Best Family-Friendly Travel Destinations

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The summer is a great time for families—the weather is nice, the kids have time off school, and the open road is beckoning.

The summer months are a great time to get out with the kids and see the many wonders the world has to offer. There are so many lessons they’ll learn on the road they would have never learned in a classroom. However, not every destination is kid-friendly.

Below is a list of some of the best travel destinations to take the family.

Portugal

While many might balk at the idea of a European vacation due to the perceived expenses, Portugal is very reasonable, especially by European standards. Plus, it offers some delectable food, rich cultural history, breathtaking scenery, and plenty of activities.

You can stay at the Martinhal hotel, which caters specifically to families—there are extra-large rooms, play areas, kids clubs, and family-friendly restaurants.

Lisbon boasts the Lisbon Oceanarium—voted one of the best aquariums in the world. It has hundreds of different marine animals, from mammals such as sea otters to water birds such as penguins and seagulls to stunning tropical fish, to fearsome sharks.

Toronto

For travelers who want to experience a foreign country while staying within North America, Toronto, Canada is a great, family-friendly destination.

A city filled with culture and sights. There are restaurants geared towards families—such as Piano Piano, which has a floor dedicated just to kids, replete with chalkboards, arcade games, and a menu that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters (also, the plates are flip-proof).

Toronto also boasts a myriad of activities for the whole family. Sports fans can check out the Blue Jays play at the Rogers Centre in the heart of Downtown Toronto, those looking to take in the attractions can check out the CN Tower right by Lake Ontario, and travelers in late August through early September can attend the CNE—a massive exhibition that includes rides, live shows, carnival games, fantastic foods, and much more.

Hawaii

Another great destination for families who want to stay within the continent—especially the families that might be behind on getting their passports updated—Hawaii, despite being part of the U.S., has so many unique sights, it often feels like another world.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers visitors an experience unlike any other—especially given the fact the volcano is still active (no need to worry, though, it’s safe for visitors). Visitors can see how volcanic activity can impact, change, and even add to the earth.

You can stay at the Disney’s Aulani Resort, which is geared towards families and even has a Disney Luau KA WA’A event where kids can take part in a variety of activities including lei, bracelet, and poi making.

Tokyo

Japan is a country that is somehow both incredibly modern, while also boasting a rich, cultural history. There are massive skyscrapers and TV screens illuminating street corners right next to ancient temples. It’s a great destination for families who want to experience a unique culture steeped in history.

You can dine at the Robot Restaurant that provides dinner and a show featuring dancers, lasers, and of course, robots.

Late summer is also the season for the Higanbana flower, which blooms a bright red for miles in Saitama Prefecture—just an hour’s drive from Tokyo.