21 Best Summer Vacations in the US for Families

Summer is the perfect time for family vacations because the weather is nice the majority of the time and the kids are off from school. Picking the perfect destination can be hard though. There are so many amazing places to visit all over the US. This collection of the best summer vacations in the US can help you choose where to go next. Whether you’re looking for family friendly beaches, adventure filled destinations or relaxing spots around the US you’ll find it here. So get ready to pack your bags.

This list was pulled from locations that real families dub as their favorite summer destinations worthy of visiting over and over again.

There are a variety of places from all over the US and although this definitely isn’t every spot you could possibly visit I would argue that they are some of the best available.

If nothing else this list can help you think of new locations and destinations you may not have thought of on your own.

This post may contain some affiliate links. This means I make a small profit from your purchase but at no increased cost to you. I only recommend products that I love and would purchase myself! Full disclaimer here.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Part of Georgia’s Golden Isles, Tybee Island has family-friendly beaches and plenty of entertainment for the kids. Families can spend the day on white sand beaches, climb the historic lighthouse, learn at the Tybee aquarium or have an offshore adventure.

The island offers plenty of lodging options from resorts to beach rentals and even beach camping at the Little Tybee Island. Tybee is a great summer destination because there’s so much to do, packed into a small area that’s easily commutable by walking. Your family won’t be bored!

Read More from Savvy Mama Lifestyle: Best Tybee Island Activities for Families

Check on accommodations near Tybee Island.

These re 21 of the best summer vacations in the US for families. If you have kids and you're looking for a fun summer destination then one of these destinations is sure to fit your vacation style. Wether you want to relax on the beach or spend endless hours adventuring and exploring another great summer vacation spot. Have the best family vacation in the US this year. Utah may be the destination for you if you like hiking, camping, lakes and more outdoor adventures.

Utah

Utah is the perfect destination for your families next summer vacation in the US. It has 5 national parks to explore and world class hiking. If you need to escape the heat then visit one of Utah’s many alpine lakes to go boating, swimming or relax on the sandy shores.

From sand boarding, rappelling or ATVing there is no shortage of adventures to be had in Utah.

Check on accommodations in Utah.

Seattle, Washington

Whether your vacation goals involve relaxing in the great outdoors, noshing on great food, or shopping til you drop, Seattle has got what you’re after.

With gorgeous views of Puget Sound from many spots within the city, the ocean is just a glance away — or get up close with a ride on the ferry and take in Seattle from the water.

Buskers making music around Pike Place create a bit of a party vibe, making it hard to forget that you are off the clock; those seeking a more natural vibe will appreciate hiking and exploring the nearby Olympic Peninsula.

Read more from Cultured Table: 7 Reasons to Visit Seattle.

Check on accommodations in Seattle, WA.

Catalina Island, California

Whether you live in Southern California or on the East Coast, Catalina Island is a perfect summer destination! There’s something for everyone, from families to guys or girls trips, and romantic getaways, there are so many activities and fun locations on the island.

Take a golf cart tour (or go golfing), visit the museums and gardens, take a glass bottom boat tour, or flying fish tour, have a spa day or just relax on the beach! Catalina will make memories to last a lifetime.

Read more from Christina’s Cucina: Catalina Island, The Perfect Getaway in Southern California

Check on accommodations near Catalina Island, CA.

Tavel in the US

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is America’s oldest national park, and also one of the most memorable to visit. It’s packed with incredible views and majestic animals. And whether you’re up for a strenuous hike or an easy drive, you’re sure to see geysers and colorful hot springs along the way.

There’s no shortage of places to explore, whether you spend your whole vacation here or make it part of a longer road trip!

Read more on Champagne Tastes to plan your trip: Two Days in Yellowstone Guide.

Check on accommodations near Yellowstone National Park.

Des Moines, Iowa

Head to the Midwest rather than the coast for this year’s summer vacation and find a city full of friendly people. From the home of the Iowa State Fair to a zoo, science center and good eats head to Des Moines, Iowa.

Des Moines is just a short drive from most of the Midwest and is a fun and affordable destination.

