Top 10 Best Family Vacations in the US
The US is full of awesome destinations for your next family vacation. Spending more time with family will make you a happier person and the Common Cents Mom Site has tons of ideas for family activities. From coast to coast, there is something for every family. Check out this list for 10 ideas for the best family vacations in the US.
Families spend little time together these days. When they do, their attentions are usually focused on one or other screen at the time.
Last year only 35% of Americans discovered the benefits of traveling as a family.
If you want to spend some quality time with your children you need to take steps. Steps that lead out the door and away from daily distractions.
Here are some ideas for places to enjoy the best family vacations in the US.
The Best Family Vacations in the US
Family time is what it’s all about at these hotspots for all-ages entertainment. Here are our top ten places where families seem to have the most fun in the USA.
1. Orlando
There’s more to Orlando than the magical world of Disneyland. In Orlando, there are theme parks devoted to anything that could interest your brood. Dinosaur Land, Gatorland, and Lego Land all deserve a place on your itinerary.
Besides theme parks, you’ll find much to amuse little minds in this touristic city. The whole family can go kayaking, play basketball in a dodgem car, or race around the go-kart track at Fun Spot.
The exhibits at the Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Odditorium will amaze one and all.
2. Yellowstone National Park
If you’re planning an outdoor vacation together, you can’t go wrong with one of America’s most visited wilderness areas. There is a huge array of ways to spend time together as a family in Yellowstone National Park.
Camping is a great option for family vacations on a budget. It also helps to build bonds and teach your kids to appreciate and respect nature. Horseback riding, walking, sightseeing, boat rides are available all over the park. The children’s ranger program is a treat for curious minds.
3. Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is a wonderful place to teach your children an appreciation of the wilderness without giving up on little luxuries. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is right on the doorstep of this family-friendly town.
Other activities include:
- The Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tram and amusement park and ski area
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
- Hollywood Star Cars Museum
- The Arts and Crafts Loop
Add to this a range of hiking, biking, and horseback riding outings, and you have the makings of a fun family vacation in Tennessee.
4. Hawaii
Hawaii is a major tourist destination and geared up to keep families entertained.
When booking your stay, choose a hotel with a supervised children’s activity program. That way you can relax poolside with a Mojito for awhile while your kids enjoy the company of their own age group.
Every island has its own bouquet of attractions for busy little visitors. Head for one of Hawaii’s gorgeous beaches, go horseback riding or explore a museum. The ocean or nature centers are fun and educational.
5. Las Vegas
Yes, you read it right. Vegas isn’t all about bright lights, casinos, instant weddings and hearty partying. It’s also a remarkable destination for family vacations in the US.
The glittery city has a host of indoor and outdoor diversions to keep the whole family entertained. View here for more on family-friendly vacays in Vegas.
6. Sanibel Island
This island getaway is easily reached from Fort Myers Florida and offers a seaside holiday without the usual Florida crowds. Here your family can get involved in nature conservation activities, go biking, boating, shell-collecting, and fishing.
There are museums, quaint historical villages and even a lighthouse to explore. Sanibel Island is the go-to destination for good, clean fun family vacations in the US.
7. Chicago
The Windy City is one of the best places to go on family vacations with its amusement parks, museums, aquariums, and zoos.
Some of the best ones include the Kohl Children’s Museum and the Centennial Museum. Loyola Beach and the kid-friendly Shakespeare Theatre are a treat.
You can explore the city by bike, take a trip on the good ship Windy – a 148 ft. traditional schooner, or take a stroll around Millennium Park. Don’t miss the chance to try Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza while you’re in town.
8. Ocean City
The name gives it away, and this Maryland oasis is a haven of beachside activity for the whole family to enjoy. Amusement parks, arcades and day trips to the Assateague Island National Seashore are all available in Ocean City.
Of course, there’s a wide range of beach activities up for grabs too like boogie boarding, surfing, boating, fishing, and swimming.
9. Sleeping Bear Dunes
This park alongside Lake Michigan has dunes for climbing, beaches for lazing or playing, and rivers for tubing, boating, and fishing. Nearby you’ll find a maritime museum, a drive-in theatre, and a beautifully preserved historical village.
It’s the ultimate adventure for outdoor-loving families. Here you can enjoy a day trip or book a campsite and immerse yourself in nature for a day or two.
10. Washington DC
The Capitol city has no shortage of places to go on family vacations, but a visit to some of the amazing museums should be on top of your list. The Natural History Museum, the American History Museum, and the Air and Space Museum are the best ones for families.
Don’t miss a trip to the free National Zoo; it’s one of the only places in the US you can see a live panda. Climbzone USA and Rebounderz trampoline hall are a treat for active older kids and adults alike. The regional parks offer loads of space to run and play (or relax in the shade with a book).
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Whether you’re planning the best family vacations in the US or working on growing your business, you’ll find our blog can help you along the way.
