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

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

Best Places to Visit on the East Coast With Young Kids

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

Philadelphia, PA

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Philadelphia with Kids

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

Lancaster, PA

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

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

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

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

Cape Cod, MA

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Cape Cod with Kids

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

New Hampshire

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in New Hampshire with Kids

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Vermont with Kids

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

Williamsburg, VA

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

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

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

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

Best Places to Visit in the South with Young Kids

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

Houston, TX

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Florida with Kids

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

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

Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg, TN

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

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

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

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

Atlanta, GA 

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

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

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

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

Best Places to Visit in the Midwest with Young Kids

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

Bloomington, MN

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Bloomington with Kids

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

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

Chicago, IL 

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Chicago with Kids

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

Wisconsin Dells, WI

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Wisconsin Dells with Kids

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

Branson, MO

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

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

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

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

Best Places to Visit in the Mountain States with Young Kids

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

Estes Park, CO

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Estes Park with Kids

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

Colorado Springs, CO

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Colorado Springs with Kids

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

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

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

San Diego, CA

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in San Diego with Kids

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

Los Angeles, CA

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

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

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

Seattle, WA

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Seattle with Kids

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Maui with Kids

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

Happy Travels!

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

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

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

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15 Best Places To Travel With a Baby in the US

Written by:

Barbara mighdoll.

Traveling with an infant can be challenging, but it’s well worth it. Even if they don’t remember the trips years from now, you will. You’ll remember the smiling, the bonding, and every special moment you shared. My husband and I have continued traveling since we’ve had kids, so both Willow and Caden have been avid travelers since they were infants. 

Though I don’t think you should shy away from international travel with infants , I know there are a lot of factors to consider when taking a vacation. Often, something U.S.-based makes more sense. To help you choose the perfect destination, I’ve compiled a list of the best places to travel in the United States with a baby. 

Here’s my list:

15 Best Places To Travel With an Infant in the US 

San diego, california .

San Diego is a great choice for U.S. travel with a baby. The city offers so much for families with babies and the mild weather is perfect for a sensitive newborn. Some of our favorite baby-friendly things to do in San Diego include walking stroller-friendly trails at Cabrillo National Monument , getting sun at the La Jolla Cove , exploring the San Diego Botanic Garden , and shopping at the Westfield UTC Shopping Center . (The mall has private nursing areas, family restrooms, and a family lounge.) 

Of course, you can’t go to San Diego without visiting the San Diego Zoo ! However, it’s also a lot of fun to visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park with a baby if you’re not up for all the walking.   

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is our hometown, so it’s not a place we “visit.” However, we’ve brought up 2 babies here, and we think it’s a great destination for a baby. Storytime at local libraries, baby yoga at Jane Austin Yoga , the Ferry Building Farmer's Market, stroller walks along Crissy Beach, and outdoor fun at one of San Francisco's many public parks are just some of our favorite things to do. 

Consider also doing a night away in Napa while you're at it, it's surprisingly baby friendly. I even have a full list of things to do as a family .

We also think San Francisco is perfect for families with infants because it’s a relatively small city with only a 7-square-mile radius. That means you can get to everything pretty quickly no matter where you’re staying in the city! (We recommend the Hyatt Regency or the Hotel Fairmont Heritage Place because they have big rooms, great locations, and babysitting services.) 

Savannah, Georgia 

Savannah, the right time of year, is great for babies. (I’d avoid the peaks of summer when it’s very hot and humid.) Take the stroller along the river, enjoy a trolley tour, explore street art in the Starland District , take a riverboat cruise , or spend time at Tybee Island beach with your infant. These things are all stimulating for baby while being enjoyable for mom and dad too. 

For accommodations, we usually recommend staying in more homey places when traveling with an infant. The extra amenities of a rental house like full kitchens and separate bedrooms are really helpful when caring for a baby on vacation. Luckily, Savannah has lots of baby-friendly Airbnbs. If you go the hotel route, consider finding one with similar benefits. 

Orlando, Florida

Of course, Disney World is in Orlando, and I’ll say it is a fun place to visit, even with a baby. However, I know many people wouldn’t want to deal with the hassle if they don’t have a toddler or older child to fully appreciate the experience. Orlando has plenty of other infant-friendly things to do! 

We love Lake Eola Park’s walking paths, swans, and fountain light shows, and we’re always sure to stop by the Orlando Aquarium and the Leu Gardens . Plus, if you want an easy vacation, Orlando is full of all-inclusive family-friendly resorts. 

Aspen, Colorado

If you’re looking for a middle-America option, Aspen is a great spot for infants. First of all, Aspen is pretty small and designed with visitors in mind. That means you can stroller walk almost anywhere, which makes navigating to restaurants, shopping areas, and excursions much less of a hassle. 

Though baby won’t be skiing with you, there are plenty of ways for an infant to enjoy the scenery. You can go on scenic enclosed ski lift rides , take a horse-drawn sleigh , or go snowshoeing with your infant in their baby carrier. Before you go, just consider the challenges of dressing your baby for the weather and keeping them hydrated with the altitude changes. 

Omaha, Nebraska 

This may not have been on your list, but if you live in the midwest and are looking for a road trip , Omaha offers more than you think in terms of a little family getaway. Since Omaha is right in the middle of the country, it’s roadtrip-able from almost anywhere, which is a pro if you’re worried about flying with an infant. (Though you shouldn’t be, here’s my post on flying with a baby.) 

Omaha’s premier attraction is The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium , which often goes toe-to-toe with the San Diego Zoo as “the best zoo in the world.” The zoo is massive and it’s not really even feasible to visit all in one day, but it’s extremely stroller-friendly and the wide paths and large facility mean that even on busy zoo days, it’s not that crowded. Also, if you’re worried about volatile Midwest weather, you’ll be happy to hear that many of the exhibits are indoors, including the rainforest, “Desert Dome,” swamplands, butterfly enclosure, and aquarium. 

Other things to do in Omaha with an infant include walking Lauritzen Gardens , Joslyn Castle , Zorinsky Lake , and RiverFront Park .      

Best Beaches to Travel to With an Infant in the US

Stinson beach, san francisco, california  .

In my humble opinion, as a San Francisco resident, Stinson Beach is one of the prettiest beaches in California. The wide beach and soft, white sand are perfect for lounging and playing with an infant. It’s also a great sport for a picnic or walk, with plenty of stroller-friendly trails nearby. The beach also has good parking, a snack bar, and restrooms, which are all helpful when you have a baby in tow!

Kiawah Island, South Carolina 

Kiawah Island is known mostly for the golf resort, but it’s actually a great spot for family beach-goers too. Aside from regular beach activities, Kiawah Island has great biking opportunities, walkable shopping districts, family pools, and, as I mentioned, golf. You may even spot some sea turtles! 

Waikīkī Beach, Honolulu, Hawaii

We’ve gone to Oahu , with our baby and toddler, and it was the best experience! We stayed in North Shore and loved it, but if you are looking for a beach that is more centrally located to many different types of attractions, Waikīkī Beach is a great spot. Aside from beautiful views, a wide beach, and great swimming, Waikīkī Beach has public restrooms, beach showers, and plenty of food stands to make the day trip easier! 

Best Outdoor Destinations to Travel to With an Infant in the US

Acadia national park, maine .

If you like to camp or do lots of hiking, Acadia National Park is a perfect destination. It’s one of the smaller national parks and there are lots of towns around it, so it’s easy to explore and there are plenty of amenities nearby. For good hiking, try Ocean Path, Thunder Hole, or Jordan Pond Loop. Whether you camp or get an Airbnb, I think visiting Acadia National Parks with a baby is a great way to bond with your little one! 

Lake Tahoe, California

We have a vacation home in Lake Tahoe , and that’s because it’s one of the best family destinations in the U.S.! Plus, it’s an easy road trip for us in San Francisco. (Here are my tips for road trips with a baby .) You’ll love that it offers plenty to do without the hustle and bustle of a busy city… and the weather is always right for a family vacation with plenty of summer and winter recreation options. 

Some of our favorite things to do include walking the East Shore Trail , hiking Glacier Point Trail , hiking in D.L. Bliss State Park , swimming at the pools, and playing in the sand at Sand Harbor . There is so much to do! 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina 

Here’s another east coast option for those of you closer to the Carolinas. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is kid-friendly and has lots of scenic drives, stroller-friendly hikes, wildlife viewing opportunities, biking trails, and fishing spots. All of these activities can be infant-friendly with a stroller or baby carrier . 

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is a beautiful area to explore outdoors with your baby. Really, it offers many of the other outdoor exploration opportunities as other places I’ve mentioned in this section—there are even swimming spots here in the desert! Beyond the swimming holes, there are numerous hiking spots, beautiful drives, parks, and a cultural downtown area that are all enjoyable with an infant.   

Best Resorts to Travel to With an Infant in the US

Aulani, a disney resort, oahu, hawaii .

You’re probably familiar with the big U.S. Disney theme parks in California and Florida, but Hawaii has a Disney resort too. Aulani is a favorite for family travelers who want a Disney experience that’s a little more relaxed. You get a nearly all-inclusive vacation package to stay in Aulani and experience all the magic, meaning you don’t have to drive and walk all around the island to find things to do. 

Right there on the resort, you have accommodations, dining, and activities. Some things you can do with an infant include beaches, pools, character experiences, walking tours, shopping, luaus, splash pads, gardens, wildlife encounters, canoeing, and family yoga.

Aulani also has plenty of room size options, so if you want 2 bedrooms to separate you and your infant, they can accommodate that. You can even rent a villa for a more homey option. All rooms come with complimentary pack ‘n plays as well, which is a plus if you want one less thing to pack.   

Loews Chicago Hotel in Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is another perfect destination for city life exploration with an infant. No matter where you are in the city, there is plenty to do. However, what will really elevate the experience with your new baby is staying at the Loews Chicago Hotel , which is one of the most baby-friendly hotels in the country. 

All rooms have options for a mini-fridge, bottle sanitizing supplies, full-sized cribs, baby tubs, and nightlights. You’ll also receive complimentary baby lotion, wipes, shampoo, body wash, and conditioner from Hello Bello. If all that wasn’t enough, they also partner with Little Spoon, so you can order fresh, organic baby food via room service with your own meals. All these added amenities make it a great resort for parents with babies! 

Location is everything when traveling with an infant. 

If you’re ready to take that first trip with your baby, don’t let anyone talk you out of it. I’ve loved every second of traveling with both of my kids when they were babies ( here is a round up of my favorite vacations with them ), and I’m glad I didn’t let other people or my first-time mom fears talk me out of our experiences. Hopefully, one of these destinations will work for you and your baby. Let the planning begin! 

For more family travel tips and tricks, head to the blog . I’ve got lots of advice and more destination recommendations. Soon, you’ll have conquered your first trip and be ready to take on the next!

I live in San Francisco with my husband, Jason, toddler, Caden, one year old baby, Willow, and Bernese Mountain Dog, Bear. I previously held multiple VP of Marketing roles at tech startups before deciding to take the leap to build New Modern Mom full time in an effort to find fulfillment and flexibility in my life. I also was a fitness instructor in an earlier life. I created this space to curate the best products and real advice on pregnancy, motherhood, cooking, travel and more to make doing it all for ambitious moms like me a whole lot easier.

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The Top 10 Best Baby-friendly Travel Destinations in the US

As you guys know, Kenny and I are had our first baby last year ! When I was pregnant, I kept busy researching the best destinations to travel with a baby . We love to travel, and while we were awaiting Harrison’s big debut into the world, we were anxious to see the world with our little one! And, to be honest, we didn’t know what to expect. We didn’t want to jump right in and start traveling abroad, so we figured it would be great to start with some easy US destinations close to home! But where are the best places to travel with an infant in the USA? And what places are the easiest for traveling with a baby? After gathering a ton of recommendations I’ve gotten from friends, fellow moms, and tons of research, as well as my own experience over the past year and a half traveling all over the world with our baby boy!

Here are my top Jetset-approved travel destinations in the USA for traveling with a baby (along with a few hotel and resort recommendations for each!).

Y’all know how much Kenny and I LOVE Hawaii ! Not only did we get married here , but we also spent our final babymoon here (and we can’t wait to make more memories with our little beach babe here in the years to come!). Hawaii is great for a trip with your baby because the islands are easy to navigate, they are safe and very clean, and Hawaii prides itself on being a family-friendly vacay destination! Many of the resorts have family-friendly rooms complete with cribs, bottle sterilizers, and so much more.

Where to Stay With a Baby in Hawaii

I would specifically recommend going to either the Big Island or Maui if you are traveling with an infant. On the Big Island, my top recommendation is Four Seasons Hualalai  (Kenny and I have stayed here in the past and it is  dreamy !!). Here, you can request anything and everything to make your stay more comfortable, from a crib, playpen, diapers, wipes, a white noise machine, a bottle warmer, “little swimmers” diapers for the beach/pool, a nursing pillow, and a high chair! This is an incredible convenience because it means less packing/stressing for you when traveling with a baby!

In Maui, I would recommend Four Seasons Maui , Westin Maui , or Sheraton Maui . Similar to the Hualalai property, Four Seasons Maui offers tons of amenities for families ( check out a full list here !). 

Matching family outfits by Kenny Flowers . Photo by @bebanones

Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina

The Montage Palmetto Bluff blew me away in terms of being an ideal destination with my family. If you’re looking for a quintessential experience of the American South, a five-star resort surrounded by scenic lowcountry and so much wildlife, there’s no better place. There’s something about this classic Southern escape that instantly relaxes you. The charming hospitality and next-level service. The history, the emphasis on lowcountry culture, and the stunning South Carolina nature. Or the fact that they’ve thought of everything when it comes to creating the perfect lowcountry experience for their guests (and families of all ages!!!) . There’s s’mores in the courtyard every night, and kids everywhere having the time of their life. They even have a partnership with Uppababy which allows you to rent Uppababy equipment on property so you don’t have to pack a thing! Huge win for traveling with a baby!

30A, Seaside, Florida

Photo Courtesy of @sarahnicolemeduna

It’s no secret that 30A, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. It’s also the  ideal family vacation. From action-packed beach days to movie nights under the stars, a Seaside getaway is just what the doctor ordered. The beaches are stunning, and will be the perfect backdrop to your vacation with baby!

Where to stay around Seaside, Florida

Look into Alys Beach or Watercolor.

With a convenient beach entrance only a few steps away, this 2 bedroom is a great choice in Alys Beach.

Or try this adorable home in a gated community with an un-crowded beach .

Photo Courtesy of VRBO

I highly recommend renting a VRBO in Seaside! There are  hundreds of cute beach houses that will make your stay super comfortable, especially if you are traveling with other friends or family. This beach house has free bikes and a private pool with enough room for 9 guests, while this condo is reasonably priced (only $471/night!) and is right on the water. If you are traveling with the whole fam for a reunion or family vacation, check out this incredible home where the beach is your backyard! 

Photo Courtesy of WaterColor Inn & Resort

If VRBOs aren’t your style, grab a room at The WaterColor Inn & Resort (rated #1 on Trip Advisor as the most kid-friendly hotel in 30A!). Hey, maybe you could wear your Watercolors Swim and matching Kenny Flowers / Kiddy Flowers at the WaterColor Inn?! 😉

Charleston, South Carolina

In Charleston, you’ll see babies and kids everywhere!!!  From roaming around the breweries, to living their best life at the beach, Charleston is extremely baby-and-kid-friendly.

There are so many things to do in Charleston, South Carolina with kids. The downtown streets are easy to navigate with a stroller and there are plenty of parks and open spaces. Make sure you walk Rainbow Row to see all the charming houses. From there, make a stop at the Battery… then head out to the aquarium (one of the best!) or one of Charleston’s best beaches .

Where to Stay With a Baby in Charleston

In my opinion, the best places to stay in Charleston with your baby are Wild Dunes Resort or Hotel Bennett . You can book Wild Dunes Resort and stay at the hotel or at one of their VRBO’s as it is a vacation rental located in Isle of Palms (known for its beaches, eateries, and sea turtles!!). If you are looking for a downtown hotel that is very walkable, go for Hotel Bennett. You won’t be disappointed!

and check out the best restaurants with a baby in Charleston here

San Diego, California

San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches and near-perfect weather all year, making it a fabulous beach destination for families.

As an added bonus, San Diego is home to Lego Land , which is a must-see for the kids! I would also recommend that you go to the award-winning San Diego Zoo (one of the best zoos in the world, and my personal favorite!), Sea World , or venture around Balboa Park with your little one in tow.

Where to Stay With a Baby in San Diego

If you are looking for a luxury hotel, look no further than Hotel Del Coronado . This historic hotel is set on one of the best beaches in California, and one of my favorites.

San Diego Mission Bay Resort also offers great amenities for both parents and infants. 

Looking for a VRBO in San Diego? There are hundreds of great options! Personally, I lean toward a neighborhood called La Jolla (this is where my grandparents live and where I have spent the most time!). If you’re looking for a VRBO there, I would recommend this sophisticated beach-front sanctuary or this luxury condo in the heart of the village. For those of you who are looking for a house instead of a condo, this three-bedroom home in La Jolla sleeps six!

On a budget? Snag this two-bedroom right on the water (only $183/night!!).

Orlando, Florida

Photo Courtesy of @darylanndenner

For many, it’s the happiest place on earth. It’s the place where dreams come true and kids are able to live out their princess and superhero dreams in real life. It’s Disney World!! Orlando is a no-brainer when it comes to bringing the kids. Disney World will probably be one of their core memories from their childhood. And if you are looking for a solid mix between a beach vacation and Disney, consider a Disney Cruise!

Where to Stay With a Baby in Orlando

Photo Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort at Walt Disney World Resort

There are several places to stay right at Disney World from Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge to the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel (near EPCOT). But I have to say, I think my top pick would be the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort ! Here, you get the best of both worlds – you get the luxury of the Four Seasons while staying right on the Walt Disney World property!

Sonoma, California

Sonoma isn’t just for bachelorette parties and girls’ trips! The towns surrounding Sonoma are extremely inviting, super relaxing, and many of the restaurants, although luxurious, are family-friendly. Plus, let’s face it, chances are you have been waiting a year (or more) to drink wine again. Why not enjoy California’s best wineries with your baby in tow?!

Where to Stay With a Baby in Sonoma

Photo Courtesy of Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

Fairmont is a brand that features family-friendly hotels and resorts all over the world. The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is no exception. Here, you will enjoy spacious rooms and all of the family-friendly activities your heart desires!

My top recommendation if you are looking for a bed and breakfast in Sonoma is Beltane Ranch . Beltane Ranch offers stand-alone cottages that will allow you the space and privacy you are craving. Each cottage is complete with a kitchenette, so you can cook your meals easily without having to head into town!

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio is a wonderful place to bring your kiddo! The city has a zoo, a children’s train, and even a hands-on sensory exhibit called The DoSeum that was made just for kids. Plus, the riverwalk is an easy-to-navigate area that is perfect for a walk with baby in your UppaBaby stroller !

Where to Stay With a Baby in San Antonio

Photo Courtesy of Trip Advisor

The top two places that I would recommend staying with a baby in San Antonio are Hotel Emma and JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa . Hotel Emma is a five-star luxury hotel complete with cribs and baby products for infants, plus a swanky hotel bar for mom and dad! The JW Marriott in San Antonio has over 1,000 rooms with different layouts, so you can choose whatever works best for you. They have a pool just for young kids, and they also offer shaded cabanas with fridges to help keep bottles cool!

Chicago, Illinois

Perhaps you are craving the busyness of New York City or Washington D.C., but you can’t quite wrap your head around what it would be like to shlep the stroller down the subway stairs – Chicago is for you! Chicago is a cleaner city than both NYC and D.C., and it is also a bit safer overall. The city is fairly compact and easy to navigate, plus, you won’t find the sky-high prices that you would experience in Manhattan. Plus, many of the streets and sidewalks in Chicago are designed with strollers in mind, making it easy to navigate the city. And a lot of the museums provide special stroller tours. 

Where to Stay With a Baby in Chicago

Warwick Allerton – Chicago was rated the #1 hotel for families in Chicago by hotels.com. This property offers  free cribs and playpens for infants, babysitting services (for a surcharge), and daily housekeeping to ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible. 21c Hotel Museum Chicago also offers free cribs/beds for babies, and for mom and dad, they have a luxurious spa onsite. 

Aspen, Colorado

If a snow weekend with your little snow bunny is what you’re feeling this winter, look no further than Aspen .

Where to stay in Aspen with a baby

This Auberge hotel is such a gem! It’s been the heart of Aspen since 1889 and has a luxury-meets-wild-west vibe. It’s perfectly located and ultra-cozy for your little snow baby. Think: super comfy, spacious rooms with to-die-for bathtubs. I loved the history, charm, and friendliness of this place. It’s easily the best hotel in Aspen, but it doesn’t act snooty at all. 

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WRITTEN BY: Christina

Christina is a leading luxury lifestyle and travel blogger with over 2 million readers. Follow her on instagram @jetsetchristina.

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10 Best Places to Travel in the US with a Baby or Toddler

Having spent plenty of time moving and traveling around the US with my family right from when my two boys were babies, I know how stressful planning a vacation with your little ones can be, especially if you don’t know where to go. 

So to help make that decision a little bit easier, I created this post to shortlist some of the best places to travel with a baby or toddler in the US. I’ve covered many different destinations all over the country so you can easily find something to suit the interests and needs of the whole family. 

Obviously, when you plan on traveling with kids in the US you might need to either bring your car seat or rent it , because apart from NYC you will have to drive around.

1. Utah – Anywhere

Utah is honestly designed for families with many kids , as Utahns have many kids, and it’s one of the most welcoming places in the US.

