A family trip to Destin, Florida, will have you wondering why you never considered this pitch-perfect panhandle spot before
When people think of Florida vacations, a few obvious spots top the list: Orlando, of course, and then Miami, Tampa, and West Palm Beach. But there’s one destination that is quickly rising in popularity for in-the-know families: Destin.
Located on Florida’s Panhandle along the Gulf of Mexico, it’s home to stunning white sand beaches, emerald green water, and a fishing community so vibrant that the beach town has come to be known as “the world’s luckiest fishing village.” But between that and its abundance of golf courses, is Destin really much of a family-friendly destination?
Turns out, for many families with young children, the underrated coastal city is the ideal antidote to the typical frenetic Florida vacation. In Destin, you can avoid overpriced admission tickets to overcrowded excursions in lieu of a more relaxed environment that lets everyone—parents and kiddos alike—actually enjoy themselves.
Where to Stay in Destin, Florida
Whether you prefer to stay in a beachfront hotel or bed-and-breakfast, feel pampered in a luxury resort, or spread out in a vacation home or condo rental, Destin has lodging options that meet the needs of all families. It’s even a prime destination for campers and RV travelers thanks to the pristine, 200-acre Henderson Beach State Park right along the water.
A can’t-go-wrong option? The Henderson Beach Resort, a gracious, four-story beach retreat nestled between the Gulf and the aforementioned nature preserve for which it gets its name. Reminiscent of a luxurious seaside manor, it certainly plays up the nostalgia—black-and-white framed photos showcasing its humble beginnings and nautical history are scattered throughout the hotel’s walls. But ostentatious, it is not.
From its meandering lazy river (be sure to request a floatie or bring your own!) to Sprinkles, its in-house ice cream shop, having fun is key. During spring and summer months, the resort offers every parent’s dream amenity (especially considering the on-site spa!): a child drop-off service. Poppy’s Kids Club, a creative space designed just for kids includes themed activities and lunch for a $75 fee. Off-season, the hotel still hosts kid-friendly crafternoons. Think: sand art ornaments and tie-dyed T-shirts.
What to Do in Destin, Florida
Your first stop should be Little Adventures, an online service that connects curious families with bite-sized outdoor adventures. Just use the site’s handy filters—you can narrow down options by kid ages, cost, or the amount of time you want to spend—to receive a hit list of classes or activities that best fit. With several Little Adventures outposts throughout Destin, there’s always a sand sculpture class or a beginner paddle boarding lesson happening somewhere.
Insider Tip: Little Adventures also has a live chat feature in which you can talk to actual local moms in real-time and ask all those deeply specific questions you know you have about an upcoming excursion: do I need to pack a snack? Will they provide life vests for babies? How good of a swimmer does my preschooler need to be? Consider it free vacation planning!
Listen, fishing isn’t for everyone, but everyone is an angler while in Destin. And if you’re at all curious, this is the place to literally test the waters. You can show up with no gear and no experience (and even no fishing license if you opt to hop on one of Destin’s many charter boats!) and walk away with a newfound appreciation for the sport.
If you’re in town any day throughout the month of October, you’ll get to experience the Destin Fishing Rodeo, an annual competition that dates back to 1948. It’s open to all ages and skill levels, but spectating is the easiest of all. Just set up shop at HarborWalk Village and watch as boats unload their catches onto the official weigh-in barge. Those with squeamish stomachs might not appreciate the fish guts and blood, but it’s hard to pass up an opportunity to marvel at an amateur fisherperson posing next to a 200-pound catch.
There’s no better place to foster your family’s love of marine life than at Destin’s Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center, which promotes the rehabilitation and release of all stranded sea turtle species. Sign up for a low-cost marine-biologist-led tour, and your family can meet the program’s current roster of sea turtles, perform their own initial assessments of a few fake sea turtles, and learn ways they can help sea turtles long after their visit. (Hint: there’s a reason Destin’s beachfronts use only red and orange lights at night!)
Where to Eat in Destin, Florida
Speaking of fish, Destin is famous for its gulf-to-table seafood. Camille’s at Crystal Beach, for instance, serves seafood caught in local waters by local fishermen and unloaded right on the dock at Harbor Docks Seafood Market. (Their gumbo is a must-try.) The Henderson's own Primrose Restaurant serves up creative contemporary takes on classic fish fare and some of the best sushi on the panhandle, and if you are looking for fish fajitas, there's no better spot than on the beachfront patio of Rockin Tacos. And perhaps the most family-friendly restaurant in all of Destin belongs to Lulu's. Founded by Lucy Buffett (yes, Jimmy Buffett's little sister), this spot features coastal recipes created by Lucy herself, but it also has dedicated allergy menus whether you are averse to eggs, gluten, dairy, or even, yes, shellfish.
Fun fact: If you want to do some good while filling your stomachs throughout Destin, ask your server if they've got any lionfish specials. Why? Lionfish are an invasive species that prey on more than 30 different types of native fish, including those two-thirds their size, in the Gulf of Mexico. Although they are delicious, they aren't a common menu item because they are hard to catch and removing their venemous spines is enough of a chore to make them too costly. However, some organizations and restaurants, like Brotula's Seafood House, will cook up whatever fish you catch (lionfish included!) and partner with conservation groups to serve it up. Consider biting into one of these pesky-yet-beautiful fish a Destin bucket list item!
The Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport is, as you’d expect, the closest airport. It’s located just 16 miles away in Valparaiso. Because it’s such a small airport, direct flights outside of Florida are harder to come by—there’s a good chance you’ll need a quick layover. Once you arrive, though, be sure to peep the aquarium of lionfish on your way out of the airport.
Editor’s note: This trip was paid for by Destin-Fort Walton Beach, but all opinions belong to the writer.
If you’ve ever wanted to own your own little piece of Stranger Things, now’s your chance—the Creel House is for sale!
This Spooky Season has been great for Stranger Things fans and real estate buffs alike. First, in Mid-September, the home that serves as the Byers family residence on the hit Netflix show was listed for sale—and quickly snapped up by an investor who promises to turn it into a Stranger Things-themed Airbnb that we cannot wait to stay at. But now, the both charming and impressive property that you might know as the Creel House is for sale—and it can be yours if you happen to have a cool $1.5 million to spend on a home in Georgia.
Zillow
The stately Victorian home is located on a one-acre lot in Rome, Georgia (which happens to be just a few miles south of the filming location for Pennhurst Mental Hospital, in case that sweetens the deal). While the price tag might seem a little steep at first, it makes more sense once you see inside this absolutely gorgeous home.
Zillow
Just look at the entryway, with its curving grand staircase and tiled fireplace. Imagine walking in the front door of your home and that being the first thing you see. I am literally a heart eyes emoji right now.
The entire home has been painstakingly restored, designed, and decorated to look every bit the stately 1880s manor that it is, and kudos to the sellers, because they’re done a fantastic job.
Zillow
Everything from the period-appropriate light fixtures to the furniture to the art on the walls feels like it’s transporting you right back to the heyday of the Victorian era. It’s almost a second thought that this is literally The Creel House, because it’s just so impressive on its own.
Zillow
According to The Dirt, the home was built in 1882 and was last sold in 2019. At the time, it had been operating as a bed and breakfast for years, and was, as the listing noted, “showing a bit of deferred maintenance.” The current owners snapped it up for a steal—$350,000—and set to work carefully renovating the entire property to restore it to its former glory.
Zillow
Clearly they knew what they were doing. The Creel House is stunning, and offers aren’t being reviewed until Nov. 30 so you have time to go searching for some buried treasure (or buy some Powerball tickets) to cover the $1.5 million price tag.
The company has just released its Countdown to Christmas Lineup and the festivities start as early as Oct. 21! Not only that, get ready to settle in for a new batch of Miracles of Christmas Hallmark Movies and Mysteries Lineup, too!
Here’s the complete list of all the upcoming movie and their descriptions (thank you, Hallmark Channel!) so you can start planning all those festive movie nights.
Countdown to Christmas Lineup
(All premieres are at 8PM EST unless otherwise noted.)
The Christmas CEO, 2021 (Hallmark)
Friday, October 21: Noel Next Door
Starring: Natalie Hall (Charmed), Corey Sevier (Immortals)
A hard-working, single mom gets into a war of words with a neighbor who she feels is ruining Christmas, only to find that this misunderstood grouch just may steal her heart.
Saturday, October 22: We Wish You a Married Christmas
Starring: Marisol Nichols (Riverdale), Kristoffer Polaha (Jurassic World Dominion)
Becca and Robby are a married couple having a hard time connecting with each other as the holidays approach. Just before Christmas, they head to a cozy Vermont inn at the advice of their marriage coach so they can recharge. Their weekend away gets unexpectedly extended when a mishap puts their car out of commission and just may put them on the road to a very happily married Christmas.
Sunday, October 23: A Kismet Christmas
Starring: Sarah Ramos (Parenthood), Carlo Marks (Chesapeake Shores), Marilu Henner (Taxi)
Sarah is a children's book author who returns to her hometown, where she reconnects with her family and Travis, her teenage crush. She soon discovers that a long-held family legend might actually be true.
