Travel
Travel

There was an average of 79 million international arrivals to the United States in 2019. Travelers from abroad coming in for leisure activities usually go shopping, fine dining, sightseeing, visiting parks and monuments, and, most importantly, visiting amusement and theme parks.

things to do in states with kids_fact 1

While traveling out of the country sounds like a fun adventure for your entire family, having your kids tag along has its downsides. Parents usually deal not only with the additional costs of travel, but also their kids’ behavioral problems.

Ending up in unwelcoming or unpleasant places or hotels isn’t uncommon either. No parent would want to expose their kids to the inconvenience and anxiety caused by these situations!

It is for these reasons that four out of ten American families are likely to take their trips within the country, with New York being the most visited place, welcoming about 9.8 million people annually—kids included.

Do children who travel more frequently tend to become well-rounded individuals? Roughly 74% of teachers think so, according to a survey of 1,500 of them. They believe that traveling creates a positive impact on a child’s personal development.

Similarly, 56% of them believe exploring places is a unique way of educating kids. Americans who take trips regularly are also generally happier and healthier, according to research.

things to do in states with kids featured 1 1

Are you planning your next family getaway across the United States? Here are some of the exceptional places to be and the best activities to do to create meaningful memories with your children.

USA map

Alabama

1_Alabama
  • Visit the U.S Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville and experience the Family Space Camp where you and your kids can learn and experience what it’s like to be in space.
  • Head on to the Gulf Shore to escape the city life and have some fun under the sun!
  • Check the 1,500 acres Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and check out the mini-train that comes through the pines.
  • Drive-thru Alabama Safari Park in Hope Hull and be mesmerized by exotic animals and get to feed them through the car’s window if they happen to pass by.
  • Visit this unique three-floor Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa and give your kids a fun learning experience.

Alaska

2_Alaska
  • Check out Denali National Park, the most visited park in Alaska, for some wildlife appreciation, hiking, and take in the majestic scenery of the snow-coated mountains.
  • Get up close and personal with sea animals such as sea lions, puffins, and octopus in its rescue center in Alaska Sealife Center.
  • Experience a different kind of train ride with the Alaska Railroad and have fun learning and sightseeing as the train passes through Alaska’s famous places.  
  • Enjoy the snow activities with the family at Alyeska Resort.
  • Go dog-sledding in the Seavey’s Ididaride in Anchorage or Seward and experience a unique kind of tour! 

Arizona

3_Arizona
  • Learn about Arizona’s Natïve roots in Casa Grande Ruins National Monument and be sure to check the cliff dwellings that’s more than centuries-old!
  • Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and have fun learning about animal and botanical life in the desert. 
  • Rock it like Elvis and take your kids to the Musical Instrument Museum for a hands-on experience of musical instruments from all over the globe.
  • Cool off the desert heat and head to Lake Havasu for refreshing activities like camping, swimming, and boating.
  • Visit the iconic Grand Canyon and take in all its majestic glory of its natural rock formations. 

Arkansas

4_Arkansas
  • Soak in the picturesque view while you go strolling and taking photos at the Big Dam Bridge.
  • History buffs would surely love visiting the Clinton Presidential Center and Park and check the Oval Office and Cabinet Room that feels like being in the White House!   
  • Just five minutes from the Clinton Library, check out Arkansas’ sea and air creatures in the Witt Stephen Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center and ask for the Nature Search Scavenger Hunt.
  • Nestled in the beautiful Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is a must-visit for its Victorian-themed town filled with unique shops, art galleries, and tasty meals from nearby restaurants.
  • Enjoy nature and take a hike in Cedars Falls Trail as you discover huge trees and boulders, and see the 95-foot Cedar Creek waterfalls.

California

5_California
  • Nature walking along Yosemite National Park and enjoy camping, hiking, swimming, fishing, and day excursions.
  • You are neither too old nor too young to visit Disneyland, the most magical place on Earth!
  • Take the kids to the Living Desert and develop an appreciation for wildlife creatures such as cheetahs, jaguars, fennec foxes, and many others!
  • Learn the fun way about our planets and check out the largest telescopes in the world in Griffith Observatory.
  • Once an aircraft carrier used in the military, the U.S.S Midway Museum is a vibrant spot to spark their enthusiasm on American maritime history.

