45 best family vacation spots of 2024 + how to pack

Published Date: February 23, 2024

A family of four walk along the beach at one of the best family vacation spots.
Looking for the perfect place to unplug with your family? Look no further — we’ve curated a list of the 45 best family vacation spots in the U.S. From waterside destinations to urban jungles, browse our list of family vacation ideas. We’ve ranked the destinations in each category by region and family-friendliness.

Best family vacation spots on the water

It’s hard to beat a vacation as relaxing as lounging at a beach house or lakefront cabin. Get ready to soak up some vitamin D.
A map of the United States identifies the best family vacation spots.
To that end, the best family vacation spots on the water all have excellent shoreline access along with a variety of family-friendly activities.

1. San Diego, California

Top attraction: San Diego ZooSan Diego is known for its amazing year-round weather, consistently putting it near the top of the list for vacation ideas. Take advantage of the temperate climate by filling your days with outdoor activities. Visit LEGOLAND or Belmont Park for amusement park attractions right on the beach. Balboa Park is home to 17 museums and performing arts venues, multiple gardens perfect for picnics and the the world-renowned San Diego Zoo. And there’s more for animal lovers: Check out the Birch Aquarium, SeaWorld or a whale-watching cruise.

2. Branson, Missouri

Top attraction: Ozark MountainsBilled itself as the live entertainment capital of the world, Branson is packed with options, from comedy and music to magic and dance performances. Visit the 1880s theme park Silver Dollar City to enjoyr a hundred acres of roller coasters, water rides and campgrounds. Get a one-of-a-kind view of the Ozark Mountains by taking the family on a 150-foot-high ride on the Branson Ferris Wheel. To make this 15-minute ride even more appealing, children under 3 years old ride for free. 

3. Outer Banks, North Carolina

Top attraction: The North Carolina AquariumsIf you’re looking for a good mix of simplicity and entertainment in your family vacation destination, you’ll find it in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The Outer Banks has over 100 miles of beaches without the congestion of most seaside destinations. Although the beaches are the primary attraction, there are plenty of other activities to explore. With four locations, the North Carolina Aquariums offer interactive exhibits with animals like manta rays and horseshoe crabs. Your kids can also participate in a scavenger hunt at The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum or experience what life was like in the 1850s at the Island Farm.

4. Orlando, Florida

Top attraction: Walt Disney World ResortOrlando stands out as one of the top family vacation spots, offering an enchanting blend of world-class attractions and magical experiences for visitors of all ages. At the heart of Orlando's allure is Walt Disney World Resort, a sprawling complex that transports families into a realm of fantasy and adventure. With iconic theme parks like Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom, families can immerse themselves in a captivating world of beloved characters, thrilling rides and enchanting performances. Universal Studios is another Orlando highlight, with rides, shows and experiences inspired by popular movies and franchises. 

5. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Top attraction: Cape Cod National SeashoreCape Cod is the quintessential New England beach destination. Known for its iconic lighthouses, pristine beaches and quaint coastal villages, Cape Cod provides a serene and family-friendly atmosphere. One of the major draws is the Cape Cod National Seashore, encompassing miles of pristine shoreline and dunes.
A marina at Cape Cod, Massachusetts, one of the best family vacation spots.
Beyond the beaches, historic towns such as Provincetown, Chatham and Hyannis exude charm with their cobblestone streets, art galleries and  seafood restaurants. Families can embark on whale-watching excursions from Provincetown, explore the Cape Cod Maritime Museum in Hyannis or take a scenic bike ride along the Cape Cod Rail Trail.

6. Destin, Florida

Top attraction: Destin Harbor BoardwalkDestin emerges as a top-notch family vacation destination thanks to its white-sand beaches, emerald-green waters and an abundance of family-friendly activities. The breathtaking beaches, such as Henderson Beach State Park and Crystal Sands Beach, offer the perfect place for building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball or simply soaking up the sun. For a break from the beach, families can explore the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, a bustling area lined with shops, restaurants and entertainment options. Additionally, the Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park offers a thrilling day of water slides, wave pools and mini-golf. 

7. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Top attraction: Bon Secour National Wildlife RefugeGulf Shores is a Gulf Coast gem that promises families a delightful blend of sun, sea and Southern hospitality. Boasting some of the most pristine white-sand beaches in the region, Gulf Shores provides the ideal setting for a relaxing family vacation. Gulf State Park, with its miles of trails, a fishing pier and a golf course, offers a diverse range of outdoor activities for families looking to explore the area's natural beauty. The area is not just about beaches; it's also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Families can visit the dunes and shoreline of Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, home to various bird species and sea turtles, offering an educational and immersive experience.

8. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Top attraction: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and PromenadeMyrtle Beach is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, with numerous resorts and hotels catering to their needs. The iconic Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade is at the heart of the action, lined with shops, arcades and amusement rides. Families can take a spin on the iconic SkyWheel for breathtaking views of the coastline or enjoy live performances at the Myrtle Beach Bandstand. For those seeking a break from the beach, Broadway at the Beach offers an entertainment complex with attractions like Ripley's Aquarium, mini-golf and shopping. Myrtle Waves Water Park provides thrilling water slides and lazy rivers.

9. Miami Beach, Florida

Top attraction: Jungle IslandMiami Beach is as rich in culture as it is in entertainment, making it one of the best family vacation spots. Experience scenic views along the 40-block boardwalk while you look for a beach spot to set up for the day. Miami Beach has many parks with amenities such as playgrounds, splash parks, volleyball courts and water activities like paddleboarding. If your family gets their fill of sand, check out the eco theme park Jungle Island, the Bass Museum of Art and Miami Beach Botanical Garden — each offering unique learning opportunities for the whole family. 

10. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Top attraction: Adventure CoveHilton Head is a lively island that offers ways to explore by land, air and sea. Take a guided helicopter tour, or rent a bicycle to discover hidden gems on your own. You can also take the family on the water to find the Hilton Head dolphins and sea turtles. Kids of all ages can experience the fun of Adventure Cove, offering mini-golf and arcade games. No trip to Hilton Head is complete without trying the local seafood, so make sure to sample the catch of the day at one of the island’s many restaurants.

11. Maui, Hawai’i

Top attraction: The Road to HanaWhether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, Maui can meet you wherever you please. Take a family zip line trip or snorkel in the Molokini Crater. End your day at an authentic luau experience with a delicious family-style meal.
A sandy beach on the island of Maui, one of the best family vacation spots.
Just because you’ll be on an island does not mean there aren’t options for a road trip. The Road to Hana is a day-long sightseeing tour that takes you to epic spots like the view from “Jurassic Park” at Keopuka Rock, a pit stop for shave ice and a walk through a bamboo forest on the Pipiwai Trail.

12. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Top attraction: Fort MackinacMackinac Island is stubbornly resistant to change, and that’s exactly what makes it one of the top places to go on vacation from late spring to late fall. This small island off the tip of Northern Michigan boasts no cars and no chain hotels, but being small doesn’t mean there’s not a lot to enjoy. Access the island by ferry and travel around by foot, bicycle or horse-drawn carriage. Stay at the historic Grand Hotel, which is consistently rated as one of the greatest hotels in the world. Treat your kids to Mackinac Island’s famous fudge before visiting Fort Mackinac to learn its history and see soldiers in period-appropriate uniforms firing live cannons.  

13. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Top attraction: Noah’s Ark WaterparkThis central Wisconsin city offers plenty of thrills for all ages — indoors and out. Book a stay in a resort with an attached waterpark for added convenience, or visit the largest outdoor waterpark in the country at Noah’s Ark.After your fingers have pruned, take a river tour on the amphibious WWII Duck boats or enjoy an amazing water skiing show. Don’t forget to stay energized with a hearty all-you-can-eat breakfast at Paul Bunyan’s Cook Shanty.   

14. Lake Tahoe, California

Top attraction: Cascade Falls Sometimes overshadowed by its winter mountain activities, Lake Tahoe has just as much to offer its water-loving summer visitors. A two-mile hike to Cascade Falls will give your family a breathtaking view of a 200-foot waterfall. Adventure seekers can climb across treetops using rope courses or zip lines.For a more leisurely excursion, spend your day on the lake and appreciate its stunning blue water. Rent a boat, kayak or paddleboard for different activity levels and experience. You’ll also have the option to take the whole family into the air with a hot air balloon ride over the lake. 

15. Sandusky, Ohio

Top attraction: Cedar PointSandusky is synonymous with its main attraction — Cedar Point — and they both sit right on the Lake Erie waterfront. Roller coaster enthusiasts travel from around the globe to experience the thrills of the Roller Coaster Capital of the World, which includes the oldest operating coaster in the world.If your family members aren’t crazy about roller coasters, it doesn’t mean they’ll have a lack of activities to enjoy while in Sandusky. There is also the option to go on a Lake Erie cruise, visit the merry-go-round museum or spend the day at one of Sandusky’s waterparks.