Friday, October 28: A Cozy Christmas Inn
Starring: Jodie Sweetin (Fuller House), David O'Donnell (In Search of Fellini)
Real estate exec Erika, travels to Alaska during Christmastime to acquire a bed and breakfast, only to discover that it's owned by her ex. While there, she finds herself falling in love with the town and quite possibly him.
Saturday, October 29: Jolly Good Christmas
Starring: Reshma Shetty (Blindspot), Will Kemp (Christmas Waltz)
David is an American architect who recently moved to London for a prime opportunity in a prestigious firm. With just three days before Christmas, he crosses paths with Anji, a professional shopper, who raises an eyebrow over his choice of a gift card for his girlfriend. David ultimately decides to hire Anji and, thanks to a series of unexpected events, finds himself on a wild adventure across Jolly Old London as Anji helps him search for the perfect present.
Sunday, October 30: Ghosts of Christmas Always
Starring: Kim Matula (LA to Vegas), Ian Harding (Pretty Little Liars), Beth Leavel (This Is Where I Leave You), Lori Tan Chinn (Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens), Reginald VelJohnson (Die Hard, Family Matters)
Katherine is a Ghost of Christmas Present and she must help one soul, Peter, rediscover his Christmas spirit. But this year has something unusual in store.
Friday, November 4, 2022: A Magical Christmas Village
Starring: Alison Sweeney (Days of Our Lives), Luke Macfarlane (Bros), Marlo Thomas (That Girl)
When Summer's mother Vivian moves in with her and her young daughter Chloe, her orderly existence is upended. Upon arrival, Vivian sets up an heirloom miniature Christmas village resembling their town, and tells Chloe it grants Christmas wishes. As Chloe begins setting up the figurines, real-life events seem to mimic the scenes she creates. With a little help from the magic of the Christmas village, the family will be brought closer together and just maybe, Summer will learn to open her heart to love again.
Saturday, November 5, 2022: Lights, Camera, Christmas!
Starring: Kimberley Sustad (Travelers), John Brotherton (Fuller House)
When a holiday rom-com movie shooting in her town needs a costume designer, Kerry, a local shop owner, steps into the role. While working on the movie, she rediscovers her passion for costume design and finds herself falling for Brad, the film's famous leading man.
Sunday, November 6, 2022: All Saints Christmas
Starring: Ledisi (Selma), Roger Cross (Murdoch Mysteries)
Lisette is a popular R&B singer who's getting ready to travel home to New Orleans for Christmas. When the media mistake a photo of her with her music producer ex as an engagement announcement, her family insists that he join her on the trip.
Friday, November 11, 2022: In Merry Measure
Starring:Patti Murin (Frozen, Chicago Med), Brendan Penny (Chesapeake Shores), Jennifer Robertson (Schitt's Creek)
When pop star Darcy returns home to spend Christmas with her sister and niece, she unexpectedly finds herself coaching the high school choir with her one time rival, Adam.
Starring: Rachel Skarsten (Batwoman), Dan Jeannotte (Star Trek: Strange New Worlds), Greta Scacchi (The Terror)
Claire is an MI5 agent who goes undercover as the royal nanny. She must overcome the challenges of her assignment, like resisting the charms of Prince Colin, while keeping the family safe at Christmas.
Sunday, November 13, 2022: Christmas at the Golden Dragon
Starring:Kara Wang (Good Trouble), Osric Chau (The Flash), Sara Canning (Nancy Drew), Antonio Cupo (Blood & Treasure), Barbara Niven (Chesapeake Shores)
When Romy and Rick's parents surprise them with the news that they will be closing the Chinese restaurant they have owned and operated for decades, the siblings each find themselves reevaluating their futures. Also impacted by the news are the landmark restaurant's loyal patrons and staff, who have all come to depend on the restaurant over the holidays.
Friday, November 18, 2022: Inventing the Christmas Prince
Starring: Tamera Mowry-Housley (The Santa Stakeout), Ronnie Rowe Jr. (The Porter)
Shelby is about to quit her job as a rocket engineer when her daughter becomes convinced that her Scrooge-like boss, Evan, is the Christmas Prince from a story Shelby invented years ago.
Saturday, November 19, 2022: Three Wise Men and a Baby
Starring: Paul Campbell (Turner & Hooch), Tyler Hynes (Letterkenny), Andrew Walker (Merry & Bright), Margaret Colin (Chicago Med)
Three brothers get the surprise of their lives when they are forced to work together to care for a baby over the holidays. As they slowly get the hang of things, they find themselves on unexpected journeys of self-discovery and begin to rebuild their relationships as brothers, as well as the damaged romantic and professional relationships in their respective lives…all while rediscovering their love of Christmas.
Sunday, November 20, 2022: When I Think of Christmas
Starring: Shenae Grimes-Beech (The Detail), Niall Matter (The Predator), Beth Broderick (Sabrina the Teenage Witch)
Sara Thompson returns to her hometown to help her mother move and is surprised to find her ex-boyfriend Josh Hartman is back home. The two had once planned a life in music together but Sara left to study law. The former flames slowly reconnect and try to heal wounds, both old and new. When Sara makes a surprising discovery, she and Josh forge a bold plan for the upcoming Christmas concert that will lead them all back to their musical roots and make this a holiday to remember.
Thursday, November 24, 2022: My Southern Family Christmas – premieres at 8p ET/PT
Starring: Jaicy Elliot (Grey's Anatomy), Bruce Campbell (Ash vs Evil Dead), Ryan Rottman (Guidance), Moira Kelly (The Cutting Edge,), Brian McNamara (Magnum P.I.)
Under the guise of a journalist, Campbell has a chance to get to know her biological father for the first time – without him ever knowing who she really is. As she spends time with him and his family, as well as with the town's record keeper, she realizes that families are messy, wonderful things. In the end, Campbell must decide if she's going to keep her identity a secret or reveal the truth to her father – a decision that will change their family Christmas forever.
Friday, November 25, 2022: #Xmas – premieres at 6p ET/PT
Starring: Clare Bowen (Nashville), Brant Daugherty (Pretty Little Liars)
When Jen gets the chance to enter a brand's design contest, she poses as a family influencer, enlisting the help of her best friend, Max, and her baby nephew. When her video is selected as a finalist, Jen is torn on whether to go on with her perfect "family" or reveal the truth.
Friday, November 25, 2022: A Royal Corgi Christmas– premieres at 8p ET/PT
Starring: Hunter King (Life in Pieces), Jordan Renzo (The Spanish Princess)
Reluctant Crown Prince Edmond returns home just before Christmas in anticipation of being named successor to the throne. To ingratiate himself to his mother the Queen, he gifts her with "Mistletoe", a rambunctious Corgi in need of some serious training. After several doggy disasters, Edmond turns to Cecily, a canine behavior expert from America for help –but to his great surprise, Cecily demands that he take an active part in the daily dog training sessions. Sparks fly between them as the pair work together to get Mistletoe ready to present at the annual Christmas Ball. Just as the precious pup captures their hearts, they discover that love can grow in the most unexpected places, leading them to question what they really want.
Saturday, November 26, 2022: A Tale of Two Christmases – premieres at 6p ET/PT
Starring: Kat Barrell (Wynonna Earp), Chandler Massey (Days of our Lives), Evan Roderick (Arrow)
Thanks to some Christmas magic, Emma gets to experience two different Christmases – one where she stays in the city and celebrates with a new crush and his friends, and one where she returns home for all the traditions with her family…and Drew, a longtime friend who may have feelings for her. Emma's double holiday ultimately helps her discover what will truly make her happy in life as well as in love.
Saturday, November 26, 2022: Haul Out the Holly – premieres at 8p ET/PT
Starring: Lacey Chabert (The Wedding Veil), Wes Brown (Sweet Pecan Summer), Ellen Travolta (Charles in Charge), Peter Jacobson (House), Melissa Peterman (Reba), Stephen Tobolowsky (One Day at a Time, Spaceballs)
Emily arrives home, hoping to visit her parents, only to discover that they are leaving on a trip of their own. As she stays at their house for the holidays, their HOA is determined to get Emily to participate in the neighborhood's many Christmas festivities.
Hallmark
Sunday, November 27, 2022: A Christmas Cookie Catastrophe – premieres at 6p ET/PT
Starring: Rachel Boston (SEAL Team), Victor Webster (Workin' Moms)
Annie Cooper has big shoes to fill when she takes over as CEO of her late grandmother's smalltown cookie company and is doing her best to help their struggling business get back on track. That task gets more daunting when her grandmother's secret recipe is stolen during the Christmas party. As Annie tries to crack the case and uncover the culprit she works with Sam, the owner of a local bakery, to recreate the recipe in the hope of saving the company and her job. As Annie and Sam bake batch after batch in pursuit of the perfect one, they begin to learn that their lives go together like milk and cookies.
Sunday, November 27, 2022: A Holiday Spectacular – premieres at 8p ET/PT
Starring: Ginna Claire Mason (Wicked), Derek Klena (Moulin Rouge! The Musical), Eve Plumb (The Brady Bunch), Ann-Margret (Bye Bye Birdie, The Kominsky Method) Featuring the Radio City Rockettes
In 1958, Maggie is an heiress from Philadelphia who puts her high-society wedding plans on hold in order to sneak up to New York City and make her secret dream come true: dancing live on stage in the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall.
