"Among other big goals, many families may be trying to prioritize traveling with kids in 2025. And while traveling with little ones can pose challenges, those almost never outweigh the benefits of introducing kids to the world. In fact, a survey done for the U.S. Travel Association found that many people’s earliest memories are of family vacations taken when they were between ages 5 and 10. Adults even remember childhood trips more clearly than school events or birthday celebrations. So if you need another reason to book family travel in 2025, add core memory-making to the list!
Whether you’re planning your first flight with baby or embarking an epic road trip with your family, there’s no time like the present to make memories together. All parents deserve a vacation now and then, and a family trip gives us something to look forward to. But, let’s be honest, certain family vacations don’t actually feel like a vacation to parents. Some destinations simply aren’t kid-friendly, meaning parents have to put in extra work to make sure everyone enjoys themselves. Not to mention, the hefty price tags on certain excursions and restaurants can add more stress onto a parent’s plate than they had before they left.
This list of the best places to travel with kids keeps family fun at the forefront, considering kid-approved perks, a range of travel budgets, and family-friendly amenities parents will care about. Keep reading for the best places to travel with kids in 2025, both in the U.S. and internationally.
Best Places to Travel With Kids in the U.S.
To help narrow your search for the perfect family vacation, we’ve picked kid-friendly domestic destinations that offer a wide variety of experiences—from adventurous mountain towns to relaxing beaches.
1. Seabrook, Washington
There’s only one thing we should warn you about taking a vacation to Seabrook—the small but dynamic Washington-coast beach town less than three hours from Seattle—and that is that it may make you want to uproot your life and move there.
What to Do in Seabrook, Washington
There are miles of beaches, 17 parks, a community pea patch, hundreds of acres of mountain biking and hiking trails, an ice cream shop, an old-school arcade, a spa, and a Montessori school in this idyllic little enclave. In the summertime, a concert series in the amphitheater caps days full of outdoor fun: think surfing (lessons are available for your littles), skim boarding, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, and biking. Kids can also dig for razor clams—there are even guides for it!—and enter sidewalk-chalk contests. And day trip options abound: exploring 90-foot waterfalls, Lake Quinault, and Olympic National Park are just a few.
Where to Stay in Seabrook, Washington
On top of that, there are 275+ vacation home rentals that can fit two to 22 people (bring the grandparents for a memorable multigenerational trip—and an extra set of hands!) And many rentals come with concierge services (someone to do your grocery shopping? Yes, please!), plus a pool and gym, Pickleball lessons, and beach yoga classes.
2. Williamsburg, Virginia
Just because your kids are on vacation doesn’t mean it can’t be educational! A classic family-friendly trip, Williamsburg is as historic as it gets. This destination is sure to get kids and parents alike ready to dive into national history.
What to Do in Williamsburg, Virginia
Learn all about the role of Williamsburg in the American Revolution by experiencing the living history museum that is Colonial Williamsburg. With actors dressed in period attire, your little ones will learn all about colonial life—and maybe appreciate some of the luxuries we have today a bit more. Be sure to stop by Jamestowne and Yorktown when you’re in the area to get the full “Historic Triangle” experience.
Where to Stay in Williamsburg, Virginia
What better way to soak up all the history of Williamsburg than a stay in a historic bed and breakfast? One of the best in the business is Cedars of Williamsburg. The gorgeous Georgian brick building will transport you back in time but still provide you with all of the modern amenities you know and love.
3. Rapid City, South Dakota
It almost feels like a trip to the “Wild West” is a right of passage for kids. There’s plenty of history to be found in the hills of South Dakota. It’s the perfect destination for a combination of adventure and education.
What to Do in Rapid City, South Dakota
While the city itself is a fantastic home base, the areas surrounding Rapid City are what make it a perfect family travel destination. Allow your first stop to be Mount Rushmore, only a half-hour drive from downtown Rapid. Then, venture on to Crazy Horse Monument for another mountain carving that rivals Mount Rushmore. You’ll also want to check out Custer State Park to check out the Wildlife Loop, where you’re sure to see tons of furry faces. In Rapid City, you’ll also only be about an hour away from Badlands National Park, which offers some of the most scenic views in the country.
