Kid-Approved Getaways

Embark on unforgettable adventures with our carefully curated list of the 10 best vacation spots for kids and the ultimate family travel destinations you absolutely must experience together while your children are still young! Having traveled extensively as a family—from cross-country road trips to international flights—we’ve discovered some truly incredible places. These selections are not just our favorites; they represent our children’s top picks for the most memorable family vacations ever.

Some of these top family vacation spots for kids were discovered quite serendipitously, or places we weren’t initially sure our children would fully enjoy, yet they blossomed into the most cherished memories of our lives! Alongside these hidden gems, we’ll share a few of our preferred family resorts suitable for older kids and reveal what’s still on our ambitious family travel bucket list. For even more insightful resources and detailed itineraries for family travel, be sure to explore our dedicated road trip blog. (Please note: this article contains affiliate links that may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you).

Where Are the Best Places to Travel with Kids? Unlocking Unforgettable Family Adventures

We firmly believe that road trips offer the most profound way to truly bond with your children, immerse yourselves in breathtaking scenery, and stumble upon hidden local treasures you might never discover when flying. We advocate for starting with fun, accessible spots near your home and gradually venturing further afield as your children grow and become more seasoned travelers. Our primary focus and heartfelt recommendation for families who adore the outdoors are the magnificent National Parks. Below, we’ll unveil all our expert tips, showing you how to embark on these incredible journeys frequently and affordably!

Discover how we manage to travel for free time and again! By strategically utilizing airline miles and accumulating numerous free gift cards through various programs, it’s genuinely possible for your entire family to explore the world for significantly less, or even completely free. Much like many families, we prioritize at least one major vacation annually, typically during the expansive summer break. In our experience, there’s no better adventure than extensively exploring the diverse and beautiful United States.

What Age Should Kids Go On Vacation? Starting Their Travel Journey Early

Our philosophy is to introduce children to travel at a young age. While some brave parents begin right from infancy, which entails considerable effort, we personally started when our children were around three years old. Although they may not retain specific memories from such an early age, this approach helps them acclimate to the rhythm of travel, fostering an early appreciation and desire to explore more as they mature. Early exposure to different environments and experiences can significantly shape their adaptability and worldview.

What Are the Best Vacation Spots for Families? Balancing Budget and Adventure

When planning a family vacation, especially if you’re on a budget, we always recommend starting with options that cost little to nothing. It’s surprising how many incredible experiences are available without a hefty price tag. For instance, if you love the great outdoors, you can always find fantastic free camping spots, offering a unique and memorable adventure. Beyond camping, here are a few other excellent options that can literally cost you $0:

1. We frequently share detailed guides on how to secure free admission to National Parks, opening up a world of natural wonders without the entry fees.
2. Discover our proven strategies for obtaining free airline tickets whenever we decide to take to the skies for our family adventures.

One of our most incredible achievements using airline miles was a trip to New York! We diligently saved our miles for so long that three of us were able to fly round trip to New York in first class for FREE. Not only that, but we also enjoyed several dinners, all paid for using free gift cards we had earned through platforms like Swagbucks. This experience truly highlighted the power of smart planning for significant travel savings.

Brilliant Cheap Family Vacation Ideas for Meaningful Experiences

While there are undoubtedly magnificent and elaborate destinations to visit outside the country, for many middle-class families like ours, such extravagant trips aren’t always feasible or align with our priorities. Our main objective for embarking on week-long vacations is to reconnect as a family, explore new environments, and experience activities we wouldn’t typically encounter in our suburban lives. The essence lies in shared experiences and creating lasting memories, not necessarily the price tag.

