Family-Friendly Vacations
By: Jeanine Cox
Looking for a great vacation spot? See which cities our regional guides recommend for your fun family travel.
Family: a group of individuals living under one roof and usually under one head.
Vacation: a) a scheduled period during which activity (as of a court or school) is suspended b) a period of exemption from work granted to an employee for rest and relaxation.
Ah, vacation... A time to be together and learn from experience and welcoming sites. All too often we parents take too much upon ourselves; whether we're stretching the family budget or trying to do too much in a short time, we forget the pleasure and meaning of spending fun time with our children. The editors have compiled a list of recommended vacation destinations you may not have considered that offer fun family value and education throughout North America. Get recommendations about where to stay to where to eat in each of these fun-filled destinations.
For the Nature Lovers
- Anchorage, Alaska: Although, getting there can be a hike for some of us, a visit to Anchorage is less expensive than many believe, and Anchorage summer offers heart-stopping nature views that the entire family will remember and cherish.
- Aspen, Colorado: Enjoy the Rocky Mountain sunshine in Aspen and surrounding areas during the warmer seasons, because Aspen isn't just about snow sports. It's home to many fun-filled festivities for families.
- Denver, Colorado: The lyrics to the song, "America The Beautiful" were written atop the 14,000-foot summit of Colorado's Pike's Peak. You can come experience colorful Colorado's "purple mountains majesty," "amber waves of grain," and loads of fun for yourself and the entire family.
- Indianapolis, Indiana: Is there really more than corn in Indiana? How about beaches -- and lots of them! Indianapolis and its surrounding area is one of our top picks of underrated travel destinations for families. If you're looking for a little bit of everything on your next family vacation, Indy may be the spot.
- Tampa, Florida: Everyone loves Florida beaches, and the Tampa Bay area has its own unique qualities that will delight everyone from the beachgoing to amusement park seekers to museum hoppers.
- Southern New Jersey: The Southern Jersey Shore has beautiful beaches from Keyport to Cape May where you will find quaint victorian charm all along this beautiful American coast.
The History Buffs
- Boston, Massachusetts: Where it all began. Here's a wonderful opportunity to teach hands-on history with the kids and enjoy all that Beantown has to offer.
- Memphis, Tennessee: What do the Mississippi River, Elvis, and "The Blues" all have in common? Just a taste of what you'll enjoy in this historical southern city.
City Seekers
- New York, New York: New York City belongs to the world. This was true before the fateful morning of 9-11, and is especially true today. Now more than ever, NYC needs your support -- so enjoy New York's fantastic culture. Bargains abound in this greatest city on earth.
- San Francisco, California: Everyone has to see San Francisco. This cosmopolitan city is magical for children and parents alike. Whether you troll it, hike it or cab it, you will never run out of things to do in this unique western destination.
- Toronto, Canada: From the scenic harbourfront to the multicultural downtown attractions, there is something in Ontario's capital for everyone. You'll find the hardest part about traveling here is leaving!
- San Jose, California: Do you know the way to San Jose? If not, check your map, because San Jose offers a wide variety of family entertainment and is centrally located to many other great attractions.
Related Features:
