pizza and watch a movie under the stars. If your tweens and teens need more action-packed fun to keep them entertained, some cruise ships act like floating amusement parks with zip lines, racetracks, roller coasters, ice skating rinks, laser tag, waterslides and more.

The following lines offer the best cruises for teens and tweens, along with their parents.

Find your perfect cruise

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers plenty of family fun and activities for teens on its ships, including sports tournaments, waterslides and a family disco. On select ships, you'll also find the full-size MSC Formula Racer simulator, an interactive XD cinema, a virtual reality experience, zip lines and an arcade room. The Young Club programming by MSC Cruises offers daily activities for 12- to 14-year-old tweens, while teens 15 to 17 can participate in sports and dance competitions as well as video game tournaments at the Teen Club. Older kids can also participate in fun themed events, karaoke, piloting practice at the Drone Academy and flash mobs – and there's a teens-only disco.

On MSC Seascape , teens can stay busy in three new concept spaces. "Future" features a state-of-the-art technology area with the latest-generation consoles, VR and video screens for hours of entertainment. "Chill Out" is just as it sounds – a place to hang out, chat, and play foosball and pingpong. Meanwhile, "Music" is a dance club where kids can choose their own tunes and dance the night away with cool lighting and sound effects. If all that isn't enough, Robotron, the first of its kind at sea, is an amusement park-like ride that combines the thrill of a roller coaster with personalized music and lighting.

MSC World Europa boasts the largest and most engaging kids area in the fleet with an impressive 8,245 square feet of action-packed space. The new Teens Lab features an immersive area for teenagers with more than 20 of the latest consoles, seven VR stations and dozens of video games. Drone Academy 2.0 is a high-energy relay race for drones. There's even more onboard fun at Z Active, a sports program that offers basketball, football and zorb ball alongside two firsts for the line – pickleball and hoverboards. Teens can also take a spin on the bumper cars at the MSC Sportplex.

MSC Euribia – the line's newest ship, which set sail on its inaugural cruise in June 2023 – has a total of 7,500-plus square feet of space dedicated to kids ages 0 to 17. The new Teens Club Extra Space offers three different areas: the Young Club (ages 12 to 14), the Teens Club (15 to 17) and the Teens Lab (12 to 17). Some of the activities include those found on other MSC ships, such as Z Active, Drone Academy 2.0 and the MSC Dance Crew competition. Teens will also have access to new video games; pingpong; World Quest, an interactive game show based on trivia and geography; and Caravaggio, an immersive spy game show about an art heist.

Compare  MSC Cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line boasts a teens-only venue, Entourage, which caters to young adults 13 to 17 years old. This supervised space – available on 16 of the line's 19 ships – keeps teens busy in an adults-free lounge that's filled with video games, movies, music, arts and sports. Teen counselors on Norwegian Cruise Line plan activities and challenges to keep kids entertained throughout the cruise. A list of detailed activities is available on embarkation day so teens can plan out their schedule for the cruise.

Norwegian Prima , the first vessel in the Prima class, features many first-at-sea innovations perfect for entertaining families and energetic teens, including the three-level Prima Speedway. With cars reaching up to 30 miles per hour, this quarter-mile-long racetrack is one of the highest-rated attractions on Prima. Adventurous teens will also want to check out The Drop and The Rush. Billed as the fastest slides at sea, these chutes offer thrill-seekers a heart-pumping 10-story freefall plunge.

If that's not enough action, teens can also play The Bull's Eye, a classic game of darts that uses a video tracking system, or check out Tee Time for a pumped-up version of mini-golf set against a Las Vegas backdrop. In the Galaxy Pavilion, an indoor gaming complex, you'll find more than a dozen attractions, including immersive simulator experiences, escape rooms and the Topgolf Swing Suite – all of which are unique to Norwegian Prima. When it's time to cool off, the Tidal Wave waterslide is another first for the brand, letting guests ride inner tubes to catch the surf.

Norwegian Viva, the second vessel in the Prima class, is set to launch in August 2023. As the newest ship in NCL's fleet, Viva will also feature these exciting high-tech attractions, including Viva Speedway. If you and your teens are fans of the movie "Beetlejuice," you're in for a treat: The Broadway musical adaptation will debut on the new ship.

The line's Breakaway Plus class – Norwegian Escape , Joy , Bliss and Encore – is also popular with families as these ships offer plenty of activities and attractions suited for active teens, such as go-kart tracks, outdoor laser tag and VR games in the Galaxy Pavilion.

Find  Norwegian Cruise Line deals on GoToSea .

Disney Cruise Line

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line features two cool spaces dedicated to teens and tweens, who can hang out on comfy couches, watch shows or movies, and play video games. These hangouts, called Edge (for ages 11 to 14) and Vibe (ages 14 to 17), are available on all Disney Cruise Line ships.

On Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream , the space at Vibe also features a private outdoor deck with chaise lounges, wading pools, foosball and more. While indoors, teenagers can mingle with others their age, or just kick back and relax in individual nooks. There's a dance club area for karaoke contests, talent shows and dance competitions. The trendy indoor-outdoor space – at almost 9,000 square feet – is accessible with a teens-only card or DisneyBand+. On the new Disney Wish ship, Vibe has a French twist inspired by a Paris artist's loft with neon signs and funk pop art.

For tweens sailing on Disney Fantasy or Dream, Edge is a bright, loft-style gathering spot – located in the funnel – that has individual computer stations for gaming and a massive video wall for screening television, movies and games. There's also a lit-up dance floor for dance parties. Two nifty features of the space – and its location – are views of the pool decks below as well as three portholes that allow for glimpses of the riders on the water coaster, AquaDuck, as they zoom by.

On the first night of the cruise, kids receive information on what activities and events will be available during their vacation so they can curate a personalized entertainment itinerary. Some fun options throughout the week may include "Gotcha," a game of elimination where one teen will become the ultimate victor. For a special treat – and a bit of pampering – guests ages 13 to 17 won't want to miss an afternoon at Chill Spa, located inside Senses Spa & Salon.

Book a  Disney cruise on GoToSea .

Royal Caribbean International

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

The newly updated space for teens 13 to 17 years old on Royal Caribbean International vessels is hidden behind a secret speakeasy entrance. The dedicated venue, which has a gaming lounge and music, is a cozy place to hang out to meet other teens on the ship. There's also an outdoor patio where you can relax in the sun or chill out under the stars. Teens will find planned activities throughout the day at the lounge, including sports tournaments, a nightly teen disco and themed parties.

Social 100 is an exclusive new space for ages 13 to 17 on Wonder of the Seas . The outdoor space sits next to the waterslides and boasts a hot tub, lawn games, cozy seating, a selfie area, and a bar serving zero-proof cocktails and shakes. The indoor part of Social 100 features a gaming area, foosball tables, a vending machine and more comfortable spaces for teens to mingle.

Teens have plenty of activities they can do with their families on Royal Caribbean's ships, especially on the new Icon of the Seas, the first vessel in the Icon class. Slated for its inaugural sailing in January 2024, Wonder of the Seas will be the  world's largest cruise ship .  Cruisers of all ages will have endless opportunities for fun with more venues, activities and attractions than you've ever seen on a cruise ship.

Teens and their parents will appreciate Chill Island, a three-level pool deck with the first swim-up bar at sea. The new water park, Thrill Island, boasts six waterslides, including exciting firsts at sea, such as Pressure Drop, the first open freefall slide. If that's not enough to get the adrenaline pumping, teens can check out Crown's Edge – a combination thrill ride, skywalk and ropes course – or other Royal Caribbean favorites like Adrenaline Peak, Sports Court, the FlowRider surf simulator or the reimagined mini-golf course.

If you're hanging out in the new Surfside neighborhood on Icon, a dedicated space for young families, teens will have easy access to the supervised teens-only club, Social 020, from this open-air space.

When you head ashore to Perfect Day in CocoCay, one of the best  cruise line private islands , teen cruisers will find plenty of fun land-based activities like Thrill Waterpark and 1,600-foot-long zip lines. Be sure not to miss another thrilling experience: Up, Up and Away. The helium balloon ride soars 450 feet above the ground to the highest vantage point in the Bahamas , offering incredible panoramic views of the island and surrounding turquoise waters.

Explore  Royal Caribbean cruises on GoToSea . 

Holland America Line

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Holland America Line

The Kids Club on Holland America Line offers a fun supervised program for 13- to 17-year-old guests in an adult-free zone known as The Loft. The name is in the process of changing to High Score!, and you'll already find the updated concept on Oosterdam and Eurodam . The line's other ships will change over to the new venue throughout 2024. High Score! is a family game room that serves as a secret getaway for teens by day. In the evenings, entire families can come to play skeeball, board games and join in other activities.

The teens-only space (during the day) on Holland America Line resembles a New York artists loft where kids can listen to music, watch movies, play games and meet and hang out with same-age cruisers. Programs and activities at the current space, The Loft, include themed events, karaoke, a teen disco and nighttime activities such as Poker Night and video game tournaments. Youths can also participate in pingpong, basketball and other teens-only sporting events. If they still need more entertainment to keep them busy, the Kids Club offers origami lessons and watercolor painting as well as competitions in "Mario Kart," air hockey, foosball, pinball and more.

The Kids Club is complimentary for guests. The space is open daily, and you'll also find teen events around the ship. When it comes to dining, there are many teen-friendly dining options – where teens can even enjoy mocktails like nonalcoholic mojitos – at venues throughout the ship.

If you're cruising to Alaska with Holland America or other adventure-filled destinations, look for excursions that will appeal to younger family members like zip lining tours, trail hikes, float trips, helicopter tours and wilderness safaris. Alaska is a teen favorite, especially in Skagway (one of Alaska's top destinations ), where travelers can get a thrill out of dog mushing with a team of Alaskan huskies, taking a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, or going on a rock climbing excursion.

Find  Holland America Line cruises on GoToSea .

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Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

The modern Beach House lounge is the go-to place for passengers ages 13 to 17 to socialize and meet others their age when sailing on a Princess Cruises ship. Fun activities for teens include late-night movies and tournaments where they can challenge their peers in video games or at air hockey, foosball and table tennis. For more energetic activities, join in the fun during indoor dodgeball and basketball games. Or, learn new dance moves from some of the dancers in the crew, then hit the dance floor for one of the competitions. At the "Rock the Boat Party," teenagers can dress up and party the night away with mocktails and new friends on the ship.

"Movies Under the Stars" is one of Princess' signature events. Guests can watch movies, sporting events and concerts while bundled up with cozy blankets on the pool deck outdoors. Teens will enjoy the complimentary snacks – not to mention the special movie nights designed with them in mind, such as "Scary Movie Night." You might even find teen makeovers and glitter tattoos some evenings on the ship.

The line's three newest ships – Discovery Princess , Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess – offer the most activities for teens, but all of the ships in the fleet host youth programs in partnership with Discovery, along with plenty of other family-friendly activities. These offerings include Discovery Family and Animal Planet shore excursions and onboard entertainment like "The Voice of the Ocean," a musical competition.

Parents will be able to keep track of their busy teens anywhere on the ship with the state-of-the-art Princess MedallionClass system. The quarter-size wearable medallion and accompanying app allow guests to personalize their itinerary and locate family members and friends on board.

When Sun Princess launches in February 2024, as the first vessel in the line's Sphere class, it will feature Park19. This top-deck family activity zone boasts many outdoor adventures, including Sea Breeze – the first Rollglider at sea. The ADA-accessible seated ride offers a hang-gliding experience with panoramic views of the ocean and ports of call. Families and teens can also check out the climbing obstacle course, cargo nets and lookout points. The ship also has a recreational court – which offers pingpong, shuffleboard, fitness classes and more – and a splash zone where you can cool off after all the outdoor activities.

Inside Sun Princess, tweens and teens will find two centers just for them: Neon Grove and The Underground. Both spaces offer cozy and colorful areas for young adults to hang out, socialize, and play video games on the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. They'll also find foosball, skeeball and air hockey on top of planned activities like movie nights, dance parties and scavenger hunts.

Explore  Princess Cruises on GoToSea .