Where to Stay in Rapid City, South Dakota
In and around Rapid City will offer some incomparable vacation rental options through places like Airbnb and VRBO. If you prefer the hotel route, consider staying at the historic Hotel Alex Johnson. You’ll find exceptional amenities like several restaurants and a Starbucks.
4. Island of Hawai’i, Hawaii
Is Hawaii ever a bad idea? The 50th state offers the best of both worlds: It feels like a totally different country without requiring a passport or currency exchange. And ideally, you can show your kids that the Hawaiian islands are more than a collection of pretty beaches, leis, and drinks with umbrellas.
What to Do in Hawai’i
The Island of Hawai’i is the perfect place to do just that since it’s a bit less developed and retains a strong sense of old Hawaii. There are otherworldly outings to take, such as to the surreal lava flows of Volcanoes National Park, waterfalls, and snorkeling, plus resorts that will truly blow you away.
Where to Stay in Hawai’i
One of those is Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, which has as much soul as it does luxury amenities. At the heart of the resort is a giant family pool, with a big green lawn for games or getting the wiggles out that stretches to the sand and sapphire Pacific Ocean. There are outrigger canoes to paddle as a family, plus surfing and snorkeling to try. The resort’s Holoholo Kids Crew is the kind of kids club that makes you wish you were 6 years old again so you could join the fun (and if you have a 3- or 4-year-old, you actually can since they require a chaperone!). They’ll learn the Hawaiian language, hunt for crabs, make natural dyes, and check out royal fish ponds. There is also an island’s worth of lovely Airbnb options at every price if you’re a family who loves seeking out your own adventures.
5. Orlando, Florida
Orlando will always be a top contender for the best options when you want to travel with kids. It’s become a top family-friendly destination, which means plenty of direct flights, plus tons of amenities and activities that kids and parents alike will enjoy
What to Do in Orlando, Florida
Disney World is a must-do for many families, but it’s far from the only thing to do in Orlando these days. In May of 2025, Universal Studios Orlando is opening their fourth park, an immersive Epic Universe, with five new worlds, including Super Mario, Harry Potter, and How to Train Your Dragon themed areas. If you want to venture away from the theme parks, Nona Adventure Park, with its inflatable aqua park and obstacle course, is most definitely another draw.
Where to Stay in Orlando, Florida
Next door to the Adventure Park is the Lake Nona Wave Hotel, which provides endless fun in the form of miles of nature trails (Lake Nona is a 17-square-mile micro-city that’s one of America’s healthiest communities) and offers amenities like rock climbing and tennis, too. There’s even a curated kid’s library by the owner of the country’s first social justice-driven children’s bookstore.
Or opt for the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort (yes, that hotel the viral Four Seasons baby was excited to visit, too). You might never want to leave—especially if you can sneak off for a few hours at the spa, like for an Anti-Gravity Facial or Vibrational Sound Therapy. There’s an Italian chef for all the pizza, pasta, and fresh bread you can stand and multiple pools (including, yes, an adults-only Oasis pool with underwater audio and hourly amenities). And bonus: There’s a complimentary kids club daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for ages 4 to 12!
6. San Diego County, California
North to south, San Diego County is just plain cool. It’s full of beachy gems and sunny escapes with skateboarders and surfers galore. There’s fantastic food, often with a Mexican influence, and a super laid-back vibe that is very necessary on vacation.
What to Do in San Diego, California
There are local pros offering surf and skate lessons, and you can stand-up paddle board amongst sea lions at the harbor. The food scene is worth the trip alone and includes plenty of fare made with locally grown and caught ingredients.
Where to Stay in San Diego, California
The town of Oceanside has heated up recently, thanks in part to a pair of chic new hotels that includes The Seabird, a slightly preppy, East Coast-y beach house across from the pier. The Seabird’s sister hotel even has a brand-new dessert shop in the Top Gun House, and there’s a dreamy spa for mom. Farther south (passing Legoland California) in the center of the city is Town and Country Resort, a Palm Springs-esque getaway a couple miles from the famous San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The super family-friendly property boasts multiple pools, a four-story Twister waterslide, and s’mores on Friday nights, plus movie screenings for all ages on Saturday nights.
