Family vacations aren’t just about a change of scenery. They’re about slowing down, being present, and making memories with the people you love – the kind you’ll laugh about years later, long after the suitcases are unpacked and the laundry is finally done.
Whether your crew dreams of sandy beaches, crisp mountain air, big-city energy, or a little off-the-map adventure, the best family trips all share one thing: they don’t feel like work.
That’s where Ship&Play comes in. By shipping your family’s luggage, strollers, golf clubs, sports gear, or baby essentials directly to your hotel or rental, you can skip the baggage lines and start your vacation the moment you arrive.
Fewer bags. Fewer meltdowns. More time for what actually matters.
Here are 25 of the best family vacations to inspire your next getaway – and help make it your smoothest one yet.
Best Family Vacations
1. Maui, Hawaii
Maui offers a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Families can snorkel at Molokini Crater, watch the sunrise from Haleakalā National Park, or explore Lahaina’s charming shops and restaurants. The island’s resorts often include kids’ clubs and cultural experiences like lei-making and hula lessons, making it easy for everyone to feel immersed in Hawaiian tradition.
2. Destin, Florida
Destin’s emerald waters and powder-white sand make it one of the best beach destinations for families with young kids. You’ll find calm surf, dolphin cruises, and family-friendly resorts with plenty of activities on-site. The HarborWalk Village offers everything from mini-golf to sunset parades.
3. Outer Banks, North Carolina
This chain of barrier islands offers a laid-back coastal vibe perfect for multigenerational trips. Families can explore historic lighthouses, take wild horse tours, and enjoy quiet days on the beach. Vacation homes with full kitchens make it easy to host big family dinners after a day in the sun.
4. San Diego, California
San Diego delivers sunshine year-round with an endless list of family-friendly attractions. Spend mornings at the world-famous zoo, afternoons at Coronado Beach, and evenings in Old Town for fish tacos and mariachi music. Balboa Park’s museums offer plenty of indoor fun when you need a break from the sun, too.
5. Turks & Caicos
Crystal-clear water and all-inclusive resorts make Turks & Caicos a hit for families who want luxury with minimal logistics. Grace Bay Beach offers gentle surf ideal for little swimmers, while older kids can try paddleboarding or snorkeling. Many resorts include kids’ clubs, so parents can slip away for a spa afternoon or a quiet dinner.
6. Park City, Utah
A mountain town that shines in every season, Park City offers skiing and snowboarding in winter and hiking, biking, and alpine coasters in summer. The charming Main Street is filled with family-friendly restaurants, and nearby Olympic Park offers ziplining and bobsled experiences for older kids.
7. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
For families who crave outdoor adventure, Jackson Hole is a gateway to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. In summer, explore scenic trails and spot bison or elk. In winter, enjoy world-class skiing and cozy après-ski evenings. It’s an ideal destination for families who love nature.
8. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe’s year-round beauty makes it one of the best family vacations in the U.S. Spend summer days kayaking and hiking, then return in winter for sledding and skiing. Family-friendly resorts like Northstar and Heavenly offer activities for all ages, from ice skating to scenic gondola rides.
9. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering both adventure and classic family fun. Ride the Ober Mountain tram for panoramic views, explore Ripley’s Aquarium, or go hiking along one of the park’s many kid-friendly trails. Cabins with game rooms and hot tubs make evenings cozy and fun.
10. Banff, Canada
Banff is like stepping into a postcard – turquoise lakes, snowcapped peaks, and family-friendly outdoor adventures year-round. Visit Lake Louise, soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, or ride the Banff Gondola for breathtaking views. Families love the easy access to nature combined with cozy mountain-town comfort.
11. Orlando, Florida
It’s no surprise Orlando tops every list of the best family vacations. Between Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and LEGOLAND, there’s more fun than you could fit in a single trip. Many resorts offer family suites, pools, and kids’ clubs for downtime between park days.
12. Anaheim, California
Home to Disneyland Resort and California Adventure, Anaheim delivers big thrills without the humidity of Florida. Families can explore nearby beaches or take a day trip to Los Angeles for extra excitement. Many hotels cater specifically to families with shuttles, themed rooms, and kid-friendly pools.
13. Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg blends American history with family fun. Explore Colonial Williamsburg’s living history museum, then ride roller coasters at Busch Gardens. The area’s combination of education and entertainment makes it perfect for kids of all ages.
14. Hershey, Pennsylvania
Nicknamed “The Sweetest Place on Earth,” Hershey is a chocolate lover’s dream. Families can spend a day at Hersheypark, tour Chocolate World, or visit the Hershey Gardens butterfly atrium. It’s an easy drive-to destination for many East Coast families.
15. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Dollywood is the star attraction here, but there’s plenty more to do – mini-golf, go-karts, mountain coasters, and dinner theaters make Pigeon Forge a nonstop family playground. The Smoky Mountains are right next door for hiking or scenic drives.
16. Hilton Head, South Carolina
Hilton Head’s calm beaches, paved bike paths, and resort amenities make it one of the best family vacations in the Southeast. Families can kayak, go dolphin watching, or explore Harbour Town’s lighthouse and playground.
17. Amelia Island, Florida
A quieter alternative to other Florida beaches, Amelia Island is all about relaxation and natural beauty. Families can enjoy horseback riding on the beach, exploring historic Fernandina Beach, or kayaking through salt marshes.
18. Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Kiawah is an upscale, peaceful retreat ideal for families who love both the beach and golf. Miles of bike trails, calm surf, and wildlife like dolphins and herons make it a serene getaway. Many resorts offer nature programs and camps for kids, too.
19. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod combines New England charm with endless coastal fun. Families can explore lighthouses, go whale watching, and enjoy seafood shacks by the beach. The Cape’s towns, from Hyannis to Provincetown, each have their own personality and attractions.
20. Savannah, Georgia
Walkable, charming, and packed with history, Savannah is great for families who want culture without the crowds. Riverfront strolls, ghost tours (kid-friendly ones), and nearby Tybee Island beaches keep everyone entertained.
21. Moab, Utah
For families who love adventure, Moab is one of the best family vacations you can pick. Explore Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, go off-roading, or raft the Colorado River. The red-rock landscape feels like another planet – perfect for kids who love to explore.
22. Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor combines coastal charm with access to Acadia National Park, offering tide pools, hiking trails, and bike rides with stunning ocean views. Downtown is walkable, with shops and lobster shacks for easy family meals.
23. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona offers a family-friendly mix of outdoor adventure and wow-factor scenery. Kids love exploring red-rock trails, jeep tours, and swimming holes, while parents appreciate the slower pace and incredible views. It’s an easy place to unplug, reconnect, and feel like you’ve gone somewhere special without leaving the country.
24. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is a city made for active families. You can bike around Stanley Park, visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge, or explore Granville Island’s markets. Mountains, beaches, and parks are all within minutes of downtown.
25. Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky offers a quieter, more spacious alternative to other mountain destinations. Families can hike, raft, or ski while soaking up incredible views and fresh air. Yellowstone National Park is just an hour away, making it easy to combine two bucket-list adventures.
Wherever your family adventure leads, Ship&Play helps you skip the stress and start the fun faster.
By shipping your luggage, strollers, sports gear, or baby equipment directly to your destination, you can avoid long lines, baggage fees, and the chaos of traveling heavy – so your trip truly feels like a vacation.
Because the best family vacations aren’t just about where you go – they’re about how easy it feels to get there.
Plan smarter. Travel lighter. And play more, with Ship&Play.