Nature and relaxation are waiting at these kid-friendly vacation spots
Need a family vacation but don’t want to head out too far from NYC? We’ve hand-picked the best destinations in the Hudson Valley and the Catskills. Slide, dive, ride, and hike your way into the top destinations of the region, all located under three hours away from the center of NYC. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure or a relaxing retreat, check out these family hotels and resorts to visit with the fam!
If you’re looking to introduce your brood to the wonders of glamping, AutoCamp Catskills is here to provide. Explore the neighboring historic towns of Woodstock or Saugerties, and hike on the dozens of trails throughout the Catskill Mountains. Accommodations include luxury Airstreams, cabins, and swanky canvas tents if you really want to spend time with nature.
Summer Fridays mean family-friendly tunes brought to you by DJ AYO Nish!, a cornhole tournament hosted by Autocamp, an ice cream truck, and an outdoor movie featuring popcorn and a s’mores bar.
This location in the Catskills excels at group meetings, so it’s a great choice for families big and small. It features classical Italian decor and rooms that range from the standard two-bed accommodation all the way up to a two-bedroom, full kitchen suite. When you’re booking your stay, you have the option to purchase a package deal, which includes two daily meals: a five-course dinner and a full breakfast. Most of the hotel grounds and experiences are available with a regular stay, though, including scheduled daily activities and evening entertainment, indoor and outdoor pools, a game room, and more.
Additional activities are also available for an extra fee, like bumper boats, Go-Karts, and bowling. You can also go hiking or horseback riding, or try your hand at fishing in the catch-and-release pond, and play lawn games like handball and horseshoe throwing. The local area is home to cute boutiques and eateries if you’re looking for even more to do.
Distance from NYC: 2 hrs
356 Villa Roma Road,
Callicoon, NY Online:villaroma.com
This is one of the top destinations for NYC dwellers, thanks to its proximity to NYC central and affordable price. You won’t know you’re only a stone’s throw away, though, as a scenic lake, forested mountain trails, and a woodsy lodge greet you at Bear Mountain. Have a BBQ and a picnic in the main area, while the kids play in the small playground or run around the huge grassy field.
In the summer, you can visit the outdoor pool, while winter brings ice skating to the space. And while there’s no swimming allowed in the lake, you can rent a paddle boat or simply sit on a lakeside bench and enjoy the views. Two must-see attractions are the carousel, featuring wooden representations of the animals native to the region, and the zoo, which houses rescued and rehabilitated animals, many of which are also local residents. Look up to catch sight of some huge vultures! (Don’t worry, they’re just here to steal snacks from the zoo’s bears.)
Known for being New York’s biggest indoor park, the Kartrite Resort has it all: pools and slides, an arcade, mini-golf, and multiple options for chowing down. Choose to stay in one of the 300+ modern suites, which have one- or two-bedroom options decked out in chic decor, or go rustic at the lodge, set right in the mountains. The enormous water park is home to thrilling rides like the Krakken and the Nor’Easter, as well as calmer, shallow options for the little puddle ducklings in your family. As a bonus, when you stay at the resort overnight, you actually get access to the water park for the full day both on your check in and check-out day.
Once you’ve had your fill of the water park, you can explore the rest of the resort, which has additional entertainment in the form of family and goat yoga, an arcade, restaurants and bars, and hiking trails.
This top-rated family resort has everything you need for a complete getaway for kids (and parents!) of all ages. Take a dip or slide into one of the indoor or (heated) outdoor pools, ride a banana boat, bounce over 35 feet in the air with the Super Bungee Jumpers, or climb to the top of the rock climbing tower. In the winter, the resort also offers ice skating and snow tubing, and more family fun.
Of course, as the name suggests, visitors also get a chance to go horseback riding: The resort can accommodate all levels, whether you’re a regular rider or have never seen a horse in person in your life. Best of all? Once you pay for your stay, all the activities are included in the package—yes, even the delicious all-you-can-eat meals!
The Mohonk Mountain House is a historic Victorian castle built in the late 1800s. The whole fam will enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding forest and farm-fresh meals, all included in the resort stay. A few experiences are an additional price, like the spa, room service purchases, babysitting, and a number of other exclusive and personalized options.
However, most of the resort’s offerings are included in your stay. This includes three meals daily and afternoon tea and cookies, yoga, meditation, and fitness classes, an indoor pool (with underwater music!), over 85 miles of guided and unguided hikes, a museum and a greenhouse, plus other outdoor adventures like tennis and lake activities. Spend the day playing and enjoy entertainment in the evening as you wind down.
Distance from NYC: 2 hrs
1000 Mountain Rest Road
New Paltz, NY Online:mohonk.com
Do your kids have limitless energy and a constant need for entertainment? The Woodloch Resort’s daily schedules will keep even the most easily bored kid engaged all day long. The resort boasts daily schedules jam-packed with over 30 activities, most of which are included in your stay and many of which are made specially for kids and families. On a typical day’s stay, the kids might take a cooking class, go on a scavenger hunt, take a scenic boat ride, participate in a family bowling tournament, watch a movie, see a magic show, listen to live music… and that’s just a fraction of what’s on offer for just one day.
If you’re still hungry for more to do, Woodloch also has arcade game rooms, batting cages (for an additional fee), Go-Karts, an archery range, pools, disc golf, an indoor and outdoor playground, and even more. Plus, when you stay at Woodloch, you can book a detached and semi-detached villa or guest house so you can wake up to stunning views.
Distance from NYC: 2 hrs
731 Welcome Lake Road
Hawley, PA Online:woodloch.com
Wake up with the rooster’s crow—literally! Kinderhook is a working farm, which means that this farmstay will give you a chance to hang out with chickens, sheep, cows, dogs, geese, and any other animals they happen to have wandering around on the farm grounds. Set amid a scenic hilly landscape, you’ll be staying in a barn with a screened side to give you clear views of the scenery and grazing animals.
The farmstay accommodation is a comfortable mix of rustic and modern, with a full kitchen and a cedar bath, an outdoor picnic and BBQ area, swings and hammocks, and a fire pit—all private for your party of up to four adults and two children. Cribs and high-chairs are available to borrow if you need them—just let the farm know when you’re booking so they can prepare ahead of time. While you’re here, you can purchase farm-fresh goods and grass-fed meats (if you can handle meeting your dinner before you buy it).
This charming country inn is the perfect family getaway if you’re looking to escape from the city for a bit. Visitors can enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, a game room with ping-pong, air hockey, shuffleboard, and more, a children’s playground, a complimentary 9-hole golf course, and even a vintage bowling alley (for an additional fee). Note that at the time of this writing, the tennis and basketball courts are closed for resurfacing but they should be ready for use by summer 2023.
Intrepid nature lovers will have a whopping 300 acres and the Catskill Wilderness Park to explore at your leisure, with hiking trails and the beautiful Artist Falls just a short distance away. Plus, if you’re planning to out for a longer hike, the inn can make you a fresh lunch to pack! Also found nearby (within 20-30 minutes away) are opportunities for additional adventures like ziplining, kayaking, horseback riding, and more.
You can save a lot of money and hassle when booking these Disney World properties
Heading to Walt Disney World can be fun, stressful, exhilarating, and exhausting—all at the same time! Making sure that the family has some downtime is essential. One way to help parents with the whirlwind of a Disney vacation is to stay at a relaxing hotel that makes it easy to access the parks without hopping in the car.
Luckily two types of hotels do just those things! Those designated a Walt Disney World Good Neighbor® Hotel offer a Guest Services desk to help with Disney ticket purchasing, offer park shuttles, and meet Disney standards for quality and service. There are also partner hotels located directly on the Disney World property not owned by Disney that offer proximity and perks to guests staying there, making it that much easier to have a magical Disney World vacation the family has always imagined. Here are some of our favorites:
Multiple pools, an arcade, a spa, bike rentals, a two-story fitness center, and seven restaurants and bars await families staying at this Good Neighbor resort. Located only one and a half miles from EPCOT, free shuttle transportation is available to all Disney parks and the Disney Springs shopping village. Theme park tickets are also available to be purchased at the resort. When it’s time for some sleep, choose from a one-bedroom suite or two-bedroom villa so the family has plenty of space for all their souvenirs.
Located four miles from Disney, this Good Neighbor Hotel has an outdoor pool, restaurant, game room, and room service for those nights after a long day at the parks. Connecting rooms gives larger families the ability to have more space. With an in-room refrigerator, free Wi-Fi, free parking, and the ability to bring your pet, it will feel even more like home.
Ready for an adventure? This resort and water park has everything families visiting Disney World could ask for. Spacious two and three-bedroom suites allow up to eight people to be together while giving parents their own area. But with so much to do, you won’t be in your room for long. The on-site water park offers multiple pools and slides, while the pier on Lake Austin allows fishing and watersports. There’s also an arcade and kids’ activity center. When it’s time to go to Disney World, this Good Neighbor Hotel provides a shuttle to Disney World, Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT. Don’t forget to get your tickets in advance at the concierge desk to avoid lines at the parks.
Designated as an official Disney World hotel and located directly on Disney property, this resort is less than one mile from Disney Springs. When not taking the complimentary shuttle service to one of the four Disney parks, guests can enjoy one of three on-site restaurants, free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and a zero-entry pool. Kids also have their own space where they can play arcade games. Book one of the fireworks view rooms for a special treat to see Disney’s firework shows while avoiding the crowds.
