The United States has many touristy places. From national parks and theme parks to cities and beaches, there is something for everyone in the US.
When traveling with a family, people typically look for a well-rounded experience with something for every family member to enjoy. While you may turn almost any destination into a family-friendly experience with comprehensive planning and preparation, some places are better suited to cater to groups looking for more to do.
With that in mind, we have compiled a list of some of the best places in the United States that provide fun activities for the whole family:
1. Pigeon Forge
Source: mypigeonforge.com
Pigeon Forge is a natural gem nestled close by the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains. This charming town is the perfect destination for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy quality time together.
A good breakfast is a perfect way to kick off your day in Pigeon Forge. Despite being small, the town has no shortage of great restaurants to enjoy a delicious breakfast, especially pancakes.
We would recommend you visit Mama’s Farmhouse. You will feel right at home here. In fact, you may get the impression that you are having Sunday brunch at grandma’s home. The restaurant serves all the breakfast classics, such as fried eggs, biscuits and gravy, bacon, and sausages.
One of the best Pigeon Forge attractions for kids includes The Island. It features over sixty retail establishments, rides, live music, games, and a gorgeous dancing fountain that serves as the area’s focal point. The Island’s main attraction is a giant Ferris wheel that towers 200 feet into the air. It will give you a bird’s-eye view of the town and the Smokys.
The Island is accessible all year round, with little changes to its regular hours throughout the national holidays. In Pigeon Forge, you can also enjoy amazing live performances at dinner shows such as Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud and Pirates Voyage.
2. New York City
Source: megoonthego.com
New York City has become increasingly popular as a family vacation spot in recent years. It boasts several local foods sure to please even the most discerning foodie. Besides, it offers a wealth of educational and entertaining attractions.
Visiting the observation deck of one of New York City’s iconic skyscrapers is a fantastic way to kick off a family vacation. Head to the Empire State Building’s 86th level to take in breathtaking views of the city from more than a thousand feet in the air. The setting is ideal for those one-of-a-kind Instagram shots. On your way up, do not forget to snap some pictures of the magnificent Art Deco lobby.
You should also visit the Madison Square Park Conservancy. The park is home to a fantastic playground perfect for young park visitors. It also features the ubiquitous Shake Shack, where you can get authentic American burgers made from scratch and some of the most incredible milkshakes in town.
If your children have trouble walking long distances, you may want to take them to the Central Park Storybook Zoo. The zoo’s compact size makes it a great option for families with kids and elders. At the Central Park Zoo, you may see a wide variety of creatures, from a massive polar bear to a tiny marmoset in one of the indoor displays.
3. San Diego
Source: carltonautstraveltips.com
San Diego is a place straight out of a daydream, with its gorgeous beaches and renowned surf. The city has a beautiful, mild climate, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities.
If you and your family have a passion for animals, visiting SeaWorld San Diego is a must. A combination of an animal conservation center and a theme park makes this tourist attraction spectacular. Acquaint yourself with some of the marine world’s most well-liked creatures, such as penguins, seals, and orcas. After that, hang around for various thrilling rides, including water rides, roller coasters, and more.
The USS Midway Museum is another fascinating educational experience for both young and old people. It has been consistently placed among the top 10 museums in the country. The USS Midway Museum’s instructive and intriguing exhibits make it a hit with families. You will particularly love this place if you are a history buff interested in the military. When in San Diego, you can’t miss a boat ride to watch the migrating whales.
San Diego also offers a wide range of hotels and resorts that cater to families, offering kid-friendly amenities and activities. Some hotels even have on-site water parks and other attractions that keep kids entertained.
4. Orlando
Source: academytravel.com
Orlando is full of fun activities from morning until well after dark. Disney Springs is ideal for families with young children to spend a wonderful evening together. They have a bowling alley, a movie theater, a mini-golf, and live performances.
Due to its location in the state’s center, Orlando experiences frequent summertime downpours. But just because it is raining outside does not mean you will spoil your day. There are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy on a rainy day if you do not feel like donning a poncho and traveling to the parks. Wonderworks, Madame Tussauds, and Sealife are just a few popular options for indoor fun.
The city has a wide variety of lodging options, from inexpensive to five-star hotels, from cozy apartments to even cozier townhouses and private villas. To top it all off, you may stay at Universal Orlando Resort or Walt Disney World.
5. Los Angeles
Source: fodors.com
Visiting Los Angeles with family is a worthwhile experience. Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the most visited places in Los Angeles. Here, you can learn about filmmaking by going on exciting tours of actual film sets, sound stages, and more. You should check out their amazing rides and attractions, such as the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Do not forget to stop by Universal CityWalk, an off-site shopping and dining complex that perfectly complements the theme park.
If you want roller-coaster action, a trip to Knott’s Berry Farm should be on your agenda. The oldest amusement park in the United States is still entertaining guests with its cast of colorful mascots, thrilling roller coasters, and fun attractions for the little ones. Ride the HangTime; it is the state’s tallest and fastest roller coaster, plunging riders over the water for a thrilling experience. On a scorching day, you may cool down at Knott’s Soak City, the park’s sibling attraction.
Conclusion
There is no escaping the fact that the USA is packed with several family-friendly places that align with almost all budgets. That said, the abundance of options overwhelms many travelers, spoiling their vacations. If you do not want to make a similar mistake, consider exploring one or multiple places covered in this blog with your family.
