Here Are 14 Travel Destinations Across The U.S. The Entire Family Will Love
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Beth
Author
Let’s face it: planning a family vacation can be a bit daunting. Fortunately, there are loads of travel destinations across the U.S. that travelers of all ages will enjoy. From natural wonders to beachfront towns, amusement parks, and more, we’ve scouted out some of the best family-friendly travel destinations in the U.S. So whether you’re planning a summer road trip, family summer vacation, or simply a quick day trip, you’ll agree that the following list of travel destinations has something for everyone. And, to make your planning even easier, we’ve organized by region.
Northeast
1. Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor, ME, USA
Bar Harbor, Maine is often considered the gateway to Acadia National Park. Whether your family enjoys a rugged outdoor experience or checking out the local dining scene, you won't be disappointed by this oh-so-charming community on Mount Desert Island. Wondering what to do with kids at Acadia National Park? The NPS offers a Junior Ranger Program for the little ones in your crew to become certified explorers. They'll even earn a badge! Some of the best trails include the Wonderland Trail or the Jesup Path and Hemlock Road Route. Prefer to stay in town? We'd recommend checking out the Volta Climbing Gym or the Naturalist's Notebook.
2. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
It's hard to imagine a more quintessential beach town than Cape Cod, especially during the summertime. Gather your crew and head to the Cape Cod National Seashore, which includes 40 miles of coastline, lighthouses, ponds, and even cranberry bogs. Looking for something a bit different? Don't miss the Cape Cod Central Railroad, which offers fun-filled passenger rides. And, for rainy day fun, head on over to the Shark Center Chatham for hands-on exhibits or the Whydah Pirate Museum. For an incredible place to stay, check out this oceanfront beach home in Sandwich, MA.
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3. Hershey, Pennsylvania
Hersheypark, 100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
When it comes to underrated family vacation spots in the U.S., Hershey, PA is certainly a contender. Visitors of all ages will love the chance to visit the world-class roller coasters at Hersheypark, plus the town's zoo, resorts, concerts, and amazing restaurants. Oh, and it doesn't hurt that this area has been designated The Sweetest Place On Earth. Candy and chocolate enthusiasts, take note!
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Midwest
4. Branson, Missouri
Branson, MO 65616, USA
If you're planning a trip to Branson, Missouri, you'll be thrilled to discover there really is something for every kind of vacationer to enjoy. Do you love fishing? Table Rock Lake promises loads of big bass. Looking for an adrenaline rush? Silver Dollar City won't disappoint with its thrilling rides. Do your kids love a little competition? Challenge the family to a few go-kart races, and then top it all off with a shopping trip downtown. You'll also want to see which live music shows are making their way to town, as Branson is known as America's Top Live Music Show Destination.
5. Wisconsin Dells
Wisconsin Dells, WI, USA
With its rugged natural beauty and world-class waterparks, Wisconsin Dells makes for an obvious Midwest destination. Some of the best things to do with kids in Wisconsin Dells include the Rick Wilcox Magic Theater, Noah's Ark Water Park, Wisconsin Deer Park, Witches Gulch, Timbavati Wildlife Park, and the Kalahari Indoor Waterpark for a rainy day. Looking for more off-the-beaten-path adventures? We'd recommend Lost Canyon Horse Tours for a guided trek through the longest and deepest canyon in the state.
6. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago, IL, USA
Chicago, Illinois may not be top of mind when you think of family-friendly travel destinations in the U.S., yet you'd be remiss to pass up a trip to the Windy City with your family. Some must-see spots that will entertain all ages include the Lincoln Park Zoo, Navy Pier, Shedd Aquarium, the Chicago Children's Museum, Grant Park State Park, and the American Girl Place. And don't forget to top it all off with a deep-dish pizza from Coalfire!
South
7. Gulf Shores, Alabama
Orange Beach, AL, USA
If you're craving some quality time at the beach, look no further than Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. From natural wonders to pristine coastline and crystal-clear water, there's no shortage of ways to experience this remarkable region of the U.S. Looking for something especially memorable? You can take a sandcastle-building lesson from the experts from Sand Castle University -- how cool is that? Other must-see attractions include the Wharf's Ferris Wheel, Gulf State Park, Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, Historic Fort Morgan, Lake Shelby, and the Track Family Fun Park. Trust us when we say you'll want to spend at least a week exploring all that Gulf Shores has to offer.
