Best Summer Vacation Destinations For Families In The US 2026

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Rose Gordon Sala, Forbes Staff

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ummer is a great time for stepping away from busy routines, and the best summer vacation destinations for families in the U.S. offer plenty to do without requiring an international flight. Families can celebrate America’s 250th birthday (can your kids spell semiquincentennial?) while exploring amazing destinations, from sea to shining sea—and beyond.

I interviewed half a dozen travel advisors—as well as taking into account where my own children (ages 7 to 13) have most enjoyed vacationing—to select the best places for families to travel to this summer. Below, find our recommendations on where to go, including the top places to stay.

The Best Places To Stay In The U.S. For A Family Summer Vacation:

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park in the morning.

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Acadia National Park, Maine

Who Will Love It: Active families; those seeking sea, woods and hiking, along with timeless New England charm

All-Star Attractions: A bike ride on the carriage trails; a drive up Cadillac Mountain; Thunder Hole; blueberry beer from Atlantic Brewing; lobster and steamers

What Not To Miss: A swim at Echo Lake Beach surrounded by mountains

Where To Stay: Terramor Outdoor Resort; Harborside Hotel, Spa and Marina; The Claremont Hotel

Acadia National Park is midcoast in what’s referred to as Downeast Maine. It serves up stunning mountain views, cool breezes and plenty of time for classic summer pursuits, from a lazy lawn game to reading a book on your balcony after a day of hiking. Take a dip in a lake, see the puffins, sip a blueberry beer and introduce the kids to cracking their first lobster. Because the summer season is so short in Maine, you’ll certainly run into plenty of crowds (get to the most popular trailhead parking lots before 9 a.m. if you can), but it’s an iconic summer vacation spot that’s ideal for families who crave nature.

Where To Stay:

Terramor Outdoor Resort: An upscale glamping experience with roomy tents that can sleep up to five people, Terramor is great for those who want that camping vibe but with a real bed and their own shower at the end of the day. It’s pet-friendly and offers kiddie entertainment too, along with the pool.

Harborside Hotel, Spa and Marina: Everything Bar Harbor has to offer is right outside your door at this hotel, from restaurants and shops to easy access to the park, which is minutes from downtown. The family rooms have king-size beds for parents and separate bunk bed alcoves for the kids, or an ocean view two-bedroom suite that sleeps up to eight and includes a private hot tub on your balcony.

The Claremont Hotel: If you don’t plan to hike every day, you might prefer a stay on what’s known as the “Quiet Side” of Mount Desert Island (MDI) at the impeccably appointed Claremont Hotel. This historic property features several restaurants, a heated pool, harbor views and an on-site spa. Families can choose from among two-bedroom cabins and cottages with full kitchens or adjacent king-size rooms in the main hotel.

Cape Cod

One of the many lighthouses in Cape Cod.

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Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Who Will Love It: Beachgoers; those seeking a slower pace and small town vibes

All-Star Attractions: Cape Cod Rail Trail; Wellfleet Drive-In; Cape Cod National Seashore, homemade ice cream cones, the many lighthouses

What Not To Miss: A beach bonfire

Where To Stay: Chatham Bars Inn; Wequassett Resort & Golf Club; AutoCamp

It’s hard to be anything other than laid-back on Cape Cod in the summer: Kids can sample the homemade ice cream from any number of shops, turn over rocks in the tide pools, explore the Cape Cod Rail Trail on borrowed bikes or visit historic sites like the John F. Kennedy Memorial, along with any number of lighthouses. But be sure to book a place that has easy beach access, as that’s where the whole family will spend significant time. LaDell Carter of Royal Expression Travels favors Chatham Bars Inn for a classic stay on the Cape for families—as did several other travel experts I interviewed. She calls it “elegant” and “storybook-like,” but approachable and “welcoming.”

Where To Stay:

Chatham Bars Inn: This 25-acre resort features a private boardwalk to adjacent beach and there’s a full events calendar, including for the kids, a spa, poolside meals and drinks delivered by attendants. The staff can charter you a boat, loan you a Lexus to explore the rest of the Cape or just hop on a bike and take a leisurely tootle around the grounds.

Wequassett Resort & Golf Club: An ideal New England stay, this century-old waterfront resort recently underwent a refresh. Children who stay here can enjoy a pirate ship playground and splash pad and kid-friendly daily programming, while parents rack up court and tee time. Families will love staying in one of the charming private cottages, like the Tulip Cottage, which sleeps up to six guests.

