Any suggestions for a fun family vacation to someplace other than Disney, Branson, etc.?

Question

Vacation would include parents (mid 30s), kids (two boys, 2 and 4) and possibly grandparents (late 50s). Home is Midwest US so we're central to everything. Prefer places that aren't super commercialized.

Vacation would include parents (mid 30s), kids (two boys, 2 and 4) and possibly grandparents (late 50s). Home is Midwest US so we're central to everything. Prefer places that aren't super commercialized.

And, for cost reasons, we'd prefer to keep it to the US and possibly Canada.

Answer 1

Have you considered visiting the Grand Canyon? It's a pretty interesting place, and very beautiful...it's enjoyed by all young and old. In addition to Hoover Dam and Lake Mead.

Another place would be to see "Old Faithful" the geyeser that goes off every hour or so.

I know you say you prefer places that aren't so commercialized, but Los Angeles, CA is a great place to visit, they have great museums such as the The Getty Museum, Children's Space and Science or Children's Discovery museum. It also has a great coastline, so many beaches and each one is different. There camping sites on the beaches (some), and the national park isn't too far away, there many botanical gardens, Aquariums, Zoos, and even the Winery.

Basically, I think California is a great place to visit with a family that ranges in ages like yours. I have listed a few sites below, and found them to be interesting and helpful. I personally like the first two and last two.

Answer 2

We took our kids to Marine Land in Canada. We all had a LOT of fun and it's no where nearly as expensive as the major theme parks. It's also very hands on and educational because the staff will teach you many things about the various animals and there are many pool/tanks where you can stand in line and actually pet some of the animals..even beluga whales (not sure if I spelled that right so forgive me if I didn't..lol!) If you make it a weekend excursion there are many other sights that you can take in as well. The Canadian Side of Niagara Falls also have a beautiful light show at night. There's also the Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum and the Hard Rock Cafe.

There's not really any advertising/commercializing as far as I know for Marine Land but it is on the web. Good Luck and have a happy vacation! We're going in August!

Answer 3

Indiana Dunes State Park

Answer 4

Stone Mountain, Georgia or Sanabel/ Captiva Islands in Florida.

Answer 5

Have you looked into the Wisconsin Dells? Great collection of theme parks and water parks, mini golf courses, fun resort hotels, hiking, family entertainment, and night life for the "big kids." Affordable and fun.

Check out this link for more:
http://www.dells.com/

I'm a solo gal, and I had a blast at the Mt. Olympus theme park. It's got great rides and an awesome water park.

Answer 6

Wisconsin Dells water park resort. You can get jointing rooms, thus splitting costs. Just back back from there with our 10, 8 year old and 7 month old. We also went with my in laws, and nephews. ALL of us had a great time. (I'll think of others if that's to commercialized.)

Answer 7

Captiva Beach

Answer 8

I am from the midwest too. We went to the Gulf Shores Alabama and spent time at the beach. Went to Bellingrath gardens. USS Alabama at Mobile. It was a good time. My boys were a little older than yours and my parents went too.

Answer 9

MN North Shore

Answer 10

If you go to "Vacationstogo.com" they have great prices on cruises... I just booked a trip in Aug for my kids and I. And, I found flights to flordia on air tran ( I live in MI) for $105. round trip... the cruise is all inclusive (for Food) and there is not all that walking like at Disney!!! And you can stop at great ports w/ great beaches... good luck and have fun!