Summer is ideal for family vacations. It brings long sunny days and cool nights. This time of year lets you escape from routine life. Many U.S. and international places are perfect for family trips.
These spots have a variety of fun things to do. You can find theme parks, adventures in nature, and learn about different cultures. If you want to visit the beach, mountains, or go overseas, there are lots of exciting family-friendly vacation ideas waiting for you.
Key Takeaways
- Explore a variety of kid-friendly travel destinations for unforgettable family getaways.
- Discover family travel tips to plan budget-friendly vacations with multi-generational appeal.
- Embark on outdoor family adventures and educational travel experiences for the whole family.
- Find affordable family getaways at all-inclusive resorts and family-friendly cruise options.
- Plan memorable family road trips and family beach vacations to create lasting memories.
Escape the Heat in Iceland
Iceland is a perfect place to cool off in the summer. It has long days with sunlight for up to 22 hours. Daytime temperatures range from 40 to 60 degrees1.
Jaw-Dropping Natural Wonders
It’s a dream for families who love nature. You can see amazing waterfalls, walk on black sand beaches, and hike on beautiful trails. In the town of Akureyri, you might even spot some whales1.
Convenient Flights from the East Coast
Even better, it’s a quick flight from the East Coast. You’ll be there in about four to five hours. This makes Iceland an easy and exciting choice for family vacations1.
Family Fun in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is a top pick for families. It’s got exciting theme parks and beautiful natural sights.2 You can visit Dollywood, which is a huge amusement park. It’s perfect for those who love thrills and country music.3 Surrounding areas include the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s great for outdoor fun.3
Dollywood and Outdoor Adventures
Dollywood is famous for offering more than 40 rides. It caters to visitors of all ages.3 The area also has Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show with its 13 events and snow tubing with 15 lanes.3
The TITANIC Museum Attraction showcases over 400 historical items.3 WonderWorks has more than 100 amazing exhibits and activities.3 For those who love the outdoors, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has lots of kid-friendly hiking trails.3
Unique Accommodation Options
Pigeon Forge stands out with unique places to stay. The Island at Pigeon Forge is one example. It feels like a fun carnival. Plus, there are two Margaritaville hotels.4 Families can enjoy tasty Southern food at the Old Mill Restaurant.3 Or, they can try the amazing giant caramel apples at the Chocolate Monkey. These treats come with all kinds of yummy toppings.3
European Adventures with a Disney Twist
Families wanting to explore Europe with some Disney magic have great choices.5 Adventures by Disney offers a Danube River cruise. This trip goes to eight cities in four countries. You’ll have Adventure Guides to make sure everyone, kids and adults, have fun. Activities include making strudel or enjoying a string concert in Vienna. You can also check out the markets in Budapest.6
Danube River Cruise
This cruise lets families dive into Central Europe’s culture and history.5 It stops at popular places like Vienna, Austria, and Budapest, Hungary. Here, families get to join in on local traditions through fun activities.
Norwegian Fjords Sailing
Disney Cruise Line takes families along Norway’s beautiful coast.6 On the way, see UNESCO sites and the picturesque Geirangerfjord. Enjoy the unique Bryggen market and all the fun of a Disney cruise.
Choose between a Danube River cruise and a Norwegian fjords sailing for Disney-filled fun in Europe.56 These adventures mix cultural learning, fun exploration, and Disney’s magic.
Explore America’s Beauty by Rail or Road
Families wanting to see America’s natural beauty have many choices. They can journey by rail or hit the road. The Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic line offers a special ride from Anchorage to Seward.
This trip treats you to stunning views of the coast and forests. You might even see wildlife like otters, puffins, salmon, and bears.7
Alaska Railroad’s Scenic Routes
Another must-do is the National Park Grand Circle Tour, perfect for RVs. It’s a summer tradition that lets families discover Utah’s red rock canyons. Plus, they can hike at Bryce Canyon and see the Grand Canyon’s North Rim.7
Riding in an RV means you can move freely, enjoying the adventure your way.
Classic National Park Road Trips
From Alaska’s amazing landscapes to the famous national parks in the Southwest, there’s so much to experience. Families can disconnect and make lifelong memories on these suggested trips:
- Family-friendly vacation ideas
- Family travel tips
- Outdoor family adventures
- Family road trips
- Affordable family getaways
- Outdoor adventures for families
- Family adventure vacations
Family-Friendly Vacation Ideas in Cancun, Mexico
Cancun, Mexico, is perfect for families spending summer together. The weather is hot, but it’s the best time to meet whale sharks. These gentle giants are waiting for you to snorkel with them.
