25 Best Family Vacations in the U.S. – That All Ages Love!

The United States is a vast and diverse nation with numerous options for families to appreciate and explore. 

And it’s no surprise that there are countless opportunities to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones from coast to coast.

As a travel enthusiast, I’ve enjoyed experiencing some of the best family vacations in the U.S. 

With years of experience in the travel industry, I’ve gained valuable insights and knowledge on how to plan the perfect family vacation.

I understand that planning a family vacation can be overwhelming and stressful.

Especially when you’re trying to find a destination that meets everyone’s interests. 

For this reason, I have compiled this comprehensive list to ease the planning burden and ensure a memorable experience for all.

My ratings are based on multiple factors, including family-friendly activities, dining options, and affordability.

Whether you seek a beach vacation, a national park excursion, or a city retreat, this guide has you covered. 

Get ready to prepare your bags for an unforgettable family vacation by checking out this detailed review below.

Best Family Vacations In The U.S. Compared

The U.S. is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with plenty of iconic sites, beautiful landscapes, and rich history.

And with this guide, we’ll help you know the best family vacation spots in the U.S.

Here are the top 25 family vacations in the U.S.

1. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort (Editor’s Choice)

10100 Dream Tree Blvd
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32836
(407) 313-7777
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Kid-friendly Activities: 5/5
• Family Accommodations: 5/5
• Dining Options: 4/5
• Safety and Security: 5/5
• Value for Money: 3/5
• Location and Accessibility: 4/5

Pros

• Elegant, five-star hotel experience
• Kid-friendly luxury hotel

Cons

• Expensive room rates

This five-star hotel is widely renowned for its luxurious facilities, comfortable rooms, and exciting activities.

Located inside Walt Disney World Resort, Four Seasons Resort Orlando is perfect for family gatherings and magical moments.

Enjoy a luxurious stay inside their spacious, modernly-designed rooms with premium beddings and appliances.

And if you’re looking for some fun, head to Walt Disney World and enjoy the rides and attractions inside the theme park.

2. Still Waters Resort

21 Stillwater Trail
Branson, MO 65616
(800) 777-2320
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Kid-friendly Activities: 3/5
• Family Accommodations: 4/5 
• Dining Options: 3/5
• Safety and Security: 4/5
• Value for Money: 4/5
• Location and Accessibility: 4/5

Pros

• Friendly and helpful staff
• Peaceful, relaxing, and quiet ambiance

Cons

• Some appliances are faulty

Situated along Table Rock Lake, Still Waters Resort offers a peaceful stay paired with luxurious amenities.

This resort is known for its lakefront location, ideal for sightseeing and exciting watersports activities.

You will stay inside lakefront luxury condos, complete with comfortable furniture and modern designs.

And if you’re looking for some fun, take advantage of their top-notch amenities, including three swimming pools, mini-golf, and a waterslide.

3. The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

149 AZ-64
Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
(928) 638-3333
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Kid-friendly Activities: 3/5
• Family Accommodations: 4/5
• Dining Options: 3/5
• Safety and Security: 4/5
• Value for Money: 4/5
• Location and Accessibility: 5/5

Pros

• Rustic interior design with a classy appeal
• Convenient hotel location from the Grand Canyon

Cons

• Housekeeping needs improvement

Established in 1998, The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon is the only three-diamond hotel near the iconic tourist spot.

This luxurious hotel is located only one mile from the south entrance of Grand Canyon National Park, which is ideal if you’re planning to go there.

Its interior design showcases a rustic and modern design that perfectly captures the Grand Canyon ambiance with its brownish colors.

Plus, the hotel offers excellent amenities, like a swimming pool, hot tub, and fitness center.

4. The Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection

9641 Sunset Blvd
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
(310) 276-2251
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

Located in Beverly Hills, this iconic five-star hotel is a local favorite when it comes to luxury, glamour, and comfort.

This place is special because it is surrounded by acres of tropical gardens and beautiful flowers, making it a therapeutic experience.

Moreover, the rooms are nothing short of beautiful, well-furnished, and make you feel like a celebrity.

With its luxurious facilities and relaxing ambiance, this place is a great alternative to Still Waters Resort and The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon.

5. Washington, D.C.

Washington, DC
(202) 789-7000
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

Renowned as the capital of the nation, with its marble monuments and government offices, in recent years, Washington D.C. has been transforming itself into the new, fast-paced East Coast vacation hub.

