Ready for adventure: Discover the best family vacations for kids of all ages

Choosing a vacation spot is one of the most debated topics in family homes around the world.

Should we visit the grandparents or hit the beach? Maybe a theme park, a cruise, or a remote hiking destination? The options are endless.

There’s a vast array of choices and factors to weigh, with one of the key considerations being the age of your kids. Each stage of childhood has its own set of challenges, but with the right approach, you can ensure a fun and unforgettable trip that’s tailored to your family’s needs.

TPG spoke with real parents and experts to gather their top recommendations for the best family vacations for children at every stage of life.

Best trips to take with an infant

Traveling with little ones: What to expect

Congratulations on the new addition to your family! The good news is that babies don’t require much in terms of entertainment, but traveling with an infant certainly comes with its own set of challenges.

Though it might not always be seamless, don’t let that deter you from traveling with your baby. Once they settle into a consistent sleep routine, babies can be wonderful travel companions.

For a long road trip, make sure you have all the essentials: feeding supplies, diapers, wipes, and plenty of extra clothes for both you and your baby. If flying, be sure to check the airline’s policies for traveling with an infant and bringing along baby gear like strollers and car seats.

No matter how you’re traveling, choose a destination that offers baby-friendly facilities, a calm vibe, and perhaps even extra perks like onsite babysitting for a well-deserved parents’ night out.

All-inclusive beachfront resorts

For new parents, a vacation where everything is arranged in advance and you don’t need to leave the resort is the ultimate in convenience.

Many all-inclusive resorts, such as Cancun's Finest Playa Mujeres, feature dedicated water play zones for children and offer complimentary baby essentials like cribs, strollers, and monitors.

If you're in need of a beach stroll or a romantic dinner, resorts like Beaches Negril provide infant care with nannies certified by the International Nanny Association.

When booking accommodations, opt for a suite with multiple bedrooms or a room with a designated space where your baby can sleep in a quiet, dark environment to maintain the sleep routine you've worked so hard to establish. If a separate room isn’t available, seasoned family travelers sometimes turn oversized closets or even bathrooms into temporary nurseries.

Mountain cabin getaway

If you prefer fresh mountain air over the ocean breeze, consider renting a cozy cabin in the Great Smoky Mountains, Big Bear, or the Rocky Mountains. Many cabins come with full kitchens and all the comforts of home, and some even feature game rooms or hot tubs.

With platforms like Vrbo or Airbnb, you can easily search for cabins that fit your family’s needs, whether you’re looking for something small or large. You could even make it a multigenerational trip, inviting the grandparents to spend time bonding with their new grandchild.

Road trip to visit the grandparents

For a change of pace on your first trip away from home, consider taking a road trip to visit your child's grandparents in their hometown, especially if it's in a scenic location. It can be a great opportunity to practice packing and getting accustomed to sleeping away from home, all while being greeted by familiar, loving faces on the other end.

Some parents might feel ready to make this kind of visit right away, while others may prefer to wait until they feel more confident in their baby care routine. One thing’s for sure, though: Grandparents make great built-in babysitters.

Tips from experienced parents

After the arrival of a baby, vacationing might seem like a distant thought. However, once you’ve found your rhythm and are feeling more comfortable, a getaway could be just what you need to recharge and refresh.

Summer Hull, TPG’s director of travel content and mother of two, recalls that the 3-6 month age range is often the sweet spot for travel with a baby who has established a solid sleep routine. "Just pop them in a carrier and you’re good to go," Hull shared.

Once your baby becomes mobile, travel will get trickier, so make the most of their immobility while it lasts.

Best trips for traveling with a toddler

Traveling with young children: What to expect

As infants grow into toddlers, they start to notice more of the world around them and need increased entertainment and stimulation throughout the day.

This can be challenging when you're stuck in a car or airplane for hours. A backpack filled with board books, mess-free coloring kits, and a reliable tablet can help ease the boredom. But let’s be real—traveling with kids between 18 months and 3 years is probably the toughest age, as it demands the most energy from parents.

You may also find yourself in the midst of potty training and wondering how to handle this major milestone while on the go.

