family travel 2023

• Destinations
• Hotels & All-Inclusives
• Theme Parks

50 family vacation ideas for the best trip ever

Discover the best family vacation ideas from familyvacationist's team of family travel experts..

The best family vacation ideas build memories that can last a lifetime. But there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing family vacations everyone will love. This list of family vacation ideas pulls from the first-hand experiences and favorite vacation memories of our team of family travel experts.

We’ve organized the best family vacations into categories such as all-inclusive family resorts, theme park vacations, cruise vacations, and other family fun. Jump to any section below to explore our list of the best family vacations selected by our experts.

The best family vacation ideas:

• All-inclusive family vacations and resorts in the U.S.
• All-inclusive family vacations and resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico

Family cruise vacations

• Theme park and water park vacations

National park and camping vacations

• Staycations and Road trip vacations
• Group tours and guided family vacations

All-inclusive family vacation ideas and resorts in the U.S.

All-inclusive resorts make the best family vacations because they take the stress out of the vacation-planning process. You probably picture tropical vacation spots when you think about all-inclusive family vacations, but there are some great resorts here in the United States as well. These are the best family vacations in the U.S. where everything’s included.

1. Sandpiper Bay All-Inclusive Resort by Wyndham

Port st. lucie, florida.

A lot of resorts claim to offer something for everyone in the family. But Florida’s Sandpiper Bay All Inclusive Resort by Wyndham  (formerly called Club Med Sandpiper Bay) actually delivers on the promise. It has multiple pools, water sports, golf, a spa, private beach access, and kids clubs for different age groups.

The Mini Club is for ages four to 10 and Latitude 27 keeps tweens and teens ages 11 to 17 busy. There’s even a “Pajama Club” in the evenings. Better yet, this one of the rare truly all-inclusive resorts in the country.

Florida’s Atlantic coast beaches are 10 minutes away, and the resort offers an activity-rich experience that includes tennis, volleyball, jet skiing, and swimming. Should you ever want to leave the all-inclusive oasis, Sandpiper Bay’s Port St. Lucie location puts you just two hours from Disney World and Universal Orlando. It’s just an hour from Palm Beach.

• Explore more: Florida all-inclusive resorts

2. Mohonk Mountain House

New paltz, new york.

With its jaw-dropping location on the shores of Lake Mohonk, Mohonk Mountain House is the perfect New York vacation destination for families who love swimming, kayaking, and row boating. Surrounded by of acres of woodland, the resort is an especially good choice for hikes and picnics during fall family vacations when the weather is crisp and the leaves are changing. 

At Mohonk Mountain House, you get an all-inclusive-like experience that covers three meals per day and most activities, though extras like horseback riding, rock climbing, and spa treatments are not part of the daily rate. It’s an easy driving destination for many families on the East Coast. The resort is just 90 minutes from New York City, three hours from Philadelphia, and 3.5 hours from Boston. 

• Explore more: All-inclusive resorts in the U.S. for families

3. Grand Hotel

Mackinac island, michigan.

A stay at the nearly all-inclusive Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island has been one of the most popular family vacation ideas in the U.S. for generations. This is a true throwback experience. Not a lot has changed on Mackinac Island since the resort’s grand opening in 1887.

Victorian homes, car-free streets, and horse drawn buggies are all part of the experience. But there’s a lot more to do here than marvel at the old-timey charm. Cycling the bike-friendly streets, playing mini golf, eating ice cream, and kayaking along the shores of the eight-mile island are all part of the family fun.

Summer events like the annual Fudge Festival (August) and Lilac Festival (June) keep families coming back to this Midwest family vacation destination. As for the Grand Hotel at the center of it all, its family vacation packages typically include resort amenities and meals (breakfast and dinner) in the nightly rate.

• Explore more: Family resorts in the U.S.

4. Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa

Oahu, hawaii.

On the island of Oahu in Hawaii, family vacations get a decidedly Disney spin at Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa . The resort’s mostly all-inclusive rates include nightly bonfires, character meet-and-greets, live entertainment, walking tours, ukulele lessons, a kids club, and a game room.

There are also special kid-friendly pools, lazy rivers, and a splash pad. With its abundance of offerings and plenty of fun add-ons like luaus and paddle boarding, there’s a lot to recommend this Disney spot in Hawaii.

• Explore more: Hawaii all-inclusive resorts

5. Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf and Beach Resort

Rio grande, puerto rico.

Like Hawaii, Puerto Rico is another passport-free family vacation idea with year-round warm weather. Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico borders El Yunque rainforest and is home to three lagoon-style swimming pools featuring a waterslide and waterfall to keep kids happy.

For the grownups, there are two golf courses and a full-service spa. You can also try your luck at table games and slot machines at the on-site casino. Wyndham Grand Rio Mar is not fully all-inclusive, but you can frequently find family vacation packages that come close. The meal plan package includes three meals per day, unlimited drinks (including alcohol), and a round of golf.

Even when the meal package is not offered, it’s possible to save money here with the resort’s other ongoing promotions. These include AAA and AARP discounts and a bed-and-breakfast rate.

• Explore more: Puerto Rico all-inclusive resorts

6. Woodloch Resort

Hawley, pennsylvania.

With all the bumper cars, go-karts, splash pools, and a jungle gym, you’d be forgiven for thinking the kids club at Woodloch Resort is an actual theme park. The kid-friendly amenities at this family-run Poconos resort go way above the ordinary. Are tailored by age group, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

If ever a resort were designed specifically to help families play together, it’s this one. Hayrides, pony rides, bumper boats, organized games, and bowling are among the fun things to do together with the kids. With accommodations ranging from adjoining rooms to multi-bedroom suites make it easy to configure your stay, and seasonal stay-and-play vacation packages help keep costs down.

• Explore more: Family hotels with kids clubs

7. Hotel Del Coronado

Coronado island, california.

Family vacation ideas don’t get any better than a stay at a kid-friendly beach resort like Hotel Del Coronado . Located on California’s Coronado Island, it has been catering to families for more than a century. Both a National Historic Landmark and a thriving vacation destination, this kid-friendly beach hotel sorts its 901-plus guest rooms into different “neighborhoods,” including the original Victorian inn and luxury multi-bedroom residences done up in modern beach house style.

A private beach with food and beverage service ups the relaxation factor. If your idea of a good family vacation includes getting out of the water, surfing or stand-up paddle boarding lessons are available. An ocean-themed kids program for ages five to 12 leans into The Del’s location on the Pacific Ocean with fun and immersive educational experiences for children.

• Explore more: Beach resorts in the U.S.

8. C Lazy U Ranch

Granby, colorado.

World-famous C Lazy U Ranch is an all-inclusive guest ranch not far from Rocky Mountain National Park. It pairs classic dude ranch activities like trail rides with gourmet meals and kid-friendly amenities like a ropes course and zip line.

The ranch has seasonal children’s programming year-round for ages three to 17 that makes it an especially great pick for family reunions and family vacations where the adults can use a little alone time. Cabins can accommodate up to 11 guests.

• Explore more: Dude ranch vacations in the U.S.

All-inclusive family vacation ideas and resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean

If you have a passport, your family vacation ideas list gets even bigger. From Caribbean family resorts to all-inclusive beach resorts around the world, here are our personally approved picks for family vacations with no surprise fees.

1. Coconut Bay Beach Resort and Spa

Vieux fort, st. lucia.

The best thing about Coconut Bay Beach Resort and Spa on St. Lucia is the Splash Water Park. It’s the island’s largest water park with two giant water slides and a lazy river. But what makes Coconut Bay truly special are the separate family area (“Splash”) and grown-ups only (“Harmony”) with their own guest rooms and pools. 

There’s also an on-site paintball facility, a kitesurfing and windsurfing center, a kids’ club, nine restaurants, and seven bars. And with adjoining rooms that sleep up to six, Coconut Bay is a great family vacation idea for larger families.  

• Explore more: All-inclusive resorts for families of 5+

2. Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Riviera Maya

Playa del carmen, mexico.

Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Riviera Maya brings SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to life in a five-star all-inclusive resort setting. Every room is a swim-up oceanfront suite at this beachfront resort. Family vacation highlights include character breakfasts, live shows and entertainment, and a six-acre outdoor water park. It’s also just 30 minutes from the Cancun airport.

• Explore more : Mexico all-inclusive resorts for famili es

3. Jewel Runaway Bay Beach Resort and Waterpark

Runaway bay, jamaica.

At the all-inclusive Jewel Runaway Bay Beach Resort in Jamaica, it’s all about the water. The Jewel Lagoon Water Park has water slides, raft rides, and a lazy river with rock grottos and waterfalls. The pool and beach are a hit with the whole family, too. Evening fun includes live entertainment and drive-in movies. 

• Explore more : Jamaica all-inclusive resorts for families

4. Royalton Antigua, an All-Inclusive Resort and Casino

Five islands village, antigua.

Just a half hour from Antigua’s International airport, ultra-family-friendly  Royalton Antigua is situated along a pristine private beach and shadowed by a dramatic 18th century fort. It’s a true luxury family resort with eight restaurants, five bars, three swimming pools, a spa, a special hangout areas for kids and teens, and some gorgeous overwater bungalows.

Daytime activities include kayaking, snorkeling, dance classes, beach volleyball, and tennis. Evenings end with live performances at an open-air theater.

• Explore more : Antigua all-inclusive resorts

5. Planet Hollywood Costa Rica Beach Resort

Culebra, costa rica.

With its movie memorabilia, walk-of-fame, red carpet, and Stars Kids Club, Planet Hollywood Beach Resort in Costa Rica is a family vacation favorite for younger kids and teens alike.

Other popular amenities at this Costa Rica family vacation hotspot include multiple swimming pools, a splash zone, a spa, and seven onsite restaurants. The all-inclusive resort also curates special experiences such as zip lining, canopy tours, horseback riding, and water sports like snorkeling and sailing excursions. 

• Explore more : Costa Rica all-inclusive resorts

6. Club Med Columbus

San salvador island, bahamas.

The beachfront Club Med Columbus (from the brand that pioneered all-inclusive family vacation ideas) is a favorite among active families. Here you can go kayaking or paddle boarding, learn to sail or windsurf, join a fitness class, or enjoy scuba diving all in the base price. Older kids and teens can break off from the family for a bit to enjoy organized events arranged by the resort.

• Explore more: Bahamas all-inclusive resorts

7. Holiday Inn Resort Aruba

Oranjestad, aruba.

Situated on a pristine strip of Aruba’s famous Palm Beach, Holiday Inn Resort Aruba ‘s inclusive vacation package lets kids eat free. It also offers unlimited drinks and a $75 spa credit for the adults in the family.

You pay a reduced rate on kayak and paddle boat rentals, sunset cruises, and other activities offered by Pelican Adventures. The resort’s a la carte dining options and spacious rooms with ocean views are also popular for family vacations.

• Explore more: Aruba all-inclusive resorts

8. Ocean Club and Ocean Club West

Turks and caicos.

There’s plenty for families to do at the two Ocean Club Resorts. Stay at either Ocean Club or Ocean Club West to enjoy all the perks of both. Water-loving kids and parents will enjoy the shallow reefs of Grace Bay Beach, one of the best beaches in the Caribbean and perfect for snorkeling or scuba diving. For the horse lovers in the family, there’s horseback riding on the beach.

• Explore more: Caribbean family resorts

9. Bocawina Rainforest Resort

Hopkins, belize.

Bocawina Rainforest Resort grants you an all-access pass to Belize’s Mayflower Bocawina National Park. You also get unlimited guided and unguided excursions there.

Resort activities include ziplining, waterfall rappelling, horseback riding, and cave tubing. All together, it makes this all-inclusive resort on Belize’s Caribbean coast one of the best family vacations for active and adventurous types. 

• Explore more: All-inclusive family resorts around the world

10. Sea Breeze Beach House by Ocean Hotels all inclusive

Oistins, barbados.

On Barbados, Sea Breeze Beach House is an all-inclusive beachfront oasis perfect for family vacations with kids and teens. Three swimming pools mean there’s always something to do in the sunny weather. Its secluded bay makes snorkeling in the clear Caribbean waters safe and easy.

A stay at this resort also gets you access to its sister property, O2 Beach Club and Spa. There you can try out activities like aqua aerobics, beach cricket, and yoga.

• Explore more: Barbados all-inclusive resorts

11. Club Med Punta Cana

Punta cana, dominican republic.

At Club Med Punta Cana , tweens and teens ages 11 to 17 get their own vacation fun through Club Med Passworld. It’s a unique program that offers activities like horseback riding, water sports, archery, and a flying trapeze. Dance parties and outdoor movies on the beach add to the appeal. Even for hard-to-please teens and tweens will enjoy it.

Explore more all-inclusive vacation ideas by age and interest:

• All-inclusive resorts for toddlers
• All-inclusive resorts for teenagers
• All-inclusive resorts where kids stay free
• All-inclusive resorts for multigenerational vacations

Equal parts theme park and resort, cruises are popular family vacation ideas that all ages can enjoy. Here are some of the best choices for a family cruise vacation. 

Family vacations at sea

Disney cruise line.

Choosing the right cruise line for your family is the most important decision you can make. Disney Cruise Line has been the standard bearer for family vacation ideas at sea since its launch in 1998. Later this year he family-favorite line will debut a brand new ship, Disney Treasure , and a brand new private island destination, Lighthouse Point. Disney’s first private island, Castaway Cay, is another highlight for families.

Other family cruise lines

Lines like Royal Caribbean, Princess, Norwegian, Carnival, and MSC are also good family cruise options. The most exciting family vacation at sea to come along in years belongs to Royal Caribbean, whose newest ship ( Icon of the Seas ) debuts this year and holds the distinction of being the largest cruise ship in the world.

It sails Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, features distinct “neighborhoods” for families traveling with kids and teens, and boasts the world’s largest waterpark at sea.

Explore more family vacation ideas at sea:

• Best cruise lines for families
• Best kids sail free cruise deals

Theme park vacations

Disney family vacation ideas

One of the most time-tested family vacation ideas, a theme park vacation is a surefire way to delight everyone in your family. Now more than 100 years old, The Walt Disney Company continues to innovate with new roller coasters, attractions, and hotels at its theme parks. These include the fully immersive Star Wars land at Hollywood Studios in Florida, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT, and TRON Lightcycle/Run at Magic Kingdom.

For a Walt Disney World vacation in Orlando, book a stay at one of the Disney World Resort hotels to take advantage of special perks like extra time inside the parks. At Disneyland Resort, there are plenty of affordable and convenient hotels near Disneyland for families on a budget, many of which are within walking distance of the parks.

Explore more Disney family vacation ideas:

• Guide to the best Orlando theme parks
• Guide to Disney Genie and Genie+

Universal family vacation ideas

Over at at Universal Studios in Florida, all eyes are focused on the development of Universal’s third Florida theme park, called Epic Universe, which is set to open in 2025 and is rumored to have a third Harry Potter theme park area to go alongside the two existing Harry Potter lands. Meanwhile, the Jurassic World VelociCoaster continues to thrill families and the new Minion Land recently opened.

Explore more Universal family vacation ideas:

• Guide to Universal Orlando Resort
• Guide to Universal Orlando hotels

More theme park vacation ideas

Disney and Universal may have the biggest theme parks in the U.S., but they’re far from the only amusement parks worth planning a whole vacation around. Here are some other theme park family vacations consider.

Explore more theme park vacation ideas:

• Best amusement parks for little kids in the U.S.
• Best indoor theme parks in the U.S .

Dubbed “America’s Best Idea,” the country’s national parks are also one of the best family vacation ideas anywhere in the U.S., and their geographic diversity makes them an option for all four seasons.

1. National parks to visit in spring

In spring, national parks tend to not be as hot or crowded, and National Park Week in April brings free admission on top of the nice weather. Some of the best parks to visit with kids this time of year include New River Gorge National Park, Shenandoah National Park, Everglades National Park, and Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

• Explore more: National parks to visit in spring

2. National parks to visit in summer

The summer months from late May to early September are peak season for many national parks. With kids out of school and family vacations in full swing, national park visitor numbers swell. But spacious parks like Kenai Fjords, Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, and Glacier National Park do a good job of managing crowds and keeping the experience special. 

• Explore more: National parks to visit in summer

3. National parks to visit in fall

When kids go back to school and cooler temperatures arrive, the crowds thin out at some of the country’s most beloved national parks. Crisp autumn weather makes for more pleasant hikes, and the shorter days make it easier to catch the sunset at parks like Yosemite, Zion, Great Smoky Mountains, and Badlands National Park.

• Explore more: National parks to visit in fall

4. National parks to visit in winter

Winter in the Great Outdoors might not be one of your top family vacation ideas, but maybe it should be. Many of the top national parks in the U.S. are located in deserts and tropical locations, making winter a prime season to visit places like Death Valley and Saguaro National Park. And if you’re a family that loves winter sports, both Grand Teton and Acadia National Park reveal whole new sides of themselves in the winter months. 

• Explore more: National parks to visit in winter

5. More family vacation ideas in national parks

One of the best-kept secrets of America’s national park system is the hut-to-hike hiking trips through Montana’s Glacier National Park, which consists of two dramatic backcountry lodges (Sperry Chalet and Granite Park Chalet). Hut-to-hut hiking offers family-friendly amenities like hot meals and comfortable beds without the need to carry heavy overnight gear like tents or sleeping bags on your day hikes. And in terms of spectacular mountain views, it rivals the Swiss Alps for sheer natural beauty.

Licensed tour operator Glacier Guides offers guided hikes through Glacier National Park that are geared toward families with kids ages 10 and up. For outdoorsy families looking for a significant upgrade from tent camping, this hut-to-hut experience is one of the best family vacation ideas in the country. Glacier Guides’ backcountry family vacation packages include a three-day Granite Chalet trek and a six-day hut-to-hut adventure that features horseback riding and an optional half-day whitewater rafting trip.

Nationwide, fourth graders are eligible for a national parks pass through the Every Kid Outdoors Program. The pass grants entry to all children under 16 in the group and up to three accompanying adults. You can also use recreation.gov to find a campsite in or near a national park or to get a permit.

Explore more national park and camping vacation ideas:

• Best national park lodges in the U.S.
• Best campgrounds and RV parks for families

Family staycations

You don’t have to travel to popular family vacation spots like Washington, D.C. or San Diego to have a great time with the kids. Sometimes it’s easier (and a lot less expensive) to let the family vacation come to you. Instead of searching for cheap flights and then choosing between a hotel and vacation rental for accommodations, you can turn a week at home into one of your best family vacation ideas ever. 

Taking a staycation doesn’t have to mean just staying at home and doing nothing. Instead, treat it like an opportunity to transform your home into a family vacation destination.

Have a nice big backyard? Pitch a tent and sleep under the stars. Roast marshmallows over a fire pit. Set up an outdoor movie screen and introduce your kids to a favorite childhood movie on the big screen.

Take day trips to museums, aquariums, botanic gardens, or a state park or local park. Head to your local children’s museum if your kids are younger. Explore local beaches and turn your staycation into a family beach vacation. Blow up an inflatable pool and turn your backyard into a homemade splash pad water park. 

And if the biggest barrier to your vacation is expensive airfare for the whole family, book a vacation rental or find a hotel deal within driving distance, making a road trip part of the experience. Most of all, treat your staycation like a real vacation. Turn off your work email notifications. Change up who cooks dinner or let the kids choose their favorite takeout food.

Take a lazy afternoon and read a book. Make breakfast for the whole family. Relax screen time restrictions for the kids. Play a board game. Spend a day doing outdoor activities and hanging out together. Family vacations at home are only limited by your imagination.

Family road trips

You may not remember every family vacation you went on as a kid, but you probably remember at least one road trip. That’s because there’s something quintessentially American about the family road trip experience. It’s practically a rite of passage for many families.

What makes a road trip one of the best family trips isn’t just the scenery or wherever your ultimate destination may be. It’s also a chance to spend hours at a time together—in the car, at roadside attractions, at rest stops and restaurants. Telling bad jokes, playing car games, forcing your kids to listen to “real music” for a change: It’s all part of building memories they’ll remember when they have their own kids.

Explore more road trip ideas:

• Family road trip ideas every kid will love

Private group tours and guided family vacations

Like all-inclusive vacations, there’s something liberating about family travel adventures where a small group tour company handles all the details of your family vacation. It’s especially welcome when you’re dreaming of a family vacation to someplace you’ve never been before. Here are a few family vacation ideas that are perfect for small groups led by professional guides.

Explore the mysteries of Egypt with Adventures by Disney

Family vacations don’t get any better than an overseas trip with Adventures by Disney, the small-group tour operator known for its authentic experiences, attentive guides, and kid-friendly activities. And family vacation ideas don’t get any more big-ticket than Adventures by Disney’s 10-day Egypt vacation .

Imagine exploring the world-famous Valley of Kings, standing in awe before the Great Pyramid at Giza, visiting the Temple of Isis at Philae, snorkeling in the Red Sea, sailing the Nile on a felucca , shopping at a 700-year-old night market, and learning to cook traditional Egyptian dishes in a chef-led class.

Now imagine it all without any of the hassles or hangups (or whining) you might expect on even the best family vacations. That’s part of the magic of traveling with Adventures by Disney. This year, these Egypt family vacation packages start at $8,549 per child and $8,999 per adult, a true bucket-list family vacation with a price tag to match.

Discover Paris and Normandy with G Adventures

Cross Paris and Normandy off your family vacation ideas bucket list with the nine-day France Family Journey small-group tour from G Adventures and National Geographic.

Tailored to families looking for unique bonding experiences, this kid-friendly trip takes in the history, art, and culture of France with visits to iconic monuments in Paris, cave dwellings in the Loire Valley, the gardens of Versailles, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mont-Saint-Michel. Plus, you’ll learn about World War II history and get an in-depth look at D-Day where it happened on the beaches of Normandy.

National Geographic Family Journeys from G Adventures are meant to bring families together on active vacations in some of the most impressive family vacation spots in the world. Each of these family vacation ideas is designed with kids as young as seven years old in mind, and each itinerary is infused with National Geographic’s unique sense of appreciation for storytelling, wildlife, culture, and history.

Bookings are open for June and July family vacations this year, with per person prices starting at $3,899; and June, July, and August tours in 2025. Other National Geographic Family Journeys from G Adventures include bucket-list family vacation destinations like Iceland, Japan, South Africa, Peru, Costa Rica, Morocco, and Vietnam. In the U.S., family vacation spots include Yellowstone and Alaska.

Enjoy a taste of Thailand with Intrepid Travel

If a long-tail boat trip through the canals of Bangkok sounds like a great family trip idea, the Thailand Family Holiday from Intrepid Travel might be the perfect family vacation idea for you. On this 12-day kid-friendly family vacation package, you’ll discover the markets of Bangkok, visit rescued elephants at a nature park, explore the history and ruins of Ayutthaya, and see up close how others live on an overnight homestay with a local family. 

One of the best parts of small-group travel on family tours like this is traveling with other families. With Intrepid Travel, the typical group size is about 10 people made up of three to five families (defined as any group with at least one child under the age of 18). Often the kids will form their own groups during a trip, giving parents a chance to rest or socialize, too. 

Intrepid’s Thailand Family Holiday is available to book on multiple dates this year and even 2025. Prices start at $1,841 in both this year and early 2025 (slightly less for kids). The minimum age for children is five years old, and there’s a 10 percent discount for children 17 years and under.

Travel from Machu Picchu to the Amazon with Intrepid Travel

Speaking of Intrepid, families with budding adventurers will love exploring Peru’s cultural and biodiversity on the company’s  Peru Family Holiday . In addition to exploring the Sacred Valley, you’ll visit Machu Picchu for a once-in-a-lifetime experience your family will never forget.

The trip’s price tag of $2,759 per adult includes hotels, transportation, and breakfast each day, plus three lunches and two dinners. It costs slightly less for kids under 17.

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Family travel is trending massively for 2023 - and here's why 

Family getaways, multigenerational holidays and family reunion trips are all on the rise in 2023. More families are using travel to strengthen bonds, have new experiences and create lifelong memories. We look at why family travel is trending, the types of family trips we’re seeing and the benefits of travel for family wellbeing.

GET INSPIRED BY: Family tours

Family travel is on the rise

A Booking.com survey of 24,000 travellers found that 54% want to plan a family holiday or family reunion abroad. The 2022 Family Travel Association (FTA) survey found that 85% of parents are very likely to travel with their children in the next 12 months and 47% of respondents say they are planning a multigenerational trip. New research by GlobalData discovered that 76% of respondents say their children are the main inspiration for taking a family trip, while 52% want to see other family members.

Here at Trafalgar, we’ve certainly seen a rise in families booking trips and we love welcoming these families on our tours. So we know that family travel is definitely trending – but why?

RELATED BLOG: 7 unique places to visit for your next family vacation

Post-pandemic togetherness

Family travel has increased in popularity since the outbreak of COVID-19, and it’s no coincidence. After years of restrictions, with many families separated by international borders, people are eager to travel and make up for lost time together. Even for those families who weren’t kept apart, the pandemic has shifted priorities. They’re just as eager to spend quality time together, making happy memories.  