Friday, December 2, 2022: A Big Fat Family Christmas
Starring: Shannon Chan-Kent (Woke), Shannon Kook (The 100), Tia Carrere (Wayne's World), Jack Wagner (When Calls the Heart)
Liv is a photojournalist eager to make it on her own. To get a dream assignment – shooting the Chang family's annual holiday party for a cover story – she doesn't reveal that they are in fact, her family. When she finds herself growing close to Henry, the coworker covering the story with her, she wants to confide in him but doesn't want to jeopardize her big break.
Saturday, December 3, 2022: A Fabled Holiday
Starring: Brooke D'Orsay (Royal Pains), Ryan Paevey (General Hospital)
Talia and her childhood best friend Anderson unexpectedly reunite in a curiously familiar looking town full of Christmas spirit that restores its visitors when they need it most.
Sunday, December 4, 2022: Undercover Holiday
Starring: Noemi Gonzalez (Selena: The Series), Stephen Huszar (Tribal)
When returning home for the holidays, newly minted pop star Jaylen tells her protective family that Matt is her new beau, when in reality, he's her overzealous security guard.
Friday, December 9, 2022: The Most Colorful Time of the Year
Starring: Katrina Bowden (30 Rock), Christopher Russell (Day of the Dead)
Ryan is an elementary school teacher, who learns that he is colorblind. Michelle, an optometrist and mother of one of his students, helps bring color into his life in time for the holidays.
Saturday, December 10, 2022: Christmas Class Reunion
Starring: Aimee Teegarden (Friday Night Lights), Tanner Novlan (The Bold and the Beautiful)
High school classmates, who once dubbed themselves the "cursed class," reconnect at Christmas for their 15-year reunion. Over the course of their time reconnecting, the classmates challenge each other to remember who they were, who they are, and who they want to be.
Sunday, December 11, 2022: The Holiday Sitter
Starring: Jonathan Bennett (The Christmas House, Mean Girls), George Krissa (Road Trip Romance), Chelsea Hobbs (Poisoned in Paradise: A Martha's Vineyard Mystery)
Sam is a workaholic bachelor who babysits his niece and nephew before the holidays when his sister and her husband have to go out of town. Completely out of his element, he recruits help from their handsome neighbor Jason and finds himself in an unexpected romance.
Friday, December 16, 2022: Holiday Heritage
Starring: Lyndie Greenwood (Sleepy Hollow), Brooks Darnell (The Young and the Restless), Holly Robinson Peete (Our Christmas Journey,)
Ella returns to her hometown to mend fences with her fractured family. With the help of Griffin, her ex-boyfriend, she encourages her family to celebrate Christmas and Kwanzaa and to heal their past wounds before it's too late.
Saturday, December 17, 2022: 'Twas the Night Before Christmas
A former actress trying to break into directing tests her skills with a town's annual Christmas Eve courtroom production in which the true authorship of the famous poem "A Visit from St. Nick" is debated.
Sunday, December 18, 2022: Hanukkah on Rye
Starring: Jeremy Jordan (Supergirl), Yael Grobglas (Jane the Virgin), Lisa Loeb
A matchmaker connects Molly and Jacob, but their new romance is put to the test when they realize that they are competing deli owners. Will a Hanukkah miracle keep them together?
Miracles of Christmas Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Lineup
(Premiere times are 10:00pm ET/PT)
A Christmas Treasure, 2021 (Hallmark)
Saturday, October 22: We Need a Little Christmas
Starring: Erica Durance (Supergirl), Patrick Sabongui (The Flash), Lynn Whitfield (Greenleaf)
Julie is adjusting to being a single mother to a grieving child while facing her first Christmas without her husband when she develops an unexpected friendship with her older neighbor Irene.
Saturday, October 29: Christmas Bedtime Stories
Starring: Erin Cahill (Every Time a Bell Rings), Steve Lund (Schitt's Creek), Charlie Weber ("How to Get Away with Murder)
When Danielle's husband goes missing in action during his deployment, she is left to raise her daughter on her own. Three years later, as she acclimates to life without him, she begins to tell her daughter bedtime stories of her father.
Saturday, November 5, 2022: A Maple Valley Christmas
Starring: Peyton List (Star Trek: Picard, Mad Men), Andrew Walker (Dying for Chocolate: A Curious Caterer Mystery)
Erica is a rancher who has spent her whole life working the family farm with her mother and sister. When Aaron arrives and disrupts her plans, she starts to question what it is she actually wants.
Saturday, November 12, 2022: Our Italian Christmas Memories
Starring: Sarah Power (Good Witch), Beau Bridges (The Fabulous Baker Boys)
The Colucci siblings, in an effort to jog the memory of their grandfather who is struggling with dementia, set out to recreate their late grandmother's legendary pasta sauce.
Saturday, November 19, 2022: Long Lost Christmas
Starring: Taylor Cole (Making Spirits Bright), Benjamin Ayres (Burden of Truth)
Hayley is an interior designer who plans to surprise her recently widowed mother Patricia with the perfect holiday present: the extended family she knows her mom yearns for.
Saturday, November 26, 2022: Time for Him to Come Home for Christmas
Starring: Holland Roden (Mayans M.C.), Tyler Hynes (Letterkenny), Tenille Townes (The Lemonade Stand) From Executive Producer Blake Shelton
Four days before Christmas, Elizabeth Athens receives a voicemail from a number she doesn't recognize. In his message, a man she doesn't know makes one final plea to the love of his life for a second chance. This is the fifth installment of the popular movie franchise, based on Blake Shelton's song "Time for Me to Come Home."
Saturday, December 3, 2022: The Holiday Stocking
Starring: Nadine Ellis (Our Kind of People), B.J. Britt ( Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.), Karon Riley (The Black Hamptons), Tamala Jones ( Castle), Mykelti Williamson (Fences, Law & Order: Organized Crime)
In this Hallmark Mahogany presentation, RJ is a new angel, who is given the chance to address his one regret, that he didn't help his sisters reconcile while he was still alive. Returning to earth as a stranger, he gets each of them to revive The Holiday Stocking, their parent's old tradition to encourage charity at Christmas.
Saturday, December 10, 2022: The Gift of Peace
Starring: Nikki Deloach (Five More Minutes), Brennan Elliott (UnREAL)
Artist Traci is a once-devout Christian who has stopped believing in God after her husband tragically died despite her prayers. As her second Christmas without him approaches, she tries going to a support group for inspiration and comfort.
Saturday, December 17, 2022: Five More Minutes: Moments Like These
Starring: Ashley Williams (Sister Swap: Christmas in the City), Lucas Bryant (Haven)
The second holiday story inspired by Scotty McCreery's song "Five More Minutes," a young widow's Christmas wish for her son is answered in unexpected ways when she returns to their old home for the holidays.
Looking for an exciting new way to stay with the kids? It doesn’t get any better than these treehouse rentals in New England
When it comes to epic family vacations, New England offers plenty of options for families. There are rentals with epic pools and compounds where you and your besties can stay. But if we’re honest, nothing beats sleeping among the trees. And when it comes to treehouse rentals New England has more than its fair share of storybook stays. Your kids’ imaginations will soar when they wake up high above it all in the trees, listening to morning birds and bubbling streams.
Moose Meadow Lodge Treehouse | Waterbury, VT
Stay in a two story log cabin in the trees when you rent this lakefront treehouse. Steeped in rustic cabin detail, it features a living and dining area on the first floor and a master bedroom upstairs. Kids will love the spiral staircase that wraps around an actual tree running through the house. Outside, Adirondack chairs give you a great lake view. Sit peacefully or cast a line into the trout-filled waters. The perk of this New England treehouse? It’s part of a bed and breakfast, so you’ll get a lovely meal each morning that you don’t have to prepare.
Settle into the heart of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, not too far from New Hampshire’s White Mountains, this is an outdoor retreat that offers more than just a cozy treehouse for families to stay in. While we know you’ll love the master bedroom, lofted sleeping space for the kids, elevated deck, and kitchen with a farmhouse sink. Full of vintage and reclaimed materials, lots of love went into constructing this house. But beyond the stay it’s a jumping off point for all kinds of outdoor activities. Whether you want to mountain bike, hike, or ski, this treehouse rental in New England is the spot to stay when you do.
A hand-crafted Hobbit door welcomes visitors to this luxurious two-story treehouse in New Hampshire. And it’s the attention to details that makes this treehouse rental in New England one for the books. Radiant heat helps warm cold toes in the colder months and the wrap-around deck gives you that 360 degree forest view that’s hard to beat. When bedtime hits, you can the kids can retire to separate rooms for the night. It even has AC for the hot summer months and a fireplace to keep you warm in the winter. A great travel destination any time of the year.
Call the grandparents because this New England treehouse rental is a parents-only retreat. There’s lots to love about this charming rental among the trees–it’s situated by a stream, has a hammock where you can relax and read, and its simple pleasures means you can slow down a bit and enjoy time together. Cook dinner on the propane camp grill, and climb in the loft to settle in for a good night’s sleep (finally!). Settle in at the treehouse during your stay or check out the nearby activities like hiking, skiing, or tasting at local breweries and distilleries.