Not only are there plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Salt Lake City , but Utah’s dramatic landscape and many accessible national parks make it a great place to travel with a baby or toddler. 

You can easily go skiing in the winter or visit ice castles , basing yourself in Salt Lake City or Park City.

The best way to explore the state is by embarking on an epic road trip with your family stopping at Bryce Canyon, Zion, Canyonlands, and Arches National Park, all of which have easy paved walking trails suitable for strollers . 

Make sure not to miss the Dinosaur National Monument on your way which is sure to be a highlight for your little ones!  

2. Sedona, AZ

If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination in the US that has a little bit of everything including history, culture, and outdoors , Sedona, Arizona might be exactly what you’re looking for. 

There are plenty of unique day trips from Sedona that will allow you to experience something new every day but some of my picks for anyone with a toddler or baby would be the Verde Canyon Railroad , Red Rock Jeep Adventure , Slide Rock State Park and you certainly can’t miss the best family favorite; Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo .

Back in town, your kids will love the Wild West feel so make sure to eat a meal at Cowboy Club and take a trip to Blazin’ M Ranch for the full experience.

3. San Diego, CA

The world-famous San Diego Zoo , Zoo Safari Park , and Birch Aquarium are reasons alone to visit San Diego with your family, but the city has so much more to offer you and your youngsters. 

Sesame Place is another big hit with toddlers and this Sesame Street-themed water park is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day. 

But if you’re looking for something a little more relaxed, make sure to add La Jolla Beach to your San Diego itinerary for a nice day out for the whole family. 

4. New York City

Surprised? Many people don’t think New York City can be kid-friendly, but it’s a lovely place to explore with little ones because there’s just so much to do!

From strolls around Central Park, visiting multiple exhibits for kids, window shopping at Fao Schwarz, to even seeing the skyscrapers won’t disappoint.

You can take the kids to a Broadway show and eat food from literally any world cuisine. Plus, there are plenty of incredible family hotels for you to choose from.  

5. Outer Banks, NC

Seaside vacations are another classic family favorite for all ages , and the Outer Banks in North Carolina are no exception. 

Aside from spending many hours playing with sand and bathing in the ocean, the area boasts several great family-friendly attractions such as the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island , H2OBX Water Park , Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge , and the fun playgrounds in  Elizabethan Gardens.

You can even take a dolphin tour or find beautiful wild horses at Carova Beach if you have a 4×4 and are up for a family adventure!

6. Charleston, SC

Full of history and culture with great weather and an easy-to-navigate center , Charleston is another great place to vacation with your baby or toddler if you are looking for somewhere a little more laid back while still having plenty to do. 

The Charleston Museum should be at the top of your list. Aside from the megalodon jawbone on display in the Natural History Gallery, the Kidstory exhibit is always a hit as youngsters can get hands-on with an art project while learning about the city’s history. The Museum also provides great family programs specifically for toddlers!

If you’re looking for more toddler and baby-friendly attractions, make sure to check out the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry , the North Charleston Fire Museum , and the Dock Street Theatre. 

7. White Mountains, New Hampshire 

With its quaint towns, picturesque viewpoints, and plenty of things to do , the White Mountains is the perfect getaway for anyone who likes a good amount of time in nature mixed with plenty of relaxation in a cozy holiday home. 

The great thing about the White Mountains is that there are multiple scenic drives like the Kancamagus Highway which boasts countless viewpoints that allow you to simply step out of the car and admire your surroundings with minimal effort.  

Don’t miss a trip to the top of Mount Washington via car or cog railway , visit the bears at Clark’s Trading Post , and the chance to eat at Polly’s Pancake Parlor for the best family trip possible! 

8. Legoland

I think that Legoland is the best theme park for kids in Florida (yes, it’s more fun than Disney due to zero lines or having to constantly check the app to book your spot in lines) . There are actually 3 locations in the US ( California , Florida, and New York) so you can visit whichever one is most convenient for you. 

Legoland is much quieter than Disney making for a more relaxed trip for the whole family. With short wait times and a smaller space, little ones are less likely to be overwhelmed, and as parents, you won’t have to stress about making it to reservations on time, it’s a win-win in my book! 

Plus, I’ve found that most kids will love Legoland, even if they haven’t started playing with Legos themselves yet . 

9. Glacier National Park, MT

For any outdoorsy families looking for an easy getaway with a huge payoff , the beautiful Glacier National Park is one of the best things to do in Montana with little ones. 

There are plenty of easy hikes in Glacier National Park with extremely rewarding views and some walks that you can even do with your stroller . Plus, the Going-to-the-Sun Road which crosses directly through the middle of the park offers stunning viewpoints right on the side of the road . Expect to see super clear blue lakes, snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, and more. 

Before you begin your trip, make sure to pick up a Junior Ranger Packet and National Park Passport Book at the visitor center. During your visit, you can collect stamps and fill out questions about what you see. The Junior Ranger Packet can be returned at the end and your kids will become official “Junior Rangers” earning a wooden badge for their efforts. 

10. Oahu, Hawaii

Last but not least, Oahu is the most family-friendly island in Hawaii , boasting a huge range of activities both in the city and out in nature. 

Topping the list of things to do with kids is probably the Kualoa Ranch . This popular movie set is complete with lifesize dinosaur bones and countless adventure tours for all ages. Travel to a secret island, explore the jungle , or join a boat tour to see all the different sites of this magical place. 

Back in town, eat the best Shave Ice , try the flight simulators at Pearl Harbor , see the Sea Life Park and Honolulu Zoo , attend an authentic Hawaiian Luau , or visit the Polynesian Cultural Center to give your kids a little culture. 

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The 10 Best Places in America to Travel with a Baby or Toddler in 2023

• The 10 Best Places in America to Travel with a Baby or Toddler in 2023 HIDE 1. New York City, New York 2. Phoenix, Arizona 3. Orlando, Florida 4. Charleston, South Carolina 5. Ventura County, California 6. Sedona, Arizona 7. San Diego, California 8. Houston, Texas 9. Atlanta, Georgia 10. Wilmington, North Carolina

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Traveling with your baby or toddler can be a meaningful journey. Your little one, along with you, can enjoy a lot of firsts and make new memories. That said, the importance of finding a baby- or toddler-friendly place cannot be overstated! 

Finding a US destination that is child-friendly—and suitable for the grown-ups, too—can be daunting for parents! The very thought of it can send parents canceling the entire plan, and for good reason.

The preparations can be overwhelming at times, especially for first-time parents. Some of the stress comes from the constant diaper changes and food preparation. And it’s not only about kid-friendly restaurants with high chairs either!

With some facilities in the United States (and in many other countries, for that matter) not exactly baby-friendly, the adventure trip can easily turn into an ordeal for you or your entire family. But we believe there’s a perfect place out there for you and your little bundle of joy, whether you’re up for a relaxing break or feeling a little more adventurous!

Ranking Methodology

In collating our list of the best places to travel with babies and toddlers, we considered these factor points:

• Child safety comes first. Always! Creating and maintaining a safe environment should be every parent’s foremost concern when traveling with their little ones. A trip to any place in the US entails checking for the dos and don’ts. Is the place known for its superior security systems? Is there security everywhere so that you can approach a police officer, security personnel, or a person of authority when the need arises?
• The place must provide an educational exploration for your child. Are the particular destinations designed to welcome the entire family and make it a visit to remember for the little one? Will it not be too distracting for your baby, who may be asleep most of the time and unable to explore as much just yet?
• Kids must enjoy the place as much as they learn from everything it offers. Under your watchful eye, your toddler should be able to explore freely, even with restrictions and within limits. Give your little one a chance to satisfy their curiosity in the safest way possible.
• The place should be friendly to parents, too. A facility that allows you to carry your essentials everywhere and offer designated areas for breastfeeding or changing diapers is a must-visit for every parent!

Are you ready to set your plans in motion? Our list of the ten best places in America to travel with a baby or toddler specifies the cities and their many must-go places:

1. New York City, New York

Central Park | Statue of Liberty | Broadway | Top of the Rock | Empire State Building | Brooklyn Bridge

Central Park

New York City is one of the perfect places to take your baby or toddler. The city offers a balance between nature and the concrete jungle. Time Square and the Upper East Side give you a better feel of the city and shopping. Visiting parks like Central Park and Brooklyn Bridge Park is a great addition to your travel itinerary. Central Park offers a sprawling 843-acre of greenery and open spaces for your toddler to play around. You can even catch a carriage ride to tour around the park.

Plus, getting around is easy. You can walk anywhere and take your baby using a baby carrier or a lightweight stroller. There are different modes of transportation available, including taking the subway and hop-on-hop-off buses, which are stroller-friendly. There are also accommodations along with the Midtown that are near tourist attractions. There are baby-friendly hotels where you can request a crib so your baby can get a good rest after a long day.

Aside from popular sites like Broadway and the Statue of Liberty, NYC offers picturesque views for you and your little one. You can check the view of the famous New York City skyline through viewing decks from the Top of the Rock. The Empire State Building is a top choice for this activity as well. Taking the stroller across the Brooklyn Bridge is also a great way to observe the city skyline while getting some much-needed fresh air.

Protocols may be currently in place for visitors exploring the bridge where crowds usually build up, but overall, NYC offers fun activities while giving your toddler a chance to enjoy open urban spaces.

2. Phoenix, Arizona

The Phoenix Zoo | Old Town Scottsdale | McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park | Hole in the Rock

Phoenix Zoo

Whether you want to enjoy the winter or summer break, Phoenix, Arizona, is a great travel destination to bring your toddler. To enjoy the beautiful scenery of Phoenix, you can plan a hike or a stroll to some of its attractions. The Hole in the Rock is a popular spot for toddlers. You can reach the top through a short hike and enjoy a good vantage point of Phoenix’s mountain ranges. 

You and your toddler can also go on longer hikes through different trails. The Papago Park offers different trail options that are easy for trekking, even with a stroller. The Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden are toddler favorites! Check out different desert plants and follow the Discovery Loop Trail at the Desert Botanical Garden. Aside from housing different animals, you can also cool off at the Phoenix Zoo’s splash pads. Both attractions limit their crowds, so book your tickets in advance!

Another destination worth checking is Old Town Scottsdale . The whole area has a wild west aesthetic, so you’ll feel like a cowboy going through the different restaurants and gift shops. Ride the miniature trains and go on the carousel with your little ones at the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. Aside from the rides, your kid can enjoy playing at the park’s themed playgrounds. In terms of transportation , Phoenix is an easy place to get around. You can commute through their metro rails and buses or opt for a car rental since some areas may be far to reach. 

3. Orlando, Florida

Crayola Experience | Disney World Resort | Orlando Museum of Art | Madame Tussauds

Disney World Resort

Orlando can be a fantastic place to visit, even for babies and toddlers! You don’t have to worry about your safety since most establishments follow the prescribed health standards. You can bring your toddler’s imagination to work at the Crayola Experience . The attraction features over 20 interactive activities, so your kid will have plenty of fun. Other museum choices include the Orlando Museum of Art and Madame Tussauds.

Orlando is home to many theme parks such as LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, and Magic Kingdom Park. One of the most popular ones is the Disney World Resort . Dubbed as “the happiest place on earth,” your kid will surely enjoy meeting Disney characters like Mickey Mouse and Disney Princesses. They can enjoy different child-friendly rides and interactive studios. Best of all, most Orlando attractions offer free entry for 3-year-olds and younger. There are also a lot of baby care centers and diaper-changing stations placed in strategic locations within the parks. 

While in Orlando, you can also enjoy the outdoors by visiting Gatorland , where your kid can play in different splash areas. They can also get a chance to interact closely with different animals, including llamas and alligators. After a day of exploring the animal world, relax in some of Orlando’s world-class resorts. Enjoy a laid-back time with your toddler at the Sheraton Resort or Lake Buena Vista Resort and Spa. 

4. Charleston, South Carolina

Sullivan’s Island | Kiawah Island | Fort Sumter | Maritime Museum | South Carolina Aquarium

Sullivan’s Island

You and your toddler can get in touch with history while enjoying the popular spots in Charleston, South Carolina. The town generally has nice weather and convenient transportation, making it ideal for visiting families. Experience a carriage ride around Charleston and visit several historical blocks and landmarks. The ride is safe for babies and toddlers. Plus, you’ll get to know more about the town’s history through a local tour guide.  

Charleston is a beautiful place that is close to the beach. The town is surrounded by beautiful beaches, such as Sullivan’s Island and Kiawah Island, which offer different activities like kayaking and fishing. Soak up some sun for you and your baby and enjoy the fresh, salty air. You can also have your lunch or snack by the shore through different restaurants. The public beaches are clean and even have their own changing facilities. 

Your kid will also enjoy riding a ferry to Fort Sumter. While there, you can get in touch with important historical events through the Maritime Museum. You can also visit the South Carolina Aquarium and let your kid explore the underwater world. It houses different aquatic animals like turtles and sharks. You’ll surely enjoy their dive shows as well. Do note that the peak seasons for Charleston are during Spring and Fall, so it’s recommended to book your reservations ahead of time. 

5. Ventura County, California

Ventura Harbor Village | Channel Islands National Park | Downtown Venture | Ventura Pier

Ventura Harbor Village

Do you or your kids love the outdoors and the beach? Ventura County offers just that and more fun activities for the entire family. This place is located along the pacific coast so you’ll surely have a lot of harbor and beach views. For starters, you can visit the Ventura Harbor Village and enjoy an amazing view of parked boats. Your toddler will surely enjoy riding a pedal boat or even jet ski. The activities are safe and regulated by port authorities. Everyone’s asked to wear masks, and the equipment is regularly sanitized.

Another great attraction in Ventura is the Channel Islands National Park. Choose from the park’s five islands and enjoy the boat ride along the way. You can observe different marine animals through whale and dolphin-watching tours. The islands offer various activities like kayaking and snorkeling . You and your baby can get a bit of sunshine while having a picnic or going on a hike. The islands are equipped with baby-friendly facilities, so changing diapers won’t be a problem.

On the other hand, Downtown Venture offers a more relaxed vibe. Stroll through the area’s antique shops and art galleries. Take beautiful snapshots of your toddlers in front of different art installations and wall paintings. There are numerous cafes and restaurants for you to try! While exploring downtown, you can also check out the Ventura Pier. It offers a sand playground that your kid will surely love. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen ; you’re going to need a lot of it while in Ventura!

6. Sedona, Arizona

Slide Rock State Park | Boynton Canyon Trail | Red Rock State Park | Verde Canyon Railroad | Eagle’s Nest Loop | Cathedral Rock

Slide Rock State Park

Sedona is an ideal travel destination for families with babies or toddlers. Spend your summer hiking along Sedona’s trails or parks and enjoy the stunning view of the area. Enjoy hiking along kid-friendly trails in West Fork or Slide Rock State Park . West Fork is generally safe since it offers a flat trail. Crowds may build up fast, so it’s best to go there early. Aside from hiking trails, Slide Rock also has swimming areas and orchards. 

The Boynton Canyon Trail and Red Rock State Park offer great hiking options that are safe for kids. Get a closer look at iconic spots, such as the Eagle’s Nest Loop and Cathedral rock along the way. One way to have a complete look at Sedona is through their Pink Jeep Tours. You and your kid can sit back riding a 4×4 while enjoying the view of popular sites. See the red rocks up close by riding a train on the Verde Canyon Railroad . Both rides are safe for babies and toddlers and are great family activities.

If your kid is fond of animals, you might want to book a ticket to the Out of Africa Wildlife Park in advance. Here, you’ll get to see different animals like zebras, lions, and giraffes. Be entertained with their safari shows with tigers and giant snakes. Aside from the outdoors, Sedona also offers different indoor attractions like the Exposures International Gallery and Sedona Heritage Museum. You can also shop through Uptown Sedona or buy toys at the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village. 

7. San Diego, California

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve | Knott’s Berry Farm | SeaWorld San Diego | Belmont Park | La Jolla Cove

Belmont Park

Whether you’re looking for a place with hiking trails, beaches, or theme parks, San Diego offers a mix of activities for you and your little one. If you’re up for some hiking, the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve offers a great view of the ocean while descending a cliff. Sounds scary? Don’t worry; the reserve has a Discovery Trail option that’s easy and perfect for children. You can even bring along a stroller so your baby can get some fresh pine-scented air!

San Diego has a lot of theme park options. SeaWorld San Diego offers thrilling rides, and animal shows that your kids will surely enjoy. You can even book a Penguin Encounter Tour and get an up-close look at these cute creatures. You can also visit some San Diego-grown theme parks like Knott’s Berry Farm , which is known as America’s first theme park, or the Belmont Park . Knott’s has plenty of kid-friendly ride options, while Belmont offers a great beachfront view enjoying their contemporary rides. While inside the attractions, it’s best to wear a face mask and follow social distancing. 

Going to the beach is always a good idea. The La Jolla Cove is a great option to visit for a quick dip and a bit of a stroll along the parkway. Your toddler can safely enjoy swimming at the Children’s Pool, a small area protected by a sea breaker. The area also features some dining and shopping options that the whole family can enjoy. In terms of transportation, renting an SUV or van may be a great option to go around San Diego. It’s best to book one beforehand and research the different parking options near popular attractions.  

8. Houston, Texas

Hermann Park | Japanese Garden | McGovern Lake | Houston Downtown Aquarium | Space Center Houston

Hermann Park

Houston, Texas, is one of the best child-friendly places in the country. It offers a mix of outdoor and indoor attractions that are guaranteed to give your little one an awesome experience. If you want to take a stroll and enjoy some green space, Hermann Park is a great option for you. This park offers a lot of walking spaces for you and your baby. You can take the stroller with you and go around the park’s different lovely spots like the Japanese Garden and McGovern Lake.

For animal-loving toddlers, Houston has plenty of attractions! The Houston Zoo is a famous destination for kids, enabling them to explore the exhibits and have fun at their water play park. With over 4,000 exotic animals, get a chance to have a close encounter with some of them like sea lions, sloths, and orangutans. On the other hand, the Houston Downtown Aquarium will give your toddler a chance to observe different aquatic animals through their wall-to-wall aquarium. Aside from their exhibits, your family can also enjoy a meal while observing scuba divers doing fish-feeding.

You can visit several museums and indoor play spaces around Houston to enjoy indoor activities. The Space Center Houston is a great attraction to visit, especially if your toddler’s curious about rockets and outer space. The center houses plenty of space artifacts like moon rocks and interactive exhibits that will surely fuel your toddler’s astronaut dreams. Several new health and wellness protocols have been implemented to keep guests safe while exploring indoor attractions.

9. Atlanta, Georgia

Children’s Museum of Atlanta | Georgia Aquarium | SeaVentures | Plaza Fiesta | Farmer’s Market

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Planning a vacation to Atlanta, Georgia, offers a selection of exciting activities for the whole family, even for your toddler. Going to different museums, such as the Southern Museum and Center for Puppetry Arts, exposes your kids to new things. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta does that, plus more! Your child can get creative by joining art activities like finger painting and dance sessions. Most of the attractions have limited admissions for your safety, so it’s best to book your tickets ahead of time. 

Aside from the Children’s Museum, the Georgia Aquarium is a popular attraction in Atlanta. Prepare to be amazed by the marine wildlife like whales and sharks. You can also enjoy interactive activities such as petting a stingray and a live sea lion show. You and your toddler can visit the Zoo Atlanta for more animal interactions. The establishment houses different animals like pandas, elephants, and gorillas. The Adventure Cubs program introduces your little one to different animal habitats. 

While you’re in Atlanta, you can also enroll your toddler at SeaVentures for some free swimming lessons. Through their Baby Splash Class, your toddler will get a chance to get comfortable and be confident swimming in pools. The Buford Highway offers a lot of spots like the Plaza Fiesta and Farmers Market for a fun stroll. Go shopping and try out different snacks through an array of food shops . Your kid will surely enjoy an ice cream or two while playing at the arcade.

10. Wilmington, North Carolina

Fort Fischer Recreational Area | Masonboro Island | Carolina Beach State Park | Museum of the Bizarre | Wilmington Railroad Museum

Wilmington Railroad Museum

Looking for a destination to spend the summer vacation? Wilmington offers a lot of under-the-sun activities for you and your toddlers. Be sure to pack a lot of swimming clothes for the entire family. The Fort Fischer Recreational Area is a great place for you and your baby to soak up on the gentle waves and get plenty of sunshine. The area is complete with changing facilities and restrooms, so changing your baby’s diapers won’t be a problem. Be sure to check the weather first before visiting as there may be heat advisories from time to time.

Another destination worth checking is Masonboro Island. You can join its kid-friendly tours where you can explore the different ecosystems present on the island. The tour guides are very accommodating and great with kids. You can easily spend hours picking shells or building sandcastles at the shoreline. Additionally, the Carolina Beach State Park is a great destination for outdoor activities. Your toddler will surely enjoy exploring all the greenery while hiking around the park’s trail. With the help of a Park Ranger, explore and learn more about the native Venus Flytraps growing in the area.

Aside from the fun water activities, you can also explore different museums, such as the Museum of the Bizarre. Your kid will have fun exploring the different curiosities and seeing some magic. The Wilmington Railroad Museum should be part of your itinerary if your child is into trains. Observe different train displays and models while checking the life-size boxcars. Visiting museums is ideal, especially since most establishments can accommodate strollers. You’ll have to take note of the healthy safety precautions set like proper sanitation and wearing of masks. 

