Family Travel Ideas Across the United States

Are you looking for family-friendly destinations within the US that will offer a variety of experiences? Well, here is your go to list! Whether you are seeking adventure, cultural explorations, or an immersion in natural landscapes, the United States offers so many different destinations perfect for family members of any age. You will find travel opportunities within the city or far out in nature. Each experience promises a memorable moment for all family members to enjoy. There are so many places to explore within the US that you could spend years traveling across the US, stopping at each location and still not see all of the amazing sites.

I have created this list of places to visit in the US that we have personally visited and would recommend. When you click on the link, it will take you to a new blog post that will give you more details on each location. So go grab a pen and a notebook so you can take notes as you begin to plan your next journey across the US.

A few of these places are FREE to visit. I will indicate that at the end of each description.

Family Travel Ideas Across the United States

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. The reviews of the items in this article are based on my own opinions.

Arizona

1. Grasshopper Point - Grasshopper Point Swimming and Picnic Area provides a nice reprieve from the Arizona heat. This is a day use area where families go to cool off along the cliffs of Oak Creek Canyon.

2. Slide Rock State Park - Originally operated as an apple orchard for many years. Now it is open to the public for you to enjoy the natural water slide.

California

1. Umbrella Alley - Umbrella Alley in San Francisco, California provides a unique look at local artists' imagination with colorful murals throughout in this enchanting urban alleyway for all to enjoy. FREE

2. Big Sur - Your guide to the beautiful Big Sur along Highway 1 and the pacific coast in California. FREE

3. Hollywood Sign - A visit to Lake Hollywood Park to view the Hollywood sign in Los Angeles, California. Space to enjoy a picnic or just relax on the lawn and take in this iconic view. FREE

4. Joshua Tree National Park - Joshua tree known for such unique trees and cholla cactus create a beautiful back drop as you stroll through this national park.

5. San Francisco - Explore the iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, scenic views, and kid friendly attractions by the bay.

6. Santa Cruz Beach & Boardwalk - Enjoy a thrilling day at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk exploring the beach, riding carnival rides, eating food and visiting the town. FREE to visit. Rides $

7. Sequoia National Park - coming soon

Colorado

1. Mesa Verde National Park - You must add Mesa Verde National Park to your list of places to explore. This park offers the opportunity to visit dwellings over 700 years old that the Pueblo ancestors lived in and made their home.

2. Pikes Peak - Tips on driving to the summit at Pikes Peak with an amazing view and an incredible experience.

3. Garden of the Gods — Amazing red rock formations make this park such a unique experience. FREE

Florida

1. Universal CityWalk Orlando - Explore the vibrant energy at Universal CityWalk in Orlando. From amazing dining and entertainment to unique shopping experiences, discover the ultimate entertainment destination where fun knows no boundaries.

2. International Food on Wheels Festival - Lake Eola is nestled in the heart of downtown Orlando and is full of energy and charm. With its iconic swan boats, lush greenery, and vibrant skyline backdrop, Lake Eola is the perfect oasis in the midst of the bustling city. FREE. Food $

3. Tampa’s Riverwalk along the Hillsborough River - With so many fantastic restaurants, multiple events, and endless entertainment you will be able to spend several days enjoying this area.

4. Ybor City - This historical gem, with its cobbled streets and colorful facades, encourages travelers to explore a unique blend of cultural richness and modern excitement.

5. Everglades National Park - This park is located in southern Florida in a subtropical wilderness. This park is home to some rare and endangered species and the American alligator and multiple colorful birds. Enjoy lush grassy wetlands, tall cypress trees, pine forests, oak and mahogany trees, natural moats.

6. Anna Maria Island - Visit Anna Maria Island for some wonderful food and a relaxing sunset to end the night.

7. Myakka River State Park - Visit one of the oldest parks in Florida and walk the canopy walkway high above the Hammock Trees. Also take time to camp and enjoy the peacefulness of this park.

8. Hillsborough River State Park - Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere between the hammock trees and river view hiking. This park is close to Tampa and offers a refreshing way to enjoy a park but still close to the city.

