Are you planning your next family trip to America and juggling where to go?
We have the answer!
After thoroughly reviewing some major attractions in the country, we have listed the best family vacation spots in the US where each member of your clan could have the best time of their life. Let’s explore them!
Family vacations give us memories that last a lifetime. However, to make the trip unforgettable and safe, you must be very cautious about choosing the destination.
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The United States is a land of wonders that has numerous attractions that magnetize solo travelers as well as families from all around the world. The land of liberty has something for every unique family irrespective of the travel time, climate, or activities they look for in a perfect trip.
However, each time you Google, which is the number 1 vacation spot in the United States? The results are quite overwhelming as there are countless options. To save you from this bewilderment, we have uncovered some incredibly beautiful yet family-friendly destinations in the states where you can plan your next trip. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Most fascinating family vacation spots in the US
From snowfall to sunshine, the United States has something for every visitor, let us discover them all!
1. Orlando
Orlando is renowned for its Walt Disney World Resort is a kid-friendly destination that offers thrilling rides, timeless charm, and fun performances. If your kids are cartoon lovers, they can have fun with these characters here in real. Your kids can have their best time on this unique family vacation in the USA. Plus, if any of your kid’s birthdays fall around your travel time, this would be the best surprise birthday party for them. However, if this plan doesn’t excite you, there are other theme parks in Orlando for youths where you can snorkel in the park’s coral reef and swim with dolphins.
Theme parks are immensely popular among kids, if you want to avoid crowds, you can visit between the months of January to March. Other than parks, you can enjoy golfing in the subtropical climate and explore the gorgeous downtown city landscape as well.
Best time to visit: March to May.
Tips to save money: Opt for bundle deals, buy tickets in combo, and visit from September to mid-November for a reasonable stay and airfare.
Must try: Pizza and Sushi.
2. Yosemite
Yosemite hosts several outdoor offerings which makes it one of the best family vacation destinations in the USA. You can do fishing, ride horses, do hike, and rafting on the River Merced with your family. Either you can check out the extensive views from the glacier point or can hike on the Yosemite Valley trails. This place is filled with striking cliffs, unique rock formations, ages-old sequoia trees, and tall waterfalls.
You will find many accommodations in this valley but if you are planning to visit there in summer, you need to do the booking a year in advance. This is because summer is the peak season in this destination, either you won’t get the lodge or end up paying an overpriced rate for the stay.
Best time to visit: May, early June, and September.
Tips to save money: Bring your own tent and supplies and book the spot earliest. Visit in later spring to avoid peak season costs. Take bus rides to popular spots.
Must try: Steak, pasta, and seafood.
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3. Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is loaded with free attractions, kid-friendly museums, and renowned monuments. The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is the most renowned museum here.
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute is home to more than 2700 animals. To make this trip the best family vacation on a budget, you can book a hotel close by and use affordable public transport. This place is rich in clubs, cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
Best time to visit: March to May and September to November. Late March and early April (if interested to witness National Cherry Blossom Festival).
Tips to save money: Schedule a free excursion to the US Capitol. Take your own snacks and water bottle and avoid buying from street vendors.
Must try: Oyster shooters and Spanish bites.
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4. Yellowstone
Yellowstone is a blend of unspoiled lakes and spectacular peaks which makes this place ideal for hiking. This place magnetizes over 4 million tourists each year and is one of the best family vacation spots in the US. Yellowstone offers a plentiful of pristine spots and parks to explore. Plan two or three days to witness mammoth hot springs and Yellowstone lake.
You can plan a hike with your kids to the striking upper geyser basin by taking the mystic falls trails. You can have the best time at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center and interact and bond with animals. Hotels within Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming National Park are costly, so take your own bed and food and enjoy camping.
Best time to visit: Late April to May, September to early October.
Tips to save money: Take your own bed, bring your own food, and avoid visiting during summer.
Must try: Trout, bison, and elk.
5. Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is a budget-friendly destination as the entrance fee is very low. It is counted as one of the top family vacations in the US. This gigantic gulf is a true wonder in Northern Arizona. This Arizona National Park is full of eye-treating offerings and activities, so your family will have a lot of fun here. You can take a mule ride to the north Rim, raft on the Rive Colorado, take the Grand Canyon Railway ride, and witness the breathtaking view from the Grand Canyon Skywalk.
This place is selected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Grand Canyon is the right place for hardcore hiking and camping. You can book a helicopter tour to check out the entire place right from the top. All and all you will have the best family trip on this site.
Best time to visit: March to May, September to November.
