Our Top Summer Getaways for Families and Kids of All Ages

For many families, the summer break offers a perfect chance to embark on a different kind of education—one that happens outside the classroom. Traveling is a wonderful way to spark curiosity, inspire wonder, and deepen our understanding of various cultures, languages, cuisines, nature, and the environment. The world serves as a vibrant, interactive classroom.

It’s also an excellent opportunity to strengthen family bonds, whether we’re hitting the road with our immediate family, extended relatives, or close friends. When traveling with companions of varying ages and life stages, it’s essential to ensure that every family member, no matter their age, enjoys a fun and unforgettable experience.

Drawing from our own adventures around the globe and insights from readers and family travel experts, we’ve curated a list of top family-friendly destinations for 2023—places we’ve personally vetted to ensure success for every family. Let our recommendations inspire you and your loved ones to embark on meaningful adventures together.

The Americas

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Ideal for: Urban explorers, especially families with younger children.

For families eager to discover South America, Buenos Aires is an excellent starting point. Argentines are exceptionally welcoming to children, with playgrounds and carousels scattered throughout the city, making it easy to bring kids everywhere—even to late-night upscale dinners. A popular cultural experience for families is the Teatro Colón, a gem for performers due to its exceptional acoustics. The venue offers a children’s program called Colón Para Chicos, featuring shortened performances of their regular shows on weekend mornings, providing a delightful introduction to opera, ballet, and symphonic music.

For visual arts enthusiasts, don’t miss the MALBA, the museum dedicated to Latin American art. It’s completely stroller-friendly, and its contemporary collection captivates even the youngest guests. Visit the website for information on kids' workshops, especially during the Argentine summer holidays from mid-December to mid-February. Buenos Aires is also alive with street art; enjoy a fun scavenger hunt for the wildest murals or join a walking tour. Treat yourselves to some ice cream, as there are parlors on almost every corner.

For a more relaxed outing, visit the Rosedal, which evokes the charm of Paris’ Bois de Boulogne. Stroll around the man-made lake, where you might encounter an open-air circus or live music. On weekends, the city offers free classes in activities like zumba and rollerblading. You can also rent bikes or paddle boats if you’re looking to expend some energy.

Where to stay: A vacation rental in Palermo is ideal if you need extra space for the kids and prefer dining before 9 p.m., as most restaurants don’t serve dinner until then. If you’re interested in having a pool and dining at Elena, one of the top restaurants in the city with a generous kids' menu, consider the Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires.—recommended by Marianne Perez-Fransius, co-founder of Bébé Voyage, an online resource for traveling families

Chicago, Illinois

Ideal for: Kids and adults curious about culture who want to explore museums, architecture, and comedy clubs.

Chicago offers plenty of outdoor spaces and museums to keep kids active and engaged, along with a wide range of fantastic restaurants for adults and their budding foodie kids. Notable museums suitable for all ages include the Field Museum and the Museum of Science + Industry. An architecture river cruise is perfect for those moments when everyone needs to relax while enjoying Chicago’s stunning skyline. For older kids, a kayak tour on the river or Lake Michigan is an exciting choice. Millennium Park provides a great outdoor area with a climbing wall and summer concerts. You can bike or explore the expansive Lincoln Park, which features lovely beaches and the serene Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool in its conservatory. An evening comedy show at the legendary Second City is enjoyable for all.

Where to stay: Your kids will think you’re awesome when you book a stay at the fun boutique hotel Virgin Hotels Chicago, which offers rooms with two queen beds and suites for families. Alternatively, consider this lovely Wicker Park home on Airbnb, conveniently located near one of Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods and the L train for easy access to downtown Loop. —recommended by Dinogo reader Margo James

Key West, Florida

Ideal for: Energetic elementary school kids who adore spending time at the beach.

