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13 Best Cities for Family Vacations in 2020

Sep 1, 2018

See recent posts by Amanda Norcross

Cities make great getaways—short or long—for families. They are hubs for direct flights, ample accommodations, top-notch restaurants and iconic, innovative attractions that appeal to all ages. In these cities, children (and parents) will be wide-eyed with amazement. Plus, these cities provide a touch of history, making them both educational and fun. These are the best cities for family vacations in 2020, with age-specific attraction recommendations and hotel suggestions.

1. Washington, D.C.

History books come to life in  Washington, D.C. , where there are so many fantastic attractions for families—many of which are free! The Smithsonian Institute offers 19 free museums, including the Air & Space Museum, Museum of Natural History, Museum of American Art and even the National Zoo. The area is also famous for several iconic monuments, such as the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial, located around the National Mall. Want to see the White House? Americans can  schedule a guided tour  through their congressional representative!

Best for Infants and Toddlers (0-2)

National Zoo

Best for Little Kids (3-6)

National Museum of Natural History

Best for Big Kids (7-9)

Monuments by Moonlight

Best for Tweens and Teens (10-13+)

Recommended family itinerary.

Washington, D.C. Weekend Guide

Recommended Family Hotel

Hilton Garden Inn Washington DC Downtown

2. Boston, MA

Boston is a small, big city with a healthy dose of old and new.  Boston ‘s past remains a fixture of its present, with cobblestone roads that Bostonians have navigated since the 1700’s. In this very walkable city, you’ll find the country’s oldest standing baseball stadium, Fenway Park, shopping and dining in the city’s historic and original “mall” at Quincy Market and a beautiful green space at Boston Common. The Freedom Trail is worth a visit in itself, too, with 16 historic sites along its route. Newer buildings house the Boston Children’s Museum, one of the best children’s museums in the U.S. , and New England Aquarium, as well as the Museum of Science, all of which provide kids with hands-on learning opportunities that are also fun and exciting.

Boston Public Garden

New England Aquarium

Freedom Trail

Fenway Park

Boston Weekend Guide

Hotel Commonwealth

3. Indianapolis, IN

This Midwestern city offers families a variety of things to do when visiting. But 2020 will mark the city’s bicentennial so you can count on even more events to commemorate the milestone. Indianapolis  is widely known for the Indianapolis (Indy) 500. But did you know this all-American city is also home to more monuments and memorials than any other city in the U.S.? The 210-foot Indiana War Memorial is a tribute to WWI veterans, but is surrounded by two museums, three parks and fountains. The city’s Red Line mass transit system makes it easier for families to navigate the city. Kids will love the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the largest children’s museum in the world (and a direct stop on the Red Line), and the Carter’s Antique Toy Museum, where you can ride bumper cars and play on antique pinball machines.

Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Carter’s Antique Toy Museum 

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

JW Marriott Indianapolis

4. Seattle, WA

The family will be sleepy in  Seattle —after a day spent exploring this beautiful city, that is! Visit the famed Space Needle, Seattle Great Wheel and Kerry Park—all of which provide spectacular views of the city and neighboring Olympic National Park. Be sure to visit the Ballard Locks for a little history, and Pike Place Market for a bite to eat and a “show”—watch fishmongers toss fish to customers in one of the city’s quirkiest traditions. Don’t miss the city’s beaches, either. Alki Beach and Golden Gardens Park are among the best for families.

Pacific Science Center

Ride the Ducks of Seattle

Theo Chocolate Factory Tours

Museum of Pop Culture

Seattle Weekend Guide

Sheraton Seattle Hotel

5. Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia is so much more than cheesesteaks and the “Rocky steps” (hough both should be on your itinerary). Situated between New York City and Washington, D.C., this thriving city is home to new(ish) attractions such as One Liberty Observation Deck and the Museum of the American Revolution, as well as classic landmarks including the Betsy Ross House, where the first American flag was sewn into history, and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Other family favorites include the Please Touch Museum, Franklin Institute, and for the perfect family photo, Elfreth’s Alley (the oldest residential street in the U.S.) or Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens. Bonus: Sesame Place is located about an hour outside of Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Zoo

Please Touch Museum

Betsy Ross House 

Franklin Institute

6. Las Vegas, NV

How can a destination whose nickname is Sin City possibly be family-friendly? Easy.  Las Vegas  offers amusement park thrills, kid-friendly shows, museums and aquariums. Just outside the city, families can explore the Red Rock Canyon and the ghost town of Rhyolite, or hop on a bus tour to see the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon. Bonus: There are lots of free things to do in Vegas with kids.

Fountains of Bellagio

Discovery Children’s Museum

Adventuredome Theme Park

Stratosphere

Las Vegas Weekend Guide

Bellagio Las Vegas

7. San Antonio, TX

Deep in the heart of Texas is the uber family-friendly city of  San Antonio . Although the city itself is large, its downtown River Walk means you can ditch the car and experience the old town, with its vibrant shops and restaurants. Visit The Alamo and other historic missions before a relaxing dinner cruise on the river. Just outside the city awaits more fun at SeaWorld San Antonio, Six Flags Fiesta Texas and Morgan’s Wonderland, the world’s only amusement park designed for kids with special needs. Visit Texas Hill Country while you’re in San Antonio, too —the area features a series of small towns and outdoor adventures galore.

Natural Bridge Caverns

Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Pearl Brewery District

San Antonio Weekend Guide

Embassy Suites San Antonio Riverwalk-Downtown

8. Tallahassee, FL

Tallahassee  is the capital of Florida and the proud home of Florida State University. But it’s also a mecca for family fun, from outdoor adventures (including wildlife sightings) to historic sites. “Tally” also has an amazing array of restaurants (we’re looking at you,  Lofty Pursuits ). Its small size makes it especially perfect for weekend getaways with the kids, too.

Cascades Park

Tallahassee Museum

Mission San Luis de Apalachee

Harry Smith Outdoors Kayak Tours

Tallahassee Weekend Guide

Four Points by Sheraton Tallahassee Downtown

9. San Diego, CA

In Southern California,  San Diego  is a must-visit destination for families. It offers near-perfect weather year-round, as well as several iconic attractions and beaches. Visit spots such as Balboa Park, where you’ll find beautiful green spaces, museums and the San Diego Zoo. In the downtown area, families can walk through the historic Gaslamp District and visit the Maritime Museum and the USS Midway Museum. Be sure to visit neighboring Carlsbad, home of LEGOLAND California and Carlsbad Beach, as well as Coronado, where you’ll enjoy another beautiful beach and a look at the historic Hotel Del Coronado .

La Jolla Cove

San Diego Zoo

Balboa Park

California Surf Museum

San Diego Weekend Guide

Omni San Diego Hotel

10. New York, NY 

In  New York City , you can fill an entire weekend in just a few blocks. Hop aboard the ferry to Ellis Island and Lady Liberty or ride the elevator to the Top of the Rock or One World Observatory for awe-inspiring vistas. Stroll through Central Park before a  kid-friendly Broadway show , then grab a slice of pizza from a street vendor or let the kids sample frozen hot chocolate at Serendipity. There’s something for everyone in the Big Apple.

Of course, there’s no better time to visit New York City than during the winter holidays, with the city’s roster of events including the famous  Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade , Radio City Christmas Spectacular with the Rockettes and New Year’s Eve in Times Square.

Central Park Zoo

American Museum of Natural History

Luna Park at Coney Island

New York TV and Movie Tour

New York City Weekend Guide

Casablanca Hotel

11. Nashville, TN

Nashville— otherwise known as Music City—is famous for its Grand Ole Opry (and the original one at Ryman Auditorium), the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Historic RCA Studio B, Loretta Lynn’s Ranch, the Johnny Cash Museum and so many more music attractions. You can also hear live music just about anywher—stroll downtown Nashville and you’re bound to hear some tunes! Other stand-outs include the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere and the Cheekwood Estate and Gardens.

Adventure Science Center

General Jackson Showboat

Grand Ole Opry

Historic RCA Studio B

Nashville Weekend Guide

The Hermitage Hotel

12. Spokane, WA

This Pacific Northwest city is four and half hours from Seattle. Spokane offers families the perfect combination of city and nature. The Spokane Waterfalls (the largest urban waterfall in the United States) and Spokane River run directly through the city and there are pretty walking trails and multiple viewing points to watch the rushing falls situated right in the city center. Younger kids will love the science and children’s museums, and there’s a giant Radio Flyer wagon slide, carousel and ice skating rink at Riverfront Park across the street. For teens or adventure seekers, Spokane offers plenty of thrills, too, with zip-lining tours, rafting, kayaking and skiing nearby.

Manito Park

Mobius Children’s Museum 

Riverfront Park Spokane

Mica Moon Zip Tours

Oxford Suites Downtown Spokane

13. Chicago, IL

Chicago ‘s Magnificent Mile and beaches lining the shores of Lake Michigan make it a must-visit for families, as does the famous Navy Pier. Another hit for families is the Museum Campus, which houses the Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum and the Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum. Iconic Wrigley Field calls Chicago home, and kids can catch the World Series-winning Cubs, Stanley Cup-winning Blackhawks Sox, Bulls and Bears in stadiums across this sports-loving city.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Skydeck Chicago

Second City

Chicago Weekend Guide

Four Seasons Hotel Chicago

What to Pack for Your Next Trip

Dad’s/men’s outfit for a family vacation in vegas in summer/spring, shop the look.

Cotton Pocket Tee

Beach Sweat Shorts

57mm Phantos Aviator Polarized Sunglasses

Travel Laptop Backpack

Nike Roshe Run

Mom’s/women’s outfit for a family vacation in vegas in summer/spring.

Japanese GoWeave High-Neck Tank

Lightweight Wide Leg Crop Chino

Single Pearl Necklace

Stirrup Leather Bag

Alina Flats

Teen girl’s cool cruise outfit for summer.

Colwyn Shirt

Bleach Joni Shorts

Canvas Tote Bag

Moment Espadrille

Teen boy’s cool cruise outfit for summer.

Pink Lemonade Shirt

Stone Utility Shorts

Polarized Sunglasses

Baby Boy’s Comfy Jacket with Pants Outfit

Baby Cozy Fleece Jacket

4-Pack Fleece Pants

Baby Hat and Mitten Set

Anti-Slip Ankle Socks

Canvas Sneaker

Our team of parents and travel experts chooses each product and service we recommend. Anything you purchase through links on our site may earn us a commission.

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Travel Inspiration

Best cities to visit with kids: 25 fabulous world city trips for families.

25 awesome world cities to visit with kids: city vacation ideas for families perfect for kids of all ages and the resources to plan the perfect city trip with kids

I have always loved big cities and my desire didn’t fade when we had kids.

I loved the idea of strolling around a city with my little ones, savoring what parenting may be like in a new place, exploring children museums and city playgrounds however, there is not doubt not all cities are as child-friendly as one another.

In this article, we shared out tips for planning a city break with kids and today, we are going to share family city trips ideas and our selection of the best cities for a family vacation.

Each of the article leads you to a family guide to the city so you can start planning your family city break straight away!

In this guide we cover the best cities to visit with kids in Europe, great cities in the US to visit with kids and some more ideas for a family trip to world cities.

25 best world cities to visit with kids

Our tried and tested selection of awesome cities to visit with kids: family-friendly cities in the USA, European cities to visit with kids and world capital and big cities for a family vacation to remember.

Click on each 'read more button' to find our family city guides written specifically to make the most of a city trip with kids in the city of your choice!

Rome with kids: all you need to know

Rome is a wonderful city to visit with kids, I believe the best city in the world to visit as a family!

If you are visiting with toddlers, Rome has lovely green parks and playgrounds in the city center that are great for a break from the big city and there is a fantastic children's museum, Explora Rome, that is wonderful for small kids and school children alike.

Rome is also a wonderful city for kids of school age: the Colosseum, the exciting State witing the State that is the Vatican City and, of course, gelato and pizza galore make it a wonderful city break for families with kids of all ages!

Paris with kids: how to plan the perfect family trip to Paris

They say Paris is always a good idea and we can easily paraphrase this to 'Paris with kids is always a good idea': Paris is a wonderful city to visit with children, with plenty to do for all ages.

Visiting Paris with toddlers will get to explore the Paris wonderful gardens, playgrounds and carousels. Paris with older kids means seeing them marvel at the amazing Paris landmark, take in the stunning Eiffel Tower, play at the Villette science museum and explore museums of world fame such as the Louvre and the Centre Pompidou.

All of this mixed with that special charm that only Paris has, the makes it one of the most beloved cities by artists of all times and one of the most exciting world capitals.

One day in New York City with kids: family itinerary

When thinking of the best cities to visit with kids, New York immediately comes to mind: what a fantastic city for families!

New York simply burst with things to do for kids and is an incredibly family-friendly city, with plenty of family attractions.

Depending on the age of your kids and the time of year of your visit, you can spend the time in fabulous Central Park, explore New York toy shops, admire the Christmas lights, climb up to the tops of the city's tallest skylines or take a boat tour and visit the city from the water.

Playgrounds and museums abound and the variety of people, styles and neighborhoods will be wonderful and educational for kids, a true multicultural experience right in the USA!

The best things to do in Los Angeles with kids: 25 ideas!

Another wonderful American city to visit with kids is Los Angeles, a sprawling, diverse treasure trove of family-friendly activities!

A huge metropolis, Los Angeles has tons of things to do for kids. Love the beach? Los Angeles has fantastic family-friendly beaches with soft sand and the option to learn surfing.

Love hiking? LA has plenty of family hikes right within the city that you can tackle almost all year round.

Prefer museums and children entertainment Enter the many family-friendly museums in LA: the Tar Pits (they mammoth!), the California Space Center, the Getty Center, the Hollywood Studios, the interesting Old Pueblo of Los Angeles are only the first ones that come to mind, there are so many in the city!

And, of course, there is Disneyland: while not in the city, no city trip to LA with kids would be complete without a trip to Disneyland, a super easy getaway for families.

One day in San Diego with kids: how to spend a perfect day in the city

Ask Americans for the best US City for a vacation with kids and many will say: San Diego!

Indeed, it is hard to think of a city better suited to a city vacation with kids. Blessed with wonderful weather, fabulous beaches, amazing food and plenty of kid-friendly activity, San Diego is like a large playground for kids.

If you are in San Diego with small kids, you can spend time on the beach, at wonderful Balboa Park, discovering the wonderful San Diego Zoo.

Older kids will still enjoy all this and they will also be able to tap into the beautiful city museums and the many outdoor activities the city offers: kayaking, swimming, hiking is all easy in San Diego and the proximity to Legoland is a huge plus for lego loving kids!

My perfect 24 hours in San Francisco with kids

Another US city for this list of the best world cities to visit with kids, but how could we not include family-friendly San Francisco?

One of the most exciting cities in the world at any age, San Francisco is simply wonderful for families.

Depending on the age of your kids, you can enjoy the city's many playgrounds (my kids say the city has the best free slides in the world!), you can visit the Exploratorium children museum, take a city tour on a fire engine and see the seals at the pier.

Of course, you can hop on and off the city cable cars, one of the most fun things in San Francisco for kids, see the 'crookedest street in the world', marvel at the Golden Gate Bridge and of course tap into the wonderful multicultural atmosphere of San Francisco, a crossroads of cultures that is exciting and educational for kids to explore, even without leaving the country.

Lisbon with kids: how to plan the perfect stay

Lisbon is one of the most family-friendly cities in Europe and a fantastic city to visit as a family.

The city has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere that is particularly suited for a family vacation when you want to relax as well as making the most of the many child-friendly activities the city has to offer.

If you have small kids, they will love the city parks, watch the trams go by and explore the wonderful garden of Lisbon castle, perched on tops of the city.

Older kids will be able to enjoy the city's chid-friendly museums (they have a super cool electricity museum they are sure to love) and if you visit at any time outside the heart of winter, the pleasant Portuguese weather will do the rest! Just make sure you bring a baby carrier if traveling with very small ones as part of the charm of Lisbon city center are its cobbled, steep streets....

Fun things to do in Madrid with kids: 14 ideas!

One of the best European capitals to visit with kids is Madrid, the wonderful capital of Spain.

Perched right in the middle of the country, Madrid is a city with fantastic art and history and a wonderful family-friendly side, which truly is not known enough!

Madrid has plenty to offer to kids: the city has some wonderful parks, the biggest and most famous being the Retiro, a true oasis in the heart of the city, it has stunning family-friendly museums with kids programs, so that both parents and kids can enjoy the space, and one of the most family-friendly food cultures you can get.

Kids are welcome everywhere in Madrid and Spanish tapas are the perfect kids' food, a real lifesaver even if traveling with fussy eaters!

10 awesome things to do in Barcelona with kids

Another fantastic European city to visit with kids Barcelona, the colorful capital of Catalunya, in Spain.

Barcelona is a city out of a fairytale with very many child-friendly attractions. If you have small kids, you will adore Barcelona many parks and the wonderful city beach: these are free, outdoor spaces that are simply wonderful for kids, equipped with playgrounds and family-friendly restaurants.

If you have older kids, they are sure to love the fantastic architecture of this city: architect Gaudi' made this city a vision of colors and peculiar shapes that are so incredible, they will capture the imagination of children like few other places in the world.

The lovely weather and amazing food will also add to the attractions for kids and soccer fans will of course adore the option of being in the city of such an amazing soccer team!

Must have guide to the top things to do in Dublin with kids

Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is another fantastic city to visit with children! Small, easy to navigate and full of family-friendly attractions, Dublin is a lovely city for a family city break or as a starting point for an Ireland road trip.

Small kids in Dublin will simply adore the many city parks (the city is super green!), the fun land and water Viking city tour that sees you on a vehicle that will enter the river (!), the fantastic Imaginosity children museum and of course cool Dublin Zoo.

Older kids will be fascinated by the beautiful Book of kells and Dublin castle and the whole family will love the easy access to nature from the city: parts of the town are on the water and you can spot seals, a wonderful surprise for many kids who don't expect animal encounters in a European capital!

Awesome things to do in Amsterdam with kids

Amsterdam is one of the most exciting cities world cities to visit with kids, a city with a lovely family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of children attractions for kids of all ages!

Compact and well organized, Amsterdam is super easy to explore with kids even on your first visit and truly has a lot to do for children.

If you have active kids, they will love the city parks and the fact that the city is super bike-friendly (they go fast, but bike lanes are everywhere).

Children of all ages will simply fall in love with Nemo Science Museum, one of the best children museums in Europe, and kids and adults alike will love the many art museums in the city.

Beautiful museums such and the Rijks and the van Gogh museum have fantastic programs for kids, showing perfectly that a city can truly be a treat for all ages!

Brussels with kids: how to visit and why you'll love it

Another fantastic city to visit with kids is Brussels, the capital of Belgium and of Europe.

The city is usually mentioned with regards to European politics but it has a family-friendly side and plenty of child-friendly attractions visitors can enjoy!

Small kids will love the large spaces the city has to offer, may they be the large Grand Place (stunning historical square) or the city's many parks, such as Parc de Cinquantenaire and Boi de la Cambre.

Older kids will be fascinated by the museum of chocolate, a local specialty, and the cartoon museum and murals, which are peculiar to the city.

Absolutely everyone will then love the fun looking Atomium, one of Brussels' most famous landmarks, and Mini Europe, a reconstruction of Europe... in mini size!

How to spend 2 awesome days in Berlin with kids

Families who love history should not skip a trip to Berlin, one of the most interesting cities to visit with kids of school age especially.

The city is beautiful and has plenty to offer to families with kids. if you want to tap into history, Berlin makes it easy for kids to see the remains of the wall, Check Point Charlie and the Holocaust memorial, only three of the many landmarks in the city that are easy for kids to relate to

If you have younger kids or want to mix educational experiences with pure fun, Berlin has a fantastic zoo, a super fun Lego play center and tons of museums that are suitable for kids and truly impressive - they have a full island of them!

Berlin is also a very green city and lives up to its fame of being very well organized: a real plus for first-time visitors and one of the reasons why we think this is a very good city destination for families.

Hamburg with kids: how to plan the perfect stay

If you are looking for a family-friendly city for a family vacation in Europe, then look no farther than Hamburg! Perched in the north of Germany, Hamburg is often mentioned for its impressive port but it is a city with plenty to do with kids.

Hamburg is very green and bike-friendly, which is lovely for kids of all ages as you can explore it on wheels, something our kids adored and it has some of the best playgrounds we have even found.

For us, it is one of the easiest cities to visit with toddlers!

The city also has some family-friendly attractions that are just for kids: our kids loved the children museum and were over the moon with excitement when they discovered Miniature Wunderland, a fantastic place where the whole world is recreated in miniature!

The best things to do in Venice with kids + Venice travel tips for families

It may come as a surprise but romantic Venice is also one of the best cities in the world to visit with kids!

The city is magical at all ages but it is particularly captivating for kids who won't believe their eyes when they will see city houses literally coming out from the water!

In terms of family attractions, Venice has a lot to offer.

The city is car-free and you go around on foot or by water taxi, always fun!

The main city square, Piazza San Marco, is perfect for small kids who will love to run around this scenic piazza and terrorize the pigeons, who live here in large groups and the city has several parks that are lovely for kids. On top of this, Venice has several activities for kids that will allow them to tap into the peculiarity of the city: here kids can learn about blowing glass and make their own carnival masks in specialized kid-friendly options, great fun especially for crafty kids!

Florence city centre with kids: Florence one day itinerary for families

One of the best cities we visited with the children is Florence, Italy, the cradle of the Renaissance and basically an open-air museum! The city is usually associated with museums going however, it is one of the best cities to visit in Italy with kids for family-friendly atmospheres and things to do with kids.

Among the many things for kid in Florence, there are the city beautiful parks (Parco delle Cascine is fantastic for kids), several cool museums such as the Galileo Museum of the Leonardo Museum that are fun and interactive and the city has many tours that are special for families: school-age kids can go on a family treasure hunt around Florence, they can learn to cook and even make gelato!

Top 5 things to do in Abu Dhabi with kids: an insider's guide

If you are looking for an exciting, exotic, family-friendly city to visit with kids, then I recommend you check out Abu Dhabi!

Located in the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is a modern city with a plethora of things to do for kids, a real paradise for theme park lovers!

For thrills and fun, you can visit Ferrari World, explore the Grand Prix circuit (if you have a car lover, this will be more than enough to have them excited!) and, of course, you can get adventurous taking a desert safari.

If you are worried about the heat, you will love to hear that Abu Dhabi has Waterworld, simply perfect for kids, and if you want to mix culture with all the fun, you can visit the incredible Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque and the brand new Abu Dhabi Louvre!

Top things to do in Montreal with kids grown ups will love too

Another fantastic city to visit with kids is lovely Montreal, Quebec. The city has a delightful European charm that makes it relaxed and easy to enjoy with kids and it has many children attractions that make it the perfect city break for families with kids of any age.

In the good season, kids will love the many green areas of Montreal (the city has parks everywhere!), the lovely small beach and pools in Parc Jean Drapeau and the fantastic botanical gardens, a wonderful outdoor space!

Walking, cycling, swimming are all possible in Montreal and they are a delight.

In winter, the city offers wonderful cozy refuge from the winter in the well-equipped underground city and has many museums kids can enjoy: ours adored the Science Museum and the Biodome, where you experience all earth climates in one visit!

Canada: 48 hours in Toronto with kids

If you are looking for a family city break in Ontario, then you will love Toronto, the beautiful and family-friendly city on the shores of Lake Ontario.

We visited Toronto in summer and our kids fell in love with it: the biggest hit for them was center Island, an isle on lake Ontario with a theme park perfect for toddlers and lovely beaches to splash about in the good season.

Outside of the island, the kids' attractions keep coming: the CN tower is perfect for kids who love the thrill of (very) tall places, the Rogers center is fantastic for sports lovers and you also have Ripleys' Aquarium, the Dinosaur Gallery (yes!), and Toronto Zoo.

Top things to do in Sydney with kids on your first visit

An iconic zoo, one of the most scenic ports in the world and beaches beaches beaches: a list of the best cities to visit in the world with kids simply had to include Sydney.

A city worth visiting at any age, Sydney has plenty to offer to kids. Taronga Zoo is simply a must see while in the city and so is a walk or a cruise in iconic Sydney Harbour. After you have seen these main landmarks, kids are sure to want to explore Darling Harbour with Sydney Aquarium, Imax and the Wildlife Park.

Then, of course, you need to explore Bondi and longe on the beach, the perfect activity to relax during a family vacation in Sydney!

Fun things to do in Melbourne with kids grown ups will love too

Local friends have me fully convinced: Melbourne is a fantastic city to visit with kids!

Very different from Sydney yes a must-see on your Australian adventure, Melbourne has something for everyone and a plethora of kids activities to choose from.

A family trip should start from the Docklands, the Melbourne entertainment district with the observation wheel, the ice skating arena and Grand Prix Simulator.

If you prefer to explore the city, then Melbourne has plenty of cool laneways, cafes and murals that are fantastic to see for kids and adults.

Last but not least, Melbourne is close to Philip's island where you can go see and learn about penguins!

Seville with kids: what to do, where to stay for the perfect family trip to Seville, Spain

Spain is all incredibly family-friendly and one of its most family-friendly cities in Seville, a wonderful city to explore with children of all ages!

Blessed with amazing weather almost all year round, Seville has a stunning city center with lovely child-friendly attractions.

Star war lovers are probably going to adore Plaza de Espagna, one of the city's main landmarks, but the marvels of Seville go well beyond its movie fame.