The pandemic also ushered in the era of remote working, with workers who once may have been tied to an office now suddenly able to work from anywhere – even overseas, where their families may be based. Family holidays which, pre-pandemic, might have been hard to organise are now more accessible.

RELATED BLOG: We asked, you answered: These are the most family-friendly trips as chosen by Trafalgar guests

Strengthening family bonds

If your goal for travelling as a family is for some quality bonding time, you’re doing the right thing. The findings of this research paper show that, while travel is often used for relaxation, education and escapism, it has deeper benefits for families. These include improved communication, strengthening of family bonds and an increased sense of wellbeing in children and adults. Another study found that family travel increased parents’ wellbeing and children’s skill development. Meanwhile, this researcher claims that travel boosts your family’s overall brain health. It all makes a great case to take a family trip this year!

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Multi-generational travel

This trend isn’t limited to the nuclear family – increasingly, the traditional family holiday is expanding to include the grandparents. Families are eager to have shared experiences and create deeper intergenerational bonds. It also helps that – for the parents especially – there’s another set of hands to share the load of logistical planning and, if they’re lucky, the childcare!

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Milestone holidays

There’s nothing like a family holiday to celebrate a significant life milestone – and from birthdays to wedding anniversaries, more families are using it as an excuse to spend quality time together. For that brief-but-glorious window of time you can pack away the stresses of everyday life and focus on the things that matter the most.

Learning through experiences

The trend for unique and immersive experiences, or experiential travel, has extended to family travel. More families want to learn about new cultures and try new activities together. They say travel is the best teacher, and what could beat learning about different cultures and communities from the locals themselves? It’s all about helping our kids learn about the world in a fun and authentic way.

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The 2023 Booking.com survey found that 88% were planning nostalgic holidays this year. Perhaps it’s because we’ve spent years reminiscing about past trips. Or maybe it’s a desire to get back to our family roots. Whatever the reason, trips that evoke childhood memories are top of the list for many travellers this year. From theme parks to the beach towns they visited as children, families are embracing their old favourites – and the good old days.

What are your favourite family holiday spots? Let us know in the comments below…

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Parents 2023 Family Travel Awards

Looking to plan your next family getaway? Here are 21 kid-friendly places to stay in the USA.

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• Best in the West
• Best Nationwide

Whether you are  traveling with a toddler  or a tween, family travel can be tricky. From choosing the right destination to selecting the right resort—complete with accommodations and amenities which suit your family’s needs and wants—there are a lot of considerations to be had. That's why we created the Parents  Family Travel  Awards.

With so many places to stay it's hard to select where to spend your vacation time, so we did the work and narrowed down the list, selecting 21  family-friendly destinations just for you. We reached out to top travel writers, our editors, and real parents—particularly those always ready to book that plane ticket or buckle the kiddos in for a  classic American road trip —for insights. We then we reviewed each selection, to see which properties stood out in areas like accessibility, activities, location, and hospitality. So whether you're looking to get active in the great outdoors, explore theme park attractions, or embark on an urban adventure, this is our list of rave-worthy hotels, resorts, all-inclusives, and unique accommodations for families. Bon Voyage.

How We Chose Our Winners

• Recently Visited. We asked Parents editors and a network of family travel experts to nominate the top places they’ve visited this year, ensuring the properties on this list were up-to-date and fresh.
• Kindness is Cool. We awarded places that make families feel welcome and are willing to go the extra mile.
• Varied Locations . While hopping on a plane to go somewhere magical is encouraged, we awarded places in various regions in the United States to promote staycations and roadtripping.
• Ease of Fun . Whether you’re someone who likes to go to a theme park, lie on a beach, or explore the city, having an activity (or two) right at the hotel can be key to a good vacation with kids. The destinations on our list all made having fun a breeze.
• Good Food. While not a must, excellent food options at your hotel can be a game changer in how you start (or end) your day when traveling with kids. Hotels with great food options moved up our list.
• Superb Room Accommodations. What makes a beautiful room isn't necessarily its size; it's how it’s set up. The places we selected have great room accommodations, with some offering bunk beds, pull-out couches, trundle beds, and other unique sleeping arrangements. 
• Varied Operating Hours. Being able to grab a cup of coffee at 6:00am is key for many parents—at least if you have early risers. Before making our list, we considered the operating hours of onsite facilities.

Meet Our 2023 Panel of Judges

Amelia Edelman

Family Travel Expert @ameliaaroundtheworld

Stephanie Claytor

Author and Travel Writer @stephanieclaytortv

Wendy Altschuler

Author and Travel Writer @wendyaltschuler

Best Family Travel in the Northeast 

Samoset resort: rockland, maine.

Samoset Resort

With a population of just over 7,000 residents, Rockland is a tiny coastal town with big heart. Home to the Maine Lobster Festival, this year-round destination is popular with families who want to spend time on or near the water, visit the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, or walk along the Rockland Harbor Trail. 

One of the best places to stay in the area is Samoset Resort , a lovely luxury resort dating back to 1889 which overlooks Penobscot Bay. With a great location, beautiful accommodations, fun seasonal activities—like biking, hiking, and cookie decorating—and an “ultimate backyard” (with tennis, golf, and a pickleball court) there’s plenty to do. Plus, what kid doesn’t love noodle-y Italian cuisine? Dine at the resort’s La Bella Vita for an elevated meal or at the casual Splash Pool Bar for favorites like Little Sailor Fish Sticks. One parent says that there are, “lots of kids activities, nearby beaches, and hiking.”

Woodloch Pines: Hawley, Pennsylvania

If mountain views, glassy lakes, and verdant valleys are your thing, then you’ll want to head to the Pocono Mountains where you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities to keep your family busy year-round. 

For 65 years, Woodloch Pines has welcomed families with comfortable accommodations, activities, entertainment, and meal plans that work for even the pickiest eater in your crew. “It's an amazing family friendly resort, with tons of indoor and outdoor activities,” one parent says. “The summers can be filled with fun lake games and the winters with Olympic-styled snow games.” In fact, according to the resort's website, there are over 30 activities scheduled each and every day—making this a destination with endless possibilities. Woodloch Pines also has an adventure playground, nature trail, and indoor and outdoor pools. It’s a multi-award-winning property–for good reason.

The Mahalo: Cape May, New Jersey

You’ll find chocolate box Victorian homes, boutique shops, and restaurants situated along the southern tip of New Jersey’s Cape May peninsula. Spend your vacation with your family frolicking on the beach, indulge in oceanfront dining, enjoy a trolley tour, or find treasures at local stores. 

Accommodations at The Mahalo are well appointed, decorated with refined furnishings and located right at the beachfront. One writer says, “Rooms are spacious, and they have up to 3-bed townhouses/apartments for families to stay.” 

Parents will really appreciate the convenience of a kitchenette, complete with hot plates, a microwave, and a fridge. (You can cut costs by making some of your meals in your room.) Everyone will love the heated outdoor swimming pool and third-floor sundeck, and a local shuttle will take you throughout Cape May. There are also board games available for use.

Legoland New York Hotel: Goshen, New York

Legoland Resort

One of the most sought after activities in Goshen, New York—at least for younger kids—is the Legoland theme park , where creativity and imagination reign supreme. Brick builder fans can see life-sized constructs, meet their favorite characters, scream on roller coasters, put together LEGO cars and race them, and ride the DUPLO Express, among other activities. And, when everyone is tuckered out, families can head to the Legoland New York Hotel , located just steps away from the park. With complimentary daily breakfast, kids’ entertainment each night, and LEGO-themed accommodations, this place is a win for everyone. 

One parent says, "Just a five-minute walk to the entrance of Legoland New York, the Legoland Hotel in Goshen is a great place to stay with Lego-loving children. The location couldn't be more convenient. The lobby is fun. There is a castle playground set up next to a bar/restaurant, where families gather for food and drinks and nightly activities (stories, dance parties, etc.), and the rooms are large and clean, with bunk- and trundle beds designed to sleep five people. There are also treasure hunts in each room and LEGO boards mounted to the wall with bins of LEGOS, encouraging kids to create builds in-room.”

Wildflower Farms: Gardiner, New York

AUBERGE RESORTS COLLECTION

If you're looking for a splurge in the Northeast, look no further than Wildflower Farms . Every room and public space at this Hudson Valley resort is Instagram worthy. Native plants and flowers. Wild woodlands. A vegetable garden. Miles of hiking trails that wind through a forest. An outdoor swimming pool. But it isn’t just visually appealing, it's functional too. One parent says, "My kids were able to wake up early and choose eggs from the farm for the restaurant to cook for breakfast. It's a special place." Better yet, all of this natural beauty is only 90 minutes away from New York City. 

As for the accommodations, cabins and cottages are decked out with rich fabrics, floor-to-ceiling windows, and easy access to outdoor spaces. Rooms are supplied with locally curated snacks and beverages, cedarwood soaps and bath products, and reading materials. 

Kids can join the Learning Lab for Littles and create wildflower seed bombs, windcatchers, or other projects. Evening itineraries include s’mores around a campfire and story time, and while kids are engaged, parents can indulge in a spa treatments, yoga classes, or alone time in one of the outdoor meadow hot tubs. 

Best Family Travel in the South

Hard rock hotel daytona beach: daytona beach, florida.

HardRock Hotel

Folks flock to Daytona each year to experience everything from the Daytona International Speedway to its sandy beaches and boardwalks and, if you're in Daytona, you may want to stay at the Hard Rock Hotel , which is perfectly located right on the beach—and has stunning views of the Atlantic. 

Hotel amenities include a swimming pool, spa, souvenir shop, in-room guitars and record players, a fitness center, and a VIP Pet Program that features special amenities and a custom pet playlist. (Yes, seriously!) The Hard Rock Roxity Youth Club features fan-favorite arcade games, giving kids a space to play and hang out with siblings or new friends. And one parent and travel writer says “It has lots of cabanas, which are good for families to hang out in. It has a DJ on the weekends and poolside service, which makes it a fun experience for parents too. The rooms also have tubs, which makes it easier to bathe small children.”

Isla Bella: Marathon, Florida

Isla Bella / Douglas Friedman

For family-friendly sand adventures, with a sunny Caribbean-like climate and ecosystem, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Florida Keys, an archipelago of tropical islands off the southern coast of Florida. 

Our experts recommend a stay at Isla Bella , located by the iconic Seven Mile Bridge. One parent says, “The two-bedroom, two-bath accommodations were perfect for a family of four. Nestled on the water with various pool options, the kids didn't want to leave Isla Bella.”

The property has several on-site dining options, which every parent knows is important. It offers daily activities, fishing, watersports, and day cruises. And with multiple pools, mini golf, and (of course) seasonal offerings, Isla Bella is fun-in-the-sun year-round.

Caribe Royale: Orlando, Florida

Caribe Royale

Orlando is a kid paradise, with plenty to do, see, and eat. All of the top attractions, parks, and museums are here. The challenge, then, is narrowing down what exactly you want to do with your family while there and where you should stay. 

One in-the-know parent and writer recommends Caribe Royale because not only does it have a great swimming pool, fenced-in playground and splash pad, and waterslide, but it’s also located near Walt Disney World and has a shuttle that operates daily, taking visitors to the park as well as Disney Springs. 

“The Caribe Royale is an all-suite hotel, which means all rooms are large and designed to accommodate families with separate living and sleeping areas,” the expert says. “The resort offers numerous amenities, which are kid and parent approved, including an arcade, movie nights, early food and beverage operating hours, fishing, and bike rentals. The space is also beautiful.”

Southall Farm and Inn: Franklin, Tennessee

Southall Farm and Inn

Historic Franklin sets the scene for a family getaway that will usurp all others. Set on 325 acres, with multiple greenhouses, gardens, and orchards, Southall Farm and Inn is the nature escape you’ve been dreaming of. 

“Southall is definitely a splurge, but it's unparalleled in how it integrates being a working farm into artful luxury hotel accommodations,” says one parent. “My son and I hiked the trails, learned about medicinal plants, and even donned beekeeper suits to meet the apiary inhabitants and taste honey straight from the hive.”

Choose from the inn’s 62 guestrooms and suites or select one of the 16 cottages and be sure to wander the working farm, complete with chickens and suspenders-clad farmers. 

Lost Pines Resort and Spa: Lost Pines, Texas

Lost Pines Resort and Spa

Adventure awaits in Texas hill country, especially at the Lost Pines Resort and Spa . Set on 405 acres, near the vibrant city of Austin, this resort is billed as Texas with a twist. It’s here that you can sample brisket as well as sushi. elk, antelope, and more. 

Resort activities abound. Enjoy horseback riding, backyard games, pickleball, tennis, basketball, bicycling, ax throwing, lassoing, fishing, arcade games, yoga, and more. Head to the property’s pools or water park and take a float around the lazy river, and young kids can take part in Camp Hyatt, a kids’ club that will unleash your child’s creativity and get them outside. 

Wahwahtaysee Resort: Kingsbury, Texas

Wahwahtaysee Resort 

If you’ve always wanted to try glamping, now is your chance. Our experts recommend a vacation at Wahwahtaysee Resort , with luxury safari tents made in South Africa. You’ll have all of the amenities of a hotel, including a comfy bed, a useful kitchenette, a lounge space, and more, but you’ll be able to enjoy the sounds and movements of the outdoors. 

Each tent includes a golf cart, so that you can easily get around the over 100 acre property. Dining options include breakfast and a Yeti Meal, a two-person meal waiting for you inside of a Yeti cooler, and kids will love the added “S’mores Board,” which are gourmet fixings for campfire fun.

Best Family Travel in the Midwest

The sheraton grand riverwalk: chicago, illinois.

The Sheraton / Marriott Bonvoy

The Windy City is consistently rated as one of the best big cities in the United States, and it’s easy to see why. From deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs to world-class museums, theaters, and professional sports, this city has it all. Go shopping along the Magnificent Mile, take the kids to the Lincoln Park Zoo, or explore the lakefront—home to some of the best beaches around. 

For traveling families, a fantastic indoor swimming pool is key for a memorable and fun vacation in Chicago. Located right on the Chicago River, with easy access to Lake Michigan, The Sheraton Grand Rirverwalk is steps away from Chicago architecture cruises, Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Magnificent Mile. Upgrade to the Sheraton Club Level, especially if you have a larger family in tow, and enjoy not only complimentary breakfast and evening cocktails but also stellar skyline views. Have a pet? Fido is welcome here too.

Bavarian Inn Black Hills: Custer, South Dakota

Byron Banasiak / Travel South Dakota

Family thrills abound in Custer, South Dakota, the oldest town in the Black Hills—where big sites and attractions like Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Mount Rushmore are all nearby. 

Our travel experts recommended staying at Bavarian Inn Black Hills , which is just as charming as you might imagine. There’s no shortage of fun things to do for all ages, including the indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Our travel expert loves this inn for not only its brunch, complimentary cookie happy hour, and tabletop video game machines with classic 80’s games, but also its large rooms, amiable staff, and courtesy washer and dryer. Now, how convenient is that for families? 

Big Cedar Lodge: Ridgedale, Missouri

Big Cedar Lodge

Big Cedar Lodge continually makes “best of” lists for family travel—and for good reason. The plush accommodations include lodge rooms, charming standalone cottages, spacious log cabins, and more. The list of amenities is long. From the outdoor swimming pool and Big Cedar Beach to the fitness center and non-motorized watercraft, there’s plenty of things to do while staying here. Plus, all overnight guests enjoy complimentary access to Top of the Rock. Beyond that, families can wander the trails, enjoy a bonfire, hang out at the kiddie pool or lazy river, and revel in the Ozarks hospitality through award-winning dining opportunities. 

Known as America’s premier wilderness resort, a stay here is an opportunity to bond with your family and reset, getting back to nature and all of the wonderful things that make life grand. 

Best Family Travel in the West

El capitan canyon: santa barbara, california.

El Capitan Canyon

Highly recommended by one of our parent travel experts, El Capitan Canyon is applauded for its location along the Santa Barbara coastline. This glamping getaway is a treat for families because you’ll have easy access to the beach. “Located in the crux of a canyon in the Santa Ynez Mountains, filled with 350 acres of oak and sycamore trees, my family has returned here time and again to immerse ourselves in nature,” says one parent.

Choose from a variety of accommodations, including cedar cabins, yurts, or safari-style tents, and don’t skip out on the s’mores around the outdoor fire pits. “Talk about fun for kids! No matter which of these options you choose, the entire experience is a unique departure from traditional hotels for young visitors,” says one parent. “And gazing at the night sky from this remote strip of coastline is an experience unto itself.”

Romp around the llama farm with your family, taking photographs as you go, or enjoy live music and lawn games. “My favorite thing about El Capitan Canyon is how close it places you to nature, allowing you to unplug, slow down, and really enjoy quality family time , all without busting your budget."

The Garland: North Hollywood, California

The Garland

If staying in North Hollywood, our experts suggest booking a night or two at The Garland , a hip property with a retro-California ambiance. “The Garland has such a cheery, bright atmosphere but it also caters to families,” says one parent. “It's minutes from Universal Studios Hollywood and runs a free trolley to the theme park.”

It’s all about enjoying homespun family time, with board and lawn games, a swimming pool that hosts outdoor flicks throughout the warmer months, and downtime around the large outdoor fireplace. “The hotel offers seasonal activities, tourist walks through the neighborhood, and has a fabulous restaurant onsite,” says one parent. 

Capitol Reef Resort: Torrey, Utah

Capitol Reef Resort 

Capitol Reef Resort is like a one-stop-shop for adventure. Set on 58 acres in Torrey, Utah, only one mile from the entrance of Capitol Reef National Park, this is the place to stay for not only sightseeing further afield but for enjoying mountain views, swimming in a large outdoor pool, and big adventures—like llama treks, horseback riding, jeep safaris, and more. 

With views of Red Rock Cliffs, the rooms and suites at Capitol Reef are eye-catching, well-designed, and fully furnished with everything your family might need for your retreat. For more intrepid travelers, check out the Conestoga wagons or the Teepees for a glamping experience that is out of this world. 

The Resort at Paws Up: Greenough, Montana

The Resort at Paws Up

Luxury glamping and log cabin stays await you at The Resort at Paws Up , an exquisite ranch resort set on 37,000 acres in Greenough, Montana. From horseback riding and hiking to fly fishing, ATV tours, and cattle drives, families can do it all at this splurge location. 

Each season offers special events where you can listen to well-known musicians, sample cuisine prepared by acclaimed chefs, and romp around the wilderness with celebrated outdoor guides, wranglers, and naturalists. The food at Paws Up is also top notch. Children can dine on perennial favorites like creamy mac and cheese while adults sample chili or pork ribs. And the resort even has a spa offering treatments for both kids and adults.

"For a bucket list adventure, one that the kids will never forget, make your way to The Resort at Paws Up in Montana," one travel writer says. "Your family will stay in a luxury cabin or glamping tent; experience a chuck wagon dinner under the stars, complete with cowboy poetry; and revel in outdoor pursuits." So don your cowboy hats and boots and git along little doggies—this is the outdoors-y adventure you’ve been waiting for! 

Best Family Travel Nationwide

Great Wolf Lodge

Great Wolf Lodge knows kids. Everything about this indoor water park resort is geared toward families, making it easy and fun to getaway for a few nights. It’s especially a treat in the winter, when it’s too cold to spend extended amounts of time outside. And with over 20 different locations, Great Wolf Lodge is accessible in many parts of the country.

"With several hot tubs, slides, a toddler splash pad, and a lazy river, there is something for everyone at Great Wolf Lodge," one parent explains. "My children are obsessed with the wave pool, which has a shallow end for my youngest and a deep end for my oldest. The giant bucket of water is also a big hit. If you know, you know."

Of course, there’s plenty to do outside of the water as well, including character appearances, family yoga, arts and crafts, dance parties, and story time. Kids can also tough it out on the climbing wall—at select locations—pan for gemstones, try the ropes course, check out miniature bowling, visit the arcade, and/or play MagicQuest. And with seasonal offerings like Snow Land and Howl-O-Ween, the fun never ends at Great Wolf Lodge.  

Hampton by Hilton

Hampton by Hilton has locations across the country, offering families affordable stays in comfortable accommodations. Join the Hilton Honors program for bonus points and extra loyalty perks. 

Parents love the free hot breakfast offered every morning, a big benefit when it comes to traveling on a budget. Toss in an indoor swimming pool, access to laundry machines, a round-the-clock convenience store, and rooms that allow pets and you can see how this chain of hotels consistently ranks among a favorite for families. 

"With free breakfast and coffee, tubs in every room, and various locations across the country, Hampton is our go-to hotel when traveling for our daughter's dance competitions," one parent says. "The rooms are spacious and clean. The staff has always been courteous, and we appreciate the early morning hours with which food is served, since my 10 year old usually has to be onsite at 7 or 8:00am. Hampton's are also a great value."

Disney Cruise Line

You can’t have a family travel “best of” list without including Disney Cruise Line, where—as they say—magic meets the sea. Choose from multiple ships: Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish , or the newest option, Disney Treasure. From live shows and entertainment to character experiences, youth clubs, and multiple swimming pools, kids get to run wild aboard these ships. Staterooms are also designed with families in mind, with pull-out couches and bunk beds to accommodate larger families in one room.

"Disney Cruises are a magical experience," one parent and writer shares. "I have embarked on two Disney Cruises—each to different ports of call—and while the boats and destinations differed, each ship offered high-quality entertainment, state-of-the-art stage shows, fun things like fireworks at sea and pirate parties, delicious dining options (with meals designed to suit picky eaters and those with the most refined palates), and there were of course plenty of characters to meet, greet, and hug."

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• BEST OF THE WORLD

5 trips to inspire the whole family in 2023

Board a train, hike a trail, and help protect marine life at these kid-friendly places around the world.

Wondering where to go next? You’re not the only one. After a frenetic return to travel, many are asking how to enjoy the rush of discovery without the crush of crowds. Our annual list of 25 inspiring and less visited destinations for the year ahead encompasses places filled with wonder, rewarding to travelers of all ages, and supportive of local communities and ecosystems. Reported by our global editors and framed by five categories ( Family , Adventure , Culture , Nature , and Community ), these destinations are under the radar, ahead of the curve, and ready for you to start exploring.  

Below are the five best destinations in 2023 for family trips that educate and illuminate. (Find the full Best of the World list here .)

Switzerland

Get onboard a rail network ideal for families

On any given day, Switzerland ’s transit network carries 6.6 million riders in a country of only 8.7 million people . Vacationing families are tempted with unique trips on its famously punctual trains featuring spectacular mountains, classic cookies, and even a Wonka-esque chocolate tour.

The Gotthard Panorama Express route begins on a steamboat crossing the city of Lucerne’ s famous lake before boarding a train in Flüelen for a trip to Switzerland’s Italian-influenced south. Multilingual guides point out landmarks like the 18th-century Wassen church, which can be seen from three angles along the route’s ascending spiral loops. A special train car with open windows allows photographers to capture wide-angle views of landscapes like the Reuss Valley.  

A cookie train from Berne to Lucerne stops for a nibble at the Kambly bakery where kids can bake their own treats and design a biscuit tin to take home. A chocolate train departing from Montreux starts with chocolate croissants and hot cocoa served onboard, stops in Gruyères for its medieval old town and world-famous cheese, and winds up in Broc for a tour of the Maison Cailler chocolate factory.

( Here are the best North American railroad trips for families .)

Making it all sweeter is the Swiss Family Card , a rail pass that allows anyone under the age of 16 to ride either free or at a 50 percent discount. “The pass is convenient, and it allows for exploration on a whim,” says National Geographic family travel expert Heather Greenwood Davis. “Long-journey trains often offer a family car—essentially a full playground on board—and family zones where tables have built-in games to keep the fun going."  

Come winter the Swiss transit network delivers visitors to ski resorts like sustainability-minded Laax , where families can take snowboarding lessons together.

Be enchanted by this birding paradise in South America

Colombia ’s boisterous birdlife is as colorful and melodic as Encanto , the hit Disney animated film set in this biodiverse South American country. More than 1,900 different birds (almost 20 percent of the world’s avian species) live here, making Colombia the richest roost for birdlife on the planet.

Where can families flock with them? The Northern Colombia Birding Trail , for birders both extreme and casual, explores the country’s range of habitats. Tours with the National Audubon Society use 4x4 vehicles to visit the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta , the planet’s highest coastal mountain range; the less explored Perijá Mountains ; and beach-blessed Tayrona National Park on the Caribbean coast. Visitors can spot species like the crested quetzal , Santa Marta parakeet, and the sickle-winged guan. Colombians and Wayuu Indigenous peoples work along the route as bird guides.

( Use these tips to help your family start exploring the world of birds .)

“Birdwatching, wildlife watching, and nature tourism in general can play a big role in conserving Colombia’s biodiversity and also in supporting the communities who live nearby,” says biologist and National Geographic Explorer Federico Pardo . “Wildlife tourism not only brings dollars to the economy, it also increases the appreciation for our plants, animals, and ecosystems.”  

Go with Nat Geo : Discover the coastal treasures, vibrant villages, and wildlife-rich jungles of Colombia.

