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Planning a memorable family vacation that caters to both kids and adults? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of 10 kid-friendly destinations in the USA, combining affordability, fun, and educational experiences. Let’s embark on a journey through these enchanting family getaways.
1. Disney World, Orlando, Florida:
Introduction: Embark on a magical journey at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. With four theme parks, including the iconic Magic Kingdom, two water parks, and numerous hotels and recreational areas, it’s a world of enchantment and fun for kids and the whole family.
Location: Orlando, Florida
Interesting Fact: Disney World is home to the world’s largest theme park, covering approximately 25,000 acres, making it roughly the size of San Francisco.
Things to do:
Interactive Play at Disney’s Magic Kingdom: Explore interactive play areas like The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh and the Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station. Kids can immerse themselves in the stories and engage in hands-on fun while parents can relax nearby.
Become a Junior Imagineer at EPCOT: Visit the “Project Tomorrow: Inventing the Wonders of the Future” exhibit at EPCOT’s Future World. Here, kids can participate in interactive exhibits and activities that showcase technology and innovation, inspiring them to become junior imagineers.
Dine with Disney Characters: Make reservations for character dining experiences where kids can meet their favorite Disney characters while enjoying a meal. From Cinderella’s Royal Table to Chef Mickey’s, these dining experiences create magical memories for the whole family.
Explore the Wilderness at Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Embark on the Wilderness Explorers adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Kids can earn badges by completing challenges and learning about wildlife conservation, making it an educational and fun experience for the whole family.
Take a Voyage to Pandora at Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Experience the otherworldly wonders of Pandora—The World of Avatar. Kids can journey on the Na’vi River Journey, where they’ll encounter bioluminescent plants and animals and explore the interactive exhibits at the Pandora Conservation Initiative Lab.
Where to Book: Tickets can be reserved by visiting this link.
2. Disneyland, Anaheim, California:
Introduction: Step into the original magic at Disneyland in Anaheim, California. As the first-ever Disney theme park, it offers a nostalgic experience with classic attractions and the enchanting Sleeping Beauty Castle. It’s one of the best places for a vacation in the USA and a perfect family weekend getaway.
Location: Anaheim, California
Interesting Fact: Disneyland has hosted over 726 million guests since its opening in 1955.
Things to Do:
Ride Classic Attractions: Experience iconic rides like Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, and It’s a Small World. These timeless attractions have been delighting families for generations and offer a magical journey through Disney’s beloved stories.
Meet Disney Characters: Meet and greet your favorite Disney characters throughout the park. From Mickey Mouse to Elsa and Anna, there are opportunities for kids to interact with beloved characters, take photos, and get autographs, creating unforgettable memories.
Explore Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge: Immerse yourself in the world of Star Wars at Galaxy’s Edge. Kids can pilot the Millennium Falcon on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, build their own lightsabers at Savi’s Workshop, and explore the marketplace for unique Star Wars merchandise.
Watch Fantasmic!: Experience the spectacular nighttime show, Fantasmic!, which combines water, fire, music, and Disney characters in an epic battle of good versus evil. This mesmerizing show is sure to captivate the entire family and leave lasting impressions.
Enjoy Character Dining: Treat your family to a magical dining experience with character dining at restaurants like Plaza Inn and Goofy’s Kitchen. Kids can enjoy delicious meals while interacting with Disney characters, creating memorable moments that they’ll cherish forever.
Where to Book: Tickets can be reserved by visiting this link.
3. Legoland, Various Locations:
Introduction: Unleash your creativity at LEGOLAND, with locations in California, Florida, and New York. These parks are a haven for Lego enthusiasts, featuring imaginative rides and awe-inspiring Lego sculptures.
Locations: California, Florida, and New York
Interesting Fact: LEGOLAND California Resort is home to over 60 million Lego bricks.
Things to Do:
Build and Play at LEGO® Ninjago® World: Immerse yourself in the world of LEGO Ninjago at LEGOLAND’s Ninjago World. Kids can unleash their inner ninja as they embark on interactive adventures, test their skills on ninja-themed rides, and explore intricate LEGO models of iconic Ninjago characters and settings.
