Just thinking about planning a family trip can be exhausting. The packing, the organizing, the lists (so many lists) — and that’s all without having a destination picked.
We can’t pack your bag for you, but we can definitely give you some ideas on where to go.
Family vacations should be fun for everyone, and while many traditional destinations do it right (looking at you, Disney), maybe this year the road less family-traveled is calling your name. These places are not necessarily known as family vacation hotspots, but that makes them all the better. Fewer clichés, new experiences and memories to last a lifetime.
Appalachian Trail
Even for families who like to stay active on their vacations, a visit to the Appalachian Trail may seem like a bit of a stretch considering its enormity and lack of family-friendly accommodations. Fortunately, the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) has that last one covered. Staying in one of the AMC’s “huts” lets you enjoy comfortable lodging across the White Mountain National Forest portion of the Appalachian Trail and includes home-cooked meals for the duration of your stay. Each hut is only accessible by foot, but their distance from the nearest trailhead varies, so families may choose one that’s the best fit for their needs.
Banff, Canada
A bit off the grid, Banff feels like a true escape. Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, the tiny town is almost too perfect — no trash in sight and basically carless. It is a walkable dream with exceptional views and the occasional wildlife sighting (it is, after all, within Banff National Park).
Families can choose to explore the town or venture off to visit any of the surrounding attractions including stunning Lake Louise, hot springs, waterfalls, nature hikes, gondola rides, shopping, cave exploration and so much more.
Bar Harbor
Family trips can sometimes fall into the trap of being too much — too much to do, too much to see and not enough time spent in the moment. Bar Harbor is a place where things happen slowly and activities are limited, but that’s the point.
A family trip to Bar Harbor would likely consist of a hike in Acadia National Park, taking a refreshing dip in the chilly Atlantic, then deciding it’s time to mosey into town for an ice cream as you watch the sunset. It’s the kind of place you imagine only exists in movies: charming oceanside small town surrounded by mountains where a penny candy store still exists and lobster paraphernalia is plentiful. Essentially, this is the perfect place to head if your family is in need of some serious rest and relaxation.
Chicago
Think of Chicago as a less intimidating New York City. Smaller, more manageable and arguably more kid-friendly.
With activities like museums, aquariums, beaches and parks, there’s plenty for any family to see and do. Got a dinosaur fanatic? Take them to see SUE, the most complete T. rex skeleton ever found, at the Field Museum. Interested in architecture (or just like to look up at big, tall buildings)? Enjoy a cruise down the Chicago River, lazily floating through the city as a guide explains the history and significance of each facade. Big appetites? Nothing’s better after a day exploring the city than to sit down with one of the city’s iconic deep-dish pizzas at a local hole-in-the-wall. Whatever you and your family are into, there’s something for everyone in Chicago.
Las Vegas
It’s not unreasonable to question whether a place nicknamed Sin City would ever be a good family trip destination, but Las Vegas has steadily become a city where families can enjoy some fun together. In fact, the city offers several kid-friendly activities from the High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ to the Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York (a roller coaster that twists around a miniature New York City.) Families can also opt to visit museums, exhibitions and shows that all members of the family can enjoy, like Cirque du Soleil or a mystifying magic show by Mac King.
Washington, D.C.
Our nation’s capital is a hub for policymaking but is lesser-known as a family vacation hot spot. We’re not sure why, considering the next two words: free museums. That’s right — every single Smithsonian Institution museum in Washington, D.C., has free entry. For everyone, not just kids. That means you could visit the National Museum of Natural History, National Air and Space Museum, National Zoo, National Museum of African American History and Culture and 12 more museums for zero dollars. Talk about vacationing on a budget.
Besides its plethora of museums to explore, Washington, D.C., is also a great walkable city, whether you have a destination in mind or not. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to eat, shop, explore and learn as you do, all while taking in the sights. Not up for walking? Take an easy ride on the district’s metro or hop on a bus or Segway tour.
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Based in Rhode Island, Sarah has been a copywriter and content producer with AAA Northeast since 2021. When she’s not scouring the best spots for all things food and drink or whipping up her own versions of tasty meals, you can often find her in the garden, planning her next trip or sipping on (another) hot coffee.
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