Finding a vacation spot that has activities for both kids and adults to enjoy together can be a challenge. We found five that not only fit that criteria but will also have both the kids and adults begging to come back for more. If these aren’t on your family vacation bucket list, add them now.
Head To These 5 Fantastic Family Friendly Places This Year
1. Oahu, Hawaii
If someone in your family wants to take their exploration under the water, without going scuba-diving, check out the the Atlantis Submarine, a recreational submarine that takes you 100 feet deep. While under water, you’ll explore reefs, sunken boats and planes, sea turtles, sharks, and other sea life.
2. Paris, France
Paris has long been known as a travel destination for couples, but it also has a wide variety of activities for the whole family. In addition to the awe-inspiring Eiffel Tower that kids of all ages love, there are 14th Century castles to be explored, numerous parks, and world-famous museums.
The largest science museum in Europe is located in Paris, La Cite des Sciences et de L'lndustrie, where you you can see a submarine and planetarium and participate in a variety of kid-friendly activities. Don’t forget to take a relaxing boat ride on the Seine while you’re there, which is relaxing for you and fun for your kids.
3. Cairns, Australia
Home of the Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Cairns provides one of the main access points to the reef. The reef alone has more than 600 islands and 1,600 species of fish. If that’s not enough to keep the family busy, or you need a break from the water activities, Cairns offers other attractions, like the Karunda Scenic Railway. This is a popular tourist destination, along with the Cairn Botanical Gardens. If your family loves animals, don’t miss Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures either.
4. Cape Town, South Africa
On the southwest coast of South Africa, you’ll find the port city of Cape Town. One local hotspot to visit during your Cape Town trip is the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. This is a popular place to stay, with full overnight accommodations, as well as shopping, entertainment venues, historical landmarks, and water activities, all on the Cape Town harbor.
The family can also explore Table Mountain, the scenic backdrop of Cape Town. If you’re not up for hiking to the top, grab a cable car and hitch a ride up. Once on top, take in the breathtaking 360-degree views and head to the mountain top café for lunch.
Finally head to Boulders Beach to experience animal life, with up close and personal views of penguins. The water here is clean, shallow, and usually not crowded, making it a perfect place for the family to cool off as well.
5. Chicago
Chicago is filled with family friendly activities, starting with attractions at the Navy Pier, including boardwalk style rides and a children’s museum with the ultimate fort building experience. Once you’ve checked that off of your list, move on to an architectural boat tour on the Chicago River, where you can experience Chicago from a fresh perspective. Millennium Park also hosts open-air concerts appropriate for all ages and is close to a variety of nearby attractions that you can reach on foot. Don’t forget to grab a slice of original Chicago-style pizza before you head home—everyone loves pizza!
Jessica Thiefels has been writing for more than 10 years. She is currently a lifestyle blogger and the editor of Whooo’s Reading and Carpe Daily. When she's not writing or editing, she's trying new DIY projects around the house or training fitness clients. Follow her on Twitter @Jlsander07.