A family vacation is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create long-lasting memories. It’s a chance to bond with your kids in a new environment and introduce them to the sights, sounds and experiences you’ve come to cherish over the years.
Whether your squad is ready for a cultural mega-trip or a getaway to the great outdoors, we’ve got you covered with standout places to go. From seaside retreats to the peaks of America’s best national parks, there’s something for every kind of squad and budget.
With two years of pandemic-related travel restrictions largely in the rearview mirror, Americans are ready to hit the road (and skies) again. Pent-up demand and accumulated savings mean that it’s time to get planning. And these 20 standout places to go with your kiddos can help you put together a plan that’s uniquely suited to you and your crew.
In a city as big and bustling as New York, there are no shortage of family-friendly things to do. From classics like Central Park to a loop through the Blue Ridge Mountains and upstate New York, there’s an adventure for everyone in this family bucket list destination.
From the awe-inspiring natural landscapes of Yosemite to the mind-bending art scene of the Broad Museum, Los Angeles is a trove of things to do for families with kids of all ages. Plus, it’s easy to stay under budget with the help of a savvy hotel deal. And don’t miss the chance to chow down on a classic LA meal of California burritos and street tacos.
New York’s biggest city has plenty to offer, from a kid-friendly zoo to iconic museums and a whole host of Broadway shows. Then there are the parks, including the stunning Hudson River waterfront and expansive Central Park, where the kiddos can run wild. And for a southern road trip with a twist, add Atlanta, Charleston, Savannah and New Orleans to the itinerary for a music-filled adventure that’s perfect for families with older kids.
Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and it’s also an epic place for a family vacation. Take the cable car up to Table Mountain and be sure to visit the Cape of Good Hope and the seals at Boulders Beach. And don’t leave without taking a tour of the wine farms of Stellenbosch.
This small island nation in the South Pacific is a dream destination for active families looking to explore on foot or by water. The beaches are powdery white, the lagoons calm and there’s no shortage of snorkeling and kayaking options. And the short, overnight flight from West Coast makes it a breeze for those on tight schedules. And with the Cook Islands’ ring road only 29 miles long, you’ll have lots of time to spend making memories.