Adventures by Disney

Adventures by Disney offers river and expedition cruises for the whole family; the itineraries span many choices and experiences for tweens and teens with a focus on culture, history, gastronomy and adventure. The river cruises are operated in partnership with AmaWaterways, while the expedition cruises are a collaboration with luxury French cruise line Ponant.

If you're sailing on the Adventures by Disney Rhine River Cruise itinerary, for example, guests can choose between various exciting excursions. While you're docked in Strasbourg, France , for the day, teen-friendly options include a tour of the Black Forest, complete with a toboggan run and a visit to a woodworking museum. Another choice here is to visit Germany's Europa-Park, a one-of-a-kind theme park located between the Black Forest and the Vosges Mountains. In Melk, Austria, on the Danube itinerary, families can go for a bike ride along the Danube River, hike to the castle in Dürnstein or visit a family-run apricot farm.

Another great feature of these cruises is that teens can opt to have dinner and evening get-togethers with same-age cruisers, so they don't have to dine with their parents or younger siblings every night. Adventure Guides also curate special activities for teens like game shows and pool parties.

In destinations like Antarctica, the Adriatic and the Galápagos Islands , expert naturalists lead tours during these bucket list trips. You might even find a bit of Disney storytelling woven into the presentations by the Adventure Guides.

Keep in mind if you have younger kids as well as teens that children need to be 5 or older to sail on the river cruises. For the Galápagos Islands expedition cruises, the minimum age for Junior Adventurers is 7, and for expeditions to the polar regions, kids need to be 10 years of age or older.

Read: The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Carnival Cruise Line

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Celebration, which launched in November 2022, is the line's newest Excel-class ship. It features an expanded family and youth program, including its offerings for teens. The line also rolled out the new program fleetwide in spring 2023.

The Carnival Cruise Line teen programming at Circle "C" is for tweens ages 12 to 14, while Club O2 is for ages 15 to 17. In these venues you'll find entertainment like themed dance parties – and even a Carnival prom – as well as video games, movies and karaoke. Circle "C" stands for "Cruise, chill and connect," and that's what teens can do in this colorful, contemporary space with engaging counselors. New activities include anime drawing lessons and pop culture games at Circle "C." Older teens can foster new friendships while engaging in Japanese crafts and authentic tea ceremonies at Club O2.

Teens will appreciate Carnival's onboard water park, Waterworks, which includes a splash park and slides. Carnival Panorama even has the trampoline park Skyzone. Teenage passengers won't want to miss the first roller coaster at sea, BOLT, on Excel-class ships: Mardi Gras , Celebration and the upcoming Jubilee, scheduled to launch in December 2023.

For even more action, Vista-class ships feature Skyride. This two-lane, bike-like ride is suspended above the top deck of the ships and extends out over the ocean. More indoor fun can be found at Thrill Theater (on Horizon and Vista ), an immersive cinematic experience where you'll feel the seat rumble, the wind blow through your hair and even a spritz of water during the action-packed video.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea .

Celebrity Cruises

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

This line's Teen Club features activities focused on kids 13 to 17. Some of the events offered for teens in the Camp at Sea program on Celebrity Cruises range from video game tournaments and sports competitions to culinary classes and silent disco parties. Teen cruisers can even book glass-blowing classes on Celebrity Solstice , Equinox and Eclipse . The offerings for young passengers are similar at either The Basement on Edge-series ships ( Edge , Apex , Beyond and Ascent, set to launch in November 2023) or at X Club on Solstice- and Millennium-class ships. Note, however, the line's three Galápagos expedition vessels do not have the teen venues. Families who need accessible accommodations, activities and programs will also find autism-friendly cruises on Celebrity.

When it comes to pampering, Celebrity's spas offer spa menus for 13- to 17-year-olds. Teens can book facials that are designed for young sensitive skin or have express pedicures and manicures. When you're ready to relax, schedule a two-by-two massage, where parents and kids can have a side-by-side treatment.

Celebrity also offers family-focused excursions that highlight cultural attractions, wildlife sightings and adventure. Some of these tours include seeing gentoo, king and Magellanic penguins in the Falkland Islands; taking an aerial tram through the treetop canopies of a rainforest in Costa Rica ; and going on a small culinary or sightseeing group excursion in Europe and other destinations around the world. On Caribbean sailings – especially when school is out for summer or on holidays – Celebrity has additional family-friendly shore excursions on its five- and seven-night sailings.

Find a  Celebrity Cruises deal on GoToSea .

Cunard Line

Cunard Line offers programs and activities for passengers ages 13 to 17 years old in its Teen Zone. This dedicated space is a place for teens to hang out with cruisers their own age and play video and team games, table tennis, and more. On the first day of the cruise, you'll find an activity program for young guests delivered to the stateroom so your teens can plan out their vacation experience, which may include entertaining theme days, deck sports, quizzes and dancing at the disco.

Teens on Cunard Line can participate in the activities around the ship, hit the pool for a dip, practice their putting or try their hand at croquet. If you're sailing on Queen Mary 2, those interested in science, wildlife and the solar system can watch up to four 3D films a day (on sea days) in the largest planetarium at sea.

Compare  Cunard Line cruises on GoToSea .

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She's sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, traditional masted sailing ships, and expedition vessels in Antarctica and the Galápagos. Pratesi covers the travel and cruise industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Lines That Let Kids Sail Free
• The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers
• The Top Adults-Only Cruises
• Cruise Packing List
• Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival

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Family Vacations With College Kids and 20-Somethings

From Montreal to Granada, Wonderful, Adventure Packed-Destinations for Families

Teens and 20-somethings are adventuresome travel companions, who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, fine dining, and cool shopping. Continue reading for tips on structuring the ​ perfect family vacation when everyone's grown up, then check out this sampling of great vacation destinations for families with young adults.

Montreal, Canada

Perry Mastrovito / The Image Bank / Getty Images

The combination of European feel, museums, boutiques and club scene made Montreal a top pick among teens and 20-somethings, as well as their parents. Old Montreal bustles with museums, boutiques, fine dining and café culture.

Street performers, jugglers, and musicians fill the former marketplace of Place Jacques-Cartier. And Mount Royal rises above the center of the city, offering beautiful parks, hiking trails, and horseback riding. A 23-year-old intern at TravelMuse.com sold us on the idea after she called it her favorite all-around city. This gorgeous 2-minute video sealed the deal. We're booking our tickets now for the  summer . Winter is icy.

San Diego, California

San Diego 's beautiful beaches—so alluring for surfers, sunbathers, divers, and kayakers—are an outdoorsy counterpoint to the city's fabulous museums, world-famous zoo, and the clubs and cafes of its Gaslamp Quarter, where 20-somethings will want to hang after mom and dad go to bed.

Nearby La Jolla boasts swanky boutiques and posh shops, and Coronado Island lends a retro vibe and powdery soft beaches to your must-see list.

Other places to see include coastal towns nearby like Leucadia, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, and Del Mar, home of the famous race track. The Del Mar Racetrack season runs from mid-July through early September. There's also the very popular Del Mar Fair.

New Orleans

Bruce Soileau / Stock.Xchng Photos

New Orleans' French Quarter provides jazzy nightlife and outrageously wonderful dining possibilities, but teens and 20-somethings may also be very interested in the ample opportunities for voluntourism. Among the groups working here: Hands on New Orleans and Habitat for Humanity .

Other great things to do in New Orleans and the surrounding area include bayou tours, architectural tours, and museums. 

Dublin, Ireland

Gian / Stock.Xchng Photos

Europe offers so many exciting destinations, but Dublin has a particularly cool vibe, says TravelMuse 's Donna Airoldi, that combines "outdoorsy days and then at night, live music, restaurants, and clubs."

In addition to the historical attractions and hiking possibilities, Dublin's Temple Bar area, the narrow, cobblestoned streets near Christ Church Cathedral, is home to bohemian shops, a thriving arts scene, and plenty of late night clubbing. In short, there's plenty to do here for teens, as well as enough nightlife to satisfy the 20-something crowd.

If your family enjoys hitting the links, there are plenty of gorgeous golf courses in Ireland for you to try out. Going outside of the city to see the countryside is a day trip that's worth the time, as the Irish countryside is unique and beautiful.

Granada, Nicaragua

Costa Rica is an undeniably popular vacation destination, but Airoldi calls neighboring Nicaragua , with its Pacific and Caribbean coasts, an undiscovered jewel.

It's not "uber-developed," she says, so prices are still low, but it's only a matter of time before the rest of the world discovers the Central American country's beach towns, towering volcanoes, lush jungles, and great cities. They include Granada, a colonial-era jewel on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world.

There are ample opportunities to explore, she says, everything from coffee farm tours to petroglyphs, jungle hikes, and other adventures that will keep teens and 20-somethings enthralled.

 Mint Images / Getty Images

If you haven't yet heard about glamping, check into it for a fun and adventurous vacation with your family. Head to Montana, California, upstate New York or lots of other places across the country to try out camping for those who prefer running water and a mattress to sleep on. Horseback riding, hiking , gourmet meals, and more are part of the glamping experience. 

More Suggestions

New York City, Seattle, Portland, and Austin are all great cities for families traveling with older teens and 20-somethings . Got skiers? Vail or Aspen, with their lounge and restaurant scenes and celebrity factor, are always popular too. 

Dass-Brailsford P, Thomley R, Hurtado de Mendoza A. Paying it forward: The transformative aspects of volunteering after Hurricane Katrina . Traumatology. 2011 Mar;17(1):29-40. doi:10.1177%2F1534765610395619

Brochado A, Pereira C. Comfortable experiences in nature accommodation: Perceived service quality in Glamping . Journal of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism . 2017 Mar 1;17:77-83. doi:10.1016/j.jort.2017.01.005

By Jackie Burrell Jackie Burrell is a former education and parenting reporter, experienced in issues around parenting young adults as a mother of four.

• High School

You’ve Gotta See These 20 Amazing Destinations with Trips for Teens

Kendall is a travel junkie, sustainability activist, nutrition guru, personal chef, writer, ...

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Being a teenager is very much an on-the-job-training experience. As one of the most pronounced times of growth and development as a human being, these years bring many challenges and changes where your ability to adapt, overcome limitations, and pursue strengths are tested. Instead of shying away from this type of learning, lean into it by taking a trip abroad as a teen!

When you think of the word ‘destination’ you’re probably thinking of a place worthy of travel or maybe the end of a journey. But a destination is a not only a physical place. A destination is also the purpose for which someone (*cough*you*cough*) is meant for. Deciding to take a teen trip is an intentional act of proclaiming that you are destined for a life of meaningful travel! Take the leap, embrace the change, and watch your life come alive before your eyes!

Skip cross-country training and go cross-continental!

Popular trips for teens

Trips for teens manifest themselves in a variety of different ways. You can do meaningful community service trips for high school students , immerse yourself in a foreign language , study abroad , or tour some of the world’s most spectacular terrain in the most adventurous of ways . Whichever type of teen trip is calling your name, the most important part is that you’re getting outside of your comfort zone bright and early.

Whether you’re looking for an alternative spring break , a better way to spend your summer break , or a gap year between high school and college, trips for teen abound and there’s a program out there for you. 

So, get started with your search now and check out these 20 amazing destinations for teen trips, for as summer trips for high school students and more!

Trips for teens in great places—our top 20

Oh, the places you’ll go! When you start to get overwhelmed with excitement, and the burden of too many choices, check out our list of the top places for trips for teens.

A destination coveted by millions, Italy is a gracious host of teen trips full of soul-stirring and Insta-worthy scenery. We first fell in love with the idea of Italy watching Lizzie McGuire jet around on the back of a vespa and that love still hasn’t faded. After you leave, Italy will always have a pizza your heart. 

It’s im-pasta-ble not to have a (meat)ball with teen trips in Italy!

Recommended programs:

• Travel for Teens: Read Travel for Teens reviews | Visit their site
• See all high school travel programs in Italy

Practice your Spanish lisp as you navigate the streets of España. Teen trips in Spain are full of unforgettable experiences like ogling original art by Picasso, ordering tapas (successfully) in local cafés, and relaxing along the Costa del Sol. 

You’re in for a Major(ca) personal transformation traveling in Spain.