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8. Orlando, Florida
Orlando, FL, USA
When it comes to memorable U.S. destinations with the family, it just doesn't get much better than Orlando. In fact, you might call Orlando the family adventure capital of the country. From Walt Disney World to Universal Studios, Gatorland, ICON Park, and LEGOLAND, there are endless places to let your imagination run wild. Prefer to avoid the crowds? No problem! Orlando offers plenty of hidden gems, too. Some of these activities include riding the SunRail, spending the afternoon at IKEA's Smaland, Astro Skate Family Fun Center, berry picking at Southern Hill Farms, or visiting Leu Gardens.
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9. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
The mountains? Check. Breathtaking waterfalls? Check. Aquariums, roller coasters, and cabin rentals? Check, check, check! It's truly no wonder that Gatlinburg, TN is one of the best places to take a family vacation. Take in the views when you visit Anakeesta, which includes an incredible treetop skywalk and observation tower. Then, for a real adventure, head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is home to over 100 waterfalls and no fewer than 150 hiking trails. Then, if you're in need of an indoor activity, Ripley's Aquarium promises to impress everyone in your crew.
10. Cape Charles, Virginia
Cape Charles, VA 23310, USA
For families seeking a low-key, under-the-radar vacation destination, Cape Charles is a great answer. This beautiful beach community on the southern tip of Virginia's Eastern Shore is a bit remote, but you'll feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Ride a golf cart around town, go shopping on Mason Avenue, rent jet skis on the Chesapeake Bay from Poseidon Watersports, and check out the offerings from one of the many Little Free Libraries hidden around town. Oh, and don't forget to load up on fresh seafood while you're at it!
Southwest
11. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Grand Canyon, Arizona 86052, USA
The Grand Canyon is understandably one of the most visit-worthy destinations in the U.S., and it also happens to be a wonderful place to bring the family. For a relatively easy outdoor adventure, families can bike the paved Greenway portion of the Rim Trail between the South Kaibab Trailhead and the Grand Canyon Visitor Center (approximately 5 miles each way). For hiking options, we'd recommend the Bright Angel Trail, which is wide and less intense than other hikes descending below the South Rim. That being said, hiking in the park should be avoided during the hottest part of the day. Looking for a little shade? Head indoors to the Yavapai Geology Museum, where educational and interactive displays help visitors learn about the history and geology of the area. Lastly, be sure to snap a family photo at Shoshone Point, a breathtaking overlook of the South Rim which is reachable via a mile-long dirt road.
12. San Diego, California
San Diego, CA, USA
San Diego has so much to offer in the way of family-friendly attractions, that the options may be overwhelming! If it's your first visit, you'll definitely want to make time for the 100-acre San Diego Zoo, home to 12,000 unique and endangered species. Other popular attractions include the Balboa Park Carousel, SeaWorld, Plunge San Diego, Fleet Science Center, Belmont Park, Oma's Family Farm, LEGOLAND, La Jolla Cove, and the San Diego Botanic Garden. Wondering where to eat? Piper is a great family-friendly restaurant located at Seabird Resort. We hear the house-made pasta is a must!
Northwest
13. Lake Tahoe, Northern California
Lake Tahoe, United States
If your family is looking to embrace the great outdoors, Lake Tahoe promises to delight. Pack your hiking shoes and enjoy family-friendly trails such as Rabe Meadows (a 1.5-mile paved trail) or Eagle Rock Trail (0.7 miles). Next, head to Van Sickle Bi-State Park where you can be at two places at once! Or at least, the border of Nevada and California. Once you've worked up an appetite, head to Base Camp Pizza Co. to fill up on some delicious pie.
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14. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA
Last, but certainly not least, we arrive at Yellowstone National Park, one of the most epic destinations in the U.S. When it comes to fun things to do at Yellowstone with kids, you'll find no shortage of options. Some fun-filled ideas include the Junior Ranger Program, seeing Lone Star Geyser by bike, viewing Old Faithful, hiking Trout Lake, and checking out Yellowstone General Store, which serves up some delicious root beer floats. Top it all off with a night under the stars in the Yellowstone backcountry. If you do plan on visiting the park with young kids, be sure to review all the safety regulations of the park, which include staying a safe distance away from wildlife and refraining from touching any of the springs or geysers.
Well, there you have it: some of the most family-friendly destinations in the U.S. How many of these bucket-list-worthy U.S. adventures have you enjoyed? Feel free to share them with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! And, don’t forget to check out our ultimate hiking packing list before embarking on your next great adventure.
For more awe-inspiring U.S. travel ideas, check out our list of the 24 hidden gems you’ll want to explore this year:
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