Here you can visit the Alcazar, which has a fabulous garden, climb la Giralda tower, an unexpected crocodile in Seville cathedral (yes!), the tomb of Christopher Columbus and try your hand or at least dress up as a flamenco dancer!

Seville is very easy to visit with kids as it is compact and easy to visit on foot and one of our favorite cities to visit with kids anywhere in the world.

Reykjavik with kids: what to see, where to stay and best tours for families

Iceland is all family-friendly but we were blown away but how family-friendly Reykjavik city is!

Often mentioned just as a jump-off point for an Iceland road trip, Reykjavik surprises us with many children attractions perfect for kids big and small.

If you are visiting Rejkyavik with toddlers, you will adore the long waterfront, where they can run freely on a long, car free road, and Tjorning pond, when you can see ducks and swans even in winter (there is a reason for this, read our guide to find out!).

Older kids will enjoy the fantastic Perland museum and the whole family will appreciate the compact and pretty city center, from where you can take cruises to see the stunning Icelandic wildlife and even tours to try to catch the elusive Northern Lights!

Stockholm with kids: how to plan a family trip + need to know

Stockholm is one of the most family-friendly cities in the north of Europe and a delight to visit with kids!

The city center is beautiful and historical, with pretty buildings and many charming canals, and there are beautiful museums perfect for all ages.

Small kids are sure to love Junibacken, where they can play in the world of Pippi Longstocking, born here, and kids of all ages will have fun in the Postal Museum, the fun Abba Museum (even if too young to actually know Abba, it is just a very fun place) and the jaw of kids and adults will drop at the view of the Vasa, a ship that sank in the city waters in 1628 and has been perfectly preserved ever since!

This plus a family-friendly attitude and lovely green spaces make Stockholm one of our favorite cities in the world for a family city trip.

Visiting London with kids: all you need to know to plan a perfect family trip to London

No list of best cities to visit with kids would be even credible without including London, an absolutely fantastic city for families.

London is a world and it has so many kids attractions, it can keep you entertained for a lifetime and you will never be bored. Where to even start?

If you love outdoor spaces, London has some absolutely wonderful parks: Hide Park is maybe the most famous but Regents' Park has the wonderful London Zoo and green areas are everywhere, making it always easy to stop and play, even in the middle of the city.

If you love museums, London has some work art one, many suitable for kids: the Natural History Museums is fantastic and one of the best museums in the world for kids and the British Museum is a treat for explorers of any age.

The tower of London, the changing of the guard, a cruise along the Thames, the Big Ben, Greenwich, Piccadilly Circus and of course Paddington and Peter Pan: truly, there is too much London has to offer to kids to even remotely mention it all in this list, all we can recommend is to go!

Worried to tackle a big city trip with kids in tow? Don’t be: we’ve got you covered with our tips for planning a city break with kids !

Love traveling with kids? Don’t forget to also check out these articles:

• The best European cities to visit with kids
• Tips for traveling with kids we learned on our travels
• Family Travel essentials you will be happy to have on your travels

Loved this post? Share it or pin it for later!

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

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The best family vacations in the U.S.

The best family vacations in the U.S. that will keep the whole family happy

Photograph: Courtesy Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy

Ah, family vacations. A chance to escape your routine, connect and make memories. Because getting time off school and work to explore together can be a rarity, we understand the decision of where to go  is important—and picking a destination that will be fun for the whole family will help make sure the adventure is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.

To help you pick your next holiday away with children in tow, we have rounded up the absolute best family vacations in the U.S. that we guarantee both adults and kids will enjoy. Yes, we have the go-to Disney spots in Anaheim and Orlando on the list, but we also have more unique choices. From playing along the bay with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background in San Francisco , to hiting up the (free!) Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C ., to exploring the desert in Tucson, Arizona, these destinations offer endless ways to play. 

RECOMMENDED: Cheap family vacations in the U.S. for 2024

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Top family vacations in the USA

1.  san diego, ca.

With sunny beaches, fantastic theme parks, and the world’s largest comic book convention, there's no such thing as bored children in sunny San Diego . Plus, like a good Pixar flick, the best kid-friendly activities won’t leave adults gaping at their phones. We promise parents will love mingling with exotic animals, splashing through waterfront fountains and marveling at towering Lego sculptures right alongside the kids. Avoid rowdier crowds and embrace calm waves alongside other families at Mission Beach, Coronado Beach or La Jolla Shores.

2.  Yellowstone, WY

No other place on earth is like Yellowstone National Park . The massive, natural sanctuary (3,471 square miles of green) mesmerizes all visitors with its mountains, canyons, geysers and subalpine forests (and don’t be surprised if you spot buffalo). With challenging hikes into the backcountry as well as handicap-accessible wooden boardwalks, the wonders of Yellowstone are for everyone. Plan a trip to the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center to see animals without hiking for it. Bring a tent and get here early to take advantage of the affordable campgrounds (seven are first-come, first-served and five require reservations ). Pack the car with a cooler of campfire meals and snacks to get you through the weekend.

3.  Grand Canyon, AZ

One mile deep, 277 miles long and visible from space, the Grand Canyon is right up there on the cool chart for kids. Explore it from the rim on foot (the guided hikes are perfect for children six and older) or bike, or ride a mule to the bottom. When you get out of Wi-Fi range, the kiddos might complain, but they’ll remember hiking these trails forever. Don’t miss the spectacular Skywalk at Grand Canyon West, which juts out 70ft from the canyon rim—there’s nothing but glass between you and the Colorado River 4,000ft below.

4.  San Francisco, CA

San Francisco is a giant playground for adults and kids alike. There's plenty of room to roam and play, from stunning parks to exciting museums to picturesque beaches. Check out the city's newest playground, the Outpost at the Presidio Tunnel Tops . When it comes to indoor activities, the Children's Creativity Museum , the Aquarium by the Bay and the Exploratorium are all classic favorites. And, of course, you can't miss a ride on a cable car that will leave the kids giddy, with a stop at Ghiradelli Square for a sundae that will make them even giddier. 

5.  Tucson, AZ

A dude ranch vacation is ideal for families and Tanque Verde in Tucson , Arizona, is one of the best, with spectacular trails that wind their way through desert and mountain scenery. This is a great place for kids with a horsey inclination to improve their riding skills, but novice equestrians can learn their stirrups from their saddles here, too. The daily kids’ club offers activities from horsemanship to arts and crafts, and there’s a spa to soothe aches and pains from too much time spent in the saddle. Venture into the city to   discover museums, local coffee roasters and microbrewers and a gorgeous landscape of saguaros, barrel cactus and prickly pear. 

6.  Orlando, FL

Resort complexes don’t come bigger than the 43-square-mile Disney World in Orlando , Florida, comprising four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom), two water parks, golf courses and 36 hotels. For full theme-park immersion, add a day or two at Universal Orlando Resort , home of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Allow at least two days (multi-day tickets are the way to go) and stay on-site as it gives you extended hours in the parks and early access to Fast Pass reservations, essential for skipping the lines. For a non-traditional hotel experience, The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort are nestled in the woods, frontier-style, and sleep up to six.

7.  Los Angeles & Anaheim, CA

You're going to need way more than a weekend for this SoCal vacation filled with attractions from Santa Monica to Anaheim . Want to spot celebs? Take the Starline Tours Movie Stars’ Homes Tour or book a backlot studio tour for behind-the-scenes moviemaking magic. Hire bikes in Santa Monica to explore the beach and the old-school Santa Monica Pier with its carnival games, vintage carousel and aquarium. Then head south to Anaheim for amusement park gold like  Disneyland . Looking for a Disney alternative? Knott's Berry Farm is a great option for thrill-seekers (we're taking real roller coasters) and fans of Snoopy and Peanuts (the park's mascots). 

8.  Oahu, HI

There’s no better place to learn to surf than the long rolling breaks of Oahu ’s Waikiki Beach, but other family-friendly activities include paddling an authentic outrigger canoe, or learning the graceful movements of hula. Explore the island’s most scenic and historic sights on a Waikiki Trolley tour , and swim with dolphins at Sea Life Park. The secret for families to get the best out of Hawaii is to try to split their time between busy, urban Honolulu  and another more laid-back area, like Oahu's north shore or family-friendly Maui .

9.  Chicago, IL

Chicago is fun to visit with kids year-round, but we'll be honest, it's more fun when it's not in the depths of winter. When the weather isn't frigid, let your kids run wild at the many urban parks and the beach, surrounded by skyscrapers that will wow them. Still, even when it's cold, there's plenty to do, including taking in the view at the top of Willis Tower , shopping along Michigan Ave, and museums like the  Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum . No matter the season, you can't miss indulging in a famous deep-dish pizza.

10.  Yosemite, CA

Famed for its sweeping valleys, towering granite cliffs, giant sequoias, waterfalls and plethora of wildlife, Yosemite , in California’s Sierra Nevada, is simply awesome. Hiking, swimming, rafting and fishing are just some of the many family activities available in the 1,169-square-mile national park . Reservations for the 13 campgrounds are fiercely competitive and you need to book months in advance, but  Curry Village  (open April to October) gives you the camping experience without the hassle of set-up in cabins and tented cabins that sleep up to six. For the ultimate family-friendly hotel, check out Rush Creek Lodge which features kids programming, a playground, a heated year-round pool and more. 

11.  Destin, FL

Known for its fishing spots and sprawling white sand beaches, Destin is full of family fun in the sun. Kids will love the calm shorelines, especially along Henderson Beach State Park and the shores at Crystal Beach Park  and the amusement parks—head to Big Kahuna's for waterslides and a lazy river and Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park to see dolphins and penguins. A boat tour is a must. Destin offers everything from dolphin-spotting excursions and pirate-themed cruises to glass-bottom boats and high-speed racers.

12.  Branson, MO

You'll find family-friendly fun without the crowds and the soaring price tag in Branson, Missouri .  Enjoy classic family fun in the great outdoors, from hiking and biking in Table Rock State Park to kayaking on Lake Taneycomo. Plan to spend some time at Silver Dollar City , too, which offers rides, attractions, shows, and food for families of all ages and interests.  Perched on a bluff overlooking the Ozark Mountains and Table Rock Lake, Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve  features a cave and nature trail, a golf course, a natural history museum, four restaurants, a clifftop wedding chapel, and a Civil War-era cabin. It’s considered one of the best entertainment spots in the state.

13.  Washington, D.C.

The nation's capital is a perfect destination for a family trip. Let stops along the way bring history lessons to life, from touring the U.S. Capitol and White House to visiting George Washington's in Mt. Vernon, Virginia. Best of all, a trip to D.C . won't break the bank: all Smithsonian museums are completely free and could fill up your itinerary alone, from the Air & Space Museum to the National Museum of Natural History . 

14.  Gatlinburg, TN

Asheville gets a lot of credit for being the 'gateway city' to the Great Smoky Mountains, but Gatlinburg , a  mountain town in eastern Tennessee , is actually the closest city to the national park—and it was practically made for families. When you're not exploring the national park,  take a ride on the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway to reach the amusement park of the same name. Or, head to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies to view various marine animals. The area   has developed a reputation for vacation kitsch, and there’s a ton of it in Pigeon Forge , Gatlinburg’s neighbor to the north, where you'll find no shortage of old-time photo booths and believe-it-or-not attractions. 

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Life is short, take the vacation: 40 best destinations, including my family’s favorite

Remember what a typical day in your childhood looked like? Probably not, but we bet you can vividly recall a family trip that blew your young mind. I [Wise] have fond memories of building sandcastles at the beach and walking piers with my parents.

While many of us are contemplating our big travel plans for the next year, now might be an excellent time to let those long-dreamt-about family vacation ideas come to fruition.

If you want your child or teenager to experience the same magic on vacation as I [Wise] had, take them to any of these family vacation destinations. From glaciers to beachfronts , dinosaurs to Disney characters, there's something here for everyone — even the kid that's hard to please.

Theme parks and activity centers | Beaches | Outdoorsy adventures | Major cities | Historical outings

Best family-friendly vacation spots of 2024

Shop today favorites:, aspen snowmass, colorado, cedar point amusement park, cooperstown, new york, denver, colorado, disney world.

• Florida's Space Coast

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Jackson hole, wyoming, miami beach, florida, niagara falls, new york, plimoth plantation, massachusetts, san diego zoo, sesame place.

• The Strong National Museum of Play

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

• Waikiki Beach

Travel Gear Awards winners seen on TODAY

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Winner: Best in-flight must-have. See more for a deal:

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Lanzom Panama Sun Hat

Winner: Best packable hat

Wrangler 20-Inch Rolling Carry-On

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Etekcity EL11 Luggage Scale

Winner: Best flight essential

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Winner: Best travel pillow

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Theme parks and activity centers

" Cedar Point has gorgeous views of the Lake Erie shore, especially from the top of some of the best roller coasters around. There’s also a water park that’s fun for everyone." — Laura Millar, an NBC Page at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 6-18

Why go? It’s the roller coaster capital of the world with more than 10 miles of track!

What to do: Ride the Blue Streak — a historic wooden roller coaster dating back to 1964. Or, opt for more modern thrills like the Millennium Force (rated one of the best steel coasters around), suspension coasters (your feet dangle from the floorless Raptor) and — new for 2024 — Top Thrill 2, the world’s tallest and fastest triple-launch strata coaster. Younger kids will find fun at Snoopy’s Space Race and the Kite Eating Tree.

Where to stay: Cedar Point’s Hotel Breakers , located on Lake Erie beach, offers early entry into the park. Five miles inland, Great Wolf Lodge has an indoor water park.

More info: CedarPoint.com

"Of all the places to take kids, Disney probably requires the most amount of planning. The two biggest things that helped make the trip enjoyable for us was using a free (!) Disney concierge planner — they have intimate knowledge of everything from restaurants to lesser-known gems hiding in the park, like a great place to sit to watch fireworks — and designating someone in the group to become a pro at understanding and executing the Fast Pass, Lightning Lane-type offerings. Disney World is massive; we took it slow to prevent meltdowns, and even baked in days to just recover at the hotel in between park visits." — Rebecca Brown , a deals editor at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 2-14

Why go? You’ll never forget the first time your princess-loving child catches their first glimpse of the real Ariel or Belle or watches fireworks explode over Cinderella’s Castle. Disney is fun for parents, too!

What to do: Check the Magic Kingdom classics off your list first, then head over to Disney’s Animal Kingdom . At Disney Springs , experience the Vintage Amphicar and Aerophile.

Where to stay: Good times at Disney’s properties — including Disney’s Beach Club Villas — are always a given, or try the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld for rooms at half the price.

More info: DisneyWorld.Disney.go.com

Florida’s Space Coast

"If your kid is into space and planets, this corner of Florida is a must-visit. There are several cities that compiles Florida’s Space Coast , including Cocoa Beach and Port Canaveral, but Cocoa Beach is probably my favorite. They have the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier, where locals meet to watch the spaceship launches and the Kennedy Center is also nearby. It’s a wonderful place for all ages and kids will definitely enjoy the space tours, the beach and the sightseeing." — Jannely Espinal , a commerce writer at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 5-15

Why go? Where else do you get to be an astronaut for a day?

What to do: You can feel what it’s like to rocket into the stratosphere on the Shuttle Launch Experience flight simulator . Take mission control tours, have lunch with an astronaut and even train with one in a family Astronaut Training Experience (ATX) program.

Where to stay: Both the Homewood Suites by Hilton Cape Canaveral and the waterfront Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach have pools and breakfast. The Radisson Resort at the Port isn’t oceanfront, but there’s a pool with a built-in playground!

More info: VisitSpaceCoast.com

Legoland, New York

Best for ages: 2-12

Why go? Kids (and kids-at-heart) won’t be able to resist the colorful attractions and hands-on exhibitions, all revolving around the iconic playset series.

What to do: Play all day! The theme park destination is currently open for their festive Holiday Bricktacular through Dec. 31, but their newest — and wettest — attraction, the Water Playground , allowing kids to splash, slide, build and get doused with a gigantic 318-gallon water bucket, is well worth another trip. The park has also become a Certified Autism Center , partnering with The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to train employees and providing low-sensory guidance and accommodations to children with cognitive disabilities.

Where to stay: The park’s namesake resort — Legoland Hotel — extends the family fun everyone is having, from offering nightly entertainment to crafting the perfect build in the Creative Workshop. For something a little more low-key and affordable, Sleep Inn & Suites Monroe provides free breakfast every morning and is in close proximity to sites like Bear Mountain and Woodbury Commons .

More info: legoland.com/new-york

"The San Diego Zoo ended up being much bigger than I’d imagined. One thing we did that really stood out to me was making a lunch reservation ahead of time. We sat outside near a waterfall and honestly it felt like a vacation in it of itself. It was great to have a place to plop down and just recharge." — Rebecca Brown , a deals editor at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 1-11

Why go? It’s one of the world’s best zoos — and one of the few places in the U.S. to see the world’s smallest bear.

What to do: Don’t miss Elephant Odyssey and Northern Frontier to see polar bears and arctic foxes. Also noteworthy is the Africa Rocks exhibit (baboons, leopards, blue-eyed lemurs, etc.).

Where to stay: In October, “Kids Free San Diego” features dozens of hotel deals. Year-round, Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa has great water sports rentals and Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is practically next door to The New Children’s Museum .

More info: SanDiegoZooWildlifeAlliance.com

"I grew up going to Sesame Place about once every summer and have fond memories of lounging on the lazy river! I have two young nephews now who had a blast on a day trip there last year." — Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil , a senior editor of partnerships at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 2-5

Why go? The world’s best park for toddlers and preschoolers is scaled to young fans of Elmo and the gang.

What to do: Spend your time on water attractions like The Count’s Splash Castle, Big Bird’s Rambling River and Bert & Ernie’s Splashy Shores during the summer. Then dry off and do the rest: Take a dizzying ride in Flying Cookie Jars, ride Flyin’ Fish and Peek-A-Bug (in Elmo’s World) and explore Sesame Neighborhood via Oscar’s Wacky Taxi Rollercoaster. Plus, new for 2024: the imaginative and interactive 123 Playground!

Where to stay: The pet-friendly Red Roof Inn Philadelphia Oxford Valley is affordable, or get a little more space at Langhorne’s top-rated hotel, SpringHill Suites Philadelphia Langhorne .

More info: SesamePlace.com

The Strong National Museum of Play, New York

My [Wise| niece and I visited the Strong National Museum of Play over spring break and had an absolute blast! This place is a kid’s (and adult’s) paradise. You and the family can spend all day here and still not scratch the service. From the Barbie exhibit to the slew of nostalgic pinball games, guests will be in their glory. There is even a mini Wegmans where kids can (pretend) shop and play cashier.

Best for ages: 4-12

Why go? It’s devoted to every kid’s favorite thing to do!

What to do: Celebrate superheroes at the museum’s American Comic Book Heroes exhibit or walk through the world’s largest pop-up book in Reading Adventureland. Visit the Toy Halls of Fame and play your way through the history of video games at eGameRevolution.

Where to stay: Book a room at the Hyatt Regency Rochester , which is a five-minute drive or short walk to the museum. Other family-favorite hotels include the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Rochester , which features a large indoor pool, and the Hilton Garden Inn Rochester University & Medical Center which is connected to the College Town shopping complex.

More info: MuseumOfPlay.org

“I practically grew up with the Harry Potter movies, so a trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter was pretty high on my bucket list. My mom and I finally went a few years ago and my youthful heart grew five sizes bigger the moment we stepped into iconic scenes like Diagon Alley — the level of detail they put into every last inch is a monumental feat in itself. P.S. If you’re able to go during Halloween Horror Nights and can handle some magical frights, you absolutely should.”— Jess Bender , senior editor at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 8-13

Why go? Your Potter lovers will go Hog(warts) wild to see Hogsmeade and Hogwarts recreated in amazing detail.

What to do: Get there first thing in the morning. Ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey first: Muggles meet Dumbledore, join a Quidditch match and encounter a Whomping Willow. Next, conquer the ultra-fast Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure coaster and the tamer Flight of the Hippogriff; then go wand shopping at Ollivanders (if you’re lucky, the wand will choose you).

Where to stay: On-site properties like Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel offer guests free Universal Express Unlimited passes to skip lines. Or, for about half, you can stay at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes — the kids’ club has a 500-acre scavenger hunt.

More info: UniversalOrlando.com

Wisconsin Dells

Why go? It’s the water park capital of the world, year-round!

What to do: Get a day pass for Noah’s Ark Water Park (America’s largest) and race down the Raja, which ends in the mouth of a king cobra. Or book one of the wet and wild resorts, like the African-themed Kalahari (the Sahara Sidewinders looping slides literally drop you through the roof) or Mt. Olympus (the Lost City of Atlantis water fortress has slides, geysers and monster dump buckets). Afterwards, kids won’t get enough of the robust (and cheesy) offerings at Macs .

Where to stay: In addition to the resorts with indoor water parks, there are quieter options like Black Hawk Motel , Wingate by Wyndham and Hilton Garden Inn .

More info: WisDells.com

Beach vacations

"I grew up in Miami for 20 years and going to the beach every weekend was a ritual. There are many family-friendly spots including 17th street and Collins avenue, or you can stroll around Lincoln Road Mall and stop for a coffee break. The Botanical Garden is also a nice escape from the party scene, and if you want a more bohemian experience, take your family to Nikki Beach during lunch time. The food at this restaurant is exquisite (try the pistachio affogato dessert if it’s still on their menu) and the beach is just a few steps away." — Jannely Espinal , a commerce writer at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 8-12

Why go? Although it’s often associated with a party crowd or retirees, Miami Beach also has plenty of kid-friendly activities.

What to do: Miami Beach has the most tropical beaches in the continental United States. As you drive to Miami Beach from Miami, you hit must-see attractions like Wynwood Walls and the Pérez Art Museum Miami . Indoors, the Miami Children’s Museum shares an island with Jungle Island .

Where to stay: At the north end of the island, Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour has the best kids’ beach club. At the south end, Hilton Bentley Miami/South Beach has direct beach access and sits between two public parks.

More info: MiamiandBeaches.com

Best for ages: 12-17

Why go? Hailed as “the next Costa Rica,” this Central American country is enjoying a transformation.

What to do: Fly into Managua , and from there, head to the Spanish colonial town of Granada on the shores of Lake Nicaragua — the 19th largest lake in the world and home to two island volcanoes you can hike. In Cerro Negro near Leon, kids can sandboard (basically snowboard) down the volcanic ash sides. End your trip at One Love Surf School in the Pacific coastal town of San Juan Del Sur or head to the Caribbean side to explore the Corn Islands.

Where to stay: With its private beach, private farm and resident monkeys and sloth, there’s no place on earth quite like Morgan’s Rock Hacienda and Ecolodge . At Jicaro Island Ecolodge Granada , you feel like you have the island to yourself — until the birds wake you up in the morning.

More info: VisitNicaragua.us

Riviera Maya, Mexico

More info: NPS.gov/glac

Best for ages: 4-14

Why go? Snorkel in freshwater cenotes (natural pools), swim with manatees and climb ancient Mayan ruins all before the sun sets.

What to do: Fly into Cancun and then head to Playa del Carmen, the perfect launching point for all of Quintana Roo’s adventures. Float the underwater river at Xcaret Eco Theme Park and stay late for the musical show, “Xcaret Mexico Espectacular.” Then, taxi or bus to Dolphin Discovery in Puertos Aventuras where the kids can splash and play with dolphins, manatees and even sea lions! Finally, explore the clifftop ruins in Tulum. Further inland, take a day trip to Chichen Itza . For beach time, check out Aloha Paddle Club’s water sport rentals in Playa del Carmen or take the ferry to nearby Cozumel.

Where to stay: Outside of town, Barcelo has everything from its impressive all-inclusive Barceló Maya Tropical (five family-friendly hotels in one, plus an adults-only one for a parents’ weekend away) to its more intimate Allegro Playacar where babysitting is always available. In Cozumel, Allegro Cozumel has a pirate-themed water park on site.

More info: VisitMexico.com

Best for ages: 10-18

Why go? This Caribbean Island has the world’s only “drive-in” volcano.

What to do: Rent a car and head for the crater! After hiking around La Soufriere Volcano ’s hot springs, let the kids throw mud at each other in a mud bath. (You can relax in the mineral waters beneath a waterfall.)

Where to stay: Zoëtry Marigot Bay St. Lucia has a kids’ activity program and a tween-driven mani-pedi spa. Bay Gardens also ranks well for its activity-loaded water park and beach access.

More info: StLucia.org

Virginia Beach

Best for ages: 5-17

Why go? It’s got beaches, boardwalks, American history and a military aviation museum.

What to do: First, take a ride in an open cockpit biplane at the Military Aviation Museum . Then, hit the beach and Neptune’s Park where the kids could compete in a sandcastle building contest if your timing is right. Finally, drive to Fredericksburg to walk in the footsteps of our first president at his boyhood home, Ferry Farm .

Where to stay: The top-rated hotel choice is the oceanfront Hyatt Place , which is within walking distance of boardwalk attractions. Barclay Towers Resort Hotel is a bit farther, but every room is a suite.

More info: VisitVirginiaBeach.com

Waikiki Beach

" Waikiki Beach looks exactly like how you would imagine Hawaii to be! On the beach, you can rent surfboards and try out surfing for a few hours. Waikiki is actually perfect for learning how to surf since the water is pretty shallow for what feels like ages. You look out into the water and surfers are everywhere trying to catch the perfect wave. The neighborhood is incredibly walkable with stores, hotels and shops dotting the entire road. Pick a direction to walk and I guarantee you’ll stumble upon the classic ABC convenience stores filled with everything from snacks to souveniers and even spam musubi! Major bonus is that Waikiki is under 30 minutes from the hotel, making it convenient to get to." — Anita Chomenko, a social media video producer at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 11-16

Why go? Thanks to warm, shallow and relatively calm waters, there’s no better place to take your first surf lesson.