Situated in the town initially developed by the Walt Disney Corporation, this Good Neighbor hotel offers two pools, free rides to Disney World, a pool bar, and a restaurant. There’s also an on-site marketplace to pick up coffee, snacks, and grab-and-go meals. Pets are welcome.
Best Western Plus Kissimmee – Lake Buena Vista South Inn & Suites | Kissimmee
A respite from the theme parks, this Disney Good Neighbor hotel offers rooms with a microwave and refrigerator to help with the late-night munchies. A game room, hot tub, and heated pool allow everyone to relax, while a fitness center and laundry provide additional amenities. There is a free shuttle to Walt Disney World theme park. And with no resort fees, free parking, and complimentary breakfast, it’s the perfect place for families looking to control their spending.
At the entrance to the Disney resort, this all-suite resort sits on 24 acres that provide plenty of activities for the family. Suites offer separate living space from the bedroom to give everyone space. The on-site waterpark includes a lagoon pool, splash pad, and slides. When you’re too waterlogged to continue, try out the 9-hole miniature golf course, basketball courts, arcade, and playground. This Good Neighbor hotel offers a free shuttle to EPCOT and the Disney Transportation and Ticket Center to access the other Disney theme parks.
For those who want to go all out with the Disney World experience, head to the Four Seasons Resort Orlando. At this Disney partner hotel, guests receive complimentary transportation to the parks and can also make reservations to participate in a 30-minute early park entry to any Disney park daily. The resort’s Disney Planning Center can help schedule a private VIP tour at the parks, while in-room celebrations with themed gifts welcome Disney fans. Interested in the characters? Attend an on-site character breakfast or organize a personal Disney character interaction. While not at the parks, there are plenty of other things to enjoy, such as golf, dive-in movies, the spa, kids’ programs, and the five-acre on-site water park.
One destination. Three hotels. That’s what families will experience while staying at Marriott Village Orlando. The Springhill Suites, Courtyard by Marriott, and Fairfield by Marriott are on-site and are all Walt Disney World Good Neighbor hotels. They share three splash pads, four hot tubs, three pools, a village food area, and free transportation to the theme parks.
Disney isn’t just for kids. Adult lovers of theme parks will relax at this Good Neighbor Hotel, known for its beach style and laid-back attitude. Three pools offer plenty of space to get some sun, while live music at the lounge keeps the party going all night. The on-site restaurants also provide plenty of opportunities to grab a frozen boat drink or cheeseburger. This hotel isn’t exclusive to adults, though. Children will love the Island H2O water park located down the street and riding around the grounds in a Surrey bike. Once you drag yourself from your lounge chair, head over to the parks—the complimentary shuttle takes guests to all Disney theme parks. Pets are welcome at the hotel, and Wi-Fi is available in all common areas and guest rooms.
This all-suite Good Neighbor hotel gives families the space they need when not at the parks. Every room has a mini-refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker and can sleep up to five people. Rooms include free parking and a complimentary breakfast buffet that’s included each day for every guest. The hotel provides complimentary transportation to the Disney Transportation and Ticket Center for easy access to the Disney parks and a shuttle to Disney Springs. On days you’re not at the parks, take advantage of the basketball and tennis courts, swimming pool, fitness center, and hot tub.
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Treehouses, mountain views, beach days, and even a zombie-proof vehicle you can sleep in
Whether you’re looking for an awesome staycation or your next family road trip destination, we’ve pulled together the best Airbnbs for kids in every state. These family-friendly vacation rentals offer great locations, unique stays, and more, all at prices much lower than hotels. Plus, the convenience factor could not be higher.
ALABAMA: Off-Grid UNIMOG Zombie-Proof Adventure - Kimberly, AL
How cool is this Airbnb? This 1966 UNIMOG was used as a movie prop in TheHunger Games and the Walking Dead. Two people can sleep in the UNIMOG and there are spots for additional people to sleep on the open-air sleeping loft. You are totally off the grid at this spot as you'll drop your car at the farm's goat pen and throw your belongings in the back of the UTV. Staff will drive you what will seem like a hundred miles away from society onto the 105-acre sanctuary. You will hike beautiful scenery, play in the river and chill in your lounge chair on an observation deck that lets you truly escape the world below.
Sleeps: 4 but more can be accommodated. Dogs allowed. Cost: $102/night Online: airbnb.com
ALASKA: Shackleford Creek Mountain House—Cooper Landing, AK
Airbnb
You'll love exploring the mountains and lakes that surround this cabin that's a mile from the town of Cooper Landing. Fishing, hiking, and mountain biking trails are all within minutes of the house and there are multiple guides in town to help you get out there and explore. Guests have access to the gear shed where they can store gear and fish.
Have you ever thought about how cool it would be to stay in a Navajo hut, with an earthen floor and a wood-burning stove? This rustic Native American-owned traditional Navajo hut near Page, Arizona accommodates four family members and has a fully-stocked bathroom nearby and an outside fire pit is where you’ll cook your dinner under the moonlight. The best part: you’ll wake up to a traditional Navajo breakfast complete with blue corn porridge, fresh fruit, and ranch coffee or tea sourced from the land. Keep a look out for roaming sheep, sheepdogs, and horses before you set off for a visit to the nearby Grand Canyon.
ARKANSAS: Spacious Lake Hamilton Home—Hot Springs Township, AR
Airbnb
You can bring your whole crew and more to this lakefront house that sleeps 16. There are kayaks, a canoe, and a stand-up paddle board available for guests to use. The outdoor hot tub is the perfect spot to relax after a busy day.
Can't you just feel the chill vibe from this Aptos treehouse rental? Close to New Brighton State Beach, this rental offers nearby hiking trails and beach days galore. Mid-Century furniture fills the rooms where you can curl up for a good read after a day outdoors. Heated floors, Smart TV, and a gorgeous kitchen will make your visit that much more comfortable. Read our Santa Cruz guide for ideas on what to do in the area.
How cozy would it be to spend the night in this treehouse high above Cattle Creek? Climb up the staircase and you'll find a full kitchen and wood-burning stove. Bring your coffee and hot cocoa out to one of the decks and watch the stars. You can even bring your pets!
CONNECTICUT: Lakefront Cabin in Connecticut—Sherman, CT
Airbnb
Your family will love cozying up at the fireplace after a day spent snowshoeing or hiking in the nearby woods. You'll have water access if the weather allows and plenty of space to relax.
Stunning modern home within biking and walking distance to town. The main house is 3 bedrooms each with its own full bath, powder room, large living room, dining room, and kitchen area, and a large screen porch. The property also includes a separate studio/4th bedroom with a powder room and outdoor shower area.
Located just one exit away from Disney World, your kids won’t complain when it’s time to go back and rest. There’s the 101 Dalmatians room with spotted walls, twin beds, and stuffed dogs everywhere. The Frozen room is decked out with floor-to-ceiling decorations from the movie and stuffed Olaf and friends on the twin beds. Mom and Dad will appreciate the Mary Poppins master suite. The house’s game room is themed with Star Wars and features a space-age ping pong table, a conventional pool table, and a foosball table game. In case the kids didn’t burn off enough energy at the theme parks, there will be pretty of time to do so in the home’s private indoor pool.
The home also comes with a full kitchen, dining room that seats 10, living room, air conditioning, and TVs in every bedroom. A grocery store and fast food options are only a mile away too.
Just a few minutes away from downtown Atlanta you’ll find this luxury cottage “guarded” by alpacas and the beautiful Dali Llama. Imagine waking up in a super comfy memory foam bed to real roosters instead of an alarm clock. Then, make breakfast with farm-fresh eggs in a beautiful granite kitchen. Afterward, you can feed the llamas, play a board game or two or travel into town. Enjoy the garden from the cottage patio. The home is equipped with children’s toys, TVs, and Wi-Fi too. The place is a mixture of casual comfort and elegant touches. Get a sense of what it’s like to live on a farm without having to leave the city.
Enjoy the ultimate Hawaiian resort vacation. This villa is luxuriously equipped with every comfort that you can imagine. You'll have a private putt-putt course, a lush edible garden featuring tropical varieties such as papaya and mango, as well as a heated pool and spa.
Sleeps: 8 guests Cost: $631/night and up Online:airbnb.com
With this rental, you'll get absolutely stunning and unmatched views of the Salmon River! This beautiful, newly constructed, hand-crafted home features an open floor plan with southwestern accents throughout. Private beach access. Conveniently located one mile North of downtown Riggins, Idaho.
ILLINOIS: Stunning Old Town Penthouse with Private Rooftop (Chicago, IL)
Airbnb
If a 4,000-square-foot luxury penthouse, in the heart of downtown, sparks your interest, then look no further than this rental. Built in 1897 and renovated in 2017, this is a treasure like no other. There are two units connected in this penthouse, linked by a private staircase, allowing for two living rooms, two kitchens, and two laundry rooms.
The Cozy Nest is an adorable three-bedroom, pet-friendly cottage with amazing views of a quiet, no-wake lake. There is a private, 4-person hot tub overlooking the lake. It's the perfect spot for your summer vacation!
