Best Vacation Destinations for Families with Teens (Upd. May 2025)

Traveling with teens? Let’s explore the best vacation destinations for families with teens —spots that blend adventure, freedom, and just enough structure to keep everyone happy. From thrill-seeking fun to chill downtime, the right destination can turn teen eye-rolls into real excitement. Let’s dive into some top picks that are sure to earn your trip a five-star rating from even the toughest critics.

These destinations offer the perfect amount of adventure, relaxation, and excitement for the whole family to enjoy! We’ll explore options for families who love the great outdoors. But we won’t leave out those who love thrilling theme parks and bustling cities. No matter your preference, there is a destination on this list that will suit your interests and help you create lifelong memories. So pack your bags and get ready to explore.

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Where is the best place to vacation with kids?

Finding the perfect destination for a family vacation with teenagers requires striking a balance between adventure, relaxation, and engaging activities. Each of these locations offers a unique blend of experiences that can create lasting memories and keep your teenagers happily engaged:

Oahu, Hawaii

For a tropical beach vacation, head over to Hawaii. Oahu is a family-friendly island with stunning beaches for relaxation and lots of great activities for teenagers. Visit Kualoa Ranch, famous for being the setting of the Jurassic Park series, where you can tour the site, ride ATVs, and go ziplining. For avid snorkelers, head to Hanauma Bay, not far from Waikiki. This site offers you the chance to swim with tropical fish and maybe even see a turtle in their natural habitat. Come night time, head to Waikiki and enjoy great shopping, dining, and culture for the whole family.

Tip: Turtle Bay Resort is a popular choice for families due to the wide variety of amenities offered. This resort is known as an adventurer’s playground.

Best age group?
Teens ages 13–18 who enjoy the outdoors, action-packed experiences, and beach vibes.

Highlight activities:

ATV tours and ziplining at Kualoa Ranch
Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay
Surfing lessons on the North Shore
Shopping and dining in Waikiki
Hiking Diamond Head for panoramic views

Best time to visit:
April to June and September to mid-December offer great weather and fewer crowds.

Where to stay:

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort – Centrally located with a lagoon, multiple pools, and easy access to shops and restaurants.
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa – Great for younger siblings and teens alike, with cultural experiences, water fun, and Disney magic.

Travel tip:
Book popular excursions—like Kualoa Ranch tours and Hanauma Bay access—well in advance, as spots fill up quickly during peak travel times.

New York City, New York

Visiting New York is an experience any teenager will enjoy. Each season of the year will offer a different experience, and the holiday season is an amazing time to experience the city. Enjoy visiting iconic sites such as Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and Central Park.

Teens will also enjoy seeing a Broadway show. (I highly recommend Wicked or Hamilton!) Enjoy viewing the city from high above at the Empire State Building or Rockefeller Center, and pay your respects at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

New York City is one of the best vacation destinations for families with teens—a high-energy, unforgettable experience that offers something for everyone. Every season brings a different kind of magic, but the holiday season transforms the city into a twinkling wonderland. Iconic landmarks like Times Square, Statue of Liberty, and Central Park are a must.

Teens will love catching a Broadway show (Wicked and Hamilton are always crowd-pleasers!), and views from the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock are breathtaking. Don’t miss the powerful and moving 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

Best age group?
Teens 12 and up who enjoy fast-paced city life, theater, history, and architecture.

Highlight activities:

Exploring Times Square and taking selfies at famous spots
Seeing a Broadway show (book tickets early!)
Walking the Brooklyn Bridge
Visiting interactive museums like the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) or the American Museum of Natural History
Taking the Staten Island Ferry for great views of the Statue of Liberty

Best time to visit:
November through December for the festive holiday season or spring break for mild weather and blooming parks.

Where to stay:

The Muse New York – A boutique hotel in the heart of the theater district, perfect for Broadway lovers

Residence Inn by Marriott Manhattan/Times Square – Spacious suites for families and close to major attractions

The Plaza Hotel – A classic splurge with Central Park views and an iconic NYC experience

Travel tip:
Purchase a CityPASS or New York Explorer Pass to save money on major attractions and skip long ticket lines. Comfortable shoes are a must—NYC is best experienced on foot!

Orlando, Florida

No family vacation suggestion list is complete without Orlando, Florida on it. The theme park capital of the world is the perfect vacation spot for families with teenagers. With the choice of so many attractions, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, there really is something for everyone.

The thrill rides at Universal Studios and their water park, Volcano Bay, make for a great day out, not only for teens but for the whole family. Consider staying at Cabana Bay, located at Universal Studios Orlando, where you will be able to access Volcano Bay from your own private entrance and benefit from early theme park access.

Best Age Group:
Families with teenagers (ages 13–19), though younger children and adults will also enjoy the attractions.

