15 Best Summer Vacation Spots in the U.S. for Families
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Summer break is one of the best times of the year for family travel.
With longer days, warm weather, and kids out of school, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore new places together.
From national parks and mountain towns to charming lake destinations and exciting cities, the United States is full of incredible summer trips for families.
To help make planning easier, I’ve put together a list of 15 of the best summer vacation destinations in the U.S. for families.
My family has personally visited every destination on this list.
What Makes a Great Summer Family Vacation
When choosing a summer destination with kids, I usually look for places that offer a mix of outdoor adventure and relaxing downtime.
Here are a few things that make a destination especially great for summer travel:
Outdoor Activities
Summer is the perfect time for hiking, biking, swimming, wildlife watching, and exploring national parks.
Kid-Friendly Attractions
Interactive museums, amusement parks, aquariums, and playgrounds can help balance out outdoor adventures.
Walkable Areas
Destinations where you can easily explore without constantly driving make family travel much easier.
Flexible Itineraries
Some of the best family travel memories happen when you leave room for spontaneity and slow moments.
15 Must-Visit Summer Vacation Destinations in the U.S. for Families
1. Kansas City, Missouri: A Fun City Summer Getaway in the Midwest
Why families love it in the summer: interactive museums, baseball games, and plenty of budget-friendly attractions.
Kansas City is an underrated gem for family-friendly summer vacations with its mix of cultural attractions, sports, and hands-on experiences.
Our family loves all the kid-friendly attractions here.
We are huge fans of Science City and our boys always love a stop at IKEA too.
Our boys also love the College Basketball Experience. It’s such a fun, interactive way for them to burn energy!
Kansas City is also a great destination for families looking for affordable attractions and a fun Midwest getaway. If you’re looking for more budget-friendly ideas, check out my guide to 12 Free (and Almost Free) Family-Friendly Things to Do in Kansas City.
If you’re planning a longer visit, I also share our favorite attractions and tips in The Best 3-Day Kansas City Itinerary for Families.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Science City at Union Station: An interactive museum perfect for kids of all ages!
- Crown Center: A fun-packed area with free + paid attractions including SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, the Hallmark Visitor’s Center (free), Kaleidoscope (free), and the Crown Center Showplace (free).
- Money Museum: A great (and free!) place to learn about money and see real gold bars.
- Kansas City Royals Game: Enjoy America’s favorite pastime at Kauffman Stadium.
- College Basketball Experience: A hands-on sports museum kids will love!
- National WWI Museum and Memorial: A must-visit for history lovers, featuring engaging exhibits and stunning city views from the top of the Liberty Memorial Tower.
Expert Tip
Don’t miss the free, family-friendly exhibit at the Crown Center Showplace. The exhibits rotate throughout the year and are always impressive. This summer, visitors can experience A Pigeon Comes to Kansas City: A Mo Willems exhibit.
Where to Stay
We’ve stayed at Homewood Suites near the Kansas City Speedway, and it worked really well for our family. Having a one- or even two-bedroom suite gives everyone a little extra space, which makes a big difference when traveling with kids.
Drury Inn & Suites Overland Park is another great option for families. We love Drury hotels for the free breakfast and evening snacks, which make traveling with kids a little easier.
If your kids would love a built-in waterpark, Great Wolf Lodge is a really fun place to stay.
Staying at a downtown hotel is another good choice since you’ll be close to many of the city’s main attractions.
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Kansas City, I share my favorite areas and family-friendly hotels in my guide to Where to Stay in Kansas City: Best Areas and Family-Friendly Hotels.
2. Chicago, Illinois: One of the Best Summer Cities in the U.S.
Why families love it in the summer: lakefront parks, iconic attractions, outdoor festivals, and endless things to do along Lake Michigan.
Summertime in Chicago is hard to beat! With stunning lakefront views, world-class museums, and tons of family-friendly attractions, it’s one of the best places to visit with kids in summer.
Our family loves visiting Chicago, and one of our favorite ways to get downtown is by taking the train from the suburbs.
It’s convenient, avoids parking hassles, and adds a little extra adventure for the kids.
Between the incredible museums, the famous skyline, and all of the parks along Lake Michigan, Chicago offers the perfect mix of city exploration and outdoor fun for families.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Millennium Park & The Bean: Iconic photo stop plus kids love splashing in the Crown Fountain in the summer.
