Family vacations are a summertime staple. However, finding a place to visit that everyone will enjoy isn’t always easy. It can be difficult finding locations that are fun, exciting, and family friendly. Whether you have little ones to plan for or your kids are teenagers, make sure you choose a family trip that has something for every age. If you’re ready to plan the perfect family vacation, take a look at some of the most exciting places to take your family this summer.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about family vacations, but it can be one of the most fun and exciting. With erupting geysers, natural hot springs, and a plethora of wildlife, there’s something waiting around every corner. Not only will you and your kids have a blast watching the natural eruptions, but you will love the educational aspect as you take tours as a family.

Atlantis Paradise Island Resort

Located on the island of Nassau in the Bahamas, Atlantis is the perfect family retreat for beach lovers. If you love watersports, white sand beaches, and catching some rays, this is the right place for your family. Not only does the Atlantis boast some of the most beautiful outdoor adventures for your family to take part in, but the aquarium, natural wildlife, and dolphin shows mean there’s something for everyone. Charter a boat from Miami to the island for an extra adventure.

Walt Disney World Resort

Nothing is more perfect for a family vacation than a trip to the happiest place on earth. Disney World isn’t just for kids. With roller coasters, rides for the little ones, and shows that everyone will enjoy, there’s something for every age. Get your picture taken with some of your favorite characters, or let your kids eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner with Mickey and Minnie. This is sure to be a vacation spot they won’t soon forget!

Niagara Falls

As one of the most beautiful natural wonders of the world, Niagara Falls three combined waterfalls feature the highest flow rate for waterfalls in the world. Whether you’re traveling to the U.S. or Canada side, there’s always something for your family to do. With charter boats, observation decks, and tours, you can get up close and personal to the misty Falls. After a day of exploring, hit the local zoos, aquariums, and historical sights. You’ll love the natural beauty of the Falls, and your kids will love all the great extras there are.

Washington, D.C.

As the capitol of the United States, Washington, D.C. has a variety of family-friendly activities. With visitors from all over the world, D.C. offers monuments, museums, zoos, aquariums, and some of the best restaurants in the country. With the Smithsonian museums open daily and for free, you never have to worry about planning your trip. Take the metro into the National Mall and spend the day seeing the sights and taking in the history. Make a trip in the late spring for a glimpse at the famous cherry blossom trees.

Las Vegas

The City of Sin can also be one of the most family-friendly locations in the world. Aside from the gambling on the Strip, there are some of the most spectacular shows. From Cirque de Soleil to the museum of natural history, there’s something to do every night. During the day, visit Circus Circus — the only permanent big top in the world. Take everyone for a spin on an indoor roller coaster at Adventureland — the biggest indoor amusement park. Your kids will love the lights and the sights, and you’ll love how many family options there are.

Great Smoky Mountains

When you’re looking for the best place to spend the hot summer days, the Great Smoky Mountains is the perfect choice. Spend the day walking the strip in Pigeon Forge or visit the aquarium in Gatlinburg. Enjoy time at the iconic Dollywood amusement park, or head up to the mountains for a picnic and time deep in the woods. If you’re looking for wildlife, Cades Coves offers wolves, bears, deer, and farm animals for your family to see. On special days, the peak offers snowcaps even on the hottest days.

Image by Bert Kaufmann Under Creative Common License.