• Experiment in International Living: Read EIL reviews | Visit their site
• Arcos Journeys Abroad: Learn More | Visit their site
• See all high school travel programs in Spain

Taking a trip to France will be Louvre at first sight. Learn to embrace the luxury of simplicity through the decadence of a fresh croissant or the hypnotization of the piercing blue sea of the French Riviera or the tickling of your ear by the beauty of the language.

We don’t want to be too cheesy, but teen trips in France are seriously life changing.

• Youth For Understanding: Read YFU reviews | Visit their site
• Council on International Educational Exchange: Read CIEE reviews | Visit their site
• See all high school travel programs in France

Taking a trip across the pond is just about the closest you can get to time travel (or is it?). Teen trips through England are a journey through history. But not dull, dusty, retired-museum-guide history—history you can feel and relive.

What if you just dove(r) right into your Brit-trip?

• Reach Cambridge: Read Reach Cambridge reviews | Visit their site
• Future Foundations: Read Future Foundations reviews | Visit their site
• See all high school travel programs in England

5. Costa Rica

Teen trips to Costa Rica—the peaceful soul of Central America—is where adrenaline junkies unite. Learn how to sink into the easygoing rhythms of the pura vida before the stress of adulting gets to you first! This is the perfect spot to find service trips for teenagers with a side of espanol.

Ride the wave of teens traveling in Costa Rica and absolutely loving it.

• Maximo Nivel: Read Maximo Nivel reviews | Visit their site
• International Studies Abroad: Read ISA reviews | Visit their site
• See all high school travel programs in Costa Rica

The Irish are perhaps the most welcoming people on the planet, making it an excellent location to get your feet wet in the ways of traveling abroad. Plus, Ireland is a cultural hotspot, so wherever you go you will be sure to get your daily dose of culture. 

Irish Castle, Cong, Ireland

• Global Vision International: Read GVI reviews | Visit their site
• Academic Programs International: Read API reviews | Visit their site
• See all high school abroad programs in Ireland

A teen trip to Vietnam will be something you remember pho ever. Outstanding food, surreal scenery, history that demands self-reflection, and jaw-dropping adventures—Vietnam has it all for teens that want an exotic, outside-the-box trip abroad.

Teen trips in Vietnam are pho’real.

• Projects Abroad: Read Projects Abroad reviews | Visit their site
• Carpe Diem Education: Read Carpe Diem Education reviews | Visit their site  
• See all high school programs in Vietnam

8. New Zealand

Middle Earth may be fantasy, but New Zealand certainly isn’t. Take a walk on the wild side and see what life looks like on the other side of the world where you can enjoy, rather than endure, a teen trip abroad. Just remember that summer trips for teens here are actually in their winter!

If you’re wanting to go on an adventure, New Zealand is the place to do it.

• Pacific Discovery: Read Pacific Discovery reviews | Visit their site
• Institute of Global Engagement: Read Institute of Global Engagement reviews | Visit their site  
• See all high school travel programs in New Zealand

9. Australia

For a koality teen trip abroad, Australia delivers mate! Australia is wildly beautiful in cultural, land, and spirit, and is something every teenage soul MUST experience firsthand. Service trips for teenagers down under almost ALWAYS help our furry friends! 

You’re in for a boatload of fun with teen trips in Australia.

• Rustic Pathways: Read Rustic Pathways reviews | Visit their site
• See all high school travel programs in Australia

You’ll be Havan-a good time when you take a teen trip abroad to Cuba! Practice your Spanish and pick up some sweet dance moves—Cuba is an island full of indefinable magic and trips for teens allow you to marinate yourself in the zest of it.

Every Instagram-able street aside, teen trips to Cuba guarantee improved Spanish and dancing ability.

• Adventures Rolling Cross-Country: Read ARCC reviews | Visit their site
• Global Works: Read Global Works reviews | Visit their site
• See all high school abroad programs in Cuba

If the mountains are calling and you must go, Nepal is likely on the other end of the line. Teen trips to Nepal are full of breathtaking views (not just because of the altitude) and experiences of a lifetime. Take the time to explore eastern traditions and Buddhism, enjoy a warm chai, and really get to know the locals.

Don’t take a nap on Nepal—you’ll regret not going on this adventure.

• Where There Be Dragons: Read Where There Be Dragons reviews | Visit their site
• See all high school travel programs in Nepal

12. Argentina

Check some of the most iconic bucket list items, like Patagonia and the Andes, off your list in your teen years. If nothing else, the intense concentration of passion that resides in Argentina will seep into your soul and will be a souvenir you can carry around for life. Spend your typical beach-going months snowboarding when you sign up for summer trips for teens in Argentina. 

Argentina will only cry for you if you pass up this awesome teen trip.

• See all high school travel programs in Argentina

Chile shelters some of the most pristine parts of our planet, and they shouldn't be missed. Climbing in the mountains of Chile during a teen trip abroad might just be where you reach a new peak in life. Just don’t forget a jacket… you know, in case you get cold.

Between the vibrant cities and idyllic countrysides, you’ll love chilling out in Chile.

• Broadreach: Read Broadreach reviews | Visit their site
• GoAbroad Chile: Read GoAbroad Chile reviews | Visit their site
• See all high school abroad programs in Chile

14. Tanzania

Waka waka , eh eh! It’s time for you to take a trip to Africa! The land of safaris will give you opportunities to get up close and personal with not only assorted animals, but opportunities for getting to know the country's diverse array of people and cultures.

If your only understanding of Africa comes from The Lion King, you’re about to have your mind. Blown. (In the best way.)

• Cross-Cultural Solutions: Read CCS reviews | Visit their site
• Global Leadership Adventures: Read GLA reviews | Visit their site
• See all high school programs abroad in Tanzania

15. Iceland

What’s cooler than being cool? Iceland! Trips for teens to Iceland have a whimsical, quirky, creative spirit that sparkle with life and warmly invite you to be a part of the fairytale-like magic. You’ll feel like you’re on another planet among the lava fields, crystal blue waters, waterfalls, and geysers. Here’s hoping you get a peek at the northern lights, too! 

Contrary to popular belief, chasing waterfalls is exactly what you should be doing in Iceland.

• AFS-USA: Read AFS-USA reviews | Visit their site
• The Road Less Traveled: Read The Road Less Traveled reviews | Visit their site
• See all Iceland teen travel programs

16. Thailand

When you’re wanderlust has been relentless nagging you to take a trip and you finally cave and say, “Phuket let’s go,” Thailand will be waiting to take you on the teen trip your itinerant soul has been craving. Hop on the back of a motorbike, swim in warm, clear water, and enjoy a heaping pile of noodles post-adventure. 

Don’t flip flop around on this—sign up for teen trips in Thailand.

• GoBeyond Student Travel: Read GoBeyond reviews | Visit their site
• Westcoast Connection: Read WCC reviews | Visit their site
• See all high school travel programs in Thailand

Teen trips to India are a reminder—and a beautiful opportunity—to let go of rigid Western schedules and busy-ness and simply live life day-by-day. Explore and learn about all the different regions, religions, languages, and customs of each state and region within this incredibly diverse country.  

Everything about your time in India will be colorful—the sky, the textiles, the food, the personalities.

• Love Volunteers: Read Love Volunteers reviews | Visit their site
• Sankalp Volunteer: Read Sankalp Volunteer reviews | Visit their site
• See all high school programs in India

Udon even know how amazing of a trip Japan will be. There is nowhere else in the world where ancient traditions are still carried on amidst such a modern, high-tech, futuristic society—something you have to see to believe.

Don’t noodle around! Slurp up the opportunity to travel to Japan.

• Greenheart Travel: Read Greenheart reviews | Visit their site
• LanguBridge Education Centre: Read LanguBridge reviews | Visit their site  
• See all high school travel programs in Japan

Set your watch to island time, or just trade it in for the ambling milieu of Fiji. Full of welcoming people and jam-packed with underwater adventures, teen trips to Fiji are a truly immersive experience. You don’t know how far you’ll go (until you actually do… I guess).  

Expect a lot more than just an island getaway with teen trips to Fiji and the South Pacific.

• Putney Student Travel: Read Putney reviews | Visit their site
• See all high school travel programs in Fiji

20. Ecuador

You are going to Ecu-adore the sublime scenery and dazzling diversity of this tiny, but lively country. Whether you’re a future conservationist, botanist, or just looking to break out of the classroom, a teen trip to Ecuador is guaranteed to knock your flip-flops off. 

Galapa-get-up-and-go to Ecuador already!

• A Broader View Volunteers Corp: Read A Broader View reviews | Visit their site
• Ecuador Volunteer Foundation: Read Ecuador Volunteer Foundation reviews | Visit their site
• See all high school programs in Ecuador

Next steps to finding teen trips

Ready to take the next step towards a teen trip abroad? Check out these additional resources to help you get the ball rolling:

• Get matched with awesome trips for teen via GoAbroad’s Online Advisor .
• Compare and contrast trips for teens and get inspired with MyGoAbroad .
•  Don’t have two pennies to rub together? Check out FundMyTravel .
• [INFOGRAPHIC] — Your Roadmap to High School Abroad
•   How to Find Incredible Teen Travel Programs
•   Experiential Travel Advice for Teens

So that was a lot of information thrown at you all at once, huh? Try not to be intimidated or overwhelmed. Take a breath and remember that will all be worth it. 

Teen trips for all!

No matter what you’re into, you know what’s in you—a desire to travel meaningfully. Taking a teen trip to one of these amazing destinations will be an amazing gateway to a future life of traveling abroad with purpose! So what the heck are you waiting for? Get out there and do it!

Find teen trips now

Explore High School Programs on GoAbroad.com

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From relaxing escapes with your infant to deep cultural immersions upon college graduation, here are travel ideas for families with children at any stage.

Once a traveler, always a traveler. There are folks who believe a baby doesn't have to change a thing about a couple's lifestyle, and others who subscribe to the exact opposite theory. But all can agree on one thing: Those who loved traveling before expanding their family likely dream of continuing to explore the world, little ones in tow. One of the most exciting parts of having children, after all, is the way they enrich and amplify almost every experience. Then, of course, there's the awe-inspiring discovery that goes along with watching curious youngsters see and try new things, from delicious foods to beautiful cultures.

Knowing which places around the globe are most appropriate for kids as they grow into and out of different phases can be tough to anticipate. And yes, it's more daunting to fly or contend with jet lag at certain ages. It's true, too, that as little ones become big, trips become more expensive. But all the challenges are far outweighed by the collective joy that's possible on a family vacation, especially one tailored to the brood's developmental stage and interests.

Here, with the help of a few travel experts, we break it down by age group, pairing each with a dreamy destination for exposure to the wondrous world and maximum family fun.

Infants (Ages 0-1): A Mexican Beach Resort

You'll hear it from every parent: Travel while your baby is just that — a baby — because it'll never be easier. Once they start walking, all bets are off. True, you're likely sleep deprived, but doesn't that make it the perfect time to hop on a short flight to Mexico for some R&R and vitamin D?

When planning a first vacation with an infant, Indagare CEO and founder Melissa Biggs Bradley says, "You'll want a warm location with a direct flight, a big beach since infants are still too young to enjoy a kids club, and easy access to good medical care in case of an ear infection or anything more serious."

Expect to bring way too much gear, but don't worry — any parent will empathize. A family-friendly resort in a development like the Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita (for West Coasters) or Rosewood Mayakoba (for East Coasters) is a great bet since they'll happily provide the comforts of home (think: crib, mini fridge for milk, high chair, baby bathtub, or diaper pail), meaning you can focus your packing around sun protection and adorable tropical ensembles for your baby. They're also likely to offer babysitting services, in case you'd like to have dinner one night after 7 p.m. As for the new parent exhaustion, a soft, sandy beach is an idyllic place to catch up on Zs, for all of you. There's a reason sound machines come with a blue noise option — the gentle lapping of waves could lull anyone right to sleep.

Toddlers (Ages 1-4): The Island of Hawai'i

To a toddler, there's excitement to be found everywhere. They're like mini explorers, captivated by virtually every landscape and situation. Young kids who have just discovered the freedom of walking, running, and swimming will find pure magic in the Hawaiian islands. The coral reefs, beautiful beaches , Polynesian culture, soulful storytelling, near-perfect weather, and wildlife such as dolphins, whales, and sea turtles hold plenty of appeal for adults, yes, but also for toddlers.

