Explore different locations around the world and discover fun activities that both adults and children can enjoy with these ideas for the best family vacations with kids.
The Best Family Vacations With Kids
Are you looking for the best family vacations to take with your kids?
Whether you want to explore a far-off destination or have an exciting staycation nearby, there are plenty of great options when it comes to family travel. From beach getaways and outdoor adventures to city tours and theme parks, there’s something for everyone in your crew.
So pack up the car and hit the road for some quality time together!
Categories for family vacations below including theme-park vacations, camping vacations, beach vacations and international vacations.
Here are some of the best places to vacation with kids that will make lasting memories.
Theme Park Vacations
Here are some of the most popular theme parks that would make a great spot for a family vacation:
1) Walt Disney World, Florida
From Cinderella’s Castle to Space Mountain and beyond, the “Most Magical Place on Earth” is a must-visit for any family vacation. From thrilling rides to character meet-and-greets with your favorite characters, there’s something for everyone at the House of Mouse!
Disney World has 4 separate parks and 2 water parks, so there’s no shortage of fun activities to enjoy.
It can also be a fun educational opportunity. For example, visit Epcot World Showcase to learn and explore 11 different country pavilions such as Italy, Germany, and Mexico. You can try popular foods and learn about the culture in each of these countries.
In Animal Kingdom, there are so many wildlife experiences you can participate in, from the Kilimanjaro Safaris to Rafiki’s Planet Watch, where the kids will have the opportunity to meet and pet some of the animals there!
Also, take the opportunity for the kids to join the Wilderness Explorers. You can follow Russell’s footsteps from the Disney·Pixar film Up while collecting adventure badges at different stations around the park.
Tip: If you can’t make it to Florida, there are other Disneyland parks you can visit in California, Paris, Hong Kong, Toyko, and Shanghai. So many options when it comes to the best family vacations with kids.
2) Universal Orlando Resort, Florida or California
The Universal Orlando Resort is home to two amazing theme parks – Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.
Here you can find incredible rides like the Amazing Adventures of Spiderman, The Incredible Hulk Coaster, and Dr. Seuss. Plus, the resort also has plenty of great dining options as well as the amazing City Walk.
One of the biggest draws is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which can be found in both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.
Here you’ll get to explore Hogwarts Castle, take a ride on the Forbidden Journey, and sample Butterbeer! You’ll be able to completely immerse yourself in the magical world of Harry Potter and become a wizard – wands and all.
3) Legoland, California or Florida
Lego fans will love this spot! At Legoland, your kids can explore all the amazing Lego creations, from castles to pirate ships. There are also plenty of rides and attractions that the whole family can enjoy.
In Legoland, you can sign up for the Kids Adventure Club, which allows kids to collect Lego pieces and build their own creations as they explore. They also have lots of shows where your kids can learn about things like science, reading, and math or watch 4-D shows.
Plus, Legoland also has a water park, so you can cool off in the summer heat while still having fun!
Camping Vacations
Camping is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here are some of our favorites:
Tip: Here are 9 kid-friendly campsites for a fun family vacation!
4) Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park is a great spot for any family camping trip. You can explore this famous park and its many waterfalls while getting closer to nature.
The kids will love hiking up the trails to get a better view of Yosemite Falls or Half Dome. Plus, there are plenty of activities, such as kayaking, swimming, and horseback riding, for the kids to enjoy.
At Yosemite, you can also take the kids to the famous Mariposa Grove to see giant sequoias up close. When it’s nighttime, you can set up camp and build a fire, telling stories to your family about the day’s adventures. And don’t forget about stargazing!
5) The Grand Canyon, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is one of the best family vacations with kids. This massive canyon is a great spot to explore.
You can hike the trails, take an air tour, or even float down the Colorado River in a raft. There’s plenty of adventure to be had and incredible views as well. You can take the 2-hour Grand Canyon train to the South Rim or explore Havasupai Falls in the summer months.
The kids will love seeing all of the animals, like bighorn sheep and elk, that call this area home.
At night, you can set up camp and roast marshmallows over the fire with your family as you watch the stars above.
