Top 10 Family-Friendly Destinations for
Traveling with Children Under 8 in the US
Top 10 Family-Friendly Destinations for
Traveling with Children Under 8 in the US
Planning a family vacation with young children requires careful consideration to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone. To help you create unforgettable moments, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 family-friendly destinations in the United States. From engaging activities to mouthwatering cuisine, these destinations offer something for children of all ages. Let’s explore the best places to visit, recommended activities, must-try foods, and accommodations to maximize your travel experience.
Orlando, Florida:
Orlando is a paradise for families with young children, offering a wealth of attractions. Start with Walt Disney World Resort, where little ones can meet beloved characters, explore magical lands, and enjoy exciting rides. Don’t miss Universal Orlando Resort, featuring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and thrilling adventures for all ages. For animal lovers, visit SeaWorld Orlando for interactive shows and marine life encounters.
Activities: Visit theme parks, meet characters, enjoy interactive shows, and experience thrilling rides. Sightseeing: Explore Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, and Discovery Cove. Food Recommendations: Indulge in Mickey-shaped ice cream bars or enjoy character dining experiences at Disney resorts. Accommodation Recommendations: Stay at a family-friendly resort like Disney’s Art of Animation or Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort.
San Diego, California:
San Diego offers a perfect blend of sunny beaches and family-friendly attractions. Visit the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, where children can observe exotic animals up close. Spend a day at LEGOLAND California, featuring interactive rides, shows, and LEGO-inspired attractions. Don’t forget to explore Balboa Park, home to beautiful gardens, museums, and the San Diego Air & Space Museum.
Activities: Explore the San Diego Zoo, visit LEGOLAND, and discover Balboa Park’s attractions.
Sightseeing: Enjoy the stunning beaches, take a harbor cruise, and visit USS Midway Museum.
Food Recommendations: Try the famous fish tacos or enjoy a picnic at the beach with delicious sandwiches.
Accommodation Recommendations: Choose a family-friendly hotel like the Paradise Point Resort & Spa or the Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa.
Washington, D.C.:
Washington, D.C. is a fascinating city with numerous historical landmarks and engaging museums. Visit the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and marvel at the wonders of aviation and space exploration. Explore the National Museum of Natural History and discover ancient artifacts and dinosaur fossils. Take a guided tour of the U.S. Capitol Building and learn about American democracy.
Activities: Visit the National Air and Space Museum, explore the National Museum of Natural History, and take a Capitol Building tour. Sightseeing: See iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, visit the National Zoo, and take a boat tour on the Potomac River. Food Recommendations: Try delicious Ethiopian cuisine in the Adams Morgan neighborhood or enjoy a hearty meal at a classic American diner.
Accommodation Recommendations: Consider family-friendly hotels like the JW Marriott Washington, D.C. or the Hilton Garden Inn Washington D.C. Downtown.
New York City, New York
New York City offers a bustling metropolis full of attractions for families. Visit the American Museum of Natural History, where children can learn about dinosaurs and explore interactive exhibits. Enjoy the iconic Central Park, with its playgrounds, carousels, and the Central Park Zoo. Don’t miss a visit to the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, featuring historic aircraft, a space shuttle, and a retired aircraft carrier.
Activities: Explore the American Museum of Natural History, enjoy Central Park, and visit the Intrepid Museum. Sightseeing: Take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty, visit Times Square, and walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.
Food Recommendations: Indulge in New York-style pizza or enjoy a classic hot dog from a street vendor.
Accommodation. Recommendations: Consider family-friendly hotels like the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton New York City – Times Square or the Hotel Beacon.
San Francisco, California:
San Francisco offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and iconic attractions. Explore Golden Gate Park, home to the California Academy of Sciences and the de Young Museum. Visit Alcatraz Island and take an audio tour of the famous former prison. Ride a cable car and explore the vibrant neighborhoods of the city.
Activities: Explore Golden Gate Park, visit Alcatraz Island, and ride a cable car through the city. Sightseeing: Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Fisherman’s Wharf, and explore the vibrant Chinatown. Food Recommendations: Enjoy clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf or indulge in delicious dim sum in Chinatown.
