7 Trending 2024 USA Summer Family Destinations
Here’s a quick look at seven trending 2024 USA summer family destinations that promise a great summer trip for your family!
1. Magical Orlando: A Family Wonderland
Orlando, Florida, is a world-renowned destination for families. The city has various theme parks, including Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort. But Orlando’s appeal goes beyond these entertainment giants. It offers various experiences, from interactive museums to outdoor adventures.
Attractions:
- Walt Disney World Resort: Explore its four iconic theme parks, each with a unique flavor.
- Universal Orlando Resort: A paradise for movie buffs, with attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
- Kennedy Space Center: An educational outing where kids can learn about space exploration.
Tips for Visiting:
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring or early fall to avoid crowds.
- Accommodation: Choose from family-friendly resorts to budget-friendly hotels.
2. Gatlinburg, TN: Gateway to the Smokies
Gatlinburg, nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, is one of our favorites. We live close to Gatlinburg, but we still traveled there to vacation when we lived in Florida. It’s one of our favorite places to visit.
Gatlinburg serves as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering a blend of outdoor adventure and family-friendly attractions.
Check out our guide on vacationing in Gatlinburg.
Attractions:
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Hike trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy the natural beauty.
- Ober Gatlinburg: An amusement park and ski area offering year-round activities.
- Gatlinburg SkyLift Park: Enjoy panoramic views from the SkyBridge, North America’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge.
Tips for Visiting:
- Best Time to Visit: Early summer for pleasant weather.
- Accommodation: From cozy cabins to luxurious resorts, there’s something for every budget.
3. Honolulu’s Island Charm: A Pacific Paradise
Honolulu, the vibrant capital of Hawaii, is a tropical paradise that combines beautiful beaches, rich history, and cultural experiences. It’s a place where families can relax on the beach or explore various attractions.
Attractions:
- Waikiki Beach: Famous for its golden sands and excellent surfing conditions.
- Pearl Harbor National Memorial: A historical site offering insights into WWII history.
- Diamond Head State Monument: Hike to the top for breathtaking city and ocean views.
Tips for Visiting:
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring or early summer for ideal weather.
- Accommodation: Options range from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels.
4. Glacier National Park: An Adventure Hub
Glacier National Park in Montana is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s renowned for its rugged mountains, pristine forests, and spectacular alpine meadows.
Attractions:
- Going-to-the-Sun Road: A scenic drive offering stunning vistas.
- Hiking Trails: Over 700 trails are suitable for all skill levels.
- Lake McDonald: The largest lake in the park, perfect for boating and fishing.
Tips for Visiting:
- Best Time to Visit: Early summer is the best time to visit when most facilities are open and trails are accessible.
- Accommodation: Campgrounds, lodges within the park, and hotels in nearby towns.
5. Yellowstone: America’s First National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a geological wonder known for its geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife. It’s a place where families can experience nature’s wonders firsthand. We visited in June 2023. Although we spent four days exploring the park, we could’ve stayed longer!
Attractions:
- Old Faithful: The park’s most famous geyser, erupting at regular intervals.
- Grand Prismatic Spring: The largest hot spring in the U.S., known for its vibrant colors.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot bison, elk, and even wolves in their natural habitat.
Tips for Visiting:
- Best Time to Visit: Early summer for pleasant weather and active wildlife.
- Accommodation: Camping inside the park or hotels in surrounding towns.
6. Wisconsin Dells: The Water Park Capital
Wisconsin Dells is famed for its numerous water parks, making it a summer paradise for families. It offers a variety of indoor and outdoor water parks, each with unique attractions. I still remember going here as a kid, and getting to drive the Ducks tour boat on the river!
Attractions:
- Noah’s Ark Water Park: America’s largest water park, with over 70 attractions.
- Kalahari Resorts: Home to Wisconsin’s largest indoor water park.
- Tommy Bartlett Show: An exciting mix of water skiing, boat stunts, and stage acts.
Tips for Visiting:
- Best Time to Visit: Summer months for the full water park experience.
- Accommodation: Family resorts offer easy access to the parks.
7. California Dreaming: From Beaches to Hollywood
California, the Golden State, is diverse in its attractions. It offers everything from sunny beaches and scenic parks to the allure of Hollywood and Disneyland.
We’ve taken several winter trips to the Los Angeles area, most recently to Universal Studios. Universal Studios Hollywood differs from the Orlando location because it contains the backlot tour, a must see during your visit!
Attractions:
- Disneyland Resort: The original Disney theme park, filled with enchantment.
- Hollywood: Explore the Walk of Fame and see the iconic Hollywood sign.
- Beaches: From the family-friendly Santa Monica to the picturesque Big Sur coastline.
Tips for Visiting:
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring or early fall for milder weather and fewer crowds.
- Accommodation: A wide range of options, from beachfront hotels to luxury resorts.
Key Takeaways Table
| Destination | Highlights | Best Time to Visit | Accommodation Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orlando, FL | Theme parks, educational centers | Late spring/early fall | Diverse range from resorts to budget hotels |
| Gatlinburg, TN | Great Smoky Mountains, amusement parks | Early summer | Cabins, resorts |
| Honolulu, HI | Beaches, historical sites | Late spring/early summer | Resorts to budget-friendly hotels |
| Glacier National Park, MT | Scenic drives, hiking | Early summer | Campgrounds, lodges |
| Yellowstone National Park | Geysers, wildlife | Early summer | Camping, nearby hotels |
| Wisconsin Dells, WI | Water parks | Summer | Family resorts |
| California | Disneyland, Hollywood, beaches | Late spring/early fall | Hotels to luxury resorts |
Conclusion
The United States is brimming with destinations perfect for a family summer vacation. From the thrilling theme parks of Orlando and California to the natural wonders of Glacier National Park and Yellowstone, a world of adventure awaits.
Whether seeking relaxation on the beaches of Honolulu or exhilarating water park fun in Wisconsin Dells, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences for every family.
