Best Family Vacations in the USA

Orlando-Walt Disney World

Known for its timeless appeal, thrill rides and fun performances, Walt Disney World Resort is engineered specifically for families. But if you aren't up for donning mouse ears, Orlando hosts a handful of other theme parks that are sure to excite youths, including Universal Orlando Resort, where you'll find The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Discovery Cove,

Orlando-Walt Disney World

where you can swim with dolphins and snorkel around the park's coral reef. Because of this destination's immense popularity, you'll likely want to plan a visit for a less-crowded month like January. February or March.

Yellowstone

Kids will love watching Old Faithful erupt, and there's nothing like a hike for family bonding. Hit up the Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail for a light stroll to its namesake natural wonder. Up for more? Take the Mystic Falls Trail and hike up the switchbacks at the falls to a spectacular view of Upper Geyser Basin for a nearly 4-mile hike. Keep an eye out for bison, or visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center to

Yellowstone

guarantee some animal interactions. Hotels within this Wyoming, Montana and Idaho national park are expensive, so make this a BYOB (bring your own bed) vacation and take advantage of the park's well-equipped campsites.

Yosemite

Numerous outdoor offerings make Yosemite a great family destination. In this California national park, families can hike, fish, ride horses and raft down the scenic Merced River. Plan to take the bus up to Glacier Point for sweeping views, or venture down one of the many hiking trails within Yosemite Valley. If you're a first-time visitor, you'll want to stay in

Yosemite

Yosemite Valley, where you'll find several of Yosemite's accommodations. Book accommodations almost a year in advance if you're planning a summer visit (the park's peak season). Plus, if you visit from late May to September and stay outside the park, you'll need a reservation to enter Yosemite.

Grand Canyon

This Arizona national park is a universally admired destination. With so much to see and do here, there's no chance anyone in your family will be bored. Enjoy one of the park's many light hikes, take a mule ride down the North Rim, admire the view from the Grand Canyon Skywalk, raft the Colorado River or go for a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway. The Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon

is pretty budget-friendly considering its low admission rate ($20 per individual or $35 per vehicle and passes are good for seven days) but know that nearby accommodations book up quickly in the peak summer season.

Washington, D.C.

The key to Washington's family appeal is the National Mall, which features loads of free attractions, renowned monuments and kid-friendly museums, including the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Beyond the mall, a stop at the Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute is also a must (the

Washington, D.C.

zoo is home to approximately 2,700 animals). To cut down on vacation costs, consider booking a hotel in a nearby suburb, such as Arlington or Alexandria in Virginia, and relying on the easy-to-use and affordable public transportation system.

Lake Tahoe

Whether your nature-loving family's idea of outdoor fun entails skiing, hiking or sunbathing on a beach, this lake destination on the California-Nevada border delivers. Numerous ski resorts surround Lake Tahoe, providing world-class views as your family zips down the slopes. If you visit during the warmer months, you can swim in Lake Tahoe's azure

Lake Tahoe

water and take advantage of its more than 70 miles of shoreline. There are also numerous trails that crisscross the area, should your kids need to burn off some extra energy before refueling in one of the surrounding towns.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod has been a family vacation destination for decades, and for good reason. Cape Cod National Seashore offers 40 miles of coastline, where kids can build a sandcastle, swim, fish or become a junior ranger. Time your visit for summer to take the kids for round of mini-golf followed up with a movie at the Wellfleet Drive-In. Looking to save some money on your Cape Cod

Cape Cod

vacation? Visit in the winter for fewer crowds and lower hotel rates. Take the kids for a stroll or bike ride along the Cape Cod Rail Trail, let them explore at the Cape Cod Children's Museum or marvel at the fragile creations at the Sandwich Glass Museum.

San Diego

Travel to San Diego for 70 miles of coastline, allowing for ample sandy fun. Mission Beach, Coronado Beach and La Jolla Shores are the best beaches for families, offering calm surf and mellow crowds. After you've gotten your fill of the waves, head to the world-famous San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld San Diego or the San Diego Zoo Safari Park for up-close animal

San Diego

encounters that delight travelers of all ages. What's more, Balboa Park offers 1,200 acres of beautiful green spaces to explore, as well as educational museums like the San Diego Air & Space Museum and the Fleet Science Center.

Destin

Destin, Florida, is a hit with families thanks to its relaxing atmosphere and plethora of kid-pleasing things to do. Big Kahuna's Water & Adventure Park features waterslides and a lazy river, while the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is home to animals kids love, including dolphins and penguins. Families will also appreciate Destin's scenic and calm shorelines, such as

Destin

Henderson Beach State Park and the Shores at Crystal Beach Park. And if you're looking for an adventure on the water, consider booking a boat tour. Destin offers everything from dolphin-spotting excursions to pirate-themed cruises.