Colorado

6_Colorado
  • Have a feel of the Burlington town a century ago and experience recreated horse-drawn carriages, sofa fountain, and other historic buildings in Old Town Museum just like the good old’ days!
  • Check out the Amur tigers, mountain lions, moose, and other unique creatures of about 800 animals enclosed in the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.
  • Head out to Telluride Ski Resort’s Eco Adventures for a half-day or full-day camp and develop an appreciation of nature.
  • Get some thrills riding down one of the most exciting three places in the U.S to offer winter tube rides at Summer Tubing Hill.
  • Enjoy the water slides and thrilling rollercoaster rides in Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park.

Connecticut

7_Connecticut

Delaware

8_Delaware
  • Give your kids an educational experience for the visuals when you visit the Delaware Art Museum.
  • Enjoy the beauty of the Christina River with its pristine waters and soothing breeze when you ride the Wilmington River Taxi.
  • Future aviators will surely enjoy looking at U.S. air Force’s retired aircraft in the Air Mobility Command Museum.
  • After a busy day, head on out to the Rehoboth Beach. Build sandcastles or go for a swim with the kids in the Atlantic!
  • Go kayaking through large cypress trees as you enter the swampland of the Trap Pond State Park.

Florida

9_Florida

Georgia

10_Georgia

 Hawaii

11_Hawaii

Idaho

12_Idaho
  • Visit Silverwood Theme Park for thrilling rides and outdoor activities.
  • Take a day trip in Idaho’s Tautphaus Park Zoo if your kids are in the mood for animal watching.
  • Be excited to play and learn with the kids when you check out Idaho’s age-appropriate activities in the Discovery Center of Idaho.
  • Climb, walk, or go sightseeing at the Bruneau Dunes State Park is an eye-pleaser and an excellent place to take a refreshing break from the busy downtown excursions.
  • After a meal, take the kids with you for biking or a relaxing stroll along Couer d’Alene Parkway that takes you to the northern area of Lake Coeur D’ Alene.

Illinois

13_Illinois
  • If you’re coming on a winter season, be sure to head out to Quad City for adrenalin-pumping 40-foot jumps, tubing, skiing, and snowboarding activities!
  • Bring them to where the magic is! Boo Castle Park where there are statue dragons, castles, and knights.  
  • Get up close and personal with wildlife creatures such as wolves and bears in the Big Run Wolf Ranch.
  • Play cowboy in the Wild West Town where kids and adults alike can experience the life of the Wild West with its train and pony rides, carousels, and lazy canoes.
  • The Bison’s Bluff Nature Playground provides a beautiful escape after a busy day in town with its nature-like caves and tree roots.

Indiana

14_Indiana
  • Immersed in Indiana’s culture and natural wonders, Harrison County Discovery Center is meant to be explored for the curious mind.
  • Take a look into caves unlike you’ve never seen before when you visit the Indiana Caverns, one of the largest caves in the U.S.
  • Take a break from the busy metro and head to Farm Life, and enjoy learning how to grow to produce, get out of the corn maze, do bungee jumping, and pig racing!
  • If you need some speed, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway features a premium racetrack where you can see famous racecars like NASCAR and Formula One.

Iowa

15_Iowa
  •  If you fancy something hilarious, be sure to head out to the American Gothic House and explore the many memorabilia and parodies plus take home your American Gothic shot.
  • Bask in the serene water as you take a ride to the Great River Road traveling through many of Iowa’s historic cities.
  • Maid-Rite is a local ‘mom and pop’ store famous for its delicious pork tenderloin sandwich sure to quench a huge appetite.
  • The charming Amana Colonies is a fascinating tour for enjoying German food, bed and breakfast accommodations, and exciting vintage craftsmanship.
  • If you happen to visit during Father’s Day, the infamous Blue Bunny Ice Cream factory in LeMars is a go-to place for live music, “cone-ival.” parades, and lots of ice cream.

