The Best Domestic Destinations to Visit With Kids This Summer

From Maine to California, we have some great suggestions that should be high on your family's list.

Fact checked by Sarah Scott

With school letting out soon or even already out in some places across the country, it’s the perfect time to plan a fun-filled family getaway.

Good news for parents who prefer not to bring little ones on long-haul flights (or planes in general), the best places for summer vacation might be even closer than you realize. Yes, that means the chance to simply load up the car and drive somewhere awesome that’s not too far from home.

From sun-splashed East Coast beaches and glamping areas to rugged Wyoming mountain towns and sunny California cities that offer a little bit of everything, these are the best domestic destinations to visit with kiddos this summer. To make things even easier (because parents already have enough on their plates), we’ve broken it down by region. Happy travels!

Northeast Destinations

We begin in the Northeast where you can choose to have fun in the sun or enjoy a mountain vacation within a day's drive if you live in this region.

Cape May, New Jersey

The most charming Jersey Shore town, Cape May has long drawn families eager to sprawl on the miles of white, sandy beaches and swim in the Atlantic Ocean. The paved promenade, which runs two miles along Ocean Avenue, is ideal for teetering tots and parents pushing strollers. Older kids and teens will have a blast at the arcades and mini golf.

Everyone can enjoy red trolley rides around the historic Victorian downtown and Washington Street Mall, a pedestrianized area with many shops and eateries (be sure to hit the toy store and ice cream parlor). For a seaside home base with a kid-friendly restaurant, a pool, and grassy lawns for children to run around, check into Congress Hall.

Freeport, Maine

With seasonal events, fresh seafood, and thousands of acres of land that’s earmarked for recreation, it’s easy to see why families flock to Freeport in the summertime. Its charming coastal setting offers a variety of outdoor attractions, from Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park to the Desert of Maine, a unique and educational attraction with rolling sand dunes, a wooden playground, an 1800s-style train, a fossil dig, a gemstone labyrinth, mini golf, and a giant sandbox for tykes.

“At the L.L.Bean flagship store, kids and parents can test out gear, try fly casting in the indoor pond, and take photos with the iconic six-foot-tall rubber-bottom boot,” says Carolyn Addison, mom of two and Head of Product at Black Tomato.

Southeast Destinations

From a charming Southern city to pristine beaches, the Southeast has a lot to offer for families looking to hit the road this summer.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is the best Southern city for families with heaps of kid-focused attractions. Start the morning with a hearty breakfast at one of the terrific restaurants, go for a walk along The Battery (the sound of the water might even encourage tots to take a stroller nap), and make a pitstop at Hazel Parker Playground before a sunset harbor cruise.

You could easily fill a full day at both the Children's Museum of the Lowcountry and the South Carolina Aquarium. When the weather gets a bit too steamy, beat the heat with beach days and bike rides on nearby Sullivan's Island.

St. Simons Island, Georgia

One of Georgia’s Golden Isles, St. Simons Island supplies miles of pristine beaches for little ones to build sandcastles and for parents to relax (well, depending on the age of your offspring, that might be relative) under the sun.

“The rich natural beauty invites families to embark on active adventures like kayaking, paddleboarding, nature walks, and exploring salt marshes,” says Addison.

Boat rides to Little St. Simon Island give crews the chance to spot spoonbills and gannets. Looking for some educational opportunities that bring history to life? Head to Fort Frederica National Monument and the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum.

Midwest Destinations

The Midwest has some great spots to visit, especially for thrill-seekers and those looking to explore new citites.

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Anywhere known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World” is going to be a blast for families. That’s certainly the case for Wisconsin Dells. With plenty of aquatic excitement and a variety of options for adventures in nature, it’s a fan favorite among kids of all ages.

The largest water park in the United States, Noah's Ark has everything from thrilling water coasters to a chill lazy river.

"This summer, Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park Resort will welcome the tallest waterslide in the country,” reveals Addison. “Beyond amusements, the mixed land and water tours aboard the famous amphibious World War II 'Ducks' take groups through colorful scenery on the Wisconsin River, Lake Delton, and wilderness trails.”

The 40-acre Wisconsin Deer Park features a petting zoo with deer, elk, and bison.

Indianapolis

Indianapolis might not be the most obvious place to escape for summer break. However, Indiana’s capital is a treasure trove of family fun.

“Although kids can’t participate in the Indy 500, there are many ways to fulfill their racing dreams, such as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Pedal Car Racetrack Experience and the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis,” says Addison.