Highlight Activities:

Thrill rides at Universal Studios
Water fun at Volcano Bay
Classic attractions and character experiences at Walt Disney World
Marine life shows and rides at SeaWorld
Shopping and dining at CityWalk and Disney Springs

Best Time to Visit:
Late spring (April–early June) or early fall (September–early November) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

Where to Stay:

Cabana Bay Beach Resort at Universal Orlando (family-friendly, budget-conscious, direct access to Volcano Bay)
Other great options: Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, or nearby vacation rentals

Travel Tip:
Purchase multi-day park passes in advance to save money and skip lines. Take advantage of mobile apps for ride times, dining reservations, and virtual queues.

Large letter LA with a collage of Los Angeles pictures inside.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles offers something for teenagers with a variety of interests and is the perfect family destination. Teens will love the movie studio tours including the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Paramount Studios, and Universal Studios.

Take a stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame and spot the star of your favorite celebrity. If you are looking for a more relaxing day out, head to Santa Monica or Venice Beach and enjoy the sun and sand.

Best Age Group:
Families with teenagers (ages 13–19), especially those interested in pop culture, film, and beach life.

Highlight Activities:

Warner Bros., Paramount, and Universal Studios tours
Exploring the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Visiting the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory
Relaxing at Santa Monica Beach and Venice Beach
Shopping on Melrose Avenue or The Grove
Street art photo ops and food trucks in trendy neighborhoods

Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) for mild weather and fewer tourists.

Where to Stay:

Hollywood or West Hollywood for proximity to studio tours and nightlife
Santa Monica for a beachside stay with easy access to shopping and the pier
Downtown LA for a more urban, artsy vibe with access to public transit

Travel Tip:
Plan for traffic—LA is notorious for it! Use rideshare apps or the Metro for shorter trips. Book studio tours in advance, as they often sell out. Bring layers for beach days—mornings and evenings can be cool even in summer

Washington, D.C.

If your family enjoys learning and exploring on vacation, Washington, D.C. may be the perfect spot for you. With some of the most famous landmarks in the U.S. and a whole host of fascinating museums, your teens will be kept entertained here every day of your trip.

No trip to Washington, D.C. is complete without visiting the White House and Lincoln Memorial, and teens will be fascinated by the National Air and Space Museum. If your family enjoys a bit of retail therapy, head to Georgetown for a great selection of shops.

Best Age Group:
Families with teens (ages 13–19), especially those interested in history, politics, and science.

Highlight Activities:

Touring the White House and exploring the Lincoln Memorial
Visiting the Smithsonian museums, including the National Air and Space Museum and National Museum of American History
Walking the National Mall and seeing iconic monuments
Exploring the U.S. Capitol and Supreme Court buildings
Shopping and dining in historic Georgetown
Paddle boating in Tidal Basin (seasonal)

Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March–May) for cherry blossom season or fall (September–November) for cooler weather and beautiful foliage.

Where to Stay:

Downtown D.C. or near the National Mall for walking access to major sites and museums
Georgetown for a charming, upscale neighborhood feel with boutique hotels
Capitol Hill for a quieter, residential vibe near key landmarks

Travel Tip:
Many museums and attractions are free, so take advantage of that! Wear comfortable walking shoes—D.C. is best explored on foot. Consider using the Metro to avoid parking hassles, and always book White House tours in advance through a congressional office.

Costa Rica

If your family loves the great outdoors, Costa Rica is one of the best vacation spots. Families can try white water rafting, water skiing, and surf lessons with local instructors. Explore national parks, zipline through the rainforest, and spot marine life on local boats.

Many inclusive resorts here offer everything from horseback riding to rock climbing, plus incredible dining options—no extra cost surprises.

Best Age Group:
Families with active teens (ages 12–19) who enjoy adventure and outdoor activities.

Highlight Activities:

White water rafting on scenic rivers
Surf lessons at popular beaches like Tamarindo or Jaco
Ziplining through lush rainforests
Exploring national parks such as Manuel Antonio and Arenal Volcano
Marine wildlife tours including snorkeling and whale watching
Horseback riding and rock climbing at inclusive resorts

Best Time to Visit:
Dry season from December to April for ideal weather and outdoor adventures.

Where to Stay:

All-inclusive resorts in Guanacaste or Manuel Antonio for easy access to activities and dining
Eco-lodges near national parks for immersive nature experiences
Beachfront hotels for those wanting to relax by the ocean

Travel Tip:
Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing and sturdy shoes for hikes and water sports. Book adventure tours in advance during high season. Don’t forget insect repellent and sunscreen to stay comfortable outdoors.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Looking for a great place to reconnect with nature? Jackson Hole delivers. In summer, try rock climbing, hiking, and white water rafting.

Winter brings world-class skiing and cozy family-run restaurants that feel straight out of a postcard. Plus, you’re near Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks—perfect for day trips.

Best Age Group:
Families with teens and adults (ages 12 and up) who enjoy outdoor adventures and nature.

Highlight Activities:

Summer: rock climbing, hiking scenic trails, white water rafting on the Snake River
Winter: skiing and snowboarding at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Wildlife spotting and photography in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks
Exploring charming town restaurants and local shops

Best Time to Visit:
Summer (June–September) for hiking and rafting; winter (December–March) for skiing.

