From Rocket Launches to Theme Parks: Family Destinations That Have It All

Every family has their own idea of what the ideal getaway looks like. From coast to coast, you’ll find destinations that offer adventure, relaxation, culture and togetherness – and some destinations offer all of that and more. Kids and kids at heart will love these family-friendly hot spots that are anything but one-dimensional.

Rocket to Adventure on Florida’s Space Coast

Just 45 minutes from the theme-park mecca of Orlando, Florida’s Space Coast boasts 115 kilometers of pristine beaches, easy cruise access from Port Canaveral and a front row seat to live rocket launches from the Kennedy Space Center and the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Before or after a launch, take a surfing lesson at the Cocoa Beach Pier or go for a beachside stroll at Coconut Point Park or Canaveral National Seashore. The kids will love feeding – or kayaking by – giraffes at the Brevard Zoo, and the whole family will enjoy the diverse array of museums and dining options.

Play Indoors and Out in Houston, Texas

Houston, the largest city in Texas, is home to dozens of family-friendly activities and attractions. Start the day with a bike ride along the scenic trails of Memorial Park, or explore the vast green spaces of Buffalo Bayou Park while taking in views of the downtown skyline. Space Center Houston’s NASA Tram Tours and interactive exhibits are always a hit, and imaginations run wild among the dinosaur bones and ancient Egyptian artifacts at the Houston Museum of Science. Retail therapy, anyone? The Galleria is an upscale shopping destination with more than 700 retailers, restaurants and hotels.   

Thrilling Rides and Beach Vibes in Carlsbad, California

Dive into the Golden State lifestyle in Carlsbad. This charming Southern California town on the Pacific Ocean coast is known for its 11 kilometers of beautiful beaches, pleasant year-round weather and colorful outdoor attractions like the mesmerizing Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. No family trip to Carlsbad is complete without a visit to the sprawling LEGOLAND California theme park, featuring a water park, aquarium and more than 60 kid-friendly rides, shows and attractions. Directly between the flower fields and LEGOLAND, you’ll find the Museum of Making Music, which celebrates all things music and musical instruments through immersive exhibits and live performances.

Outdoor Adventure and Dinosaurs Galore in Denver, Colorado

Denver, Colorado, blends big-city energy and an outdoorsy spirit for the whole family to enjoy. Downtown’s Denver Art Museum contains extensive Western American and North American Indigenous art collections, plus a family program that keeps all ages engaged and free entry for visitors under 18. And dino-loving kids won’t want to miss the Denver Museum of Nature & Science’s extensive fossil collection – or the 250-plus real dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Ridge. Even Major League Baseball’s Colorado Rockies are in on the action with their adorable dinosaur mascot, Dinger. Add an entire museum dedicated to trains, leisurely biking and hiking trails and seemingly endless kid-friendly restaurants – Denver’s got it all.

Glamping, Wildlife Safaris and Rides Galore in Central Florida 

Situated in the heart of Florida, Polk County is a hub for fun-loving families looking for a mix of high-flying thrills and wildlife encounters. In Winter Haven, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is home to kid-friendly rides, a water park and SEA LIFE Florida aquarium. The Florida Children’s Museum in nearby Lakeland features two floors of interactive exhibits and playplaces. Get some rest in a luxury glamping tent, teepee or replica Conestoga wagon at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, where you can also watch a rodeo or go horseback riding. Round out your trip at Safari Wilderness Ranch to see cheetahs, zebras and antelopes up close and personal.

Beachfront Family Fun in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Known as The Grand Strand thanks to its nearly 100-kilometer stretch of Atlantic Ocean beaches, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is renowned for its family-friendly events and attractions. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants and attractions; don’t miss a climate-controlled gondola ride on the SkyWheel for panoramic views of the beach and city below. The Broadway at the Beach entertainment complex is home to attractions such as Ripley’s Aquarium, the WonderWorks zipline and an animatronic dinosaur exhibit. Live-music fans will enjoy The Carolina Opry Theater, and golfers of all skill levels can pick from over 80 courses or more than 30 mini golf courses.