Top 10 Kid-Friendly Destinations
Traveling with your children is one of the best ways to make memories and build relationships. While you can usually find some family-friendly activities at any destination, some places are better suited for travelers with kids than others are. Below are 10 of the best destinations for families traveling with children.
1. Niagara Falls.
Niagara Falls has plenty to offer to guests of all ages. Take your family to see the Falls up close on the Maid of the Mist boat tour, enjoy the many interactive displays at the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center and take in the feature film at the Niagara Falls Adventure Theater. You can also experience the power of the Falls in a different way on the Cave of the Winds tour.
2. Wisconsin Dells, WI
From museums to water parks, Wisconsin Dells will keep your family busy every day. This location has outdoor water parks, indoor water parks, golf courses, zipline tours, theme parks and some other attractions your kids will love. Keep in mind that this area can be quite cold in the winter months, so many of the outdoor attractions may be closed during this time. However, you can find something for your family to enjoy in the Dells all year long.
3. Orlando, FL.
Although it may be one of the more expensive options on the list, Orlando is an excellent place to visit with your kids. Bring the magic to life at Walt Disney World Resort, which features four different theme parks and two water parks. Next, take your kids to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure to experience countless exciting attractions, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Orlando is also home to many smaller attractions, such as Arabian Nights, Ripley’s Believe it or Not and much more.
4. Yosemite National Park
At Yosemite National Park in California, you and your children can enjoy countless activities, including winter sports, rock climbing picnicking, horseback riding, hiking, camping, birdwatching and fishing. During your trip, be sure to take the time to see some of the park’s best sights, like Glacier Point and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.
5. Maui
If your family enjoys the outdoors, you can’t beat the sights and sounds of Maui. On this Hawaiian island, your family can spend time surfing, playing on the beach, ziplining and taking in the natural beauty of craters, hiking trails, waterfalls and wildlife. Maui offers accommodations for all budgets, from small hotel rooms to all-inclusive luxury suites.
6. The Poconos
Nestled in the northeastern portion of Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountains offer the perfect blend of outdoor and indoor activities for the family. While visiting this area, your family can enjoy hiking, trips down the river, dinner in fine restaurants, concerts, museums, shopping and more.
7. Grand Canyon
One of the most well-known landscapes in all of the United States, the Grand Canyon captures the attention and inspires awe in everyone who visits. Depending on the age of your children and your preferences, you can view the canyon on foot, on a bicycle, on a mule or even in your private vehicle. Near the Grand Canyon, you will also find some other diversions, including whitewater rafting and museums. Consider going on a Royal Holiday trip to get a good experience in the Grand Canyon.
8. Williamsburg, VA.
Williamsburg is the ideal location for families who want to experience history firsthand. In this town, you can visit many different historical sites, including Colonial Williamsburg, Colonial National Historic Park, Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne. For some more casual fun, consider spending the day enjoying the rides at Water Country USA or Busch Gardens.
9. Yellowstone
For an adventure your kids will never forget, take a trip to Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. From Old Faithful to the historic Fort Yellowstone, you will have no shortage of things to do during your trip. Depending on your preferences, you can choose to camp in the park or stay in one of the park’s nine lodges.
10. Washington, D.C.
Every family should plan a trip to the nation’s capital, where children can visit the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the Library of Congress. This city is also home to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the Lincoln Memorial and much more. If you need a break from historical sites, you can visit some of the natural wonders in the area, such as Dumbarton Oaks or Rock Creek Park.
Wherever you decide to take your family on vacation, remember to research your chosen destination well in advance. Keep the age of each of your family members in mind as you make plans, and look for tips from other travelers who have visited the location with kids. Above all, be flexible and have fun!
Traveling with your children is one of the best ways to make memories and build relationships. Find out which destinations are best for families traveling with kids.