Kansas

16_Kansas
  • Find an extensive collection of animals, plants, trees, and flowers when you visit the National History Museum.
  • Beautifully handcrafted marbles in Moon Marble Company will surely induce an interest in marble collection for kids—and dad!
  • Brave through a massive crowd during Thanksgiving for the Plaza Lighting Ceremony in Country Club Plaza for a once-in-a-year opportunity to see stunning lights signaling the holiday season.
  • Get a chance to see a NASCAR race in the Kansas Speedway for your aspiring little racer.
  • A definite cure for the sweet tooth, Browne’s Irish Marketplace is just the place to visit with your kids for their infamous buttermilk pasta salads and chocolate chip cookies.

Kentucky

17_Kentucky
  • Be sure to fill your taste of local favorite Hot Brown, an open-faced sandwich filled with bacon, turkey, and Mornay sauce available in Brown Hotel Louisville.
  • Share fond memories with the family while taking a Kentucky Dinner Train ride, sharing a hearty dinner or lunch, or enjoying the scenic view outside.  
  • Learn more about the Shaker’s culture in Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill as costumed interpreters talk about their crafts, trade, and community of the late 1770s.
  • Considered one of Kentucky’s most visited tourist spot, the Kentucky Horse Park is home to an extensive collection of horses where visitors can ride, enjoy presentations, and if you’re lucky, get into extraordinary events.
  • Enjoy a cave tour in one of the largest cave systems on the globe in the Mammoth Cave National Park.

Louisiana

18_Louisiana
  • Learn fascinating Louisiana history of its governors and this famous mansion’s residents in the Old Governor’s Mansion and Museum.  
  • Save time for a 3.5 hour trip for Cajun Food Tours as you make six stops to taste the best food offered in Louisiana.
  • Active kids would surely love the fun activities offered in Millennium Park with its 20,000 acres of kid-friendly playground.
  • A museum for the curious, the Lafayette Science Museum showcase interesting exhibits, virtual presentations, and the planetarium program.
  • Spend a quiet afternoon in the New Orleans City Park over a family picnic or enjoy kayaking with your kids.

Maine

19_Maine
  • Get up close with humpback and fin whales in Boothbay Harbor when you reserve a whale watching tour.
  • Discover the fascinating world of wildlife creatures at the Maine Wildlife Park.
  • Visit the Sebago Lake and go kayaking in one of Maine’s best kayaking spots while enjoying its magnificent waters.
  • Keep your children entertained in the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine with its various theater shows and educational presentations.
  • Cool off the summer heat in Funtown Splashtown U.S.A. waterpark with its classic park rides, pools, and slides.

Maryland

20_Maryland

Massachusetts

21_Massachusetts
  • The zipline in Zoar Outdoor can go as high as 50 feet above ground giving you a chance to conquer your fear of heights.
  • Get a chance to feed flamingos or check the elusive snow leopards in Stone Zoo.
  • Race with your kids in two-seater go-karts at the Seekonk Grand Prix as you drive through hairpin curves, straight-aways, and tunnels.
  • Bring your kids for a real battleship tour in Battleship Cove and explore famous ships like the U.S.S. Massachusetts and U.S.S. Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr.
  • Discover the cosmos in this full-dome planetarium in W. Russell Blake Planetarium, including a seasonal full-dome view of the solar system.

Michigan

22_Michigan
  • Get a bit of Victorian history smacked in Michigan in Mackinac Island with its delectable fudge, relaxing nature trails, and Victorian-inspired structures.
  • Enjoy a bit of Dutch in Nelis’ Dutch Village and learn the craft of making cheese and candles.
  • Best known for its lighthouses, the Michigan Lighthouse offers a fun and educational experience for children and adults about lighthouses while showcasing a stunning view of the lake below.
  • Take a picture or two with the family in Lake Michigan Dunes and enjoy other outdoor sports such as riding an ATV.  
  • If your kids love cars, they would surely love the Henry Ford Museum and learn more about its roots in the automobile scene.

