Best Family Vacations in the U.S. (10 Kid-Approved Spots We’d Visit Again)
- Family Traveling USA
- 3 days ago
- 18 min read
Looking for the best family vacation destinations in the U.S.? These are 10 kid-approved trips we’ve personally taken and loved.
There are so many amazing places to visit in the U.S., and we’re on a mission to explore as many of them as we can.
As a family of five, we know it can be tricky to find destinations that both kids and adults genuinely enjoy, but these are the places that have stood out to us along the way.
In this guide, we’re sharing our top 10 best family vacations in the U.S., all based on places we’ve personally visited and would visit again.
From beautiful beaches to scenic mountain getaways and charming small towns, these are destinations our family has loved exploring together.
Disclosure: Some links in this post may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Some experiences may have been hosted. As always, all opinions are our own.
Top 10 Best Family Vacation Destinations in the U.S.
These are the destinations that have been the biggest hits for our family, places we would go back to again without hesitation (and a few we already have!).
Destin, Florida (Best Beaches for Swimming with Kids)
Sedona, Arizona (Best for Scenic Views & Easy Adventures)
Avon, Colorado (Best Peaceful Mountain Getaway for Families)
Moab, Utah (Best for Adventurous Desert Exploring with Kids)
South Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada (Best for Lake Views & Walkable Family Fun)
Colorado Springs, Colorado (Best Mix of Nature & Unique Stays)
Del Mar, California (Best for Scenic Coastal Walks)
Poulsbo, Washington (Best for a Charming, Walkable Waterfront Getaway)
South Padre Island, Texas (Best Classic Texas Beach Vacation)
Atlantic Beach, Florida (Best Low-Key Florida Beach Trip)
Planning your trip:
1. Destin, Florida – Best Beaches for Swimming with Kids
When Destin, Florida was first recommended to us as a vacation destination, I have to admit I was a bit hesitant. Living near the Texas Gulf Coast, with Galveston as one of our closest beach options, I wasn’t sure it would be worth the drive or feel much different.
But we were very pleasantly surprised.
The perfectly clean white sand beaches and stunning emerald waters quickly made Destin one of our family’s favorite destinations for beach swimming in the U.S. We’ve since visited multiple times, renting a boat, taking a dolphin tour, and even celebrating New Year’s Eve here. Each trip has been a great experience.
Visiting in the warmer months means beautiful water temperatures that are perfect for swimming and water activities. It is also the busiest time of year, with larger crowds and higher lodging prices.
We have also enjoyed visiting around New Year’s. While the temperatures are cooler, we still love spending time by the water and even getting out on a boat. This time of year tends to be less crowded, and we have found better pricing on places to stay.
If you enjoy white sand beaches and clear, beautiful water, Destin is a family vacation destination we would absolutely recommend.
Even at our family’s favorite beaches for swimming, we always recommend using caution in the ocean, keeping a close eye on little ones, and considering a properly fitted life vest for younger swimmers.
Our go-to beach spot is James Lee Park. There is free parking (although it can be a bit difficult to find a spot at times) and bathrooms available. The beach here is absolutely stunning and one of my favorite views. As a bonus, it’s located right next to The Crab Trap restaurant, where you can grab a bite to eat while the kids enjoy a beachside playground.
We’ve shared some of our Destin trips on our YouTube channel. You can watch one of our visits below.
Subscribe on YouTube to follow along with our family travel adventures.
What to Know About Destin, Florida
Destin is located along Florida’s Emerald Coast and is known for its soft white sand and clear, emerald-green water. Often called “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” it has a long history as a fishing destination and is still popular today for both fishing charters and family beach vacations. In addition to the beaches, you’ll find waterfront restaurants, boat rentals, and activities like dolphin cruises and visiting Crab Island, making it a well-rounded destination for families.
Planning a Trip to Destin, Florida: What We Did + Tips
Where we stayed:
When we were a family of four, we enjoyed staying at Beachside Inn in Destin.
Now that we are a family of five, one of our favorite stays has been a balcony room at Residence Inn by Marriott in Fort Walton Beach. It’s a short drive to Destin and has worked really well for our family.
