Are you tired of boring family trips? Do you want to find fun places where both kids and parents can have a blast? Many families struggle to pick spots that everyone will love. It’s hard to please both little ones and grown-ups!
Did you know that Disney World is great for kids aged 2-14? It’s true! This blog will show you lots of cool spots for family getaways. We’ll cover theme parks, beaches, and even far-off lands.
You’ll find ideas for all ages and budgets. Ready for some family fun?
Theme Parks and Activity Centers
Theme parks and activity centers are a blast for families. Kids love the rides and shows, while parents enjoy seeing their little ones so happy. These spots offer fun for all ages, from toddlers to teens.
Disney World
Disney World is a magical place for families. Kids aged 2-14 love it most. The park has many fun spots like Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom. You’ll see cool rides and meet Disney characters there.
But going to Disney needs some planning.
Disney World: Where dreams come true for the whole family!
To make your trip easier, use Disney’s helpers. They can plan your visit. Also, try the Fast Pass system to skip long lines. For a comfy stay, check out Disney’s Beach Club Villas or Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld.
These hotels are great for families.
Legoland, New York
Moving from Disney World, let’s explore another fun spot for families. Legoland, New York is a great place for kids aged 2-12. This theme park has cool LEGO exhibits that kids love.
There’s also a new Water Playground where kids can splash and play. It’s not just fun, it’s smart too. Legoland is a Certified Autism Center, so it’s good for all kids.
Tired after a day of play? No problem! The Legoland Hotel is right there. You can stay close to all the action. The park has lots of kid-friendly activities. From rides to shows, there’s always something to do.
Parents will enjoy it too. It’s a place where families can have fun together and make happy memories.
San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo is a top spot for family fun. Kids from 1 to 11 love it here. It’s one of the best zoos in the world. You’ll see cool animals like elephants and pandas. The zoo has three main areas: Elephant Odyssey, Northern Frontier, and Africa Rocks.
Each place feels like a mini trip around the world.
Families can learn about animals and nature at the zoo. There are shows and talks that teach kids about wildlife. You can even go on a safari adventure! After a day of animal fun, stay at nearby hotels.
The Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa and Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego are great choices for families.
Sesame Place
Sesame Place is a fun spot for little kids. It’s great for ages 2-5. The park has cool water rides like Big Bird’s Rambling River. Kids can splash and play at The Count’s Splash Castle too.
In 2024, they’re adding a new 123 Playground. This will give kids more ways to have fun and learn.
Families can stay close by at nice hotels. The Red Roof Inn Philadelphia Oxford Valley is one choice. Another is SpringHill Suites Philadelphia Langhorne. These places make it easy for families to rest after a big day at the park.
Sesame Place mixes fun rides with learning, so kids and parents both have a good time.
The Strong National Museum of Play, New York
The Strong National Museum of Play in New York is a fun spot for families. Kids aged 4-12 love it here. They can play with toys and learn about games from the past. The museum has cool things like the Toy Hall of Fame and eGameRevolution.
Kids get to touch and try out lots of stuff. It’s a great place to learn while having fun.
Families visiting Rochester can stay at nice hotels near the museum. The Hyatt Regency Rochester and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Rochester are good choices. After a day of play, these hotels offer comfy beds for tired kids and parents.
Next, let’s look at another fun place for families to visit.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
After exploring the fun at The Strong National Museum of Play, let’s jump into a magical world! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a must-visit for kids and parents who love magic.
This theme park brings the books to life with amazing rides and sights.
Kids aged 8-13 will have the best time here. They can ride the Forbidden Journey and Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure. These rides are full of thrills and spells! Families can stay at cool hotels like the Hard Rock Hotel or Loews Portofino Bay Hotel.
The whole park feels like Hogwarts come to life. You can buy wands, play Quidditch, and even taste magical treats. It’s a place where fantasy and fun mix perfectly for the whole family.
Cedar Point Amusement Park
Cedar Point Amusement Park sits on Lake Erie. It’s a fun spot for families with kids aged 6 to 18. People call it the “roller coaster capital of the world” because it has over 10 miles of tracks! The park has old and new rides.
Blue Streak from 1964 is still running. Millennium Force is a big hit. In 2024, they’ll open Top Thrill 2.
