Vacations are a great way to treat yourself to much-needed downtime. But how do you pick where to go? Well, the world is literally your oyster. You can travel anywhere you want as long as you have the necessary paperwork. There is much to explore, whether you want to visit France, England, or some Mediterranean country. But why look far when you can enjoy a family adventure at home? The US is home to fifty states. Each state has a distinct personality and culture that makes it worth visiting. Not to mention, it will also be better for your pocket to take your family somewhere in the US.
Hence, if you need recommendations on vacation spots in the US, here’s a short list:
1. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is a beautiful mountain town in Eastern Tennessee. This town is one of the gateways to the monumental Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which attracts millions of tourists annually. It’s home to a variety of plant and animal life, including black bears, deer, and elk, so visiting this national park with your kids is a must.
What makes Gatlinburg spectacular is that it emphasizes nature over concrete structures. Hence, your children will enjoy activities like hiking, trekking, and fishing while picturesque views surround them.
Additionally, you have the opportunity to stay in condos in Gatlinburg instead of traditional hotels. These condos are all about combining scenic views and luxury living. They offer a great way to experience the area’s natural beauty while enjoying the comforts of home. Many condos have balconies or patios with views of the mountains. Not only is this refreshing, it can be highly rejuvenating for the soul.
Gatlinburg is brimming with activity, and although there is much for you to do here, we recommend checking out Ober Gatlinburg, a ski resort and an amusement park. To get to this site, take a tram car that will steadily take you 1,471 feet to the top of the mountain, where you can ride the ski mountain coaster, the alpine slide, and the scenic chairlift.
2. Destin, Florida
Destin was a quiet fishing town in Florida in the 1850s, but once it got connected to mainland Florida, it evolved into a tourist hub. Destin has a humble population of 13,000 residents, which makes it easier for tourists to visit and blend within the community. If you’re searching for a laid-back vacation spot where you’re in and out of the water every day, you will love Destin. There is much to do in this town; you can walk across the harbor boardwalk, the heart of the city, with all the local restaurants, bars, and shops.
Your children will enjoy exploring the big kahuna adventure water park since it contains various fast-paced slides, such as the Cobra Twister and Kowabunga Racer. When you’re done having fun in the waves, you can sign up for a peaceful cruise on the tiki boats, a floating bar gently taking you through Destin’s water and into the sunset.
For a more educational and thrilling experience, Destin offers you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to feed the gators. If you head to Gator Beach, you can find different types of alligators and take pictures with them up close. This is why Destin is where you want to go if your idea of a vacation is fresh seafood and delicious beverages.
3. Orlando, Florida
Who doesn’t want to spend their holiday in the happiest place on earth? That’s right; if you’re a Disney enthusiast, visit the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando.==
Orlando is also home to Hollywood Studios and Universal Studios, respectively, which are just as action-packed and adrenaline-inducing as the Disney World theme park. You can indulge in other activities, such as exploring SeaWorld, where you can catch a glimpse of marine life up close, such as the magnificent killer Whales. If you have an infant child, they will have fun at Peppa Pig’s theme park.
Florida also has abundant beaches, so if you want to sunbathe, surf or relax by the beach, you can do that too. The food culture in Florida is immensely diverse. You can find authentic Vietnamese restaurants, Chinese eateries, and Thai food that can leave your mouth tingling with spice. That’s indeed an unbeatable experience you won’t forget.
4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
While most travelers prefer stopping by the west coast and spending time in places like California, you should go to Pennsylvania instead. The region has plenty to offer for travelers of all ages and preferences. Philadelphia is a magnificent place to visit for families who are interested in history and culture. Philadelphia boasts several historical sites, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the National Constitution Center. There are also many museums in Philadelphia, such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Franklin Institute, and the Academy of Natural Sciences.
Other attractions include the Carnegie Science Museum, an incredible place to learn about space exploration. You’ll even come across several exhibits on the history of space exploration, as well as on the planets, stars, and galaxies. It’s the perfect place to take your kids. There’s also a space shuttle exhibit, where you can see a real space shuttle up close.
And if you’re a thrill seeker, visit the Eastern State Penitentiary, a prison-turned-attraction where all high-profile criminals are prosecuted. The building is a gothic masterpiece, with a high-rising ceiling and eerie chandeliers. It is worth noting that the notorious Al Capone spent his first days in prison here, and his cell is converted into an impressive display.
On top of everything, Pennsylvania has an exceptional food culture. From South Asian meals to deep-dish pizza, you can satisfy all your cravings here.
Final Thoughts
Going on a vacation is rejuvenating for your soul, and if you have your family with you, why not pick a place everyone will enjoy? While the list is exhaustive, you should stop by sites like Gatlinburg, where the warmth of the south surrounds you, but if you like sunny states, then Destin and Orlando should be your go-to. But, if you want your trip to be relaxed and educational, head up to Pennsylvania. The east coast doesn’t disappoint with its rich culture and history.