AutoCamp: Glamp in an Airstream, tiny home cabin or a tent at AutoCamp Cape Cod in Falmouth. You’ll have views of the bay and have easy access to popular sights and other towns, including Woods Hole in Rhode Island and the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard.

Hawaii

An aerial view of the Napali Coast on Kauai.

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Hawaii

Who Will Love It: Sun-seekers; adventurous families; surfers and snorkelers

All-Star Attractions: Volcanoes National Park; Road To Hana Scenic Drive; Kualoa Ranch tour (Jurassic Park setting); breakfast from a local farmer’s market; hiking Napali coast; chocolate farm tour

What Not To Miss: Swimming and snorkeling at Hanauma Bay

Where To Stay: Fairmont Kea Lani (Maui); Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection (Big Island); Halekulani (Oahu); 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay (Kauai)

Hawaii has plenty for families to do and see. Deputy editor Jane Sung has traveled to the islands with her family over a dozen times, and says while Maui tends to be the go-to spot for for travel with kids, “I highly recommend visiting multiple island to get the full Hawaiian experience in all its natural glory—each island is so special in its own way.” The Big Island features Volcanoes National Park and diverse microclimates, Kauai is popular for its dramatic landscape and pristine beaches, while Oahu is teeming with family-friendly resort favorites and an excellent food scene. “The benefit I find for families with Hawaii, especially those with younger children where they don’t necessarily want to travel all the way to Japan, Australia, New Zealand, is that it still provieds something truly different and memorable,” says Mary Cropper, a travel expert with Black Tomato.

Where To Stay:

Fairmont Kea Lani: With an all-suites and villa model, the Fairmont Kea Lani on Maui is ideal for larger families or just those who prefer their space. The beachfront location keeps things simple, along with the three pools from which to choose.

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection: With extra spacious rooms, a complimentary kids club and multiple pools, the Mauna Lani on the Big Island presents a just-right experience for families who want a refined kid-friendly Hawaiian experience. The cove-protected beachfront is an ideal swim spot, as well as the place to try out kayaking and paddleboarding for the first time—for all ages. Read our in-depth review.

Halekulani: The oceanfront Honolulu hotel has perfected the art of service, including for its youngest guests. Its central location makes it easy to day trip to nearby attractions like Diamond Head for a hike and offsite restaurants, too, although the hotel’s five-star La Mer restaurant is not to be missed either. Learn more in our review.

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay: Upgrade your Kauai vacation with a stay at this upscale, wellness-focused retreat that welcomes families (read more in our 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay review). Set on Kauai’s lush and rugged North Shore, kids can swim in the main pool or explore the beautiful Puʻu Poa beach.

San Diego

Balboa Park in San Diego, California.

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San Diego, California

Who Will Love It: Families who want to pair culture with beach and the outdoors

All-Star Attractions: Legoland; Cabrillo National Park; Sesame Place; Balboa Park

What Not To Miss: San Diego Zoo

Where To Stay: Hotel del Coronado; The Lodge at Torrey Pines; Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa

San Diego’s year-round sunshine and cool ocean breezes keep temperatures in the refreshing mid-70 degrees even in the summer, making it a top choice for families. There are top-tier museums to check out, as well as gorgeous beaches, whale watching, botanical gardens, multiple theme parks and the impressive San Diego Zoo. For accommodation options, Heather Cross, founder of VBH Travel, calls Hotel del Coronado her “go-to recommendation” for families visiting San Diego. “The resort has excellent food, a zero-entry pool and luxurious room setups like the two-bedroom villas with kitchens that make family travel easier and more comfortable for everyone,” she says.

Where To Stay:

Hotel del Coronado: The Del, as it’s known, was first built in 1888, but the much refreshed and expanded San Diego resort continues to charm with a multitude of accommodations on its sprawling beachfront location. A kids club, gentle waves, surf lessons and beach cruisers await.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines: Soak in views of the Pacific from this California-Craftsman-style resort that sits perched above the ocean with an 18-hole golf course. It’s cozy and charming but also exudes quiet luxury—and while not kid-centric, it is “family-friendly,” reports Cross. Explore the adjacent Torrey Pines State Reserve to see the rarest pine tree in North America.

Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa: Tennis, golf, waterslides for the kids, an incredible spa and well-appointed rooms and suites, each with its own balcony, are just some of the amenities at this North County San Diego resort in Carlsbad. San Diego is just 30 minutes away, but Legoland is right here in town.

Florida

The turquoise waters of Florida Keys.