Washington D.C. offers plenty of attractions, famous museums like the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and National Air and Space Museum, The US. Capitol, Washington Monument and of course the famed White House.

The National Zoo, with a huge 1,500 animal population is a must see for little ones.

With its explosion of malls, cool restaurants, clubs, cafes and boutiques, there is lots to do in Washington D.C. for parents and older kids.

Recommended Hotel: Mandarin Oriental Washington DC

6. San Diego, CA

San Diego, CA
(619) 232-3101
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

With more than 70 miles of coastline and predominantly sunny weather all year round, San Diego’s Coronado Beach, La Jolla Shores and Mission Beach offer plenty of summer fun for families.

And, once you’ve had your fill of the surf and sand, you can see animals at the renowned San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld or Safari Park.

The young ones are sure to love museums like the Fleet Science Center and San Diego Air and Space Museum.

And if you’re tired of all the activities, you can simply explore the serene green spaces of the Balboa Park or sample the yummy Mexican cuisine and thriving San Diego nightlife.

Recommended Hotel: The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego

7. Yosemite, CA

Yosemite Village, CA 95389
(209) 372-0200
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

Looking for a good vacation spot for your family?

Well, Yosemite is a great vacation destination for your family.

Fishing, hiking, horseback riding and rafting down the Merced River, you can do all of this and more in Yosemite.

Spread over 1,200 sq. miles, the Yosemite National Park has stunning rock formations, towering waterfalls, daunting cliff faces and old sequoia trees.

You can go up to the Glacier Point for sweeping views of the park or hike through the trails in the Yosemite Valley.

And, if you want to be close to nature, you can also stay in the park’s accommodations.

Recommended Hotel: The Hotel at Black Oak Casino Resort

8. Anaheim, CA

Anaheim CA
(714) 765-2800
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

If you want to experience more of the wonders of Disney, then Anaheim is your spot.

The vibrant Disneyland Resort has loads of Disney-themed attractions to keep both kids, as well as parents entertained.

If you’ve had your fill of Mickey and Friends you can visit Adventure City, Knott’s Berry Farm and Yorba Regional Park.

You could also catch a game of baseball at the Angel Stadium.

And, if you want to get away from the crowds, you can just drive down Los Angeles or San Diego and visit Laguna Beach, Long Beach or Huntington Beach.

Recommended Hotel: Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort

9. Maui, HI

Kahului, HI
(800) 525-6284
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

One of Hawaii’s hottest tourist destinations, Maui is a top family vacation spot that is sandwiched between Mokolai and Big Island.

Maui has plenty of activities that the family can indulge in.

You can have some sunny fun at the Napili Beach or Wailea Beach or walk on the unique black sands at the Waianapanapa State Park.

The Haleakala National Park is where you can explore the world’s largest dormant volcano or enjoy scenic hikes at the Lao Valley State Park.

Experience the traditional Hawaiian luau at the Old Lahaina Luau, dance with the Hula dancers, go boating or snorkeling in the sparkling waters.

Recommended Hotel: Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui

Related: Restaurants in Maui

10. Gatlinburg, TN

Gatlinburg, TN
(865) 436-4178
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

Gatlinburg is a great place to travel to for families in the U.S.

The mountain town situated in Eastern Tennessee has plenty of attractions that both adults and kids will enjoy.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most popular attraction in town.

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

The town has other popular attractions for little ones such as the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tram, Gatlinburg Space Needle, Sweet Fanny Adams Theater and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.

You can experience the local culture at the Arts and Crafts loop, where you can see local craftsmen creating pottery, paintings, jewelry, hand-blown glass and lots more.

Recommended Hotel: Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg

Related: Restaurants: Gatlinburg, Tennessee

11. Honolulu, HI

Honolulu, HI
(808) 768-4325
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii and is an exotic blend of stunning scenic beauty and urban appeal.

Honolulu has unique things you can enjoy as a family.

The iconic beaches of Honolulu such as the Waikiki Beach, Kailua Beach Park and Lanikai Beach offer ample opportunities to play in the sand and enjoy the sunshine.

If you are a history buff, you will be delighted to explore the Iolani Palace, National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific and World War II Valor.

If you love adventure, then you can hike along the Koko Crater Trail and Diamond Head State Monument.

You can even go to a traditional luau to get a taste of the local Hawaiian culture.

