Family Vacation Idea

Family Vacation Idea: Zoos and Aquariums

Zoos and Aquariums are an excellent place to visit while on vacation. No matter the age of your family members, nearly everyone enjoys going to the zoo or aquarium. In addition, there are a multitude of zoos and aquariums throughout the country. These vacation destinations offer the family an excellent opportunity to view animals from all over the world up close and personal. In addition, most zoos and aquariums have a strong underlying conservation and education theme. Therefore, visiting these sites provides wonderful hands-on learning activities that engage their imagination.

Many zoos and aquariums are also members of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association. Purchasing an annual membership to the association will allow you free or reduced admission to over 150 zoos and aquariums in the United States and Canada. Many zoos and aquariums also offer discounts in their food courts and gift shops to members.

Theme Parks

A multitude of theme parks are available for families, as well. Most theme parks have a variety of sections, which are designed to meet the needs and likes of every member of the family. For example, most theme parks include a variety of thrill rides, such as roller coasters, to entertain teenagers and adults who are still young at heart. On the other hand, the majority of theme parks offer an area specifically created for children who are too young to ride these thrillers. These areas generally include gentler rides and are themed with famous cartoons and their characters, such as Loony Tunes characters with the Six Flags theme parks and Disney characters with Disney World.

Most theme parks also offer spectacular shows that are sure to please every member of the family. These shows can include stunt shows or Broadway-style musicals and productions. Or, they can be 4-D adventures, which combine 3-D images and other sensory special effects to help bring the show to life.

Family Vacation Idea: Museums

Museums can also be a fantastic family destination. Many major cities now have children’s museums, which have been created to be both fun and educational. These museums offer hands-on learning experiences for the children and help bring concepts to life. Like theme parks, children’s museums generally have areas designed for various age groups. For babies and toddlers, there are often play areas were the children can explore different textures, colors and sounds. For older children, these museums usually offer exhibits of interest to children, such as close up looks at other cultures, at how the body works, and at engineering principles. Of course, all of these learning experiences are cleverly disguised as hands-on play areas designed to stretch the child’s thinking.

Even museums that are not designated as children’s museums can be exciting for the whole family. Museums with unusual themes, such as Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum or the Guinness Book of World Records Museum will be sure to be a hit on your next family vacation. In addition, weapons specializing in weaponry, medieval times, dinosaurs, and air and space often include amazing presentations and simulations that will create memories to last a lifetime.

National Parks

The United States alone has over 50 designated national parks. These parks make fantastic vacation destinations. National parks provide a multitude of opportunities to become closer to nature and to learn more about what it has to offer. Walking and driving trails offer breathtaking scenery and fantastic opportunities for family members to bond with each other. In addition, many of the National Parks also have exciting theme parks, museums, zoos, and shopping opportunities nearby.

Sporting Events

One, sure to please, family vacation idea is to attend a sporting event together. There is no thrill greater than watching a live event in person. Taking in a live hockey game, football game, basketball game, baseball game, or race can provide for an outstanding family outing. All major cities have their own sport leagues and many smaller cities do, too.