Planning a vacation is hectic enough and when you factor in finding a destination that is both relaxing and family-friendly, it can feel like an even more stressful endeavor. However, when you are familiar with the many fabulous, family-friendly cities throughout the United States, it makes planning your family vacation so much simpler. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the best destinations in the US for a family vacation.
Washington, D.C.
The country’s capital is a delight to visit for all people, regardless of age. In addition to visiting all of the historical landmarks including The White House, The Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and The United States Capitol, there is a smorgasbord of interactive museums that are perfect for kids. Start off at the famous Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum before walking over to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. After hitting up all three, take a tour of the International Spy Museum. Once the whole family has built up an appetite after a long day of exploring the city, dine out at one of the many family-friendly restaurants in Washington, D.C. including the Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Bolt Burgers, and the ever-familiar Hard Rock Cafe.
New York City, New York
Cliché though it may seem, there really is no city in the world quite like New York City. And although it may be best to save a trip to the Big Apple for when the kids are a little older, it’s a trip well worth making. The city is chock-full of incredible, world-famous eateries, show-stopping Broadway performances, and unbelievable landmarks and structures throughout Manhattan. Make sure to spend some time strolling Central Park, snapping selfies in Time Square (at night is best), catching a Broadway show, getting sung to at Ellen’s Stardust Diner as you eat a hamburger, riding the Staten Island Ferry (for free) around the Statue of Liberty, and going to the top of the Empire State Building. The great thing about New York is that, although known for being expensive, there are many great things to do for free (or cheap)! Hit up a 99 cent pizza shop for a mid-afternoon snack, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, or marvel at the architectural beauty of Grand Central Terminal.
Boston, Massachusetts
Like Washington, D.C., Boston is absolutely steeped in rich American History, thereby offering a plethora of amazing places to visit throughout the city. For anyone overwhelmed by the idea of taking children to New York City for the first time, Boston is an ideal alternative. After all, it’s often considered the cleaner, smaller version of New York. An absolute must for anyone visiting Boston is The Freedom Trail, which will take you and the family through 2.5 miles of historical landmarks including the Massachusetts State House, the Paul Revere House, and the USS Constitution. Naturally, a vacation filled solely with educational and historical activities isn’t the most fun for kids, so balance it out with a trip to Fenway Park to see the Boston Red Sox compete against the visiting baseball team. Other fun things Boston has to offer families include the New England Aquarium, the Museum of Science, and the Boston Children’s Museum.
Disney World, Orlando, Florida
Disney World is arguably the most family-friendly place in the country since it’s designed specifically for families and kids. In addition to all the Disney parks and activities including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and Disney Hollywood Studios, you can spend the day at SeaWorld and Discovery Cove. If you’re able to travel a bit, there are many stunning beaches about 90 miles outside of Orlando. Some beaches worth mentioning include Cocoa Beach, Augustine Beach, and Clearwater.
Ocean City, Maryland
Nothing says “breezy, laid-back summer vacation” like a trip to the beach, and Ocean City, Maryland, just so happens to have the perfect beach for families. Complete with a bustling boardwalk, Ocean City has something for everyone, including those who would prefer lazing around on the sandy beachfront and those who would like to get up to all the activities on dry land. Spend the day sitting in the sun and splashing in the salty ocean water before drying off to gorge on cotton candy from the boardwalk, buy touristy T-shirts and other souvenirs, enjoy views from atop the Ferris wheel, and ride the rides at Jolly Roger Amusement Park. There are also plenty of family-friendly restaurants around Ocean City including establishments with good old-fashioned American fare like burgers and fries and oceanside shacks with fresh seafood.
Ready to start planning your family vacation? Buy your bus tickets today!
