25 Perfect Family Vacations

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An open-minded fascination with other places, people, and experiences begins in kids’ impressionable minds with the family vacation. Besides the joys that family vacations provide in the moment, psychologists agree that the value of family travel to a child lives on through memory. It makes perfect sense then to take those annual family vacations and give attention to each other in a way that isn’t possible in our day-to-day scheduled lives, while creating family memories that last a lifetime.

© Sebastian Vail

Vail, Colorado, is one of the state’s premier ski destinations. Families can take advantage of the Sebastian’s ski-in/ski-out base camp with valet service to get the most out of their time on the mountain. After a day on the slopes, mom and dad can loosen up tight muscles in the adults-only hot tub while the kids make a splash in the Sebastian pool. Residential suites make perfect family accommodations with kitchenettes, fireplaces, balconies, and epic views. Movie Night provides in-room family movies, fresh popcorn and candy delivered to the room. Those with toddlers in tow can take advantage of Tykes, an imaginative play space for kids aged 4 and under. Battle Mountain Kids’ Camp offers an array of fun kids’ activities day and evening. Read more

16 Vail Road, Vail, CO, Phone: 970-477-8000

© JW Marriott Indianapolis

For those in town attending an event in the convention center, or a Colts game at the stadium, JW Marriott offers an excellent opportunity to bring the family along. This 33-story hotel is connected to the Indianapolis Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium as well as to a variety of downtown attractions via the skyway. White River State Park, the NCAA Hall of Champions, and the Indianapolis Zoo are all family attractions that are easily accessible from the hotel. One of the hotel’s 18 one-bedroom suites give mom and dad the privacy they need with a separate space for the kids, while the hotel pool provides relaxing fun for the whole family.

10 South West Street, Indianapolis, IN, Phone: 317-860-5800

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Nemacolin Woodlands Resort is the ideal place for a family vacation. There are so many things to do that the kids may be begging for a longer stay. Wildlife Academy offers a number of animal adventures, including pony rides, dog sledding, and an animal nursery tour. Unlimited Adventures offers archery, a wildlife tour, a rock climbing wall, and a ropes course. Younger family members can enjoy an Olympic-caliber girls’ gymnastics facility, Kidz Klub with supervised play, an arcade, Midway carnival games, kids’ parties, and babysitting services. There’s disc golf, mini golf, paintball, bowling, biking, tennis, zip lining, and more. This is the place for active families to get away.

1001 Lafayette Drive, Farmington, PA, Phone: 866-344-6957

© Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana

Nickelodeon Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, is a unique luxury all-inclusive resort that caters to families with children with activities and attractions that feature Nick’s famous characters. Even a range of plush suites and villas are decorated in Sponge Bob’s vivid colors, which kids love. They are much more elegant and upscale than one would expect: All suites have patios or balconies and are surrounded by lush vegetation. The guests can indulge in as much Nickelodeon fun as they like, or none at all. The resort is located on the beautiful Uvero Alto Beach and while the kids can splash in the Aqua Nick water park, the parents can relax by the infinity pool on the other side of the resort. There is also a spa, fitness classes, Spanish lessons, beach volleyball and the Just Kidding kids’ club.

Carretera Uvero Alto, Punta Cana 23000, Dominican Republic

© Tamarijn Aruba

Tamarijn Aruba is a family-friendly Aruba resort along Druif Beach in Oranjestad, located approximately 10 minutes from Queen Beatrix International Airport. The hotel offers 236 beautiful waterfront guest rooms and suites with top amenities such as private balconies and patios, flat screen televisions, and in-room mini-fridges. Guests can dine and drink for free at their choice of 10 delicious restaurants and eight full-service bars, ranging from the casual Pizza Per Tutti bar and grill to upscale international selections such as Fusion Tapas, the Red Parrot, and the hotel's signature classic Italian-style Paparazzi Restaurant. Non-motorized watersports are also accessible for free, including snorkeling and windsurfing lessons. Other hotel amenities include a golf course, a fitness center, and a casino. All guests are welcome to use all facilities at the hotel's sister venue, Divi Aruba, which is located next door.