Prepare by packing extra clothes, emergency pull-ups, and potentially a portable potty chair if you’re camping or taking a road trip. If a big trip is on the horizon, consider tackling potty training beforehand (but still bring those pull-ups, just in case).

Despite these challenges, traveling with toddlers can be incredibly rewarding. This is a time when they’re filled with curiosity and wonder, making for magical moments along the way.

Toddlers are curious and full of energy, so any destination that allows them to explore to their heart's content is bound to be a hit.

Beach getaway

Whether you choose a beachfront resort or a cozy vacation rental, the beach is a perfect place for your toddler to safely dig, splash, collect seashells, and discover marine life.

While it may not be the same as the peaceful beach vacation you enjoyed before having a baby, watching your toddler delight in their own sense of discovery can still be a lot of fun. Just make sure to prioritize water safety during your stay.

You likely won’t want to spend the whole day under the sun, so choose a destination that offers a variety of family-friendly activities. In addition to its award-winning beaches, St. Petersburg, Florida, is close to Fort De Soto Park, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and the lush tropical gardens of the Sunken Gardens. On the other coast, San Diego features the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, the museum-packed Balboa Park, and the historic USS Midway Museum.

The 30-A region in Florida is another great, relaxed spot for a family beach vacation.

Legoland theme parks

Legoland Resort is the only theme park designed specifically for families with kids aged 2 to 12.

With locations in California, Florida, and now New York, each Legoland park offers attractions, shaded play areas, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly hotels that cater to younger children, including toddlers. Staying at the resort puts you just steps from the action, with perks like free breakfast, early park entry, and character meet-and-greets. (Note that perks vary by location.)

Tips from parents who’ve been there

Mitchell Stoutin, TPG’s director of engineering, took a creative approach to traveling with his toddler.

Before heading to Sitka, Alaska, with his 2-year-old and 4-month-old, Mitchell anticipated challenges in keeping his kids settled without them getting fussy. Since neither child enjoyed being confined to a car seat, Mitchell opted for a Thule Chariot multiuse stroller and bike trailer to help navigate the small island. "We arrived with the stroller, rented bikes from a local shop, and used them to tow the kids around," he explained. "The week was spent exploring trails, enjoying coffee, savoring fresh seafood, and relaxing by the water."

This could be an excellent solution if you’re traveling to a destination that’s easy to navigate on foot or by bike.

Best trips to take with a preschooler

Traveling with preschoolers: What to expect

Preschoolers are generally easier to travel with than toddlers because they tend to have longer attention spans. However, they may start to view themselves as little adults.

This means they may have stronger opinions, a greater sense of independence, and, of course, tantrums when things don’t go their way. To help prevent meltdowns, keep your itinerary flexible, take frequent breaks, and pack more snacks than you think you’ll need.

You may also be at the point where you’re deciding whether to leave the stroller at home or bring it along. Consider how much walking you’ll be doing each day and whether you’ll be out during nap time or after bedtime when the stroller could come in handy for carrying your sleeping child.

If you're thinking about ditching the stroller, consider researching stroller rental services at your destination—just in case.

As children grow, become more active, and gain independence, the range of vacation options expands. Now’s the perfect time to explore new adventures on a special family trip.

Disney park

A Disney vacation is magical for people of all ages, but preschoolers are at that enchanting age where they truly believe in the magic.

They’re also big enough and tall enough to enjoy many of the park’s attractions. If you encounter a ride they’re not yet tall enough for, Disney’s rider switch service lets parents experience the ride without waiting in line twice.

Whether you’re heading to Walt Disney World in Florida or Disneyland in California, make the most of the magic by staying on-site, reserving a character meal, and packing their favorite Disney character costume to wear in the parks.

Keep in mind, these little ones are still quite young, so be sure to include plenty of breaks for swimming and relaxing at your hotel to avoid those inevitable tantrums, even if your child has outgrown regular naps.

Ski vacation

Preschoolers are usually fearless when it comes to trying new things, which makes now the perfect time to introduce them to the mountains on a family ski vacation.

Look for a ski resort that provides ski schools with smaller classes or even private lessons tailored to younger children. In some cases, the cost and duration of private lessons for kids in the 3 to 5 age range may be lower. For instance, at Winter Park in Colorado, a half-day lesson for children 6 and older starts at $699, while the same lesson for younger kids is priced at $404.