San Francisco, California

Explore a crosstown trail and a new playground-with-a-view

In San Francisco , city kids can learn that becoming a trail hiker doesn’t necessarily mean a trip into the wild. The recently completed Crosstown Trail meanders across the city diagonally, from its southeastern corner at Candlestick Point to its northwestern tip at Lands End, winding through gardens, up hills, and across urban streets for nearly 17 miles.  

The path is “the fruit of volunteers’ labor—ordinary San Franciscans coming together to define its route and, in some places, physically clearing paths in order to connect segments of existing trails,” writes Chaney Kwak , who has walked the entire length of the Crosstown Trail. “You might run into neighbors bragging about their fruit trees, and plucking pink apples to share.”

( Learn about the revolutionary idea behind America’s urban trails .)

Along the way, the trail skirts the Presidio . This 1,491-acre military post turned national park offers stunning Golden Gate Bridge views; in July it celebrated the opening of the 14-acre Presidio Tunnel Tops . Designed by the same firm behind Manhattan’s High Line , the new recreation site is set atop concrete freeway tunnels and buzzes with a plastic-free nature play space, food trucks, and campfire talks. At the Field Station, adventure guides lead hands-on nature activities, including identifying local plants, learning about the urban coyote population, and sampling water from San Francisco’s last free-flowing creek.

Manchester, United Kingdom

Get a kick out of this sporty and arts-friendly British city  

In 2023 Manchester, home to the renowned Manchester United Football Club , launches a number of attractions abetting its post-pandemic revival. The year’s centerpiece is the summer opening of Factory International , a new $225 million downtown cultural space designed by Rem Koolhaas ’s architectural firm. Named partly after the local record label that made hometown bands Joy Division and New Order globally famous, the Factory will become the permanent home of the Manchester International Festival . The city’s biennial, cutting-edge arts jam showcases the best in theater, performance, and music for all ages.

The year also marks the reopening of the reimagined Manchester Museum , which features new galleries focused on Chinese, South Asian, and British Asian culture and an inclusive, family-focused “Belonging Gallery” that showcases how humans, plants, and animals thrive together. Also coming into its own is the National Trust’s new “sky park” on the Castlefield Viaduct , a walkable Victorian-era railroad bridge.

And while it can be difficult to secure tickets for a United match in Old Trafford, the team’s legendary stadium, fans can visit the nearby Manchester United Museum , which displays memorabilia and includes a tour of the stadium itself.

Trinidad and Tobago

Help nurture a top haven for sea turtles

Sea turtles survived the dinosaurs, but might not survive this century. Kids eager to help save the turtles—and encounter hundreds of them as well—can head to Trinidad and Tobago . With loggerheads, greens, leatherbacks, hawksbills, and olive ridleys—five of the seven species of sea turtles—swimming off its shores, this Caribbean nation is a mecca for turtle tourism.

Nesting sites are found on both islands, with leatherbacks the most numerous. During the nesting season from March to August, an estimated 6,000 to 10,000 turtles amass on the country’s shores. Trinidad’s Grande Riviere beach, on the island’s north coast, is the densest leatherback nesting ground in the world. “After 32 years, I’m still in awe of this gentle, magnificent creature,” says Suzan Lakhan-Baptiste, managing director of Nature Seekers, a community-based organization that is dedicated to leatherback conservation and leads turtle-watching tours.

( Here’s how turtle-watching tours actually help conservation .)

Turtle-watching programs led by approved guides generate revenue to help save these creatures, which are under assault from climate change, habitat loss, and plastic pollution. Travelers can even volunteer to perform field work such as keeping nesting areas clear of debris, scanning and tagging nesting turtles, and tracking the size and numbers of turtles and their nests.

( Discover Nat Geo’s 20 other Best of the World destinations . )

Related Topics

• FAMILY TRAVEL
• FAMILY LIFE
• SEA TURTLES
• WILDLIFE CONSERVATION

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The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2023

Where to go in 2023, according to T+L editors — for a breath of fresh air, a big-city adventure, or a glimpse at the future of travel.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

With much of the world reopened, 2023 is shaping up to be the year travel officially bounces back. We made our list of the 50 best destinations for 2023 a little differently this year: We asked Travel + Leisure's editors where they want to go in the months ahead. Some are raring to get back to Japan, while others have the Trans-Bhutan Trail on their lists. Still more are planning a sail around Greenland, a wine-tasting trip on California’s central coast, and a visit to France’s next big wine region (which is, as it happens, tiny).

A few up-and-coming culinary destinations made our list, as did a remarkable piece of art, the size and scale of which boggles the imagination. While many of the team’s picks are remote, breathe-in-that-fresh-air kinds of places, our list doesn’t skimp on cities where the hustle and bustle is part of the fun.

But with so many choices now back on the map, there are as many styles of trips as there are places to explore. That’s why, for the first time in recent memory, we’ve broken our list of best places to go into categories.

The hope is that, whatever it is you’re after in the year ahead, you’ll find it in one of these 50 places. And who knows? We may just see you there.

— Edited by Paul Brady and Maya Kachroo-Levine

Destination by Category

For cultural riches, alexandria, virginia.

K. Summerer for Visit Alexandria

With postcard-perfect cobblestone streets and quick access to the wineries of northern Virginia , Alexandria is an easy city to love. But these days, the reason to go is to see how effectively the city is confronting its own history, as destinations across the American South grapple with the legacy of the Confederacy . Alexandria, which was founded as a tobacco port in 1749, was for decades of the 19th century the site of the country’s largest domestic slave trade . Today, the Freedom House Museum has three new exhibitions honoring the people who were forcibly brought here. Meanwhile, the African American Heritage Trail, which opened in 2020, follows the Potomac River and encompasses nearly 200 years of history at 11 stops, such as the Torpedo Factory , where many Black men and women worked during World War II. An extension of the route will debut in February 2023 with 20 new stops, including Waterfront Park, the port from which enslaved people were trafficked to places like New Orleans. At Jones Point Park, visitors can learn about Benjamin Banneker , an inventor, mathematician, and free African American from Maryland who was instrumental in the 1791 surveying team that determined the border of the new U.S. capital of Washington, D.C. (For an even deeper look at the city’s Black experience, book with Manumission Tours , which is run by a fourth-generation Alexandrian .) The city’s most elegant stay is Morrison House Old Town Alexandria, Autograph Collection , which was recently voted one of the best city hotels in the continental U.S. in T+L’s 2022 World’s Best Awards. A new Hotel AKA is slated to open in Old Town in winter 2023. — Liz Cantrell

Cairo and the Nile

Emli Bendixen

It’s almost here: After more than a decade of construction — to say nothing of the hype — the Grand Egyptian Museum may finally open, just a stone’s throw from the Great Pyramids of Giza, this spring. What to expect? More than 1 million square feet of exhibition space, treasures including a 40-foot-high statue of Ramses II, outdoor gardens, and an expansive plaza from which visitors can take in the desert surroundings. Meanwhile, a number of new and luxurious ships have started sailing the Nile: Among the best choices are the Viking Osiris , an all-veranda vessel carrying 82 passengers, and the opulent Sphinx from Uniworld Boutique River Cruises , which has 42 cabins swathed in marble and hand-carved wood, with beds dressed in fine Egyptian cotton sheets. The hotel scene is also, thankfully, getting a refresh with a new Mandarin Oriental slated for downtown Cairo in 2024; the forthcoming 200-room Four Seasons Hotel Luxor is scheduled to debut in 2025 — not that you should wait that long to see the ancient Valley of the Kings. — John Wogan

“City,” Nevada

City, 1970 – 2022 © Michael Heizer. Courtesy Triple Aught Foundation. Photo: Eric Piasecki

Even in a state known for its vast, empty landscapes, Basin and Range National Monument , about a two-hour drive north of Las Vegas, takes “remote” to a new level. The 704,000-acre preserve, created in 2015, provides endless opportunities for hiking, climbing, camping, and cycling; its desert valleys and mountain ranges are also dotted with Indigenous rock art sites. But the reason to go now is “City,” the single largest contemporary artwork in the world, which opened to visitors in September 2022. Made from dirt, rock, and concrete, the monumental open-air sculpture was more than 50 years in the making, a collection of mounds, depressions, and stelae conceived by the artist Michael Heizer . The endeavor — which was made possible by joint contributions from art institutions around the country, including LACMA and MoMA — will open to the public for the 2023 season by reservation only . The mile-and-a-half-long sculpture feels at once ancient and futuristic, a destination just as awe-inspiring as the natural one surrounding it. — John Wogan

Havana, Cuba

Brad Ogbonna

The can-you, can’t-you continues, but the Biden administration has made it a touch easier to visit Cuba as a result of its May 2022 relaxation of some restrictions on travel to the island. These days, Americans can go as part of a group tour or visit individually on a "support for the Cuban people" license, travel advisor Molly Layman told T+L. “It’s one of 12 authorized categories of travel to the island,” she said, adding that “it requires citizens to have a full-time schedule of activities that support the Cuban people, which is easily fulfilled through buying services from Cuban entrepreneurs, staying in local homes, dining in private restaurants, and booking cultural activities.” Those ready to take to the vibrant streets of Havana will also need a visa, said Layman, who works as director of operations at tour company Cuba Candela . Travelers can handle that, she said, “on the day of travel at the airport check-in desk or from a tour provider.” (The cost varies depending on where a visa is purchased but rarely exceeds $100.) While the hoops are undeniable, they may well be worth jumping through in the year ahead. — Christine Burroni

Tangier, Morocco

Issam Elhafti/Getty Images

For decades, this northern Moroccan city has attracted a stream of bohemian expats including, most famously, beat-generation writers Paul Bowles and William S. Burroughs. That’s how it cultivated a reputation as a place where foreigners went to live, rather than simply visit. But Tangier’s reputation could change this spring, thanks in part to the opening of Villa Mabrouka — British designer Jasper Conran’s second Moroccan property, which follows the 2018 opening of L'Hôtel Marrakech . The one-time private residence of fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent and his partner, the hillside property has gorgeous views over the Bay of Tangier within walking distance to the city’s frenetic medina. Villa Mabrouka joins other newcomers, like the Museum of Contemporary Art , a space displaying work by regional artists, also called the Kasbah Museum, as it's housed in the renovated, 17th-century Kasbah prison. Also new on the proverbial block is the just-opened Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier , set on a refurbished, century-old estate near the old city. Anticipation is already growing for a recently announced Waldorf Astoria, a 115-room and 21-villa resort set to open in 2025. — John Wogan

Lakes Region, Turkey

Istanbul and Bodrum are both rightly popular, but U.S. travelers will find much to love in other pockets of this diverse country — including this inland part of southwestern Anatolia, which travel advisor Engin Kadaster predicts “will be very popular in the years to come.” Kadaster has been including the Lakes Region on more and more itineraries for her clients, and helped coordinate a story in T+L’s August 2022 issue that included destinations such as Isparta, the region’s largest city and a center of rose and lavender production, and the ancient hilltop city of Sagalassos. The region’s most famous feature — naturally — is a series of tectonic lakes, created by ancient earthquakes, in the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, but it also holds many ancient Greek and Roman archaeological sites. A blessed lack of mass tourism means that this isn’t a hot spot for luxury hotels, but cozy places like Eskiciler Konaği , a renovated century-old mansion near Lake Eğirdir, or Aliya Konak , a seasonal farmstay on a working lavender operation in Isparta, are warm and welcoming. Intrepid travelers can ditch the hotels altogether by camping along the new Pisidia Heritage Trail , a waymarked route that unites the Lakes Region’s splendid nature and unique history as it passes through ancient sites like Kremna, Adada, and Yazılı Canyon. — Hannah Walhout

The United Kingdom

Courtesy of Peninsula London

T+L’s Destination of the Year may be undergoing a once-in-a-lifetime period of transition, but some things never change. For one, the country’s historic cities will always be home to hotels that mix stately grandeur and affable service. This past summer saw the opening of Gleneagles Townhouse , a chic, urban outpost of the iconic Gleneagles resort, in the heart of Edinburgh; next year London will welcome the cool glam of the Peter Marino–designed Peninsula London . Of the U.K.’s many world-class museums, two have recently gotten upgrades: Glasgow’s Burrell Collection , a stunning assortment of international art and artifacts, and the Manchester Museum , which is dedicated to the natural sciences. The Factory , Manchester’s new cultural center, pays tribute to the famous record label behind '80s rock bands the Happy Mondays and New Order. Gourmands (and the just plain hungry) will want to sample the broad range of culinary delights at London’s new Arcade Food Hall at Battersea Power Station, the latest stage in the rehabilitation of the historic building. No visit to the U.K. is complete without venturing out into its peerless countryside, and Scotland’s first rewilding center, Dundreggan , is one noteworthy place to take it all in: Managed by charitable organization Trees for Life , this 10,000-acre estate on the shores of Scotland’s Loch Ness plans to open a visitor’s center by the end of 2023. Meanwhile, the new Two Toms Trail in Lancashire covers 25 miles and features some of England’s most stunning scenery. — Peter Terzian

Getty Images

The perennially popular city made headlines in 2022 for its day-trip entrance fee , which takes effect in January 2023. But why only go for the day? The Venice Architecture Biennale runs May 20, 2023 to Nov. 26, 2023, with global exhibits curated by Lesley Lokko, the first Black architect to organize the event. Architecture lovers will also want to visit the Procuratie Vecchie, the 16th-century building along St. Mark's Square. Though its façade is one of Italy’s most photographed, the public has only recently been allowed inside, after the completion of a five-year refurbishment led by David Chipperfield Architects . Those looking for nostalgic luxury should plan to arrive in the second half of the year, with their bags packed for a train trip: Belmond’s iconic Venice Simplon-Orient Express will unveil two newly restored carriages from the 1920s and ‘30s in June, with opulent suites modeled to mirror the landscapes of Europe. — Nina Ruggiero

For the Food — and Wine

Courtesy of Four Seasons

It may have a reputation as a stopover city, but Athens deserves a closer look — and at least a few nights — in the year ahead. Not far from the Piraeus port , where travelers hop both domestic ferries and cruise ships that criss-cross the Mediterranean, the Athens Riviera has seen a surge of development. Four Seasons Astir Palace , which opened amid the pandemic, has a private beach on the sparkling Saronic Sea and two spaces designed by Swedish architect Martin Brudnizki, including a midcentury modern cocktail bar and Pelagos restaurant, which has already earned its first Michelin star. In the spring of 2023, One&Only Aesthesis will open just a few miles away, also along the waterfront. Next door is the brand-new Experience Park, with trails, fitness classes, fountains, a Zen garden, and bountiful native plants and flowers; it’s part of an $8-billion waterfront green space called The Ellinikon , on the former site of the city’s international airport, that’s still under development. In central Athens, the 2022 opening of the 43-room Xenodocheio Milos hotel in the Pláka neighborhood brings a bit of cosmopolitan verve, from the team behind international restaurant brand Estiatorio Milos . And while the Odeon of Herodes Atticus on the Acropolis isn’t new — the ancient amphitheater first opened about 1,900 years ago — it will bring back a full schedule of shows in 2023 after a pandemic-era slowdown. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Central Florida

Courtesy of Small World Vacations

This fall, Hurricane Ian took 81 lives and caused $60 billion in damage across Florida. While the hard-hit southwestern part of the state continues to recover, Visit Florida president and CEO Dana Young said in October that other regions are ready to welcome travelers back. Central Florida in particular is worth a closer look, thanks to its ever-growing hospitality scene. Orlando and Tampa recently won a combined 14 Michelin accolades in 2022, when the guidebook publisher released its first-ever guide to Florida restaurants. The area’s family-friendly draws are better than ever: Disney’s recently opened, highly immersive Star Wars : Galactic Starcruiser is a two-night adventure that takes themed entertainment to the next level by allowing guests to eat, sleep, and breathe Star Wars with lightsaber training, out-of-this-world dining (blue shrimp, anyone?), and a trip to Batuu at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Meantime, Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary celebrations continue through March 2023, with limited-time eats, nighttime spectaculars, and festive décor. In Tampa, the latest Edition Hotel just opened with a sprawling rooftop pool club and restaurant from chef John Fraser. And getting both to and around Central Florida is easier than ever, with the recent opening of Orlando International Airport’s new 15-gate Terminal C and Brightline rail service connecting Orlando to South Florida destinations including Miami and West Palm Beach beginning in 2023. — Elizabeth Rhodes

The Jura, France

Guillaume Megevand

There’s a tiny French region just west of the border with Switzerland that’s producing some big, big wines. Thing is, only a tiny fraction of those bottles ever make it to the U.S., as T+L recently reported . That means you’ve got to go to the Jura — preferably before everyone gets wise to the area’s seven Appellations of Controlled Origin (AOCs) . Among serious oenophiles, word is already spreading about the vin jaune, “yellow wine,” made from native savagnin grapes and aged in the Jura’s distinct sous voile style, in which the wine matures “under a veil.” Not that wine is the only draw. The Jura also boasts a comté cheese trail — as if the région weren’t French enough — that connects no fewer than 150 fromageries and dairy farms. Hiking in the Jura Mountains, through Baume-les-Messieurs village and to the Hérisson waterfalls , is equally enticing, particularly as an antidote to all the wine- and cheese-focused sightseeing. Most surprising, perhaps, is just how accessible this under-the-radar area can be. Getting to the Jura takes two hours from the French capital by high-speed train , departing from Paris’s Gare de Lyon. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

San Luis Obispo County, California

Courtesy of Visit SLO CAL/Acacia Productions

It’s time to stop sleeping on “SLO.” Once considered a quick Pacific Coast Highway stopover for those visiting Hearst Castle — which reopened this past spring 2022 after a two-year closure — the central coast county is now a draw in its own right. SLO’s seven cities, including Morro Bay, Paso Robles, Pismo Beach, and San Luis Obispo, are all buzzing, and the area just earned official American Viticulture Area (AVA) recognition in 2022, thanks to more than 200 wineries, many of which are family owned . Two new Nomada Hotel Group properties opening in 2023 will welcome the inevitable influx of oenophiles: Farmhouse, a collection of 26 rustic-chic cottages with fire pits and hammocks, arrives in January; while River Lodge, a mile from the Paso Robles wine trail, is slated for May. Also being reimagined under Nomada is the Gold Rush–era Pozo Saloon , reopening in the town of Santa Margarita in August with outdoor soaking tubs, live music, trails for hiking and horseback riding, and a glamping site. Paso Robles just notched its first Michelin star ( Six Test Kitchen ), while San Luis Obispo’s SLO Public Market will welcome two new restaurants, All Good Grill and Todo Bueno , in 2023. Nature lovers should make a beeline for the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove : The insects were recently put on the endangered list, but this spot still draws over 10,000 annually. — Nina Ruggiero

Victoria, Australia

Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

Australia has reopened, and this southern state is a particularly appealing corner of the country these days, thanks to hot springs resorts that are poised to make it the next big wine-and-wellness destination: Alba Thermal Springs and Spa on the Mornington Peninsula was the first to open in September 2022, with pools powered by solar and a commitment to achieving climate-positive operations. Metung Hot Springs in East Gippsland is set to follow in late 2022, with updated facilities in an area long known for its thermal waters. Phillip Island Hot Springs , which distinguishes itself with several saltwater features, plans to open in early 2023. Out on the Mornington Peninsula — a destination long popular for its world-class wineries — the InterContinental Sorrento began accepting reservations this past August 2022. Melbourne, Victoria’s appealing capital city, is also expecting new openings, including the intimate, seven-suite Hotel Vera Ballarat by year’s end, followed by the highly anticipated Ritz-Carlton Melbourne , set to open in 2023 in Australia’s tallest tower. Qantas is making it easier to get there, too: By December 2022, the airline will have four nonstop flights a week connecting Dallas and Melbourne, a welcome bridge between Victoria and the middle of the U.S. — Sarah Bruning

For Big-city Thrills

Jonathan Filskov/Getty Images

The eternally cool city will highlight its prowess with all things design, as the official UNESCO World Capital of Architecture in 2023. Venues across Copenhagen — contemporary parks, starchitect-designed skyscrapers, even typically humdrum infrastructure like playgrounds — will host events and visitors for a look at the future of the urban environment. One highlight will be the Copenhill Power Plant, the cleanest waste-to-energy plant in the world — that’s also the site of an artificial ski slope. “We’re going to do a lot of open-house events where 50 different venues are going to be open to the public that are usually closed to visitors,” said Copenhagen’s city architect Camilla van Deurs, who mentioned as examples churches; bridges; and the Danmarks Nationalbank, the central bank building planned in part by Danish design legend Arne Jacobsen. “Superkilen,” van Deurs said, “is a playground for kids and adults — and a cultural hub in the middle of Nørrebro, the most ethnically mixed neighborhood in Copenhagen.” New places to stay in the city also deliver a signature blend of modernism and hygge: Find it at the single-suite Kaj Hotel , which floats on a canal near Copenhagen Opera House, or the colorful new 25 Hours Hotel Copenhagen . — Tim Latterner

Lance Childers/Houston First

The 2020 opening of the Kinder Building, the latest addition to the Museum of Fine Arts Houston , cemented the city’s spot among true international arts destinations. The recent reopening of the Rothko Chapel , after a $35-million renovation, has only reinforced that reputation. Today, a wealth of new ventures is poised to raise the profile of Texas’s largest city in other categories as well. Opening next year, the JMK5 Arena will transform a disused racetrack into a 12,500-seat concert stadium poised to rival the venues of Vegas. It arrives on the heels of the relatively more intimate 713 Music Hall , which has attracted artists ranging from Judas Priest to Lil Nas X. The Houston Zoo is undergoing a much-delayed expansion that will include a Galápagos Islands–themed exhibit, which will feature an underwater tunnel and a penguin habitat. And the Houston Botanic Gardens , which opened in 2020, features 132 acres of diverse ecosystems, from wetlands to prairie. — Peter Terzian

Courtesy of Rosewood Villa Magna

The Spanish capital may finally, thankfully, be shaking off its reputation as the country’s somewhat stuffy business hub. A flurry of tony hotel openings throughout the city has helped, by bringing plenty of personality to what had been a staid scene. It began in 2021 with the arrival of the Mandarin Oriental Ritz ; Rosewood Villa Magna ; and Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel . Then came the Edition in April 2022 . Breathing new life into the former Monte de Piedad de Madrid building, the hotel has 177 rooms, 21 suites, and two penthouses, plus two restaurants with food from chef Enrique Olvera and the culinary team behind Mexico City’s acclaimed Pujol . Elsewhere in Madrid, an already electric food scene has only gotten better — particularly in the glamorous Salamanca neighborhood and architecture-rich Chamberi district — with new offerings representing everything from Middle Eastern falafel and Argentinian asado to Spanish-Indian fusion and globally inflected vegan fare. — Sarah Bruning

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Welcome to the new Nashville. The city’s tourism renaissance is being fueled, in part, by a slew of just-opened hotels, including a Conrad , 1 Hotel , and a Soho House . (A Four Seasons just popped up in the bustling SoBro neighborhood, too.) The newly redesigned Hermitage Hotel , meanwhile, now has the first Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant in the South. The Fifth + Broadway complex has new outposts of old favorites, like fried chicken staple Hattie B’s , and the expansive Assembly Food Hall has dozens of choices, including bars, plural. That inimitable Nashville energy can still be found on Broadway, at honky-tonk bars that go until all hours, but there’s also Justin Timberlake’s sexy Twelve Thirty Club or live events like CMA Fest , which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2023. Getting there has never been easier, thanks to low-cost carriers such as Breeze Airways and Southwest, both of which have recently added more flights from both coasts, not to mention places like Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Ohio’s Akron-Canton Airport. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Forget the notion that Steel City is just a town for football and factories. The metropolis is working on new cultural destinations that can’t be missed: While the next lunar lander is currently being built in Pittsburgh, the Moonshot Museum , which opened in October 2022, is putting on display mankind’s history of getting to and exploring the lunar surface. The Carnegie Museum of Art is hosting its 58th Carnegie International Exhibition, a huge temporary show of both historical and contemporary art which runs through April 2, 2023. The childhood home of playwright August Wilson has been restored and turned into a museum, complete with studios for arts programming. The city also has a new spate of hotels and bars drawing crowds, like the modern-chic Joinery Hotel Pittsburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton and The Industrialist, Autograph Collection in the Arrott building, one of the city’s first skyscrapers. Across the river in Allentown, Bottlerocket Social Hall is the perfect place to post up with locals and, yes, watch the game. — Tim Latterner

San Francisco

Ryan White/Parks Conservancy

Despite the so-called national conversation, the apocalypse has not yet come to San Francisco. True, this city had the most extreme wealth divide of any in California in 2020, and the seams here can be especially visible. But all the reasons SF shines — the arts, the nature, the dim sum, the sourdough — haven’t gone anywhere. And a slate of recent infrastructure and cultural projects show that many in the city are working to make it a better place to live and a more compelling destination to visit. The new Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco walks the walk of its focus on equity: the museum is completely free and has opted against a permanent collection in order to direct more funds to artists and staff. The city’s urban national park unit, the Presidio of San Francisco , recently gained 14 acres with the opening of the Presidio Tunnel Tops , a green space designed by James Corner Field Operations, the lead firm for New York City’s High Line, which incorporated input from more than 10,000 residents. Another massive community-led park and mixed-use development is underway in India Basin , with sustainability and affordable housing as stated core values. The hospitality scene is also on the come up: 1 Hotel San Francisco , The Line SF , and Beacon Grand (formerly the Sir Francis Drake) have all opened in the past six months, and Auberge Resorts Collection is slated to debut a new hotel in the Hearst Building in 2023. — Hannah Walhout

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

American travelers can finally get back to the South Korean capital after years of pandemic restrictions — and there’s plenty to catch up on. The city’s arts scene is buzzing, thanks to new venues such as Konig Gallery , not to mention the announcement from Seoul Museum of Art that three new wings will launch by 2024. (An added boost came from Seoul hosting its first edition of Frieze this past September, during which many commenters asked if K-art may well be the next K-pop.) Meanwhile the destination has seen a number of new hotels open, including the surprisingly trendy Fairmont Ambassador Seoul and Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam , with its sweeping views of the globally famous district and stunning public spaces, including 1914 Lounge & Bar. — Tim Latterner

For Moments on the Water

Cape verde, the gambia, ghana, and guinea-bissau.

