20 Family-Friendly Destinations for Summer Vacation

Planning a summer vacation for the entire family can be difficult as not every destination can appeal to travelers of all age groups. Fortunately, there are plenty of easily accessible hotspots where families can make their best memories together this summer.

Few destinations stack up with Nassau and Paradise Island in the Bahamas when it comes to pleasing the entire family. The region boasts accommodation options to suit every taste and is home to thrilling water parks, intriguing wildlife and much more.

One of the top budget- and family-friendly destinations in North America, Niagara Falls is a bucket list attraction guaranteed to captivate the entire clan, from toddlers to grandparents. Plus, the destination will welcome real-life Mario Kart this summer.

Ocean City features miles of free beaches and one of the nation's most beloved boardwalks. The resort town also offers water sports, amusements from end to end and exceptional waterfront restaurants and nightlife.

It's almost impossible to run out of things to do in sunny San Diego. Notable family-friendly attractions here include the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, SeaWorld, Belmont Park and Seaport Village, among others.

If you're looking for a kid-friendly city in the Pacific Northwest, consider Portland. The city warms up in the summer so its plentiful parks and green spaces will be at their best this time of year. Families can also visit the Oregon Zoo, take a ride on the aerial tram and stop by the Portland Children's Museum.

The Mile High City brings a lot to the table when it comes to entertaining families, from white water rafting adventures and gold mining experiences to escape rooms and amusement parks like Elitch Gardens, the country's only downtown theme and water park.

Families seeking a tropical getaway this summer can't go wrong with a trip to Punta Cana. In addition to gorgeous beaches and clear waters, this Caribbean paradise offers a wide range of family-friendly accommodations, including Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana.

Head to Gatlinburg in the Great Smoky Mountains this summer and discover a wealth of fun-filled attractions such as the world's first mountain glider (single rail coaster suspended in the air), the world's largest exhibition of grand illusions, mirror mazes, mini golf and more.

Cape Cod is celebrated for its beaches, which attract plenty of visitors during the summer months. However, the destination is certain to surprise first-time visitors with museums, trails, magic shows and delicious beer and a family-friendly atmosphere at its namesake brewery.

Vancouver is home to not only beaches but Kitsilano Pool, a 137-meter-long heated, saltwater pool equipped with water slides and a cafe. Families will also enjoy the Family Adventure Zone at Whistler Blackcomb among the city's other opportunities for summer fun.

Anaheim combines the best of both worlds for families, bringing world-class kid-friendly attractions like Disneyland within miles of the beach. There's also plenty of sightseeing opportunities in nearby Los Angeles.

Family fun is synonymous with Orlando. The Theme Park Capital of the World truly has it all but continues to add new attractions each year. Toy Story Land, which is scheduled to open June 30, is among the anticipated entertainment arriving this summer.

The National Mall and Smithsonian Institution alone boast enough attractions to take up an entire weekend. Plus, visitors can always head to nearby Six Flags America for wet or dry summer fun.

Plan your summer visit to Gettysburg around the Fourth of July and the anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg to experience the intense reenactment. This year's iteration will take place July 5-8.

The Waterpark Capital of the World is home to countless thrills and entertainment that the entire family will appreciate. There's also fishing, hiking and ziplining for older kids and downtown Wisconsin Dells for adults seeking some vibrant nightlife.

Forming the Historic Triangle with Jamestown and Yorktown, Williamsburg is tons of fun for history buffs, thrill seekers, campers and anyone who loves spending time outdoors. Colonial Williamsburg was even named Virginia's best attraction for 2018 by USA Today readers.

Hoping to get outdoors this summer? Set your sights on Texas Hill Country where you can combine the best features of Mother Nature and the big city as this scenic and relaxing region includes portions of Austin and San Antonio.

Sandusky, Ohio is perhaps best known as the home of Cedar Point, one of the world's premier amusement parks and a bucket list stop for roller coaster enthusiasts.

If your family loves the beach, Myrtle Beach is a no-brainer. There's a lot more to see and do here beyond the sun and sand, from the Family Kingdom Seaside Amusement Park and the 1.2-mile oceanfront boardwalk for the whole group to beach bars for adults.

Pittsburgh is guaranteed to please the whole family as it offers a host of things to do in the summer, from unique museums and scenic outdoor spaces to lively festivals and farmer's markets. Head to the Duquesne Incline for unrivaled views of the city and go from there.