What to do: Sign up for a lesson at one of the Star Beach Boys stands , located on the sand in front of the statue of Duke Kahanamoku. (This Hawaiian hero is considered the father of modern surfing.) Or try one of the local surf schools, like Big Wave Dave and Surfer Girl Academy . While on Oahu, visit the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites including the USS Arizona Memorial .

Where to stay: With its airport transportation, on-site pool and free breakfast, Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach could not be more convenient. Further inland, the Oasis Hotel offers boutique vibes.

More info: GoHawaii.com/Islands/Oahu

Outdoorsy adventures

An alaskan cruise.

Best for ages: 9-16

Why go? Besides heli-tours, cruising is the closest you can get to Alaska’s calving glaciers.

What to do: Crystal Cruises , the first cruise company to complete the entire Northwest Passage, has several options. For example, its Glacier & Gold Cruise visits the Inside Passage where it parallels the tallest coastal mountains in the world. On port days, kids can learn about the historic Gold Rush in the frontier town of Skagway or go dogsledding or take a floatplane to fish in a remote inlet.

Where to stay: Book a stateroom on the luxurious, all-inclusive Crystal Serenity or Crystal Symphony . If you extend your trip and check out Denali National Park where you can see Mt. McKinley, consider Aurora Denali Lodge .

More info: TravelAlaska.com

"I just went on a trip to Aspen and it’s no secret it’s a huge ski town, however, it’s also kid friendly! If you’re looking for a family ski trip, Buttermilk Mountain offers group or individual ski lessons, and Panda Peak is so cute. The kids can hold little stuffed animals on the ski lift! I was tempted to ask for one on my first run down on the bunny slopes." — Shannon Garlin , an associate commerce editor at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 4-18

Why go? Between its four different mountains, Aspen Snowmass has something for all skiers and snowboarders.

What to do: First, check out the resort’s daily child-friendly programming and packages . Then, drop the 2-4-year-olds at The Treehouse Kids Adventure Center for their lessons and then head to Camp Aspen with the older kids and preteens. In the afternoon, meet up to ski together, go tubing or take a free naturalist tour. End the day with schnitzel and burgers on the mountain or family dogsledding and dinner at a remote cabin.

Where to stay: If you don’t want to rent a car, stay at Stonebridge Inn , a Destination by Hyatt Hotel where everything Snowmass-related is within walking distance. Or reserve a room at the town’s only ski-in, ski-out property, The Little Nell . Sometimes you can get two complimentary ski passes for each night you stay!

More info: AspenSnowmass.com

Canada’s Rockies by Rail

Best for ages: 8-15

Why go? If your kids haven’t outgrown their fascination with trains, you’ll be parent of the year in their eyes.

What to do: Book Fresh Tracks Canada’s Vancouver to Toronto train trip. It’s an 11-day itinerary stretching across the Canadian Rockies. Begin in Vancouver on a drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Then, travel by rail across the country, watching the glaciers turn into cowboy country, wheat fields and finally, the city of Toronto. Older kids will demand extra time to see the Stanley Cup at the Hockey Hall of Fame and get their hearts rate up at the Stingray Experience at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada .

Where to stay: Spend all 14 nights in a Prestige cabin on VIA Rail’s flagship transcontinental train, The Canadian. If you just want to explore Western Canada, Rocky Mountaineer makes a great home away from home.

More info: CanadianTrainVacations.com

Colorado Springs

Best for ages: 7-13

Why go? Nestled at the base of America’s peak, this town showcases Colorado for kids.

What to do: Watch athletes train for upcoming events at the Olympic Training Center . Then, hand-feed the giraffes at the country’s only mountain-top zoo, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo . Older kids can hike to the summit of Pikes Peak — the mountain that inspired the lyrics to “America the Beautiful” — and cross North America’s highest suspension bridge at The Royal Gorge. Finally, explore the geological wonders of Garden of the Gods .

Where to stay: Ride mules up to your cabin or fire tower accommodations at Cloud Camp , part of The Broadmoor Resort . Down in Colorado Springs, the Great Wolf Lodge boasts the state’s first indoor water park.

More info: VisitCOS.com

Dinosaur Valley State Park, Texas

Best for ages: 5-11

Why go? This state park just 75 miles southwest of Dallas boasts some of the best preserved dinosaur tracks in the world.

What to do: In addition to walking in the humongous footprints left in the Paluxy River, take a covered wagon tour, mountain bike the trails, borrow a fishing pole from the park’s Tackle Loaner Program and visit the museums in downtown Glen Rose , the Dinosaur Capital of Texas.

Where to stay: Pitch your tent or park your RV at Dinosaur Valley State Park, or consider Best Western Dinosaur Valley Inn & Suites .

More info: Texas.gov

" Volcanoes is not the easiest to get to, but the views are worth the journey! Located on the island of Kona, you could truly spend days exploring this national park. You can drive to overlooks, explore flat pathways, hike down into a crater, explore lava tubes and maybe even see an active volcano! If you’re prioritizing the park, you should stay on the eastern side of the island. You can drive from the west but it is more of a trek. Either way, you should also make a stop at Punalu’u Bake Shop, the southernmost bakery in the United States for sweet breads!" — Anita Chomenko, a social media video producer at Shop TODAY

Best for ages : 11-16

Why go? Two massive volcanoes are here, including Kilauea — one of the world’s most active. Trails take you past smoking steam vents, black lava rock and enormous craters.

What to do? Stop at the Kilauea Visitor Center to pick up maps, check current conditions and learn how the volcano came to be. Ask if rangers are leading walks or set out on your own hike. The Earthquake Trail (Waldron Ledge) is an easy hike with great views of the Kilauea Caldera. Don’t miss the Thurston Lava Tube, an underground tunnel where the hot stuff once flowed. (Drive there, then hike in, through a mossy fern forest.) Return to the park at night to see the gorgeous glow from the Halema’uma’u Crater.

Where to stay: For a dramatic crater view from your room, stay across the street from the Visitor Center at the Volcano House . If you don’t mind staying 29 miles outside of the park and want to be closer to town, one of Hilo’s top properties is SCP Hilo Hotel .

More info: NPS.gov/havo

Glacier National Park, Montana

Best for ages: 8-18

Why go? Thanks to climate change, North America’s few remaining glaciers are disappearing.

What to do: Hike! The Going-to-the-Sun Road — one of the most scenic in the world — is also fun to bike, but it's best ridden early or late in the season when car traffic is minimal. The open-top Glacier Park Red Bus Tours (open seasonally) allow kids to see wildlife from a safe distance. To get out on the glacial lakes, rent canoes or kayaks or book a boat tour with Glacier Park Boat Co .

Where to stay: Spend a few nights in a cabin at the no-frills Apgar Village Lodge . Then, splurge at the luxurious, all-inclusive and dog-friendly The Resort at Paws Up located on the edge of the scenic Flathead National Forest.

Grand Canyon National Park

Best for ages : 8-13

Why go? This great gorge is 277 miles long and 6,000 feet deep in some spots, with rocks that are millions of years old.

What to do: Don’t just stand there! Bike along the South Rim (rent from Bright Angel at the visitor center) or hike into the canyon on free ranger-led tours. To explore by mule with Xanterra , reserve at least a year in advance.

Where to stay: The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon is only one mile from the popular South Rim entrance. At the bottom of the canyon, check into a cabin at the historic Phantom Ranch .

More info: NPS.gov/grca

" Jackson, Wyoming is for the outdoorsy kid who loves skiing, snowboarding or simply building a snowman. I’ve only visited during winter time and is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been. They have the National Elk Refuge and is an iconic place to take pics and watch wildlife up and close. My favorite activity was riding on a fat bike and just enjoying the scenic views with the Teton Mountain Range as the backdrop." — Jannely Espinal , a commerce writer at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 6-16

Why go? Jackson Hole is home to Grand Teton National Park and a world-class ski resort.

What to do: Jackson Hole boasts more outdoor activities than there are hours in the day. You can raft the scenic Snake River , tube down the runs at Snow King Resort or explore the magical ice castle and ice skate in Teton Village .

Where to stay: Hotel Terra Jackson Hole and Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa are within walking distance of the chairlifts. Both properties have ski packages in the winter and national park packages in the summer.

More info: VisitJacksonHole.com

" Niagara Falls is breathtaking, especially the first time you see it. The backdrop offers unbeatable photo opportunities for the whole family, too." — Laura Millar, an NBC Page at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 5-12

Why go? Six million cubic feet of water thunders over the massive falls every minute.

What to do: Bring your passport so you can view them from the Canadian and American sides; to visit both, cross Rainbow Bridge. Kids who aren’t afraid of heights will love the view from Skylon Tower .

Where to stay: The most exciting option is the Sheraton Fallsview with its family suites complete with bunk beds! Its Reef Beach Club has a shark tank and a coral reef lagoon, and is attached to the Rainforest Café .

More info: Niagara-USA.com ; NiagaraFallsTourism.com

Pacific Coast Highway Drive

Why go? Curvy Highway 1 winds along California’s craggy coastal cliffs, high above the ocean.

What to do: Take it slow and make lots of stops — whether you conquer the whole thing (about four days) or just tackle small portions. Kids will be wowed by the Santa Cruz Boardwalk (ride the wooden coaster!); Monterey (go kayaking and see the Aquarium ); Carmel’s Pt. Lobos State Natural Reserve (otters, seal lions and whales hang here); Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (great hiking and camping); Hearst Castle , in San Simeon, and the elephant seals on the beach just north.

Where to stay: The pet-friendly boutique Laurel Inn is in San Francisco’s Pacific Heights neighborhood. In Southern California, stay within walking distance of Disneyland at the Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim , which has a waterpark and rooms with bunk beds.

More info: CentralCoast-Tourism.com

Redwood National & State Parks

Why go? The California parks are home to the tallest, most majestic trees on earth.

What to do: Stroll through the mile-long Lady Bird Johnson Grove, a mossy jungle of sky-high sequoias — some of them 2,000 years old (kids can crawl through the hollow ones). See if Roosevelt elk are grazing in Elk Meadow, then pick up the path to Trillium Falls. On coastal trails, take guided tide pool walks. You may spot whales from December through April.

Where to stay: The Best Western Plus Northwoods Inn is located right off of Redwood Highway and includes breakfast. View Crest Lodge has cozy cottages for less than $200 per night.

More info: NPS.gov/redw

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan

Why go? You’ll never see sand dunes like these! Some are nearly 500 feet high, with views of Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands from the top.

What to do: Climb the dunes, of course! Run (or roll) down these majestic sand mountains. Cool off with a swim at Esch Road Beach where the pristine Lake Michigan water is brisk but refreshing. There’s great kayaking and tubing on the warmer Platte River (gear up with Riverside Canoe Trips ). Or, sign the kids up for a freshwater surf lesson from Sleeping Bear Surf .

Where to stay: Duneswood Resort is a short walk to the Dune Climb, and they rent bikes, buggies and strollers. If you’re based in Traverse City , stay at Great Wolf Lodge for its indoor water park.

More info: NPS.gov/slbe

The Black Hills, South Dakota

Best for kids ages: 5-15

Why go? Mount Rushmore ! Plus, these mountains and badlands are some of the most underrated destinations in the country.

What to do: The kids will love the hands-on American history lessons offered at Mount Rushmore. (Stay for the evening flag ceremony during the summer.) There’s also buffalo to be seen, ghost towns to be explored and the world’s largest collection of reptiles .

Where to stay: Stay at the KOA camping resorts in Rapid City , Mount Rushmore or Badlands/White River . Or, find modern rooms at the Hampton Inn Deadwood at Tin Lizzie Gaming Resort .

More info: TravelSouthDakota.com

Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota

Best for ages: 6-12

Why go? North Dakota just may be the most underrated and understated state!

What to do: Sleep under the stars in the national park named for Theodore Roosevelt , who once lived here. These dramatic badlands are home to the Painted Canyon; see who can spot the most bison or elk. Prairie dog barking is audible and just outside of the park is Medora , a town where horses are still a form of transportation.

Where to stay: Lodging is pretty limited, but it’s got character! The Rough Riders Hotel in Medora has a pool and a two-story rock fireplace. Badlands Hotel , also in Medora, is further from downtown but the rooms are slightly bigger and it’s only two blocks from Medora Children’s Park.

More info: NDTourism.com

Yellowstone National Park

Why go? It’s America’s very first national park and has the highest concentration of geysers in the world!

What to do: See Old Faithful , which shoots steam sky-high every 90 minutes, and then move on to the other geysers, stinky mud pots and multicolored hot springs within walking distance. Bison, elk, bears, wolves and Bighorn sheep all hang out here. In winter (when it’s easiest to spot wildlife), take the kids on their first snowcoach tour . In summer, fly high at Yellowstone Aerial Adventures .

Where to stay: The Summit at Big Sky puts you just outside the park. A more rustic option is Chico Hot Springs .

More info : NPS.gov/yell

Yosemite National Park

"I’ve been to Yosemite a handful of times, both on family trips and with friends. It’s such a beautiful and fun place to visit, no matter the season. If you are someone who likes an active vacation, there are endless opportunities for hikes and while some of them are hard, the views always pay off. I’ve also had just as much exploring the area at a lower elevation, casually strolling the paths in the valley." Emma Stessman , a commerce writer at Shop TODAY

for ages: 6-12

Why go? This national park is a scenic superstar: Think thundering waterfalls in spring and early summer and seriously steep granite cliffs.

What to do: Get your bearings on the free park shuttle around Yosemite Valley — home to famous sights like the Half Dome, El Capitan and Yosemite Falls; hopping on and off as you please. Set aside a half day to hike the Mist Trail alongside majestic Vernal Falls, climbing 600 granite steps to the top. (Pack a waterproof poncho!) Raft the rivers around the area with Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions .

Where to stay: The charming mountain town of Mammoth Lakes makes a great home base, or check out the highly-rated Juniper Springs Resort or The Village Lodge . Both properties have a pool!

More info: TravelYosemite.com

Major cities

" Denver is definitely for the adventure-friendly family. There’s so much to see and explore in this city, and the food is A plus. Denver Biscuit Co. is my go-to spot when I visit for juicy biscuits smothered in gravy. Also, you can make it a half day of outdoor activities and take a drive through Guanella Pass — one of the most scenic byways in United States." — Jannely Espinal , a commerce writer at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 8-16

Why go? The Mile High City has tons of experiences for the 48-inches-and-under crowd.

What to do: One of Denver’s top attraction is the Denver Zoo . It’s more than 100 years old! At the Children’s Museum of Denver , younger kids can experiment in a test kitchen, cool off in an outdoor splash zone and dance in a room of bubbles. Older kids will appreciate the exhibits and the Phipps IMAX 3D Theater at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science . When they get tired, ride in the free open-air Denver Trolley.

Where to stay: The Limelight Hotel is in the heart of downtown (and a stone’s throw from Union Station). The Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center is just one block from the 16th Street pedestrian mall and has an indoor pool.

More info: Denver.org

Millennium Park, Chicago

Why go? It's an amazing green gathering place.

What to do: Strike a pose in the reflective Cloud Gate sculpture (affectionately known as The Bean). Splash around in the animated Crown Fountain, which literally makes faces at you. Join one of the free activities (family yoga, anyone?) on the big lawn or rent bikes from Bike and Roll Chicago or Divvy Bikes Millennium Park to ride to nearby Navy Pier .

Where to stay: Both the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel and the Swissotel Chicago on the Riverwalk are within three blocks of Millennium Park.

More info: ChooseChicago.com

New Orleans’ French Quarter

Best for ages: 3-17

Why go? The Mardi Gras spirit lasts all year long in this family-friendly city.

What to do: There’s lots of free PG-rated fun in Jackson Square , where magicians, jugglers, mimes and jazz bands make the street their stage. Grab an outside table at Café du Monde , famous for its sugar-covered beignets . A stroll along the Mississippi River leads to the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and the Audubon Butterfly Insectarium . Hop the St. Charles streetcar to the lovely Garden District and the Audubon Zoo where kids can feed giraffes.

Where to stay: The Homewood Suites by Hilton in the heart of the French Quarter has free buffet breakfast. The pet-friendly Quarter House rents suites with fully equipped kitchens.

More info: NewOrleansOnline.com

Tenerife, Spain

Why go? This Canary Island is home to Europe’s No. 1 water park, its most visited national park and world-class beaches featuring sand imported from the Sahara!

What to do: Head to Siam Park , voted the best water park in Europe. Ride the water slide that travels through a shark tank or relax at the world’s biggest wave pool. Drive a rental car across the island to paddle board, kayak and snorkel with Teno Activo at Los Gigantes . Also check out Loro Parque and visit the volcano in Teide National Park .

Where to stay: In between Siam Park and the beach, Iberostar Selection Anthelia has a free breakfast buffet and a kids club. Or, rent a poolside apartment from Apartamentos Casablanca .

More info: WebTenerife.com

Historical outings

Buckingham palace.

Why go? When you tell kids a real king lives here, their ears will perk up!

What to do? Start monitoring flights months in advance and consider European airlines. (Low-cost carrier Norwegian Air often has round-trip, nonstop London flights from several major U.S. cities for less than $500.) On your first full morning in London, check out the Changing of the Guard where the soldiers march out in their trademark red coats and fuzzy black hats. It starts at 11 a.m. (10 a.m. on Sundays) but get there at least a half-hour early so the little ones can see. If the royal flag is flying, the King is in residence. St. James Park is a stone’s throw away and has a lovely playground.

Where to stay: Located opposite the Royal Mews, The Rubens at The Palace could be to London what the Plaza Hotel was for Eloise. The Resident Victoria is just steps from Buckingham Palace.

More info: Royal.uk

"If you’re a baseball family, the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown is a can’t miss destination. The Hall of Fame is interactive, informative, and perfect for the young all-star in your family to dream big about making their mark in the MLB. As the little sister in the family I got dragged to too many baseball games to count, but this museum remains one of my favorite family trips to date." — Kate McCarthy , the senior social media editor at Shop TODAY

Best for ages: 8-17

Why go? It’s home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum .

What to do: Practice those swings at Barnyard Swing Miniature Golf . Climb aboard the Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad or cruise Otsego Lake on the Glimmerglass Queen .

Where to stay: Stay on the water at Lake ‘N Pines Motel where guests have an outdoor pool, an indoor pool and a video arcade room. Downtown, The Railroad Inn has lofts that comfortably sleep families of six.

More info: ThisIsCooperstown.com

The National Mall

Why go? If there’s ever a place to instill a sense of American pride in your young one, it’s here.

What to do: In spring during the famous Cherry Blossom festival, The National Mall is where most of the action and colors are. Hit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History , the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Smithsonian National Museum of American History . There are also several art museums — ideal for older kids — and the International Spy Museum .

Where to stay: With a No. 2 ranking on TripAdvisor, The River Inn near Foggy Bottom metro station is a great affordable option. Closer to the National Mall, you a comfortable room at Sofitel Washington, D.C.

More info: Washington.org

“As a Massachusetts native, Plimoth Plantation was a hot field trip destination during my school years, and for good reason. The outdoor recreation of a 17th-century village makes kids (and adults) feel like they’re stepping back into time. The best part is that there are actors who fully stay in character like it’s the year 1627, so while there are plenty of moments to learn about what life was like then, kids will also get a kick out of asking them questions about modern life and seeing the confusion on the actor’s faces.” — Kate McCarthy , the senior social media editor at Shop TODAY

Why go? It’s like stepping back in time to the 17th century, when the pilgrims arrived here from England.

What to do: Get a look at Plymouth Rock, where colonists first set foot on American soil. You won’t believe how tiny it is. Costumed actors recreate what it was like on the crossing and in the settlement. Learn about Native American cooking, crafts and culture at the Wampanoag Homesite. Visit the nearby Plimoth Grist Mill where you can see how they grind corn and even buy it to take home!

Where to stay: Pilgrim Sands on Long Beach has a waterfront view of Warren Cove. In colder months, consider the Hilton Garden Inn Plymouth , which has a great indoor pool.

More info: Plimoth.org

TPG’s 8 top family vacation destinations for 2024

Deciding which eight destinations across the globe deserve a spot on TPG's list of best family vacation destinations to visit this year was no easy task.

We researched new resorts, activities and events and pulled from our own extensive travel experience to find the spots your family will still be talking about years after you return home from your trip.

Related: Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel

Of course, we also had to throw in a few of our dream destinations.

Whether your family prefers cities, beaches , theme parks or the great outdoors, you'll find your perfect family vacation spot on this list.

With four major theme parks in the area, Orlando bills itself as the "theme park capital of the world." Because those parks are always competing for the top spot in travelers' hearts (and their wallets), there's always something new to do.

Disney is nearing the completion of Epcot's multiyear makeover with the recent opening of Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana and the debut of an all-new nighttime spectacular called "Luminous The Symphony of Us."

Related: Why Epcot is now Disney World's must-do park

In 2024, the focus will shift to Magic Kingdom, with the opening of Tiana's Bayou Adventure. The attraction is expected to open in late 2024. Perhaps more important than any new attraction, beginning Jan. 9, 2024, a Disney World visit will feel much like it did before the COVID-19 pandemic. This date marks the end of theme park reservations and 2 p.m. park-hopping restrictions , as well as the return of the Disney Dining Plan .

At Universal Orlando, 2023 saw the debut of Minion Land and the new Illumination's Villain-Con Minion Blast attraction. This is just Universal's first step to introduce more kid-friendly programming. In 2024, Universal Studios Florida will open a land themed to DreamWorks Animation films like "Shrek," "Trolls" and "Kung Fu Panda."

SeaWorld Orlando has been on a regular cadence of adding new attractions every year and 2024 is no different. After opening the Ice Breaker coaster in 2022 and Pipeline: The Surf Coaster in 2023, the marine-themed park will open a family-friendly launch coaster called Penguin Trek in 2024.

The Orlando area is also home to the headwaters of the Everglades, which provides ample opportunities for outdoorsy families to explore the flora and fauna that call the Everglades home. Both Wild Florida and Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures offer airboat tours where you're almost guaranteed to spot a few alligators. Or, you can take it slow on a kayak tour in one of Get Up and Go Kayaking's clear kayaks.

Where to stay

The Evermore Orlando Resort will open next door to Disney World on Jan. 1, 2024. The resort will feature a variety of accommodation types, from vacation villas to luxury hotel rooms at Orlando's first Conrad Hotel, as well as a 20-acre tropical beach complex with an 8-acre lagoon for swimming and water sports.

Room rates at the Conrad Orlando start at around $580 or 90,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Also near Disney World, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando recently completed property-wide renovations, including transformed guest rooms, new restaurants and dining menus, a reimagined spa and golf club and more. Room rates start at around $560 or 90,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Oahu, Hawaii

From swimming in the jewel-toned waters of the Pacific Ocean to hiking through lush green landscapes and experiencing Hawaii's rich history and time-honored traditions, Oahu has so much to offer families in search of a tropical beach vacation.

You are likely to stay at a resort with beach access, so let's explore some of Oahu's top attractions off the beach. If your kids are up for a hike, they'll be rewarded with picture-perfect views and a peek into Hawaii's military history on the Diamond Head State Monument . There is a small entry fee of $5 per person (free for Hawaii residents and children ages 3 and under).

About 30 minutes away by car, you can visit Pearl Harbor . Here, you can visit the Pearl Harbor memorials, explore a large collection of aircraft in the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, discover the USS Bowfin Submarine and so much more. Guided tours and individual ticket packages are available.

With six "Jurassic Park" films released in the past 30 years, your kids are likely as big fans of the franchise as you are. At Kualoa Ranch , you can visit some of the real-life filming locations from these films, along with other popular movies like "Kong Skull Island" and "50 First Dates."

Related: Save money: How you can book flights to Hawaii using points and miles in 2024

If you are a Disney family through and through, there's no better place to stay than Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa . You can spend your days swimming in the pool, snorkeling in the hotel's private lagoon and playing on the beach or check out the Disney offerings like character meet-and-greets, animation classes or movies under the stars. Kids ages 4-12 can visit Aunty's Beach House, a kids club included in the cost of your stay.

Room rates start at around $569 per night when booked with cash or from about $336 if booked with rented points from a site like David's Vacation Club .

Related: 11 best family resorts in Hawaii for a relaxing vacation

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort offers families direct access to Duke Kahanamoku Beach, but also has a smaller, calm lagoon that may be more popular with younger kids. This resort has five outdoor pools — some with waterslides — hula and lei-making lessons, fish feeding and luau feasts with traditional Samoan, Tahitian and Hawaiian dancing every Sunday through Thursday.

Rates at Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort start at around $250 or 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Families who want to enjoy Arizona's natural beauty and year-round warm weather have a lot of new options to choose from in 2024 when it comes to places to stay and play.

In addition to timeless landmarks like the Grand Canyon , Monument Valley and Camelback Mountain, President Biden recently designated one million acres of land near the Grand Canyon as the Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni – Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument , ensuring the land, which is home to several native tribes, remains protected. In addition, Chiricahua National Monument in Willcox, Arizona, may soon be Arizona's newest National Park.