Arnau Ferrer

Though Ghana has, in recent years, surged in popularity as a destination for American visitors , particularly Black Americans , West Africa remains unfamiliar to many. One solution may be the innovative West Africa Archipelago cruises that Hurtigruten Expeditions aims to launch in November 2023. These two-week trips, aboard the line’s 180-passenger Spitsbergen , will stop in ports in four countries, with a huge array of activities on the expedition schedule: visits to historically important sites including Gorée Island ; wildlife-watching forays to spot hippos and manatees; and adventures such as scaling volcanoes and scrambling across lava fields. Though some cruise lines occasionally stop in West African ports, Hurtigruten’s deep focus on the region represents a step change — one that’s driven by passenger demand, said Asta Lassesen, the CEO of Hurtigruten Expeditions. “These islands are not as known as our other destinations, but they are teeming with unique wildlife, different cultures, and offer completely different experiences than you’d find in a traditional cruise destination,” Lassesen told T+L. — Paul Brady

Coastal Ecuador

Courtesy of Kontiki Expeditions

Many travelers know the historic capital city of Quito and the incredibly biodiverse Galápagos Islands , but now's the time to visit Ecuador’s stunning Pacific coastline. From surf towns like Montañita to the preserved beaches and cloud forest of Machalilla National Park, coastal Ecuador is packed with outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Kontiki Expeditions unlocks the region with eight-day yacht cruises that visit five of the country’s 24 provinces, hitting destinations including Isla de la Plata and Salinas. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Kontiki Expeditions operates an intimate ship with just nine staterooms, refined outdoor and indoor spaces, and a nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio. (Guests can book an individual room, or charter the entire 18-passenger yacht.) Getting there has gotten smoother, too: U.S. airlines including American, JetBlue, and Spirit now offer direct flights to Guayaquil, from which Kontiki Expeditions trips depart. — Elizabeth Rhodes

The Explora I

Courtesy of EXPLORA I

Just don’t call it a cruise: Upstart travel company Explora Journeys describes its itineraries as “ocean journeys,” nevermind the fact they’re aboard the newly built, 461-suite Explora I . The vessel is slated to hit the water in July 2023, with trips in the Mediterranean that visit popular cruise destinations such as Barcelona and Civitavecchia, near Rome, as well as lesser-visited ports including Patmos, Greece, and St.-Tropez, France. “It’s a new style of ocean travel that connects you with the things that are important,” Explora CEO Michael Ungerer told T+L. “There’s a craving to learn something new and make authentic connections without leaving your tried and tested luxury environment and services behind.” Indeed, life aboard won’t be monastic: Explora I will have 18 restaurants and bars and a massive spa, among other luxuries. Still, should all that ocean journeying become a bit too wearying, guests can always retreat to their suites, all of which have private verandas. In fact, when it debuts, Explora I will have the most space per passenger of any vessel anywhere. — Paul Brady

Antarctica is so last year. While Greenland may not have penguins, it does promise plenty of beautiful landscapes and seemingly endless horizons. The newly christened National Geographic Resolution will sail the Eastern shore of Greenland in June 2023, with opportunities to explore the Rømer Fjord depending on conditions. Ponant has a dozen distinct itineraries scheduled for 2023, including a number of round trips from Kangerlussuaq, in Western Greenland, that explore Baffin Bay. The brand-new Seabourn Venture, the line’s first expedition ship, will also be there in 2023; one particularly compelling August itinerary starts in Iceland, spends nearly three weeks along Greenland’s coast, then continues through the Northwest Passage before wrapping in Anchorage, Alaska. More conventional operators, such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises, are making the polar destination a fixture, too. The Seven Seas Navigator will visit Prince Christian Sound and make calls in Nuuk and Paamiut on a June 2023 sailing between New York City and Reykjavik. — Paul Brady

Hvar, Croatia

Goran Stimac/Getty Images

Those seeking a brighter 2023 will find it on Hvar: This Dalmatian Coast island calls itself the sunniest in Croatia. That means plenty of time for cycling more than 100 miles of bikeable terrain or kayak trips to secluded beaches. At night, those clear skies make for incredible stargazing: Jesla, on the island’s north shore, was named the first International Dark Sky Community in Southern Europe in 2022; and Moeesy , the island’s newest luxury hotel, has one room with an over-the-bed skylight for bedtime viewing. The town of Velo Grablje’s 14th-century charm peaks in July, when the lavender festival blooms with food, drink, and family-friendly activities all centered around the fragrant Mediterranean plant. And in Hvar proper, the harborside Riva Marina hotel reopened in June 2022 with refreshed waterfront terrace suites and a new restaurant and bar concept focused on local ingredients. Just down the block is the island’s first sustainable hotel , Beach Bay , which opened this past summer 2022 with an off-grid solar power system and a commitment to honor UNESCO’s Sustainable Travel Pledge . — Nina Ruggiero

The Path of Totality

©StudioPonant/Laure Patricot

A total solar eclipse, in which the moon blocks the sun and plunges the Earth into momentary darkness, is a “relatively common” phenomenon, NASA heliophysicist Dr. Michael Kirk told T+L. The trick is that most eclipses happen over water or in extremely remote places — which is why spotting the next one, on April 20, 2023, will be all about the chase. The upcoming path of totality will cross the Indian Ocean, graze Western Australia, then sweep across Indonesia and East Timor into the Pacific; astro-enthusiasts can chart its full course with the Totality app . That means the best way to catch the show will be to board a ship , such as the 188-passenger Le Lapérouse, for a Ponant and Smithsonian Journeys cruise from Bali, Indonesia, to Broome, Australia. The new Indonesia-based charter yacht Celestia will also be sailing around the edges of totality, making visits to the islands of Komodo National Park, the Moluccas, and Raja Ampat. The very best odds for viewing, said NASA’s Kirk, will be in Western Australia, where “the Exmouth Peninsula, Barrow Island, and the sea in between should have clear skies.” Eclipse chasers could drive the 750 miles from Perth to Cape Range National Park on the Ningaloo Reef–fringed Exmouth, but Tropical Sails Corp’s Pacific Explorer , which can take you there from Perth on a five-day Indian Ocean sail, seems a far more pleasant journey. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

For Fresh Air and Nature

Courtesy of Pal-Arinsal Ski Resort

This tiny European country, which at 181 square miles is smaller than Chicago, could soon turn into one of the world’s biggest ski destinations. The mountainous country, situated between France and Spain, has long been known for its reliable December-to-April conditions thanks to its high-altitude perch in the Pyrenees. But now, for the first time, three Andorra ski areas have been added to the Ikon Pass , putting a collective 7,600 acres of downhill terrain across 215 runs and 123 lifts into play for holders of the global lift ticket. At the same time, the three destinations of Grandvalira , Ordino Arcalís , and Pal-Arinsal (or, collectively, the Grandvalira Resorts Andorra) will be available on a single local Andorra Pass , which starts at about $50 a day, a bargain by any big-mountain standards. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a newly launched Nord Pass, a multi-day ticket that works at both Ordino Arcalís and Pal-Arinsal for less than $40 per day. So, while these affordable mountains remain a bit of a challenge to reach — Grandvalira can be a four-hour drive from Barcelona — the days of smaller crowds may soon be a thing of the past. — Jamie Aranoff

Asheville, North Carolina

Tim Robison

This flannel-clad city in the Blue Ridge Mountains checks all the boxes, with year-round outdoor activities, sophisticated dining, and easy access, whether you’re driving or flying. (Asheville Regional Airport is on pace for a record-breaking 2022 , with service from 25 destinations.) But the year ahead offers more reasons to visit, starting with some cool new places to stay: Wrong Way River Lodge has a collection of A-frame cabins along the French Broad River that are perfect for white-water rafters. AutoCamp Asheville , another glamping-esque abode with Airstream campers, is slated to open by mid-2023. Downtown, the new Restoration Hotel promises a properly plush stay; its sister property in Charleston consistently ranks in our best hotels in Charleston list . (For those who’d rather be even closer to nature, The Glamping Collective is a newly opened, 160-acre site with domed pods and glass cabins situated a short drive from the city.) Asheville’s food scene has fresh energy from S&W Market , Asheville’s first food hall and the brainchild of award-winning chef Meherwan Irani. For all that’s new, visitors shouldn’t skip the old standbys: French Broad Chocolates is a local fave that’s since gone national, and Battery Park Book Exchange is the prime spot for a late-night glass of Champagne amid dusty bookshelves. — Samantha Falewée

Aysén, Chile

Stefan Ruiz

Chile’s Aysén region lies between two popular destinations — Torres del Paine National Park and the Lake District — with a captivating landscape of hanging glaciers, magnificent fjords, pristine lakes, and jagged peaks. Yet this 41,000-square-mile swath in northern Patagonia — the least populated in Chile — remains largely unexplored by visitors, in part because of its topography. But now, several outfitters and organizations, including Chile’s Route of Parks , are developing more itineraries and ecotourism routes for the non-mountain-scaling adventure traveler, with less-daunting activities like kayaking, hiking, and biking. Not long ago, travel company Explora opened a lodge in Aysén’s Patagonia National Park (working with nonprofit Rewilding Chile to support conservation and educational efforts) and launched eight- to 12-day trips that make travel across the region convenient, with flights, accommodations, and activities included. Factor in loosened COVID-19 restrictions and a newly elected president (the country’s youngest in history) as additional reasons to go now. Then there’s the continually growing partnership between Delta Air Lines and Latam, which allows for mutual lounge access and easy nonstop flights from Atlanta, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York City to Santiago, which is just a short connecting hop from Coyhaique, the gateway to Aysén. — Alisha Prakash

The Hudson Valley, New York

Andre Maier

Yes, the stretch north of New York City and south of Albany, along the banks of the lordly Hudson River, has been attracting enterprising former urbanites — as well as savvy travelers in search of charming towns and idyllic countryside — for the past century or so. But its transition from quasi-rustic to quietly glam marks a new and intriguing chapter. Next summer, The Ranch Hudson Valley , an offshoot of the West Coast’s rigorous retreat The Ranch Malibu, will open on a grand estate built by financier J.P. Morgan (as a gift for his daughter’s marriage to Alexander Hamilton’s great-grandson) and will offer multi-day programs to revive weary New Yorkers. Meanwhile, Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection , a property with 60 freestanding cabins and cottages, will highlight the pastoral side of the region, with a farm-to-table restaurant and 140 acres of orchards and wildflower gardens. The region’s reputation for top-notch cuisine continues with the upscale tavern fare at Merchants Social in Hudson and Stissing House in Pine Plains, the Southern-inflected Darlings in Tilson, and the sweet fantasia of the Catskills Chocolate Co. in Catskill. (Longtime cheesemongers Talbott and Arding have recently moved to a beautiful new space in Hudson, too.) But don’t forget to leave room for culture. In Catskill, Foreland is a self-billed kunsthalle that extends across three 19th-century mills with exhibition spaces and artist studios. And the beloved sculpture park Storm King Art Center is getting a $45-million overhaul that includes an extensive new visitors center. — Peter Terzian

Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia

Thomas Retterath/Getty Images

“Zambia is a destination so many people miss,” said travel advisor Leora Rothschild . “The country’s Lower Zambezi National Park is one of my favorite destinations anywhere. Having a safari on a river adds a dynamic element,” she notes, since being on the water offers a different perspective than travelers get while on a game drive or in camp. Among the best places to take in this wildlife-rich destination is at one of its newest lodges , the luxurious eight-suite Lolebezi , which African Bush Camps opened inside the park and on the banks of the river this past June. It’s an ideal base from which to explore Lower Zambezi, which sits opposite Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to what the agency calls its “ dramatic landscape ” and “huge herds of elephant and buffalo.” Though remote, this corner of Zambia has recently gotten a bit easier to access, as pandemic-era travel regulations have loosened. Air Botswana announced in May 2022 that, following a two-year hiatus, it would relaunch flights from Gaborone, Botswana to Lusaka, Zambia. — Samantha Falewée

Prince Edward Island, Canada

Tourism PEI/Sander Meurs

As Canada’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island might get overlooked in favor of the country’s bigger, badder destinations for outdoor thrills. But this tiny island — known to many as the setting of L.M. Montgomery’s beloved “Anne of Green Gables” series — packs a punch. Here, you’ll find rugged cliffs, red-sand beaches , and a surprisingly robust golf scene, with 27 courses. Perhaps the biggest draw for adventurous travelers right now is the Island Walk , a 435-mile trail that opened in 2021 . Tracing the entire coastline, it passes through dozens of small towns and fishing villages. Walkers can start and end at any point, but the entire loop would take about 32 days, assuming a pace of 12-15 miles a day. Not that you’ve got to be hardcore to enjoy the trail: Towns and villages along the route have plenty to offer even non-hikers, such as the relatively new Slaymaker & Nichols , a cozy inn and gastropub in Charlottetown, the provincial capital. Classic PEI experiences endure, such as the seafood-focused, multi-course “ culinary experience ” from celebrity chef Michael Smith at the Inn at Bay Fortune . — Liz Cantrell

Stephanie Vermillion

When high-speed internet was installed at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, this past August, it was just the latest example of the new era dawning in Tanzania. The leader of the country’s changing face is President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the first woman of color and the first Muslim to lead this country, who took office in 2021. “I never expected that one day I would be president,” President Hassan told PBS . Not that she’s wasting any time. Since taking power, she’s devoted herself to strengthening infrastructure, women’s businesses, education, health care — she received her COVID-19 vaccine on live television to encourage others to get immunized — and sustainable travel. This summer, the Usangu Expedition Camp in Ruaha National Park opened in partnership with the Tanzania National Parks Authority , and the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute ; Selous Safari Company recently refreshed its six-suite private reserve on Fanjove Island, a jumping off point for “marine safaris” by dive boat or kayak. — Samantha Falewée

Uttar Pradesh, India

Luis Dafos/Getty Images

Pummeled by the pandemic, India suffered through a grim 20-month closure, only reopening to travelers at the end of 2021. However, at long last — and with COVID-19 cases now under control thanks to large-scale vaccination programs that have delivered more than 2 billion doses — 2023 is primed to be the year visitors return to this soul-stirring country in full force. While many travelers will opt for Rajasthan’s royal palaces and desert jewels, there’s good reason to discover Uttar Pradesh on your next trip. India’s fourth-largest state is home to classic attractions including the Taj Mahal, in Agra, and the Ganges River ghats of Varanasi, the nation’s holiest city. But the new draws here include Vana, a wellness retreat in the Himalayan foothills of Dehradun. The resort, which is now managed by the World’s Best Award–winning hospitality company Six Senses, has rooms and suites that prioritize the lush landscape with balconies and terraces overlooking the surrounding forest and gardens, offering a true breath of fresh air. — Alisha Prakash

For Beach Vibes

Patrick Michael Chin

Already a favorite weekend getaway for East Coasters, Bermuda will become even easier to get to in 2023. American Airlines resumed flights to the island from New York City's John F. Kennedy International in November, which the carrier had paused in the early days of the pandemic. Upon arrival at L.F. Wade International, travelers are now greeted in a new $400-million terminal with automated immigration gates and preclearance for U.S.-bound passengers — plus unexpected extras like a putting green and an outdoor nature trail. Bermuda’s resort stock is also on the rise. Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa recently debuted a top-to-bottom renovation, adding villas and a Bermudian outpost of Sunken Harbor Club, the tropical cocktail bar above Brooklyn, New York’s wildly popular steakhouse Gage & Tollner. The St. Regis Bermuda is another high-end hotel option, which opened in 2021 with the nation’s first casino and incredible views of Fort St. Catherine. The island recently rolled back all COVID-19 entry requirements, but the Atlantic country’s  remote work program  — which launched in July 2020 and allows for stays up to one year — is still running for anyone looking to make its pink-sand beaches a new home base. — Liz Cantrell

Cayman Islands

Warren Fleming-Hollinger/Getty Images

It just keeps getting easier to visit the Caymans. As of fall 2022, Cayman Airways flies nonstop from Los Angeles International to Grand Cayman, the first direct route from the West Coast to the British territory. “Getting to Hawaii takes longer,” said Kenneth Bryan, Cayman Islands honorable minister for tourism and transport, in an interview with T+L. Wherever they’re flying in from, visitors will find plenty of new offerings along Seven Mile Beach, on Grand Cayman’s west shore. Chief among them is the freshly renovated Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman , which is now outfitted with a La Prairie Spa and Saint June restaurant, complete with a beachfront bar. (The property is thankfully still home to the long-running, annual Cayman Cookout .) For travelers who prefer heart-pumping adventure to pool- or beachside relaxation, the Caymans can deliver: Hiking reserves like the 100-year-old Mastic Trail on Grand Cayman or the Bluff on Cayman Brac may not be as well known as the islands’ beaches — but they should be. Meanwhile a growing art scene is beginning to draw international attention, thanks to shows at the well-established National Gallery of the Cayman Islands as well as the vibey, creative atmosphere at new hotels such as Palm Heights , as T+L recently reported. — Christine Burroni

Coastal Uruguay

© Tali Kimelman/Posada Ayana

The vast skies, empty beaches, and delicious food of Uruguay remain as alluring as they’ve ever been. Still, 2023 promises to be a breakout year for the country’s lowkey coastal destinations, thanks to an ever-growing art scene that adds a layer of culture to this already inviting stretch along the Southern Atlantic. Among the newest must-sees is the Atchugarry Museum of Contemporary Art in Punta del Este, a 90-acre campus that opened in early 2022. Also nearby is artist James Turrell’s “Ta Khut,” an experiential Skyspace that opened in late 2021 at Posada Ayana, a small hotel in José Ignacio. (The seaside village is also home to intriguing contemporary collections at three Vik Retreats properties, including Bahia Vik , with its oceanfront bungalows.) A short drive from José Ignacio, the village of Garzón has lately become a hub for multidisciplinary artists thanks to Campo , an incubator and non-profit that brings creatives to this still-rural corner of Uruguay. — Paul Brady

Lush mountains, bustling beach towns , and idyllic resorts make Guadeloupe the perfect place for adventurous travelers looking for something Caribbean but different. In recent years, though, it’s been difficult for U.S. travelers to reach this French overseas department — particularly after Norwegian ceased its nonstop flights to the destination in 2019. Now, things are looking up again, as JetBlue has relaunched its nonstop service from New York City to the gateway city of Pointe-à-Pitre in November 2022. SkyTeam faithfuls can also now get there on Air France, on nonstops from either Miami or New York; American Airlines also serves the archipelago from Miami. First-timers tend to focus on two of the islands, Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, the latter of which is home to Guadeloupe National Park. (A local tour company such as Vert Intense can help with the logistics of seeing Carbet Falls and La Grande Soufrière volcano.) Accommodations tend away from big brand names, though — this being France — there is an all-inclusive, beachfront Club Med La Caravelle . Other well-regarded options include the remote, hillside Le Jardin Malanga Hotel , with its dramatic ocean views, or the cliffside villas of the boutique-y La Toubana Hotel & Spa , along the southern shore of Grande-Terre. — Christine Burroni

The Jersey Shore, New Jersey

William Laird

“The real thing is quite different from TV,” George Distefano told T+L. Now a hotelier, Distefano grew up on the Jersey Shore — and today is doing his part to change the narrative around the beloved summer destination. His latest project, The James Bradley , is a 17-room inn that opened in Bradley Beach in August 2022 and is aimed at a crowd that’s perhaps quieter, chicer, and altogether less interesting to MTV producers. In nearby Asbury Park , which has long been a barometer of development, openings of The Asbury Hotel and the Asbury Ocean Club and Residences signal the start of a bougier era. Even Atlantic City is now substantially more chic, after many casino resorts, including Bally’s , Caesars , and Ocean , used the pandemic-induced dip in visitors to undertake hundreds of millions of dollars in renovations. “The area as a whole has had a bit of a renaissance,” Distefano said. One telling indicator of where the Shore is headed next? A Nobu Hotel is slated to open on the boardwalk any day now. — Hannah Walhout

Maui, Hawaii

Hawaii has been in the midst of a multi-year rethink about how tourism impacts the state . “We seek to balance the economic vitality of our industry with the health of our natural environment and the well-being of our communities,” is how Hawaii Tourism Authority President and CEO John De Fries put it this past summer . On Maui, that balance has been struck recently in efforts to renovate and reimagine some of the island’s most popular resorts. The 54-acre Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua , to take one example, is finishing up a major overhaul that includes a reimagined aquatic complex (with three “zero-edge” swimming pools), an expanded Club Lounge , and programming that will include not just cocktail classes and cooking demonstrations but also lei making and musical performances by Hawaiian artists. On the southwest coast of the island, The Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort is in the midst of its own refresh of all 776 guest rooms and suites; some are, happily, already good to go. There’s other progress beyond hotels: e-bikes are now plentiful on Maui, thanks to a recent rule change that allows them on island roads. Companies like RideSmart Maui lend out wheels that make exploring a breeze, whether your interest lies in the historic sites of Lahaina or the beautiful beaches around Wailea. — John Wogan

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Courtesy of Chablé Hotels

This picturesque stretch of the Yucatán peninsula is in the midst of welcoming four marquee hotels. The Waldorf Astoria Cancun just opened, a brand-new build with 173 rooms and five dining venues all overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Casa Chablé and The St. Regis Kanai Resort are slated to open in early 2023, followed by the Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai in spring 2023. Not new but refreshed is Maroma, a Belmond Hotel , which will reopen in May 2023 after a year-long closure with 10 new oceanfront suites and Latin America's first Guerlain spa. Farther south, closer to Tulum, the ultra-luxurious Hotel Esencia has added a posh new 10,000-square-foot, four-bedroom mansion tricked out with fitness and screening rooms, an underground speakeasy, and three pools — the perfect thing for a friends’ getaway. Not that hotels are the only draw: The last section of the new Maya Train project, which connects Cancun and Tulum, is expected to open by the end of 2023 after delays to address environmental and archeological concerns . The route will make several cultural and historic sites , including Chichén Itzá, more accessible and connect travelers to other destinations in the state of Quintana Roo, including Bacalar, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Morelos. Also on the horizon is the opening of the long-awaited Tulum airport, which Mexico’s President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said will be completed by the end of 2023. — Sarah Bruning

Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Courtesy of Auberge Resorts Collection

Long a vacationer’s paradise, this section of Mexico’s Pacific coast between Puerto Vallarta and the beach town of San Blas is only getting better in the year ahead. The 59-room Susurros del Corazón , Auberge Resorts Collection, began welcoming guests in November 2022 with experiences that include an introduction to raicilla , a lesser-known agave spirit, and boating excursions in Islas Marietas, a national park known for its biodiversity. On its heels, Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort , which is the second tented camp property from the brand , will open in December 2022. Accommodating just 30 people at a time, the lush 48-acre property is making wellness a key focus, so guests can expect to unwind with options like a temascal ceremony and nocturnal forest bathing sessions. An extra incentive to go? JetBlue launched new nonstop flights from JFK to Puerto Vallarta International, which serves as the gateway to the region. — Sarah Bruning

U.S. Virgin Islands

Courtesy of USVI Department of Tourism; Jamie Aranoff

With no pandemic restrictions, no passport needed, and plenty of inbound flights, the U.S. Virgin Islands are challenging Bermuda for the title of easiest warm-weather getaway for East Coasters. What’s more, the islands just established a Territorial Park System Trust Fund Board which will protect and preserve attractions like St. Croix’s Great Salt Pond and St. John’s Oppenheimer Beach. Caribbean flavors are, once again, another reason to go: The King of the Wing competition on St. Thomas, which celebrates creative chicken cookery, is back after a two-year hiatus; the 23rd annual Taste of St. Croix festival, one of the largest culinary events in the region, happens in April. Carnival , which returned in 2022, will be another event to watch in the year ahead. St. Thomas celebrates from late April through early May with food fairs, pageants, and parades; St. John fetes from late June through July 4, concluding with an Independence Day bash; and St. Croix sparkles from mid-December through Three Kings Day with more traditional, Christmas-centric fanfare. — Jamie Aranoff

