5 Great Destinations for Family Travel

Are you looking for the perfect place to plan your next family vacation? Whether you’re on the hunt for adventure or are hoping to unwind somewhere along a white sand beach, these five destinations offer guaranteed fun for travelers of every age.

Grand Canyon, Arizona

With bike trails, hiking paths, a Geology Museum, river trips and more, there are plenty of activities at the Grand Canyon for the whole family to enjoy.

If you’re traveling with kiddos ages four and up don’t miss the Grand Canyon National Park Junior Ranger Program where children can learn about the region’s natural and cultural history from a real-life park ranger. History buffs and locomotive fans will love taking a cruise on Grand Canyon Railway’s restored WWII-era passenger train where riders enjoy unbeatable views as the train twists and turns along tree-covered hills and steep canyon bluffs.

Of course, no visit to this geological wonder is complete without a hike or two. If you’re looking for a trail that’s suitable for both the younger and older members of your group, be sure to add Shoshone Point to your list. This short trail guides visitors down a one-mile, level dirt road that offers a glimpse of the surrounding ponderosa pine forest before revealing a dramatic overlook of the canyon’s rim.

Niagara Falls, U.S. and Canada

Consisting of three falls at the end of the Niagara River—Horseshoe Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and American Falls—Niagara Falls serves as a natural border between the U.S. and Canada. While the falls aren’t the largest, they do have the highest flow rate of any waterfall in the world. This powerful flow can be seen in the surrounding landscape as the intense turbulence carves through the rock and a dramatic mist rises from the water below, producing an abundance of rainbows in the process.

As for things to do, the Maid of the Mist, Old Falls Street USA and Cave of the Winds are all noted as must-see attractions. There’s also no shortage of outdoor activities with hiking, boating, camping, biking, fishing and more. Alternatively, if your family prefers city adventures, explore Art Alley NF in Niagara Falls, New York, or check out live music at the Riviera Theatre & Performing Arts Center.

For some boozy fun, be sure to visit one of the area’s local wineries where you can indulge in a glass of ice wine, a drink made from cold-weather grapes that are left to freeze on the vine before becoming a scrumptious dessert wine. Riesling, Vidal and Cabernet Franc, there’s an ice wine of each.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

There’s nothing quite as relaxing as an all-inclusive getaway in the Riviera Maya. Best of all, all-you-can-eat buffets, bottomless drinks by the pool and on-site entertainment ensure that no one will get bored when you choose to vacation in the Yucatan.

Of course, the resorts are only part of what makes Mexico a fabulous family getaway. Another thing that makes this destination great is its seemingly endless options for excursions . Whether you’re looking to spend the day at an eco-park, zip line across a canopy of lush vegetation, explore the underground world of caverns and cenotes or marvel at one of the many ancient ruins , you can do it all in Mexico.

Orlando, Florida

One of America’s premier destinations for theme park fun, Orlando is a must-visit spot for families. Enjoy marine life shows, thrill rides and animal encounters at SeaWorld Orlando, discover the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort or experience the magic of all your favorite characters at Walt Disney World. Aside from the big three, there are several smaller parks that are also worth checking out in the area. Gatorland, for example, gives visitors an up-close-and-personal view of alligators and crocodiles spanning up to 14-feet long. Also notable is Keely Park, a beautiful crystal-clear natural area that’s perfect for hiking, camping and swimming.

With over 5,000 restaurants, Orlando is also a favorite amongst foodies. Treat your palette to a melody of flavors cooked up by celebrity chefs at places like Wolfgang Puck Cafe, Emeril’s Tchoup Chop, Guy Fieri at Planet Hollywood and more. For something a little lower key, visit Whole Food Trucks, a food truck park dishing up a wide variety of flavors. Mexican, sushi, burgers, Italian, pizza and ice cream, you name it, they’ve got it.

In a similar vein, Orlando is also enjoying a rise in microbreweries. Wash down a good meal at places like The Bear and Peacock Brewery, Dead Lizard Brewing Company, Half Barrel Beer Project and more.

London, England

If you’re looking to take your family abroad , London is an excellent choice. Younger travelers will love the city’s abundance of museums including The Natural History Museum with displays on dinosaurs, human evolution, oceans and space. Another fan favorite is The British Museum which showcases over two million years of human history and culture. Here, travelers can explore Egyptian artifacts, ponder the mysteries of Stonehenge, discover the secrets of ancient mummies, explore art, clothing and canoes from the South Pacific and more.

In addition to great museums, London is also home to a plethora of unique experiences and tourist attractions. Take a spin on the London Eye, Europe’s tallest Ferris wheel, for unbeatable views of the city, hop aboard a London Duck Tour to explore the streets, embrace the region’s royal culture with a visit to the Royal Mews or catch a glimpse of Big Ben from atop Tower Bridge.