It’s about that time, to start planning your summer trips. Not sure where you want to head this year? Well, the folks at US News and World Report ranked the top 20 best family vacations in the US. With the help of reader votes and expert opinions, U.S. News compiled this list of travel destinations that offer reasonable rates and activities the whole family can enjoy. These places are all great options to choose from when looking for a getaway. I’ve been lucky enough to go to half of the destinations they included. And most of these trips were when I was a kid myself. So I can vouch that they are kid approved.
This list has something for everyone. Whether nature and national parks are your vibes or the history of our nation. Maybe you love a good theme park (I know I do) or a bustling tourist town full of activities and attractions. Both coasts are covered and few places in between as well. And of course, you can’t talk about US vacation destinations without flying out to Hawaii. And how great is it that there is even a South Carolina destination featured as one of the best family vacations in the US? I’d be willing to be you’ve been there! Keep reading to see the list and get some ideas for your next trip! Happy travels.
1. Orlando, FL
Orlando is the theme park capital of the world. Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Seaworld, Legoland, and countless more. If there is a family or tourist activity chances are you can find it in Orlando. Heck, you could live in Orlando and never get everything done. So it’s absolutely no surprise that this tops the list. In fact, you are already most likely well aware of much of what there is to do in Orlando!
2. Yellowstone National Park
One of the most visited National Parks in the US is Yellowstone National Park. It’s located mostly in Wyoming and features over 2.2 million acres of hydrothermal and geologic features and the wildlife that lives amongst them. Kids will be mesmerized by watching Old Faithful errupt and the whole family will enjoy looking out for bison, grizzly bears, and other animals.
3. Yosemite National Park
Located in California Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls, but within its nearly 1,200 square miles, you can find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area, and much more. Family friendly activities include fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and rafting.
4. Grand Canyon
Everyone should see the Grand Canyon at least once! (This is on my calendar for March actually!) It’s located in northern Arizona and encompasses 278 miles of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands and is one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere. There’s hiking, the Grand Canyon Railway, Grand Canyon Skywalk, rafting, and even mule rides.
5. Washington, DC
Your kids will love all the museums in DC congregated at the National Mall (and you’ll love the fact that they are all free to visit!). And of course, there is all the history of the nation’s capital and the workings of government that will bring to life what they are learning in school. A visit to the National Zoo will give you access to over 2,700 animals.
6. Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is no stranger to accolades. It’s been named America’s Best Lake by USA Today, the number one ski destination by Rand McNally and Orbitz, and the number 1 travel destination by Trip Advisor. It’s not just a winter paradise for skiing though that’s worth experiencing. The lake sits on the border between California and Nevada and also is great for hiking, swimming, or sunbathing on the “beaches”.
7. Cape Cod
New England beaches are a haven of quaint seaside towns. And Cape Cod is one of the most iconic. The Cape Cod National Seashore is made up of 40 miles of coast with all you could want in a beach vacation. Play in the ocean, fish, mini golf, bike, or event catch a drive-in movie.
8. San Diego
Two of my favorite family vacations were to San Diego. There are several nearby beaches including Coronado Island and La Jolla. The San Diego Zoo and corresponding Zoo Safari Park, Seaworld, and the USS Midway are just some of the fun activities. Plus the weather is gorgeous year-round. We even tied another destination you’ll read about farther down on this list to San Diego vacations.
9. Destin
The Florida gulf coast beaches are a must-visit. The crystal clear waters and wide sandy beaches are to die for and growing up in NC I can’t believe they are US beaches! And Destin has tons for kids and families to love including a waterpark, adventure park with animals like dolphins and penguins. And don’t forget the fishing and golf!
10. Outer Banks
These barrier islands are perfect if you’re searching for a relaxing seaside vacation. There are no cities on the Outer Banks, just 100+ miles of wide-open shoreline and large vacation homes you can rent and accommodate your entire family. Make a visit to the North Carolina Aquarium, Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Lighthouse, or the Jockey Ridge State Park.
11. Anaheim/Disneyland
Situated near both LA and San Diego is the home of Disneyland Resort Anaheim, CA. While this is the top attraction in the area (and highly worth a visit) there are other things to do as well including Knott’s Berry Farm, Anaheim’s Adventure City, and the home of at Anaheim Angels baseball team.
12. Honolulu-Oahu
In the capital of Hawaii, you’ll find everything from historic landmarks to fine dining to world-class shopping. If the beautiful and world-famous beaches aren’t enough to keep you and your kids occupied there’s also Pearl Harbor and the Hawaiian Cultural Center.
13. Maui
The largest Hawaiian island is home to world-famous beaches, the sacred ʻĪao Valley, and the world’s largest dormant volcano. Your family will enjoy attending a traditional luau as well as snorkeling in the blue waters of this island paradise.
14. Gatlinburg
Nestled in the Smoky Mountains of eastern Tennessee Gatlinburg has something for everyone and especially families. Whether you’re taking the Skytrain, exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, or heading to one of the attractions such as Ripley’s Aquarium you won’t run out of kid-friendly activities to do.
15. Boston
Boston is a city rich in US History. But there is more to do than just visiting the Freedom Trail and Boston Common (though both are worth doing). Check out a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, stroll the campus of Harvard, or check out the Boston Children’s Museum.
16. Jackson Hole
Located at the base of the Tetons is Jackson Hole Wyoming. This resort town thrives in the winter for its world-class skiing for athletes of all skill levels. The Grand Teton National Park offers year-round fun with hiking and nature.
17. Sanibel Island
If your family wants to go to the beach and stay at the beach Sanibel is the perfect destination for you. This Florida island is located about 30 miles off the coast of Fort Myers. It’s known for it’s shell covered beaches that your kids will love collecting. You can also visit with the animals at the J.N Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
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18. Hershey
Is there a place that kids would possibly love more than a town full of chocolate? Attractions are of course the world-famous Hersheypark which is a family-friendly amusement park with rides, a waterpark, a zoo, and of course your favorite Hershey candy. There is also the Hershey Gardens and butterfly atrium and the Hershey museum.
19. Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor Maine is the gateway to Acadia National Park. It’s known for its picturesque scenery. Kids will love tide-pooling, stargazing, as well as swimming, and hiking. They will talk for years about seeing the whales on a boat tour. You can also take part in kayaking.
20. Myrtle Beach, SC
Myrtle Beach is the South Carolina tourist beach destination. If you want a jam-packed trip full of activities look no further than this SC city. From the rides, Skywheel, and other attractions downtown to the aquarium at Broadway at the Beach. Shopping, restaurants, mini-golf, go-carts, and zip lines are just some of the things to do in Myrtle.