The island of Hawai'i, specifically, offers a diversity of stunning environments, from stark and surreal lava flows to lush waterfalls, as well as resorts with little to no crowds. Mauna Lani , part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, with its ancient royal fishponds, outrigger canoes, and calm beach, exemplifies the family-forward approach. Their Holoholo Kids Crew offers thoughtful programming (think: crab hunting, Hawaiian language lessons, petroglyph walks, and natural dyeing, stamping, and feather art). And while it's designed for ages five to 12, three and four year olds can also attend with their parents (a great excuse for grown-ups to experience all the fun, too). Uncle Danny, the resort's cultural gatekeeper whose domain is the vibrant "house of knowledge," is wonderful with children.

"Many Hawaii resorts have protected ponds where you can take your toddlers into the ocean," says Biggs Bradley. "You can enjoy whale-watching cruises, and, in their later toddler years, they'll appreciate learning about the wildlife, maybe attend lei-making classes, or just relaxing by the pool or on the beach."

Elementary School (Ages 5-10): Rome, Italy

Once your kids have reached school age, they begin to hear a little more about the world around them. Basic elementary school lessons typically include ancient Rome, the Colosseum , and gladiators, says Biggs Bradley, so a trip to Rome "will further engage them in the touring, since what they've learned in school will be brought to life."

There are countless exciting activities available for kiddos, and even picky eaters will find something they love in the boot-shaped country known for pizza, pasta, and gelato. "Pizza- and gelato-making experiences are a must," says Access Italy CEO Simone Amorico, who adds that kids love making ceramics and mosaics, too. He says other can't-miss activities include, "treasure hunts in the Vatican and the Villa Borghese, where they can also ride a four-wheel bike and stop for picnics."

Meanwhile, the fairytale-like Hotel Eden is an ideal base for Roman excursions, and it's not far from Teatro Verde, a theater for puppet shows and musicals, the Explora Children's Museum, and Bartolucci, a traditional wooden toy shop where you can find Pinocchio. "At this age, a typical family tour can be boring, as they tune out and can't wait to leave," says Scott Dunn USA president John Spence. "We had our kids attend a Roman gladiator school so they could gain hands-on lessons in fighting techniques and reenact life as an ancient gladiator — they loved it."

Tweens (Ages 11-13): A Montana Dude Ranch

Between the ages of 11 and 13, kids, or tweens, will likely want some autonomy, but they also need boundaries. A dude ranch or guest ranch encompassing hundreds of acres of pristine, wide-open space makes for a wonderful compromise.

"When kids are in their early teenage years, there is nothing better than a vacation that combines adventure with something new," says Spence. "Watching our kids step outside of their element — horseback riding on mountainside cliffs or even just hiking in the beautiful Montana nature — is one of the best parts of being a parent."

Visiting a 10-square-mile property like The Ranch at Rock Creek — with a slew of included activities like fly fishing, cross-country mountain biking, photography classes, sapphire mining, and horse roping lessons — is quite a novelty for many families. Most kids, however unique their interests, will be able to find something they are stoked about. The younger ones can also attend Flint's Forest Rangers Kids Club (ages four to 12), which offers pre-booked excursions such as wildlife spotting and treasure hunting. Families can come together in the property's western-style bar for bowling, table tennis, and karaoke, too.

And perhaps the best part about Montana, home to dozens of guest ranches, is that it's gorgeous and fun year-round. It's a winter wonderland worthy of a snow globe and, at The Ranch at Rock Creek, cold-weather options include skiing (downhill and cross-country), sledding, ice skating, hockey, and snowmobiling. Expect smiles 24/7.

Teenagers (Ages 14-17): An African Safari

"It is all about the thrill of experiencing something so different from what they've ever seen before," says Extraordinary Journeys ' founder and CEO Elizabeth Gordon of taking the kids on an African safari.

Biggs Bradley adds, "Safaris are a huge area of passion for me, and I was eager to open my kids' eyes to them when they were young. The sweet spot to take children on their first safari is after 14 because by then you can ensure they will really remember the experience. They'll be able to sit in a vehicle for long periods of time and likely won't be nervous about sleeping in a tent." Plus, many camps also don't allow kids under 12 years old.

A safari is a special experience for a family to encounter together, witnessing an exciting array of animals in their natural habitat — not to mention beautiful traditions and cultures, too. "An amazing guide will teach [the kids] about tracking, get them to think like a detective, and figure out what may have happened in the area by looking at footprints," says Gordon.

As Biggs Bradley says of Kenya, "Cultural exchange is key. The opportunity for kids to meet and interact with Maasai people, for example, can be an incredibly memorable part." Properties like Sirikoi , Basecamp Explorer 's circuit, and Angama Mara provide beautiful immersion along with amazing sightings of the world's rarest species.

Another perk? Since Wi-Fi is often sparse or unavailable, families can unplug from technology and simply enjoy being together out in the bush. For even more adventure, consider adding on gorilla trekking in Rwanda (the pricier option) or Uganda (more affordable), especially if doing a safari in nearby Kenya.

College (Ages 18-21): Queenstown, New Zealand

Once kids have gone off to college, it can take a pretty enticing offer to pull them back into the fold for family vacations. Queenstown, New Zealand, is one such attractive proposition. Known as the "adventure capital of the world," it's the kind of all-season destination that offers a scene for everyone — plus, English is the main language spoken.

The birthplace of bungee jumping is home to countless thrills, from exhilarating jumps ( AJ Hackett Bungy from the Kawarau Bridge is the classic choice) to parasailing on bright blue Lake Wakatipu. "Families will love helicopter flights over the Tasman Glacier and along Milford Sound on a sunny winter day, or careening around the bends of the Shotover Canyon on a jet boat in the summer," says Gordon of this "quintessential playground."

For anyone who's not quite as much an adrenaline junkie, there are many hiking — known there as tramping — trails that reveal jaw-dropping panoramas. "New Zealand is a dream destination for a family who loves nature, landscapes, and, of course, adventure," says Biggs Bradley, adding that skydiving, rafting, caving, and fly fishing are also draws.

In the winter, Queenstown's mountains are home to epic skiing and snowboarding. The town itself is walkable and safe, with plenty of places to enjoy a sundowner, lovely meal, or the nightlife. With the kids becoming adults (and the local drinking age being 18), there's also the option to take a day for wine tasting at some of the island country's top vineyards in the Central Otago region about 45 minutes away by car.

To allow your young adults some freedom, try a couple rooms at the boutique QT Queenstown , which is full of art, quirk, and large windows showcasing the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu.

College Graduates (Age 22 and Up): Japan

By the time they've graduated college, many young adults will be ready to dive, respectfully, into a culture as exquisite as Japan's. "Japan is a country you want to travel to when you know your family will truly be able to appreciate what it has to offer," says Biggs Bradley, pointing out the opportunity for deep cultural immersion in food and drink, museums, temples, and shrines.

In a place where there's a fine art to everything from making tea and arranging flowers to lighting incense, it's best to ensure all parties are prepared to be well-behaved and gracious guests. A more mature — or adventurous — palate is also helpful for fully enjoying all of Japan's culinary treasures. Spence calls it "the perfect place for post-graduates who want new experiences," and Japan certainly excels at providing those.

Tokyo is a dynamic urban center where exploration yields unimaginable exploits. A different energy pervades Kyoto's quieter neighborhoods of Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, bamboo forests, and famous geisha districts. ( InsideJapan offers wonderful private tours led by local experts.) "Our kids loved trains, making the bullet train around Japan one of the best parts of the trip," says Spence.

Getting around is indeed a no-brainer — trains and buses are always precisely on time, people are friendly and willing to help despite language barriers, and there are many appealing regions (prefectures) with special attributes, such as places known for sake, hot springs (onsen), and art.

Staying in a traditional ryokan is a must, and the fourth-generation Japanese-owned Hoshinoya portfolio includes several luxury options. One of the most memorable additions to the cities, however, is a couple of days near Mount Fuji, where Hoshinoya Fuji offers spectacular views of the elusive volcano alongside exceptional local cuisine and rugged outdoorsy activities, including a food smoking workshop, canoeing, and e-biking. At the end of the day, there's no better place for a globe-trotting family to relax and share stories than around a bonfire under the stars, with live acoustic music, s'mores, and Japanese whisky.

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12 Best Places to Vacation with Tweens and Teens

Want to wow your big kid? From cities and swanky resorts to nature trails and national parks, these are the top family vacation destinations.

Once your child stops needing a nap and a stroller, a world of new vacation possibilities awaits. But you have only so many school breaks before your kid flees the nest. And when it comes to picking a vacation spot when your child enters their middle school years, planning can be tricky! Here, travel experts share their top iconic places you've just got to visit with 12 or 13 year olds and beyond, plus planning tips to ensure your kid has the best time ever.

Book the earliest ticket you can (usually 9:30 a.m.) to ascend to the top of the Eiffel Tower . Show up 90 minutes ahead of time to take pics at the base when it's relatively uncrowded. (Grab breakfast at a nearby café before returning close to your assigned time.) When you're done, walk along the Seine River to the Musée d'Orsay , an art museum in a former railway station. Kids who love ballet will delight in the paintings of Degas, while Dr. Who fans might recall the Van Gogh gallery that was featured in an episode. It may be a little mobbed, but it's still worth going to the Musée du Louvre to see the Mona Lisa and so much more. "If you have time, spending a day at the Palace of Versailles , a quick train ride from Paris, is wonderful," says Catherine McCord, author of Smoothie Project , who took her 8-year-old daughter to Paris. "Walk through the mazes before you go inside."

Feel like a local : Book a walking tour with a local guide to explore off-the-beaten-path areas. Look at GetYourGuide.com for options that focus on neighborhoods (like the Latin Quarter) and themes (such as vintage shopping, chocolate tastings, or secret passages).

2. New York City

Reserve a ticket to visit the Statue of Liberty's crown—climb 162 steps to the top via a winding staircase—because same-date spots are rarely available. In Times Square, Broadway (and Off-Broadway!) shows beckon— The Lion King, Wicked, and Aladdin are great picks for kids of all ages (ask for the free "My First Broadway Show" sticker sheet at the theaters). And head over to Central Park to sail remote-controlled boats and climb on the Alice in Wonderland statue, suggests Beth Beckman, founder of LittleKidBigCity.com .

Feel like a local : Venture outside of Manhattan! Beckman, who has a 7-year-old, suggests Brooklyn's Prospect Park for its catch-and-release fishing clinics and paddleboats.

Take a goofy selfie squeezed into a red telephone booth with your kid while explaining that once upon a time, people actually stood inside those things to make calls. "My kids were also amused by the black taxis and how the seating arrangements inside were so different from everywhere else," says Sajay Garcia, a travel blogger who posts YouTube travel videos at Growing Up Garcia . "The Changing of the Guard and the historic carriages near Buckingham Palace also kept my kids entertained."

Feel like a local : Sit alongside Londoners at the open-air theater in The Regent's Park . "Buy food from a neighborhood grocer and have a picnic at the park before the show," suggests Emily Goldfischer, an American mom of two living in London. "And if you're going to The British Museum , check out the adventure playground at nearby Coram's Fields," she says.

4. St. Louis

Ride to the top of the Gateway Arch , then check out the visitors' center. It houses America's largest terrazzo floor map, showing North America's historic rivers and trails so that you can trace pioneers' journeys to the West. (Sneak in that learning!) Burn off steam on the walking and biking trails along the banks of the Mississippi River. Nearby, the St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station features 13,000 animals, including 80 sharks and stingrays, plus touch pools to get up close and personal with the animals.

Feel like a local : Head to City Museum , a playspace with more than two dozen slides constructed from repurposed materials. Even tweens who think they've outgrown playgrounds will have a blast. "My 9-year-old loved zipping down a ten-story spiral slide into a cave," says multimedia journalist and parent blogger Brandon Billinger .

5. Turtle Bay Resort, North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii

Great for kids who : Love dogs

As if it weren't already rad enough to learn how to stand-up paddleboard in Kawela Bay, where The Hunger Games: Catching Fire was filmed, Turtle Bay Resort gives kids a trained surf dog to keep them company on the board during their lesson. Afterward, they can make a TikTok with a centuries-old banyan tree in the background. Can you imagine the likes? Other experiences include horseback riding (even pony rides), kayaking tours where you can spot Hawaiian green sea turtles, and epic star gazing, where an expert astronomer will guide your family through the universe with a high-powered telescope.

6. Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nashville

Great for kids who : Are obsessed with water parks

There are only two options for your family vacay vibe at this resort: chill or thrill. The kids will deem the cool blue tones and 4,000-plus potted plants at Soundwaves Water Park to be the nicest they've ever seen. They'll also be impressed by a huge wave pool with live music, a zen lazy river, and the Rapid Remix ride that zips you through a vortex-loop complete with LED lights and speakers.

7. Hard Rock Hotel, Los Cabos, Mexico

Great for kids who : Want to be a rockstar

Adults and kids ages 12 and over can perform onstage in front of an audience and fulfill their rock-star dreams at the Hard Rock Hotel's Music Lab . Whether they play an instrument or opt to sing, a Rock Specialist will help guide their performance. It would be so fun if you did it as a family!

8. Club Med Cancun Resort, Yucatan, Mexico

Great for kids who : Were born to be daredevils

At the all-inclusive Club Med Cancun's trapeze school , a trained aerialist will guide your budding circus performers through moves on a legit trapeze. (Of course, they are safely harnessed.) The kids practice daily and will get to perform at least one time during your stay.

9. Glacier National Park, near Columbia Falls, Montana

Great for kids who : Want to spy a glacier

You don't have to head to Alaska, there are 26 active glaciers in Montana to explore. Look for a few easy ones first, like catching a great view of Jackson Glacier from an overlook on Going-to-the-Sun Road . Salamander Glacier is also visible from your car as you drive into the Many Glacier area. The next day, fuel up for a 7-mile round-trip hike to see Piegan Glacier . It starts at the Siyeh Bend Trailhead on Going-to-the-Sun Road and crosses a wildflower meadow.

10. Grand Canyon National Park, near Fredonia, Arizona

Great for kids who : Want to ride a mule

Your family will relish the breathtaking 10-plus-mile trek down the Grand Canyon's North Rim to Phantom Ranch, historic cabins near the Colorado River. "My 14-year-old is a little nervous about heights, but he was so overwhelmed by the beauty and charmed by his mule that he forgot all about his fears and the fact that we had no cell service," says Amy Mayhue, an advisor at Magnolia Travel Group, in Madison, Mississippi. Kids must be at least 9 years old to ride, but Mayhue recommends waiting until they're 10 or 11 because the ride takes more than five hours each way.

11. Yosemite National Park, near Mariposa, California

Great for kids who : Love to rock climb

With slabs of granite surrounding lakes, forests, and lush meadows, this park is a wanna-be climber's wonderland. Michael Moebes, who blogs at Dadcation.com , booked a private full-day lesson with the Yosemite Mountaineering School & Guide Service for his family of five. (Kids need to be 12 years old for group lessons, but there are no age restrictions for private ones.) Even Moebes's 9-year-old was able to climb Munginella, near Yosemite Falls, for a great view of Half Dome.

12. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Great for kids who : Love to go glamping

Under Canvas glamping resorts have popped up at more than a half dozen national parks, but the one here is the dreamiest of all since it's surrounded by a forest. The canvas tents have housekeeping services, a toilet, a shower, and a wood stove. You can book one with an "adjacent hive," a separate area with twin beds for kids. "After hiking 10 miles to see so many of the park's waterfalls, it felt great to come back here to sleep," says Moebes.

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The 51 Best Vacations for Kids in the U.S. for 2024

From national parks to amusement parks and everything in between.

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Traveling with children can be a challenge, especially when it comes to deciding where to go next and what to do there. But whether you’re in search of a camping adventure or a thrilling amusement park , there are plenty of places right here in the U.S. perfect for your next family trip —many of which are easily accessible by car.

But keep in mind that booking early is important as there is a surge of vacation-hungry travelers hoping to enjoy the summer as much as you are (be especially prepared with rental cars and flights). We’re all ready for a little travel, whether it’s one hour away or straight across the country, and the more thoroughly you plan the trip, the more enjoyable it will be for the whole fam.

From camping in national parks to exploring cities like Boston and San Francisco, here are the best vacation ideas for kids of all ages right here in the U.S. for 2024.

The 7 Best Places to Travel in July

Best for All Ages

1. Chicago, Illinois

• Why We Recommend It: Lively, family-friendly, scenic
• Pro Tip: Visit in the spring or fall to avoid the crowds (and the cold)
• Where to Stay: Omni Chicago Hotel , Four Seasons Hotel Chicago

Climb aboard an actual submarine at the Museum of Science and Industry , gawk at the underwater beauty at the Shedd Aquarium and try to count how many dots make up George Seurat’s iconic A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte at the Art Institute. Chicago can be done in all types of weather (ask the locals), but summer means comfortable walks through the free Lincoln Park Zoo and beachside lounging on Lake Michigan’s Oak Street Beach. Grab a room at one of the recommended places above for a family-friendly stay that caters to kids and offers close proximity to all the big city action.

2. San Francisco, California

• Why We Recommend It: lots to do, good for all ages, adjacent to nature
• Pro Tip: visit during the fall when it’s unexpectedly sunny and warm
• Where to Stay: Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square , Radiant Home Near Ocean Beach

Explore California’s northern city with young kids or teens, enjoying the museums, amazing restaurants and ferry boats, which can take you to Sausalito or Alcatraz, depending on your mood. Spend an afternoon at the Exploratorium at Pier 15, an interactive museum that replicates tornadoes and earthquakes. For a splurge, stay at the Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square , which gets you up close and personal with the Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory.

3. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

• Why We Recommend It: beachy, fun, can be all-inclusive
• Pro Tip: take a day trip to Kualoa Ranch, where Jurassic Park was filmed
• Where to Stay: Oceanfront Condo in Paradise , Grand Waikikian by Hilton Grand Vacations Club

If the beach isn’t enough of a draw, Waikiki, a boisterous strip of Honolulu, has tons to see and do, from a lively zoo to hula shows. Nearly every hotel in the area is welcoming to kids and there are some great vacation rentals, too, but the Grand Waikikian by Hilton Grand Vacations Club is a good bet for families who want a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Plus, there are five pools and a kid’s club. Not too shabby. Nearby, visitors can ascend the Diamond Head Crater or pay a visit to the museum at Pearl Harbor.

4. Florida Space Coast

• Why We Recommend It: unique, beachy, nice weather
• Pro Tip: plan your trip around a rocket launch, which can be viewed from multiple spots along the coast
• Where to Stay: Four Points by Sheraton on Cocoa Beach , Salt Life Oasis

The area surrounding the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station makes for an engaging family vacation, with beaches, rocket launches and several towns to explore. There are tons of vacation rentals and condos available, but if you prefer a hotel check out the Four Points by Sheraton on Cocoa Beach , which is a short drive to all of the nearby attractions.

5. Virginia Beach, Virginia

• Why We Recommend It: outdoorsy, laid-back, beachy
• Pro Tip: late May and early September are great times to visit if you want to avoid crowds
• Where to Stay: Holiday Inn & Suites North Beach , The Seaglass Cottage

Virginia Beach welcomes visitors to its sandy shores with a top-notch boardwalk, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and the Ocean Breeze Waterpark . Keep the kids happy at the Holiday Inn & Suites North Beach , which boasts three pools, a lazy river and nautical-themed guest rooms (with kitchenettes), or opt for a more private stay at a cozy vacation rental.

6. Boulder, Colorado

• Why We Recommend It: outdoorsy, scenic, good for all ages
• Pro Tip: pair your trip to Boulder with a visit to Estes Park, located a short drive away
• Where to Stay: The Boulder Marriott , A-Lodge Boulder

Nature lovers will find access to hiking, kayaking and biking in Boulder , a picturesque town at the foot of the Rockies with a pedestrian mall and lots of parks and playgrounds. The Boulder Marriott is a good bet for travelers who want to keep things central and easy, but if you want a bit more adventure, the A-Lodge Boulder has an outdoor pool, film screenings and group hikes to accompany its creek-side cabins.

7. St. Louis, Missouri

• Why We Recommend It: lots to do, can be budget-friendly, lively
• Pro Tip: visit between May and September, when the weather is nice and there is more to do outside
• Where to Stay: Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch , The Urban Refuge

St. Louis has the kid essentials of any good city—the Saint Louis Zoo , the Saint Louis Science Center, the Magic House children’s museum—but it’s also got a slew of things for parents, from great restaurants to a buzzy night scene. Get up close to the famous arch at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch , a hotel that’s also super close to Busch Stadium and Gateway Mall.

8. Portland, Maine

• Why We Recommend It: culinary scene, lots to do, good for older kids
• Pro Tip: expand your vacation with a road trip along Maine’s coast
• Where to Stay: The Press Hotel , Cornelia Waterfront Penthouse

Get away from the daily stress in Portland, a historic city filled with lighthouses, beaches and a chic West End area, as well as a children’s museum and horse-drawn carriage rides. Don’t hesitate to book The Press Hotel , a chic property located in the former Portland Press Herald offices. For dinner, stop into OTTO, a local pizzeria with unique toppings.

9. The Hamptons, New York

• Why We Recommend It: laid-back, beachy, bucket list
• Pro Tip: if you prefer not to rent a car, the Hampton Jitney delivers visitors to several destinations daily
• Where to Stay: Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa , Tranquility at the Water’s Edge

The posh set heads to the Hamptons every summer, renting massive beach houses and dining in pricey seafood restaurants, but family-friendly areas like Montauk and Southampton aren’t just for the rich and famous. Book into a vacation rental or opt for a hotel, like Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa , which welcomes kids.

10. Highway 1, California

• Why We Recommend It: adventurous, fun, easy to plan
• Pro Tip: ff the kids can’t make it long distances in the car, plan outings inland along the way
• Where to Stay: Carmel River Inn , Hotel Carmel

Take a road trip along Highway 1 , a coastal road that journeys from San Diego to Big Sur, stopping in spots like Santa Barbara and Carmel along the way. Pismo Beach makes for a scenic pit stop, especially for beach lovers, but it’s Carmel where you should stay the night. Try the Carmel River Inn or Hotel Carmel , both boutique properties walking distance from the ocean. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is also a must-do for animal lovers.

11. Seattle, Washington

• Why We Recommend It: sightseeing, culinary scene, urban adventure
• Pro Tip: plan your itinerary ahead so you can see the city and the nearby natural attractions, like Mount Rainier.
• Where to Stay: The Kimpton Palladian Hotel , Homewood Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown

If the Space Needle isn’t enough to get your kids excited for Seattle , the Seattle Aquarium, the Woodland Park Zoo and the Pike Place Market’s fish throwers should do the trick. The Kimpton Palladian Hotel has a great location downtown with options of connecting rooms and rollaway beds, or you can opt to save some money at the Homewood Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown , which includes breakfast and two separate bedrooms in all the guest suites.

12. Nashville, Tennessee

• Why We Recommend It: lively, culinary scene, great music
• Pro Tip: book concert tickets in advance, especially if you plan to bring along the kids
• Where to Stay: Omni Nashville , Cambria Hotel Nashville Downtown

Music is the thing in Nashville , a thriving city with the top-notch Adventure Science Center, a great kids’ theater and the ever-popular Treetop Adventure Park. Be sure to take in a country show at the famed Ryman Auditorium. Downtown is the best place to stay with kids, so look for the Omni Nashville or the Cambria Hotel Nashville Downtown . Oh, and be sure to grab barbecue at Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint.

13. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

• Why We Recommend It: beachy, easy to plan, good for older generations
• Pro Tip: plan in advance as Myrtle Beach can be very popular during the summer and over holidays
• Where to Stay: Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes , Dunes Village Resort

The upbeat beach town of Myrtle Beach is known for its vibrant boardwalk and arcades and beautiful coastline, which is best enjoyed from one of the local resorts or vacation rentals. Kids will love the water sport options, from kayaking to swimming, and parents will appreciate the laid-back atmosphere. Book a room at the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes , which boasts seaside access and great amenities.

