As the BBQs and beach trips wind down and our TVs become a parade of back-to-school promos, we’re not alone in wanting to savor every remaining morsel of summer. Summer, with its more leisurely pace at work and free rein for kids, is the quintessential time for family getaways. Most parents can attest to the chaos that a new school year brings, making family bonding time a rare commodity. Hence, it might be worthwhile to fit one more family vacation into this summer.
If you’re contemplating a last-minute holiday before the school bell chimes, here are six memorable family vacation ideas:
1. CAPE CODDER RESORT, CAPE COD
The northeastern fringes of the country, especially Cape Cod, Massachusetts, are spellbinding around this time of year. Cape Codder Resort is an ideal destination for families, boasting a variety of activities. With everything from an indoor wave pool to shared spa treatments for parents and kids, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. Additionally, the resort arranges night bonfires, movie screenings, volleyball games, and more for children during weekends. Budget-conscious families may consider a shorter weekend trip to keep costs down.
2. POCONO MOUNTAINS SKYTOP LODGE
Set across over 5,000 acres, this lodge situated near the bustling cities of Washington D.C. and New York can serve as an excellent impromptu getaway for families. Parents can partake in golf, spa treatments, and outdoorsy adventures. Kids, on the other hand, are catered to by the Adventure Center, a hub of activities including ziplines, a paintball course, climbing wall, multiple pools, and a natural lake for water sports.
3. SAN DIEGO
For an affordable yet unforgettable family vacation, San Diego is a perfect choice. With its stunning California coastline, this city is an animal-loving child’s paradise. The globally renowned San Diego Zoo and Sea World, along with the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, provide countless family-friendly dining choices and activities.
4. MINNESOTA’S CARIBOU HIGHLANDS LODGE
On the surface, Minnesota might not strike you as a hotspot for family vacations, but the Caribou Highlands Lodge can keep even the fussiest of children entertained amidst beautiful views. The surrounding eight state parks provide opportunities for hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and even nightly s’mores-fueled bonfires.
5. OPT FOR A SKI RESORT
Looking to escape the summer heat? A ski resort might just be the solution. Despite being traditionally associated with winter, places like Breckenridge or Lake Tahoe remain bustling hubs of outdoor activities offering opportunities for hiking and mountain biking.
6. MACKINAC ISLAND, MI
Perhaps my personal favorite, Mackinac Island offers fun from the ferry boat journey to get there and on the island itself. A distinct feature of this island is that it’s a car-free zone. Instead, visitors travel on foot or by horse-drawn carriage.
Consider sneaking in a last-minute summer getaway for some precious family bonding time before school and the ensuing chaos begin. The next opportunity for a family break probably won’t arise until spring break. These destinations promise a fun-filled, memorable trip, with something to satisfy every family member.
What’s your favorite family vacation spot? What activities do your kids adore?
