10 Family-Friendly Activities While Traveling

When traveling with kids, it can be difficult to find family-friendly activities that everyone will enjoy. However, there are plenty of great options out there for families who want to have a fun and memorable vacation. 

child holding a map looking for family friendly activities

Visit Local Attractions

One of the best things about traveling is getting to experience new places and cultures. When choosing attractions to visit with your family, be sure to pick ones that are age-appropriate and interesting for everyone.

Local zoos, museums, and historical sites are all great options that the whole family can enjoy. I use GetYourGuide.com for all of my tour and attraction tickets. I usually aim for food tours so the kids can try the different flavors of that area.

Go on a Nature Hike

Exploring the great outdoors is a free version of family-friendly activities. Nature hikes are a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, and they can be tailored to any fitness level.

You could consider a hike in a hike in death valley in California, or a hike to visit a waterfall in Thailand.

Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, and don’t forget the sunscreen!

mother and children walks near body of water

Have a Picnic

Picnics are a classic summer activity that the whole family can enjoy. Pack a lunch or dinner and head to your local park for a relaxing meal together.

Don’t forget to bring a blanket or chairs to sit on, and some games or activities to keep everyone entertained.

My favorite picnic cooler is one that is insulated and has pockets for water bottles or wine!

Go Swimming 

Swimming is a great way to beat the heat while traveling. Whether you’re at the beach, by a lake, or in a hotel pool, spending time in the water is a fun way to cool off and have some fun.

Be sure to supervise young children closely, and take breaks often to avoid getting too sunburned.

If you are traveling out of your home country and you wear glasses, make sure you bring a pair of prescription goggles for underwater adventures!

woman and three children playing water as a family friendly activities

Play Tourist

One of the best things about traveling is acting like a tourist in your own city or town.

Go for ice cream, visit local landmarks, and take lots of pictures to document your adventure. This is a great way to bond as a family and create lasting memories.

Support your local tour guides by taking a walking or bike tour through the city. Use Viator.com or GetYourGuide.com for these types of tours.

Go Fishing

Fishing is a great activity for all ages and can be done in many different locations. Whether you’re by a lake, river, or even the ocean, fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy time together as a family.

Be sure to bring along life jackets for everyone, and don’t forget the bait and fishing gear.

Go On a Scavenger Hunt 

Scavenger hunts are a great way to explore your surroundings and have some fun as a family. You can create your own hunt, or look online for ones that are specific to your destination.

This is a great activity for kids of all ages and can be done in any location. Type in ” scavenger hunt” in GetYourGuide.com for the city you are looking for.

Red tents outside to show you how to make your camping trip safe

Go Camping 

Camping is a great way to experience the outdoors and bond as a family. It’s a perfect way to unplug from technology and spend time together in nature.

It’s important to choose a campsite that’s appropriate for your family’s needs and be sure to pack all the essential supplies before you go. I bought this camping survival kit a few years ago and even though some of the tools are small, it has come in handy many times.

Visit a Farmer’s Market 

Farmers markets are a great way to get fresh, local produce while traveling. They’re also a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.

Most farmer’s markets will have plenty of options for food and drink, so everyone in the family can find something to enjoy. Use Google Maps to find local farmers markets, they will usually list the open and close times as well.

Have a Movie Night

Movie nights are a great way to relax and unwind after a long day of traveling. Pop some popcorn, snuggle up, and enjoy a family-friendly film together. This is a great activity for rainy days or evenings when you’re all tired from sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with children can be a lot of fun if you plan and choose family-friendly activities that everyone will enjoy.

Be sure to take the time to explore your destination and find things that the whole family can enjoy. With a little planning and this packing list, you can create lasting memories and bond as a family on your next vacation.

10 Family-Friendly Activities While Traveling

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Gina

Gina is the founder of Jet Set and Forget. She is a licensed tour guide and fitness professional who has traveled to over 15 countries since 2010. Gina left her position as a COO in 2023 to travel full time. She is on a mission to help people travel stress free!
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