Related: What to pack and where to stay: TPG's ultimate Grand Canyon family vacation guide

Slated to open sometime in 2024, Mattel Adventure Park in Glendale, Arizona, will feature attractions based on favorite toys like Hot Wheels, Barbie and more. There will be an entire land themed to "Thomas & Friends," two thrilling Hot Wheels roller coasters and a life-size Barbie Beach House with a rooftop bar and restaurant.

The Mattel Adventure Park mentioned above will be located at the also-soon-to-open Vai Resort . Vai will be the state's largest resort, with more than 1,100 rooms and suites, a world-class concert venue and a 6-acre swimming complex with a sandy beach.

In other recent opening news, the 141-room Global Ambassador Hotel opened on Dec. 6 at the crossroads of Paradise Valley, Scottsdale and Phoenix. This luxury property has a world-class spa and fitness center, select guest rooms with views of Camelback Mountain and a climate-controlled pool. Room rates start at around $560 per night, and it will also be part of Chase's Luxury Resort & Hotel Collectio n and Mr & Mrs Smith , beginning Jan. 1, 2024.

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

The Guanacaste province of Costa Rica is a destination where eco-conscious families can combine lazy days on the beach with outdoor adventures in the region's lush, tropical rainforest.

Related: 6 adventurous activities in Costa Rica for families

Playa Tamarindo — along with nearby beaches Playa Grande and Playa Langosta — is well-known for its surf-ready waves, even if you have little (or no) experience on a surfboard. A number of local surf shops offer surfing lessons or boogie board rentals if you aren't quite ready to brave the waves while standing.

If you can pull yourself away from the surf (and you should), there are ample opportunities to experience the jungles of Costa Rica.

Related: Epic wildlife and sustainable luxury define travel to Costa Rica in 2024

You'll need to travel a decent way inland, so the easiest option is to book a half-day or full-day tour that leaves from Guanacaste. Spend a day in the treetops of Monteverde's Cloud Forest, see some of Costa Rica's breathtakingly blue waterfalls or visit Arenal Volcano National Park.

If you book through Viator, you can get up to 10% cash back through the Rakuten shopping portal or earn miles through the Delta SkyMiles or AAdvantage portals .

Related: Frontier Airlines' unlimited all-you-can-fly pass now valid for kids, includes $200 flight credit

If you are looking for an all-inclusive option, check out The Westin Reserva Conchal on Playa Conchal. The resort has a dedicated section for families that is close to the pool, beach, restaurants and the included kids club. Family suites have bunk beds, a sofa bed and a queen bed so everyone can sleep comfortably. All-inclusive rates at The Westin Reserva Conchal start at $425 or 73,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night, based on double occupancy.

Related: The 13 best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica for beach visits or hiking trips

The JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa is another family-friendly option located on the shores of Playa Mansita, just a short drive from the town of Tamarindo. You can spend your days soaking in the large oceanfront pool, playing in the sand or exploring the shopping and dining in town. The JW Adventure Kids Club is open to kids ages 4-12 and offers supervised activities and a playground. Room rates start at around $617 or 36,800 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Disney's Lighthouse Point, Bahamas

While not a traditional destination you can drive or fly to and stay overnight, Disney Cruise Line's newest private island deserves a spot on this list. Beginning in June of 2024, select Disney Cruise Line itineraries will include a stop at Lighthouse Point. The inaugural sailing will be a seven-night sailing on the Disney Fantasy that stops at Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay, but all other sailings that visit the new island will be on board the Disney Magic .

Related: Port alert: These 2 cruise lines are building new private destinations in the Bahamas

Lighthouse Point was thoughtfully planned and built to incorporate environmental and cultural awareness into its design and amenities. Disney partnered with local artists to create murals, sculptures and other elements of the island and also plans to offer programming in the island's Arts and Cultural Pavilion that honors Bahamian traditions and shore excursions developed in partnership with local tour operators.

Lighthouse Point will have a family beach with a water play area for kids and an adults-only beach with a dedicated bar and dining area. Cabanas are available to rent in both sections. Guests can also play volleyball, borrow bikes and water sports equipment or explore nature trails.

Paradise Coast, Florida

Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades comprise Southwest Florida's Paradise Coast, an area where you can experience the full breadth of what Florida has to offer. In Naples and Marco Island, you can enjoy five-star accommodations and pristine beaches; in the Everglades, you can immerse yourself in the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S.

At Everglades National Park , you can view wildlife including alligators, birds, otters and more, on one of the park's many hiking trails or on a guided tram, kayak or airboat tour .

Related: TPG's favorite national parks: A month-by-month guide

Families will also enjoy the educational fun at Golisano Children's Museum of Naples (especially if you are in need of a rainy day activity) and the wet and wild excitement of Naples' Sun-N-Fun Lagoon . If you aren't staying directly on the beach (or just want to hop around and explore), Vanderbilt Beach is a popular spot for swimming, shelling and watersports that's also close to shopping and dining. If you travel about 20 miles north of Naples to Lovers State Park, you can swim in more seclusion than the popular in-town beaches or soak up the dog days of summer with your canine companion at Dog Beach Park.

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples reopened in July of 2023 after an extensive transformation. The hotel added three new dining outlets, newly designed guest rooms and a redesigned pool area with four pools, luxury cabanas and immersive water features. What hasn't changed are Ritz-Carlton's extraordinary guest service and the breathtaking ocean views.

Room rates start at around $783 or 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Beginning in October 2024, families can visit the newest location in the Great Wolf Lodge water park resort family. Guest suites in this 500-room resort are designed with families in mind. Standard family suites have two queen beds and a sleeper sofa, but we recommend opting for one of the themed suites with a queen bed for parents and a separate bunk bed area for kids. Admission to the resort's 100,000-square-foot indoor water park is included in your stay. Room rates start at around $200 per night.

Regardless of when you visit the City of Light , you'll be greeted with endless museums, historical landmarks and sprawling green spaces to discover. There is one very special reason to visit in 2024 that may dominate your time in Paris, but it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those lucky enough to be there in person.

Related: 2024 Paris Olympics: How I used points and miles to save money on business-class flights and hotel nights

The 2024 Summer Olympics are being held in France from July 26-Aug. 11, and the opening ceremonies will kick off along the Seine in Paris. Some events will require you to travel outside of the city, but some are taking place right in the heart of Paris. You can watch beach volleyball near the Eiffel Tower, fencing and Taekwondo at the Grand Palais and tennis at the 95-year-old Roland-Garros Stadium.

While you're in town, you can get to Disneyland Paris by bus or train in under an hour. If you prefer to spend more than one day at Disneyland Paris, you can stay in one of the park's eight themed hotels, including the recently reimagined five-star Disneyland Hotel .

Securing hotel reservations in Paris during the Olympics could almost be a Games event in itself. Your best option is likely going to be an official Olympics travel package , which includes a hotel stay and tickets to one or more events.

Related: The best hotels in Paris

Indianapolis

All eyes will be on the sky in Indianapolis this spring. On April 8, 2024, millions of Americans will be in the path of a rare total solar eclipse , though only a handful of major cities will be along the path of totality with up to four minutes of dark skies.

Indianapolis is one such city along the so-called path of totality, and they are planning a full weekend of fun, including educational films and lectures, games, live entertainment and more between April 5–8, 2024. The best viewing spots will be at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and White River State Park, but events are being held all over town.

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis and the Indianapolis Zoo are also getting in on the action. These also happen to be two of the best attractions for families visiting Indianapolis any time of year. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis recently renovated its interactive dinosaur exhibit, and the Indianapolis Zoo has rides and attractions in addition to animal habitats.

The JW Marriott Indianapolis is located within walking distance of White River State Park. Guest rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of downtown so you can enjoy the city skyline when you aren't looking up at the sky. Rates start at around $150 or 31,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Families can sleep in a converted 1920s Pullman train car at the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown Union Station for a unique stay. Traditional rooms are also available, along with an indoor pool, two restaurants and nods to the property's former life as the country's first Union Station. Room rates start at around $170 or 22,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Bottom line

At TPG, we are on a never-ending quest to provide travelers with vacation experiences that fit their budget, family size and travel style. Families have endless vacation destinations to choose from, and we've compiled the best of the best to help you create your dream getaway.

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The Best Destination to Take Your Kids at Each Age — From Infants to College Graduates

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From relaxing escapes with your infant to deep cultural immersions upon college graduation, here are travel ideas for families with children at any stage.

Once a traveler, always a traveler. There are folks who believe a baby doesn't have to change a thing about a couple's lifestyle, and others who subscribe to the exact opposite theory. But all can agree on one thing: Those who loved traveling before expanding their family likely dream of continuing to explore the world, little ones in tow. One of the most exciting parts of having children, after all, is the way they enrich and amplify almost every experience. Then, of course, there's the awe-inspiring discovery that goes along with watching curious youngsters see and try new things, from delicious foods to beautiful cultures.

Knowing which places around the globe are most appropriate for kids as they grow into and out of different phases can be tough to anticipate. And yes, it's more daunting to fly or contend with jet lag at certain ages. It's true, too, that as little ones become big, trips become more expensive. But all the challenges are far outweighed by the collective joy that's possible on a family vacation, especially one tailored to the brood's developmental stage and interests.

Here, with the help of a few travel experts, we break it down by age group, pairing each with a dreamy destination for exposure to the wondrous world and maximum family fun.

Infants (Ages 0-1): A Mexican Beach Resort

You'll hear it from every parent: Travel while your baby is just that — a baby — because it'll never be easier. Once they start walking, all bets are off. True, you're likely sleep deprived, but doesn't that make it the perfect time to hop on a short flight to Mexico for some R&R and vitamin D?

When planning a first vacation with an infant, Indagare CEO and founder Melissa Biggs Bradley says, "You'll want a warm location with a direct flight, a big beach since infants are still too young to enjoy a kids club, and easy access to good medical care in case of an ear infection or anything more serious."

Expect to bring way too much gear, but don't worry — any parent will empathize. A family-friendly resort in a development like the Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita (for West Coasters) or Rosewood Mayakoba (for East Coasters) is a great bet since they'll happily provide the comforts of home (think: crib, mini fridge for milk, high chair, baby bathtub, or diaper pail), meaning you can focus your packing around sun protection and adorable tropical ensembles for your baby. They're also likely to offer babysitting services, in case you'd like to have dinner one night after 7 p.m. As for the new parent exhaustion, a soft, sandy beach is an idyllic place to catch up on Zs, for all of you. There's a reason sound machines come with a blue noise option — the gentle lapping of waves could lull anyone right to sleep.

Toddlers (Ages 1-4): The Island of Hawai'i

To a toddler, there's excitement to be found everywhere. They're like mini explorers, captivated by virtually every landscape and situation. Young kids who have just discovered the freedom of walking, running, and swimming will find pure magic in the Hawaiian islands. The coral reefs, beautiful beaches , Polynesian culture, soulful storytelling, near-perfect weather, and wildlife such as dolphins, whales, and sea turtles hold plenty of appeal for adults, yes, but also for toddlers.

The island of Hawai'i, specifically, offers a diversity of stunning environments, from stark and surreal lava flows to lush waterfalls, as well as resorts with little to no crowds. Mauna Lani , part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, with its ancient royal fishponds, outrigger canoes, and calm beach, exemplifies the family-forward approach. Their Holoholo Kids Crew offers thoughtful programming (think: crab hunting, Hawaiian language lessons, petroglyph walks, and natural dyeing, stamping, and feather art). And while it's designed for ages five to 12, three and four year olds can also attend with their parents (a great excuse for grown-ups to experience all the fun, too). Uncle Danny, the resort's cultural gatekeeper whose domain is the vibrant "house of knowledge," is wonderful with children.

"Many Hawaii resorts have protected ponds where you can take your toddlers into the ocean," says Biggs Bradley. "You can enjoy whale-watching cruises, and, in their later toddler years, they'll appreciate learning about the wildlife, maybe attend lei-making classes, or just relaxing by the pool or on the beach."

Elementary School (Ages 5-10): Rome, Italy

Once your kids have reached school age, they begin to hear a little more about the world around them. Basic elementary school lessons typically include ancient Rome, the Colosseum , and gladiators, says Biggs Bradley, so a trip to Rome "will further engage them in the touring, since what they've learned in school will be brought to life."

There are countless exciting activities available for kiddos, and even picky eaters will find something they love in the boot-shaped country known for pizza, pasta, and gelato. "Pizza- and gelato-making experiences are a must," says Access Italy CEO Simone Amorico, who adds that kids love making ceramics and mosaics, too. He says other can't-miss activities include, "treasure hunts in the Vatican and the Villa Borghese, where they can also ride a four-wheel bike and stop for picnics."

Meanwhile, the fairytale-like Hotel Eden is an ideal base for Roman excursions, and it's not far from Teatro Verde, a theater for puppet shows and musicals, the Explora Children's Museum, and Bartolucci, a traditional wooden toy shop where you can find Pinocchio. "At this age, a typical family tour can be boring, as they tune out and can't wait to leave," says Scott Dunn USA president John Spence. "We had our kids attend a Roman gladiator school so they could gain hands-on lessons in fighting techniques and reenact life as an ancient gladiator — they loved it."

Tweens (Ages 11-13): A Montana Dude Ranch

Between the ages of 11 and 13, kids, or tweens, will likely want some autonomy, but they also need boundaries. A dude ranch or guest ranch encompassing hundreds of acres of pristine, wide-open space makes for a wonderful compromise.

"When kids are in their early teenage years, there is nothing better than a vacation that combines adventure with something new," says Spence. "Watching our kids step outside of their element — horseback riding on mountainside cliffs or even just hiking in the beautiful Montana nature — is one of the best parts of being a parent."

Visiting a 10-square-mile property like The Ranch at Rock Creek — with a slew of included activities like fly fishing, cross-country mountain biking, photography classes, sapphire mining, and horse roping lessons — is quite a novelty for many families. Most kids, however unique their interests, will be able to find something they are stoked about. The younger ones can also attend Flint's Forest Rangers Kids Club (ages four to 12), which offers pre-booked excursions such as wildlife spotting and treasure hunting. Families can come together in the property's western-style bar for bowling, table tennis, and karaoke, too.

And perhaps the best part about Montana, home to dozens of guest ranches, is that it's gorgeous and fun year-round. It's a winter wonderland worthy of a snow globe and, at The Ranch at Rock Creek, cold-weather options include skiing (downhill and cross-country), sledding, ice skating, hockey, and snowmobiling. Expect smiles 24/7.

Teenagers (Ages 14-17): An African Safari

"It is all about the thrill of experiencing something so different from what they've ever seen before," says Extraordinary Journeys ' founder and CEO Elizabeth Gordon of taking the kids on an African safari.

Biggs Bradley adds, "Safaris are a huge area of passion for me, and I was eager to open my kids' eyes to them when they were young. The sweet spot to take children on their first safari is after 14 because by then you can ensure they will really remember the experience. They'll be able to sit in a vehicle for long periods of time and likely won't be nervous about sleeping in a tent." Plus, many camps also don't allow kids under 12 years old.

A safari is a special experience for a family to encounter together, witnessing an exciting array of animals in their natural habitat — not to mention beautiful traditions and cultures, too. "An amazing guide will teach [the kids] about tracking, get them to think like a detective, and figure out what may have happened in the area by looking at footprints," says Gordon.

As Biggs Bradley says of Kenya, "Cultural exchange is key. The opportunity for kids to meet and interact with Maasai people, for example, can be an incredibly memorable part." Properties like Sirikoi , Basecamp Explorer 's circuit, and Angama Mara provide beautiful immersion along with amazing sightings of the world's rarest species.

Another perk? Since Wi-Fi is often sparse or unavailable, families can unplug from technology and simply enjoy being together out in the bush. For even more adventure, consider adding on gorilla trekking in Rwanda (the pricier option) or Uganda (more affordable), especially if doing a safari in nearby Kenya.

College (Ages 18-21): Queenstown, New Zealand

Once kids have gone off to college, it can take a pretty enticing offer to pull them back into the fold for family vacations. Queenstown, New Zealand, is one such attractive proposition. Known as the "adventure capital of the world," it's the kind of all-season destination that offers a scene for everyone — plus, English is the main language spoken.

The birthplace of bungee jumping is home to countless thrills, from exhilarating jumps ( AJ Hackett Bungy from the Kawarau Bridge is the classic choice) to parasailing on bright blue Lake Wakatipu. "Families will love helicopter flights over the Tasman Glacier and along Milford Sound on a sunny winter day, or careening around the bends of the Shotover Canyon on a jet boat in the summer," says Gordon of this "quintessential playground."

For anyone who's not quite as much an adrenaline junkie, there are many hiking — known there as tramping — trails that reveal jaw-dropping panoramas. "New Zealand is a dream destination for a family who loves nature, landscapes, and, of course, adventure," says Biggs Bradley, adding that skydiving, rafting, caving, and fly fishing are also draws.

In the winter, Queenstown's mountains are home to epic skiing and snowboarding. The town itself is walkable and safe, with plenty of places to enjoy a sundowner, lovely meal, or the nightlife. With the kids becoming adults (and the local drinking age being 18), there's also the option to take a day for wine tasting at some of the island country's top vineyards in the Central Otago region about 45 minutes away by car.

To allow your young adults some freedom, try a couple rooms at the boutique QT Queenstown , which is full of art, quirk, and large windows showcasing the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu.

College Graduates (Age 22 and Up): Japan

By the time they've graduated college, many young adults will be ready to dive, respectfully, into a culture as exquisite as Japan's. "Japan is a country you want to travel to when you know your family will truly be able to appreciate what it has to offer," says Biggs Bradley, pointing out the opportunity for deep cultural immersion in food and drink, museums, temples, and shrines.

In a place where there's a fine art to everything from making tea and arranging flowers to lighting incense, it's best to ensure all parties are prepared to be well-behaved and gracious guests. A more mature — or adventurous — palate is also helpful for fully enjoying all of Japan's culinary treasures. Spence calls it "the perfect place for post-graduates who want new experiences," and Japan certainly excels at providing those.

Tokyo is a dynamic urban center where exploration yields unimaginable exploits. A different energy pervades Kyoto's quieter neighborhoods of Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, bamboo forests, and famous geisha districts. ( InsideJapan offers wonderful private tours led by local experts.) "Our kids loved trains, making the bullet train around Japan one of the best parts of the trip," says Spence.

Getting around is indeed a no-brainer — trains and buses are always precisely on time, people are friendly and willing to help despite language barriers, and there are many appealing regions (prefectures) with special attributes, such as places known for sake, hot springs (onsen), and art.

Staying in a traditional ryokan is a must, and the fourth-generation Japanese-owned Hoshinoya portfolio includes several luxury options. One of the most memorable additions to the cities, however, is a couple of days near Mount Fuji, where Hoshinoya Fuji offers spectacular views of the elusive volcano alongside exceptional local cuisine and rugged outdoorsy activities, including a food smoking workshop, canoeing, and e-biking. At the end of the day, there's no better place for a globe-trotting family to relax and share stories than around a bonfire under the stars, with live acoustic music, s'mores, and Japanese whisky.

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These destinations, selected by CNN Travel editors, offer loads of personality and plenty to see and do without the elbow-to-elbow crowds of the big tourist cities.

Making the most of life on the lake: How this town got its cool reputation

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‘Grit City’ shines thanks to stunning scenery and glass art

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Our top town offers first-rate arts, food and festivals and a hard look at its complicated history

how we chose

We tapped our network of CNN Travel contributors for nominations for our inaugural list, winnowing the finalists to 10 by looking at each town's attractions, food and beverage offerings, nightlife and cultural scene, sense of identity, proximity to other interesting spots and wow factor. We also looked at lodging options and the ease of getting there and around.

PHOTO CREDITS

• Intro : Chris Johnson/Visit Richmond
• Duluth : Visit Duluth
• Knoxville : SeanPavonePhoto/iStockphoto/Getty Images
• Grand Rapids : Ideology/Experience Grand Rapids
• Macon : Visit Macon
• Flagstaff : CNN
• San Luis Obispo : Brittany App/Visit SLO
• Portland : Visit Portland
• Tacoma : CNN/Travel Tacoma/Museum of Glass
• Providence : N. Millard/GoProvidence.com
• Richmond : Richmond Region Tourism

10 best city breaks for families in the USA with teenagers

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Planning a weekend getaway with your teenagers can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be! We have a list of the best city breaks for families with teenagers that offer the whole family exciting activities, entertainment, and cultural experiences.

From vibrant cities with bustling nightlife to serene destinations with stunning natural landscapes, there is something for every type of teen and family. Holidays with teens can be an opportunity to bond and create lasting memories.

However, finding the perfect destination can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 11 best city breaks in the USA that your teenagers will love.

Related posts on New York for families

Related posts on boston for families, places to stay in honolulu for families, related posts on salt lake city for families, related posts on san antonio for families, related posts on los angeles for families, where to stay in new orleans for families, where to stay for families in d.c, related posts on orlando for families, related posts on chicago for families, more teenage travel inspiration in the usa.

Our recommendations include destinations that offer a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation so you can tailor your trip to your family’s interests. So, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable family vacation with teens .

If you’re travelling from outside the USA, there are a few things you need to remember first. You will need to have an approved ESTA or valid visa, and you will need to change money, for example, convert AUD to USD or Euro to USD is a must. Travel insurance is imperative, as the health system in the USA could send you bankrupt if you have to pay for medical care while on vacation.

1. New York – best city breaks for families

If you’re planning short breaks in New York City with teenagers, you’re in for a treat! There are so many things to see and do in the city that you’ll never run out of options.

Find the best things to do in New York with Trip Adviso r and Viator

There’s something for everyone, from iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Times Square to cultural institutions like the American Museum of Natural History and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

You can visit Central Park or take surfing lessons at Rockaway Beach for outdoor activities. And if your teenagers love games and entertainment, they can check out arcades like Barcade or Dave & Buster’s. Whatever your interests, New York City has it all.

Foods to eat in New York with teens:

New York City is famous for its diverse and delicious street food scene, which offers a wide variety of options that are sure to please teenagers. Here are some traditional street foods that your teenagers will love:

Make sure you try classic New York City hot dogs, which are sold by countless street vendors and food trucks all over the city. They are typically served on a bun with ketchup, mustard, onions, and sauerkraut.

New York is known for pizza and is famous for its thin crust, crispy bottom, and delicious toppings, and Soft pretzels are another classic New York City street food and are sold from street carts all over the city.

Day trips from New York with teenagers:

If you and your teenagers are looking for a day trip outside of New York City, there are several great options to consider. Niagara Falls is a breathtaking destination that is worth the trip, though it does require a long drive or a quick flight.

Alternatively, you could head to the Hamptons, a beach destination that is popular with New Yorkers during the summer months. Another option is to visit the historic city of Philadelphia , which is just a short train ride away.

Finally, if you’re interested in nature, you might consider a trip to the nearby Catskill Mountains or the Hudson River Valley, both of which offer stunning scenery and plenty of outdoor activities.

Places to stay in New York for families

There are so many places to stay in New York for families that will suit every budget . Getting the best accommodation in NYC will help you see all the best Big Apple tourist attractions during your holidays with teenagers in New York. Staying in Manhattan is a top place to stay in Warsaw.

Below are some of the other articles we have to make planning a trip to New York with teens easy.

• Best things to do in New York with teenagers

See more of the US:  43 things to do in San Fransisco with teenagers

Boston is a great destination for families with teenagers as there are plenty of things to see and do that are both educational and fun. The Freedom Trail takes you through 16 historical sites, while the Museum of Science offers interactive exhibits on space, engineering, and biology.

Sports fans will enjoy Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox. The New England Aquarium is a fun and educational destination for all ages, and Harvard University offers tours of its iconic campus. Learn about the Boston Tea Party at the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum.

Find more interesting activities for teens with Get Your Guide and Fever

Boston Common is a beautiful park in the heart of the city that offers plenty of outdoor activities, while Quincy Market is a historic marketplace with food and shopping options. There are also opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and whale watching.

Foods to eat in Boston with teens

Boston has a vibrant food scene with many street food options that teenagers will love. Here are some of the traditional street foods to try. Lobster rolls are a must-try in Boston.

They consist of a toasted hot dog bun filled with lobster meat and dressed with melted butter and seasoning. Clam chowder is a hearty soup made with clams, potatoes, and cream, clam chowder is a popular dish in Boston.

The fried dough also known as zeppoles, will be a favourite with the sweet tooth of the family. The fried dough is a sweet and doughy snack that can be topped with powdered sugar or cinnamon.

Day trips from Boston with teenagers

If you’re looking for a day trip from Boston, there are several great options to choose from. You might consider a trip to Salem, Massachusetts, which is famous for its witch trials and offers plenty of spooky attractions for teenagers.

Alternatively, you could head to Newport, Rhode Island, to tour the historic mansions and enjoy the beach. Cape Cod is another popular destination for its charming towns, scenic beaches, and delicious seafood.

If you’re interested in history, you might consider a trip to Plymouth, Massachusetts, to learn about the Pilgrims and visit Plymouth Rock.

Finally, nature lovers might enjoy a trip to the White Mountains in New Hampshire or the Berkshires in Massachusetts, both of which offer stunning scenery and outdoor activities.

Places to stay in Boston for families

Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, is a popular destination for families seeking a fun-filled holiday. But finding the right accommodation that fits your budget and needs can be a challenge. Here are some affordable family-friendly accommodations in Boston to consider.

