When planning a family vacation, finding the perfect destination that caters to everyone's interests and needs can be challenging. Safety, attractions, accessibility, and affordability are all factors that parents need to consider. Plus you want to make sure that every family member has a good time. Luckily, there are a ton of amazing family vacation spots in the United States that offer an unforgettable vacation experience for the whole family.
Check out the Best Family Vacation Spots in the US!
Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures or the perfect place to spend time shopping, this list has something for you. Whether you have older children or young kids, this list has something for you! Basically, if you're looking for family fun, I got you!
I've put together a list of the 60 best family vacation spots in the United States to help you plan your next family vacation.
Best Family Vacation Spots in the United States:
1. Orlando, Florida
Orlando is known as the theme park capital of the world, and for good reason. Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld, families can spend days exploring the parks and enjoying the rides and attractions. In addition to theme parks, Orlando offers a variety of family-friendly resorts, restaurants, and outdoor activities such as hot air balloon rides and airboat tours.
2. San Diego, California
San Diego offers beautiful beaches, perfect for spending the day playing in the sand and surf. Families can also visit world-famous attractions such as the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld, which offer a variety of interactive experiences and animal encounters. For those looking for outdoor activities, San Diego offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and whale watching.
3. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park offers stunning scenery and unique geological features, such as geysers and hot springs. Families can explore the park's trails and witness wildlife such as bison, elk, and bears. In addition to hiking and camping, families can also take a guided tour or attend a ranger-led program to learn more about the park's history and geology.
4. New York City, New York
New York City may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a family vacation, but it offers a variety of family-friendly attractions. Visit the Central Park Zoo, the Empire State Building, or the American Museum of Natural History. Families can also take a walk through Central Park, visit Times Square, or take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty.
5. Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. offers a variety of educational and historical attractions suitable for families. Visit iconic landmarks such as the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument, or explore the Smithsonian museums, which offer free admission. Families can also take a bike ride around the National Mall or visit nearby attractions such as Mount Vernon or the National Zoo.
6. Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience life in colonial America. The city is home to Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum where visitors can see reenactments, explore historic homes, and witness tradespeople at work. Families can also visit nearby historical sites such as Jamestown and Yorktown or attend a live performance at the Williamsburg Theater.
7. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago offers a variety of family-friendly attractions such as the Navy Pier, the Field Museum, and the Shedd Aquarium. Families can also take a stroll along the Magnificent Mile, visit Millennium Park, or attend a baseball game at Wrigley Field. The city is also known for its delicious food, such as deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs.
8. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville offers a unique combination of music, history, and culture. Families can visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, take a tour of the Ryman Auditorium, and enjoy live music on Broadway. There are also several outdoor activities such as visiting Centennial Park or taking a walk along the Cumberland River.
9. Maui, Hawaii
Maui offers beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and a variety of outdoor activities. Families can swim, snorkel, or surf at the beach, or take a scenic drive along the Road to Hana. There are also several family-friendly resorts with amenities such as swimming pools and children's programs.
10. Austin, Texas
Austin offers a variety of family-friendly activities such as visiting the Texas State Capitol, swimming at Barton Springs Pool, and exploring the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Families can also visit the Austin Zoo, take a hike in the Hill Country, or attend a live music show at one of the many music venues around the city.
Austin is also known for its delicious barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine, making it a foodie's paradise. With its laid-back vibe and abundance of activities, Austin is a great destination for families looking for a fun and unique vacation experience.
11. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach offers miles of beautiful beaches perfect for family-friendly fun. Children can play in the sand and surf, while parents can relax and soak up the sun. The city is also home to several amusement parks, such as Family Kingdom and Myrtle Waves Water Park, which offer a variety of rides and attractions suitable for all ages.
Families can also take a walk on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, visit the Ripley's Aquarium, or attend a show at the Carolina Opry. Myrtle Beach is also known for its seafood, with many restaurants offering fresh catches of the day.
And I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the fabulous Mermaid Adventure Swim. If you want your kids to have a fun experience they'll talk about for years, you totally need to make sure to set up a Mermaid Adventure Swim.
12. San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio offers a variety of family-friendly attractions, including the Alamo, a UNESCO World Heritage site that played a significant role in Texas' fight for independence. Families can also explore the River Walk, a network of walkways along the San Antonio River, where they can take a boat tour, dine at a riverside restaurant, or visit the many shops and galleries.