For a Look at the Future

This past September, Bhutan, the impossibly scenic country between India and China, reopened to tourists after 30 months. But that’s nothing compared to the 60 years it’s taken to redevelop the 250-mile Trans-Bhutan Trail , which also reopened that month. Once the only way to travel across the Himalayan kingdom, the ancient pilgrimage route is now one of Bhutan’s biggest draws, a must-see for hikers, bikers, and other outdoorsy types. The trail connects 400 historic sites, with museums, fortresses, and temples along the way — plus stunning natural scenery and seemingly endless views. As part of its reopening, Bhutan has ended its policy requiring visitors to be accompanied 24/7 by a guide; instead, the nation has implemented an increased tourism tax, or Sustainable Development Fee, which is intended to fund social and cultural programs, infrastructure improvements, and environmental conservation. (The $200-a-day charge, up from $65, is also deliberately expensive, in an effort to keep visitor numbers low.) On the hotel front, Six Senses opened its fifth and final Bhutan lodge, Six Senses Bumthang , in March 2020, but the eco hideaway tucked in a pine forest in the town of Jakar, of course, has only just become accessible to foreigners. — Alisha Prakash

Boten–Vientiane Railway, Laos

Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua via Getty Images

It’s not every day the world gets a new cross-country railroad. The ambitious Boten–Vientiane railway that stretches across Laos may have opened for business in late 2021, but now’s the time to jump aboard, as travel to Asia reopens to American visitors. The remarkable engineering project is one of many financed by China as part of the country’s Belt and Road Initiative that builds heavy infrastructure across Africa and Asia. In this case, the train has dramatically slashed travel times across the difficult-to-drive if strikingly beautiful landscapes of Laos: Trips that would’ve taken a full day by road can now be done in just a couple hours of train-carriage comfort, as T+L recently reported . The route runs from the northern border town of Boten to Luang Prabang, which is known for its many temples. It then continues on to Vang Vieng, a gateway to some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes, before arriving in the capital, Vientiane, on the border with Thailand. Intermediate stations will help open up to visitors parts of the country that haven’t historically benefited from tourism, as Ruben Derksen, director of product and digital at Bangkok-based tour operator Exo Travel , told T+L. In the years ahead, the 257-mile railway may become even more critical, as just one segment of a Singapore to Shanghai route that will make continent-spanning journeys not just possible, but pleasant. — Paul Brady

Kyoto, Japan

Rudy Sulgan/Getty Images

Kyoto is often thought of as the serene, slowed-down complement to go-go Tokyo. And, certainly, the former Japanese capital has its historic temples, gardens, and teahouses. But since Japan’s October 2022 reopening to independent travelers , this destination and its new draws demand fresh eyes. The city’s famous Gion Matsuri , or festival, is set to return in full force in July 2023 following a pandemic pause, with enormous floats and a wealth of food and drink offerings; the event, which was first held in 869, is said to be Japan’s biggest festival. In August, Kyoto celebrates Gozan Okuribi , a bonfire celebration visible across the city that marks the close of Obon, a festival honoring ancestors. New hotels abound, including hospitality group Banyan Tree’s 138-room Dhawa Yura Kyoto, located in the heart of the city. Another new option is Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto , with 25 rooms set amid lush greenery in front of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also new — yet firmly rooted in the city’s history — is the recently opened Maana Kiyomizu , where visitors can spend the night in restored machiya, traditional wooden townhouses. Though Japan has only just reopened, it’s already getting even easier to get there, thanks to Delta Air Lines’ brand-new routes from Hawaii to Tokyo plus flights that resumed this fall from Los Angeles. — Alisha Prakash

New Zealand

Barry Tobin; Courtesy of Tourism New Zealand

After a stringent lockdown, New Zealand has at last dropped all travel restrictions. Happily, the country is becoming more accessible than ever, thanks to the nonstop flights between New York and Auckland that Air New Zealand launched in September. (That long haul has also gotten comfier, thanks to the airline’s Economy Skycouch seats.) Wondering if those 17 hours in the air will be worth it? Auckland continues to evolve with no shortage of dazzling new places to stay. The 99-room Hotel Britomart , lined in timber and exuding Zen calm, is at the heart of Auckland’s Britomart District, nine blocks of historic warehouses converted into shops and restaurants. Mawhiti Walheke is a luxurious modern guest pavilion on a vineyard-covered island a short ferry ride from the city. And New Zealand’s spectacular landscape finally has a showstopper of a property to match it: Flock Hill , a fully serviced four-bedroom villa on a sheep ranching station in the Southern Alps region of South Island. — Peter Terzian

Teahupo’o,Tahiti

© Gre goire Le Bacon

The village of Teahupo’o, on the southwestern coast of Tahiti, will take center stage during the 2024 Paris Olympics, despite being 9,800 miles from the French capital. But unless you’re planning to compete, the year ahead is the ideal time for a closer look at this part of French Polynesia, before the world’s attention turns to the South Pacific. Some of the incredible waves here rate among the most fearsome on the planet — hence the name Teahupo’o, which essentially means “wall of skulls” — while others are more rideable for those with some surfing experience. Accommodations such as Tahurai can organize coaching sessions, including some hosted by local surf icon Tereva David. Those more comfortable watching the waves than riding them can get on the water with tour companies such as Teahupo’o Tahiti Surfari , which takes visitors by boat to see the famous Teahupo’o swell, one of the highest and heaviest waves in the world, as well as waterfalls, lagoons, lava tubes, and cliff-diving spots around the island. Meanwhile, it’s gotten easier than ever to reach Tahiti, thanks to Delta Air Lines’ new nonstop flights from Los Angeles to Fa'a'ā International Airport. Air Tahiti Nui has also added connectivity, with the only nonstop flights between Seattle and Tahiti, which took off in October. — Jamie Aranoff

Victoria, British Columbia

Carlina Teteris/Getty Images

What does it look like for a city to meaningfully prioritize “sustainability,” a word that often ends up more “feel-good” than actually “do-good?” Victoria is maximizing its green impact, aiming to make all new buildings carbon neutral by 2025 and halve landfill waste by 2040. Admittedly, few travelers pick destinations based on zero-waste initiatives, but it’s easy to take an environmentally minded trip to Victoria — the city even has suggested “green travel” itineraries , capitalizing on the outdoor beauty of places like Goldstream Provincial Park, one of many green spaces on Vancouver Island. Visitors have their choice of carbon-neutral hotels, such as Inn at Laurel Point and Parkside Hotel & Spa , and can even do carbon-neutral fast food at Big Wheel Burger , Canada’s first such restaurant. Other eco-minded activities include e-biking along the Saanich Peninsula to seaside towns like Sidney — with stops at picturesque wineries or the Butchart Gardens along the way — or hopping aboard an orca-watching cruise with Eagle Wing Tours , which is, of course, part of 1% for the Planet . — Liz Cantrell

JJ Farquitectos/Getty Images

Austria’s capital city may be old — like, Holy Roman Empire old — but 2023 will see neue life in this historic destination. The year ahead is the 150th anniversary of Vienna’s World’s Fair, and the celebrations include 12 months of cultural events. It’s also the 300th anniversary of the opening of the Belvedere, the palatial museum that’s mounting an art nouveau exhibit featuring 90 Gustav Klimt works in February. Adaptive reuse is also on trend here, and the recently opened Rosewood Vienna is but one example, set in a neoclassical building that was once a bank headquarters and, before that, an apartment building where Mozart lived. The now-reopened Reznicek is a contemporary gasthaus inside a 100-year-old inn; Grace's Michelin-starred fare is served in a refurbished wood-paneled café reminiscent of the ‘70s. Not that Vienna is only looking to the past: New initiatives have added 1,000 miles of bike paths, carsharing via WienMobil , a robust network of electric buses, and new development in the fast-growing Aspern neighborhood where every public space and street is named after a woman . Other new additions include Hotel Josefine , with its sultry Roaring ‘20s energy and Hotel Gilbert , with a greenery-cloaked façade and Scandi-inspired design. Nonstop flights from Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Newark, New York City, and Washington, D.C. are always an option but the most au courant way in may be the new Paris to Vienna Nightjet train , which runs three days a week, with private cabins with lie-flat beds and breakfast in the morning. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

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Top 35 Best Family Vacation Spots in the US for 2023

By: Author Kim Tate

Posted on Published: January 13, 2023

Ready to plan your next family vacation and wondering where to go? For 2023, I combined my favorite family vacation ideas with a few recommendations from fellow travel writer friends. From coast to coast we’re ready to help you with our picks for the best family vacation spots in the US!

On this list you’ll find a variety of family vacation ideas, some are popular spots that you’ve heard of before. Other destinations are places that might be new to you. Some are big cities, other small towns. For each of the vacation spots on the list, I’ve listed why it works for families, plus I’ve given you a headstart on planning with some recommended places to stay or things to do!

In this article:

Why are Family Vacations Important?

Taking a family vacation isn’t just about having fun, there are some great benefits to family vacations .

The Benefits of Taking Family Vacations:

• Getting away helps you take a break from a high-stress lifestyle.
• You can model successful problem-solving and planning to your kids while on vacation.
• Family vacations provide an opportunity to learn new things.
• Traveling together can create a bond over shared experiences.
• You’ll create family memories that will last for many years.

How Much Does the Average Family Vacation Cost?

The cost of a family vacation varies based on many factors. Are you taking a road trip or flying? Are you planning to go to a lot of attractions with entrance fees or planning to do mostly free things. And, where are you staying? A five-star resort will obviously cost more than staying at a budget motel.

Based on my calculations, the average cost for vacation is $5,197. You can use my vacation cost calculator (in my cost for vacation post) to determine your expected costs. And you can print off my vacation budget planner if you’d like to calculate your vacation cost on paper.

How Long Should a Family Vacation Last?

There are a few factors that will decide how long a family vacation should be. Some studies have suggested that a vacation should be eight days long to capture the full benefits of your time away.

But for some families, you might be limited based on how many vacation days you have from work or school. Hotel and food can also add up fast, so longer vacations will mean spending more money on the trip.

For our family, we typically like to plan our main family vacations to be seven to eight days long depending on travel time. If we’re flying for most of the first day, then we might need an extra day to experience the destination.

However, I’ll be honest that by day seven most of us are missing home and a bit tired. You don’t want to be so busy on vacation that you feel like you need a vacation AFTER your vacation!

How Often Should You Take a Family Vacation?

As often as you can! :) Our family tries to take at least two family vacations a year, plus a couple of weekend getaways. But I’d say that you should try to plan at least one family vacation a year.

I know that responsibilities and finances can affect how often you can take a family vacation. But, even if you make time for a simple weekend getaway you’ll be creating memories with your kids and experiencing something new!

What is the Best Family Vacation Spot in USA?

It’s impossible for me to actually tell you the BEST family vacation spot in the US. That will depend on whether you’re looking for something close to you or far away.

Are you looking for a beach or mountain escape? Perhaps you want to visit a big city, or maybe you’re looking to explore the great outdoors. All these factors will help you decide the best family vacation spot for your family.

Some of the most popular destinations for families include Florida, California, Hawaii, DC, Yellowstone, and New York. However, every state has amazing activities and natural beauty that will make for a great family trip.

I’ve created my list below based on my own family vacations and with the help of some of my travel writing friends. Each of these USA destinations is a great family vacation idea!

I’ve included affiliate links in this post, if you choose to purchase from my links I may earn a commission.

Does the US have All-Inclusive Resorts that are Family-Friendly?

While all-inclusives are popular in the Caribbean (check out our fun stay at the Moon Palace Jamaica ), they’re not very common in the United States. There are a few all-inclusive resorts in the US that welcome families. Note that some simply have an all-inclusive package option that you can choose to add to your reservation.

• Club Med Sandpiper Bay in Port St. Lucie, Florida
• The Ranch at Rock Creek in Philipsburg, Montana
• Hana-Maui Resort (formerly Travaasa Hana), Maui in Hana, Hawaii
• Grand Hotel in Mackinac Island, Michigan
• Vista Verde Guest Ranch in Clark, Colorado
• Woodloch Pines Resort in Hawley, Pennsylvania
• Lodge on Little St. Simons Island in Little St. Simons Island, Georgia
• White Stallion Ranch in Tucson, Arizona
• Skytop Lodge in Skytop, Pennsylvania
• Blackberry Farm in Walland, Tennessee
• Kachemak Bay Wilderness Lodge in Homer, Alaska

What is the Best State to Visit in the US For Families?

All 50! I’m slightly joking here but honestly, I think that all 50 states offer amazing discoveries that will benefit families. I think the best state for your family vacation is based on what kind of vacation you’re looking for.

The US offers states with amazing National Parks (like Montana and California), others have fabulous beaches on both the ocean or a lake (like Florida or Michigan), and still, others offer amazing historical educational opportunities (like DC and Alabama).

You might consider helping your kids get a start on a 50 State Bucket List Challenge and visit as many states as you can while your kids are young. Families who enjoy the outdoors might also get a National Parks checklist . And don’t miss my article about how you might be able to get a National Parks Pass for free!

Top 35 Family Vacation Ideas for a Perfect Family Holiday

Northern california.

One of our family’s favorite trips has been a road trip down the California coast . We all fell in love with Northern California. The towering redwood trees in the Redwood National & State Parks are absolutely amazing. And there are so many family-friendly hikes that will put you deep into these giants.

Glass Beach in Fort Bragg is a unique spot that makes for some fabulous family photos! The nearby MacKerricher State Park invites kids to get out, explore, and enjoy nature. And, you might even spot whales during the right season!

Northern California is also home to Lassen Volcanic National Park, where kids can see crazy thermal activity and beautiful waterfall hikes.

If you’re looking for a lake vacation, check out Shasta Lake or Whiskeytown Lake. Families will love paddling and splashing in the sun at one of these two large lakes.

Check out hotels in Northern California .

Estes Park, Colorado

Estes Park, Colorado is a fabulous vacation spot for families who are looking for a National Park trip with some small-town charm and big-city day trips thrown in. Estes Park is home to Rocky Mountain National Park which is one of Mia’s favorite parks. It’s filled with fun hikes, beautiful views, and lots of wildlife.

Estes Park is a charming main street town with lots of tourist shops, including some great candy and ice cream shops. They also have a fun pika scavenger hunt that will keep kids entertained while you stroll up and down the main street.

And when you’re ready for some big-city thrills, head into Denver. It’s about an hour and a half drive and the perfect way to have a vacation with nature and city sights. If you have any NFL fans, they can even book a tour of Broncos stadium.

Check out where to stay in Estes Park .

Oahu, Hawaii

One of my top picks for the best family vacation spots in the US is Oahu. This Hawaiian island is home to Honolulu but offers families so much more to explore. If you’re wanting to get a good feel for Hawaii, Oahu is the place to find it.

It’s easy to reach the island since most major airlines fly into Honolulu, east coasters might want to consider a short layover stop in California if they want to avoid the long flight.

Some of our favorite things to do in Oahu are to hike Diamond Head Monument, take a road trip around the island, eat a plate of shrimp, and of course, enjoy shave ice.

You’ll also find plenty of beaches and rocky overlooks to spend the day at. Popular spots include snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, watching the surfers on the north shore, and long walks along Kauloa Park and Secret Island.

Many families will choose to stay on Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, but some might prefer Disney Aulani which is about 45 minutes away from Honolulu. And you’ll want to catch a luau, either at the Polynesian Cultural Center or the Disney Aulani luau .

Check out hotel prices for Oahu .

Seattle, Washington

A little partial since we live in Seattle, but I do think it’s a fabulous city for a family vacation. Families will love exploring the Seattle Center area of the city where they can visit some of the top attractions.

The MoPop Museum should definitely be on your list. They have a lot of memorabilia of pop culture and some great hands-on music experiences, too. Currently, they have a Minecraft exhibit! It’s a museum all about pop culture!

Seattle also has a fabulous children’s museum, the Space Needle, a world-class zoo and aquarium, and the sea. Kids will love feeling the wind aboard a ferry, searching for crabs and shells along the beaches, and even going whale watching. And it’s easy to get to Olympic National Park from Seattle, where you’ll find amazing Pacific Northwest nature.

Parents will love all our great restaurants, breweries, and parks that offer amazing views and plenty of room to let kids run around. And if you’re a sports fan, Seattle has a football, baseball, soccer, and soon a hockey team all with fabulous fans!

Lots to see and do even if you only have a weekend in Seattle .

Check out hotels in Seattle .

Monterey, California

Many family travelers know all about the sunny destinations in Southern California, but central California also is great for families. Monterey, California offers sandy beaches along with some great outdoor hiking options and kayaking excursions.

Cannery Row is a popular tourist destination that is filled with some great hotels and restaurants, plus you can rent e-bikes to take a ride around the region. Most notably, Monterey is home to the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium which is filled with educational exhibits including a large touch tank.

Check out popular hotels in Monterey, California . One of our favorites is the Hyatt Regency , it’s perfect for families!

Moosehead Lake, Maine

If you’re looking for a relaxing lake vacation, Moosehead Lake, Maine could be the vacation spot for you. Moosehead Lake is the largest lake in Maine, and the largest mountain lake in the eastern US.

The lake is home to many cabin rentals, offering families a home away from home that lets them relax and make themselves at home. I had a chance to stay at two on my Moosehead Lake weekend trip.

Lily Bay State Park has a great beach and campground that families will love. You can book a moose safari where you go at sunrise or sunset to go out looking for moose — we saw two! You’ll find many cabins and lodges that offer kayaks and/or canoes for paddling out and enjoying the water.

Moosehead Lake is also very popular for hiking. It’s located near the Appalachian Trail and has plenty of mountains for challenging you to climb. We loved hiking up the Little Kineo Mountain Trail but the Screw Auger Falls hike will be extremely popular with adventurous kiddos.

Check out hotels in Moosehead Lake and Airbnbs .

Glacier National Park

Looking for a National Park to visit on your family vacation? We visited Glacier National Park last summer and loved it! The park is large but offers a completely different feel from the West Glacier side to the East Glacier side. If you’re traveling during the summer you’ll want to drive the Going to the Sun Road between the two park sections.

We stayed at two really awesome places during our trip to the park. For two nights we glamped at Under Canvas . This is my kind of camping, you get a toilet, shower, and fireplace in your tent! We also stayed inside an old train caboose at the Izaak Walton Inn . That was such a fun experience!

Glacier is also near Whitefish, Montana which offers families some fun activities at their mountain resort. And you’ll find some great dining and shopping in their mountain town.

Check out hotels near Glacier National Park .

Santa Rosa, California

Santa Rosa is the home of Charles Schulz, the artist, and creator of the Peanuts comic. There is a Charles Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa that should appeal to kids and adults alike. Kids can even try to draw the Peanuts in the museum’s art room. And, there’s a skating rink and a children’s museum within walking distance.

Santa Rosa is also home to the Safari West wildlife park. Families who are interested in learning more about African animals can visit and go on a jeep tour. You can even stay onsite in one of their glamping tents, where you’ll fall asleep with the sounds of birds and lemurs calling into the night.

Santa Rosa also offers parents plenty of opportunities to enjoy wine tasting. Wineries are family-friendly, and some even offer activities on-site to keep kids entertained while parents sip away.

Check out hotels in Santa Rosa .

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans may be best known for beads and Bourbon Street, but there is another family-oriented side to this Louisiana city. Creole cuisine and live jazz aren’t just for grown-ups, with lots of kid-friendly restaurants and music venues. Festive king cakes drizzled with Mardi Gras-colored icing and beignets doused in powdered sugar are tasty local treats for all ages.

Kids will especially love playing at the Louisiana Children’s Museum, which was completely redesigned and reopened in a new location inside City Park in 2019. This expansive park is also home to Carousel Gardens and Storyland theme parks, the New Orleans Botanical Garden, and the City Putt miniature golf course.

For a more educational activity, take kids to the National WWII Museum for an important lesson in history. Meanwhile, families will always remember searching for alligators on an airboat swamp tour in the Big Easy.

Adventurous children and their parents can even touch a millipede’s legs and taste cricket cookies at the Audubon Insectarium. For more traditional animal experiences, head to the impressive Audubon Zoo and Audubon Aquarium of the Americas.

To get a different view of N’Awlins, be sure to take a mule-drawn carriage ride of the French Quarter and sail the Mississippi River from Steamboat Natchez during your visit to Crescent City. The unique flavors, architecture, and friendliness of New Orleans make this city a must-see for families in 2023.

Check out hotels in New Orleans .

Austin, Texas

It’s quirky and cool like Portland – but oh, so much warmer! This vibrant and youthful city is famous for food, festivals and a fantastic live music scene ( Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of America).

Families can easily spend a whole day exploring the 361 acre Zilker Metropolitan Park, which includes an excellent playground, a miniature passenger train, a popular Nature and Science Center (Where kids can dig for dinosaur bones!) and the gigantic fresh water-fed Barton Springs Pool.

Thankfully, on those extra hot days when the mercury pushes past 90 degrees (July/August), you don’t have to venture far to have a good time in this city. Most Austin hotels have awesome pools to keep their guests happy and comfortable.

When it starts to cool off in the evening, join the crowds near the Congress Avenue Bridge to watch the bats take flight. From March through October, over a million bats make their home underneath the bridge and take to the skies just after dusk. It’s a pretty unique sight…and it’s free!

Check out hotels in Austin .

Chicago, Illinois

Looking for a big city family trip? Chicago, Illinois is the perfect place to go! They have some of the best museums in the country from The Shedd Aquarium to the Museum of Science and Industry and the Field Museum. All of these have plenty to do to keep the kids occupied. Plus there is an awesome Children’s Museum on Navy Pier!

Beyond the museums, there are unbelievable parks at locations like Millenium Park where you have to check out the Bean. And don’t miss the FREE Lincoln Park Zoo!

We love that in Chicago you are in the middle of a busy city yet you are able to be outside enjoying so many different fun things from ice skating to parks to walking around downtown.

One of the cool things about Chicago is all of the different neighborhoods. Each one has something unique to offer. Make sure to take time to explore the different neighborhoods and feel the different vibe in each one.

Beyond all of the amazing things to do, there are delicious restaurants and you can’t come to Chicago and not have a deep dish pizza or 2 or 3! You and your family will have an amazing time exploring everything the city has to offer.

Check out hotels in Chicago .

Key West, Florida

Despite its reputation of being a quirky party town, Key West, FL is a great destination for families. The quirkiness is real but just adds to the charm of this sun-soaked island in the Florida Keys.

Key West’s best attractions are arguably on the water, so be sure to book a snorkel tour or go parasailing. For something more laid back, a sunset cruise is a perfect way to wrap up a lazy day in paradise. Fury Key West or Sebago offers several tours and excursions that we enjoyed.

Besides soaking up some rays, other activities include a tour of Key West on the Conch Train or in the evening, learn about Key West’s spookier side on the Ghosts and Gravestones tour.

No trip would be complete without stopping by the Southernmost Point for a selfie, and if you love cats, the Ernest Hemmingway Home and Museum is the perfect way to spend a few hours. Fair warning though – you may fall in love with the cuddly 6-toed kitties and not want to leave!

Be sure to budget a day for a visit to Dry Tortugas National Park. You can reach the park by ferry or seaplane (the seaplane is awesome!), and it’s a fun adventure that the kids will love. Dry Tortugas is one of America’s most remote Parks and is really one of the most unique that we’ve visited. As far as day trips are concerned, this is one of the best we’ve been on.

Finally, don’t leave without sampling the key lime pie. It goes without saying, but there’s no better place to find it! Try a frozen slice on a stick dipped in chocolate from Kermit’s. You can thank us later!

Recommended by Carrick Buss from Along for the Trip. Read more about the fun activities in Key West with kids .

Check out prices for Key West hotels .

Yellowstone National Park

This is definitely a bucket list family vacation destination. Yellowstone is one of those trips that everyone should experience since it’s the oldest National Park in the United States.

Exploring Yellowstone will take you many days. Near the northern entrance is popular Mammoth Hot Springs and Larimar Valley where you’ll often see bison. South of Larimar Valley is the amazing Grand Canyon of Yellowstone waterfall . From the west entrance heading south you’ll be able to catch all the amazing geothermal pools and geysers, like Old Faithful.

There’s so much to see and learn at Yellowstone which makes it a great family vacation destination! If you’re thinking of taking a tour around Yellowstone, check out our Disney Adventures trip to Yellowstone .

Check out prices for Yellowstone hotels .

Raleigh, North Carolina

If you are looking for entertaining, free activities for families, along with plenty of chances to explore nature, Raleigh, North Carolina is a great option. The capital of North Carolina is an easy flight from many destinations and is affordable for a family vacation.

Free museums include the must-see North Carolina Museum of Natural Science. This museum is spread out over two different buildings and offers kid-friendly, hands-on exhibits and demonstrations. The onsite café is delicious, and features fresh, local food.

Nearby is the North Carolina Museum of History, which showcases the history of North Carolina. This Smithsonian affiliate is also home to traveling exhibits, and is free, although some special exhibits may have a fee.

We also enjoyed the North Carolina Museum of Art, which offers a beautiful outdoor park that connects art with nature in addition to traditional indoor exhibits. Kids can borrow a complimentary backpack, which includes items they can use to explore the park.