Minnesota

23_Minnesota
  • Let your little pilot explore the A.C.E.S. Flight Simulation Center using a virtual simulator flying a Boeing 737 or a Hornet.
  • Take your kids to Minnesota’s largest indoor water park in Water Park of America and enjoy 24 exceptional rides, slides, water canyons, and geysers.
  • Be entertained and head out to the Children’s Theatre Company and watch “Annie” or “A Christmas Story.”
  • Keep your kids busy in Nickelodeon Universe with its various kid-friendly rides and carnival-style games.
  • Slow down and stroll along the Minnehaha Park and check the splendid 53-foot waterfall as you go biking or hiking.

Mississippi

24_Mississippi
  • With its interactive presentations and outdoor play area, the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center is a must-visit for the curious.
  • Escape from the urban life and head to Clarkco State Park for some outdoor activities such as camping, water sports, or hiking across a lush woodland.
  • Give your little artist a treat and explore the instruments, memorabilia, and other collection of blues music in Delta Blues Museum.
  • Home to 380 animals, the Jackson Zoo is another visited place for kids who love to explore the wild.
  • Experience a fun day with sea creatures in Ocean Adventures Marine Park and get the chance to see sea lions and dolphins perform tricks.

Missouri

25_Missouri
  • Liven up your Missouri trip and be sure to check out the unique rides, water activities, and dinner cruise at Silver Dollar City.
  • Enjoy free animal shows, Budweiser horses, and a hearty meal in Grant’s Farm.
  • Get a relaxing view of the Mississippi River while shopping, playing water wars, or bumping boats in Sawyer’s Creek Family Fun Park.
  • Let nature be your teacher as you dwell on fascinating nature formations and scenic views in Johnson Shut-Ins State Park.
  • Visit the Mark Twain Cave Complex with its exciting cave formations and learn how Mark Twain’s writing was influenced by this.

Montana

26_Montana
  • Take pleasure in the stunning views, fresh air, exciting wildlife creatures, and beautiful faunas surrounding Yellowstone National Park.
  • Go horseback riding, rafting, fishing, and family cookouts in one of Montana’s Lone Mountain Ranch.
  • Camp in style in Glacier National Park using rustic tents surrounded by nature with the amenities of a hotel in Under Canvas Glacier.
  • Learn more of Montana’s rich cultural background in Bannack State Historic Park that takes you back in the 1800s.
  • Put on the scientific hat and learn everything science in the Museum of the Rockies.

Nebraska

27_Nebraska
  • Surf, slide, and play in one of Nebraska’s only surfing simulator parks in Pawnee Plunge.
  • Have fun with the kids in this 700-acre state-owned park fit for hiking, playing golf, and creating crafts in Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.
  • Learn the quirks of science in Edgerton Explorit Center from turning a flame into soundwaves to encapsulating kids inside a bubble as well as discover 30 other interesting hands-on exhibits.
  • Never miss the chance to see the biggest indoor rattlesnake, climb through pop up observation spaces, and wildlife sea creatures in Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.
  • Tune off from the busy city life and head to Roca Berry Farm and pick fresh strawberry off the fields.  

Nevada

28_Nevada

New Hampshire

29_New Hampshire
  • From ecology to New Hampshire’s history, the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is a place of entertainment and learning.
  • Experience better outdoor activities when you visit the Great Glen Trails in Pinkham Notch with the New Hampshire’s White Mountains as the backdrop.
  • The maze, frozen fountains, crawl spaces, slides, and a throne made of ice leaves an enchanting experience when you visit the Ice Castles.
  • Enjoy an unforgettable dog-sledding experience and whitewater raft excursion with Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel & Raft NH.
  • Experience a unique train ride in Mount Washington Cog Railway as it goes 6,288 feet above to the peak in North Cove, spreading before you the Atlantic Ocean and New Hampshire’s white mountains.

New Jersey

30_New Jersey
  • If you’re feeling a bit courageous, don’t miss riding the tallest roller coaster in the world in Six Flags Great Adventure.
  • Pick fresh produce and have it prepared for dinner when you visit Hallock’s U-Pick Farm.
  • Newark Museum, the largest museum of the state, offers various exhibits and hands-on learning exploration for entertainment and fun.
  • Check out the magnificent view of Philadelphia as you cruise Camden riverfront in Battleship New Jersey.
  • Visit the Allaire State Park and learn about the fascinating life of the community of New Jersey in the 19th century in the Historic Village of Allaire.