Here’s a Tricky Must-do For Your Trip: Packing and Renting Baby Essentials

Attention, first-time travelers: nothing will ever prepare you for your first trip. Choosing the destination is only the start. You’ll have to book your flights, arrange your accommodation, and pack your essentials. Expect many unexpected detours and “I wish we had brought the..” moments. But that’s part of traveling with a baby. 

Some parents may be unsure about what to pack . Overpacking is often a problem, so creating a list long before your scheduled trip makes sense. Start with the essentials such as diapers, baby wipes, and changing pads. Store breast milk or formula safely and bring along bibs and baby bottles. Pack your baby’s favorite toys and blanket, too.

If you’re planning on enjoying water activities, a sun hat and a kid-friendly sunscreen for some sun protection are recommended. Bring extras but be mindful of your storage space.

Some accessories such as baby car seats and strollers are important to bring along with you. Using a stroller is great for carrying your baby, especially for long walks. But truth be told, these essential baby items are bulky and can be challenging to carry, especially when air travel is involved.

To save you the inconvenience and high costs of bringing too many things, look for rental options in your chosen destination. It’s important to check if these items have met safety standards and aren’t missing any parts when renting. Only rent from reliable shops or your hotel for recommendations.

For parents, traveling with their baby and toddler can be intimidating. You want a good time for your little one and perhaps the entire family and yourself AND give your baby or toddler undivided attention at the same time.

Go ahead and choose your destination, pack the right essentials, and make important arrangements like renting a car seat or stroller. Importantly, consult with your pediatrician for clearance, especially during your baby’s first plane ride. Make that itinerary work in some of the country’s most baby-friendly places!

27 Best Places to Travel with a Baby (Safe + Baby-Friendly)!

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

Home » 27 Best Places to Travel with a Baby (Safe + Baby-Friendly)!

Are you wondering where to travel with a baby?

Our youngest daughter, Avalee, was just 2.5 months old when we embarked on our very first trip with her. Our first trip with her took us to Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands.

After Indonesia, we ventured further afield to Australia and explored Perth and Sydney.

We then set off to Asia visiting Japan and Europe for a big extended road trip that included France, Switzerland, and Italy – all before Avalee had reached her first birthday! As seasoned family travelers (we have 3 children) we’ve learned a lot about what works best when traveling with babies in tow.

With input from other parents who have traveled with their babies too, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to travel with a baby along with practical tips based on our experiences on how to choose the perfect baby-friendly holiday destinations. 

Just because you have a new baby doesn’t mean you have to be stuck at home. Now is a great time to make memories with your little one and travel the world!

It might not always be easy to travel with a baby, but in my opinion, it is always worth any challenges.

Here is a list of the best baby-friendly countries to visit to ensure your trip will run as smoothly as possible.

27 Best Places to Travel with a Baby in the World

Wondering where to travel with your baby?

We love traveling with our baby as we scout out the best places to visit with an infant.

In our opinion, the best countries to visit with a baby in USA, Australia, South Africa, Japan, Italy, and the UK, but you can find more ideas on our list down below.

But first! Sign up for our ‘Wanderlust Storytellers Family Tribe’ newsletter to get loads of helpful information about how to travel with a baby! 

1. Tuscany, Italy

For one of the best holiday destinations with a baby or even older kids, head to beautiful Italy!

Children are adored in this country, and you will find that Italians will often go out of their way to help parents. And expect them, to come to say hello to your little ones too.

Italy is one of the best places to go on holiday with a baby. It is easy to find some beautiful family-friendly accommodation options.

We chose Tuscany for our list because it has plenty of stroller-friendly destinations.

I recommend you choose either Florence or Lucca for a home base. Both cities are great for strollers, although we recommend a stroller with large cushioned wheels to handle bumpy or cobble-stone roads.

Florence has plenty of playgrounds for older babies and toddlers, and the restaurants typically can prepare a small plate for younger kids or a simple pasta dish (when Avie was a toddler, she often had simple pasta and butter).

If you decide on Florence, be sure to have a look at the best neighborhood to stay in Florence .

You can also find many beautiful small towns scattered through Tuscany that will allow you to explore this region of Italy without the masses of tourists.

Recommended attractions in Tuscany that you should see with your baby include the Leaning Tower of Pisa and The Boboli Gardens.

If time permits, you should also visit Capo Sant’Andrea on Elba Island (make sure to take baby beach shoes if you are planning to spend some time on the beach).

Personally speaking, Italy is arguably the best place to travel with baby options for us so far, as well as one of the best baby-friendly travel destinations and baby-friendly countries.

• Bring your baby carrier along, as you will often find stairs at the main attractions in Italy.
• Always have a baby change mat on hand, as change tables in public restrooms are rare.
• You can rent a stroller in Italy, and check out sites such as TravelBaby.It and BabyGuest.com.
• Pre-book your taxi online , that way, you can request a baby car seat for the transfer as well.

Where to Stay in Tuscany with a Baby:

We recommend basing yourselves in either Florence or Lucca (cheaper) and then planning your day trips from there.

Best Place to Stay in Florence with a Baby:

• Best Hotel: For a fantastic stay I would choose  MyFlorenceHoliday Gold Bridge . Their family room includes a cot and high chair and has a kitchen area where you can prepare bottles etc. The hotel is located 100 meters from Ponte Vecchio.
• Best VRBO: I love The Time Machine apartment which is located next to Palazzo Vecchio. It has 2 bedrooms and includes a travel crib, high chair, and dishes & utensils for kids- it also has a lift to the apartment which is on the second level.

Best Place to Stay in Lucca with a Baby:

• Best Hotel: The 4-Star Hotel Ilaria has a triple room that includes a cot. This popular hotel is located in the historic centre of Lucca.

Further Reading:

• Visit Tuscany with Kids (Tips and Information)
• See our full blog post with helpful information about traveling to Italy with a baby
• Watch our Video on YouTube: Italy with a Baby or Toddler .
• Florence with Kids

Wondering where to travel with a baby in Asia?  Japan is one of the best places to travel with an infant in Asia.

This destination is very baby-friendly. You can easily choose from some of these great destinations in Japan perfect for first-timers .

“ Baby Cafes ” located throughout Tokyo have childproof areas and food for mom and dad to purchase.

There are also family rooms throughout (mainly in the larger supermarkets) around, the larger cities where moms can nurse or change their babies.

Baby supplies are available from pharmacies, and let’s not forget how clean the country is (you won’t see rubbish anywhere!).

• Bring your baby carrier along and leave your stroller at home.
• You will typically find beautiful baby rooms in the larger supermarkets.
• Public restrooms should have change tables and a parent-friendly toilet with a baby highchair, so you have somewhere to pop baby while you do your business.
• Choose Airbnb over small hotel rooms.
• For toddlers, we can highly recommend some popular theme parks such as Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan.

READ MORE: See our helpful post on how to visit Japan with a baby

3. London, England

London is one of the best places to travel in Europe with a baby.

This city has parent rooms and changing facilities readily available, making it a great place to visit with a baby.

Many sights can easily be accessed by public transportation or on foot. We love how easy the city is to navigate with a stroller; simply use the   step-free Tube map to navigate the underground with your stroller.

Breastfeeding in public is accepted and considered perfectly normal. Children under five can travel for free on public transport, and there are plenty of family-friend restaurants.

If your bubs is a bit older, he/she might also really enjoy outings to a  baby disco, one of the children ‘s  theatres, the city farms, zoos, or a day out at one of the many parks.

• Top 10 Things to do in London with Kids
• Make sure you download NCT’s Babychange app, which will show you all the baby-changing facilities in your vicinity, and the Wowmum app, which lists baby change areas, as well as child-friendly activities, parks, and more.
• Book your taxi online. Book Taxi London is a reliable website that you can use to quickly and easily book your taxi (you can even select to have a car seat for your little one)!

After one of the most affordable places to visit with your baby?

With rice paddies, waterfalls, beaches, and great people, Bali certainly has it all.

This dreamy vacation is very baby-friendly, and nannies or babysitters are super affordable.  You can also very easily rent baby gear and equipment for super low prices if you need them.

Hotels and resorts will be equipped with baby cots and high chairs, and with a bit of effort, you can also pre-book transfers with baby car seats.

Avoid Kuta and head to more family-friendly areas such as Canggu, Ubud, Legian, Jimbaran, or Nusa Lembongan.

We love to combine some time in Ubud to soak up the peaceful rice paddy atmosphere with some luxury and relaxation at one of the beachside areas such as Canggu or Jimbaran.

Bali might be the best place to travel with a baby for those living in Australia.

• Bring your baby carrier along and leave your stroller behind
• Always have a baby change mat on hand
• Book a cheap nanny to tag along with you on your outings
• Pre-book your transfers if you wish to have a baby car seat
• Don’t forget to bring along your  sun tent for baby , as well as some handy and essential  beach items for baby

5. Tulum, Mexico

One of the best travel destinations with a baby if you are after some beautiful beaches and warm weather. This city can make for a very relaxing vacation.

Many family-friendly beaches and hotels accommodate those traveling with babies, as they often provide cribs and strollers.

If you are wondering if it is safe to travel to Mexico with a baby, you will be glad to know that it is.

What you will need to consider is taking enough baby formula if you are not breastfeeding your little one as the variety of formula available is limited.

If you do use baby formula, make sure to use bottled water when making your baby’s milk.

If you do take a baby stroller, take one that can fold up and will fit easily into any taxi that you may take whilst on holiday.

If you are planning on venturing out and about, a baby carrier is a great choice as you will be hands-free, and is perfect for any hikes are strolls on the beach.

Top places to visit include Sian Ka’an Biosphere and Playa Paraiso.  Mexico offers some of the best baby-friendly travel destinations for those in the USA.

6. Chicago, Illinois

One of the best places to travel to with a baby in the United States is Chicago. This city is so baby friendly making it hands down one of the best cities to travel with a baby and one of the best travel destinations with baby options.

The great thing about Chicago is that it has a ton of baby sights, attractions, and tours to enjoy.

Taking your baby out and about during the day is great for you and the baby and in Chicago, they celebrate that.

The town of Chicago has free stroller tours at some of the area’s major museums, including The Field Museum, The Art Institute of Chicago, and The Museum of Contemporary Art.

Besides the museums, you can also visit the Shedd Aquarium and Navy Pier.

If you are explicitly wondering where to travel with a newborn, this would be one of our top picks.

7. Montreal, Canada

After stroller-friendly places to visit with a baby? One of the nice things about Montreal is that it’s very stroller-friendly.

Numerous kid-friendly festivals occur throughout the year. Popular attractions include Jean-Talon Farmer’s Market, Clock Tower Beach, and The Botanical Gardens.

If you visit Montreal outside of these festivals do not worry because there is still lots to do. Experience much of the cultural scene in Montreal by visiting many of the galleries and museums. Kids under 12 can go free to many of these local Montreal attractions.

In summer there are many parks and open green spaces that you can enjoy as a family. Enjoy a picnic and the many playgrounds that can be found in the parks.

Montreal boasts a large variety of baby-friendly and welcoming cafes and restaurants, so when it comes to enjoying a bite to eat, you and your baby can relax.

8. Tasmania, Australia

Definitely, one of the most baby-friendly countries to visit.

Australia is another brilliant country to visit with a baby. While there are many baby-friendly places to travel to in Australia, we love Tasmania.

This Australian state is an excellent destination for children of all ages. You can easily find high chairs in restaurants, which typically have special kids’ menus to keep toddlers happy.

You can easily find all baby supplies in small or large grocery stores. Hotels have cots available (typically free of charge), and destinations are all stroller-friendly.

One of the nice things about Tasmania is that you don’t have to haul a stroller with you on your flight if you don’t want to because plenty of stroller rentals are available.

Many activities here are nature-based, including a visit to the Bay of Fires and Russell Falls. A great activity during the summer months is to head to one of the beautiful sandy beaches for some much-needed relaxation.

9. Wales, United Kingdom

Wales is another one of the best places to travel with a baby in Europe!  People love babies in Wales and will bend backward to ensure you enjoy your time here as much as possible.

Hotels will provide everything from cribs to baby gates and can even recommend babysitting services if you need some alone time. Good places to visit with your baby include Cardiff Castle, Tenby Harbour, and Bodnant Garden.

When you are out and about enjoying the lush Welsh countryside, be sure to take a baby carrier with you.

If you plan to spend more time exploring the Welsh villages and towns, a baby stroller will definitely come in handy. If you can, a stroller that folds up compactly is best as you are guaranteed it will be able to travel in your taxi.

10. San Diego, California

This is one of the most baby-friendly destinations on the list. There are a lot of boardwalks, walking trails, and plenty of beaches.

If you take a stroller with you when you travel to San Diego with a baby, you will be able to move around with ease.

If you are looking for some great baby-friendly activities then a visit to the Birch Aquarium, Mission Beach & Boardwalk, or the San Diego Botanic Garden are all great choices.

Be sure to also make your way to the San Diego Zoo. This huge zoo has so much to see and do and is a huge amount of fun for everyone.

If you visit during warmer months, be sure to pack sunblock and a swimming costume so you can take a dip at the many beaches.

Pack some kids’ beach toys or grab a set from one of the local shops on the boardwalk as all kids love to play in water and sand and most of all build sandcastles.

For kids big and small, head to Legoland which is under an hour’s drive from San Diego. The best part about the rides at Legoland resorts is that they do not have height restrictions so even the shortest of visitors can enjoy the rides when visiting.

Is it any surprise that Hawaii happens to be one of the best places to vacation with a baby? This island is a dream vacation for many due to the many resorts that cater to families.

So it is probably no surprise that Hawaii happens to be one of the best places to vacation with a baby!

If you do not want to explore the island and just need to relax and take it easy, then staying at your beach resort is great as you can lunge around the pool or on the beach.

Head to the beach for some sand and fun and when baby is tired and ready for a nap, the room is only a short walk away. If you want to do an activity that is a bit more strenuous, many of the resorts do offer activities at the resort that you can enjoy.

The best way to get around this island is with a rental car. You will be able to see plenty of amazing sights that will allow you to take unforgettable pictures of yourself and your baby.

Exploring Hawaii by car also means that your baby can take a nap when traveling and not be tired to enjoy the sights.

Baby-friendly places include Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail and Valley of the Temples.

12. Cape Town, South Africa

Not many people associate good places to travel with a baby, including South Africa. However, those who’ve been to Cape Town know it’s one of the best places to visit with a baby or even older kids.

Cape Town is also one of the best cities to visit with a baby because baby facilities are readily available everywhere.

There are plenty of picturesque views and things to do, visiting the penguins, heading out on a boat to see the seals, or having a picnic in a vineyard.

If you want to travel around Cape Town then make sure to rent a car. Many places that you will visit may be an hour or so drive out of the City center.

You do not need to take a car seat with you as many of the car rental companies will be able to offer you car seat rental.

Cape Town is known for its many wine farms. If you think that visiting is not great for kids, you will be pleased to know that many of the wine farms cater to all ages, with most offering children their own version of a “wine-tasting menu “with treats and kids’ drinks.

Nearly everywhere you visit a baby chair will be available to use. Most wine farms have play parks for kids to enjoy with swings, slides, and jungle gyms. If you are traveling with older kids.

Head to one of the many beaches, the most renowned being Camps Bay and enjoy a sunset picnic.

You can find our full guide on how to travel South Africa with a baby here. We visited South Africa with our youngest and two older kids and spent 5 weeks exploring various parts of the country and we loved it!

Further Reading

• Grab some ideas of what to do in Cape Town with kids here.

13. Taipei, Taiwan

Another popular destination for family travelers in Taiwan. This destination is very safe and the people of Taiwan are very welcoming of babies and children.

Many places in Taiwan have mothers’ rooms, similar to those found in Japan, but this city is a great place to travel with a baby because of its many attractions.

Unlike other places, you can easily strap a baby into a stroller and walk around, as the terrain isn’t tough to maneuver making it super easy to get around and explore.

This allows families to see a lot of exciting sights like Longshan Temple or Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.

The city of Taipei is exciting and colorful and at night looks a lot like Times Square in New York.

Head to the 101 Building which cannot be missed when you arrive in the city. You can go up this building and it is strongly recommended to buy tickets in advance rather than queuing.

Head out of the city and you will find the Silver Stream Cave which is a temple carved into the rock face behind a stunning waterfall. The nerve-wracking walk-up is definitely worth the trek and be sure to pack a baby carrier for this to make the walk easy.

Belize is one of the most baby and kid-friendly places to visit. It has so many different attractions and activities that everyone can enjoy.

One of the other biggest perks for families visiting here is its affordability.

The country is also English-speaking, so you don’t have to worry about the need to whip out your language translator while trying to balance a baby on your hip.

There are a lot of great places to take your little one in this country, including the Blue Morpho Butterfly Farm and the Mayan Ruins.

If your trip to Belize is to have some downtime and not be out and about too much, be sure to stay at one of the many resorts that offer guests all they need from horseback riding to pools and a health spa.

You can easily find what you need in the stores in Belize however if your baby is drinking formula, it is best to take your own with you as you may not be able to find the same make in Belize.

15. Ecuador

Ecuador may not be the first place you think of when traveling a with baby however you will find that this country is very welcoming of children and is affordable for a family vacation.

Ecuador is one of the best places to visit in South America , so you can’t go wrong with this destination!

The safest way to get around Ecuador is by renting a vehicle. Although there is a lot of public transport like taxis and buses, seatbelts are not always readily available and the maneuvers that the drivers take along the winding roads are quite hair-raising!

When it comes to mealtimes and feeding, you will be pleased to know that breastfeeding is very acceptable and normal. If you need baby formula, this is readily available however you may not find your usual brand.

The terrain is challenging to get around with a stroller, so you will need to use a baby carrier instead. You can even take a backpack carrier as this will be the easiest way to get around and carry your baby.

It’s worth exploring the city as much as possible with your baby as there’s a lot to see. This includes The Otavalo Indigenous Market and the Manabi Coast.

It can get pretty noisy at night too so you may want to bring along something to create white noise. Top tip – book hotels and places to stay that is away from main roads to help reduce the noise at night.

Wondering where to travel with your baby in Greece?

Those who visit Greece can tell pretty quickly that the culture is family-oriented. Often children can eat free at restaurants, stay free at hotels and ride public transportation for free.

While we recommend you leave the cliff-top towns such as Santorini for another year, you could visit many other beautiful destinations in Greece with your baby in tow. 

There are many islands that you can visit in Greece offering you and your baby warm beaches to enjoy like the infamous Mykonos.

Another great place to visit in Greece is Crete and the great thing is that this is not the first place most people think of visiting in Greece.

This makes it a great destination as it is not crowded and Crete also has a range of activities to do with kids.

Greece is also a very safe place to visit so it is a definite for any family vacation. If you want to explore by walking, a stroller may be difficult to use so a baby carrier may be best. Or a stroller with larger wheels will be ok.

Make sure you and your baby visit the Plaka District of Athens and The Castles Of Rhodes.

How To Get Around

Of course, the best way to get around Rhodes is with the locals. Get your local Rhodes taxi here.

And if you are staying in Athens (check out our list of the best hotels with rooftop pools in Athens here ), the best way to get around town is by taxi! Book your taxi here !

• The Best Places to Visit on a Family Holiday To Crete
• Where to visit in Greece for first-timers

17. Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is full of incredible sights to explore; it would be a shame not to discover the elegant harbors because you have a baby. Instead, Stockholm is one of the best places to travel with a baby.

One of the best things about Stockholm is that you can walk almost everywhere. It is an incredibly safe city and is the perfect size for a family to explore.

Sweden is one of the best places in Europe to visit with kids , because there are plenty of age-appropriate entertainment spots, such as;

• Old Town – the quaint part of town with fantastic toy stores
• Vasparken – a massive park with a lovely playground
• Skansen – a giant ocean-air museum and zoo

It is a legal requirement for all city buses to ensure space for wheelchairs for disabled people and prams for children. This makes it easy to get around if you push a stroller.

A trip to Stockholm is one of the best baby-friendly vacations you can plan.

Tip: One of the best ways to check out Stockholm is from the water. Take a look at our list of best Stockholm boat tours here.

The USA is one of the best baby-friendly vacation spots in the world. There are so many different places in the USA that it is a hard choice of where to go when visiting the USA with a baby and young children.

Washington, DC, is such a vibrant, beautiful city, and it promises to be a memorable and enjoyable experience for the whole family. It is an icon of democracy, full of history and progressive happenings.

There is so much to see and do – a lot of which is free. The best time to visit Washington, DC, with your baby is during spring (March to May), as the temperature is pleasant, with the pink cherry blossoms blooming around early April.

Avoid July and August, which can get uncomfortably hot and cause your baby to fuss.

The city has an excellent public transport system, making getting around easy. While the law doesn’t require car seats for cabs, you can pre-request one for a taxi or Uber.

Florida is another great place to visit and has so many family-friendly resorts to choose from. Florida is well known for all the amusement parks for toddlers such as Disney World, Magic Kingdom Park, etc.

Your young children and even baby will love the splash pads inside Magic Kingdom

Take a trip to Utah to see Zion National Park. There are short hikes inside the park which will be enjoyable for the whole family.

If you do decide to hike in Zion National Park, make sure to take a baby hiking carrier. Find more tips for visiting Zion National Park with kids here.

The same applies if you visit Colorado and the Rocky Mountain National Park.

North Carolina has many fun activities for the family. There is the North Carolina Zoo which is bound to make your little one smile.

Spend a night or two under the stars in the Uwharrie National Forest. There are many activities that you can do from swimming to fishing and boating. Make sure that you put safety first and use life vests for water sports and activities.

If you happen to travel to New York, make sure to take a stroll around central park. It is perfect for walking with a baby stroller or baby carrier.

