As the new year steadily approaches, it isn't too early to start making plans for family travel in 2015. AllTheRooms.com has offered a few handpicked destination suggestions that are ideal vacation spots for travel with the kids.
San Diego, California, USA
The biggest draw is the San Diego Zoo, but there's also LEGOLAND and SeaWorld nearby. The beaches are always free, as is the massive Balboa Park. Spend an afternoon at Petco Park (one of the more family friendly ballparks in baseball), then take them for a night out in the hip Gaslamp District next door. Rates in town are pricey but drop significantly when looking a few miles up the coast.
Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
It's the cheapest destination in the state, and there are quite a few affordable resorts and vacation rentals to choose from. Everything is close to the beach, where kids can swim, snorkel, surf, and play in the sand for practically nothing. When the family tires of the ocean, take a day trip to Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park, 'Iolani Palace, the USS Arizona Memorial or simply explore downtown.
Paris, France
It's perhaps the most famous city in Europe, and there's a plethora of things to see. Spend a day at The Louvre or Jardin Luxembourg, and another visiting the Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur and Notre Dame. If the kids get antsty there's always a break to Disneyland Paris or a visit to the Catacombs. We recommend a home rental near Champs-Élysées for longer stays, but there are affordable hotels throughout the city.
Nassau, Bahamas
It's a safe haven in the clear waters of the Caribbean. Pick from a slew of great resorts, including the world-famous Atlantis Resort & Casino. Kids will love the pristine beaches and ocean, as well as the pools and waterslides at any of the surrounding properties. Adults will enjoy the casinos and clubs. Airline tickets are cheaper here than most other islands and rates are generally reasonable.
Yellowstone National Park, Idaho/Wyoming/Montana, USA
There's quite a bit to see in the two million acres of land this park offers across three states. The first national park in the United States has a three-day program for families and offers private tours with a variety of itineraries, including hiking, natural history and wildlife watching.
Anaheim, California, USA
This is home to Disneyland, Disney California Adventure Park, and Knott's Berry Farm. Flights in and out of Orange County are relatively cheap and with some research lodging near the resorts can cost little. Los Angeles is right up the road if you want to show the kids Hollywood or take them to Universal Studios. Don't forget the beaches are also nearby.
Rome, Italy
If you're heading to Europe children will gravitate to Rome. Between the Pantheon, the Colosseum, The Sistine Chapel, the Roman Forum, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican and even the Catacombs, there is plenty to see. Kids will love the pizza and pasta, while adults will love the wine and gelato. There are reasonable vacation rental near the Mediterranean for views and a place to let the little ones run free.
New York City, New York, USA
There's more to see in this city than a family can have time for. Take a trip to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, explore Central Park and the zoo, or plan an entire day at the American Museum of Natural History, Guggenheim Museum, or Metropolitan Museum of Art. If money gets tight hop on the Staten Island Ferry (always free) and see the city and Statue of Liberty from the water.
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
The entire Riviera Maya area is filled with affordable all-inclusive resorts, which makes it easy for families. Parents can relax on the beach or go off on their own while the kids play at the pool or take advantage of the many activities offered. Venture out of town to the Mayan archaeological sites or to the nearby theme parks, like the Discovery Jungle Park.
Orlando, Florida, USA
This city is always number one on these types of lists, and there's good reason with affordable flights, very reasonable accommodations, and an unbelievable variety of theme parks. Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, LEGOLAND, Epcot Center, and more are all in reach. If the heat isn't an issue stay in the summer months when resorts and vacation rentals are a fraction of the cost.
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