These top family travel destinations make planning your next getaway easier than ever. Explore places kids and parents will both love.
Planning a trip with kids shouldn’t feel like solving a puzzle — the right family travel destinations make it easy. North America is full of cities, coastlines, mountain towns, and parks where entertainment, comfort, and kid-friendly attractions come naturally. If you’re hoping to fill a full week with sunshine, scenery, and shared memories, these are the places that consistently deliver .
With that, here are the family travel destinations worth adding to your list this year.
Why North America Is Packed With Great Family Travel Destinations
Parents want three things when planning trips: easy logistics, kid-friendly activities, and accommodations that don’t make everyone feel cramped. That’s why the best family travel destinations are places where nature, food, and entertainment all sit within a short drive — or better yet, right outside your door.
Each destination below offers that balance, along with neighborhoods that work especially well for vacation rentals. And speaking of balance, let’s start with a region that blends lakes, beaches, and mountain scenery into one perfect family setting.
1. Okanagan Valley, British Columbia — Lakeside Fun for All Ages
The Okanagan continues to rank among the top family travel destinations thanks to its warm summers, swimmable lakes, and endless outdoor activities. The region is a hit with families who love combining nature with easy access to local food markets and sandy beaches.
Where to Stay
- Kelowna: Lakeside neighborhoods near Hot Sands Beach
- Vernon: Close to Kalamalka Lake and bike-friendly trails
- Penticton: Family beaches and relaxed town vibes
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and lakeside picnics keep kids happy, while wineries give adults a well-deserved break. And with the Okanagan setting the tone, let’s head to America’s theme park capital next.
2. Orlando, Florida — Where Theme Park Dreams Come to Life
Orlando is one of the most iconic family travel destinations for a reason. Between Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, and countless indoor attractions, families never run out of things to do — even in the rain.
Where to Stay
- Kissimmee: Vacation homes close to Disney
- Lake Buena Vista: Fast access to major parks
- ChampionsGate: Family homes with pools and playgrounds
With theme parks covered, it’s time to trade castles and characters for the calm of coastal South Carolina.
3. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina — Beaches, Bikes & Wildlife
Few family travel destinations blend activity and relaxation like Hilton Head Island . The beaches are gentle and wide, the bike paths are endless, and the wildlife is everywhere — from dolphins along the shore to herons near the marshes.
Where to Stay
- Sea Pines: Near Harbour Town Lighthouse and nature preserves
- Palmetto Dunes: Family-friendly resort area with calm water
- Forest Beach: Easy walkability and beachfront access
After enjoying the island’s warmth, it’s time to rise in elevation for our next destination.
4. Breckenridge, Colorado — Mountain Magic in Every Season
Breckenridge is one of the most versatile family travel destinations in North America. Winter brings skiing, tubing, and snowy adventures. Summer brings hiking, gondola rides, and historic mining towns to explore.
Where to Stay
- Peak 8: Ski-in, ski-out convenience
- Historic Downtown: Walkable shops and restaurants
- Blue River: Woodland scenery and cozy mountain cabins
From the Rockies, we head straight to the Texas coastline for sunshine and sandcastle-perfect beaches.
5. Port Aransas, Texas — Laid-Back Gulf Coast Adventure
Port Aransas offers a quieter alternative to crowded beach towns while still ranking high among family travel destinations. Shallow waters, local seafood spots, and wildlife sightings make each day feel different.
Where to Stay
- Mustang Island: Quiet beachfront homes
- Old Town Port Aransas: Walkable and colorful
- North Padre Island: Peaceful coastline ideal for families
With coastal Texas explored, Florida returns to the spotlight — and this time, for its western shores.
6. West Central Florida — Calm Waters & Endless Sunshine
From Indian Shores to Clearwater Beach and Sarasota, West Central Florida is one of the most reliable family travel destinations for swimming, shelling, and exploring. The Gulf’s gentle waves make it perfect for younger kids.
Where to Stay
- Indian Shores: Quiet, low-rise beach community
- Madeira Beach: Steps from John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk
- Sarasota: Near Siesta Key’s famously soft sand
After the Gulf Coast, it’s time to head north again for one of Canada’s most loved winter playgrounds.
7. Silver Star Mountain Resort, British Columbia — Winter Fun Made Easy
Silver Star is one of the best family travel destinations for snow-loving travelers. Brightly colored buildings, ski-friendly terrain, and a village built for families create a welcoming winter atmosphere.
Where to Stay
- The Village: Walkable access to restaurants and lifts
- Silver Woods:Quiet staysnear Nordic ski areas
- The Knoll: Scenic chalets overlooking the resort
Next, we return to the East Coast for a beach town that thrives year-round.
8. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina — Boardwalks, Shows & Ocean Views
If variety defines your perfect family getaway, Myrtle Beach is one of the top family travel destinations you can choose. From arcades to aquariums to miles of beach, it’s designed for families who want both action and downtime.
Where to Stay
- North Myrtle Beach: Quieter and family-centered
- Central Myrtle Beach: Near the boardwalk and attractions
- Surfside Beach: Nicknamed “The Family Beach”
With beaches covered, our next stop takes families into the mountains again — this time in Tennessee.
9. Sevierville, Tennessee — Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains
Sevierville blends mountain scenery with family attractions, making it one of the most memorable family travel destinations in the South. It’s close to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dollywood, Ripley’s Aquarium, and dozens of outdoor adventures.
Where to Stay
- Wears Valley: Cabins with sweeping ridge views
- Downtown Sevierville: Close to dining and shops
- Pigeon Forge Border: Fast access to Dollywood
With mountain memories made, it’s only fitting to end with a Hawaiian icon.
10. Maui, Hawaii — Beaches, Wildlife & Island Wonder
Maui is one of the most dream-worthy family travel destinations in North America, especially for families who love wildlife, warm water, and natural landscapes. From snorkeling with sea turtles to exploring ʻĪao Valley, the island keeps kids curious and happy.
Where to Stay
- Kihei: Sunny days and calm beaches
- Kaanapali: Resort areas with family-friendly amenities
- Napili: Known for sea turtles and quiet coves
And with Maui rounding out this list, you now have a full lineup of destinations built to entertain both kids and parents alike.
Start Planning Your Next Adventure With These Family Travel Destinations
Whether your family prefers beaches, mountains, theme parks, or small-town charm, these family travel destinations show how much North America offers in a single year. With kid-friendly attractions and neighborhoods perfect for vacation rentals, each destination makes traveling as a family feel easier, smoother, and more memorable.
Next Read: Family Vacation Tips
If today’s guide sparked ideas for future family getaways, browse more destination inspiration on the Owner Direct Vacation Rentals blog . You’ll find travel guides, seasonal picks, and planning tips designed to help your family make the most of every adventure.