Best Family Vacations in the USA
The family vacation has become a sacred rite of passage for American parents and their children. Almost every family has packed the car or booked their plane tickets to explore the country's diverse natural landscape and the cities that dot it. But the choices are so abundant that choosing where to go is an overwhelming decision. U.S. News Travel attempts to alleviate the process by narrowing down the top U.S. family vacation destinations. Our list includes places with an abundance of attractions, unique sights, world-class museums, and family-friendly hotels.
Yellowstone
Why go: Yellowstone, like Yosemite and the Grand Canyon, is one of the most highly recommended outdoor destinations, or destinations in general, in the United States. Its assortment of attractions—especially those geared toward families, such as hiking and rafting, make the park an exceptional, must-see destination for families. However, Yosemite's proximity to San Francisco and the Grand Canyon's utter uniqueness make these two destinations more desirable than Yellowstone for many travelers.
Orlando-Walt Disney World
Why go: Known all over the world for its timeless appeal, thrill rides, and performances, Disney World is engineered specifically for children and families, and its formula is very successful. Most American families have likely visited Disney World or its affiliates at least once. But if you aren't up for putting on mouse ears, Orlando hosts a slew of theme parks that are sure to excite kids.
Why go: Like many national parks, what makes Yosemite an excellent family destination is its numerous outdoor offerings, from hiking to camping to mountain climbing to rafting. But, unlike other parks, Yosemite boasts relatively easy accessibility (San Francisco is only a few hours away by car) and diverse accommodation options, like The Ahwahnee Hotel. Plus, this park has an exceptional team of rangers to help you once you reach Yosemite.
The Grand Canyon
Why go: The Grand Canyon is the all natural version of Disneyland. It retains a "personality" as a universally admired family destination, perhaps due to the Brady Bunch and the Griswolds. But it also contains an abundance of activities, including hiking, kayaking, rafting, and riding Grand Canyon Railway. This iconic spot also manages to be budget friendly, making it perfect for a family road trip.
Honolulu - Oahu
Why go: O'ahu would be the perfect family's destination if it didn't require thousands of miles of travel. So if you have kids old enough to handle the flight and the cash to afford it, book your trip today. Honolulu—and especially Waikiki—offers excellent child-friendly beaches and activities, like snorkeling, whale watching, swimming with dolphins, and the Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park. Plus, many hotels reside right along the shore, negating the need for public transportation or a vehicle.
Washington D.C.
Why go: Washington D.C. was once perceived as a bland city (or a very dangerous one) best relegated to bickering politicians. But no longer. The key to D.C.'s family appeal is the National Mall, which contains world-class, kid-friendly museums. Plus, they're free! Organized tours of the Mall, the Capitol Building, the White House, and more also provide an excellent means of seeing the city's sights.
San Diego
Why go: The simple truth: San Diego offers 70 miles of sandy fun. When the waves start to bore little ones, the creatures at the San Diego Zoo or SeaWorld are sure to hold their interst. Plus, if you need a break from the sun, head to the museums of Balboa Park. With so many kid-friendly activities to choose from, San Diego makes its case for family travelers.
Williamsburg
Why Go: Nearly every attraction in this tiny Virginia town caters to families with children of all ages. Colonial Williamsburg, for example, allows youngsters and adults to immerse themselves in history with hands-on activities and exciting re-enactments. If you're visiting during the warmer months, don't deny the kids a chance to cool down at Water Country USA or to ride the coasters at Busch Gardens.
San Antonio
Why go: San Antonio contains an abundance of family-oriented attractions, including Alamo City Ghost Tours, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, SeaWorld, historic parks, and more. Add plentiful family-friendly restaurants and a relatively unique setting—"Don't mess with Texas"—and San Antonio truly is a first-rate family destination.
Myrtle Beach
Why go: Myrtle Beach is primarily a beach destination, so it lacks the diversity of other destinations. But in terms of accessibility, cost, and quality of beaches, Myrtle Beach offers an excellent family beach vacation. However, Ripley's Aquarium and Mt. Atlanticus Miniature Golf are welcome districations from the shoreline.
Tampa
Why Go: Trade crowded and expensive Orlando for less hectic, more affordable Tampa. Don't worry: Your kids won't pine for Mickey as this gulf-side city has lots to offer. Spend time mingling with manatees at the Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center or looking for lions at Big Cat Rescue. And if your family can't shake their longing for roller coasters, Busch Gardens and Adventure Island will do the trick.
Telluride
Why Go: If you've got younger skiers in tow, Telluride is the ideal place to test the powder. The Telluride Ski Resort offers numerous programs for younger gliders, including the Children's Ski School, which offers downhill ski and snowboard instruction for children age three to 12. Plus, the Kid's Club and Eco Adventures will also keep your children occupied while you're hitting the slopes, and the Kid's Night Out program will free you up for a romantic dinner for two.
Chicago
Why go: Chicago, despite being a very large city, has more kid-friendly attractions than other metropolises of comparable size, like New York City. You'll find the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Field Museum, and the Shedd Aquarium. And don't forget about the rides at Navy Pier because your kids sure won't.
Philadelphia
Why go: Philadelphia contains an abundance of museums and historic monuments, making it a hot spot for educational trips. The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are bound to appear in your child's textbooks. Also, don't miss out on the fascinating Franklin Institute Science Museum. Lastly, the city's compact downtown makes touring easy on families, especially those with younger children.
Why go: San Francisco is home to some excellent family-friendly attractions: Fisherman's Wharf, Alcatraz, the winding Lombard Street and the Golden Gate Bridge, to name a few. The city also offers proximity to some great attractions for youngsters, including Lake Takoe, Yosemite and Muir Woods. San Francisco's downside is simple: It's pricey, one of the most expensive cities in the country.
