One of the keys to having a great family vacation is picking a destination that suits your family best but, how do you pick a destination that will work well for your family? Here are some popular destinations and type of family it will work best for:
Orlando, Florida: This a great destination for families of all ages. Younger children (and those young at heart) will enjoy Disney World. If you have never been you can spend a whole week there visiting their many theme parks, water parks, and entertainment areas. For those looking for more adventure you might want to visit Busch Gardens, Sea World, Aquatica, and Discovery Cove. These parks are all owned by the same company so you can get a multi day ticket for them. You can also hit the beaches or the Kennedy Space Center.
Cruise: A cruise vacation is a great option for families with kids of all ages. There is lots to do and free child care for potty trained children 3 and up. The destinations vary but the most important thing is picking the cruise line that best suits your family. Here is a breakdown of the family friendly cruise lines and who they may suite best.
Carnival Cruise Line ~ This cruise line is best suited for people on a tight budget. Its kind of like a big party all the time but not as sophisticated as the other cruise lines. You wont find the highest quality food or entertainment but you can have a fun time on a budget if you are not too concerned about those things.
Royal Caribbean Cruise Line ~ This is a great cruise line for those that like adventure. The food is good and so is the entertainment. The best part is the wide array of activities on board. From rock climbing walls, mini golf, ice skating rinks, and more this cruise line will fill your days with lots of adventures. They also have ships that feature Dream Works characters for extra fun.
Disney Cruise Line ~ This is a great way to see the world on the most child friendly cruise line around. The quality of food and entertainment is high and so is the appeal to children. You won't find a casino like the other cruise lines but it is replaced with extra space for the kids. Don't worry about being surrounded by kids all the time either. While your kids are in the free child activities you can enjoy some adult time at the adults only pool, spa, or restaurant. The perfect mixture of family time and adult time.
Adventures By Disney: These are guided tours to various places around the world including Europe, Australia, and South America where you will be emersed in the culture and experience of these countries. These trips do have age limits, usually around 4 or 6. Your older kids will have an experience of a lifetime and a summer they will never forget. These trips have the highest level of service and experience and run around $3000 a person but vary based on trip and itinerary.
Historical Cities/Landmarks: For older kids they may appreciate seeing some of the places they have learned about in school. Consider taking a trip to the Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, Hoover Dam, Washington DC, or Williamsburg. You can combine the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam since they are not too far apart. You will also enjoy Washington DC and many of the free museums and monuments there. Williamsburg is a great combination of fun and history. You can visit Colonial WIllimasburg and then have fun at Busch Gardens and Wild Water Kingdom.
Beach Trip: Renting a house at the beach can be a great option, especially for families with young children. On the east coast Ocean City, New Jersey and the Outer Banks Region of North Carolina is a great destination for families. Ocean City, New Jersey is a "dry town" which makes it great for families. You can have fun at the beach or at the amusement parks on the boardwalk. Consider renting a house or an efficiency so you can make meals and have extra space when you go back for naps. Share the space with another family or family member to save a few bucks. Atlantic City isn't too far away if you have someone to stay with the kids for a day. The Outer Banks is another great area for families. Rent a house with beach access so that you can use the beach and their facilities which may include a pool and other activities. The Outer Banks region is full of activities for families including kite flying and miniature golf. You can also enjoy educational activities like light houses and the Lost Colony of Roanoke area. If you are on the west coast we would love to hear about some of your favorite places to visit. The San Diego area is beautiful. If you plan a trip to the beach then be sure to read our article on preparing for the beach .
Local Tourist: If you can't go away for a big vacation you might consider being a local tourist on a staycation. Have you done the cool things in your area such as amusement parks, zoos, museums, and landmarks. Spending time together as a family can make as many memories as a big vacation.
Camping: This is a great family bonding time. Before you say no check out "Camping in the Great Outdoors ". You might find there is a type of camping that will work for you. Hey, give it a try. You might just like it.
If you want to plan a family vacation for this summer then now is the time to get started with your plans. What vacation options sound good to you? We would love to hear about it.
Written By: Allison from Magical Memory Planners - visit her website to get even more disney information or a free vacation quote.
