These destinations might not be the first to come to mind when planning your next family vacation — but they’ll surprise you. Each one boasts unique experiences, outdoor adventure and accommodations that your whole crew will love. Start planning with RedWeek now.
Aruba
Why It’s Great For Families: A tropical paradise in the Caribbean Sea, Aruba brings together luxury resort living and kid-friendly experiences. Your young ones will love the best Aruba beaches, including Palm Beach and the aptly named Baby Beach, where sun, sand and gentle waves can be found in abundance. For more fresh-air fun, spend a day in Arikok National Park, a sprawling natural preserve with hidden coves, natural pools and an array of wildlife.
Can’t-Miss Experience: Set amidst a lush rainforest, the Aruba Butterfly Sanctuary is home to thousands of colorful, free-flying butterflies.
Check out RedWeek’s Aruba For Kids guide.
Where To Stay: Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort
Nuevo Vallarta
Why It’s Great For Families: There are countless eco-adventures in Nuevo Vallarta, a beautiful coastal Mexican resort town. The shallow waters and sandy shores of the expansive Nuevo Vallarta Beach are ideal for young swimmers. Just a short boat ride away, discover Marieta Islands National Park, a pristine natural landscape where you’ll find the famed Hidden Beach — one of the most picturesque beaches in Mexico. And don’t skip the chance to see some sharp-toothed reptiles at El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary, which is dedicated to the preservation of these incredible creatures.
Can’t-Miss Experience: If your family loves to make a splash, you’ll want to spend a Aquaventures Water Park, including lazy rivers, water slides and much more.
Check out RedWeek’s Nuevo Vallarta travel guide.
Where To Stay: The Grand Mayan at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta
New York City
Why It’s Great For Families: They call it “the city that never sleeps” — which might not sound great at first to parents. But the Big Apple can be big fun for families, whether you’re taking the ferry out to the Statue of Liberty, catching a Broadway show like Hamilton or The Lion King, or exploring the urban oasis of Central Park. To add a little culture to the mix, NYC museums can’t be beat: the Metropolitan Museum of Art offers the interactive Art Trek, letting kids ages 7-11 travel through time and around the world, while the nearby American Museum of Natural History is filled with hands-on exhibits.
Can’t-Miss Experience: The 102nd floor observation deck at the Empire State Building (AKA the most famous building in the world) is a must-visit for a birds eye view of the iconic NYC skyline.
Where To Stay: The Manhattan Club
Vail
Why It’s Great For Families: Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Vail is renowned as one of the best ski vacation destinations in the world. But it’s also a great trip for families — even during the warmer months. Beaver Creek Resort is the perfect place to learn how to ski or snowboard, with lessons that will get kids (and newbies) out on the slopes in no time. And in summer, Vail comes to life with arts and culture for all ages at the Vilar Performing Arts Center and thousands of blossoming flowers at the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.
Can’t-Miss Experience: Get above it all on the Vail Gondola, which climbs 10,000 feet above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the Rockies. Good to know: kids 12 and under ride free!
Check out RedWeek’s Vail travel guide.
Where To Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Club, Vail
Las Vegas
Why It’s Great For Families: Can a place with the nickname “Sin City” secretly be a great family vacation destination? Yes, it can! Las Vegas is packed with activities for all ages. Take a spin above the Strip on the High Roller, the world’s second-highest Ferris wheel, or explore Area 15, a multimedia attraction that immerses you in an eye-popping multiverse. Or head to Circus Circus’ Adventuredome, an indoor amusement park with roller coasters, mini-golf, rock-climbing and much more.
Can’t-Miss Experience: For a little outdoor excitement, try the 40,000-acre Valley of Fire State Park, where you’ll find hiking trails that weave between massive red-rock monoliths.
Check out RedWeek’s Las Vegas travel guide.
Where To Stay: Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Desert Club Resort