J.E. Irausquin Blvd 41, Oranjestad, Aruba, Phone: +297 525 5200

© Clayoquot Wilderness Resort

Families will find an adventure outpost like no other in the Clayoquot Wilderness Resort. Located in British Columbia’s Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve, this seasonal eco-resort is a unique destination where guests can enjoy glamping in luxury tents with modernized “oil lamps” that run on electricity and “woodstoves” that run on propane. Modern coastal cuisine is prepared by artisan chefs in the Cookhouse kitchen using locally sourced ingredients. A children’s menu with favorites like mac and cheese and pizza is sure to satisfy the younger generation. A wide range of outdoor activities is available for nature lovers of all ages.

Tofino, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, Phone: 888-333-5405

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This ocean-themed resort is truly a family-friendly destination with activities and amenities that will please everyone. The Atlantis Kids Club offers daily activities, a play zone, and an underwater theater where kids can see marine life up close. Tweens and teens will love spending time in Club Rush, where they can order non-alcoholic drinks at the Sugar Rush Bar, play the latest video games in the Game Zone, and hit the dance floor in the entertainment lounge. Of course, families will want to spend lots of time together swimming with the dolphins, feeding cownose rays, and enjoying some downtime at one of the many pools on the property or in one of the family-sized guest rooms or suites.

Crescent Rd, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Phone: +971-44-26-20-00

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© Kinderhotel Oberjoch

The all-inclusive Kinderhotel Oberjoch is a family-centered hotel in the German Alps. There are age-appropriate activities for everyone, including kiddie pools, an indoor go-kart track and bowling alley, a movie theater, and even an ice skating rink. Meals are served buffet-style with a wide variety of choices that will please even the pickiest of eaters. Rooms and suites are available for families of all sizes and include complimentary Wi-Fi and satellite television. Even the spa offers wellness options for all ages. While parents and grandparents enjoy being pampered with mani-pedis and massages, kids can take swimming lessons or enjoy having their own nails painted.

Am Prinzenwald 3, Bad Hindelang-Oberjoch, Germany, Phone: +49-83-24-70-90

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© LEGOLAND Feriendorf

Families who are still in search of adventure after a day at LEGOLAND Park will find plenty to keep them busy at nearby LEGOLAND Holiday Village, where guests can stay in themed castles, cottages, camping barrels, or tents. The castles and cottages include modern amenities like Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, and mini refrigerators. All ages are invited to participate in planned evening activities, navigate the high ropes course, or spend time together at the bowling alley. À la carte and buffet-style restaurants serve kid-friendly cuisine until late into the night. A LEGOLAND VIP package and express passes are available to make navigating the park a more family-friendly experience.

Legoland-Allee 1, Gunzburg, Germany, Phone: +49-18-06-70-07-57-01

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© Sani Beach Resort

This 1,000-acre eco-reserve is a popular family destination where children stay for free. For a small fee, kids can participate in one of the popular Sani Academies and brush up on their football, dance, or sailing skills while the adults relax at the spa or have a drink at one of the bars. The resort’s new sports center hosts organized sports programs for all ages from 10am to 6pm, so families have plenty of time to enjoy playing together as well. Live stage performances in the open-air theater will entertain kids and parents alike. Guests of this five-star family resort have à la carte, half-board, and full-board dining options.

Kassandra, Halkidiki, Greece, Phone: +30-23-74-09-95-03

© Cavallino Bianco Family Spa Grand Hotel

The whole family will enjoy this four-star hotel in the Dolomites. Cavallino Bianco is an all-inclusive luxury experience for all ages, and the comfortable rooms and suites with world-class amenities will suit everyone’s needs. Winters will find families skiing down the slopes together after the children learn from expert instructors. In the warmer months, guests can swim in pools designed for everyone, from the youngest member of the family to the oldest. Families can eat dinner together in one of the hotel’s restaurants or parents can choose to send their children to Lido Land, where they will be treated to a kid-friendly selection.

Strada Rezia, 22, Ortisei, Bolzano – South Tyrol, Italy, Phone: +39-04-71-78-33-33

© Grand Hotel Piz Galin

ests will have a memorable holiday at this luxury hotel in Andalo, Italy. The spacious suites were built with families in mind and include modern amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi and 42” LCD televisions with DVD players. Horse-drawn sleigh rides in the winter and family picnics in the summer are just a couple of the many indoor and outdoor activities the hotel offers its guests. No four-star hotel stay would be complete without a visit to the spa, and the Grand Hotel Piz Galin has one of the best. Adults can enjoy a relaxing time in the wellness center, while the kids play in Pizzi Land, a 1,000-square-meter facility staffed by qualified service providers.