Visitors can stay right at the park. Cedar Point’s Hotel Breakers is on site. Great Wolf Lodge is nearby too. The park isn’t just about rides. It has a beach and a water park. Families can enjoy many outdoor activities.
It’s a great place for a summer trip.
Beach Vacations
Beach vacations are a hit with families. Kids love playing in the sand and waves. Parents can relax and soak up the sun. There’s something for everyone at the beach. Want to know more about great beach spots for your next family trip?
Miami Beach, Florida
Miami Beach is a fun spot for families with kids aged 8-12. This sunny place has lots to do. You can play on the beach, swim in the ocean, or try water sports. The city also has cool places to visit.
Kids love the Miami Children’s Museum. Parents enjoy the pretty Miami Botanical Garden. At night, the city lights up with fun sights and sounds.
For a comfy stay, try the Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour or Hilton Bentley Miami/South Beach. These hotels are great for families. They’re close to the beach and other fun spots. After Miami Beach, let’s look at another sunny place for family fun.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
After the fun in Miami Beach, let’s hop over to Riviera Maya, Mexico. This spot is perfect for families with kids aged 4 to 14. It’s a place where sun and sand meet adventure and history.
Riviera Maya has lots to do. You can go snorkeling in clear blue waters. Or, visit the old Tulum ruins to learn about Mayan culture. For a mix of fun and nature, check out Xcaret Eco Theme Park.
It’s full of cool activities for all ages. When it’s time to rest, stay at family-friendly hotels like Barcelo Maya Tropical or Allegro Playacar. These places have everything you need for a comfy stay.
Plus, many are all-inclusive, so you don’t have to worry about food or drinks. Riviera Maya is great for both relaxation and exploration, making it a top pick for family trips.
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is a fun spot for families with older kids. It’s great for ages 11-16 who love the ocean. The beach has soft sand and lots to do in the water. Kids can learn to surf or try other water sports.
Parents will like the family-friendly hotels nearby.
At Waikiki, you can soak up Hawaiian culture too. The Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort has a Coral Kids Club. Here, young ones can join cool programs about Hawaii. Teens will find plenty of things they enjoy, from beach games to shopping.
With its mix of sun, surf, and island vibes, Waikiki makes for a perfect family getaway.
St. Lucia
St. Lucia is a great spot for families with older kids. It’s perfect if you have children aged 10 to 18. This Caribbean island has white sand beaches and lots to do. You can swim, hike, or try water sports.
The island also has a cool drive-in volcano! Two nice places to stay are Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa and Windjammer Landing Resort.
St. Lucia offers more than just beaches. Families can explore Sulphur Springs or visit Pigeon Island National Park. These places let you see the island’s volcanic landscape up close.
After a day of fun, parents can relax with spa treatments while kids enjoy resort activities. It’s a tropical getaway that mixes relaxation and adventure for the whole family.
Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is a fun spot for families with kids aged 5 to 17. It’s got cool stuff like building sandcastles and watching whales. You can even try indoor skydiving! The beach has three main areas: Oceanfront, Sandbridge, and ViBe Creative District.
Each place has its own neat things to see and do.
Families love Virginia Beach because it mixes history with fun beach time. You can learn about planes and old stories, then splash in the waves. There’s always something new to try, from water sports to art shows.
Plus, the long boardwalk is perfect for walks and bike rides. Next, let’s look at some other great beach spots for families.
Outdoorsy Adventures
Outdoorsy Adventures offer families a chance to bond with nature. From hiking trails to spotting wildlife, these trips are packed with fun. Want to know more about the best outdoor spots for your next family trip? Keep reading!
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a great place for families with kids aged 6-16. It’s full of amazing sights like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring. You can see lots of animals too, especially early in the morning or at sunset.
The park has cool places to stay, like the Explorer Cabins.
Families can have fun hiking trails and looking at pretty views. The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is a must-see spot. Lamar Valley is another good place to visit. Kids will love seeing the geysers and hot springs.
It’s a perfect mix of nature and adventure for the whole family.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park in Montana is a great place for families with kids aged 8-18. It’s full of fun outdoor stuff to do. You can drive on the Going-to-the-Sun Road and see amazing views.
