A family vacation can be as simple as a weekend at a beach resort or as exotic as a cruise through glacier-filled Alaska. Whatever you choose, the best family vacations will have something for everyone. That’s why it’s a good idea to pick a place that offers a variety of activities, sights and experiences for kids of all ages. You might find your youngest child loves the water park at a Florida resort while your older child craves a visit to a museum or an art gallery. That’s why a resort that offers a babysitting service can be a smart choice, as it will give you the freedom to go on an uninterrupted dinner or enjoy a spa treatment without worrying about the little ones.
The right place can also offer more adventurous activities for teens, which is one of the most common worries parents have about a family vacation. These thrill-seeking trips can help keep teens off their phones and engaged in the real world (or at least away from social media). Take a ride down America’s tallest waterslide or test your courage on a mountain bike. Or, if you prefer to stay dry, try a rafting adventure, horseback riding or a zipline.
Some resorts even have special programs that focus on specific age groups, which can be a great option for families with younger kids. Just make sure that the kids’ club goes beyond crafting in a room and actually offers hands-on, interactive activities. Some resorts even have dedicated kids’ pools that are perfect for swimming and wading.
Whether it’s a quick getaway to a local amusement park or a multigenerational adventure that brings grandparents, adult children and their grandchildren together for the first time, family vacations can be a great way for everyone to reconnect. They can also provide a much-needed break from everyday stress, helping to improve family health and relationships.
Choosing the right destination, however, can be tough. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best resorts for family vacations of every type and size. So, whether you’re looking for a place that caters to your little ones or has the space and amenities that allow your teens to spread their wings, you can get started planning the trip of your dreams. And with the right resort on your side, you’ll be well on your way to creating a lifetime of happy memories.