19. Reykjavik, Iceland

Due to the chilly temperatures, Reykjavik and the rest of Iceland are often overlooked when deciding where to travel with a baby.

However, the city is breathtakingly beautiful, and if you bundle up your baby, you can enjoy the Northern Lights, geothermal hot springs, and fascinating history without the fuss!

Boasting surreal landscapes and fascinating natural phenomena, your little one may be lucky enough to capture a memory.

Reykjavik is fast becoming a trendy tourist destination, so there have been increased tour options. Many of these tours are family-friendly and remove all the fuss when planning your trip.

Make sure you pack in a few extra warm goodies, and you and your baby are good to go.

20. Runaway Bay, Jamaica

Jamaica is known as a paradise getaway, and no reason having a baby should change this experience. Runaway Island in Jamaica prioritizes an atmosphere of relaxation and is one of the top places to travel with a baby.

As a fabulous family vacation destination, Runaway Bay boasts many villas, resorts, and accommodation options focused on the family. Many of these resorts offer family-sized rooms that can comfortably sleep up to three children.

Many of these resorts also help arrange the services of a nanny or babysitter to help you better relax on the beach. Some resorts even have a baby club where trusted employees mind your child during nap time.

If we can give you one little piece of advice, it’s to pack a lot of sunblock (keeping in mind that babies under six months can’t use sunblock). Chances are, your little one will enjoy the sun, sand, and clear waters as much as you.

21. Cascais, Portugal

Cascais is a quaint village in Portugal full of culture, history, and, most importantly, families. The laid-back destination promises one of the best vacations with infants possible.

There is a tangible warmth in the air reflected in the locals’ cheery expressions, and it is sure to be a holiday you will never forget.

If you don’t choose to push your stroller on the wide, open streets, you can be comforted that child seats in taxis are not mandatory, making taxi cabs easily accessible.

There is a wide selection of parks, calm beaches, and historical sites to explore. One thing to remember is that the rich traditions in the seaside village mean that local restaurants don’t necessarily serve chicken nuggets and the like.

However, if your baby wants to venture from their formula, you can rest assured that the local food isn’t particularly spicy and generally quite soft.

22. Vail, Colorado

Vail, Colorado, is one of the best places to travel with a baby.

The breathtaking images of gorgeous mountains, vast open spaces, and reflecting lakes may make you think Vail is better suited to adults; however, that assumption couldn’t be further from the truth.

There is an entire baby brand named ‘Travel Vail Baby’, which serves as proof of how excellent the destination is for infant-friendly vacations.

The baby and toddler equipment rental company provides cribs, strollers, high chairs, hiking backpacks, and bouncy seats (among many other items) to help parents enjoy Vail’s jagged peaks and slopes.

When ascending to higher altitudes, your baby should be fine, as babies older than three months old adjust to altitude much better than adults.

Handy Tip: The Vail Public Library has incredibly fun baby storytime!

23. Barcelona, Spain

A trip to Barcelona with your baby is a sure way to begin stimulating their creativity from a young age.

From the eccentric design of the Gaudi buildings to the intricate stained glass windows of the cathedrals, your baby will be so busy absorbing the environment that they’ll have little time to cry.

If you want to make the most of your time in Barcelona, travel in the summer when you can enjoy the multiple parks and outdoors. Babies are often happier and more relaxed when moving about.

With so many sights and attractions, you can be sure your little one will be happy as a clam.

Top tip: Make sure to pack a sling or baby carrier. The streets in Barcelona are cobbled, and the bumps could make your baby uncomfortable.

24. Nice, France

Nice is a romantic and magical destination filled with bustling alleyways, quaint little shops, and outdoor restaurants.

One of the best parts about traveling to Nice, France, with a baby is the excellent promenade which offers surreal views while pushing a buggy.

As Nice is such a popular tourist destination, you’ll find that the hospitality industry accommodates babies.

From heating bottles to providing changing facilities, you can visit Nice quickly without any baby hassles.

The French Riviera offers sun, sea, and delectable food; it would be a shame to miss out on this. The charming city is easy to travel to with a baby, especially if you follow our tips on how to travel through France with a baby .

25. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is one of the most accessible places to visit with a baby. The cosmopolitan city has a lot to offer the entire family and caters to its attractions.

In addition to fantastic shopping, music, and food experiences, there are a lot of free and budget attractions to enjoy.

Seoul has plenty of indoor playgrounds, known as Kids’ cafes that are great for toddlers under two years old. These are a great option during the extreme seasons when the weather can be icy or uncomfortably hot.

The city’s very efficient public transportation system and a wide variety of family-friendly accommodation options make day-to-day living in Seoul very easy.

If you prefer to walk, you’ll be pleased to know that Seoul is also fairly stroller friendly.

One piece of advice is to not breastfeed in public. The Koreans don’t make a habit of the practice, so choosing to do so will attract unwanted attention.

Although there are baby nursing stations in larger subway stations, department stores, and restaurants.

26. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin City and the rolling green hills surrounding the area are on the top of many people’s bucket lists – for a good reason.

There is a stunning culture of friendliness in the city, and the beautiful design of the city mimics the breathtaking landscapes on the outskirts.

Dublin is well-supplied with formula, food, nappies, and clothing for your little one. Most restaurants will go as far as to prepare a bowl for your child and offer high chairs and baby-changing facilities.

Getting around Dublin is very easy. In addition to speaking English, the city is also easy to navigate, and baby car seats are available for a small additional cost. There is even a child-friendly taxi service .

There are many baby-friendly activities to discover in the city, including live Irish music performances.

Be aware that Dublin has quite a vibrant pub culture, and while children are allowed in the pubs and bars during the day, they are not legally allowed entry after 9 pm.

27. Thailand

Thailand is such a great destination to travel with a baby as it is so baby friendly. We love traveling to Thailand and have done it many times with our daughter when she was a baby and a toddler.

The Thai people and culture are so welcoming it makes this country a perfect destination for families who want to travel to a beach destination with a baby.

Another perk is that there are quite a few 4+ star hotels that are more than willing to accommodate your baby’s needs.

Many of them include indoor pools and even water parks. If you are after great cultural travel destinations with a baby, you can’t look further than Thailand. Here is a list of the best resorts on Koh Samui for families .

Some of the best places and great destinations to travel with a baby in Thailand are Khao Lak, Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui .

How to Choose Infant-Friendly Holiday Destinations

Wondering how to choose the best place to travel with an infant? Find below some of our requirements when we decide where to travel next.

1. Is the Transportation Safe?

An important consideration when we choose holiday destinations with our baby is whether transportation will be safe for our little one.

For example, you might consider whether taxis and private transfers offer infant travel car seats. 

If they don’t, it might be best if you rent a car and add a child car seat onto the rental costs, or you might prefer to bring your own – find a post on the best infant travel car seats to travel with here.

(However, it is essential to check if your car seat can be adequately secured in a different country as they all have different systems to install car seats).

How safe are these to use if you plan to take public transport? Some countries are crazy when it comes to driving.

Think about what you are comfortable with and choose the best vacation that ticks your boxes.

2. Is the Climate Baby-Friendly?

Look at the average temperatures and how much rain the destination will get at the time of year you plan to visit.

We made the mistake of traveling to Asia during their hot season, and our baby developed a heat rash from the constant heat; it made life more challenging than it needed to be as she was unhappy and pretty grumpy.

We also went to Japan when it was freezing, and it was tricky to keep our little baby warm and snug in the temperature.

3. Keep Travel Time Short

Keep flight time as short as you can. It is much easier to fly with a newborn who sleeps a lot, in comparison to a baby who has just become mobile.

It might be a good idea to pick infant-friendly travel destinations closer to home.

An 8-hour flight overseas might be okay, but a 15-hour long-haul flight will be much more challenging (If you are traveling long-haul, you might appreciate our long-haul flight checking list for babies ).

So while we list baby-friendly holidays from around the world in our list below, it will be essential to consider the ones closer to your home.

Also, think about how long your transfers are once you land, and keep your travel days nice and short so that there is plenty of downtime for your baby.

4. Which Countries Are Safe?

The best countries to travel to with a baby are the ones that are safe for little kids. Have a look to see if there is any unrest in the destination you will be visiting.

Look at which vaccines you might have to get (and whether your baby can even get them).

It might be best to avoid rural and remote areas of a country until your baby is a bit older.

We visited Bali when our daughter was only six weeks old, but we stayed clear of the monkey forests and spent a lot more time on hotel grounds than we would typically have done to keep the trip safe for her.

5. Consider Health Care

Think about the amenities and healthcare facilities you would typically be comfortable with at home.

Are there good hospitals, and will the medical staff be able to understand you?

6. Baby Facilities

Another thing that will make traveling with a baby easier is choosing a destination with baby facilities readily available.

Can you find hotels that have baby cots available? You might prefer to travel with a crib; you can find our top recommendations for a lightweight travel crib here.

Are high chairs available in restaurants, and are there baby change rooms?

If not, you can always travel with your own high chair – find a post on the best high chair for travel here.

You can also find a list of all our recommendations for baby travel gear to make your life easier while on holiday here.

Consider how easy it will be to purchase baby diapers, formulae, baby food, or baby medication.

If you have to travel with baby food, you can find a post about TSA baby food and formulae rules here.

Also, think about your baby’s age; the best places to travel with a newborn will not be the same as the best places to travel with a 1-year-old, because a 1-year-old is mobile.

If your baby is at the age where they are eating and drinking water, it is also essential to consider how safe the water and food are to eat in the country you are visiting.

Hopefully, all the tips above are helpful and will guide you to choose one of the best baby-friendly holiday destinations from our guide below.

Jolene’s Pro Tips for Traveling with an Infant

• Do it your way: People seem to think that if you go somewhere and you stay in your resort you are doing it wrong! But there is nothing wrong with a holiday with your baby where you do nothing but stay on the resort grounds.
• Have plenty of time to rest: Everything needs to happen slower when you travel with a baby. Plan to have only half days of exploring and half a day to relax, plan to have relax days after big travel days.
• Stay longer in one hotel: Our baby took a few days to adjust to a new hotel/crib. Which meant we had a few rough nights before she settled back into sleeping better. So we learned to stay in one spot for at least 5+ nights.
• Beach vs City trips: We personally found it much easier to go on a beach vacation in comparison to exploring towns and cities in a country. Life moves slower on islands and so that is where we prefer to be with our baby.
• What works for someone else might not work for you: Babies are all different, just because someone else had an incredible road trip holiday with their baby, does not mean your road trip will go smoothly. Our baby hated the car and the stroller, so road trips or days exploring all day long in a stroller were not fun for anyone!

Final Thoughts On The Best Places To Vacation With A Baby

So hopefully, if you have been wondering where to travel with an infant, you have made a list of the best holiday destinations with a baby you would love to visit.

The best destination with a baby will be different for each of us as it depends on your current location, as well as what sort of current baby ‘comforts’ you might be used to.

Most parents feel most comfortable when they choose destinations that offer the same level of baby care as the country where they live.

Ultimately you can travel anywhere in the world with a baby; after all, babies are born in each country worldwide.

But the most comfortable holiday where you will be less stressed out will be the country that matches your current baby’s facilities, amenities, and healthcare standards.

And as a last resort, go with your gut instinct. If the destination doesn’t feel right, it might be best to leave it until your child is older.

• Wondering what to take along on your trip? Here is our guide to handy travel accessories for baby that you should take on your holiday.
• First time flying with your baby? Grab our top tips on how to survive your flight with an infant .
• Wondering whether you should take a car seat on your flight? Here is a handy guide to help you decide .

Leave us a Comment:

• Which of these destinations on our best countries to travel with a baby list do you want to see the most?
• Can you add other best places to holiday with a baby?

Jolene Ejmont

20 thoughts on “27 best places to travel with a baby (safe + baby-friendly)”.

Hi, totally understand where you are coming from, but we visited Bali, Lombok and Gili Islands with our 2-month-old baby and her normal vaccines that she needs to get anyways was sufficient to keep her safe. And that was on doctor’s advice. We have also just visited Vietnam (she is 2 now) and again her normal routine vaccines was enough for her to go. Always best to choose a destination that you are comfortable visiting though and make sure you pop into your travel doctor for advice as well.

I would add Reykjavik

Oh Great tip Ana! Can you tell me why you found it baby friendly? 🙂

I love this! You guys have had some pretty awesome places – all the pictures are simply beautiful. That has to be one of the most memorable, not many people get to say that they have accomplished that! Great Job! and one more question How difficult is it to travel with a 2 month old baby?

A 2-month-old is EASY 🙂 They sleep a lot, they fall asleep anywhere and when they cry you can breastfeed. The hard months arrive once a baby is mobile.

Very interesting article about traveling of the baby. The traveling helps a baby to grow their physical and mental health. Baby strollers and prams are essential things during travel. Thank you for your well-written article.

Thanks for your comment Donna. Do you have a favorite destination that you love visiting with your baby?

I love to travel with my baby. Very interesting & informative post. Just lovely. Thanks a lot for sharing.

We traveled with our 7 month old to Florence and Tuscany and had an amazing time. People are incredibly friendly and helpful. If you get an Airbnb be careful for stairs!

Hi Matt, we love Italy because Italians love our kids! 🙂 We are actually heading to Italy for a 13 week trip early in 2019 – so excited!! Great tip with the stairs, I think it is important to ask that question in all European countries.

Great article. Thanks for sharing this post about best places to travel with baby. It’s very informative and helpful.

Korea is also really great for young children. Lots of kids’ cafes, people love children, most people in the big cities speak at least some English, safe, clean and quite cheap (compared to Japan).

Autumn (September/October) is the best time to come, summer is too hot, winter is too cold and there is often dirty air in spring. The autumn leaves are beautiful and sky is usually blue. The best area to visit is Gangwondo, to the north east.

Thanks for all those wonderful tips 🙂

I would suggest Portugal as well. People there love babies. If you’re pregnant or have a baby you have priority anywhere, from the queue at the supermarket to being seated at a restaurant. The country is beautiful, especially if you don’t just stay in the hyper touristy places like Algarve. Alentejo has great beaches and skies that go on forever and the further up North you go the cheaper it is, with some great hidden gems for both culture and nature.

Brilliant! Thanks for sharing and for giving some info on why you found it to be perfect for babies! We have actually had a few recommendations of Portugal, so might have to add it to the list 🙂

Jolene thank you for your list, we waiting for our baby and looking forward to starting travel with our boy.

Glad you like the info. Hope you have a great time once you can travel again 🙂 All best.

Thank you for the comment. Much appreciated it!

Thank you for the comment

Hi! Great post! Where would you recommend to travel with a 6 month old in December (internationally)? We would like the weather to be around 70F if possible as we are traveling from Minnesota and crave warmer weather in the winter months. Thanks!

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Traveling With a Baby in the US – All You Need to Know

Of all of the places in the world to travel, the US might be my favorite. I’m biased as an American, but there’s so much diversity here in terms of landscape, people, and food, you can find almost anything to suit your desires. As a new mom, I’ve loved traveling the USA with my baby, especially since there are so many baby-friendly things to do here.

Traveling with a baby comes with its own unique set of challenges, and knowing some of the important differences in the US and ways to prepare is key to having a safe and enjoyable trip. Here’s everything to know about traveling in the USA with a baby.

Table of Contents

Navigating US airports with a baby

One thing you’ll notice when traveling in the USA is that airports don’t usually have a dedicated line for families with young children. It’s one of my biggest sources of shame when traveling in a US airport since so many other countries do! However, they do have family bathrooms, which can be a real lifesaver when you need a private space for diaper changes and feedings.

To breeze through the airport experience:

• Arrive early. Give yourself plenty of time to check in, pass through security, and get to your gate. Babies have a way of making everything take longer than you expect.
• Gate-check stroller and car seat. You can bring your stroller and car seat all the way to the gate, where they’ll be tagged and stowed under the plane. This is a convenient way to have them available until you board. You can also check a car seat to hold luggage for free. Just be sure to bring a car seat travel bag in order to keep the straps and buckles intact.
• Security screening. The US tends to screen more than any other country I’ve traveled through. Let the agent know before you go through that you have liquids over the 3oz/100ml limit. You’re allowed to bring baby food, formula, and milk over the limit, but it will probably be subject to extra screening. They are not allowed to put anything into the liquid but may perform a vapor test or put it through an extra machine. Be prepared to fold up your stroller and send it through the X-ray machine as well. Keep in mind that you’ll need to carry your baby through the metal detector, even if it means waking them up from their stroller nap to do so.
• Family bathrooms. Take advantage of the family bathrooms. They provide a private, clean space for diaper changes and feedings.

Traveling around the US with a baby: crafting the perfect itinerary

Now, let’s talk about planning your itinerary, which is crucial when you have a little one in tow. Here are some tips to help you create a well-balanced schedule.

• Flexibility is key. Babies have their own schedules, and you need to be ready to adapt. Plan activities around their nap times and feedings and you’ll all be happier. Some babies are totally fine sleeping in a car seat, and others need dark rooms. You know your baby best.
• Shorter stays. Instead of rushing through multiple destinations, consider spending more time in fewer places. This allows for a slower pace and more in-depth exploration.
• Rest days. Incorporate rest days into your itinerary. Use this time to relax, explore your accommodation, and recharge for the next adventure.
• Research family-friendly activities. Look for attractions that are well-suited for babies. Museums, parks, and gentle hikes are often great options.
• Stay central. Choose accommodations that are central to the activities you plan to do. This minimizes travel time and makes it easier to return to your lodging for breaks.
• Car rentals. The US is HUGE and in most places, you’ll need a car to get around. There are a few key US cities that are well connected with public transportation, but outside of those, almost everyone drives. This means you’ll need to bring (or rent) a car seat. I’ll mention some destinations below where you don’t need a car in case you’d prefer not to drive.

10 of the Best Places to Travel with a Baby in the USA

San diego, california.

Known for its perfect weather and stunning beaches, San Diego is a fantastic destination for families with babies. Explore Balboa Park, take a stroll in La Jolla Cove, or visit the world-renowned San Diego Zoo. This was one of the first trips we took my son on and is one of the most family-friendly cities in California!

Don’t miss our detailed guide to a 10-day California road trip!

Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a laid-back, artsy vibe and a range of family-friendly activities. Don’t miss a visit to the Biltmore Estate and the family-friendly trails of the Great Smoky Mountains. If you visit in the fall, the foliage can be gorgeous.

Seattle, Washington

A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, I love Seattle as a jumping-off point for a Washington road trip with so many beautiful National Parks. You’ve got a great mix of mountains, rainforests, and lakes to choose from.

Check out our guide to the best hotels in Seattle.

Charleston, South Carolina

Steeped in history and charm, Charleston provides a relaxed atmosphere for families. Explore the cobblestone streets of the historic district and spend a day at the renowned Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. If your baby is anything like mine, the sand at the beach will be one of their favorite things!

Sedona, Arizona

Red rock landscapes, hiking trails, and spiritual vibes await you in Sedona. I love that it’s such a great place to just rent a vacation home and relax at any time of year. Opt for baby-friendly hikes like the Bell Rock Pathway or relax at the Sedona Community Pool.

Chicago, Illinois

The Windy City is an excellent choice for families. Take your little one to Millennium Park, Navy Pier, or the Lincoln Park Zoo, where they can meet animals from all over the world. Keep in mind it can get COLD in the winter, so consider this for the spring or summer.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

An iconic destination for nature lovers, Yellowstone is perfect for introducing your baby to the great outdoors. Drive around the park and keep an eye out for bison, geysers, and accessible walkways. One of the best things about the US national park system is that they always have trails that are paved and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

Washington, D.C.

Our nation’s capital can be fun for both parents and little guys. Explore the National Mall, visit the Smithsonian museums (which are free!), and don’t forget to snap a family photo with the cherry blossoms if you happen to be visiting in the early spring. If you’re intimidated about driving while visiting the US, D.C. has a great metro system.

New York City, New York

Believe it or not, the Big Apple can be baby-friendly! Take leisurely strolls in Central Park, visit the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, and enjoy a family ferry ride to see the Statue of Liberty. New York is another city where you don’t have to drive.

Utah’s National Parks

We did a Utah road trip with my baby when he was about 8 months old and between the hiking backpack carrier and planning during low season, it was an easy, enjoyable trip that we could just do on the fly. Zion National Park had just received a blanket of fresh snow, and it was nothing short of magical.

Picking the right accommodation when traveling with a baby in the US

Hotels in the US can vary in price and amenities. If you’re traveling in the summertime, prices will be the highest as that’s when everyone else is traveling, too. If you can manage the off-season, booking will be easier, and prices will be lower.

Although hotel rooms are great if you want access to a refrigerator or kitchen, vacation home rentals can be a great idea.

When using a platform like Airbnb, you have the option to search only for places that have cribs. You can do the same on most major hotel booking platforms as well. Most major hotel chains have cribs, and there are resorts all over the US, particularly in Hawaii or Orlando, that are specifically designed for families.

Where to stock up on baby essentials in the USA

When traveling with a baby in the USA, thankfully it’s easy to find baby items .

Major cities have a plethora of options, such as Walmart, Target, and local grocery stores. You’ll find diapers, baby food, formula, and just about anything you could need or think of at these big box stores. If you forget anything at all, you can find toys, strollers , baby carriers , playpens, bottle warmers , and travel cribs at these stores. Rental services like Babyquip can also be great, which allows you to rent directly from local parents wherever you are in the US. It’s like the Airbnb of baby gear!

Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS are also great for baby needs and over-the-counter medications. Although grocery stores usually also have diapers and baby food, they don’t always have formula.

You may notice that baby formula and diapers in the US cost more than at home, depending on where you’re from. Consider bringing formula from home to avoid the high costs here.

