Empowering Families to Explore More for Less
The Ultimate Guide to Kid-Friendly Destinations by Age Group
Traveling with kids can be exciting and memorable, especially when you find destinations that cater to each age group’s interests and abilities. Here’s a guide to some of the best places in the U.S. to take kids of different ages, ensuring that everyone—from toddlers to teens—has a fantastic time!
TRAVEL WITH KIDS
Alija Lozano
10/27/20242 min read
1. Infant to Toddler (0-4 years): Gentle Beaches and Cozy Resorts
Ideal Destination: San Diego, California
Why It Works: San Diego offers warm, family-friendly beaches where toddlers can safely play in the shallow water. Visit the San Diego Zoo for a low-key but exciting day with plenty of animals, and take a gentle stroll through Balboa Park’s lush gardens.
Other Suggestions:
Hershey, Pennsylvania: Take a sweet trip to Hershey’s Chocolate World, where kids can watch chocolate-making demonstrations and enjoy a fun, interactive ride.
Outer Banks, North Carolina: Known for its gentle beaches, this is a lovely spot for toddlers to play in the sand and experience beach life without overwhelming crowds.
2. Young Kids (5-8 years): Theme Parks and Interactive Museums
Ideal Destination: Orlando, Florida
Why It Works: Orlando’s range of theme parks, from Disney World to Legoland, is packed with interactive activities and rides designed for younger kids. Legoland, in particular, is perfect for 5-8-year-olds, featuring rides, water attractions, and creative building zones.
Other Suggestions:
Indianapolis, Indiana: Visit the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the world’s largest children’s museum, filled with interactive exhibits covering everything from dinosaurs to space.
Monterey, California: Take kids to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, where they can see interactive marine life exhibits and even touch tide pool creatures.
3. Tweens (9-12 years): Adventure and Educational Destinations
Ideal Destination: Washington, D.C.
Why It Works: The capital city offers endless exploration options. The Smithsonian museums are free and filled with engaging exhibits, from aerospace displays to natural history, and the National Zoo offers up-close animal encounters. History buffs can enjoy a tour of the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, and other landmarks.
Other Suggestions:
Boston, Massachusetts: Take a walk along the Freedom Trail, a historic route perfect for tweens interested in learning about the nation’s founding.
Colorado Springs, Colorado: Visit Garden of the Gods, a beautiful park with rock formations and nature trails that provide just the right amount of adventure for tweens.
4. Teens (13+ years): Culture and Adventure
Ideal Destination: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Why It Works: Yellowstone is packed with unique geothermal features, incredible hiking trails, and wildlife spotting opportunities that will engage teens looking for a sense of adventure. They can marvel at Old Faithful and explore Yellowstone’s sprawling trails.
Other Suggestions:
New York City, New York: Teens can appreciate the culture of New York City, from Broadway shows to Central Park, historical sites, and shopping.
Moab, Utah: For families with adventurous teens, Moab offers endless outdoor activities, including rock climbing, river rafting, and exploring the breathtaking Arches National Park.
Tips for Planning Kid-Friendly Destinations
Pack Wisely: Always include travel essentials for kids, from snacks and games to extra clothes, depending on the climate.
Research Childcare Options: Some resorts and destinations offer on-site childcare or kid clubs, giving parents time to relax.
Engage Kids in Planning: Get older kids involved in planning to boost their excitement and sense of adventure.
Wherever your journey takes you, planning trips with age-appropriate activities ensures a memorable experience for every family member!