The Other Family Vacation Destinations

Although Orlando and Washington, DC top most lists for family trips, there are 50 states, each with its own unique features, and many that are perfect for creating lasting family memories. Our suggestions are full of attractions with appeal for both kids and their parents, from amusement parks and historic sites to fine dining and upscale shopping. These dynamic cities attract their fair share of the tourist trade, but you can still find less crowded spots and budget-friendly things to do.

St. Louis, MO

Situated on the banks of the Mississippi, St. Louis, Missouri, "Gateway to the West," is a fantastic city to visit, especially with kids in tow. The famed Gateway Arch and Gateway Arch Riverboat Cruises, Six Flags St. Louis and the Magic House children's museum are definite must-sees. World-class St. Louis Zoo is a winner with kids of all ages – and made even better with a couple hours in the surrounding 1400-acre Forest Park. Other kid-centered attractions: Raging Rivers Waterpark, St. Louis Science Center and Planetarium, and Meramac Caverns in nearby Stanton. The Missouri Botanical Garden captivates with a butterfly house, Victorian hedge maze, children's garden and the Climatron, a geodesic dome housing a fabulous collection of rain forest plants. Grant's Farm is perhaps the most kid-centric of numerous historic sites. A shopping mall may not be an optimal choice, but kids are fascinated with historic Union Station, which has an indoor lake and paddleboats. And no trip to St. Louis would be complete without a Cardinals game – give them some peanuts and Cracker Jack!

Detroit, MI

Got a Jeff Gordon-wannabe? Take him to the US automotive capital, Detroit, Michigan. Needless to say, several car-related attractions here should keep the little guy enamored for at least a couple of days. Start with the Automotive Hall of Fame and GMnext Showroom. Then branch out to Greenfield Village and the Henry Ford Museum in nearby Dearborn (more cars, plus historic stuff for Mom and Dad); the fascinating and idyllic Cranbrook (school, museum and historic site all in one) in Bloomfield Hills; or even Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, Ohio. Back in town, switch gears with a visit to the Detroit Science Center or the Detroit Zoo, or work off some energy at Belle Isle Park. The historic Eastern Market is exciting, too, especially on Saturday mornings. Golfing parents, take note: more than 30 golf courses are within 20 miles of downtown Detroit.

Baltimore, MD

If your kids love ships and ocean creatures, Baltimore, Maryland is the place to go. Although frequently overlooked in favor of nearby Washington, DC, Baltimore offers plenty to entertain the family. First stop: the Inner Harbor. Plan at least two days here. Along with the National Aquarium, sights include the Baltimore Maritime Museum, the USS Constellation (last Civil War vessel still afloat), Port Discovery, the Maryland Science Center (complete with IMAX theater and planetarium), the observation deck on the 27th floor of the World Trade center, and the huge Harbourplace and The Gallery shopping complex. You can even take a ride on an actual topsail schooner – the Pride of Baltimore II. Further into the week, take in an Orioles game, or at least tour the stadium at Camden Yards, and marvel at the energy and variety at Lexington or Broadway Market. Wrap up the vacation with a leisurely stroll through the Maryland Zoo, a prowl on the beach at Sandy Point State Park or a hike through Gunpowder Falls State Park.