There are cool trails like the Trail of the Cedars and Running Eagle Falls. Kids can learn about nature at the Apgar Nature Center.
Families can stay at places like West Glacier Motel or Glacier Park Lodge. The park has lots of hiking trails and waterfalls to explore. You might even see some wild animals! It’s a perfect spot for families who love nature and want to have an adventure together.
Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park is a great place for families with kids aged 8-13. It has fun things to do like mule trips and ranger tours. Kids can join the Junior Ranger Program and get an activity booklet.
They’ll learn about nature and history while having a blast.
For a cool adventure, try the mule ride. It lasts three hours and goes four miles. Or hop on the Railway Express Tour. You’ll see an Old West gunfight show in Williams, Arizona. It’s like stepping back in time! The park has amazing views and lots of wildlife to spot too.
Redwood National & State Parks
Redwood National & State Parks is a great place for families with kids aged 5-12. It’s home to the world’s tallest trees! You can hike through Tall Tree Grove and see these giants up close.
The park also has fun tidal pools to explore. Kids love looking for small sea creatures in these pools.
Families can join the Junior Ranger program for fun learning activities. Early birds might spot elk in the morning. The Trillium Falls trail is perfect for a family walk. It’s not too hard and has beautiful views.
After Redwood, you might want to check out other outdoor spots. Let’s look at Glacier National Park in Montana next.
Dinosaur Valley State Park, Texas
From ancient trees to ancient footprints, we move on to Dinosaur Valley State Park in Texas. This park is a hit with kids aged 5 to 11. They can see real dinosaur tracks left long ago! It’s like stepping back in time.
The park offers lots of fun things to do. Families can camp, hike, swim, and fish. You can even ride horses! Adults pay $8 to get in, but kids 12 and under are free. Eagle Eye Ranch Carriage Company gives horse rides through the park.
It’s a great way to see nature and maybe spot some wildlife. The park also has spots for picnics and tubing in the river. It’s a perfect mix of history and outdoor fun for the whole family.
Major City Escapes
Big cities offer tons of fun for families. Kids and parents can find cool stuff to do in these busy places. Want to know more about city trips for families? Keep reading!
Millennium Park, Chicago
Millennium Park in Chicago is a fun spot for families. It’s a big park with cool things to see and do. Kids love the Cloud Gate, a big shiny bean-shaped sculpture. They also enjoy splashing in the Crown Fountain, which has giant faces that spit water.
The park gets lots of visitors – about 25 million each year! Most people who go there have a great time. In fact, 71% of visitors say their trip was “excellent.” It’s best for kids aged 2 to 12, but grown-ups like it too.
If you’re looking for a city break with your family, Millennium Park is a top choice.
New Orleans’ French Quarter
The French Quarter in New Orleans is a fun spot for families. Kids aged 3 to 17 will love it here. There’s lots to see and do, like the Audubon Aquarium. Most of the area is safe for families to walk around.
You can hear jazz music and watch street shows. The food is yummy too, with special Creole dishes to try.
For a cool trip, take a tour with French Quartour Kids. They have fun tours for kids 5 and up. Don’t miss Café Du Monde for their famous beignets. These are sweet, puffy treats that kids and adults both love.
As you walk, you’ll see old buildings and pretty balconies. It’s like stepping back in time!
Denver, Colorado
Moving from the lively streets of New Orleans, let’s head west to Denver, Colorado. This city is a great spot for families with kids aged 8 to 16. Denver has lots of fun things to do that both parents and kids will love.
One top place to visit is the Denver Zoo. It’s home to over 3,000 animals! Kids can see all kinds of creatures up close. Another cool spot is the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.
Here, kids can check out old fossils and play in the Discovery Zone. For thrill-seekers, Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park is a must-visit. It has more than 50 rides for all ages. With so much to do, Denver is sure to keep your family busy and happy.
Historical Outings
Want to give your kids a history lesson they’ll love? Historical outings can be fun and educational for the whole family. You’ll find cool spots that bring the past to life in ways that’ll wow both kids and grown-ups.
The National Mall
The National Mall in Washington, DC is a great place for families. Kids aged 5-12 will love the free Smithsonian museums. You can see big statues like the 19-foot tall Abraham Lincoln.
