15 US Family Summer Vacation Ideas
Summer vacations are a great way to spend time together as a family. Not to mention a way to make beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. Are you wondering where to take the family this year for summer vacation? Well, there are so many beautiful places to choose from. For this reason, I’ve put together this post to highlight some great US family summer vacation ideas to inspire you. Also, these locations offer various options for fun things to do. Ultimately, this makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the best summer vacation.
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15 Best US Family Summer Vacation Ideas
1) Orlando, Florida
Of course, it probably comes as no surprise that Orlando is at the top of the list of US family summer vacation ideas. Not only do you have numerous Theme Parks, but multiple Water Parks as well. Even many hotels and resorts offer elaborate pools with slides and activities. Plus, there is an endless supply of restaurants, Fun Centers, and shopping. Surely you can’t go wrong with a family summer vacation in Orlando.
2) Southern California
Southern California is one of the most picturesque and pleasant parts of the United States. Not to mention, there is rarely a lousy weather day in SoCal. Families will love playing in the sand and splashing in the ocean. Plus, there are quite a few family-friendly activities to choose from. For example, you can take a tour at Universal Studios. Or spend the day at the San Diego Zoo, one of the best zoos in the country. Then there’s always Disneyland! Another great option is to head to the Santa Monica Pier to watch the sunset. All this and more make SoCal an ideal family vacation destination.
City US Family Summer Vacation Ideas
3) Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is outstanding in the summertime. If you’re looking for a family-friendly city vacation, then Chicago is a great choice. With so much green space, Chicago offers many parks to choose from. The whole family will love Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park. In addition to parks, countless museums, such as the Field Museum, are definitely a kid favorite. Not to mention Chicago is home to the Willis Sky Deck and the Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier. To top it all off, kids and adults alike will love grabbing a Chicago hot dog or the signature deep-dish pizza.
4) Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., not only offers many family activities but is also an excellent place for kids to learn more about U.S. history. It’s also a great summer vacation because many things are accessible outside of hotels, such as food and parking. I highly recommend staying in D.C. because the metro is accessible, and you don’t have to worry about parking. Also, take advantage of a Hop-On, Hop-Off Open-Top Bus Landmarks Tour, an excellent way for families to see Washington, D.C.
Families will also enjoy great museums such as the Air & Space and Natural History Museum, which kids adore. Then there is the National Zoo, Lincoln Memorial and U.S Capital, all at no additional charge. It’s definitely an incredible adventure for everyone. Do make a plan in advance, so you can be sure to see everything on your list.
5) Austin, Texas
Austin is an ideal place to visit for summer vacation. Not only can you roam the Texas capital and learn about its history, but there is so much outdoor space to enjoy. Kids will love hiking and swimming in Zilker Park. Additionally, they can have a ball at McKinley Falls State Park or explore Dinosaur Park. Oh yeah, and see the Austin bats. Indeed there is plenty to keep families busy in Austin.
Also, don’t forget that Austin is located about an hour and a half from San Antonio. There is plenty to do with the Spanish Missions like the Alamo, Riverwalk, and SeaWorld. Not to mention, you pass by New Braunfels on your way, and there you will find Schlitterbahn Waterpark!
6) New York City
Another fantastic summer vacation idea for families is New York City. Just riding the subway is an adventure! Plus, families can spend lots of time visiting the Zoo in Central Park. Or take a ferry ride to Liberty Island to see the Statue of Liberty. Additionally, everyone will love visiting the Freedom Tower or walking across the Brooklyn Bridge. New York has endless museums, pizza joints, street performers, and curiosities. If you go, take your family to the Museum of Ice Cream. Families have so many choices to enjoy a wonderful summer vacation here.
7) Outer Banks, North Carolina
If you’re looking for a relaxed family summer vacation, then consider the Outer Banks, N.C. Notably, it is one of the most unique vacation spots in the United States. It is a quiet destination, with little to no fast food or chain stores. However, getting bored here is challenging because the beach will keep you busy for hours. Everyone will enjoy the NC Aquarium and the Wright Brothers National Museum. Additionally, Jockey Ridge State Park is home to the largest living sand dune on the East Coast. Later in the evening, families can play mini golf or hit the arcade.
8) Virginia Beach, Virginia
Indeed, Virginia Beach is a perfect place for summer vacation. Not only do you have amazing beaches to enjoy, but there is also the Virginia Military Aviation Museum and the Virginia Aquarium. Families will enjoy the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, the Museums, and the Atlantic Fun Park. In addition, families will love being so close to Colonial Williamsburg. You can also visit the Jamestown Settlement and Busch Gardens Theme Park.
9) Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
First of all, Myrtle Beach is a fantastic place for a summer vacation for anyone. Of course, families will love the wide open beaches and activities that go with it. Kids will spend hours running, swimming, and building sandcastles, which gives parents plenty of time to relax in the sun.
Later everyone can have fun at the Family Kingdom Amusement Park, Ripley’s Aquarium, or go-carting at Broadway Grand Prix. Myrtle Beach has a wide variety of restaurants and entertainment to meet most families’ budgets.