Explore Miniland USA: Marvel at the impressive LEGO replicas of famous cities and landmarks at Miniland USA. Kids can explore miniature versions of New York City, Las Vegas, and other iconic destinations, complete with moving parts, sound effects, and interactive features.
Splash and Play at LEGOLAND Water Park: Cool off and have fun at LEGOLAND’s Water Park, featuring a variety of water slides, splash zones, and interactive play areas. Kids can build their own LEGO rafts, race down water slides, and enjoy splashing around in the wave pool.
Take a LEGO Factory Tour: Go behind the scenes and learn how LEGO bricks are made on the LEGO Factory Tour. Kids can see the fascinating process of turning raw plastic into colorful LEGO bricks and even take home a complimentary LEGO brick as a souvenir.
Join LEGO-themed Shows and Events: Catch entertaining shows and participate in special events throughout the day at LEGOLAND. From live performances featuring LEGO characters to building competitions and meet-and-greets with Master Model Builders, there’s always something fun happening at LEGOLAND for the whole family to enjoy.
Where to Book: Tickets can be reserved by visiting this link for California, this link for Florida, and this link for New York.
4. Hershey, Pennsylvania:
Introduction: Sweeten your family vacation in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Known as the “Sweetest Place on Earth,” it offers the perfect blend of amusement at Hersheypark and chocolate-infused adventures at Hershey’s Chocolate World. Your kids will love it.
Location: Hershey, Pennsylvania
Interesting Fact: Hersheypark’s first roller coaster, the Wild Cat, opened in 1923.
Things to Do:
Visit Hersheypark: Explore the sweetest place on earth at Hersheypark, featuring thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and delicious treats. From roller coasters to water rides, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this iconic amusement park.
Tour Hershey’s Chocolate World: Take a deliciously fun tour of Hershey’s Chocolate World and learn how chocolate is made. Kids can create their own chocolate bars, ride through a chocolate factory tour, and explore interactive exhibits showcasing the history and magic of chocolate.
Explore ZooAmerica: Discover the wonders of North American wildlife at ZooAmerica, an accredited zoo located next to Hersheypark. Kids can observe animals up close, learn about conservation efforts, and participate in educational programs and animal encounters.
Experience Hershey Gardens: Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at Hershey Gardens, featuring stunning botanical displays, themed gardens, and a butterfly atrium. Kids can explore winding pathways, play in the Children’s Garden, and marvel at the vibrant colors and fragrances of flowers and plants.
Attend Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction: Experience the magic of Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction, where kids can embark on a journey through the world of chocolate. From a chocolate-making tour to interactive exhibits and sweet-themed rides, there’s plenty of chocolatey fun to be had for the whole family.
Where to Book: Tickets can be reserved by visiting this link
5. Universal Studios, Various Locations:
Introduction: Step into the world of movies at Universal Studios, where adventure awaits in Orlando, Florida, and Hollywood, California. From thrilling rides to encounters with favorite characters, it’s a cinematic journey perfect for the whole family. Universal Studios stands out as one of the top vacation destinations in the US.
Locations: Orlando, Florida; Hollywood, California
Interesting Fact: Universal Studios Hollywood opened its doors in 1964, marking the first film studio tour in Hollywood.
Things to Do:
Explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Immerse yourself in J.K. Rowling’s magical universe with attractions like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Flight of the Hippogriff, and the Hogwarts Express. Kids can wander through Hogsmeade, visit Ollivanders wand shop, and enjoy butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks.
Experience Jurassic World: Step into the prehistoric world of Jurassic Park and Jurassic World, where lifelike dinosaurs await on thrilling attractions like Jurassic World: The Ride and the Raptor Encounter. Explore the Jurassic Outfitters gift shop for dinosaur-themed souvenirs.
