The United States offers an impressive variety of family vacation destinations that cater to all kinds of interests and budgets. The bustling cities of New York and Washington, D.C., offer a diverse helping of history and culture, while Boston and Williamsburg charm with their educational attractions and early American history. From theme parks in Anaheim and Orlando to the serene beauty of Yellowstone National Park and Gatlinburg’s entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains, these are among the best places for a family vacation. And there's more to love: Branson is renowned for its live entertainment and family attractions, while Atlanta, Charlotte and Myrtle Beach offer a delightful mix of urban sophistication and Southern hospitality, which solidifies their spots among the best places for a family vacation.
When it comes to the best family vacation spots, however, San Diego stands out with its sun-soaked beaches and family-friendly attractions, such as San Diego Zoo. St. Petersburg also beckons with beachy fun in the sun and plenty of indoor things to do.
Timing is key for an optimal experience; consider travel during the shoulder season. That period, nestled between peak and off-peak seasons, offers milder temperatures, less congestion and educational opportunities outside the traditional classroom setting, making it an affordable and enjoyable time for a family vacation.
1. Anaheim, CA
Discover Anaheim, a family vacation destination in the heart of Orange County, California. This lively city is more than just the gateway to Disneyland Resort. There are fun places for the whole family to go, such as shopping districts, sports venues and entertainment complexes.
Venture beyond the familiar theme parks and resorts, and you'll find that Anaheim also offers an impressive range of budget-friendly attractions and off-the-beaten path fun. From nearby beaches to nature trails, Anaheim and its surrounding areas invite you to explore places to go in Southern California.
Best Things to Do: Fit in a nature hike or beach trip in between theme park activities.
Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to October are the ideal periods to visit Anaheim because the weather is mild, and school is still in session.
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2. Atlanta, GA
Atlanta, Georgia’s bustling capital and largest city, is an engaging mix of history, culture and entertainment, making it one of the best family vacation destinations. Atlanta also has significant Black history and contributions to American life. Make time for the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park, where you and your family can learn about a significant chapter in American history.
In addition to its historical landmarks, Atlanta offers an array of family-friendly attractions, including the expansive Georgia Aquarium. The World of Coca-Cola provides a fizzy exploration of the global brand's journey, while the city's dining scene and events cater to varying interests.
Best Things to Do: Experience a mix of art and cultural attractions.
Best Time to Visit: The sunny, mild days of March, April, September and October are the best times to visit Atlanta. With school in session and mild temperatures, it's the perfect for strolling and indulging in outdoor activities.
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3. Boston, MA
Located in the northeastern state of Massachusetts, Boston is a bustling city that merges the past and present seamlessly. Its historical heritage and diverse cultural landscape make it an ideal destination for family vacations. From walking on storied cobblestone streets to visiting iconic landmarks, Boston offers a unique blend of learning and leisure activities suitable for all ages.
The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long route taking you through 16 historically significant sites, is a must-see for families. Not to be missed is Boston's waterfront, offering views and a plethora of recreational activities for families.
Best Things to Do: Do the Freedom Trail and learn about early American history.
Best Time to Visit: While spring in New England has its merits (and not as many visitors), a visit during the fall months, from September to November, is recommended for the cozy fall vibe and seasonal activities. Plus, if you're in the mood for a thrill, don't miss the Halloween festivities in nearby Salem.
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4. Branson, MO
Branson is a popular family vacation spot that combines small-town charm with fun and adventure. Brimming with more than 100 entertaining shows in venues from cozy theaters to grand palaces, the area offers easy daytime activities like theme parks, all-you-can-eat buffets and shopping at factory outlets or country stores. Top off the experience with a scenic rail journey, craft workshop or live show.
The destination’s allure isn't confined to indoor entertainment; the natural beauty of the Tri-Lakes area invites exploration of its blue lakes, green hills and tranquil trails. Further enhancing the charm is Branson’s hospitality, which is evident in every warm welcome, making it a place where entertainment meets heartfelt connection.
Best Things to Do: Enjoy family-friendly entertainment.
Best Time to Visit: Avoid crowds and enjoy milder temperatures by visiting in the shoulder seasons of either March through May or September through October.
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5. Charlotte, NC
Charlotte, North Carolina, is a hub for both business and leisure. It's not just the city's strategic location that makes it significant; Charlotte's unique blend of Southern hospitality, food scene and thriving arts community contribute to its allure. Consider taking a photography tour for a better understanding of Uptown – the energetic heart of the city – full of businesses, entertainment venues and cultural attractions.
