17 Overrated Destinations That Aren’t Ideal for Family Trips with Kids

Many locations around the US and worldwide are perfect for a family-friendly vacation. Sometimes, however, we can make the wrong choice when choosing a destination for various reasons. Some cities may have safety issues, while others can be too crowded or too much for younger travelers. Picking the wrong place can make a vacation more stressful than fun. Here are some popular places you might want to skip for your next family trip.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

This charming Dutch city attracts millions of visitors annually with its picturesque canals, unique architecture, and liberal attitudes toward certain vices. It is trendy among mature travelers, with numerous coffee shops throughout the city offering cannabis for sale. Additionally, it’s important to note that the famous Red Light District is unsuitable for children.

New York City

Although people love bringing their kids into the city around Christmas or for the Natural History Museum, there are plenty of better cities to bring kids. Times Square can only be fun for so long, and the holiday markets get so congested that simply moving around is challenging. Not to mention, New York City is extremely expensive.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Capri are famous for their luxurious and romantic atmosphere. However, they are not ideal for a family vacation, as they have nothing for kids to do. Children will tire of ascending hillside alleyways and find no excitement in high-end brands or boutiques.

New Orleans, Louisiana

While it is wonderfully historic, New Orleans has a reputation as a party city. Visitors can enjoy drinks in most areas due to lax open container laws, and neighborhoods like the French Quarter are known for debauchery. Mardi Gras is a great time for adults but an overstimulating, inappropriate nightmare for children. We all know how people get those beads, after all.

Los Angeles, California

LA has built up a reputation in recent years as unsafe in many neighborhoods. Even streets like Hollywood Boulevard and Rodeo Drive are not the lavish attractions they once were. You must travel by car to get anyone, and your kids will likely grow impatient while waiting in the notorious city traffic.

Miami, Florida

There are plenty of fantastic destinations in Florida for a memorable family vacation, but Miami may not be the best option. Miami is known for its violent incidents and noisy crowds, particularly during Spring Break. The city’s attractions may not appeal to children, as many of the activities, such as shopping and clubbing, are geared toward adults.

Paris, France

Paris is much better for teens to visit, as younger children might not appreciate it. The Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Arc de Triumph can only hold a kid’s attention up to a certain point. They probably do not care about the city’s famous art, history, and culture—at least not yet.

Las Vegas, Nevada

A town named “Sin City” is not a good fit for kids. The casinos, upscale restaurants, and live shows are generally unwelcoming to young children as they cater to those 21 and up. There might be some attractions directed at youngsters along the Strip, but with so many intoxicated tourists and rowdy crowds, it’s better to do Las Vegas with friends than family.

Dubai, UAE

There is essentially nothing for a kid to do in Dubai. Not only is a visit to Dubai pricey, but there is not much of an outdoor experience. The desert reaches temperatures over 110 degrees F, so most visitors shop in luxury malls or get spa treatments. Even the beaches are more directed towards adults.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is an amazing city full of history and culture, but its crowded streets and bustling markets can be a bit much for families with kids. The sheer size of the city and the constant hustle and bustle can feel overwhelming. For a more relaxing experience, families might prefer the quieter coastal areas of Turkey, where they can enjoy beautiful beaches and a slower pace.

Aspen, Colorado

For a fun family ski trip, skip over Aspen as an option. The upscale resort town has brand-name stores like Gucci and Prada and five-star hotels. That said, Aspen does not necessarily bring in the most child-friendly crowd. There are plenty of other options in Colorado to bring the family.

Iceland

This Scandinavian island is known for its gorgeous waterfalls, enigmatic glaciers, and active volcanoes. The best way to see the country is to rent a car and go on an adventure. However, this is not something to do with children and won’t be the most suitable vacation for kids. Hiking, climbing, and hot spring soaks will leave most children dissatisfied and desperate for fun.

Rio De Janiero, Brazil

While some areas are safe for tourism, petty crime is a big issue in Rio. The city is chaotic and lively, which might not make it the best option for younger crowds. Family-friendly beaches are few and far between despite Brazil’s family-oriented nature. Like Mardi Gras, Carnival should be bypassed with kids.

Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza is renowned for its club scene and party atmosphere, particularly during the summer months. This can be overwhelming and inappropriate for young travelers. The island offers quieter villages and family-friendly beaches, which are better choices for those with children. But, the party culture in many parts of the island during peak season can make it challenging for families seeking a peaceful getaway.

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok’s vibrant nightlife and bustling streets can present a challenging environment for families with children. The nightlife districts, such as Patpong and areas around Khao San Road, are particularly known for their adult-oriented entertainment and may not be appropriate for younger visitors. Additionally, the heavy traffic congestion and high levels of pollution in the city can make it less ideal for those traveling with kids.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is always considered a tropical paradise, but the reality can be a bit different with all the tourists flocking there. The beaches can get pretty crowded, traffic is often a nightmare, and everything tends to be more expensive than you’d expect. If you’re after a more relaxing and authentic beach experience in Indonesia, you might want to check out places like Lombok or the Gili Islands, where the pace is slower and the crowds are less.

Athens, Greece

The city’s historical sites are indeed fascinating, but they might not hold kids’ attention for long. The summer heat can be brutal, making sightseeing uncomfortable for the little ones. Plus, all the uneven terrain and steps at ancient sites are a nightmare for strollers and tiny legs. While history is amazing for adults, kids might just find it boring and exhausting.

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This article was first published at Rbitaliablog.