The home is located in a small neighborhood surrounded by friendly neighbors with a great view of the lake. It has 2 spacious living room areas, 3 bedrooms, and a bathroom located on each level. It's only a short drive from Omaha so you can check out all the city has to offer while you are there.
Soak up the modern and vintage charm of our fully remodeled home! Eclectic accents include original 1960’s mirror artwork, original Lane dining and coffee tables, and a super cool 10-foot tall pocket door.
KENTUCKY: Fossil Creek Woodlands Retreat—Pendleton, KY
Airbnb
Fossil Creek provides a relaxing environment for family and friends to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy beautiful Kentucky woodlands. This home is situated at the base of 65 wooded acres in Oldham County Kentucky. Its name comes from the plethora of fossils that can be seen in the creek that runs along the front of the property. Kids will love checking out the "Hobbit Loft" that connects the three bedrooms.
Amazing three bedroom, 2500 sq. ft home with wrap-around deck overlooking the river with breathtaking views. The house is stunning with an enormous living room and master suite. Nestled in the woods on 7 acres, you will feel as if you are in a tree house. There is a bridge and trails that lead down to the river.
MAINE: Luxurious Treehouse Near Bar Harbor—Hancock, ME
Airbnb
Rekindle the joy of being a kid as you revel in luxury suitable for grownups. This treehouse is nestled among maple, spruce, cedar, pine, and birch. Spacious at 900 square feet, this treehouse offers such comforts as a whirlpool, sauna, kitchen, fireplace, seasonal outdoor shower, and plenty of deck space. Pets are welcome.
This perfectly private property, aptly named Peace and Plenty Farm, features a heated lap pool (open May to October) surrounded by wildflowers. It's the perfect place to relax after exploring historic downtown Frederick, Maryland (about 15 minutes away), or Gettysburg, Pennsylvania (45 minutes away). Other features include a grill, fire pit, and walking trails.
For a true New England vacation with a killer view, you can have this entire historic lighthouse and its adjacent home all to yourself. Located at the tip of Wings Neck Point along the western coast of Cape Cod, the lighthouse was built in 1849 and completely renovated in 2003. Formerly a U.S. Coast Guard lighthouse, the light tower still stands next to the original three-bedroom keeper's home. Kids will love climbing the whirling stairs and subsequent ladder to reach the glass top of the lighthouse, where they'll get a 360-degree view of the Atlantic Ocean and the adjacent rocky shores. And, when just looking at the water isn't enough, there is a private sandy beach nearby where kids can swim in the gentle waves of the bay.
MICHIGAN: Lake Skegemog Dream Retreat—Williamsburg, MI
Airbnb
For a truly spectacular stay, book this spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath house offering top-notch features like a waterfront location on Lake Skegemog, a private dock, and a well-appointed interior. Completing the package, the vacation rental lies within a quick drive of major destinations like Mt. Holiday, the National Cherry Festival, and Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail. Kids will love all the exploring they can do on the property and nearby.
Perfect for a family reunion, the Northern Retreat sits on the edge of Roy Lake and contains three buildings over five acres. Here you’ll find eight bedrooms with 11 beds, nine bathrooms, a private tennis court, two exercise rooms, two screen-in porches, three decks, a barrel sauna, a hot tub, a game room (that features a pool table, ping pong, foosball, and a popcorn machine) and a most impressive movie theater room with nine reclining and a big-screen movie wall.
Outside you’ll find a walking trail, two fire pits, and a 32-foot-long dock. The house is located just a mile from the town of Nisswa which has several fun shops, restaurants and activities, and the Paul Bunyon Trail.
MISSISSIPPI: The Nest, a Waterfront Cottage—Long Beach, MS
Airbnb
Imagine drinking your morning coffee or an evening glass of wine on this spacious front porch while overlooking the breathtaking gulf! This charming beachfront cottage is the perfect place to relax while being near great restaurants, bars, nightlife, and of course the beach.
MISSOURI: Deer Ridge Crossing in the Ozarks—Cassville, MO
Airbnb
Head to the Ozarks to experience some time in this spacious yurt. 30 acres of woods are available for exploring and the kids will love seeing what creatures they can find. You'll love that this spot has a real bed. Feel free to bring your dog with you as this spot is pet-friendly.
The Raven's Nest treehouse is a modern A-frame treehouse nestled on 5 private acres. This artistically designed two-story treehouse has all the luxury amenities you'll need for your next family vacation. There's no shortage of activities as it is within 30 minutes of Glacier National Park and minutes from Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort. The grand entrance to the Raven's Nest is an iron staircase leading you up into the trees. There are two outdoor deck areas, a full bathroom on the main floor and a second-floor bathroom with a large soaking tub. Kids will especially love how two living trees grow through the treehouse interior of the Raven's Nest. There's a second treehouse on the property if you want to make it a multi-family visit.
This 5-bedroom farmhouse is ready to welcome your family for a relaxing vacation. Kids will love checking out the property's horses, cattle, and chickens. You can hike, fish in the private lake, and use the kayaks during your stay.
The Denali Farmhouse is a modern home with stunning private views of the Ruby Mountains. Pre-arranged farm tours of the ranching property are available. There are tons of hiking opportunities and in the winter, snowshoeing and backcountry skiing.
This ultra-cute caboose has the coveted sleeping spot in the cupola. You'll find that the caboose is located near lots of outdoor recreation spots like swimming holes and waterfalls, as well as several restaurants.
NEW JERSEY: Brand New Waterfront Home—Ship Bottom, NJ
Airbnb
You'll love the chill vibe in this vacation home and all the rooms have water views. The rooftop deck, beach, and dock, provide many options to relax or play. Bring your water toys or beach blanket and enjoy!
NEW MEXICO: Desert View with a Pool—Fountain Hills, NM
Airbnb
Relax in your own private heated pool and hot tub, and grill like a pro in your outdoor kitchen. Watch a game on the outdoor TV with an upgraded speaker system. Soak in some incredible Arizona views. As you lay in the loungers above the pool, you are surrounded by desert terrain and treated to a breathtaking view of Red Mountain.
NEW YORK: The Ranch With Outdoor Luxuries—Kerhonskon, NY
Airbnb
A hot tub, tank pool, outdoor movie screen, and fire pit nestled in the wilderness? Yes, please! (And that's just on the outside!) Stony Hill Ranch has four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths, as well as a "Jam Shed" where you can rock out for an additional deposit. The property is in Kerhonkson, NY near the Shawangunk Mountains, but it's also near a Walmart if you need to stock up on things.
Take in the rustic, fairy-tale vibe of this custom-made treehouse in the midst of towering white oaks. Recline in a rocking chair and watch the sunset over the mountains, or try your hand at some stargazing from the comfort of the deluxe double bed. There's an additional treehouse on the property if you want to make it a multi-family stay.
NORTH DAKOTA: Scenic Buckhorn Ranch Cabin—Medora, ND
Airbnb
This log cabin is located in an isolated area of the North Dakota Badlands, about halfway between the North and South Units of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The historic district surrounding the cabin also offers world-class trails for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain bike riding, as well as opportunities for fishing and canoeing when river levels are adequate. Kids will love searching for fossils and minerals in the Little Missouri River bed.
OHIO: Lakefront Retreat on Portage Lakes—New Franklin, OH
Airbnb
This beautiful and spacious waterfront four-bedroom home is perfect for all your getaway needs! Bring your boat and dock at the property, or rent one nearby. There are many great local restaurants accessible by boat. Enjoy the firepit and fish from the dock. There's a game closet full of indoor fun if you catch bad weather.
OKLAHOMA: Luxurious Cabin for the Whole Crew—Broken Bow, OK
Airbnb
With three master suites and a loft that can sleep up to six kids, your crew will have plenty of space to spread out. Spend time cooking on the outdoor BBQ and then roast s'mores on the fire pit. It is just minutes away from everything Hochatown has to offer.
Surprisingly affordable, this is one of the best Airbnb vacation rentals we've seen. Cozy up in this work of art that's designed to make you (and the kids–it’s about the kids, right?) feel like you're part of the Hobbit's epic adventures. From the furniture to the walls and ceilings this handcrafted, sustainable abode is inspired by the Lord of the Rings and is guaranteed to infuse your vacation with magic. It's made from reclaimed clay, tree roots, and reclaimed materials, which you'll discover throughout the entire space. There's also a Hobbit-friendly memory foam queen bed, a leather sofa sleeper (also with memory foam), a kitchenette with a nearby dining area decked out with a Swarovski crystal chandelier, and a European-styled bathroom.
PENNSYLVANIA: A Cozy Bargain in the Poconos—Saylorsburg, PA
Airbnb
It's cute and compact, and the price is right! This little cottage in the Poconos is small but mighty, with peaceful sitting areas, a fire pit, grill, and patio string lights, and it's also pet-friendly. Plus, it's near hiking, flea markets, and other area attractions.
This gorgeous 1940s Quonset hut was used in the war to store ammunition and now is fully renovated and ready to welcome guests. Bedrooms consist of an upstairs Master bed with an ensuite bathroom and sitting area, 1 queen-size bedroom, 1 full-size bedroom, and 1 Summer Secret Kids Playroom with bunkbeds and additional air mattresses if needed. Borrow the bikes for a one-mile ride to the beach.