Recommended Hotel: The Modern Honolulu

Related: Best Places to Eat: Honolulu

12. Outer Banks, NC

Outer Banks, NC
(252) 473-2138
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

A cool blend of history, adventure and relaxation, Outer Banks is a chain of barrier islands off the North Carolina coast.

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

After all your hectic adventures, you can simply explore and relax on the vast stretch of beautiful beaches at a leisurely pace.

You can explore the Cape Hatteras National Seashore or climb up the tallest sand dune at the Jockey’s Ridge State Park.

The little ones are sure to love the North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island.

Recommended Hotel: The Sea Ranch Resort

13. Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach, SC
(800) 356-3016
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

If you’re looking for a beach vacation for your family, then Myrtle Beach is the perfect spot.

There are loads of exciting things to keep your little ones busy and away from mischief.

They can spend hours running around the beach or building sandcastles and if they are bored doing that, then you can visit the Family Kingdom Amusement Park, Ripley’s Aquarium, Broadway Grand Prix or go golfing on one of the many mini-golf courses in the area.

So, if you are on the lookout for a wonderful getaway, Myrtle Beach is the perfect destination for families seeking a variety of entertainment options while staying in their budget.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Enclave Myrtle Beach

14. Sanibel Island, FL

Sanibel Island, FL
(239) 472-3700
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

If you want a place where you can simply lie back and relax, then nothing can beat the laid-back Sanibel Island.

The beautiful beaches of this low key and quiet place are its main attractions.

Your lil’ ones are sure to find shell picking on Bowman’s Beach very exciting.

And, if you want to go on long, contemplative walks then the sandy shores of Captiva Island are the right spot.

If you want to do a bit of wildlife spotting then head out to the J.N. Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where you can see alligators, crocs and many species of birds in their natural surroundings.

Recommended Hotel: Island Inn

15. Ocean City, MD

Ocean City, MD
(800) 626-2326
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

Not only is Ocean City very affordable, but it is also an awesome location that is kid-friendly.

Synonymous with a classic American beach vacation, Ocean City has miles of beautiful sandy beaches and activities around the Boardwalk all summer.

Kids are sure to love the amusement park rides, parasailing across the waters and Ripley’s Ocean City gaming arcades.

And, if you want to get away from the sun and sea, then you could take a day trip to the tranquil Assateague Island National Seashore where you can see wild horses roaming freely at the National Park.

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott Ocean City Oceanfront

16. Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL
(312) 567-8500
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

Also known as the “Windy City”, Chicago is a top destination.

The epitome of diversity, Chicago boasts of a plethora of shopping areas, a flourishing art scene and plenty of eateries offering Chicago’s signature pizzas and hot dogs.

There are lots of attractions to ensure that your kids are not bored.

You can visit the Millennium Park, look at the animals at the Lincoln Park Zoo, go out to the Shedd Aquarium or watch the Cubs play at Wrigley Field.

Your little ones are sure to love the playground and mini-golf course at the Maggie Daley Park and the Chicago Children’s Museum at the Navy Pier.

The Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower and the 360 Chicago Observation Deck at the John Hancock Center are great places that will give you a bird’s eye view of the city.

Recommended Hotel: The Peninsula Chicago

17. New York City, NY

New York, NY
(212) 639-9675
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

With a plethora of entertainment and nightlife options and a cool, cosmopolitan vibe, New York is an extremely popular destination for adults.

You can check out the boutiques, trendy coffee shops and bakeries in Brooklyn and the East Village.

Indulge in a spot of window shopping along Fifth Avenue, check out the art at the Met and the MoMA or watch a Broadway show.

Soak in the frenetic sights, sounds and lights of Times Square.

Apart from activities for adults New York has loads of attractions and activities that make it one of the top destinations for vacations for kids.

Central Park with its 20 playgrounds, amusement park, ice-skating rink and Loeb Boathouse is a popular spot for kids.

You can visit the Bronx Zoo to see all the animals or go to the American Museum of Natural History.

Recommended Hotel: Crosby Street Hotel

18. Hilton Head, SC

Hilton Head, SC
(843) 341-4600
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

If you want an easy and leisurely vacation, away from the madding crowds, then head down to Hilton Head in South Carolina.

The area has several clean and calm beaches that have plenty of conveniences that make it great if you’re vacationing with kids.

You could relax on the Coligny Beach and Driessen Beach, check out the wonders of the island at the Coastal Discovery Museum or Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge.