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Florida

Who Will Love It: Theme park enthusiasts; those craving warm weather and beach; fans of ocean adventures and wildlife

All-Star Attractions: The beaches; Orlando theme parks; Kennedy Space Center; boat adventures

What Not To Miss: Manatee and gator sightings

Where To Stay: Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort; ​​The Boca Raton; Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa

Florida in the summer offers tropical temperatures, wildlife encounters, miles of beaches, plenty of water sports—and of course, plentiful theme parks—all without leaving the U.S. Kids will thrill to see their first alligator or manatee perhaps, or all the wild creatures on their Animal Kingdom safari. Spend a couple of days in Orlando and then relax on one of Florida’s sandy shores and destress. As Robbins says, “There’s always a reason to go to Florida.”

Where To Stay:

Four Seasons Resort Orlando At Walt Disney World Resort: A stay at the Four Seasons Orlando at Walt Disney World keeps all ages happy with easy park access and a Disney planning center in the lobby. On property, a kids camp, water park, gaming-centric Hideout zone and special character breakfasts mean the fun literally never ends.

​​The Boca Raton: Delivering “laid-back, sun-soaked elegance,” according to Carter, this Boca resort offers five hotels in one 250-acre beachfront location. With family-friendly suites, a range of restaurants and dining options, family-ready programming, a private beach and yacht excursions, you’ll never run out of fun things to do.

Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa: Robbins counts this Florida Keys resort among her clients’ favorites, especially families seeking plenty to do but with a more laid-back and “approachable luxury” vibe. You’ll have access to a mile of oceanfront with a sandy beach for swimming, water sports and fishing, as well as five pools and plenty of daily kids programming.

Montana

The Lower Falls in Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon.

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Montana

Who Will Love It: Outdoor enthusiasts; active families; animal and wildlife fans

All-Star Attractions: Yellowstone National Park; wildlife; s’mores under the stars; horseback riding

What Not To Miss: Old Faithful

Where To Stay: The Resort At Paws Up; Montage Big Sky; Sage Lodge; Under Canvas West Yellowstone

Visitors flock to Montana to explore the majestic outdoors in warmer weather, from river and mountain experiences to Western-themed fun. “There’s plenty to do in Montana in the summer,” says Robbins, who says the state’s “wide open spaces and beautiful clean air” make it easy to explore the American West. Staying in West Yellowstone, Big Sky or other towns along Montana’s southern border with Wyoming offer the best access to Yellowstone National Park’s westernmost entrance, where you’ll find Old Faithful and other top attractions. Staying a bit further from the park provides families with a quieter respite and more upscale accommodations, as well as the opportunity to explore more of Montana.

Where To Stay:

The Resort At Paws Up: A destination onto itself, The Resort At Paws Up “has something for everybody,” says Robbins. “They make it almost like summer camp for the whole family.” Set on more than 37,000-private acres along the Blackfoot river, there are luxury accommodations or glamping options and endless western-inspired programming for every age.

Montage Big Sky: With multiple pools, robust children’s programming and residences that fit larger families, this popular resort is ideal for experiencing the beauty of the Rockies or using as an end-destination after exploring Yellowstone, says Cropper.

Sage Lodge: This resort offers lodge-style hotel rooms with gas fireplaces and soaking tubs, as well as private, spacious four-bedroom ranch houses. Everyone is treated to views of Emigrant Peak and has access to private Yellowstone tours, paddleboarding and even llama meet and greets.

Under Canvas West Yellowstone: If you want to maximize your time at Yellowstone, stay close to one of the park entrances and glamp in one of the Under Canvas connected family “suite” tents. You’ll enjoy a real bed, shower and access to a few amenities like an onsite restaurant, fire pits and kid-friendly activities—all within ten minutes of Yellowstone.

Jackson Hole

The sun rising in Grand Teton National Park.

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Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Who Will Love It: Adventure seekers; animal and wildlife fans; and outdoorsy families

All-Star Attractions: The Grand Tetons; Yellowstone National Park, Chuck Wagon Cookouts; cowboy culture

What Not To Miss: The Jackson Hole rodeo

Where To Stay: Four Seasons Resort And Residencies Jackson Hole; Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa; The Cloudveil, Autograph Collection

From Jackson Hole, Wyoming, families are well poised to explore the Grand Tetons, says Cropper, as well as travel to Yellowstone National Park, an hour away. It can also be combined with a trip through Montana, flying into Jackson Hole and out of Bozeman, Montana. This all-season town is the spot to soak up the great outdoors and cowboy culture. You’ll also find higher-end resorts and top-tier restaurants in Jackson Hole versus closer to Yellowstone. “It has the amenities of a city with the beauty of that ranch-style vacation,” says Robbins. “You can still go to a rodeo, you can still go to a Chuck Wagon dinner and then you can get out to the national parks.”