Via Dossi, 1, Andalo Trento, Italy, Phone: +39-04-61-58-58-37

© Beaches Negril Resort and Spa

Part of the Sandals family of all-inclusive resorts, this award-winning location is a family favorite. Beaches Negril Resort and Spa has something for everyone. Daily housekeeping, a refrigerator stocked with drinks, an HD Smart TV with cable, an in-room microwave, and complimentary Wi-Fi are just some of the amenities that make Beaches Negril an excellent choice for families. An array of restaurants offers casual to fine dining experiences for every taste. Kids and adults can have a sweet treat any time of the day at Yoyo’s, which serves frozen yogurt, gelato, and sorbet, garnished with the selection of goodies at the toppings bar.

Norman Manley Boulevard, Long Bay, Negril, Jamaica, Phone: 888-232-2437

© The Datai Langkawi

Reopening in mid-2018, the Datai Langkawi in Malaysia is undergoing an extensive renovation to its upscale rooms, suites, and villas as well as the construction of a nature center, a beachside fitness center, and additional spa pavilions. Nature-loving families will appreciate the flora and fauna of the rainforest that surrounds the resort. Guests can choose a room in the Canopy Collection located in the main building, or one of the villas in the Rainforest Collection or Beach Collection, all of which feature standard amenities, spacious balconies, and breathtaking views. The hotel’s specialty restaurants serve everything from light snacks to gourmet meals.

Jln Teluk Datai, Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia, Phone: +60-49-50-05-00

© Soneva Fushi

Families will have an opportunity to enjoy island life at its most luxurious at the Soneva Fushi. Unique family experiences include family picnics with guided snorkeling, movies at the resort’s open-air cinema, stargazing at the resort’s observatory, and surfing in the Baa Atoll. Dining is an experience in itself at Soneva Fushi. The resort’s many restaurants serve a variety of contemporary international dishes and can accommodate a range of dietary needs. Families who have had a full day of activities in the Maldivian sun might enjoy the option of in-villa dining, where they can choose from an established menu or make special requests.

Kunfunadhoo Island, Maldives, Phone: +96-06-60-03-04

© Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Nestled among freshwater lagoons, natural dunes, and lush mangroves, the Banyan Tree Mayakoba resort complements the rich natural landscape with premium hospitality along the pristine coastline of the Riviera Maya. The wide range of activities available ensure vacationing families can make the most of their holiday. Guests can explore the natural landscape on the guided EcoTour or a kayak tour through the canals of Mayakoba, bike the 3-mile nature trail winding through the grounds, or sign up the whole family for golf or archery classes. Banyan Tree Mayakoba also offers culinary classes specializing in both Thai and Mexican cuisine, allowing guests to experience the flavors of the region.

Carretera Federal Chetumal, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico, Phone: +52-98-48-77-36-89

© Club Med Ixtapa Pacific

Situated on the sun-soaked beaches of the Pacific Ocean, this all-inclusive resort in Ixtapa, Mexico, is the perfect destination for a family getaway. Ranked one of the world’s best family resorts, Ixtapa Pacific is welcoming to all ages. The resort offers kids clubs with dedicated areas specifically designed for children’s comfort and safety. The kids clubs’ numerous activities like golf, tennis, cooking classes, and basketball allow kids to play all day while parents can sneak off to the spa, play a round of golf, or soak up some sun. With a focus on fun and comfort for everyone, Club Med Ixtapa Pacific is truly a dream vacation for the whole family.

Playa Quieta, Zona Hotelera Segunda, Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico, Phone: +01-75-55-55-10-00

© Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay

With pristine beaches and a 20-acre natural wildlife habitat overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this Mazatlán resort offers endless opportunities for guests to explore. This seaside resort features its own private beach, two swimming pools, lush gardens, koi ponds, and a world-class spa. Adventure seekers can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and surfing in the Pacific Ocean or head to Deer Island for diving and snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters. In addition to its numerous water sports, the resort offers a variety of activities for the whole family, including yoga, nature preserve tours, tennis, cooking classes, and Spanish classes as well as engaging children’s activities.

