Summer Vacation Ideas the Whole Family Will Love

Squeeze in one last trip before the school year.

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School is just around the corner, so finish off summer break with a bang. A last-minute family vacation will give the kids stories to share when they return to school and memories to last a lifetime. 

Teenager hidden by city map

Teenager hidden by city map

Photo by: Muriel de Seze

Muriel de Seze

Planning a trip for multiple age groups can be tough, but it's not impossible.

If you have teens, ask them about making a little cash and babysitting the younger kids so you and your partner can have a night out. Ask ahead of time, so they don't feel ambushed and can plan on staying in and watching a movie.

Get all the kids involved in the planning. Even if toddlers can't quite grasp the concept of the trip, it'll prepare them for the change in schedule and give them something to look forward to. Have teens research things they want to do and see, too.

As much as togetherness is important on a family vacation, teens value independence. Give them a few hours to go off by themselves - maybe when the toddlers (and you?) are napping. Agree on a designated area you feel safe about and establish a place to meet back up.

Check out more of our tips on how to make a trip enjoyable for all ages.

Where to Go

You can’t go wrong with classic family vacations like beach getaways, mountain trips or theme park visits. Browse some of Travel Channel's top destinations for families:

Bicycles parked on beach at sunset

Bicycles parked on beach at sunset

Photo by: Jihan Abdalla

Jihan Abdalla

Lake Louise, canada, water, mountain

Lake Louise, canada, water, mountain

Photo by: By Benefactor123 (Own work) [CC BY 3.0],

By Benefactor123 (Own work) [CC BY 3.0],

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Of course, the newest and most popular attraction at Universal's Islands of Adventure is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Fans will be treated to plenty of performances, a dragon-themed roller coaster, and even (non-alcoholic) butterbeer.

Photo by: Gustavo Caballero / Getty Images

Gustavo Caballero / Getty Images

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