14. Boston, Massachusetts

• Why We Recommend It: lots to do, historic, good for all ages
• Pro Tip: summer brings nice weather, but fall is an especially scenic time to enjoy New England
• Where to Stay: Boston Marriott Long Wharf , Harvard Square Home

Head to New England for amazing seasons and lots to do in Boston, a city with museums, parks, the Freedom Trail and, of course, great seafood. The Boston Children’s Museum is also a good bet, especially when visiting during the freezing cold winter. The Boston Marriott Long Wharf sets you up with easy access to all sites, including the impressive New England Aquarium. If you need a little more space and quiet, drive out of the city to one of Cape Cod’s picturesque beaches.

15. Indianapolis, Indiana

• Why We Recommend It: lots to do, good for all ages, budget-friendly
• Pro Tip: rent bikes to navigate the city, which doesn’t offer much public transportation
• Where to Stay: Conrad Indianapolis , Black Barn Indy

You’ll never run out of activities in the thriving metropolitan area of Indianapolis, with the Indianapolis Zoo , the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis (the largest in the world) and Corner Prairie , a massive outdoor, interactive museum. The centrally-located Conrad Indianapolis notoriously caters to small travelers, and the property is connected to the Circle Center Mall, making it perfect for grabbing a snack—or bribing the kids with a new toy.

Best for Kids Under Age 10

16. Outer Banks, North Carolina

• Why We Recommend It: laid-back, beachy, good for older generations
• Pro Tip: rent your beach house as early as possible to get the best choice
• Where to Stay: Pelican’s Paradise , Home in Salvo Outer Banks

Rent a vacation house along the shore in the Outer Banks, a group of barrier islands with picturesque stretches of sand, charming towns and numerous activities for kids. Don’t miss Jockey’s Ridge State Park , which boasts the East Coast’s highest sand dune, and the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island. This is a great pick for families who want to avoid crowds.

17. San Diego, California

• Why We Recommend It: nice weather, family-friendly, lots to do
• Pro Tip: For a nearby hike, check out Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
• Where to Stay: Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa , Luxury Oceanfront Condo

Who can say no to the number one zoo in the world? Yep, from the  San Diego Zoo  to SeaWorld to Sesame Place San Diego to family-friendly resorts,  San Diego  has a lot to offer young travelers. Not to mention the weather is always on point, which makes wandering through the hip Gaslamp District especially appealing. Stay at the  Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa , located along the water and equipped with an inviting outdoor pool or book one of the many beachfront vacation rentals for a homier stay.

18. Sesame Place, Pennsylvania

• Why We Recommend It: good for younger kids, easy to plan, fun
• Pro Tip: download the park’s free app to keep track of wait times and buy add-ons
• Where to Stay: Courtyard by Marriott , Radisson Hotel Philadelphia Northeast

Young travelers will love Sesame Place , a theme and water park located in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, where favorite Sesame Street characters are the basis of every activity. The town itself is not super chic, but hotels like the Courtyard by Marriott and the Radisson Hotel Philadelphia Northeast welcome all Sesame Street fans (and are official partners with the theme park).

19. Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

• Why We Recommend It: historic, unique, good for older kids
• Pro Tip: this can be a good add-on to a longer trip to Washington, D.C. or Virginia Beach
• Where to Stay: Williamsburg Lodge , Guest Suite in Williamsburg

Jump back in time to 18th-century Virginia, where visitors can explore historical shops and homes and learn about trades like glass-blowing and blacksmithing. Get in on the old time vibe at the Williamsburg Lodge , a four-star hotel set in a Colonial-era mansion (with a much more modern swimming pool). And once you’ve done the Colonial thing, families will be pleased to know that Busch Gardens is another nearby attraction that serves up modern-day thrills.

20. Hershey, Pennsylvania

• Where to Stay: Hersheypark Camping Resort , Lothlorien Tree House

Travel to the home of Hersheypark , a massive amusement park dedicated to chocolate, where visitors will also find the kid-friendly ZooAmerica and Hershey Gardens . The town of Hershey, known as “the sweetest place on Earth,” has some neighboring towns with lovely vacation rentals, as well as the Hersheypark Camping Resort , where families can bunk up together in a log cabin.

21. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

• Why We Recommend It: fun, good for all ages, family-friendly
• Pro Tip: don’t miss one of the scenic boat trips around the Dells
• Where to Stay: Great Wolf Lodge , Chula Vista Resort

Family vacations are the thing in Wisconsin Dells, a city with numerous theme parks and waterparks, including Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park , Chula Vista Resort or the “best and largest waterpark in the Dells,” Noah’s Ark. Stay in the popular Great Wolf Lodge , an indoor waterpark resort with tons of activities, shopping and dining options—and, of course, waterslides.

22. Dinosaur Valley State Park, Texas

• Why We Recommend It: outdoorsy, fun, good for all ages
• Pro Tip: visit during the winter for less crowds or during the spring for the best weather
• Where to Stay: Trails Edge Lake House , Farm House in Glen Rose

There’s no greater moment than stepping into an actual dinosaur footprint, one of the many activities you can seek out in Dinosaur Valley State Park , located outside Fort Worth, which also boasts the memorable amusement park Dinosaur World. You could find a nearby hotel or vacation rental, but the park’s campgrounds are a better way to immerse the family in the area if you don’t mind roughing it a little. Reserve a campsite ahead of time online, looking for one with electricity and showers if needed.

23. Huntsville, Alabama

• Why We Recommend It: good for all ages, less crowded, lots to do
• Pro Tip: the Huntsville Attractions Pass offers discounted rates for local attractions
• Where to Stay: Hampton Inn Huntsville , Peaceful Treehouse

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is the main draw for kids in Huntsville, but the Alabama city is also home to the Huntsville Botanical Garden, the EarlyWorks Children's History Museum and the Altitude Trampoline Park. Book a room at the budget-friendly Hampton Inn Huntsville , which has a playground, an indoor pool and a location that’s walking distance from several restaurants.

24. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

• Why We Recommend It: adventurous, good for all ages, outdoorsy
• Pro Tip: if you plan on camping, book your campsites in advance
• Where to Stay: The Lodge at Mammoth Cave , The Birdhouse Treehouse

Venture inside real-life caves in Mammoth Cave National Park, which boasts the longest known cave system in the world. There’s also boating, hiking and a place called Dinosaur World, which you’ll obviously need to visit. Keep the outdoor spirit at The Lodge at Mammoth Cave , which has nice picnic areas and is walking distance from the park entrance.

25. Legoland Florida Resort, Florida

• Why We Recommend It: family-friendly, easy to plan, good for all ages
• Pro Tip: bring a change of clothes for the kids as they will likely get wet in the theme park
• Where to Stay: LEGOLAND Florida Resort , Tiny Lego Home

Enjoy the theme park and water park attractions at LEGOLAND’s Florida outpost , a massive resort with three colorful, themed hotels. Select the LEGOLAND Beach Retreat , which has colorful bungalows and an outdoor pool. The area of Winter Haven is also less than 30 miles from Walt Disney World, which means you can hit two theme parks in one magic-filled vacation.

Best for Tweens

26. Orlando, Florida

• Why We Recommend It: Convenient, family-friendly, bucket list
• Pro Tip: Use an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner to book your trip (it won’t cost you anything)
• Where to Stay: Orlando World Center Marriott , JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes

The home of the happiest place on Earth really is worth it for a memorable family vacation—especially since Disney World has expanded with Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Universal Studios is serving up an immersive Harry Potter experience that will make fans of the franchise weak in the knees. If you want to be a little savvy, stay “off-campus” at one of our favorite nearby Marriott resorts , which have so much on offer (mermaids lounging by the pool, water slides, face painting events and more) that you might decide you don’t even need the theme park experience at all. If you do hit the parks, though, be sure to avail yourself of speed passes, like the Disney Genie+ service, which allow groups to bypass the lines and families to get more bang for their buck.

27. San Antonio, Texas

• Why We Recommend It: lots to do, good for all ages, less crowds
• Pro Tip: grab the Pogo Pass for entry into 35 attractions around San Antonio and Austin
• Where to Stay: JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa , Marriott Riverwalk

San Antonio  is a cultural hub that boasts historical sites, including the Alamo, and several theme parks, like Six Flags Fiesta and SeaWorld San Antonio. The renowned River Walk is a great place to explore the city’s serious, diverse food scene, and visitors can embed themselves right in the center of things at the  Marriott Riverwalk or enjoy the many kid-oriented amenities at the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort and Spa .

28. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

• Why We Recommend It: fun, outdoorsy, good for all ages
• Pro Tip: the park entrance fees will be cash-free from June 1, 2023
• Where to Stay:  Cabin in Estes Park , YMCA of the Rockies

Outdoorsy types will love Rocky Mountain National Park, a short drive from Denver , which has hiking, horseback riding, scenic drives and lots of wildlife viewing. Book into the YMCA of the Rockies in nearby Estes Park, which has everything from archery to arts and crafts. Plus, the cool cabins are great for family bonding. Due to current construction projects, Rocky Mountain National Park currently has a timed-entry system, where reservations will be required for visitors to the park in 2024.

29. Glenwood Springs, Colorado

• Why We Recommend It: outdoorsy, budget-friendly, adventurous
• Pro Tip: check out Iron Mountain Hot Springs as well as the main Glenwood pool
• Where to Stay: Hotel Glenwood Springs , Lucky 7teen Cozy Cottage

Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the small town of Glenwood Springs is home to a massive hot springs pool, whitewater rafting and the memorable Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park . Stay in the Hotel Glenwood Springs , which has an indoor waterpark and adjoining suites for larger families. Adventurous visitors should follow the trails to Hanging Lake, one of the area’s most popular hiking destinations.

30. Aulani Resort & Spa, Hawaii

• Why We Recommend It: lots to do, indulgent, bucket list
• Pro Tip: claim your poolside chairs as early in the day as possible
• Where to Stay: Disney’s Aulani Resort , Beachfront Bliss on Tropical Acreage

Slap the name Disney on it and you know the kids will go crazy, but Disney’s Aulani Resort is actually worth the splurge, with pools, activities and its own private beach. During your stay don’t miss character experiences with Mickey and Minnie, boat excursions around O’ahu and even family spa treatments, which mean you can relax alongside your kids.

31. The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter, California

• Why We Recommend It: good for all ages, bucket list, magical
• Pro Tip: purchase Universal Express passes to skip the lines
• Where to Stay: Sheraton Universal Hotel , The Garland

Universal Studios Hollywood is the gateway to Hogwarts, where kids and adults can sip on butterbeer, ride a Hippogriff-themed roller coaster and shop in Hogsmeade. Universal Studios also has tons of other attractions, like the WaterWorld Stunt Show and the relatively brand new Jurassic World: The Ride. If you’re visiting for a few days, snag a package deal with park passes and a stay at one of the nearby hotels.

32. Cooperstown, New York

• Why We Recommend It: historic, fun, sporty
• Pro Tip: parents will love the Cooperstown Beverage Trail, which hits several breweries
• Where to Stay: Otesaga Resort Hotel , Oaks Creek Cottage

Baseball fans should book a trip to Coopertown, home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum —as well as numerous other kid-appropriate attractions, like the Farmers’ Museum and the Fenimore Art Museum . For something extra special, stay at the incredible Otesaga Resort Hotel , which was built in 1909 and overlooks the picturesque Otsego Lake. Score your timed tickets to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum ahead of time online.

33. Lake Winnepesaukah, Georgia

• Why We Recommend It: Lots to do, scenic, can be budget-friendly
• Pro Tip: Visit in October to enjoy the park’s Halloween-themed events and activities
• Where to Stay: The Read House , Gamekeeper Hut

Lake Winnepesaukah , called “Lake Winnie” by those in the know, is one of the U.S.’s best amusement parks, featuring rides, games, a waterpark and lots of picnic spots for a lunch break. There are plenty of chain hotels and eateries located near the park, both in Georgia and neighboring Tennessee. For something more historic, The Read House in Chattanooga is a charming hotel near the Tennessee Riverwalk and the Tennessee Aquarium.

34. Cedar Point, Ohio

• Why We Recommend It: easy to plan, family-friendly, fun
• Pro Tip: Cedar Point is open daily during the summers, but has limited opening hours the rest of the year
• Where to Stay: Lighthouse Point , Our Happy Place

Known as the “coaster capital of the world,” Cedar Point is where you go for some serious thrills—and, potentially, for a memorable family vacation. The location on Lake Erie offers the possibility for boating, swimming and fishing, and Castaway Bay is a nearby indoor waterpark with a tropical theme. Book a cabin at Lighthouse Point , a lakefront site with an outdoor pool and early daily access to Cedar Point.

