Summertime means no school, warm weather, and plenty of family time. It also, for many families, means taking a fun family vacation. Of course, not every family vacation turns out as anticipated; we have all been on that trip that just does not go the way we expected, and someone gets upset. But family vacations are really all about being together.
However, it does help if everyone is enjoying their time, which is why planning a fun family vacation is such a great idea. In order to help you out on your upcoming vacation, here are a few fun family vacation ideas.
Tanque Verde Ranch
If your family loves getting outside and spending time with animals, then you might consider taking a trip to Tanque Verde Ranch. While at the ranch, you will have the opportunity to ride horses and sample the life of a cowboy. The Ranch also offers a Kids Program, which provides riding lessons, opportunities to play tennis and go swimming, and provides arts and crafts activities.
Things can get a little rough-and-tumble, so a blogger at phenomenalplace.com has this suggestion for visitors: "Remember to wear jeans or long pants, sun glasses and a hat secured with stampede string."
Waikoloa Village
If your family loves the beach, and you are looking for a fun and unique way of experiencing the sun and sand, then staying that the Hilton Waikoloa Village might be a great place for you. Experience the resort's 62 beachfront acres by taking tram rides, shopping, walking beach paths, swimming, or playing tennis.
What brings a lot of families to the Village, though, is the interactive dolphin experience. During this experience, you will have the opportunity to touch, feed, play, learn about dolphins, and swim with the animals.
Grand Canyon
No matter where you choose to see the Grand Canyon from, it will be a sight you will never forget. While you might imagine this trip to be a little boring for your kids, no matter their age, you should know that once there, they will be impressed by the massive canyon.
Once you have arrived, take in the endless scenic views, hike the trails, or take a horse- or mule-guided tour to the bottom of the canyon. If you choose to go this route, make sure you stay hydrated!
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg offers a lot of fun and entertainment for your entire family. Whether you choose to stay in a resort, hotel, or rent a cabin, you will find something for everyone. If shopping is a must for your family vacation, you will be happy to know that Gatlinburg offers many local shops with tourist items, and Pigeon Forge, located not far away, is home to a number of different outlet malls.
If you are looking for adventure, Gatlinburg has you covered. You will be close to the Smoky Mountains National Park, where you will find numerous hiking trails and horseback riding opportunities.
Gettysburg
The Battle of Gettysburg is considered the turning point of the American Civil War, and it remains a historically significant place for Americans today. The Gettysburg National Military Park may not sound like it has much to offer, but you would be surprised by everything you can do. The Park offers various ranger programs, guided tours, map- and audio-guided tours, concerts, and various summer events, which you can attend. A quick visit to the Visitor Center will get you started with your trip.
No matter where you decide to go with your family this summer, be sure to include everyone in the decision process. When you include everyone in your family in the decision-making, they will be much more willing to participate, and they will be more excited about the trip. Keep in mind that the places listed above are just suggestions, and you should look at several options before you actually make a decision about to where to go.