• Kendall Hotel  
• Marriott Residence Inn in Charlestown
• Boston Park Plaza

If you’re not keen on any of our picks above or have specific needs, we recommend using   Hotellook  and  Agoda  to find the best prices in Boston. If you’re looking for an apartment you can search   VRBO  or if you’re looking for something a bit fancier, maybe with an amazing view or a swimming pool, then  Plum Guide  will help you find the perfect apartment in Boston for teens on your trip with family.

Below are some of the other articles we have to make planning a trip to Boston with teens easy.

• Best things to do in Boston with teenagers

Protect all your belongings:  All the best anti-theft bags for travel reviewed and approved

3. Honolulu

Honolulu is a great destination for teenagers with plenty of fun and educational activities. History buffs can visit Pearl Harbor National Memorial and learn about the events leading up to the attack. Snorkelling at Hanauma Bay and hiking Diamond Head offer a chance to experience Hawaii’s natural beauty.

More fun things to din Honolulu with teens can be found at Get Your Guide and Trip Advisor .

Waikiki Beach is perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing while shopping at the Ala Moana Center and visiting the Honolulu Zoo provides great entertainment. The Bishop Museum has a vast collection of Hawaiian artifacts and is a great way to learn about the history and culture of Hawaii.

Taking a helicopter tour is a fantastic way to see the island from a different perspective. These are just a few examples of the many activities available in Honolulu that will appeal to both male and female teenagers.

Foods to eat with teens in Honolulu

Honolulu offers a variety of delicious street food options that teenagers will enjoy. Here are some traditional street foods to try including Malasadas a Portuguese-style donut that is deep-fried and coated in sugar, often filled with custard or other sweet fillings.

A steamed or baked bun filled with savoury pork or char siu (Chinese-style barbecue pork) called a Manapua and Spam Mesabi, which is a slice of grilled spam on top of a block of rice, wrapped in nori (dried seaweed).

Day trips from Honolulu

Honolulu is a vibrant and exciting city, but sometimes it’s nice to escape the hustle and bustle and explore the surrounding areas’ natural beauty and rich culture. Luckily, there are plenty of day trip options from Honolulu with teens that offer a glimpse into Hawaii’s diverse landscapes and traditions.

Honolulu is one of Hawaii’s most popular tourist destinations and the best city breaks for families in America. It attracts visitors worldwide with its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. When finding a place to stay in Honolulu, visitors are spoilt for choice.

From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, accommodations suit every taste and budget, whether you’re looking for a beachfront property with all the amenities or a cosy inn with local flair.

4. Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City may not be as well-known as other destinations, but it’s one of the best cities to visit with teenagers in the USA. It’s a great place for a family vacation with teenagers. The city boasts a rich history and culture, with plenty of museums, galleries, and historical sites to explore.

The Natural History Museum of Utah is a must-visit, with interactive exhibits on dinosaurs, ecology, and more. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are numerous parks and hiking trails in the surrounding mountains, including Big Cottonwood Canyon and Millcreek Canyon.

Looking for something else to do? Search Get Your Guide and Viator

And of course, no trip to Salt Lake City is complete without a visit to Temple Square, the city’s spiritual heart and home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the state.

With so much to see and do in Salt Lake City, your family will surely have an unforgettable vacation.

Food to eat in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is not only a city of culture and history but also home to some of the best street food in the United States. Teenagers will love the local food scene, which offers a range of delicious and unique options.

One popular street food is the pastrami burger, a juicy beef patty topped with salty pastrami and other classic burger toppings. Another favourite is the fry sauce, a tangy dipping sauce made from mayonnaise and ketchup.

For something a little different, try the Navajo taco, a hearty dish of fry bread topped with chilli, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes.

And no visit to Salt Lake City would be complete without trying a Mormon muffin, a sweet and fluffy pastry made with honey, cinnamon, and butter. With so many mouth-watering options, teenagers will have a great time exploring the street food scene in Salt Lake City.

Day trips from Salt Lake City

If you are on vacation in Salt Lake City with your teenagers, there are plenty of exciting day trip options to explore outside the city. One popular destination is Park City , located just 35 minutes east of SLC, which is a great place to visit year-round.

During the summer, you can enjoy activities like hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, while in the winter, the town transforms into a winter wonderland with world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

Another option is the stunning Antelope Island State Park, located just an hour north of SLC. Here you can experience breathtaking views of the Great Salt Lake, hike scenic trails, and observe wildlife such as bison, antelope, and bighorn sheep.

Places to stay in Salt Lake City for families

Salt Lake City has a variety of accommodations that cater to families, from hotels with family suites and adjoining rooms to apartments with plenty of space

•   Grand America Hotel
• The Little America Hotel
• Oakwood City Escapes

If you’re not keen on any of our picks below or have specific needs, we recommend using  Hotels.com  and  Booking.com . For apartments, you can search  VRBO  or if you’re looking for something a bit fancier, maybe with an amazing view or a swimming pool, then  Plum Guide  will help you find the perfect apartment in Salt Lake City for teens

Below are some of the other articles we have to make planning a trip to SLC with teens easy

• Best things to do in Salt Lake City with teenagers

World travel with teens: 10 amazing cities for multigenerational travel with teens

5. San Antonio – best American City with teens

San Antonio offers plenty of fun and educational activities for teenagers. The Alamo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for its historical significance. The River Walk is another popular destination, with boat tours and restaurants lining the scenic riverbank.

The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is home to several well-preserved 18th-century missions that offer a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. For a thrilling adventure, Six Flags Fiesta Texas has exciting roller coasters and water rides.

Find more things to do in San Antonio on Trip Advisor and Viator

The San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium are perfect for animal lovers, with over 3,500 animals and interactive exhibits. Finally, the Tower of the Americas offers a panoramic view of the city, with a restaurant and observation deck at the top.

Foods to eat in San Antonio

San Antonio has a rich food culture that offers a variety of street foods that teenagers will love. One of the most popular street foods is the breakfast taco, which is a soft flour tortilla filled with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or potato.

Another favourite is the puffy taco, which has a crispy, yet soft and chewy texture and is filled with seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken.

For a sweet treat, churros are a popular street food in San Antonio. These fried dough pastries are coated in cinnamon sugar and can be filled with chocolate or caramel sauce.

Other street foods that teenagers will enjoy include elote, which is grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, chilli powder, and queso fresco, and the Frito pie, which is a bag of Fritos topped with chilli, cheese, and onions.

Day trips from San Antonio

San Antonio is a great base for exploring the surrounding areas and going on day trips with teenagers. One popular destination is the Six Flags Fiesta Texas theme park, which offers a variety of thrill rides and attractions.

For a more educational experience, the Natural Bridge Caverns provide an opportunity to explore stunning underground caves and learn about the geology and history of the area. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Guadalupe River State Park offers hiking, swimming, and tubing opportunities.

Another popular day trip option is the historic town of Gruene, where visitors can stroll through antique shops, listen to live music and enjoy delicious Texas-style BBQ.

Places to stay in San Antonio families

You’ll never be short of options for your accommodation in San Antonio for teens, You find a range of hotels, apartments, and hostels in the city. You will be sure to be able to find something to fit singles, couples, families, and groups on every budget.

Below are some of the other articles we have to make planning a trip to San Antonio with teens easy

• Best things to do in San Antonio with teenagers

Off the beaten track: Visit Vail Colorado with teens in any season!

6. Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a great destination for a family vacation, with plenty of fun and educational activities to enjoy. The Griffith Observatory offers interactive exhibits and planetarium shows, while the Getty Centre showcases art, manuscripts, and photographs with guided tours and workshops available.

For more ideas, search Trip Advisor and Get Your Guide

Universal Studios Hollywood provides excitement with thrilling rides, live shows, and interactive experiences based on popular movies and TV shows. The Santa Monica Pier has plenty of attractions with an amusement park, an aquarium, and street performers.

The Natural History Museum showcases dinosaur fossils, live animals, and gemstones. Warner Bros. Studio offers a behind-the-scenes look at how movies and TV shows are made, while the California Science Center provides hands-on exhibits on space exploration, ecosystems, and engineering.

Foods to eat in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is famous for its street food scene, and there are many traditional dishes that you and your teenagers can try. Some popular options include tacos from a food truck or a taqueria, which are typically made with fresh tortillas, meat, cilantro, and onions.

Another option is a bacon-wrapped hot dog from a street vendor, which is topped with grilled onions, peppers, and mayonnaise.

You could also try a pastrami sandwich from a deli, which is typically piled high with tender, juicy meat and served on rye bread.

Other popular LA street foods include elote (grilled corn on the cob with chilli powder and cheese), churros (deep-fried dough with cinnamon sugar), and fruit cups with fresh fruit and chilli powder.

Day trips from Los Angeles

Los Angeles has many great day trip destinations for families with teenagers to enjoy. Disneyland , Santa Barbara , Joshua Tree National Park, San Diego, Catalina Island , and Palm Springs are all excellent options to consider.

Each location offers unique attractions and activities such as theme parks, beautiful beaches, desert landscapes, outdoor activities, historic landmarks, and more. With so many diverse options, there is something for everyone to enjoy on a day trip from Los Angeles.

Where to stay in Los Angeles for families

If you’re staying in Los Angeles with teenagers, you may want to consider hotels or apartments that are centrally located and offer amenities that cater to teenagers.

Below are some of the other articles we have to make planning a trip to Los Angeles with teens easy

• Best things to do in Los Angeles with teenagers

Budget travel with teens: Our top, easy and realistic budget travel tips

7. New Orleans

New Orleans has plenty of activities and attractions that teenagers will enjoy. The National WWII Museum is an interactive museum showcasing artefacts and exhibits from World War II.

The French Quarter has a lively atmosphere with music venues, street performers, and historic architecture. For thrill-seekers, the Ghost Tours of New Orleans offers spooky and entertaining tours of the city’s haunted sites.

Find more things to do in New Orleans with Trip Advisor and Get Your Guide

The New Orleans Jazz Museum offers live performances and interactive exhibits showcasing the city’s jazz history. The Mardi Gras World provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at the famous festival with guided tours and interactive exhibits.

For outdoor enthusiasts, kayaking on Bayou St. John provides a fun and scenic way to explore the city’s waterways. Finally, the NOLA Motorsports Park offers high-speed go-kart racing for teenagers who love to race.

Foods to eat in New Orleans

New Orleans is known for its delicious and unique street food. Here are some traditional New Orleans street foods that your family can try Po’boys, a New Orleans classic, po’boys are sandwiches made with crusty French bread and filled with fried seafood or meat.

Gumbo is a thick soup or stew made with seafood, meat, and vegetables, and served over rice and Bigness. Beignets are square-shaped pieces of dough that are deep fried and generously sprinkled with confectioners sugar. These deep-fried doughnuts are a must-try when in New Orleans.

Day trips from New Orleans

There are several great day trip options from New Orleans that are perfect for families with teenagers. One popular option is to visit the historic Oak Alley Plantation , which is located about an hour outside the city.

This beautiful antebellum estate offers guided tours, as well as opportunities to explore the lush gardens and enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds. Another great day trip option is to take a swamp tour, where you can see alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitats.

For a more urban experience, consider taking a trip to Baton Rouge, which is about 90 minutes away and offers plenty of museums, historic sites, and delicious food options. You can check out the things to do in Lafayette in around 2 hours by train.

New Orleans has many accommodation options suitable for families, with popular areas including the French Quarter and Garden District. Family-friendly amenities and unique experiences such as renting a house or apartment are also available. Planning and researching accommodation options are recommended, especially during peak season or major events.

Accommodation with teens:   Why staying in a hostel is good for your travelling teens

8. Washington D.C

Washington D.C. is an exciting destination for teenagers with a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities. The National Mall is a great place to start with its numerous Smithsonian Museums including the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History, and the National Museum of Natural History.

You can find more of the best of Washington here with Viator

The monuments and memorials such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial offer outdoor sightseeing opportunities.

Teens can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and biking in Rock Creek Park. Additionally, they can explore the United States Capitol, attend a Supreme Court session or visit the Library of Congress.

Other options include visiting the National Zoo, taking a tour of the White House, and exploring the trendy Georgetown neighbourhood.

Foods to eat in Washington D.C

Washington D.C . is known for its diverse and delicious street food scene, offering plenty of options that teenagers will love. One of the most iconic dishes in the city is the half-smoke, a type of sausage that is served on a hot dog bun with a variety of toppings.

Another must-try street food is the iconic D.C. mambo sauce, a tangy and slightly sweet condiment that is often served on chicken wings. Additionally, plenty of food trucks serve up dishes like crab cakes, empanadas, and even Korean-style tacos.

There are plenty of options for those with a sweet tooth, such as the famous Georgetown Cupcakes and hand-churned ice cream from Thomas Sweet. Washington, D.C is a Popular family destination with teenagers in the US.

Day trips from Washington D.C

Washington D.C. has many great day trip options, including Gettysburg , Annapolis , Shenandoah National Park , Luray Caverns , Colonial Williamsburg , and Baltimore .

Each destination offers unique experiences, such as historic battlefields, charming cities, national parks, living history museums, and bustling urban areas. Families with teenagers can choose a day trip based on their interests and preferences, whether they enjoy outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or sightseeing.

Washington D.C has plenty of accommodation options suitable for families with teenagers. Many hotels offer family suites or adjoining rooms to accommodate larger groups. For those seeking additional amenities, there are hotels and apartments with swimming pools and game rooms, providing fun activities for teens.

Some popular family-friendly options include the Hilton Garden Inn Washington DC Downtown, which offers spacious rooms with a mini-fridge and microwave, an indoor pool, and a game room. The Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington DC Georgetown is another option, with spacious two-room suites, an indoor pool, and a game room with a pool table and arcade games.

The Residence Inn Washington Capitol Hill /Navy Yard is also a great choice, with apartment-style suites that include a kitchen, living room, dining area, and an indoor pool. For more options, search Trivago for hotels and Stayz for apartments in Washington.

International travel with teens: Get all the top tips on the best suitcases for teenagers

Orlando is a destination that has plenty of activities for teenagers. For indoor activities, they can explore the fascinating exhibits at the Kennedy Space Centre , or visit the interactive exhibits at the Orlando Science Centre.

For outdoor activities, they can experience thrilling rides at Universal Studios and Walt Disney World, or go on a safari adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Other options include exploring the natural beauty of the Everglades or spending a day at the beach. All this makes Orlando one of the must-visit cities for families with teenagers

Use Get Your Guide and Trip Advisor for more Orlando ideas

Additionally, teenagers can enjoy shopping at the popular outlet malls or dining at the many restaurants and cafes in the area. Overall, Orlando offers a great mix of educational and fun activities for teenagers of all interests.

What to eat in Orlando

Orlando is home to a diverse range of street food options, with many popular and traditional dishes to choose from. Here are a few options that you might want to try during your vacation.

A Cuban Sandwich that is made with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread. Empanadas are savoury pastries filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, and vegetables.

Arepas are a type of corn cake that is popular in Colombia and Venezuela, Arepas are typically filled with cheese, meat, or other toppings. Make sure to explore the local food scene and try some new and interesting dishes during your vacation.

Day trips for Orlando

Orlando offers several day trip options for visitors, including the Kennedy Space Center , Daytona Beach, St. Augustine , Crystal River, and Tampa. These destinations offer opportunities to explore space exhibits, relax on the beach, learn about history, experience nature, or enjoy a vibrant city. Other possible day trips include the Everglades, Cocoa Beach, and Mount Dora.

Where to stay with families in Orlando

Orlando has many accommodation options suitable for families, including hotels, resorts, vacation homes, and condos. When choosing accommodation, consider location, amenities, space, and budget.

Factors such as proximity to attractions and amenities like a pool or kitchenette can be important. Vacation homes and condos can be ideal for larger families. Visitors should research options and choose based on their preferences and needs in teen-friendly vacation spots like Orlando.

Below are some of the other articles we have to make planning a trip to Orlando with teens easy

• Best things to do in Orlando with teens

See more of Florida: Things to do in St Augustine with teenagers

10. Chicago

Chicago is a fantastic vacation destination and one of the best cities for families with teenagers to explore. The city offers plenty of indoor and outdoor activities that are both fun and educational. Teenagers can visit the Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, and the Field Museum for engaging indoor experiences.

Search Get Your Guide and Trip Advisor for more Chicago ideas

For outdoor activities, they can explore the Chicago Riverwalk , take a bike ride along the 606 elevated trail, kayak on Lake Michigan, or catch a Chicago Bulls game at the United Centre for a thrilling sports experience.

These activities provide a mix of educational and recreational experiences, making Chicago a great choice for families with teenagers looking for an exciting and memorable vacation

What to eat in Chicago

Chicago is famous for its street food, and there are plenty of delicious options for families with teenagers.

The most traditional street food in Chicago is undoubtedly the Chicago-style hot dog, which is a beef hot dog served on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, pickle spear, and sports peppers.

Another popular street food is the Italian beef sandwich, which consists of thin slices of seasoned beef served on a crusty roll and topped with giardiniera or sweet peppers.

For a sweet treat, teenagers can try the classic Chicago-style popcorn, which is a mix of caramel and cheddar popcorn. These street foods are must-try options for families visiting Chicago.

Day trips from Chicago

The city of Chicago offers plenty of opportunities for families with teenagers to take day trips. Visitors can explore the Indiana Dunes National Park, visit Milwaukee, Wisconsin , take a trip to Starved Rock State Park, tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio in Oak Park, or explore the city of Springfield, Illinois.

These day trips offer a range of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and historical attractions that are perfect for families with teenagers visiting Chicago.

Where to stay in Chicago with families

For those visiting Chicago with teenagers, there are numerous hotel options in Chicago, You can find everything from Uber budget to super-luxury in Chicago for families. Here are a few suggestions that are particularly great for travel families with teenagers on different budgets.

For luxury family-friendly hotels in Chicago,  we recommend  The Peninsula- 5-star luxury ,  Hotel Chicago Downtown Autograph Collection  puts you very near the river walk and Michigan Avenue as well. The  DoubleTree Magnificent Mile  gives great deals to families and has a fabulous pool.

For more midprice and budget-friendly options in Chicago,  we recommend  Freehand Chicago ,  Holiday Inn Express Chicago Midway  and  HI Chicago, and The J.Ira & Nicki Harris Family Hoste l .

If you’re not keen on any of our picks or have specific needs, we recommend using   Trip Advisor  and  Expedia   to find the best prices for Chicago accommodation

Below are some of the other articles we have to make planning a trip to Chicago with teens easy

• Things to do in Chicago with teenagers

We hope this article from Wyld Family Travel  inspires you to visit some of the best cities in the USA with teenagers. There are so many things to do in cities in the USA with teenagers that will entertain you for your family’s whole stay in the city.

• Travel for teens Americas
• Travel with teens in Asia
• Travel teens in Australasia
• Travel teens in the Middle East
• Travel for teens in Europe
• Travel teen’s tips, tricks and advice

Travelling with young adults has just as many issues as travelling with young children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations can be so time-consuming. Planning a family holiday  with teenagers and tweens  can be stressful, and finding the best travel tips is essential.

Use our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides from all over the world for your next family vacation inspiration to make your family vacations with teens epic.

For more amazing ideas on where to holiday in America, click through to our  North America Destination Guide page  for more brilliant inspiration.

40 things to do in Vancouver with teenagers

56 things to do in San Francisco with teenagers

53 thrilling things to do in Las Vegas with teenagers

Author bio:.

Father, husband, traveller, and chief destination manager here at Wyld Family Travel. When Mark is not discussing travel or planning travel, you will find him working in disability support. Mark is a family travel advocate, having travelled to over 45 countries with his kids from 10 months to their teenage years. You will find his work here and on other popular websites.

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Best family city breaks: child-friendly European destinations for your next trip

Planning a long weekend away or a short family break? You may not be as fancy-free as you were pre-children, but European city breaks with kids in tow are still doable – and are often a cheap and easy option for families looking to squeeze in a weekend break outside the school holidays.

By Mumsnet HQ | Last updated Jun 24, 2024

We've consulted the Mumsnet travel experts on our popular Holiday Talk Forums to discover the best European city breaks for families. Before booking your next trip, check out these top travel tips and destination recommendations from parents that have been there, done that and stayed there with kids in tow.

Where's best for a family city break in Europe?

Best for beaches: Barcelona

Best for older kids: Berlin

Best for culture: Rome

Best for weather: Lisbon

Best UK city break: York

Search for a family-friendly hotel

Here are the top 10 city breaks for families, as recommended by parents.

1. Copenhagen, Denmark

Why mumsnetters love copenhagen.

Mumsnetters rate the Danish capital for family city breaks thanks to its family-friendly attractions, walkable streets and laid-back vibe.

"We had three days and walked pretty much everywhere. We went in early December and Tivoli Gardens were decorated beautifully. We also liked the Little Mermaid - she’s small but lovely" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Letsnotargue

"I was there last week but with toddlers! Get a Copenhagen card and work through the booklet. Seriously. It’s a mixed bag of great places and the card gives you free transport in the city" - rated by Mumsnet user, Whyismycatanasshat

Best things to do with kids in Copenhagen

It is indeed very child-friendly – not too big and not too small, with plenty of parks and open spaces, plus interactive museums (release your inner Viking), Tivoli Gardens amusement park, a planetarium, a zoo, and northern Europe's largest aquarium.

Consider getting a CPH Card , which covers epntry to a number of attractions, thus saving you money on entertainment. For little ones with energy to burn, walk up the Round Tower and enjoy views over the city. If you fancy a more relaxed pace, go on a Copenhagen boat trip or find a seat in one of the canalside cafes and watch the world cycle by.

Read next: The best cabin bags to buy for your next family holiday

Copenhagen's very easy to navigate, and most things are close by, so little legs won't get too tired.

Where to stay in Copenhagen with kids

The Absalon Hotel

"My DD stayed at the Absalon Hotel and found it excellent. Has Designers Guild furnishings. Handy for many things and helpful staff" - tried and tested by Mumsnet user, TizerorFizz

Ibsens Hotel

"We stayed in the Ibsens Hotel and loved it. Our room had a little reading nook down a couple of stairs with chairs and sheepskins. They had a happy hour with cheap drinks and snacks at the bar before dinner, and a fancy restaurant we ate in one night" - rated by Mumsnet user, Letsnotargue

Copenhagen Island Hotel

"I went pre-pandemic and stayed at the Copenhagen Island Hotel which was walking distance to most of the places I went. It was December so very festive" - recommended by Mumsnet user, blitzen

2. Lisbon, Portugal

Why mumsnetters love lisbon.

Lisbon is quite the hit with Mumsnetters. That might be something to do with its cuisine, from bacalhau (salted cod) – to the infamous pastéis de nata (Portugese custard tarts), proximity to nice beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Be warned, it is quite hilly: something to bear in mind if you're travelling with small children. It does however, boast a great range of transport options if you're not keen on walking everywhere.

"I really loved Lisbon! It’s great value for money compared to Paris, Rome, etc and has all the old European city charm - just really, really lovely" - recommended by Mumsnet user, ABitOfAShitShow

"Lisbon is my happy place. The aquarium is great, get a cab there. Also love the pantheon, hippo/duck tours good for children. Sitting on the front by the water is lovely in the evening" - rated by Mumsnet user, MissyCooperismyShero

Best things to do with kids in Lisbon

The hop-on-hop-off bus tours are a good start to your trip to really get a feel for the city. The Remodelado trams (those quaint yellow ones) are also a fun way to view the surroundings with kids – the most scenic route being the E28 – as well as the Glória Funicular. If you like art, the collection at The Gulbenkian museum is well worth a visit.

Food-wise, the Time Out Market in the Mercado da Ribeira – an open-air food court with a wide range of cuisines and family-style seating – is the perfect place to eat if you're catering for different tastes. If you're after a treat, Mumsnetters recommend eating at Tivoli Palácio de Seteais : “Fantastic posh Sunday lunch at a hotel in a palace with beautiful gardens.”

However, the most important advice seems to be: “Don’t forget to eat as many pasteis de nata as you can.”. These scrumptious desserts can be found everywhere, but particular hotspots are Manteigaria in Bica where you can watch the custard tarts be created before your very eyes. Or for a bit of 'history' you could check out Pasteis de Belém , where the first pastéis were ever sold in 1837 – right next door to where the original recipe was developed, the Jerónimos Monastery. The monastery is also worth a look due to its beautifully ornate architecture. Belém is about six miles from downtown Lisbon, a safe, scenic bike ride along the river (cycle paths all the way).

It's also very easy to get to other places outside of Lisbon, such as the beach at Cascais or Sintra , a town that boasts extravagant palaces and ancient castles.

Lisbon is lovely. Lots of garden squares and a long walkway along the sea with nice open-air modern fish eateries.

Where to stay in Lisbon with kids

Eurostars Das Letras

"Stayed at the Eurostars Das Letras in Lisbon a few years ago and I would recommend. It was very slightly out of the centre so much quieter but the walk into Lisbon centre each day was nice" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Barkingmadhouse

Luxury Graça Apartment

"We are just back from a weekend here. It was amazing! The view was to die for" - rated by Mumsnet user, MissAmbrosia  

Iberostar Selection Lisboa

"Iberostar hotel - walking distance from centre but beautiful pool for chilling out after sightseeing" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Redtartanshoes

3. Bristol, England

Why mumsnetters love bristol.

Bristol is famed as the South West's bohemian heartland, packed with winding lanes and green spaces. This artsy and community-minded city is full of family-friendly activities, and is easy to get to from London as well as the north and east of England, via road, train or plane.

