Your next family vacation will be here before you know it, so it’s time to start planning. We looked coast to coast for the best family destinations and inclusive experiences. No matter what your family likes to do, this list has a little bit of something for everyone. Here are our 7 best places to travel with kids.
1. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando, Florida
Great for kids of all ages, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort never fails to delight fans of the Harry Potter series. Far from a standard amusement park, Wizarding World is layered with many details only true fans will notice (but everyone will appreciate). You’ll need at least two days to fully explore and appreciate everything this experience has to offer. There are two separate parks (requiring separate tickets): Diagon Alley, which is part of Universal Studios Florida, and Hogsmeade, which is part of Universal’s Island of Adventure. When you buy both park passes, you can travel between worlds on the Hogwarts Express. Plus, both tickets give you access to visit the rest of Universal Orlando or even nearby Walt Disney World. All in all, Orlando, Florida, is one of the most fun places to travel with kids.
2. The French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana
If you like to explore on foot and sample local cuisine steeped in history, consider taking the family to the French Quarter in New Orleans. You’ll feel like you somehow got magically transported to a European town, as much of the area’s architecture is either French- or Spanish-inspired. New Orleans is an amazing destination all year long, even in the winter months when it’s cold in other parts of the country.
3. Redwood National & State Parks in Crescent City, California
City and suburban life can cause us to forget about the majesty that is Mother Nature, but Redwood National Park can help anyone remember. If you truly want to soak in the sights and see everything the park has to offer, we recommend spending at least three days here if you’re going to travel with kids. You can take in the scenery on foot or in your rental car because the park offers both trails and scenic byways of the famed redwood trees and even waterfalls. There are also trails that are bike-friendly and dog-friendly. There are devoted campgrounds where you can sleep overnight in the park, but you’ll want to reserve your spot well in advance.
4. Colonial Williamsburg in Williamsburg, Virginia
Time-travel into the past to see how America’s founders lived! Colonial Williamsburg is a charming area the whole family can enjoy. With re-enactors constantly tending to shops, inns, gardens, and taverns, Colonial Williamsburg is a time portal. And most of the sites are concentrated in one area so you won’t spend a lot of time driving between destinations. are plenty of modern shops and restaurants within walking distance at nearby College of William and Mary, a historic university. With Busch Gardens theme park and Water Country both a short drive away, we consider Colonial Williamsburg to be one of the best places to travel with kids in the US.
5. Niagara Falls in Niagara Falls, New York
Everyone should have the opportunity to see Niagara Falls at least once in their life. To say this massive waterfall is awe-inspiring is an understatement. Aside from the astonishing views, there are numerous ways to enjoy the Niagara Falls area. On the New York side, there’s the Aquarium of Niagara and a historical 18th century fort. You can also cross to Clifton, Canada to visit animal parks, the Skylon tower, the Niagara SkyWheel, and the theme park. Niagara Falls is one of America’s most amazing natural wonders that will give you a lot of bang for your buck.
6. San Diego Zoo in San Diego, California
Are your kids animal lovers? Let them channel their inner Jane Goodall or David Attenborough with a trip to the San Diego Zoo. It’s considered one of the best zoos in the world and is home to exhibits such as Monkey Trails, Panda Canyon, and Elephant Odyssey. You can even download the San Diego Zoo app to track your schedule and find dining opportunities, bathroom locations, and more.
7. Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, Texas
Have little ones who would love to see evidence of dinosaurs? Located in Glen Rose, Texas, Dinosaur Valley is a huge scenic park right beside the Paluxy River that has some of the best-preserved dinosaur tracks in the world. The park also contains more than 10 miles of hiking trails, and about 9.5 miles of mountain-biking trails. You can also camp, swim, fish, picnic, and watch for wildlife at this unique state park.
The Takeaway
Avail car sharing can help your family get on your way from one of our many locations across neighborhoods in Chicago and Denver. Any time you borrow a car from Avail, you’ll be fully covered by Allstate insurance and can add a second driver for free — perfect for splitting driving duties on a family trip! Plus, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing that your reservation is always guaranteed, and that there are no hidden charges when you book.