Wondering what to do in Des Moines with kids? Find many more ideas at Two Kids and A Coupon.

Check out accommodations in Des Moines, Iowa.

Havasupai Falls, Arizona

Go beyond the Grand Canyon and visit Havasupai Falls as a family.

Havasupai Falls is one of those places that you must see in your lifetime. It takes a bit of time and planning to get there, but it’s SO worth it! The views that Havasupai has to offer are like no other place in the world!

Read more at Food Folks and Fun for all the details you need to know to visit Havasupai Falls with your family.

Check on accommodations near Havasupai Falls for before and after your trip.

Nearby Destination: Things to Do in Buena Vista, CO

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Did you know that there are seven different district areas within the city of Virginia Beach, Virginia? Each district has its own personality and attractions to offer guests. This Atlantic Ocean city has a rich history, vibrant beaches, art and family-friendly things to do.

Spend the day on the beach or take a short commute inland and feel like you’re in a completely different destination with green farmland. Virginia Beach is also home to some of the best seafood in the state, making it a must-do foodie hotspot.

With all of the different ways to indulge your senses, Virginia Beach is a great summer destination.

Read more about what to do at Virginia Beach on Savvy Mama Lifestyle.

Check on accommodations in Virginia Beach, VA.

New Canaan, Connecticut

Connecticut is home to so many charming towns which really come to life in the summer. New Canaan, CT is located just 45 minutes north of New York City. This quintessential New England town boasts so many hidden gems.

Sue from The ZHUSH has listed out all their favorite spots in New Canaan here.

From nature preserves to cultural centers there is something for every family to explore on their best summer vacations in the US.

Check on accommodations in New Canaan, Connecticut.

More East Coast Destinations

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, SC is the quintessential beach vacation spot. With a huge boardwalk, a great (free to the public) beach, and a ton of activities at Broadway At The Beach, it’s a fantastic getaway for the whole family.

And, if you would like to sneak off for some golfing, there are a bunch of courses in the Grand Strand.

Read more on Myrtle Beach from Drugstore Divas.

Check out accommodations in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

San Diego is a classic summer vacation destination in the US for families near the ocean.

San Diego, California

San Diego has been a coveted summer vacation spot for many decades and for good reason. The summer weather is that perfect combination of sunshine and warm temperatures without getting too hot.

There’s a wide selection of world-class beaches with pristine sandy shores and calm waters for swimming.

Foodies love San Diego because there’s no shortage of fresh and inventive dining options. And finally families with children have several theme parks nearby including San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, SeaWorld and Legoland.

Read more from Gennifer Rose on the best kid friendly things to do in San Diego.

Check on accommodations in San Diego, CA.

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Off the New England coast of Massachusetts is Martha’s Vineyard, the longtime Summer favorite of everyone from presidents to celebrities, athletes, and authors.

Explore its different towns filled with a mix of Victorian charm, fishing piers, seaside cliffs, farms, sailing adventures, desolate beaches, high end shopping, and more. And don’t forget to order up some freshly caught fish while you bask in comfortable temperatures.

It’s the most picturesque American Summer vacation you can dream of.

Read more about this lovely destination on Jules Buono post: Martha’s Vineyard Guide.

Check on accommodations in Martha’s Vineyard, MA.

Nearby Destination: Three Day Boston Itinerary: A Perfect Weekend in Boston

Broken Bow, Oklahoma

Rent a luxury cabin on the Mountain Fork River or in Hochatown. Swim, fish, hike, rent a boat, and kayak at Beavers Bend State Park.

Beautiful sights, exciting outdoor activities, luxury cabins, and fabulous food make Beavers Bend State Park in Oklahoma a can’t miss summer destination.

Read more on New Mom at 40’s post: Visiting Beavers Bend State Park with Family.

Check on accommodations near Beavers Bend State Park in Oklahoma.

Acadia National Park

In the northeast corner of the United States, Acadia National Park’s appeal lies in its wild coastline, vivid blue sea, and secluded trails.

