By Expedia, on June 27, 2019

This Summer’s Top 10 Family Getaway Destinations

Nothing says summer quite like a family vacation. Schools out, the nights are short and the days are long. Whether it’s relaxing at the beach, hiking in a National Park or taking a road trip, here are some of this summer’s top family getaway destinations.

For a quintessential American summer vacation, you can’t beat Niagra Falls. The waterfalls themselves have the highest waterflow of any waterfall in the world. Not to mention they showcase an incredible sight.

niagara falls summer family getaway
Niagara Falls

But there is more to Niagara Falls then just water. The surrounding area has quaint small towns as well as plentiful hiking trails for a family excursion.

With a name like Winter Park, you might expect this destination to be a winter-only locale. But you’d miss out on a wealth of outdoor activities to take part in.

winter park family getaway destinations
Winter Park, Colorado

Whether it’s hiking, camping, mountain biking or wildlife observing, Winter Park has everything for a great family getaway. Even better is that rates drop significantly in summer months, helping it be one of the most affordable destinations on this list.

Myrtle Beach is an icon of summer family getaways. Miles of pristine beaches, fun-filled boardwalks and charming small-town quarters make this a top priority for summer vacations.

myrtle beach family getaway destinations
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

The resort town is also home to some of the country’s most creative culinary scenes. Swim, build a sand castle, snack on cotton candy, all under perfect maritime weather and the summer sun.

For the outdoor family, nothing beats a trip to Yellowstone National Park. Everywhere you look is a postcard perfect view. Hike under the stars in thousand-year old-growth forests.

geyser yellowstone family getaway destination
Geysers at Yellowstone National Park

Watch bison roam the plains or grizzly bears feast on salmon. And with scenic drives taking you to fantastic view-points, every day of your trip will end with unforgettable memories for the whole family.

If a civic lesson is what you have in mind this summer, Washington DC is a perfect choice. With the White House, Congress, Supreme Court as well as countless museums and historic galleries, the nation’s capital will keep your family engaged for weeks.

lincoln memorial family getaway destinations
Lincoln Memorial

Summers can be hot and muggy in the District, but there’s always attractions such as the Smithsonian Institute to visit in between viewings of sites such as the Lincoln or Washington Monuments. For a vacation that entertains as well as educates, Washington DC can’t be beat.

A summer on the Outer Banks is paradise where time flows with the waves. Stay in a vacation rental or hotel on boardwalks where the waves lull you to bed.

outer banks family getaway destinations
Sand Dunes off the Outer Banks

Enjoy warm and mild water as well as perfect weather with refreshing marine breezes. And when it’s time to rest, take shelter in the half dozen small-towns that lie on the coast. The Outer Banks make for a relaxing family getaway among the waves and wind.

Ocean City is a classic summer spot. Miles of beautiful beaches with the ubiquitous umbrellas sheltering families from the summer sun.

ocean city family getaway destination
Ocean City Boardwalk

When you tire of the sun and the sand, head into town where you’ll find delicious cuisine, charming boutique shops and the historic quarter of one of the nation’s oldest resort towns. When it comes to summer family fun, it doesn’t get any better than Ocean City.

Gatlinburg is more than an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, it’s also home to a quirky fun resort town. Nestled in the Great Smokey Mountains, Gatlinburg has a Ripley’s museum as well as aquarium.

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Hiking in Gatlinburg

Fine dining surrounds you wherever you go, and that’s before you head off to the mountains for some of the best hiking, camping, whitewater rafting and fly fishing in the nation.

The summertime favorite of Presidents and celebrities, Cape Cod is a great family getaway full of class, glamour and fun. Go sailing in the bay, sign up for a whale watching tour, or simply enjoy life on the beach.

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Sailing off Cape Cod

Clam chowder, lobster rolls and other New England classics are available to snack on, and the resort is well equipped to satisfy your family’s needs. A summer on the cape is sure to leave your family with a lifetime worth of memories.

For a West Coast summer vacation, the Oregon Coast can’t be beat. Not as hot as it’s Californian cousins, the Oregon Coast has mild temperatures, stunning seascapes and an incredible array of geography.

oregon coast
Oregon Coast

Explore sea caves, visit Haystack Rock or carouse the small towns that dot the coast. Everywhere you go you’ll meet friendly locals, mild temperatures and some of the freshest seafood on the planet.

Each summer vacation is an unforgettable experience for families. Book your next trip to any of these locations for a perfect summer family getaway