Besides its beautiful beaches and clear sea, Cancun has more to offer. Families can visit cenotes and explore Mayan ruins too.
Snorkeling with Whale Sharks
Looking for a unique adventure? Try snorkeling with whale sharks. These huge fish can reach up to 40 feet long. They move gracefully in the warm waters of the Caribbean.8
All-Inclusive Resorts for Families
Cancun’s all-inclusive resorts make family trips easy. Finest Playa Mujeres, by the ocean, has many family-friendly features. It has baby gear, kid slides, and a pool with a climbing dome.8
Other great options are Club Med Cancún Yucatán, Moon Palace Cancun, and Wyndham Alltra Cancun. They have something for every family member’s age and interests.
No matter what you love, Cancun has something for you. From meeting whale sharks to exploring ancient ruins. It’s full of great ideas for families, making everyone happy.89
Asheville, North Carolina: A Closer-to-Home Getaway
Asheville, North Carolina, is a hit for family vacations. It has stunning mountain views, fun outdoor things to do, and great food.10 It’s known for its family-friendly breweries and eateries. People love spending time together here.10 There are many fun things to see and do. You’ll find art galleries, book shops, unique stores, and performers downtown.10
Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Drives
Families love gazing at the beautiful views on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Or they can hike to waterfalls and see amazing sights.10 There are lots of easy hiking trails and beautiful views in Asheville. They are not far from the city.10 Places like Craggy Gardens Trail and Craggy Pinnacle Trail are great for families. The stunning mountain views are perfect for taking in nature.10 Mount Mitchell State Park, not far from Asheville, also offers great places to hike.10
Biltmore Estate and Culinary Delights
The Biltmore Estate is a grand must-see, with a special audio guide for kids.11 You can also enjoy amazing food and beer in Asheville. Staying at the Village Hotel lets you walk to Antler Hill Village and the Biltmore’s winery for a free tasting.110 Places like Wicked Weed Brewery in Asheville are great. They offer tasty food and a big variety of beers.10
11 there are over 200 top vacation rentals and cabins in and around Asheville from Greybeard Vacation Rentals.11 The Omni Grove Park Inn is a famous spot that has welcomed many U.S. Presidents. It’s known for being historic, charming, and elegant.11 Families will love the Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort Golden Valley. It has beautiful cabins, RV sites, and tents with lake views.11 In Asheville, many places to stay are great for kids. They have things like arcade games, pool toys, and areas just for kids to play.11 Some hotels offer rooms that connect. This is perfect for families who need more space.11 Families also like when there’s laundry service or free use of a washer and dryer. It helps a lot during trips with kids.11 Rooms with kitchenettes, microwaves, and fridges are very handy. They’re great for keeping drinks and snacks ready for the family.11 Elevation Lofts Hotel in downtown Asheville is another great choice. It offers big units with nice thanks to things like Smart TVs and comfy beds.11
Freeport, Maine: Classic New England Charm
Freeport, Maine, is a perfect place for a classic New England summer trip.12 It’s just 20 minutes north of Portland, Maine, along the coast. The area was settled 31 years prior to Maine becoming a state in 1820 during the Missouri Compromise. In 1911, the famous L.L. Bean brand started in Freeport, becoming a well-known shoe seller.12
Outdoor Activities and State Parks
At Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, families can check out some lovely views. There are trails to walk through woods, marshes, and the coast. They even offer guided tours at certain times.12 Bradbury Mountain State Park is only 6 miles away. It has hiking trails leading up to a 485-foot summit. For those who love the outdoors, L.L. Bean offers cool programs. These include first responder trips and even fat biking.12 Winters in Freeport are cold with lots of snow. Summers are warm and rainfall is common. So, having waterproof gear is a must.12
Fresh Seafood and Local Confections
Freeport Oyster Bar is known for its fresh seafood, perfect for families. Nearby, the Hilton Garden Inn Freeport Downtown has an indoor pool. It’s a great place to stay while exploring the town.12 Families can also have fun making scented candles at Sea Love. And, they can learn how Maine’s famous confections are made at Wilbur’s of Maine.12 Around 3.5 million people visited Freeport’s shopping area in 2015, spending over $308 million. Freeport is proud to have five L.L. Bean stores, including flagship and outlet locations.13
Freeport Village Station’s outlet stores are always open and have free parking.12 The Amtrak Downeaster train travels through Freeport, linking Brunswick with Boston. The METRO BREEZ bus also runs from Freeport. It goes to Portland, Yarmouth, and Brunswick quickly.12 Just 20 minutes east, Bath is known for its ships. Portland, near Freeport, has many fun things to see and do.12
Whidbey and Camano Islands, Washington
Washington’s Whidbey and Camano Islands are great for families and couples looking for a family-friendly vacation. You can visit over 100 state parks all year by buying a $30 Discover Pass. This pass saves you money, as it’s cheaper than the $10 daily fee. The islands’ natural beauty is enhanced by lots of outdoor activities and water sports.