If we didn’t know better, we’d think this charming treehouse rental in New England was the home of the Seven Dwarfs. Perched high in the trees, accessible by a wooden bridge, this rustic rental is full of charm. Designed by B'fer Roth, host of The Treehouse Guys, it incorporates actual trees into its living spaces. Inside the treehouse you’ll find beds to sleep seven, a fireplace, and kitchen, even toys for the kids. Just keep in mind the toilet is composting and many of the beds are in a loft that’s not walled off, so it’s best to sleep up there with your crew. Beyond the treehouse, families can hike, explore, and even swim in the nearby creek if it isn’t too cold yet. And if you want to head into town, Waterbury is only a 15 minute drive.
Modern Treehouse with Water Views | Georgetown, ME
Perched at the top of a 21-acre wood, you can’t beat the lake views from this modern tree dwelling. An autumn stay is filled with all the season’s color and a winter visit should definitely include snow shoeing and a dip in the hot tub. In the main structure you’ll find two bedrooms, and a kitchen. Then wander over the rope bridge to the second structure where you’ll find a quiet living space to sit and ponder. Town isn’t too far away and it’s where families can explore quintessentially Maine beaches at Reid State Park or cruise to a lighthouse.
This treehouse rental on Bluebird Farm in Connecticut may only be 90 minutes from the city, but you’ll feel worlds away when you get there. The comfy space sleeps four and includes modern conveniences like a kitchenette, WiFi, and a fireplace. Beyond these comforts of home, kids will love seeing the farm animals. In the morning or evening they can get a guided farm animal tour so they can see them up close. During the day you can relax on the property or explore the area. Wineries, breweries, and antique shops take center stage here. In the evening, curl up around the firepit and watch the stars.
Good to Know: There is no guarantee of running water from November 15 to April 15 due to seasonal freezing. In other words, you may not have running water for dishes and showers if you book during this time.
If you want to strip away all the hustle and bustle of the city, and enjoy the peace and quiet of the forest, this is the treehouse for your family. Part of a larger footprint of tiny homes available on Littlefield Pond, it’s got everything you need to spend time in nature with the kids. Two bedrooms, both with queen beds, a fully stocked kitchen, even a hot tub out on the deck. Spend your days exploring the area, or simply head out the front door and down the spiral staircase to SUP or kayak on the lake or even fish for your dinner.
Insider Tip: If you can’t book this one, try the Sky Frame or Cliff House. Both are owned by the same group of families and are situated around the lake.
You’ll double your fun at this two treehouse compound in western Vermont. A fantastic treehouse rental New England-style, it reeks of authenticity, and the owner warns that gnomes and elves might stop by for tea. Made with reclaimed materials, this rustic retreat is accessed by rickety stairs and bridge. It offers families an escape from city life that’s not always easy to find. Spread out in the three bedrooms, and plan to cook your meals in the open-air kitchen pavilion. Retire for the day around the firepit with s’mores and a sunset.
Good to Know: This rental is only available from June through October. Dogs are not allowed.
Yearning for a few green acres to roam? Dreaming of farming organic lavender, or perhaps of yodeling with the yaks? At these farm stays across the nation, you’ll finally get your chance. Keep reading for all you need to know about planning your next family vacation at a working farm.
Working Horse Farm | Seymour, TN
Airbnb
This little farm home is in the perfect area to get away, yet close enough to enjoy the city attractions as well. Front porch sitting is beautiful with a perfect view of a pasture full of horses. The covered outdoor riding arena makes it a great place to stay if you are traveling with horses, or if you’d just like to schedule a horseback riding lesson.
This property doubles down as it's both a treehouse and a farmstay. Sleep in the trees and walk through a fairy forest in the midst of the lavender fields. During your stay, have a picnic or wander the gardens and visit Simon the donkey and Henry the goat. Bring your gear and fish in the well-stocked pond.
Farm Stay at African Hoofstock Preserve | Point Arena, CA
Kate Loweth
The kids will be delighted when you bring them to stay at one of the cottages at B. Bryan Preserve. African antelope, zebra and giraffe, along with eclectic lodging await you in Point Arena on the beautiful Mendocino coast. Take a tour to meet the animals and then enjoy your time in the cottage or hot tub.
Blue Pepper Farm is a working sheep dairy in the Au Sable Valley of the Adirondack Mountains. This 46-acre farm sits across the valley from the hamlet of Jay and its historic covered bridge. Guests will enjoy a staggering mountain panorama from the porch, deck, or pool overlooking the lush pastures where sheep and laying hens graze. Harvest dinner straight from the garden in the summer and fall to accompany fresh organically raised lamb, pork and eggs right from the farm.
Located near Waco, Texas and about 20 miles from the downtown area, this expansive farm stay includes an incredibly unique converted grain silo with all the amenities, including a sleeping loft, full bathroom, kitchen and a fishing pond on site. Visit with the sheep and llamas and relax in the peace and quiet.
Seventy acres of serenity is what you’ll find at White Lotus Farm & Inn, just over the Hood Canal Bridge. Established in 2017 by owners Niall and Natalie, farm animals are the big draw for kids here. They’ll make fast friends with the sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, ducks and Cue, the farm llama. When it comes to navigating the space, look to Niall, who gives tours and explains the farm’s “beyond organic” practices. There’s a good chance he’ll also invite the kids to help feed the animals and look for eggs.
Head to Big Sky Country to experience life on a working sheep farm. You'll sleep in an antique sheepherder's wagon, and rise to experience a day of spinning at the wheel, hanging with the sheep, or just relaxing (they don't judge).
Come experience a silo-style tiny home living on a family-owned Missouri Farm ... complete with Nigerian Dwarf goats, miniature donkeys, cows, chickens and more. Cook dinner on the outdoor fire pit and borrow some bikes to tool around the property.
For a farm stay of a different sort, book a weekend at Mission Peak Winery. There are tons of things for kids to do on the property including a trampoline, swimming pool (season), fishing lake and canoes. Meet the local horses and stroll through the vineyards.
Guests are welcome to roll up their sleeves and help with the chores on this 75-acre working farm, but they don't mind if you prefer to soak up the pristine views that include yaks, horses, sheep, chickens, geese, and the Northern Lights, instead.
Cool Tip: Go in the winter and enjoy mushing, skiing, and the World Ice Art Championships.
Don't let the title "bed and breakfast" fool you. This working farm near Chapel Hill is only five minutes from the interstate, but offers 61-acres full of gardens, laying hens, sheep, goats, steers and pigs. And for overnight guests, the fresh farm breakfasts are really something to write home about.
We’ve got three words for you—Skagit. Valley. Farm. This quintessential farm has got it all. Twenty-two chickens and roosters roaming the property, and a duck named Sage who answers (with a sweet quack) when kids call her name. Families will find seasonal flowers and veggies available to pick and fields for sports, challenge coursing and general play that’ll wear your little farmers out. Plan picnics right on site, or explore local restaurants when hunger strikes (word on the street is that local favorite Whidbey Island Bagel Company will soon call Mt. Vernon home). They even have a pack ‘n’ play if you need one.
Animal lovers, rejoice! This farm is Animal Welfare Approved for humane practices of its cows, chickens, emus, pigs, ducks, alpacas, donkeys, guinea fowl, dogs, cats and an Icelandic Horse. So go on! Enjoy a morning milking, feeding and brushing the calves, and pitching in around the farm. And for the small set, there’s even a playground with an antique firetruck.
When you're staying at a working coffee plantation, the odds of actually getting to drink your cup of coffee in the morning—despite being in the throes of parenthood—increase significantly. In addition to staying caffeinated, guests at the Holualoa Inn enjoy perks like tours of the orchards and roasting mills.
Don't Forget: Since you won't want to miss all that the Big Island has to offer (and since you'll be plenty wired to tackle it), check with your hosts before planning your excursions. They're happy to help you arrange outings to the local beaches and trails.
In this all-inclusive dude ranch of your dreams, you'll find horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, hiking, yoga, swimming, gourmet meals, and cowboy cookouts. But it's not all fun and games. Tanque Verde Ranch is a working cowboy ranch that dates back to 1868 and is home to around 200 horses.
Don't Miss: While there is plenty to do together as a family, your little buckaroos will love the authentic Western experience of the Daily Kids Club, where they can interact one-on-one with the ranch’s horses while mom and dad get downtime.
Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm | Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, NM
Experience luxury on a working organic lavender farm, where you'll enjoy suites creatively carved into the farm's mainstays, including one in a 1930s dairy building with a pitched tin roof and white stuccoed walls. In addition to the lavender fields (dreamy, right?), you'll find a significant portion of the agricultural offerings at Los Poblanos dedicated to the farm's own kitchen. Translation: stay here for some seriously good eats.
Don't Miss: The farm's resident honey bees produce honey tinged with lavender during certain times of the year.
Even the wall tents at this farm are furnished with fine linens and comfy beds, sort of like Old MacDonald's version of glamping. Bring your binoculars and play the silent game while bird-watching on a morning stroll. Sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship are core values here, and both kids and adults will learn about animal husbandry practices and wetland restoration on farm tours.
Don’t Miss: Goats are fun and helpful backpacking companions. Take a pack goat on the trail to lighten the load for little ones.