With that in mind, please don’t ever think that incredible vacations can’t be achieved on a tight budget. I hope the strategies shared above have already provided you with valuable insights. The key is to work with what you have. Exploring different tent camping sites and relying on driving for transportation are often the most economical options, and they frequently lead to even richer, more authentic memories than a fancy hotel where everyone might retreat to their own rooms. Just something to consider! 😉

Essential Family Road Trip Tips for Smooth Journeys

Road trips are a fantastic way to explore with kids, but they require a little preparation to ensure everyone enjoys the journey as much as the destination. Here are our tried-and-true family road trip tips:

1. You absolutely, positively must create a few Road Trip Busy Bags for each child. These are essential for keeping boredom at bay and maintaining peace in the car – trust me on this! Each bag should contain age-appropriate activities, snacks, and small surprises to unveil at strategic moments.
2. Mastering Packing for a Road Trip is crucial. Our comprehensive guide covers all the essentials you might not immediately think about, from car organization solutions to emergency kits, ensuring you’re prepared for anything the road throws your way.
3. Keep the kids entertained with our favorite Road Trip Games for Kids. You’ll thank us later for these engaging ideas that transform long stretches of highway into fun-filled moments, reducing screen time and fostering family interaction.
4. Don’t hit the road without our printable Road Trip Checklist. This invaluable tool helps you prepare your vehicle, pack necessary documents, and remember all those small but important details that ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

For visual learners, WATCH OUR VIDEO HERE featuring innovative road trip hacks that will revolutionize your family travel!

What are the Best Non-Beach Vacation Spots for Kids? Unforgettable Natural Escapes

A question I’m frequently asked is: “What is your favorite non-beach travel destination with kids?” And my answer is always easy: exploring the great outdoors! The wonders of nature extend far beyond the water that surrounds the U.S., my friends. Our top pick, hands down, is Yosemite National Park. We had an absolutely incredible time camping near this majestic National Park! Well, to be precise, we stayed just outside the park boundaries to save a bit of money, but the experience was entirely immersive.

Securing a campsite reservation inside Yosemite can be challenging unless you plan almost a year in advance. But don’t despair if you can’t get right in; there are plenty of fantastic and often more affordable lodging and camping options within 20 minutes of each entrance. We prefer to stay in tents, truly “roughing it,” which I highly recommend for families with kids. It teaches resilience and brings a unique sense of adventure!

• There are SO many breathtaking sights and activities in Yosemite that you and your children will remember forever. You will never run out of spectacular trails to hike, awe-inspiring scenery to witness, and engaging activities to do, even after a full week exploring the park.
  • Here’s a picture of us at the summit of one of the mountains, basking in the glory after a fulfilling day of hiking and enjoying an open-air tram ride around the park! The panoramic views were simply unforgettable.

If you do decide to camp, make sure to check out our collection of easy camping recipes, perfect for fueling your family’s adventures, and grab our free printable meal planning sheet to help organize your meals effortlessly.

The Best Family Vacations in the US: Iconic Destinations and Hidden Wonders

• Mount Rushmore – If your family is able to make the journey to Mount Rushmore, it is truly a magnificent and awe-inspiring sight to behold! This iconic national memorial can serve as a central destination for a memorable family trip, allowing you to discover many other charming nooks and fascinating attractions in the surrounding Black Hills region before or after your main visit.

This colossal structure is something words can barely describe; it stands as a testament to pure determination, artistic vision, and the incredible dedication of its creators. It’s a perfect opportunity to discuss perseverance and monumental achievement with your children, both during your visit and long after. Looking at the four presidential faces carved into the granite, it almost seems impossible that such a feat could be accomplished by human hands, yet it’s a powerful, tangible example of what can be achieved when individuals truly dream big and commit to making something extraordinary happen.

• Mount Rushmore is an exceptional vacation spot to bring your kids because there are TONS of engaging activities beyond the actual monument. One incredibly kid-friendly experience we loved was taking them 115 feet underground at Black Hills Caves. It was an absolutely amazing adventure that captivated everyone!

Beyond the caves, the area boasts vibrant children’s museums, an intriguing reptile zoo nearby, and numerous opportunities for exhilarating zip-lining adventures, ensuring there’s never a dull moment for families.

Best Places for a Family Vacation in USA: The Grandeur of the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon – We’ve had the privilege of visiting both the South and North Rims of the Grand Canyon. Having attended college in Flagstaff, I explored the South Rim several times during my student years. However, on our most recent family vacation there, we ventured to the North Rim, and it was almost like visiting a completely different, yet equally spectacular, place! The North Rim offers a distinct, often less crowded, experience with slightly different vegetation and viewpoints.