Tips to save money: The hotels within the site are too pricey, so bring your own bed and reserve the spot beforehand. Visit during off-peak seasons. Take a free shuttle bus service to explore the Rim.
Must try: Arizona-grown beef tenderloin, French onion soup gratinée, Navajo tacos, quiche, beef Stroganoff, and pork loin chili.
6. Cape Cod
Cape Cod is considered one of the best family vacation destinations in the US for ages. With 40 miles of coastline, Cape Cod National Seashore has Lake that gives your kids ample space to create sandcastles, do fishing, and swim. You can take your kids to mini-golf and end your day with a movie show at Wellfleet Drive-in. Bike riding and wandering along the Cape Cod Rail Trail is something you should not miss doing with your kids.
Try kayaking and fishing on boats in this popular vacation destination in the USA. Visit the Cape’s oldest town ‘Sandwich to witness the glass-blowing demonstration. Spend at least a week completely exploring and experiencing the serene vibe of this great family vacation spot in the US this place offers.
Best time to visit: May, June, September, and October.
Tips to save money: Plan your trip during winter as hotel rates go higher during summer. Avoid visiting on weekends as crossing the canal becomes very challenging.
Must try: Buttermilk and fried oyster.
7. Destin
Known as World’s Luckiest Fishing Village, Destin offers a serene environment and several kids-oriented activities. Visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park to get along with friendly animals like penguins and dolphins. This place has relaxing seashores and scenic beaches which makes it one of the best family vacation spots in the US. Henderson Beach State Park and Crystal Beach Park are very hit places among families.
If you are an adventurous type, you can try snorkel, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing. This peninsular paradise has everything that people look for in family vacations.
Best time to visit: April, and May.
Tips to save money: Explore rates and secure the best rate in all three airports (Pensacola International Airport, the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, and Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport). Use a bike instead of a car to save on parking and gas on your family beach vacation.
Must try: Seafood.
8. San Diego
San Diego offers 70 miles of seashore, giving your children ample space to play with sand. Coronado Beach, Mission Beach, and La Jolla Shores are popular attractions among families. You can take your kids to the very renowned San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and SeaWorld San Diego to closely watch animals. Boat tours, whale watching tours, and fishing charters are some things that you should not miss in San Diego. San Diego is one of the family vacation spots in the US that matches every child’s idea of fun.
Best time to visit: March to May, September to November.
Tips to save money: Plan your trip during late fall or early spring because in summer hotel rates rise steeply. Book your hotel away from the sea, lodging along the sea charge hefty prices.
Must try: California burrito and Mexican food.
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9. Honolulu-Oahu
Planning a trip to Honolulu is one of the best family vacation ideas as this place caters to every family’s unique interests. This site is a blend of stunning scenery and cosmopolitan luxury, it is so beautiful that you will not need any photo editing apps to enhance your pictures.
You can visit Waikiki Beach, Kailua Beach, and Lanikai Beach with your kids to have fun building sandcastles. If you are interested in history, you can explore the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific and the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. You can also plan hiking with your kids on the Koko Crater Trail and Diamond Head State Monument in this finest family vacation spot in the US.
Best time to visit: Mid-April to June, September to mid-December.
Tips to save money: Book your hotel away from the beach. Instead of taking a taxi, use airport shuttle services. Visit after fall or during spring to save on rooms. Avoid using your phone, video game, or tablet in a crosswalk to escape from getting fined.
Must try: Shave ice, poke, kalua pork, loco moco, kalbi, and beef teriyaki.
10. Anaheim-Disneyland
Anaheim is another best places to visit in the US. It has several magical attractions for families and kids as it is the home to Disneyland resort. Your family will have great fun in this fun-filled family vacation spot in the US. After introducing your kids to Mickey and friends, take them to Knott’s Berry Farm theme park or Anaheim’s Adventure City for further enjoyment.
Yorga Regional Park is an absolutely picturesque spot. If you want to take a break from the hustle of the city, rent a car and go towards the coastline of Laguna Beach, Long Beach, and Huntington Beach.
Best time to visit: March to May, September to October.
Tips to save money: Utilize Disney transport if only visiting the adventurous Resort. You can save a lot if you opt for the City Pass to visit other attractions. Plan your travel during off-seasons to experience fewer crowds and lower lodging prices in this family-friendly destination.
Must try: Mediterranean food and Creole.