Time of year we visited:
Various seasons
Restaurants we enjoyed:
Things to do:
Book a sunset dolphin cruise aboard the Southern Star
(Watch our sunset dolphin cruise experience on the Southern Star)
Rent a boat or jet skis
Visit Crab Island
Explore HarborWalk Village
Spend the day at the beach
Tips:
Arrive early for parking at popular beach access points like James Lee Park
Visit during off-peak seasons for fewer crowds and better pricing
Bring snacks, water, and shade for longer beach days
Dogs are not allowed on public beaches in Destin/Okaloosa County, so plan accordingly if traveling with pets
Always practice beach safety and consider a properly fitted life vest for younger swimmers
Why we love it:
Beautiful white sand, clear emerald water, and easy beach access that works really well for families.
Best for:
Beach vacations, swimming, and relaxing family trips
2. Sedona, Arizona – Best for Scenic Views & Easy Adventures
Sedona, Arizona is one of those places you hear so much about that you wonder if it can really live up to the hype. For our family, it absolutely does.
We were hooked after our first visit and have been back many times since. One of our favorite ways to arrive is by driving down from the Flagstaff area along Highway 89A. Even before you reach Sedona, you are struck by the incredible natural beauty, with a stunning mix of trees and red rock formations.
Once you arrive, the scenery only gets better. The red rock landscapes are truly breathtaking, and there are countless hiking trails to explore. On top of that, Sedona also offers great shopping and excellent food options, making it a unique mix of outdoor adventure and city amenities.
Our go-to in Sedona is spending time in Uptown Sedona to walk around, grab a souvenir, and get a bite to eat, followed by a hike at Bell Rock.
During busier seasons, parking can be a bit of a challenge in both Uptown and at Bell Rock, so it’s good to plan ahead and bring a little extra patience.
We also enjoy visiting nearby spots like Slide Rock State Park and Indian Gardens Café in Oak Creek Canyon.
We’ve shared some of our Sedona adventures on our YouTube channel. You can watch one of our visits below.
What to Know About Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is known for its stunning red rock landscapes, scenic drives, and easy access to outdoor adventures. It’s also a popular destination for its energy vortex sites. The area offers a mix of hiking trails, viewpoints, and charming Uptown Sedona, filled with shops and restaurants. It’s a great destination for families who want to experience nature without committing to long or difficult hikes (although there are plenty of those available as well), with lots of shorter, easier trails and beautiful views around every corner.
Planning a Trip to Sedona, Arizona: What We Did + Tips
Where we stayed:
Cave Springs Campground (beautiful setting along Oak Creek and a great way to experience Sedona’s outdoors)
Time of year we visited:
Various seasons
Restaurants we enjoyed:
Things to do:
Hike Bell Rock
Explore Uptown Sedona
Visit Slide Rock State Park
Drive through Oak Creek Canyon
Tips:
Arrive early for parking at Bell Rock and Uptown Sedona
Visit during shoulder seasons for fewer crowds
Bring plenty of water, especially for hikes
Why we love it:
Stunning red rock scenery, great hiking options, and a fun mix of nature and walkable shops.
Best for:
Scenic views, easy hikes, and outdoor adventures with kids
3. Avon, Colorado – Best Peaceful Mountain Getaway for Families
The drive into Avon, Colorado is one of our family’s favorite scenic drives. While it’s beautiful coming from any direction, we especially love the drive along Interstate 70 coming in from Utah. It’s one of those drives that really makes you appreciate a road trip.
Living in the Houston, Texas area, we love escaping the summer heat and heading to cooler climates, and Colorado has become one of our go-to spots. Avon is such a stunning, calm, and scenic mountain destination for families to visit in the summer.
We loved taking in the mountain views, walking along the Eagle River, and spending time at a nearby park. It’s the kind of destination that feels relaxing while still giving kids space to explore and play.