16. Finger Lakes, New York

Top attraction: The Strong National Museum of PlayThe Finger Lakes are known for pristine landscapes that afford visitors all the water activities one could hope for. The area is surrounded by multiple state parks with dozens of waterfalls. Many are accessible by trails that are easy to walk with your family.Outside of its own water and amusement parks, the Finger Lakes also has several museums that will keep your kids entertained. The Strong National Museum of Play is one of the largest history museums in the country and is home to the National Toy Hall of Fame and the World Video Game Hall of Fame.  

17. Chicago, Illinois 

Top attraction: Millennium ParkThe third-largest city in the United States is a hard spot to overlook when considering the best family vacation spots. With Chicago’s size comes many options for entertainment, including on its waterfront. It offers ample beaches along Lake Michigan and multiple river tours to learn about the city’s history. Millennium Park boasts nearly 25 acres of easily accessible gardens, events spaces and public art pieces — most notably “The Bean” which reflects the skyline and surrounding park. The world-class Art Institute of Chicago, Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium offer unique opportunities for your children to learn about the world (and space) around them.  And though the city gets cold in the winter, an autumn walk along Lake Michigan also makes the Windy City one of the best fall vacation destinations.

Best family vacation spots in the desert

If you want to avoid crowded beach towns while still getting as much sun as possible, the desert might be up your family’s alley.
A graphic shares the best family vacation spots in the desert.
Deserts feature wide-open spaces, picturesque photo opportunities and loads of outdoor activities. Just be sure to include plenty of sun protection on your packing list.

18. Sedona, Arizona

Top attraction: Red RocksThe best family vacation spots provide experiences that can’t be replicated anywhere else, and Sedona sets that bar. Get breathtaking views of Sedona’s famous red rocks from the comfort of a classic train car. There are multiple options based on your preferred level of comfort — one even includes a Wild West reenactment. Aside from its natural beauty, Sedona also features the Out of Africa Wildlife Park where your family can safely experience a safari. Other options include zip lining over the exotic animals or feeding a tiger up close. 

19. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Top attraction: ​​International Balloon FiestaEvery October, hundreds of hot air balloons gather in Albuquerque for its International Balloon Fiesta. Day and night, colorful balloons fill the sky, making for an enchanting experience you can’t find anywhere else. That’s not all — this city has lots to offer year-round.   Albuquerque’s passion for dancing and food is always center stage. Dine on classic New Mexican cuisine and discover your preference for green or red chiles. Attend a flamenco show or, better yet, take a flamenco workshop. Be sure to stop by the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden and Aquarium, so your kids can get their nature fix. 

20. Glen Rose, Texas

Top attraction: Dinosaur Valley State ParkWe can’t mention dinosaurs without including Glen Rose in the list. This small town is home to Dinosaur Valley State Park, where visitors can walk in the tracks dinosaurs left behind millions of years ago. There are options to hike, camp, mountain bike and swim. At Dinosaur World, visitors can walk among over 100 life-size dinosaur models, participate in a dinosaur dig and see natural fossils. If you’d prefer to see some modern-day creatures, visit the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, which features multiple endangered species. Your family can get up close and personal as you drive through the park, feeding and photographing the exotic animals.

21. Grand Canyon, Arizona

Top attraction: Hiking in the Grand CanyonThe Grand Canyon is more than just a photo opportunity. Grand Canyon activities include hikes of varying difficulties, attending a Native American dance performance, horseback riding to remote waterfalls and riding the Grand Canyon Railway.Securing accommodations around the canyon is highly competitive. Make reservations more than a year in advance for camping and waterfall excursions.

22. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Top attraction: Joshua TreeJoshua Tree is known worldwide for its unique rock formations and namesake twisted trees. The park is a must-visit destination for rock climbing and hiking enthusiasts, with trails for all skill levels. Cell phone service is limited, which creates the opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and connect with one another.
A photo of Joshua Tree National Park, California, one of the best family vacation spots.
Camping within the park is possible with a reservation, but there are also campsites nearby that are quality options. Stargazing in the middle of the desert is an experience your kids will never forget — especially if they are only familiar with bright city skies.

