Last Updated on October 12, 2024 by Dawn Head
Planning a family vacation idea can be a daunting task, especially when you’re trying to find a spot that caters to everyone’s interests and budget. I’m excited to share some insights on family vacations that are both fun and eco-conscious. Here are some of the best family vacation spots while keeping our planet in mind!
When to Start Family Vacations
The ideal age to begin family travels varies depending on your child’s developmental stage and your family dynamics. While there’s no universal answer, many experts suggest that children as young as 6 months can adapt well to travel. I think that’s too young unless you have to do it.
Also keep in mind, when traveling with an infant or toddler, it’s often more work than a vacation. Even when we traveled in our RV when my kids were really young, I had to bring so much stuff… it really wasn’t relaxing. As children grow, they become more adaptable to travel, making longer journeys more enjoyable for everyone.
Best Family Vacation Spots in the US
The United States offers a lots of family-friendly destinations that cater to various interests and budgets. Here are some top picks:
National Parks & State Parks
Our national parks provide incredible opportunities for families to connect with nature and learn about conservation. There often are tours, easy and more difficult trails to explore, and some have areas you can drive to.
Many of these parks offer Junior Ranger programs, which are excellent for educating children about nature conservation. Kids get a workbook and complete tasks on their own/with their families. It’s a great way for them to be more engaged at the parks. I’d say this is good for ages 4 – 5 and up. At many National Parks, they will get a badge when they complete the activities.
Some easy-to-visit National Parks include:
- Yellowstone: Famous for its geothermal features and diverse wildlife
- Yosemite: Known for its stunning granite cliffs and waterfalls
- Grand Canyon: Offers awe-inspiring vistas and geology lessons
- Acadia: Combines coastal beauty with mountain landscapes
- Great Smoky Mountains: Perfect for hiking and spotting diverse flora and fauna
Beach Destinations
For families who love sun and sand, consider these eco-friendly beach spots:
- Siesta Key, Florida: Known for its white sand beaches and commitment to marine conservation
- Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Offers beautiful beaches and numerous eco-tours
- San Diego, California: Combines urban amenities with stunning beaches and wildlife encounters
- Gulf Shores, Alabama: This destination combines beach fun with environmental education programs
- Outer Banks, North Carolina: Known for its pristine beaches and wild horse populations
Also, consider choosing an all-inclusive resort. The advantages are that you can “get away” without having to run around while you are there. The water activities and pools are right there.
Theme Parks
Here are some theme parks that have implemented various sustainability programs. While they have taken steps toward sustainability, it’s important to note that the theme park industry as a whole still has a significant environmental impact. When visiting, consider using public transportation, bringing reusable water bottles, and supporting the parks’ eco-friendly initiatives.
If you’ve got lots of energy and your kids are old enough to go on some of the rides, you may consider a theme park. For your first venture, you may want to consider something closer to home. Not everything has to be Disneyworld … and all that comes with it.
Is there a local water park you can visit in the summer? That can be a very special outing for your child. Consider a local amusement park as well. When the kids get older, you may want to consider one of the indoor Lego Discovery Centers (if they enjoy Legos!) or (outdoors) Legoland in California which is a lot bigger than the Discovery Centers.
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Orlando, FL: Known for its conservation efforts including solar power energy and wildlife protection programs
- Legoland California Resort, Carlsbad, CA: Implemented solar panels and water conservation measures
- Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando, FL: Has a comprehensive waste management and recycling program
- Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, Vallejo, CA: They use solar power for a good portion of their energy outputs
- Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, TN: They participate in some environmental initiatives and local conservation efforts
- Hersheypark, Hershey, PA: Recycling programs and energy-efficient lighting
- Cedar Point, Sandusky, OH: Has made efforts to reduce water consumption and increase recycling
I’ve taken my kids to Legoland Discovery Center in Chicagoland many (many!) times. Here are my best tips to maximize your visit to Legoland Chicago.
Cultural Destinations
Cities like Washington, D.C., New York, and Boston offer rich educational experiences. Many museums and attractions in these cities have implemented green initiatives, making them great choices for eco-conscious families. In Washington, D.C., families can visit museums and historic landmarks such as the Smithsonian and the White House. In New York City, families can visit iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building.