New Mexico

31_New Mexico

New York

32_New York

North Carolina

33_North Carolina
  • Whitewater rafting along Nantahala River provides an excellent opportunity to bond with your family as you wade your way through the rapids.
  • Go beyond the traditional textbooks in 82nd Airborne Division War Memorial Museum and learn about World War I and explore vintage aircrafts spread out on the grounds.
  • Relax and enjoy the scenery when you take the Tweetsie Railroad, especially at Christmas.
  • Rent a kayak or canoe and enjoy the still waters of the Dismal Swamp as you pass by lush trees and houses. 
  • Take the slow pace and head to the Uwharrie National Forest for outdoor camping, fishing, boating, and horseback riding.

North Dakota

34_North Dakota
  • Displaying premium aircraft and interactive exhibits, children can enjoy a cockpit experience in Fargo Air Museum.
  • Take a picture (or two!) in North Dakota’s largest buffalo statue and admire live buffalo herds in the Frontier Village.
  • Check out mountain lion, river otters, grizzly bears, and 600 other wild animals in Dakota Zoo.
  • Take a stroll in this state preserved Theodore Roosevelt National Park – South Unit and be on the lookout for elks, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep frolicking nearby.
  • Spend the afternoon on a cruise along the Missouri River with Lewis and Clark Riverboat.

Ohio

35_Ohio

Oklahoma

36_Oklahoma
  • The Plaza District is an all-in-one place to dine, check out art galleries, and entertainment.
  • Go back in time and learn how Oklahoma came to be with more than 2,000 exciting artifacts in the Oklahoma History Center.
  • Enjoy the water slides, pools, and other fun water rides when you visit the White Water Bay.
  • Feel the adventure and check out 50 adrenaline-pumping rides that your kids would surely love in Frontier City.
  • Feast on tasty local and ethnic dishes in Guthrie Green on Wednesdays.

Oregon

37_Oregon
  • Take a hike in Silver Falls State Park, passing ten beautiful waterfalls that are picture-worthy.
  • Entertain young kids and head to ScienceWorks, a hands-on exhibit for some creative exploration.
  • Get some fresh air and go kayaking along the Sisters Country’s rivers lined with quaint houses, mountain lakes, and lush pine forests.
  • Marvel at the pristine Crater Lake on a boat tour.
  • Be entertained, dine, or shop for fancy craft in the Portland Saturday Market.

Pennsylvania

38_Pennsylvania
  • Enjoy abundant produce in Pennsylvania’s Dutch Country in Lancaster, and you might get lucky to purchase freshly baked pies and bread.
  • Head out to Bucks County and explore the quaint villages and relaxing atmosphere away from the city life.
  • The Presque Isle State Park is home to the best beaches for wildlife watching, surfing, or just cooling off hot summer days.
  • Perfect for skiing and tubing, the Pocono Mountains is the perfect space for children who are fond of snow activities.
  • Children curious about trains and military submarines should check the Carnegie Science Center.

Rhode Island

39_Rhode Island

South Carolina

40_South Carolina
  • Help them develop an appreciation for sea creatures by visiting the South Carolina Aquarium.
  • Experience Southern comfort food at Harold’s Restaurant with its delectable selection of homemade chow-chow, corn dogs, chicken wings, and chicken stew, to name a few.
  • The Congaree National Park is an ideal place for slow-paced activities such as canoeing, bird watching, and kayaking.
  • Ride the Skywheel that rises above 200 feet from the ground and get a glimpse of Ocean Boulevard in the Boardwalk.
  • Visit the Harbour Town Lighthouse and be surprised by the marvelous scene of Calibogue Sound.

South Dakota

41_South Dakota
  • Visited by 20,000 tourists during summer days, the Wall Drug offers interesting trinkets, souvenirs, and affordable local food.
  • Experience dramatic landscapes, spires, and buttes all forming into a beautiful tapestry of colors in Badlands National Park.
  • Go spelunking on a 300-mile underground cave in Wind Cave National Park connected to Jewel Cave National Monument.
  • The Wild West is never too far when you visit Deadwood to learn a thing or two about its history.
  • Never miss the opportunity to visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial and check out prominent American presidents carved on stone.

