Top 10 destinations for families
From fun in the sun to adventure-packed cities, these top destinations for families are sure to please even the pickiest traveler. | By Alina Dizik | January 31, 2023 (Updated April 3, 2023)
It's always a good time to dream up new adventures, and enjoy the memories that come with them. But it’s important to have a plan, especially when you’re headed to a bucket list destination and need to accommodate the world’s pickiest travelers: kids.
Start with an itinerary that includes everyone’s wants and needs, and to make it as stress-free as possible, book a comfortable stay at hotels that offer amenities like free hot breakfast, complimentary coffee and tea all day, guest laundry facilities, connecting rooms and, most importantly, friendly and reliable service that you can depend on. Features like these add a level of ease to your trip that is vital to ensuring everyone comes home relaxed and rejuvenated.
Not sure where to go? We’ve got you covered! Read on for our picks for the top 10 places for families to visit. From stunning international capitals to snow-capped mountains, these comfort-meets-fun-focused destinations are sure to have the entire family smiling.
Paris
There’s never a wrong time to visit the City of Light. Come in the off-season and you’ll get to stroll along the Seine River or through the Tuileries Garden without the crowds. Visit during the warmer months to spend time lingering on the bridges or watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle after dark. Consider staying near one of the city’s historical gardens, where you can grab a baguette and picnic — a surefire way to please everyone in your party — among the manicured lawns.
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
The largest of the Cayman Islands, Grand Cayman offers a mix of culture and warm Caribbean Sea that keeps travelers returning every year. Maximize beach time by staying near Seven Mile Beach, famous for its pristine white sand, clear water, restaurants and water-based activities. Consider making Hampton by Hilton Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach your home base during your getaway. The conveniently located hotel is steps from the crescent-shaped beach and offers guests free hot breakfast, a tropical garden pool, a watersports concierge and a shuttle to check out island hotspots.
London
London calling? Bring comfy shoes and head out after breakfast to explore this walkable city. Check out world-class museums, take in Big Ben’s glory, watch the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace and sample the multi-cultural fare at London’s Borough Market. For a midday break, visit the 265-acre (107-hectare) Kensington Gardens for a refreshing stroll and a visit to the Peter Pan-inspired Diana Memorial Playground — pirate ship and sensory trail included. Bonus points for plenty of seating to relax while kids play.
Dublin
Ireland’s capital city may be known for its standout pubs, but it’s Dublin’s lush greenery, friendly locals and inviting culture that truly make it the ideal spot for a family adventure. To be in the middle of the action, stay at Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Centre, just a short walk from Trinity College and Henry Street shopping. Best of all, the hotel offers confirmed connecting rooms — meaning you can enjoy time apart, while also staying together.
Istanbul
With its otherworldly landmarks including the famous Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia mosque, the former capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine empires has layers of history that continue to fascinate travelers. Prefer to explore by boat? Adventurers young and old (at heart) will love to take in the city via a cruise along the Bosporus. Don’t leave town without roaming Taksim Square, shopping at the bustling Grand Bazaar and tasting some of the country’s most inventive restaurants.
Nashville, Tennessee
This famed country music destination draws visitors year-round. Besides the enviable music scene and signature hot fried chicken, tourists flock to Nashville to experience some of the tastiest new American cuisine and inventive cocktails. To fully experience everything Nashville has to offer, make sure to choose a hotel near the walkable downtown neighborhoods. This way you’ll stay close to adventure (literally) and have easy access to your home away from home.
Boston
This New England charmer has everything you need for a memorable stay including well-preserved historic buildings, top-notch museums, plenty of green space and a thriving nightlife and restaurant scene. For harbor views, stay at Hampton Inn Boston Seaport District. With an indoor pool, 24-hour fitness center and proximity to the local restaurants, it’s the ideal spot to call home while on the road. Don’t forget to check out the property’s “Pour My Beer” self-pour beverage system, where you can sip local craft beer (or seltzer or wine) and enjoy small plates and snacks.
Los Angeles
With iconic hiking, postcard-worthy vistas and plenty of shopping, visiting the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles is sure to please the whole group. Consider staying near Hollywood or Santa Monica — funnel cake and scavenger hunt at the Santa Monica Pier, anyone? — to see the city’s most popular sites without having to brave its famous traffic.
Munich
As one of Germany’s most charming cities, Munich feels like a cozy village at times with hearty food, historic beer halls and Bavarian museums. Consider staying at Hampton by Hilton Munich City North for a centrally located base that’s in the heart of the Schwabing business district — ideal for exploring the city on bike or foot. Plus, this family-friendly property is less than 10 minutes from the city’s magical 18th-century English Gardens. Perfect for young and old outdoor enthusiasts, the stunning gardens include more than 100 bridges and 50 bird species to discover.
Lake Tahoe, Nevada
The year-round vacation destination is sure to wow even the most seasoned traveler. Beginner and experienced sport-lovers will be in their element — winter brings snow-capped mountains that are perfect for skiing, snow shoeing and other cold-weather adventures. While the warmer months provide for Instagram-worthy picturesque hikes, waterfalls and views of the clear blue lake below. Combine all this with a fun nightlife scene and exquisite restaurants, and it’s guaranteed to be a memorable stay away.
Alina Dizik is a veteran lifestyle journalist, covering travel, real estate, family, work trends and dining. Her work appears in The Wall Street Journal, BBC, The Cut, The Guardian and other top publications. She lives in Chicago and has spent time living in New York, Europe and the Middle East. She spends more than two months each year traveling internationally with her husband and two school-age children. She has visited more than 50 countries.
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