Check out our guide to what to pack when traveling with kids.

Staying safe and healthy

The United States may be a land of adventure, but it’s also home to an expensive healthcare system. To ensure a safe and healthy trip, get travel insurance.

Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers your family, including your baby. It’s a safety net just in case.

If you do need to visit the doctor while you’re here, your best bet is to look up urgent care facilities. You can also go to any hospital’s emergency room.

In the USA, dial 911 in case of an emergency. You’ll be able to use Google Maps to identify any hospitals or pediatricians if needed.

Make sure your baby’s vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling. Also, consult your pediatrician for any additional recommendations, and bring along any medications your baby might need. Pharmaceuticals, like our medical system, are most likely more expensive here than they are in your home country.

Keep in mind that theft can be a problem in some bigger cities in the US. I recommend leaving nothing of value in your rental car and always locking the door to your accommodation. Don’t walk around at night in big cities, unless you’re in a walkable city like New York, and be aware of wildlife while driving.

Final thoughts about traveling around the US with a baby

Traveling with a baby in the US is an experience that is truly one of a kind. There’s no other country where the arctic tundra of Alaska, tropical beaches of Hawaii , and skyscrapers of New York are all under one country code.

While it comes with its share of challenges in a country this vast, a well-prepared adventure can be smooth and rewarding. So, pack your bags, and explore this diverse and beautiful country with your little one. I will always cherish the photos and memories of our trips around the US with my little guy, and the best part is, it’s all only just beginning!

Author Bio: Kristin Addis is the founder of Parenthood Adventures , a resource for adventurous parents who still want to travel the world with their little ones. She’s been a travel expert for over a decade, leading adventure trips and spending several years as a nomad. Now, she’s showing her baby the world.

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Traveling the US With Kids – The Best Vacations in All 50 States

Searching for US vacation inspiration for your family? Don’t know where to head next? Discover the best family vacations in all 50 states to make your family traveling dreams come true!

Disclosure : This site contains affiliate links for products and services I recommend. When you make a purchase through an affiliate link, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Read our full disclosure here.

Did you know that the US is home to the world’s largest cave? What about the continent’s tallest peak? Does zip-lining through beach dunes or spending the day at an interactive museum based on the life and work of Ben Franklin pique your family’s interests?

Maybe you’re looking for family friendly hikes with young children or the country’s best road trips! Wondering what National Parks are best for your summer vacation? Looking for holiday inspired getaways or trip ideas for your older kids? Or historic cities to reinforce what your children are covering in school?

From coast to coast, whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, you’ll love these top family vacation destinations across all 50 states!

Traveling Across America With Kids: What To See in All 50 States

Gulf shores.

Alabama’s Gulf Shores is one of the most popular family vacations spots in the Southern US. With beaches, dune zip-lining, golf, and waters ports, it’s the perfect getaway for outdoor families looking for some fun in the sun! Children of all ages will also enjoy the local zoo, water parks, and the National Wildlife refuge.

Denali National Park

With the tallest peak on the continent, Alaska’s Denali National Park should be on every family’s bucket list. Junior Ranger programs with outside activities make the park appealing for children of all ages

Take An Alaska Cruise

Traveling to the most remote and vast of the 50 states is easy if you book an Alaskan cruise. Experience the glaciers, see the Northern Lights, and enjoy some of Alaska’s best cities, each full of fun and different activities for families.

Related: Cruising With a Baby

The Grand Canyon

Visiting the Grand Canyon is a great family friendly vacation you can take any time of year.  The Grand Canyon is located four hours from Phoenix or Las Vegas making it a quick drive so you can spend all of your time admiring the views of the Grand Canyon.  The South Rim is the most popular rim and has some of the best viewpoints along the way.  You can also do the rim walk which is a flat, paved walk from the visitor centre which allows you to see more of the canyon.

Tusayan is located six miles from the Grand Canyon entrance and is the  best place to stay near the Grand Canyon .  You can also visit the museum there and the iMax theatre. // Recommended by Nicole from American SW Obsessed

Hot Springs National Park

Arkansas is home to Hot Springs National Park and the nearby adorable downtown of the same name. Hot Springs National Park features numerous natural hot springs along easily walkable trails and a paved pathway. Families will enjoy touring the the visitor’s center, located in one of the original hot spring bathhouses, as well as the city’s downtown, featuring many family friendly restaurants and shops.

Heading to the San Diego area with kids? Then you can’t miss Carlsbad, California. Located 30 miles north of downtown San Diego, the coastal city of  Carlsbad has many kid-friendly things to do . In addition to being home to Legoland California, Carlsbad’s western edge is also lined with some of San Diego County’s best beaches. As for Legoland, families will have a blast at the Lego-themed amusement park as well as visiting its adjacent aquarium and water park. After a day of fun at Legoland and the beach, head into Carlsbad Village for ice cream and dinner. Carlsbad is home to several family-friendly establishments, like Park 101, which has a common outside area with lawn games that kids will love playing in while their parents enjoy the many local brews on tap and upscale comfort food. // Recommended by Gina from Evergreen & Salt

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a great family friendly destination in Southern California, best visited during the fall and spring months. In the north side of the park you’ll easily find the famous Joshua Trees – they look straight out of a Dr. Seuss book! There are also many natural rock formations in the park, like Arch Rock, Skull Rock and Split Rock, which don’t require long hikes and are perfect for everyone in the family to climb through and explore. You can make  a day trip to Joshua Tree , but camping in the park for a few days is easy and a great way to see the stars at night.  // Recommended by Ale from Sea Salt & Fog

Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park is a great family friendly destination. Its ancient building and natural beauty awed us on our  Colorado road trip . It is a UNESCO World Heritage site which contains the ancient dwellings of the Pueblo people. You can learn about the history of the area at the interpretive center where you are invited to explore the exhibits and watch a 30 minutes video introducing you to the park. There are also guided ranger walks to explore some of the only dwellings you are permitted to enter. However, for anyone with limited mobility or little ones, there are some great lookout points where you get a birds eye view of the dwellings carved into the rockface. It is a view you and your family won’t forget! // Recommended by Drink Tea Travel

Colorado Springs

If you are looking for a hidden gem with beautiful nature, great food, and a lot of fun activities Colorado Springs is the perfect place for a family vacation . Colorado Springs is a bigger city with a small-town vibe. The best time to visit to make the most out of al the outdoor activities is spring, summer, and fall. There is something for everyone to do from toddlers to teenagers. You can visit the Garden of the Gods and take in the picturesque scenery, head to the top to Pike’s Peak, explore Red Rock Canyon and enjoy the activities, feed giraffes at the Cheyenne Zoo, Dinosaur Museum or take a day trip to the Royal Gorge Bridge.

You may not think the food is good, but you would be wrong. There are some amazing restaurants such as The Denver Biscuit Company, Korean Garden, and great pupusas from El Poblano Mobile (an amazing food truck).

If you are looking for a place with nature, good food, and family-friendly activities Colorado Springs is the place for you. Even if you decide to go in the winter, you will not regret taking your family to this hidden treasure. // Recommended by Cee from Itz a Family Thing

Connecticut

Mystic Seaport and the famous Mystic Aquarium are only two of the many family friendly activities in this coastal Connecticut town. Nature and ocean centers, children’s museums, and the nearby Dinosaur Place offer thrilling hands on experiences for children. Plus, families will love the adorable but hip downtown area.

Related: Five Incredible Dinosaur Museums Around NYC

Rehoboth Beach

Rehoboth Beach earns a spot on our 50 states family traveling bucket list for it’s beautiful beaches, hip boardwalk, and the iconic Funland amusement park. With plenty of shopping, dining, and family friendly breweries, Rehoboth Beach is the perfect lowkey vacation for any family! Summers can get crowded, but if you can sneak in a weekend away before Memorial Day, you’ll have more of the beach to yourself!

Disney World

What family doesn’t dream of traveling to Disney – it’s probably the most popular bucket list destination for families in all 50 states. Children young and old, and even adults, are intoxicated with magic in the happiest place on Earth. Surrounded by classic Disney characters, thrill rides, food, and entertainment, you simply can’t be sad at Disney World. I personally love visiting in the fall during Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival for the extra special adult beverages. Summer in Florida is almost unbearably hot, holiday trips can get crowded, but truly, there’s no bad time to visit Disney.

With the world’s busiest airport, Atlanta is a clear choice for family travelers looking for an accessible destination. Atlanta is flooded with history, museums, such as The World of Coca-Cola, nature centers, and outdoor activities. Families won’t want to miss Centennial Park. The 22 acre park, originally built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, is the perfect respite after exploring the nearby museums. Ride the ferris wheel (Sky View Atlanta) or stroll through the urban oasis. The park also hosts special events and shows.

The Island of Oahu is one of the best destinations in the USA for family vacations all year-round with its temperate weather, picturesque beaches, and thrilling hikes. With lots of family hotels and resorts right on the beach, it is the dream family getaway.

Oahu is set up perfectly for families with many tours specifically for those with kids. One of the popular activities in Oahu is the short hike up to Diamond Head lookout or a snorkeling tour at Hanauma Bay. Enjoy a Luau at night and learn about the ancient Hawaiian culture, which will be a long-lasting and important memory for the kids.

Most of the hotels have pools and many of the resorts have a kids club so there will never be a shortage of entertainment in the ‘Aloha State’ for your next family vacation. // Recommended by Jackson of Journey Era

Kuaui is the perfect paradise escape for adventure loving families. Sail the famed Nā Pali Coast, trek Waimea Canyon, play on the beach, or visit a coffee plantation. Moms – the coffee is free…we know you need it! Families will easily fill a week in Kuaui , and leave wanting to return for more. I know I personally cannot wait until we book a Hawaiian family vacation. // Find more of Kathy’s Kuaui travel tips and vacation itineraries at Tasty Itinerary

Coeur d’Alene

Known for water sports and trails, Coeur d’Alene should make any adventurous family’s list. Additionally, kids will love zip-lining through the forest, white water rafting, visiting museums, exploring downtown, and visiting theme parks. If that doesn’t perk your ears parents, the lake town is also known for it’s breweries.

If you’re traveling with dinosaur obsessed kids, you should know that Chicago’s Field Museum is home to the largest T-Rex in the 50 states (formerly in the world!). If that doesn’t pique your child’s interest, there’s the city’s Planetarium, two major zoos, the Shedd Aquarium, various parks and nature centers, and other science museums. Not to mention deep dish pizza…

Indiana Dunes

Situated on Lake Michigan, beach families won’t want to miss 15 miles of protected shoreline in Indiana Dunes National Park. Hiking families will enjoy the rugged dunes, prairies, wetlands, and forest trails. Children will particularly enjoy geocaching, the Junior Ranger program, or simply playing in the sand along the seashore.

Maquoketa Caves State Park

A little over an hour from Cedar Rapids sits Maquoketa Caves State Park. Families looking for an escape from the city or an exciting day trip will find enthralling hiking and rugged limestone caves. One of Iowa’s most unique spots, Maquoketa Caves offers a chance to step back in time geologically.

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

With almost 11,000 acres, outdoors-y families won’t need to look too far to find wildlife, flowers, and picturesque scenery. The best time to visit is the fall, when the grass is tallest and can provide the most meaningful experience with the prairie. Kids will also love the old ranch and one room school. Tallgrass is about an hour and twenty minutes from both Topeka and Wichita, which offer a botanical gardens, zoos, museums, and small city vibes if you’re looking to book a bit of a longer vacation or find a “home base.”

Mammoth Cave

Mammoth Cave features the world’s largest cave, measuring in at over 400 miles! In addition, the National park preserves over 50,000 acres of land. Walk or hike the 70+ miles of trails, navigate 20 miles of river, or camp above ground. Below ground, enter another world and explore a cave like no other. Options to tour the cave vary from basic to historical to physically demanding.

New Orleans

If you thought traveling to New Orleans was all about Bourbon Street, Mardi Gras, and classic cocktails, you might be surprised to learn it’s one of the most family friendly destinations in all 50 states. Of course NOLA is a world famous party city, but it’s also super kid friendly. Children and families will love the aquarium on the Mississippi and the insectarium. There’s also the famous movie featured Carousel Gardens and the Louisiana Children’s Museseum, both at City Park, among other attractions. Younger children will love the park’s Story Land, featuring larger than life story book characters. And I’m sure little ones won’t put up a fuss for some famous New Orleans beignets. School aged kids will benefit from visiting the WWII Museum, which is one of the most comprehensive and well curated museums in the world.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park in southeastern Maine is a favorite destination for families. Known for its natural beauty and variety of outdoor activities, there is no shortage of ideas when planning what to see in Acadia National Park . Easy mountain hikes, sandy beaches, ocean views and motor-free carriage roads for walking and biking make Acadia the perfect family vacation spot. Early risers can boast being the first in the country to see the sunrise as they sit atop Acadia’s Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on the Eastern Seaboard. Plan two to three days in the park to experience Acadia’s scenic surroundings. // Recommended by Deanne of Scenic and Savvy

Ocean City, MD is a beach-y town with a wooden boardwalk, attractions, water sports, shopping, and dining. The popular Jolly Roger amusement park, which has been an Ocean City staple for years, entertains kids with their thrill rides and water slides. Families will also enjoy the Ripley’s Believe it Or Not museum, the boardwalk arcade, taking old-time photos, or noshing on donuts. Of course you won’t want to miss the beach or the many seaside cafés and breweries. Snag some salt water taffy to bring home, too!

Massachusetts

Most kids grow up learning about the American Revolution. What better way to reinforce education than taking the family to Boston to see the sites first hand. Follow the 2.5 mile footpath through downtown Boston, stopping at various points of historical significance. Climb the Old North Church, visit Paul Revere’s home, or climb aboard the USS Constitution. Though the trail itself is free, some attractions along the way charge admission. When the kids have had enough history, why not visit Fenway Park for a Red Sox game or one of the many museums or gardens the city offers.

Northern Michigan

Northern Michigan refers to the northern region of Michigan’s lower peninsula. Most famously, visitors love traveling to Sleeping Bear Dunes, named one of the most beautiful places in all 50 states. The National Lakeshore is known for climbing dunes and trails along Lake Michigan. Additionally, families will adore Traverse City, known for its regional cuisine and wines, along with it’s small town vibes.

Minneapolis

If you need to convince you’re teenage daughters of taking a family vacation, their ears might perk up with Minneapolis and its epic Mall of America. Not just for shopping, the mall offers a Crayola Experience, the mirror maze, Fly Over America’s virtual ride above the US, a Nickelodean Universe, and an aquarium. Kids will also enjoy the hands on Mill City Museum, the sculpture garden, boating down the Mississippi, and exploring the city’s history. Outdoor loving families will enjoy the nearby Minnehaha Park on the Mississippi River, the waterfall at Hidden Falls, or the surrounding lakes.

Mississippi

Drive natchez trace parkway.

The parkway, which begins in Natchez, Tennessee, offers an exciting path to experience the state of Mississippi. Visit Natchez National Historical Park and the Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture before driving north. Stop in Jackson for museums, the zoo, parks, and the nearby petrified forest. Other exciting stops may include Windsor Ruins, Cypress Swamp, River Bed, parks, and scenic spots.

Mark Twain National Forest

Traveling through Missiouri’s Mark Twain National Forest may not be at the top of your family’s 50 states bucket list, but it offers a lot to do. Hiking, biking, camping, exploring, and more are tucked away into the forest and mountains. The National Forest itself is huge, but some highlights include Talking Rocks Cavern, a hidden blue hole, and Johnson Shut Ins State Park, which features beautiful rock formations and waterfalls. A bit farther north, visitors will find the giant boulders of Elephant Rocks State Park and the wondrous Onondoga Cave State Park. A short distance from the north end of the park is St. Louis. Why not stop to see the Arch and enjoy the city’s museums and food scene!

Glacier National Park

Anyone who enjoys traveling, with or without children, has Glacier National Park on their 50 states bucket list. One of the most picturesque places in America, Glacier National Park will wow even the smallest eyes. Above all else, families will love hiking through Glacier National Park. With plenty of hikes available, even young children will be able to traverse some of the easier trails. Kids will also enjoy visiting the Apgar Nature Center and learning about the park through hands on experiences.

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

Known for their well preserved Miocene fossils, the Agate Fossil Beds and its visitor center will impress your little dinosaur lover. We personally seek out the best dinosaur destinations in the 50 states when traveling with out dino loving toddler. Agate is high on our bucket list! With short trails, children will love stepping back in time and experiencing the fossil beds, as well as earning their badge with the Junior Ranger program.

Lake Tahoe straddles the states of Nevada and California. This stunning natural region is a family-friendly vacation destination in the US for all seasons. From skiing, snowshoeing and dogsledding to canoeing and hiking, there are plenty of family-friendly  things to do in Tahoe  in summer, winter, spring or fall. 

With a great selection of family resorts like Northstar, Heavenly and Sierra, the top attraction in winter are the excellent ski and snowboard schools for kids. In summer, head to Emerald Bay beach for a paddle and a swim. There are also lots of hiking trails suitable for kids, such as Monkey Rock and Eagle Rock. // Recommended by Christina of Travel2Next

New Hampshire

White mountain national forest.

Though White Mountain National Forest is big, so the suggestion seems a bit vague, it’s definitely not to be missed when visiting New England. For starters, if your family is into hiking, Mount Washington (the highest peak in the Northeast) is probably already on your radar. It is not an easy hike by any means, especially with children, but it’s doable if you’re experienced. Halfway up, Lake of the Clouds offers some of the most stunning views of the state! Alternatively, visitors can take the cog railway to the top of the mountain. Nearby towns such as Conway offer a quaint home base. Kids will love visiting the Conway Scenic Railroad, the indoor water park, and the nearby lakes and trails.

Along the southern tip of New Jersey sits Cape May, a much more family friendly and normal alternative to the typical Jersey Shore. The Cape May Lighthouse provides scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean, once you climb the 199 steps to the top, while the town below offers restaurants, shops, and activities perfect for young families. Don’t miss the Cape May Nature Center, Beach Plum Farm, or simply playing at the beach. Easily extend your trip by taking the ferry over to Delaware to visit Lewes and Rehoboth Beach, which we’ll cover below.

Carlsbad Caverns

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is one of the most intriguing US destinations, for both individuals and families.  The  best things to do in Carlsbad Caverns National Park  include hiking through other worldly formations, touring magical underground caves, and participating in unique geological learning opportunities for adults and children alike.

Carlsbad Caverns is an easily accessible destination, no matter what kind of traveler.  Accessing the Caverns can be done by either a short downhill hike, or by elevator.  There are easy, flat, self guided hikes of the “Big Room,” as well as challenging ranger led tours, and additional above ground hiking trails.

There are also nightly bat flight programs, an event where visitors watch resident bats emerging from the Caverns.  Carlsbad Caverns are also enjoyable year round, due to the consistent temperatures underground. // Recommended by Kristen of Yonderlust Ramblings

New York City

Is there anyone that won’t get something out of visiting New York City? As a native New Yorker myself, I promise, New York City is a playground for children, as well as adults! It doesn’t need to cost a small fortune, either. I loved taking my kids to Central Park, visiting its playgrounds, and taking a ride on the carousel. Some other NYC favorites with kids include walking the Highline, visiting the American Museum of Natural History, climbing aboard The Intrepid, shopping at the M&M store, and, of course, eating pizza!

Long Island

Long Island isn’t just the fancy Hamptons or Gold Coast Mansions. Growing up on Long Island, and having both of my kids there, has shown me just how much there really is to do on Long Island with kids . Find aviation museums, historic lighthouses, an aquarium, farmland, geological sites, a whaling museum, annual events and more. Of course there’s plenty of beaches and parks, too. My personal favorite is Robert Moses beach and lighthouse or spending a long weekend on Ocean Beach, Fire Island .

North Carolina

Tucked into the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains sits the hip city of Asheville. Not just for adults, Asheville boasts plenty of museums, kid-friendly restaurants, and outdoor activities for families including chasing waterfalls and beautiful Asheville hikes . You can visit the famous Biltmore with Kids or ride the Smokey Mountain Railroad. If you’e searching for a fun, nature-inspired family getaway, look no further than Asheville, NC. // Christine at Uncorked Asheville can help you plan the perfect Asheville vacation

Located in the Carolina Sandhills, Pinehurst, NC is best known for its world-class golf. Although it would make for the ultimate golf trip, this charming southern village is more than just a destination for a golf getaway. With its glorious sunshine, walkable design, and a wide range of family-friendly activities, Pinehurst is a year-round destination the whole family can enjoy.

While in Pinehurst soak up its rich history at the majestic, century-old Pinehurst Resort, indulge in the world-famous Carolina Dining Room’s breakfast buffet, browse the unique boutiques, and enjoy activities like horse-drawn carriage rides, lawn sports, ice skating, afternoon tea, and of course, golf. Parents, be sure to take advantage of the kids club and treat yourself at The Spa too! Golf aficionado or not, there’s something for the whole family in Pinehurst, NC.

North Dakota

Theodore roosevelt national park.

As National Parks’ popularity skyrockets, it’s tricky to plan a peaceful vacation in nature these days. Luckily, Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota is still secluded, and the perfect spot for a family vacation.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is in the rugged Badlands, and has tons of family friendly hiking and camping. Wind Canyon Trail and the Petrified Forest are some of my favorites. Roosevelt also had a cabin in the area, which you can visit at the South Unit Visitor Center! Kids in particular love the cabin tour. 