201 Avenida Ernesto Coppel Campaña, Sinaloa, Mexico, Phone: +52-66-99-89-05-25

© Four Seasons Seychelles

In addition to the tranquility of this secluded hillside resort, Four Seasons Seychelles offers amenities to guests of all ages to enjoy the lushness of the islands. The spacious Residence Villas, ranging from three to six bedrooms, allow families and loved ones to share a communal space equipped with full kitchens, a swimming pool, and outdoor lounge area. For younger travelers, The Kids for All Seasons program creates memorable and educational experiences allowing kids to learn about the natural environment while having fun. The resort also offers babysitting services, so parents can spend a day at the spa or have a romantic night out.

Petite Anse, Baie Lazare, Victoria, Mahe, Seychelles, Phone: +24-84-39-30-00

© Royal Son Bou Family Club

Specializing in creating memorable experiences for the whole family, the Royal Son Bou Family Club is a children’s paradise. The heart of the resort is Club Kikoland with kids clubs dedicated to children of all age groups. Young adventurers can spend the day having fun with engaging activities like pony rides, parades, and farm tours and end each day with the nightly Royal Fiesta – a dance and sing-along show with the Family Club mascots. Keeping kids in mind with every detail like the Pirate Ship pool, kid-friendly amenities, and childcare assistance for parents, this resort is the ideal destination for family fun.

Son Bou Beach, Alaior (Minorca), Spain, Phone: +34-9-71-37-23-58

© Chateau de Chine Hotel

Located in the Xinzhuang District of New Taipei City, the Chateau de Chine Hotel offers families upscale accommodations in the heart of a bustling city. After a day of sightseeing, guests can retreat to their sanctuary in the city with luxurious rooms tailored to accommodate families. The Superior Family room offers additional space, allowing guests to enjoy independence and a family atmosphere at the same time. The Deluxe Family room brings the comfort of home with unique bunk beds and a separate living room, allowing each family to feel right at home in the big city.

No. 82, Zhongzheng Road, Xinzhuang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan, Phone: +866-2-29-98-76-99

© Mandarin Oriental Bodrum

Guests are welcomed to make themselves at home in luxury private apartments equipped with kitchenettes, living rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, balconies, and all the amenities needed for a perfect family vacation. With apartments ranging from one to four bedrooms, there is space for the whole family to unwind and take in views of the Aegean Sea. The resort also offers babysitting services, kids clubs with fun daily activities, numerous outdoor sports, a designated children’s pool, and in-room amenities to like baby cots, high chairs, toys, and more to make sure families have everything they need to relax in comfort. Phone: +90-25-23-11-18-88

© Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort

This five-star resort provides adventure seekers an oasis of luxury set against the vast sands and dramatic desert vistas of the Rub’Al Khali – the largest sand desert in the world. The Qasr Al Sarab offers families the opportunity to immerse themselves in Emirati culture with desert tours, camel trekking, archery, 4x4 dune excursions, horseback riding, and cooking classes specializing in Emirati cuisine. The kids club and teens club provide exciting activities for guests of all ages to enjoy the resort, leaving parents time to indulge in the spa or reserve a romantic Dining by Design private chef while watching the sunset over the dunes.

1 Qasr Al Sarab Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Phone: +971-28-86-20-88

© Floridays Resort

Voted the number one family-friendly hotel in the United States, the Floridays Resort in Orlando is teeming with fun for the whole family. With a shuttle service to the nearby world-class amusement parks of Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, Floridays Resort provides endless opportunities for families to play and soak up the sun together. When not taking advantage of the theme park shuttle, families can relax and enjoy the resort’s many amenities. The unique Playscape area at the main pool is a fan favorite among kids along with poolside activities such as movies, crafts, and live music.

12562 International Drive, Orlando, FL, Phone: 877-821-3018

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Nestled in a picturesque mountain lake setting, this family resort has been welcoming families with its traditional hospitality since 1958. Offering a unique activity program, nightly entertainment, endless outdoor adventures, championship golf course, and world-class spa, guests can choose from an abundance of options to make their vacation one to remember. Explore the natural landscape on a hike, climb the 6-foot rock wall, or indulge in family playtime with onsite bumper cars, go karts, kayaks, ice skating and more. Woodloch Pines Resort encourages bringing families together through 30+ daily activities, family-style meals, and in-room amenities to ensure guests can focus on what’s important – creating unforgettable family adventures.

731 Welcome Lake Road, Hawley, PA, Phone: 800-966-3562