Family vacations build lifelong memories, opening your kids to new cultures and experiences. However, the logistical challenges of jetting off to some far-flung destination with the little ones can put off some parents. Fortunately, the world is full of incredible places that offer child-friendly holiday activities and have facilities to make travelling with younger kids more comfortable and fun. So, if you’re looking for ideas to take your little ones, here are the top 5 family holidays destinations perfect for young children.
- Universal Studios, Florida
At Universal Studios, Florida, your little ones will have a lot of fun. Although most rides cater to older kids, few others allow parents to bond with their toddlers. In fact, there are about ten rides and attractions in Universal Studios where kids under 40 inches are allowed. Other activities, such as the Studio Tour and Kung Fu Panda Adventure, do not have height restrictions. When strolling around the park, you could stumble upon some of your toddler’s favourite characters like Hello Kitty and Dora the Explorer.
Consider getting the Universal Express ticket for a more comfortable way to explore the park with your kids. With this ticket, you can use the express line for some popular rides, shows, and attractions, which means you can skip the long queues that often cause tantrums for little kids, as boredom could strike.
One of the highlights of your visit to Universal Studios is the studio tour, which gives you behind-the-scenes access to the historic studios featuring sets from your favourite Hollywood movies and shows. It does not have age or height restrictions, allowing you to take your little kids.
- The Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
For families who love exploring the great outdoors, visit The Cairngorms National Park, the UK’s largest national park. Considered an area of outstanding natural beauty, it offers a wealth of natural attractions, from sparkling lochs to some of the UK’s highest mountains. The best thing about choosing Cairngorms National Park for your next family holiday is that you will find some great dog-friendly accommodations in the area, which offer the perfect place to stay for those visiting here with the whole family, including their pets.
Sitting at the heart of the Scottish Highlands, the Cairngorms National Park offers numerous opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking to mountain biking, skiing, and more! You can also explore charming towns and villages. One of the highlights of your visit is Loch Morlich, one of Scotland’s most picturesque lochs. You can enjoy boating at the lake and even take your dogs. Just be sure to train them not to keep on moving, as it could make the boat unstable.
You will find some historic castles scattered around the Cairngorms National Park, so take the time to see some of them. The most popular is the Balmoral, where Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth used to go on holiday. It’s open to the public, but only between April and July, when the royal family is not around.
- Lapland, Finland
Family holidays in Lapland are all about discovering the magic of the Northern Lights or riding huskies through snowy winter wonderlands! Located in northern Finland, Lapland is incredibly magical, with its snow-covered pine forests, vast fells, and frozen lakes. The region has family-friendly accommodations and facilities, so you’ll feel at ease taking your small kids.
Riding a snowmobile is one of those activities you can do with the kids. It will take you through lush forests, where you can marvel at the stunning wintry landscapes and stop at some local villages for traditional hot berry juice and hot chocolates.
Lapland builds a snow village yearly using about 20 million kilos of snow and crystal-clear natural ice. Seeing the snow village is a must during your visit. It’s located between Äkäslompolo and Kittilä and has an ice hotel for guests to stay overnight. What’s fascinating is that they change the design yearly and with different themes.
Going for a reindeer safari is another activity your kids will surely enjoy. You will be riding in a traditional Finnish sleigh as the reindeer takes you through the forest and on the outskirts of the town – an experience your kids will never forget!
- Walt Disney World, Florida
Walt Disney World Florida is one of those places that families with young children can visit. If planned well, your trip to Disney will be full of fun adventures. And it might just end up being a favourite destination for your kids.
When taking your toddlers to Disney World, ensure you plan the rides and attractions to visit in advance. Although Epcot is best known for its festival scene, it has seven rides with no height restrictions, so it’s something to consider. The Magic Kingdom has several rides for little kids and toddlers, such as It’s a Small World, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Peter Pan’s Flight, and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.
Another thing to consider when taking the kids to Disney World is the costume. One of the things you’ll notice is most kids are donning costumes of their favourite characters, and your kids may want to join the club, too!
- Pilanesberg National Park, South Africa
All kids love to see animals, especially in the wild. While many would frown upon the idea of taking little kids on an African safari, South Africa’s Pilanesberg National Park offers child-friendly game drives and has numerous accommodations suitable for families with small kids. No matter their age, your kids will surely appreciate seeing animals up close and in their natural habitat. Of course, you will be with an expert and guide during the safari to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
Accommodation is an important consideration when taking the kids on a safari. Thankfully, there are lodges around the Pilanesberg National Park offering child-friendly facilities. You can also stay at one of the family-friendly hotels in Johannesburg. One of the best things about the Pilanesberg is that it’s only a 3-hour drive from Johannesburg, so it’s easily accessible from the city.
Found this article when researching destinations for this summer. South Africa sounds really appealing!
This post has ease-out the stress of picking a destination to visit with young children. I would choose Walt Disney World, Florida for a family holiday. It can be lots of fun and adventure.