Once again, this is a natural wonder that you simply cannot adequately describe to children, or even to many adults, without experiencing it firsthand. The sheer vastness, the incredible distance from one side to the other – which can disappear into a mystical haze on foggy or snowy days – is truly mind-boggling and leaves an indelible impression.

• Both rims offer an abundance of hiking trails suitable for various skill levels and countless breathtaking viewpoints at the canyon’s edge. For those seeking more intense adventures, there are trails that descend deep into the canyon, offering a different perspective and a truly immersive experience.
• You’ll discover many excellent and more budget-friendly places to stay just outside the Grand Canyon’s entrances, allowing you to enjoy the park’s majesty without the premium on-site lodging costs.

Having explored both the North and South rims, I can attest they offer distinctly different experiences! Visiting at various times of the year also provides vastly different perspectives, from lush summer greens to serene, snow-dusted winter landscapes.

Which National Park is Most Kid-Friendly? Discovering Zion’s Family Appeal

We simply cannot express enough positive things about Zion National Park. It’s a truly exceptional location nestled in Utah, made even more accessible by a fantastic free tram system that transports you throughout the park, dropping you off at all the well-known trailheads and scenic spots. This means absolutely no driving is required on your part once inside, eliminating the stress of finding parking and ensuring you don’t miss any incredible sights due to being behind the wheel.

We thoroughly enjoyed two full days immersing ourselves in the park’s wonders. The free tram takes you to famous locations and even to tranquil streams where we enjoyed light hiking and splashing around. Remember to pack lawn chairs and wear your bathing suits under your clothes, as walking through the refreshing, lazy rivers of The Narrows is an absolute must-do experience for all ages.

While there are lodging options within the park, which require reservations far in advance, we discovered a wonderfully family-friendly place called Ponderosa Resort just outside the gate. This resort offered a plethora of activities specifically designed for kids, making it a perfect base for our adventures. We spent an entire day there, enjoying the beautiful scenery, zip-lining through the trees, riding ponies, venturing off-road in a rhino ATV, and swimming in their inviting pool. It was an incredibly affordable option that delivered immense value and endless fun for the whole family!

What are Some National Parks That Are Easy for Families with Small Children?

National Parks consistently rank among the best vacation spots for kids because they offer an unparalleled abundance of activities, natural exploration, and educational opportunities. All five of us enthusiastically agree that these parks represent the ultimate kid-friendly destinations, and we are on a mission to visit them all! Remember, you can often secure free admission to National Parks throughout the year, making it easier to explore magnificent sites like Sequoia National Park and Bryce Canyon Utah, both of which we found utterly beautiful and accessible for families.

• Yellowstone National Park – We visited Yellowstone last summer, and its breathtaking beauty left an indelible mark on all of us. My husband still raves about its unparalleled grandeur, and I wholeheartedly agree that it’s another place, much like the Grand Canyon, whose majesty simply cannot be fully captured in words. The vibrant colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring, the thunderous power of Old Faithful, and the unique geothermal features create an otherworldly landscape that ignites wonder in both children and adults.
• Don’t miss the chance to WATCH OUR VIDEO here showcasing the mesmerizing terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs! It’s a truly unique geological marvel.

Yellowstone is also teeming with incredible wildlife, which is a rare and thrilling sight for us, accustomed to suburban life. We spotted bison, elk, and even bears from a safe distance, adding an element of raw nature to our trip. With abundant camping and lodging options, we embarked on a long road trip and comfortably stayed in an Airbnb, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the park’s vastness and diverse offerings.

Is Disneyland a Good Family Vacation Destination? The Magic of Theme Parks

Disneyland – Alright, the next two destinations represent adventures we enthusiastically took with our kids, and I would wholeheartedly recommend them. Fortunately, living in Southern California, traveling to Disneyland isn’t overly difficult for us, and we generally opt not to stay in a hotel when we visit, choosing to commute instead to save on accommodation costs.

