Looking for a fun family vacation without having to fly overseas? There are practically an endless number of great destinations in North America that are sure to please, including these.
Jasper National Park, Alberta
If you just purchased one of the St. Albert homes for sale, you’re only a few hours from breathtaking Jasper National Park. The road trip along the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper alone was ranked by National Geographic as one of the top 10 drives in the world and Alberta’s No. 1, bringing views of pristine turquoise lakes, waterfalls and some of the highest peaks in the Rockies, along with impressive wildlife, from bears and woodland caribou to elk, lynx and bobcat. One of the top family-friendly experiences here is a river rafting ride, bringing the chance to see nature as it was intended.
Black Hills, South Dakota
One of the top destinations for families, the Black Hills truly offers something for everyone. Not only is it beautiful, with lush hills, sparking lakes, waterfalls and unique rock formations, but there are a wealth of attractions, from Wind Cave, one of the longest caves in the world, to rides on a historic 1880 steam train between Hill City and Keystone and Bear Country U.S.A. where you can embark on a wildlife safari. In Hill City, you can relive the Old West with shootouts in the streets, and in Custer State Park, enjoy all sorts of outdoor activities like fishing, paddling, swimming, horseback riding and wildlife watching. Along Wildlife Loop Road you’re likely to encounter bison, elk, mountain goats, pronghorn antelope and wild burros.
Yellowstone National Park, Montana/Wyoming
One of America’s most magnificent national parks, Yellowstone is home to more geothermal features, including hot springs, mud spots and geysers, than anywhere else on the entire planet. The kids will be in awe, marveling at Old Faithful skyrocket steam as high as 185 feet into the sky. There are bubbling mud pots, colorful paint pots and rainbow-hued hot springs like Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the country. There’s plenty of wildlife too, including many bison, elk and Bighorn sheep – the occasional wolf and bear can sometimes be spotted too.
San Diego, California
San Diego is famous for fun family vacations, offering a warm and sunny climate year round along with attractions like the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, LEGOLAND and countless beautiful beaches – in fact, there are more than 70 miles of powdery sands here. In historic Old Town, there are multiple historic buildings to explore, including Whaley House. Open for public tours, it was featured on the Travel Channel’s America’s Most Haunted. There are more than 25 eateries within just a one-mile radius too, although it’s especially renowned for Mexican fare with mouthwatering enchiladas, chile rellenos, tamales and more.
Tampa, Florida
While many families head to Orlando, Tampa is a great option without the thick crowds and high prices. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the roller coasters as well as the animal encounters at Busch Gardens, or even take a canoe trip along the Hillsborough River. Clearwater Beach offers a ton of water sports, and the Lowry Zoo is well worth a visit too.