And, if you want to check out your sporting skills, you could try your hand at tennis or golf.

So, whatever you want to do, Hilton Head has something for everyone.

Recommended Hotel: Omni Oceanfront Resort Hilton Head Island

Related: Places to Eat in Hilton Head

19. Williamsburg, VA

Williamsburg, VA
(757) 220-6100
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

If you’re looking for an educational family vacation, then Williamsburg is a unique vacation destination.

Jamestown, Williamsburg and Yorktown all offer great opportunities to learn about life during the Revolutionary War.

Visit the monuments of popular historical figures like George Washington, John Smith, Patrick Henry, Pocahontas, etc.

And, if you want a break from all the history lessons, then you can visit the city’s popular amusement parks Busch Gardens and Water Country USA for a day of fun.

Recommended Hotel: Kingsmill Resort

Related: Places to Dine in Williamsburg

20. Branson, MO

Branson, MO
(877) 272-6766
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

Nestled in the Ozark Mountain foothills, Branson is a city in Missouri.

Described as “family-friendly Las Vegas”, Branson has plenty of activities and attractions for both kids and adults.

Enjoy a day of adventure on rollercoaster rides and waterslides at the Silver Dollar City theme park, float along the lazy river at the White Water Branson water park or go boating at the Table Rock Lake.

If you want to do something cultural, then you could visit the Christian Broadway and take in musicals.

And, if your little one loves trains, you could ride on the Branson Scenic Railway which takes you through the Ozark Mountain foothills.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel

21. San Antonio, TX

San Antonio, TX
(210) 244-2000
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

An excellent combination of history and modernity, San Antonio has lots on offer to keep your little ones entertained.

The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is sure to fascinate with the stories of Alamo and your lil’ ones are sure to be left wide-eyed by the dinosaurs and mummies at the Witte Museum.

If you love wildlife, then the San Antonio Zoo & Aquarium with more than 700 species of animals is a “must visit”.

You can enjoy the leisurely pace of the famous River Walk or enjoy the serene beauty of the San Fernando Cathedral.

A point to remember is that San Antonio can get quite hot in summer and so an ideal time to visit is in fall or spring.

Recommended Hotel: Grand Hyatt San Antonio

22. Park City, UT

Park City, UT
(435) 649-6100
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

If you’re keen on winter sports, then you can’t give Park City a miss.

This is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding and has the largest ski terrain in North America.

Check out the Woodward Park City sports and ski resort’s snow tubing lanes, indoor and outdoor BMX, scooter and skateboarding facilities and range of trails.

Head out to the High Meadow Park with its open, gentle ski slopes if you are a beginner.

Take a guided tour of 400 acres of the Utah Olympic Park and visit the highest Nordic ski Jump in the world.

Your lil’ ones are sure to enjoy the playground and climbing at the Discovery Zone, while your older kids and teens can check out the rope courses and zipline.

Park City has loads of other fun activities like biking, hiking and more.

Recommended Hotel: Newpark Resort

Related: Best Restaurants in Park City

Related: Best Family Ski Resorts in The U.S.

23. Orange County/Hudson Valley, NY

Orange County, NY
(845) 291-4000
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

Orange County is wonderful for the entire family.

Lego fans are sure to be delighted with the largest Legoland theme park with over 50 shows, rides and attractions.

Once you’re done with the excitement of Legoland, you can head out to one of the several farms that offer tours and learning experiences for kids.

You can visit the Trailside Museums and Zoos and see New York State’s native animals and also spend the day at the U.S. Military Academy.

You can enjoy a leisurely boat tour on the Hudson River or indulge in some rafting and canoeing on the Delaware River.

Recommended Hotel: Homewood Suites by Hilton Newburgh-Stewart Airport

24. Plymouth, MA

Plymouth, MA
(508) 747-1620
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

Discover the history of the voyage of the Pilgrims on the Mayflower and the establishment of the Plymouth Colony at Plymouth.

Plimoth Plantation gives you a realistic view of the life of the Pilgrims with costumed interpreters, livestock and the life-size reproduction of the Mayflower.

After you’ve soaked in the history of the place, you can take an excursion to watch whales or catch lobsters, go to the petting zoo, take a tour of the cranberry bog or simply build sandcastles on Plymouth Beach.