Accommodation Recommendations: Stay at family-friendly hotels like The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square or Hotel Vitale.
Williamsburg, Virginia:
Williamsburg offers a unique blend of history and family-friendly activities. Visit Colonial Williamsburg, where children can step back in time and explore the living history museum. Enjoy Busch Gardens Williamsburg, featuring thrilling rides, live shows, and a dedicated area for younger children. Don’t miss Water Country USA, a water park with slides, pools, and lazy rivers.
Activities: Explore Colonial Williamsburg, enjoy Busch Gardens, and splash around at Water Country USA.
Sightseeing: Take a guided tour of historic Jamestown, visit the Governor’s Palace, and enjoy the Williamsburg Winery. Food Recommendations: Savor traditional colonial fare or indulge in Southern comfort food at local restaurants.
Accommodation Recommendations: Choose family-friendly options like the Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg or the Kingsmill Resort.
Denver, Colorado:
Denver is an excellent destination for families seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visit the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, offering interactive exhibits and a planetarium. Explore the Denver Zoo, home to a wide range of animals. Enjoy Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park, featuring thrilling rides, water slides, and live entertainment.
Activities: Explore the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, visit the Denver Zoo, and enjoy Elitch Gardens. Sightseeing: Take a scenic drive to Rocky Mountain National Park, visit the Denver Botanic Gardens, and enjoy the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. Food Recommendations: Try locally sourced farm-to-table cuisine or enjoy a classic Colorado-style steak. Accommodation Recommendations: Consider family-friendly hotels like The Curtis Denver – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel or The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block.
Honolulu, Hawaii:
Honolulu offers a tropical paradise with beautiful beaches and a wealth of family-friendly attractions. Visit the Waikiki Aquarium, showcasing marine life native to Hawaii. Enjoy a day at the Honolulu Zoo, where children can encounter various animals. Explore the Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor, featuring historic aircraft and exhibits. Activities: Visit the Waikiki Aquarium, enjoy the Honolulu Zoo, and explore the Pacific Aviation Museum. Sightseeing: Take a hike to Diamond Head, visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial, and enjoy a traditional Hawaiian luau.
Food Recommendations: Savor fresh poke bowls or indulge in a Hawaiian-style plate lunch with kalua pork and macaroni salad.
Accommodation Recommendations: Stay at family-friendly resorts like Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa or the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania:
Philadelphia offers a rich historical and cultural experience for families. Visit the Please Touch Museum, a hands-on children’s museum featuring interactive exhibits. Explore the Philadelphia Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the country. Don’t miss a visit to the Franklin Institute, a science museum with engaging exhibits and a planetarium. Activities: Explore the Please Touch Museum, visit the Philadelphia Zoo, and enjoy the Franklin Institute.
Sightseeing: Take a tour of Independence Hall, visit the Liberty Bell, and walk through the iconic LOVE Park.Food Recommendations: Indulge in a classic Philly cheesesteak or enjoy soft pretzels from a local vendor.
Accommodation Recommendations: Consider family-friendly hotels like The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia or the Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing.
New Orleans, Louisiana:
New Orleans offers a unique blend of culture, music, and culinary delights for the whole family. Visit the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, featuring a diverse range of marine life. Explore the Audubon Zoo, home to fascinating animals from around the world. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the French Quarter, with street performers, music, and delicious cuisine. Activities: Explore the Audubon Aquarium, visit the Audubon Zoo, and immerse yourself in the French Quarter.
Sightseeing: Take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River, visit the National WWII Museum, and enjoy a jazz performance.
Food Recommendations: Indulge in beignets at Café du Monde or savor traditional New Orleans gumbo and jambalaya.
Accommodation Recommendations: Stay at family-friendly hotels like the Omni Royal Orleans or the Hotel Monteleone.
Traveling with young children can be a delightful adventure when you choose the right destinations. These top 10 family-friendly destinations in the United States offer a perfect blend of engaging activities, sightseeing opportunities, delectable food, and family-oriented accommodations. By planning your itinerary and booking through the provided affiliate links, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable travel experience for the whole family. Pack your bags, create lasting memories, and embark on a journey of exploration and fun!