6) Jellystone Park
Jellystone Park has multiple camping sites, making it a great spot for a family vacation.
There are plenty of activities to keep the kids busy, like mini golf, fossil digging, and water slides. Even themed events like Yogi Bear’s Birthday Bash and Movies at the Park. You can also enjoy an outdoor movie night or go horseback riding during your stay!
Lots of Jellystone Parks have spaces for RVs, tents, and even have cabins available to rent. It’s a great spot for those who have never camped before and want to try it out with the kids.
And no camping trip is complete without s’mores and campfires! You can also bring your own bike or rent one on-site to explore the campsite.
Tip: Check out this post for the 10 must-know tent camping tips for beginners.
Beach Vacations
Here are some of the most popular beach vacations to travel to with our kiddos:
7) The Caribbean Islands
What better way to escape than by taking a trip to the Caribbean?
You can explore some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, relax on the white-sand shores of Barbados or take a cruise around Jamaica. There are plenty of fun activities for the family, such as:
- Snorkeling
- Diving
- Hiking
- Building sand castles
- Visiting wildlife sanctuaries
- Exploring villages where locals live
You can also enjoy great food and explore local markets to find some unique souvenirs. The kids will never forget the time spent bonding on the beach!
8) Hawaii
For a relaxing tropical getaway, head to Hawaii for your family vacation. Here you can go snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and explore lush rainforests.
The Big Island of Hawaii is great for families since it’s the least crowded island and has plenty of kid-friendly attractions, like:
- Kona Coffee plantations
- Volcanoes National Park
- Hilo farmers market
- Beaches and lagoons to explore
- Visit local museums to learn about Hawaiian culture
Hawaii also has some of the best weather, so you can spend your days playing on the beach or by the pool. The kids will enjoy learning to surf and exploring nature in this tropical paradise.
International Vacations
Want to expand your horizons when it comes to the best family vacations with kids? Here are some of the best international destinations:
9) Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is an amazing city filled with incredible sights and sounds. The kids will love exploring this vibrant place. You can marvel at the bright lights of Shinjuku or explore traditional Japanese gardens in Ueno Park.
The city is also great for family-friendly activities, such as:
- Visiting kid-focused museums and art galleries
- Shopping in Harajuku or Akihabara
- Exploring Tokyo Disneyland or Disney Sea
- Attending a cool robot show
- Trying delicious Japanese street food like ramen and okonomiyaki
And don’t forget the chance to visit a real ninja village or take part in sumo wrestling for some unique experiences you won’t get anywhere else!
10) Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is an exciting city that is sure to please every family member. You can explore its winding streets and iconic attractions like La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.
It’s also a great city for foodies, where you can try local dishes like paella and sangria. Plus, there are lots of activities to keep the kids busy, such as:
- Visiting Barcelona Zoo
- Exploring Montjuïc Castle
- Riding a cable car over the city
- Tasting chocolate and churros at local cafes
- Enjoying an amazing view of Barcelona from Tibidabo amusement park
Your family is sure to have tons of fun on your vacation in Barcelona!
11) Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Last on this list is Puerto Vallarta – a perfect spot for a family vacation. Here you can enjoy days of sun and sand on its stunning beaches while also exploring the beautiful old town of Puerto Vallarta.
There are many exciting water sports to take part in, such as parasailing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Plus, there are plenty of activities to keep the little ones busy, like visiting El Faro lighthouse and exploring the botanical garden.
You can also head to one of the local zoos, aquariums, or adventure parks and have a blast with your family. And don’t forget about all the delicious Mexican cuisine you can enjoy!
The Takeaway
No matter where you decide to travel, there are plenty of options for family vacations with kids. Whether you decide to explore the great outdoors or take a city break, these destinations are sure to provide your family with fantastic memories and experiences.
Happy travels!
- Handy Printable Family Camping Checklist (for Fun Camping with Kids)
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- 9 Fun Road Trip Games for Kids (That Don’t Include Screen Time)
- 9 Genius Tips to Make Flying with Kids a Breeze
- 9 Kid-Friendly Campsites For A Fun Family Vacation
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