12 Must-See Tourist Attractions Every Kid Should Experience Before They Grow Up
“So, travel not only ignites a child’s sense of adventure and imagination, it can also lead to an ability to approach change with greater adaptability and flexibility” – Dr. Samantha Fish, Clinical Psychologist.
The best time for adventure is childhood. Exploring the world creates everlasting memories, ignites curiosity, and boosts learning and a love for adventure. Magic, history, and impressive natural wonders make these 12 attractions destinations every kid should experience.
Disney Parks
Disney is where dreams come to life. Did you know Disneyland was the first-ever theme park created by Walt Disney in 1955?
It has thrilling rides, parades, and character meet-and-greets. It’s a magical escape, and imagination is not limited, making it perfect for igniting unmatched creativity in children.
Smithsonian Museums (Washington, D.C.)
Here in Washington, D.C., there are 17 Smithsonian museums, and they are all free to explore! At the National Air and Space Museum, kids can touch a moon rock and see real spacecraft.
The Hope Diamond, a 45.5-carat blue diamond, is in the Natural History Museum, and the history behind it will be fascinating! In other words, it’s learning disguised as fun and a treasure trove of everything parents and kids can learn while creating fun memories.
Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)
Yellowstone is a nature lover’s dream. The geysers and bubbling mud pots feel like stepping onto another planet! One fascinating attraction is the Old Faithful, a geyser that erupts 21 to 23 times a day, exploding up to 100 feet high.
The park is also the habitat of grizzly bears, bison, and wolves. There’s a lot to learn and enjoy in the park.
The Harry Potter Studio Tour (London, UK)
It is about the magical Harry Potter world and is purely epic! Warner Bros. Studio Tour London writes, “Filming began on Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone on Friday 29th September 2000 and the Great Hall was one of the first sets to be built; a vast and impressive space that could seat more than 400 children.” You will see the iconic sets of the Great Hall and Diagon Alley.
Find out how all the magic in the films was made. Get to marvel at the props and costumes. The experience is a must for aspiring wizards and witches.
The Great Barrier Reef (Australia)
It is the world’s largest coral reef, home to colorful fish, turtles, and coral reefs that make snorkeling exhilarating. There are 400 types of coral to explore and 1,500 species of fish!
Learning opportunities make the Great Barrier Reef a learning adventure. Exciting, right?
Legoland
Legoland proves how fascinating a world made with LEGO bricks can be. The kids will definitely be stunned by the roller coasters, interactive games, and intricate LEGO models. Interestingly, some parks over there have built entire cities from LEGO!
Children as young as two are welcome to explore. At Legoland, creativity comes to life—a perfect way to let children know how limitless creativity is.
Eiffel Tower (Paris, France)
This spot holds so much significance in history, making it remarkably fascinating! Climbing the Eiffel Tower gives kids an unforgettable view of Paris. “At the top, which is accessed solely via elevator from the second floor, enjoy the most impressive 360° view of Paris, at a height of 906 feet.” – La Tour Eiffel.
At night, the Eiffel Tower lights up, making it feel enchanting. No wonder it is one of the most visited landmarks in the world.
Jurassic Park at Universal Studios
Dinosaurs roar to life at Jurassic Park attractions. Thrilling prehistoric adventures are a sight to behold during the rides. It’s definitely an excuse to have a blast while learning about the science behind dinosaur fossils.
It is fun and educational. The adventures will keep the kids awestruck throughout the visit.
Tokyo Disneyland & Disney Sea (Japan)
Tokyo’s Disney parks offer unique attractions you won’t find elsewhere, like DisneySea’s nautical-themed adventures. Disney magic blends with Japanese culture to create an incomparable experience of beauty and adventure!
The Disney Sea can be explored by children even under three years. Also, popcorn comes in wild flavors like soy sauce and butter — don’t miss it!
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (Orlando, USA)
Kids can walk through Harry Potter’s Hogsmeade and try out butterbeer. Its unbelievable details, wand shops, enchanted windows, and moving portraits make it feel like a replica of Harry Potter movies. There are other spectacular aspects of this destination.
Its official website mentions that one can marvel at fantastic beasts as they explore wizarding Paris in the 1920s and have spectacular adventures with Harry, Ron, and Hermione in the 1990s. It’s a glimpse of Hogwarts magic in Florida.
Galápagos Islands (Ecuador)
Galápagos is a living classroom. “…these 19 islands and the surrounding marine reserve have been called a unique ‘living museum and showcase of evolution’.” – UNESCO World Heritage Convention. The kids will meet Giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and playful sea lions.
Charles Darwin’s observations here inspired his theory of evolution. This is a one-time chance to see nature’s wonders.
Niagara Falls (USA/Canada)
Niagara Falls is a jaw-dropping natural wonder. On the Maid of the Mist boat ride, you get close to the roaring water. It’s incredible that over 3,000 tons of water flows over the falls every second!
The iconic views will definitely create a lifetime of memories. Niagara Falls is a thrilling and distinctive experience.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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