What to Know About Avon, Colorado
Avon is a small mountain town located near Beaver Creek Resort and just a short drive from Vail, offering a quieter and more relaxed alternative to some of Colorado’s busier destinations. It’s a great base for both summer and winter activities, from hiking and exploring nearby trails to skiing in the colder months. With scenic mountain views and a laid-back atmosphere, it works really well for families looking for a peaceful mountain getaway.
Planning a Trip to Avon, Colorado: What We Did + Tips
Where we stayed:
Sheraton Mountain Vista Villas, Avon / Vail Valley (great location with easy access to both Avon and Vail)
Time of year we visited:
July
Restaurants we enjoyed:
Starbucks (easy grab-and-go option before heading out for the day)
Things to do:
Walk along the Eagle River
Visit local parks and playgrounds
Enjoy scenic drives through the mountains
Relax and take in the mountain views
Tips:
Visit in the summer for cooler weather and outdoor activities
Pack layers, even in summer, as temperatures can change quickly
Plan time to enjoy the scenic drive along I-70
Why we love it:
Peaceful mountain setting, cooler summer weather, and plenty of space for kids to explore and play.
Best for:
Summer mountain getaways, relaxing trips, and scenic road trips
4. Moab, Utah – Best for Adventurous Desert Exploring with Kids
While scrolling on Instagram, we came across photos of the stunning red arches in Arches National Park and the surrounding Moab area. We knew immediately this was a place we wanted to visit.
After deciding on a trip to Arches National Park, staying in Moab was the natural choice. We stayed at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab and really enjoyed the outdoor pool and hot tub area surrounded by massive red rock views. The town itself also has plenty of cute shops and great dining options.
We spent two full days exploring Arches National Park. One of our favorite family-friendly stops was Sand Dune Arch. It’s a short walk from the parking area, and the kids loved playing in the sand while exploring the tall red rock walls surrounding the area.
From the same parking area, we also continued on to Broken Arch and Tapestry Arch. These were less crowded, which we loved, and the hike felt very manageable for our family.
We did hike to see the famous Delicate Arch on our second day. While we’re glad we experienced it, this is definitely a more advanced hike. It’s mostly full sun, includes a steady uphill climb, and has a narrow ledge section near the top. It was also very crowded. As a family, we personally preferred the more relaxed and less busy hikes to the other arches.
During our visit, timed entry reservations were required and needed to be booked in advance. Even with that system in place, parking could still be a bit challenging at times, so we recommend checking the official park website for current entry requirements and allowing extra time.
On our way out of the area, we also stopped at Wilson Arch on nearby BLM land, which was another quick and memorable stop.
Overall, we loved the Moab area and look forward to visiting again. It has such a fun sense of adventure and offers so many opportunities to explore.
We spent two full days exploring Arches National Park and shared our experience on our YouTube channel. You can watch our visit below.
What to Know About Moab, Utah
Moab is a popular destination for outdoor adventure, known for its proximity to both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. The area is filled with unique red rock landscapes, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints that feel unlike anywhere else. It’s especially great for families who enjoy national parks and exploring nature, with a wide range of activities from easy walks to more adventurous hikes.
Planning a Trip to Moab, Utah: What We Did + Tips
Where we stayed:
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Moab (great outdoor pool area with red rock views and close to Arches National Park)
Time of year we visited:
April
Restaurants we enjoyed:
Things to do:
Visit Arches National Park
Explore Sand Dune Arch
Hike to Broken Arch and Tapestry Arch
Stop at Wilson Arch on BLM land
Tips:
Book timed entry tickets for Arches National Park in advance (if required)
Start early to find parking more easily
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks
We’ve also shared more from our family trip to Arches National Park and Moab, including our itinerary, what we did, and helpful tips. You can read it here.
Why we love it:
Incredible red rock landscapes, unique hikes, and a strong sense of adventure for the whole family.
Best for:
National park trips, outdoor adventures, and exploring with kids
5. South Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada – Best for Lake Views & Walkable Family Fun
When we were planning a trip to South Lake Tahoe, I kept hearing that the south side was more known for its nightlife, so I wasn’t sure it would be the best fit for a family vacation.
However, I’m so glad we decided to visit anyway.
