Ditch the typical family vacations and go off the beaten path this year to some of the less explored countries to visit with kids. These underrated travel destinations are perfect for your next family trip. From coastal cities to the rainforests of Thailand, these family vacation destinations are road tested and come recommended from real moms like you.
Cuba
Why?
Cuba is like visiting a country stuck in a bygone era. An era where classic cars roam the streets and brightly painted Spanish colonial colonnades edge the sidewalks. For families, Cuba is a wonderful destination to form memories and shape teachable moments based on the sites and experiences your family will have together.
What to do?
Cuba is an island so the obvious answer is to go to the beach but there is so much more to see and explore than the beach alone. The kids will love swimming under waterfalls, exploring ancient caves, Riding horses with cowboys, swimming through underground rivers and of course, riding in a retro convertible.
When to go?
Appropriate for all ages.
Clearwater Florida
Why?
Orlando is the undisputed king of family travel destinations but there are lots of great Florida options that aren’t based around theme parks. In Clearwater, you’ll find beautiful white powder-sand beaches, gentle waves, and warm clear water. The water tends to be a tad warmer than the Atlantic side and less rowdy which is great for families with smaller kids.
What to do?
The gentle warm waters make this the perfect beach destination for first-time water sports activities. Teach your little ones to boogie board or snorkel through the gentle waves. For the more adventurous, rent a jetski or head up to the skies in a parasail.
When to go?
Appropriate for all ages.
Lapland, Finland
Why?
Lapland is home to the northernmost point of land in the world. Take a trip during November or December and experience all the magic of Santa’s workshop and the winter season.
What to do?
Stop by Santa Park to meet the elves and the big guy himself. Take the family on a dog sledding lesson or ski the slopes. Lapland has a few nontraditional winter activities as well like Ice Karting, snowshoeing, and riding in an icebreaker boat.
When to go?
Toddlers through mid-elementary, while they still believe!
Peru
Why?
The Inca city of Machu Picchu is one of the 7 wonders of the world and one of the most breathtaking sites on earth.
What to do?
While Machu Picchu is the obvious main attraction, Peru offers families unique opportunities like sand dune boarding, white water rafting, zip lining, and jungle trekking. Peru has numerous cities with different activities for kids of all ages but is particularly incredible for the adventure sports enthusiasts.
When to go?
Elementary school and older.
Toronto Canada
Why?
As Canada’s biggest city, Toronto is home to just about every experience imaginable for youngsters. Toronto has enough activities to keep you busy with fun-filled days of action-packed events and festivals.
What to do?
Spend a day exploring the Toronto Zoo, and the Ontario Science Center. With your older kids, enjoy a day exploring the hockey hall of fame or Canada’s Wonderland theme park. Check out the CN Tower observation deck and if you’re brave enough do the edgewalk 116 stories above the ground.
When to go?
Appropriate for all ages.
Alaska
Why?
The wildlife and natural wonders alone make Alaska an incredible family destination. Whether you’re visiting by cruise ship or via dry land, your kids will never forget seeing whales, bears, moose, and dozens of other animals in their natural environments.
What to do?
Alaska is all about the great outdoors, hiking, biking, kayaking, and camping is abundant. Take your family into the wilds and teach them all the beautiful things that the Alaskan wilderness has to offer.
When to go?
Appropriate for all ages.
Sydney Australia
Why?
Sydney is one of the biggest tourist destinations in the world with nearly endless activities for kids of all ages. The coastal city is home to beachside attractions, natural wonders, and everything that makes urban adventures so amazing.
What to do?
Explore the sea via the ferry at Circular Quay or if coastal views by land are more your thing check out the Bondi to Bronte coastal walk. Take your kiddos to the darling harbor and explore the playgrounds, carousel, aquarium and wildlife park.
When to go?
Appropriate for all ages.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Why?
Chiang Mai is nestled in the foothills of northern Thailand and home to ancient temples, elephant sanctuaries, and incredible night markets.
What to do?
Spend a day volunteering at Elephant Nature Park and learning about the endangered Asian Elephants. After your elephant experience, take a tuk-tuk around town to explore ancient temples. On a rainy day check out one of the many local artisans’ studios and try your hand at a local handicraft.
When to go?
Appropriate for all ages.
Cairo Egypt
Why?
The ancient pyramids at Giza and the temple ruins.
What to do?
Of course, you’ll want to explore the pyramids and ancient Egyptian museums but there is so much more than the ancients to experience is this beautiful country. Try your first traditional Egyptian meal with a variety of falafels and hummus. Explore the street markets and visit a local mosque.
When to go?
Elementary school and older.
Lisbon Portugal
Why?
Lisbon may be the most underrated destination on this list. While it’s not as popular as its neighboring European cousins, it has just as much history and culture at a lower price point.
What to do?
Explore the cable cars and local trams. For younger kids, KidZania is a must. It’s a child-sized city where little ones can try on different professions for size. If you have active kids looking to burn off some steam after visiting Jeronimos Monastery, take them to the fun track and rent a skateboard, scooter, or go-kart to race around.
When to go?
Appropriate for all ages.
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