The Best Family-Friendly Vacation Destinations in Every State (Part 2: Hawaii-Michigan)
- anessapanzer
- Apr 13
- 3 min read
Planning a family vacation that keeps everyone happy can feel impossible—but it doesn’t have to be.
In this second installment, we’re continuing our alphabetical journey from Hawaii through Michigan. From tropical beaches to vibrant cities and coastal escapes, these destinations are packed with family-friendly fun.
Let’s jump back into your ultimate U.S. family travel bucket list 👇
11. 🌺Hawaii - Oahu
Oahu is the perfect introduction to Hawaii for families, offering a mix of beautiful beaches, cultural experiences, and easy-to-access attractions.
Why families love it:
Calm, swimmable beaches (especially Waikiki)
Variety of activities beyond the beach
Easy island to navigate compared to others
Don’t miss: A family-friendly luau and a visit to Pearl Harbor.
12. 🥔Idaho - Boise
Boise is an underrated gem that offers a relaxed pace and plenty of outdoor fun for families.
Why families love it:
Boise River Greenbelt (perfect for biking and walking)
Smaller crowds than major cities
Mix of nature and interactive attractions
Don’t miss: The World Center for Birds of Prey.
13. 🌆Illinois: Chicago
Chicago is one of the most family-friendly big cities in the U.S., packed with iconic attractions and hands-on experiences.
Why families love it:
Incredible museums (especially for kids)
Free attractions like Lincoln Park Zoo
Walkable downtown with lakefront views
Don’t miss: Navy Pier and a ride on the Ferris Wheel.
14. 🏎️Indiana: Indianapolis
Indianapolis is a dream destination for families, especially those with curious and active kids.
Why families love it:
Home to the largest children’s museum in the world
Interactive and educational attractions
Easy-to-navigate city
Don’t miss: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis (plan to spend a full day!).
15. 🌽Iowa: Des Moines
Des Moines offers a surprisingly fun and affordable family getaway with a mix of culture and hands-on activities.
Why families love it:
Budget-friendly destination
Interactive Science Center of Iowa
Unique outdoor spaces like sculpture parks
Don’t miss: The Iowa State Fair (if visiting in late summer).
16. 🤠Kansas: Wichita
Wichita combines wildlife, learning, and outdoor fun into an easy family trip.
Why families love it:
One of the best zoos in the Midwest
Hands-on science experiences
Plenty of green space and nature centers
Don’t miss: Sedgwick County Zoo.
17. 🐎Kentucky: Louisville
Louisville offers a mix of unique attractions and family-friendly experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Why families love it:
One-of-a-kind attractions like underground caves
Blend of history and outdoor fun
Walkable areas and riverfront views
Don’t miss: Louisville Mega Cavern.
18. 🎷Louisiana: New Orleans
New Orleans is vibrant, colorful, and surprisingly family-friendly when done right.
Why families love it:
Live music and street performers
Unique culture and food experiences
Walkable historic areas
Don’t miss: Beignets at Café du Monde.
19. 🌊Maine: Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor is a peaceful coastal destination perfect for families who love the outdoors.
Why families love it:
Access to Acadia National Park
Whale watching and boat tours
Fresh seafood and scenic views
Don’t miss: A sunrise or sunset in Acadia.
20. 🦀Maryland: Baltimore
Baltimore offers a great mix of waterfront fun, history, and interactive attractions.
Why families love it:
National Aquarium (a huge hit with kids)
Walkable Inner Harbor area
Historic ships and museums
Don’t miss: Exploring the Inner Harbor.
21. 🏛️Massachusetts: Boston
Boston makes history fun and engaging for families of all ages.
Why families love it:
Walkable historic sites
Mix of education and entertainment
Great food and sports culture
Don’t miss: Walking the Freedom Trail.
22. 🚗Michigan: Detroit
Detroit is full of hidden gems and has become a fantastic destination for families.
Why families love it:
Unique museums you won’t find elsewhere
Revitalized downtown areas
Great mix of culture and hands-on experiences
Don’t miss: The Henry Ford Museum.
✈️ Planning Your Family Getaway?
We’re not done yet! Stay tuned for Part 3, where we continue from Minnesota to North Dakota.
If you’re ready to start planning, I’d love to help you find the perfect destination, resort, or cruise for your family.
👉 Contact me here to get started: Get Started with Your Travel Plans
This is Part 2 of our multi-part series covering all 50 states. See our other parts here:
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