Key West is a fantastic destination for young children and boasts breathtaking scenery. Visit the Turtle Hospital in Marathon for an inspiring experience with these shelled creatures. Enjoy swimming at Bahia Honda State Park and in Islamorada. In Islamorada, you'll find a delightful collection of local shops and eateries—don’t miss Bad Boy Burrito. Be sure to explore the historic Hemingway Home and Museum and the Key West Lighthouse. Some off-the-beaten-path family-friendly restaurants include Havana Jacks Oceanside Restaurant in Key Largo (great for live music and refreshing drinks); Sunset Grille and Raw Bar in Marathon (perfect for watching sunsets and outdoor games); and Blue Heaven in Key West (truly lives up to its name). Ultimately, Key West offers a wonderful blend of swimming, dining, playtime, and wildlife watching—an ideal recipe for a memorable family vacation.

Where to stay: Known for their stylish renovations of historic properties, Kimpton Key West Winslow’s Bungalows is no exception. Situated in the heart of Old Town, this historic site dates back to 1856 and features three pools along with suites and guest rooms suitable for larger families. The resort fee covers loaner bikes, snorkeling gear, and continental breakfast. For a complete resort experience, consider Casa Marina Key West, which offers two pools, bikes for guests, a variety of water sports, and a prime beachfront location. —recommended by Dinogo reader Emma Maksimovic

North Shore, Oʻahu

Ideal for: Kids (and adults) of all ages, especially those who love surfing.

No amount of beach and pool time is too much for kids, making Oʻahu a fantastic destination for families eager for fun. While the North Shore is famous for its challenging waves, it also boasts tranquil alcove beaches with gentle waters and soft sand, such as Kawela Bay. Older kids interested in surfing will find plenty of surf schools ready to help them learn in this iconic surfing haven. For a change of pace from the beach, visit Gunstock Ranch for horseback riding or a rewarding tree-planting experience, and explore Waimea Valley on a hike through cultural and historic sites that leads to a beautiful waterfall perfect for swimming. Grab coffee (for the adults) at The Country Eatery and indulge in hearty burgers at Seven Brothers—or sample any of the food trucks and stands around the historic Kahuku Sugar Mill, where kids can also enjoy climbing on the mill’s old gears.

Where to stay: The newly renovated Turtle Bay Resort is the only resort at the northernmost tip of Oʻahu, and it truly impresses. Along with pools featuring waterslides and tranquil sandy beaches (with complimentary sand toys for guests), it offers an abundance of family-friendly activities, including kayaking to spot sea turtles, stargazing, and ukulele lessons. The Stables at Turtle Bay provide excellent horseback riding opportunities for the whole family, even offering a pony experience for kids six and under. —Michelle Baran, senior travel news editor

Punta Mita, Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Perfect for: Families with young children and multigenerational groups.

Situated about an hour north of Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Punta Mita is a resort community that presents families with an ideal blend of sunshine, sandy beaches, Mexican culture, and lush jungle scenery. Whether traveling with little ones or organizing a multigenerational family reunion, Punta Mita accommodates all levels of activity or relaxation. Spend your day lounging on the beach or by the pool, or engage in exciting adventures like rainforest hikes, snorkeling trips, and whale watching. Top-tier resorts provide exceptional service and amenities, including kids clubs, spas, and diverse dining options, while the surrounding area offers day trips to vibrant local towns like Sayulita and San Pancho, where you can discover handmade crafts and lively markets.

Where to stay: In Punta Mita, you have two fantastic options that won’t disappoint. The Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita is incredibly family-friendly, featuring its Kids for All Seasons program (recently enhanced with a focus on kids’ mental health and wellbeing), special kids’ menus, and family-friendly pools and cultural experiences. Accommodations range from newly renovated casitas that sleep up to six to spacious four- and five-bedroom villas, perfect for larger gatherings. Nearby, the St. Regis Punta Mita Resort offers family cooking classes, a children’s club, and an extensive menu of outdoor activities (from stand-up paddleboarding to surfing and snorkeling). Additionally, several new family-friendly properties have opened recently, including the luxurious Susurros Del Corazón, Auberge Resorts Collection (featuring one- and two-bedroom suites and expansive beachfront villas with up to seven bedrooms) and Conrad Punta de Mita (offering family-curated experiences like movie nights and beach barbecues). —M.B.

Sonoma County, California

Ideal for: A multigenerational family getaway. Wine for the adults, outdoor fun for the kids. Everyone benefits!