Take a two-hour walking tour with DC by Foot to learn cool facts. It’s fun to visit at night too, when the monuments light up.
There’s so much to do and see at the National Mall. You can walk around public parks and learn about American history. The presidential memorials are big and impressive. Families can enjoy outdoor activities together.
Next, let’s look at another fun historical place to visit.
Plimoth Plantation, Massachusetts
Plimoth Plantation takes you back in time to the 1600s. It’s a living history museum where you can see how people lived long ago. Kids aged 8-12 love it here. They get to watch actors dressed up like old-time settlers.
These actors show how people cooked, farmed, and lived back then.
The museum teaches about community, working together, and being a leader. It’s not just looking at old stuff. You can join in fun activities too. This winter, they have special programs.
You can learn how to cook like people did 400 years ago. There’s also a workshop about how they made flour. Next, let’s look at another fun place for families to visit.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is a cool place for families to visit. Kids aged 6-12 will love seeing the Changing of the Guard. The Royal Collection Trust offers special tours for families. These tours run from November 2, 2024, to January 5, 2025.
Tickets cost £65.00 for each person, but kids under 5 get in free.
At the palace, you can learn about British history and see where the king lives. The tours are fun and teach you about England’s royal family. You might even feel like a prince or princess for a day! After your palace trip, you can explore more of London’s exciting sights.
Exotic and International Destinations
Ready for a trip that’ll knock your socks off? Let’s chat about some far-off places that’ll make your family’s jaws drop. These spots are perfect for making memories that’ll last a lifetime.
Tenerife, Spain
Tenerife, Spain is a fun spot for families with kids aged 6 to 16. It’s part of the Canary Islands and has lots to do. Siam Park, a big water park, is a hit with kids. The island also has cool beaches like Playa del Duque and Playa de las Américas.
Families can enjoy the sand and sun there.
Tenerife has more than just beaches. It’s home to Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain. This mountain is so special, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The best time to visit is from April to November.
Summer days are warm, with temps around 30°C. That’s perfect for outdoor fun and island adventures.
Bali
Moving from Spain’s sunny shores, let’s hop over to another island paradise. Bali is a dream spot for families looking for fun and culture. This Indonesian gem has it all – from pretty beaches to lush forests.
Kids and parents can have a blast in Bali. You can visit the Uluwatu Temple and watch monkeys play in the Ubud Monkey Forest. For a special treat, check out the Turtle Conservation center.
Bali sits in the Coral Triangle, so there’s lots of cool sea life to see. Don’t miss the coffee farms or the Tirta Empul Temple. A week in Bali gives you time to relax and explore.
You can watch local dances, try yummy foods, and even make crafts with locals. It’s a great mix of lazy beach days and cool adventures.
Costa Rica and Panama
Costa Rica and Panama are great spots for family trips. These places have lots of fun things to do outside. You can hike in big parks, swim at nice beaches, and see cool animals. In Costa Rica, families love to visit Arenal Volcano and Manuel Antonio National Park.
Kids can zip-line through trees or soak in hot springs.
Panama is just as fun. It has pretty beaches and thick forests too. Both countries let you see rare animals up close. You might spot whales in Uvita or colorful birds in the Osa Peninsula.
These trips mix fun and learning about nature. Your kids will have a blast and learn new things at the same time.
Age-Specific Destinations
Age-Specific Destinations are a great way to plan trips that fit your kids’ interests. From toddlers to teens, there’s a perfect spot for every age. Want to know more? Keep reading!
Ages 0-3: Anywhere you want to go
Babies and toddlers are great travel buddies! They’re small, easy to carry, and don’t have school yet. You can take them anywhere you want. Beach trips, park visits, or even far-off places are all fair game.
The best part? Kids this young adapt well to new places. They sleep a lot, so you can enjoy quiet time too. Plus, you’ll miss the busy travel times when older kids are out of school.
Taking little ones on trips is fun and smart. It helps them get used to new sights and sounds early on. You might pick a beach where they can play in sand. Or maybe a farm where they can see animals up close.
Some parents like all-in-one resorts. These places have everything you need for kids, and you know how much it’ll cost upfront. No matter where you go, your tiny traveler will have a blast!
