15 Beautiful Destinations in The U.S. That are Perfect for a Family Vacation

Although the U.S. is lined with stunning destinations, not all of them are family-friendly. This makes it challenging for tourist families to enjoy trips because they’re usually too worried about their family getting bored or too young to realize the beauty. However, we’ve compiled some travel destinations that aren’t just beautiful but are surprisingly family-friendly.

Lake Champlain, Vermont

Lake Champlain’s stunning landscape is stranger to nobody, but it usually attracts couples and thrill-seekers because of its boating and kayaking activities. However, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to see its family-friendly bike paths, beginner’s fishing areas, and all-inclusive ferry rides. That’s not all; Lake Champlain lies close to Burlington, home to excellent museums and educational destinations.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park is renowned for its hot geysers like Old Faithful and thundering animal migrations, so it usually attracts naturalists and animal lovers. However, the park provides endless opportunities for exploration; its visitor centers make for a fun, educational trip, and you can take countless scenic drives. Yellowstone National Park also has interactive ranger programs for those interested in learning more about the park.

Washington, D.C.

You might be surprised to see this on the list, but Washington is more than just home to the iconic namesake monument and the Lincoln Memorial. The city’s streets are lined with family-friendly destinations like the National Air and Space Museum, a great spot for people of all ages. The National Zoo is yet another great destination where giant pandas keep everyone on their toes.

Austin, Texas

Austin’s vibrant outdoor culture attracts tourists from all over the world, and its charm doesn’t end here; it’s a great destination for family-friendly tourism. Visit the Thinkery, an interactive children’s museum, or explore Zilker Park’s diverse activities. You can even take a relaxing boat ride on Lady Bird Lake or stop at one of countless outdoor cafes for a light snack.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Outer Banks’ mix of beaches, outdoor activities, and rich culture makes it one of the best places to visit with your family. You can visit the iconic Wright Brothers National Memorial or skip the history lesson altogether and visit its many sandy beaches to swim, make sand castles, and even fly kites. You can even book a dolphin-watching tour.

Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

We’re all well aware of the charm of the Smokies, but these mountains are a pleasantly surprising family-friendly destination. Families can hike up to family-friendly destinations like Laurel Falls or embark on a scenic bike ride. Near the foothills, you’ll find multiple educational and entertainment centers, including Dollywood, an exciting amusement park. The stunning vistas are worth the simple hikes, too.

Boston, Massachusetts

While some tourists might think Boston is a bit too formal for youngsters, it’s home to some of the most amazing family-friendly destinations. Boston offers countless hiking trails, but if you’d rather skip a meeting with Mother Nature, explore the city’s countless destinations, like the Children’s Museum, New England Aquarium, and Fenway Park. You can even hitch a Swan boat ride in Boston Common.

Hershey, Pennsylvania

If there’s one destination that screams family-friendly, it’s Hershey. If you haven’t guessed it already, Hershey is home to Hershey’s Chocolate World, an exciting trip featuring interactive exhibits for people of all ages. Hersheypark is another fantastic destination where water attractions and shows keep you on your feet all day. You can also explore the town’s charming streets and enjoy its light street food with every step.

Seattle, Washington

Take a ferry ride across Puget Sound and then head to the Space Needle to take panoramic views of the city. Seattle is also home to the Woodland Park Zoo and the Seattle Aquarium, a popular destination for touring families with little kids. While you’ll find many destinations like Discovery Park too, you’re more than welcome to take a simple stroll along Pike Place Market.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona’s bright red rock formations are its pride, so it’s mostly tourists seeking an adventurous hike and exploration trip that head there. But don’t underestimate this Arizonian destination; Sedona has countless family-friendly trails, and you can even enjoy a jeep tour through the desert. If you aren’t up for a day of thrills, you can head to Oak Creek Canyon and spend the day swimming and picnicking.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is increasingly becoming a popular tourist destination, so you’ll be delighted to know it boasts several family-friendly destinations. The Grand Teton National Park is always a great place to take a family-friendly trip to explore Mother Nature, but if you’re not up for the hikes, you can stick to Jackson Hole’s Town Square and spend the whole day shopping and dining. Horseback riding and rafting trips are also popular activities you can enjoy.

San Diego, California

San Diego has so much to offer for families, making it a perfect place for everyone to enjoy. Start with a visit to the famous San Diego Zoo, where you’ll find animals from all around the world. Balboa Park is another great spot, with beautiful gardens and interesting museums to explore. And, of course, you can’t go wrong with a day at the beach—swimming, surfing, or just relaxing by the water.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park is a gem for families who love nature and want an easy, scenic adventure. Take a peaceful walk along Jordan Pond or drive up to the top of Cadillac Mountain for breathtaking views—perfect for snapping some family photos! The park also offers ranger programs where kids can learn about the local plants and animals. After a day of exploring, head over to Bar Harbor for some tasty local food and a relaxing walk along the waterfront.

Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai, also known as the “Garden Isle,” is perfect for families who love nature and outdoor fun. You can take a relaxing boat ride along the stunning Na Pali Coast or walk easy trails like the Kalalau Trail to enjoy amazing views. Poipu Beach is great for swimming, snorkeling, and spotting sea turtles. Don’t forget to visit Kilohana Plantation, where a fun train ride takes you through beautiful, green landscapes.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

There’s a lot to explore in Minneapolis, but begin hiking up to Minnehaha Falls, a destination bound to blow your mind. Minneapolis is home to a network of lakes and hikes, but we recommend taking a family-friendly bike tour to explore the city’s beauty. You can also visit the Science Museum of Minnesota and the Minnesota Zoo, a guaranteed kid favorite.

More For You

If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination full of adventure, Banff National Park in Canada is perfect, especially in the winter. Experience the beautiful landscapes, try snowshoeing or skiing, and end your day with a cozy hot chocolate.

This article was first published on RB ITALIA Blog.