As a parent, we can understand how much has been on your plate. Ensuring your child blooms at school, keeping up with their homework and assignments, and discussing areas they may need extra help with the teachers. It has been one hectic year, especially for highly involved parents. And now that summer has arrived, we know that your family truly deserves a fun break.
Whether you are planning something grand or keeping things simple, we have put together a list of kid-friendly travel ideas to spark inspiration and help take some of the stress off your shoulders. These are not just destination ideas. They are the kind of experiences that help you create lasting family memories.
So grab your snacks, maybe a coloring book or two, and let us dive into eight fun travel ideas for families this summer.
- 1. Road Trip Through America’s National Parks
- 2. Beach Getaway for Some Sun and Sand
- 3. Staycation With a Fun Twist
- 4. Discover a Charming Small Town
- 5. Camping or Glamping in the Great Outdoors
- 6. Take a Family-Friendly Cruise
- 7. Visit a Milder Theme Park
- The Summer Holiday Your Family Deserves
1. Road Trip Through America’s National Parks
There is something special about the open road, especially when it leads to incredible natural wonders. The United States has hundreds of national park sites, and many of them are perfect for families with kids. Perhaps even renting out an RV (recreational vehicle) and, as a family, planning out the pit stops to go to might be the best family vacation you have.
Why it works for families:
National parks like Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Great Smoky Mountains offer junior ranger programs, family-friendly hiking trails, and plenty of spots for picnics and photo ops. It’s also a great way to mix fun with a bit of learning about wildlife and geology. Even better, involving your child in planning the trip can help them practice research skills and learn how to present their ideas to convince the family why their chosen stop is worth it.
Visiting a national park can also be an opportunity to learn about the land’s original stewards. For example, if you’re exploring Acadia National Park in Maine, consider a stop at the Abbe Museum in nearby Bar Harbor, where kids can discover the stories and traditions of the Wabanaki Nations. It’s a great way to blend nature, history, and cultural appreciation all in one trip.
Fun idea During Road Trips:
Give your kids a list of nature items to look out for, such as a waterfall, a moose, or a pinecone. This will turn it into a game and watch them get excited about each find.
Want to go further?
Consider exploring nature in other parts of the world. Canada’s Banff National Park offers turquoise lakes and glacier-capped peaks. Or head to New Zealand for lush hikes and Maori cultural experiences. Seeing how other countries care for their natural spaces can be just as eye-opening as the views themselves.
2. Beach Getaway for Some Sun and Sand
Sometimes the best vacations are the simplest. A trip to the beach gives kids room to explore, run, build, and swim, all in one place. There are so many activities your family can enjoy together, from classic sandcastle building to exciting water sports like jet skiing or kayaking. Paddleboarding and parasailing offer a bit more adventure, while the ever-popular banana boat ride (yes, it really looks like a giant banana) is sure to get everyone laughing.
Why it works for families:
Whether you head to the Gulf Coast, the Outer Banks, Hawaii, or somewhere along the California coast, a beach trip can be easily tailored to your family’s pace. You can also just relax under an umbrella while the kids dig for shells or take turns chasing waves together.
Thinking outside the USA?
There are so many amazing family beach destinations around the world that offer not just sun and sand, but also new cultures and experiences.
In Spain, the beaches along Costa Brava or Costa del Sol are perfect for families, with calm waters, tasty local cuisine, and charming towns to explore. Greece offers island gems like Naxos and Crete, where mythology, crystal-clear coves, and warm hospitality come together beautifully.
If your family is craving turquoise waters and marine life, the Maldives and Fiji are great for snorkeling and laid-back island adventures. Boracay in the Philippines and Bali in Indonesia both offer stunning beaches, fun outdoor activities, and a wonderful blend of nature and local culture.
Prefer a spot a bit closer to home? Mexico’s Riviera Maya, the beaches of Costa Rica, and the Algarve coast of Portugal are all top picks for family travelers. You’ll find great weather, welcoming locals, and just enough adventure to keep kids engaged without overloading the itinerary.
No matter where you go, beach trips give families the chance to unwind, splash around, and enjoy the simple pleasures like sandy toes, sunset strolls, and ice cream with a view.
Parent tip:
Pack a few extra toys like small trucks or kitchen tools. Kids will love using them to build the ultimate sandcastle. Also, don’t forget the sunscreen and perhaps some aloe vera gel, just in case. But most importantly, make sure you are all drinking a lot of water. Or maybe even a coconut. Trust us, it is definitely refreshing.
3. Staycation With a Fun Twist
Traveling far might not fit into your plans right now, and that is completely fine. We all love a staycation, to be honest, and a staycation done right can feel just as special as a trip out of town.
Ideas to try:
Spend a night at a local hotel with a pool and order room service for extra fun. Plan themed days at home, such as “Backyard Camping” with tents and s’mores, or “World Travel Day” with food and music from different countries. Even a visit to a nearby attraction you have never explored before can feel fresh and exciting. You will all be tourists in your own city and will probably find new places you had never heard of before.
Set aside a quiet afternoon for a family summer reading day. Let everyone pick a book, curl up in a cozy corner, and then chat about their stories over dinner or dessert. It’s a relaxing way to unwind, get kids excited about reading, and have great conversations without any screens involved.
Why it works:
Kids love novelty and a break from routine. Turning your home or neighborhood into a vacation spot keeps things low-stress and high-fun. And if you have a family pet, you don’t have to worry about who will be taking care of them, as you can easily pop back home to feed them. (Yes, this does sound like an actual experience because this author has done this before during a staycation only 20 minutes from home, and we still loved the trip.)