"I took my 3 there for a visit a year or so ago, and we did @Bristol and SS Great Britain over the course of two days. Great fun!" - recommended by Mumsnet user, frazzled3ds

"There are often festivals, markets and other events around the harbourside and city centre - there'll be something pretty much every weekend from about May onwards" - travel tip from Mumsnet user, exexpat  

Best things to do with kids in Bristol

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is a must-see – walk over it and enjoy the stunning views of the gorge. For another scenic walk, try Blaise Castle which offers a great children's play area, too. And make sure you visit St Werburgh's City Farm , to have a cup of tea in their little tree-top cafe hideaway.

Bristol Zoo is small but brilliant for entertaining kids. “Bring a packed lunch, and if you're visiting in the warm weather bring a change of clothes as there's a wet play area!” recommends one Mumsnetter. Science-lovers will enjoy exploring We the Curious (formerly At Bristol), while older teens can play 'spot the Banksy' among the city's ultra-cool street art .

Read next: The best packing cubes to keep the family organised on your next trip

There's too much to do in just a few days! If it's fine weather, you could try the walk along the river from the M Shed museum to Cumberland Basin.

Where to stay in Bristol with kids

The Bristol Hotel

"We have stayed in The Bristol Hotel many times before and always had a great stay. A good location for touring the city as well" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Trafalgar

Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel

"I would recommend The Marriott Royal, as it's a lovely hotel with great pool, facilities etc" - tried and tested by Mumsnet user, jennymac31

Hotel du Vin Bristol

"Hotel Du Vin is great. Lovely building, great service and central" - recommended by Mumsnet user, ButFleecesarewarm

Prefer to stay in a cottage within easy reach of Bristol? Save big on a cottage stay in the southwest with a 7% discount on your next stay , an exclusive deal for Mumsnet logged in users.

4. Paris, France

Why mumsnetters love paris.

Easily reached by train, plane or ferry, Paris is super-accessible. Despite its clichéd status as one of the most romantic cities in the world, it is also an enchanting place to take children (even if you don't head to Disneyland).

"Paris is amazing! My kids love it and we have been a few times.Definitely take them up the Tour Montparnasse as it has amazing views and as DS3 says 'it's a much better view of Paris as you get to see the Eiffel Tower in the view'" - recommended by Mumsnet user, AFingerofFudge  

"I'd take a river cruise in the morning. Have lunch at 58 Tour Eiffel, restaurant on the second floor of the tower. Really good and not expensive. Then go along to Luxembourg Gardens and eat crepes from a van for dinner" - travel tips from Mumsnet user, Kendodd

Best things to do with kids in Paris

Older kids will enjoy seeing the famous sights; younger ones will enjoy a boat ride along the Seine . Of course there are plenty of museums and art galleries to explore too – just make sure you allow plenty of time for kids to burn off steam outdoors in between attractions. Head to the stunning Gardens of Versailles for lots of room to run about, as well as some astoundingly beautiful landscaping and architecture. Win-win.

Kids are welcomed into restaurants with open arms, and adventurous eaters will revel in the chance to try frog legs and snails – it may even be what they remember the most! And don't miss Bertillon ice cream, found in kiosks all over the city. Mumsnetters reckon it's a guaranteed hit with all ages.

Where to stay in Paris with kids

Hotel Joyce - Astotel

"If you're on a bit of a budget, we stayed in Hotel Joyce Astotel and really recommend it. It's 9th arrondisement which if you check the map is walkable to most big tourist attractions, but is more of a local residential area, which means it had some great local bistros" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Catch32

Novotel Paris Centre Tour Eiffel

"Novotel Tour Eiffel. It's only a few minutes walk from the Eiffel Tower and has a big pool" - rated by Mumsnet user, dizzydizzydizzy

Eurocamp also has three parks in the region, ideal if you want to stay outside the city and mix days of sightseeing with other kid-friendly activities such as swimming, bowling and cycling (facilities vary at each site).

Read next: The best scooters for getting around with kids

5. Barcelona, Spain

Why mumsnetters love barcelona.

Just a short flight from the UK and the perfect combination of city AND beach, it's no surprise Barcelona comes highly recommended. As one Mumsner user sums up: “The weather, lots of beautiful parks for kids to run around in, good transport system, not too long a flight, a bit of culture and yummy food.” What's not to like?

"It's wonderful. My kids (11, 8 and 6) thoroughly enjoyed it, as did we. Getting around on the Metro quickly became second nature to us and even the children knew where to get on and off it. I would go back in a heartbeat" - recommended by Mumsnet user, OchAyeThaNoo

Best things to do with kids in Barcelona

With plenty of open spaces, mesmerising Gaudi architecture, shops, museums, a zoo and markets, there's easily enough to fill a weekend, or longer. Should children tire of the city, simply decamp to the beach for sun, sea, sand and ice-creams. You can also easily head out to the nearby Portaventura theme park for a day.

If you fancy a fun family meal alfresco, one Mumsnetter suggests: “Go to La Boqueria food market on Las Ramblas and stock up on goodies for a beach picnic.” Or, you could take your packed lunch to Park Güell for some stunning city-wide views (as well as a mosaic dragon resident!). And don't forget to head to Montjuïc where you can check out the Magic Fountain, and ride on the Teleferic cable car.

Where to stay in Barcelona with kids

K+K Hotel Picasso El Born

“Highly highly recommend K&K Hotel Picasso El Born. Beautiful central setting, right next to bus routes, rooftop swimming pool. Amazing place and would go back there in a heartbeat” - recommended by Mumsnet user,   cauliflowersqueeze

“Hotel jazz is fab. Great location and lovely rooftop pool” - rated by Mumsnet user, Lala1245

Aparthotel Napols - Abapart

"We stayed here a few years ago. We had a 2 bed apartment with kitchen and living room. Easy to walk everywhere and there is a bakery on the corner to pick up breakfast. It’s also a residential area so very quiet" - recommended by Mumsnet user, MrsPnut

6. Glasgow, Scotland

Why mumsnetters love glasgow.

If you're travelling to Glasgow from London, don't overlook the sleeper train as a means of transport, which can be a really fun adventure for kids – and *may* even guarantee a good night's sleep. One Mumsnetter says, “I took my seven- and four-year-old on the sleeper and we had a fantastic night sleep – the rocking was really soothing.”

"Glasgow is brilliant for short break - great museums/galleries, music scene, bars and restaurants and shopping" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Sunbeam18  

"Glasgow is small enough to get around easily via the subway but loads to do and see. It really is a beautiful city in spite of the best efforts of the city planners to ruin it" - rated by Mumsnet user, TheBogQueen

Best things to do with kids in Glasgow

Scotland's largest city has all the essentials for a great short break with kids: plenty of museums (including a v. hands-on science museum ), a renowned modern art gallery , gardens and parks, open-top bus tours (always a winner with children) and a bohemian quarter with trendy boutiques, cafes and bars.

Where to stay in Glasgow with kids

Village Hotel Glasgow

"The Village Hotel is central enough to walk wherever you need to go and it has parking" - recommended by Mumsnet user, HeadToToesNo

"The Grosvenor in the West End its vaiiiry naice and thanks to subway you're only ten mins from the town centre" - tried and tested by Mumsnet user, ExCharlieBucket  

Prefer to stay in a cottage within easy reach of Glasgow? Save big on a cottage stay with a 7% discount on your next stay , an exclusive deal for Mumsnet logged in users.

7. Berlin, Germany

Why mumsnetters love berlin.

Berlin's a real Mumsnet fave and a good option for families with older kids – its combination of modern history and alternative vibes means that you're sure to gain some kudos for taking them there.

"We went a few years ago & really enjoyed it. Food was relatively cheap and tasty. The Science Centre Spectrum, next door to the Techniks Museum was our highlight" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Chewbecca

"We visited Berlin last year with a 13 and 10 year old. The kids enjoyed two days of the ‘Get on/Get off bus’ and the zoo in particular. We stayed in a hired apartment so we had plenty of downtime with the internet etc" - rated by Mumsnet user, Kmetsch3

Where to stay in Berlin with kids

As you'd expect there's lots of historical stuff to see such as Checkpoint Charlie, the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, the Holocaust Memorial and Reichstag (do consider booking in advance). There's also a great choice of museums – including a Museum of Gaming, Minecraft fans, and the DDR, an impressive interactive museum. The Olympic Stadium, with a fantastic outdoor pool, and Lego Discoveryland are other must-sees. We've also heard lots of good things about the Fat Tire bike tour – a great way to explore the city.

If you're going with teenagers, try boating in the Tiergarten, followed by a visit to the traditional German beer garden (refreshments for mum and dad, pizza for the kids). If it's chilly, head to the Rausch Shokoladenhaus to warm your cockles with their “wonderful hot chocolate and cake,” recommended by one Mumsnetter. Street food options across the city should appeal to even the fussiest eaters.

The best family-friendly hotels in Berlin

Louisa's Place

"We stayed at Louisa's Place which was like a mini apartment & worked well for us. It's in a nice area and v close to the metro as well as plenty of eateries. It had a pleasant pool too which made a nice break from sightseeing" - tried and tested by Mumsnet user, Chewbacca

Goodman's Living

"I really like the Goodman's apart-hotel - fantastic place" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Cherryblossoms85

Novotel Berlin Am Tiergarten

"Can really recommend the Novotel near Tiergarten. Right next to an U Bahn station - rooms for a family of 4 at a good price" - recommended by Mumsnet user, ComeOnGordon

8. Edinburgh, Scotland

Why mumsnetters love edinburgh.

Well connected from across the UK with regional flights and trains, Edinburgh is a great mix of culture, history and family attractions.

"We went last October. The Camera Obscura was brilliant and our kids (age 4 & 5) really enjoyed Brittannia. The best thing was the National Museum of Scotland - so much to see that we went back three times! It's a fabulous city! - recommended by Mumsnet user, FriendofDorothy

"Oh I love Edinburgh! Definitely see Dynamic Earth, Arthur's Seat (if the weather isn't too wet and windy), National Museum of Scotland, Jenner's, Royal Yacht Britannia, and have a good walk along The Royal Mile and the streets off it" - rated by Mumsnet user, juneau

Best things to do with kids in Edinburgh

Festival time (August) is a great time to visit with kids – although prices inevitably soar. If the weather is good, there are plenty of fun walks around the city. Take in the views from Edinburgh Castle and explore Princes Street Gardens. If the weather's not so good, head inside – all the city's museums and galleries are free.

Don't miss the Museum of Childhood on the Royal Mile, the National Museums of Scotland and the Camera Obscura , which Mumsnetters say is well worth the money.

Where to stay in Edinburgh with kids

Holyrood Aparthotel

"Holyrood Aparthotel - it is BRILLIANT. You get a really nice kitchen so you can cook it you want or order in a takeaway" - recommended by Mumsnet user,  mumoftwoboys

Holiday Inn Edinburgh Zoo

"I often recommend the Holiday Inn next to the zoo to friends. It has some family rooms available, or interconnecting ones, so that’s good if you’re going with kids. It has a pool, and is pretty reasonable" - recommended by Mumsnet user,  Fabellini

Hapimag Resort Edinburgh

"We could not fault The Edinburgh Residence (now Hapimag Resort). All of the rooms are suites and breakfast is served in the seating/lounge area within the room so no concerns about children disturbing other diners" - recommended by Mumsnet user,  MrsPworkingmummy

Prefer to stay in a cottage within easy reach of Edinburgh? Save big on a cottage stay near the Scottish capital with a 7% discount on your next stay , an exclusive deal for Mumsnet logged in users.

9. Rome, Italy

Why mumsnetters love rome.

History, culture, fantastic food (and wine) – Rome has it all, and then some. As one Mumsnetter puts it: “Rome is a good one. Not too cold. Great food and gelato all a fraction of the cost of Venice.”

"We took ours in August and had a wonderful time. I think they were 6 & 8. Loved the colosseum and just wandering around the Forum. We rented a little self catering apartment very centrally so could walk everywhere and then go back for an afternoon rest. They absolutely loved the late dinners and being fussed over in restaurants, walking around at night looking at all the buildings lit up. We’d go back in a heartbeat - it was a great holiday" - recommended by Mumsnet user, zgaze

"Rome with kids is fab! I took mine when they were 8 and 5. We stayed in a little guest house in a back street near Piazza Navone, so were able to walk to most things. We were on a mission to see how much we could fit into 2 days and 1 night (I get very cheap flights at work) but wish I’d planned longer" - rated by Mumsnet user, backinthebox

Best things to do with kids in Rome

You're essentially visiting a city-sized museum with points of interest on pretty much every corner: the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona and Vatican City to name but a few. Read up on what you want to see, consider which sights will be best suited to your children's ages and interests, and brace yourself for a fair bit of walking, as this isn't the easiest city to get around.

There is an open top bus tour which, while screaming “tourist”, will save little legs and mean you avoid the faff of a (crowded and hot) underground, as you can hop on and off as you please. Alternatively, book yourself on to a child-friendly tour like this one .

If you need a bit of downtime, try the Pincio Gardens and Borghese Gardens, which come Mumsnetter-approved. Or make like the locals and take siestas if you need to. And don't forget the essential gelato pit-stops.

Where to stay in Rome with kids

Hassler Roma

"Stay at the Hassler hotel. Ask the concierge to get you a car and a private guide for a half day (or full day) tour. Fabulous" - tried and tested by Mumsnet user, AmandaHoldensLips

Hotel California

"We stayed at the Hotel California nearish to the Termini and it was great in February. Very accessible for trains and buses, walking distance to many of the sights. There’s a lovely restaurant underneath the hotel for night when you’ve done enough walking too" - recommended by Mumsnet user, CatsOperatingInGangs

Hotel Forum

"Hotel Forum, overlooks Roman ruins which are illuminated at night and breakfast is taken on a covered viewing terrace. You can request interconnecting rooms. Close to Colosseum" - recommended by Mumsnet user, LIZS

10. York, England

Why mumsnetters love york.

If it's history you're after, then York should be high on your list. The city is easily accessible by train and also surrounded by beautiful countryside for walks, so you can enjoying the great outdoors and get the best of both worlds.

"We loved a walk around the walls, railway museum and the cold war bunker. Lots of good places to eat, we were spoilt for choice" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Disfordarkchocolate

"Definitely Jorvik. The railway museum is worth a look. The olde worlde sweetshops in the shambles are fun. Walk along the castle walls too. That's brilliant" - tried and tested by Mumsnet user, gingerhills

Best things to do with kids in York

With its castle, city walls, Jorvik Viking Centre , York Minster, York Dungeon and the National Railway Museum , there's more than enough to keep kids entertained and educated – plus lots of quaint little tea shops en route, perfect for refuelling between sights. If you're looking for a treat after all that walking around, Mumsnet users recommend The Chocolate Story : “Fun, much better than I expected. A couple of hours fun with lots of sampling and learning about the history of chocolate making in York.”

Where to stay in York with kids

Hampton by Hilton York Piccadilly

"Hampton by hilton is nice, little out of town so a walk to the centre. The Hilton over looks Cliffords Tower which is nice and right by the castle museum which is great" - tried and tested by Mumsnet user, ineedwine99

Clearly Apartments, Bootham

"Recently stayed one night at Clearly apartments and thought it would be better than hotel if staying with children" - rated by Mumsnet user, MoMandaS

The Bar Convent

"The Bar Convent has decent family rooms and their museum/exhibition is fab, very interactive. Has a lovely atmosphere" - recommended by Mumsnet user, BarchesterFlowers

Prefer to stay in a cottage within easy reach of York? Save big on a cottage stay in the historic city with a 7% discount on your next stay , an exclusive deal for Mumsnet logged in users.

Travel essentials: what to buy to keep kids entertained on city breaks

Before you head off on hols, Mumsnetters recommend a few travel must-haves:

Trunki Children’s Ride-On Suitcase & Hand Luggage

Fire HD 10 Kids Edition 32 GB Tablet

Bananagrams

The North Face Electra Bag

City breaks with children: what to know before you go

How far you go is up to you.

Your first decision is going to be how far you're willing to travel – and only you know the answer to that. There's nowt to be sniffed at in a city break close to home, but equally a jaunt to nearby France or Spain – or even European cities slightly further afield – are totally possible with children. Consider places that can be reached by car, train or ferry if you don't fancy entertaining little ones on a flight – and make the journey part of the adventure.

You don't have to stay in a hotel/B&B/run-of-the-mill type place

There are deals to be had if you search through online booking sites such as Booking.com and check out our Mumsnet Discounts page for exclusive offers.

Worried about cramming into a hotel room with your brood? Consider a city apartment via the likes of Airbnb , giving you more space, additional facilities (serving up Weetabix at 4am will certainly be possible) and potentially working out cheaper than a hotel, too.

It's also worth checking out places like Eurocamp , with several sites close to major cities.

Manage your expectations

It's worth mentioning, just in case you'd put on those rose-tinted (sun)glasses, that you're not going to be spending all day gazing in wonderment at Monet's finest, or enjoying long boozy lunches people-watching. This applies to travelling with children of all ages, but especially if you're holidaying with 'spirited' toddlers.

Top travel tips from Mumsnetters

“Look for entertainment for the kids when they are awake and when they have naps you can go to the places where they'd start getting fussy soon.”

“Once or twice my partner stayed in a cafe with our daughter and let me go to an attraction on my own when I wanted some time to look at things in peace.”

"We found that castles, churches and museums went down well but galleries didn't – nothing to touch or relate to, just pictures."

15 Best Things to Do in New York City with the Whole Family

Posted: June 29, 2024 | Last updated: June 29, 2024

New York City is expecting more than 61 million tourists to visit in 2023. Should your family be among them? We certainly think so! Sure, we're a little biased (our offices are here!), but who better to give you the inside scoop than some locals? We tapped the expertise of our editors and staff members — especially those who have kids and teens — plus Beth Beckman, Manhattan-based author of Little Kid, Big City! New York , to bring you a list of 15 must-sees on your New York City visit.

The one tip that nearly everyone on our team mentioned: Don't just hang out in Times Square. "It's calmer, cleaner and so much fun in other parts of Manhattan and other boroughs like Brooklyn and Queens," said one editor. After you see a Broadway show or two, head uptown or downtown to explore under-the-radar gems and popular tourist stops that are legit awesome. (Did you know there's a waterfall in NYC?)

The subway is the most cost-effective way to get around — and city kids often take it by themselves by the time they're in middle school. Buy each family member a $29 New York Metro Card that's good for unlimited rides for a week. Use Google Maps to help you navigate stops and stations; it's often pretty accurate about train times too. We hope to see you in NYC real soon!

1) Central Park

Location: Manhattan

You could visit Central Park every day on your NYC vacay, and still not see it all. The 843-acre oasis spans over 50 blocks. It's surrounded by skyscrapers and boasts 21 playgrounds, a zoo and a Swedish Cottage with Marionette shows. Wollman Rink is typically the go-to for ice skating, but for the summer, it has been transformed into a giant pickleball installation with 14 courts. Since it's easier to come and go to the park as you please if you stay in a nearby hotel, put The Quin, a Hilton Club and Thompson Central Park New York on your radar when you're booking your trip.

2) Museum of the Moving Image

Location: Astoria, Queens

Another staff favorite, the Jim Henson exhibit at the Museum of the Moving Image appeals to kids of all ages. "Younger kids can decorate a Muppet body with eyes and hair," says a Good Housekeeping editor. Meanwhile, older kids will enjoy the interactive stations where they can try their hand at ADR, foley effects, music cues or stop-motion animation. You might even luck out and go on a day when there's a kid-friendly screening.

3) American Girl Place

Location: Midtown Manhattan

Kids will love taking their dolls out to dinner at American Girl Place New York , which provides doll-size booster seats that attach to the table and a mini place setting so your child's doll can eat with the family. Dolls dine for free while a fun four-course menu is $27 per person — downright inexpensive by NYC standards. The experience is best for kids ages 3-12.

4) Broadway Shows

Location: Times Square

Broadway shows live up to the hype, so add one (or more!) to your list of must-dos if you have kids in elementary school or older. (While younger kids can attend, they may not be able to sit still for two-plus hours.) Wicked and Hamilton are wonderful all-around picks that please multiple generations. For something more edgy with teens and college-age kids, a Good Housekeeping team member highly recommends Sweeney Todd . "Bring your Playbill to the stage door after most Broadway shows and some of the cast will autograph it," she suggests.

5) Museum of Broadway

Book tickets to this fun, new attraction for before or after your Broadway performance. The Museum of Broadway is packed with famous costumes, props and other memorabilia from shows, including a retrospective of Broadway's longest-running show, Chicago . If you want to continue with the Broadway theme, have lunch or dinner at Gayle's Broadway Rose. The wait staff sings show tunes and the food is pretty good too!

6) Bryant Park

Bryant Park sits right outside the main branch of the New York Public Library, and its famous carousel only costs $4 to ride while the one in Central Park will set you back $10, noted one Good Housekeeping staff member. Depending on when you visit, you might run into jugglers or other entertainers in the park. From October to December, Bryant Park hosts a holiday market packed with fun food and handmade gifts for everyone on your list. And don't forget to pop into the library to see its amazing architecture. Tours are free, but space is limited, so be sure to register online .

7) Governors Island

Location: A five-minute ferry ride away from the bottom of Manhattan

"Governors Island is the best picnic spot ever!" raved a Good Housekeeping staffer who has a 7-year-old. You can also rent bikes, climb a huge man-made hill, swing in a hammock grove or play on gigantic slides. In the winter, Governors Island also offers ice skating.

8) Statue of Liberty

Location: Liberty Island

You have a handful of options for seeing Lady Liberty on your trip. If you're in lower Manhattan, hop on the free 24-hour Staten Island Ferry (you don't even need a ticket) and on the way to Staten Island, you'll pass right by the statue. You can turn right around and come back if you want — expect the total trip to be 60 to 90 minutes. Or you could combine a boat ride to see the statue with dinner and book a memorable trip with City Experiences . "It's really magical at sunset," said one of our testers. If you want to climb up the Statue, take a ferry from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan to Liberty Island. While you don't need an advance ticket to go inside the statue, you will need one to access the crown. Keep in mind that kids need to be at least 42 inches tall to visit the crown.

9) Greenacre Park

Location: Midtown Manhatten

A 25-foot waterfall in the middle of NYC? No way! Yes, it's real! "Almost always shady and cool, the park's cafe is a perfect place to grab a bite with the kids," says Beckman. You'll find this hidden gem at 51st Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues.

10) Harry Potter New York

Location: Flatiron District

Get a taste of the Wizarding World right in NYC! The Harry Potter store sells butterbeer, themed treats (chocolate frogs, here you come!) and tons of magical merch in a new-ish store near Madison Square Park. "We got our butter beer to go and drank it in the park," says an editor.

Nearby, you may also want to check out Eataly , an Italian marketplace with pizza, homemade pasta and gelato. If you're visiting on a weekend, stop by Chelsea Flea to check out the vintage clothes.

11) Major League Baseball Game

Location: The Bronx (Yankees) or Queens (Mets)

Take the kids out to the ballgame. At Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, kids can practice taking a swing at a mini baseball diamond behind the scoreboard in center field. Yankee Stadium also offers a play area for mini fans. Its Kids Clubhouse — filled with baseball-themed climbing structures — is located on the 300 level in centerfield. At both ballparks, you'll find some incredible food offerings like towering Grand Slam milkshakes at Yankee Stadium and fried chicken sandwiches that use glazed donuts as the bun at Citi Field.

12) The Elevated Acre

Location: Lower Manhattan

If you're walking around the Wall Street area with the kids (perhaps to see the 9/11 Memorial Museum) and need to find a quiet spot, head over to the Elevated Acre on 55 Water Street. Nestled on the terrace of a giant office building, it features a large lawn, amphitheater seating, a few winding tree-lined paths and spectacular views of the East River, Brooklyn and the Brooklyn Bridge. "You can easily miss it," warns Beckman. "There is a small sign but it’s quite inconspicuous, and the escalators don’t look like they are for public usage. Look for the outdoor escalators set back from the sidewalk."

13) American Museum of Natural History

Location: Upper West Side of Manhattan

Dinosaur fans may never want to leave this incredible museum, which recently won a 2023 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award . The dino exhibit, which takes up an entire hall on the fourth floor, features 100 specimens and is mesmerizing. The American Museum of Natural History still requires timed-entry reservations to visit; book the earliest slot for the best chance at seeing the dinos without a lot of crowds.

14) Todd Otterness Silver Towers Playground

Location: Hell's Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan

A sculpture actually doubles as a jungle gym at Todd Otterness Silver Towers Playground . Shaped like a seated human, it has slides for legs, seats for hands and arms that extend as climbing apparatuses. "It's a huge hit with kids as well as their art-loving parents," says Beckman. You'll find it on 41st Street between 11th and 12th Avenues; it's a great place to stop if you're walking back from the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum to Times Square.

15) Cornelia Street

Location: West Village

The Swifties in your family will want to walk by 23 Cornelia Street, a townhouse where the pop superstar lived in 2016, three years before releasing the song "Cornelia Street." Show your teen you're in the know by also suggesting you see Taylor Swift: Storyteller, an exhibit at the Museum of Arts and Design , running through September 4. Just hop on the 1 train from Christopher Street Station and you'll be there in about 15 minutes.

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The Family Vacation Guide

New York City Family Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting With Kids

posted by Charmaine Cortes on February 21, 2023 // last updated on February 28, 2023

Across the world, artists in different countries pay homage to their beloved cities in different ways—but none like New York City. With nearly nine million people within its borders, NYC is the most populous city in the world and boasts iconic spots including Times Square, the Hudson River, Central Park,  the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty. 