7. Telluride, Colorado
In every season, Telluride is incredibly charming. The former Victorian mining town in a box canyon still feels authentically Old West but is also a world-class ski mountain.
What to Do in Telluride, Colorado
Try your hand at skiing in Telluride with slopes for literally all skill levels (not to mention outstanding instructors). And when it’s not snowing, there’s hiking galore. You might even catch local resident Jewel singing in town!
Where to Stay in Telluride, Colorado
Slope-side, Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection encompasses all the magic in its stunningly redesigned common spaces, elegant yet comfy rooms, and pool with hot tubs where stargazing and s’mores are a must. They offer seemingly endless fun pursuits for all ages, from exciting active exploits like horseback riding, ice skating, sleigh rides, and backcountry dogsled rides in a literal winter wonderland to more low-key experiences such as foraging with the chef, candle-making, and a Little Explorers Spa Day. For young ones, there’s also 20 Below, a colorful, creative kids hangout space with games, movies, and crafts so they can keep busy while you relax just a little.
8. Acadia, Maine
If the idea of Maine lobster and seafood boils, blueberry pancake breakfasts, s’mores nights, and oyster cocktail hours makes your mouth water, then you should book it to Maine for a glamping adventure that’s magical for kids and adults alike.
What to Do in Acadia, Maine
Take your camping game up a notch in Acadia. Find tons of outdoor activities like fishing, bird watching, stargazing, kayaking, crafting, or even logging demos. And parents, you get live music, morning yoga, and craft cocktails all throughout the area and at local lodgings.
Where to Stay in Acadia, Maine
Terramor Outdoor Resort Bar Harbor just outside Acadia National Park has all that and more, like a pool, hot tub, and crackling fires. It’s rustic but not too rustic, with Wi-Fi, outdoor showers, bunk beds, and private bathrooms in the wooden platform tents with canvas sides.
Another excellent option in the region is Under Canvas Acadia, set along 1,200 feet of pristine Maine coastline. The bright white safari-style tents are chic but cozy and just the right size for families of up to seven. In a way, it’s like summer camp but if you got to go with your kids for birdhouse painting, scavenger hunts, fireside chats, bingo, beach volleyball, and sunrise yoga.
9. Albuquerque, New Mexico
Famous for a whopping 310 sunny days per year, Albuquerque is a rich holiday destination you may have never considered.
What to Do in Albuquerque, New Mexico
The high desert is actually the hot air ballooning capital of the world, and every October there’s a spectacular fiesta dedicated to it. It’s the trip of a lifetime to go up in one as a family, but if you’re not sold on the thrill, then take the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway to a 10,000-plus-foot peak for awe-inspiring panoramas and New Mexican sunsets.
There’s plenty to do outdoors in the fresh air, including an ABQ Bike & Taco Tour, and Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm—with 25 acres of lavender fields and a cult following for their products—is an idyllic place to base yourselves. The Rio Grande River Valley locale is a gracious family-run hotel and regenerative agriculture business with farm-to-fork meals, scavenger hunts, and a sweet collection of alpacas, peacocks, and sheep. A visit to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center for dance performances and lessons as well as indigenous meals make for a fascinating and enlightening outing, too.
Where to Stay in Albuquerque, New Mexico
You won’t want to miss a stay at Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town in this neck of the woods. Stepping in the doors will feel like an immersive experience, as the hotel is clad with decor inspired by Spanish, Mexican, and Native American cultures. On top of that, it’s located minutes from family-friendly attractions like the zoo, botanical gardens, aquarium, and downtown.
10. Cannon Beach, Oregon
If a laid-back vacation on the coast sounds appealing to you, consider Cannon Beach on the Oregon coastline.
What to Do in Cannon Beach, Oregon
With a lovely ocean breeze, Cannon Beach has been dubbed the perfect place to fly a kite, and its charming downtown area has fully embraced the notion with several kite-centric shops. Once you’ve picked out the perfect kite, check out their other shops, like clothing stores and chocolate emporiums, for the whole family. While spending time at the beach, remember you’re in the perfect place to pretend to be members of The Goonies. The beloved movie was filmed on the Oregon coast and even showcases clips of Cannon Beach’s iconic Haystack Rock—a marvel in itself.
