Top 10 Family Vacation Spots

Taking a family vacation is a great way to ensure that the family can decompress and enjoy their time together. There are hundreds of popular vacation spots around the world, but some are visited far more frequently than others.

Family vacations are a vacation class of their own, and their careful planning is important, so the whole family can find activities they enjoy. Family vacations are a tradition that many families enjoy together for decades, and keeping things fresh and new is important, so the family isn’t burned out on going to the same places every time. The top family vacation spots are often the best for activities for adults and kids alike, and the top 10 family vacation spots certainly have their share of fun things to do. Whether it’s a beach vacation or a trip to the US/Canadian border, the top family vacation spots are sure to please the whole family.

What To Look For

When choosing the best family vacation spots, there are a few things to consider. One of the most important things is whether there are sufficient activities to keep everyone entertained for the duration of the trip. Also find out if there are age-appropriate activities for everyone in your group. There are few things less enjoyable than a petulant teenager with nothing to do during a long trip away from friends. That’s why it’s important that kids are well entertained during their trip. Museums, aquariums, or even just lazing by the beach are all great ways to help them enjoy their trip. Unless the trip is supposed to be a surprise, let them help you pick the destination and the activities that the family will enjoy. Young kids and teenagers always like to feel that they’re part of the process, even if their say is limited.

Destinations

When considering family vacation spots, there is more to consider than activities. Find out if there large crowds are likely during the time you intend to travel. That way, you’ll know what preparations to make, including reservations for dinner or shows. Some destinations are busy year round, so always consider this when planning your trip. Typically, beach destinations are popular during the fringes of summer, when it’s not as hot. Colder climates, such as Niagara Falls, are the most popular during the summer and around New Year’s.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the most popular destinations for family vacations. Because it’s educational, has great food, and the lodging is high quality, many families choose Niagara Falls for their summer vacations. It doesn’t get terribly hot during the summer season, so guests can enjoy a more temperate climate while taking advantage of the amenities in the area. The resort location at the Falls receives more than 25 million visitors per year. There are casinos in Niagara Falls, and the Falls themselves are beautifully lit after dark by multi-colored floodlights from the Canadian side of the border.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is one of the top vacation destinations in the world. While primarily popular with American tourists, European and Asian tourists frequent the resort area, as well, due in large part to the exceptional golf courses in the area. Myrtle Beach has been popular for decades, and it is one of the original homes of “beach music,” a musical genre that many people overlook in the history of the area. Bands still hold regular dances to celebrate the area’s beach music heritage, and they’re fun for the whole family – even if a teenager won’t admit it.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach sees millions of tourists each year, though it’s significantly less crowded than Myrtle Beach or Daytona. The area has a quieter, more subdued atmosphere, though there is still plenty for the family to do. Day trips to theme parks such as Busch Gardens are a great way to spend time, as is a trip to historic Colonial Williamsburg.

Orlando – Walt Disney World

Of course, no family vacation list would be complete without a section on Walt Disney World. Called “The Happiest Place on Earth,” Disney World has been a popular vacation destination for more than 25 years. The area is home to both high-powered and exciting roller coasters, as well as all the educational experiences a parent could hope for. There are museums and international film festivals, as well as dining options that will please even the toughest critics.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is a popular educational destination for families. The unique geological and ecological features in the area allow parents to meld the rugged countryside into an educational vacation, while maintaining the fun with horseback riding, hiking, and other activities. The scenery is beautiful, and the area is readily accessible by car from most of the country.

Wisconsin Dells, WI

Most people have never heard of Wisconsin Dells, making it one of the most popular vacation destinations for those who don’t like crowds of other tourists. Wisconsin Dells is home to one of the largest water parks in the United States, and there is always something for the whole family to enjoy. Days spent at the water parks are complemented by nights camping under the stars or enjoying the exceptional local dining.

Washington, D.C.

Washington, DC remains one of the top family vacation spots because of the educational experiences and historical nature of the area. Families can visit the Capitol and check out the inner workings of the Legislative Branch of the government, as well as visit historical sites and monuments. The museums in the area are second to none, and the National Archives, which includes documents such as the Declaration of Independence, are a must-see.

Carlsbad Caverns

Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico is a great place for families to enjoy a short vacation. With 28 miles of mapped caverns and countless others that remain unexplored, Carlsbad Caverns is one of the most extensive cave systems in the world. The museums and geological history in the area have to be seen to be believed, and families will always be able to find something to do. Families can go from Carlsbad to Roswell, New Mexico, one of the hotbeds of UFO lore, and then on to Vegas, where adults and children can enjoy the shows and activities at all hours of the day and night.

Caribbean Cruises

While not a specific destination, a Caribbean cruise is a great way to introduce kids to traveling. Because there is always something new to see, kids will never get bored, and the cruise line excels at providing activities for cruisers of all ages. The cruise lines visit several different ports, and parents won’t have to worry about leaving their children alone to find their own way around. The kids always have new things to try, and adults can enjoy the casinos while kids find their own ways of having fun.

Hershey

Kids love to eat candy, but they’ll love the city of Hershey, Pennsylvania even more. The theme parks and the candy factory tours will keep kids and adults entertained for hours, where the entire city is themed around the famous candy company.