23. Scottsdale, Arizona

Top attraction: Sonoran DesertScottsdale has the best of city life and desert landscapes. You can take your family for a morning hike or a jeep to tour the Sonoran Desert. When the afternoon heat sets in, cool off at one of Scottsdale’s fantastic waterparks. Scottsdale’s Old Town district is home to a number of art galleries. For the Thursday night ArtWalk, galleries stay open late and treat guests to complementary activities. Since Scottsdale is conveniently located near Phoenix, you’ll have easy access to the state capital’s attractions, including a zoo, aquarium, botanical garden and the fascinating Musical Instrument Museum.

24. Palm Springs, California

Top attraction: Aerial TramwayArchitecture enthusiasts will have their fill in Palm Springs, where Mid-Century Modern buildings fill the neighborhoods. Take a Rat Pack tour to learn why Hollywood royalty like Frank Sinatra were drawn to this desert destination.Unlike some other desert locations on this list, Palm Springs destinations offer all the modern luxuries visitors can hope for on their family vacation. Take your kids on a ride into the mountains on the Aerial Tramway. Shop the boutiques to score retro collectibles and vintage clothing, ride the waterslides at HyTides Water Park or head out into the wilderness on a jeep, bicycle or horseback tour. 

25. Moab, Utah

Top attraction: Mill CanyonIf any family members are in their dinosaur phase, Moab is one of the must-visit places to travel with kids. Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite has easily identifiable dinosaur tracks and bones. Moab Giants features indoor and outdoor interactive exhibits that bring prehistoric creatures to life.After you’ve explored on your own, jump into a Hummer for an offroad tour of Moab’s awe-inspiring backcountry. Or enjoy the thrill of Erafting through a canyon on the Colorado River. 

26. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Top attraction: Lajitas CanyonsWhether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Big Bend has you covered. Take your pick of its many tour options by jumping in a raft, kayak or jeep. Ride into the Lajitas Canyons on a zip line tour. Give your children the opportunity to experience ancient plant and animal life in Big Bend’s own fossil discovery exhibit. After you’ve quenched your thirst for adventure, dip in Big Bend’s hot springs. The water is naturally 105 degrees Fahrenheit and has long been considered therapeutic. 

27. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Top attraction: Meow WolfSanta Fe is brimming with culture and activities, making it one of the best family vacation spots. Spend the day at the Museum of International Folk Art, home to  the world's largest collection of folk art. Visit the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture to learn about the history of Southwest Native American people through contemporary art.  Fans of the psychedelic will love the child-friendly interactive art installation Meow Wolf’s House of the Eternal Return. Older family members will enjoy solving the story’s mystery, while younger children can appreciate the stimulating surroundings.

Best family vacation spots in the mountains 

Some best family vacation destinations are in the mountains, offering unique activities for every season.
A map of the United States identifies some of the best family vacation spots in the mountains.
While many people love the mountains for their winter ski resorts, the rest of the year offers new opportunities to connect with the terrain. 

28. Jackson Hole, Wyoming 

Top attraction: The Snake River rapidsJackson Hole’s main attraction is its world-class ski slopes that make for a magical family vacation, with routes and programs for all skill levels. Snowmobiles are also available for rent, and sleigh rides take you through Jackson’s blankets of snow. But there are year-round activities in Jackson Hole for families, too. In the summer, ski routes turn into mountain bike trails. Wildlife expeditions bring encounters with bears and bison. The Snake River rapids provide a great opportunity for whitewater rafting. 

29. Black Hills, South Dakota

Top attraction: Mount RushmoreThe Mount Rushmore National Monument is undoubtedly the biggest attraction in this area. But there are plenty of other reasons to visit. The Indian Museum of North America has an impressive collection or art and artifacts from more than 300 native nations. And Crazy Horse Memorial, under construction since 1948, will be the world’s second-tallest statue after completion. The Badlands are a sight to behold, consisting of 244,000 acres of rugged spires and mixed-grass prairie. Visit Custer State Park to encounter some of its 1,400 free-roaming bison and learn the area's history. Explore some of the longest caves in the world at Jewel or Wind Cave. Take the kids down the 2,000-foot alpine slide at Rushmore Tramway Adventures.  

30. White Mountains, New Hampshire

Top attraction: Ice CastlesThe White Mountains offer a sprawling landscape that is as enjoyable in the summer as it is in the winter. Enjoy golf, zip lines, waterfall hikes and old-fashioned train rides. Explore polar caves where you can touch ice even in the middle of summer.  In the winter, check out one of many ski resorts and visit the Ice Castles, with caverns, tunnels and slides designed to make you feel like you’re in a fairytale.

31. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Top attraction: Grand Prismatic SpringYellowstone was the first national park in the United States, and it’s easy to see why the country was so quick to preserve its natural beauty. The 2.2 million-acre park sits on a volcanic caldera that produces hot springs like the rainbow-colored Grand Prismatic Spring and hundreds of geyser eruptions.  The park offers over 1,000 miles of backcountry trails and bears, bison, wolves and elk all roam freely. Bird watchers can see more than 300 species of birds. 

32. Yosemite National Park, California

Top attraction: El CapitanYosemite is another national park that is too good to pass up. While Yellowstone has geysers and a larger variety of wildlife, Yosemite has breathtaking cliffs and a giant sequoia forest. See the famed El Capitan or Half Dome rock formations in person to get a true sense of their magnitude.
A mountain landscape in Yosemite National Park, California, one of the best family vacation spots.
Yosemite has an abundance of waterfalls to explore, including some with paved trails for easy access. Horseback riding provides another option to hit the trails.  — and you can watch the leaves change if you make this a fall travel destination.

33. Aspen, Colorado

Top attraction: Nordic trail systemLike Jackson Hole, Aspen turns into a verifiable wonderland when winter snow falls. Gondolas take you to the mountaintops in comfort while the Nordic trail system provides more than 60 miles of cross-country ski trails. In warmer months, Aspen has some of the best fly fishing conditions in North America. Appreciate the scenery by putting on your waders and trying to catch a prized trout. For history lovers, take a walking tour of the former silver mining town, offered by the Aspen Historical Society.

34. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Top attraction: Smoky MountainsGatlinburg pairs Southern charm with major attractions. If your family vacation ideas include shopping, hiking and amusements, look no further than this Smoky Mountains gem. Take advantage of Gatlinburg’s close proximity to the Appalachian Trail by hiking a short stretch of it. Visit the top-rated Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies to see a stunning collection of sea creatures. Or check out Anakeesta, a mountaintop theme park with mountain roller coasters and a zip line. Stroll across the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America at SkyPark.   

35. Park City, Utah

Top attraction: Utah Olympic ParkIf you’re wondering where to go on vacation, Park City is one of the most versatile destinations on the planet. When snow covers the ground, you can fill your days skiing, dog sledding and snow biking. When summer comes around, you can golf, paddleboard and ride the Alpine Coaster. Visit the Utah Olympic Park year-round to see the 2002 Olympic Games museum, among many other activities. If you’re feeling adventurous, play on the high ropes course or take a trip down the Comet bobsled.

36. Glacier National Park, Montana

Top attraction: Going-to-the-Sun RoadWith a mix of melting glaciers, alpine meadows,and  spectacular lakes and waterfalls, Glacier National Park has over 700 miles of trails. Your kids can attend a junior ranger program and receive a badge after completing certain activities.The Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 50-mile road that bisects the park when conditions allow, provides scenic views that are hard to beat. The park offers ample opportunities for rafting, kayaking and horseback riding. And when your day’s activities are over, comfortable accommodations are available inside and outside the park — reserve early! 

37. Catskill Mountains, New York

Top attraction: Saugerties LighthouseThe Catskill Mountains have been one of the best family vacation spots for city dwellers for over 100 years. Families seeking a break from city hustle can relax in this historic area's natural beauty. No wonder it’s one of the best mountain getaways for you and your family.Your family can explore caves going 156 feet into the earth, raft down the Delaware River, visit the Saugerties Lighthouse and cool off with a visit to one of the Catskills waterparks. In the winter, your family can stay at a ski resort and visit the Mountain Top Arboretum. 

Best family vacation spots in the city 

If long road trips don’t agree with your family, checking a major city off your to-do list may be a good alternative.
A map of the United States identifies the best family vacation spots in major cities.
Cities are jam-packed with options for everyone’s taste. Education, amusement and active adventures await.

38. San Francisco, California

Top attraction: Golden Gate BridgeIf the chaos of Disneyland seems a little too much for your family vacation, take a trip to San Francisco. The Walt Disney Family Museum can provide your family’s fix of Mickey and friends. While parents browse memorabilia, children can attend storytime, among other activities. Then explore the adjoining Presidio, established as a Spanish military outpost in 1776 and the longest operating Army installation in the West.  
A photo of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California, one of the best family vacation spots.
The Exploratorium is a science, technology and arts museum that enables kids to interact with more than 600 installations. Pier 39 is home to wild sea lions, street performers, a carousel and even an aquarium. Walk around the largest Chinatown outside of Asia before having a picnic at Golden Gate Park.