Meet Despicable Me Minions: Join Gru, his daughters, and the mischievous Minions on exciting adventures at Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and the Super Silly Fun Land play area. Kids can meet their favorite characters, take photos, and dance along with the Minions during the Minion Dance Party.
Go on a Studio Tour: Take a behind-the-scenes look at movie and TV show production on the Universal Studios Studio Tour. Experience the excitement of a working movie studio lot, see iconic sets from famous films, and learn fascinating facts about movie-making.
Explore Springfield: Step into the animated world of The Simpsons at Springfield, where kids can ride The Simpsons Ride, grab a Krusty Burger at Krusty Burger, and explore iconic locations like Moe’s Tavern and Kwik-E-Mart. Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo with The Simpsons characters roaming the streets.
Where to Book: Tickets can be reserved online for Orlando here and for Hollywood here.
6. San Diego, California:
Introduction: Bask in the sun and explore family-friendly attractions in San Diego, California. From the world-renowned San Diego Zoo to the interactive wonders of LEGOLAND, it’s a coastal paradise for kids and parents alike.
Location: San Diego, California
Interesting Fact: San Diego is home to the world’s oldest active sailing ship, the Star of India.
Things to Do:
Visit the San Diego Zoo: Explore one of the world’s most famous zoos at the San Diego Zoo. Kids can marvel at a wide variety of animals from around the world, including pandas, giraffes, and polar bears. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a guided bus tour or ride the Skyfari aerial tram for a bird’s-eye view of the zoo.
Discover LEGOLAND California Resort: Dive into a world of creativity and imagination at LEGOLAND California Resort. Kids can enjoy themed rides, interactive attractions, and elaborate LEGO displays throughout the park. Don’t forget to visit the SEA LIFE Aquarium and LEGOLAND Water Park for even more fun.
Explore Balboa Park: Spend a day exploring Balboa Park, home to numerous museums, gardens, and cultural attractions. Kids can visit the San Diego Air & Space Museum, Fleet Science Center, and San Diego Natural History Museum. Don’t miss the opportunity to play in the park’s playgrounds, ride the carousel, or take a stroll through the botanical gardens.
Experience USS Midway Museum: Step aboard the USS Midway, America’s longest-serving aircraft carrier turned museum. Kids can explore the flight deck, climb into cockpits, and learn about naval aviation history through interactive exhibits and guided tours. Don’t miss the chance to see the museum’s collection of aircraft up close.
Enjoy a Day at the Beach: Spend a day soaking up the sun and surf at one of San Diego’s beautiful beaches. Kids can build sandcastles, splash in the waves, and play beach games with the whole family. Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch and plenty of sunscreen for a day of seaside fun.
Where to Book: Tickets can be reserved for San Diego Zoo by visiting this link.
7. Great Wolf Lodge, Various Locations:
Introduction: Dive into a world of water park excitement at Great Wolf Lodge. With locations across the country, these resorts offer families a perfect blend of water attractions, themed experiences, and magical adventures.
Locations: Various locations across the USA
Interesting Fact: Great Wolf Lodge’s water parks are kept at a comfortable 84 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
Things to Do:
Enjoy the Indoor Water Park: Splash and play in the resort’s indoor water park, featuring thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and splash areas for kids of all ages. From gentle slides for little ones to adrenaline-pumping rides for older kids, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Explore MagiQuest: Embark on a magical adventure with MagiQuest, an interactive live-action game where kids can use wands to cast spells, solve puzzles, and complete quests throughout the resort. Kids can explore enchanted realms, unlock hidden treasures, and defeat mythical creatures in this immersive experience.
Attend Story Time and Character Meet-and-Greets: Gather around for nightly story time at the resort’s lobby, where kids can listen to enchanting tales and cuddle up with their favorite characters. Don’t miss the opportunity to meet Great Wolf Lodge’s mascots, Wiley the Wolf and Violet the Raccoon, for hugs, photos, and autographs.