Seek out family-friendly accommodations — ideally with a hot tub for post-ski relaxation — that offer on-site dining and easy access to groceries and essentials. If there’s ever a time to splurge on the best spot on the mountain, it’s now. The Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa, located just steps from the ski school, offers great rates when booked with points.

Go on a cruise

Once your child turns 3 and is potty trained, a whole new world of complimentary kids' clubs, including those offered on various cruise ships, becomes available.

Some cruise lines are particularly family-friendly, thanks to their outstanding kids' programs. Norwegian Cruise Line offers a free program for preschoolers featuring activities like treasure hunts, arts and crafts, and parades. Additionally, they have family amenities such as bowling alleys, mini-golf, and waterslides to keep everyone entertained.

MSC Cruises offers a similar array of childcare and family-focused activities, with kids' clubs organized by age group, like the Mini Club for children aged 3-6. Their partnership with Lego ensures that your kids will have access to Lego play areas in the kids' club, plus a Lego-themed day on every cruise.

And then there’s Disney Cruise Line, which is a top choice for keeping kids engaged. From Disney movies in the theater to character meet-and-greets and the Oceaneer Club, a dedicated space for children aged 3-12, there's never a shortage of fun.

Advice from parents who've been there

While traveling with his preschool-aged boys, Michael Gum discovered that his kids were particularly fond of hotel rooms with bunk beds and electronic drawing tablets to keep them entertained during flights.

Florida-based writer and mom Dani Meyering suggests parents consider investing in TSA PreCheck to make airport security a breeze. Children 12 and under can join parents with TSA PreCheck in the expedited security lane. Plus, many credit cards you already have may offer a credit toward getting TSA PreCheck.

On a recent trip, Meyering and her husband kept things running smoothly at the airport by assigning one parent to manage the luggage and the other to stay focused on their son.

Both Gum and Meyering swear by the strategy of packing more snacks than you think you'll need. 'Travel days are survival mode,' says Meyering. 'Be sure to bring plenty of snacks.'

Best trips to take with elementary-age kids

Travel challenges

At this stage, the biggest challenge is striking the right balance between fun, interactive activities and making sure they don't get too worn out.

This is also the age when school absences and scheduling around the academic calendar become a factor for many families. When planning your trip, be mindful of your child's energy levels and avoid scheduling too many activities one after the other. While they can handle a busy day at home, ensure there’s time for rest and recharging between main events.

Best types of trips

By age 6 or 7, kids are much more independent and can take on a full day of adventures. At this age, consider incorporating more physically engaging activities like hiking, horseback riding, or exploring new cities on foot into your itinerary.

Dude ranch or glamping resort

Dude ranches and glamping resorts offer a unique way to enjoy the outdoors while indulging in upscale accommodations. With a variety of activities like fishing, archery, cycling, swimming, and boating, these destinations provide a perfect blend of nature and comfort.

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, located in Polk County, Florida, just an hour south of Orlando, features air-conditioned glamping tents and luxurious covered wagons, along with a weekly rodeo. Meanwhile, The Ranch at Rock Creek in Philipsburg, Montana, is known for skiing and snowmobiling during winter and mountain biking and hiking during the warmer months.

If you’re looking to redeem some Hyatt points, the Rawah Ranch in Colorado offers a kids program for children aged 4-10, making it a great option for families.

Bahamas resort

For those willing to travel a bit farther for a beach getaway, the Bahamas is an excellent choice. Resorts like Baha Mar in Nassau offer a variety of hotels, including some with exciting amenities such as water parks, and are available for booking with World of Hyatt points, like the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar.

The nearby Atlantis resort complex, a favorite among families for years, is another fantastic option. Some of its towers are affiliated with Marriott, allowing you to book certain accommodations using Marriott Bonvoy points.

International adventure

This is a great time for your child’s first international adventure.

At this age, they’re ready for long-haul flights (yes, even kids love those lie-flat seats!), and are more capable of appreciating the unique aspects of your destination—whether it’s snorkeling in Bora Bora or sipping afternoon tea in London.