Where to Stay:

Mountain lodges and resorts in Jackson Hole for easy access to skiing and summer activities
Vacation rentals or cabins near Grand Teton National Park for nature immersion
Boutique hotels in downtown Jackson for a cozy, local experience

Travel Tip:
Book ski rentals and lift tickets early for winter trips. In summer, bring layers as mountain weather can change quickly. Allow extra time for travel when visiting Yellowstone due to park traffic and wildlife crossings.

San Diego, California

San Diego is a great location for a spring break or first-time family adventure. The average group size at attractions like the San Diego Zoo and LEGOLAND makes exploring easy, and family-friendly resorts line the white sandy beaches.

Water sports, bike rides along the coast, and learning about local women entrepreneurs in small shops make this destination both fun and inspiring.

Best Age Group:
Families with younger children and teens (ages 6–16), ideal for first-time family trips.

Highlight Activities:

Visiting the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park
Exploring LEGOLAND California Resort
Water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking
Biking along the scenic coastal paths
Shopping and supporting local women-owned businesses in neighborhoods like North Park and Little Italy
Relaxing on family-friendly beaches such as La Jolla Shores and Coronado Beach

Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March–May) for pleasant weather and lower crowds, perfect for spring break.

Where to Stay:

Beachfront family resorts in Mission Bay or Coronado
Hotels near Balboa Park for easy access to the zoo and museums
Vacation rentals in coastal neighborhoods for a home-away-from-home feel

Travel Tip:
Purchase combo tickets for popular attractions to save money and skip lines. Rent bikes for a fun, active way to explore the coast. Plan visits to the zoo and LEGOLAND on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds

Washington State & The Pacific Northwest

Washington State and surrounding small towns make for the ultimate road trip. Visit the Rocky Mountain National Park, explore interactive museums, and enjoy cozy nights around the fire. Consider heading to Rapid City, Long Island, or even Myrtle Beach for similar vibes.

Best Age Group:
Families with teens and adults (ages 12 and up) who enjoy nature, road trips, and small-town charm.

Highlight Activities:

Exploring Rocky Mountain National Park’s hiking trails and wildlife
Visiting interactive museums and local cultural sites
Cozy evenings by the fire in cabins or lodges
Discovering quaint small towns with unique shops and local dining
Scenic drives and outdoor adventures throughout Washington and neighboring states

Best Time to Visit:
Late spring through early fall (May–September) for comfortable weather and full access to outdoor activities.

Where to Stay:

Cabins and lodges near national parks for a nature-immersive experience
Boutique inns and bed & breakfasts in small towns for charm and local flavor
RV parks or campgrounds if you prefer a more adventurous stay

Travel Tip:
Plan your route ahead and book accommodations early during peak seasons. Pack layers to accommodate changing mountain weather. Bring a good camera or smartphone for capturing scenic views and wildlife sightings.

More Family Friendly Vacation Destinations

Here are some additional vacation destinations that offer a variety of activities and attractions for families with teens:

Yellowstone National Park: A great destination for the whole family, offering stunning natural beauty, hot springs, and plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring geysers.

Grand Canyon, Arizona: Perfect for the whole family, this natural wonder offers breathtaking views, hiking, and opportunities for white-water rafting on the Colorado River.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: A great place for the whole family to enjoy water sports, amusement parks, and beautiful beaches. Ideal for a fun-filled family trip.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation, this park offers hiking, horseback riding, and opportunities for the whole family to explore the great outdoors.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada: A perfect place for skiing in the winter and water sports in the summer. The whole family can enjoy day trips, outdoor activities, and the stunning scenery.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts: A family-friendly destination with plenty of fun things to do, including whale watching, visiting kid-friendly museums, and enjoying the natural beauty of the coastline.

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin: Famous for its water parks and family-friendly resorts, this destination offers plenty of fun things for kids of all ages, making it one of the best family vacation spots.

Dominican Republic: An ideal place for an inclusive resort experience with plenty of water sports, beautiful beaches, and activities for the whole family to enjoy.

St. Louis, Missouri: Home to top attractions like the Gateway Arch, fun day trips, and historical sites, St. Louis offers a mix of cultural and recreational activities for the whole family.

These destinations provide a mix of adventure, relaxation, and new experiences, ensuring lifelong memories for the entire family.

Family smiling in large gold chair at Atlantis resort, Bahamas.

How to Pick Fun Trips for Teens

Choosing the perfect trip for teenagers can be daunting, but with some careful planning, you can choose a vacation that everyone enjoys. Here are some tips to help you pick fun and engaging trips for your teens:

Consider Their Interests and Hobbies

Are they adventure seekers who love the thrill of roller coasters and water parks, or do they prefer exploring historical sites and cultural landmarks?

Engage Them in the Planning Process

Let them have a say in selecting activities and destinations. This can increase their excitement and investment in the trip.

Balance High-Energy Activities with Downtime

Avoid burnout by mixing exciting activities with relaxation. Teens appreciate a blend of adventure and leisure.

Look for Variety in Destinations

Choose places that offer a range of experiences, such as cities with vibrant nightlife and serene parks, or resorts with both adventure sports and spa treatments.