It’s almost summer, which means parents will be thinking about how many kids summer vacation ideas we can adapt before the start of a new school year. I know I’m not the only parent feverishly planning activities for children to keep my son entertained, so I’m thinking long term – and thinking of something fun we can all do together.
Last year we took a family trip to Wild Adventures Theme Park in Valdosta, GA and my son yet talk about it. He also walked the entire park without losing an ounce of energy, which means I have a lot of work to do. In the same boat as me and need ideas that don’t require you to travel out of the country? Keep scrolling for fun, Family friendly summer vacation ideas!
Summer holidays for children
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Gonzales Jambalaya Festival (May 24-26) in Gonzales, LA
Take a trip to Gonzales, LA in time for the city’s annual event Gonzales Jambalaya Festival! According to the festival’s official website, Gonzales has the better Jambalaya you will find on the bayou. Each day will feature live music from popular artists that truly capture the sound of Louisiana and will make your bones feel good as you enjoy food that makes your tastebuds spin.
There is also a cooking competition, pageant, car show, lots of vendors and a carnival for the whole family to enjoy!
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Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida
I’m originally from Florida, so any theme park or resort is always at the top of my list, but I enjoy visiting Universal Orlando Resort during the summer. While it’s at the top of my list of summer vacation ideas for kids, there are tons of things that adults can have fun doing. The resort often has packages that allow you to group a few days together to visit a different park each day – something my mom and stepdad definitely took advantage of.
From there, you and your children can let loose. There are tours dedicated to Jurassic Park, Harry Potter It is Dr. Suess, and you dine at the famous Hard Rock Café! Everyone will need a nap when they’re done exploring, which isn’t a bad idea.
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Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey, CA
If you memorized all different versions of “Baby Shark”, you may be entitled to a trip for children Monterey Bay Aquarium. While the trip itself isn’t free, you’ll love seeing your child’s face light up when they see real sea animals. You can visit the following habitats with them:
- Beaches and dunes
- Coastal waters
- Coastal wetlands
- coral reefs
- Deep sea
- Kelp forest
- Open water
- Reefs and cuttings
- Sandy seabed
- The rocky coast
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Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa in Pigeon Forge, TN
Bring a dream to Pigeon Forge, TN to book a fun-filled stay at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa! The theme park alone is situated on 160 acres of land, which should show how much fun you and your family will have. Still need convincing? No problem!
If you have younger children, rides like Busy Bees and Black Bear Trail are available for them to enjoy. But if they need to burn off excess energy, they can run and jump as much as they want inside Hidden Hollow. It’s a secret forest-based play area to make your kids feel like little explorers.
If you want to get away for a bit, you can find treats at The Southern Pantry or Mountain Laurel Home!
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Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio, TX
Everything is bigger in Texas, including summer vacation ideas for kids. This is the main reason why Morgan’s Wonderland It’s on my list. Cinema 4D alone is attractive, but there are also many other rides and attractions to see! There’s everything from the classic carousel to Pirate Island (sorry, Squidward – no robots here), plus a Sensory Village that encourages creative play!
And if your child’s birthday is this summer, you can throw them a birthday party at Morgan’s Wonderland.
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Keystone Resort in Summit County, Colorado
All I can imagine is the episode of Bob’s Burger when the Belchers spend a night in a national park so Tina can make up for a Thunder Girls event she missed, but the tubing that will be done in Keystone Resort will be supervised. It will officially open on June 20th for a fun summer your family will love remembering.
There are activities at Lakeside Village to enjoy, snow tubing, hiking, tennis, yoga and more! You can also choose from 16 dining options.
I don’t know about you, but I love having options.
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Atlantic White Shark Conservatory in Cape Cod, MA
Still have “Baby Shark” on the brain? Travel to Cape Cod, MA to visit the Atlantic White Shark Conservatory. Starting May 16, Shark Center Chatham and Shark Center Provincetown will be open for the 2024 season. You can book an expedition that lets you see everything from great white sharks to various seabirds. It’s a full day tour, so make sure you and your family are prepared for it if you choose this option!
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The Lodge at Blue Sky in Park City, UT
If you prefer to deal with nature in a different way, Blue Sky Accommodation in Park City, UT might be just the place you need to visit this summer. In addition to hiking, you can introduce your children to Small Vaqueros Camp. Here’s a daily summary of what each day offers:
- Monday – Nature Explorers
- Tuesday – Cowboys and Cowgirls
- Wednesday – Creativity in the Mountain
- Thursday — Culinary Exploration
- Friday — Getting to know Gracie’s (animal rehabilitation center)
- Saturday – Small Miners
- Sunday – Love for the Earth
If one of your children is a teenager, they can participate in activities such as ax throwing, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
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Niagara Falls State Park in Niagara Falls, NY
Have your kids been hoping to see a big miracle and can’t stop talking about what they think it could be? Looks like it’s time to plan a trip to Niagara Falls State Park! There is literally so much to do that you’ll even be talking about this trip during Thanksgiving. See some of the attractions that are available to visit:
- Cave of the Winds
- Aquarium
- Mist Maiden
- Fireworks show
- Observation tower
There are also hiking trails that you and your kids can enjoy!
What summer vacation ideas for kids sound perfect for you and your kids to enjoy in the coming months?
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