Expert Opinion: The Best Places in the US to Travel with Kids

So, you've done Disney—check. Now what?

You could poll your friends, but let's be honest: their recommendations are based on what worked for their families, not necessarily yours.

With a family of three boys who love to be outdoors, we spent many vacations exploring the beaches and mountains of North Carolina. Shenandoah National Park in Virginia was another favorite, with my boys scrambling over the rocks while hiking, ignoring signs warning to "Watch out for rattlesnakes!" From there we could pop over to Washington, D.C. for the day to absorb some history to round out our vacation— a perfect trip, if I say so myself. My friends raising all girls used to cringe at my vacation stories—until I asked them for recommendations. Suddenly I was the one cringing as they excitedly walked me through their New York City trips… complete with hours at the American Girl store and shopping on Fifth Avenue.

When it comes to choosing the right destination for your family trip, having an expert advisor plan for your family changes the game. And a quick word of caution—if a travel agent tells you exactly where to go without first asking you a few questions, keep shopping.

That's where LuxRally Travel advisors shine. As a Forbes-endorsed travel advisor, I design a trip specifically tailored to your family—no shortcuts, no assumptions. I ask the questions that matter: How old are your children? What do they love to do? Are they outdoorsy? Museum fans? Do you picture rustic cabins and hiking trails—or luxury accommodations steps from the slopes?

Here are the best places in the U.S. to travel with your kids on your next family vacation.

Don't see something you love? Connect with me and we'll find the perfect match.

Best National Parks for Families

The options are nearly endless. In the East, explore Shenandoah, the Great Smoky Mountains, or Acadia. Discover stalagmites and stalactites at Mammoth Cave, marvel at synchronous fireflies in Congaree, or glide through the Everglades on an airboat spotting alligators.

Out West, wander the otherworldly landscapes of Arches, Bryce Canyon, or Badlands; stand in awe beneath the giants of Redwood, Sequoia, or Joshua Tree; watch geysers erupt in Yellowstone; or spot wildlife in Denali. Tell me what kind of adventure you're seeking, and I can match you with the perfect park.

Where to Stay:

If your crew loves fresh air and adventure, the Under Canvas collection is a fantastic pick—think luxury tents, wide-open skies, and nightly s’mores under the stars, all set near some of the most iconic National Parks out west. If camping isn't for you but glamping at a national park still sounds fun, this is the perfect in-between.

Prefer a poolside-cocktail vibe? Hawks Cay Resort has you covered with five pools, a saltwater lagoon, spa, tennis and pickleball, plus snorkeling and fishing trips—and it’s close enough to slip away for a day exploring the Everglades.

Best Beaches in the US for Families

For families with younger children who prefer quieter shores, consider the Outer Banks (North Carolina), Jekyll Island (Georgia), Dry Tortugas National Park (Florida), or Treasure Island Beach (California).

Traveling with school-age kids? Myrtle Beach (South Carolina), Destin (Florida), Gulf Shores (Alabama), and Virginia Beach all deliver plenty of activities—water parks, arcades, and watersports—to keep everyone entertained.

Where to Stay:

Head to The Sanderling Resort in North Carolina’s Outer Banks for laid-back coastal luxury—think private beaches, a beautiful 12-acre setting, and a full lineup of ways to play. Spend your days biking along the coast, enjoying seaside picnics, hopping on an Outer Banks cruise, or getting adventurous with kayaking and kitesurfing. And yes, they didn’t forget your four-legged travel buddy—there’s even a Pup Club to keep them enjoying their best vacation too.

Best Mountain Escapes in the US for Families

Jackson Hole and Lake Tahoe are fantastic year-round family destinations. In winter, Jackson Hole's slopes cater to every skill level, while Lake Tahoe's village atmosphere keeps non-skiers happy with ice skating and cozy fireside dining. Come summer, both destinations transform into hiking and biking havens—imagine your kids spotting moose on a trail in the Tetons, or paddleboarding across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe. The fresh mountain air and wide-open spaces give active families room to breathe.

Where to Stay:

Indulge in pure luxury at Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole—a stunning ski-in/ski-out retreat where every detail is dialed in, from the dedicated ski concierge to the serene alpine spa. Beyond the slopes, their on-site naturalists add a whole new layer of adventure with experiences like fly fishing, stargazing, and more.

Not quite your cup of tea? Connect with me or any LuxRally Travel advisor and we’ll match your family with the perfect destination for your next getaway.

Can't Choose Between Beach or Mountains?

You don't have to choose. Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands deliver the best of both worlds—volcanic peaks, stunning beaches, and activities for every age and interest.

Where to Stay:

Escape to Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, set along the stunning Kohala Coast on 34 oceanfront acres stretching across nearly half a mile of shoreline. The expansive Great Lawn seamlessly links world-class pools to a pristine white sand beach, the Surf Shack, and the exclusive Mauna Lani Beach Club.

From casually elegant dining at CanoeHouse and HāLani to 36 holes of championship golf, plus top-tier fitness and racquet sports, there’s no shortage of ways to stay active. The resort's on-site water sports team takes things up a notch with SUP, surfing, and motorized adventures—making Mauna Lani a timeless Hawaiian escape designed for every generation.

My Top Recommendation for Traveling with Kids: Washington, D.C.

Washington DC with kids is a dream—and many of its top attractions are free.

Few family vacation destinations in the US pack this much history, wonder, and value into a single city. Your kids can run free around the National Mall, gaze up at the Washington Monument, or get lost for hours at the National Museum of Natural History. The Smithsonian Museums (including the National Air and Space Museum), the U.S. Botanic Garden, and the National Arboretum are all must-sees. If your little ones aren't quite history buffs yet or won't enjoy these interactive museums, head over to the National Zoo and introduce them to Bao Li and Qing Bao—the giant pandas are always a crowd favorite.

Where to Stay:

Located just steps from The Wharf, the National Mall, and the nation’s most iconic landmarks, Salamander Washington, DC is a Forbes-recommended stay that puts you right in the heart of it all. With so many free things to do around DC, it’s easy to treat yourself back at the hotel—whether that’s a relaxing spa day, introducing the kids to afternoon tea, or unwinding with a Salamander Sound Bath at the indoor pool. You can even squeeze in a yoga class to stretch and recharge after a full day of exploring.

They’re also pet-friendly and offer connecting suites, giving everyone a little extra space—and a little more privacy—to truly settle in and enjoy the stay.

Let a Travel Advisor Handle the Details

Once you've chosen a destination, the next challenge is finding the right place to stay. No one wants to spend hours researching hotels only to arrive and discover a noisy renovation or closed amenities. That's something your advisor can handle.

As a travel advisor, I've been sending families on vacation to unforgettable properties and stunning destinations for years—and following up with them afterward. With a Forbes-endorsed travel agency behind me and a network of real feedback from real clients, I work to eliminate the stress of traveling and hotel selection so your stay meets, and then exceeds, expectations.

This covered my favorite recommendations for destinations within the US, but what about international destinations? For families still deciding between domestic and international travel, there are a few key considerations worth exploring before you book. The logistics of traveling internationally with kids can feel daunting, but with the right planning and support, it opens up an entirely new world of experiences.

Working with an advisor, no matter the destination, frees up your time so you can focus on being present and enjoying every moment with your family. Ready to start exploring? Connect with me below.