The following list of top 10 family vacations features a little something for children of all ages, as well as something for the adults. I have gone on vacations that simply did nothing for me personally but delighted the children to no end, and others where I was entertained and even pampered but felt the children weren't as excited about the destination.
Overall, I have learned that the best family vacations are those where everyone finds something to enjoy and treasure.
#1: Orlando, Florida
If you already knew that Mickey's home would find its way to this list, you have probably read many other top 10 family vacations lists before. Yet, I am mentioning Orlando here because it has so much more to offer besides Sea World and
Disney World.
This city also features fun beaches and opportunities to sail, kayak, or even swim with the dolphins. It is also home to some really great golf courses and some exceptional restaurants for fine dining.
#2: Vegas, Baby!
It might seem strange that I am putting Las Vegas on a list of the top 10 family vacations, but here me out here! There is much more to Vegas than the things that must "stay in Vegas." There are some great hotels which cater to families with amenities like huge arcade rooms, fast food restaurants, and indoor kiddie pools. There are also some amazing sights outdoors, such as magic shows, a huge light show, and even a tunnel aquarium where you walk beneath the waters watching sharks get fed by hand.
#3: Yellowstone National Park
A national park that is definitely on the list of top 10 family vacations, Yellowstone offers two things that are really beneficial for every member of the family: fresh air and beautiful views. From white water rafting to hiking or just picnicking in some of the most spectacular parks, there is nothing like the refreshing clean air of this huge national park. Some of the views will make you want to snap pictures for days.
#4: The Capital City
Washington, DC is a great family vacation if you have older children capable of getting out and hiking around the city. There is nothing like a little education while vacationing with the family, so why not eat lunch on the front steps of the White House and browse through the Holocaust Museum and hundreds of other historical destinations?
#5: The Jersey Shore
Yes, the Jersey shore is a great family vacation destination because of the beautiful beaches, but did you know that it also contains a multitude of roller coasters? There are also ample boardwalks for walking, browsing, and unique shopping adventures. I speak from experience here….I spent many summer vacations on the boardwalk of the Jersey shore and loved it.
#6: Aspen, Colorado
Do you like to ski? What about the newer sport of snow biking? Aspen is home to some of the most thrilling and adventurous ski slopes in the country, but it also features a variety of family ski resorts with child care, ski lessons, ice skating ponds, and even indoor play lands. Find a good resort and every member of the family can be entertained, whether they enjoy the wet white stuff or not. Find a list of other great ski resorts here…
#7: The Mall of America
What family could pass up a wild theme park, roller coaster, aquarium, and golf course all under one roof? Add in hundreds of stores for shopping adventures and you have the recipe for one of the best family vacations in the world.
#8: Branson, Missouri
Branson makes the list for top 10 family vacations for many reasons. It’s great for a family with a mixed bag of interests because it offers plenty opportunity to get out and hike through the hills as well as opportunities to scream on a roller coaster, spend a leisurely afternoon fishing, or dress it up and head out for a theatrical evening. There is a bit of everything in this one tidy city.
#9: Big Island, Maine
Maine is the best location if you enjoy whitewater rafting or just camping out in some of the most beautiful terrains. Some of the waterways may be more dangerous so it's a good idea to hire a rafting company if you aren't experienced in this type of fun.
#10: The Random Pick
This is a bit of a wild card for your typical top 10 family vacations, but it's an idea that may create the best family vacation in your history.
Simply allow your children to pick a spot on the map (realistically close for the duration of your trip) and plan a road trip there and back. It can be quite fun for children to research and explore each state and/or city along the way and decide together where the trip will lead you.