When it comes to family-friendly things to do, Charlotte’s “got a lot,” as the saying goes. From the interactive exhibits at Discovery Place Science to the adrenaline-pumping rides at Carowinds, there's something for all ages. The U.S. National Whitewater Center offers outdoor adventures, while ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center, a one-of-a-kind library engages kids’ imaginations with play areas, interactive programming and even theatrical shows. For a more relaxed day, families can enjoy a boat ride on Lake Wylie.
Best Things to Do: Children’s attractions
Best Time to Visit: Visit Charlotte from March to early June. Spring’s warmer temperatures and lower humidity will allow you to experience the city's history, culture and cuisine at leisure.
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6. Gatlinburg, TN
As a gateway to Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Gatlinburg is a haven for active families. Sure, you can stuff your face at a local pancake house, but don’t forget kid-friendly hikes like the Gatlinburg Trail, Laurel Falls Trail or the paved Kuwohi (Clingmans Dome), where you can see seven states on a clear day.
Featuring family-friendly attractions like Anakeesta, Ripley's, and the Aerial Tramway to Ober Gatlinburg, this mountain town provides an ideal blend of adventure and relaxation. Its strategic location adds to its allure, offering easy access and road-tripping options to other places to go in the Smokies region, including Cherokee and Pigeon Forge.
Best Things to Do: Plan for themed fun in the Smokies.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are the best times to visit Gatlinburg due to milder weather and fun festivals, but note that fall can be a more crowded season due to fall foliage. For a more peaceful experience, especially in areas of Great Smoky Mountain National Park, such as Cades Cove, visit attractions in the Smokies during the weekday when schools are in session to avoid traffic on the roads, which can become congested.
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7. Myrtle Beach, SC
Plan a family trip to the coastal city of Myrtle Beach. With activities ranging from a thrilling SkyWheel ride to a competitive game of mini golf and adrenaline-pumping water sports, there's plenty to keep you busy in the Grand Strand, aka the 60-mile stretch of South Carolina's coastline that encompasses numerous communities, including the city of Myrtle Beach.
After a day filled with activity, unwind on the serene beach, followed by a delightful family challenge at WonderWorks, an educational attraction featuring interactive exhibits, challenging ropes courses and laser tag. Take a well-deserved break and finish your day with a delightful dinner at a waterfront restaurant in Little River, a worthwhile side trip from Myrtle Beach.
Best Things to Do: Check out the family-friendly attractions and recreational things to do.
Best Time to Visit: June through August are the good months for sunny beach days in Myrtle Beach, while September through October and April through May you can expect less crowds and nicer weather in Myrtle Beach.
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8. New York, NY
New York City is a sprawling metropolis composed of five distinct boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx and Staten Island. And each borough, basically cities within a city, includes a variety of neighborhoods such as Koreatown, Little Italy, and diverse Jewish, Chinese and Black communities, adding an important cultural component to this area of the country.
Families with a penchant for history and sightseeing can embark on tours to marvel at iconic monuments like the Statue of Liberty or the Empire State Building, one of the best things to do with kids. Art enthusiasts aren't left behind either, with attractions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Broadway shows in Times Square.
Best Things to Do: Take a family-friendly tour of New York City.
Best Time to Visit: Expect January through March to be cheaper and easier to navigate, though you’ll find New York, one of 50 top destinations in the U.S., well-visited most of the year, with holidays a draw year-round in the Big Apple.
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9. Orlando (and Lake Buena Vista), FL
Orlando is celebrated for its world-class theme parks, including Disney World (technically in Lake Buena Vista), Universal Studios and SeaWorld. Called the City Beautiful, the destination offers an enticing mix of thrilling entertainment complexes, an array of shopping and dining experiences, nearby springs and is consistently ranked as one of AAA's top family vacation spots.
Should you desire a change of pace from the adrenaline-pumping theme park adventures, Orlando's prime location offers convenience to sandy beaches and the fascinating Kennedy Space Center.
Best Things to Do: Visit a family attraction like a theme park or water park.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal months to visit Florida are February through May. You'll dodge the summer rains and hurricane season, and the temperatures are more moderate.
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10. San Diego, CA
San Diego is lauded for its superb weather, breathtaking beaches and thrilling attractions. Delight in the natural beauty of La Jolla Cove, watch playful sea lions or cycle around scenic Coronado Island.
If theme parks are more your speed, make the short 30-minute drive to LEGOLAND to enjoy an assortment of rides and shows. And for those who want to see an expansive collection of animals, a visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a must.
Best Things to Do: California’s outdoor activities
Best Time to Visit: For a less crowded, more serene California experience, plan your visit during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to April) or fall (September to November).