We included it as a stop on a longer road trip and wanted to stay somewhere we could easily park, walk around, grab food, and explore without needing to drive everywhere. South Lake Tahoe ended up being a great fit for that and felt very family-friendly during our visit.
We loved walking around Heavenly Village, exploring Van Sickle Bi-State Park, and relaxing back at our lodge. It’s also definitely worth taking a short drive to see Lake Tahoe itself.
During our trip, we enjoyed soaking in the views of Lake Tahoe and walking along Nevada Beach. While the parking area, bathrooms, and campsites were closed during our visit, it looked like an amazing spot for camping and spending time in the summer months.
We’ve shared our South Lake Tahoe trip on our YouTube channel. You can watch our visit below.
What to Know About South Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada
South Lake Tahoe sits along the border of California and Nevada and is known for its beautiful lake views, surrounding mountains, and year-round activities. Visitors can enjoy time at the beach, hiking nearby trails, or exploring the shops and restaurants in Heavenly Village. It’s a destination that offers a mix of outdoor adventure and convenience, making it a great option for families looking for both relaxation and things to do.
Planning a Trip to South Lake Tahoe: What We Did + Tips
Where we stayed:
Marriott's Timber Lodge (spacious rooms, great location connected to Heavenly Village, and a beautiful outdoor pool area)
Time of year we visited:
April
Restaurants we enjoyed:
Cold Stone Creamery
Things to do:
Walk around The Shops at Heavenly Village
Explore Van Sickle Bi-State Park
Visit Lake Tahoe viewpoints
Relax at Nevada Beach
Tips:
Check seasonal closures (some areas may be closed in off-season months)
Stay in a walkable area for convenience
Bring layers for changing mountain weather
We’ve also shared more from our family trip to South Lake Tahoe, including where we stayed and some of the spots we explored. You can read it here.
Why we love it:
Beautiful lake views, walkable areas, and a great mix of nature and convenience.
Best for:
Scenic lake trips, walkable vacations, and easy family exploring
6. Colorado Springs, Colorado – Best Mix of Nature & Unique Stays
We had been wanting to visit Garden of the Gods for some time, which eventually led us to plan a trip to Colorado Springs.
While looking for a place to stay, we came across Glen Eyrie Castle, which in our opinion would be worth an entire trip on its own. We were fortunate to book a room in their lodge during our visit and were blown away by the beauty of the castle grounds. There is an actual castle, along with hiking trails, a rose garden, and even wildlife like turkeys and bighorn sheep.
The huge red rock formations mixed with the greenery around the city are absolutely stunning. We loved that Garden of the Gods is free to enter, with ample free parking, and we easily spent hours exploring the trails.
Pairing our stay at the castle with time at Garden of the Gods (view our visit here) and a visit to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (view our visit here), the highest elevation zoo in the United States, made this an incredibly memorable family trip.
We’ve shared our visit to Glen Eyrie Castle on our YouTube channel. You can watch our visit below.
What to Know About Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs is known for its mix of natural attractions and unique landmarks, including Garden of the Gods and nearby mountain scenery. The area offers a variety of family-friendly activities, from scenic drives and short hikes to exploring historic sites. With easy access to outdoor adventures and a range of attractions close together, it’s a great destination for a well-rounded family trip.
Planning a Trip to Colorado Springs, Colorado: What We Did + Tips
Where we stayed:
Glen Eyrie Castle (we stayed in the Bighorn Lodge, set on peaceful, stunning castle grounds)
Time of year we visited:
June
Restaurants we enjoyed:
Breakfast at Glen Eyrie Castle
Pizza with a View (Cheyenne Mountain Zoo)
The Cozy Goat Espresso Bar (Cheyenne Mountain Zoo)
Things to do:
Stay at Glen Eyrie Castle
Visit Garden of the Gods
Visit Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Go hiking around the area
Tips:
Take advantage of free entry and parking at Garden of the Gods
Book accommodations at Glen Eyrie in advance
Plan extra time for exploring trails
Why we love it:
Unique experiences like staying at a castle, plus stunning red rock scenery and family-friendly attractions.