While this iconic theme park can be pricey, it delivers an experience your children will cherish and remember for a lifetime! We’ve also compiled valuable tips on how to potentially get into Disneyland for free, helping make the magic more accessible. My “baby” was six years old before she experienced Disneyland for the very first time, and the shirt she’s wearing in the photo below remains her favorite to this day because it vividly reminds her of that unforgettable trip and the joy she felt there.

• Disneyland invariably sits at the top of most children’s lists for the best vacation spots for kids. 😉 It’s the quintessential dream destination for many young ones, offering unparalleled fantasy and excitement.
  • Beyond the main park, there are also several fantastic water parks in the area, including the popular Great Wolf indoor water park in Southern California, which you can easily visit if you’re extending your stay.
  • To add an extra layer of fun and engagement to your visit, be sure to print out our exclusive Disney scavenger hunt! It’s a fantastic way to keep kids entertained while exploring the park.

Of course, any amusement park offers its own unique brand of fun, but even if you only go once, Disneyland (or Disney World if you’re closer to Florida) is an absolute must-do family experience. The joy, the characters, and the sheer wonder make it a truly special memory.

How to Travel with a Family on a Train? A Relaxed and Scenic Journey

Traveling by train with a family is remarkably relaxed and often provides a unique perspective on the landscape. A quick search for “your city + train” will likely reveal numerous local options that can take you to the beach, mountains, or other interesting destinations nearby. It’s an affordable and novel way to explore! You can pack a small bag for everyone for a day trip, or even an overnight adventure, and simply hop on. It’s a wonderful way to change up your routine and experience travel in a new way. Beyond general train travel, we’ve also discovered some truly special, location-specific, and holiday-themed train adventures:

Arizona Family Vacation: The Enchantment of The Polar Express

The Polar Express – As I mentioned, these next two experiences were profoundly incredible, and our children still reminisce about them as some of our all-time best vacations! The Polar Express experience, a magical holiday event, is hosted in several locations across the country. We had the privilege of experiencing the enchanting journey just outside the Grand Canyon in Williams, Arizona. This particular event takes place in late November and throughout December, boasting an absolutely incredible and immersive Christmas theme!

The adventure begins when you board “The Polar Express” train, where everyone is encouraged to wear their pajamas (yes, I am completely serious – it adds to the festive spirit!).

• Settling into seats that authentically replicate those seen in the beloved movie, a friendly conductor soon arrives to punch your ticket with a theatrical flourish. Shortly after, you’re served steaming hot chocolate and a delightfully HUGE cookie, truly embodying the spirit of the story.
  • Then, with a gentle chug, you’re off on your magical journey to “The North Pole!” The anticipation builds as the train weaves through the winter landscape.
  • For those looking to extend the magic, the Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel often offers special family suites, perfect for an overnight stay before or after your train ride.

The popularity of The Polar Express has grown significantly, and it has now expanded to a variety of other states. It’s definitely worth checking for a location near you. This trip is an absolute must, especially if you have children under the age of about seven or so, as it captures their imagination in a way few other experiences can.

After approximately 45 minutes of a charming train ride, filled with carols and anticipation, your train gently pulls to a stop at what appears to be Santa’s brightly illuminated house. You peer out the windows at this enchanting scene, complete with “real” reindeer grazing peacefully outside his festive home. Then, to the children’s absolute delight, Santa himself boards the train! Santa travels from seat to seat, engaging with each child, asking them what they wish for and if they’ve been good. He then presents them with a big, shiny bell, just like in the movie. This personal interaction with Santa is incredibly neat and creates truly magical memories for your kids! Even my oldest, who was 11 at the time, found the entire experience wonderfully charming and captivating.

• This charming little town of Williams, Arizona, is one of our favorite vacation spots for kids because it’s incredibly close to so many other fantastic attractions and adventures!
  • If you’re staying in or around Williams, be sure to head over to the vibrant red rock country of Sedona for a day trip, or dedicate a day to exploring the immense beauty of the Grand Canyon.
  • Don’t miss a visit to Bearizona, a unique drive-thru wildlife park where you can see bears and other North American animals roaming freely from the safety of your car.

And of course, our absolute favorite spot in the region (I admit, I’m biased as an alumna) is Flagstaff, home to Northern Arizona University. While there, a visit to the historic Lowell Observatory is also pretty awesome, offering a chance to gaze at the stars and learn about astronomical discoveries.