Will you head to the ocean or spend the day in the pool? The choice is yours at this gorgeous rental that's just a short walk to Center Street and 20 minutes to Charleston. Enjoy the low country breezes on one of the three porches, or gather the family around in the sunroom after a long day on the beach.
You'll love this hidden gem in the heart of the Black Hills, nestled on 3 private acres. With decks in every direction, you're encouraged to take in the abundance of nature. Watch for whitetail deer, turkeys, birds, and squirrels. Relax under the pines in the hot tub or the gazebo jetting out over a gully.
This cabin offers a charming and private Smoky Mountain escape. The peacefulness and solitude provide all the privacy you need for a break from the stress of the real world with your family. The cabin setting is quiet with the only noise being the Dollywood train whistle and local wildlife going about their day. The cabin is surrounded by woods on all sides, except of course for the clearing of the view.
TEXAS: The Silo House at Laughing Llama Farm—Troy, TX
Airbnb
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.
This serene guest home on a family ranch is 9 miles south of Cedar City. Enjoy the miniature farm animals, orchards, and gardens. Minutes from Kanarraville Falls and other hiking trails and 10 min from Zion's North Entrance, this property is perfectly situated for outdoor adventures.
Sweeping views are part of the dream that comes with a visit to this Stowe, VT yurt. Warm yourself by the fire pit or indoor wood stove when the days get cold. Kids will love all of the wildlife on the property including birds, moose, deer, fish, frogs, salamanders and owls at night.
This large home in the heart of Clarendon in North Arlington offers a wading pool perfect for pint-sized swimmers. Before or after your dip, don't forget to roast marshmallows in the outdoor fire pit. Feel free to leave your car at home; this house is conveniently located near a metro stop.
If you’ve got a little LEGO lover in the fam, he or she is going to think everything about this house is awesome! The bright and funky architectural home (Wendell Lovett) includes LEGO design elements in the kitchen and LEGO wall art (using real bricks!), as well as plenty of open space and light-filled rooms. Parents and kiddos alike will love the A-frame design and spots of bright colors and stylish furnishings around every corner.
Set back on a wooded lot (with an outdoor eating space), the home features three bedrooms, a loft, and two and a half bathrooms and feels very open and airy with its high vaulted ceiling and open stairwell. This house has easy access to Matthews Beach and Magnuson Park (two kid faves), as well as the retail shops and restaurants at University Village. It is just far enough away from downtown Seattle to feel private, but also close enough when it’s time to go have fun.
WASHINGTON DC: Classic Scandinavian Kid Haven—Washington, DC
Airbnb
This 100+-year-old historic row house located in D.C.'s Mt. Pleasant neighborhood is perfectly situated to fun spots for the entire family, including Rock Creek Park and the National Zoo which are next-door neighbors, and the White House and National Mall which are two miles away. After exploring the city, let the kids hang in the playroom with toys, books, Wii games or splash in the ball pit (yes! there's a ball pit!).
From a guest: "The attic room is a kid's haven. We had to drag them out every day. They enjoyed the ball pit, puppets, LEGO, drum set, Wii game console, and a myriad of other toys." Sleeps: 8 Cost: $325/night Online: airbnb.com
This private 3-bedroom house includes a rooftop dome (which serves as the third bedroom). From almost every spot, enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery of endless mountains, three states, and the Potomac River.
WISCONSIN: Pirate Ship Adventure Cabin—Lyndon Station, WI
airbnb
Ahoy, me hearties! Pirate-loving littles will definitely want to spend a night aboard the “Passing Wind,” outside of Wisconsin Dells. The unbelievable Pirate Ship Adventure Cabin has room for six and is guaranteed to make memories. A slide, swing set, and tons of pirate décor add to the fun. Parents should know that the ship’s two bedrooms are separated by a short 15-foot walk across an outdoor lower deck, and bathrooms are a short walk away.
This gorgeous property sits in the middle of 15 private acres with views of the South Fork River Valley, Buffalo Bill Reservoir, and surrounding mountains. It has plenty of beds for your family and is a great spot to bed down and then head out on nearby adventures.
Channel your inner Old MacDonald and head to one of these farms where you can spend the night and lend a helping hand
Do you dream of milking a cow named Buttercup? Do you long to gather eggs from a rustic old chicken coop? Does the Green Acres theme song play on a loop in your head? Then a nearby farm stay is just what the doctor ordered. Lucky for you, California features an amazing crop of working farms that are waiting to welcome you and your little city slickers for a vacay unlike any other. Here are some of the best in the state, so giddy up, grab those overalls, and get goin’!
The 12 Best Family-Friendly Farm Stays in Southern California
Flip Flop Ranch
1. Flip Flop Ranch in Lucerne Valley, CA
Just two hours east of LA in Lucerne Valley, give your kiddos a taste of farm life at Flip Flop Ranch, a beautiful 40-acre working farm that features a bright and airy farmhouse and tons of fun activities for the whole family. After you wake to a friendly “cock-a-doodle-doo” from the resident rooster, take in some fresh air with a leisurely stroll through the surrounding desert, enjoy a memorable goat milking experience, or just spend some social time with the farm’s animals—horses, pigs, cows, lambs, sheep, barn cats, geese, ducks and the many endangered breeds of livestock the farm works hard to conserve.
The house has no Wi-Fi or TV, so it’s a perfect opportunity to pry kids’ eyes away from their screens and have them pick up a good book or jump into a riveting game of Rummikub. With nine beds throughout, there’s plenty of sleeping space for everyone, so bring along friends or extended family! At night, whip up a hearty dinner in the farm’s kitchen with full amenities and don’t forget to step outside for some serious stargazing before bedtime.
Founded in 1875, this 200-acre Old West ranch invites guests to kick back, relax and enjoy farm living in the forest. This picturesque spot is sustainable, and totally off the grid with no neighbors for miles—perfect for families who are looking for complete privacy (or who are hiding from the mob—fuhgeddaboudit).
The fully furnished, two-bedroom cabin is the center of the ranch and features its own private garden, patio, and barbecue. A small vestibule provides a daybed when extra sleeping space is needed. Guests have full access to all the fun the ranch has to offer – whether it’s picking eggs from the chicken coop or salad from the commercial greenhouse, kayaking on two spring fed ponds, fishing for catfish and blue gill, playing basketball and baseball, cooking s’mores over the firepit, hiking the many forest trails on the property, or enjoying some horseback riding (for an extra fee). Guests are also provided with a Jeep to use during their stay so they can explore the majestic grounds and hillside.
Animal loving families will enjoy spending their vacay at the Yucca Valley Mojave Homestead Ranch—a high desert horse rescue. This three-bedroom private home allows visitors to visit with, feed, and groom the property’s rescue horses, mini horses, and donkeys. You can even bring along your own family pet (as long as they’re housebroken). If you feel like doing a little exploring during your stay, you’re only minutes from Joshua Tree National Park, Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown and about 30 minutes from Palm Springs.
This peaceful farm stay in the rolling hills of San Diego is one of our nearby favorites. The 20-acre subtropical farm grows year-round and experiments with rare and unusual fruits that can’t be grown without a greenhouse elsewhere. The property has six distinctly different farm stays to choose from—whether you prefer to cozy up in a whimsical one bedroom, bring a larger brood to the Bunny Hill stay that sleeps eight, or catch some zzzz’s in a safari canvas cabin for a truly unique experience.
But the real star is the wide range of unique activities offered to guests—classes in churning handmade ice cream and making jam, butter, and cheeses. Visitors can also gather eggs from chickens, take a relaxing soak in the hot tub, check out a fun mosaic or acrylic swirl painting class, or visit with the goats, alpacas, and peacocks. And you’re near Temecula and Fallbrook if you feel like venturing out for some wine tasting, hot air ballooning, or strawberry picking.
Sleeps: Each farm stay varies in occupancy, but most sleep 4-8 guests depending on what you choose
Price: Starts around $171/night Online:morningsongfarm.com
The Best Northern California Farms Stays for Families
Life slows down when you visit the charming Mar Vista Farm & Cottages in Mendocino County. The property’s nine acres of land are filled with farm animals, forested trails, harvesting gardens, secluded beach access, and plenty of space for families to play. Cozy and inviting cottages feature all the amenities you need to make your stay comfortable—from bed and bath linens to a kitchen stocked with pots, pans and utensils, and even a fireplace!
During your stay, you can cut fresh flowers from the garden or harvest your own veggies, herbs, and fruits at any time to use for your own cooking. They’ll even deliver farm-fresh eggs directly to your door to use for your morning breakfast. Mar Vista features additional food packages available for delivery as well—hello, picnic basket and s’mores basket! Yum! When you’re done thinking about all that food, families can visit with the farm’s bunnies, feed the goats, collect eggs from the chickens, take a yoga class, or check out “Cottage 13″—a small playhouse for younger guests.
Sleeps: Each cottage varies in occupancy. There are four family cottages than can sleep two adults with three small children max.
Price: Family cottages run $355-$380/night Online:marvistafarmandcottages.com
6. Artistic Farmhouse in Marshall, CA
Just a 5-minute walk from the pristine beaches of Tomales Bay, this artistic farmhouse provides a restorative escape into nature with plenty of fun things to do. Awake to breathtaking bay views of the Point Reyes National Seashore from this two-bedroom getaway. The 23-acre property is host to sheep, deer, and wild turkey – so keep your camera ready. It’s also the perfect place to hike, kayak (BYOK), and go bike riding. If you’re into oysters, you’re in shuck (get it?) as Nick’s Cove and Hog Island Oysters are just minutes away.
