So, you’ve been to Disney with the kids. Now what?
Most parents are looking for easy getaways where they can have as much fun as the kiddos and still get back in time for work on Monday (not that you’ll want to).
You don’t have to have a flexible schedule or heaps of saved-up vacation time to explore the world. All you have to do is take more trips with the time you do have. For most of us, that’s the weekend.
In truth, any weekend trip with the family should be a great one, but these trips in particular offer unique experiences for everyone at any age. Take any one of these weekend getaways and you won’t be disappointed.
- Montana Dude Ranch
Dude Ranching in Montana is the best vacation you never considered. Or, at least, most people don’t. But this is one spot that has tons of fun for everyone. Sleep in a cabin and take horseback riding lessons, participate in team activities and enjoy some authentic Western cuisine.
If you’re planning this one as a road trip, be sure to service your car first. Not all roads will be paved, so it’s best to keep your car in tip-top shape.
- New York City
If you’ve never been to NYC with the fam, you’re missing out. We all know there are plenty of fun activities for the adults, but the kids will enjoy most of them too. Depending on their ages, they may love the typical tourist haunts like the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. If the tots are on the younger side, consider adding the Children’s Museum of Manhattan and Central Park to your itinerary.
- Quebec City
A weekend trip to France may be out of your family budget, but that’s okay. Quebec is the next best thing. Actually, Quebec City has a personality all its own. You’ll just feel like putting on your berets when you hear all the beautiful French-Canadian being spoken. The best part is that this city is majorly kid friendly. Plan a visit to Aquarium du Quebec or play at Recreofun and jump at iSaute Quebec.
- Montgomery, AL
When you think of vacation hotspots, Montgomery, Alabama probably doesn’t spring to mind. But that may be a good thing. You can hop on a standup paddleboard in Montgomery’s Riverfront Park and catch views of the city skyline as you paddle along the Alabama River.
While you’re in the area, check out one of many museums, including the Rosa Parks Museum and the Civil Rights Memorial Center. As the capital of Alabama, Montgomery is steeped in history.
- Colonial Williamsburg, VA
It may be a short drive or flight away, but a trip to Colonial Williamsburg will leave you feeling like you stepped back in time. The kids won’t be able to stop talking about the living-history museum where actors in period costumes act out daily Colonial life in the stores, streets, and workshops.
- Philadelphia, PA
You may go for a selfie opp with the Liberty Bell, but Philadelphia has a surprising number of entertainment options for the kids too. The Please Touch Museum is a fun place for all as everyone is encouraged to interact with the exhibits as they learn about science and the environment. The Philadelphia Zoo and the Rocky Statue are also faves with the young ones.
- Washington, D.C.
Sure, the littles might get bored with the White House and the Lincoln Memorial, but their eyes will light up when you visit the International Spy Museum, U.S. Botanic Garden and the National Air and Space Museum. And mom and dad will probably enjoy each of these as much as the kids. And as with any major city, there are also a lot of free things to do in D.C. You just have to plan ahead to ensure you’re there at the right times.
- Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco
San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-see for everyone – especially the kids. Make sure to visit Magowans Infinite Mirror Maze on Pier 39. Here, you’ll all slip on plastic gloves and feel your way around a psychedelic black-lit labyrinth of mirrors. Bonus: Your $5 admission is valid all day. Next, check out the antique coin-operated arcade games at Musee Mechanique. Wrap it all up with Duck Tour and some relaxing family time at Aquatic Park.
Oftentimes, when we’re looking to travel, we instantly think of major tourist spots. Those are certainly great (and why we have NYC and San Francisco on the list), but you can have an unexpected experience in virtually any city.
These are my top pics, but maybe you have a favorite I haven’t mentioned. Or maybe you’re just up for more adventure. In that case, close your eyes and flip a coin over a map. Wherever it lands is your next weekend trip!
About Peter C.
Peter is a digital nomad who largely writes from Asia, Europe, and South America. Always following the "vibe," he sets up shop in hostels and AirBNB's and continues to entertain us with wild stories from life abroad. Ask him anything in our community forum.