- Maggie Daley Park: A massive playground with climbing structures, slides, and mini golf.
- Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum: See incredible marine life and dinosaurs.
- Navy Pier: Enjoy rides, boat tours, and summer fireworks.
- Griffin Museum of Science and Industry: One of the best hands-on museums in the country.
- Willis Tower Skydeck: Step onto the glass ledge for breathtaking city views.
- Catch a Cubs Game: A classic Chicago summer experience at historic Wrigley Field.
Expert Tip
If you have a science center membership, check if it offers reciprocal benefits through the ASTC Travel Passport Program. You may get free or discounted admission to Chicago’s top museums!
Where to Stay
Residence Inn Chicago River North is a great option for families thanks to its spacious suites and convenient downtown location.
3. Minnesota’s North Shore: A Scenic Lake Superior Road Trip
Why families love it in the summer: waterfalls, rocky Lake Superior beaches, scenic drives, and charming small towns along the shoreline.
For a quieter summer escape, head to Minnesota’s North Shore along Lake Superior.
The breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures make this one of the best summer trips for families who love nature.
Driving along Highway 61, you’ll find waterfalls, hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and charming towns that are fun to explore with kids.
Our boys especially loved throwing rocks into Lake Superior and exploring the unique shoreline at Black Beach.
It’s the kind of destination where you can spend your days outside enjoying the fresh air and incredible views.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Gooseberry Falls State Park: Gorgeous waterfalls and easy hiking trails that are great for kids.
- Split Rock Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse with stunning views of Lake Superior.
- Black Beach: A unique shoreline made of black pebbles where kids love exploring and throwing rocks into the water.
- Lutsen Mountains Alpine Slide & Gondola: Ride the gondola for stunning views or enjoy fun mountain activities.
- Grand Marais: A charming lakeside town with great restaurants, shops, art, and delicious donuts.
- Devil’s Kettle Waterfall: One of Minnesota’s most fascinating waterfalls, where part of the river mysteriously disappears into a hole in the rock.
Expert Tip
If you’re starting your trip in Duluth, make time to visit the Lake Superior Zoo, the Duluth Children’s Museum, or take a scenic train ride with the North Shore Scenic Railroad. These are great kid-friendly stops before heading up the shore!
Where to Stay
A vacation rental with a view of Lake Superior is one of the best ways to experience the North Shore.
Many families choose to stay near Lutsen, Tofte, or Grand Marais for easy access to hiking trails, state parks, and restaurants.
4. Moab, Utah: A Summer Adventure Near Arches National Park
Why families love it in the summer: incredible national parks, easy scenic hikes, dinosaur tracks, and unforgettable desert landscapes.
Moab is a dream destination for families who love outdoor adventures.
Yes, it gets hot in summer, but with early morning and evening activities, it’s very doable with kids.
Between the breathtaking scenery, short family-friendly hikes, and unique desert landscapes, it’s one of those places that feels like a true adventure.
Our family loved exploring Arches National Park and spotting dinosaur tracks along the trails.
Moab is the kind of destination where every turn seems to reveal another incredible view.
If you’re planning a visit, I share even more ideas in my guide to The Best Things to Do in Moab with Kids.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Arches National Park: See famous rock formations like Delicate Arch and Sand Dune Arch.
- Canyonlands National Park: Another incredible national park located just a short drive from Moab.
- Hiking & Scenic Drives: Short, family-friendly hikes with jaw-dropping views.
- Dinosaur Tracks & Petroglyphs: Hike along trails where you can see ancient dinosaur tracks and fascinating petroglyphs left by early inhabitants. Some you can even see right from the road!
- Rafting on the Colorado River: A thrilling way to experience the stunning landscapes from the water.
- Jeep Tours: Explore rugged terrain and enjoy breathtaking desert views on an off-road adventure.
Expert Tip
Arches National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the country. In the summer, start your day early to beat both the heat and the crowds.
Where to Stay
SpringHill Suites Moab is one of our favorite places to stay with kids. It’s close to Arches National Park and has a fantastic pool that’s perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring.
If you’re planning a visit to Arches, my Ultimate Guide to Arches National Park with Kids shares tips for making the most of your time there.