If you’ve been dying to stay on a sustainably farmed goat ranch known for its nationally acclaimed goat cheese (and who could blame you), this is your chance! Patty’s Farm Stay features stunning views, a gorgeous garden, and a variety of animals to befriend. Set in the historic town of Bodega where Alfred Hitchcock filmed The Birds, this sweet one-bedroom with sofa bed (perfect for a family of three or a parent and child) offers a u-pick activity in the garden (only in season), a farm store with a selection of farm products, and the option to tour the farm or do a cheese tasting for an additional fee.
For a truly special farm stay, you can’t go wrong with the cottages on the 110-acre B. Bryan Preserve in Point Arena. Eclectic lodging and African animals galore await you—antelope, zebra, and giraffes (oh my!). All units have satellite TV and amenities like linens, kitchen pans and utensils, as well as a fireplace. In order to see the animals, guests must book a tour at a reduced rate. Also, there is a small lake on the property, so please be aware if you have small children. If you’d like to venture into town, the Mendocino Coast has a stunning historic lighthouse, art deco cinema, organic co-op market, and some really fantastic restaurants.
Big Sur is known for its stunning ocean views and this lovely farm stay on a private working ranch offers that in spades. This spacious two-bedroom cabin with a loft features everything you could need to feel right at home—including Wi-Fi (but we think you’ll be too busy gazing at the Pacific or playing with animals to use it). The hosts pride themselves in educating visitors about farm life, animals, and helping with chores (don’t tell your kids). In fact, the farm’s goats will kid (give birth) this year in May!
Set on 2,200 acres in its own valley with scenic views of golden hills and the mountains at Pinnacle National Park, Bar SZ Ranch is an extraordinary place to escape with your family. Run by a family of five who eat, sleep, and breathe ranch life—it’s hard not to be won over by their hard work and enthusiasm during your stay.
Luxe accommodations include The Log Cabin, a 2,100 sq. ft., three-bedroom home that’s spacious yet warm with a stone fireplace, game room with pool table, and views of the pastures and mountains. The Ranch House is as another option with 4,300 sq. ft. of living space plus a detached apartment, private pool, and pool house. With six bedrooms, a lush yard, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, and a wraparound porch where you can relax, you’d be hard pressed to find something better. You can also book a private RV or glamping tents for your stay as well. For guests who are interested in experiencing day-to-day life on a working ranch, there are several paid activities to choose from, including trail rides, arena rides, BB guns and archery, as well as free experiences like animal feeding, hiking, and mountain biking.
Sleeps: 6-8 guests
Price: Log Cabins start around $450 per night with a two-night min; The Ranch House starts around $850 per night with a two-night min. The private RV is $150 per night and glamping tents are $150 per night. Online:barszranch.com
9. Mission Peak Ranch in Fremont, CA
On this 150-acre estate, guests have plenty of outdoor space to enjoy themselves—whether they’re fishing and canoeing on the private lake, hiking one of many private and public trails, playing basketball, strolling the vineyard (Mission Peak Winery), meeting local rescue horses, jumping on the trampoline, or gazing at the zillions of twinkling stars in the night sky. Accommodations include a 1,600 sq. ft. two-level house with an outdoor patio, oodles of amenities, and high-speed internet. During summer months, guest are granted access to the swimming pool on site by scheduling their swim ahead of time.
Sleeps: 8 guests (the home sleeps 4 comfortably, but you may add up to 4 more guests for $50 per person/night)
Price: $499/night Online:airbnb.com
The Best Central California Farm Stays for Families
Kindred Oak Farm is a unique retreat amongst century old oaks in the heart of Paso Robles wine country. This newly renovated organic working farm is home to a five-star, four-room bed and breakfast that encourages guests to connect with Mother Nature. All four guest rooms are beautifully decorated with luxurious amenities, but the Adelaida room is the only room with a King-sized bed and an extra twin-sized daybed for additional space. The room rate is for two guests so any extra people including kiddos are an additional fee. On the property, there is a communal living room, dining room, and large outdoor deck and breakfast is made fresh every morning using home-grown or locally sourced ingredients.
Throughout the farm, there is plenty to do—stop by the Gather Garden for a u-pick flower experience, purchase a s’mores kit and sit by the fire pit under the stars, take a swing at the golf tee, visit the barn’s game room for a round of pool, darts or horseshoes; explore The Upper Pasture Trail that offers a tranquil walk through the oaks and hillsides; or check out the creek bed which has likely filled up by now with all the recent rain.
Sleeps: 3 guests (Adelaida room only)
Price: Around $575/night with an extra fee for a third person in this room Online:kindredoakfarm.com
11. Wildwood Cottage in Atascadero, CA
Wildwood Cottage is a super charming converted schoolhouse that sits on three shared acres of beautiful land. This private retreat with 1,750 sq. ft of space is the perfect place to sneak away with your family. The house is delightful for sure, but the thing your kids will love most is the incredible full-size playground in their very own yard (it used to be a schoolhouse after all). And there are are oodles of other activities to do on the grounds as well with a common area that features bocce ball, a fire pit, picnic tables, and lots of green space. And when you’re done there, we know some resident sheep, pigs, and chickens who would love a visit.
Marfarm is one of the most stunning properties we’ve seen—we’re talking Architectural Digest-level stuff here! This converted horse stable and dairy farm is truly a feast for the eyes when it comes to decor and the 360-degree views of the rolling hills aren’t too shabby either. The space also has an open green grass patio with a BBQ fire pit, Adirondack seating, a bocce ball court and beautiful fruit trees. If you have horses of your own, feel free to bring them for the weekend for an extra fee—after all, why should you have all the fun?
These Spring Break hotel deals are going to go fast!
March is here and that means Spring Break is here! Well, almost here. But close is close and we’re itching for a getaway. We’re betting you, like so many other families, are, too. Spring break is a time to celebrate sunny weather, take a break from school, and relax with the family. And we know that can be easier said than done. So stick with us. We have the Spring Break hotel deals that will make getting a vacation (or staycation!) this season much simpler than you think!
With so many travel websites out there, all promising “the best deals”, navigating to the perfect stay for your family is a challenge. But this is your one-stop-shop for Spring Break planning. This is Tinybeans Travel Agency and we have everything you need for picking a fantastic destination that your family will love. These are family-friendly (and domestic) Spring Break hotel deals and resort savings that we’ve rounded up from Hotels.com and Expedia.com (so you know they’re legit!). And don’t worry. You literally can’t go wrong, no matter which adventure you choose!
Las Vegas, NV
Ahern Hotel and Event Center
The Ahern Hotel and Event Center is located in the Gateway District neighborhood in Las Vegas, making it a 2 minute walk from the Las Vegas Festival Grounds. A pool, 3 restaurants, and access to lots of attractions make the Ahern a great Spring Break option! The Ahern Hotel and Event Center (Las Vegas, NV)—Book Now!
Plaza Hotel & Casino
Featuring a gorgeous pool, Oscar’s Steakhouse, and central location, the Plaza Hotel & Casino is a Las Vegas icon! Up to 2 kiddos (12 years and under) stay free. Plaza Hotel & Casino (Las Vegas, NV)—Book Now!
The Sable is located right on the water, so the views are amazing! It’s also connected to shopping and just a few minutes from the heart of downtown. Sable at Navy Pier (Chicago, IL)—Book Now!
Right next to Vanderbilt University, this Holiday Inn is just minutes away from all the action in Nashville! The Country Music Hall of Fame, Opry Mills, and more are within moments. Holiday Inn Nashville Vanderbilt (Nashville, TN)—Book Now!
Moxy Nashville
This Marriott property is known for all things play! It’s a short drive to Vanderbilt University and Music City Center (if you can find a reason to leave the hotel!). Moxy Nashville (Nashville, TN)—Book Now!
Denver, CO
Omni Interlocken Hotel
The beautiful Omni is close to skiing, shopping, and outdoor adventure! Plus, the property includes two outdoor pools, spa, and on-site restaurants. Omni Interlocken Hotel (Denver, CO)—Book Now!
Sonesta Denver Downtown
The Sonesta is a 5 minute walk from the Denver Convention Center and 16th Street Mall. Includes a deli, restaurant, bar, and accessibility to lots of transportation options! Sonesta Denver Downtown (Denver, CO)—Book Now!
Outlet shopping, Zoo Miami, and Grapeland Water Park are all close by to Aloft Miami! Free wi-fi, a coffee shop, and a firepit are also bonuses. Aloft Miami Doral (Miami, FL)—Book Now!
Parkway Inn of Jackson Hole is only 0.2mi from Jackson Town Square and less than 5mi from Grand Teton National Park. Hiking and biking trails are also really close, and there’s a great indoor pool! Parkway Inn of Jackson Hole (Jackson, WY)—Book Now!
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
From Hawaiian bowling to lava-rock water slides, these resorts bump up the wow factor
With beaches galore, majestic mountains, and consistently balmy temps, a family vacation to Hawaii is certainly a no-brainer. But how exactly do you keep everyone in the family happy? Look for resorts with a variety of activities. This list has spots that offer kid-friendly surf lessons, ice cream delivered poolside, a lava rock slide, and ukulele lessons. The rooms are family-sized and the chill vacation vides are guaranteed.
