It's not always necessary to travel far from home to locate the best family holiday ideas. From sea to shining sea, the United States is full of fantastic locations to see and things to do—many of which are perfect for family vacations. Whether you want to visit a calm beach town, go on a thrilling outdoor adventure, or visit a theme park, the United States has some of the top family vacation places in the world.
1. Orlando, Florida
Orlando is one of the top family vacation places in the United States for people of all ages if you're looking for some sun and thrills. This Florida city is dubbed as the "World Capital of Theme Parks" for a reason. Many people think of Disney and Universal as the top Orlando theme parks, but don't forget about SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove, and LEGOLAND, among others.
When you've had your fill of theme parks, Orlando has plenty more to offer. At the Orlando Watersports Complex, you may enjoy wakeboarding or tubing, or shop at CityWalk Orlando. Take a short trip to one of the many beaches near Orlando for swimming and sunbathing if you're in the mood for some sand.
The city is also known for its family-friendly restaurants, which include the T-Rex Cafe, where you can dine with dinosaurs, and the steampunk-inspired Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, where you can fulfill your sweet craving. And, of course, if you're planning a wet and wild summer vacation, the Orlando water parks are among the best in the country.
2. Anaheim, California
If your family can't get enough of Mickey Mouse, take a trip to Anaheim, California, to visit Disneyland, the amusement park that started it all. This American institution has been delighting families with famous attractions like as Sleeping Beauty's Castle and It's a Small World since the 1950s. Today, families may visit Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park to enjoy more than 500 acres of entertainment, including rides and attractions such as Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and the Haunted Mansion.
But it isn't just because of Disney that Anaheim is regarded as one of the top family holiday destinations in the United States. At Knott's Berry Farm, your family will enjoy the rides, which include the world's largest wooden rollercoaster. CtrCity Anaheim has a plethora of retail and dining options. The Anaheim Packing House is a gastronomic haven, with breweries for the adults and delectable delicacies for the children. While you're in town, take in some live music at the Anaheim Garden Walk or catch an Angels baseball or Anaheim Ducks hockey game.
3. Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks is a fantastic option for a budget-friendly family vacation in the United States. This group of villages is located off the coast of North Carolina on a series of barrier islands with miles of beautiful beaches. The Outer Banks' museums and historic sites bring the past to life, and the area is noted for its rich maritime history.
At Kitty Hawk, children can learn about the Wright Brothers' first airplane flight, discover shipwrecks at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, travel the African American History Trail via Roanoke and Hatteras Islands, and ponder the mystery of Roanoke's Lost Colony.
With almost 100 miles of coastline to explore, your family can spend the day climbing to the top of Jockey Ridge, the East Coast's highest sand dune, or taking sailing lessons. You can learn to surf at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, rent a stand-up paddle board, or go fishing off Janette's Pier. The Outer Banks offers a plethora of outdoor activities.
4. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Do you have a nature-loving family? Travel to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (three park entrances are conveniently located right downtown). With miles of trails great for hiking, walking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, as well as white water rafting and kayaking, this area has everything your family could want in terms of outdoor activities. Keep your cameras ready to capture images of local animals such as elk, deer, and even the occasional black bear.
A wealth of kid-friendly activities may be found closer to town. Enjoy a live concert at the Sweet Fanny Adams Theater, or visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies to see penguins, sting rays, and sharks. Look for local handcrafted products and artwork to take home as mementos in the Arts & Crafts Community's galleries and workshops. Climb to the top of the 407-foot Gatlinburg Space Needle for the greatest views in town, or take a ride above the treetops on the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway.
5. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park is not only one of the top family vacation sites in the United States, but it's also one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world—and for good reason. Despite the fact that it offers family-friendly activities such as hiking and mule rides, the entire magnificence of this natural wonder can only be enjoyed in person. Talk about creating memories: your children will never forget peering over the edge into the breathtaking canyon below.
The Grand Canyon South Rim is where most families go to get the clearest and most breathtaking vistas all the way down to the Colorado River. The less-visited Grand Canyon North Rim, on the other hand, can provide an equally wonderful family holiday. Even though the views aren't as magnificent, the smaller crowds more than compensate.
Whitewater rafting on the Colorado River is another exciting activity at the Grand Canyon. Day trips to week-long excursions are available, and many Grand Canyon rafting experiences are designed specifically for families with children. Spend some money on a helicopter tour to see the Grand Canyon from above. Speaking of the sky, near the canyon's West Rim, you can stroll over the edge on the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass-bottom bridge.