10 Best Family Vacation Spots for 2026: Kid-Approved, Parent-Perfect Destinations
Family vacations are all about fun, relaxation, bonding and breaking away from the every day. When it comes to planning the perfect family-friendly vacation, safety, affordability, nature-oriented trips, hands-on learning, eco-friendly stays, and kid-centered activities are top priorities.
Taking all these priorities in to consideration, we have put together a list of the most family-friendly destinations for 2026.
Family Friendly US Destinations
No passports? Not ready to take the whole family overseas? Prefer a shorter flight or drive?
No problem!
There are many amazing family friendly destinations to visit right in the US. Whether you are looking for a beach getaway, outdoor adventure, theme-park packed vacation, or a mix of them all, the US has the perfect domestic destination for your family escape.
Orlando, Florida
When it comes to “Family Friendly Vacations”, the home of Disney World will always be the first destination to come mind.
With Disney being a top attraction for families from around the world, it seems an easy pick for family vacations, but planning the perfect family vacation to Disney World can be overwhelming. How long to spend at Disney, what to budget for Disney, what Disney parks to prioritize for your family, and so many more questions. But, rest assured, that is what our Disney experts are here for!
While Disney is the main attraction, Orlando has so much more to offer! With family fun including numerous theme parks, family-friendly resorts and hotels, and endless activities for kids of all ages, Orlando is the perfect family vacation destination with or without visiting Disney.
Orlando is a family favorite in the US for its diverse food scene, resorts, Rock Springs Run, Winter Park, and so much more.
Whether you are seeking theme park fun, outdoor adventure, family-friendly breweries, or a culinary wonderland, Orlando has something to offer every family.
San Diego, California
With neighborhoods like La Jolla, family centered Carmel Valley, and trendy North Park ranking high on safety and walkability scores, San Diego is one of the most family friendly destinations in the US.
Along with safety and walkability, San Diego also features beautiful calm beaches ideal for young kids and rest and relaxation for the whole family.
For those non-beach days, San Diego offers the San Diego Zoo, one of the best in the world, as well as Legoland California. For the Foodie Family, there are endless culinary options from street food to family friendly fine dining and everything in between.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina has long been a family favorite travel destination in the US. With it’s famed boardwalk, endless calm beaches, and tons of family fun like mini gulf and classic boardwalk games, Myrtle Beach is the ideal destination for any family.
With accommodations ranging from budget-friendly resorts to 5-star accommodations, Myrtle beach is attainable to all families ranging from smart spenders to those looking to splash out.
Washington, D.C.
Washington D.C. is the ideal family friendly destination for families with school age children and teens.
Washington D.C. offers fun educational and learning experiences, that still feel like being on vacation. Whether you or your little ones love Science, History, Space, modern art, or anything in between, there is a museum or monument for you!
As an added bonus, many of the museums and experiences in Washington D.C. come at very wallet-friendly prices, making them accessible to families on all budgets.
Best International Destination for Family Fun
If your family friendly travel 2026 has you wanting to venture a bit further from home, these are some of our favorite overseas destinations for the whole family.
Japan (Tokyo, Osaka & Kyoto)
Japan ranks amongst the highest for overall safety, making it a worry-free family destination. Add in efficient trains, stroller-friendly infrastructure, and an overall family-forward culture, and Japan is an ideal destination for all types of families.
Cities like Tokyo, Osaka & Kyoto are especailly family-friendly with attractions like Ghibli Park, Universal Studios Japan, Pokémon Centers. In addition, you will find activities like samurai lessons, themed cafés, and other attractions and activities for the whole family.
Costa Rica
For eco-friendly and sustainable families, Costa Rica is the perfect family getaway.
This country offers adventure activities including ziplining, hiking, and volcanos. For those looking for a more relaxing experience, Costa Rica features some of the world’s most incredible nature, stunning beaches, and wildlife encounters.
Whether you are an adventure loving family, looking for a sustainability-focused getaway, or want some family R&R, Costa Rica is a dream destination for any family.
Mexico (Riviera Maya & Cancun)
Not just for the Spring Break crowd or honeymoons, Mexico truly has it all, especially for family travel!
With so many beaches, resorts, excursions, and activities, your family will never get board in Mexico. Areas like Cancun and Riviera Maya are especially family friendly with beachfront resorts offering full service family-friendly resorts.
Offering everything from kid’s camps, childcare, family suites, activities and excursions, Cancun and Riviera Maya Resorts are the ultimate option for family’s looking for a mix or rest, relaxation, and a little adventure.
For our favorite Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resorts, click here!
Denmark (Copenhagen & Billund)
Consistently ranked one of the happiest, safest countries, Denmark is the ideal European family getaway.
Copenhagen & Billund are both “family first” cities with accessible transit, stroller and walking friendly streets and sidewalks, and stunning greenspaces to enjoy. Restaurants and shops are welcoming to families, and the overall culture of these cities is very family friendly.
In addition to being family-focused cities, Copenhagen is home to the magical Tivoli Gardens theme park Billund is home to the original LEGOLAND!
Scotland
Scotland is known as one of the friendliest (and safest) countries in the world, and that certainly extends to families.
Whether you visit Edinburgh, the Scottish Highlands, or any Scottish town or village in between, your family will receive the warmest welcome.
With endless cultural and historical events and museums to visit in Edinburgh, spectacular nature in all seasons in the Highlands, and castles and historical sites throughout the country, your family is sure to love a visit a Scotland.
Iceland
For nature loving families looking for a little adventure, Iceland is the perfect family friendly destination. With kid approved itineraries, that are also fun and safe for the whole family, Iceland is an ideal destination for family adventure.
Boasting every kind of outdoor activity and adventure, safe roads for self-navigated trips, and endless guided tours available, Iceland offers many different itineraries and types of travel to accommodate any family.
Family Friendly Cruises
Looking to take all the guess work out of planning and executing a full filled family vacation?
Book a family friendly cruise!
With everything you need and want right on board, with the option of adding excursions and outings, cruises are a great option for any family looking for to get away in 2026.
Click here for our favorite family friendly cruises!
At GWA Travel Collective, we know how overwhelming planning the perfect vacation for the whole family can be, especially while managing a family!
That is why we are here to take all the stress and work out of planning your dream family getaway in 2026.
Reach out to our knowledgeable and professional team of travel advisors today and start making your family vacation dreams come true!
