Yellowstone National Park – best location for a family vacation in summer [Image by Mike Goad from Pixabay]Once the schools are out, parents start to plan for the best family vacations in the summer of 2024. There are certain factors to bear in mind that make a destination great for parents and kids, including family-friendly accommodations and attractions suitable for the little ones. Alternatively, when traveling with teenagers, other considerations apply. However, the following are some of the best locations for family vacations for summer.
Best locations for summer family vacations
1. Yellowstone National Park
Visit Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park on a summer family vacation [Image from Pixabay]Yellowstone is one of the most popular of the US National Parks, with its fascinating geysers, rock formations and bison herds. All these aspects are great for adults while being totally magical through the eyes of a child.
Meanwhile, Yellowstone National Park offers more than 900 miles of hiking trails, heading out across the park’s Wyoming, Montana and Idaho sections. With such a wide choice it is easy to find the perfect route to suit families of all ages. Meanwhile, summer temperatures here are in the 70s, ensuring families feel comfortable while exploring.
For those not wishing to hike, Yellowstone offers many attractions that are accessible by car, including Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone Lake and Old Faithful.
2. Washington, DC
Washington, DC, USA [Image by Pixabay]Next in popularity is Washington, DC, the seat of America’s government. While this is an ideal location to explore, it is even better for kids who have studied the history of America. What makes this location even better is that getting around is easy while walking between the various landmarks on the National Mall.
Along the way, visit the Washington Monument, the US Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial. However, when visiting with toddlers, you may need a stroller to get around in comfort.
One thing to bear in mind is that Washington, DC is that the summer is humid. However, when visiting the Smithsonian museums, the air conditioning will offer a comfortable respite. Moreover, for families on a budget, the museums all over free entry and their exhibits are suitable for everyone.
3. Outer Banks, North Carolina
Lighthouse, Outer Banks, North Carolina, USA [Image by Pinpals from Pixabay]The Outer Banks are a series of barrier islands, lining North Carolina’s portion of the East Coast. These islands offer some of the most idyllic beaches for families to visit, whether collecting shells or paddling in the surf. Moreover, a fun activity for the whole family is exploring the Outer Banks’ iconic lighthouses. Alternatively, a family bike trip along the coast is a pleasant experience.
However, for older kids, the Outer Banks offer plenty of interesting history, including the Wright Brothers National Memorial set on the location where the brothers took their famous first flight. Meanwhile, kids of all ages will enjoy a visit to the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island.
4. Anaheim and Disneyland
Family vacations at Disneyland, Anaheim [Image by yuantunan from Pixabay]Naturally, all kids love to visit anything Disney and Disneyland in Anaheim is always a good choice. However, while the kids would probably want to stay in the park for the whole vacation, Anaheim also has other attractions. Here, the whole family can also visit the lesser-known theme parks, including Knott’s Berry Farm and Adventure City.
Being inland, it gets pretty hot in Anaheim during summer. However, for a cool-off, the family can make a coastal day trip to Huntington Beach or Laguna Beach. Both coastal locations are less than 30 miles from the city.
5. Hilton Head, South Carolina
Hilton Head, South Carolina [Image by Pixabay]Next in the best destinations for summer family vacations is Hilton Head. This barrier island off the South Carolina coast offers 12 miles of idyllic beaches, ideal for sun and sand, castle-making and exciting watersports.
For those with a love of hiking, the island also features more than 60 miles of trails to explore on foot or bicycle. Nature lovers will also find that visiting Hilton Head in summer is the prime time for sea turtle nesting. Due to this, kids can enjoy educational talks about the endangered species.
Get ready for your summer family vacation and have fun at one of these destinations and other locations in the United States.
[…] a pleasure, each with its own unique aspects. However, for someone seeking a little quiet in their summer vacation, National Geographic has revealed the top, lesser-known National Parks for a peaceful […]
[…] a pleasure, each with its own unique aspects. However, for someone seeking a little quiet in their summer vacation, National Geographic has revealed the top, lesser-known National Parks for a peaceful […]