Do you enjoy traveling with family? Thinking of taking a vacation and you need some inspiration for where to travel? We have you covered. We love to travel as a family and here are some of our top picks for kid-friendly destinations. The truth is there are almost an infinite number of places you could go on vacation! Here is our list of the best family vacation destinations to help you get inspired and chose the perfect destination for your family.
15 Best Family Vacation Destinations In The World
1. Anaheim, California, USA
It is no surprise that Disney Land in Anaheim, California makes the list of top family vacation destinations in the United States. We all know that kids and adults both love Disney, so why not take the family to the Disneyland amusement park? The West Coast is an obvious but great family vacation destination that they will remember forever. Additionally, there are many other places to visit around the Anaheim area besides Disneyland theme park. Other attractions like Knott’s Berry Farm, a water park, museums and Huntington Beach are close by as well so you are sure to have lots of family adventures. If you have younger kids, teenagers, or no kids, this always a popular destination.
2. Panama City Beach, Florida, US
If you’re looking for some family beach fun why not try Panama City Beach in Florida? You’ll find white sand and a beautiful tropical climate and there are tons of things to do in Panama City Beach. It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy beach life.
You can play golf, visit a pirate ship, go karting and go swimming with dolphins and these are just some of the activities available. Panama City has some great places to eat such as seafood restaurants, bars and all you can eat buffets. With its beautiful white sand beaches, reasonable tourist crowd, so much to do, this is one of the best family vacation destinations in Florida.
3. Salzburg, Austrian Alps, Austria
One of our top family vacation destinations outside of the United States is Salzburg. There are so many great options for both natural beauty enthusiast and European culture lovers. We went in the summer and enjoyed exploring the beautiful old city, shops, cathedrals, and the castle. We also loved the food. You can see Mozart’s home and catch a marionette show.
Or, if you’re looking for a snowy outdoor adventures, then Austria is also a great place to go during the right time of year. With snow-capped peaks, impressive waterfalls and caves, this will be an adventure you won’t forget. Enjoy activities such as hiking in the Austrian Alps and skiing. Austria has some great family hotels. Some even offer baby monitors and child care available if you want to get away for an evening.
4. London, England, United Kingdom
London is also great for families. There are many sites to see in the city such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Madame Tussaud’s and London dungeons. This will keep the children busy and will ensure they will be fast asleep by the end of the day. This may be a better place for older kids because there are so many great historical and cultural attractions to enjoy.
If you want to get away from the city, the UK has many family based holiday parks which you can go and relax in for a few days.
5. Dublin, Ireland
If you’re looking for peace and quiet, and beautiful surroundings why not go to Dublin. It’s a place where your kids can run around wild and free and it also has a romantic feel so you can enjoy time with your children and you could make space for some quality time together. There are attractions to visit as well, such as Clara Lara adventure Park, this is located in the Wicklow mountains and many other outdoor activities the kids can take part in. The stunning beauty of the the Emerald Isle will make certain that all family members have the best time.
6. Monterey, California
Another of my top family vacation destinations is Monterey. They have the most fantastic aquarium. You can also visit Cannery Row which is full of cute shops, amazing restaurants, and of course, a rich history. I absolutely loved sea kayaking with the sea otters and sea lions. Fabulous, memorable fun for the whole family. You can also fit in some wine tasting and a spa experience too. This is a great way to spend any length of time from a weekend to a full week of upscale relaxation. Golf courses are also an option at the nearby, famous Pebble Beach (No. 1 Public Course in the Country).
7. Riviera Maya, Mexico
If you are looking for an all inclusive resort, Mexico has some of the best family vacation destinations. The Riviera Maya in Mexico has some really luxurious resorts you and your family will love. If you are looking for relaxation on the beach, by the pool, and at the spa, you will find it along with some fabulous fare. The Azul Beach Hotel and the Generations Riviera Maya Karisma Resort are something else! The entire family will find happiness in beautiful beaches, water slides, outdoor pool bars, water sports, horseback riding, and the chance to spot sea turtles.
8. Las Vegas, Nevada
Another of the top family vacations that comes up is Las Vegas. People just love all the family friendly magic and music shows. The whole spectacle of the strip is sure to entertain. It is a good idea to make sure you pick a family-friendly hotel. It is one of the best choices you can make. The Mandalay Bay Resort features an amazing aquarium and a lazy river.
9. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town, South Africa is absolutely amazing if you are up for international travel. There is no question that it belongs on any Top Family Vacation Destinations list. Just gorgeous beaches, fun city to explore, and so much surrounding it from penguins on a drive to Cape Point to a short plane ride for a viewing safari in Kruger National Park. This is a trip of a lifetime so take use this 10 day South Africa itinerary if you can! It is sure to provide plenty of family travel inspiration.