Gather the grandparents or older family members alongside the little ones for some unforgettable multigenerational fun in wine country. Spend a day biking through rolling hills and vineyards with Getaway Adventures. This company offers both guided tours and rentals, equipped with bikes and gear suitable for all ages and weather conditions. Many wineries in Sonoma, including Truett Hurst, a unique organic and biodynamic vineyard just outside town, welcome well-behaved kids to explore gardens and creeks while adults enjoy zinfandel. Families will also love wandering through the towering redwoods at Armstrong Redwoods Natural Reserve, followed by a visit to the delightful toy store Toy Chest in downtown Healdsburg. For dinner, choose kid-friendly yet refined options like large pizzas at Pizzando.

Where to stay: Treat yourself to a stay at Hotel Healdsburg located on the main square, or indulge in the newly opened Montage Healdsburg, which boasts all the luxury amenities you'd expect from such a name, including a complimentary kids club for ages 5-12 and a family pool. Hotel Trio is also a fantastic choice for redeeming Marriott Bonvoy points, featuring an outdoor pool, bocce ball court, bike rentals, and a car-free path leading directly into town. —Tim Chester, deputy editor

Vancouver and Whistler, British Columbia, Canada

Ideal for: Babies and toddlers. British Columbia is a fantastic choice for a first international trip (with little to no jet lag from the U.S.).

Vancouver and Whistler offer a perfect getaway for younger travelers for several reasons. Firstly, western Canada provides an option for international travel with little to no jet lag, making it easier for families with sleep-challenged babies or toddlers. Secondly, British Columbia is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, providing an ideal backdrop for outdoor adventures—summer temperatures are typically in the 60s and 70s, making it a delightful time to visit.

In Vancouver, the blend of city and sea is fantastic for little ones. Families can fully embrace the many opportunities for boat and ferry rides, such as the water taxis that navigate False Creek, transporting passengers to Granville Island for its lively food market and shops, as well as to Science World, a center dedicated to engaging kids in learning. Stanley Park, with its Vancouver Aquarium and totem poles, is also a must-visit. Vancouver is incredibly bike-friendly, providing another fun way to explore. Check out the Shipyards on Vancouver’s North Shore for an array of food trucks, music, art, and entertainment (plus another fun ferry ride).

Summer is the off-peak season in Whistler, a well-known ski resort, which creates a more laid-back atmosphere for families. In this picturesque mountainous area, walking and hiking are popular activities. Kids will particularly enjoy the Train Wreck hike, a forested trail leading to the site of an abandoned train wreck with scattered train cars and a hanging bridge along the route. While traveling between Whistler and Vancouver, be sure to stop at the wildlife sanctuary Grouse Mountain, where a gondola ride takes you to natural enclosures that house orphaned bears and owls.

Where to stay: For family-friendly accommodations in Whistler, consider Nita Lake Lodge, where you can borrow kayaks and canoes to paddle on the lake, rent bikes, enjoy the pool and hot tub, and hike nearby trails. Right in the center of Whistler, the incredibly kid-friendly and classic Fairmont Chateau Whistler features an indoor/outdoor pool and miniature bathrobes for little guests. In Vancouver, the Douglas, Autograph Collection offers excellent access to the False Creek waterfront, while the Fairmont Pacific Rim places you directly on Vancouver Harbor, complete with views of seaplanes taking off and landing. —M.B.

Europe

Amsterdam and Schiermonikoog, the Netherlands

Perfect for: Adventurous preteens and teens who love their devices and crave freedom.

When traveling with teenagers, choosing destinations where they can spend hours outdoors with limited cell service is crucial to keep them engaged with their surroundings. Enter Amsterdam and Schiermonikoog, the latter located in the Frisian Islands of the Netherlands. In Amsterdam, families can immerse themselves in culture and history by visiting the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum, which offers family-friendly tours designed to engage younger visitors. Don’t miss FEBO, where you can grab food from vending machine-style automats. For active exploration, consider a bike ride to see windmills or a trip to the expansive urban park, Vondelpark. For a relaxing conclusion to your city adventure, head to Schiermonikoog, a mostly car-free island where kids receive bikes and the freedom to explore, go to the beach, grab lunch, and socialize with peers, allowing parents to relax without constant worry.