This working farm is built around family activities for farmers of every age. Your bitty agrarians will get their farm fix by feeding chickens, gathering eggs, feeding the cows and horses and learning about the daily operation of a farm. And at the end of a long day in the fields or at the barn, what could be better than jumping into the lake (or if it’s cooler temperatures, taking a kayak, paddleboat, or canoe out for a spin)? Top off the day with a round of s’mores at the fire pit, and there’s no doubt your crew will be sleeping soundly.
Chores become a novel game when they include gathering warm eggs, feeding baby animals and milking cows at a seventh-generation working farm in the Catskills. When the hard work is done, little ones can play with kittens or go for a hayride while older siblings play badminton and fly kites. After a hearty farm fresh dinner, wind down by roasting marshmallows for s’mores outside your private guesthouse.
Don’t Miss: In September and October, explore the corn maze with the whole family and pick your own pumpkins.
This planned community an hour outside of Atlanta has the farm (and sustainability, and organic practices, and animal husbandry) at its core. Guests at The Inn at Serenbe can take a tour of the working 25-acre CSA-certified farm, go on hayrides, help feed the animals and go on trail rides. And after all that hard work, you and the kids can relax at the pool, hit the spa, and dine on fresh food prepared by some of the nation’s most acclaimed chefs.
Don't Miss: The farm has a weekly Farmers Market (from March-October) that you won't want to miss, as well as Goat Yoga for teens and adults.
With drumsticks and chicken nuggets, you may have only ever eaten one breed of chicken in your life—Cornish Cross. Rediscover the clucking variety chickens on this tiny Washington chicken farm, where you can meet and compare 20 specialized breeds. Stay in the two-room bed and breakfast (each room sleeps four) and learn about breeding and butchering chickens or simply relax on the peaceful beach.
Don’t Miss: In addition to checking out the chickens, guests can harvest berries, fruits, some vegetables, and even meet an Italian truffle-hunting pup!
Situated on a 9,200-acre estate in the Great Smoky Mountains, there is no place like Blackberry Farm. Undoubtedly swanky, Blackberry is agrarian at its core and offers families a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature. And in between a visit to the Wellhouse for pampering, fly fishing, biking, hiking, boating or general meandering, your family can learn about what life on a working farm is all about through gardening, livestock, and farm production lessons.
Insider Info: Don’t visit Blackberry without a visit to the kennels and their famous Lagotto Romagnolo dogs, as well as the truffle orchard.
It might be easier to get the kids to eat their fruits and veggies when they pick it them themselves in the seven-acre organic gardens. In the spring and summer, there are strawberries, melons, radishes, peaches and more. In fall and winter, cauliflower, carrots, turnips, kale, squash and more abound. In sunny Arizona, the farms’ campgrounds are open year-round, with restrooms, showers and on-site laundry.
Don’t Miss: Stay in one of their seven completely refurbished vintage airstreams—circa 1940 to 1970—as part of their new "glamping experience."
Family weekends throughout the year include activities for younger kids: barnyard scavenger hunts, bread making and arts and crafts. Come through any time and enjoy pony rides, sheep shearing, cheese making and other classic farm activities. Basic rooms and private cottages are available, with enough room to sleep 140 each night.
Don’t Miss: Learn to do-si-do from professionals specializing in square dancing, line dancing and country Western.
Impressively thick canvas tents can sleep up to six at this small organic farm northwest of Chicago. There’s no gas, electricity or running water, but you can cook on a wood-burning stove or order a scrumptious homemade meal. Kids can pet and feed smaller critters at the animal paddock, swing on the rope swing and climb apple trees for rustic fun.
Don’t Miss: Buy products straight from the farm at The Farm Larder, along with locally sourced goodies from small food producers. A lifesaver if you don’t feel like cooking.
This working dairy farm is one of the leading milk producers in Vermont and is famous for its herd of 270 Robeth Holsteins cows. Guests can help with the twice-daily milking of cows or feed newborn calves. Float down the White River in summer or explore the snowy Green Mountain National Forest come winter. The inn has seven guestrooms with four shared bathrooms and common areas.
Don’t Miss: Try the Cabot Creamery cheddar. Liberty Hill is part of the cooperative that makes this award-winning cheese.
The Naylors will welcome you into their ranch home and give you a personal tour of their 80-acre stone fruit farm. Organic fruit is ripe for the picking from mid-May to mid-August. Wake up to a full breakfast each morning—fresh fruit, hooray!—and savor that complimentary evening snack. Older kids will have fun picking peaches while the toddlers can enjoy the juicy fresh fruit.
Don’t Miss: The Squaw Valley Herb Gardens are a half-hour drive away, where you can make wreaths, lavender sachets, and a vegetarian, herb-inspired lunch.
Going cross-country this summer? Get your motor running and head out on the highway. Family road trips rock, especially when you stop and take in the amazing (and sometimes oddball!) roadside attractions along the way. Giant dinosaurs? Check. Troll under a bridge? Definitely brake for that too! Sometimes the most memorable part of the trip isn’t the destination, it’s the journey to get there!
Stonehenge + cars = Carhenge. There's not much more of an explanation given by creator Jim Reinders and we kind of like that. You can visit Carhenge from dawn to dusk any day of the year.
If you ever wondered where the center of the world is, exactly, it's in Felicity, California. This is where, in the 1950s, French-born Jacques-Andre Istel purchased 2,600 acres of empty land, declared himself the mayor, and erected a hodgepodge of monuments including a spiral staircase supposedly salvaged from the Eiffel Tower, a hilltop church, and a "History of Humanity" wall that starts with the Big Bang and is still unfinished.
For a small fee, you can step inside a peach granite pyramid, place your feet on the metal plaque that says, "Official Center of the World," and check this one off your bucket list.
Dog-lover? Have a thing for beagles? Put this offbeat bed and breakfast on your list of stops if you're traveling anywhere near Cottonwood, Idaho. Why? Because the giant brown-black-and-white pooch at the Dog Bark Park Inn is officially the World's Biggest Beagle! And you can sleep inside of it! Well-behaved pets are, of course, also welcome.
Cadillac Ranch - Amarillo, TX
Gabby Cullen
A legend on historic Route 66, these 10 Cadillacs were half-buried in the dirt by San Francisco artists in 1974. Road ramblers have spray painted and deconstructed them since, but it doesn't take away from their allure.
A Christmas Story House and Museum - Cleveland, OH
Fans of the 1983 comedy, A Christmas Story, will be in stiletto-lamp heaven at the Christmas Story House and Museum— the real-life home that served as Ralphie's house in the famed film. Walk the halls and check out a slew of original props, costumes and memorabilia from the film, as well as hundreds of behind-the-scenes photos. If you're so inclined, you can even stop into the gift shop and buy your very own FRAGILE (Frah-Jee-lay) red-stocking lamp.
If you are road tripping between Las Vegas and LA, chances are you've made a pit stop at EddieWorld. Dubbed the "Disneyland of Gas Stations," EddieWorld can be easily spotted with its 65-foot ice cream sundae out front (the cherry even lights up at night!). Snacks and gas pumps are plentiful and the bathrooms are reported to be impeccably clean (not something you hear often from gas stations). In addition to getting chips and soda, you can snag burgers, chicken fingers and even sushi at EddieWorld. Don't skip the homemade ice cream!
Pee-Wee Herman might have made them famous in the eighties, but these giant concrete dinosaurs are still worth a stop if you need a place to stretch your legs on the way to Palm Springs (or if you need a diversion before a day of shopping at the Cabazon Outlets). Climb inside the three-story T-Rex that towers over the park, as well as inside the 150-foot-long Apatosaurus, which was the first of the dinos to make an appearance here in the 1960s.
Thanks to the can't-miss signage that pops up every few miles (247 times, to be exact) on the long stretch of I-10 between El Paso, TX, and Tucson, AZ, you'll be wondering what "The Thing" is hours before you reach the massive roadside trading post that houses its mysterious remains. So what is it? Only those who have seen it can speculate (and we're not telling).
Four Corners - Utah, New Mexico, Arizona & Colorado
Sit—and get your photo taken—in four states at one time. Four Corners is the only place in the U.S. where four states meet. It's managed by the Navajo Nation, and there's a small admission fee.
Knock, knock. Visitors are welcome to enter and tour this historic 5,000-square-foot home and trading post in Utah's Canyonlands Country. It began as a little alcove for a family's children to sleep at night and now is a full-blown tourist destination that has even added a petting zoo.
See a piece of Pisa in a northern suburb of Chicago. The Leaning Tower is located in the Village of Niles and was originally built as a creative way to house water tanks. Since its completion in 1934, the city has added a reflecting pool and fountain. Faux Italy, here you come.
You won't know which way is up, down, or sideways when you visit this strange tourist destination located in the woods about 20 minutes northeast of downtown Santa Cruz. Watch water (seemingly) roll uphill; stand crooked inside a tilted log cabin; get taller or shorter than your fellow visitors, depending on where you stand. Find out more here.
Fremont Troll - Seattle, WA
Alaina Weimer
Rumored troll sightings underneath the Aurora bridge led to the carving of this huge troll statue. One of his eyes is a hubcap and he's clutching a Volkswagen Beetle. Look out, drivers!