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11. Savannah, GA
Savannah's rich history and vast range of activities allow you to design a fun and educational family vacation for your children's ages and interests. America's first planned city offers fun places to go, such as Forsyth Park or River Street, where you can browse the shops or head to JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District for its museum-like lobby.
Visit the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge to see local wildlife or relax in Savannah Botanical Gardens. Or head off the beaten path toward Tybee Island, where sandy beaches offer cheap entertainment and sunbathing.
Best Things to Do: Check out charming historical and cultural attractions in Savannah that are fun and budget-friendly.
Best Time to Visit: Visit Savannah from February to June when crowds and weather are better. Spring in Savannah is especially nice, and the flowers will be in full bloom. It can get very hot and humid in the middle to late summer.
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12. St. Petersburg, FL
Look for St. Petersburg on Florida's Gulf Coast. You’ll find locals and tourists alike strolling by the St. Pete Pier attractions. Don’t miss nearby St. Pete Beach or Clearwater's gorgeous beaches or water recreation to immerse yourself in your family vacation destination fully. A short drive north, there’s Busch Gardens in Tampa with its thrilling roller coasters and wildlife viewing opportunities.
If you need to escape inclement weather, whether heat or rain, St. Petersburg features entertaining indoor activities.
Best Things to Do: Stroll with your family either by the water or in a museum.
Best Time to Visit: The best months to visit St. Petersburg and the Tampa Bay area are spring (February-May) and fall (October-December), but note that hurricane season extends to November 1. These months have seasonal festivals to enjoy and milder weather, but be forewarned that spring break crowds are likely, especially in St. Petersburg and Clearwater.
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13. Washington, D.C.
Travel to Washington, D.C., America’s capital, for an enriching experience for kids and adults. Free admission to 19 Smithsonian institutions keeps your trip affordable while providing information and fun.
For kid-friendly things to see, visit the National Museum of Natural History, National Air and Space Museum and National Museum of Natural History. Add a spectacular sporting event, a memorial visit or a festival, especially during spring to see cherry blossoms.
Best Things to Do: Learn at a monument or museum.
Best Time to Visit: For optimal sightseeing in Washington, D.C, visit when weather is good in either spring (April or May) or fall (September to early November).
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14. Williamsburg, VA
Located in Virginia, Williamsburg is spectacular during the fall season. Experience history at Colonial Williamsburg, the world's biggest living history museum, featuring interactive reenactments and workshops. Then visit nearby Jamestown, America's first permanent English colony, to add a historical dimension to your tour.
For more modern attractions, try Busch Gardens Williamsburg, a popular theme park with thrilling rides, live entertainment and events.
Best Things to Do: Step back into colonial history.
Best Time to Visit: Experience the best of Williamsburg during the mild days of spring (March to April) and autumn, which is notable for fall colors.
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15. Wisconsin Dells, WI
Wisconsin Dells is renowned as the "Waterpark Capital of the World" and is a must-visit destination for families who love water recreation. Offering both indoor and outdoor waterparks, it guarantees year-round aquatic fun for the entire family. From leisurely floating on the lazy rivers to the adrenaline rush of the waterslides, the spots promise lots of family time.
You might also want to see another side of the Wisconsin Dells, such as a family-friendly tour to discover history or local landmarks. Be it a trolley tour or a Segway ride, exploring together will add another dimension to your family vacation.
Best Things to Do: Cool off at a waterpark in season.
Best Time to Visit: The quietest season to visit Wisconsin Dells in September and October when leaf-peeping in parks or golf are ideal, and waterparks are open but not crowded. If you must go in summer, such as in June, aim to visit the waterparks during the weekday.
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16. Yellowstone National Park, WY, MO, ID
Step into the extraordinary wilderness of Yellowstone National Park, a celebrated natural treasure spanning across Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. Since its establishment in 1872, this iconic park has been a beacon of American natural splendor. Cross off your list of activities like watching the breathtaking geysers erupt, navigating picturesque hiking trails or seeing vast Yellowstone Lake.
The opportunity to observe a diverse array of wildlife such as bison, elk and mountain goats in their natural habitat is sure to nurture a love for nature in your kids. Consider adding on a family camping trip in Yellowstone for an extra layer of adventure.
Best Things to Do: Walk the sights to see in Yellowstone, including Old Faithful, but remember not to leave marked paths and boardwalks, which are designed to shield visitors from potential dangers within the park, such as wildlife encounters and hazardous hot springs.
Best Time to Visit: Opt for April through May or September through October to enjoy Yellowstone National Park at its best, with colorful foliage, moderate temperatures, reduced crowds and open roads.
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