Families that want to get outside may want to visit nearby Jordan Lake. This 14,000-acre, undeveloped reservoir is the third largest lake in North Carolina. There’s also Go Ape, a treetop ropes course, which is located near Raleigh.

Recommended by Jodi from Family Travel Magazine. See more things to do in Raleigh here .

Find the best hotels in Raleigh, NC .

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas may not seem like an obvious location for a family vacation, but it was a great destination for our family. As long as the adults in your party are ok foregoing gambling and nightclubs, we recommend “Sin City” for families.

Direct flights are easy to find, and Las Vegas offers a plethora of amazing hotels that offer gorgeous pool areas that kids love. Because there are more hotel rooms in Las Vegas than any other US city, families can often score a great value for a luxury hotel on or off the Strip.

The Strip is the world’s most visited tourist attraction, and kids love the outdoor displays like Mirage’s Polynesian waterfall that “erupts” hourly during its evening shows, the fountains at the Bellagio and the Venetian canals.

Kids get a “taste” of New York, Paris, Venice, and Rome by exploring the Strip. My four-year-old son was so amazed by the half-scale Eiffel Tower that he begged us for four years to take him to Paris. (Lucky for him that our actual trip to Paris also included visits to Venice and Rome.)

There are also never-ending options for great meals. Our family particularly enjoyed Caesar’s Bacchanal Buffet and Lotus of Siam, which has been rated as the best Thai restaurant in the US. For families who want a break from the neon canyon, the Red Rocks and Hoover Dam are each just a short drive from Las Vegas and great day trip options.

Recommended by Catherine D’Cruz from We Go With Kids. Find out more from Catherine about Las Vegas with kids . Plus families can enjoy some great outdoor activities with kids near Las Vegas .

Check out prices for Las Vegas hotels .

Disneyland / anaheim, california.

For most families, a trip to Disney is a popular family vacation. Our family has certainly enjoyed a LOT of trips to both in the US. Disneyland is in Anaheim, California, and has two theme parks with lots of rides and attractions that are great for all ages.

Beyond Disneyland, Southern California has a lot of fun family-friendly attractions. You can check out Universal Studios — their backlot tour is so much fun! And you’re near some of the best California beaches, including Huntington Beach AKA Surf City USA.

If you want help booking your Disneyland vacation, my booking partners at Get Away Today are Disneyland experts and offer great discounts on tickets and hotel packages. Use my code ‘Stuffed Suitcase’ to get $10 off your booking of a 2+ night hotel package.

Disney World / Orlando, Florida

Disney World is in Orlando, Florida, and has four theme parks in addition to two waterparks. If you’re looking to be immersed in Disney, a weeklong trip to Disney World and staying onsite will certainly offer you a lot of Disney magic! We loved staying at the Disney Riviera Resort and using the Skyliner to get to the parks.

Read my tips for how I saved thousands on my Disney World vacation !

Beyond Disney World, which is launching. anew attraction, Tron, in 2023, Orlando and the Kissimmee area have many activities for families. You will have to take multiple trips to experience it all. My teens love Universal Orlando with its crazy thrill rides .

And if you’re planning a trip without the kids, Orlando is a great vacation spot for adults , too!

Looking for a deal on your Walt Disney World and Orlando vacation? My partners at Get Away Today can offer you great prices on hotels and tickets, PLUS they offer a Disney World concierge service and will book your fastpasses and dining reservations for you.

San Luis Obispo, California

California is filled with amazing family-friendly locations, but one often overlooked region is the San Luis Obispo area on the Central Coast. Located on the popular Pacific Coast Highway route between San Francisco and Los Angeles, this is an area worth stopping for a few days.

SLO CAL, as it is often called, offers families an abundance of year-round outdoor activities, animal sightings and even a few quirky sights too. From kayaking at Morro Bay with some of the world’s remaining sea otters to sailing with Captain Mark in search of whales, there is so much to do and see on the water.

For land-based families, you can try your hand at driving sand dune buggies or sand sledding at the one of a kind state park, Oceano State Vehicular Recreation Area.

On a coast filled with cool beaches, another must-visit in this area is Grover Beach where you can drive on the beach to set up your own bonfire wherever you want. Or head to Moonstone Beach to collect rocks while searching for the elusive moonstone.

Families into the quirky will love a visit to the Madonna Inn, Hearst Castle and of course the infamous Bubblegum Alley in San Luis Obispo. Don’t forget to look for check out the elephant seal rookery in San Simeon and the herd of zebras in the pastures nearby.

There is so much to do and see in this region that a quick pass through on Highway 1 can never do it justice. Book a room, stay for a while and give yourself time to see it all.

Recommended by Karilyn from No Back Home. Read about her weekend in San Luis Obispo .

Find hotels in SLO, CA .

Door County, Wisconsin

Door County, Wisconsin is one of our all-time favorite family destinations. Located just two hours north of Milwaukee, Door County is actually a peninsula surrounded by Lake Michigan on one side and Green Bay on the other. Families will love the year-round outdoor activities available, beautiful scenery, and laid back atmosphere.

For those planning a trip to the area, choose a home base in the center of the peninsula (we recommend Fish Creek or Egg Harbor) for easy access to all of the area’s attractions.

In the warmer months, families can enjoy picking fresh fruit, zip-lining through nature preserves, kayaking on the lake, and visiting the area lighthouses. They can even watch the latest movies at the local drive-in. In the fall, Door County is one of the top places for foliage with spectacular colors and Highway 42 is one of the most beautiful drives in the country.

Winter visitors can enjoy quiet hikes on the local beaches, trying winter sports in Peninsula State Park, or shopping in the charming small towns. One thing is for sure, Door County doesn’t disappoint any time of year and families will think it is the perfect getaway for all ages.

Recommended by  Kirsten Maxwell from Kids Are A Trip. Read more from her about Door County . 

Find hotels in Door County .

Folly Beach, South Carolina

Folly Beach in South Carolina is a friendly beach island just 25 minutes from Charleston, SC that’s perfect for families. It has plenty of rental properties and hotels right by the water, and the ocean is shallow enough for little ones to play in. For adults, there is an astoundingly high quality and variety of food and nightlife.

The overall vibe is relaxed and welcoming, and there are numerous water activities (we took an excellent boat tour out to an island with a lighthouse!) as well as biking, strolling, and being one with nature.

Did you know that Folly has DOLPHINS naturally frolicking in its waters?! Though the island is very popular in the summer, consider checking out Folly Beach in the off-season or shoulder season, as it’s still a great getaway then, and prices and crowds are lower.

Another perk: Because it’s surrounded on all sides by water, Folly Beach has some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets I’ve seen in my entire life!

Folly Beach was recommended by Lillie Marshall from Around the World “L”.

Check out some of the great hotels in the area !

New York City, New York

City adventures make for great family trips, and few places can top the urban wonderland that is New York City. One could almost ask, what doesn’t it have? The Big Apple is packed full of a wide variety of accommodation options, has an easy and affordable public transit system, tens of thousands of restaurants to choose from, and never, ever sleeps.

There’s something in the city for everyone. Families with younger kids can spend time in the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, check out the larger than life displays at the Natural History Museum, and run through Central Park and its Zoo. American Girl fans will love a stop at its flagship store, and every sweet tooth will enjoy Dylan’s Candy Bar or baked treats at Magnolia Bakery.

Older kids often want to be in the center of the action, so take them to Times Square at night. Ride up to the top of the Empire State Building (lots of selfie opps!) and fill them up with pasta and gelato at Eataly NYC Flatiron.

Walk over the Brooklyn Bridge, go on a Scott’s Pizza Tour, take in a Yankees, Knicks or Rangers game, and experience The Ride through Manhattan, one of the most unique attractions in the city.

New York has museums and art galleries to spare. Families with art lovers shouldn’t miss the Guggenheim, Met Museum, or the Frick Collection (for kids 10+).

Theatre-loving kids and parents can take in shows and plays to their heart’s content on Broadway. Frozen, School of Rock and Dear Evan Hansen (older kids) are great family theatre experiences.

Check out the massive Hudson Yards neighborhood with public art and cultural spaces like The Shed, restaurants, shops, markets, and the highest outdoor observation deck in the western hemisphere – 1,100 feet above the ground. As always, New York goes big.

Recommended by Claudia from The Travelling Mom .

Check out hotel prices in NYC .

The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of the natural wonders of the world and indeed, you would be hard-pressed not to experience wonder and awe in front of its majestic beauty. Beautiful, engaging and easy to enjoy, the canyon is a fantastic destination for families and has a lot to offer to adults and kids of all ages.

In terms of activities, you have a vast choice of options to suit all levels of fitness. You can take one of the many hikes available (some, not all, are suitable for kids), you can explore the historic buildings and museums in the park or even simply enjoy the scenery using the handy and free shuttle bus that connects the many points of interest and viewpoints in the area.

The more adventurous types can opt for more strenuous canyon hikes, go cycling or even go rafting joining one of the family tours available. There is plenty to keep energetic kids entertained and it is an easy place to keep them away from the screen without boredom setting in.

Rangers hold regular family-friendly talks and activities in the park and the visitor centers offer good information booklets and materials to help you enjoy the park in your own time and at your pace, should you wish to do so. Families have a vast choice of accommodation options ranging from cabins, to lodges and beautiful hotels, making the Grand Canyon not just beautiful but also easy to enjoy at all ages.

Recommended by Marta Correale from Learning Escapes. Read her tips for visiting the Grand Canyon with kids .

Find hotels near the Grand Canyon .

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Located just 90 minutes from Denver, families should put Colorado Springs and the surrounding Pikes Peak Region on their radar for their next vacation. Family-friendly activities include a visit to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Within its 40 acres, kids will enjoy several up-close-and-personal animal experiences including feeding the giraffes.

Give your kids a taste of the Old West with a visit to the Ghost Town Museum. There’s nothing more magical to kids than visiting Santa, and families can do that from May – Christmas Eve at The North Pole – Home of Santa’s Workshop. All aboard Pikes Peak Cog Railway for year-round stunning views of the mountains. Load the family in the car for a scenic drive or hike at the always-free Garden of the Gods.

Drive a little farther into Canyon City and take in the view from the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, one of the world’s highest suspension bridges. And there’s so much more to do and see in Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak Region that one visit will not be enough.

Recommended by Diana Rowe from Traveling in Heels. Read her post about a multigenerational trip to Colorado Springs . Also, read about these things to do in Colorado Springs plus kid-friendly activities in Colorado Springs .

Check out hotels in Colorado Springs .

Southeastern Utah

Mary from The World is a Book says: Southeastern Utah boasts some of the country’s most picturesque and spectacular sceneries. Its unmatched landscapes are filled with red rocks and canyons, sandstone cliffs and towering rock formations. Don’t miss these attractions for an unforgettable family trip.

Moab is a great base to explore two incredible National Parks nearby. Arches National Park has the world’s largest concentration of over 2,000 sandstone arches. Canyonlands has been called the “showcase of geology” with several overlooks into deep canyons and amazing rock formations. There are plenty of easy hiking trails for families in both parks.

Moab is also an outdoor recreation paradise offering varied adventures. Families can go rafting on the Colorado River, go rock climbing, canyoneering, ballooning, hiking, fishing, biking or ATV riding. Lake Powell is North America’s largest man-made lake. It is a haven of houseboats (some with slides). It offers many water recreation activities against a backdrop of red rock canyons.

The iconic Monument Valley has been used as a backdrop for many films and a symbol of the American Wild West. We highly recommend doing the scenic and cultural tour to explore the back roads and learn more about the Navajo people.

Check out hotels near Moab .

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Kendra from Kendra Pierson Love, Learn, Travel says: Minneapolis makes the list of best places because it’s a location with interests for every member of the family in just about every season.

The family outdoors lover will love being able to fish in one of the more than 10,000 lakes while the art lover can explore the Walker Art Center. The best part is that quality fishing can take place within the city limits, so your family can split up for the day and still meet up for dinner in the eclectic foodie scene.

Families will also want to visit the Science Museum of Minnesota. Right inside their lobby is Mississippi River Visitor Center National Park. Sports fans will want to score tickets for one of the six professional teams.

Finally, everyone has to take a visit to the Mall of America. With a Nickelodeon themed amusement park in the center and no tax on clothing purchases, it’s just one of the places that you visit just to say that you have!

Check out hotels in Minneapolis .

Richmond, Virginia

Patricia from Fairfax Family Fun says: Old and new, high-tech and laid back, thrilling and peaceful… whatever you hope to find in a family vacation, it’s likely in Richmond. Love nature? How does spending a day in a gorgeous botanical garden sound? Richmond, Virginia (the state’s capital) is home to the Ginter Botanical Garden, a beautiful facility with a lovely children’s area, and the Metro Richmond Zoo, with many animals and a treetop adventure.

If science is more your speed, the Science Museum of Virginia will not disappoint, and neither will the children’s museum right next door.

The city offers much for history buffs, especially at Richmond National Battlefield Park, which commemorates 13 American Civil War sites, including Tredegar Iron Works, which supplied much of the artillery to the Confederacy.

Thrill-seekers and adventurous types might like the heart-pumping action of the Richmond Raceway or testing their own limits with fun rides at the Kings Dominion theme park (which has a wonderful – and tame! – kids’ area). But if you prefer to take it easy, Richmond has something for you, too, especially along the nice Canal Walk, where you can take in the city sights and learn about its 400-year history.

Check out hotels in Richmond .

Midcoast Maine

Francesca at The Working Mom Travels says: MidCoast Maine is a collection of small towns and islands and is a wonderful place for a family vacation. The region, just off of US-1 (the heavily traveled route between Portland and Acadia National Park ), simply has it all: excellent food; abundance of outdoor activities; arts and culture; and jaw-dropping scenery.

First off, the lobster. There can’t be talk about Maine without mentioning lobster. The whole family can enjoy a lobster dinner in MidCoast Maine for a fraction of what it might cost at home. Claws, a casual, family-friendly lobster shack in Rockland, is a top pick.

With mountains above and Penobscot Bay below, MidCoast Maine is a year-round, outdoor family playground. A great spot for families to enjoy the outdoors (along with that jaw-dropping scenery) is Camden Hills State Park. Hike, bike, or drive to the top of Mount Battie for sweeping views of the bay and Camden Harbor. Families looking to be out on the water are in luck. There is no shortage of schooner day cruises in MidCoast Maine.

For a bit of culture, families should head to Rockland, Maine’s new arts destination. Rockland is home to Farnsworth Art Museum and Center for Maine Contemporary Art (CMCA). Both institutions focus on MidCoast Maine’s role in the arts, from 100-year-old pieces at Farnsworth to modern creations at CMCA.

Check out hotels in Mid Coast Maine .

Cincinnati, Ohio

Nedra at Adventure Mom says: Cincinnati, Ohio is a great destination for families. Enjoy scenic views of the river from the swings, ride the carousel and make music as you step on the giant outdoor piano at Smale Park.

Take a ride on the streetcar and connect to the Over the Rhine neighborhood and enjoy a meal at one of the great restaurants on Vine Street and experience many of the activities at Washington Park.

You can visit Fiona, everyone’s favorite hippo at the Cincinnati Zoo. Thrill-seekers will love the ride options at Kings Island Amusement Park and families will appreciate their award-winning kids’ section.

The Cincinnati Reds games are held in a very family-friendly baseball stadium with a whiffle ball field and playground for kids who need a break in between innings.

The city is rich in history and the arts with fantastic art museums that are free to the public and creative street murals located on buildings throughout the city. Take in a gorgeous view from the observation deck of Carew Tower and don’t forget to try local favorites Cincinnati style chili and Graeter’s ice cream.

Check out hotels in Cincinnati .

Florida’s Space Coast

Tamara from We3Travel says: The Florida Space Coast is a beautiful gem on the East Coast of Florida with something for everyone. The beautiful wide sandy beaches on the Atlantic have made towns like Cocoa Beach a surfer’s paradise. With beachfront, affordable hotels, family-friendly dining, and kid-approved activities like miniature golf, there is everything you need for a relaxing family vacation.

But what makes this region so special is, of course, the Kennedy Space Center .

You don’t need to be into space to find KSC fascinating. Kids can, of course, learn about the history of the space program, but they can also learn to perform a mission in space, crawl through a model International Space Station, and walk under the massive Saturn V rockets. If you are really lucky with your timing, you may even get to see a rocket launch.

Only about an hour from Orlando, the Space Coast makes a great option for families that want to pair some beach time with a visit to the theme parks.

Check out hotels on the Space Coast .

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Lesli from 365 Atlanta Family says: The population of Chattanooga, TN stands at less than 200,000, but it’s not your ordinary small Southern town. Chattanooga is an outdoor playground, promising nature-loving families a weekend worth of fun. From caving to hang-gliding and rafting to rock-climbing, high adventure reigns.

After you work up an appetite, head into town for impeccable eats. Urban Stack is our family’s favorite but you’ll find plenty of locally-owned options to choose from.

Looking for more traditional attractions? Try Chattanooga Aquarium, Ruby Falls, Tennessee Valley Railroad, and Hunter Museum of American Art. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Moon Pie General Store – Moon Pies originated in Chattanooga!

While we do recommend a visit to the Chattanooga Choo-Choo Hotel during the day, The Chattanoogan remains our favorite overnight accommodation. You’ll find spacious rooms, an inviting lobby, and the perfect heated, indoor pool offering views over the neighborhood.

Also, read: Things to Do with Kids in Chattanooga Free or Cheap Things to Do in Memphis TN

Check out hotels in Chattanooga, Tennessee .

Boise, Idaho

Chez Chesak says: There are some good attractions for kids in Boise, like Zoo Boise and the Discover Center of Idaho. But they are relatively small and generally feel a bit worn. The real strength of Boise as a family destination are all the outdoor activities.

A system of public parks runs through the center of town, and the nine riverside parks are known collectively as the ‘Ribbon of Jewels’. These parks are full of walkways, playgrounds, trails, disc golf courses and other outdoor diversions.

The Greenbelt is a paved bike path that links all the parks (and much of the rest of the town) along the river. Further, when the weather is good, families can leisurely float the Boise River, and a regular bus will shuttle you back to the put-in point.

Camel’s Back Park, while not on the river, is filled with trails, playgrounds, etc. – and it’s located near a handful of great family-friendly restaurants (and Goody’s ice cream shop).

It’s worth your time to take the winding drive up to Bogus Basin, the local, nonprofit, ski hill. There are great hikes there, wonderful views of the city, and it can be a completely different temperature than in the valley itself. In the winter there is skiing (both downhill and cross-country) and a tubing hill.

Check out hotels in Boise .

Caribbean Cruise

Our family really loves cruising. And while most of the Caribbean isn’t in the US (except for Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands), heading out on a Caribbean cruise is easy from multiple US ports of call like Miami, Galveston, and even NYC. Just know that you will need passports.

As the primary planner in the family, I love that the planning is pretty straightforward with cruises. You find a ship or cruise line that you think fits your family, look at the schedule and ports of call, and book.

Cruises allow families tons of freedom with dining. Everyone can find something they’ll enjoy! Plus kids can have some freedom to plan their own day, where they want to eat, what they want to do, and where they want to go next.

Cruising also offers you a chance to get a feel for destinations you wouldn’t necessarily plan an entire trip around. You’ll be able to pop into a few different ports of call. There are also small cruise ships that don’t have the same “city on the sea” feel of the mega-ships.

Check out prices for cruise vacations .

Alaska Cruise

If you’re looking for another cruise option, taking an Alaska cruise can be a fabulous family vacation! It’s an easy way to experience the largest state in the US. Alaska Cruises offer families the chance to see glaciers, and wildlife like whales and bears, as well as try some excursions like fishing and dog-sledding.

When you’re choosing an Alaska cruise for families, you’ll want to be mindful of the ship you book. Look for if it has enough activities on board to keep everyone entertained, but also know that larger ships might need to tender in Alaska ports, which can be an inconvenience.

My recent Holland America Alaska cruise with my teen was so much fun. We loved visiting Glacier Bay National Park, catching some salmon in the wild, and even hanging upside down on some ziplines in the forest. It’s a great vacation for families who like scenery and adventure.

Glendale, Arizona

For 2023, Glendale is a hot family vacation destination. They’re hosting the Super Bowl in February, which adds another big sports event to a region that already is famous for its annual Spring Training baseball season.

Beyond sports, Glendale is also welcoming the first of its kind, Mattel Adventure Park . Kids (and adults) can jump into the world of all their favorite Hot Wheels, Barbie, or Thomas and Friends characters. There will be rides and attractions for all ages, it’s the perfect place for families to PLAY ALL DAY!

There are so many great hotels in the Glendale region, but also in 2023, a brand new VAI Resort is opening. It gives me Vegas vibes, bringing oasis-level luxury to the middle of the desert. Definitely a destination hotel!

Indianapolis, Indiana

Another destination undergoing some improvements in 2023 is Indianapolis. Located in the heart of the midwest, Indy offers tourists plenty of activities including the largest children’s museum in the World!

One of my favorite spaces in Indianapolis is the White River State Park which offers some unique museums and their city zoon along a great paved riverwalk path. Near White River State Park is the Indianapolis Cultural Trail , which is adding another 2 miles in 2023 to help improve access to the city’s historical African American cultural district of Mass Ave.

Lastly, in 2023, the heart of downtown Indy will open a brand-new $30 million public gathering space, called Bicentennial Unity Plaza, with an outdoor seasonal skating rink, arts park area, restaurant, basketball court, shopping, and more.

Here’s more great inspiration for vacation planning:

If you’re working with a limited vacation budget, check out these  15 Cheap Vacation Spots . Or perhaps you’re looking for some Luxury Trip ideas .

How about escaping winter to these Warm Weather Destinations for Families — consider a visit to  Florida Beaches . Or one of my favorite states, discover great Spring Break Spots in California and Frugal Spring Break Spots .

And here are some other great ideas from my friends: What to Do in Nashville , the Mississippi Gulf Coast , a Family Vacation to Alaska , or go international with a Costa Rica Family Vacation .

Share and Save This Post:

George Creed

Friday 21st of May 2021

And close to home and reasonable - Chincoteague Island, Virginia and adjoining beach at Assateague Island. Watch the rockets launch from Wallops Island

Beach vacations are certainly one of my favorites!

Janine Waite

Thursday 16th of April 2020

Wow, what a fantastic post! You have traveled to a lot of cool places. There are few on your list that I haven't seen, so I'll have to check them out. Thanks for the thorough and helpful travel tips.

Amy Locurto

So many great places!! Been to some already, but I can't wait to visit the rest.

estaservice.us

Monday 16th of March 2020

The list is really interesting that you have shared. We were planning for a trip and really was confused which place to choose. After reading your blog we are definitely planning a visit to this beautiful country called US. Thanks to remove all our doubts of planning a trip.

dolphin tours

Thursday 19th of December 2019

Very exciting, this coming vacation me and my family want a best spot for coming 2020.nice tips.

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The Family Vacation Guide

18 Family Vacation Ideas for 2023 That the Kids Will Love

posted by James Brockbank on February 22, 2022 // last updated on January 13, 2023

Are you looking for family vacation ideas to inspire your next trip with the kids?

We’ve rounded up 18 ideas that the whole family are guaranteed to love, whatever you and the kids are into and wherever you fancy heading in the USA .

Top Tips for Planning the Ultimate Family Getaway

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Make your future family vacation less stressful by reading through our tips on the most commonly faced problems. Learn how to choose the perfect family vacation spots for traveling with children, how to sustain a long airplane flight, and how to find the best guesthouse or resort deal. Traveling with children can be a lot of fun if everyone involved has a good time doing it. 

Begin by thinking about what your family likes to do, and then decide on a few of the best vacation ideas for you. Sand beaches with gentle waves are popular with younger children who can play in the sand and catch waves to build sandcastles. Many pre-teens and teens are drawn to resorts with various activities, including water slides, teen spa treatments, and kids’ clubs with video games. 

As each family is unique, finding the ideal location will necessitate some forethought. Lastly, searching for last-minute hotel deals and vacation packages can save families a significant amount of money on their vacation. Before your departure, make sure to book all of your favorite activities, particularly during peak holiday seasons.  

Identify the perfect family vacation ideas focused on everyone’s interests. Whether you’re flying to the Caribbean , Europe, or staying at a local resort, your family’s age and ability to travel by car or plane will play a role in your decision. Budget, the length of your vacation, and the type of destination you and your family find most exciting and fun all play a role in choosing the best kid’s vacations. 

All-day long, babies and children will be content crawling around on a sandy beach with a bucket of seawater. In general, everyone enjoys spending time by the water, whether a lake or an ocean, as long as they have something to do. You can find even more family-friendly getaway suggestions in the following sections.  

The Best Ideas for Family Vacations

Following are some of the best destinations to enjoy vacations with the family that everyone will enjoy.  

Orange County’s most populous city is in Irvine, California , where an urban lifestyle and preserved natural areas coexist harmoniously. The FBI has designated it as “America’s Safest Big City” since 2005, making it an ideal destination for families searching for long weekend getaways. 

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of cuisines, shopping, and outdoor recreation, including hiking and bicycling, in the area. In addition, it is only a 30-minute drive from popular tourist destinations, including Disneyland Park and Knott’s Berry Farm, making it a great vacation spot. Other attractions include the San Joaquin Wildlife Refuge, the Orange County Safari, and the Irvine County Park.  