Tennessee

42_Tennessee

Texas

43_Texas
  • Get the thrill of your life and take exciting rollercoaster rides in Six Flags Fiesta.
  • Find time to relax and dine with your family while facing the waterfront in Kemah Boardwalk.
  • Experience the cowboy culture and head to Mayan Dude Ranch and be entertained with rodeo shows and horseback rides.
  • Lake Travis offers a refreshing break from the Texas heat with its children and adult pools, as well as onsite water activities for the whole family.
  • Experience the vast Texan plain with its animal inhabitants and cacti when you ride the Wyler Aerial Tramway.

Utah

44 Utah

Vermont

45_Vermont
  •  Get paired with an experienced bike instructor covering 30 miles of trails in Killington Ski Resort during summer.
  • The best way to truly appreciate Lake Champlain is by riding a bike along Burlington Greenway.
  • Shelburne Museum is a 45-acre tourist spot with 30 buildings showcasing American art and artifacts.
  • Take a dip in its calm and pristine waters when you visit Vermont Lake.
  • Enjoy an exhilarating walk to the peak and enjoy the view from above in Smuggler’s Notch.

Virginia

46_Virginia
  • Face your fears with Busch Gardens Williamsburg’s European-inspired roller coasters.
  • Visit Natural Bridge State Park, home to the most iconic 215-foot bridge made of limestone.
  • Swim and have fun under the sun with your kids when you visit the kid-friendly beaches of Chesapeake Bay.
  • Take your kids for a raft or canoe ride in the upper portion of James River, wading through its calm waters.
  • Discover the unique rock formations forming a cathedral-like structure in Luray Caverns.

Washington

47_Washington
  • Are you the ultimate food lover? Check out Bainbridge Island‘s restaurants that serve local delicacies.
  • Home to Pacific Salmon, the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery offers you a close glimpse of these fishes crowding and making their way up into the hatchery.
  • Admire full blooms of tulips lining up the fields when you visit Skagit Valley for the Tulip Festival happening every April.
  • Don’t miss the picturesque snow-covered alpine mountain peaks, beaches, and rain forest all in one location when you visit Olympic National Park.
  • Experience close encounters from exciting creatures such as retired Hollywood bears, antelopes, and bison at the Olympic Game Farm.

West Virginia

48_West Virginia
  • The West Virginia State Museum offers visitors an exciting way of teaching about the Civil War, coal deposits, and the rich culture of West Virginia.
  • Visit the Coopers Rock to see a scenic view of lush green forests of the Appalachians.
  • Summersville Lake is a perfect getaway from the city life where you can choose from a variety of water sports such as kayaking, boating, and paddleboarding.
  • Home to one of the most photographed waterfalls, the Blackwater Falls is a 62-foot waterfall best known for its exciting cascade of waters.
  • Take the traditional steam train as it passes through colorful foliage in Cass Scenic Railroad State Park.

Wisconsin

49_Wisconsin
  • Discover Wisconsin’s love for cheese and visit the Union Star Cheese Factory using traditional cheese-making methods.
  • Motorcycle enthusiasts would undoubtedly be excited visiting the Harley Davidson Museum where children can suit, sit on a Harley Davidson motorcycle, or create their own.
  • The Discover World provides a full-pack entertainment for children with its 150 exhibits to stimulate the curious mind.
  • Check out 400-year old rock formations inside the Cave of Mounds National Natural Landmark.
  • Find your food boiling and set into flames with a specialty dish served only in Pelletier’s.

Wyoming  

50_Wyoming
  • Take a dip in one of the best and most relaxing hot springs in Wyoming: Hot Springs State Park.
  • The Old Trail Town in Cody offers visitors an authentic West ambiance with its line-up of cabins, saloons, homesteads, and storefronts created like the real thing.
  • Enjoy horseback riding, campfires, and lots of relaxation when you stay in for a day or two in Paradise Ranch.
  • The Devils Tower National Monument is one of the most visited places in Wyoming best known for its use in Native American rituals.
  • Spend the day in Jenny Lake for swimming, hiking, and relaxation in Grand Teton National Park.
things to do in states with kids_fact 2

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