Advice from parents who've been there

Jessica Stephens, a mother of two, advises parents to avoid overplanning. "Go in with an open mind and just a short list of must-dos," she said. "Anything extra is a bonus!"

Top vacation ideas for traveling with tweens

Traveling challenges

Once kids hit their tween years, they often desire more space and privacy than when they were younger. While toddlers may be the hardest to travel with in terms of logistics, tweens can be the trickiest to keep entertained and satisfied.

When possible, look for accommodations with separate bedrooms or even a living area with a pullout sofa where your tween can relax after a busy day. Extra bathrooms are also a nice bonus to help everyone have their own space.

At this age, kids start preferring fun with peers over family time. This makes the tween years the perfect opportunity to take a trip with another family or cousins, or to visit places with tween-specific activities and clubs.

When it comes to theme parks, resorts, and cruises, some options are definitely more tween-friendly than others.

Outdoor adventure awaits

If you've been putting off challenging outdoor activities like long hikes or camping trips, now is the time to try them. National parks in the U.S. are ideal destinations for these types of adventures.

From mule rides in the Grand Canyon to camping on the beaches of Florida’s Dry Tortugas National Park, or even fossil hunting at Dinosaur National Monument in Colorado and Utah, U.S. national parks have something for every tween. Plus, fourth-graders can get a free park pass through the National Park Service.

Speaking of great deals, kids in fourth through sixth grade can grab a $59 Colorado ski pass, which gives them access to a variety of resorts.

Universal Orlando Resort

While younger kids can enjoy Universal Orlando Resort, by the time they hit the tween years, they'll be tall enough for most rides and will be less intimidated by the intense coasters that outdo even Disney's scariest attractions.

For the ultimate experience, we suggest staying at one of Universal's Premier Hotels, which are closest to the parks and come with Universal Express Unlimited access, allowing you to skip the standby lines. To elevate your visit, consider splurging on a Universal VIP experience for a real treat.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line has mastered the art of making every guest feel special, but tweens can be a bit more challenging to impress.

Thankfully, Disney has cracked the code with their exclusive club for 11-14-year-olds. Tweens can enjoy activities that make them feel grown-up, from crafting projects with art supplies and hitting the dance floor to karaoke, movie nights, video games, and more.

Advice from parents who've been there

Mom Shana Loveday recommends involving your tweens in trip planning. She also suggests teaching them the timeless skill of reading a paper road map. "Show them how to navigate with a map and give them markers to track your journey," Loveday shared.

Best trips to take with teens

Travel challenges

One of the biggest hurdles when traveling with teens is getting them excited about the trip and getting them to engage. Coordinating with their busy school and work schedules can be challenging as well. However, including them in the decision-making process about destinations and activities can make all the difference. Letting them bring a friend might even earn you some 'cool parent' points for a while.

At this stage, the possibilities are endless for travel. With no more training wheels, you can plan trips much like the ones you took before having kids — but now with a teen-friendly twist.

New York City

New York City offers an abundance of sights and experiences, and it also provides plenty of chances to sneak in some U.S. history lessons while you explore.

We can assist you in selecting the perfect hotel, and from there, it’s up to you and your teen to choose which Broadway shows to catch, museums to explore, and landmarks to visit for breathtaking views of the city, perfect for those Instagram-worthy photos.

California road trip

California is famous for its theme parks and beaches, but it’s also an ideal destination for an unforgettable road trip.

Visit California, the state's official tourism board, not only provides general travel tips but also offers a range of road trip itineraries for all kinds of travelers. Whether you opt for the scenic Highway One Classic to take in the stunning California coastline, or explore unique options like the Amazing Desert Oddities route or the Movie Locations Tour, there’s something for everyone.

European adventure

While no one looks forward to jet lag, teens are generally better equipped to handle the adjustment than younger kids.

If your teen is studying a European language in school, consider choosing a destination where they can practice their skills in real-life situations. Alternatively, you could explore multiple countries, as traveling by train or plane across Europe is both convenient and affordable.