The South Unit is outside a cowboy town called Medora, and the North Unit is about an hour Northwest. Both have bison, prairie dogs, rattlesnakes, and pronghorn. The South Unit also has herds of feral horses and elk, while the North Unit has Bighorn sheep, moose, and the park’s resident herd of Longhorns. The abundance of wildlife is what most family’s love most about their visits! // Recommended by Kaisa from Glam Granola Travel

Along Lake Erie sits Cleveland, Ohio. Visitors will find a ton of entertaining activities for children, from the Cleveland Zoo, to the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. There’s also the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Nearby, families will enjoy visiting the Cleveland Botanical Gardens or the lake beaches for a relaxing afternoon.

Visit Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City is a great place for family vacations. There are great festivals and events in OKC held throughout the year that are perfect for families traveling together, from arts festivals in the summer to holiday events in December. For sporty families, you can attend Oklahoma City Thunder Games, our professional NBA team, or experience professional soccer at an OKC Energy match. There are also frequent collegiate sporting events in the metro area that are great for the whole family, especially in the college town of Norman, a suburb of Oklahoma City that is home to the OU Sooners football team. There are also great places to hike, paddle board, and kayak throughout the year. // Recommended by Stephanie from Oklahoma Wonders

About three hours from Portland, Bend Oregon offers a hip and fun alternative for visitors. Families won’t want to miss the Sun Mountain Fun Center, which offers indoor and outdoor sports, or discovering wildlife and nature at the High Desert Museum. Naturally, there’s plenty of hiking and outdoor activities in Bend. Bend is also home to numerous breweries, many of which are family friendly. If you’ve been following our little traveling family for a while, you know that family friendly breweries, wineries, and distilleries are something we seek throughout the 50 states!

Pennsylvania

Philadelphia.

One of the best destinations in America for a family city break is Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The city is full of history, personality and family fun. There are so many  things to do in Philadelphia like The Franklin Institute, an interactive science museum designed in the spirit of Benjamin Franklin. You can easily visit Adventure Aquarium which is across the Delaware River in Camden, NJ.

Families also love immersing in the history of Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, The Constitution Center and the Betsey Ross House which are all within a few blocks in Old City. And nothing beats a Philadelphia water ice and a soft pretzel after a day of history, museums and family fun. // Recommended by Derek of Robe Trotting.

Rhode Island

The coastal Rhode Island town of Newport is known for its beautiful harbor and Gilded Age mansion, like the famous Vanderbilt home, The Breakers. Children absolutely can visit the summer “cottages” of Newport, and will enjoy seeing how the Vanderbilt children, and others, lived and summered. Walking the cliff walk, where you can see many of the homes, also offers stunning views of the ocean and beaches along the way. Other indoor activities, such as the Audrain Automobile Museum and Newport Indoor Golf, as well as outdoor excursions, like boat tours and fishing, will get families excited for a vacation to Newport.

South Carolina

The southern coastal city of Charleston, South Carolina is the perfect place for a family vacation, whether you are entertaining kids or taking a  mother-daughter trip  away. Whether your family is made up of beach bums, history buffs, shopaholics, or foodies, Charleston has something for everyone.

Since Charleston is located just off the Atlantic Ocean, there are many great beaches nearby to explore. Fort Sumter, where the Civil War began, is also located here, and worth a visit. The Historic Charleston City Market is great for shopping, and the mix of southern food and fresh seafood is always delicious. With its southern charm, great location, and family-friendly activities, Charleston is the perfect spot for a memorable family vacation. // Recommended by Jordan of The Solo Life

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, as there are many different activities for all ages to enjoy! Some of the best activities to do as a family in Myrtle Beach are mini-golfing (there are so many fun courses in Myrtle Beach), visiting Alligator Adventure – which has over 200 different types of animals to see, and visiting Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach. Ripley’s is a very interactive aquarium that was one of our best “rainy day” activities in Myrtle Beach! Our teenagers will say that  parasailing  is their favorite thing to do in Myrtle Beach, though.  

No trip to Myrtle Beach would also be complete without spending some time on the beach! For this reason, it’s best to visit Myrtle Beach in the late spring and summer months. I also highly recommend staying at a hotel or resort right along the Atlantic Ocean for easy beach access.

South Dakota

Badlands national park and black hills national forest.

South Dakota’s Badlands are rugged and beautiful, offering some of the most interesting landscapes and rich fossil beds. Within the 240,000+ acres and its trails, visitors can see bison, sheep, and other prairie animals roam free. Nearby, visitors will also enjoy Black Hills National Forest for more hiking and animal sightings. Within the forest find Bear Country, a drive through wildlife park, the wild western town of Deadwood, as well as the famed Mount Rushmore. Combining the two destinations makes for the perfect outdoor family adventure.

Nashville isn’t just for Bachelorette parties…it’s a fabulous destination for families looking for fun and culture, too! Children will love the interactive exhibits at the Country Music Hall of Fame, climbing at SOAR Nashville, and visiting the city’s many parks and nearby recreation areas. Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is a must visit as well; it’s one of the best zoos we’ve been to!

San Antonio

When we first visited San Antonio, we assumed we’d be enthralled by the Alamo and enjoy tacos and margaritas along the famous Riverwalk. Within a day, I was blown away by just how much there is for kids to do in San Antonio . From the hands on Doseum, to the cultural Witte Museum, to Lego Land, museums and indoor activities can easily fill a week’s vacation. Of course there’s the San Antonio Zoo, though, along with taking a boat ride down the Riverwalk and the nearby Natural Bridge Cavers. Since our first visit, San Antonio became one of our favorite family spots that we enjoy traveling to repeatedly.

National Parks Loop

Visiting the national parks in Utah makes a great family vacation for those who love the great outdoors.  There are several iconic national parks in the state with family-friendly hikes.  Start with Zion National Park.  The whole family will LOVE hiking the Narrows.  The hike is actually in a river, between the towering walls of a narrow slot canyon.

Continue on to Bryce Canyon National park.  Sandstone spires (called hoodoos) fill the bowl-shaped canyon and hiking down among the hoodoos to Queen’s Garden is a challenging but manageable hike for the whole family.

Finally, you can’t miss Arches National Park.  There are multiple hikes, including the amazing  Devil’s Garden Trail .   There are several segments starting easy for young kids and progressing to more challenging for more adventurous kids (and adults!).  The more advanced part of the trail goes along the top of narrow ridges and ends at the beautiful Double O Arch.  The parks are best visited in late spring/ early fall to skip the extreme heat of summer. // Recommended by James Ian of Parks Collecting

Green Mountains

Vermont’s sprawling Green Mountains are famous for winter mountain sports. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing at one of the many resorts, such as Stratton or Mount Snow. During the warmer months, most of the snow trails make for challenging, but exhilarating, hiking. Nearby, Somerset Reservoir is perfect for lake sports and relaxation, while the small town, such as Dover and Wilmington offer quaint shopping and dining. To the north sits Manchester, VT, known for Equinox Mountain and Hildene, the Lincoln Family summer home.

We’ve been traveling through the Shenandoah Valley for years, and it never gets old; it’s still one of my favorite places not just in the 50 states, but in the world. As I mentioned above, we love finding family friendly wineries and breweries and Shenandoah definitely has its fair share! We love Veritas and Barren Ridge, particularly. Shenandoah has more than booze, though. Kids will love outdoor sport and activities at Wintergreen Resort, hiking the many trails, or visiting Luray Caverns. During a recent trip, we stayed at an adorable AirBNB between the Shenandoah Valley and Charlottesville and enjoyed hiking and various viewpoints on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Confession: I want to take my kids to the Seattle area after watching one too many episodes of Blippi! The Pacific Science Center, the Hands On Children’s Museum, and Boehm’s Candies are all on our radar after watching the popular hyper-active man child. Of course there’s also the Space Needle, Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier, and the nearby Snoqualmie Falls. We’re itching to visit San Juan Island, as well.

Washington DC

Obviously not technically one of the 50 states, we couldn’t forget about traveling to Washington DC. Visiting America’s capital is a must, at least once. When my husband lived in Virginia, we frequently visited DC. After countless trips, we still haven’t exhausted the many museums, monuments, and restaurants available. I personally think, as a former military spouse, that visiting our war memorials is an absolute must. You can decide when you’re children are ready for the visit, as it all depends on age/maturity, but its certainly one of the most impactful trips you will make. Of course the many museums provide a similar experience, especially the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Though our toddlers aren’t quite ready for that kind of trip, it’s definitely on our radar.

West Virginia

Drive eastern west virginia.

Eastern West Virginia is an absolute must for outdoor families. Blackwater Falls, for example, offers hiking, waterfalls, and cabin lodging. A bit further south sits Monongahela National Forest, popular for everything from hiking to skiing to camping. Avid golfers will already have The Greenbriar in White Sulfer Springs on their bucket list, as well. Visitors will also find quaint lodging and dining. Situated closely to Shenandoah, eastern West Virginia is a great add-on to your Virginia vacation.

Door County

All families love good food, scenery, a great shopping atmosphere, and accommodations. Door County, Wisconsin has everything that your family can wish for. There are plenty of  things to do in Door Country Wisconsin for a family getaway!

First and foremost, is tasting the amazing food. Everything that you eat will be like tasting a home-cooked meal. Second would be witnessing the beauty of nature.  Indeed Door County is heaven for outdoor lovers, from hiking to kayaking to swimming, you’ll be spoiled with activities to do with your kids. The scenery that you witness in Door County is like a painted landscape portrait.

The shops you will see have Christmas decorations all year long. It’s perfect to go Christmas shopping with the family, no matter what time of the year. The people of Door County are very friendly and welcoming, thus it will be hard to leave! // Recommended by Paulina from Paulina on the Road

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming is a must-see for any outdoorsy family. It’s best to visit in July or August when all roads are open and the threat of snow is lowest; keep your eyes peeled in the park for bears, bison, wolves, and more. Everyone needs to see the Grand Prismatic Spring, Old Faithful geyser, Mammoth Hot Springs rock formations, and Lower Yellowstone River Falls. Kids will love completing the junior ranger program while they’re there; add on a special treat by joining in the Roosevelt Old West Dinner Cookout! If you need more hike ideas, check out this list of   top ten Yellowstone hikes for families  before you go. // Recommended by Stephanie of Explore More Clean Less

Have You Ever Considered Traveling to All 50 States?!

Visiting all 50 US states is one of our long term traveling goals! Why not turn this post into the ultimate bucket list and make it yours, too!

Our family loves traveling America: we’ve been to over half of the 50 US States and our children have been to about a quarter of them. Each time we visit a new state, we’re surprised to discover more landscape, history, and activities that wow our children. There’s no shortage of exciting things to do in our own backyards.

What’s our one rule for traveling to all 50 states?

Simply put, to count a state off of our bucket list, we have to do something unique. Yep, that’s it!

Staying overnight is not a requirement, but we often do because there’s simply so much to see in the USA. Some of our favorite family memories, though, are from simple day trips, like visiting Natural Bridge Caverns outside San Antonio or the many afternoons we spent in New York City when we lived in New York.

I certainly hope that this comprehensive list has inspired you to see more, if not all, of our states.

Where does your family love to visit in the US? Is there anything we should add to our list? Let us know in the comments if you want to visit every state, where you’ve been, and where you’re itching to go next!

Save these 50 States Vacation Ideas to Your Family Traveling Pinterest Boards:

You Might Also Enjoy:

• 14 Tips to Survive a Road Trip With a Baby or Toddler (or both!)
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We are hoping to make it to all of them by the time our kids graduate high school! Great list!

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Best Places to Travel with Baby in the United States

by Jen Reyneri May 20, 2019

​Speaking from over a decade of experience, traveling with your baby will arguably create some of your lifetime’s best memories. Honestly, deciding where to go on vacation with baby is more than half of the challenge!

At a young age, taking a vacation with an infant is a relatively simple journey when you take a few simple steps. While having a baby definitely changes your routine, schedule and life, it doesn’t have to stop you from traveling, especially when we have some incredible destinations for vacation with your baby right here in the United States.

Babies can travel lightly and are often still breastfeeding , making it simple to take care of your little one wherever you are. Whether you’ll be flying   or road tripping , traveling with your baby is an adventure.

Before we look at where to travel with baby, let's take a quick look at the how :

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Use Resort Concierge Services

Many resorts offer child care programs or have concierge services who will help you arrange the right sitter, for a fee, for your baby and older siblings. I spoke with Christelle Martin, President/CEO​ of Sitters In A Second , an independent agency with locations across Florida, California and Washington, DC which provides "the highest quality professionally screened childcare to traveling families in hotels and resorts nationwide".

Christelle shares some great advice:

“I think year-round warm weather hotels and resorts are a great options for families with babies. Being outside in the fresh air is so important. Beach resorts are terrific because going to the beach and into the ocean is something parents can do and enjoy with young children, and those usually come with a pool.” (Make sure to check out our tips for sun protection here ). 

There’s nothing better than baby’s giggles as the waves tickle little toes! Most resorts with pools will also offer free swim diapers for babies. Martin continues:

“Beach resorts located in warm, beautiful areas are perfect for strolling with babies. They’ll nap, so a good spa, pool and/or golf course are important to help moms and dads relax, in addition to good shopping for a little retail therapy. After all that activity, babies go to bed early so quality restaurants and nightlife are important for a couple's night out. In order for parents to truly enjoy a vacation to the fullest, make sure you use professionally screened sitters whom you’ve booked well in advance.”

Overwhelming Choices for Travel Ideas

Last month, I attended the Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism and learned some staggering facts about travel and online research when determining where to travel: 8.7 billion minutes are spent annually viewing travel content in the United States. The choices can obviously be overwhelming when deciding where to vacation with your baby! I’ve put together this resource, both from research and personal experience, to help you navigate the oceans of info when researching travel with an infant. Get out there and take baby on vacation! ( Note- if there is an asterisk * next to the location, I have personally been there and can highly recommend, too! )

Best Places to Take Baby on Vacation in the United States

Founder of Sitters in a Second, Martin, recommends the following three locations as her top picks for vacations with baby and services these locations with her team of professionally screened nannies and sitters. The Ritz-Carlton, Grande Lakes, Orlando, FL * Guests can relax by The Ritz-Carlton pool or float along the JW Marriott’s 24,000-square-foot, winding lazy river, which holds 672,000 gallons of water and circles the property in a loop. It’s amazing! Bring a baby inner-tube and swim diaper and you’ll always remember the giggles! Outdoor play areas and dive-in movie pool parties are also available, and families with older children can enjoy bocce ball, play sand volleyball, and ride around the expansive resort paths on surrey bicycles or just for a stroll.

Request the in-room camping experience and check out the Ritz Kids program for older siblings. Kids can grasp some incredible sensory experiences with real life animals and more, based on Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society, which offers crafted experiences based on four key pillars:

Water : Emphasizing the importance of sea life and health. Land : Encouraging exploration and discovery. Environmental Responsibility : Promoting the environmental health of our planet for the future. Culture : Exposing young minds to a variety of art forms, including music, local customs and history, as well as cuisine. The Breakers, Palm Beach, FL * You’ll never run out of things to do at the world-famous Breakers Hotel on the Island of Palm Beach. Stroll the walking paths behind the enormous Beach Club, where baby will undoubtedly frolic and giggle in the sand (and maybe ingest a few handfuls), and you’ll find The Breakers’ Family Entertainment Center. With 6,100 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, it’s completely dedicated to kids’ activities including:

* A huge outdoor playground featuring slides, tunnels, bridges, puzzles and interactive games * Toddler and children's playroom, complete with toys and games for little ones * Extensive variety of activities tailored to older siblings, including nature walks, science labs, snorkeling lessons and more * Utilize babysitting services or take your little one for a stroll along the famous shops of Worth Avenue and ride past President Trump’s home of Mar-A-Lago. You’ll love the nearby restaurants, including our favorite family-friendly local gourmet spots, Buccan and Grato , and the fantastic Palm Beach Zoo, drive through Lion Country Safari , and Science Center. The Resort at Pelican Hill, Newport Coast, CA Plenty of family, beach and pool time await in Southern California. Moms and dads will enjoy the spa, strolling paths, golf, shopping, restaurants, and nightlife. While the resort doesn’t offer infant specific care and you’ll need to utilize an outside screened sitter service, older siblings will have their own resort vacation at Camp Pelican. An ocean-view retreat filled with activities that entertain and nurture creativity, kids are constantly engaged with something new every day. They’ll have fun in their own space, making friends while you work on your swing, tan, or simply enjoy peace and quiet.

More Top Picks for Baby Friendly Destinations

Club Med Sandpiper, Port St. Lucie, Florida Right in my backyard, where Coastal Living magazine calls nearby downtown Stuart, “ the Happiest Seaside Town in America ,” is Club Med Sandpiper Bay. Paradise awaits, ready to pamper the whole family in style at their award-winning all-inclusive property. Parents have 24-hour access to baby care rooms, complete with bottle warmers, a microwave, fridge, mixer, sterilizer, and loaner items including strollers and other baby necessities.

Their unique program called “Baby Club Med” for infants of four-months to twenty-three months is sure to make baby smile! The schedule includes indoor and outdoor activities, healthy meals and an afternoon nap. Petit Club Med offers activities for toddlers ages 2 and 3 including entertainment, meals, the open air Baby Gym, and downtimes. Older siblings and parents have tons of activities to choose from, like my favorite, sailing on their private lake.

Rent a Vacation Home near Seaside, Florida * Seaside, the quaint backdrop town for the Jim Carrey movie "The Truman Show", is one of our favorite destinations on the planet. We’ve been on a family trip to the South Walton area at least once a year for the last four years. Each time, we’ve reserved our home-away-from-home luxury lodging through the hospitable Newman-Dailey Vacation Properties . The team will match you, and possibly your family pets, with the perfect vacation rental.

You might choose the nature-filled Sanctuary at Redfish , an oceanfront condo like the Jade East Towers in Destin, or one of the other hundreds of fully-equipped properties in their portfolio. Their team can help you arrange a sitting service and they frequently offer travel incentives. Bring your games, books, and favorite wine, and soak in the relaxation of the Emerald Coast. Seaside is full of completely walkable charm. The town square, amphitheater and green space is encircled with boutique shopping and dining choices, just across the famous Highway 30A from the Gulf. If you stay in Seaside, you can walk to everything, including miles of trails and the pristine, white powdery sand of the Emerald Coast Gulf waters. The entire South Walton area feels like you’ve stepped back in time. Unique modern amenities and ultimate charm await.

The 30A corridor is home to some of Florida’s best state parks and incredible biking or walking trails. Neighboring towns of Watercolor, Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Miramar Beach and more are all within a few miles and present their own charming day-destinations. If you’re looking for a little more “city” scene with chain restaurants and shopping, the town of Destin is just a short drive away with a plethora of choices. Make sure you dine on the Gulf at Bud & Alley’s and check out Sundog Books and Duckie’s Shop of Fun with the kids.

Sanderling Resort, Outer Banks, North Carolina * The Sanderling is one of those places where you can retreat and get away from it all in luxury. The Outer Banks beaches are incredible, and accommodations/views are stunning. Sanderling has a zero-entry family friendly pool with fun water spouts that is perfect for small children. Their Lifesaving Station Restaurant is delicious and accommodating with high chairs and kids coloring menus/crayons. Of course, the fire pits and s’mores are great family activities.

While you’ll probably need the assistance of the concierge to arrange for sitting services, the Sanderling is a perfect place to get away if you really want some family time. In the summers, they offer incredible eco-programming for older siblings and families including ghost crabbing, surf fishing, jewelry making and beach scavenger hunt/walks. The nearby North Carolina Aquarium has touch tanks, and you’ll want to make a stop at some of the Outer Banks quaint shopping villages, world famous Kitty Hawk Kites and Duck Donuts.  The Houstonian Hotel * An exclusive members-only location with such regulars as delegates, ambassadors, businessmen and even former President Bush, the Houstonian Hotel and Club offers special programming for youngsters while mom and dad are pampered in luxury with impeccable service and dining. The Houstonian features world-class fitness, aquatic and court sports and a magnificent spa. The Bungalow provides a supervised play area for children ages six weeks to five years, stocked with age-appropriate toys.

The Kids' Gym offers older children, ages six through 12, a wide variety of opportunities such as games, movies and arts and crafts in addition to a state-of-the-art, three-level indoor climbing structure. You’ll feel like a member at their club-atmosphere pool. Try the in-room "glamping" package for older siblings, including a tent prepared for sleep and play, complete with a lantern, stuffed animal and sleeping bag. Your child(ren) will treasure the memories forever! We did! Houston is famous for it’s zoo and children’s museums , so off- site visits are educational and fun. Hilton Waikoloa Village * We've stayed all over the world, and often in Hilton properties, but the Village at Hilton Waikoloa is at the top of our list for favorites. The 9-acre property on a protected side of the bay is exactly what you’d expect from a dream Hawaiian vacation. They’ll provide cribs and necessary amenities to your spacious room. Ride the monorails or boats around the resort or lounge in a hammock.

Enjoy the numerous pool and our favorite, the safe and sheltered lagoon. The property’s concierge will help you arrange a babysitting service, and Camp Menehune offers day or night camps with crafts, games and water activities for older keiki (children) ages 5 through 12, with something different everyday. Daily activities include crafts, games, and water activities geared toward the theme of the day. I've given you a lot of great suggestions above, but don't get too bogged down in the selection. If you take anything away from this, hear me when I say: no matter where you go, just make sure you go on vacation with baby ! Wherever your destination, making memories on vacation with your baby and family are priceless experiences you will cherish for the rest of your lives.

Jen Reyneri

Renaissance Woman Jen Reyneri and her husband Luis often live life on the road with their two home-schooled sons. Popular author and speaker, Jen is founder of WordTraveling.com. Spirited and spirit filled, she savors life, poetic words, sabbaticals and strong coffee.

