A happy family vacationing at the beach by the waves with kids resting on their parents' shoulders.

What Are the Best Places for Family Vacations?

4 min read

Published December 11, 2024

Table of contents

Key Takeaways

There are many great spots for a family vacation in the United States.
Families who enjoy hiking or nature could try a national park or if they love the water could seek out a seaside town.
A travel credit card can help you save money on your next family vacation.

Are you thinking about planning your next family vacation and don't know where to start? From the East Coast to the West Coast, there are plenty of places to travel to in the United States that the entire family can enjoy. Plus, when you travel with your credit card, you can enjoy your vacation and potentially save some cash too. Here are some of the best family vacation spots for the whole family to enjoy.

Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

If your family likes the great outdoors, North Carolina is a standout. From majestic mountains to the relaxing shores of its lakes, North Carolina draws adventure-seekers of all ages.

While there, you may want to visit the Smoky Mountains National Park. This national park offers hiking trails leading through picturesque landscapes and provides breath-taking views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Your family can enjoy picnics in the middle of nature or view wildlife while bicycling. Bring along your travel credit card to buy snacks, blankets, and food storage items. If you have a Discover it^® Miles travel credit card, you can earn 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase.¹

Get up-close to nature at the San Diego Zoo

San Diego, California, stands out as one of the most popular family destinations in the United States. San Diego offers a great mix of coastal relaxation and natural adventures.

The San Diego Zoo is a must-see for visitors of all ages. The world-renowned zoo is home to a wide variety of animal species from all over the planet and offers an opportunity for learning and fun for the family.

With a Discover travel credit card, you earn 1.5x Miles on every purchase, at home or away.¹

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The beaches of San Diego are equally attractive. La Jolla, with its white sandy beaches and clear waters, is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun. Here families can take long walks along the coast, picnic, or snorkel. And if you’re up for adventure and willing to learn a new sport, according to SanDiego.gov, La Jolla hosts novice scuba classes.

Enjoy fun and sun at Newport Beach

For families looking for a California beach vacation, Santa Monica and Newport Beach may be your best bet. These coastal spots offer a unique atmosphere, with iconic beaches, busy piers, and waterfront restaurants providing the perfect mix of relaxation and fun.

In Santa Monica, families can stroll on the famous Santa Monica Pier where they can enjoy street performances, carnival games, and food stalls.

Newport Beach welcomes families with a feeling of adventure. Here, families can rent bicycles and ride around the famous Balboa Fun Zone, a carnival-like area along the beach. With shops, restaurants, and sailboat rides, there's activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Food, entertainment, and souvenirs can quickly become costly when you're buying for the entire family. But with a credit card, you can potentially save for your next trip with the Miles that you earn.

Did you know?

With a Discover it^® Miles travel credit card, you can turn Miles into cash. Or redeem as a statement credit for your travel purchases like airfare, hotels, rideshares, gas stations, restaurants, and more.²

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See a butterfly conservatory in Key West

Key West, Florida, is perfect for those seeking a tropical experience. Key West is most famous for its diving, snorkeling, and signature Key Lime Pie. The town offers an ideal spot to relax, indulge in exotic foods, and soak in sun and water sports.

But the wonders of Key West offer more than its water activities. The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a must-see. Here, you can explore a variety of different butterfly species and exotic flora. Purchase tickets, food, souvenirs, and more with your credit card knowing that you automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase.¹

The bottom line

A family vacation can be a time to create lasting memories. With careful planning and wise use of your credit card, you can make your travel experience even more enjoyable and convenient. Learn more about how a travel credit card can help you and your family save on your next trip.

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