11 Family Summer Vacation Ideas – Fun for ALL Ages!
35 percent of Americans go on summer vacation with their families. Take some time off this summer and bring the kids with you.
What destinations will entertain the kids and give you a break?
There are plenty of destinations, domestic and abroad, for families to vacation together. The key is to look for family-friendly attractions and amenities. Embrace your youth and know that this vacation won’t be all spas and shopping.
Ready to plan your summer getaway? Keep reading for 11 family summer vacation ideas.
1. Get Soaked at Niagara Falls
Your children are sure to be amazed when they see Niagara Falls. The jutting cliffs, massive waterfalls, and cooling mist are amazing to witness.
Book a tour on The Maid of the Mist and venture into the water as a family. You’ll get an up-close and personal view of the falls. Ponchos and raincoats are a must!
The strip at Niagara Falls features lots of restaurants, cafes, and shops. There’s even a haunted house to get spooked as a family.
2. Camping in Yosemite
Nothing goes better than kids and camping, especially in Yosemite National Park. Spend some quality family time setting up your campsite and pitching the tent.
Play board games together and cook over the open fire. Spend your vacation swimming in fresh water. Go hiking through the trails and marvel at mountains.
Camping is an affordable way to teach your kids about wildlife and nature. You might spot some wild animals in Yosemite. It’s best to keep your distance and pack up your food.
3. Give Back in Puerto Rico
No place bounces back like Puerto Rico. Despite the massive hurricane in 2017, their attractions are running strong.
Go swimming at the beach and hiking through the rainforest. Enjoy the tropical climate and explore neighboring islands.
Consider volunteering with your family in Puerto Rico. There are many humanitarian relief organizations always looking for volunteers.
4. Pump the Adrenaline in Vail
Are your children more akin to snow bunnies than beach bunnies? If so, take them to Vail, Colorado.
Vail is the perfect winter and summer vacation destination. You can go hiking and biking up the mountains. Or, relax in the family-friendly resorts.
If your family is a fan of adrenaline, considering going white water rafting. There are also zip lining tours you can join. Face your fear of heights in Vail!
5. Hug Mickey in Orlando
The obvious kid-friendly American destination is Orlando, Florida. Not only is it home to Disney, but it has amazing beaches nearby.
Spend a few days exploring Disney World and meeting your kids’ favorite characters. Check out Universal for some epic roller coasters.
Then, go on a tour of the Everglades. Your kids will go crazy over the alligators while you and your spouse catch some sun rays.
6. Swim with Stingrays in Cozumel
Children are often fascinated with life under the sea. Scuba diving can be a little intimidating, so start with snorkeling.
Cozumel has some of the best snorkeling in the world. The massive coral reef on the coast is home to thousands of species. See schools of fish, stingrays, and sea turtles.
When they’re exhausted from swimming, enjoy some cocktails on the sand. Virgin for the kids, but you can enjoy as many double margaritas as your heart desires.
7. Cruise Through the Amazon
Cruises are awesome for family vacations. You get a safe home base while you explore foreign countries.
Plus, there are tons of entertainment options for kids on board the cruise ship. Not to mention mouth-watering buffets and restaurants.
For the vacation of a lifetime, take a cruise through the Amazon. See the ancient trees, lush flora, and unique wildlife species. Read more to find out when the best time of year to visit the Amazon is.
8. Marvel at the NYC Lights
Everyone should stand in Time’s Square at least once in their life. For kids, it’s like being surrounded by giant outdoor TV screens. It makes for great family pictures.
New York has lots of family-friendly attractions. See Lion King or Wicked on Broadway. Climb to the top of the Empire State Building.
Walk through Central Park and watch the horse carriages go by. In New York, there’s always something fun to observe. Your family won’t get bored, that’s for sure.
9. Float Above New Mexico
