Summer is the perfect time for a family vacation. School's out. The kids are at home. Why not pack everybody into the car and take a family road trip?!
Luckily, there are a lot of options for families looking to vacation close to home. We've got some suggestions for you. BUT, before you go, check out these tips to Survive a Family Road Trip from PBS.
Look Up Your Favorite Resort Online: Many hotels and resorts offer deals just for families. Here are just a few we found:
- FamilyGetaway.com – They've got 10 deals from Phoenix to Vegas and San Diego – each one for 4 people
- TripAdvisor – Check out these family resorts in Arizona as ranked by TripAdvisor travelers
- Fairmont Princess – They've got fireworks every Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Stay overnight and enjoy the fireworks, any of the five sparkling pools and the 200-foot waterslides — including the After-Dark Techno Waterside with fog, disco lights and live DJ. Savor award-winning cuisine, get pampered at the spa, take in a round of golf or just float along at a Dive-In movie. Add even more twinkle to your childs’ eye with daily poolside games, lagoon fishing, the sport court and Trailblazers Family Adventure Center.
- The Phoenician – Bring your family to this Scottsdale resort for fun in the sun this summer. Enjoy family-filled programs and events while splashing around in one of their nine sparkling pools. Discover the Funicians Kids Club, where spark the imagination and satisfy the quest for adventure in their young guests. Reserve now and enjoy: rates from $169 per night, kids eat free with each adult entrée purchased, one complimentary full-day pass for one child at Funicians Club – Valid on stays May 30 – September 2, 2013.
- Enchantment Resort (Sedona) – The entire family will enjoy this perfect Sedona vacation package in the Southwest! 2 nights at Enchantment Resort, Full breakfast or breakfast buffet each morning, per person at the restaurant or In-Room Dining, One group Jeep tour (choose one from several adventures, scenic, rugged, photography, etc.), Daily use of Mii amo spa (for those 16 years of age and older), tennis courts, and mountain bikes, Special kid-friendly amenity
- Squaw Peak Hilton – Summertime at Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort means both pool time and fun time that can't be had anywhere else. From superheroes and aliens to sports stars, families will be transported to a fantasy world. Rates from $109* per suite, per night, May 28 to Sept. 7, 2013. Refreshing pools, water slide and Lazy River, complimentary kid's meals, dive-in movies and children's programs, themed dining, nearby championship golf, relaxing spa services – all wurrounded by mountain preserves great for hiking and biking.
- Westin La Paloma – Make family getaways an annual tradition with Starwood Resorts. Book the Love Your Family package for an unforgettable vacation at The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa and kids under 12 eat free with the purchase of any adult entrèe. Plus, book a stay June 1 – August 31, 2013 and enjoy an additional daily $50 family fun credit for use at the resort.
Whether the highlight of your visit is a spectacular sunrise, a staged train "holdup," or a glimpse of the endangered California Condor, your trip to the Grand Canyon will be one your family talks about for years to come. There's a reason why nearly five million people from all over the world visit this natural wonder each year — few other views are so utterly spectacular. Find family vacations for ALL age levels HERE.
Other Online Resources
There are several sites that have already mapped out (and rated) family-friendly vacations. Just pick where you want to go – or check them all out online until you find your favorite option!
- Disney Family Vacations – Great family vacations are easy to plan at Disney Family.com. You'll find travel destinations with recommendations and reviews on things to do with kids. And we're not just talking about Disneyland.
- TLC Family – Southwest Vacations – Children are thrilled thrilled by tales of the Old West and inspired by visits to some the region's most advanced scientific locales. Plan a family vacation in New Mexico, Arizona, or Nevada, and you'll have an opportunity to show your kids the Grand Canyon, old cowboy towns, and more. Explore the links to find destinations your kids will love. They've included links to Mobil-rated family-friendly hotels and restaurants near each destination, so all you need to do is pack.
- Family Vacation Critic – California – Find reviews and suggestions for family vacations in California.
- Family Vacation Critic – Southwest – Check out this resource of reviews and suggestions for family vacations throughout the Southwest.
