9 Family Vacation Ideas That Don’t Involve A Theme Park

Going on vacation with your family doesn’t have to involve a theme park. Instead of wasting your time waiting in line or pushing through a crowd, spend your time off doing something you actually enjoy with your family.

Whether it’s relaxing on a beach or spending the day outdoors, there are several ways to plan a fun and exciting vacation without resorting to a theme park. Here are nine family-friendly destinations that would be perfect for your next getaway.

1. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

If you’re looking for a fun, family vacation in the south, head to no other than Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The downtown area is extremely safe, and filled with fun shopping and restaurants. Not to mention there are tons of outdoor activities from biking to hiking. There is even the world’s largest indoor water park in Gatlinburg, if you’re feeling up to it.

2. Maui, Hawaii

What’s more luxurious than a day spent in Maui? From snorkeling to walking trails and everything in-between, each minute of your vacation in Maui will look like a fairy tail.

3. Savannah, Georgia

Head to the deep south for your next family vacation if your looking for a bit of fun in the sun. Lounge the day away on Tybee Island, then head to River Street for a night of food and fun. This southern hot spot has plenty of fun activities to offer for the whole family.

4. Work A Dude Ranch

Live like a cowboy for your next family vacation. Whether you choose to do horseback riding, kayaking, or herding cattle with the family, there are several ranches all over the United States that host family vacations. Check out DudeRanch.org to find the perfect ranch for your family.

5. Camp At A State Park

Get back to nature on your next family vacation by heading to your local state park. It’s a great way to bond together as a family as you all hike, cook and explore the outdoors.

6. Chicago, Illinois

Spend some quality time in the Windy City for your next family vacation. Head to Chicago’s own Wrigley Field for a day at the ball field, or wander down Navy Pier for fun day filled with popular attractions.

7. Boston, Massachusetts

Head to one of the United States’ oldest cities for your next family adventure. Spend the day walking down the Freedom Trail, visiting the aquarium, or eating in delicious Italian food in the North End. Whichever activity you choose to do, it’s sure to be one that you won’t forget.

8. Vail, Colorado

If you’re looking for a mountain getaway, there is no better place to go than Vail, Colorado. No matter what the season is, the area is filled with numerous outdoor activities that perfect for any adventurous family outing. From skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling in the winter, to Jeep and ATV tours and fishing trips in the summer, this city has it all.

9. Atlantis Resort, Bahamas

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort that perfect for kids and parents alike, then be sure to consider the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island in the Bahamas. This gorgeous resort is filled with several pools, waterslides, casinos, restaurants and everything else that a family could ever want. All you have to do is book the trip to have an experience like no other.