AtHana-Maui Resort, a boutique hotel on Maui’s remote east side, kids have 70 acres to run amok. The location, between Waianapanapa State Park and Haleakala National Park, is hard to beat for family-friendly hikes. The Pipiwai Trail, for example, has a 4.5-mile hike that includes a bamboo forest, a 400-foot waterfall, and black-sand beaches. Afterward, take the complimentary hotel bikes for a spin or try your hand at spear-throwing and coconut-leaf weaving. Other classes include lei making, feather-flower making, Hawaiian bowling, and makahiki hour (spear throwing). For vitamin D, build sandcastles at Hamoa Beach, a 5-minute drive from the hotel.
Kids will love: Powdered sugar-dusted Mochiko pancakes at the restaurant, putt-putt golf around the property, and three pools to choose from. Not to mention, the drive there alone is well worth it: The scenic Road to Hana is packed with caves, beaches, waterfalls, and lots of places to chow down on homemade banana bread. If your kids are prone to motion sickness, consider skipping the drive. Fly in instead.
Halepuna will win you over from the get-go. Settle into your enormous room and enjoy the view. Or head toward the turquoise water to carve up some waves. The Art of Surfing package allows you and your kiddos to learn from the pros. Added bonus: Tack on the photo package for drone shots by an accomplished underwater photographer. Gotta have proof (and bragging rights) that you caught those waves, right? For something more chill, take the gang to Waikiki Beach (free floaties available for the little ones), an easy walk from the hotel.
Kids will love: The family Tree Planting Experience at Gunstock Ranch on Oahu’s North Shore and the Diamond Head Crater Park hiking trail where you can keep an eye out for humpback whales from November to May.
You want to be outdoors as much as possible in Hawaii, and the Four Seasons Ko Olina makes that easy. It’s right on the beach and offers a slew of activities like boat rides in search of dolphins and outrigger canoeing, so you can travel as the ancient Hawaiians did. Camp Kohola at the Hideaway is a complimentary, supervised program for kids ages 5-12, complete with a media room, a creativity zone, and a game room. Make time for horseback riding, resin painting, astronomy, and stargazing, too.
Kids will love: Skate park on-site that offers skateboarding camps for kids (the first resort-style skateboarding facility in Hawaii).
There’s so much to love about the Ritz. The spacious rooms make it easy for several generations to travel together. There’s also a poolside tradition each day at 2 p.m. where your family can choose from rotating flavors of locally made ice cream like ube (purple yam) or sweet guava sorbet. Ready to venture beyond the hotel? Have the concierge arrange a visit to Kualoa Ranch for a hands-on experience in the wetland taro field to learn traditional Hawaiian farming.
Kids will love: The lava-rock slide at Diamond Head Tower and the resort’s two hot tubs. Parents will appreciate deep-tissue massages at the spa. And, let’s be honest, the kids will also be fascinated with the Toto toilet (complete with seat warmer and bide).
SCP Hotel Hilo makes a great home base for day trips to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park where the family can geek out on millions of years of geological history, see sea arches and traipse through lava fields. Back at the hotel, take advantage of complimentary stand-up paddleboards and explore Hilo Bay. Don’t forget to stroll Hilo’s Banyan Drive to Liliʻuokalani Gardens, an impressive Japanese garden filled with fishponds and pagodas. Come evening, have the front desk deliver a foam roller and yoga mat to your room, and fall asleep listening to the coqui frogs.
Kids will love: Lei making, yoga classes, and complimentary hybrid bikes
One thing’s for certain, with the comforts of this hotel (which underwent an $80 million dollar renovation during the pandemic) and the number of activities available, the family will be downright happy without venturing very far. The right-on-the-beach location means stand-up paddle boarding, wa‘a (6-person canoe) outrigger tours, snorkeling to Pu‘u Keka‘a (Black Rock) are all very doable. On land, activities include mele (‘ukulele), hula (dance), ma‘awe (native fibers and weaving), mea ho‘okani (instruments), ‘ōlelo (Hawaiian language), and more. Come evening, the hotel’s oceanside restaurant, Huihui, is well worth it for hula-dancing and sunset views of the West Maui Mountains.
Kids will love: Paddling on a boki board (surfboard-shaped raft) in search of turtles and the sailing academy where curious minds can play the part of Moana for the day and learn ancient traditions of Polynesian voyaging and wayfinding.
This resort deserves to be high on the family bucket list. With a splash pool and waterfall feature, kite-making classes, coconut husking, and daily shave ice by the pool, you could easily stay put for days on end. When you are ready to explore, Sleeping Giant trailhead, Opaekaa Falls, and Wailua River State Park are all close by. You can also snorkel and kayak from the resort and borrow beach cruisers to two-wheel you’re way down eight oceanfront bike paths.
Kids will love: Fire Hen Arcade & Wings, a 1,300-square-foot arcade, that features 400 games from foosball to darts to shuffleboard free of charge to hotel guests.
Weekly tank talks at the 280,000-gallon oceanarium, which houses 350 protected marine creatures, and daily fish feedings with on-site aquarists, will keep parents and kids entertained. Ready to score ocean time? The beach is within walking distance from the hotel and you can use resort credits, included in the amenity fee, to rent surfboards, umbrellas, and snorkels. For downtime, consider lei-making classes and Hawaiian storytime.
Kids will love: Rooftop batting cages and tennis courts. Enough said!
The next time you’ve got a school break on the schedule, book a room at one of the best hotels in Boston for families and play tourist for a change
Planning the perfect vacation or getaway can be pretty stressful, and sometimes that can detract from the fun. But family fun is our goal and we are here to help. Boston has some of the best destinations and activities to visit with the family year-round, so skip the stress of planning a family getaway and take a Boston staycation instead. With the upcoming school break approaching, you will definitely want to keep some of the best hotels in Boston for families in mind as easy destinations for a well-deserved family reset.
Looking for relaxation with all the perks of a sophisticated, first-class experience? You’d better reserve your stay at the Omni Boston Hotel. Located in the Seaport, this is one of Boston’s newest hotels and features many great ways to keep your family refreshed and entertained. You can take the kids for a swim on the rooftop pool that overlooks South Boston, then treat yourself to an afternoon at the Breve Spa before heading to dinner. Speaking of which, the Omni Boston Hotel has seven great dining options from a bar and grill to a Mediterranean restaurant, Kestra.
Insider Tip: They are also currently offering a Winter Warm Up special in which you can get 15% off if you book your stay before February 26, 2023, plus a $15 dining credit. All great reasons to book a family staycation here for the February break.
Staycation destinations: The Omni Boston Hotel is a short 3-minute drive from the Boston Children’s Museum and a six-minute drive to the New England Aquarium and the historic Faneuil Hall.
Another luxurious family-friendly hotel in Boston to keep in mind is the Omni Parker House. With cozy, modern rooms and surrounded by a plethora of shopping boutiques and cafes, the family will be well rested after a day of activities. The Omni Parker House has four great dining options, including Parker’s Restaurant where you can indulge in the best Boston cream pies around. You can even have it delivered directly to your room as a treat for the kids. They won’t want to go home after getting such royalty treatment.
Staycation destinations: The Omni Parker House is a three minute walk to Boston Common where you and the family can walk the Freedom Trail and even go ice skating at Frog Pond. If your staycation falls on February 22, 2023 you can catch the Children’s Winter Festival, a free event, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can enjoy the live music, children’s activities and treats, and giveaways. Be sure to bring some hot cocoa to keep you warm.
Maybe a Boston staycation isn’t what you have in mind. That’s okay. Do some light packing and get the kids excited for a trip down the coast to Cape Cod and check into the Chatham Bars Inn. Even during the winter months, there’s plenty of activities to keep the family busy, such as yoga, cooking, and painting classes, and even wine tasting. There’s a game room at the Main Inn where kids can spend hours playing complimentary games like ping pong, air hockey, and video games. A special menu is available with classic kids’ favorites like burgers, truffle dogs, and fries to keep the kids fueled while they play.
Staycation destinations: Sailing trips to the Chatham Lighthouse and North Beach Island are available several times a day and whale watching in the Atlantic is a great way to see some oceanic wildlife. Please note, these activities are offered only from May through October.
Do you have music enthusiasts and baseball fanatics in the family? Then the Verb Hotel will surely be one of the best hotels in Boston for your family. Located directly across from Fenway, this won’t be your typical, quiet getaway. There’s so much to do within and outside of the hotel. The interior is decorated with retro, music-themed décor and other collectibles. There is an indoor pool to splash in year-round. There’s also a vinyl library and record players in each room so you can jam out to your favorite rock n’ roll classics. Head over to the Hojoko Japanese Tavern for a sushi dinner after your adventures for the day are over.
Staycation destinations: A short, twelve minute car ride from the Verb Hotel will bring you to the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum. A free, Winter Wonders event will be taking place at the museum on Thursday, February 23, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., where kids can experiment in engineering snowflakes using pipe cleaners and other geometric shapes. There will be other winter and water-themed activities. You can also head to Mother’s Rest Playground which is a short walk from the hotel for a crisp day of physical activity. Make sure to dress in layers.
