The family vacation is one of the most important times to spend with your loved ones and create meaningful memories. It can also be the most challenging, but a bit of thoughtful planning can help make the journey smooth and enjoyable for everyone. From a beach getaway to a mountain retreat, and city break to a cruise vacation, we’ve got a wide range of unforgettable family-friendly travel ideas.
If your family craves the ocean, consider a beach vacation to Aruba. It is a tropical island outside the hurricane belt, and offers soft white beaches, tranquil lagoons for snorkeling and fun adventure activities like kayaking and buggy driving. Young kids can splash in the calm waves and build sandcastles, while older teens and adults will find plenty to do at Aruba’s more lively Palm Beach.
An exciting way to discover the world’s many cultures is to take a trip abroad. From learning about ancient history and snacking on gelato in Rome to spotting favorite animals and gaining an appreciation for conservation on an African safari, the opportunities are endless. And, with budget-friendly airfares and superb family hotels, traveling with a younger family is more affordable than ever.
Alternatively, an exciting destination that’s ideal for a cultural vacation is India. It is a country with many religious traditions and rich culture, and offers a variety of things to do. Families with children can enjoy a spiritual trip to Haridwar to see the Ganga Aarti and dip in the holy river, or explore Jaipur’s Pink City with its grand forts, elephant rides and City Palace.
A great way to get a feel for a new culture is to attend local festivals and ceremonies. Visiting during these special occasions will give you a glimpse into a different lifestyle and will be an amazing way to bond with your family. If you’re on a budget, consider getting a National Park pass, which gives the holder and up to three additional adults admission to 2,000 federal recreation sites for an annual fee.
If you’d prefer to stay closer to home, a city-based vacation is an excellent choice for your family. The mind-bending Broad Museum and Hollywood Walk of Fame are both free, and the city has a number of other attractions to keep the whole family entertained.
Detroit is an American gem, and one of the most unique and inexpensive cities in which to take a family vacation. It is a fascinating city that shows the rise, fall and rebirth of a great American city. You can visit the birthplace of the Model T at Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, learn about American industrialization and innovation on a Greenfield Village or Henry Ford Museum tour, and even play on an urban park that doubles as a miniature version of Hamtramck Disneyland (Hamtramck, Michigan). Then, check out the city’s unique blend of football and bowling at the Fowling Warehouse and explore a historic ghetto. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a helicopter and see the city from the skies!