You can hike to see the sunrise from the top of Cadillac Mountain, take one of the hair-rising rung and ladder trails along a cliff edge, or spend some time in the quaint shops and restaurants of Bar Harbor.

The fresh air of Acadia is invigorating. (And did we mention there’s amazing seafood?)

Read more on Champagne Tastes about things to do near Acadia.

Check on accommodations near Acadia National Park.

More USA Travel Destinations

Florida

If a beach vacation is your family’s idea of the best summer vacation possible then Florida is the place to be. Whether you visit the award winning beaches on the Emerald Coast like Siesta Key Beach or head further south to the Keys there are hundreds of miles of beaches to explore.

Or head to Orlando for your pick of amusement parks and outdoor fun if the beach isn’t your cup of tea. From Disney World or SeaWorld to Universal and Legoland there is a park for just about everyone. You can also visit natural springs, nearby farms and orange groves!

Check on accommodations in Florida.

Wilmington, North Carolina

Wilmington, NC is straight nostalgia for anyone who watched television in the late 90’s and early 00’s. It’s the backdrop for some of TV’s finest, like Dawson’s Creek and One Tree Hill.

But there’s more than that. With over a dozen local breweries, beaches within driving distance, and two great outdoor amphitheaters, there’s something for everyone to love (no matter if you were Team Dawson or Team Pacey).

Read more from the Drugstore Divas: 24 Hours in Wilmington, NC.

Check on accommodations in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Northern Oregon is a classic summer vacation destination in the US for families that enjoy outdoor adventures and camping.

Summer Vacation in Northern Oregon

The Northern Oregon coast is filled with scenic vistas, historical sites, and fabulous places to stay.

The local cuisine appeals to seafood lovers, ice cream fans, and coffee connoisseurs.

There are plenty of activities for nature lovers, including bike trails, hikes, horseback riding and pedaling the rails. Your days will be full of fun discoveries when you visit this unforgettable region.

Read more by FluxingWell: 21 Things to do on a Visit to the Northern Oregon Coast.

Check on accommodations in Northern Oregon.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mackinac Island in Michigan is a fun, old fashioned family vacation destination. This tourist destination has no cars! You take a ferry over and then ride a bike around the island, take a taxi (horse drawn carriage) or walk around and visit the many fudge shops.

Read more on Mom Crieff: A Family Vacation on Mackinac Island.

Check on accommodations on Mackinac Island, Michigan.

Duluth, Minnesota

Nestled along the North Shore of Lake Superior, the vibrant city of Duluth, Minnesota, provides loads of activities for those seeking both outdoor adventure and lakeside leisure.

Along with its nautical atmosphere, Duluth has countless things for both kids and adults to do, many of which are completely free. It all adds up to a fun and affordable family escape.

Read more on Thrifty Minnesota: Top 16 Things to do in Duluth with Kids.

Check on accommodations in Duluth, MN.

Helpful Travel Tips and Tricks

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago has been voted the best big city in the US 5 years in a row and there is no shortage of things to do on your next family vacation to this midwest city. From food festivals to art exhibits and fun holiday celebrations they seem to have it all.

Jenny from Mommy Evolution says “Chicago absolutely shines in the summer with a big city flare that is easily accessible from many different places.”

But just like all big cities, it can be costly if you don’t know the city. Check out these 25 free summer activities in Chicago you can do with kids and the whole family!”

Check on accommodations in Chicago, IL.

Visit New York this Summer

There are so many unique cities to visit in New York State. My favorites are Buffalo (Niagara Falls), Lake Placid and New York City.

There’s such rich history in these cities, each of these places will allow you to relax, exercise and enjoy learning more about the state of New York.

Read more about the amazing places to visit in New York on Ottawa Mommy Club.

Check on accommodations in New York City, New York.

Best Summer Vacations in the US

There you have it, the best summer vacations in the US for families. So when you start planning your next family reunion, sibling get together or family road trip make sure you keep these beautiful destinations in mind.

Share with everyone below: where is your family’s favorite summer vacation destination? What keeps you coming back to visit over and over?