This summer, chill out with a great vacation getaway that the whole family will enjoy. These kid-friendly summer destination ideas are sure to be a hit with your children, while providing you with some much needed relaxation.
Eurocamp
You don't have to give up your dream of touring Europe, just because you have children. Family camping has been redefined with Eurocamp, which provides luxurious programs and a revolutionary approach to traveling with kids. Eurocamp boasts resorts and tours throughout the European continent. You can tailor a customized vacation to meet your family's needs, complete with specialized, age-appropriate programs for your kids. Best of all, special discounts are available during the summer months.
Las Vegas
With theme parks, museums, and tons of child-friendly attractions, Las Vegas isn't just for adults anymore. Your children can enjoy countless theater productions, arcade games, and roller coaster rides, all beneath the glittering lights of the strip. Skip the gambling and visit the IMAX Theater or the Adventuredome. This can be a vacation that the whole family will enjoy.
For more information, visit: www.lasvegaskids.net/
Dude Ranch
If you have little cowboys and cowgirls at home, thrill them by visiting a dude ranch on your next vacation. Kids' programs are offered at many dude ranches, where your children can learn about nature, enjoy horseback riding, and gain an entirely new perspective. You can choose between programs that have you spending quality time with your kids, and programs that are for children only. This summer, experience the perfect combination of work and play, and enjoy the great outdoors -- at a dude ranch!
For more information, visit: www.ranchweb.com/categorydisplay.htm
Six Flags Great Adventure
Revive a classic vacation by visiting one of the most renowned theme park chains in the country. With locations all over the U.S., there's sure to be a Six Flags near you. Take the whole family and be back at work on Monday. Escape the summer heat with countless water rides, or get your adrenalin pumping with a thrill ride. Take your kids to have brunch with Bugs Bunny, or check out the new Safari Park, where you can interact with real animals.
For more information, visit: www.sixflags.com/national/index.aspx
Roswell UFO Festival
Do you have sci-fi fans in your household? Encourage their interests and experience a wacky vacation at the annual Roswell UFO Festival, held every year in early July around the anniversary of the alleged Roswell Incident. Come in costume if you wish, and join the parade. Attend lectures by famous authors and researchers, or watch up-and-coming bands perform. Even if you're not a believer, you can still enjoy the artwork, music, and rampant celebration.
For more information, visit: www.roswellufofestival.com/
Earthplace
It's not easy being green, but it can be fun if you visit the exhibits at Earthplace in Westport, Connecticut. This 62-acre wildlife sanctuary is committed to educating the public about the environment and promoting positive action to preserve nature. The exhibits provide hands-on features that make learning fun for your kids. If your kids like creepy crawlers, check out the Ecology Resource Lab and get acquainted with some critters. After touring the exhibits, visit the garden and the playground, and enjoy the summer weather.
For more information, visit: http://www.earthplace.org/
Dutch Wonderland Amusement Park
Let your kids be royalty for a day at the self-proclaimed "kingdom for kids" Dutch Wonderland Amusement Park. Enjoy contests and challenges, have your kids enter the summer talent show, or try out over 30 fun-filled rides. Dutch Wonderland Amusement Park is located in Pennsylvania Amish country, so you can tour the Amish shops and sites in-between rides and shows at the park, and learn about living life in a completely different way. Experience both history and fun this summer.
For more information, visit: http://www.dutchwonderland.com/
Gold Country, California
Let your little adventurers run wild in California's Gold Country. Teach your kids about the historic gold rush that brought Americans west in the 19th century. Visit museums and tour beautiful landscaped gardens. If you prefer to rough it, try one of the hiking trails -- there are plenty of kid-friendly paths that your whole family can enjoy. If the weather is hot, cool off in a public swimming pool, or take a break with a picnic. Transport yourself and your children to another time by taking a trip to Gold Country.
For more information, visit:
www.travelforkids.com/Funtodo/California/
Gold_Country/goldcountry.htm