Franklin is a legendary town going back to 1799. This tiny village joins a big city venue that provides many unique attractions. The city offers Victorian and antebellum heritage, many museums, and a lively city center with outstanding shopping, world-class eating, spectacular entertainment, and cultural events. 

Remarkable Civil War structures are Franklin’s most considerable appeal, including Carter House, Lotz House, and Cranton — an 1864 historic residence and war site – all must-see attractions. Various tour choices encompass ghost and vampire excursions, gastronomy tours, and cultural and archeological tours. 

Hiking, cycling, & zip lining, hot air balloon excursions, mystery room experiences, and various agricultural destinations contribute to the city’s entertaining activities.  

Small town charm meets big-city sophistication in Ann Arbor, where a wide range of tourist spots make it an ideal place to visit for a long weekend with the whole family. The Nichols Arboretum, a woodland garden with a peony orchard and multiple boardwalks, the Creature Conservancy, and the Matthaei Botanic Garden are just a few of the city’s science-focused attractions. 

Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum (a children’s museum), the University of Michigan Natural history Museum (showcasing dinosaur bones), and the Ann Arbor Zoo are just some of the museums that families can enjoy. Domino’s Farms has a Nickels Arcade, a Petting Farm, and a Scavenger Hunt.  

Located on the coast of North Carolina , Wilmington is a charming seaside town with a river walk that circles the Cape Fear River or a bustling riverfront. This historic town is also a beautiful place to visit, thanks to the State Register Historic District encompassing more than 230 blocks of moss-draped oak trees. Some of the attractions include beautiful cruises, horse-drawn carriage rides, & guided tours. 

Even if you’re not interested in the nightlife, you can still find boutique boutiques, fine dining establishments, and Broadway shows in the riverside district of New York. Family-friendly attractions like waterparks, aquariums, and historical buildings like WWII battleships are great options.  

Fayetteville, Arkansas, is a great place to spend a long weekend because of its proximity to nature, cultural attractions, and local breweries. Among the many attractions are the Locomotion Fun-Filled Park and Fast Lane Amusement. 

One-stop-shops offer a wide variety of entertainment, such as arcade activities, go-karts, and mini-golf. Local artists teach a wide range of different classes at an inexpensive cost at the Communities Creative Center, and dramatic religious events like the Great Passion Play are not to be missed. The Cosmic Cavern is a rare hidden gem with stunning rock structures and two underground waterways that should not be missed.  

An old-world charm town like Galena in Illinois is ideal for families looking to reminisce about simpler times. With its rolling hills and magnificent views of the Galena River, this natural haven is a popular destination for beautiful drives through history. 

The most popular activities for youngsters include walking, trolley, wacky ghost tours, and scenic river cruises. When the parents want a night out without the kids, there are numerous art museums, boutique shops, ancient stores, wineries, and spectacular live entertainment shows. It’s a great idea to take the whole family zip lining with Big Hollow Canopy Tours and visit Lenmar Gardens, Dittmar Farmhouse, and Ehrler Ranch.  

If you’re looking for a town that caters to families, artists, and adventurers, you’ll want to check out Grand Marais. Outdoor adventures and tourism abound in the area, located among Lake Superior & the Sawtooth Mountains. Families will have a blast on the many miles of trails for biking and hiking. 

They can also go kayaking, canoeing, or horseback riding— Minnesota’s oldest art colony, with numerous galleries, museums, and shops. The Grand Portage State Forest, Judge C. R. Magney Recreation Area, and even the Grand Marais Lighthouse are its most prominent natural features. The most popular activities for youngsters include mini-golf, game centers, Segway excursions, and fishing charters.  

At the base of Mount Spores, Carbondale, Colorado , is a town that sits on a broad plain where the Roaring River & Crystal rivers meet and confluence. Penny Hot Springs and a beautiful mountain setting await guests in the middle of the Mountain Range in this lovely retreat. 

Families wishing to disconnect will find much to do in and around Carbondale, including hiking, bicycling, kayak, cross-country skiing, snowmobile, and snowshoeing, to name just a few activities. Skateboarding or gold-medal fly-fishing are also popular pastimes in the area. In addition to the Power Art Center and the Carbondale Public Artists Commission, these are some of Carbondale’s most popular cultural attractions.  

Families seeking a long weekend getaway will find much to do in San Antonio, the seventh populous metropolitan area in the United States. A wide range of natural, historical, cultural, scenic, and modern attractions ensures that everyone in your family will find something to enjoy. 

The Alamo Missions in San Antonio, Texas , a famed fort and historical museum, and the historic San Antonio RiverWalk, which features numerous restaurants, hotels, and stores along the river, are a few of the top choices. Children will enjoy SeaWorld San Antonio, San Antonio Safari, Aquarium, and Six Flags Fiesta Texas.  

As the southwest corner of the U. S., Key West is recognized for its beachfront, watersports, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife. It’s the perfect vacation spot for families with young children, as it offers something for everyone. 

The most excellent method for families to see the area’s incredible architecture, gardens, and courtyards is the foot. Eco-Discovery Center, Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarter, Vandenberg Wreck, Key West Cemetery (for its wacky headstones), and Dry Tortugas National Park are among the most popular attractions in the area. Tourists should not miss the Ernest Hemingway House & his favorite eatery, Sloppy Joe’s Bar.  

Naples, a city in southwest Florida on the Gulf of Mexico, is well-known for its modern age culture, upscale shopping, and top-notch dining. At the same time, though, it’s among the most budget-friendly family vacation spots, appealing to both beach bums and outdoor adventurers. 

Attractions for children include the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, the Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, the NGALA Wildlife Preserve, and Sun-N-Fun, a six-acre waterpark. Many tours are available for families, including an eco-boat journey to the isolated Manatee Hideout for six people. Art galleries, boutiques, and waterfront eateries are all within walking distance in the historic downtown district.  

The city of Chattanooga is situated on the Tennessee River in the Southeastern Tennessee Mountains. Known as one of the most beautiful cities in the country, it doesn’t take long for visitors to fall in love with it. Recreational adventures, world-class food outlets, and spectacular attractions await families in the area. 

It’s one of the most economical places to spend a few days away from the city. Rock City, a route through ancient rocky outcrops and meadows, and Ruby Falls, a 145-foot-high subterranean cascade, are two of the area’s most popular attractions. Several museums, state parks, archeological sites, and art museums await curious visitors. In addition to the Chattanooga Zoos at Warner Park, the city’s best family-friendly attractions include Lake Winnipesaukee Theme Parks and Coolidge Park.  

Dallas is the ninth-largest metropolitan area in the American States, home to the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys, and among the most diversified cities in America. This city’s numerous sights and activities are incredible for a long vacation with the family. 

The Dallas Arboretum & Botanic Garden, the Dallas International Aquarium, and the Dallas Safari are just a few of the city’s cultural, artistic, and historical attractions. The Perot Museums of Science and Nature, Pioneers Plaza, and the Frontier of Flight Museum are just a few of the kid-friendly attractions in Dallas. Other interests in the vicinity include national parks and historic plazas that tourists can explore.  

Does Dallas spark your interest? You might find our list of the best family hotels in Dallas handy when planning your vacation.

All of the red rock formations that protrude from the desert floor of Sedona’s Red Rock Country are multi-colored, producing a spectacular mood that changes with the changing light. 1.8 million acres of the forested area around this sacred area make it the ideal location for a relaxing vacation away from family. 

Activities such as bicycling, hiking, and bouncing jeep rides are every day here. Around 40 galleries, numerous spas, wineries, and vortex energy centers may be found in the vicinity. Among the must-see attractions in this region of Arizona are Montezuma Castle National Park and Tuzigoot National Monument, and the Dead Horse Ranch State Park.  

There are hundreds of miles of magnificent coastline, beaches, and distinctive neighborhoods in San Diego, making it an excellent place for families. The LEGOLAND theme park, the nearby San Diego Zoo, and the historical beachfront Belmont Park in Balboa Park are just a few of the many family-friendly attractions in the area. 

Ground to Sea Seal excursions, Macarthur military ship visits, and historical Old Town tours all take place in the area, which offers a wide range of recreational options for all ages. Neighborhoods like Little Italy and Point Loma have distinct attractions like the Sunset Cliffs and Petco Park. Downtown and Mission Beach also have attractions like the Pacific Beach Pier and Pacific Beach 

Walt Disney World is the most well-known attraction in Orlando, Florida, and it is easy to see why. Even though this city is the “happiest place on Earth” because of Cinderella’s castle, there is much more to do and see here. It appeals to a wide range of interests, including foodies, luxury shoppers, adventure seekers, and everyone in between. 

The Coca-Cola Orlando Eye, a 400-foot glass capsule, offers breathtaking city vistas. The Daytona 500 is a popular annual family event. Madame Tussauds Orlando, the Great Escape Room, and the Exotic Animal Adventure are just a few examples of the city’s unique attractions.

As a Gulf of Mexico island, Sanibel Island is known for its opulent resorts, gorgeous sunsets, and lighthouses. There are various beaches where shelling is commonplace, making it a popular alternative for families with young children. Swimming, snorkeling, sailing, and fishing are all popular pastimes in this area. 

San Carlos Bay-Bunche Beach Nature reserve, J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Reserve, and Lighthouse Beach Park are some of the area’s most popular attractions. The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, the Sanibel Heritage Museum and Village, the Pine Island Sound Aquatic Conservancy, and the Everglades are a few more must-sees in Fort Myers and the surrounding area.  

When it comes to bucking stereotypes, Louisville is the place to be. The only one of its kind, the Urban Bourbon Experience comprises a city-wide trail lined with artisan cocktail establishments, award-winning micro-distilleries, and displays, all of which contribute to the experience’s uniqueness. 

A variety of family-friendly activities, like the Louisville Slugger Museum & Foundry, the Churchill Downs, and the Muhammad Ali Center, can be found in this city that’s known for its horse racing. Children’s activities and attractions include Go Ape Zip Line & Treetop Adventure, Jefferson Memorial Forest, and Derby Dinner Playhouse. 

You can plan a vacation with a baby or even a young child during September and otherwise early May because they do not go to school, enabling you to save money by booking a room at a lower rate. Spring break and summer vacation are the best times to get away with your kids if they are in school. 

In the summer, many beaches are overcrowded, but cities tend to be less crowded, making them ideal for family vacations. Smithsonian museums in Washington DC are a great place for teenagers interested in learning about the history of the United States.  

To keep costs down, look for a vacation spot that will appeal to all your family members and isn’t too far away. Cities and family vacations mostly on East & West Coasts, the Midwest, the South, and the Upper Midwest. Spend less than $100 per night in a national park cabin, campground, or online cheap vacation rentals if you’re on a limited budget. 

You can save a lot of money by cooking some of one’s food if you have access to a kitchen. Choosing a destination that offers a variety of free activities, such as hiking a scenic trail, an outdoor swimming pool, games, or a children’s club, is the most cost-effective option.  

Visit Maine’s scenic coast, a Vermont family resort, a New Hampshire Road trip, a Cape Cod beach vacation, and other family-friendly destinations during the summer. 

Family-friendly restaurants and outdoor theater performances are a great way to spend time with your kids while visiting New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia. Plan a winter vacation to a New England hill station like Stowe, Killington, or Sugarbush to teach your children how to ski, cross-country ski, or snowboard.  

Visit the beautiful coastal towns of California, have a blast at Disneyland, see the sights of Hollywood, and unwind for a few days at a full-service spa resort. Mammoth, Badger Pass, and Snowmass are some of the West Coast’s best family-friendly ski resorts. 

San Diego is a famous tourist destination for families with young children, with amusement parks and beaches, the New Children’s Museum, the Maritime Museum, and the city’s zoo to keep them entertained.  

In the $5,000 to $10,000 price range, you have the freedom to be as picky about your family vacation as you want to (although that will not include a business class plane ticket). For a villa in Fiji, the nightly rate can reach $900 for a palace in a five-star resort, with prices starting at $350. Families looking for a luxurious beach vacation should look no further than Barbados, Paradise Island, and Maui. 

Look for all-inclusive prices at Sandals resorts in Jamaica and Turks & Caicos, where kids of all ages can enjoy a wide range of exciting activities to save money. Much different room and suite arrangements are available for families, giving them the option to find the right balance between price and functionality. Consider family-friendly activities such as golf, spas, and fine dining when planning your luxury family vacation. 

Club Med’s Ixtapa luxury hotel in Mexico has a Baby Med plan that incorporates a cot, bottle warmers, and sanitary products in the room if you’re traveling with a young child.  

Remember that toddlers possess limited attention spans, are easily worn out, and require simple, entertaining activities like dumping water or transporting beans to keep them occupied. To keep them entertained for an extended flight, you will have to put in considerable effort, but it is possible. There is a good chance that they will want to share a hotel room with you, but they may not enjoy the food at the resort. 

As long as they’re not exhausted or hungry, having a lot of exciting things to recognize and do would be exciting. To make the most of your long weekend, choose an easy-to-reach destination that doesn’t require flying or dealing with jet lag. Longer trips can take advantage of great beaches where your child can run around freely, play in the water, and generally have a great time.  

If you consider talking to kids about many activities kids are involved in is truly astounding. A chef at the hotel might be willing to teach a 12-year-old how to cook with farm-fresh flavorings in a food festival. A local zoo’s polar bear exhibit may appeal to a 5-year-old-desire to observe a polar bear in action. 

A trip to Legoland may be the ultimate dream vacation for a 3-year-old fascinated by building various machines out of blocks and Legos. Fun memories are made on holidays that include a dash of adventure. Safari West in California is a great place to see a wide variety of animals in their natural habitat. 

Take a trip on the Disney Fiction, a big super ship with a lot to do and comfy staterooms with an additional half bath. Kids can experience horse riding and learn about the workings of a dude ranch at the Vista Verde Ranch in Colorado. Chile’s Lake Villarrica is a gorgeous lakeside retreat with a volcano view. 

You can go horse riding and tour a zoo while visiting the Pikes Peak area of Colorado. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly family vacation, Yellowstone, as well as Jackson Hole, are great options.  

Disney Cruises are so popular with children. Onboard each of Disney’s four ships is a theatre and a cinema where children can watch their favorite Disney films. Pools with water activities and other attractions are available. 

An acrylic tube covering four decks of the Dream and Fiction ships and over the edge of the boat provides passengers with a view of the ocean from the water. While your children participate in the children’s program, you can relax in the spa by yourself. There are several age groups for children: infants, 3 to 4, 5 to 7, 8 to 9, and 10 to 12. 

There is a private club for teens with couches, games, and a soda bar. You can find even more family-friendly getaway suggestions in the following sections.  

Don’t forget to look for discounts and special offers, particularly if you intend to pursue a last-minute trip with children. Resort discounts are becoming more common, even during peak season, so don’t be ashamed to call the accommodation or resort immediately and ask for a mutually beneficial arrangement before booking. 

Discounts on hotel rooms, credits for dining and activities, and free shuttle service to and through the air terminal are all possibilities. You can stay updated on the children while still having some personal space on vacation by booking connecting rooms at most hotels. To get a great deal on a weekend stay in a major city like New York or Chicago, look for a hotel that offers a discount on vacations when there are no international tourists. 

Summer is the best time to find all-inclusive vacation packages and low prices in the Caribbean.

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

TPG’s 8 top family vacation destinations for 2024

Deciding which eight destinations across the globe deserve a spot on TPG's list of best family vacation destinations to visit this year was no easy task.

We researched new resorts, activities and events and pulled from our own extensive travel experience to find the spots your family will still be talking about years after you return home from your trip.

Related: Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel

Of course, we also had to throw in a few of our dream destinations.

Whether your family prefers cities, beaches , theme parks or the great outdoors, you'll find your perfect family vacation spot on this list.

With four major theme parks in the area, Orlando bills itself as the "theme park capital of the world." Because those parks are always competing for the top spot in travelers' hearts (and their wallets), there's always something new to do.

Disney is nearing the completion of Epcot's multiyear makeover with the recent opening of Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana and the debut of an all-new nighttime spectacular called "Luminous The Symphony of Us."

Related: Why Epcot is now Disney World's must-do park

In 2024, the focus will shift to Magic Kingdom, with the opening of Tiana's Bayou Adventure. The attraction is expected to open in late 2024. Perhaps more important than any new attraction, beginning Jan. 9, 2024, a Disney World visit will feel much like it did before the COVID-19 pandemic. This date marks the end of theme park reservations and 2 p.m. park-hopping restrictions , as well as the return of the Disney Dining Plan .

At Universal Orlando, 2023 saw the debut of Minion Land and the new Illumination's Villain-Con Minion Blast attraction. This is just Universal's first step to introduce more kid-friendly programming. In 2024, Universal Studios Florida will open a land themed to DreamWorks Animation films like "Shrek," "Trolls" and "Kung Fu Panda."

SeaWorld Orlando has been on a regular cadence of adding new attractions every year and 2024 is no different. After opening the Ice Breaker coaster in 2022 and Pipeline: The Surf Coaster in 2023, the marine-themed park will open a family-friendly launch coaster called Penguin Trek in 2024.

The Orlando area is also home to the headwaters of the Everglades, which provides ample opportunities for outdoorsy families to explore the flora and fauna that call the Everglades home. Both Wild Florida and Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures offer airboat tours where you're almost guaranteed to spot a few alligators. Or, you can take it slow on a kayak tour in one of Get Up and Go Kayaking's clear kayaks.

Where to stay

The Evermore Orlando Resort will open next door to Disney World on Jan. 1, 2024. The resort will feature a variety of accommodation types, from vacation villas to luxury hotel rooms at Orlando's first Conrad Hotel, as well as a 20-acre tropical beach complex with an 8-acre lagoon for swimming and water sports.

Room rates at the Conrad Orlando start at around $580 or 90,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Also near Disney World, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando recently completed property-wide renovations, including transformed guest rooms, new restaurants and dining menus, a reimagined spa and golf club and more. Room rates start at around $560 or 90,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Oahu, Hawaii

From swimming in the jewel-toned waters of the Pacific Ocean to hiking through lush green landscapes and experiencing Hawaii's rich history and time-honored traditions, Oahu has so much to offer families in search of a tropical beach vacation.

You are likely to stay at a resort with beach access, so let's explore some of Oahu's top attractions off the beach. If your kids are up for a hike, they'll be rewarded with picture-perfect views and a peek into Hawaii's military history on the Diamond Head State Monument . There is a small entry fee of $5 per person (free for Hawaii residents and children ages 3 and under).

About 30 minutes away by car, you can visit Pearl Harbor . Here, you can visit the Pearl Harbor memorials, explore a large collection of aircraft in the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, discover the USS Bowfin Submarine and so much more. Guided tours and individual ticket packages are available.

With six "Jurassic Park" films released in the past 30 years, your kids are likely as big fans of the franchise as you are. At Kualoa Ranch , you can visit some of the real-life filming locations from these films, along with other popular movies like "Kong Skull Island" and "50 First Dates."

Related: Save money: How you can book flights to Hawaii using points and miles in 2024

If you are a Disney family through and through, there's no better place to stay than Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa . You can spend your days swimming in the pool, snorkeling in the hotel's private lagoon and playing on the beach or check out the Disney offerings like character meet-and-greets, animation classes or movies under the stars. Kids ages 4-12 can visit Aunty's Beach House, a kids club included in the cost of your stay.

Room rates start at around $569 per night when booked with cash or from about $336 if booked with rented points from a site like David's Vacation Club .

Related: 11 best family resorts in Hawaii for a relaxing vacation

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort offers families direct access to Duke Kahanamoku Beach, but also has a smaller, calm lagoon that may be more popular with younger kids. This resort has five outdoor pools — some with waterslides — hula and lei-making lessons, fish feeding and luau feasts with traditional Samoan, Tahitian and Hawaiian dancing every Sunday through Thursday.

Rates at Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort start at around $250 or 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Families who want to enjoy Arizona's natural beauty and year-round warm weather have a lot of new options to choose from in 2024 when it comes to places to stay and play.

In addition to timeless landmarks like the Grand Canyon , Monument Valley and Camelback Mountain, President Biden recently designated one million acres of land near the Grand Canyon as the Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni – Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument , ensuring the land, which is home to several native tribes, remains protected. In addition, Chiricahua National Monument in Willcox, Arizona, may soon be Arizona's newest National Park.

Related: What to pack and where to stay: TPG's ultimate Grand Canyon family vacation guide

Slated to open sometime in 2024, Mattel Adventure Park in Glendale, Arizona, will feature attractions based on favorite toys like Hot Wheels, Barbie and more. There will be an entire land themed to "Thomas & Friends," two thrilling Hot Wheels roller coasters and a life-size Barbie Beach House with a rooftop bar and restaurant.

The Mattel Adventure Park mentioned above will be located at the also-soon-to-open Vai Resort . Vai will be the state's largest resort, with more than 1,100 rooms and suites, a world-class concert venue and a 6-acre swimming complex with a sandy beach.

In other recent opening news, the 141-room Global Ambassador Hotel opened on Dec. 6 at the crossroads of Paradise Valley, Scottsdale and Phoenix. This luxury property has a world-class spa and fitness center, select guest rooms with views of Camelback Mountain and a climate-controlled pool. Room rates start at around $560 per night, and it will also be part of Chase's Luxury Resort & Hotel Collectio n and Mr & Mrs Smith , beginning Jan. 1, 2024.

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

The Guanacaste province of Costa Rica is a destination where eco-conscious families can combine lazy days on the beach with outdoor adventures in the region's lush, tropical rainforest.

Related: 6 adventurous activities in Costa Rica for families

Playa Tamarindo — along with nearby beaches Playa Grande and Playa Langosta — is well-known for its surf-ready waves, even if you have little (or no) experience on a surfboard. A number of local surf shops offer surfing lessons or boogie board rentals if you aren't quite ready to brave the waves while standing.

If you can pull yourself away from the surf (and you should), there are ample opportunities to experience the jungles of Costa Rica.

Related: Epic wildlife and sustainable luxury define travel to Costa Rica in 2024

You'll need to travel a decent way inland, so the easiest option is to book a half-day or full-day tour that leaves from Guanacaste. Spend a day in the treetops of Monteverde's Cloud Forest, see some of Costa Rica's breathtakingly blue waterfalls or visit Arenal Volcano National Park.

If you book through Viator, you can get up to 10% cash back through the Rakuten shopping portal or earn miles through the Delta SkyMiles or AAdvantage portals .

Related: Frontier Airlines' unlimited all-you-can-fly pass now valid for kids, includes $200 flight credit

If you are looking for an all-inclusive option, check out The Westin Reserva Conchal on Playa Conchal. The resort has a dedicated section for families that is close to the pool, beach, restaurants and the included kids club. Family suites have bunk beds, a sofa bed and a queen bed so everyone can sleep comfortably. All-inclusive rates at The Westin Reserva Conchal start at $425 or 73,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night, based on double occupancy.

Related: The 13 best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica for beach visits or hiking trips

The JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa is another family-friendly option located on the shores of Playa Mansita, just a short drive from the town of Tamarindo. You can spend your days soaking in the large oceanfront pool, playing in the sand or exploring the shopping and dining in town. The JW Adventure Kids Club is open to kids ages 4-12 and offers supervised activities and a playground. Room rates start at around $617 or 36,800 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Disney's Lighthouse Point, Bahamas

While not a traditional destination you can drive or fly to and stay overnight, Disney Cruise Line's newest private island deserves a spot on this list. Beginning in June of 2024, select Disney Cruise Line itineraries will include a stop at Lighthouse Point. The inaugural sailing will be a seven-night sailing on the Disney Fantasy that stops at Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay, but all other sailings that visit the new island will be on board the Disney Magic .

Related: Port alert: These 2 cruise lines are building new private destinations in the Bahamas

Lighthouse Point was thoughtfully planned and built to incorporate environmental and cultural awareness into its design and amenities. Disney partnered with local artists to create murals, sculptures and other elements of the island and also plans to offer programming in the island's Arts and Cultural Pavilion that honors Bahamian traditions and shore excursions developed in partnership with local tour operators.

Lighthouse Point will have a family beach with a water play area for kids and an adults-only beach with a dedicated bar and dining area. Cabanas are available to rent in both sections. Guests can also play volleyball, borrow bikes and water sports equipment or explore nature trails.

Paradise Coast, Florida

Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades comprise Southwest Florida's Paradise Coast, an area where you can experience the full breadth of what Florida has to offer. In Naples and Marco Island, you can enjoy five-star accommodations and pristine beaches; in the Everglades, you can immerse yourself in the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S.

At Everglades National Park , you can view wildlife including alligators, birds, otters and more, on one of the park's many hiking trails or on a guided tram, kayak or airboat tour .

Related: TPG's favorite national parks: A month-by-month guide

Families will also enjoy the educational fun at Golisano Children's Museum of Naples (especially if you are in need of a rainy day activity) and the wet and wild excitement of Naples' Sun-N-Fun Lagoon . If you aren't staying directly on the beach (or just want to hop around and explore), Vanderbilt Beach is a popular spot for swimming, shelling and watersports that's also close to shopping and dining. If you travel about 20 miles north of Naples to Lovers State Park, you can swim in more seclusion than the popular in-town beaches or soak up the dog days of summer with your canine companion at Dog Beach Park.

