The 13 Best Spots in the U.S. to Go with Kids in 2025
Traveling with kids is about finding that spot that’s fun for them, relaxing for you, and memorable for everyone. Whether your family is craving a beach escape, an educational city break, or an outdoor adventure, you’ll find plenty of kid-approved spots in the U.S. that’ll leave you all with huge smiles on your faces (and perhaps a little sleep-deprived, but in the best way).
Here’s a roundup of the 13 best spots in the U.S. to visit with kids in 2025.
Orlando, Florida
Orlando is king of the game when it comes to kid-friendly places. It’s engineered for family fun with Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and LEGOLAND Florida all housed there. Orlando has more than just theme parks; you can also check out the Crayola Experience or Gatorland for some off-the-beaten-path adventure. Enjoy a relaxing day at one of the area water parks such as Volcano Bay.
San Diego, California
San Diego combines perfect weather with activities for kids of all ages. The world-class San Diego Zoo, often rated as one of the best, and interactive exhibits and rides at LEGOLAND California are waiting for the kids. Balboa Park is home to gardens and many museums, while the beaches run the gamut from La Jolla to Coronado and are perfect for swimming or sandcastle building.
Washington, D.C.
For families with budding history buffs, Washington, D.C. is a goldmine of educational fun. Free and utterly fascinating are all the Smithsonian Museums, be it the National Museum of Natural History or the Air and Space Museum. Take a walk down the National Mall and look around at the monuments; this city has numerous green spaces for a picnic or to let the kids run amok.
Chicago, Illinois
There’s a lot to do in Chicago as it’s a family-friendly city. Some of the big impressive stops for curious minds are: the Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, and the Adler Planetarium. Families with young children will love Millennium Park where kids can shriek with joy around the giant Bean sculpture, or splash around in the splash fountains.
Maui, Hawaii
Maui is a real tropical paradise, and perfect for a family adventure. You can snorkel in the clear waters, visit Haleakalā National Park, or relax on kid-friendly beaches like Baby Beach in Lahaina. If you’re looking for something completely different, join on a whale-watching tour in the winter or visit the Maui Ocean Center to learn about marine life.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a must-visit if your family loves the outdoors. It’s tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains, close to hiking trails, waterfalls, and a number of scenic drives which includes the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Biltmore Estate has kid-friendly activities like petting farms and outdoor trails. The vibe in downtown Asheville is great and there are lots of family-friendly restaurants and ice cream shops.
Boston, Massachusetts
Families will find Boston a blend of history and interactive fun. Visit the Boston Children’s Museum, walk the Freedom Trail, or catch a game at Fenway Park. Also, the New England Aquarium is nearby and kids will love its penguins and sea turtles. A whale-watching tour from Boston Harbor is unforgettable.
The Outer Banks, North Carolina
Outer Banks is a laid-back beach destination that lets families unwind and explore. You can visit the historic lighthouses, experience kite-flying at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, or learn the history of aviation at the Wright Brothers National Memorial. It’s perfect for kids and a safe ocean with wide sandy beaches.
Seattle, Washington
Seattle has a bit of nature and a bit of city fun. Your kids will be entertained and educated at the Museum of Pop Culture, Seattle Aquarium, and Pacific Science Center. Experience panoramic views as you ride to the top of the Space Needle, or head to Bainbridge Island for a ferry ride. Nearby are parks like Discovery Park with green spaces for outdoor play.
Branson, Missouri
Branson is a hidden gem for family vacations. The Silver Dollar City amusement park combines exciting rides with old fashion charm. Watch one of the town’s famous live shows or pop by the Aquarium at the Boardwalk. Boating, fishing, and picnicking are fun at Table Rock Lake too.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is a treasure for families that love the great outdoors. Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road for jaw-dropping scenery or take easy hikes to attractive viewpoints. It also has a Junior Ranger Program allowing kids to learn about the park’s ecosystem in a hands-on way. This makes it an ideal camping spot and a great place to connect with nature.
Williamsburg, Virginia
Step back in time with a trip to Williamsburg, where history comes alive. At Colonial Williamsburg, actors in period costumes, interactive exhibits, and activities get kids involved with America’s past. Thrill rides and shows can be found nearby at Busch Gardens while at Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown, kids can learn about early American history.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Introduce your children to nature’s wonders at Yellowstone. From geysers like Old Faithful to bubbling mud pots, the park is a true wonder. There are plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing of bison, elk, and even bears. With trails ranging from easy boardwalks to more challenging hikes, there’s something for every skill level.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.