5. Black Hills and Badlands, South Dakota: A Classic Summer Road Trip
Why families love it in the summer: incredible national parks, wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and classic roadside attractions.
A road trip through the Black Hills and Badlands is one of the best summer adventures for families in the Midwest.
The area is packed with stunning scenery, iconic landmarks, and fun roadside stops that kids love.
Between national parks, wildlife sightings, and unique attractions like Wall Drug, there is always something interesting to see along the way.
Our family especially loved spotting bison in Custer State Park and exploring the dramatic landscapes of Badlands National Park. It’s the kind of trip where the drive itself becomes part of the adventure.
If you’re planning a visit, I share more tips and ideas in my Ultimate Guide to a Black Hills and Badlands Family Vacation.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Badlands National Park: Explore dramatic landscapes, scenic overlooks, and easy hiking trails.
- Custer State Park: One of the best places to see wildlife including bison, prairie dogs, and wild burros.
- Mt. Rushmore National Memorial: One of the most iconic landmarks in the United States.
- Crazy Horse Memorial: An impressive and still-growing monument honoring Native American history.
- Bear Country USA: A drive-through wildlife park where kids can see bears, wolves, and other animals up close.
- Wall Drug: A quirky roadside stop with fun attractions, delicious donuts, and free ice water!
- Wind Cave National Park: Explore one of the world’s longest caves with stunning underground formations.
Expert Tip
If possible, drive the Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park early in the morning or near sunset. This is the best time to see bison and other wildlife.
Where to Stay
Many families choose to stay in Rapid City, which offers convenient access to Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and Badlands National Park.
Staying near Badlands National Park is another great option if you want to explore the park early in the morning before crowds arrive.
6. St. Louis, Missouri: A Fun Family City Getaway
Why families love it in the summer: iconic attractions, amazing free museums, and plenty of outdoor spaces to explore.
St. Louis is a Midwest city packed with history, hands-on attractions, and plenty of fun things for families to do.
We love staying at the Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch, which is just a short walk from the Gateway Arch.
It’s such a great location for families, and the views of the Arch throughout the day are incredible.
Our boys like bringing their scooters and riding the smooth paths that surround the Arch grounds.
And if there’s one spot our kids still talk about from this trip, it’s the City Museum, which is easily one of the most unique and unforgettable museums we’ve ever visited!
If you’re planning a trip, my St. Louis with Kids: The Ultimate Family-Friendly Travel Guide shares everything you need to know to plan your visit.
St. Louis is also a fantastic destination for families looking for budget-friendly attractions.
Many of the city’s top attractions are completely free. You can see my favorites in Top 5 Free Things to Do in St. Louis with Kids.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Gateway Arch National Park: Ride to the top for incredible views or explore the grounds around the Arch. My Ultimate Guide to Exploring Gateway Arch National Park with Kids shares tips for making the most of your visit.
- City Museum: A one-of-a-kind interactive museum filled with tunnels, slides, and climbing structures. I share everything you need to know in my Ultimate Family Guide to Exploring the City Museum.
- Magic House: A must-visit children’s museum with tons of hands-on exhibits.
- Union Station: Home to the St. Louis Aquarium, Ferris wheel, ropes course, and restaurants.
- St. Louis Zoo: One of the best free zoos in the U.S.
- Forest Park: A massive park filled with museums, trails, and green space.
- Grant’s Farm: Take a tram ride, see animals, explore historic buildings, and enjoy free beer samples for adults.
- Busch Stadium: Don’t miss a Cardinals game in this iconic ballpark.
Where to Stay
Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch is one of our favorite places to stay in St. Louis.
It’s just a short walk from the Gateway Arch and includes free breakfast, evening snacks, and a great pool for kids.
If you’re considering staying here, I share more details in Top 5 Reasons to Stay at the Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch.
7. Gatlinburg, Tennessee: A Summer Adventure in the Smoky Mountains
Why families love it in the summer: beautiful mountain scenery, outdoor adventures, and tons of family-friendly attractions.
We’ve been to Gatlinburg numerous times and absolutely LOVE it!
It’s one of our favorite family vacation spots because there’s just so much to do.
Between the incredible scenery in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the fun attractions in town, it’s easy to fill several days with adventure.