San Antonio is also home to several theme parks, such as SeaWorld and Six Flags Fiesta Texas, which offer a variety of rides and attractions. Families can also visit the San Antonio Zoo, the Witte Museum, or the DoSeum, a children's museum with interactive exhibits.
13. Portland, Oregon
Portland offers a variety of family-friendly activities, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Families can visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, where they can explore exhibits on science and technology, or hike in Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States.
The city is also known for its food scene, with many restaurants offering farm-to-table cuisine and vegan options. Families can also visit Powell's City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world, or attend a show at the Oregon Symphony.
For those looking to venture outside of the city, families can take a drive to the Columbia River Gorge or visit nearby attractions such as Mount Hood or the Oregon Coast.
14. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is a great destination for families who love history. The city is home to the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile walking trail that takes visitors to 16 significant historical sites, including the Paul Revere House and the USS Constitution Museum. Kids will also love visiting the New England Aquarium and the Boston Children's Museum.
15. Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu is a great destination for families who want to relax on the beach and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Families can also visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, the Honolulu Zoo, and the Waikiki Aquarium.
16. Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is home to many family-friendly attractions, including the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and the Center for Civil and Human Rights. Families can also visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and Stone Mountain Park, which offers hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
17. Branson, Missouri
Branson is a great destination for families who love live entertainment. The city is home to many theaters that offer music and comedy shows, as well as attractions like Silver Dollar City, the Titanic Museum, and the Hollywood Wax Museum.
18. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a beautiful city with a rich history, and families can enjoy walking tours of historic sites like the Battery and the Charleston City Market. Families can also visit the South Carolina Aquarium and the Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum.
19. Denver, Colorado
Denver is a great destination for families who love outdoor activities. Families can visit the Denver Zoo, the Children's Museum of Denver, and the Denver Art Museum. The city is also a great starting point for exploring the Rocky Mountains.
20. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is a great destination for families who love the great outdoors. The city is located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and families can enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping. The city is also home to attractions like Dollywood and the Gatlinburg Space Needle.
21. Hershey, Pennsylvania
Hershey is a great destination for families with a sweet tooth. Families can visit Hersheypark, which offers amusement park rides and attractions, as well as the Hershey's Chocolate World attraction. The city is also home to the Hershey Gardens and the Hershey Story Museum.
22. Houston, Texas
Houston is a great destination for families who love science and space exploration. Families can visit the NASA Space Center Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Children's Museum of Houston. The city is also home to many parks and outdoor spaces, including the Buffalo Bayou Park.
23. Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis is a great destination for families who love sports. The city is home to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the NCAA Hall of Champions. Families can also visit the Indianapolis Zoo and the Children's Museum of Indianapolis.
24. Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City is a great destination for families who love barbecue and jazz music. Families can visit the National World War I Museum and Memorial, the Kansas City Zoo, and the Arabia Steamboat Museum. The city is also home to many barbecue restaurants and jazz clubs.
25. Key West, Florida
Key West is a great destination for families who love the beach and the ocean. Families can go snorkeling, fishing, and kayaking, or visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.
26. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas may not seem like a family-friendly destination, but there are many attractions that families can enjoy, such as the High Roller Observation Wheel, the Shark Reef Aquarium, and the Adventuredome Theme Park.
The city is also a great starting point for exploring the nearby Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and for visiting Hoover Dam.
My teenagers loved staying at Paris and also watching the fountains at the Bellagio. They loved strolling through the shops at The Venetian and watching the various gondoliers.
My kids love watching Pawn Stars, so we also visited Gold Silver Pawn Shop while we were there.
27. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is a great destination for families who love movies and TV shows. Families can visit famous attractions like Universal Studios Hollywood, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Griffith Observatory. The city is also home to the California Science Center, the Getty Center, and the Santa Monica Pier.
28. Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis is a great destination for families who love music and history. Families can visit the Rock ‘n' Soul Museum, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and the National Civil Rights Museum. The city is also home to Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley.
29. Miami, Florida
Miami is a great destination for families who love the beach and the ocean. Families can go swimming, snorkeling, and boating, or visit the Miami Children's Museum and the Miami Seaquarium. The city is also home to the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and the Wynwood Walls street art district.
30. Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis is a great destination for families who love outdoor activities. Families can visit the Mall of America, which offers amusement park rides and attractions, as well as the Minnesota Zoo and the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. The city is also home to many parks and lakes, including the Chain of Lakes and Minnehaha Park.