9. Robert is Here Fruit Stand - Robert is Here is a large fruit stand located near Miami Florida outside of Everglades National Park. They specialize in rare and exotic tropical fruits and make the best fresh fruit smoothies and milkshakes.

10. Fort Myers Food Tour - A food tour day trip to explore Fort Myers Florida and enjoy some great food and to end the night at Sanibel Island.

11. Beer Can Island (Greer Island) Long Boat Key - Beer Can Island (Greer Island) on Longboat Key in Florida offer a peaceful beach setting with a backdrop of mangrove trees and driftwood that line the beach. FREE

12. Jupiter - Such a unique beach experience as you walk around the limestone rocks protruding from the Jupiter Island beach into the Atlantic Ocean. FREE

13. Edward Medard Conservation Park - Such a cute little park which will put you in awe at the huge amount of exposed hardwood tree roots protruding from the ground. This makes an excellent playground for kids and adults.

14. Silver Springs State Park - Your guide to visiting Silver Springs State Park in Florida. This park includes kayaking, camping, glass bottom boat tours, manatees and more.

15. St Augustine - Enjoy a day trip to St Augustine to visit the historical Castillo de San Marcos, St Augustine Lighthouse, and tour the old city streets while you enjoy shopping and eating local favorites.

16. Clearwater Beach - Visit Clearwater and experience why this beach is rated #1 in the US. From soft sand to the most amazing sunsets. You have to stop here while visiting Florida.

17. Three Sister’s Springs - Kayak or boat Crystal River to Three Sisters Springs to enjoy viewing manatees and relaxing on the river.

18. Madeira Beach - A day trip to Madeira Beach to enjoy the sunshine and explore John's Pass Village and Boardwalk for some good food, family fun, water excursions, and shopping.

19. Honeymoon Island State Park - Make a trip to the top rated beaches in Florida. Honeymoon Island State Park are sure to make you forget all your worries as you enjoy the hot summer sun and beautiful soft sand.

20. Caladesi Island State Park - Make a trip to the top rated beaches in Florida.

21. ZooTampa at Lowry Park - Take a trip to ZooTampa in Florida to see multiple animals at this beautiful zoo. This zoo was rated one of the top 10 zoos in the US.

22. Ichetucknee Springs State Park - Enjoy an enchanting oasis as you tube or kayak down Ichetucknee Springs at Ichetucknee Springs State Park in Fort White Florida.

23. Pass-a-Grille beach - Enjoy solitude and sunsets at Pass-a-Grille Beach in Florida. Stay a while and enjoy the sound of the waves crashing onto the beach. FREE

24. Disney Springs - coming soon

25. Sanibel Island - coming soon

26. Aquatica Waterpark - coming soon

Georgia

1. Historical Savannah - Take a walk through Savannah Georgia and experience an historical settings and learn about the tales of the past through ghost stories with this self guided tour.

Illinois

1. Chicago - Enjoy the excitement of the Windy City as you get pumped at a Cubs game, ride the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier, get a spritzer at the largest Starbucks in the world, and many other artistic destinations.

Indiana

1. Indiana Dunes National Park - coming soon

Iowa

1. Starr’s Cave Nature Center - A small park that provides the opportunity to walk through the water or hike down the path for a peaceful moment in nature at Starr’s Cave Nature Center. FREE

2. Burlington - 15 of the best places to visit in Burlington, Iowa. This city is full of history and has many locally owned restaurants to enjoy.

3. Antique Archaeology (American Pickers) - From exploring Antique Archaeology to a Food Truck Fight, enjoy the historical town of LeClaire, Iowa that has a small-town charm.

Kentucky

1. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory - I’ve got baseball on my mind…… What a great way to learn about the history of bat making at Louisville Slugger Museum. Such a great place to stop while in Kentucky.

2. Mammoth Cave National Park - coming soon

Louisiana

1. New Orleans - Enjoy the historical city streets and picturesque buildings displaying wrought iron fencing as you enjoy delightful cuisines and open aired markets.