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11. Outer Banks
Outer Banks, the chain of barrier islands on North Carolina’s coast is one of the best places for family vacations on a budget. You can do windsurfing, fishing, adventurous activities, and wildlife watching with your kids. You can explore miles and miles of beaches with your family. Don’t skip climbing the tallest sand dune Jockey’s Ridge State Park and Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Also known as ‘the graveyard of the Atlantic, the Outer Banks is famous for scuba diving and snorkeling. There is no nightlife but this place doesn’t fall short in natural gorgeousness, making it one of the finest family vacation spots in the US.
Best time to visit: March to May, September, and November.
Tips to save money: Hotel prices shoot up during summers so plan off-season trips. Consider booking rental cottages or camping spots.
Must try: Fresh seafood.
12. Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is a rocky town sited in Eastern Tennessee that is truly designed for family vacations. This place is one of the ideal family vacation spots in the US where kids of every age can have their best time. Once you are done exploring Great Smoky Mountain National Park, take the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway ride to reach the Great Smoky Mountain amusement park. Take your kids to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies to witness the marine life and experience a great visual treat.
The Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community is quite famous among kids. It is a chain of shops spread over the 8-mile road where you can see artists making hand-blown glass, pottery, jewelry, paintings, and much more. You can do horseback riding, hiking, and biking on miles of trails where you can spot deer, bears, elk, and other wildlife.
Best time to visit: June to August, September to October.
Tips to save money: Explore the local city on foot, and if tired take the cheap trolley. Visit in March, April, and September to save on your stay. Purchase tickets online as the rates are low priced.
Must try: Pizza, Buffets, and Barbeque.
13. Maui
Maui is one of the best places for Hawaii vacationers. This Hawaiian island offers the right balance of interesting culture and history and remarkable wildlife. From golfing along the coastline fairways and sailing to the zip line to snorkeling with five sorts of turtles and relaxing on notable beaches, there are a whole lot of things you can do at Maui; which makes it one of the best family vacation spots in the US.
This place offers plentiful things for children of all ages. You can check out the world’s largest dormant volcano and take your kids for a hike in Lao Lahaina Luau. You will get abundant options in boating and snorkeling. Don’t miss exploring Lao Valley State Park to check out the former tribal battlegrounds.
Best time to visit: April, May, September to November.
Tips to save money: Consider taking the bus to save on rental fees. You can save a lot on your hotel charges by not taking a beach-view room.
Must try: Fresh seafood.
14. Boston
Boston played a major part in America’s history and is counted as one of the perfect family vacation spots in the US. It is home to some significant historical sites. Children would enjoy exploring the Boston Common and the Freedom Trail. The Boston Children’s Museum and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum are very popular among children. You can also go on walking around MIIT and Harvard University’s striking campuses to complete your Beantown trip.
A trip to Boston will give you a contemporary and classic blend of memories. It is just like having your favorite summer Starbucks drink sitting right next to a historical site. This city is home to the US’s first free municipal public library, the first public park, the first subway system, and the first public school. You will need a good amount of days to completely explore the wealthy offerings of this finest family vacation spot in the US.
Best time to visit: June to October.
Tips to save money: Plan your trip during winter to save on hotel rates which usually skyrocket in summer. Visit museums on Wednesday to pay less for entrée tickets or plan something after 3 p.m. Consider purchasing a Go Boston Card or Boston CityPASS to save money on top attractions.
Must try: Fresh seafood, baked beans, and ‘chowdah.
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15. Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is one of the best islands to visit in the United States. This place attracts several families who like beach vacations. Kids love collecting unique shells on Bowman’s Beach which is renowned for its copious seashells. This beach receives young travelers in abundance. This place is kid-friendly which makes it one of the best family vacation spots in the US.
Captiva island also has a fascinating shoreline which is ideal for long walks and relaxation. You can watch alligators and turtles in J.N. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge. Also, a sunrise tour in Haleakala, a day safari from the Naples area, and Manatee & dolphin adventure in Fort Myers will make your whole trip unforgettable.
Best time to visit: December to April, May, and early June.
Tips to save money: All beaches in Sanibel have chargeable parking, either go walking or take a bike there. Plan your trip between October to November to save on hotel prices. You can rent a bike to check around the island.
Must try: Shrimp, stone crab, and snapper.
16. Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole is the right destination for families who are looking to get away from the noisy cities and take the whole clan off the grid. This place witnesses an increasing number of travelers in the peak periods because it is a great family vacation spot in the US. You will find many ski resorts and art & performance venues here. We can say that this is a winter wonderland. The vast beauty of Jackson Hole also magnetizes many politicians and celebrities as well.