The Great Wolf Lodge is really one of the best family staycation destinations in Massachusetts. Offering a huge indoor waterpark and lots of kid-friendly activities throughout the day, you’re going to have to make sure to book your stay for at least a few nights so the kids get their fill of fun. This wolf-themed resort has fun arts and crafts time, yoga for kids and adults, trivia, and even dance parties. But the real winner is definitely the waterpark. There’s also seven different dining options located right in the Lodge so you really won’t need to leave during your whole stay until it’s time to go home.
Staycation destinations: Once the kids have had their share of water fun, head over to Howlin’ Timbers Play Park (inside the Lodge), where they can choose from activities like mini golf, rock climbing, and bowling.
150 Great Wolf Dr.
Fitchburg, MA Online:greatwolf.com
The Boston Marriott Long Wharf Hotel is probably one of the most family-friendly hotels in Boston, and will easily make for a memorable staycation. With stunning views of the waterfront and large rooms with a modern aesthetic, your kids will be asking to stay an extra night for all the comfort! Go for an early swim in the indoor, heated pool that’s surrounded by windows to give you a beautiful view of the harbor at sunrise and throughout the day. Enjoy a casual dinner at the hotel’s own restaurant, Waterline, or explore the many dining options in the area. Simply watching the ships coming into the harbor from your personal room or catching up on your family’s favorite shows will give you the reset you need.
Staycation destinations: The Boston Marriott Long Wharf is located at the heart of Boston, with attractions like the New England Aquarium, The Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park, and the Boston Public Market just a short walk away.
A kid-friendly and luxurious experience is not an easy combination to come by, but the Four Seasons Hotel in Boston brings you just that. Each child is greeted with a free toy of their choice as a welcome gift, that alone will probably be a highlight in the start of their staycation. The hotel features a heated indoor pool on the eighth floor and massage services that you can request to be done in your own room. Feeling pampered yet? The hotel also offers in-room and pool-side dining, so kick your feet up as much as you want (or as much as the kids will allow).
Staycation destinations: For any shopping you want to do during your staycation in Boston, this hotel is a short distance from Copley Place and the Prudential Center. You can also check out Boston Common and the Museum of Fine Arts, which is hosting a number of events in February, like the Lunar New Year Celebration on February 2, 2023. Kids can pick up a Chinese brush painting art kit at the event and enjoy Vietnamese music and dance.
A handy list of where to find photo booths in San Francisco—they’re just waiting to deliver fun, silly, and mostly likely, some of the best memories for your family
Talk about hidden gems around San Francisco! For most us, when we were growing up, jumping into a photo booth with our friends at the mall was a weekly ritual. And while magical mall days may be a thing of the past, these photo booths (while rare) do live on—and is a nostalgic treat you can introduce to the kids. There really is something magical about cramming yourself into a photo booth, changing your pose after each camera flash, and seeing what photos spit out of the slot a few minutes later. And, truth be told, so often parents are the ones taking the photo—we love that photo booths create the opportunity for parents to squeeze into the frame and join in the fun.
The next time you’re running around town—whether it’s spending the the day at the SF Zoo, exploring Fisherman’s Wharf, or somewhere in the Bay Area, keep this handy list of where to take photo booth pictures in San Francisco—they’re just waiting to deliver fun, silly, and mostly likely, some of the best memories for your family.
San Francisco Photo Booths
1. Musée Mécanique
Does Pier 39 have a photo booth? It sure does! Located on Fisherman’s Wharf, Musée Mécanique is a magical escape into the history of coin operated games. Among these century old treasures are historic photo booths perfect for capturing the fun.
Did you know you can visit the giraffes at the zoo, grab a coffee, and take a family selfie all without going to the zoo? The San Francisco zoo has a large entry between the ticket booth and ticket check hosts the zoo gift shop, one of the zoos cafes, and a photo booth that are all free to visit.
Sloat Blvd &, Upper Great Hwy. San Francisco Online:sfzoo.org
3. Thriller Social Club
This entertainment destination is 21+ after 9 p.m., but during the day families can roam the rooms and discover a full midway of games along with food and drinks. Document your family time at the photo booth.
This hotel across from Pier 39 has a fun game room and awesome outdoor space with giant Connect 4 and fire pits. You can visit even if you aren’t a guest at the hotel. Near the tabletop shuffleboard inside you’ll find a fun photo booth to commemorate your visit.
Introduce your kids to the joy of heading to the local record store and hop into the photo booth while you’re there. 1-2-3-4 Go! Records sources hard to find vinyl so you can bring the joy of analog home.
Let the kids get their energy out and literally climb the walls with them before heading to the arcade to grab a family photo. With so much to do you will want to document the experience.
555 Rohnert Park Expy. West Rohnert Park Online:rebounderz.com>
7. Casino Arcade at the Santa Cruz Beach BoardWalk
A visit to The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is an iconic experience and how else should one commemorate such a fun and unique spot other than a photo strip of you and your kids? Of all your souvenirs your family photos will be your favorite.
Family time at the arcade is the perfect way to ensure that everyone has a good time with an activity that fits their interests and skill. These booths are extra jazzy because you can edit to add emojis and other fun filters—let your creativity run wild.
Mini golf, batting cages, Blaster Boats, and a race track provide hours of entertainment—just don’t forget to grab a picture in the photo booth before heading home!
You don’t have to ride the rails to enjoy a train experience when you book an overnight in a caboose
If you are looking for the ultimate vacation for the train enthusiast in your family, look no further. This list is full of vintage railroad car vacation rentals, a WWII troop kitchen train car, and loads of cabooses—all of them decked out for sleeping. There’s even a whole resort in Northern California full of train car rentals. All aboard for some major railfan fun!
This boxcar was built in 1941 and your family will love booking it for a few nights. You will have the entire boxcar to yourself with a pool and beach chairs in the backyard. There also is a firepit, a charcoal grill, and a patio table. Sit outside and enjoy the Kansas sunsets!
Conveniently located near Interstate 80 between Williamsport (home of Little League World Series) and State College (home of Penn State University). Everything in the Caboose has been restored to its original condition. This unique space has all the comforts of home while being able to enjoy history.
You get the best of both worlds with this rental that comes with a cabin and a caboose. You also get to experience farm life as this property has free-range chickens, an emu, 4 Muscovy ducks, and a Great Pyrenees. Send the kids to sleep in the two bunks in the caboose and you can enjoy the queen bed in the cabin!
How totally cool is this? You can stay in your very own train caboose in the South Bay that comes with three beds and a kitchen. There are lots of nearby hiking and biking trails, as well as other exciting outdoor activities. Being so close to Silicon Valley, yet feeling so far from it all is a truly unique experience unlike anywhere else.
A wonderful and spectacular fishing adventure awaits you on the Yellowstone River. This unique opportunity is all yours AND you get to head home for the night in your own personal Northern Pacific Railway Parlor Car. You will experience all that Montana has to offer on this breathtaking 13 acres of private property and 1000 feet of Yellowstone shoreline.
Wake up to this gorgeous view in your green caboose. The caboose is located behind an original Train Depot built in 1906 which used to be located in Enterprise, Oregon. It was moved in 1980 to its present location, one mile north of the town of Joseph, to serve as a residence. The caboose is completely self-contained with a small fridge, electric stove top burners, table and stools, a shower with rainfall shower head, linens and towels, cooking utensils, and an RV-style toilet room. There is one main bedroom with a full-size bed with a memory foam mattress. There are two twin bunk beds that are separated from the main bedroom with drapery.
This ultra-cute caboose has the coveted sleeping spot in the cupola. You'll find that the caboose is located near lots of outdoor recreation spots like swimming holes and waterfalls, as well as a number of restaurants.
Just 10 miles from the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, this 1926 wooden train caboose has been transformed into one of the most unique vacation destinations in the area. This bright red storybook caboose was part of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway. The caboose cottage itself is located on a private 20-acre residential farm. It sits atop authentic 1920s railroad tracks and joins with the incredible bath house also known as the Depot.
Platform 1346 is a WWII troop kitchen train car turned into a luxe overnight Airbnb space at the base of the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. It is beautifully decorated and has free WiFi and streaming TV. This posh destination is only 29 minutes from the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and a very short ride to Knoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport. Two beds are perfect for families, and you'll be amazed when you see the train car's gourmet kitchen!
This 1940s-era caboose has been beautifully transformed into a tiny home. Cap's Caboose is a one-of-a-kind overnight rental in a quiet, friendly community. It is a 30-minute drive to the beautiful Cheaha Mountains and the town of Ashland is only 6 miles away.
Looking for a unique getaway to the mountains? Kids and adults both will love to sleep in this completely-renovated 1960s train caboose. To add to the fun, this caboose is located in the Smoky Mountains of NC on a 65-acre buffalo ranch. Help feed the buffalo, hike to the BC Corral, play in the Pigeon River, and more.
This historic railcar was built in the '30s by The Budd Company and is located on Skaneateles Lake. Enjoy morning coffee and evening barbecues overlooking this most beautiful of lakes. Ideal for train enthusiasts, boaters, swimmers, fishermen, and those wanting to simply kick off their shoes and relax in this most unique property on Skaneateles Lake.