Where to stay: Book a family suite at Pulitzer Amsterdam for accommodations suitable for up to four guests, right along the iconic canals of Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht. If your teens are aspiring to feel grown-up, they’ll appreciate the elegance of the Conservatorium Hotel located in the museum district. For a cozy retreat on Schiermonikoog, look for a fantastic vacation rental like this charming two-bedroom home situated in the main village. —Laura Simkins, chief operations officer

Lisbon, Portugal

Perfect for: Families with infants and younger children.

Portugal is incredibly family-friendly, featuring designated parking for pregnant women and specialized airport security lines for families. Wine bars and trendy restaurants like Prado in Lisbon welcome toddlers with open arms. The playgrounds here are exceptional, and you can let your little ones roam free in the historic castles of Sintra and Óbidos, or explore the expansive square of the Jeronimos Monastery in Lisbon, where history offers endless entertainment. A must-visit is the lively Time Out Market Lisboa, a 50-stall food hall in the historic Mercado da Ribeira, catering to even the pickiest eaters. Pro tip: Opt for an automatic car and bring a baby carrier, as the hilly cobblestone streets can be challenging for manual transmissions and strollers.

Where to stay: Martinhal apartments are renowned for their excellent kids club and baby concierge services, while The Lisboans offer stylish one- and two-bedroom apartments complete with full kitchens and hotel-like amenities such as check-in, cleaning, and breakfast delivery. —Laura Dannen Redman, digital content director

Paris and Provence, France

Perfect for: No matter if you're traveling with le bébé, spirited little ones, or more refined teenagers, the City of Lights and southern France have something to offer everyone.

Let the little ones scamper up the steps of Sacre Coeur, be awed by the experience of seeing the Mona Lisa up close at the Louvre, and ascend to the summit of the Eiffel Tower. Alternatively, visit Luxembourg Gardens, where children will enjoy a carousel ride and playing with toy sailboats—Paris is filled with wonderful parks and playgrounds. If you have a high schooler studying French, let them take charge and practice their français by helping to order meals at bistros and cafés.

When you’re ready to escape the city, rent a car and venture into the enchanting region of Provence in southern France. Use the antique streets of UNESCO World Heritage site Avignon as your base while you explore Provence’s lavender fields, wineries, and rich art history—many impressionists, including Van Gogh, called this area home in the 19th century—along with its stunning churches and palaces like the gothic Palais des Papes in Avignon.

Where to stay: When visiting Paris with children, having a bit more space and nearby parks is essential. This effortlessly chic two-bedroom Airbnb located next to Luxembourg Gardens provides both. You could also choose Residence Nell’s full-service apartments in the Ninth arrondissement or indulge in the timeless elegance of Le Bristol Paris, which is both sophisticated and family-friendly with its pool and kids club. We’ve also compiled a list of stylish Paris hotels with spacious family rooms. In Avignon, Le Prieuré welcomes babies and younger guests; it’s a luxurious spot housed within a 14th-century monastery surrounded by gardens and featuring a pool. For a lovely guest house with a pool and family-friendly suites, check out Les Jardins de Baracane. —— recommended by Dinogo reader Shira Berger (Provence) and Lyndsey Matthews, senior commerce editor (Paris)

Spetses, Greece

Perfect for: A relaxed island getaway that the entire family can enjoy.

Spetses is conveniently close to the mainland, making the ferry ride easy, yet it boasts the serene ambiance typical of a Greek island. Immerse yourself in culture at the Bouboulina Museum and indulge in fresh seafood at numerous waterfront eateries. Beaches are accessible right in town, or you can explore a kilometer or two away for a more tranquil experience. Let your kids enjoy the rocky sand for hours while the local beach club serves lunch and cocktails right to your lounge chair. The island is mostly car-free, but horse-drawn carriage rides provide a charming way to ferry the kids to dinner. If you find yourself with a couple of hours to spare without the kids, consider renting an e-bike to tour the scenic coastal road that encircles the island, making sure to stop at one of the hidden beaches along the way. Pro tip: Greek sidewalks can be tricky for double strollers, so if you have two little ones that need one, it’s best to bring an umbrella stroller for each.