If you’re planning a trip, my Gatlinburg Family Vacation: Guide to Smoky Mountain Memories shares everything you need to know to plan your visit.
I also outline how to structure a trip in my 3-Day Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge Itinerary for Families.
We especially love visiting Anakeesta and The Island, and we make sure to visit both every trip.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Explore trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives.
- Anakeesta: A mountain adventure park with treetop walks, mountain views, live music, and fun play areas for kids. I share everything you need to know in my Anakeesta Ultimate Guide for Families.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: One of the top aquariums in the country with incredible marine life exhibits.
- Gatlinburg Sky Bridge: Walk across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America with incredible mountain views.
- Ober Mountain Aerial Tramway: Ride up for views and fun mountain activities. If you’re trying to decide between mountain attractions, see my comparison of Ober Mountain vs. Anakeesta.
- The Island in Pigeon Forge: A fun area filled with restaurants, shops, rides, and an awesome fountain show.
- Dollywood: A popular theme park in Pigeon Forge with roller coasters, shows, festivals, and plenty of family-friendly rides.
There is so much to see along the Parkway in Gatlinburg. My Downtown Gatlinburg Guide highlights some of the best attractions, shops, and things to do in town.
Families looking to save money should also check out Top 10 Free Things to Do in Gatlinburg for Families.
Where to Stay
The Residence Inn Pigeon Forge is one of our favorite places to stay with kids.
It’s located right across the street from the Island and offers spacious suites, complimentary breakfast, and a fantastic outdoor pool.
There are also tons of vacation rentals available throughout Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for families who want more space.
If you’re trying to decide where to stay, I share my favorite areas, hotels, and cabin options in Where to Stay in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge with Kids: Best Hotels & Cabins.
8. San Diego, California: A Perfect Beach City for Families
Why families love it in the summer: beautiful beaches, incredible museums, outdoor adventures, and perfect coastal weather.
San Diego is one of our favorite destinations thanks to its perfect mix of beaches, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions.
We always stay at the Homewood Suites Liberty Station, and we love this area!
It’s close to the airport and many of the city’s top attractions, and there are great restaurants within walking distance.
Our favorite attraction is the USS Midway Museum, and we never skip visiting Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo.
We also always love driving up to La Jolla to see the seals along the shoreline.
If you’re planning a trip, my San Diego Family Vacation Guide: Where to Stay, Eat, and Explore with Kids shares helpful planning tips, and my 4-Day San Diego Itinerary for Families shows how to structure your days.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Balboa Park: A beautiful park filled with museums, gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.
- San Diego Zoo: One of the most famous zoos in the country with incredible animal habitats.
- USS Midway Museum: Walk the decks of a historic aircraft carrier.
- SeaWorld San Diego: Marine life shows, rides, and up-close animal encounters.
- Old Town San Diego: Explore California’s birthplace with shops and restaurants.
- Cabrillo National Monument: Incredible ocean views, tide pools, and history.
- Coronado Beach: One of the most beautiful beaches in Southern California and a great place for families to spend the day.
- La Jolla Cove: A beautiful coastal area where you can often see sea lions and seals up close.
Families who enjoy museums should also check out my guide to Top 5 Museums for Kids in San Diego.
And if you’re hoping to save money while visiting, I share several ideas in The Best Free and Cheap Things to Do in San Diego for Families.
Where to Stay
Homewood Suites Liberty Station is one of our favorite places to stay in San Diego.
It offers spacious suites, complimentary breakfast, and a great location close to many attractions.
If you’re considering staying here, I share more details about our experience in Where We Stay in San Diego with Kids: Homewood Suites Liberty Station.
9. Mackinac Island, Michigan: A Classic Summer Island Escape
Why families love it in the summer: biking around the island, beautiful lake views, historic sites, and the unique car-free atmosphere.
Mackinac Island holds a special place in our hearts. Our boys still say it was one of their favorite summer vacations!
One of the things that makes Mackinac Island so unique is that there are no cars on the island, which gives it a peaceful and nostalgic feel.
Instead, visitors get around by bike, horse-drawn carriage, or on foot.
One of our favorite memories was biking the full 8.2 miles around the island, which turned into such a fun family adventure.
We also loved stopping at the many fudge shops downtown!