Scenic Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals are perfect for families. Places like Spyglass Beach House and Whidbey Moon Landing have everything you need. They offer big kitchens and sometimes even fenced backyards for your family’s comfort.14
Outdoor Recreation and Water Sports
The islands have stunning parks, ideal for hiking and biking. You can also kayak and canoe. At Cama Beach State Park, you won’t find cars near the camping area. This makes for a unique and affordable camping experience.15 Thrill-seekers will love the zip lines at Canopy Tours Northwest. The longest one is 660 feet. There’s also a 47-foot rappel.15
There are many family-friendly dining spots in the area.
Oak Harbor’s Windjammer Park is a must-visit for families. It has a beach, a playground that looks like a ship, and beautiful trails by the ocean.15
Conclusion
The world offers many family-friendly vacation ideas for everyone’s taste. You can cool off in Iceland16‘s calm settings or enjoy wild theme parks in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. There are tons of chances to make lasting memories.16
Families wanting European fun can try the Danube River cruise or Norwegian Fjords sailing. These mix cultural wonders with Disney enchantment.16 Or families can take road trips or rail journeys across the US. They’ll see natural marvels like Alaska Railroad and famous parks.16
For a family trip, pick from faraway beach breaks to nearby quiet spots. Premium getaways and experiences in places like Cancun, Asheville, and Freeport await. Just make sure your trip fits what your family loves. That way, everyone has a great and meaningful time.1617
FAQ
What are some popular family-friendly vacation ideas?
What makes Iceland a great summer destination for families?
What makes Pigeon Forge, Tennessee a popular family destination?
What European adventures with a Disney twist are available for families?
How can families explore the natural beauty of America?
What makes Cancun, Mexico a popular destination for multigenerational family vacations?
Why is Asheville, North Carolina a great family-friendly destination?
What makes Freeport, Maine a classic New England summer vacation destination for families?
What makes Whidbey and Camano Islands in Washington a great family getaway?
Source Links
- https://us.dbjourney.com/blogs/guides/10-top-places-to-escape-the-summer-heat
- https://takeatriptogether.com/pigeon-forge-area-family-vacation/
- https://www.mypigeonforge.com/planning/family-vacation-ideas/
- https://www.mypigeonforge.com/blog/familys-guide-to-a-summer-in-pigeon-forge/
- https://www.wdwluxuryguide.com/experience/adventures-by-disney/european-adventures-by-disney-vacations
- https://www.magicalmemoryplanners.com/disney-magic-review/
- https://www.aaa.com/tripcanvas/article/top-vacations-spots-in-the-us-CM817
- https://travel.usnews.com/features/top-cancun-all-inclusive-family-resorts
- https://www.thejetsettingfamily.com/8-family-friendly-destinations-near-cancun/
- https://www.simplyawesometrips.com/new-blog/asheville-with-kids
- https://www.romanticasheville.com/family-friendly-hotels-lodging
- https://southernmainecoast.com/freeport-maine/
- https://stantonhouseinn.com/things-to-do-in-freeport-me-attractions
- https://wildtalesof.com/camano-island-washington-kids-travel-adventure-guide/
- https://whidbeycamanoislands.com/family-fun/
- https://www.wendyperrin.com/ideas-for-your-familys-spring-break-trip/
- https://www.marquitastravels.com/blue-ridge-ga-mountain-vacation-with-kids-including-toddlers/