Imagine the sunshine warming your face as you stroll along a sandy beach. Amelia Island, Florida, delivers on the daydream, with 13 miles of uncrowded beaches and an average of 222 sunny days per year, plus abundant outdoor activities to keep the whole family happy.  Located off the northeast coast of Florida, Amelia Island is close to both Jacksonville and  Georgia. There are so many things to do in Amelia Island: Visitors flock to for beach and boating activities, world-class golf c

Stuck at home with the kids? Presidents’ Week is the perfect chance to hit the road again, this time with confidence. You’ve stayed home for most of the holiday season and now want a safe, short‑haul adventure that keeps COVID‑19 protocols in mind. All that’s left is to choose the ideal destination for the week of February 15th, and we’ve got you covered. Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa, Galena, Illinois Join Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa for its annual Winter Carnival, running February 12‑15. Guests can

For centuries, the Rocky Mountains have drawn visitors with their healing hot mineral springs. In Colorado, a combination of abundant geothermal activity and breathtaking scenery makes these natural hot springs a must‑visit for travelers seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, and a touch of adventure. 1. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort – Glenwood Springs Opened in 1888, Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is arguably the most iconic hot‑spring destination in the United States. Nestled between Aspen and Vail, its

Arriving in Sonoma or Napa with the goal of sampling local wines guarantees delight. The region’s vineyards weave a living canvas across the landscape, and each estate opens its tasting room to visitors. Yet, to elevate a standard wine‑tour into an unforgettable journey, careful planning and a clear vision of the desired tasting experience are essential. Melanie Schwartz, owner of Booker & Butler—a boutique concierge specializing in California’s wine country—has perfected the art of crafting unf

Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a romantic dinner, or a solo culinary adventure, Savannah’s vibrant food scene offers something for every palate. In this month’s edition of Delicious Destinations, I, Megan duBois, take you on a taste‑tested tour of the city’s must‑visit eateries. Meet Your Guide: Megan duBois I’m a full‑time food and drink writer who spends most of my days hunting down the best plates and drinks in every city I visit. When I’m not sampling a new dish, you’ll find me wi

Orlando is synonymous with world‑class theme parks, but the city offers a wealth of experiences that extend far beyond the rides. Whether you’re looking to explore Florida’s natural beauty, indulge in interactive learning, or simply relax in a vibrant urban setting, there’s something for every age and interest. 1. Boggy Creek Airboat Adventure Start your adventure with a high‑speed airboat tour at the mouth of the Everglades. The Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures glide through rivers and creeks sur

At FamilyVacationist we don’t shy away from recommending family getaways that resonate with every age group. When teens are part of the mix, the choice of destination can transform a routine trip into a memorable adventure. Below are ten thoughtfully curated alternatives that will excite teens, spark social‑media moments, and keep the whole family engaged. 1. Tallinn, Estonia – A European Castle Experience Instead of a crowded theme park, why not venture to the Baltic capital where medieval char

If you’re heading to Central Florida for a family getaway, chances are Orlando’s theme parks are on your agenda. Each park offers a distinct flavor of fun, so choosing the right mix can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the ten best Orlando parks—highlighting what makes each one special for every age group and interest. The Best Orlando Theme Parks From adrenaline‑filled roller coasters to immersive movie worlds, the following parks deliver unforgettable experiences that cater to kids, t

Heat and irritability can quickly ruin a family outing. While adults might find relief at a café, parents with toddlers often need something more engaging for their children. Splash pad water parks provide that refreshing escape, turning a hot day into a splash‑filled adventure. Splash Pad Water Parks in U.S. Cities During a summer trip to Seattle with my two‑ and five‑year‑olds, I discovered how essential splashpads are for traveling families. A sudden temperature spike left everyone exhausted

Costa Rica’s unparalleled biodiversity and pristine landscapes make it a top pick for family travelers. From lush cloud forests to two stunning coastlines—Caribbean and Pacific—families find a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that embodies the country’s famous “pura vida” philosophy. With an abundance of all‑inclusive resorts and a wealth of family‑friendly activities, a trip to Costa Rica offers more than souvenirs—it offers lasting memories of sustainable living and natural wonder. Note that even