Outer Banks

A barrier island chain off of North Carolina's coast, the Outer Banks is a great place to relax on a budget. Here, you can rent multibedroom vacation homes for a week for the same price (or less) you'd spend on one or more four-star hotel rooms for a family. That means you can vacation at your leisure, exploring the miles of beaches available. Be sure to stop by scenic

Outer Banks

Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Jockey's Ridge State Park, where you can climb the Atlantic coast's tallest living sand dune. Kids will also love the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island.

Anaheim-Disneyland

Home to Disneyland Resort since 1955, Anaheim, California, has enough magical attractions to keep families entertained. After catching up with Mickey and friends, visit Anaheim's Adventure City amusement park or Knott's Berry Farm theme park. And if you're in town during baseball season, you can catch a game at Angel Stadium. Another bonus:

Anaheim-Disneyland

Anaheim sits close to the beaches and sights of both Los Angeles and San Diego. Note that Disneyland is busy year-round, but if you visit during the offseason (spring or fall) or on a weekday, you'll likely encounter fewer people.

Honolulu - Oahu

Honolulu offers a seemingly endless stream of things to do that families with varying interests can enjoy. Beach bums can soak up some sun and build sandcastles on iconic stretches of sand, such as Waikiki Beach, Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach. Those interested in history will want to explore the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the National Memorial Cemetery

Honolulu - Oahu

of the Pacific. Families who like to stay active will enjoy the island's hiking options, including Diamond Head State Monument and the Koko Crater Trail. And for a fun introduction to Hawaiian culture, visit the Polynesian Cultural Center to partake in a luau or learn some hula.

Maui

This Hawaiian island has plenty of sights for kids of all ages. Hit up family-friendly beaches like Wailea Beach and Napili Bay Beach for fun in the sun, or admire the unique black sand shores at Waianapanapa State Park. Haleakala National Park offers chances to view the world's largest dormant volcano, while Iao Valley State Monument features a popular scenic hike. You can

Maui

also enjoy a traditional luau at the Old Lahaina Luau and plenty of exciting snorkeling and boating opportunities. As one of Hawaii's most-visited islands, know that accommodations here won't be cheap.

Gatlinburg

This mountain town in eastern Tennessee was practically made for families who love nature. When you're not exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park (for free), take a ride on the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway to reach the amusement park of the same name. Or, head to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies to view a wide variety of marine animals. Kids might also

Gatlinburg

delight in the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community, a group of artisan shops on an 8-mile loop road where you can see craft makers creating everything from pottery to hand-blown glass.

Boston

Boston played a pivotal role in U.S. history, so it's no surprise that the Massachusetts capital boasts a large share of historical sites. Students who recently studied the American Revolution will enjoy visiting Boston Common and the Freedom Trail. Supplementing its storied locations is a bevy of museums, including the

Boston

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and the Boston Children's Museum. Young and old baseball fans will either love (or begrudgingly appreciate) a visit to iconic Fenway Park. And finally, no Beantown trip would be complete without walking around Harvard University and MIT's scenic campuses in nearby Cambridge.

Jackson Hole

If you want to get your family off the grid, look no further than Jackson Hole. This Wyoming resort town is buttressed by Grand Teton National Park to the north and national forests in every other direction. In winter, families can choose from three mountains for downhill skiing, making it easy to find the right spot that suits their skill levels. Meanwhile,

Jackson Hole

families can trek Grand Teton National Park's trails come summer. After a busy day of hiking, groups can check out The Jackson Hole Playhouse, which hosts all kinds of family-friendly dinner theater productions.

Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island, Florida, attracts families who love to do nothing but relax on a beach while on vacation. Bowman's Beach is known for its abundance of unique shells, which will surely excite younger travelers as they look for cool ones to take home. Captiva Island, located northwest of Sanibel, also offers a stunning shoreline that's perfect for long walks.

Sanibel Island

To see turtles and alligators in the wild, stop by the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge or meet some animals up close at the Clinic for Rehabilitation of Wildlife.

Hershey

Sweet-toothed families will enjoy visiting Hershey, Pennsylvania. Named after chocolate company founder Milton Hershey, the town draws travelers to its famed Hersheypark, which features a variety of family rides, a water park, a zoo and countless candy references. For a more relaxed day, groups can tour the butterfly atrium and themed kids garden at Hershey Gardens.

Hershey

There's also the indoor Hershey Story museum, an excellent option for rainy days that delves into the company's history. Plan on staying at Hershey Lodge, The Hotel Hershey or Hershey Camping Resort for reduced or complimentary admission to all of these attractions.