Best for:
Nature + attractions combo trips and unique family stays
7. Del Mar, California – Best for Scenic Coastal Walks
I first visited Del Mar, California as a teenager with my family while visiting my grandpa, who was working at the horse racing track. I remember thinking how beautiful it was, with the combination of cliffs, greenery, and ocean views.
Years later, after I met Kevin, we visited again as a couple, and we have continued to return as a family of our own.
These days, we often visit Del Mar as a day trip when we’re passing through the area on our way to visit family.
It’s such a scenic place to walk along the beach, take in the views, and grab a bite to eat nearby.
One of our go-to spots is Powerhouse Park. There is a small paid parking lot across the street, and from there you can easily access a playground, grassy area, and the beach.
What to Know About Del Mar, California
Del Mar is a coastal city in Southern California known for its scenic ocean views, walkable areas, and relaxed beach atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy time at the beach, stroll along the coastline, and explore local restaurants and shops. It’s a great spot for families looking for a laid-back coastal experience with easy access to both nature and nearby attractions.
Planning a Trip to Del Mar, California: What We Did + Tips
Where we stayed:
Hotel Indigo San Diego del Mar by IHG (we stayed here when we were a family of four, with great walkability to the beach)
Time of year we visited:
Various seasons
Restaurants we enjoyed:
Things to do:
Visit Powerhouse Park
Walk along the beach
Explore nearby shops
Enjoy coastal views
Tips:
Use the paid parking lot near Powerhouse Park for easy access
Visit during off-peak times for a quieter experience
Great as a quick stop or day trip
Watch the sunset over the ocean at Powerhouse Beach
Why we love it:
Gorgeous coastal views and easy walkability near the beach.
Best for:
Day trips, scenic beach walks, and coastal restaurant stops.
8. Poulsbo, Washington – Best for a Charming, Walkable Waterfront Getaway
When we were planning a road trip to the West Coast, I wanted to include some unique and interesting stops. While researching, I came across Poulsbo, Washington. It looked so charming in the photos, and since we always love visiting places near the water, we added it to our list.
When we arrived, we were happy to see it was just as charming as we had hoped. We found easy parking right in the heart of town, which made it simple to get out and start exploring.
We enjoyed strolling along the bay, listening to live music, and browsing the local shops. The adorable theming throughout the town, flower pots hanging all around, and the beautiful waterfront views made it a standout stop for us.
If you enjoy visiting unique places with a calm but friendly vibe and easy walkability, this is a great place to visit.
When visiting the area, we chose to stay about 45 minutes away in Gig Harbor in a vacation rental rather than a traditional hotel. We had a phenomenal experience at the rental and loved exploring both Poulsbo and the surrounding area.
We’ve shared our visit to Poulsbo on our YouTube channel. You can watch our visit below.
What to Know About Poulsbo, Washington
Poulsbo is a charming waterfront city in Washington, often called “Little Norway” for its Scandinavian-inspired architecture and heritage. Located along Liberty Bay, it offers scenic views, local shops, and a relaxed pace that makes it easy to explore with kids. It’s a great destination for families looking for a quieter, small-town experience with plenty of character.
Planning a Trip to Poulsbo, Washington: What We Did + Tips
Where we stayed:
We stayed in a nearby Airbnb in Gig Harbor (about 45 minutes away) and had a great experience. It was such a memorable stay in a beautiful setting.
Time of year we visited:
June
Restaurants we enjoyed:
Round Table Pizza (grabbed on the way to our Airbnb)
Things to do:
Walk along the waterfront
Browse local shops
Enjoy live music (if available)
Take in views of the bay
Tips:
Visit when live music is playing for an extra fun experience
Arrive early for easy parking in town
Consider staying nearby (like Gig Harbor) for more options
Why we love it:
Charming waterfront setting, unique character, and a walkable small-town feel.
Best for:
Unique stops, waterfront strolls, and relaxed exploring
9. South Padre Island, Texas – Best Classic Texas Beach Vacation
South Padre Island is a popular beach destination for Texans, and we’ve visited multiple times. It has those classic beach vacation vibes along the Gulf.