35. Mackinac Island, Michigan

• Why We Recommend It: scenic, historic, good for older generations
• Pro Tip: wear comfortable shoes as the island requires a lot of walking (some of it uphill)
• Where to Stay: Grand Hotel , Bicycle Street Inn and Suites

Located in Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is a charming destination with historic Fort Mackinac, Victorian-style shops and hotels and no cars, so you can travel by horse and buggy or bike. The historic Grand Hotel is the obvious choice when staying on the island, especially if you have kids who like to dress up for afternoon tea, however the Bicycle Street Inn and Suites is better for those on a budget (and it has fridges and microwaves in the rooms). Note that visitors need to take a ferry to access Mackinac Island, but it’s an enjoyable ride.

36. Joshua Tree National Park, California

• Why We Recommend It: outdoorsy, peaceful, budget-friendly
• Pro Tip: preload your map or bring a paper one as cell service can be spotty
• Where to Stay: La Cave , Joshua Tree Getaway

Camp under the stars in Joshua Tree National Park, located not far from Palm Springs , where the Mojave and the Colorado deserts meet in an unearthly landscape. Be sure to stop by Pioneertown, a historical Western town with a restaurant and music venue called Pappy and Harriet’s. Enjoy the sunrise at the Jumbo Rocks Campground , known for its scenic rock formations. Jumbo Rocks requires reservations during its busy season, which runs from September through May.

Best for Teens

37. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana & Idaho

• Why We Recommend It: outdoorsy, budget-friendly, fun
• Pro Tip: Buy an annual National Parks Pass if you plan to visit multiple parks this year
• Where to Stay: New Rustic Mountain Retreat , Bison Creek Lodge

Home to legendary geyser Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park is an ideal spot for camping, hiking, fishing and just getting away from it all for some quality family time. Camp out at the Mammoth campsites, located near Mammoth Hot Springs, where RVs and tents are welcome or enjoy a cushier stay at one of the recommended vacation rentals that provide easy access to the park.

38. New York City, New York

• Why We Recommend It: lots to do, lively, good for all ages
• Pro Tip: learn to navigate the subway, which is a great way to save on taxis
• Where to Stay: Fun-themed Family Duplex , Beautiful Redone 6-Bedroom Brooklyn Oasis

The Empire State Building, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, the Met and the awe of seeing your very first Broadway show—need we say more? For a great bonus adventure for visitors staying in Brooklyn, the Botanical Gardens, Prospect Park Zoo and Brooklyn Children’s Museum should not be missed. It’s worth planning way ahead when it comes to scoring Broadway tickets, especially if you’re coveting the front row at  Hamilton .

39. Miami Beach, Florida

• Why We Recommend It: beachy, nice weather, laid-back
• Pro Tip: Book a beachfront hotel to make the most of the location
• Where to Stay: Loews Miami Beach Hotel , 1 South Beach

Miami Beach is way more than just beaches, from an Everglades airboat tour at Sawgrass Recreation Park to graffiti touring at the Wynwood Walls to the Miami Children's Museum , and the cool hotels are appealing to parents who want more than the usual resort. The Loews Miami Beach Hotel has tons of kid-related amenities, including a kids club, and the 1 South Beach is a hip spot with daytime activities for young ones.

40. Sanibel Island, Florida

• Why We Recommend It: laid-back, less crowds, scenic
• Pro Tip: visit between December and April when there is less rain
• Where to Stay: Luxury Island Home , The Turquoise Turtle

This small, relaxed island off the coast of Florida is notably family-friendly, with great places to stay, scenic beaches and tons of outdoor activities, like biking, fishing and boating. If it rains, head to the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum , which has activities for young visitors. The hotels on the island tend to be minimal, so look into a beach cottage rental instead.

41. Black Hills, South Dakota

• Why We Recommend It: outdoorsy, budget-friendly, low-key
• Pro Tip: if you prefer not to drive from home, fly into Rapid City Regional Airport and rent a car there
• Where to Stay: Under Canvas Mount Rushmore , Bluebird Retreat

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a bucket list sight, and the Black Hills have a plethora of other things to see and do, from Custer State Park to Devils Tower National Monument. Plus, amazing camping, which you can do at Under Canvas Mount Rushmore , a glamping site perfect for those who don’t want to truly rough it.

42. Grand Canyon National Park

• Why We Recommend It: outdoorsy, good for older kids, bucket list
• Pro Tip: don’t miss Bright Angel Point Trail, one of the most popular hiking trails
• Where to Stay: Maswik Lodge , Sunset Ridge Log Cabin

Grand Canyon National Park offers a Junior Ranger program for young visitors, as well as biking and hiking trails, a geology museum and river rafting (for teens). Camping is the best way to experience the park—look for the North Rim campground—or book a room at the Maswik Lodge , a rustic hotel not far from the canyon’s edge. Note that a few of the park entrances remain closed, so check online ahead of your visit for any updates.

43. Blue Ridge Parkway

• Why We Recommend It: laid-back, outdoorsy, budget-friendly
• Pro Tip: extend your vacation with a road trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway
• Where to Stay: Spacious Skies Bear Den , Modern Alpaca Farm Stay

Experience the great outdoors by hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains or rafting down the Chattooga River, all in an area that’s perfect for families with kids of any age. Settle down for the night at the Spacious Skies Bear Den , which has campsites and cabins that cater to both young and old travelers.

44. Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska

• Why We Recommend It: outdoorsy, scenic, bucket list
• Pro Tip: koin one of the ranger programs in the park, which include sled-dog demos
• Where to Stay: Riley Creek Campground , Denali Bear Cabin

Older kids will love the vast stretches of wilderness in Alaska’s Denali National Park and Preserve, an area that welcomes travelers from May to September to hike, spot wildlife and camp. It’s camping only in these parts, but  Riley Creek Campground  has good amenities and access to the main road (it’s recommended to reserve campsites in advance). There is a small fee to enter Denali National Park and Preserve, which you can  pay ahead of time  online.

45. Arches National Park, Utah

• Why We Recommend It: outdoorsy, fun, good for older kids
• Pro Tip: temperatures in mid-summer can be above 100, so visit during the spring or fall for the best weather
• Where to Stay: Red Cliffs Lodge , Moab Glamping Luxury Tent

The brilliant red landscape of Arches National Park is a memorable spot for any traveler, but especially for those who enjoy camping, rock climbing and bouldering and exploring endless hiking trails through the rocky vistas. Moab features a range of accommodations, from campgrounds to chic hotels, so it’s really a matter of preference where to stay. For something really scenic head to Red Cliffs Lodge , a Western-inspired property right on the Colorado River. When visiting Arches National Park during busy summer periods, arrive as early as possible since trailhead parking lots can fill up quickly.

46. Williams, Arizona

• Why We Recommend It: wildlife, scenic, adventurous
• Pro Tip: The animals at Bearizona are more active in the mornings, so arrive early
• Where to Stay: Under Canvas Grand Canyon , Cobalt Cabin

Drive through Bearizona Wildlife Park in Williams, where visitors can spot animals like wolves, bears and bison. Bonus: Williams is on historic Route 66, which leads you right into Grand Canyon National Park. The hotels around Williams are rustic, to say the least, but Under Canvas Grand Canyon boasts amazing glamping tents with far better amenities than some of the local motels and there are cozy vacation rentals aplenty.

47. Niagara Falls, New York

• Why We Recommend It: lots to do, good for all ages, bucket list
• Pro Tip: plan to experience both sides of the Falls during your stay
• Where to Stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls , Doubletree Hilton

Head north to Niagara Falls, where your family will enjoy Fallsview Indoor Waterpark , a Hornblower boat cruise around the iconic falls and the Niagara Butterfly Conservatory. The Doubletree Hilton will keep kids happy with some indoor splashing fun, but is nice enough for adults to enjoy too. Across the border, be sure to check out Sheraton Niagara Falls .

48. Stowe, Vermont

• Why We Recommend It: outdoorsy, lots to do, good for all ages
• Pro Tip: come in the fall to enjoy the colorful trees (as well as less crowds)
• Where to Stay: The Lodge at Spruce Peak , Two Bedroom Trapp Villa

Stowe, known for its ski resort, is best in the winter, but the small town is also great for adventurous travelers in the warmer months, with hiking, fishing and kayaking at the ready. Family lodging is available throughout Stowe Stowe and The Lodge at Spruce Peak is a favorite amongst travelers thanks to the full kitchens in each room and the ski-in/ski-out location. It also has its own ski school, in case you want to ditch the kids for a morning on the slopes.

49. Yosemite National Park, California

• Why We Recommend It: adventurous, budget-friendly, scenic
• Pro Tip: Yosemite welcomes travelers all year, so plan your visit according to what you want to do
• Where to Stay: Apex Yosemite East Modern Duplex , Housekeeping Camp

The scenery alone should draw you to Yosemite National Park, which is nestled in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, but it’s the wealth of things to do that make it an ideal vacation, even if your family isn’t that into camping. Of course, if you are willing to rough it, Housekeeping Camp features pre-built tents with electricity and running water, and each can sleep up to six. Day visitors need a ticketed reservation to enter Yosemite National Park, which can be made online , while overnight guests will need to show a hotel or campground reservation when they head in.

50. Las Vegas, Nevada

• Why We Recommend It: lively, lots to do, unexpected for kids
• Pro Tip: skip the rental car and take the Las Vegas Monorail or quick Uber rides
• Where to Stay: Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel , Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino

Sin City isn’t just for grown-ups with Cirque du Soleil, the Big Apple Coaster and Adventuredome Theme Park. There are numerous bargain-friendly hotel rates to be had, especially at the fun-loving Circus Circus and Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino (which has its own aquarium). Don’t forget to visit the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat, obviously located in the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel .

51. Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon

• Why We Recommend It: outdoorsy, quiet, good for all ages
• Pro Tip: prepare for all types of weather, even during the summer months
• Where to Stay: Magnolia Pine , North Cascades Haven

The scenic Columbia River runs through the Pacific Northwest, creating a beautiful expanse of mountains and waterfalls, perfect for a holiday trip away from crowds. There are tons of great campgrounds dotted along the river, so it’s easy to find a place to stay the night in the midst of the wilderness. Many of the campgrounds, like leafy Eagle Creek , can be booked in advance online.

22 Kid-Friendly Airbnbs to Rent for Your Next Family Vacation

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7 Best Vacations for Hard-to-Please Tweens

Sep 17, 2018

See recent posts by Karon Warren

Planning a vacation that appeals to tweens can be a tricky proposition. After all, they’re too old for petting zoos, character appearances and kiddie rides, but aren’t quite old enough for a road trip with friends. In fact, it can be quite difficult finding that trip sweet spot: a vacation that gets your tween excited to hit the road with the family. However, all is not lost; in fact, there are many great vacations that will appeal to tweens the world over. These are the best vacations for tweens.

1. Head to a Dude Ranch

Living life as a cowboy may not sound like a great vacation for tweens, but Kirsten Maxwell of Kids Are a Trip says otherwise. “A dude ranch is the perfect place for families to have an unplugged vacation,” she says. “Tweens will love the variety of activities at any dude ranch, from hiking to horseback riding to fishing. There are usually other kids as well, which means they don’t have to spend all their time with parents. That little bit of independence offered by a dude ranch vacation is something all tweens (and parents) will appreciate.”

Related: 15 Best Dude Ranches for Families

2. Spend Time in the Keys

Key West, Florida, generally is known for Ernest Hemingway’s cat-filled home, key lime pie and pirates galore, none of which may sound appealing to tweens. However, this popular island destination also offers many family-friendly activities tweens will like. “I think a 10- or 11-year-old would enjoy all [of Key West’s] activities, especially things like the turtle hospital, aquarium and snorkeling,” says Kath Race of familyTravelsUSA . “I was pleasantly surprised at all the kid-friendly stuff in Key West.”