10. Macau, autonomous territory of China
If you want to explore the East, you can dip your feet into traveling Asia starting with Macau. It offers a very unique mix of Portuguese and Chinese architecture, food, and people since it was a Portuguese colony for some time. There is so much to see and do and you will have the time of your life there. This is sure to be one of your most memorable, and adventurous family vacation ideas.
11. Bogota, Colombia
Colombia was a great introduction to South America for us and we can’t wait to go back and see and do more. Visit Monserrate, which rises 10,341 feet above the sea level. The mountain top with it’s church can be seen from the city center of Bogotá. The view from up there is incredible and you take a cable car up the mountain and explore the natural beauty. Take a trip to the The Catedral de Sal de Zipaquirá which is an incredible experience that will not disappoint. It is an underground church built within the tunnels of the salt mine and it really is incredible to see all the salt carvings.
12. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is just something else and no words can capture the feeling of being there and looking at out the immense chasm. My family went this summer as part of our Southwest road trip itinerary and we had a great time camping, hiking, and spotting wildlife with our kids. I also remember my mother taking me when I was little. Unforgettable and since it is an American treasure it should certainly be on your top family vacation destinations list.
13. Banff, Canada
We took our spring break to Banff Canada last year and we had so much fun, we are doing it again this year! Skiing there is amazing but so it the whole beautiful scenery from mountains to lakes to frozen waterfalls! Also, your down time in cute town of Banff has great shopping and great food. Enjoy!
14. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
On the other extreme, you could visit a nice Caribbean nation like the Dominican Republic where it is always warm and you can relax on the beach. The Dominican Republic has lots of all inclusive resorts where the living is always easy. The Nickelodeon Punta Cana is amazing!
15. Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta, GA, is a great family vacation destination for several reasons. You have got to see the Georgia Aquarium in downtown Atlanta. It is one of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits. The Atlanta Zoo is also home to a diverse range of animals, including pandas and gorillas, and offers educational programs and interactive experiences. The Fernbank Museum of Natural History features dinosaur exhibits, a giant screen theater, and interactive displays about natural history. Plus there is the Ponce City Market, a mixed-use development with a food hall, shops, and rooftop amusement park with games and a mini-golf course.
Bonus. Hawaii
Ok, so I haven’t actually been to Hawaii yet, but it is still on my top family vacation destinations list because I have always wanted to go there. My husband doesn’t have the same drive for some reason but once we go, I just know I can bring him around to loving it. Everyone I know who has been to Hawaii, wants to go back. My daughter is just as excited for our future family trip to Hawaii as I am:)
“The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.”
-Saint Augustine
What Do Top Family Destinations Have In Common?
A good family destination typically has several key features that make it enjoyable and practical for all family members. Here are some important aspects to consider:
1. Variety of Activities
- Age-Appropriate Attractions: Activities and attractions should cater to different age groups, from young children to teens and adults.
- Educational Opportunities: Museums, zoos, and cultural sites can provide enriching experiences for kids and adults alike.
2. Safety and Accessibility
- Safe Environment: The area should be well-policed and generally safe for families, with low crime rates.
- Accessibility: Easy access to attractions, public transportation, and accommodations is crucial. Also, look for wheelchair-friendly options if needed.
3. Entertainment and Recreation and Cultural Experiences
- Outdoor Spaces: Parks, beaches, or other recreational areas where families can relax and play.
- Events and Festivals: Local events and festivals can provide unique experiences and activities for families.
- Local Culture: Opportunities to experience and learn about local culture and traditions in a family-friendly way.
- Inclusive Environment: A welcoming atmosphere that is considerate of diverse family structures and needs.
4. Affordability
- Budget-Friendly: Reasonable costs for accommodations, attractions, and dining. Look for destinations with free or low-cost activities.
- Value for Money: Consider the overall value of the experience relative to the cost.
5. Convenience
- Proximity: Short travel distances between accommodations, attractions, and dining options to minimize travel time.
- Essential Services: Availability of essential services such as medical facilities, grocery stores, and pharmacies.
These elements contribute to a positive and enjoyable family vacation experience, ensuring that everyone in the family has a good time.
Conclusion
There you have fifteen of my favorite family vacation destinations to keep your children on their feet, having fun, and learning things about the world. There are plenty of fantastic places to travel. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures for your digital scrapbooking to document your adventures. What have some of your favorite family vacation destinations?
Get more ideas on Pinterest Family Travel Tips Board.
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Courtney says
So fun! You are making me want to plan my next trip!
Austin Gardner says
Great post!! So many of these European destinations are amazing. We really want to go to Austria!