New York is the global center of entertainment, fashion, economics, and more. But even if it wasn’t, the city is worth at least one visit. 

Of course, you’ll be visiting NYC with kids, so that’s a bit stressful. Not to worry, our New York City family travel guide will help you have the best vacation ever.  

5 Reasons Why New York City Is the Perfect Family Vacation Destination

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With all the hustle and bustle in this city, you might be wondering whether a New York City vacation is really a good idea. Here are five reasons NYC is the perfect spot for your family vacation. 

Popular Landmarks

Numerous Hollywood movies have been shot in New York, so we’ve all grown up watching the city. Even so, it’s always a delight to see the city in real life. This delight extends to famous landmarks. 

Your kids will feel a similar excitement when they recognize the buildings and places. They’ll love the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Central Park, New York Public Library, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art. 

You’ll also recognize The Plaza Hotel from Home Alone, The Radio City Music Hall from the Godfather, and The Grand Central Terminal from The Avengers. The more you look around, the more places you’ll recognize. 

There are four fashion capitals in the world (formally called the Big Four), namely Milan, Paris, London, and New York. Given that information, it would be a waste to go back without purchasing something. Some may even say it’s impossible. 

The city has every brand you can think of. If you love branded designs, visit Fifth Avenue, Meatpacking District, Madison Avenue, and SoHo. However, if you’re not brand conscious, you’ll have a greater pool of choices.

New York’s Theater District has big-name theaters like Broadway, Apollo, Palace, Shubert, and St. James Theater. The city is home to multiple original productions, like The King and I, Oklahoma, Les Miserables, Hamlet, and more. 

If you can leave your kids at a daycare, visiting this district would make for an epic date night. Alternatively, you can look for family-friendly shows, like The Lion King, Wicked, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and Peter Pan Goes Wrong.  

History and Museums

Did you know New York was called New Amsterdam? The Dutch were the first settlers, but they lost it to the English, so it was named New York (after the Duke of York, the mission leader). The city has a long history, and it’s a melting point of cultures. 

You’ll find many historically significant sites and museums while here. If science is more your thing, you’ll find plenty of attractions like the New York Hall of Science and the Museum of the Earth. 

Art’s also a pretty big deal in the Big Apple. If you’re into that, you should go to museums like The Museum of Modern Art, Frick Collection, and Neue Galerie.

Although New York bears the moniker “concrete jungle,” the city still emphasizes greenery. Hence, there are several great parks spread throughout the city. 

Central Park is the largest and most well-known park in the city, so you can start there. After that, you can start exploring other locations like Bryant Park, The High Line, Prospect Park, and more. 

Spring and fall would be the best seasons to visit New York. The weather’s pleasant, and the crowds start ebbing away. Plus, it’s the off-season, so the prices are more reasonable. 

Of course, if you have school-going kids, you don’t have the luxury of choosing the time. In that case, we’d say to visit during the summer. However, you’ll probably have to wrestle with crowds and spend more money on accommodation.

Spring starts in March and lasts till June. The temperatures start in the fifties and go up to the seventies. The weather’s pleasant, and everything is nice and pretty. It’s neither too hot nor too cold, and rain is infrequent and is usually just a shower.

Springs fade into hot, crowded July summers. The season lasts till September, and the temperature starts in the mid-eighties but drops back to the high seventies as the season fades. However, the nights are pretty cool. 

Things start getting colder in fall and dip into the fifties by November. The fallen leaves look beautiful, even if clean-up is painful. Plus, the season doesn’t see that many tourists. 

Winter stays from December till March. The temperatures fluctuate between the thirties and forties. The weather remains cold, and you will see some snow. But the beautiful decorations, Christmas discounts, and Ball Drop can make it worth it. 

We’d say a week. Of course, you can hit the famous spots over one weekend, but it’ll feel more like a speedrun than a holiday. 

So, if you have the time, slow things down a bit. If you do, you can go deeper into the city and keep your itinerary more flexible. 

New York City is a major family vacation destination, so there’s something for everyone. It’s simply a matter of finding things you and your kids will enjoy. Here’s a list of places you can’t miss while you’re here:

Central Park

Central Park first opened its doors to the general public in 1958. The park is spread over nearly eight hundred and fifty acres and features many lawns, streams, lakes, a carousel, skating rinks, and more. 

This park features a zoo that’s home to over hundred and fifty different species, including snow leopards, red pandas, penguins, Japanese macaques, Californian sea lions, and more. The Tisch Children’s Zoo caters to kids and has feeding and petting areas. 

You can book guided tours to see everything including Central Park Zoo. Don’t forget to visit Belvedere Castle, Ancient Playground, Delacorte Musical Clock, and Victorian Gardens Amusement Park.

Madison Square Park 

Madison Square Park is a two-acre area on Madison Avenue. It features three lawns, a playground, and a dog park. This playground is called Police Officer Moira Ann Smith Playground after the female policewoman who lost her life in the 9/11 attacks. It features tire swings, water fountains, and other fun activities. Plus, it’s close to Shake Shack. You’ll also like the Reflecting Pool and the various monuments throughout the park. 

It’s easy to confuse Madison Square Park with Madison Square Garden. But the places are different. Madison Square Garden is an arena in Penn Plaza. The indoor arena hosts different events ranging from sports to music and family events. The name is similar to the park because they used to be located near each other. 

Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry is the only one for you to take a boat to Staten Island from Manhattan. You can enter the free Staten Island Ferry from the Whitehall terminal in Manhattan and get to the St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island. The boat will have snacks and bathrooms, so you don’t need to worry about being hungry or unable to urinate. 

Remember, you have to get off at the end of every trip. The service doesn’t permit a round trip. However, that’s okay since you can take time to explore Staten Island. 

The ride lasts twenty-five to thirty minutes, and you get breathtaking views of the city and Ellis Island. Try to schedule a visit during the non-peak hours for the best experience.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) may not sound like a very kid-friendly place, but it is. The museum has collected art pieces from around five thousand years and displayed them for all the world to see. Of course, that’s a lot of art; you’ll probably need to visit a few more times to see everything.  

The Met has its locations on Fifth Avenue and Margaret Corbin Drive. You can pick up an audio guide at the information desk. These are designed for kids and help them learn about the things they see.

Start your visit with the American Wing and then make your way to other wings like Ancient Egypt. We recommend exploring places the kids like, as this is a great learning experience. When you’ve had enough fun, you can have food at one of the seven on-site restaurants.  

Ellis Island

The Statue of Liberty may be on Liberty Island, but the ticket usually includes Ellis Island too. You can reserve tickets ahead or go to Battery Park to take the ferry and get a ticket there.

When you get to Liberty Island visitor center, grab the junior ranger booklet so you have a guide. When you get to the Statue of Liberty Museum, you’ll need to reserve access if you want to go up the statue. You can reserve different parts, like the pedestal or crown.

Once you get to Ellis Island, explore The National Immigration Museum. Here you’ll see the stories of immigrants and all they had to go through to come to America. 

Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center deserves a visit, especially if you’re there during winter. You can see the amazing lights and massive Christmas trees during the holiday season and enjoy skating on the rink. However, only one hundred and fifty people can go on at a time, so your family may have to wait a while.

Once you’re done with the winter fun, you can go up to the Top of the Rock to see magnificent views of the entire city. Other attractions include the Radio City Music Hall, NBC Studios, and Channel Gardens. 

Brooklyn Bridge Park

The Brooklyn Bridge Park is a waterfront park that spans eight-five acres near the East River. The park has six sections or piers and nine playgrounds equipped with swings, slides, water channels, and more. Kids generally favor Empire Fulton Ferry and Jane’s Carousel, so you might want to visit those first.

You can also catch a movie at the Harbor View Lawn. Alternatively, you can let the kids go roller skate or kayaking. Other activities include bird watching, fishing, and more. The park doesn’t impose an entrance fee, so you can go whenever. 

One World Trade Center

One World Trade Center has replaced the Twin Towers destroyed in the 9/11 attacks. The building is home to several restaurants and other places. However, that’s not why you’re here. 

Your focus is on the One World Observatory. The Observatory is on the top floor of the One World Trade Center. Once there, you’ll see complete views of New York City. It’s a fantastic place to walk around and see everything from a different perspective. 

However, the ticket lines can be long, so be ready to wait. If that’s not an option, you can get reservations, but you’ll still have to wait a little while. Another option is to get the Express Pass and cut through the line. 

FAO Schwarz

Yes, FAO Schwarz is in Rockefeller Center, but it’s so great we had to give it a separate place here. This iconic toy store has been in operation for over hundred and fifty years. You don’t just get to shop here. There are many interactive experiences meant to entertain the kids. 

Your kid can style their own barbie doll, design an Elmo Monster, or adopt an FAO Schwarz Baby Doll. You can even build your own racecar. Other attractions include a piano and more. 

Children’s Museum of Manhattan

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is on the Upper West Side. The kids will get a chance to learn about different cultures, history, and other topics through interactive exhibits. 

Exhibits focus on animals, art, water, voting, and more. Kids have to be supervised, and you can’t take food inside. 

A huge factor in the enjoyment of any vacation is the place you’ll stay . This is even more true when you’re having a family trip. You need to be comfortable and close to all the places you want to visit. It’s a little difficult to find kid-friendly places, so here are a few suggestions:

Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

You’ll find the Ritz-Carlton Central Park in Midtown Manhattan. The hotel is close to tourist attractions like the Natural History Museum, Rockefeller Center, and more. The luxury rooms and suites come with views of Central Park and the city.

Other room amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, soundproof windows, a minibar, a workspace, valet, and laundry services. Later, you can relax at the La Prairie Spa or break a sweat in the fitness center. You can also request room and limousine service.

The hotel is kid-friendly, and you can take advantage of the Ritz Kids offer to get a bunch of perks. These include cookies and milk turn-downs along with a special craft pass to CAMP. 

The Muse, New York

The Muse is also in Midtown Manhattan, so it’s near Broadway, Times Square, Rockefeller, and the nearby museums. Guests can access the on-site fitness center and a business lounge. 

They also offer valet parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry service, and a charging station for your electric car. The hotel is child-friendly and offers your kids a care package, including M&M stuff. Other kid-friendly offers include child-sized robes and help to connect you to nice babysitting services. 

The Peninsula New York, Midtown East

This luxury hotel may be expensive, but its facilities and kid-friendly options make it worth every penny. 

Guests can use the Peninsula Spa, Fitness Center, Hotel Indoor Pool, and Vu Hair New York. Additionally, you can request car service and ride around the city in a luxury BMW with a chauffeur. 

Kids get a welcome card and specialized amenities. Plus, if you book the Camp Peninsula package for them, they can get cozy inside the Camp Peninsula tent that the hotel will set up in the suite. They can also participate in a scavenger hunt. 

Loews Regency Hotel New York

You can find the Loews Regency Hotel on Park Avenue. It’s just a short walk away from attractions, like Central Park, Broadway, and Madison Avenue. The luxurious hotel offers an on-site fitness center, complimentary coffee, shoe shine, and Wi-Fi. 

Other services include babysitting, concierge, dry cleaning, room service, and parking. You can request complimentary cribs, baby bath kits, board games, toys, coloring books, and a PlayStation. The best part is you don’t need to pay for the kids if they’re under eighteen.

If you want to relax, you can do that too. Treat yourself at the Julien Farel Restore Salon & Spa. This spa offers massages, spa treatments, hairstyling and coloring, and nail services. 

The Rockaway

The Rockaway hotel is in Queens, but you get to stay near the beach. All the rooms are air-conditioned and non-smoking. The hotel offers housekeeping, laundry, and concierge services. There’s also a seasonally heated pool and snack bar. 

Other hotel perks include the spa, wellness classes, and a complimentary Orange Theory class. You can also visit the Winter Pool House, where you’ll have access to a sauna, outdoor heated pool, and lounge space. The hotel frequently rolls out family packages with activities for the kids, so check for those before you reserve anything. 

The average cost for mid-tier hotels in New York ranges from $200 to $250 per night. However, luxury hotels can charge up to $1000 per night. It all depends on the time of the season, amenities provided, luxury level, and location. Additionally, most hotels don’t include taxes in the quoted prices. 

New York City has loads of great food places, but are they kid-friendly? Your child will need a kid’s menu, a fun interior, and food that looks delicious. Here are a few places that we think would be an instant hit:

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que

This Harlem location has been serving good food since 2004. If you love smoked meat, this is the place to be. The menu includes BBQ pork ribs, chicken, and brisket. You’ll also see burgers, sandwiches, wings, salads, and more. The kid’s menu includes sliders, chicken wings, bbq and crispy chicken, mac & cheese, and fried rice. 

Harlem Shake

You can’t leave NYC without visiting Harlem Shake. The restaurant opened in 2013, but since then, it has gotten rave reviews from celebs and publications. The menu includes burgers, sandwiches, shakes, beer, soda, and some specials. The kid’s menu is simple, featuring grilled cheese, mini burgers, chicken tenders, and a few combos. 

Café Un Deux Trois

Located in the Theater District, Cafe Un Deux Trois has been functioning since 1977. This French café doesn’t have a separate kid’s menu, but the fare is simple enough, so the kids will like what they get. The menu changes according to the time of day, so keep that in mind before you go. 

Jackson Diner

Jackson Diner has been giving New Yorkers a taste of Indian cuisine for over thirty-five years. The food is so good that they’ve served various big shots like Hillary Clinton, Harrison Ford, and Sylvester Stallone. The menu includes tandoori meat, curries, soups, salads, biryani, bread, and more. 

Benihana is a Japanese restaurant chain. You get a personal chef that cooks the food in front of you while indulging in some theatrics. The kids will love the experience and can order from a separate kid’s menu.

If you’re coming to town for a longer period, you’ll definitely want to check out some nearby places. Here are a few places you can enjoy with your family. 

Riverhead is almost two hours away from NYC. It’s a small town on Long Island but offers its visitors plenty of experiences.

You can start sightseeing at the Long Island Aquarium. The aquarium houses sting rays, sea lions, turtles, sharks, penguins, and otters, among other animals. 

If you want to go to an indoor attraction, we recommend The All-Star and Safari Adventure. Kids can see how farms work at Garden of Eve and Hallockville Museum Farm. Other attractions include the Railroad Museum of Long Island, Riverhead Raceway, and Martha Clara Vineyards. 

Cold Spring

Cold Spring is in Putnam County, an hour and fifteen minutes from New York City. It is a quaint little village you can tour on the Cold Spring Trolley. Take the kids to Tiny Tots Park and relax while they play in the fenced space. 

You can take a canoe or kayak out on the Hudson River; just rent the equipment. The village also has several art galleries, such as the Buster Levi Gallery and Magazzino Italian Art. Walk along Main Street and see all the shops and places there. This village isn’t wild in any sense of the word, but it makes for a relaxing day. 

Cape May is a New Jersey city, just two and a half hours’ drive from New York. It’s famous for its beaches, and you’ll enjoy being at the resort. The city has sixteen beaches with popular ones, including Broadway and The Cove. 

You can hang out here, and the kids can make sandcastles, or you can go into the water and try swimming and surfing in the sea. Alternatively, you can go on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry to see the scenery and encounter a few dolphins. 

Other attractions include the County Zoo, Point State Park, Cape May Lighthouse, Jersey Shore Alpacas, and Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum. You can also go on a carriage ride through the city with the Cape May Carriage Company.

Norwalk is a city in Connecticut. It’s just over an hour away from New York City. Once there, you can start with the Sheffield Island Lighthouse Tour. This lighthouse has been there since 1868. Afterward, you can go to the Stepping Stones Museum for Children, where they’ll have fun with the interactive exhibits. 

You can also go to The Maritime Aquarium, Sono Fieldhouse, and New Canaan Nature Center. The Sono Fieldhouse offers multiple sports like lacrosse, soccer, baseball, hockey, baseball, and others. 

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is an hour and a half away from NYC.  We recommend starting your visit with the Franklin Institute, where kids can learn about science through interactive kid-centric exhibits. 

Later, you can visit the Please Touch Museum. This kid’s wonderland features Alice’s Wonderland and other exhibits. If your kids love animals, you must visit the Philadelphia Zoo and Adventure Aquarium.

The kids can have fun in Franklin Square, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, and Sesame Place. For a touch of history, visit the Independence National History Park to see how the Founding Fathers worked for our independence. If you want to witness a hint of magic, visit the Museum of Illusions and Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens.

New York City has an efficient public transit system, so you won’t need to rent a car. Here’s a brief overview:

Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)

The MTA regulates the transport system, which consists of buses and subways. You need a MetroCard to get on these. You can purchase this from the station via self-service machines or booth attendants. The card also works with the Roosevelt Island Tram.

New York has its characteristic yellow taxis. You can hail one if its number is illuminated. You can call a cab anywhere, but they’re expensive. Still, it beats getting on the subway when you’re dead on your feet. 

Other Methods

Other travel methods include using your car or getting a rental. You can also rent a bike or take the ferry, but those methods are limited. 

There are multiple methods to get to New York City. You can decide which one’s the best depending on your needs. 

If you’re flying in, you will land at one of these three airports; John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Once you land, you can go to your hotel by taxi or by public transport. 

There are two train stations in New York City; Grand Central Terminal and Penn Station. Depending on where you live, you can take one of the five rail services that function here. These include Amtrak, Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), Metro-North Railroad, NJ Transit, and PATH (Port Authority Trans Hudson). 

If you want to start the vacation with a road trip, you can use your car. Be sure to use Google Maps and keep snacks and toys for the young ones. If your children are too young, a long car trip might make them antsy so be prepared to take regular breaks.

New York City isn’t any more dangerous than other major cities. However, you need to be careful so you can be safe. 

• Hold hands with the kids, especially in crowded places.
• Make sure you get on the subway together and have a contingency plan for if you lose each other.
• Don’t engage with strangers.
• Teach your kids to approach the police if lost. 
• Be careful of pickpockets.
• Make sure your hotel is safe and leave your valuables there. 
• Stick to well-lit, crowded areas.
• Be careful on the subway. Ensure the kids stay away from the tracks and don’t lose them in the crowd.

New York City is a popular family vacation spot. It’s a big city, and one short vacation isn’t enough to do or see everything. Prioritize what you want and try to check off the important stuff first. However, since you’re traveling with kids, you can’t be too strict with your itinerary. If things don’t go strictly to plan, don’t worry too much, and try to enjoy the vacation. You can always visit again.

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

America’s Best Cities of 2024

The numbers are in: new data reveals how u.s. cities stack up in resonance’s annual list of the best in the country..

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New York City took first place again in 2024.

Photo by Ryan DeBerardinis/Shutterstock

Many factors that make the biggest cities in the United States great places to visit—good weather, world-class museums, and quality restaurants—also make them great cities to live in. Resonance , a consultancy group in real estate, tourism, and economic development, considered these factors as well as user-generated data from social media to create a comprehensive ranking of the best cities in the United States for travelers and residents.

This year, for the ninth annual list, the organization has also partnered with Ipsos for “perception-based data,” according to Resonance Consultancy President and CEO Chris Fair. That means “exploring what a city offers versus how it is perceived by the broader population, says Ipsos Executive Vice President, Head of U.S. Corporate Reputation Jason McGrath. “By merging the top-of-mind destinations where people tell us they want to live, work, and visit with the rigorous evaluation of place that Resonance has been conducting for nearly a decade, we have created a more comprehensive evaluation of cities and can better advise destinations on how to strengthen their reputation,” he adds.

How the cities are ranked

To determine which cities would be considered for this list, Resonance looked at U.S. cities with populations of more than 500,000. Each city was ranked based on a combination of core statistics and user-generated data from the likes of Tripadvisor and Instagram. Everything comes together for its proprietary Place Power Score.

In previous years, cities were ranked in six categories (People, Place, Product, Programming, Promotion, and Prosperity) but in 2024 they’re ordered by three larger pillars: Livability, Lovability, and Prosperity. In addition to Resonance’s data, Ipsos surveyed 2,000 adults on these topics, asking three key questions:

Livability: What are the top three towns or cities you would most like to live in?

Lovability: What are the top three towns or cities you would most like to visit?

Prosperity: Which three towns or cities do you think offer the best job opportunities?

These are the best cities in the United States to live in and visit in 2024, according to Resonance and Ipsos.

New York’s endlessly fascinating neighborhoods, including Queens, are constantly transforming themselves.

Photo by Dolly Faibyshev

1. New York City

Highlighted rankings: Livability (1), Prosperity (1)

Why we love it: New York City has (once again) taken the top spot in Resonance’s annual rankings. Make no mistake: Being at the top for the past few years is no easy feat. But the Big Apple has proved its staying power with renovated airports, world-class hotels , and museums enticing people to see the city. Nowadays, there’s a lot to explore in NYC’s neighborhoods . Museums like the beloved Met and the Louis Armstrong House Museum in Queens have undergone renovations and expansions in recent years alongside the introduction of new destinations like the Bronx Children’s Museum, the Museum of Broadway, and the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center . Meanwhile, Central Park, the High Line, the Little Island —located on the Hudson near the Meatpacking District—and other outdoor spaces entice you to come outside to relax. Midtown Manhattan has also made a comeback with a revamped Tiffany’s, new hotels, and the opening of the Museum of Broadway. Getting here is even easier, too. As Resonance notes, Newark Liberty International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and John F. Kennedy International Airport all have new terminals.

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to New York.

Millennium Park is just one of Chicago’s many scenic outdoor spaces.

Photo by Thomas Barrat/Shutterstock

2. Chicago, Illinois

Highlighted rankings: Livability (2), Prosperity (3)

Why we love it: There’s plenty to celebrate in Chicago. The Resonance report notes its summer of world-class festivals, including Lollapalooza and the free Millennium Park Summer Music Series, as well as the 160 breweries. We love the city’s dining scene, with noteworthy restaurants including Venteux, a French brasserie from Michelin-starred chef Donald Young, and Bazaar Meat and Bar Mar under chef José Andrés. Live music has also fully bounced back post-pandemic. Check out the Salt Shed, based in a former factory warehouse, to get your fix.

We wouldn’t expect any less from a city that’s historically been able to thrive in the midst of adversity. More than 150 years ago, the Great Fire destroyed over 2,000 acres of central Chicago and left nearly 100,000 people without homes. But the city hasn’t let disaster define it; instead, it’s met obstacles with a resilience you need to see for yourself .

“Chicago sees itself, since the fire, as a city able to withstand whatever,” Shermann Dilla Thomas, a historian and lifelong resident who offers guided Chicago tours, told Afar . “It also makes us a city that doesn’t believe in small plans. After you get a blank canvas, the sky’s the limit.”

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Chicago.

The Hollywood sign turned 100 in 2023, but the city’s rank is as much about L.A.'s new openings and future events as its storied history.

Photo by Maks Urshov/Shutterstock

3. Los Angeles, California

Highlighted rankings: Prosperity (2), Lovability (3)

Why we love it: While Hollywood’s prowess is the most commonly associated aspect of Los Angeles, the city’s restaurant scene in all its richness and diversity is just as intertwined with L.A.'s identity. Vanguards like La Cha Cha Chá, Alma, and even LA Plaza Cocina (a museum and teaching kitchen that honors Mexico’s culinary heritage) offer outstanding dining experiences. Museums rank no. 2 only behind NYC, with the Broad, the Grand, and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures all well worth a visit.

Big events are heading this way, too. The city will host some 2026 FIFA World Cup games, the NBA All-Star Game that same year, and the Olympic Games in Summer 2028.

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Los Angeles.

The beachside location of Miami is hard to resist.

Photo by pisaphotography/Shutterstock

4. Miami, Florida

Highlighted rankings: Livability (3), Prosperity (11)

Why we love it: Miami has historically been a meeting point for the Americas, making it a no-brainer that it ranked high on the list. But in this city, diversity goes beyond nationality; the city’s allure for the LGBTQ community and ex–Silicon Valley techies gives it a sense of welcome that many people are embracing.

In 2023 Miami moved into the top 10 for the first time, and this year it jumps from sixth to fourth. While it could rest on its open-minded reputation and beachside location to draw people, the city is also putting in the work to stay relevant. A new Waldorf Astoria Hotel is set to open in 2027, the most prominent construction amid a raft of new development.

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Miami .

The Sphere is just the latest eye-opening attraction in a city known for them.

Photo by ByDroneVideos / Shutterstock

5. Las Vegas

Highlighted rankings: Livability (7), Prosperity (16)

Why we love it: Vegas—a new entry in the top 10—was ranked the second-most lovable city in America, so perhaps it’s not surprising it was visited by almost 41 million people in 2023. What happens here might stay here, but its reputation precedes it.

Those visitors have even more options for accommodation and entertainment than ever before, including the $4.3 billion Resorts World Las Vegas (comprising three hotels) and the hotly anticipated Fontainebleau, which is “the largest residential/hotel structure on the strip,” according to Resonance, and boasts a casual 36 restaurants. Oh yeah, and then there’s The Sphere . And, from 2028, there will be a high-speed train to Vegas from Rancho Cucamonga in the Los Angeles area.

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Las Vegas .

Afar’s original hometown, San Francisco is one of our favorite cities for obvious reasons.

Photo by Sand Crain/Unsplash

6. San Francisco, California

Highlighted rankings: Livability (4), Prosperity (6)

Why we love it: San Francisco has long drawn people and companies alike—Afar included—to the West Coast. Thanks to the Bay Area’s world-renowned universities like Stanford and UC Berkeley, San Francisco has one of the most educated and prosperous populations. While the city’s lack of affordable housing cannot be ignored, the migration of big companies to lower-taxed havens like Texas and Florida has produced a silver lining in lower house prices and rents .