Northern California is home to Railroad Park Resort where you can bed down in vintage railroad cabooses that sleep up to five people. You’ll have a fridge, full bathroom, WiFi, and microwave as well as an on-site pool, restaurant (serving breakfast and dinner in a rail car!), and a creek for exploring. The nearby area is full of railroad history, waterfalls, fishing spots, and lakes for boating.
Sleeps: up to 5 guests Cost: $120/night and up Online: rrpark.com
Ride in on Amtrak's Empire Builder and stay in a caboose off the tracks in Glacier National Park. Enjoy modern amenities in surprisingly well-appointed cabooses with decks that overlook the spectacular scenery and the train tracks. Kids will especially love sleeping in beds in the train's cupola with a view of the gorgeous property beyond. Spend the day hiking in the summer and cross country skiing in the winter.
Sleeps: up to 4 guests Cost: $169/night and up Online: izaakwaltoninn.com
The Canyon Motel - Williams, AZ
Canyon Motel & RV Park
The Canyon Motel & RV Park is located on 13 acres in the City of Williams, AZ on the famous Route 66. Surrounded by the mountains of Northern Arizona, the Kaibab National Forest adjoins the property, and Grand Canyon National Park is 52 miles to the north. Choose to sleep in one of the cabooses that accommodate up to six people, or pick a spot in the 1950s Pullman classic that has three separate railway car suites, fully modernized with all of the conveniences of any motel room.
Made up of authentic train boxcars renovated into guest accommodations, the Northern Rail Traincar Inn is nestled in the wilderness near Two Harbors, Minnesota. Guests enjoy quick, convenient access to all of the North Shore's amazing activities including the Superior Hiking Trail, Split Rock Lighthouse, and much more. Northern Rail features 16 rooms in authentic train boxcars, and each room has its own theme. The depot-style main building serves as the breakfast area as well as a place for guests to play games or sit by the fireplace with a good book.
Sleeps: up to 4 guests Cost: $159/night Online: northernrail.net
Seaboard Coast Line at Buffalo Creek - Clyde, NC
Buffalo Creek
Choose between two fully-renovated cabooses when you come to stay at Buffalo Creek Vacation Rentals in North Carolina's Smoky Mountains. The cabooses each sleep up to five people and have full kitchens, A/C, charcoal grills, decks, and everything you'll need for a railfan vacation. Best of all, lucky guests just might catch a glimpse of bison walking by in the field from the caboose windows! Kids will love the property's playground and model railroad.
This KOA campground in New Hampshire's scenic White Mountains is the perfect spot for railfans looking to do a little "glamping." The property's caboose can sleep up to six people and includes a charcoal grill and picnic table for outdoor dining. Take advantage of the KOA's many amenities, including a heated swimming pool, game room, store, and dog area. Kids will love the activities like mining for gems, riding the barrel train, and the jumping pad in the playground.
These turn-of-the-century train cars are ready to be your home away from home in Minnesota. Choose from a room in one of the three railway cars or bunk down in the 1893 caboose. All rooms have private baths and a queen bed with rollaway and inflatable mattresses available for kids. Breakfast can be taken in the house or served in your railcar if you wish.
Sleep in one of 38 cabooses at this spot that goes all out for train fans. Many of the cabooses have bunk beds for kids, and some have two bedrooms to allow even more privacy. The on-site Casey Jones' Restaurant offers breakfast all day in addition to lunch and dinner with all sorts of train paraphernalia available for purchase in the gift shop. Climb to the top of the 50-foot silo for a spectacular unobstructed view of the surrounding farmland, the Strasburg Rail Road and, of course, the Red Caboose Motel. Kids will also love spending some quarters at the Whistle Stop arcade.
Wildlife Prairie Park is the Central Illinois spot where you can spot elk, bison, eagles, otters and more wild animals. You can also spend the night in the park near the elk and bison range. Here the park has a number of vintage cabooses available for guests, each sleeping up to five people. Each unit has a bathroom, microwave, small fridge, and A/C to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
This unique cottage is in a real railroad caboose and includes a bedroom with a queen-size bed, satellite TV, wireless internet access, a kitchenette, a dining area, a bathroom with shower, heating, and A/C. For the adventurous types, you may climb up to the cupola to look around at the beautiful scenery, or sit up there and read or play a card game on the little fold-down table. The dining table folds down into a twin-size bed for a child. A full country breakfast is served in the 40-foot dining room when you wake in the morning.
Sleeps: up to 4 guests Cost: $110/night and up Online: masonhouseinn.com
Caboose Inn - South Haven, MI
Old Harbor Inn
Step back in time with a stay at the historical Caboose Inn, featuring refurbished cabooses from the 1920s and the original Pomeroy Building, located right next to the draw bridge on the Black River. These unique accommodations feature an in-ground heated pool, private parking, decks, covered porches, and more. They are located at the original train depot in downtown South Haven, just steps from all the beaches, shopping and dining South Haven has to offer.
Sleeps: up to 2 guests Cost: $189/night Online: oldharborinn.com
The train cars at The Antlers Inn were once actual working railroad cars. Choose from one of three identical cabooses or a wooden rail car. Refurbished within the original framework of the car to provide family fun accommodations, each caboose houses the original cupola with seating, so little ones can oversee the train just like a real conductor. All have climate control, beds, baths, living area with TV, efficiency kitchens, and an outdoor gas grill with a picnic table.
Sleeps: up to 6 guests Cost: $130/night and up Online: theantlers.com
The Caboose Motel is on the tracks next to the Perry Street Station in Titusville, PA. Each of the 21 caboose cars has its own heat and air conditioning unit, television, telephone, and bathroom with shower. Cabooses have one king-size bed with cupola-style windows or two full-size beds with bay windows. Deck chairs are provided so you can relax during your evenings in the Oil Region. Located one block from downtown Titusville and five minutes from Drake Well Museum and Park, be sure to enjoy the Historic Titusville Walking Tour while in town.
Sleeps: up to 4 guests Cost: $91.95/night Online: octrr.org
Please note, prices listed were valid at the time of publication but rates can fluctuate at different times of the year. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.
Find secret rooms behind bookcases, bedrooms with stained glass windows, armor, swords, and turrets to explore when you rent your very own castle
If you are looking to experience the royal treatment for your next family vacation, we’ve got the Airbnbs for you. These Airbnb castles have all the turrets, stained glass, and massive bedrooms of your fairytale dreams. Explore secret bedrooms behind bookcases and enjoy modern amenities like hot tubs and game rooms. These castles make the perfect vacation rental that the kids (and the parents) won’t soon forget!
Talk about a gorgeous location perched just above Lake George and the Adirondack mountains. You'll find knights' armor in the hallways and a Great Hall to satisfy all your ballroom dreams. They have two other castles bookable on the property so invite all the lords and ladies!
Located halfway between San Francisco and LA, this massive castle is the perfect destination for families visiting California. Each of the bedrooms has a private bath and you can send the kids to the hidden attic where they will want to play to day away. You access the attic via a secret bookcase door!
You'll have everything you need at this gorgeously-decorated castle that's perfect for your Philly adventure. With 8 bedrooms to choose from, everyone will have space to spread out and then gather in the massive central room. Kids will especially love the games they have available and you'll love gathering with extended family.
Everything is bigger in Texas and this castle is no exception. Spend the weekend in this 14,000 sq. ft. castle that's fit for a king (and queen!). Whether it's the majestic scenic view from the balcony, the oversized master bathroom, or a game room complete with a pool table and darts, you will feel like royalty. Check out the bubbling stream outside and then bust out the Oculus Quest VR system for some family game time.
The Castle at Lake Livingston Village—Livingston, TX
Airbnb
Bring the Princes and Princesses to get away from the big city and enjoy a relaxing, quaint guesthouse that will accommodate up to five guests. You can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and water skiing right from the neighborhood private boat ramp/dock. Enjoy the wooded outdoor atmosphere by the fire pit, providing an old-world and secluded feel.
This contemporary castle is located on 52 acres of private woods, perfect for exploring. There are no TVs here so you can expect the full off-the-grid-castle experience. There's even an art gallery in the castle's turret!
Step back in time and become royalty by staying at Knoxville's most unique estate, your very own castle only ten minutes from downtown. Surrounded by 300 acres of Ijams Nature Center, kids will love staying here. Modeled after a Scottish hunting lodge, secret passage, towers, swords, armor, and magic abound!
Treat your senses, your spirit, and your well-being at Aura. Enjoy the beauty of the Finger Lakes, go wine and beer tasting, eat farm-to-fork food, play and swim in Lake Cayuga, explore the Wells College campus and discover how wonderful this one-of-a-kind experience of sleeping in a church can be.
You'll never want to leave this 20,000+sq ft modern-day castle completed in 2018 with all the luxury amenities you seek (theater, spa, game rooms, ballroom, and MUCH MORE). Just an hour from Seattle, the castle overlooks the Stillaguamish River and the Stilly Valley. Kids will especially love the life-sized chess, arcade, and fire pit.
You'll love this renovated cathedral/castle as it's a great space for extended family to gather. There are five private bedrooms and a large gathering space and table for group meals. There's only a kitchenette so plan ahead for meals.
This castle is something the kids won't soon forget with a pond and expansive property to explore. The hot tub and fire pits will keep everyone outdoors and there's plenty of room for your whole crew to spend the night.
Please note, prices listed were valid at the time of publication but rates can fluctuate at different times of the year. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.