You could also take a ferry to Provincetown and explore the monument where the Pilgrims first set foot before they moved on to Plymouth and see the stunning Cape views.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Plymouth

25. Colorado Springs, CO

Colorado Springs, CO
(719) 385-5908
Visit Website
Social Media
Open in Google Maps

Colorado Springs has plenty to offer for the family all year round, and is especially great for active families that like to stay healthy when traveling.

The scenic mountain landscape of Colorado Springs is a hub for outdoor activities like biking and hiking.

You can explore the open spaces or visit the Garden of the Gods, the red sandstone rock formations or the cascading Seven Falls.

You can visit the U.S. Olympic Training Center and watch pro athletes in action.

And, if you’re a fan of the Wild West, tour the historic district of Old Colorado City with its art galleries and souvenir shops housed in pioneer-style buildings.

Recommended Hotel: Garden of the Gods Club & Resort

Vacationer’s Guide 

Comparing Destinations: Which One Is Right For You?

When choosing a family vacation, it’s important to weigh the options first, depending on your preferences and budget. 

It’s to ensure that every member of your family will have a great time in that particular place.

One option to consider is the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. 

What makes this stand out is its proximity to popular theme parks and the luxurious vibe of its rooms. 

However, one potential disadvantage is its expensive room rates.

Another option to consider is Still Waters Resort in Branson. 

This cozy resort has a range of activities, including water sports, fishing, and mini-golf.

Although its affordable prices make it a budget-friendly option, it’s in a remote location.

The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon is a great choice for those looking for a natural and scenic option. 

It has astonishing canyon views and nearby hiking trails, but it lacks some kid-friendly activities.

If you’re looking for a luxurious alternative, The Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection is a fantastic option. 

With its iconic palm trees everywhere, this hotel offers a glamorous experience. 

How I Picked The Destinations 

As an experienced writer and traveler, I’ve had the opportunity to travel to several locations and gather valuable insights. 

I began by reading online reviews and narrowing our choices based on price, family-friendly activities, and accessibility. 

Following that, I talked to families and locals who had recently visited these locations and asked for their candid feedback and recommendations.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Kid-friendly Activities: I use this to evaluate the availability and variety of family-friendly amenities at every property. Does it feature playgrounds and kids’ clubs? Does it organize events designed specifically for kids? I ask myself these questions whenever I rate this property’s kid-friendly activities. 
• Family Accommodations: This is used to assess the family accommodations of the property. Are the rooms spacious? Does it offer family suites with connecting rooms? Can it accommodate families of different sizes? Is there a crib or baby-proofing in every room? These questions are essential whenever I rate the property’s family accommodations. 
• Dining Options: This evaluates the dining options at the property. Are there kid-friendly options at the property? Is there an on-site restaurant that caters to everyone’s dietary preferences and needs? I use these questions to assess the dining options of every property. 
• Safety and Security: I use this criterion to assess the safety and security of every property. Are the premises secured? Is the staff trained to handle any emergency? I consider these factors when rating the property’s safety and security. 
• Value for Money: This is used to evaluate the value for money of every property. Are the room rates reasonable? Are the services, activities, and amenities suitable for the price? I ask myself these questions to rate the value for money provided by the property. 
• Location and Accessibility: This measures how accessible the property is for families. How far is it from the popular family attractions? Is it easily accessible via public transportation? I use these questions to evaluate the property’s location and accessibility. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What Are The Best Family-Friendly Destinations In The U.S.?

Some of the most popular family-friendly destinations in the U.S. include Orlando, Cape Cod, and Myrtle Beach.

What Are Some Affordable Family Vacation Options In The U.S.?

The most affordable family vacation options in the U.S. include Wisconsin Dells, Yellowstone National Park, and Grand Canyon National Park.

Conclusion

Family vacations are a wonderful way to create unforgettable memories with loved ones. 

Each of these best family vacations in the U.S. offers unique experiences that cater to different interests and preferences.

There are plenty of fun water activities in Still Waters Resort, and we took the chance to try kayaking there. 

Meanwhile, The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon gave us convenient access to the Grand Canyon Village.

On the other hand, during our stay at The Beverly Hills Hotel, we had a lavish vacation, thanks to their outstanding amenities.

With all that being said, I believe the best spot goes to Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort.

It offers the perfect combination of luxury and fun with its complete amenities and proximity to the famous Walt Disney World theme park. 

You and your kids can enjoy a magical vacation filled with exciting rides, shows, and attractions while relaxing in the resort’s luxurious accommodations.