4. Discover a Charming Small Town
Some of the best family memories come from discovering new places that are full of charm and character. The United States is filled with small towns that are perfect for families.
Family favorites include:
Leavenworth in Washington, which feels like a storybook Bavarian village. Solvang in California, with its Danish pastries and windmills. Holland in Michigan, where you can find tulip fields and Dutch-inspired buildings. Or Helen in Georgia, a mountain town with alpine flair.
If you’re looking for something with deeper cultural roots, a few small towns across the U.S. honor Native American heritage in meaningful ways. Cherokee in North Carolina offers an immersive experience with its Museum of the Cherokee People, historic village, and outdoor performances. Taos in New Mexico is home to Taos Pueblo, a living Native community and UNESCO World Heritage Site that welcomes visitors year-round. And in Gallup, New Mexico, often called the “Indian Capital of the World,” families can explore vibrant art markets, attend Native festivals, and learn from nearby Navajo and Zuni communities.
Why it works:
These towns often offer walkable streets, fun shops, and family-friendly festivals or events. There is always something to explore and plenty of opportunities for cute family photos.
Want a true cultural shift?
Try visiting a real European town for a storybook experience. Places like Colmar in France, Hallstatt in Austria, or Bruges in Belgium feel like fairytales come to life. Even just a few days abroad can give your family a meaningful cultural connection.
5. Camping or Glamping in the Great Outdoors
There is no better way to disconnect from screens and reconnect as a family than spending time in nature. Whether you are a seasoned camper or just trying it out for the first time, the outdoors offers endless opportunities to explore, bond, and unwind.
Want to keep it classic?
Here are a few great family camping spots around the U.S.:
- Acadia National Park, Maine – Coastal views meet forest trails, with kid-friendly hikes and bike rides along the historic carriage roads.
→ While you’re there, visit the Abbe Museum in nearby Bar Harbor to learn about the Wabanaki Nations.
- Custer State Park, South Dakota – Great for spotting bison, kayaking, and enjoying peaceful lakeside campgrounds.
- Shenandoah National Park, Virginia – Just a few hours from D.C., it offers peaceful trails, scenic drives, and good beginner camping spots.
- Neah Bay, Washington – Stunning coastlines and access to the Cape Flattery Trail, the northwesternmost point in the continental U.S.
→ Add a visit to the Makah Museum to explore the history and traditions of the Makah Tribe, who have lived in the region for thousands of years.
Prefer something a little more cozy?
Glamping lets you enjoy the outdoors without giving up comfort. Some fun glamping options include:
- Getaway House (tiny cabins near major cities like Atlanta, Boston, Los Angeles) – Great for a quick weekend unplug.
- Treehouse stays in Georgia or Washington – A magical option for younger kids who want to sleep up in the trees.
- KOA Campgrounds across the U.S. – Many offer cabins, pools, and playgrounds, making them a perfect intro to outdoor living.
- Under Canvas Zion or Moab, Utah – Luxurious safari tents near sacred landscapes traditionally inhabited by Navajo and Pueblo peoples. Some local tours include Indigenous storytelling or cultural experiences.
Why it works for families:
From roasting marshmallows to spotting constellations, the outdoors provides simple joys. Plus, without distractions, there’s more time for real conversations, goofy games, and making memories that do not require Wi-Fi.
Parent tip:
Let the kids take turns being the “camp leader” for a day. They can help plan meals, set up the site, or choose the hike. It gives them a sense of ownership and makes the whole experience more engaging.
6. Take a Family-Friendly Cruise
Yes, cruises can absolutely work with kids. Some are even designed specifically with families in mind. Cruises are an easy way to explore different places while only unpacking once.
Why it works for families:
Many cruise lines offer kids’ clubs, live shows, pools, and activities designed for all ages. Whether you are heading to Alaska, the Bahamas, or just exploring the coast, everything you need is on board.
Parent tip:
Choose a cruise with flexible meal times and kid-friendly entertainment. It keeps everyone happy without needing to plan every hour of the day.
7. Visit a Milder Theme Park
We all know the famous parks in Florida and California, but sometimes smaller or lesser-known amusement parks are just as enjoyable with fewer crowds.
Parks to consider:
Hersheypark in Pennsylvania has rides for every age and, of course, lots of chocolate-themed fun. Legoland in California or Florida is perfect for younger kids who are obsessed with bricks. Or explore Silver Dollar City in Missouri, which combines rides with crafts and shows.
Why it works:
These parks are often easier to navigate, with more manageable wait times and prices. They are still packed with thrills but come with a lot less pressure.
Feeling adventurous?
You can also check out theme parks abroad, such as Tivoli Gardens in Denmark, known for its historic charm and old-world beauty, or Puy du Fou in France, which brings history to life through theatrical shows. These parks offer a mix of fun and cultural storytelling.
The Summer Holiday Your Family Deserves
No matter where you go or how far you travel, the goal is simple. Time together. Whether you are enjoying waves at the beach, counting stars at a campsite, or laughing at wrong turns on a road trip, these are the moments that stick.
Plans might not always go perfectly, and that is okay. Sometimes the best family memories come from the unexpected. A funny mishap, a silly song on the radio, or an ice cream cone eaten in the rain.
So here is to a summer break full of joy, adventure, and togetherness. You have earned it.
Safe travels and happy exploring!
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