Recommended Hotel: Parrot Key Hotel & Villas

3. Go to a Water Park Resort

With an indoor water park plus an indoor adventure park overflowing with activities, Great Wolf Lodge most definitely appeals to tweens. “I liked that everyone could do their own thing, and there was so much do and eat onsite that we didn’t have to leave for a couple days,” says Kim Ritter of Two Kids and a Coupon . “My adventurer did the waterslides, my gamer did the quests and, because we didn’t have to drive, mom and dad could even have a cocktail or two.”

Related: 10 Best Indoor Water Park Resorts for Families

4. Head to Clearwater, FL

It’s no secret that most tweens love hanging out at the beach, but parents may be surprised to learn that Clearwater , Florida, is a fun, family-friendly destination that easily rivals many of the Sunshine State’s other popular beach destinations. “Traveling with a tween can be fun, but tricky at the same time, especially when on a budget,” says Karyn Locke of Sand and Snow . “One of my favorite places in Florida is Clearwater Beach for its family-friendly atmosphere and freebies!” Those freebies include a multitude of festivals, a nature preserve and, of course, time on the beach.

Recommended Hotel: Opal Sands Resort

5. Visit a National Park

Our country’s national parks are easily one of its greatest treasures, some that make for the best vacations for tweens. “I think national parks are ideal for tweens,” says Eileen Gunn of FamiliesGo . “They are old enough to handle longer hikes, kayaking and other more adventurous things. They aren’t going to go running off a cliff like a toddler might so you can give them some freedom. And they are into the ranger talks and walks and can really absorb and learn from them. Aside from places where they are concerned about habitat protection, the parks are pretty laidback about letting kids go where they want to and climb what they want to and my 10-year-old really loves that.”

Related:   9 U.S. National Parks Kids Should See Before They Grow Up

6. Go Beyond the Big Cities

Many larger cities offer a lot for tweens on vacation, but don’t overlook the smaller cities located nearby. For instance, just two hours northeast of Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Indiana , is full of sites and attractions tweens will enjoy. “My tween and I did a mommy/daughter trip and had so much fun in Fort Wayne,” says Debra Muccio of Finding Debra . “So much to do, I was impressed and, best of all, so was she!” Think sports, culture, animals, science and so much more.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Fort Wayne

Related:   12 Small-Town Getaways Your Kids Will Actually Enjoy

7. Don’t Overlook Disney

While many tweens may no longer be interested in character appearances and princess autographs, that doesn’t mean you should rule out all things Disney. In fact, Jodi Grundig of Family Travel Magazine recommends taking a Disney cruise , which offers a different experience for tweens than what they normally experience at a theme park. Because you’re sailing on a cruise ship, tweens can experience a lot of autonomy, which is good for burgeoning teenagers. Plus, Grundig says, “Mine always love the kids’ club.”

Related: 10 Best Cruise Ships for Teens

What to Pack

Boy’s outfit for hanging out by the beach in the fall, shop the look.

Long Sleeve Button Up Shirt

Brixton Twill Pants

Snapback Hat

Radot Graphic T-Shirt

Girl’s Outfit for Hanging Out by the Beach in the Fall

Cuffed Ribbed Sweater

Stretch Denim Skinny Fit Pants

Stripe Button Front Cardigan

Glitter Heart Bag

Classic Lace High Shoes

Boys beach outfit for summer.

Swim Trunks

Girls Beach Outfit for Summer

Swim Coverup

Boy’s Camping Outfit

Galaxy Superbreak Backpack

Thermos Funtainer 12 Ounce Bottle

Fleece Crewneck Sweatshirt

Everyday Chino Shorts

Jr Alonisso 41 Sneakers

Girl’s camping outfit.

Mini Sleepy-Eyes Backpack

Big Long Sleeve Solid Cardigan

Glitter Best Dad Graphic Tee

Warrior Knee Joggers

Wicked Good Slippers

Boy’s outfit to wear in disney.

Mickey Mouse Laughing Tee

Linen Short

Mickey Mouse Ears Cap

Reach Kids Sunglasses

Crocband Disney Mickey Mouse Clog

Baby girl’s disney outfit.

Baby Sun Hat with UPF 50+

Minnie Romper

Mineral Sunscreen Lotion - SPF 50

Disney Stitch Plush

oft Sole Slip-On Shoes

For nearly 20 years, Karon Warren has traveled the globe, searching for adventure, unique personalities, and a new perspective on the world around us. When she has the opportunity, Karon brings her family—husband William and children Elizabeth and David—along for the experience. You can follow her on Instagram , Facebook , and at her blog, This Girl Travels .

Our team of parents and travel experts chooses each product and service we recommend. Anything you purchase through links on our site may earn us a commission.

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

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

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

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

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

Best types of trips with an infant

Travel challenges.

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

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

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

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

All-inclusive beach resort

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

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

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

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

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

Mountain cabin rental

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

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

Road trip to visit the grandparents

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

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

Advice from parents who've been there

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

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

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

Best trips to take with a toddler

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beach vacation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: Guide to flying with kids of every age

Best trips to take with a preschooler

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

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

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

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

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

Disney park

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

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

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

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

Ski vacation

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

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

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

Go on a cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best trips to take with elementary-age kids

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

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

Best types of trips

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

Dude ranch or glamping resort

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

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

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

Bahamas resort

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

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

International adventure

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

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

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

Best trips to take with tweens

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

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

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

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

Outdoor adventure

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

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

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

Universal Orlando Resort

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

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

Disney Cruise Line

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

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

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

Best trips to take with teens

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

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

New York City

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

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

California road trip

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

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

European adventure

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

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

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

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

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

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

All-inclusive resort

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

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

Multigenerational ski vacation

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

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

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

Traveling with kids of different ages

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

Adventures by Disney

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

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

Hawaiian resort

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

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

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

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

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

Bottom line

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

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

So, where to next?

• Last Updated On
• October 17, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

But you don’t have to worry.

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

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

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

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

Best Vacations For Toddlers Compared

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

Check out our list of the top destinations below.

Editor’s Choice

Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront

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

• list of criteria

#2nd Best Choice

Park Hyatt Vienna

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

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

#3rd Best Choice

Cedar Cove Resort & Cottages

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

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

Here are the top vacations for families with toddlers.

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

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

Ratings Criteria

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

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

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

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

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

2. Park Hyatt Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: Good Restaurants in San Diego

3. Cedar Cove Resort & Cottages

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

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

This resort offers a tranquil setting for a memorable vacation.

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

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

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

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

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

4. Four Seasons Chicago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Durham, New York

Durham, NY Open in Google Maps

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

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

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

Recommended Hotel: Best Western New Baltimore Inn

6. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended Hotel: WorldMark Lake of the Ozarks

7. Carlsbad, California

Carlsbad, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

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

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

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

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

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

8. Port Angeles, Washington

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended Hotel: Olympic Lodge

9. Langhorne, Pennsylvania

Langhorne, PA Visit Website Open in Google Maps

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

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

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

Recommended Hotel: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Philadelphia Langhorne

10. Orlando, Florida

Orlando, FL Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

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

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

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

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

Related: Restaurants in Orlando, Florida

Related: Best Disney Resorts for Toddlers

11. Williams, Arizona

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

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

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

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

Recommended Hotel: Red Garter Inn

12. Jeffersonville, Vermont

Jeffersonville, VT Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

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

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

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

Recommended Hotel: The Lodge at Spruce Peak

13. Chincoteague Island, Virginia

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

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

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

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

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

14. Traverse City, Michigan

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended Hotel: Bayshore Resort

15. Washington, D.C.

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

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

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

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

Recommended Hotel: Mandarin Oriental Washington DC

Related: Places to Eat: Washington DC

16. Captiva Island, Florida

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended Hotel: Captiva Breeze

17. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended Hotel: Margaritaville Island Inn

Vacationer’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How I Picked The Destinations 

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

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

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

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

Our Rating Method 

I rate these vacations based on the following criteria:

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

Frequently Asked Questions 

What do toddlers like to do on vacation.

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

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

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

Conclusion 

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

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

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

Honestly, that was genuinely thoughtful of them.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

49 Best Gifts for 18-Year-Olds That Are Actually Useful & Fun

Posted: March 19, 2024 | Last updated: March 19, 2024

There are so many important milestones in a young adult's life which means so many reasons to buy gifts for 18-year-olds. Along with their birthday, there are high school graduation gifts , presents for college students , prom accessories, and more.

While cash and gifts cards are always appreciated, some of the most thoughtful gift ideas will help them ease into adulthood. For example, elevate their beauty and grooming routines with luxury skin care sets or set them up for success in their first job with a tech gift like noise canceling earbuds. Or try a sentimental gift like a customized locket, so they can keep you close if they start to feel homesick. If they're a gamer, a mini fridge, LED lights, or controller will reassure them that you take their hobby seriously. If they're into fitness, adjustable dumbbells are portable enough to take into their dorm room in university. And a portable projector just might get you a few more family movie nights before they leave the nest. Even if you feel like you’ve spoiled them, there are plenty of options for the hard-to-shop person who has everything .

Below are the best gifts for teens that reflect a variety of interests and touch on practicality, plus a few fun viral picks they’ll love.

The best gifts for 18-year-olds, at a glance

• Best Overall : Frigidaire Gaming Light Up Mini Beverage Refrigerator , $45
• Best Sentimental Gift : Perimade Custom Engraving Photo Locket , $33
• Best Personalized Gift : MintedGiftShop Custom Dog's Tour Tee Shirt , $33
• Best Luxury Gift : Dyson Limited Edition Airwrap Multi Styler , $599
• Best Tech Gift : Kodak Mini Shot 2 Retro 4PASS 2-in-1 Instant Digital Camera , $120
• Best Fitness Gift : Feierdun Adjustable Dumbbells , $150
• Best Fashion Gift : Kate Spade New York Large Bleecker Leather Tote , $248
• Best Trending Gift : Hompow Bluetooth and Wifi Projector , $65
• Best Beauty Gift : Laneige Besties Set , $35

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KODAK Mini Shot 2 Retro 4PASS 2-in-1 Instant Digital Camera and Photo Printer

BACKBONE One Mobile Gaming Controller

Hompow Bluetooth and Wifi Projector

Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

Laneige Besties Set

Adidas Gazelle Sneaker

Crosley Radio Voyager Turntable

Ray-Ban RB3016 Clubmaster Square Sunglasses

Apple AirPods Pro

UGG Tazz Platform Slippers

Dyson Limited Edition Airwrap Multi Styler

Jaxxon Cuban Links Chain & Bracelet Set

Drunk Elephant The Littles Skincare Travel Set

Dalattin LED Strip Lights

Kate Spade New York Large Bleecker Leather Tote

Vekesen Tiktok Scrolling Ring Auto Clicker

Frigidaire Gaming Light Up Mini Beverage Refrigerator

The Original Birthdate Candles

Sol de Janeiro SOL Cheirosa '62 Eau de Parfum

FEIERDUN Adjustable Dumbbells

FP Movement Quilted Carryall

Zodiac Pendant Necklace

K’Lani Hair Tie Bracelets

Phlur Fragrance Discovery Set

ROSSIE Home Acacia Wood Easel Lap Desk with Storage

Customized Cufflinks

Skate Gear Retro Quad Design Roller Skates

Abercrombie & Fitch Essential Popover Hoodie

JW PEI Women's Gabbi Ruched Hobo Handbag

Dr. Martens Adrian Leather Tassel Loafer

PERIMADE Custom Engraving Photo Locket

Ninja Fit Compact Personal Blender

Round Mini Shoulder Bag

Manta Sleep Mask Light Blocking Eye Mask

G-Shock GM-110 Series Analog-Digital Watch, 49mm

Personalized Plush Robe

Maison Margiela Candle Set

iLikePar Cereal Bowl Candle

Smoko Beet Mochi Plushie

MintedGiftShop Custom Dog's Tour Tee Shirt

Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light

Birthstone Wishing Ball by Jill Henrietta Davis

Noasktt Never Grow Up Neon Sign

Eiifiter Colorful Flame Fire Diffuser Humidifier

Topicals Faded Under Eye Brightening & Clearing Eye Masks

Tangle Nightball Basketball

Almost Adulting: All You Need to Know to Get it Together (Sort Of) by Arden Rose

Moft Transformable Laptop Bag/Stand

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