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23 Best Places to Travel with a Baby in the United States

Your love of traveling doesn’t have to stop when you have a baby. You can find so many amazing places to travel with a baby in the United States. Taking a baby outside of the country is possible, but if you don’t want to get a passport or spend too long traveling to your destination, don’t worry. The United States has plenty of amazing destinations right here.

We love traveling, and we typically stay in the United States. While we love Atlantis in the Bahamas, we’ve explored many other U.S. based cities and found endless things for our kids to do.

When I’m picking a new destination to take my kids, I look at what there is to do. All of these locations have things that you can do with a baby inside and outside. Let’s take a look at some great places to travel with a baby and some fun things you can do at each city.

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Related: 8 Best North Carolina Vacations for Families Everyone Will Love

23 Best Places to Travel with a Baby

1. charleston, south carolina.

Charleston is a great place to visit with a baby for families. The city has many attractions that both parents and children can enjoy, such as museums, gardens, and historical landmarks. The Historic Town Center is walkable, and the City Market has some of the best shopping and eating in the city.

Plus, Charleston is known for its delicious food, so make sure you try out some of the local restaurants!

Another great thing about Charleston is that it’s not too big or too small – it’s just the right size for exploring on foot. And if you need to get out of the city for a day, there are plenty of beautiful beaches and parks close by. Head down to the Waterfront Park for some exploring, or check out the South Carolina Aquarium if it’s a rainy afternoon.

You won’t struggle to fill your days with activities.

2. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is another great place to visit with a baby. The city has tons of things to see and do, from museums and theaters to world-class shopping and dining.

Enjoy the free stroller tours in some of the museums throughout the city, like The Field Museum. You’ll also enjoy visiting the Shedd Aquarium and Navy Pier.

Chicago is also very walkable, so you can easily get around without having to take taxis or buses. And if you want to explore the area outside of Chicago, there are plenty of beautiful parks and lakes nearby. So if you’re looking for a fun-filled city break with your baby, Chicago is a great choice.

3. Disney World, Florida

If there is one vacation you should take with your baby, it’s Disney World.

I know so many people say you should wait until they remember, and while it’s true, you want your child to remember Disney. You can always take them later!

Kids 3 years old and under are FREE at Disney World. It’s no secret that this is an expensive trip, so take advantage of the savings. Disney World with a baby is fun, and they’re still able to enjoy so many things like the pools, rides, and all the sights and sounds.

Disney is a vacation for all ages!

Related: 10 Best Resorts in Disney World for Toddlers

4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Since I live in North Carolina, I’m only a few hours away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is the most visited national park in the United States for many reasons.

It’s near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, so the number of things for families to do is high. You won’t be able to do everything, or even close to everything, in one visit.

Go to Cades Cove, especially in the morning, and try to get a sight of the famous black bears. Hike to Clingsman one, or take a ride up to Anakeesta and see some of the best views of the mountains. On a rainy day, you can hit up Ripley’s Aquarium or check out some of the amazing restaurants.

5. Honolulu, Hawaii

It should be no surprise that Hawaii is on my list of best places to travel with a baby. It’s paradise and part of the United States.

This island offers so many amazing sights, gorgeous hotels, and miles of sand and water. All you really have to do is enjoy playing in the water and sand with your baby, but Hawaii has plenty of baby-friendly places to visit.

Head to the Valley of the Temples and make sure you walk the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail.

Consider visiting Honolulu between December to April. The temperatures are more comfortable for everyone; the summer gets extremely hot.

6. Minneapolis, Minnesota

Too many people forget that Minneapolis is known for being one of the most family-friendly cities in the country; some call it “Minnesota Nice” because the people are so friendly!

If you head to the city in the colder seasons, make sure to bring layers. This city gets cold, so bring extra layers including a scarf, mittens, boots, and more.

Why would you visit Minneapolis in the winter?

Because the city shines at this time! They make winter fun for families. They have an ice palace, a holiday marketplace, ice skating, snowmen building, and so much more for families to enjoy.

Minneapolis is also a stroller friendly city, so it’s easy to stroll the streets. Plus, it’s a fairly budget-friendly destination!

7. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is another family-friendly city with lots to see and do. In general, this city has great weather year-round; you may only need a thin coat and some long sleeves. You don’t need full winter gear!

The number of things you can do when traveling with a baby to New Orleans seems endless. Explore the French Quarter, and enjoy a carriage ride through the city. Many streets feature live musicians you can stop and watch for free. Make sure you get some beignets.

You can spend hours at the Louisana’s Children’s Museum or watching butterflies at the Audubon Insectorium. Don’t forget the Carousel Gardens or the Audubon Aquarium.

I think this is one of the best places to travel with a baby in the United States. It’ll be an amazing trip for your family!

Related: 13 Things to Do with Kids in New Orleans

8. New York City, New York

I always assumed that NYC was not one of the best places to travel with a baby, but now that I have kids, it’s an incredible trip for all. It’s really a baby-friendly city, despite what the reputation tells you.

Let’s not forget that millions of families call New York City home, so it has to be kid friendly!

All you really need is a baby carrier and a lightweight stroller. You’ll be able to get anywhere you want to go in the city, and this bustling area has so much to do for your baby.

Whether you want to head to Central Park to let your baby stretch his legs, check out one of the many museums, or go to Times Square, New York City is truly a vacation spot for all.

9. Phoenix, Arizona

You might think that going to Phoenix is way too hot, but if you want to escape the cold winter months, Phoenix has lovely temperatures in the winter.

This area of the country has plenty for families to enjoy together, and it’s close to Sedona – see below. Phoenix has amazing playgrounds and parks, and a miniature railroad that your baby will find amazing.

They have tons of hotels with pools or small waterparks to cool off and enjoy as well.

10. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, often referred to as the Alamo City, and it’s a family-friendly city that features excellent zoos and playgrounds. DoSeum features an adorable children’s train with hands-on, sensory activities with babies in mind.

This area is booming with plenty of things for families, which is why it’s growing into quite a hub. You’ll find splash pads throughout the city and delicious restaurants.

Outside of the city, you’ll find golf courses, hiking, water parks, and more.

11. San Diego, California

If you want to stick the west coast, San Diego offers all sorts of activities for families to enjoy, both indoor and outdoors. They have amazing beaches, like Mission Beach, for babies and families to stretch out and enjoy the surf and sand.

Families who enjoy hiking will love the nearby Torrey Pines Natural Reserve. You’ll find miles of trails to hike and sightsee together. San Diego has one fo the best zoos in the country, and the Birch Aquarium is a little kid favorite very time. Babies and toddlers alike want to spend all day watching the animals.

12. San Francisco, California

I can’t lie; San Francisco is one of my favorite cities in the world. I love their weather. They never get too hot nor too warm, and there is so much to do. It’s like NYC but a bit more relaxed and compact.

Getting around the city with a baby is easy. Many things are reachable by walking or riding the cable cars, and if you have a baby carrier, you’ll be able to make it anywhere.

Head down to the Wharf to check out the boats and restaurants, or take a ferry ride over to Alcatraz and enjoy a tour – it’s fascinating!

13. Savannah, Georgia

If you’re looking for somewhere unique to take your baby this year, consider going to Savannah, Georgia. It’s a charming, southern city, full of history and things to enjoy together.

Make a stop at Colonial Life Area, and explore the replica houses from the plantation era. Go to Ellis Square and let your baby play in the fountains.

Savannah, Georgia has so many trails to walk throughout the city an area. You’ll be able to spot different wildlife and historic places. You might even see dolphins at Skidaway Narrows River – that’s pretty cool!

14. Seaside, Florida

Florida has plenty of amazing cities and beaches most people recognize like Miami, Palm Beach, and Key West, but if you’re looking for something a bit more laid back, consider Seaside, Florida, located on the Emerald Coast.

It’s truly an idyllic beach town with pastel houses and white picket fences on manicured streets. You’ll fine sugar sand beaches, perfect for pitching an umbrella and building sand castles all day. Restaurants overlook the beaches, so you can keep an eye on those turquoise waters all the time.

15. Seattle, Washington

Most people think of Seattle because of it’s a high tech hub with plenty of coffee. This city has easy accessible public transportation, so you can check out the entire city with no problems.

In general, Seattle has decent weather year-round and mild winters, but of course, the city is known for being rainy. The busiest times are between June and September because the weather is ideal.

When traveling to Seattle with a baby, make sure you have a stroller. The streets are easy to walk, but some go uphill. Make sure you visit the Pike Place Market and Children’s Museum. Seward Park is another favorite destination in Seattle, and no trip there is complete without riding the Great Wheel and going to the top of the Space Needle.

16. Sedona, Arizona

Too many people pass by Arizona as a place to vacation, but here is another destination I consider one of the best places to travel with a baby – Sedona. Sedona is a gorgeous area to visit, especially for outdoorsy families who thinking a hiking vacation is the way to go.

You’ll find miles of hike trails and gorgeous scenery. Some trails are long, but many are short, perfect for families with kids in tow. Overall, Sedona is quite a family-friendly city with gorgeous parks and relaxed restaurants to enjoy in the evenings.

17. St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Do you want to take your baby to paradise but don’t want to go too far or get a passport? St. Thomas, located in the U.S. Virgin Islands, is the answer to your quest.

This beautiful island is less than a three hour airplane right from Miami, Florida. You won’t find boardwalks or amusement parks here, but you will find stunning beaches with some of the best snorkeling around.

Take the ferry over to St. John Island and visit Trunk Bay Beach, but make sure you get there early because the parking is tight. Magen’s Bay is one of the best places on St. Thomas with a yummy restaurant right on the beach.

Make sure you go to Drake’s Point to get one of the best views of the island.

Related: 10 Amazing Things You Need to Do in St. Thomas, USVI

18. Vail, Colorado

Are you a lover of winter sports? You don’t have to give up those because you have a baby. Consider traveling to Vail, Colorado for all your winter sports activities.

Some of the resorts offer childcare, starting at two months old, so parents can hit up the slopes while their baby stays inside in the warmth. Vail is a family-friendly city with free public transportation and beautiful playgrounds.

Make sure you check Travel Vail Baby. This company offers baby and toddler rentals for almost all items you may need for a baby including hiking backpack carriers, strollers, and more.

19. Washington, D.C.

The capital is another great place to visit with a baby. The city is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the world, including the White House and the Lincoln Memorial. Washington D.C. is also packed with museums, theaters, and restaurants, so there’s something for everyone to do.

Did you know that many of the museums are totally free to visit? Including the amazing space museum!

And since the city is so walkable, you can easily get around without having to take taxis or buses. Plus, Washington D.C. is only a short drive from some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

Along the Potomac River, D.C. Metro added miles of hiking and biking trails you can stroll with your baby. They also have restaurants that line the river, giving you a gorgeous view during dinner.

20. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

White Sands National Park, located in New Mexico, is a must-see for families. It might not be a full vacation location by itself, but if you are in the area, stopping to see the expansive white stand dunes is an excellent idea.

This area is hot, so if you bring a baby here, be prepared with plenty of sun protection and water. White Sands is a great stop when visiting Santa Fe as well!

21. Wildwood, New Jersey

If you’re looking for a beach vacation with your baby, consider going to Wildwood, New Jersey. You’ll find dozens of beachfront hotels and a wide beach with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the surf and sand.

At night, the boardwalk is what shines – quite literally. The boardwalk features three piers, each with unique rides, games, and attractions. Make sure you catch the tram car as you stroll this at night and grab some delicious ice cream cones.

Cape May, New Jersey is right below Wildwood, and it offers a quaint little beachside town with shops to stroll and yummy restaurants. This area has plenty to do for families of all ages!

22. Wilmington, North Carolina

As a North Carolina resident, I know all the amazing places to visit in our state, and Wilmington is truly a gem that too many pass over for big places like Myrtle Beach.

This city is a pleasant area for babies and toddlers. Carolina Beach State Park has plenty of surf and sand to enjoy with your family. Take a took of Masonboro Island; you won’t forget it.

This city has some amazing delicious foods as well. You’ll spend your days at the beach and enjoying the gorgeous weather here and the evenings enjoying the city and all it has to offer.

Related: The 13 Best Family Resorts in North Carolina in 2022

23. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park is definitely one of the best places to travel with a baby. This national park offers families plenty of places to explore nature, including some easy and beginner-friendly trails. They even have some paved trails if you have a walking toddler or want to bring your stroller along.

The site here are gorgeous. So, if you’re an outdoors loving family, I suggest a stop here!

These are definitely a few of the best places to travel with a baby. From New York City to Disney World and over to Seattle, the United States offers amazing destinations for babies. Make sure to include a few of these on your bucket list of traveling destinations.

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Best Places To Travel With A Baby In The US

Posted on July 14, 2022

Categories TRAVEL

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You’ll definitely make some adjustments to visit the best places to travel with a baby in the US , but that doesn’t mean you can’t go to the best places to travel with your little one.

Our family hit the road with our first baby just 8 weeks after he was born to attend a wedding of over 500. I won’t say it wasn’t a bit of an eye opener, but what in life isn’t after a baby is born?

What I’m trying to say is it’s still possible as long as you choose the best places to travel with a baby. Here are a few ideas to help you scratch that travel itch even if you do have a new little bundle in tow.

Best Places To Travel With a Baby in The US

Check out these fantastic places where you can relax best with your little one.

Rent A Cabin In The Smoky Mountains

Visiting the  Great Smoky Mountains National Park  and  renting a Cabin  in Gatlinburg is a perfect place to travel with a new baby .  Most  cabins in the Smoky Mountains  will have everything you need for caring for the baby, plenty of space for everyone to spread out, and a relaxing atmosphere for mom and dad.

The Cabin, itself, is  the vacation.

Consider the amenities you will have over that of a hotel.

Mom and Dad can set the baby crib or  pack-n-play  up in a separate bedroom for baby naps while they enjoy sipping wine or coffee on the large deck and taking in the beauty of the Smoky Mountains.

When the little one awakens, strap on your  baby hiking pack  and head out for fresh air and a hike in one of the nation's most beautiful National Parks.

In the evening after enjoying a steak dinner that you grill on your own deck and getting your little tyke down for the night, slip into the jetted hot tub and soak in the mountain air before your tiny human awakens for another feeding.

Then if, and only if, you insist on getting out of the cabin, nearby Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, offer numerous restaurants and activities to be enjoyed.

Rent a House in Florida

If a cabin in the mountains doesn’t suit your taste, how about a  house in Florida?  What could be better than relaxing by the pool in the sun with your new little one? Florida is definitely one of the  best places to travel with a baby in the US.

Our family spent three weeks on  Anna Maria Island  in the Spring and we did not want to return.

As with a cabin rental, a  Florida vacation home rental  provides the much needed space for mom, dad, and baby.

The most challenging thing about hotels when traveling with little kids who are still napping is that mom and dad feel they have nowhere to go when it’s time to nap. A home away from home in the sunshine state can be just the solution you are after.

Take A Baby On A Cruise To Anywhere

Another great place you can travel with a baby is on a cruise! Taking a cruise is one of the most exciting vacations for a family with a baby. Traveling with a baby can be stressful, but a cruise is such a carefree way to travel, with life on board made easier by unlimited baggage allowances, a fantastic selection of buffet and restaurant food, and lots of great places to relax and play.

Many cruise ships even offer a choice of freshly prepared or jarred baby food at no extra cost. Baby equipment such as strollers, baby baths, and sterilizers are often available to hire free of charge.

Aulani Disney Resort & Spa, Hawaii

Disney always makes it easy to travel with a baby, and Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is one of the best Hawaiian resorts for babies because they have so many baby-friendly amenities. Just call the front desk and they can send up a pack ‘n play, diaper genie, bed rails, high chairs, or even outlet covers. And you can pick up additional diapers in their gift shop.

And while kids under the age of 3 cannot take advantage of the free kids club, they can still participate in many of the free programs. A favorite is Uncle’s Storytelling at the outdoor fire pit, where you can hear authentic Hawaiian legends as well as the story of Moana. And you can get the cutest photos of your baby with Disney characters like Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, Stitch, Moana, Pluto, and more!

Of course, one of the best parts about Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa, is its amazing pool area. They have the Keiki Cove Splash Zone, the Menehune Bridge water play area, and the Waikolohe Stream where parents can float down the lazy river with their baby.

Finally, if you want a date night, Aulani can help arrange babysitting services. Why wouldn’t you want to head to  Aulani with a baby ?

Columbus, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio  is a great place to visit when you’ve got a baby in tow. 

First off, Columbus is home to one of the best zoos in the United States. In addition to the excellent animal exhibits, the Columbus Zoo offers nursing stations and family bathrooms throughout the grounds. Strollers are also available to rent.

While you’re at the park, you can check out one of the many playgrounds and sculptures that little ones love to explore. If you need a break from the summer heat, pop into the aquarium to take in an underwater view. If you’re traveling with a toddler, check out Little Explorers’ Base Camps which are drop-in exploration stations that are available on select Tuesday and Thursday mornings.

Even if your little one never leaves the stroller, the Columbus Zoo is a beautiful place for the whole family to walk around.

Another great spot to bring your baby to Columbus is  COSI [Center of Science and Industry].  This kids museum offers the Little Kidspace which is for babies through first graders (bigger kids aren’t even allowed). This area offers tons of hands-on activities, role play, and sensory experiences that will entertain your little one for hours.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is a great city to visit with a baby. There are so many baby-friendly things to do in Philadelphia.

In Philadelphia, you’ll find the oldest zoo in the country.  The Philadelphia Zoo  has more than just animal exhibits though. In fact, it’s full of science exploration activities. You can also immerse your baby in zoological wonder across the river at Adventure Aquarium in Camden. There’s a ferry from Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia for a fun and stimulating commute to the aquarium. 

Philadelphia also has several interactive museums for children, including some that would entertain an older baby or toddler. Check out The Franklin Institute and The Academy of Natural Sciences. They are two interactive science museums with exhibits for all ages.  The Please Touch Museum  is another favorite for families with babies and toddlers to safely explore and learn. Just outside of Philadelphia you’ll also find Sesame Place, a great way to spend the day for any young family. Whatever you’re looking for – Philly is a wonderful city to travel to with your baby.

Consider purchasing the  Go Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass with Hop On Hop Off Tour  which includes admission to the zoo and many other Philadelphia attractions.

Great Wolf Lodge, Anaheim, California

We already know that Disney is one of the best places to travel with a baby, but another great place in Anaheim, CA to visit with your baby is The  Great Wolf Lodge . This lodge is the perfect place to travel  with a baby  because the indoor waterpark is fun year-round and kids under 2 are free. Your little one can enjoy time in the dedicated child’s area with warm water and baby slides. 

There are life jackets provided and several lifeguards keeping an eye on the kids. Safety is the number one concern and you can see it in how there is special attention dedicated to the child areas in the waterpark. You can spend a week or weekend in the hotel and have everything you need. Along with the waterpark, there are activities for kids although many are not geared towards babies.

If you are considering a trip to Anaheim, I’d recommend spending two or three days at The Great Wolf Lodge.  

Seattle, Washington

Seattle, Washington is a fantastic destination for families looking to explore a new city with a baby. The high amount of rainfall makes Seattle a beautiful place to spend time in nature on a  hike  or at a local park. Spend the day visiting  Green Lake Park  and, if it’s summer, take the baby and enjoy the wading pools.

If mom or dad is into airplanes, consider a visit to the  Museum of Flight  or tour the  Boeing and Future of Flight Aviation Center . and definitely plan to spend a day at The  Woodland Park Zoo  where you can see over 300 animal species.

When you get hungry and thirsty, then head to  Peddler Brewing Company  where holding a baby gets you $1 off your pint. Visit the Travel Mad Mum for even more  fun things to do in Seattle, Washington.

Jay Peak Resort

If you and your significant other are looking for a winter getaway, but have a little bundle in tow, check out Jay Peak Resort is located in Jay, Vermont. This phenomenal ski resort makes for a great place to travel with a baby in the winter or in the summer. For a winter skiing break for mom and dad, Jay Peak Resort offers helping hands for your little one while you get some much-needed R&R or time on the slopes.

The Mountain Kids Adventure Center and Austria Haus childcare facility both offer a place of fun for little ones as young as six weeks. Families will also enjoy being car free once you arrive as transportation is provided from your chalet to the ski lodge, restaurants, or slopes!

The hotel has seven on-site restaurants and a full spa for parents to take a much-needed break. Other resort amenities include a coffee shop, an arcade, an award-winning golf course, disc golf, a fitness facility, and several athletic fields. 

RECOMMENDED READING

• How To Travel With Kids And Keep Your Sanity
• How to Stay in Hotels for Cheap or Free
• Planning a Road Trip With Kids
• You Need This Hilton Head Island Beach Getaway!

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If you’re wondering where to put your tot’s extra energy, this article on the Best Places To Travel in the US with Toddlers might help. Check out this article for traveling with a newborn .

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Impressive! Thanks for the info, can't wait to visit! Feel free to check mine as well Travel to Morocco :)

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These Are the Top 10 Best States to Have a Baby in 2023

Having a baby while joyous, can often be stressful. Between getting your home ready for your new arrival, to working, going to appointments and paying for care, moms often need a village to have and raise a child. And just as important as who is in that village, it also matters where it is. From paid parental leave to access to healthcare professionals like obstetricians and pediatricians, what state you live in can have quite the influence on how easy your experience with pregnancy and parenting is.