For a more historic outing, Conner Prairie is a 19th-century replica village on 200 acres with themed interactive exhibits that teach visitors about Indy’s heritage. Football fans can sit in on Colts Training Camp practice at Grand Park.

Southwest Destinations

The Southwest is full of natural beauty. What a better way to show your kids this beautiful country then an outdoor adventure.

Sedona, Arizona

Unforgettable red rock scenery, hiking trails for all ages and fitness levels (Fay Canyon, Bell Rock Pathway, and Big Park Loop are manageable for little legs), and exhilarating pink jeep tours for pint-sized adventure lovers who prefer to explore while someone else takes the wheel make Sedona the ultimate destination for outdoorsy families.

While the temps in July reach 95 degrees in the peak afternoon, it cools down considerably at night. And the mornings are quite pleasant, too. Consider hitting the trails first thing or after 4 p.m. and spend the rest of the day swimming at a resort pool and strolling around the walkable downtown, which has many great shops and Mexican restaurants with kid-approved quesadillas and tacos.

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Unlike much of the southwest, Bryce Canyon National Park isn’t oppressively hot in the summer with an average daily high of 80 degrees in July. Of course, you’ll still need to plan ahead and pack ample supplies (water, snacks, and sunscreen) when hiking with little ones.

Rated as easy, the flat, paved, half-mile Rim Trail between Sunset and Sunrise Point is particularly well-suited for tiny trekkers and accessible for strollers. Kiddos can pick up a free junior ranger activity book at the Visitor Center and receive a souvenir badge after filling it out.

After a day full of scenic family photo ops in front of the famous crimson pinnacles and hoodoos, make childhood dreams come true by sleeping under the stars in a glamping tent at Under Canvas Bryce Canyon.

Western Destinations

Like the Southwest, the West has so much to offer that it was hard to choose just two locations. Fun in the sun in Southern California or outdoor adventures in Wyoming, these locations are sure to be filled with family bonding time.

Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica tops the list of year-round vacation destinations in Southern California. But it’s at its best in the summer when clear, blue skies and warm weather set the scene for days spent building sand castles on the beach, walking along the Strand, and playing at the many playgrounds.

The epicenter of family fun, the world-famous Santa Monica Pier boasts Pacific Park with a Ferris wheel, the historic Looff Hippodrome Carousel, games, confessions, and Heal the Bay Aquarium. It’s worth pushing back bedtime to bring kiddos to the Twilight Concert Series. Nearby, the Fairmont Miramar offers a swimming pool, an alfresco cinema, and bungalows that sleep up to eight guests.

Jackson, Wyoming

A playground for outdoor adventure, Jackson is the ideal summer escape that blends breathtaking natural beauty, exciting activities, and the spirit of the Wild West. With access to Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, families can soak in the stunning landscapes, spot local wildlife, and try whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Snow King Mountain packs a punch with a bungee trampoline and an alpine coaster. For more leisurely pursuits, Addison suggests storytime and crafts at the National Museum of Wildlife Art, shopping for Western boots and hats at the downtown shops, and going for a dip in the Granite Hot Springs. Of course, you’ll want to snap a family photo in front of the famous elk antler arch.

Hawaii and Alaska Destinations

We couldn't leave out the beauty of Hawaii and Alaska. Whether you already live in these states or you are willing to take the long flight with your family, you can't go wrong in either of these locations.

Maui, Hawaii

For some parents, the thought of boarding a long-haul flight to Hawaii with kids might verge on nightmare territory. But when the destination is Maui, it’s at least worth considering. The Valley Isle serves up world-class beaches with golden sand, calm water for little swimmers, and tidal pools to explore.

Older kids (and parents) who want to hang ten can sign up for surf lessons. Down for a road trip? Drive the Road to Hana. Pro tip: bucket enough time to stop at the many waterfalls, scenic lookouts, and banana bread stands. The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Montage Kapalua Bay, and Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui are top-rated resorts for families.

Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska

When it comes to domestic destinations to get outside and make memories as a family, it doesn’t get more bucket list than Denali National Park and Preserve. Admittedly, the lengthy travel journey and spate of rugged adventures make the trip better suited for older kids, but parents shouldn’t rule it out for rough-and-tumble tots either.

The sprawling wilderness area is home to tundra, glaciers, spruce forests, and wildlife—including grizzly bears and moose—and North America’s tallest peak. We’re not suggesting you trek to the summit of Denali with little ones, but it’s pretty spectacular to see it rising toward the sky from the short, flat 0.6-mile Mountain Vista Trail on clear summer days. 

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