Picking the right destination is very important while travelling with toddlers, tweens, and teens.
Kids are quite impatient so the trick is to choose destinations that will arouse their curiosity. Places with inspiring history, animals and those that offer hands-on activities are best suited for kids.
Here are a few travel hotspots in the U.S. and Europe that won’t break your bank.
WASHINGTON, DC
The National Mall in D.C. is a must visit. But how about riding in a boat on wheels? Take D.C. duck tour (90 minutes), and experience both land and sea. It will take you to the history-packed National Mall, which covers the Capitol building, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Smithsonian museums, and then go for a scenic river trip.
COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG, VA
Everyone loves to play dress-up. A stash of old-timey accessories awaits you at the Great Hopes Plantation, where the original 1700s farm has been recreated. Wearing mop caps (for girls) and hats (for boys) and other costumes kids can perform 18th century household chores in the field.
LONDON
London is associated with mystery and discovery, thanks to a number of classics based in this city. And the city doesn’t disappoint. Along the muddy banks of the River Thames you can go on two-hour trawls. The Tower of London is an unforgettable experience for young history buffs. Also, take a Yeoman Warder tour, which is filled with hair-raising adventures!
SAN DIEGO
The San Diego Zoo with more than 5,000 rare and endangered animals is one of the most diverse in America. The Polar Bear Plunge is the highlight of the zoo. You can burrow into a snow den, climb in the cockpit of a helicopter that was used on actual Arctic explorations, and let the bears sniff you through the wire mesh from the Experience Wall. Your kids can also interact with Dolphins, enjoy thrilling rides, watch Shark Encounters and the parks legendary sea mammal shows.
BERLIN
Berlin has a vibrant art and food scene. You can tour the entire city on bikes with rear baskets which are available on rent. Even the kids can get a set of wheels, with child seats and trailers, and helmets for all. You can also visit the 168-year- old Zoological Garden, Germany’s first zoo and watch zoo keepers feeding pandas and penguins.
NIAGARA FALLS, NY
The Cave of the Winds tour will be a delightful experience for the kids. To reach the Niagara Gorge you will have to take an elevator 175 feet down and stand on the Hurricane Deck, where the water from 181-foot Bridal Veil Falls will drench you with the tropical- storm-like spray.
BARCELONA
Barcelona has a made-for- children, fairytale quality about it. And those who have visited the city will vouch for it. One of the most popular attractions is La Sagrada Família, the basilica built by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. You can visit Museu Picasso, in the La Ribera neighbourhood, among other delightful things.