A new study from WalletHub plots out what US states are best equipped to help parents along their journey. To figure out the most ideal places to have a baby, WalletHub compared the 50 states and D.C. across 31 key measures of cost, health care accessibility and baby- and family-friendliness. Here’s what the study found:

Best States to Have a Baby

• Massachusetts
• Rhode Island
• North Dakota
• New Hampshire
• Connecticut

Why did these states fall where they did? Several factors related to the four key measures: cost, health care, baby-friendliness and family-friendliness. Each of these categories were evaluated on different metrics that were rated on a 100-point scale, with 100 being the best conditions.

Massachusetts, the number one state for three years running, has the highest parental leave policy score (160) of all states. Paid family leave has been shown to not only help mom and dad bond with baby but it also boasts some big life-saving benefits .

Meanwhile, runner-up Minnesota scored second in family-friendliness and fourth in access to healthcare with the third most obstetricians , gynecologists, and pediatricians (per capita).

Of course, there are several aspects that go into raising a child—and where you live is just one of them. One of the best things you can do to help prepare for baby’s arrival is to make a budgeting plan to follow.

To learn more about the data and view the full survey, visit WalletHub.com .

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

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The best types of vacations to take with a baby

Bringing a new baby into your home changes life as you know it. Watching them sleep is more exciting than bingeing the latest Netflix show and you take more pictures of them in a day than you did on your last vacation.

Speaking of vacations, it's 100% possible to still enjoy travel with a baby in tow , but you'll need to get the right gear , learn about flying with an infant and determine which destinations specifically cater to tiny travelers.

We've laid out the four best types of vacations to take with a baby , with our favorite locations in each category and what you should pack for your trip . Whether your little one is unfazed by city life or you've got a beach baby on your hands, these are TPG's top picks for where and how to travel with a baby.

Sign up for our daily newsletter for more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox.

All-inclusive resort

When you visit a baby-friendly all-inclusive resort , you don't have to stress over having enough cash, finding fun activities to keep your kid entertained or deciding where to eat every meal because it's all included in the cost of your vacation.

Many resorts even provide cribs, strollers and bottle warmers that you can borrow during your stay, so you can pack light and focus on carrying your baby instead of extra suitcases.

On top of being situated right on the beach (because what baby doesn't love to eat sand?), all-inclusive resorts have kids clubs, splash areas and playgrounds designed to keep your baby contently cooing until it's time to head home.

Where to go

Club Med Sandpiper Bay in Port St. Lucie , Florida, is the only stateside location of the popular all-inclusive resort brand. Child care is available for an additional fee for babies between 4 and 23 months in the resort's Baby Club Med day care and you can request a baby welcome kit with a stroller, bathtub, bottle warmer, changing table and Pack 'n Play.

Related: Club Med helped set the course for all-inclusive resorts: Now it's adding 17 new locations around the world

If you are looking for a luxury resort that's still baby-friendly, Mexico's Finest Playa Mujeres goes above and beyond what you'd expect. In addition to standard baby gear like a baby monitor and high chair, the resort offers a variety of natural homemade purees for babies. You can visit the kids club facilities with babies ages 0 to 2 to play with toys or swim in the kiddie pool, but you are required to stay with them at all times. Child care is only available for kids ages 3 and up.

What to bring

Because the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping babies under 6 months of age out of direct sunlight, you'll want to pack items to protect them from the sun. Though most resorts provide beach chairs and umbrellas, you may also want to bring a few baby-specific beach items like a pop-up shade tent (they are great during nap time), a full-body swimsuit with SPF protection and a hat (that they probably won't keep on).

Baby-friendly hotel

Most hotels don't go out of their way to accommodate families traveling with babies , but a select few have made it a priority to offer child care, welcome kits with baby amenities and spacious rooms that give babies the peace and quiet they need so that parents can have their own peace and quiet.

Loews Regency New York is located in New York City just two blocks from Central Park. The Loews Loves Families program (offered at multiple locations) hooks families up with a guide to area activities and dining options, as well as amenities like baby bathtubs, cribs, baby-proofing gear and even stuffed animals. The hotel has 58 suites, some with kitchenettes, that have the space, convenience and privacy you need when traveling with a baby.

Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya , 32 miles south of Cancun , has a top-notch complimentary kids club called Kimbo Kids Club, but until recently it was only available for kids ages 4 and up. With the introduction of Kimbo Baby — for kids ages 3 months to 4 years — even parents can steal a few hours for themselves while their baby is cared for by the resort's trained child care team. Rooms with terrace plunge pools give you and baby a private spot to splash in the shade.

City hotels especially can be noisy, which isn't much fun when you have an overtired baby on your hands . Pack a white noise machine to drown out the noise (pro tip: place the sound machine near the noise you are trying to drown out rather than near your baby). If you plan to spend some time at the hotel pool or on the beach, bring along a flotation device designed for babies. Many have detachable canopies for extra shade.

Your baby won't be tall enough for their first roller coaster for years, but there's still plenty of fun to be had at a theme park . And if you decide to take turns riding roller coasters without them, your baby will be none the wiser.

All kidding aside, theme parks have lots of perks for babies. They are noisy and colorful, which can keep babies occupied for a surprisingly long time (but if they don't like loud noises, you might want to pack some noise-canceling headphones).

Plus, everyone expects theme parks to be full of kids. If your baby has a meltdown or throws your popcorn bucket at a passerby, you'll be surrounded by other parents who have likely been in the same position and will probably brush it off.

We'd be remiss to leave Walt Disney World off a list of baby-friendly vacation spots. Even if you've been dozens of times, there's something magical about seeing it through your baby's eyes for the first time (when they are awake, at least). For maximum ease, stay at one of Disney's on-site hotels . They offer complimentary transportation to and from the parks and most have baby pools or splash pads available, as well. To preserve those precious first-visit memories, you can have an artist hand-cut your baby's silhouette portrait at Magic Kingdom or Disney Springs, or visit the Disney PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs for a family portrait.

Your baby probably still lacks the dexterity to build with Lego bricks, but that doesn't mean they are too young for Legoland California Resort . There are more than a dozen attractions with no height requirement, including sand pits where they can dig for dinosaur bones, a Duplo-themed interactive playground, a Coast Cruise boat ride and a Legoland Express train. There's also a convenient baby care center in the park where you can feed and change your baby in a cool, comfortable environment. An on-site hotel allows you to easily get back to your room for nap time or the inevitable change of clothes.

With so many theme parks on either the West Coast or in Central Florida, the temperatures can climb pretty high. Pack a fan designed to clip onto your stroller, sun protective clothing and some stylish baby sunglasses.

Mountain retreat

Where better to test out a baby's developing senses than surrounded by nature? They can smell the fresh mountain air, touch leaves and pinecones (and most likely taste them, as well), listen to birds chirping in the trees and experience nature's majesty.

Related: Best ski resorts for families in North America

While babies are discovering the world around them, parents can escape the daily routine in a peaceful, relaxing setting. Bonus points if you book accommodations large enough to bring the grandparents along for a bit of built-in babysitting.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole in Teton Village, Wyoming, is a luxury mountain lodge resort less than 30 minutes from Grand Teton National Park . Rooms are cozy with a fireplace and furnished balcony with mountain views. Residence-style rooms have up to five bedrooms for multigenerational vacations. During your visit, you can swim in the heated outdoor pool, ride an aerial tram to the top of Rendezvous Peak and, in the winter, embark on a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow.

Hyatt Place Keystone in Keystone, Colorado, is a great starting point for your mountain adventures, even if your adventures include nothing more than sitting in the hot tub (or near it if you are on baby duty) and taking in the mountain views. Breakfast and coffee — the preferred wake-up call of parents everywhere — are included with your stay. Opt for a suite over a standard room and you'll enjoy a separate bedroom where you can lay the baby down while you gaze into each other's eyes (or, more likely, at the TV).

If you are planning a wintertime visit, you'll need to pack certain items to keep your baby bundled safely. Not many things in the world are cuter than a baby in a snowsuit, but most snowsuits aren't safe to use in a car seat. Another option is to use a car seat or stroller cover that keeps your baby warm without the bulk.

Bottom line

Vacationing with a new baby can feel overwhelming, but if you know where to go and what to bring along, you can use it as an opportunity to rest, recharge and bond with your baby — all while creating lifelong memories.

Beach Vacations with a Baby or Toddler: North America

Table of Contents

Best Places in North America for Beach Vacations with a Baby or Toddler

There is so much to love about a beach vacation: the warm sun, the soft sand, the salty sea, the cool ocean breeze… But beach vacations with a baby mean the warm sun becomes harmful UV rays, the salty sea is a terrifying pool of every kind of danger, and the cool ocean breeze blows that soft sand right into delicate eyes.

It gets easier…

Family beach vacations become easier when babies and toddlers grow into preschoolers and tweens. But, fun and even relaxing beach vacations are possible with a baby or toddler.

The trick is to find a beach destination with amenities that make a parent’s life easier, like easy access to shade, clean and modern facilities, soft sand without a lot of sharp shells or rocks, and a gentle slope into water that’s not overly rough or deep. 

Don’t forget to pack the baby beach tent and beach essentials !

Here are 7 North American destinations that are wonderful for beach vacations with a baby or toddler:

Clearwater Beach, Florida

There are many, many places in Florida that are fantastic for a family holiday, but for a true beach vacation with baby, Clearwater Beach is a wonderful option. The sand is very clean and as soft as powder, and the water of the Gulf of Mexico is warm and calm.

There are many options for accommodations at every price point, and the public facilities are well-maintained. It’s very easy to rent an umbrella or shelter as swell.

Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say about Clearwater, Florida at Tripadvisor

Dana Point, California

The beaches of Orange County, California are typically like those you see in the movies: bustling with people enjoying the crashing waves. They’re lots of fun but maybe not so relaxing for beach vacations with a baby or toddler.

Except of course for the aptly-named Baby Beach in Dana Point .

There are no waves and the sand is clear of debris. You’ll have to bring your own umbrella or beach tent , but there are clean changing facilities and rest rooms, as well as a small refreshment stand. 

Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say about Dana Point, California at Tripadvisor

Baldwin Beach Park, Maui, Hawaii

Hawaiian beaches are similar to those in California in that they are usually better-known for either their bustling atmosphere or big waves—or both! But Hawaii ’s Baby Beach on Maui ’s west coast near Lahaina is protected by an offshore reef, so the water is calm and shallow. Perfect for beach vacations with a baby or toddler!

There are no lifeguards on duty, but there are showers and restrooms along with Maui ’s great weather and the wonderful views of the ocean and neighbouring islands.

Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say about Baby Beach on Maui at Tripadvisor

Luquillo, Puerto Rico

On the north east coast of Puerto Rico , Luquillo Beach is a wonderful spot to make as a home base while exploring the island with a baby. It is close to the airport, Old San Juan, and El Yunque National Forest, making transfers and day trips easy while enjoying the beautiful beach the rest of the time.

The ocean is clear and beautiful and there’s lots of chair and umbrella options and refreshment and food kiosks. There is a small fee to use the showers and restrooms.

Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say about Luquillo Beach, Puerto Rico at Tripadvisor

Negril, Jamaica

Although Jamaica can be a more lively Caribbean island, Negril pretty much remains a quiet fishing village. This also makes it a great choice for tropical beach vacations with a baby or toddler.

There are a number of different hotel, resort, and villa options on and near its famous 7 Mile Beach, giving you plenty of easy ways to enjoy the clean, white sand and the soothing blue water of the Caribbean Sea. Beaches Negril is a tried and true favourite.

Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say about Negril, Jamaica at Tripadvisor

Providenciales, Turks & Caicos

If there’s such a thing as the water being too calm and clear, Turks & Caicos ’ Grace Bay Beach on Providenciales would fit the bill. The colour of the water is indescribable shade of blue, with clean, white sand on the shore that remains soft as it lines the gentle slope into the water. There are few destinations more perfect for beach vacations with a baby or toddler.

Some of the island’s most expensive (but still, baby-friendly) resorts line Grace Bay Beach , but there are other hotel and villa options nearby.

Beaches Turks and Caicos is one of the best family-friendly resorts in the Caribbean.

Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say about Providenciales, Turks & Caicos at Tripadvisor

Puerto Morelos, Mexico

If relaxing and peaceful are the two words that describe what’s most important to you in a beach vacation, Cancun, Mexico is not likely to top your list of choices. But mere minutes out of the Cancun hotel zone lies Puerto Morelos .

You and baby will love the big stretches of white sand and the calm, clear water. There are great accommodation options that range from large, all-inclusive resorts to villa residences to cozy beachfront b&bs. Azul Beach Resort is a wonderful all-inclusive that feels like a boutique hotel and is totally baby-friendly.

Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say about Puerto Morelos, Mexico at Tripadvisor

Have Baby Will Travel  is a participant in the  Amazon Services LLC Associates/Influencer Program . If you make a purchase through this site, we may receive a small commission.  Click here to check out our Amazon Store .

• Best Resorts for Babies & Toddlers
• Tips for Visiting Mexico & the Caribbean with a Baby or Toddler
• Beach Vacation Travel Essentials for Babies List
• The Best Baby Beach Tents & Travel Beach Umbrellas
• Sun Safety Tips + What to Bring to the Beach with a Baby or Toddler
• The Complete Guide to Baby Travel Gear
• Tips for Flying with an Infant or Toddler at Every Age & Stage
• Infant Travel: Planning Your First Trip with Baby
• Tips for Travel After COVID with Babies & Toddlers
• Baby-Friendly Disney: Castaway Cay, Bahamas
• What She Remembers

* Dana Point Harbor image courtesy Wikimedia *Baldwin Beach image courtesy Wikimedia *Luquillo Beach image courtesy Wikimedia

beach , beach with baby

4 Responses to Beach Vacations with a Baby or Toddler: North America

This is another great content for moms to help them out choose the ideal place to spend a vacation,. Clearwater Beach is my favorite, and I recommend it to many friends and family to try it out and have a good time out there

LOVE Clearwater Beach!

I love this beach!!

Nice Post! Thanks for sharing this information.

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The Best States to Have a Baby

Massachusetts topped the list, receiving high marks for quality of healthcare and family-friendliness.

Best States to Have a Baby

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Massachusetts topped the list of the best states to have a baby.

Many parents agonize over where they will raise their children and perhaps rightfully so: according to a new report from WalletHub, a personal finance website, some states are better than others when it comes to childrearing.

Massachusetts topped the report’s list of the best states to have a baby, receiving high marks for its quality of healthcare and family-friendliness. Following the Bay State were Vermont , Rhode Island , Minnesota and New Hampshire .

The report used more than 30 metrics to generate scores in four categories: family-friendliness, baby-friendliness, health care and cost. Some of the specific metrics used to generate the rankings were the infant mortality rate, midwives and OB-GYNs per capita, and the cost of cesarean sections.

The state with the lowest infant mortality rate was Vermont, which performed two times better than Mississippi , the worst-performing state. Mississippi, however, did score well in some categories. The southern state has the lowest average annual infant care costs, performing four times better than Washington, D.C., which is tied for the highest costs.

Alabama had the worst overall performance of any state. It received particularly low marks for cost and health care. Following Alabama , the states which ranked as the worst states to have a baby were Mississippi, South Carolina , Louisiana and Georgia .

According to WalletHub, these are the top 10 states to have a baby:

• Massachusetts
• Rhode Island
• New Hampshire
• Connecticut
• The District of Columbia

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Tags: health care , Massachusetts

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America 2024

Best States

Best States Rankings

• # 2 New Hampshire
• # 3 Nebraska
• # 4 Minnesota

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When you have a baby, you are going to be tired.  Would you rather be tired at home or in a new and exciting place?  For many people, travel releases endorphins which are known to affect our moods.  Many people are afraid to travel because of disruptions to a baby’s routine, but you will find that babies are very adaptable.  Babies also have an uncanny ability to sleep anywhere, so take advantage of this while you can! You should also take advantage of the fact that babies under the age of two can fly free on most airlines if they sit on your lap.  

So, where exactly are the best places to travel with a baby?  Everywhere! Babies require gear to get around, but as long as you just have one baby and no other children, you need to go before they are truly mobile.  That is when determining where to go takes a little more research. That being said, there are places that are easier to travel than others and we have outlined a few below.

Read More: Tips For Traveling With A Lap Baby

Table of Contents

Best Places To Travel With A Baby:  Factors To Consider

Before we actually start talking about places to go, let’s talk about what factors you should consider when planning a trip with a baby.

Baby Facilities

Do the hotels offer baby cots?  Of course, you can pack your own, but that is a lot to lug around if you are flying to a destination.

Are there changing tables in public spaces?  Nowhere provides this amenity more than the United States.  If traveling outside of the country, make sure to be prepared for not having this amenity easily accessible and pack a changing mat that you can lay on a bench or on the grass.

Will it be easy to buy diapers, formula, etc. there?  The brands will likely be different, so if you are committed to your brand, pack more than you think you will need.  The silver lining to packing all of this is that you will have plenty of room for souvenirs on your way home.  

Transportation

In many places, it is easiest to rent a car and drive so that you can use your own car seat and stroller travel system.  Airlines let you bring this gear for free. Other than private transportation, renting a car really is the easiest way to travel with babies.  Imagine climbing up and down train station stairs with a stroller and baby or getting on and off buses with a baby in tow. It is like being at home when you rent a car except instead of driving your baby to the grocery store, you are driving her to an exciting new destination every few days.

Health Care

Always ensure you are traveling to destinations with adequate health care in case something goes wrong while traveling. You really should buy travel insurance any time you travel, but especially when you are traveling with children.  Hospitals in some countries will not start life-saving procedures until you can guarantee the bill by proving that funds are available to you, but travel insurance will take care of this for you so the focus can be on whoever needs medical attention.

Read More:  8 Swim Safety Tips For Holiday Travels

If you carry your baby everywhere, this is not as big of a concern.   However, if you push your baby in a stroller everywhere, can you imagine making your way up the steep stairs of the Cinque Terre?

Make sure you consider the weather of your destination and season when traveling with a baby.  Weather can be complicated with babies. Traveling when it is too hot or too cold may not agree with your little one. If traveling to a cold destination, consider all of the extra clothing and blankets needed to pack with all of the items you already need to bring when traveling with a baby.

Best Places To Travel With A Baby:  Destinations

Denmark is often voted one of the most desirable places to live in the world.  That translates into a place that is clean with many facilities for mothers and babies.  Legos were engineered in Denmark in 1932 so what better place to visit a Lego store than Copenhagen.  This visually stimulating store will capture your baby’s imagination, as will the shopping streets surrounding the store.  The Copenhagen City Pass allows parents to enter many places on their own schedule without keeping up with a tour. A lovely activity is the included boat ride.  Tivoli Park is the second oldest amusement park in the world and is a very manageable size. At Tivoli Park, you only have to pay for the rides you want to ride. If your baby is too small for any of the rides, they will still enjoy the lights and activity of the park.  There is plenty of green space in Tivoli Park where your baby can crawl or walk.

Read More: Adjusting Your Baby To DIfferent Time Zones

The core of London is actually easily walkable with a stroller, but a fun option is a hop on hop off bus as long as your stroller can quickly fold and unfold when you board and depart the bus.  The top of the buses is open-air which is nice as long as your baby allows you to put her in your lap. As soon as baby starts getting cranky you can depart at the next stop until baby can be soothed.  There are many beautiful parks throughout London which is always good for traveling with wee ones. Giving babies their independence to be free of mom and dad’s grasp during a trip will help alleviate tears while traveling.  Babies could be entertained for hours in Hamley’s Toy Store where employees show off how to play with toys in energetic and entertaining ways.

If your baby does well in the car for long periods of time, consider taking a trip to Iceland.  You can bring the baby’s car seat along and rent a car to discover this island nation at your own pace.  If you are a hiker that wears your baby in a carrier, you will have more options for activities, but even if not, there is plenty of natural beauty to be discovered by car.  There are long stretches of road between places, but when your baby gets cranky on the road, just stop the car for a break and take in the beauty that is Iceland.

Tulum – Mexico

Mexico is such an easy destination for Americans. It is a short flight from most of the United States which makes it a perfect place to travel with a baby.  While beaches may not be a good idea for crawling babies and those still with a tendency to put items in their mouths, many resorts have baby-friendly pools and splash pads for entertaining wee ones.  What is nice about Tulum is that you do not need to feel trapped at an all-inclusive resort. You can stay at the beach, yet travel into the town each day for meals and shopping. The ruins of Tulum would also be an easy place to visit wearing your baby in a carrier.  The paths around the ruins are very flat and a baby who is walking would be able to roam while holding mom or dad’s hand. Freshwater cenotes in this area would also be a nice break from the heat if you pack your baby’s life jacket.

You will be hard-pressed to find a country that is more welcoming to children than Italy.  The Italians light up when they see children and will wait on you hand and foot to ensure you and your baby have a good experience.  Most restaurants have high chairs which makes the logistics of eating out much easier. If your baby gets fussy during the meal, you may find that your waitress or friendly chef also acts as a babysitter during your meal.  

Plan to visit during the offseason so that the temps are cooler which will make traveling with a baby more tolerable.  Many areas of Italy are quite hilly, so you will need to plan to carry your baby instead of using a stroller in many of the places you visit.  Rome, Tuscany, Venice, Cinque Terre, Almalfi Coast, and Lake Como can all be visited with a baby, narrowing down where to go is harder than travel with a baby to Italy!

You will undoubtedly have to slow down when you travel with a baby, but that is okay.  You will also need to be more flexible when you travel with a baby. Sometimes you will realize that something on your to-do list is simply not possible with a baby in tow.  However, that is the norm in your daily life at home, so you might as well be out in the world experiencing it. Children who travel early in life will be better travelers as they grow, understanding the need for flexibility and experiencing things outside their comfort zone. 

WANT TO READ MORE?

Check out 8 Tips For International Travel With Kids for more information on how to travel with kids.

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