Wall Drug - Badlands, SD
Welcome to the Badlands—and all the kitschy fun that comes along with it. Wall Drug is a 76,000-square-foot destination packed with free attractions and photo opportunities. A big fave is posing with the jackalope statue outside the drug store.
North Pole, CO
Santa's Workshop
Sure, you could go to Santa Claus, IN or Christmas Cove, ME, but why not take your kids to Saint Nick's hometown itself? Go to the North Pole! OK, so it's in Colorado. And it's an amusement park. But who cares? Located just west of Colorado Springs in the town of (shhh) Cascade, this North Pole is home to Santa's Workshop, a Christmas-themed amusement park that's open year-round. Soar on the sleigh-themed zip-line; hop on the Candy Cane Coaster; chug along on Santa's train, and see the white-bearded man of honor himself. Your kids will be seeing sugarplums all day long. Find out more here.
Pssst: Stuck on the East Coast? There's a North Pole there, too!
Cupid's Span - San Francisco, CA
Amber Guetebier
Right next to the Ferry Building you'll find the totally awesome, giant bow and arrow known as Cupid's Span. This 60-foot sculpture sits on a grassy spot that's fun for both picnics and Bay Bridge photo opps. Bonus: right next door is the home of SFFD's fire boats.
While all of us would love to travel the world and fill up our passports, the hard reality is that most of us find ourselves planning a trip to Disney or LEGOLAND instead (especially with the way flight prices are going). However, we’ve found a loophole. It is possible to get a “feel” for Germany, Denmark, England and more without actually leaving the United States. We’ve uncovered some of the best American cities that feel international (think Solvang, California and more), and some of them just might be near you. Put down the Rosetta Stone and let’s go; they’re just a road trip away!
Founded in 1847 by Dutch immigrants, Pella is known by many as “America’s Dutch Treasure.”
What to do: The Vermeer Mill serves as the town’s crown jewel. It is the tallest working mill in the U.S. that offers daily guided tours. It is surrounded by the historical village, flower gardens and canal with a drawbridge. Be sure to visit the Klokkenspel during one of its daily presentations when eight, four-foot tall mechanical figures come to play to the music of 147 bell carillon. Pella is also home to the Frisian Farms Cheese House which makes artisan Gouda.
Where to eat: Your best choices for authentic Dutch cuisine include the Jaarsma Bakery (which specializes in made-from-scratch Dutch pastries) and Monarchs Restaurant & Lounge (which offers Dutch Spiced Beef served with hutspot and rode kool—aka mashed potatoes and red cabbage).
The Cascades mountain range makes the perfect backdrop for the Bavarian town of Leavenworth where the hills are alive with the sound of music or so it seems.
What to do: Festivals are planned all year long including Maifest during Mother’s Day weekend, the International Accordion Celebration in June, three weekends of Oktoberfest and three weekends of the Christmas Lighting Festival. Very few chain businesses are allowed in town, and the ones that are here must fit in with the German theme. In town, you’ll find numerous themed shops with authentic music playing and many art shows in the park during the summer months. For families with older kids, Leavenworth is a great place to try white water rafting during the summer or various snow activities during the winter.
Where to eat: Authentic restaurants include Andreas Keller (specializing in rotisserie-broiled chicken and schweinshax’n, sausages and sauerkraut), Gustav’s Beer Garden and Grill (serving burgers and German sausages) and Baren Haus (with German entrees and some the best burgers and pizza in town).
While Venice may not be the first place in mind while visiting Los Angeles, it is certainly worth a stop. In 1905, developer Abbot Kinney created man-made canals in hopes or recreating the look and feel of Venice, Italy.
What to do: Today, many of the original older houses along the canals have been replaced by larger modern houses, so the “look” isn’t the same, but the “feel” is. It’s still a fun place to visit and a nice reprieve from all of the hustle and bustle of the nearby big city. While in Venice, other sites worth visiting include the famous Venice Boardwalk where there are lots of little shops, dining spots and street performers hoping to make it big. Then, of course, there’s Venice beach where the water is a favorite for surfers and the sand for musclemen.
Where to eat: You don’t have to go far to get the whole Italy experience as the Venice Canal Historic District is home to four Italian restaurants (Casa Ado, The Tasting Kitchen, Barrique and Cetanni) all located less than a mile away.
Known as “America’s Little Switzerland,” New Glarus can be found in the heart of Green County in southern Wisconsin.
What to do: The town has been considered a magnet for Swiss settlers for over 150 years. The town’s attractions include the Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum (housed in a 1937 authentic copy of a Swiss Bernese mountain chalet), the Swiss Center of North America (which collects and showcases all that is Swiss in North America), the Swiss Historical Village (14 buildings that focus on the town’s history) and the amusing New Glarus “Cows On Parade" (14 fiberglass and decorated cows are on display throughout the town).
Where to stay and eat: While in town, stay at the authentic Chalet Landhaus which combines old Swiss charm and modern conveniences. For Swiss cuisine and great steaks, dine at Glarner Stube. And, if you're a beer geek, a stop at New Glarus Brewing is a must.
While Boston is rich in American history, it is worth noting that most of the city’s oldest buildings have a distinctly British feel to them. In some parts of the city, it feels as though you're walking the streets of England.
What to do: To get the full experience, take your family on the 2.5 mile Freedom Trail Tour. Tours are led by the Freedom Trail Players who'll take you to various historic places that tell the story of the American Revolution—including Paul Revere’s house.
Where to eat: Continue the history lesson by dining at such places as the Green Dragon Tavern (which first opened in 1654 and was a hangout for Revere), the Union Oyster House (which has been around since 1826 and home of the first toothpick) and the Warre Tavern (which opened in 1780 and is rumored to have been a favorite of Revere’s as well).
Many families only think of Florida as the home to Disney World, but St. Augustine proves that there is much more to see in this state.
What to do: St. Augustine has the distinction of being our country’s oldest city. The historic district is where you’ll find city’s strongest Spanish influence with its cobblestone streets, corner cafes and bed and breakfast inns. Some of the historic sights worth visiting include Fort Mose State Park, Fort Matanzas, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park and Flagler College. On the spooky side, your family might enjoy the Lightner Museum, with its weird collections of shrunken heads and mummies or the Ripley’s Believe it or Not museum which is housed in the Castle Warden built in 1887.
Where to eat: Nestled under a famous cedar tree for over 50 years, a stop at the Spanish Bakery & Cafe for empanadas and picadillo, prepared in a traditional stone hearth oven, is a must.
Solvang is home to various Danish icons such as the Little Mermaid Fountain, the Round Tower, historic churches and five windmills.
What to do: Visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum to learn more about the author who penned The Princess and the Pea, The Ugly Duckling and others. The town features over 150 one-of-a-kind boutique shops; many with European imports. Two of Solvang’s biggest festivals include Danish Days in September (which features three parades, Danish folk dancing and a Viking encampment) and Julefest all month long in December.
Where to eat: No trip would be complete without stopping at one of the five authentic Danish bakeries or visit all five, we won’t judge. For awesome lunch, check out the Aebleskiver Café (serving Danish Aebleskiver and sausage).
There’s no denying the strong French influence that covers Charleston with its numerous mansions and historic building to explore.
What to do: The strongest influence can be found in the French Quarter District due to its large number of French merchants. Here you’ll find the Pink House Tavern that was built in 1712, the beautiful Dock Street Theatre and French Huguenot Church. After some exploring, wander toward the Joe Riley Waterfront Park where the kids can cool off in the giant pineapple fountain and splash pad. For souvenir shopping, check out the Charleston City Market.
Where to eat: As you can imagine, there are a lot of French restaurants here to try out including Gaulart and Maliclet Café Restaurant, Breizh Pan Crepes and 39 Rue de Jean.
Seattle’s Chinatown-International District also features Japantown and Little Saigon. It is only a mile away from downtown and features an eclectic mix of old and new world values.
What to do: The area is the center of many festivals held throughout the year including Lunar New Year Festival in February, Dragon Fest in July and C-ID Night Market held in September which features food, arts and crafts, live entertainment and a beer garden. The Wing Luke Asian Museum is a must-see, as well as the 86-year-old 35,000-square-foot Uwajimaya Asian grocery and gift store.
Where to eat: As you can imagine, authentic restaurants are in an abundance and are too many to list here. Just take our word for it!
San Juan Bautista is known as the “City of History” that ranges from organic farming to a bustling shopping center of town with a variety of shops and boutiques.
What to do: The largest of all California missions, Old Mission San Juan Bautista is located here, and the only Spanish Plaza left in the state can be found at the State Historic Park. Authentic Mexican food is available on every corner, the Old Adobe Antiques shop and the Plaza Market Shops will transport you to Mexico and the El Teatro Campesino features professional Latino theater productions for all ages. And if you need a little excitement, this city likes to party, offering 15 different festivals every year.
While visiting all the fun places in busy San Francisco, take some time to chill at the Japanese Tea Garden.
What to do: It is the oldest public garden of its kind in the United States and probably the grandest. Sure, the idea of getting kids excited to see a bunch of plants might sound like a chore, but they’ll be amazed when you arrive. Located in the Golden Gate Park, the garden is five acres of beautiful native Japanese plants and cherry blossom trees. Among the treasures, you’ll find here is an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone pathways, koi ponds and a zen garden. Stop by the Tea House for fortune cookies and other treats and find perfect souvenirs at the gift shop.