Where to Stay in Cannon Beach, Oregon
While there are plenty of wonderful vacation rentals in the area, you can feel all of the coastal town charm by staying in a local inn for your time in Cannon Beach. Escape to the cottage-like Inn at Cannon Beach that offers complimentary breakfast and in-room fireplaces. Or, be steps away from the ocean with an oceanfront suite at Schooner’s Cove Inn.
11. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Many Midwesterners have known Mackinac Island as a go-to summer destination for generations. For those unfamiliar, few places offer as unique an experience as this Michigan gem. No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so visiting is like taking a step back in time once you hop off the ferry.
What to Do in Mackinac Island, Michigan
The island is known for its Mackinac Island fudge, and kids can watch candy makers at work—and taste-test their creations. Bring your bikes or rent them on the island to check out beautiful hiking spots, fairytale carriage ride tours, and one-of-a-kind blacksmithing experiences (yes, it’s safe for the kiddos!). Grab a casual outdoor meal at the Pink Pony, an island favorite.
Where to Stay in Mackinac Island, Michigan
The island is filled with Airbnbs and VRBOs galore, so take a peek to see if there’s a perfect option for your family—but be sure to book early as they’ll fill up quickly! Otherwise, check into one of their many gorgeous bed and breakfasts, like the chic Mackinac House. For a more resort-like getaway, choose a suite at the newly renovated Mission Point, with spa services for mom and a putt-putt golf course the kiddos will love. You can also take advantage of the resort’s daily Kid’s Club from 4:30 to 7 p.m. and enjoy a well-deserved date night.
12. The Outer Banks, North Carolina
Parents who couldn’t get enough of the Netflix hit series Outer Banks will love spending a week living like John B. and the gang (sort of). While you may not be fighting for your life to find buried treasure, there is adventure around every corner in this North Carolina beach town. Plus, nothing puts a smile on little kids’ faces than being steps away from the beach.
What to Do in The Outer Banks, North Carolina
In The Outer Banks, your family can spend days by the water splashing around and building sand castles, snorkeling, or even horseback riding—there won’t be a day that doesn’t end with a few “best day ever” compliments.
Where to Stay in The Outer Banks, North Carolina
A great option for lodging in The Outer Banks is the Beachwoods Resort in the Kitty Hawk region. It offers everything families could want, from an expansive outdoor pool to tennis courts and even a lazy river. Plus, if the weather isn’t cooperating (knock on wood!), they also have an indoor pool, a spa, a game room, and an arcade.
13. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
A retreat to the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee might just be the trip everyone in the family needs. Offering the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation, this is a choose-your-adventure type of destination.
What to Do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg has been one of the best trips for kids for many years for good reason. There are options for the whole family. The adventurous outdoorsy types will like zip-lining and whitewater rafting. Thrill-seekers will have the time of their lives at the many amusement parks in the area, including the iconic Dollywood in nearby Pigeon Forge. Then for those of us who want to slow down and take in nature, there’s plenty of hiking, as well as spas in the mountain region.
Where to Stay in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
The best way to take on Gatlinburg is to do so the mountain way: in a cabin. But don’t worry; we aren’t suggesting you take your chances in a wilderness shack. Rather, rent a luxurious cabin through a company like Stony Brook Cabins. You won’t want to ever leave these ultra-cozy lodges with incomparable mountain views and all the amenities you could want.
14. Lake Tahoe, California / Lake Tahoe, Nevada
The best part about traveling to Lake Tahoe is that it offers something for everyone all year round.
What to Do in Lake Tahoe
Snow-loving families can lodge at a stunning ski resort and hit the slopes again and again for endless winter fun. The adventurous types can go in the warmer months for hiking, zip-lining, or doing an exciting water adventure. Even those who prefer a relaxing respite can enjoy taking in the gorgeous views of the lake while sunbathing.
Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe
The Northstar California Resort is a must-stay for families who want to ski. In an adorable village-style atmosphere, you’ll have excellent amenities along with a top-rated ski school and kid-friendly activities. In the summer months, be sure to check out The Landing Lake Tahoe Resort & Spa. They offer plenty of fun outdoor activities like jet skiing, boating, and more.
15. Gulf Shores, Alabama
Our friends in the south don’t have to go too far for gorgeous beaches. But no matter where you are, making the trip to Gulf Shores as a family is one you won’t regret.
What to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama
Soak up the sun right on the Gulf Coast for days of beach fun. Head to Gulf State Park for kayaking, parasailing, and an exciting butterfly garden. Plus, throughout the city you’ll find plenty of exciting amusement parks with go-karts, rides, and games, as well as out-of-this-world water parks.
Where to Stay in Gulf Shores, Alabama
There are plenty of spacious vacation homes in the area that may fit your needs perfectly. Otherwise, for amenities like indoor and outdoor pools, access to the beach, bicycle rentals, a shuttle bus service, and more, you can’t go wrong with The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel.
16. Boston, Massachusetts
History buff kiddos who aren’t quite ready for the hustle and bustle of Washington, D.C., will love a trip to Boston. Even though it still has the big city vibe with skyscrapers and subways, it’s much more manageable than other major cities on the East Coast. Plus, it offers just as much (if not more!) history to see.
What to Do in Boston, Massachusetts
Learn about the American Revolution by walking the Freedom Trail, see Harvard University, and visit the iconic Fenway Park, just to name a few. Your little ones will head back to school after this vacation having learned something new and making fun memories along the way.
Where to Stay in Boston, Massachusetts
The InterContinental Boston, an IHG Hotel has a location that can’t be beat in this area. Walk, Uber, or take the beginner-friendly subway to many kid-friendly spots, like the Boston Children’s Museum. At the end of the day, head back to your five-star hotel for dining and lounging.
Best Places to Travel Internationally With Kids
Editor’s Note: When researching or booking international family travel, it’s important to be cognizant of the latest travel advisories issued by the U.S. Department of State. Click here to view all current travel advisories.
17. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is said to be one of the best places to travel internationally with kids. It’s easy to fly directly from many places throughout the USA. Another plus? They accept the U.S. dollar, meaning no exchanging of currency before heading down.
What to Do in Costa Rica
Adventure awaits in this gorgeous country. Families love to travel to Costa Rica as it offers the best of both worlds: sea and jungle. Throughout the country, you’ll find natural treasures like waterfalls, volcanoes, and hot springs. On top of that, dive into the local culture with chocolate tours and hanging bridges.
Where to Stay in Costa Rica
Some of the top destinations to travel to with kids are La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio. Consider Manuel Antonio your beach getaway, and book a place to stay near the water. But don’t worry—you’ll also be near the Manuel Antonio National Park, where plenty of wildlife—like monkeys!—reside. Consider staying at Hotel Playa Espadilla & Gardens for an unbeatable location to the park, great dining options, and more.
18. South Africa
For a bucket-list family experience that your kids will talk about for years to come, look no further than a trip across the world to South Africa.
What to Do in South Africa
It wouldn’t be a trip to Africa without embarking on an African Safari to spot some of the most majestic animals on the planet. Many options are available throughout the country, but one of the most epic safaris—Tswalu Kalahari—is extremely popular with families. It’s in a malaria-free zone with the opportunity to see lions, rhinos, cheetahs, and more! You’ll also want to build in time to explore South Africa before or after you head to the bush. If flying into Cape Town, experience amazing beaches where you can even see waddling penguins in their natural habitat at Boudlers Beach. Beautiful mountains, delicious food, and so much more await!
Where to Stay in South Africa
South Africa has so much to offer families—from vibrant cities to the once-in-a-lifetime moments among majestic animals in the wild. Near the Kwande Game Reserve, the luxurious and family-friendly Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge includes a unique kids club designed by childcare experts—EleFun Children’s Centre—with programs for little nature-lovers aged 4-12. In Cape Town, Cape Grace, A Fairmont Managed Hotel is in a prime location and openly welcomes children and caters to families with kid-friendly activities, African-themed story times—and babysitters!