Advice from parents who've been there

Jana Seitzer, a writer, podcaster, and parent, enjoys letting her teens take an active role in planning family vacations. "We’ve learned that when they’re involved, they get more out of the trip," she shares. "When everyone has a say in what we do and where we go, it ensures everyone gets something they’re excited about."

Best trips to take with your college-aged 'kids'

Travel challenges

Planning a vacation with college-aged kids who have grown accustomed to their independence can be a challenge. Involve them in the planning process and aim for a flexible itinerary with designated meet-up times. If you choose an activity they enjoy and accommodate their schedule, they’ll likely be excited for a trip—especially if they can bring a friend along and the cost is covered by mom and dad.

Think about how your college-aged child likes to spend their leisure time and tailor the trip accordingly. You could opt for a laid-back day at the beach or add more adventure with activities like zip-lining or parasailing.

All-inclusive resort

An all-inclusive resort takes the stress out of budgeting since nearly everything is included, offering everyone the freedom to do what they like, when they like, without constantly watching the clock or the wallet.

Excellence Resorts in Cancun, Mexico, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, and Montego Bay, Jamaica, are excellent options for families with college-aged kids. The adults-only section of Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya is a great alternative for those with older teens or young adults. Many all-inclusive resorts also welcome points redemption, including the Hyatt Ziva Cancun, a points-friendly favorite.

Multigenerational ski vacation

Whether you're seasoned skiers or newcomers hitting the slopes for the first time, the college years are an ideal time for a multigenerational ski trip. Invite the grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles to join in the fun for a memorable family getaway.

Rent a spacious mountain cabin close to the slopes, so everyone has ample space to relax and unwind when not enjoying the powder on the mountain. For a more tailored experience, consider booking a private ski lesson for the whole group, designed to match your family’s skill levels.

Advice from parents who've been there

Seitzer strongly supports the idea of multigenerational vacations, regardless of your children's ages. She believes, "Multigen travel is a wonderful way to create lasting family memories, with multiple generations coming together for quality time."

Traveling with kids of different ages

Travel challenges

When you have children with considerable age gaps, the primary challenge is finding a destination that offers something for everyone. A family-friendly cruise or an all-inclusive resort, where activities and entertainment are integrated into the experience, are your best options.

Adventures by Disney

While the initial price may seem steep, if your family includes kids of varying ages and your budget allows, Adventures by Disney packages offer a great way to travel together without the stress of planning every detail.

Adventures by Disney offers guided trips, both on land and by cruise, to destinations ranging from Wyoming to Antarctica. The package includes most of the logistics, meals, and excursions. You'll also likely find other families with kids of all ages, so your group can easily fit in.

Hawaiian resort

A large resort with ample activities and accommodations designed for big families ensures everyone can have a great time. The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, which is a great deal if you use Hyatt points, offers daily activities like yoga, lei-making, and golf, along with one of the best family pool complexes in the U.S.

If you need child care for the younger kids in your group, there is also a kids club available for a fee.

Advice from parents who've been there

Travel writer Sarah Gilliland, who has 10-year-old twins and a 2-year-old son, suggests saving her older kids' favorite activities for when her younger son naps.

"When he’s asleep in the stroller or I take him back to the hotel for a nap, that’s when it’s go-time for them," Gilliland explained. "It makes their time with us feel special, especially since they had our full attention for the first eight years." She also advises traveling with a grandparent, another family member, or a sitter to help care for the younger child while you focus on the older ones.

Mom Christy Kelley shared a useful tip to fight boredom on long trips. "A friend once suggested I pack paper lunch bags, each with an activity and snack for every hour of the journey. That way, the kids always have something to look forward to," she told TPG. "This works great for kids of any age."

Final thoughts

These suggestions are, of course, flexible. Some families and kids are ready to take on bigger travel experiences early, while others prefer a simpler pace for a bit longer. There’s no definitive answer for the right time to go on certain types of trips, but generally, there are age ranges where certain experiences tend to be a bit easier.

If you feel like taking your toddler to Europe, go for it. Or if you're thinking about hitting Disney World with your grown-up kids, do it! No matter what adventure you choose, you're likely to create lasting memories as long as you're open to going with the flow and keeping your kids' desires and needs at the forefront.

So, what’s next on your travel list?