Missouri

1. Gateway Arch National Park - This National Park is located in the heart of St Louis, Missouri. There are multiple shopping, restaurants, and hotels nearby for convenience if you chose to stay a couple days in the area.

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Half-Day Emerald Cove Kayak Tour

Kayak along the Colorado River to Emerald Cove. Prices start at $98.99 per person.

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Nevada

1. Las Vegas with Kids - Las Vegas - Spend 24 hours at the MGM Grand Hotel or Mandalay Bay enjoying the pools and the Big Apple Coaster next door at New York New York hotel. The kids will love the short trip with lots to of things to do.

2. Seven Magic Mountains - An awe inspired detour 20 minutes outside of Las Vegas to view the Seven Magic Mountains formed from giant boulders in a colorful display. FREE

3. Valley of Fire State Park - A quick guide to Valley of Fire State Park that comprises of beautiful red sandstone and limestone rock formations. Elephant Rock and Fire Wave trails. Several other hikes available with in the park.

New Mexico

1. Four Corners National Monument - Your guide to visit Four Corners National Monument and see four states at once (Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado) then visit the vendors for some nice tribal wares and learn more about their culture.

2. White Sands National Park - Tour the most beautiful white glowing sand in New Mexico at White Sands National Park

3. Carlsbad Caverns National Park - View the beautiful limestone formations of Carlsbad Caverns National Park within the Guadalupe Mountains.

North Carolina

1. Biltmore Estates - An unforgettable experience at the Biltmore House in Asheville North Carolina. Your complete guide to booking your tour.

South Dakota

1. Mt Rushmore - 8 Things to do in South Dakota including Mount Rushmore.

2. Chuck Wagon Dinner Show - Enjoy a wagon ride through the trails as you enter into a large field with a meal fit for any cowboy.

3. Custer State Park - Feed the burros as you explore this beautiful park.

Texas

1. Magnolia Market at the Silos - You must visit Magnolia Market at The Silos in Waco, Texas. From home decor, food trucks, baseball, shops and more. There is so much to do. This area continues to expand and each new store brings a special joy to those who experience it.

2. Texas Rangers Stadium - Spend the day enjoying a baseball game at Globe Life Field seeing the Texas Rangers game. This new stadium is located in Arlington, Texas

Utah

1. Bryce Canyon National Park - There is not a bad view within the landscape of Bryce Canyon National Park. Enjoy the most concentrated number of hoodoos in the world as you walk the trails in this magical park.

2. Toadstool Trailhead - Located in Kanab, Utah, this is a quick trail that ends at some unique rock formations that resemble toadstools against the breathtaking vistas. FREE

3. Forrest Gump Point - Forrest Gump Point in Mexican Hat, Utah. This is the location in the movie where Forrest Gump embarked on a cross-country journey where he was driven for a desire of freedom and finally stopped running after three years. Make this your next stop while visiting Utah. FREE

4. 4x4 You Drive Tour at Hell’s Revenge Trail - 4x4 Tour Hell’s Revenge Trail in Moab, Utah. A exciting adventure driving a 4x4 with Moab Tourism Center.

5. Arches National Park - Amazing rock formations in the shape of arches makes this National Park such a unique experience.

6. Zion National Park - One of our favorite places to visit within Zion National Park is The Narrows. We have been lucky to have visited this location twice. Walking through the water between the canyon makes for an excellent hike.

Mexico

1. Boquillas - Boquillas Mexico is a small town that is supported by travelers who cross the border into their small town. Take the time to visit this small little town for a quick cultural experience.

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I hope you have created an amazing list of places to visit and are ready to take on a new adventure. Each place promises an exciting time and a great family bonding experience. Let me know if you have any questions about any of these places as we have been to each location. Comment below with questions.

Enjoy your journey,

Meet the author: Jennifer 🧡

I am a girl who loves to travel and enjoys sharing expert family travel advice.I am a content creator and influencer on Instagram with years of travel experience and provide readers with advice, tips, and details on adventurous family travel and tips on saving money while boondocking or traveling across the US.

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