You will find national forests in all directions in this great family vacation spot in the US. Families can select any of the three mountains for fun skiing according to their skill level. If you are interested in trekking with your family, hit this place during summer and trek the Grand Teton National Park’s trail.
Best time to visit: April, May, September, and October.
Tips to save money: Summer and winter are peak seasons, so planning a trip in the month of May or October can save a lot. Consider booking lift tickets online in advance. Instead of staying in a hotel, book a vacation home.
Must try: Buffadilla, pig candy, dumplings.
17. Bar Harbor
If you are traveling to Bar Harbor, don’t miss visiting Acadia National Park. Because there are abundant kid-friendly activities like bicycling, swimming, tide-pooling, stargazing, and hiking. Not only does this park host enjoyable activities but also pocket friendly which makes it an ideal family vacation spot in the US. Once you are done checking out the outdoors, take a kayak or boat to spect Maine’s rich aquatic life.
If you are planning a summer trip, take your family to Mount Desert Island Ice Cream to taste exceptional flavors. Bar Harbor, Maine coastline looks like a scenery painting. You can observe the seawater swaying or take a long walk to end your day on a relaxing note.
Best time to visit: June to august.
Tips to save money: You can score huge discounts in winter as lodging prices go steep during summer. Take the free shuttle bus to popular vacation spots. Consider booking tickets for kayaks or paddleboards beforehand to save money on expensive boat tours.
Must try: Local lobster rolls and craft brews.
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18. Hershey
Hershey got its name from a chocolate company founder Milton Hershey. The sweetest place on the earth, Hershey’s is considered one of the best family vacation spots in the US. The Hersheypark here offers a wide range of kids’ activities, a zoo, a water park, fun family rides, and innumerable candy references.
You can visit the themed garden, the rose garden, and the Butterfly Atrium at Hersheypark with your family. You will find Hershey Story Museum indoors which tells everything about the company’s history. If you want your kids to have more fun then take them for trolley rides that pass famous sites and areas in the place.
Best time to visit: May and June.
Tips to save money: Purchase tickets online to save money and time. Buy parking vouchers beforehand to save around 20%. Take smaller bags. Ticket prices are higher during summers, consider planning your visit in off-peak seasons. Plus, make the most of your one-day valid ticket.
Must try: Candymonium ice cream, mini donuts, rolled pretzels, chicken bucket, and sauce
19. Myrtle Beach
Pristine and clean beaches are the main element that attracts various families to Myrtle Beach. There are many more things that this place offers to its visitors. Amusements parks in Myrtle Beach are the popular family vacationing destinations here. From rollercoasters and water slides to racing tracks, it provides many fun-filled activities. You can take your family shopping in malls or test your golfing skill on more than 100 golf courses.
Enjoy having a great dinner date with your family while enjoying medieval or pirate-inspired shows in this best family beach vacation. Places like the Broadway Grand Pix and Ripleys Aquarium are enough to entertain individuals of all ages. If you love sports, you can enjoy minor-league baseball. All and all Myrtle Beach is one of the best family vacation spots in the US that falls under everyone’s budget.
Best time to visit: June to August.
Tips to save money: Hotel prices skyrockets in the peak seasons, so consider booking a vacation rental. Visit Myrtle’s website to avail of coupons on all top attractions. Plan your trip in winter or fall to save on room fares.
Must try: Roasted oyster, creek shrimps, and fish stew.
20. Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe offers countless skiing options with picturesque views while zipping down the hill. This finest family vacation spot in the US delivers all the fun-filled outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, or sunbathing with top-notch sights. If you want to go swimming in the lake, plan your trip during summer. You can enjoy taking walk on 70 miles of shoreline.
You will find many dining options on the northern shore of the lake. You can go for hot air balloon rides or mountain gondola adventures to make your trip even more remarkable.
Best time to visit: March to May, September to November.
Tips to save money: Book your accommodation in South Lake Tahoe as the rates are quite reasonable on this side. Check for lift ticket discounts while booking your resort. Plan your family vacation in March or April to save huge bucks.
Must try: Potato pancakes and eggs benedict.
Endnote
Family vacations are always fun. The travel experience becomes even more delightful when you choose the right destination that caters to every member’s idea of fun.
For you, the best family vacation spots in the US should be based on your liking. Some like visiting the big city, some want to explore the outdoors, some want to check out the beauty of mountain escapes, and some like the tranquillity of beaches. Narrow down your list on the basis of these factors, then move ahead with your plan.
Each state of the country is packed with natural exquisiteness and pleasing activities that will contribute to making your family trip unforgettable. Pick any to have the best family time ever!