Less than a half hour away from Clearwater, Florida you’ll find Tarpon Springs which was founded in the early 1900’s by Greek sponge divers.
What to do: Today, the area offers numerous boat tours with some that allow kids to try on antique scuba diving gear. The Dodecanese Boulevard aka the “Sponge Docks” lines the riverfront of the town with gift shops, antiques and authentic Greek restaurants which include Mama’s Greek Cuisine, Hellas and Mykonos. A stop by the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral is in order too. Other non-Greek things to see in town include the Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Resource Center, which features many interactive exhibits and a nature store and the numerous beaches.
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the city of Helen received a German makeover in 1968. Today it boasts of over 200 specialty shops and import shops with many of them featuring craftsman busy at work.
What to do: During the summer, float down the Chattahoochee River, pan for gold and gems or take in a horse-drawn carriage ride. Helen’s annual festivals include the an annual balloon race in early summer, Oktoberfest in September and October and Alpenlights Christmas celebration in December, but year round there are a ton of family activities for kids of all ages. Check out their calendar here.
Where to eat: One of the best German-style restaurants in town is the Troll Tavern serving up Bratwurst sausages on hoagie rolls, Grilled Reuben sandwiches and Wienerschnitzel Platter (which is a breaded and fried veal cutlet).
Tropical beach vacations, dude ranches, farm stays and theme parks—these amazing options and more make choosing the best vacation option for your family a tough decision (especially after forgoing family vacations for so many months). Leave the planning to our expert travel editors as we’ve got recommendations for the best trips to take with kids of every age. Scroll through and be inspired!
Best Vacations for Babies
All-Inclusive Resorts with Baby Care
iStock
Traveling with an infant might not be at the top of your list for ideal vacations but who needs a vacation more than new parents? Many all-inclusive resorts know that parents just want to relax and they offer baby care in your room or onsite so that you can relax by the pool, enjoy a spa treatment or check out the buffet.
Some options we love:
Club Medoffers a baby program for 4 months and up at many of their resorts.
While it might seem like toddlers are a little on the young side for Disney vacations, there's something that's so magical about seeing this age when they meet their favorite characters like Cinderella and Mickey Mouse. If you can plan a Disney visit before your little one turns three you'll save big as kids under age three get in free. We've got loads of other tips to save your some money at Disney here.
Bring the Grandparents Along
iStock
There's nothing like a second set of hands that makes a toddler vacation more relaxing for everyone involved. We love traveling with toddlers and grandparents as simple things like beach days and walks are enjoyable for both of those ages. We've got lots of recs for the best destinations for multi-generational travel so check them out to see if one piques your interest.
Rent an Airbnb
Airbnb
Having a home base where you can cook meals and relax can be key when you are traveling with little ones who need naps. Airbnbs are a great option for families traveling with toddlers as it is much easier to get little ones to sleep when they can have their own space and you don't have to worry about waking them in a small hotel room. Check out this list of our favorite Airbnbs in every state as many of them come with cribs, high chairs and other toddler-friendly amenities.
Best Vacations for Families with Preschool-Aged Kids
Destination Dinosaur
Jillian G. via yelp
This age is typically when peak dino obsession hits so we love the idea of planning a trip totally devoted to dinosaurs. Pack your pint-sized paleontologists in the car and head out on a road trip to visit Dinosaur National Monument in Utah, or hit up the National Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C. We've got a huge list of our favorite spots for dinosaur lovers, so check it out!
Travel by Train
Kate Loweth
How about a vacation where getting there is half the fun? Train vacations can be fun at this age because the kids will love spotting all the sights out the window as you go. Get the full scoop on our favorite train vacations and book your next family trip on the rails.
If staying the night in a train caboose is more your speed, we've got you covered there as well. There are loads of train cars you can sleep in from a Northern California resort that's full of caboose rentals to a bed and breakfast in Minnesota where you can bunk down in a turn-of-the-century railway car.
Family Farm Stay
Shannan Rouss
Little ones will love a farm stay vacation because they can collect eggs, feed goats, pick veggies and get as dirty as they'd like. Parents will enjoy them too as they are already used to waking up with the roosters.
Aloha from the Aulani Resort
If a Hawaii family vacation is on your family wish list, consider making the Aulani Resort your destination. There are so many reasons why an Aulani vacation is epic from the family spa treatments to the interactive luau to the Disney magic that you'll find throughout the resort. With resort amenities like in-unit washers and dryers and pack n' plays in the closet, you'll have everything your family needs for a relaxing stay.
Make Your Way to LEGOLAND
LEGOLAND®
This really is the most perfect age for a visit to LEGOLAND. You'll have some of the amusement park rides on a smaller scale for the kids to tackle, plus you can go when the big kids are still in school to avoid the crowds. Check out all our LEGOLAND tips here.
Best Vacations for Families with Grade Schoolers
Hit the Road
iStock
Once kids have passed the napping stage they are prime candidates for a family road trip. They can typically tolerate longer drives without having to make millions of pit stops and they actually enjoy the journey itself. Download a new podcast, stock up on snacks and you'll be on your way to some major fun.
Educational Trips FTW
South Dakota Department of Tourism
Kids in school love to learn. Build on that enthusiasm by planning your next family vacation to include spots that will make your kids smarter from historical monuments to places to learn all about fossils to observatories where you can learn about what's beyond our atmosphere.
Visit a National Park
Kate Loweth
There are so many great national parks in the U.S. that you'll want to visit as many as you can while the kids are still young (and willing). Grade schoolers will love learning about the history in these parks and they have the energy to go on decently-long hikes as long as you bring enough snacks. If you've got a fourth grader, your whole family can get a free pass to all the national parks through the Every Kid Outdoors program.
RV Camping FTW
iStock
While many families with babies and toddlers are brave enough to attempt the RV road trip, we think the grade school age is the best time to try it out. Kids are more willing to sit for longer periods of time and will actually enjoy the RV camping experience. This age is also prime time to try out a camper van because it's easier to share a smaller space with small kids instead of stinky teens.
All Day at the Waterpark
Great Wolf Lodge
This is the perfect age to book a family vacation at a waterpark hotel like Great Wolf Lodge. Kids will love the character encounters and there are tons of activities to keep the kids busy from storytimes to craft activities. Themed rooms will totally delight them and there are waterslides for every level of bravery.
Make It a Ski Vacation
Jeff Curtes/Squaw Valley
If you haven't taken your kids on a ski resort vacation, this is the time to do it. Grade schoolers can join group lessons to get the feel of the bunny slopes before they head out on more difficult terrain. You don't have to worry about leaving them for the day when they are with all their new friends!
Trips to Take with Middle Schooler and Tweens
Learn about Race
Legacy Museum
While it's essential to talk to kids about race at every age, middle schoolers can really understand the importance of the civil rights movement and how to respectfully explore other cultures. Plan a family road trip that includes stops where you can all learn a little bit about race in America. You'll be amazed at what important discussions these places bring to your family.
Explore Your Home State
Juan Nino on Unsplash
Middle schoolers have already completed their year of state history so they can likely school you in all that is important in your state. A family road trip is a fun way to delve further into your home state's history with a visit to the state capital and other historic spots along the way.
Whether you are planning a visit to the National Museum of the American Indian or to one of the other historical sites across the U.S., middle schoolers (and parents) can learn a lot about our nation's first people through presentations, artwork and documents. Spend some time studying the important indigenous people in our nation's history as part of your next family vacation.
Go International
Kate Loweth
Middle schoolers will love the adventure that comes with an international trip and there are tons of options for exploring family-friendly international cities. Learn about a new culture, try some local food and soak in all that the country has to offer. Bonus: they are old enough to carry their own luggage.
Big Roller Coasters Are Fair Game
Giant Dipper
Once they pass the height requirements, middle schoolers are at the prime age for a big coaster amusement park trip. The question is, are YOU ready?
Yee-Haw for the Dude Ranch Vacation
Kate Loweth
We love a dude ranch vacation for all kids but especially those tweens. They'll be old enough for longer trail rides and will have the focus that goes along with activities like skeet shooting and fly fishing.
While the business of the big city can be terrifying with little ones in tow, teens can totally handle the crowds, the noise and the traffic that comes along with a big city trip. They can also deal with the massive amount of walking that comes with a big city trip and can buy souvenirs with their own money. Win!
Hit the High Seas on a Family Cruise
Dennis MInty/Adventure Canada
Teens will love the freedom that a cruise offers as there are tons of ship-wide experiences that they can enjoy without parents coming along. Most large cruise lines offer a teen club where kids can hang out and tracking bands so you can find your crew when you need to. Even more fun for teens is an adventure cruise that combines shipboard entertainment with high adrenaline exploration on the shore.
The epic beauty of Alaska is something that teens will especially appreciate. Fishing experiences, dogsledding treks and hiking for days are high on the list of what Alaska has to offer. Plus, teens can really understand what a big world we live in when they see the immenseness that is our 49th state.
Becoming a big brother or sister is an exciting time for firstborns. Days of solo playtime can now be replaced with magical adventures with a lifelong companion. While a new baby coming into the picture is indeed a joyous moment, it’s also a transitional period for the entire household. Schedules, routines and family outings all begin to change, which can be overwhelming for kids to process.