Bar Harbor

If your family is headed to Bar Harbor, Maine, Acadia National Park should be at the top of your to-do list. Kid-friendly activities include tidepooling, swimming, stargazing, bicycling and hiking. This park is also a budget-friendly pick as the $30 vehicle pass is valid for seven days. After seeing the great outdoors from the land, hop aboard a boat or kayak

Bar Harbor

to see Maine's aquatic life (think: whales and puffins). If you're visiting in the summer, take the kids to Mount Desert Island Ice Cream, beloved for its unique flavors like Vietnamese coffee and lemon poppy seed jam.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is as close to the perfect family vacation as you can get. Not only does this South Carolina town offer calm shores perfect for kids, but it also features fun attractions. Popular things to do include Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, Family Kingdom Amusement Park, Broadway Grand Prix and numerous mini-golf courses. Keep in

Myrtle Beach

mind that summer is extremely crowded because of Myrtle Beach's family-friendly appeal, so you may want to reserve your accommodations several months in advance. Or, consider a late spring or early fall trip for similar weather and the same activities with fewer people.

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Best Family Vacations in the USA

Read more

Orlando-Walt Disney World

Read more

Orlando-Walt Disney World

where you can swim with dolphins and snorkel around the park's coral reef. Because of this destination's immense popularity, you'll likely want to plan a visit for a less-crowded month like January. February or March.

Read more

Yellowstone

Read more

Yellowstone

guarantee some animal interactions. Hotels within this Wyoming, Montana and Idaho national park are expensive, so make this a BYOB (bring your own bed) vacation and take advantage of the park's well-equipped campsites.

Read more

Yosemite

Read more

Yosemite

Yosemite Valley, where you'll find several of Yosemite's accommodations. Book accommodations almost a year in advance if you're planning a summer visit (the park's peak season). Plus, if you visit from late May to September and stay outside the park, you'll need a reservation to enter Yosemite.

Read more

Grand Canyon

Read more

Grand Canyon

is pretty budget-friendly considering its low admission rate ($20 per individual or $35 per vehicle and passes are good for seven days) but know that nearby accommodations book up quickly in the peak summer season.

Read more

Washington, D.C.

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Washington, D.C.

zoo is home to approximately 2,700 animals). To cut down on vacation costs, consider booking a hotel in a nearby suburb, such as Arlington or Alexandria in Virginia, and relying on the easy-to-use and affordable public transportation system.

Read more

Lake Tahoe

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Lake Tahoe

water and take advantage of its more than 70 miles of shoreline. There are also numerous trails that crisscross the area, should your kids need to burn off some extra energy before refueling in one of the surrounding towns.

Read more

Cape Cod

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Cape Cod

vacation? Visit in the winter for fewer crowds and lower hotel rates. Take the kids for a stroll or bike ride along the Cape Cod Rail Trail, let them explore at the Cape Cod Children's Museum or marvel at the fragile creations at the Sandwich Glass Museum.

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San Diego

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San Diego

encounters that delight travelers of all ages. What's more, Balboa Park offers 1,200 acres of beautiful green spaces to explore, as well as educational museums like the San Diego Air & Space Museum and the Fleet Science Center.

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Destin

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Destin

Henderson Beach State Park and the Shores at Crystal Beach Park. And if you're looking for an adventure on the water, consider booking a boat tour. Destin offers everything from dolphin-spotting excursions to pirate-themed cruises.

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Outer Banks

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Outer Banks

Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Jockey's Ridge State Park, where you can climb the Atlantic coast's tallest living sand dune. Kids will also love the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island.

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Anaheim-Disneyland

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Anaheim-Disneyland

Anaheim sits close to the beaches and sights of both Los Angeles and San Diego. Note that Disneyland is busy year-round, but if you visit during the offseason (spring or fall) or on a weekday, you'll likely encounter fewer people.

Read more

Honolulu - Oahu

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Honolulu - Oahu

of the Pacific. Families who like to stay active will enjoy the island's hiking options, including Diamond Head State Monument and the Koko Crater Trail. And for a fun introduction to Hawaiian culture, visit the Polynesian Cultural Center to partake in a luau or learn some hula.

Read more

Maui

Read more

Maui

also enjoy a traditional luau at the Old Lahaina Luau and plenty of exciting snorkeling and boating opportunities. As one of Hawaii's most-visited islands, know that accommodations here won't be cheap.

Read more

Gatlinburg

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Gatlinburg

delight in the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community, a group of artisan shops on an 8-mile loop road where you can see craft makers creating everything from pottery to hand-blown glass.

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Boston

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Boston

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Jackson Hole

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Jackson Hole

families can trek Grand Teton National Park's trails come summer. After a busy day of hiking, groups can check out The Jackson Hole Playhouse, which hosts all kinds of family-friendly dinner theater productions.