If you’re planning a trip, my 10 Must-Do Activities on Your Family Vacation to Mackinac Island shares some of the best things to experience on the island.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Bike Around the Island: Ride the scenic 8.2-mile loop around Mackinac Island with beautiful lake views.
- Arch Rock: One of the island’s most famous natural formations.
- Fort Mackinac: A historic fort where kids can explore exhibits and watch live cannon firing demonstrations.
- Mini Golf at Mission Point Resort: One of our favorite moments was a round of miniature golf at Mission Point. With the course right along the lake and the sun setting in the background, it was such a memorable experience.
- Horse-drawn Carriage Ride: A fun way to explore the island and learn about its history.
- Downtown Mackinac Island: Explore the shops, restaurants, and famous fudge stores along Main Street.
If you’re visiting for the day, my Everything You Need to Know for a Mackinac Island Day Trip shares helpful tips for planning your time on the island.
I also explain how to ride the ferry to Mackinac Island and what to expect when arriving.
Where to Stay
Mission Point Resort is a wonderful family-friendly resort located right on the lake with beautiful views and plenty of space for kids to run around.
If you’re considering staying here, I share more details in Top 5 Reasons to Stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island.
10. Branson, Missouri: A Destination Full of Family Fun
Why families love it in the summer: warm weather, lake activities, outdoor attractions, and long days to enjoy the many things to do around town.
Branson is one of those places that might surprise you with how much there is to do, especially for families.
We’ve been to Branson several times, and it continues to be one of our favorite spots for a long weekend getaway.
If you’re planning a trip, my 3-Day Branson Itinerary for Families (Plus an Optional Day 4) shares how we structure a visit and the attractions we recommend most.
One of our favorite things to do is spend a day at Silver Dollar City, but we also never skip the Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail golf cart tour.
It’s something both the kids and adults enjoy every time we visit.
With the beautiful summer weather, nearby Table Rock Lake, and so many outdoor attractions, Branson is a great destination for families looking for both adventure and relaxation.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Silver Dollar City: A popular theme park with rides, shows, and seasonal festivals. I share helpful tips in my guide to Visiting Silver Dollar City with Your Family.
- Titanic Museum: An interactive museum with fascinating exhibits and stories. There is even a special kids’ audio tour.
- Table Rock Lake: Perfect for boating, swimming, and relaxing by the water.
- Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail: A scenic golf cart tour through caves and waterfalls.
- Dogwood Canyon Nature Park: Explore waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic trails.
- Branson Landing: Walk along the riverfront, enjoy the fountain show, and explore shops or restaurants.
- Mini Golf and Quirky Museums: Branson is known for fun attractions like WonderWorks, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not.
Where to Stay
We’ve stayed in several vacation rentals in Branson as well as Marriott’s Willow Ridge Lodge, which is a great family-friendly resort with spacious accommodations, a convenient location, and a nice pool.
If you’re trying to decide where to stay, I share the areas and lodging options that work best for families in Where to Stay in Branson with Kids: What Actually Works.
11. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin: A Relaxing Summer Lake Town
Why families love it in the summer: beautiful lake views, boat rides, beaches, and charming downtown shops.
Lake Geneva is a charming lakeside town just 90 minutes from Chicago, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
With scenic lake views, boat rides, beach time, and plenty of ice cream stops, it’s a fun place for families to slow down and enjoy time together.
Summer is an especially great time to visit because the town comes alive with people enjoying the lake, walking the shoreline path, and spending time outdoors.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Lake Shore Path: Walk or bike along the scenic path that winds past historic mansions and beautiful lake views.
- Lake Geneva Boat Tours: Try the Geneva Bay Tour or the Ice Cream Social Cruise.
- U.S. Mailboat Tour: A unique boat ride where mail is delivered to lakeside homes.
- Ziplining: A fun outdoor adventure for families looking for a little thrill.
- Tristan Crist Magic Theatre: A fun magic show that kids and adults both enjoy.
- Downtown & Beaches: Explore the shops, grab a treat, and spend time relaxing along the lake.
Where to Stay
Lake Geneva has plenty of hotels, inns, and vacation rentals within walking distance of downtown and the lake.
Grand Geneva Resort & Spa is another popular option for families.
While it isn’t located directly on the lake, it offers a beautiful resort setting with plenty of activities.