Where To Stay:

Four Seasons Resort And Residencies Jackson Hole: The Four Seasons ensures everything about your Wyoming adventure works out smoothly with multi-room residencies for families, baby gear and babyproofing supplies and babysitting services on tap.

Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa: Located directly in Teton Village, families can visit Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone and all the area favorites, from a bike park to the Aerial Tram. It offers a rustic lodge atmosphere but with upscale amenities.

The Cloudveil, Autograph Collection: This boutique city hotel just a block away from Jackson Square and the famed Jackson Hole Elk Antler Arch puts families right in the heart of the action. With an elegant and polished western aesthetic, families can select suites or standard rooms, enjoy an outdoor swim in the pool, onsite restaurant and more. Read our full review.

South Carolina’s Lowcountry

A palmetto lined golf course on South Carolina’s Kiawah Island.

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South Carolina

Who Will Love It: Golfers; fans of the beach; those seeking a slower pace

All-Star Attractions: Kiawah Island’s bike trails; Angel Oak Tree; the beaches; horseback riding on Seabrook Island; culture and cuisine in Charleston’s downtown

What Not To Miss: A dolphin tour

Where To Stay: Montage Palmetto Bluff; Kiawah Island Golf Resort; The Dunlin

A trip to South Carolina’s coast and island means pristine beaches, Southern hospitality and a slower pace. “The Lowcountry is a wonderful escape for all East Coast families with kids ranging from little all the way through to teenagers,” says Robbins. She describes many of the resorts in the area as having “wonderful programming for families and children” with a “very Americana feel.” The area also has some of the country’s best golf courses. “It’s a region with its own rhythm, a place where time slows down,” says Carter. Add on a stop in Charleston for top-tier restaurants, shopping and museums like the International African American Museum.

Where To Stay:

Montage Palmetto Bluff: You’ll find an “elevated Southern summer” on hand at this resort, according to Robbins. Rooms, cottages or suites make multi-generational gatherings simple with the riverfront Montage Palmetto Bluff, along with a kids camp, lawn games, campfire s’mores, a nearby treehouse to explore and nature activities galore. There are complimentary Uppababy strollers available, too.

Kiawah Island Golf Resort: Possibly the resort most often mentioned when looking for family or multi-generation accommodations in South Carolina’s lowcountry is Kiawah Island Golf Resort and it’s easy to see why as they build in everything you need to explore and enjoy the area, including its 10-miles of beachfront, as a couple or with kids in tow. “Impeccable service,” says Carter.

The Dunlin: Soak up river views from the wide porches of this pristine 72-room hotel, then get out on the water for some adventures. At the end of the day, indulge in their fresh seafood dishes, including oysters and blue crabs.

Emeline: Stay in the heart of downtown Charleston at this stylish boutique hotel and the whole family will be able to walk past the city’s resident famed gardens, not to mention Rainbow Row, City Market and the famous seawall promenade. Family-friendly suites and maisonettes are stocked with delicious brownies and bath amenities made by small and sustainable businesses.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

The Forbes Vetted travel team has visited, researched and reported on countless hotels across the globe. Our team conducted extensive research, consulted with parents on the team and interviewed multiple travel advisers before selecting our top contenders based on personal stays, reviews and hotel awards. To ensure the diversity of our list, we included stays catering to a variety of interests, from family-friendly properties to more luxurious picks.

  • This story was written by deputy editor Rose Gordon Sala, an experienced journalist with a decade of experience covering kids, family and parenting content. She spent several years as a family travel editor, where she covered family resorts, city destination guides and family vacation itineraries. Along with planning dozens of her own family’s vacations over the last 13 years, she has personally traveled to many of the destinations on this list with her children, including Acadia National Park and Florida.
  • This story was reviewed and edited by deputy editor Jane Sung, who oversees the travel vertical and has extensive experience covering hotels, destinations, and travel gear. Our resident Hawaii expert, she has visited all of the main islands multiple times with her family.
  • Our team regularly reviews this story to ensure all information is accurate and up to date. It was last updated in May by senior travel editor Sunshine Flint, an industry veteran with over two decades of experience covering all things travel.

Our Experts

We consulted a variety of experts for this story to solicit their opinions on the best destinations and the best family resorts in the U.S.

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