Planning a family holiday to the liking of all can indeed be daunting. However, once the right destination is decided, that easily lays the foundation for lifetime memories that the kids love and the parents never stop talking about. Whether in the throes of outdoor adventures, cultural explorations or thrilling urban experiences, the following destinations guarantee fun, bonding time and plenty of photo worthy moments in store. Dive into the top places to plan another ultimate family getaway.
The Theme Park Capital
It goes without saying that Orlando is the king of family vacations; with Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld calling this sun-kissed city home, it is no surprise that it really tops the list. Kids can meet their favorite Disney characters, fly through heart pounding roller coasters and see brilliant firework shows, while parents get nostalgic and enjoy some really great dining.
That being said, there is so much more to Orlando other than theme parks. If you want a really quiet day, take the kids to the Kennedy Space Center and learn about astronauts and space explorations. Other interesting family-friendly activities that involve the ability for creativity and appreciation of nature are Crayola Experience and Leu Gardens.
Pro Tip: Save some bucks in advance by booking your park tickets online, to avoid long queues. With most package deals, the accommodation and entry tickets to more than one attraction are included, so it gets a lot easier to plan.
New York City, USA
New York City is as varied as few cities in the world. From the iconic Statue of Liberty to the Central Park Zoo, which is a great place for family-friendly fun, the city is literally a treasure trove of experiences. The American Museum of Natural History amazes kids with its towering dinosaur skeletons.
With evening entertainment, families can take in a Broadway show; on the foodie side, family-friendly food tours are possible. If the family enjoys sports, an NHL game at Madison Square Garden or Barclays Center is an option. Are you wondering where to buy NHL tickets?; it’s quick and effortless online via websites.
Where Tradition Meets Adventure
Kyoto will spoil the families in search of cultural respite with a blend of history and excitement: take in an enchanting walk among the groves of bamboo in Arashiyama or visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, earning gasps in kids with the rows upon rows of bright red torii.
There is also the Arashiyama Monkey Park, where one can enjoy playful macaques and, at the same time, have great views over the city below. Families may also want to explore the unique snacking options in the Nishiki Market, from colorful mochi onwards to fresh sushi. Alternatively, join in a more hands-on experience in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony or learn how to make Japanese sweets.
Kyoto should be an ideal destination to visit for families with small children because it guarantees safety, friendliness and ease of use in public transportation. From the very old traditions, modern appeal makes this city worth seeing for people of all ages.
Banff National Park, Canada
Outdoor-loving families’ dreams come true in Banff National Park, Canada. This breathtaking in-to-out locale nestled squarely in the heart of the Canadian Rockies offers things to do in every season. Broad, winding trails take summer hikers through plush forests to the jewel coloured lakes such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available for families for a fullday of splashing fun. And speaking of creatures, keep your eyes open for elk, mountain goats and even bears, all from a safe distance, of course.
Winter paints Banff white with snow. Families can ski or snowboard down the slopes, enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride or soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs. The town of Banff itself offers cozy accommodations, charming shops and restaurants with kid-friendly menus.
Paris, France
Of course, Paris is a romantic city, placing it among the most in the world, but it also amazes in a rather magical way where family-friendly holidays are concerned. Visiting the Eiffel Tower will be an absolute must; here, kids love the elevators that take them to the top for citywide panoramic views. The visit to Disneyland Paris adds that bit more fun to the mix, with its combination of Disney magic and European flair.
Come for a visit to interactive museums such as the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie with hands-on exhibits that would make a hit with kids. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon outdoors in Luxembourg Gardens, where your younger ones can either sail miniature boats on the pond or be energetic on an excellent playground.
Parents will appreciate the deep history of the city, iconic landmarks and definitely its gastronomic world, from the flakiest, buttery croissants to savory crepes. Paris manages to balance culture and fun with great ease; hence, the ideal destination that could merge education and fun without losing an ounce of excitement.
Final Thoughts
Family holidays are all about shared times and binding. Be amazed by the Parisian landmarks, hike through the rough sceneries in Banff or just simply soak yourself in the sun in San Diego, whichever you may choose, the destinations surely promise amusement for all ages. Start to plan your next adventure and get ready to enter a world of laughter, love and lifetime memorabilia.