Monterey, California, is a bucket‑list destination that draws visitors worldwide with its stunning beaches and dramatic coastline. To truly enjoy the peninsula, you need a clear picture of what to expect. Here is an expert‑crafted overview of Monterey’s shoreline and a beach‑by‑beach guide to the region’s most beloved spots. 4 Key Things to Know About Monterey Beaches Monterey is both a city and a county – When you plan a beach day, you can focus on the city of Monterey or broaden your scope to

Looking for a warm escape from winter? Florida’s coastline offers family‑friendly beach towns with pristine sands, historic charm, and culinary delights. The Best Florida Beaches for Families From Amelia Island’s 13 miles of unspoiled shore to St. Augustine’s historic dunes, these towns deliver relaxed vacations for all ages. Key Largo, Florida Keys At the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys lies Far Beach, one of the only private beaches on Key Largo. Located just minutes from John Pennekamp 

I first visited Iceland for a long weekend, and several friends claimed four days was enough to see the country. While that was true, the sheer beauty and adventure of Iceland left me craving more. On my second trip I chose a slower, more immersive approach—traveling the Ring Road in a camper van. Why Travel in Iceland in a Campervan? Traveling Iceland in a campervan blends freedom, practicality, and immersion. Below are four compelling reasons to make van‑life your gateway to the Land of Fire

Utah, boasting seven national monuments, five national parks, and over 40 state parks, transforms into a winter playground for families. Whether you’re sledding on pink sand dunes, trekking through lava tubes, uncovering ancient forts, or spotting petroglyphs and dinosaur footprints—often all in a single day—there’s an adventure waiting around every corner. If this sounds like the vacation you’ve been dreaming of, consider a family road trip or a cozy winter getaway in the Beehive State. Below a

Whether you’re planning a trip for the taste buds or just looking for the next great meal, FamilyVacationist’s Delicious Destinations brings you the best culinary experiences in every U.S. city. This month we’re in New Orleans, Louisiana—beyond the Saints and Mardi Gras, the Crescent City offers a treasure trove of flavor. Let’s Eat: New Orleans Hi, I’m Megan duBois, a full‑time food and drink writer who can’t go a day without a fork or an ice cream cone. In each Delicious Destinations column, I

We’re currently witnessing what many are calling the Golden Age of national‑park travel. The 2016 centennial anniversary and the post‑pandemic shift toward outdoor, socially distanced getaways have propelled the U.S. national parks to the top of family vacation lists. But the surge in popularity has brought its own challenges. Many visitors have found that the most famous parks and their flagship lodges can become crowded, and the idea of a simple family road trip into the wilderness often turns

Walt Disney World spans four Orlando parks and offers more than 50 attractions. Although many rides have no height restriction, that doesn’t guarantee they’re suitable for young children. Thrills such as the Haunted Mansion or Pirates of the Caribbean can feel too intense for toddlers. To keep your visit stress‑free, we’ve compiled ten family‑friendly attractions that welcome guests of every height. These rides promise smiles, not tears, for the whole family. Best Rides at Disney World’s Magic K

Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a solo culinary adventure, or a romantic date night, Napa Valley offers a diverse menu of dining experiences that go far beyond its famed vineyards. In this edition of Delicious Destinations, I’ll walk you through the region’s top restaurants, bakeries, and breweries – highlighting family‑friendly spots, adult‑oriented venues, and hidden gems for solo travelers. Explore Napa Valley’s Culinary Landscape My name is Megan duBois, a full‑time food and drink

With more than 22,000 campgrounds across the United States, planning a family‑friendly adventure has never been easier. Whether you’re looking to camp with pets, enjoy rustic glamping, or simply immerse yourself in nature, there’s a destination that fits every family’s needs. Choosing the right campground starts with location. As Diana Hansen, Let’s Camp S’More expert, explains, "If you want to be surrounded by nature, consider public sites within or adjacent to state or national parks. For

The Lowcountry possesses an almost ineffable charm that compels travelers to return again and again. Stretching along South Carolina’s southernmost coastline, it encompasses Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton, and Colleton counties, bounded by Georgia and the Savannah River to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Its distinct history, vibrant culture, varied landscapes, and celebrated cuisine distinguish it from the rest of the state, while its leisurely pace offers a rare respite from modern bus