It’s a great place to relax by the water, enjoy fresh seafood, and spend time together as a family. We also had a great experience taking a dolphin cruise, which was a fun highlight of one of our trips.
We also loved the cute surf-style souvenir shops in the area and how easy it is to access the beach from multiple points. While there are areas of South Padre Island where you can drive on the beach, we appreciated that many sections are pedestrian-only, which makes it feel more relaxed and kid-friendly when spending the day by the water.
We’ve shared our South Padre Island trip on our YouTube channel. You can watch our visit below.
What to Know About South Padre Island, Texas
South Padre Island is a barrier island off the southern coast of Texas known for its sandy beaches and warm Gulf waters. It’s a popular destination for beach days, water activities, and dolphin watching. With easy beach access and a variety of family-friendly activities, it’s a great option for a simple and fun coastal getaway in Texas.
Planning a Trip to South Padre Island, Texas: What We Did + Tips
Where we stayed:
We stayed in a beachfront VRBO rental and had a great experience. It worked really well for our family, with easy beach access, a pool, and tennis/pickleball courts.
Time of year we visited:
May
Restaurants we enjoyed:
Mahi Nic
Things to do:
Spend the day at the beach
Swim in the Gulf
Browse local surf-style shops
Tips:
Choose pedestrian-only beach areas for a more relaxed, kid-friendly experience
Visit in late spring for great weather and fewer crowds
Plan time for both beach relaxation and activities
Always practice beach safety and consider a properly fitted life vest for younger swimmers
Why we love it:
Easy beach access, fun family activities, and a classic Texas beach vacation vibe.
Best for:
Quick beach getaways, dolphin tours, and family-friendly beach days
10. Atlantic Beach, Florida – Best Low-Key Florida Beach Trip
While visiting friends in the Jacksonville, Florida area, we were looking for somewhere beachfront to stay and ended up in Atlantic Beach.
We stayed in a beachfront resort and had a fantastic stay. We loved the cute shops in the area and the great walkability right by the beach. We always love when we find a spot where we can easily walk to grab food and enjoy activities without needing to drive.
When we visited in July, the crowds were very mellow, which we loved, and we found the area to be very family-friendly.
What to Know About Atlantic Beach, Florida
Atlantic Beach is a quieter beach destination located near Jacksonville, offering a more relaxed alternative to some of Florida’s busier coastal areas. Visitors can enjoy wide sandy beaches, local restaurants, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding. It’s a great spot for families looking for an easy, low-key beach trip.
Planning a Trip to Atlantic Beach, Florida: What We Did + Tips
Where we stayed:
We stayed at One Ocean Resort & Spa (now Dune House) and loved its beachfront location.
Time of year we visited:
July
Restaurants we enjoyed:
Things to do:
Relax on the beach
Swim in the ocean
Walk around local shops
Enjoy the walkable beach area
Tips:
Visit in summer for warm weather with relatively mellow crowds
Look for beachfront or nearby walkable accommodations
Always practice beach safety and consider a properly fitted life vest for younger swimmers
Why we love it:
Laid-back atmosphere, walkable beach area, and a quieter, family-friendly feel.
Best for:
Low-key beach trips, relaxing stays, and easy coastal getaways
Our Family’s Favorites
If you’re trying to decide where to go next, here are the top picks from each member of our family (and why).
Carter’s favorite: Del Mar, California (playing and running)
Aubrey’s favorite: Sedona, Arizona (lots of cool activities and hikes)
Westin’s favorite: Sedona, Arizona (desert-y cool)
Mom’s pick: Destin, Florida (white sand beach and clear water)
Dad’s pick: Moab, Utah (so much adventuring)
Final Thoughts from Our Family
America is full of incredible destinations, and there are so many more beautiful, family-friendly spots across the country.
These top 10 destinations have given our family so many wonderful memories, and we look forward to visiting them again and again.
If you’re planning your next trip, we hope this guide inspires your next family adventure. We’d love to hear your family’s favorite vacation spots. Feel free to share them in the comments!
