Family Vacation Ideas For All Ages

It is time for the annual family vacation, one or two weeks of quality time spent together. This year you are determined to find a place that has something for everyone. Whether you have energetic toddlers, chatty middle-schoolers or cell phone tied teenagers, you will want activities to entertain everyone's character including something for mom and dad.

A great family vacation idea is one that has multiple activities in one central location. Amusement parks are great for a day, but try going to a multiple park setting such as Disney where there are several choices for every age group as well as entertainment for the entire family. Other multiple day ideas are visiting a historical metropolis such as Nashville, Tennessee. Nashville is not only known for its country music, but also riverboats, a science museum, a zoo, Nashville Shores Waterpark, antebellum plantations and numerous eateries for the whole family. Pittsburgh, Chicago, San Francisco, Baltimore and Columbus, Ohio are also great family vacation ideas if you don't want to spend much time driving in the car.

Another great family vacation idea is camping in a national or state park. Whether it's a comfy cabin, camper or rugged backpacking, camping is a great way for the family to work together and have fun. National parks such as Yosemite and Yellowstone usually require a year's advance registration during the peak season and a deposit, but offer many amenities without leaving the park. If you do not ha

e time to travel far, check out your area's local campgrounds and KOA parks, usually these parks require minimal registration deposits and need only a month or less notice. Ask what amenities are available such as toilets, showers, firewood, water and electric hookups. Also, research other fun day activities in the area such as putt-putt, museums, historical sites and playgrounds, if one is not available at the campground.

There's nothing better than planning a family vacation to the beach in the wintertime. When icy winds and subfreezing temperatures last longer than the holiday season, it's time to plan your summer vacation to a warm and balmy beach resort or coastal town. Do not just think salty air and surf size waves for a beach vacation, the Great Lakes as well as other large bodies of water inland are a great family vacation idea. Holland, Michigan, Kentucky Beach Resort in the far western edge of Kentucky and Twin Lakes Colorado offer a plethora of recreation both in the water and on the trail. Most places offer cottages, cabins, hotels and campsites.

Whether your family is planning your next vacation to the city, beach or mountains ensure you plan ahead and research your intended destination for activities for all ages, weather, and best time to travel.

Pam Voigt is the owner of GuestQuest, a luxury travel magazine based in Cleveland, Ohio, that is your vacation guide for all of your lodging needs. With the traveler guide, you may choose a number of luxury hotels and motels, resorts and other accommodations from many states for your family. voigt@guestquest.com