Where to stay: The Poseidonion Grand Hotel is conveniently located just steps from the ferry terminal, offering breathtaking waterfront views and family-friendly amenities, including two outdoor pools. A short distance up the road, you’ll find Nissia Traditional Residences, featuring suites and residences perfect for larger groups, along with absolutely delicious Greek salad. —Anni Cuccinello, director of audience development

Africa and Asia

Jaipur, India

Perfect for: Kids in elementary school and older.

India offers a fantastic adventure for kids who have moved past the toddler stage and are eager to immerse themselves in the vibrant history and culture of this stunning South Asian destination. After arriving in Delhi and adjusting to the time difference, make your way to Jaipur, known as the 'Pink City,' renowned for its magnificent palaces and Rajasthani heritage. Kids can explore the courtyard of the Hawa Mahal, a striking palace crafted from red and pink sandstone, and marvel at the mustachioed guards at the nearby City Palace (some of those mustaches are truly impressive). Don’t forget to visit the shops for dazzling silver jewelry and traditional Rajasthani attire. At Chokhi Dhani cultural village, families can enjoy camel rides and feast on Rajasthani cuisine.

Where to stay: Consider booking one of the beautiful, spacious suites at the Johri at Lal Haveli from Dinogo’s 2021 Stay List, or indulge in the opulence of the Oberoi Rajvilas, a lavish resort where accommodations range from extravagant villas with private pools to luxurious tents reminiscent of royal caravans of the past.—Sarika Bansal, editorial director

Nairobi and Masai Mara, Kenya

Perfect for: Even the most indifferent teens will be thoroughly impressed by the natural beauty and adventure of a sMytouri experience.

Begin your adventure with a luxurious stay at Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, where feeding giraffes at breakfast is a must! After that, embark on a sMytouri journey. Take your family to Elewana Elsa’s Kopje in Meru, the original camp of famed wildlife conservationist George Adamson. Next, head to Mahali Mzuri in Masai Mara. Everyone will be thrilled to see lions, elephants, wildebeest, and zebras roaming in their natural habitat. For a seamless experience, consider using a luxury Africa travel specialist like Mahlatini, which takes care of everything from airport transfers to bush flights and tours. This is definitely a bucket-list trip that will excite teens, even if they're typically over traveling with family.

Where to stay: If the idea of an African sMytouri inspires you, we've curated a list of additional family-friendly sMytouri options—including accommodations—that will simplify your epic sMytouri planning. —recommended by Dinogo reader Jenn Thomas

Tokyo, Japan

Perfect for: Kids of all ages, with a special charm that will even captivate young toddlers (just be sure to allow for some jetlag recovery time).

This vibrant and dynamic capital is a sensory wonderland that will endlessly excite younger visitors. Simply wandering around to soak in the sights is a joy for kids, with numerous shops to explore and tasty treats to sample. Don't miss a robot-themed performance at the Robot Restaurant, the unique experience of owl and hedgehog cafés, and a stroll through Sakurazaka Park in Roppongi, also known as 'robot park,' along with a visit to Ueno Zoo. The Tokyo Disney Resort, home to both Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, is conveniently accessible via the Tokyo subway. Another fantastic spot for children is the Tokyo Skytree; ascend to the top terrace, 1,500 feet above the city for breathtaking views, then head down to the mall below, packed with dining options. Satisfy your noodle cravings at the ramen museum in Yokohama, where you can also find the impressive Cosmo Clock Ferris wheel nearby.

Where to stay: Treat yourself to a stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi, featuring a pool, playroom, and discounted breakfast for young guests. Another luxurious choice is the legendary Grand Hyatt Tokyo located in the bustling Roppongi area. Alternatively, consider booking a family-friendly vacation rental through Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy, such as this stylish downtown apartment. —recommended by Dinogo reader Lauren Ide