As Resonance points out, “The city is rolling out the most daring bike and pedestrian infrastructure in America and unlocking the public space potential of places like the Presidio (featuring the new Presidio Tunnel Tops , a 14-acre park built over the Presidio Parkway highway tunnels).”

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to San Francisco.

Historical landmarks draw millions of tourists to Boston each year.

Photo by f11photo/Shutterstock

7. Boston, Massachusetts

Highlighted rankings: Prosperity (7), Lovability (9)

Why we love it: Boston is home to more than 75 institutions of higher learning—including Harvard and MIT—giving it the top spot in the University category and a high ranking in the Educational attainment category. But it’s not only students who come to Boston. As the oldest large city in America, it draws millions of tourists each year to see historical landmarks along the Freedom Trail , including the USS Constitution and the King’s Chapel .

The old city is getting some upgrades, including a 5,000-room increase in the next six years across planned hotels like the 1,055-room Omni Boston Hotel and the Raffles Boston. Things are also cooking in the entertainment realm, with Live Nation’s construction of MGM Music Hall at Fenway. This 5,000-seat concert hall, which opened in August 2022, extends the legendary ballpark to accommodate four new levels of event space.

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Boston .

In addition to its famous monuments, Washington, D.C.’s neighborhoods have become another major tourism draw for the capital.

Photo by Orhan Cam/Shutterstock

8. Washington, D.C.

Highlighted rankings: Prosperity (9), Lovability (10)

Why we love it: Unsurprisingly, the nation’s capital scores well for its many free museums, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture and other Smithsonian institutions like the National Air and Space Museum. In addition to all of its exhibitions are many neighborhoods worth exploring —Brookland, NoMa, Shaw, and the LGBTQ-friendly Logan Circle, to name a few—that show the city isn’t relying on its history to attract locals and visitors.

What makes D.C. a city worth visiting now is new developments—$9.6 billion of them, says Elliott Ferguson, president and CEO of Destination DC. “The city has added new hotels, museums, rooftops, Michelin-rated dining, and more for travelers to explore.”

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Washington, D.C.

The rooftop bar at the Thompson Seattle delivers some of the best views of Elliott Bay.

Thompson Seattle

9. Seattle, Washington

Highlighted rankings: Livability (5), Prosperity (13)

Why we love it: Off in the far-most corner of the Pacific Northwest, the pine-scented idyll of Seattle is one of the country’s best-kept secrets, with a high quality of life that comes from continued investment from big tech and (literally) greener pastures.

That commitment to sustainability makes it a big draw for tastemakers and creatives in various fields, many of whom spoke to Afar for our Great American Cities feature on Seattle .

Wondering what you’ll get when you arrive? Top-notch boating and hiking, food and drinks, theater and music, and—from next year—a fully opened walkable, bikable waterfront.

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Seattle .

Houston Heights—referred to by locals as the Heights—is one of the city’s earliest planned communities and a neighborhood favored by artists.

Photo courtesy of Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau

10. Houston, Texas

Highlighted rankings: Prosperity (5), Lovability (14)

Why we love it: “Austin may get the attention, but the promise of the Lone Star State drawing Californians and New Yorkers is quietly being fulfilled in Houston,” says Resonance. “In the past year, the metro population swelled above 7 million for the first time ever, and the city today is one of America’s most ethnically diverse, with more than 145 languages spoken at home.”

It’s easy to see why it’s so popular. For starters, the food is some of the best in the Lone Star state . Then there are the festivals, including film fests and Juneteenth bashes, and starting next year, the city will be home to the first Ismaili Center in the United States, a space “designed to embody a spirit of openness and dialogue.”

Plan your next trip with Afar’s Guide to Houston .

To see the full list of the 100 best cities in the United States, visit Worldsbestcities.com.

This article was originally published in 2020 and was updated in June 2024 to reflect new rankings.

This Tiny City In Minnesota Is Actually One Of The Best Antiquing Towns In America

By: Author Greyson Murphy

Posted on June 29, 2024

Hastings, Minnesota , a charming little city, might just be one of the best-kept secrets in America when it comes to antiquing.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly community, Hastings offers an unforgettable experience for those who appreciate the art of discovering treasures from the past.

As you wander through the streets lined with antique shops, you’ll find yourself transported to different eras, each with its own unique story to tell.

Want to learn more about why this tiny city is a must-visit for antique enthusiasts?

Start your journey in the heart of Hastings, where the historic downtown area beckons with its quaint shops and welcoming atmosphere.

The buildings themselves are like stepping back in time, with their well-preserved architecture and charming facades.

Each shop you enter feels like a portal to another world, filled with vintage furniture, rare collectibles, and unique trinkets that you won’t find anywhere else.

The shopkeepers are friendly and knowledgeable, always eager to share the history behind their treasures and help you find that perfect piece to add to your collection.

Among the many antique shops in Hastings, a few stand out for their exceptional selection and delightful ambiance.

Vintage Inspirations, for instance, is a local favorite that draws visitors from all over the region.

This spacious store is a treasure trove of antiques, offering everything from antique jewelry to vintage home decor.

The variety is astounding, and you could easily spend hours browsing through the carefully curated displays.

Whether you’re looking for a specific item or just enjoy the thrill of the hunt, Vintage Inspirations is a must-visit destination.

Another gem in Hastings is Second Street Antiques, a cozy shop with a warm, inviting atmosphere.

The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by the scent of aged wood and the sight of beautifully arranged antiques.

The shop is known for its impressive collection of vintage clothing, classic toys, and mid-century modern furniture.

Each item has been lovingly selected and displayed, making it easy to find something that catches your eye.

The owners are passionate about their collection and are always happy to share stories about the pieces they’ve acquired.

No trip to Hastings would be complete without a visit to the Dust Collector Antiques.

The quaint store is a paradise for antique lovers, with aisles upon aisles of fascinating items to explore.

From antique books and records to vintage kitchenware and retro gadgets, there’s something for everyone.

The friendly vendors are always willing to share their expertise and help you uncover hidden gems.

While the antique shops are certainly a highlight of Hastings, the city has much more to offer.

Take a stroll along the scenic Mississippi River, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and take in the natural beauty of the area.

The riverfront is a popular spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and even fishing.

If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or canoe and paddle along the river for a unique perspective of the city.

Related: Discover The Historic Minnesota Town Where Healing Mineral Waters Drew Crowds

Related: This Charming Small Town in Minnesota is Overflowing with Quirky Attractions for an Unforgettable Family Trip

Related: This Celebrated Small Town, Grand Marais in Minnesota, is Known as One of America’s Best for Its Small-Town Charm

Hastings is also home to several historic sites that provide a glimpse into the city’s past.

The LeDuc Historic Estate, for example, is a beautifully restored mansion that dates back to the 1860s.

The estate offers guided tours that take you through the elegantly furnished rooms and provide fascinating insights into the lives of the LeDuc family and the history of the area.

The grounds are equally stunning, with beautifully landscaped gardens that are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

For a taste of local culture, be sure to check out the Hastings Arts Center.

This vibrant community hub hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, concerts, and theater performances.

The center is a great place to experience the local arts scene and connect with the creative community in Hastings.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for something fun to do, the Hastings Arts Center is well worth a visit.

When it comes to dining, Hastings has a delightful array of options to satisfy any palate.

From cozy cafes to fine dining establishments, the city offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects its rich cultural heritage.

Many of the restaurants in Hastings pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each meal is fresh and flavorful.

Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or an elegant dinner, you’ll find plenty of delicious choices.

One standout dining spot is the Hastings Public House, a beloved local eatery known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and mouthwatering menu.

The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from classic American fare to more adventurous options.

The friendly staff and cozy ambiance make it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal after a day of antiquing.

Another popular choice is the Lock and Dam Eatery, which offers a fantastic selection of comfort food and boasts stunning views of the Mississippi River.

For those with a sweet tooth, a visit to the Spiral Brewery is a must.

This charming brewery offers a delightful selection of craft beers, many of which are inspired by the local history and culture.

The brewery also hosts regular events, including live music and trivia nights, making it a fun place to unwind and socialize.

Pair your drink with one of their delicious snacks, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a relaxing evening.

Hastings is not just a destination for antique lovers—it’s a city that welcomes everyone with open arms.

The friendly community, rich history, and scenic beauty make it a wonderful place to explore and create lasting memories.

Whether you’re a seasoned antique collector or just looking for a charming weekend getaway, Hastings has something special to offer.

Before planning your visit, be sure to check out Hastings’ website for the latest updates on events and attractions.

Use this map to find your way around and make the most of your trip.

Where: Hastings, MN 55033

So, what are you waiting for?

Why don’t you pack your bags and head to Hastings, Minnesota, to discover why this tiny city is one of the best antiquing towns in America?

Who knows what treasures you’ll find?

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USA TODAY 10Best

Wallet-friendly wonders: 10 best free attractions in the US

Best Free Attraction (2024) June 26, 2024

When you visit one of these 10 free attractions — selected by a panel of travel experts and voted by readers as the best in the U.S. — you can save big travel budget bucks for other things. Even though they come at no cost, in each case, you get way, way more than you pay for.

No. 10: Independence National Historical Park - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Enjoy a visit to Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, where you can learn about the history of the American Revolution and the nation's founding. It includes iconic landmarks, such as Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed, as well as the Liberty Bell.

No. 9: Freedom Trail - Boston, Massachusetts

Starting at the Boston Common, but easily picked up at any point along the way, the Freedom Trail offers historical insight into the city and its surroundings. Easy to hop on and off, the Freedom Trail weaves throughout the city and highlights some of Boston's most special places, including Park Street Church, the Old State House, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, and the USS Constitution.

No. 8: Great Smoky Mountains National Park - North Carolina and Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, and there are many free things to do within this massive, preserved space that spans the North Carolina-Tennessee border. Cades Cove is one of its most popular places to visit with its abundant wildlife and historical buildings. Biking and hiking trails lead to scenic marvels across the Smokies, and picnic pavilions and campsites can be found throughout much of the park.

No. 7: National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center - Columbus, Georgia

At the National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center, guests start their visit by walking through "The Last 100 Yards" exhibit that depicts significant battles throughout the Infantry's history. Beyond that, the Infantry's history is divided into galleries covering different eras, from the Revolutionary War through today. 

No. 6: JC Raulston Arboretum - Raleigh, North Carolina

The JC Raulston Arboretum welcomes visitors to come stroll through the grounds, learning about flora on display that's specifically adapted for use throughout the Southeast. Visitors can also take part in the many events and educational programming offered to explore more about gardening and plants. 

No. 5: Golden Gate Bridge - San Francisco, California

Easily recognizable to many people as the symbol of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge is a historically significant suspension bridge across the Golden Gate, the strait that connects the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. It’s between Golden Gate National Recreational Area and Golden Gate Park — both great for outdoors lovers — and no visit to the Golden City is complete without crossing the bridge.

No. 4: U.S. Mint Philadelphia - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

At the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia, visitors can learn the history of the nation's coins through a 45-minute, self-guided tour. During the tour, you can see the first coining press from 1792, meet Peter the Mint Eagle (a real bald eagle!), and watch the coining operations in progress. 

No. 3: Cape May County Park & Zoo - Cape May Court House, New Jersey

At Cape May County Park and Zoo, you can check out your favorite animals including giraffes, zebras, lemurs, and many more. Check out the zoo's calendar for a full schedule of year-round events to enhance your visit. Both admission and parking are free.

No. 2: TECO Manatee Viewing Center - Apollo Beach, Florida

Situated in Apollo Beach, Florida, the TECO Manatee Viewing Center is a protected marine sanctuary that offers visitors the rare opportunity to see manatees up close. You can also enjoy beautiful butterfly gardens, an impressive observation tower, a boardwalk, and walking trails. The park is open seasonally, from November to April.

No. 1: Loggerhead Marinelife Center - Juno Beach, Florida

Situated in Juno Beach, the Loggerhead Marinelife Center is focused on ocean and sea turtle conservation, and it’s free and open to the public each day. Since the goal is to rescue and return wildlife to their natural habitats, the number of resident sea turtles will vary when people visit. Additionally, there are plenty of other sea creatures to observe, and volunteers are helpful and willing to answer questions from visitors.

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The 17 best memorial day weekend getaways for 2024.

These destinations are great escapes for a long weekend trip.

Top Memorial Day Weekend Getaways

Getty Images

May is a great time to travel to many places in the U.S. and around world, thanks to sunny skies and pleasant temperatures. Memorial Day weekend might just be the opportunity you have been waiting for to take a much-needed vacation. Whether you're looking to spend this Memorial Day unwinding on a white sand beach or honoring fallen soldiers at big-city war memorials, these destinations offer the chance to enjoy the three-day weekend in style.

• Caribbean/Mexico

Cape May, New Jersey

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of tourist season in Cape May , and it's no surprise why. A quintessential summertime escape for many Americans, this historic seaside town boasts pleasant temperatures in the 70s come late spring. Cape May also played a significant role in military defense during World War II. Just keep in mind that traffic jams are common – especially during the busy season – so be sure to plan your drive accordingly.

Travelers will enjoy stretching out along Cape May's beaches, strolling through the Washington Street Mall and admiring well-preserved Victorian architecture adjacent to the shoreline. You can also visit Emlen Physick Estate – the town's only Victorian-era house museum – or see historic war planes at the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum.

Where to stay: You won't find chain hotels in Cape May, but you can stay at a darling bed-and-breakfast, a boutique hotel like The Virginia Hotel & Cottages or a rental cottage.

New York City

New York City is the perfect place for a last-minute, long-weekend trip – especially if you're car-free. Pack your walking shoes and plan to visit one world-class site after another on foot or by subway. Must-see attractions include the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, St. Patrick's Cathedral and – of course – Times Square. May is also one of New York's most pleasant times of year (if you don't mind a chance of rain). Expect daytime highs in the upper 60s, perfect for a stroll through Central Park or along the High Line.

Special Memorial Day events include the Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade and Fleet Week, when civilians can tour naval ships and meet members of the U.S. Navy, the Marine Corps and the U.S. Coast Guard. New York City beaches also open to the public on this weekend. When it's time to dine, you'll find an endless list of establishments, from historic bagel shops to under-the-radar delis to Michelin-starred restaurants.

Where to stay: You can find all kinds of lodging options in New York – just be sure to book early, as rates can get expensive. One top option is The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel in Manhattan.

Annapolis, Maryland

Travelers looking to pay tribute to military men and women this Memorial Day can do so in the waterfront city of Annapolis . Get outside to watch the Memorial Day Parade down Main Street, or stroll through the rest of Annapolis' historic downtown, where you're bound to see rows of American flags.

If you're looking for a bit more space to stretch out, head to Quiet Waters Park. Spanning 340 acres, the park is ideal for biking, kayaking, picnicking or simply admiring panoramic views of the South River in late May's pleasant temperatures (high 70s to 80s). Bicycle and boat rentals are available on-site and nearby. When hunger strikes, head to Boatyard Bar & Grill or Carrol's Creek Cafe for delicious seafood.

Where to stay: Accommodation options in Annapolis range from modern outposts like Graduate Annapolis to picturesque bed-and-breakfasts to vacation rentals downtown or near the water.

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Ring in the start of summer on the shores of Rehoboth Beach . Calm waters and temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s make this Delaware beach town a great kid-friendly option, and travelers of all ages will enjoy walking down the mile-long boardwalk filled with restaurants and shops.

When you're not sunbathing on the sand or relaxing on the balcony of your vacation rental or hotel room, head to Cape Henlopen State Park to fish, hike and bird-watch. The Funland amusement park is another staple in the area that opens for the season in May, and some shopping at Tanger Outlets is a must when you need a break from outdoor activities.

Where to stay: The Avenue Inn and Spa , located a block from the beach and boardwalk, is a top lodging option in Rehoboth Beach.

Washington, D.C.

When it comes to celebrating the true reason behind Memorial Day, nowhere is quite as patriotic as Washington, D.C. Honor military personnel with a visit to Arlington National Cemetery, where more than 400,000 fallen soldiers and veterans (plus their family members) are buried. On the National Mall, wander along the long granite wall of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to read the names of more than 58,000 Americans who died during the Vietnam War. Then, head to the World War II Memorial to pay tribute to those who perished on the battlefields. Average May temperatures in the nation's capital tend to sit in the mid-70s to mid-80s.

Where to stay: After a long day of exploring, head back to a luxury hotel – a great option is The Hay-Adams – or more budget-friendly Airbnb.

Austin, Texas

Visit the Lone Star State for an authentic Memorial Day weekend experience, complete with mouthwatering Texas barbecue, temperatures in the 80s and 90s, and plenty of time spent enjoying the great outdoors. Austin offers something for everyone, from kayaking in Zilker Metropolitan Park (rental boats are available on-site) to learning about the state's history at the Texas Capitol in central Austin. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake is another beloved natural area where travelers and locals alike can explore quiet trails and picnic along the edge of the water.

Where to stay: Bed down at a hotel like The Driskill , an Airbnb or even a campsite in nearby Texas Hill Country.

Charleston, South Carolina

Cobblestone streets, centuries-old oak trees and historic architecture make Charleston a charming getaway year-round. But visiting during Memorial Day weekend means you'll see the city at its best (albeit usually its busiest) before the oppressive summer heat sets in. Average May temperatures sit in the 70s and 80s, rain is minimal, and colorful gardens are in full bloom.

Learn about the history of the city as you cruise through the Charleston Harbor on a boat tour , or admire the flora and fauna of Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. If your holiday weekend experience won't be complete without a beach trip, head to nearby Folly Beach (a little more than 10 miles south of the city) or Sullivan's Island (less than 10 miles southeast) for a day.

Where to stay: Retire for the evening at a luxurious hotel , such as The Spectator Hotel, or stay in one of many quaint vacation rentals to save some cash.

Big Bear Lake, California

By late May, travelers can typically bid farewell to snowfall in Big Bear Lake and say hello to pleasant temperatures in the low 70s. Located in the San Bernardino National Forest in Southern California, about 80 miles northwest of Palm Springs, laid-back Big Bear Lake separates itself from typical long-weekend beach destinations with its endless outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and paddleboarding. Canoes, kayaks and other equipment rentals are available from a bevy of local sports shops dispersed throughout Big Bear Lake. Although there are a few small swimming beaches on the lake, including Meadow Park, keep in mind that the water is fairly chilly year-round.

Where to stay: When it comes to lodging, take your pick from multiple resorts, inns, vacation homes, cabins and lodges. One top option downtown is Sierra Blue Hotel & Swim Club. If you plan to travel with your pet , Big Bear Lakefront Cabins offers pet-friendly cabins with amenities like hot tubs and swimming pools overlooking the lake or lush mountains.

Celebrate Memorial Day weekend in Denver to enjoy the city's 70-degree weather, as long as you're willing to put up with a little rain (May is typically the city's wettest month, seeing about 2 inches of rainfall on average). Travelers can wander through the Denver Botanic Gardens or explore Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, a naturally formed outdoor venue with on-site hiking trails. If you're looking for a great place to bring kids, head to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, which boasts exhibits about animals, mummies and outer space, all in one venue.

Where to stay: As far as lodging goes, vacationers will have their pick of swanky options such as The Oxford Hotel and airy rental lofts in the heart of downtown.

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Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Though temperatures are typically still creeping their way into the mid-60s come Memorial Day, visiting Jackson Hole during this shoulder season promises exceptional wildlife-viewing opportunities (think: eagles, bison and moose), cheaper hotel rates and fewer crowds to contend with. Spring also signals the reopening of many park roadways in the nearby Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, as well as the start of whitewater rafting season. Granite Hot Springs Pool reopens for the summer season in late May, so travelers can plan on taking a dip in the steamy 93-degree thermal pool after a fun day of hiking and exploring.

Where to stay: Opt for a rustic cabin to fully embrace Jackson Hole's changing seasons in the wilderness, or pump up the opulence with a stay at a luxury resort such as Rustic Inn Creekside Resort & Spa at Jackson Hole .

Kick off the unofficial start of summer with a trip to Sin City. For an adults-only getaway, travelers can hit the slots, party the night away at a high-energy nightclub or live music venue, and enjoy a few cocktails under the sun at one of Las Vegas ' rowdy pool parties. Late May temperatures typically feature highs in the 90s and lows in the 60s.

Beyond walking around the Strip, popular things to do include visiting the Sphere (a unique new attraction opened in 2023) and taking day trips to more family-friendly outdoor destinations, such as the Grand Canyon , the Hoover Dam and Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. You can also consider a Las Vegas tour ; fun options range from open-top nighttime bus tours around the city to scenic helicopter rides to food tours sampling a variety of treats.

Where to stay: You can't go wrong with any of the city's iconic resorts or themed hotels if you're looking for the full Vegas experience. Still, some properties, such as the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas , offer a little more tranquility than others.

Palm Springs, California

Trendy, colorful Palm Springs is an ideal spot for a Memorial Day weekend getaway. Springtime brings picturesque blooms of wildflowers, poppies and lilies, and visitors can enjoy popular attractions like the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway or The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. You'll also have plenty of time for a round at the golf course, boutique shopping in the El Paseo Shopping District, and mouthwatering meals and cocktails at top-notch eateries .

To honor fallen soldiers over the holiday weekend, head to the Palm Springs Air Museum for its annual Memorial Day Flower Drop. At this event, a vintage warbird plane drops more than 3,000 carnations to the crowds below. While you might avoid Palm Springs ' roasting summer temperatures above 100 degrees, you should still expect May highs in the 90s – so plan accordingly for a hike through Joshua Tree National Park or other outdoor activities.

Where to stay: Most of the city's eclectic hotels, inns and bungalows offer on-site pools to cool off in – and the highly rated Holiday House Palm Springs is no exception.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Plan a trip to Puerto Rico to enjoy the island's beaches and nature preserves, including El Yunque National Forest, and pencil in some time to take a stroll through colorful, picturesque Old San Juan. If you'd like to sink your toes in the sand, head to Condado Beach or Ocean Park Beach to bask in May's 80-degree temps.

You'll also have your pick of historic sites to peruse as well: Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal are two acclaimed forts that feature dungeons, tunnels and original cannons. When night falls, San Juan comes alive with pulsing nightclubs, bars and dance venues. A bonus: Americans do not need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico.

Where to stay: Lodging options here include a variety of hotels located either on or near the ocean, such as Condado Vanderbilt Hotel . You'll also find an array of modern, well-equipped vacation rentals with pools, city views and other amenities.

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Head to St. Thomas for the feel of an international vacation with the ease of domestic travel (Americans don't need a passport to visit this U.S. territory). Though it's not the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands , St. Thomas is arguably the most popular of the three main islands. Since the major tourist season is from December to March, you may find discounted hotel rates and fewer crowds in May without sacrificing enjoyable temperatures in the 70s and 80s.

Traveler-favorite activities include swimming and snorkeling at Magens Bay and Coki Beach, plus shopping and strolling along duty-free Main Street. For panoramic views of nearby islands – including Puerto Rico, on a clear day – take a tram ride up to Paradise Point with your camera or smartphone in hand.

Where to stay: Marriott's Frenchman's Cove is a top lodging option in St. Thomas, complete with an infinity-edge pool and a waterslide.

Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Leave your worries behind with a relaxing long weekend in Ocho Rios, Jamaica . Popular things to do include exploring Dunn's River Falls and Park, relaxing on Ocho Rios Bay Beach, taking a sunset cruise and snorkeling in the clear Caribbean waters, among other activities. Travelers can expect temperatures in the 80s and plenty of sea breeze.

Where to stay: This Caribbean hot spot offers plenty of accommodation options, including hotels , villas and all-inclusive resorts – some of which are adults-only , like Sandals Ochi Beach Resort .

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

In May, the Caribbean paradise of Turks & Caicos offers highs in the mid-80s. Although this month might bring the occasional rain shower, hotel rates and dissipating crowds during this shoulder season make Memorial Day weekend a great time to visit. Vacationers can check out the tourist hot spot of Providenciales (known as Provo) to enjoy snorkeling and fishing. Provo is home to gorgeous white sand beaches, including Grace Bay Beach, and it's a great spot for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

Where to stay: Stay at a resort like Seven Stars Resort & Spa to take advantage of abundant amenities, or opt for a villa rental near the beach for more privacy.

Tulum, Mexico

With its white sand beaches, Instagram-worthy boutique hotels and average May temperatures in the 80s, Tulum is a paradise worth visiting. Spend your days sunbathing at Playa Paraíso, exploring the Mayan ruins or swimming in El Gran Cenote.

Where to stay: You can find a number of highly rated accommodations in Tulum if you're looking for a pampering trip – consider Ahau Tulum , for example. The town's scenic Airbnbs are a great choice as well: In fact, many vacation rentals here offer private pools and Jacuzzis, plus tons of greenery and cozy outdoor lounge chairs for a relaxing and rejuvenating weekend stay.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Nicola Wood is a senior travel editor who always welcomes a three-day weekend. She has taken short trips to several of the destinations on this list, and many of the others are on her travel bucket list for future Memorial Day weekend vacations. Wood used her research skills and personal travel experience to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Presidents Day Weekend Getaways
• The Best Places to Go for the Fourth of July
• The Best Bed & Breakfasts Rankings
• The Best Places to Visit in May
• The Best Beach Wagons

Tags: Travel , Memorial Day , Vacation Ideas , Weekend Getaways

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