• Washington D.C. – Visiting the nation’s Capitol building and exploring the monumental city of Washington D.C. is an exceptional trip, especially when your children are in the 4th or 5th grade. At this age, they are typically beginning to engage with concepts of politics, government, and civics, making the historical sites incredibly impactful.

Washington D.C. is, quite obviously, steeped in immense history. Providing your children with a firsthand experience of learning about how our governmental system functions, witnessing iconic landmarks, and visiting world-class museums is a powerful way for them to develop a genuine interest in Government and historical issues. This direct exposure creates a invaluable foundation, making future discussions of historical events and governmental processes in their History and Government classes much more meaningful and relatable.

New York Family Vacation: The Unforgettable Energy of the Big Apple

New York City – This was one unforgettable trip we took when we just had our oldest daughter, and she was about eight years old. We were fortunate to have friends living there and enough frequent flyer miles to cover our flights, so we seized the opportunity to take her to experience the incredible vibrancy of the Big Apple. It was an adventure that shaped her early understanding of diverse cultures and grand possibilities.

• Neither my husband nor I had ever visited New York before, and we were eager to explore all the popular, iconic attractions. It truly became a trip none of us will ever forget, filled with discovery and wonder.
  • We took her to see the historical significance of Ellis Island, stood in awe of the majestic Statue of Liberty, relaxed in the expansive Central Park, and took an exhilarating double-decker bus tour to get a comprehensive view of the bustling city. We engaged in a lot of walking and simply immersed ourselves in the incredible sights and sounds of Manhattan, including a poignant visit to the Ground Zero Museum.

I considered the Ground Zero Museum an incredibly important stop, and it remains a place none of us will ever forget. I was deeply moved, almost to tears, after watching the powerful videos and viewing the artifacts and memorabilia displayed from the wreckage. Much was carefully recovered from the rubble and is now respectfully preserved in glass cases for visitors to contemplate. It served as a profound reminder that life is precious and fleeting, and we should cherish every single minute with our loved ones. Every experience we had in New York City created a lasting impression. Even now, as she approaches 15 years old, my daughter frequently reminisces about this trip, declaring it, by far, her favorite family vacation!

California Family Vacation: Exploring the Charms of San Francisco and Beyond

San Francisco – This vibrant city offers an incredible array of things to do and see, making it a fantastic destination for families. I still have vivid memories of a road trip I took with my Dad to San Francisco when I was in high school; it’s an experience that has stayed with me. It truly is a fun and dynamic place to visit, often reminding me of New York with its energetic hustle and bustle and the sheer amount of activities happening everywhere.

When planning a road trip to San Francisco, there are numerous wonderful places to visit along the way that add to the adventure. Consider stopping at Hearst Castle, an incredible estate offering fascinating tours that captivate all ages with its opulence and history. Morro Bay is another excellent stop, featuring a charming aquarium if you’d like to include a marine life experience on your journey. Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea are also not far, providing perfect opportunities for scenic day trips from San Francisco. Alternatively, you could choose to stay in one of these picturesque coastal towns and commute into the city for your daytime explorations, offering a more tranquil base for your family.

• If you’re looking for something local, affordable, and deeply connecting to do with your kids, some of our best family vacations have been simple camping trips. The adventure doesn’t have to be a long distance away; even just a night or two under the stars can create lasting memories, as kids inherently love the magic of the outdoors.

To explore all the incredible places we’ve visited and gather more inspiration for your family’s next adventure, head over to the travel section of our blog and discover what truly piques your interest. We constantly update it with new insights and destinations.

These truly represent our top 10 best vacation spots for kids, offering a diverse range of experiences from serene natural wonders to thrilling urban explorations. If your family has a favorite spot that you believe deserves a place on this list, please let us know in the comments below – we are always eagerly looking for new and exciting ideas to explore!

For even more inspiring ideas and comprehensive guides on the best vacation spots for kids, consider checking out this fantastic book: 500 Places to Take Your Kids Before They Grow Up. It’s an excellent resource for any family dreaming of grand adventures!