19. Belize
Experienced travelers say Belize is one of the best places to introduce little ones to international travel for several reasons. First, the country’s official language is English, and they accept the U.S. dollar, meaning there will be no language barrier or need to use different currency. Plus, many major U.S. airports fly directly into Belize City, meaning no inconvenient layovers for younger travelers.
What to Do in Belize
In Belize, you can experience taking a ferry to the gorgeous island of San Pedro. While you’re in the country, you’ll find a mix of great experiences for kids, like exploring the jungle and relaxing on the beach. Other unique experiences to consider are chocolate making classes at the Belize Chocolate Company, swimming at Secret Beach, and taking a snorkeling tour.
Where to Stay in Belize
The highly-rated Portofino Beach Resort is a great option while staying in the San Pedro area. The resort offers several packages that are perfect for families, including a seven-night jungle and sea experience.
20. Lisbon, Portugal
Europe is indeed full of attractive cities, but if there’s one family-friendly destination in Europe, it’s fairytale-like Lisbon.
What to Do in Lisbon, Portugal
Home to trams weaving through colorful streets, the mouthwatering Time Out Market crammed with treats, an impressive aquarium (the Oceanario), and a real-life castle, Sao Jorge. Take a fun Trafaria Praia boat ride on a work of art by a Portuguese artist and get amazing views of Lisbon’s riverside.
Where to Stay in Lisbon, Portugal
The gorgeous boutique hotel Martinhal Chiado makes the city even more perfect for travel with little ones, thanks to its Baby Concierge, an incredible service that helps guests pre-arrange their vibrant apartments (outfitted with rounded-edge furnishings) ahead of their stay, with life-savers like door protectors, potties, bottle sterilizers, safety gates, and more. The kicker, though, is free childcare!
The hotel boasts a screen-free playroom that looks like something you’d see in a design magazine, with interactive sensory toys and professionals offering complimentary supervised child care for 3- to 9-year-olds (it’s 12,50€/hour for kids 6 to 36 months). The fun kids can experience there includes science experiments, musical games, and a themed challenge-of-the-day, plus pajama party weekend sessions.
21. New Zealand
While New Zealand may take longer to get to than some other places to travel internationally with kids, it’s one of the best destinations to experience with older children and teens. Travelers love the country for its unique culture, gorgeous scenery, and fun outdoor activities. Plus, it’s known to be a safe and friendly travel destination for families.
What to Do in New Zealand
There are countless activities to do in New Zealand, so there’s sure to be something for everyone in your family. Spend your days walking and taking in the views at Abel Tasman National Park, immerse yourselves in Maori Culture in Rotorua, and get acquainted with the natural wildlife of Willowbank Wildlife Reserve in Christchurch. Plus, Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit fans will not want to miss seeing Hobbiton, the LOTR movie set. Don’t forget to pencil in some whale watching in Kaikoura.
Where to Stay in New Zealand
Your trip in New Zealand may take you to several locations, including Wanaka, Rotorua, Christchurch, and beyond. Archway Motels & Chalets in Wanaka is highly rated for being set on two acres of gardens and offering incomparable nature views. For an excellent location in Rotorua, consider Ripple Rotorua. And, in Christchurch, consider the ultra kid-friendly Tasman Holiday Parks.
22. Tokyo, Japan
While this may seem like the most intimidating location on our list, Tokyo is one of the most culturally-rich places to take kiddos this year. With a culture that differs vastly from our own, kids will get completely new experiences while still being in a safe and clean environment. Plus, being known for its hospitality, travelers tend to feel welcomed to Japan the second they get off the plane.
What to Do in Tokyo, Japan
Japan’s capital city offers the best of both worlds—futuristic skyscrapers and ancient temples—meaning there will never be a dull moment. Plus, they have a highly-intuitive metro system, making it easy to get to different neighborhoods and experience different parts of the city while on your trip. Of course, Tokyo is also home to two magical Disney parks: Tokyo DisneySea and Tokyo Disneyland.