If you’re planning a visit, I share more ideas in The Best Things to Do on Your Lake Geneva Weekend Getaway
12. Maui, Hawaii: One of the Best Beach Vacations for Families
Why families love it in the summer: incredible beaches, snorkeling, outdoor adventures, and stunning island scenery.
Maui is one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever visited.
The scenery alone makes it feel like a dream destination for a family vacation.
We enjoyed splitting our time between Ka’anapali and Wailea, which each have a slightly different feel, but are both wonderful areas for families.
Between relaxing beach days, snorkeling with sea turtles, and exploring the island’s natural beauty, Maui offers a great balance of adventure and relaxation for families.
If you’re planning a trip, my Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Maui with Kids shares some of the best activities to add to your itinerary.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Snorkeling at Kapalua Bay or Wailea Beach: Calm water and colorful fish make these great spots for families.
- Beach Time: Spend the day relaxing at some of Maui’s beautiful family-friendly beaches.
- Iao Needle Hike: A short scenic hike with incredible lush scenery.
- Atlantis Submarine Tour: Explore underwater marine life without getting wet.
- Haleakalā National Park: Watch the sunrise above the clouds at the summit.
- Maui Ocean Center: A great aquarium with interactive exhibits for kids.
If you’re looking for great beach options, I share several favorites in Best Maui Beaches for Families.
Where to Stay
There are many great family-friendly resorts and vacation rentals throughout Maui.
We enjoyed staying in both the Ka’anapali and Wailea areas during our trip.
If you’re trying to decide where to stay, I share our favorite areas and hotel recommendations in Best Places to Stay in Maui for Families.
13. Vail, Colorado: The Perfect Summer Mountain Escape
Why families love it in the summer: mountain scenery, outdoor activities, beautiful villages, and cooler temperatures.
Vail is one of our favorite places to visit in the summer.
What we love most about Vail is that you can spend the entire day outdoors, whether you’re doing something adventurous or simply relaxing and taking in the beautiful mountain scenery.
You can spend the day exploring the outdoors and still slow down and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.
We love walking through Vail Village and Lionshead Village, riding bikes along Gore Creek, and simply taking in the incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
If you’re planning a trip, my Ultimate Vail, Colorado Summer Vacation Guide for Families shares everything you need to know before visiting.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Epic Discovery at Adventure Ridge: A mountain adventure park with ziplining, a mountain coaster, climbing walls, and more. I share everything you need to know in Epic Discovery Vail: Everything You Need to Know for Your Visit.
- Bike the Gore Creek Trail: One of our favorite ways to explore Vail with kids.
- Explore Vail and Lionshead Villages: Pedestrian-friendly areas filled with shops, restaurants, and beautiful alpine architecture.
- Visit Vail’s Parks and Playgrounds: There are several great parks throughout town where kids can play and families can relax. I share our favorites in Top 5 Parks in Vail for Family Fun.
- Eagle Bahn Gondola: Ride the gondola to the top of Vail Mountain for incredible views and access to summer activities.
- Hiking Trails: Explore scenic mountain trails with incredible views.
If you’re looking for more activity ideas, my Top 30 Things to Do in Vail in the Summer with Your Family shares even more experiences to add to your trip.
Where to Stay
Staying near Vail Village or Lionshead Village makes it easy to walk to restaurants, shops, parks, and many of the main attractions.
We stayed in a vacation rental at Lion Square Lodge that we absolutely loved, and The Sebastian in Vail Village is another great option for families.
14. Colorado Springs, Colorado: A Summer Destination Full of Natural Wonders and Unique Attractions
Why families love it in the summer: beautiful mountain scenery, outdoor adventures, and one-of-a-kind attractions.
Colorado Springs is a fantastic destination for families with so many memorable attractions all in one area.
From feeding giraffes at the incredible Cheyenne Mountain Zoo to exploring the towering red rock formations at Garden of the Gods, there is always something memorable to see and do.
Garden of the Gods is one of our favorite stops in Colorado Springs. The views are incredible, and the easy walking paths make it a great place for families to explore together.
For another unforgettable experience, ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway to the summit of Pikes Peak for incredible views above the clouds.
And if your family is up for even more adventure, you can drive about an hour south to walk across the Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge, one of the highest suspension bridges in the United States.