If you’re struggling to ease your youngster into this life-altering milestone, a relatable book may do the trick–and we have just the one for you! HarperCollins’ newly released Just Harriet introduces a precocious young girl named Harriet who is having trouble accepting a new baby that’s coming into the picture. Though she was promised that everything would stay the same, life is starting to feel different, especially since she’s sent to stay with her grandmother during the summer.
Written by Elana K. Arnold, the award-winning author of A Boy Called Bat, this young middle-grade story helps readers seven years and up understand and work through change. With some adventure along the way and a mystery that Harriet stumbles upon (and sets out to solve), kids will enjoy this transformative book.
The Story
Meet Harriet Wermer. A rising fourth-grader who enjoys adventure, playing with her orange Tabby cat named Matzo Ball, and spending time with her mom and dad. She doesn't like change and is known for telling a little white lie every now and then.
Although Harriet would much rather be alongside her parents during summer break, she learns that her parents won’t be able to spend time with her. Since her dad has to work and her mom is ordered to stay on bed rest for the remainder of her pregnancy, Harriet must stay with her grandmother and her grumpy old basset hound named Moneypenny.
Fortunately for Harriet, her Nanu (as she calls her) runs a cozy bed and breakfast on a small island off the coast of California. There, she makes new and interesting friends, finds a summer of adventure and may even unveil a surprise–one that involves her dad, a secret key and a treasure hunt. Can Harriet solve the mystery, and most importantly, come to terms with her new role of becoming a big sis?
Just Harriet is a wonderful addition to your child’s bookshelf that focuses on family life, personal growth and life changes. Purchase the book now and join Harriet in her exciting adventures!
You family is growing! Whether you are having your first baby or third, you deserve a little downtime before you start caring for a brand new person. Take these last weeks to enjoy sometime alone or with your partner with a romantic getaway. While traveling a long distance may be more of an undertaking then you can handle, there are plenty of perfect spots only a short drive away. Check out our top picks for the perfect babymoon.
via pixabay
Seattle
For a more active vacation, head to our neighbors to the north to take in some culture. If you haven’t been to Seattle lately (or ever), do the tourist thing and hit up Pike Place Market and Seattle Center with the Space Needle and MoPOP. If that’s old hat to you, explore the Old Ballard neighborhood from the comfort of the Hotel Ballard. While you're there, don’t miss out on the Mexican food at La Carta de Oaxaca, and get the molé.
Hotel Ballard From $239/night 5216 Ballard Ave. NW Seattle, WA Online: hotelballardseattle.com
Mt. Rainer
Just a three hour drive away, Mt. Rainier offers parents-to-be opportunities to take in the beauty of winter, and engage in winter activities that are easy on the expecting. The mountain offers spectacular views that you won’t find anywhere else, and if you leave your cozy cabin you are sure to run into wildlife including dear and elk. If mom is up for it, ranger guided snow shoe walks are available inside Mt. Rainer National Park. If you are looking for something a little more gentle and relaxing, a ride on the Mt. Rainier Gondola will take you over 2,400 vertical feet to the summit where you will find expansive views of Mt. Rainier and the beautiful Cascade Range. While you are there, you'll want to grab a bite at the Summit House, Washington’s highest elevation restaurant serving locally sourced and Northwest inspired cuisine. For a romantic base camp, stay at one of Three Bears Lodge seven cabins just outside the year-round Paradise entrance to the national park in Ashford. They are private, luxurious, and fully stocked with everything you need.
The Columbia Gorge is perfect for a babymoon because it's gorgeous year round and because of its close proximity to your Portland birthing center. Portlanders usually make this a day trip, but a longer stay will allow you and your sweetie to really relax and take in the natural splendor. Skamania Lodge has long been a favorite of Portlanders, as it’s only 45 minutes away from town, but has both a lovely natural setting and plenty of things to do. You may not feel up to ziplining this time around, but there are plenty of other things to do: a ride on the Sternwheeler, a photography tour, local waterfalls, or a mani/pedi at the spa. Or, get in a bucket at the driving range, or leave that up to your partner to tackle while you're getting those toes you haven't seen in awhile fancied up.
Skamania Lodge 1131 SW Skamania Lodge Way Stevenson, WA Online: skamania.com
Mt. Hood
Head to the mountain and book your babymoon stay at the Timberline Lodge. Timberline Lodge is an iconic spot that features a year-round outdoor heated pool that mom-to-be will love floating in. It also has a hot tub and sauna and luxurious rooms to relax in. If mom is up for it, it's a great basecamp for a short snowshoeing adventure. You can rent snow shoes right there, go on a trek and then come back to the lodge to warm up and enjoy the game room or a light read from the lending library. There are multiple onsite dining options including the Cascade Dining Room and Rams Head Bar & Restaurant. You can stay for days without leaving the lodge, except for gentle treks in the snow.
Timberline Lodge 27500 W Leg Rd. Timberline Lodge, OR Online: timberlinelodge.com
Choose your adventure: Stay outside of town at a vacation rental to enjoy the high desert air and mountain views, or stay in town to check out arts, food, and entertainment. The High Desert Museum, just south of town, doesn't just have historical exhibits, but also houses native animals like a bobcat, lizards, and birds of prey. In town, you’ll also find a few spas that offer prenatal massage, like the Jinsei Spa, which also offers couples’ massage if you’re so inclined. Dads-to-be get stressed, too! Stay at the Oxford Hotel in downtown Bend. Not only are the rooms extra luxurious, amazing restaurants and shops are all in walking distance (even for tired, pregnant feet). And if you are too tired to make you way out for dinner, the Oxford has a stunning restaurant called Roam that offers delectable dishes on site.
The quaint town of Sisters is just about three hours southeast of Portland, or half an hour north of Bend in the shadow of Black Butte and the Three Sisters. This gorgeous road trip will make you feel like you're a world away with the old-fashioned storefronts, lots of shopping and the stunning beauty of the surrounding area. For the most relaxing and romantic stay, book a room at Five Pines Lodge. You can stay at the grand lodge which is a blend of modern and rustic architecture and features a 30-foot rock fireplace, or in one of the cozy cabins located amidst a sprawling pine forest. While shopping is just steps away, mom might prefer to indulge Five Pine's Shibui Spa offerings or take in a flick at Sisters Movie House which is also located on the Five Pine Campus. In fact, you don't even have to leave the campus to grab food, just stroll over to Three Creeks Brewing.
Five Pine Lodge From $203/night 1021 Desperado Trail Sisters, OR Online: fivepinelodge.com
Cozy, but not too sleepy: If that’s what you’re looking for in your beach vacation, Cannon Beach is perfect. Depending on the time of year, you can enjoy whale watching with your partner. There are art galleries to peruse, shopping to do, and tasty food to eat, but we won’t blame if you if you just want to lounge in your chair, read a book, and watch the ocean for a few days. Stephanie Inn, with its ocean view rooms overlooking Haystack Rock, is the place to do it. Offering the comfort and elegance of a boutique luxury hotel, the oceanfront Stephanie Inn provides and opportunity to retreat, relax, and indulge yourself. With a full range of spa services, specialty experiences and classes, and the finest Pacific Northwest cuisine on the Oregon Coast, your baby moon is guaranteed to be unforgettable.
Stephanie Inn From $349/night 2740 S. Pacific Cannon Beach, OR Online: stephanieinn.com
Bingen, WA
Bingen is just a short car drive away. But, if you want a fun adventure, this quaint town is only two stops away from Portland and three stops from Seattle by Amtrak. If she's up for it, Bingen sits next to the stunning Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail which makes for great gentle bike ride or hike. Book a stay at The Society Hotel, which is only five blocks away from the Amtrak station and features a community gathering space and 20 cabins that encircle a grass area with a fire pit, bathhouse and spa. For a truly relaxing experience, spend lots of time in the brand-new sunlit spa which features a warm saltwater soaking pool mom can float in, as well as a cold plunge and hot tub. Massage services are available. Along with the spa café, she'll have everything she needs to ease her muscles. The cabins have cozy beds, a sitting and dining area and a small kitchenette where you can cook your own meals.
While Cannon Beach trades in tourism, art and postcard-perfect views of Haystack Rock, Newport has a bit more hustle and bustle, with its touristy Mariner Square (with Ripley’s Believe it or Not, Waxworks, and Oregon Undersea Gardens), busy Bayfront district serving the busiest fishing harbor in the state, lighthouses, and the Oregon Coast Aquarium. If you’re feeling up to crabbing or boating (those of you with stable stomachs and solid balance), the Embarcadero Resort has a marina, private crabbing dock and crab pot rentals. If you’d prefer to take it easy, enjoy the harbor view and floating in the resort's salt water pool. Make the Embarcadero Resort your basecamp for your getaway. The Embarcadero Resort Hotel & Marina is quietly tucked away at the end of the Newport’s Historic Bayfront located on the central Oregon Coast. This picturesque Oregon resort is a favorite destination for travelers looking for a touch of luxury. Every well-appointed guest room has a private balcony overlooking beautiful Yaquina Bay.
Embarcadero Resort From $149/night 1000 Southeast Bay Blvd. Newport, OR 541-265-8521 Online: embarcaderoresort.com
