Best Places for Families to Travel in the United States

Traveling with kids can be an adventure filled with unforgettable memories, especially when you choose the right destination. The United States offers a plethora of cities and towns that cater to families, each with its unique attractions and activities that can keep both children and adults entertained. From theme parks to interactive museums, and from outdoor adventures to educational experiences, there's something for every family. Here are some of the best cities and towns to visit with kids in the U.S., where family fun is always on the agenda.

Orlando, Florida

Orlando is synonymous with family fun, thanks to its world-famous theme parks. Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando offer magical experiences for kids of all ages. Beyond the parks, the Orlando Science Center and the Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park provide educational and active adventures. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall to avoid extreme heat and crowds. For cost-saving tips, look for multi-day park passes and stay in accommodations with kitchenettes to save on meals.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the nightly fireworks at Magic Kingdom Park. The spectacle is a perfect end to a day of rides and character meet-and-greets, and the display over Cinderella's Castle is truly iconic.

Where to Stay & Eat: Consider family-friendly resorts like Disney's Art of Animation Resort for themed rooms or the Floridays Resort Orlando for spacious accommodations. For dining, The Cowfish at Universal CityWalk offers a fun fusion of burgers and sushi that can satisfy diverse tastes.

San Diego, California

San Diego's beautiful weather and beaches make it an ideal spot for families. The San Diego Zoo, located in Balboa Park, is one of the best in the world, featuring a vast array of animals in thoughtfully designed habitats. The city also boasts the USS Midway Museum, where kids can explore a real aircraft carrier. Visit in the spring or fall for the best weather and fewer tourists. Save money by looking for hotel deals outside of downtown and using the city's trolley system to get around.

Travel Tip: At the San Diego Zoo, the Panda Canyon is a must-see, as it's one of the few places in the U.S. where you can see these rare animals.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Hotel Del Coronado offers family-friendly luxury with easy beach access, while Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop provides a fun and vibrant dining experience with delicious Mexican food.

Washington, D.C.

The nation's capital is a treasure trove of educational experiences, with the Smithsonian museums, such as the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History, offering free admission. The National Zoo and the many historical monuments and memorials are also great for families. Spring and fall are the best times to visit to enjoy mild weather and the cherry blossoms or autumn leaves. Many museums are free, which helps with budgeting, and public transportation is convenient and affordable.

Travel Tip: The interactive exhibits at the National Museum of American History are a hit with kids, especially the Spark!Lab where they can engage in hands-on invention activities.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Omni Shoreham Hotel is family-friendly and close to the zoo, while Founding Farmers offers a farm-to-table dining experience that's great for a family meal.

New York City, New York

The Big Apple is a playground for families with its iconic attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the American Museum of Natural History. Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and smaller crowds. To save money, take advantage of city passes that offer discounts on multiple attractions and use the subway to get around. Many museums also have "pay what you wish" days or hours.

Travel Tip: The Penguin Feedings and Exhibit at Central Park Zoo is amazing. They have so many penguins and types of penguins: King Penguins, Gentoo Penguins, Rockhopper Penguins, and Chinstraps.

Where to Stay & Eat: Stay at the family-friendly YOTEL New York for modern, budget-friendly rooms, and eat at Ellen's Stardust Diner for a meal accompanied by singing waitstaff.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is a city with a rich cultural scene and plenty of family-friendly attractions. Visit the Field Museum to see Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex fossil, or explore the Chicago Children's Museum on Navy Pier. The city's many parks, like Millennium Park, offer open spaces for kids to play. Summer and fall are the best times to visit for weather and festivals. Look for the Chicago CityPASS for savings on attractions and consider staying outside the downtown area for better hotel rates.

Travel Tip: The Crown Fountain in Millennium Park is a fun interactive art piece where kids can splash and play in the water during the warmer months.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Swissotel Chicago offers family rooms and is close to major attractions, while Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is a must-visit for authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza.

Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg is a living history museum that transports families back to the days of colonial America. Colonial Williamsburg, the world's largest living history museum, is the centerpiece of this educational experience. Nearby, Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers thrilling rides and entertainment. Visit in the spring or fall for cooler temperatures. Purchase tickets online in advance for savings on attractions, and consider staying in a vacation rental to save on meals.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Governor's Palace in Colonial Williamsburg for a glimpse into the grandeur of colonial government and daily reenactments.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel & Suites offers a family-friendly atmosphere and is conveniently located, while The Cheese Shop is perfect for a casual lunch with delicious sandwiches and snacks.

Anaheim, California

Home to Disneyland Resort, Anaheim is a dream destination for families with kids. The resort includes Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, offering entertainment for all ages. The city also has other attractions like Adventure City and the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center. Visit during the off-season, typically January through March and September through November, for shorter lines. Stay in hotels a little further from the park to save money, and look for bundled ticket deals.

Travel Tip: Make sure to catch the evening parade and fireworks at Disneyland Park, a quintessential Disney experience that enchants both kids and adults.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground is great for families, and for a unique dining experience, try the Rainforest Cafe at Downtown Disney.