Panama City, FL
Kids love the dolphin at this Panama City Beach hotel ! — Photo courtesy of Dennis from Atlanta
The Holiday Inn Resort in Panama City, Florida has everything a family could imagine for building a fun-filled trip to remember. Splash, the dolphin mascot, is on call to tuck kids in at night with milk and cookies and, of course, photo opps are plentiful. Splash's kids club entertains for hours, with arts and crafts and even a dive-in movie night at the pool. Kids love the resort's lazy river, waterfalls, slides and toys at the incredible tropical lagoon pools. Aqualand is the the new water playground Gulf side.
Entertainment is provided daily poolside, from magic acts to Polynesian dancers, with a DJ spinning the tunes while you splash and relax. The beach is steps away, where Mom and Dad can relax at the Oceanfront Day Spa. Kids can also get out of the sun for a while by playing games at the Pirate's Den. Don't miss the Polynesian traditional torch lighting at the pool in the evenings, a special treat which reminds all of our blessings.
Galveston
There's plenty of family-friendly things to do in Galveston. — Photo courtesy of Galveston Facebook page
Dallas residents and visitors alike who are craving a beach vacation can travel to Galveston, located south of Houston on the Texas Gulf Coast. The road trip from Dallas to Galveston takes approximately five hours to drive, so it's the perfect weekend getaway! Choose from many family-friendly activities and attractions in Galveston, such as the 242-acre Moody Gardens. This attraction is a wonderful combination of a theme park, an educational Discovery Museum, gardens and is one of the world's largest aquariums. Families can also spend their day in Galveston on one of the many beaches, where you can swim, fish and play in the sand. One of the best hotels in town is the Hilton Galveston Island Resort (also known as the San Luis Resort), which is family friendly and located on the seawall.
Jersey Shore
Amusement ride at Pleasant Beach, New Jersey — Photo courtesy of Sister72
These days, when you hear the words 'Jersey Shore,' the racy MTV show and spring break partiers come to mind. But there are sections of the New Jersey shoreline (which stretches for 60 miles, north of Atlantic City) which are especially geared toward family. For parents of younger children, the quaint, quiet and chain store-free Avalon is an old-fashioned walk back in time. Ice cream and fudge stores, miniature golf, a skateboard park and even a kids sports camp are what you'll find.
For those with older 'tweens and teens, head farther north to Point Pleasant Beach. Here, Jenkinson's Beach Boardwalk provides shopping, amusement park rides, an aquarium and even weekly fireworks displays. The White Sands Oceanfront Resort, with rooms overlooking both the pool and its own private beach, is close by to these attractions, a short walk away. The resort has two outdoor pools, a kiddie pool, with boating and fishing available.
Boston, MA
Kids love to frolic along the Beaches of Cape Cod — Photo courtesy of Jessica PolizzottiBoston is only about an hour away from one of the best family vacation spots in the States- Cape Cod! A Stay at the Hampton Inn in West Yarmouth is in perfect proximity to many attractions that will make your family happy. Located on bustling Route 28, this Mid Cape hotel makes it easy for families to travel on budget and in style. Complete with complimentary breakfast (to stay or grab and go), an indoor and outdoor pool, internet access, and game room, you won't have to listen to the all often heard, "I'm bored" from your little ones. The best part is that within a short walk, bike or car ride you'll find a collection of fun places to stop like beaches (Craigsville is quite popular and great for younger kids with mild tides, bath houses, and a snack bar), multiple venues for miniature golf, the Zooquarium, many family friendly dining options, and some truly great golf courses.
Vancouver
This beautiful suite can quickly become equipped with a crib and playpen — Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Vancouver Hotel
Vancouver's Four Seasons Hotel is a triple threat that caters to adults, children and is centrally located to major attractions. Upon your arrival, kids will be greeted with games, special toiletries and child-size bathrobes to cuddle up in after a warm bubble bath, or swim in the pool. If you let the hotel know the names and ages of your children prior to your arrival, complimentary amenities will be ready for them. Cribs, playpens, high chairs and strollers can also be supplied for rooms. All the bases are covered!
Should you have an aspiring chef, kids can have cooking and baking classes with the Four Seasons chef, and a tour of the kitchen. The Four Seasons is attached to the Pacific Centre mall, so mom can go and pick out a new dress to wear out for dinner, while the hotel organizes reliable nanny services to look after the children for a special date night. Across the street from the Four Seasons is the Canada Line, which can take you directly to YVR International Airport, and the Skytrain is just around the corner. The hotel's concierge will point your family in the right direction, and everyone in your group will feel pampered.