39. New Orleans, Louisiana

Top attraction: Great foodMardi Gras might be the first thing you think of when you hear New Orleans, but this southern gem has plenty to offer families, too. Rich in music, food and activities, New Orleans easily makes the list of best family vacation spots. Sample sugar-laden beignets, oversized muffuletta sandwiches, and Creole and Cajun cuisine. Introduce your children to jazz at Preservation Hall, where you can watch live musicians and learn about its history. Have your pick between sweet and savory food like beignets and jambalaya. Spend a day at the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park or take a swamp tour to get up-close looks at native alligators. 

40. Nashville, Tennessee

Top attraction: Grand Ole OpryNashville has long been the hot spot for country music aficionados, but it has recently been growing in popularity for the general public, too. Take a tour of the Grand Ole Opry and (if you’re lucky) snag tickets to a live radio concert. Then head to The Gaylord Opryland Resort featuring an indoor river with boat rides, a waterfall and a garden conservatory.Stop by Centennial Park to see a replica of the Greek Parthenon. Then, drop by  Musicians Corner to watch live music while you feast on delicious street food. Stroll down the Honky Tonk Highway and take your pick of its many restaurants and music venues. 

41. New York City, New York

Top attraction: Central ParkThe city may never sleep, but your family surely will after a day packed with some of these family vacation ideas. Get amazing views from iconic structures like the Empire State Building and Statue of LibertySee a collection of the world’s greatest artwork at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Visit the American Museum of Natural History for an educational and entertaining experience. Lounge in Central Park when your legs are ready for a break or take in a show on or off Broadway.

42. Austin, Texas

Top attraction: Barton Springs PoolProud to be weird, Austin has all the oddities and entertainment someone could hope for a family vacation. The Cathedral of Junk shows kids how a little imagination can turn trash into a work of art. The Salt Lick has mouthwatering barbeque with a side of live music. Kayak to Congress Avenue Bridge to watch over a million bats fly at sunset. Take your kids for a dip in the naturally spring-fed pool at Barton Springs. Pick your own produce at Boggy Creek Farm. Visit the animals at the Austin Zoo, where each one is rescued and receiving rehabilitation. 

43. Seattle, Washington

Top attraction: Space NeedleSeattle offers loads of family-friendly attractions. Seattle Center, built for the 1962 World’s Fair, is home to the iconic Space Needle, the Pacific Science Center and IMAX theater, and Seattle Children’s Theatre. The Chihuly Garden and Glass is a family-friendly museum of brightly colored sculptures of varying shapes and sizes.If you’re looking to squeeze a little nature into your trip, head to Mount Rainier for hiking or take a whale-watching excursion. Shop at the historic Pike Market and watch fishmongers throw purchases into the air and look at (but don’t touch!) the infamous gum wall

44. Denver, Colorado 

Top attraction: Red Rocks ParkDenver is great to visit at any time, thanks to its more than 300 sunny days each year.   Elitch Gardens has both butterfly-inducing roller coasters and water slides. The Children’s Museum of Denver lets young children learn about nature and test their creativity in the featured art studio. The Downtown Aquarium provides the unique experience of having a meal while surrounded by floor-to-ceiling aquariums. But no trip to Denver can be considered complete without visiting Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater in the nearby mountain town of Morrison. Witnessing a live performance is unlike any other, but even if you don’t get tickets for a show, wandering the park is worth the trip. 

45. Minneapolis, Minnesota

Top attraction: Mall of AmericaMinnesota has big city recognition paired with a small city feel. The Children’s Theatre Company puts on interactive performances that are great for all ages. The Minnesota Zoo in nearby Apple Valley has a nature-based play area and seasonal shows. The Mall of America brings outdoor activities inside for year-round fun. Ride the roller coasters at Nickelodeon Universe, get a personalized crayon at Crayola Experience or visit the touch tank at the Sea Life Aquarium. This stop alone could take up multiple days. If you’re considering buying a second home at one of the best family vacation spots, becoming a co-owner with Pacaso can help your family enjoy a fully managed, turnkey vacation home at a fraction of the cost.

Best family vacation spots FAQ

Where is the best place for a family vacation?

The best place for a family vacation depends on the interests of each family member. Consider what environments, like mountains or beaches, may work best for your family and research attractions everyone may enjoy visiting.

How do I decide where to take my family vacation?

Your budget, shared priorities and the season are all factors that can help determine where to take a family vacation. For example, if relaxation is top of mind for a winter vacation on a budget, consider renting a cozy cabin with a fireplace.


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