The 5 Best Family Vacations in the US

Do you remember the last you and your loved ones took a family vacation?

If we have to pick one thing a family vacation is excellent for, it’s creating memories that’ll last a lifetime. Occasionally, you don’t have to go too far away from home to find the best family vacation options.

From sea to shining sea, our great nation is packed with unique places to see and things to do. Many of them are outstanding for some family getaways.

Whether your objective is a relaxing family beach vacation, an exhilarating outdoor adventure in the Midwest, or a theme park escape with thrill rides for kids and adults, you’ll find some of the world’s best family vacation hot spots right in the US.

Finding attractions and activities to keep every family member happy is the key to your dream trip. Luckily, we found some of the best family vacation spots in the US. Continue reading to see them all!

Yellowstone, WY

If your family is all about going on adventures and loves to be on the move, then Yellowstone National Park is your best bet to being a fun family getaway.

Scattered across 2.2 million acres, with its immaculate lakes and spectacular peaks, Yellowstone National Park is undoubtedly a utopia for any outdoor enthusiasts.

You can take a leisurely hike to the Yellowstone river falls along the Grand Canyon to watch the exhilarating sights of Old Faithful erupting, or you can trek up to Hayden Valley to see the incredible wildlife of the park, including the elk, buffalo, bison, and maybe even a grizzly bear or two.

And, if you’re a camping lover, then you can make the most out of Yellowstone’s well-equipped campsites while you’re here.

San Diego, CA

With over 70 miles of beautiful coastline and mostly sunny weather all year round, San Diego’s La Jolla Shores, Coronado Beach, and Mission Beach will offer you lots of summer fun for families.

And once you’ve had enough of the surf and sand, you can see animals at the renowned San Diego Zoo, and SeaWorld, or you can visit the Safari Park for some unique wildlife.

The younger generation is sure to enjoy the museums like the Fleet Science Center and San Diego Air and Space Museum.

And if you’re tired of walking around and all the activities, you can just explore the tranquil green spaces of Balboa Park or sample the delicious Mexican cuisine and thriving San Diego nightlife.

Maui, HI

This is one of Hawaii’s hottest tourist destinations, and it also happens to be a top family vacation spot that’s sandwiched right in between Mokolai and Big Island. The area has plenty of activities that the entire family can indulge in.

For instance, you can have some fun in the sun at Napili Beach or Wailea Beach, or adventurers can take a walk on the unique black sands at the Waianapanapa State Park.

The Haleakala National Park is the perfect place to explore the world’s largest dormant volcano, or you can enjoy a few scenic hikes at the Lao Valley State Park.

Not convinced yet? How about you experience a traditional Hawaiian luau at the Old Lahaina Luau, join in with the Hula dancers, and even try boating or snorkeling in the sparkling waters?

Gatlinburg, TN

Gatlinburg is a wonderful place to travel to for families in the US. The mountain town in Eastern Tennessee has plenty of attractions that both adults AND kids will enjoy. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is what the town’s all about.

With miles of hiking, horseback riding, biking trails, cabins, historical exhibits, and opportunities to see wildlife like elk, deer, bears, and more in their natural environment, the park is a strong favorite for family vacations.

It also has some other popular attractions for little ones, including the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tram, Gatlinburg Space Needle, Sweet Fanny Adams Theater, and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.

You can get an authentic feel of the local culture at the Arts and Crafts loop, where you can see local artisans creating paintings, pottery, jewelry, hand-blown glass, and much more.

Outer Banks, NC

Outer Banks is the chain of barrier islands right off the North Carolina coast, and this family vacation offers an incredible blend of history and adventure combined with relaxation.

You can visit the Kill Devil Hills to see where the Wright brothers embarked on their first flight or explore Ocracoke, where the famous pirate Blackbeard fought the last battle and where the Lost Colony allegedly disappeared.

And after all your wild adventures, you can simply stroll around and relax on the expansive stretch of stunning beaches at your own leisurely pace.

You can also explore the Cape Hatteras National Seashore or ascend the tallest sand dune at the Jockey’s Ridge State Park. The little kids are sure to love the North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island.

Whichever option you go for, you’ll be sure to have a good time. Just don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and grab your camera to capture all of your memorable moments!

Need some more fantastic ideas for your next trip? We’ve got you covered! Check out: 5 Best Summer Camps for Adults in the US