31. Nashville, Indiana
Nashville, Indiana is a great destination for families who love nature and the outdoors. Families can visit Brown County State Park, which offers hiking, fishing, and camping, as well as the T.C. Steele State Historic Site and the Brown County Playhouse.
32. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is a great destination for families who love history and culture. Families can visit the National World War II Museum, the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, and the French Quarter. The city is also home to many famous restaurants and jazz clubs.
33. Niagara Falls, New York
Niagara Falls is a great destination for families who love natural wonders. Families can take a boat tour of the falls, go hiking and camping in nearby parks, or visit attractions like the Cave of the Winds and the Niagara Falls State Park.
34. Ocean City, Maryland
Ocean City is a great destination for families who love the beach and boardwalk. Families can go swimming, boating, and fishing, or visit attractions like the Ocean City Boardwalk and the Jolly Roger Amusement Park. The city is also home to many restaurants and shops.
35. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is a great destination for families who love history and culture. Families can visit Independence National Historical Park, which includes Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, as well as the Franklin Institute and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Make sure to run up the steps of the art museum so you can feel just like Rocky! 😉
36. Phoenix, Arizona
I'm a little biased because I used to live in Phoenix, but it is one of my favorite places. It's a great destination for families who love outdoor activities and has absolutely GORGEOUS sunsets. Families can visit the Phoenix Zoo, the Desert Botanical Garden, and the Heard Museum.
There is also a ton of hiking, lots of great shopping and some pretty fabulous restaurants. Our family vacations here yearly. If you love Mexican food, make sure to check out Someburros and Blanco Tacos.
37. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Pigeon Forge is a great destination for families who love amusement parks and live entertainment. Families can visit Dollywood, the Titanic Museum, and the Island in Pigeon Forge. The city is also located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
38. San Francisco, California
San Francisco is a great destination for families who love the city and the outdoors. Families can visit famous attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, as well as the California Academy of Sciences and the Exploratorium. The city is also located near many parks and outdoor spaces, including Muir Woods National Monument and Yosemite National Park.
39. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is a beautiful city with a rich history, and families can enjoy walking tours of historic sites like Forsyth Park and the Bonaventure Cemetery. Families can also visit the Savannah Children's Museum and the Savannah College of Art and Design Museum of Art.
40. Seattle, Washington
Seattle is a great destination for families who love the city and the outdoors. Families can visit famous attractions like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, as well as the Pacific Science Center and the Seattle Aquarium. The city is also located near many parks and outdoor spaces, including Mount Rainier National Park and Olympic National Park.
41. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is a great destination for families who love outdoor activities and natural beauty. Families can go hiking and camping in the nearby Red Rock State Park, as well as visit attractions like the Chapel of the Holy Cross and the Sedona Arts Center.
We love to eat at Javelina Cantina while we're in Sedona and also enjoy visiting the only Teal Arches in the country. Also make sure to check out Tlaquepaque while you're in Sedona. It's such a cool place to shop and browse.
42. St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine is a beautiful city with a rich history, and families can enjoy walking tours of historic sites like the Castillo de San Marcos and the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. Families can also visit the St. Augustine Alligator Farm and the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum.
43. St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis is a great destination for families who love history and culture. Families can visit the Gateway Arch, the Missouri Botanical Garden, and the Saint Louis Science Center. The city is also home to the Saint Louis Zoo and the City Museum.
44. St. Petersburg, Florida
St. Petersburg is a great destination for families who love the beach and the outdoors. Families can go swimming, boating, and fishing, or visit attractions like the Sunken Gardens and the Florida Holocaust Museum. The city is also home to many restaurants and shops.
45. San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan is a great destination for families who love history and culture. Families can visit the historic sites of Old San Juan, as well as the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and the Museum of Art of Puerto Rico. The city is also located near many beautiful beaches.
46. Tucson, Arizona
Tucson is a great destination for families who love outdoor activities and natural beauty. Families can go hiking and camping in the nearby Saguaro National Park, as well as visit attractions like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and the Pima Air & Space Museum.
47. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach is a great destination for families who love the beach and outdoor activities. Families can go swimming, boating, and fishing, or visit attractions like the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and the First Landing State Park. The city is also home to many restaurants and shops.
48. Williams, Arizona
Williams is a great destination for families who love outdoor activities and natural beauty. Families can go hiking and camping in the nearby Kaibab National Forest, as well as visit attractions like the Grand Canyon Railway and the Bearizona Wildlife Park.
49. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Wisconsin Dells is a great destination for families who love water parks and outdoor activities. Families can visit attractions like the Noah's Ark Waterpark, the Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, and the Wisconsin Deer Park. The city is also located near many parks and natural areas.
50. Yosemite, California
Yosemite is a great destination for families who love outdoor activities and natural beauty. Families can go hiking, camping, and rock climbing in the park, as well as visit attractions like the Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, coyotes, and deer.
51. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a great destination for families who love the outdoors and the arts. Families can visit the Biltmore Estate, which offers tours of the historic mansion and gardens, as well as the North Carolina Arboretum and the Blue Ridge Parkway. The city is also home to many art galleries and studios, as well as the Asheville Symphony Orchestra and the Asheville Community Theatre.
52. Burlington, Vermont
Burlington is a great destination for families who love the outdoors and the lake. Families can go swimming, boating, and fishing in Lake Champlain, as well as visit attractions like the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain and the Shelburne Museum. The city is also home to many restaurants and shops, as well as the Vermont Symphony Orchestra.
53. Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga is a great destination for families who love outdoor activities and natural beauty. Families can visit attractions like Lookout Mountain, which offers hiking, rock climbing, and cave tours, as well as the Tennessee Aquarium and the Creative Discovery Museum. The city is also home to many restaurants and shops, as well as the Chattanooga Symphony & Opera.
54. Durango, Colorado
Durango is a great destination for families who love the outdoors and the Old West. Families can take a ride on the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, as well as visit attractions like the Mesa Verde National Park and the Animas River Trail. The city is also home to many restaurants and shops, as well as the Durango Symphony Orchestra.
55. Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff is a great destination for families who love outdoor activities and natural beauty. Families can visit attractions like the Grand Canyon National Park, as well as the Lowell Observatory and the Museum of Northern Arizona. The city is also home to many restaurants and shops, as well as the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra.
56. Grand Rapids, Michigan
Grand Rapids is a great destination for families who love art and culture. Families can visit attractions like the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, as well as the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Grand Rapids Public Museum. The city is also home to many restaurants and shops, as well as the Grand Rapids Symphony.
57. Portland, Maine
Portland is a great destination for families who love the beach and seafood. Families can go swimming, boating, and fishing, or visit attractions like the Portland Head Light and the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine. The city is also home to many restaurants and shops, as well as the Portland Symphony Orchestra.
58. Providence, Rhode Island
Providence is a great destination for families who love history and culture. Families can visit attractions like the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as the Rhode Island School of Design Museum and the Providence Children's Museum. The city is also home to many restaurants and shops, as well as the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra.
If you like to shop, make sure to visit Wrentham Premium Outlets. While it's technically in Massachusetts, it's just a hop, skip and a jump from Providence and such a fun place to shop!
59. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is a great destination for families who love art and history. Families can visit attractions like the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, as well as the Santa Fe Opera and the Palace of the Governors. The city is also home to many restaurants and shops, as well as the Santa Fe Symphony Orchestra.
60. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is a beautiful city with a rich history, and families can enjoy walking tours of historic sites like Forsyth Park and the Bonaventure Cemetery. Families can also visit the Savannah Children's Museum and the Savannah College of Art and Design Museum of Art. The city is also home to many restaurants and shops, as well as the Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra.
Criteria for selecting family-friendly destinations:
There are lots of things to think about when choosing a vacation spot for your family. When choosing the 60 cities above, I was looking for cities that had a variety of activities and attractions suitable for children of all ages.
I also wanted to make sure that there were accommodation options to fit different budgets and family sizes.
I tried to choose destinations that are easy to navigate and made sure to include quite a few cties that have accessible public transportation which makes traveling with children less stressful.
Family vacations can be costly, so I made sure to include some destinations that offer affordable options without sacrificing quality.
Last, but not least, I wanted cities that were relatively safe. And while some of them had higher crime rates (I'm looking at you, New York City), they are still great vacation spots for families, you just need to make sure you're paying attention to your surroundings.
Where Will You Go?
Traveling with children can be challenging, but choosing the right destination can make all the difference. The destinations on our list offer something for everyone in the family, from outdoor activities to historical landmarks and theme parks.
With the right planning and preparation, your next family vacation can be an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Free Printable Packing List
We know that packing for your entire family can make vacation prep feel stressful, so we created a free printable packing list! Make sure you grab yours!
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