10 great places to bond on family vacations
Summer vacations don't have to be limited to lazing in a beach chair or lining up at a theme park, says family travel columnist Lynn O'Rourke Hayes of Familytravel.com. They can be a time to try something new – and grow closer. "Families say one of their top resolutions is building bonds, and taking a vacation is a great way to do that." She shares some ideas for memorable summer family trips with Larry Bleiberg for USA TODAY.
White Mountains, N.H.
Parents should never miss a chance to get their kids out into nature, Hayes says. One fun way is hiking hut to hut in New Hampshire's White Mountains, exploring forests, mountain tops and waterfalls, and sleeping in the wilderness. The Appalachian Mountain Club maintains a network of shelters equipped with bunks. There's even food service, including kid-friendly meals on request. 800-372-1758; outdoors.org
Hocking Hills, Ohio
Although her home state is often overlooked as a vacation destination, Hayes says this area in the scenic rolling hills of southeastern Ohio has every activity a family would want, such as hiking, caving, zip-lining and canoeing on the Hocking River. There are also nature preserves and educational programs about Native American inhabitants. Accommodations include cabins, cottages and lodges. hockinghills.com
Placencia, Belize
This English-speaking Central American nation offers exotic adventure, with beaches, small villages and Mayan ruins. Hayes suggests spending time in Placencia, a traditional Creole fishing village with beaches, kayaking, snorkeling and whale shark watching. "It's just so beautiful and peaceful. It's a little bit of a taste of old-school Belize." travelbelize.org
Grand Canyon, Ariz and Utah
Many visitors never make it beyond the South Rim visitors center, but there's much more to the Grand Canyon, Hayes says. "Even if it's taking a two-hour hike, you just have to get into the canyon. That's how you begin to understand its magic." Other options include mule trips, an overnight on the canyon floor, a raft trip down the Colorado River, or a train ride to the park from Williams, Ariz. 928-638-7888; nps.gov/grca
Santa Fe, N.M.
This Southwest art and cultural capital also has a rich Western heritage, making it a perfect town for a fun and educational trip. The New Mexico History Museum is featuring a cowboy exhibit through March 16, and has related events, such as cowboy movies. In between, families can take in a museum show or concert. "It's a great way to introduce kids to art and music," Hayes says. 800-777-2489;santafe.org
Oregon Coast
It's hard to beat the Pacific Northwest for scenic shoreline, Hayes says. "It's so rugged and jaw-droppingly beautiful." She suggests a slow road trip along the Oregon Coast, flying kites and sampling fresh seafood along the way. She recommends spending time in Bandon, for crabbing, horseback riding and golf. 888-628-2101; visittheoregoncoast.com
Andros Island, Bahamas
Hayes loves the diversity of this Atlantic island nation, just a short flight from Florida. While many families come for its glitzy resorts, she suggests venturing to less-developed Andros, where families can go on lighthouse tours or try boat fishing. "There are beaches that are only accessible by foot or bicycle. It's incredibly beautiful." 800-224-2627; bahamas.com
Telluride, Colo.
This isolated mountain community attracts crowds for winter skiing, but it's just as active during summer, with children's outdoor adventure programs and mountain biking. Hayes loves its small town atmosphere and sophisticated dining scene, which will keep parents entertained too. "More than anything, it's a place to go and relax and hike the high trails and enjoy everything the Rocky Mountains have to offer." 888-605-2578; visittelluride.com
Mountain Sky Guest Ranch, Mont.
This dude ranch offers horseback riding, and much more to families seeking outdoors adventure. There's rafting and fishing on the nearby Yellowstone River, and even a golf course. "Lots of families go there generation after generation. They make sure all the kids can do things independently and safely," Hayes says. 406-333-4911; mountainsky.com
Duck, N.C.
Families visiting North Carolina's Sanderling Resort can get a full Outer Banks experience with options like guided kayak tours, tennis, bike rides on the nature trails and even a spa for parents. There are surfing and stand-up paddleboarding lessons, and for a nature experience, easy access to the adjacent 3,400-acre Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary, an ideal place to teach children about birding. 866-860-3979; sanderling-resort.com