Best U.S. Family-Friendly Destinations
Every summer, countless families pack up the car and head out for their annual family vacation. Some families enjoy exploring historical sites, turning a summer vacation into a learning experience, while others head out looking for excitement and entertainment during their getaway. Some destinations are more family-friendly than others. Many family-friendly destinations offer plenty of activities, entertainment and attractions that are designed with families in mind. These destinations are also home to resorts and hotels that are designed to make a vacation seem stress-free, especially when traveling with little ones.Here are some of the best U.S. family-friendly destinations.
Orlando,Florida
Home to more than just Walt Disney World, Orlando is the place where families can escape for a never-ending celebration in a tropical setting. The area's theme parks - Disney, SeaWorld and Universal Studios - offer endless entertainment opportunities, including shopping, dining and plenty of shows and attractions. Orlando definitely knows how to treat families and keep those little ones happy. The area is also home to plenty of museums, smaller attractions and tropical gardens.
Here are the top five things to do while in Orlando:
- Universal Studios and Universal's Island of Adventure
- Walt Disney World
- SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove
- Wet 'n Wild Water Park
- Gatorland
Related: Tips On Traveling With Kids
Grand Canyon, Arizona
One of the largest natural wonders in America, the Grand Canyon is a popular destination for families looking to escape with Mother Nature. The canyon measures approximately 277 miles in length, with a width measuring up to 18 miles. The Grand Canyon is a destination that offers families a chance to experience the great outdoors while being amazed by the breathtaking beauty of the national park. There are plenty of activities for families to do here, including camping, horseback riding and hiking.
The top five things to do and see while at the Grand Canyon include:
- The Grand Canyon Field Institute
- North Rim Mule Trips
- Grand Canyon Railway
- Colorado River Rafting
- Desert Point View Watchtower
Washington, D.C.
A very educational and entertaining family destination is Washington, D.C. This area is home to many marbled monuments, museums and historical sites. Traditional vacations in Washington, D.C. include tours of the White House, other presidential monuments and, of course, a visit to one or more of the Smithsonian museums. For those looking for something besides the landmarks, there are plenty of other museums, art galleries and farmers' markets scattered throughout the area.
The top five things to do when visiting Washington, D.C. include:
- National Air and Space Museum
- Lincoln Memorial
- Washington National Cathedral
- The White House and the Washington Monument
- National Zoo
San Francisco, California
Families can explore the brightly colored neighborhoods of San Francisco or relax with a picnic and take in the beautiful view the city offers. The city's cable cars will take you just about anywhere you want to go, whether it be shopping, exploring or grabbing a bite to eat. Home to the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is one of the best places for families to visit.
The top five attractions families must see while visiting San Francisco include:
- Golden Gate Bridge and Park
- Cable Cars
- Ferry Building Marketplace
- Alcatraz Island
- Muir Woods National Monument
Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu is definitely a destination where families can escape from their day-to-day lives and experience a tropical getaway that is both relaxing and exciting. Kids will have plenty to do at the resorts, keeping them busy, while parents relax on a lounge chair and enjoy a day out by the pool or at the beach. Honolulu is home to historical sites, cultural events and endless white-sand beaches. It is no wonder why families make plans to escape to Honolulu while on vacation.
The top five attractions and activities for families to experience while vacationing in Honolulu include:
- Waikiki Beach
- Pearl Harbor and the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial
- Waimea Bay
- Surfing
- Manoa Falls