Age 4: Australia
As kids grow from toddlers to preschoolers, Australia becomes a great place to visit. It’s full of fun for 4-year-olds and their families. The Land Down Under has lots to see and do.
Gold Coast is a top spot for families. It has theme parks and long beaches that stretch for miles. Kids can play in the sand and splash in the waves. In the Grampians, families can try rock climbing or go canoeing on Lake Bellfield.
Sydney is perfect for beach lovers and budding surfers. Canberra offers kid-friendly museums where little ones can learn and have fun. Families can also ride bikes around Lake Burley Griffin.
With so much to do, Australia is sure to keep 4-year-olds happy and busy.
Age 5: Spain, Italy, and/or Portugal
Spain, Italy, and Portugal are great places for five-year-olds to visit. These countries have lots of fun things for kids to do and see. In Portugal, families can explore Pena Palace, a colorful castle that looks like it’s from a fairy tale.
The Algarve coast is perfect for beach days and sandcastle building. Kids will love the friendly locals who adore children.
These Mediterranean spots offer a mix of history, culture, and outdoor fun. Families can plan trips that fit their kids’ interests. They might visit old buildings, try new foods, or play on sunny beaches.
The key is to make a plan that works for everyone. Next, let’s look at some cool places for older kids to visit.
Age 12: Paris
Paris is a great place for 12-year-olds to visit. The city has many fun things to do that kids will love. They can climb the Eiffel Tower and see all of Paris from up high. At the Louvre, they can look at famous art like the Mona Lisa.
Kids can also take a class to learn how to make yummy French cookies called macarons. For some fresh air, families can walk through the pretty Luxembourg Gardens. These spots mix fun with learning about French history and culture.
There’s so much to see in Paris that kids won’t get bored. They can try new foods like crepes and croissants. They might enjoy boat rides on the Seine river to see the city from the water.
Paris has many old buildings and museums that tell stories from long ago. A trip here can spark a love for travel and learning about other places. It’s a city that both parents and kids can enjoy together.
Budget-Friendly Family Vacation Ideas
Looking for a fun family trip that won’t break the bank? We’ve got some great ideas for you! These spots offer tons of fun for kids and grown-ups alike, without emptying your wallet.
Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana
Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana is a fun spot for families. It’s in the Dominican Republic, right on the beach. Kids love it because they can meet their favorite Nickelodeon characters.
There’s a big water park with slides and a lazy river. Parents enjoy it too. They get to relax with good food and drinks.
This place has it all. Families don’t need to worry about extra costs. The price includes meals, snacks, and most activities. Kids can play in slime and float down the lazy river. Grown-ups can sip drinks by the pool.
At night, everyone can watch shows together. It’s a great way for families to have fun and make memories.
Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic
Moving from Punta Cana, let’s explore another great spot in the Dominican Republic. Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda is a hidden gem. This all-inclusive resort sits on a beautiful beach in Miches, El Seibo Province.
It’s perfect for families who want a fun and relaxing trip.
The resort has lots of cool stuff for kids and grown-ups. There’s a pool, a bar, and yummy food at the restaurant. Kids can join the kids club for fun activities. The best part? It’s budget-friendly! Rooms cost about $671 per night, but prices can be as low as $474.
Getting there is easy too. You can fly into La Romana Airport or Samaná El Catey International Airport and take a shuttle to the resort.
Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club, Brewster, MA
Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club is a big place in Brewster, MA. It sits on 429 acres by Cape Cod Bay. Families love it here! You can swim in five pools or bike on a long trail. There are also 11 tennis courts to play on.
The resort has 337 rooms, plus fancy villas and townhouses.
Kids and grown-ups have lots to do at Ocean Edge. You can play games on the lawn or join fun workshops. There’s a cool pool area called Arbor Pool Complex. You can try many outdoor sports too.
It’s a great spot for a family trip where everyone can have fun. Next, let’s look at some more budget-friendly vacation ideas.
Bottom Line
Family trips are awesome! There’s so much to do and see. From theme parks to beaches, every family can find their perfect spot. These getaways help kids and parents bond and make great memories.
So pack your bags and get ready for fun! Your next family adventure is waiting.