10) Galveston, Texas
Galveston Island is the perfect family-friendly vacation getaway. In addition to having long stretches of beautiful sandy beaches, there is so much more. First of all, the top two activities on the families’ list should be Schlitterbahn Water Park and Moody Gardens. These were designed with family vacations in mind. Of course, there is also fishing, putt-putt golf, and Pleasure Pier, to name a few. Families can also visit the historic district and enjoy a ghost tour. Additionally, Galveston offers many family-friendly restaurants like the Rain Forest Cafe. There is something to make everyone happy on Galveston Island.
National Parks US Family Summer Vacation Ideas
11) Rocky Mountain National Park
If you’re looking for family fun in the great outdoors, Estes Park, Colorado, is the perfect place. Not only is Estes Park a great summer vacation spot, but it’s also not as hot as some of the more southern options. Estes Park is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and offers hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Additionally, kids and parents alike will enjoy the Rocky Mountain National Park Junior Ranger Programs. Spectacular scenery, adventure activities, and more make this a great option for your summer vacation.
12) Yellowstone National Park
Another great summer vacation for families is Yellowstone National Park. For one thing this is one of the premier national parks in the country. Adults and children alike will marvel at its natural beauty. In fact children can also have fun learning with the Junior Ranger program here as well. They will have lots of knowledge to share about the park’s natural formations, hot springs, and wildlife when they return to school in the fall.
Yellowstone can also be easy on the budget. Families can camp or find budget-friendly hotels in West Yellowstone. You can find great deals on hotels on Booking.com
13) The Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic places in the United States. Not only is it one of the top destinations in North America, but probably the world. It’s definitely an incredible destination for your family’s summer vacation. The Grand Canyon is a must for your children to see. There are multiple activities for families to explore the Grand Canyon as well. In addition to hiking around the canyon, you can also ride a mule into the canyon or cycle on the Hermit Road Greenway Path. A surefire favorite for kids will be the Junior Ranger program and a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway.
Unique US Family Summer Vacation Ideas
14) New Orleans, Louisiana
Did you think New Orleans was just for adults? Well, it’s not! New Orleans is a whimsical, musical city with a long and rich history. Not only will children enjoy the street performers and live concerts, but they will have a ball in the numerous parks. Surprisingly there are quite a few excellent activities for family summer vacations. Jackson Square will delight with its beautiful cathedral and incredible museums on either side. Just across the square is Cafe Du Monde, which everyone must have. Children will love the fresh beignets. There is also the option to take a riverboat cruise on the Natchez—or rent bikes to tour the French Quarter.
Additionally, families will love City Park, where you can hang out by the Singing Tree or see alligators. Additionally, you can visit the botanical garden and have ice cream. City Park is also home to the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, with a beautiful vintage 1906 carousel and other fun rides. Not to mention the Louisiana Children’s Museum recently moved to City Park as well. In addition to all this, there is Audubon Park, which has the Audubon Zoo. New Orleans is a great family vacation location with all this and more.
15) Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque, New Mexico, has it all! The city is close to the Sandia Mountains and offers plenty of outdoor activity options. Plus, there are numerous historical and cultural experiences as well. Kids will love the ABQ BioPark Zoo and exploring the Petroglyph National Monument. Adventurous families will enjoy a ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway and climb to almost 11,000 ft for amazing views. Or take a magical Hot Air Balloon ride, which children will adore. In addition, families can learn more about Native American history at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Not only is Albuquerque the perfect summer vacation for families, but it’s also a great winter vacation as well.
Tips for Planning a Perfect US Family Summer Vacation
Now that you have an amazing list of wonderful destinations to choose from this summer, here are some tips for planning an epic adventure with your family.
- Start Early: Begin your planning months in advance. This gives you ample time to research destinations, book accommodations, and find the best deals on flights or car rentals.
- Choose the Right Destination: Select a location that offers activities for all age groups within your family. National parks, beaches, and theme parks are popular choices that appeal to both kids and adults.
- Book Accommodations Wisely: Look for family-friendly hotels or vacation rentals that offer the amenities you need, such as kitchens, swimming pools, and on-site entertainment.
- Plan Activities but Leave Room for Spontaneity: While it’s good to have a plan, don’t over-schedule. Leave some days open for unplanned exploration or relaxation.
- Pack Smart: Remember to pack essentials such as sunscreen, hats, comfortable shoes, and any necessary medication. Consider packing games or activities for downtime or long journeys.
- Consider the Climate: Research the weather conditions for your destination and plan accordingly. This can help you avoid travel during extreme heat or rainy seasons, ensuring a more comfortable vacation.
- Take Advantage of Discounts: Many attractions and accommodations offer family discounts. Additionally, memberships like AAA can provide savings on hotels and rental cars.
- Stay Safe: Ensure that your vacation is not only fun but safe. Teach your children about safety in crowded places and always have a meeting point in case someone gets lost.
- Create Memories: Encourage taking photos and buying souvenirs that will remind your family of the adventure. However, remember that the best memories often come from the experiences shared together, not just the places visited.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, I hope you enjoyed this post about the best locations for families in the USA for summer vacation. If you’re looking for fun summer outdoor activities, check out our Hiking in Tucson post. Or you might enjoy Family Friendly Galveston Island for more inspiration.
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