With so many incredible attractions and stunning scenery, Colorado Springs is an exciting destination for families who love exploring the outdoors.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: One of the most unique zoos in the country where kids can feed giraffes and ride a scenic chairlift.
- Garden of the Gods: A gorgeous park with dramatic red rock formations and family-friendly walking trails.
- North Pole Santa’s Workshop: Christmas-themed amusement park.
- Manitou Cliff Dwellings: Explore historic cliffside homes and learn about the region’s history.
- Pikes Peak: Drive or take the Cog Railway to the summit for amazing mountain views.
- United States Olympic and Paralympic Museum: Learn about world-class athletes and Olympic history.
- Royal Gorge Bridge & Park: Walk across one of the highest suspension bridges in the country and enjoy additional attractions.
Where to Stay
The Broadmoor is one of the most famous resorts in Colorado Springs and offers a beautiful setting with incredible amenities.
There are also many family-friendly hotels and vacation rentals throughout the area depending on your travel style and budget.
15. Minneapolis, Minnesota: A Summer City with Lakes, Parks, and the Mall of America
Why families love it in the summer: beautiful lakes, outdoor activities, and one of the most exciting indoor entertainment complexes in the country.
Minneapolis is another great destination for a summer road trip.
One of the things that makes the city so special in the summer is how much time people spend outdoors.
The Chain of Lakes area is perfect for walking, biking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the water.
Many families visit Minneapolis for the Mall of America, which is home to Nickelodeon Universe, an indoor theme park packed with roller coasters, rides, and attractions for kids.
When we visited recently, our boys spent most of their time riding roller coasters and climbing at ClimbZone, the indoor climbing park that overlooks Nickelodeon Universe.
Our youngest especially loved the Paw Patrol play area.
Top Family-Friendly Things To Do
- Chain of Lakes: Walk, bike, paddle, or picnic while enjoying the beautiful lake views.
- Minnesota Twins Game: Catch a summer baseball game at Target Field.
- Mall of America: One of the biggest indoor entertainment destinations in the country. Families can spend hours here riding roller coasters at Nickelodeon Universe, climbing at ClimbZone, visiting the Crayola Experience, exploring the SEA LIFE Aquarium, shopping, and enjoying dozens of restaurants, just to name a few of the many things to do here.
- Como Park Zoo & Conservatory: A free zoo and beautiful conservatory that’s perfect for families.
- Science Museum of Minnesota: A great hands-on museum in nearby St. Paul where kids can explore science exhibits and see impressive dinosaur fossils.
- Minnesota Children’s Museum: A huge hands-on museum in nearby St. Paul where kids can climb, build, splash in water exhibits, and explore interactive play spaces.
Where to Stay
There are many great hotel options throughout the Minneapolis–St. Paul area depending on where you plan to spend most of your time.
Staying near the Mall of America can be especially convenient for families since you’ll be close to Nickelodeon Universe, restaurants, and many other attractions.
We’ve stayed at Home2 Suites near the Mall of America, and it worked really well for our family.
The suites gave us extra space and the location made it easy to get to the mall and other attractions.
Tips for Planning a Summer Vacation with Kids
Summer travel is one of the best parts of the year, but it can also be one of the busiest seasons.
A little planning ahead can make your trip feel much smoother.
Book major attractions early
Summer is peak travel season, so popular attractions, tours, and national park activities can fill up quickly.
Start looking at accommodations early
Family-sized hotel rooms and vacation rentals are often the first to book up, especially in popular destinations.
Plan one main activity per day
When traveling with kids, having one main activity each day usually works better than trying to do too much.
Leave room for flexibility
Some of the best travel moments happen when you slow down and enjoy where you are.
Final Thoughts on Planning a Summer Family Vacation
No matter what kind of summer adventure your family is dreaming about, these destinations offer the perfect mix of outdoor exploration, family-friendly attractions, and unforgettable experiences.
From scenic national parks and charming lake towns to iconic cities and relaxing beach destinations, summer is one of the best times to explore the United States with kids.
If you’re planning a trip this year, grab my free Travel Itinerary Planner to help organize your activities, keep track of reservations, and map out your days.
It’s a simple way to make your summer vacation feel easier and less stressful. Get it below.
As always, may you LOVE your adventure! KW