What I loved about my family’s Washington, DC trip was that so much of it was walkable. We rented a small AirBNB and ate “at home” for breakfast and most dinners. We took a few Ubers but otherwise walked a ton.
Keep in mind smaller cities too, such as Indianapolis, Cleveland, and others, have interesting sites and things to do. For smaller children, this may be a better option. Look for cities with children’s museums. There is a great one in Indianapolis that my kids loved.
International Family Vacations
For those looking to venture beyond the US, consider these family-friendly international destinations.
Caribbean
- Aruba: This island is perfect for beach-loving families. Palm Beach and Eagle Beach provide crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. Aruba has also made significant strides in sustainable tourism, with a goal to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2020.
- Jamaica: Known for its beautiful beaches and water sports, Jamaica also offers eco-lodges and sustainable resorts.
- Costa Rica: A paradise for nature lovers, offering rainforest adventures, wildlife encounters, and beautiful beaches.
Europe
- Iceland: Offers unique experiences like viewing the Northern Lights and exploring geothermal areas.
- Netherlands: Known for its bike-friendly cities and numerous museums.
- Switzerland: Perfect for families who enjoy outdoor activities in stunning alpine settings.
Asia
- Japan: Combines rich cultural experiences with modern attractions and beautiful natural landscapes.
- Thailand: Offers beautiful beaches, fascinating culture, and opportunities to learn about elephant conservation.
Budget-Friendly Family Vacations
Traveling with kids doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some affordable options that are also eco-friendly. Also remember, it’s easy to overspend on smaller things that will add up. Be mindful of what matters most to you when budgeting.
- Anywhere local that is out of the norm for your family: Something with a lake or trails can make you feel like you are a world away from your daily routine
- Williamsburg, Virginia: Rich in history and offering many outdoor activities.
- Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, perfect for nature-loving families.
- Corpus Christi, Texas: Combines beach fun with educational marine life experiences.
- Montreal, Canada: Offers a European feel without crossing the Atlantic, with numerous parks and cultural attractions.
- Puerto Rico: A U.S. territory that doesn’t require passports for U.S. citizens, offering beautiful beaches and rich culture.
Tips for Eco-Friendly Family Travel
Every trip is different. Some things will work for one vacation but not for another. For example, if you are road-tripping, packing food for your first meal on the road can be less wasteful package-wise than going through a drive-thru.
If you have an opportunity to rent a small AirBNB or VRBO, having a kitchen is a great way to be eco-friendly. Making meals for even a few meals, can be less wasteful and also budget-friendly. It can be simple like bagels and fruit or sandwiches for lunch.
- Choose accommodations with green certifications like LEED or Green Key.
- Use public transportation or rent hybrid/electric vehicles when possible.
- See if your hotel has a shuttle to/from airport so you don’t need to rent a car.
- Go to a grocery store and choose fruit instead of packaged snacks.
- Pack reusable water bottles, shopping bags, and utensils to reduce plastic waste.
- Don’t use straws.
- If you buy souvenirs, buy ones that are made locally.
- Support local, sustainable businesses and restaurants.
- Teach kids about the importance of respecting local environments and cultures.
- Participate in local conservation efforts or beach clean-ups at your destination.
- Choose non-stop flights when possible to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Choose tour operators that prioritize sustainability and support local communities.
Conclusion
Remember, the best family vacations are those that create lasting memories while instilling a love for our planet. By choosing eco-friendly options, we can ensure that these beautiful destinations will be around for generations to come.
So pack your bags, grab the kids, and get ready for an adventure that’s good for your family and the environment! Whether you’re exploring the wonders of national parks, relaxing on pristine beaches, or immersing yourselves in different cultures, there’s a world of sustainable travel options waiting for your family to discover.
Remember, for infants and toddlers, shorter trips might be more manageable. They require extra attention and resources when traveling (naps, feeding schedules, diaper changes, etc.). It may be best to wait until they’re older before embarking on longer trips that involve flights or significant travel time.