Best Vacation Destinations for Families with Teens

Somehow, I keep finding myself daydreaming about vacation.  It might have a little bit to do with the fact that 2020 robbed me of my Disney Vacation and my annual beach trip.  It could also be that I have no idea when I’ll feel brave enough to go on vacation again.  Nonetheless, here we are.  Instead of going on vacation, I’ll settle for writing about vacations.  Today, I’m sharing my list of best vacation destinations for families with teens.  

Traveling with teens can be quite tricky, and picking a destination to please that age group is always difficult! Today I am going to share my best vacation destination recommendations for families with teenagers. These destinations contain the perfect amount of adventure, relaxation, and excitement for all the family to enjoy!

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.

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.

Orlando, Florida

The theme park capital of the world is the perfect adventurous 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. Teens will love the thrill rides at Universal Studios, and their water park Volcano Bay is a great day out 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. 

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.  

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.

Happy Vacationing!

Well, there you have it! My top five picks for families traveling with teenagers. The U.S. has such a wide variety of destinations, and there really is something to suit all tastes and interests. Do you have a trip planned with your family soon? Let me know in the comments below where you are heading next!