Experience the Howlers Peak Ropes Course: Test your bravery and agility on the Howlers Peak Ropes Course, an indoor adventure course featuring rope bridges, balance beams, and other obstacles suspended high above the ground. Kids can challenge themselves and conquer their fears in a safe and supervised environment.
Indulge in MagiQuest Adventure Suites: Upgrade your stay to a MagiQuest Adventure Suite, where kids can sleep in themed rooms inspired by the magical world of MagiQuest. These immersive suites feature interactive elements, secret passageways, and special surprises that will delight young adventurers throughout their stay.
Where to Book: Tickets can be reserved by visiting this link.
8. National Children's Museum, Washington, D.C.:
Introduction: Ignite curiosity and exploration at the National Children’s Museum in Washington, D.C. Focused on STEAM education, it offers hands-on exhibits and interactive installations for an educational family adventure.
Location: Washington, D.C.
Interesting Fact: The National Children’s Museum was established in 1974 as the Capital Children’s Museum.
Things to Do:
Explore the Dream Machine: Step into the Dream Machine, a multi-level interactive exhibit that encourages creativity, imagination, and exploration. Kids can climb, crawl, slide, and play their way through a variety of hands-on activities and interactive installations.
Discover the Story of Me: Dive into the Story of Me exhibit, where kids can learn about themselves and their bodies through interactive displays, games, and activities. From exploring the five senses to discovering how the brain works, this exhibit offers a fun and educational experience for kids of all ages.
Create in the Innovation Sandbox: Unleash your creativity and innovation in the Innovation Sandbox, a dedicated space for hands-on experimentation and discovery. Kids can build, design, and invent using a variety of materials and tools, sparking their curiosity and problem-solving skills.
Experience the World at Our Doorstep: Travel the globe without leaving the museum in the World at Our Doorstep exhibit. Kids can explore different cultures, traditions, and customs through interactive displays, artifacts, and storytelling. From learning about food and music to discovering how people live around the world, this exhibit offers a fascinating glimpse into global diversity.
Engage in STEAM Activities: Participate in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) activities and workshops offered throughout the museum. Kids can experiment with hands-on projects, conduct science experiments, and engage in creative arts and crafts activities that inspire curiosity and critical thinking.
Where to Book: Tickets can be reserved by visiting this link.
9. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina:
Introduction: Experience the perfect blend of sun, sand, and family-friendly entertainment in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Beyond its beautiful beaches, Myrtle Beach offers amusement parks, mini-golf, and the lively Broadway at the Beach. Your teens will love the beach adventures.
Location: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Interesting Fact: Myrtle Beach is home to the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, one of the tallest Ferris wheels in North America.
Things to Do:
Visit Broadway at the Beach: Explore Broadway at the Beach, a lively entertainment complex featuring shops, restaurants, attractions, and entertainment venues. Kids can enjoy attractions like WonderWorks, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the Hollywood Wax Museum, as well as exciting activities like mini-golf and zip-lining.
Splash at Myrtle Waves Water Park: Cool off and have fun at Myrtle Waves Water Park, South Carolina’s largest water park. Kids can enjoy a variety of water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and splash areas, providing hours of aquatic fun for the whole family.
Experience Family Kingdom Amusement Park: Enjoy classic amusement park rides and attractions at Family Kingdom, Myrtle Beach’s only seaside amusement park. Kids can ride the wooden roller coaster, splash around in the water park, and play carnival games, creating unforgettable memories with their family.
Explore the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade: Take a leisurely stroll along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade, featuring oceanfront views, shops, restaurants, and attractions. Kids can ride the SkyWheel ferris wheel, play in the arcades, and enjoy street performers and live entertainment along the bustling boardwalk.
Discover the Children’s Museum of South Carolina: Spark your child’s imagination and creativity at the Children’s Museum of South Carolina. Kids can explore interactive exhibits, participate in hands-on activities, and engage in educational programs that promote learning through play.
These destinations offer a perfect blend of affordability and excitement for families with kids. Plan your next memorable vacation while staying within your budget. I hope you have a great vacation.