Where to Stay in Tokyo, Japan
Stay in a modern hotel like Mimaru Tokyo Ueno for a location that’s walking distance from several historic temples, like Hoon-ji Temple, as well as other well-known attractions. Plan to head to Japan in the spring months to catch the iconic cherry blossoms blooming for a one-of-a-kind experience.
23. Antigua and Barbuda
If glittering sunshine, electric water, and white sand beaches fill your daydreams while doing laundry and cooking dinner, then Antigua is the place to escape. Just kidding, but really—you can take your family, too.
What to Do in Antigua
The Caribbean waters around it are crystalline, so you can see the coral reefs without even trying. This is the kind of West Indies island where families go repeatedly for generations.
Where to Stay in Antigua
Curtain Bluff is an all-inclusive resort, which equals a vacation for your brain. Bury each other in that perfect Caribbean sand, see who can spot the most tropical fish in the shallows, and race crabs—there’s nothing but time and nowhere to be. The CeeBee Kids Club (for ages 3 to 10) is a super fun way for children to mingle with others during property excursions, crafting, board games, and Hobie Cat sailing. There’s childcare on-hand for evenings, so parents can truly let loose over cocktails, long dinners, and starlit dancing to live music.
24. Vancouver Island, Canada
If anyone in the family is remotely interested in sea life, then get yourselves to Vancouver Island, STAT!
What to Do in Vancouver Island, Canada
Whale-watching off the coast of British Columbia should be an as-soon-as-possible kind of vacation experience—it’s that outrageously amazing. The ocean’s super-impressive creatures aren’t the only reason to visit this western slice of Canada, though, especially in the summertime.
In Tofino, wannabe surfers will love hitting the water for lessons in wide, friendly Cox Bay, home of an annual Queen of the Peak competition for all female surfers—goals!
Where to Stay in Vancouver Island, Canada
Take to Victoria, where the Fairmont Empress hotel is a fairytale experience in and of itself, in a glamorous waterfront city known as the City of Gardens. Up and down the island are incomparable First Nations experiences that will leave a lasting impression and open up a whole new world and perspective to your kids.
Pacific Sands Beach Resort in Tofino is practically in the waves, with beach houses that happily hold entire families (and also have a full kitchen), barbecue grills, and hammocks, plus beach cruisers for rides to the iconic taco truck Tacofino. Go fishing, foraging, or on a guided search for black bears—it’s truly the best of the beach and wilderness in one.
25. Edinburgh, Scotland
Parents of little Harry Potter fans (or who are fans themselves!) may already have Scotland on their family travel bucket list. Or, if you’ve never considered heading to the Highlands, now’s the time to do so.
What to Do in Edinburgh, Scotland
Walking the streets of Scotland’s capital will feel like stepping into a fantasy world where the streets are cobblestone and the buildings castle-like. While you’re in the magical land, be sure to book a tour of the Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness where kids can try to spot the infamous Loch Ness monster. And you won’t want to miss touring the Edinburgh Castle, which has housed Scottish royalty since the 11th century.
Where to Stay in Edinburgh, Scotland
It’s only right to live like royalty while in Scotland. To do just that, treat yourself to a stay at The Scotsman Hotel right in Old Town Edinburgh. With views of the Edinburgh Castle and the historic Waverley Train Station, you’ll be staying in a one-of-a-kind historical building that once was home of The Scotsman newspaper. Or, find tranquility while in the heart of the city by staying at a cottage-style hotel like Hapimag Resort in Dean Village. Quiet, scenic, and residential, staying in Dean Village is the perfect way to immerse yourself into the Edinburgh lifestyle beyond the must-see spots.
Kathryn Romeyn, Contributing Writer
Kathryn is a freelance travel, design, and wellness journalist whose work has been featured in Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, Architectural Digest, The Hollywood Reporter, Brides, Parents, and AFAR, among others. She is additionally a co-host of the Conscious Traveler Podcast and a mom of two.
Brett Nicole Hayden, Assistant Editor
As the Assistant Editor, Brett works with the editors of The Everymom on the content creation process by updating stories, sourcing images and graphics, and pitching and contributing her own articles. Her favorite topics to write about are culture, relationships, and living. She’s also The Everymom’s resident baby names and family movies expert!