Family Summer Vacation Ideas: 7 Kid-Friendly US Cities To Visit For Summer

The kids will be off school in a few months and it's never too early to plan their activities for the summer. If they are not heading to summer camp or taking extra-curricular classes, why not plan a trip to a kid-friendly U.S. city? It can be a fun and enriching for the whole family. Below are seven sites:

1) Washington, D.C.

Many attractions in Washington are free to the public, so families visiting won't have to worry about extra costs. Visit to the National Mall that houses different museums, such as the Smithsonian, National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of American History.

2) New York City

Never miss the opportunity to see the Statue of Liberty or bring the kids to the Empire State Building in New York. The city that never sleeps offer plenty for its kid visitors, such as the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Modern Art. Families can also enjoy Broadways shows or spend a day at Central Park.

3) Williamsburg, Virginia

This site has the Great Wolf Lodge that offers a big indoor waterpark. It's also filled with attractions that families get to enjoy together, such as the arcades for the boys and the mani-pedi ice cream parlor for the girls. There are cabins built especially for the kids and these comes with interesting murals and decorations.

Williamsburg also has the Virginia Living Museum where kids can participate in hands-on activities, learn about nature, as well as the colonial times. Watch the video below to learn more:

4) Portland, Oregon

The city of Portland has the Oregon Museum of Science & Industry, the Oregon Zoo and the Japanese Garden, where kids can see exhibits or watch live demos. At the Farmer's Market, they can join cooking classes or learn how foods are made. The beauty of the city is that everyone can get around while riding a bike and there are sites that offer rentals on the cheap.

5) Orlando, Florida

The home of Disneyland and Universal Studios is undoubtedly a kid's favorite summer spot and if you're planning to visit you must book reservations early. Disneyland has new price schemes that took effect this spring, as Parent Herald previously reported. The theme parks have also added security measures to benefit their young visitors.

6) Dallas, Texas

Dallas has The Arboretum and Botanical Garden where kids can join classes and learn about flora and fauna. There are also many places to explore in the garden's vast 66-acre estate, including an activity center where photography, fishing, paddling could be enjoyed by the whole family.

7) San Diego, California

Apart from the world-famous San Diego Zoo, families with kids can also enjoy other attractions like the Safari Park or trek at the Point Loma trails. Then there's always the beach that's also a prime city attraction. Head to Belmont Park for the best beach site as it has an amusement park too.