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples reopened in July of 2023 after an extensive transformation. The hotel added three new dining outlets, newly designed guest rooms and a redesigned pool area with four pools, luxury cabanas and immersive water features. What hasn't changed are Ritz-Carlton's extraordinary guest service and the breathtaking ocean views.

Room rates start at around $783 or 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Beginning in October 2024, families can visit the newest location in the Great Wolf Lodge water park resort family. Guest suites in this 500-room resort are designed with families in mind. Standard family suites have two queen beds and a sleeper sofa, but we recommend opting for one of the themed suites with a queen bed for parents and a separate bunk bed area for kids. Admission to the resort's 100,000-square-foot indoor water park is included in your stay. Room rates start at around $200 per night.

Regardless of when you visit the City of Light , you'll be greeted with endless museums, historical landmarks and sprawling green spaces to discover. There is one very special reason to visit in 2024 that may dominate your time in Paris, but it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those lucky enough to be there in person.

Related: 2024 Paris Olympics: How I used points and miles to save money on business-class flights and hotel nights

The 2024 Summer Olympics are being held in France from July 26-Aug. 11, and the opening ceremonies will kick off along the Seine in Paris. Some events will require you to travel outside of the city, but some are taking place right in the heart of Paris. You can watch beach volleyball near the Eiffel Tower, fencing and Taekwondo at the Grand Palais and tennis at the 95-year-old Roland-Garros Stadium.

While you're in town, you can get to Disneyland Paris by bus or train in under an hour. If you prefer to spend more than one day at Disneyland Paris, you can stay in one of the park's eight themed hotels, including the recently reimagined five-star Disneyland Hotel .

Securing hotel reservations in Paris during the Olympics could almost be a Games event in itself. Your best option is likely going to be an official Olympics travel package , which includes a hotel stay and tickets to one or more events.

Related: The best hotels in Paris

Indianapolis

All eyes will be on the sky in Indianapolis this spring. On April 8, 2024, millions of Americans will be in the path of a rare total solar eclipse , though only a handful of major cities will be along the path of totality with up to four minutes of dark skies.

Indianapolis is one such city along the so-called path of totality, and they are planning a full weekend of fun, including educational films and lectures, games, live entertainment and more between April 5–8, 2024. The best viewing spots will be at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and White River State Park, but events are being held all over town.

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis and the Indianapolis Zoo are also getting in on the action. These also happen to be two of the best attractions for families visiting Indianapolis any time of year. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis recently renovated its interactive dinosaur exhibit, and the Indianapolis Zoo has rides and attractions in addition to animal habitats.

The JW Marriott Indianapolis is located within walking distance of White River State Park. Guest rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of downtown so you can enjoy the city skyline when you aren't looking up at the sky. Rates start at around $150 or 31,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Families can sleep in a converted 1920s Pullman train car at the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown Union Station for a unique stay. Traditional rooms are also available, along with an indoor pool, two restaurants and nods to the property's former life as the country's first Union Station. Room rates start at around $170 or 22,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Bottom line

At TPG, we are on a never-ending quest to provide travelers with vacation experiences that fit their budget, family size and travel style. Families have endless vacation destinations to choose from, and we've compiled the best of the best to help you create your dream getaway.

Related reading:

• 21 best all-inclusive resorts for families
• The top credit cards for families
• Spare yourself the hassle and stress with these 8 perfect family staycation destinations
• 13 best family attractions in the US
• 25 best all-inclusive resorts in the world, according to frequent travelers

6 Family Travel Trends to Watch in 2023

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January 18, 2023.

The experts agree: 2023 will be a huge year for family travel. Parents and kids are ready to get out and explore, and they’ve also learned a few things over the last handful of years. As a result, we’re going to see far-flung family travel trends to exotic destinations and the re-emergence of family travel staples like cruises. There will also be a massive resurgence in multigenerational vacations, and eco-friendly options like travel by rail will be bigger than ever.

But where to travel in 2023? Here’s everything you need to know about the top family travel trends to watch in 2023, and some of our favorite vacation destinations.

1. The Romance of the Rails Continues

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Railroad adventures are bigger than ever, and with good reason. You can cast your travel cares to the wind. That means no worrying about car rentals, finding places to stay, and booking entrance tickets. Best of all, you don’t have to worry about who will spend most of their time behind the steering wheel. (Kiss rochambeau good-bye!)

Fantastic travel options abound, and you can rest assured you’re traveling in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way. What are some of our favorite options? Journey Mexico offers an incredible eight-day railroad tour of Mexico that will take your family from El Fuerte to Chihuahua. You’ll ride the famed Chihuahua al Pacifico railway through the picturesque canyons of Northern Mexico and enjoy exploring many off-the-between-path towns.

If you’re after an adventure in America’s last frontier, head north for a roundtrip Alaska Railroad expedition by Railbookers . On this week-long trip, you’ll travel to Anchorage, Seward, and Talkeetna. Along the way, you’ll explore the fjords, glaciers, mountains, and lakes for which the 49th state is renowned. In this wild and untamed land, you’ll also enjoy countless opportunities to see local wildlife.

2. International Destinations Are Back

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Over the past few years, many families have shied away from international destinations. But long-distance travel is back, so it’s time to start planning your next overseas vacation. What’s more, when it comes to where families will go in 2023, travelers aren’t afraid to take the long route.

Destinations popular with on-the-go families include Brazil, Thailand, Australia, and New Zealand. People are ready to put in the time for some serious globe-trotting, and we couldn’t be more excited about this trend. To make the most of a globe-circling vacation, work with an experienced travel advisor specializing in kid-friendly itineraries.

That’s where we come in. If a long-distance trip resonates with your family, start exploring the options now with our Brazilian Amazon Cruise itinerary. And the kid-tested, parent-approved options don’t end there. Explore our sample Thailand and Cambodia Family Adventure , or work with us to build a Custom Family Adventure .

3. Self-Care + Travel = Happy Families

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What’s one of the most exciting family travel trends 2023? Adding a relaxing dose of self-care to the mix. Many hotels now offer special packages for the ultimate in leisure and pampering, and we expect this trend to continue and expand in the coming year.

Are you looking for a stress-free vacation customized to the interests and ages of your family and filled with VIP self-care perks? Then, we’ve got a tip for you. To enjoy the best in amenities and self-care perks, work with a family travel company that has forged strong and lasting relationships with partner hotels. Such collaborations ensure the best family-friendly accommodations and VIP treatment for every leg of your trip.

Our Whole Village has been in the travel industry since 2014. We’ve worked hard to corner the market on luxury and leisure travel. One of the ways we do this is by providing our clients with the best perks and special privileges offered by hotel programs. Learn more about the benefits of working with Our Whole Village to book the accommodations for your next vacation. We will ensure you enjoy an unrivaled self-care experience.

4. Cruises and Expedition Cruises Have Taken Off

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Cruise ships have hit their groove again, and families are back onboard. The largest liners come with endless activities for kids and parents and all the food and entertainment you could want. Coupled with the adventure of exotic ports of call, it’s hard to beat the full package offered on cruises.

Fun options include Royal Caribbean International , which goes the distance to welcome families. Cruises include a family mealtime where kids aged three to 11 eat with their parents before heading off for ocean-themed activities. This gives parents time for much-needed adulting. Cruise ships also have rock-climbing walls, waterslides, and zip lines that appeal to tweens and teens. Whether you opt for a cruise to the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, it’s hard to beat this kid-friendly option.

For families interested in more intimate, customized experiences, explore the travel options available through Atlas Ocean Adventures and UnCruise Adventures . Advantages include smaller cruise ships and crews. And passengers number in the hundreds rather than thousands. One of our favorite itineraries offered by Atlas Ocean Voyages? A cruise to Antarctica .

5. Gramping Adventures Rock

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Multigenerational travels are reaching a high point again. Families want to reconnect, which has placed a premium on “gramping” adventures. Gramping is all about leaving the parents at home and letting grandma and/or grandpa take the kids on an adventure of a lifetime.

Most grandparents opt for guided, small-group tours, leaving the planning and execution to a company. An African safari, a cruise or our Brazilian Amazon Adventure are popular choices.

What should you look for in a small-group tour company? Unique experiences and chances for exploration. Be sure to ask about special experiential family travel experiences, too. For example, Our Whole Village offers an experiential travel opportunity to spend a day in Peru, living in a typical Quechua village. Get the inside scoop on this incredible opportunity and how to enjoy it with family members of all ages.

6. More Conscious Explorations

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One of the motivating forces for the creation of Our Whole Village has been the desire to design family-friendly adventures that give back. We continue to do this in a variety of ways, including collaboration with Crooked Trails .

Crooked Trails is a non-profit that supports tourism-focused development projects in communities around the world. These projects foster education and conservation and improve the lives of those at the destinations we are so lucky to visit.

Our company’s founder, Patricia Monahan, serves as an active member of the board, ensuring the maximization of travel as a force for good. Our Whole Village also makes contributions to Crooked Trails on behalf of our clients.

Family Travel Trends to Watch in 2023

Now’s the time to start planning your next family vacation. When you incorporate one (or more) of the family travel trends to watch in 2023 into your plans, you set the stage for an epic adventure. Whether you’re jonesing to travel to Thailand and Cambodia, hop a cruise ship to Antarctica, or get to know the villagers of Huilloc in Peru, we’ve got you covered.

Contact us now to get the ball rolling on your best family vacation EVER!

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The Best Family Vacation Destinations, According to Travel Experts

Traveling might seem impossible once you have kids, but there are ways to make your jet-setting experience memorable while spending quality time as a family. Whether you're craving a camping trip or beach vacation, there are so many great family vacation spots to choose from. But no matter what, researching resorts, campsites, and hotels with family-friendly amenities and excursions is key, says Nadine Bubeck, a family travel expert and TV contributor from TakeTheTripFamily.com .

For example, if you're looking into hotels and resorts, Bubeck suggests booking an all-inclusive stay, if you're able to swing it. This allows you and your family to order as much food and drinks as you'd like without being slammed with a hefty bill at checkout. You also want to make sure the hotel or resort you'd like to stay at will accommodate your specific needs, like stroller accessibility, babysitting services, kid-friendly food menus, a kids' lounge or playground where there are games and activities, and even baby swimming pools. Some hotels may also offer pack-and-plays, cribs, and rollaway beds for babies and kids. For families who want to go hiking and explore the great outdoors, some national parks have easier and flatter trails that make them more accessible for those with young kids.

Ready to plan your next family vacation? Here are 11 of the best family vacation spots in the US. These popular wanderlust destinations will inspire you to get out of town and create new memories with your loved ones.

San Diego Zoo and Safari Park

Adults and children alike will enjoy visiting the San Diego Zoo . Located in Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo is home to hundreds of plants and animals from different parts of the world, including birds, fish, elephants, lions, and bears. The zoo offers seven different special experiences — including a safari at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, about 45 minutes away — where you can see the animals in action and learn more about them from wildlife specialists. Depending on the experience you book, you may also get to interact with the animals and have a guided tour of particular areas of the zoo.

"The San Diego Zoo is almost unparalleled in terms of size and variety. For those who can't fly to a safari destination but still want their kids to grow up loving animals, it's a nice, stroller-friendly option that can occupy a whole day," says Kristin Addis, founder of Parenthood Adventures and Be My Travel Muse .

Rancho de los Caballeros

For families who want a relaxing Western escape, Bubeck ranks Rancho de los Caballeros in Wickenburg, AZ, (about 1.5 hours outside Phoenix) as one of the best family vacation spots. On the ranch, you'll find all sorts of activities for the family to enjoy together, including horseback riding, hiking, and pickleball . Choose one of its all-inclusive packages to make your stay even easier to plan.

In the evenings, there are plenty of opportunities for ample family bonding time. For example, the main lodge has a game room with a pool table and board games. There's also a kid's club, where you can keep your children entertained with arts and crafts and toys. Not to mention, there are even babysitting services for after-hours if you and your partner would like to have a date night.

Disney World

It may not be an unexpected family vacation idea, but a trip to Disney World in Orlando, FL, is as kid-friendly as it gets. Celebrating 50 years of magic, Disney World comprises four theme parks, including Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, plus two water parks. For example, at Animal Kingdom, you'll see different real-life animals that are in Disney films, like African lions, elephants, and parrots. You'll also experience live shows, such as the Festival of the Lion King and Donald's Dino-Bash. Although tickets can be expensive, it's a once-in-a-lifetime vacation for families with young kids. (Not to mention, we have some money-saving Disney World tips to help.)

With locations in Florida, New York, and California in the US, Legoland Parks has adventurous rides, 4D shows, and building activities the whole family will enjoy. On this family vacation, kids will love a special meet-and-greet with Lego characters, and adults will be thankful for plenty of delicious dining options. Families can stay at the Legoland Hotel, which is just steps away from the park and has special themed rooms to tie together the entire Lego experience. (The California park has a Legoland Castle Hotel, and the Florida location has a Pirate Island Hotel.) Legoland also offers special hotel and ticket packages for families, as well as deals on partner hotels that are nearby, so there are plenty of opportunities to save.

Glacier National Park

Looking for an outdoor vacation with kids? Head to Montana. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Park is filled with breathtaking views of pristine lakes, melting glaciers, and stunning meadows. It's also home to many different species of animals, from birds to fish to insects to reptiles. Although many of the park's glaciers have retreated largely due to climate change, it's a great opportunity to talk to your kids about the growing crisis and what you can do to support the global effort of reducing greenhouse-gas emissions.

If you're looking to stay somewhere close by, Bubeck recommends the Lodge at Whitefish Lake , which is about 30 minutes from the park and near many shopping centers, breweries, distilleries, and restaurants. The Whitefish pedestrian and bicycle trail system is also right outside of the Lodge, so it's easy to explore the area. The Lodge offers condo-style accommodations, including a kitchen, washer/dryer, and multiple bedrooms, Bubeck says. On the grounds, there are also great amenities, such as a lakefront pool and hot tub, as well as saunas and cozy igloos. If you're feeling adventurous, you can lace up some snowshoes or ice skates at no charge.

Yosemite National Park

If you'd like to plan the ultimate family hiking trip, look no further than Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada in California. Its wonderous 1,200 square miles feature captivating waterfalls, glaciers, and alpine meadows. Take in the beautiful views of nature on a hike or while horseback riding, biking, fishing, birdwatching, or boating.

Families can book reservations to stay at campgrounds, including those with RVs, or opt to enjoy lodging at nearby hotels and cabins, such as The Ahwahnee , Curry Village , and Wawona Hotel .

"I highly recommend this location to families with active toddlers and older. You can choose from flat hikes to more intense hikes up ridges and down peaks. This is excellent for all families because everyone can choose what adventure they want to go on. Not only that, there's plenty of rivers, lakes, and even a pool to relax in after a warm summer's hike," says Jeremy Scott Foster, founder and CEO of TravelFreak .

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Ocean-lovers will appreciate a family trip to Monterey Bay Aquarium , one of the largest and most recognized aquariums in the US. Kids will unlock their curiosity about the sea by learning about and seeing the animals that inhabit it, including sea otters, sharks, jellyfish, anglerfish, squid, and much more.

While you're in the Monterey area (which has its own regional airport or is about an hour's drive from San Jose, CA), there's also plenty to see and do. Bubeck suggests checking out Fisherman's Wharf , a major tourist attraction that has a plethora of shops, restaurants, and museums. There's also Cannery Row with Adventures by the Sea , a popular waterfront street, where you can rent bikes and kayaks for the family.

Crayola Experience

Get ready to paint the town red! Crayola Experience inspires the artist in you (and your kids) with 20,000-70,000 square feet of activities to channel your creative energy. Crayola Experience has five different locations: Chandler, AZ; Easton, PA; Mall of America in Minnesota; Orlando, FL; and Plano, TX. This colorful and playful space allows kids to hone their creativity and imagination. While each location has its own set of attractions and activities, many of them offer an interactive creativity show, a craft studio where kids can create their own themed projects, a playground, and even a factory tour to learn how crayons are made.

If there's paradise on Earth, it's definitely in Wailea in South Maui. This luxurious resort community spans 1,500 acres and has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The Grand Wailea Resort Hotel is one of the five hotels in town and a personal favorite for Bubeck's family. One of Bubeck's top experiences was the property's lu'au, which featured traditional ceremonies, music, and dishes like poi, kalua pig, poke, and haupia.

The sprawling 40-acre resort offers countless ways to relax and recharge. There are pools, tennis courts, spas, beach yoga and other outdoor fitness classes, beach-cruiser bikes, scuba clinics, and hula and ukelele lessons. Booking for a large group? In addition to rooms and suites, there are also villas, where you can house six to eight guests at a time. Each villa has its own kitchen, living area, and outdoor dining space.

Great Wolf Lodge

The Great Wolf Lodge is America's largest indoor water-park resort with 22 different locations in the US — and it makes a great family vacation year-round. Inside, you'll not only have access to the water park, but you can also check out the climbing walls, go on a treasure hunt for gemstones at Oliver's Mining Co., play a round of mini golf, and take a climbing-ropes course. There are also many different types of accommodations and dining options that suit families.

Paws Up, Montana

Situated in Greenough, MT, Paws Up Ranch is the perfect whimsical outdoor escape, according to Bubeck. The all-inclusive ranch shows off the beauty of nature, whether green in summer or blanketed in pristine snow. Activities vary depending on what time of year you visit, but during the day, you can explore the trails and go horseback riding, ice skating, curling, mountain tubing, dog sledding, skiing, jet skiing, canoeing, fly-fishing, and even hot-air ballooning. On the ranch, you'll find different types of delicious dining options, spa services, and luxury homes and glamping grounds that accommodate a variety of family sizes and preferences.

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Explore the best travel destinations in Russia with our wide range of sightseeing tours to Moscow, St Petersburg, Golden Ring, Kazan; Northern Lights viewing tours; wildlife & nature tours to Lake Baikal tours, Altai, Kamchatka tours, Trans-Siberian train tours, and more. Find the best guided trips and expert planned Russian holidays 2023-2024.

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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My family went back to Scotland for the first time in 6 years. The restaurants were allergy-friendly, and we were surprised by how friendly people were.

• My family has dual US and UK citizenship and just went to Scotland after a six-year hiatus.
• We were surprised by a few different things during our trip.
• The restaurants were allergy-friendly, but there were a lot of cigarette butts on the ground.

I'm an American born to British parents. My husband is British and recently obtained US citizenship after living there for 10 years. When we had our son (who also has dual citizenship), we knew we'd spend significant time on both continents. However, the pandemic, finances, and busy schedules kept us from traveling internationally.

Recently, after six years away, we returned to Glasgow to visit friends and family. We knew the accent wouldn't be a surprise to our 7-year-old. His dad and a lot of my family have a heavy Scottish brogue. We also knew our little one would love the street art and the chocolate. But after being away for so long, a few things did surprise us.

People are friendlier

I had forgotten how lovely strangers can be. While on the bus to visit my grandmother in her new house, the driver and a fellow passenger happily helped us figure out which stop to take. A friendly ticket collector on the train paused to chat with my 7-year-old about his new Lego bricks, and locals greeted us with smiles, jokes, and tales about the last time they'd traveled to America.

When I asked my son if he thought the people in Glasgow were friendlier, he said, "They're like the people in Hawaii ," where we also recently traveled with him. I'd never thought of it that way, but he might be right. Traveling to Glasgow does feel similar to the warmth (despite the cold temperature), generosity of time, and genuine welcoming feeling you experience with traditional Hawaiian hospitality.

Chips (french fries) come with almost every meal, and the potato chip (crisp) flavors are better

My little one was pleasantly surprised that he could order chips — or french fries, to Americans — in almost every restaurant. He loves them, which isn't a shocker because most people do. They're bigger than most of the french fries we get back home, and our family much prefers them in the UK.

When it comes to crisps — or potato chips— the UK's also got America beat. Our favorite salty snacks are salt and vinegar and cheese and onion. But a few flavors were new to me, like haggis and black pepper, turkey and stuffing, and beef teriyaki, which were fun to try, and equally delicious.

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Restaurants were more allergy-friendly

We live in California , which is generally a great place to live if you have food allergies. But Scotland took it to a whole other level. In America, when asking about allergy specifics for my son, servers often make a note on their notepad to pass along to kitchen staff. In Scotland, servers asked us if we had allergies before I even had a chance to inquire.

More often than not, Scottish servers passed me an iPad (or QR code) with detailed nutritional information for each menu item so that I could see the specifics about potentially dangerous ingredients in each dish. My child felt safe eating. And as a mom to a kid with food allergies , I found this extremely comforting.

Everywhere is tap-to-pay

Tap-to-pay is everywhere — seriously, everywhere. Restaurant servers brought card machines to our table, and we also tapped to pay in shops, on trains, buses, and even in black taxis. My husband was surprised at how much this banking convenience has grown since we were last there.

We saw more cigarette butts and disposable vapes on the ground

In surveys in 2022, 15% of adults in Scotland said they smoked, compared with 9.7% of adults in California. My kid, who rarely sees cigarette butts on the ground where we live, got a kick out of spotting so many "dangerous" things.

While the cigarette butts surprised my son, my husband and I noticed way more people vaping. A 2023 survey on litter in Scotland suggested that single-use vapes were the fastest-growing litter item in the country.

Still, we loved every bit of our trip to Scotland and can't wait to visit again. Until then, we'll enjoy the bags of crisps we stashed in our luggage.

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Is it possible to visit Russia as a tourist in 2023?

Yes, traveling to Russia as a tourist in 2023 is possible. Here’s what to look out for if you’re preparing for your dream trip. 

Visa requirements

First things first, it is worth checking if you need a visa to cross the Russian border. In 2023, citizens of some 65 countries can visit Russia without a visa. This includes most of the post-Soviet states like Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, as well as Ukraine.

Additionally, citizens of some countries in South and Central America – including Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Panama, Peru, Venezuela, Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Uruguay, Ecuador – do not need a visa to travel to Russia.

Citizens of Israel, South Africa, Cuba, Montenegro, Thailand, South Korea, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Andorra, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Mongolia, Botswana enjoy visa-free regime with Russia, too.

For the full list of countries, click here .

* Data for the infographics is from November 2022 and was obtained from the Russian consular information website.

* The status of a particular country is subject to change. We advise additionally researching the relevant information in each particular case before booking any trip to Russia.

* Visa waivers may apply for holders of diplomatic or military service passports, select businessmen, air crew members, members of a ship or train crew, professional truck drivers, organized tourist groups and people who have official permission to live in some border regions.

Is it safe to travel to Russia right now?

Russia as a travel destination received a fair share of negative PR from various sources in early 2022.

Some official travel accounts run by governments of countries like the U.S. , Australia , Great Britain and others advise their citizens to abstain from non-essential travel to the country.

That said, it is always advisable to evaluate safety risks when traveling to any foreign country. Traveling to Russia is no exception. However, Moscow, St. Petersburg and other major Russian cities have been widely regarded as being safe , especially in comparison to other popular tourist destinations.

Little has changed in major Russian cities from the point of view of tourists or local residents. Consequently, the most extreme and vocal concerns over security may be disregarded as being too alarmist.

That said, logistics pose the greatest challenge for tourists traveling to Russia in 2023. A number of countries closed their national airspace for Russian air companies resulting in more complicated logistics for tourists who intend to visit Russia in 2023.

However, specific changes depend on a particular country from where a tourist departs. In some cases, direct flight routes remain intact. For example, nothing has changed for tourists from China, India, Turkey, Middle Eastern countries and the majority of post-Soviet states. They can book direct flights to Russia’s main airports.

Tourists departing from European capitals will have to book connecting flights via Turkey or countries in the Middle East. This makes tickets more expensive and flights longer. However, it is still possible to travel to Russia from virtually any country in the world.

It should be noted that every country has its own nuances that must be taken into account beforehand. For example, the Indian Embassy in Russia advises Indian nationals against traveling to Russia via third countries. According to the embassy website, Indian travelers should choose only direct flights from Delhi to Moscow, otherwise they risk being denied entry into Russia.

In another instance, the British government prohibited its citizens from purchasing tickets on Russian airlines that were under sanctions. Nonetheless, the British authorities made an exception for those journeys originating in or within Russia: in this case, British nationals may purchase tickets from Russian companies without breaching UK sanctions.

Covid restrictions, vaccination status & quarantine

In 2022, Russian authorities canceled Covid-related restrictions for Russian citizens and foreign tourists, alike.

In 2023, foreign nationals no longer need to provide results of a negative PCR test when entering Russia by any mode of transport. Therefore, foreign travelers no longer need to take a coronavirus test in advance before departure.

Furthermore, Russian authorities lifted Covid-related restrictions that required visitors to provide a specific reason for visiting the country facilitating tourist traveling.

The only remaining Covid-related regulation is a requirement to fill in a questionnaire. Passengers – both Russian and foreign citizens – will be asked to fill out the paper version of the questionnaire on board during their flight to Russia.

Click here to find out who can travel to Russia without a visa in 2023.

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