Traveling with family can be a daunting task. Whether its kids or in-laws, there is sure to be a lot of commotion. Even so, getting together for a family trip can be a great experience that brings you even closer to your loved ones.

Family Trips for Summer Travel

Need some ideas of where to go with the family this summer? I’ve put together a list of excellent destinations the whole family can enjoy, complete with family friendly hotels in each location.

Wisconsin Dells

This summer playground in the Midwest is full of attractions. The mainstay that families flock to during the summer is Noah’s Ark Waterpark. With dozens of waterslides and multiple wave pools, you’ll find plenty of exciting ways to keep cool in the summer heat. If the weather doesn’t hold out, you can enjoy a day at the Kalahari Indoor Theme Park. There are also Duck Boat tours and many shops and attractions along Broadway.

Where to stay: The Best Western Ambassador Inn & Suites has both an outdoor and indoor pool so you’ll be able to take a dip all day long. Have a look at more hotel options from TripAdvisor.

See our current airfares to Madison (MSN), Milwaukee (MKE), La Crosse (LSE), Minneapolis (MSP), and Chicago (ORD) from all over the US and Canada

Ocean City

For a quintessential east coast beach vacation, head over to Ocean City, Maryland this summer. Just a few hours drive from our nation’s capital, this beach town has it all: watersports, amusement parks, and an exciting boardwalk to enjoy a summer stroll with the family. Grab a bite at Fish Tales Bar & Grill for a kid-friendly experience right on the beach. Kids meals are served on frisbees.

Where to stay: Opt for the Atlantic House Bed and Breakfast if you want a comfortable home-like stay just two blocks from the beach. A tasty breakfast is served and there is a large porch area to share stories. If a hotel is more your speed, take a look at these family friendly hotels.

See our current airfares to Ocean City (SBY), Baltimore (BWI), and Washington DC (DCA) from all over the US and Canada

Outer Banks

Play in the waves in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Take a surf lesson or rent a stand-up paddle board to test your balance. One of the most beautiful things to see in this area is the wild horses near the border of North Carolina and Virginia. Make sure to visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial, where the historic first flight took place.

Where to stay: Here’s some great family hotels in the Outer Banks area. The Sea Ranch Resort is right on the beach and just down the street from Kitty Hawk airport.

See our current airfares to Norfolk (ORF), Raleigh (RDU), Wilmington (ILM), and Richmond (RIC) from all over the US and Canada

Niagara Falls

The majestic scene at the border of the US and Canada will surely amaze you and your family. Get up close and personal and experience the power of the falls on the American side. A cruise on the Maid of the Mist will bring you front and center. Head to the Canadian side for the best views of the Horseshoe Falls. Lodging and entertainment options are also more interesting on the Canadian side.

Where to stay: Sheraton on the Falls Hotel on the Canadian side offers excellent value in a family friendly atmosphere. Enjoy amazing views of the falls and a seamless connection to the Fallsview Indoor Waterpark. Go here for some more top family hotels in Niagara Falls.

See our current airfares to Niagara Falls (IAG), Buffalo (BUF), Hamilton (YHM), and Toronto (YYZ) from all over the US and Canada

Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park is a must for any family who enjoys the great outdoors. Leave your cell phone behind and appreciate the roaming bison, wolves, elk, otters, and other wildlife in this national treasure. Make sure to snap a shot of your kids face the first time they see the Old Faithful geyser erupt.

Where to stay: Camping is a common way to stay near Yellowstone affordably. If you’re not the camping type, have a look at these hotel options on TripAdvisor. The Snow King Resort in Jackson Hole has spacious rooms and even some condos available.

See our current airfares to West Yellowstone (WYS), Jackson Hole (JAC), and Bozeman (BZN) from all over the US and Canada

Edinburgh

If you want to cross the pond with the family this summer, consider a trip to Edinburgh, Scotland. There’s a marvelous castle and you’ll be within reach of several exciting day trips to the Scottish Highlands, including Loch Ness. Keep your eyes peeled for Nessie.

Where to stay: Staying at the Fountain Court Apartments Royal Garden will give you the space you need for your entire family. The beautiful building is well located and rooms come equipped with a kitchen so you can save some money by cooking a few meals. Also, check out these other top family hotels in Edinburgh.

See our current airfares to Edinburgh (EDI) from all over the US and Canada

Naples

Where better to take the family than the birthplace of pizza? Take a food tour to indulge in some of the best food in the world. The charming city by the sea is also close to the Ruins of Pompei and Mt. Vesuvius. A little further down the road, you can visit the picturesque steep cliffs of Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.

Where to stay: Here’s a list of many family friendly hotels in Naples. For a great location just off the beach, stay at the Inn at Pelican Bay. The grounds are well kept with a stunning outdoor pool.

See our current airfares to Naples (NAP) from all over the US and Canada

St. Thomas

The Caribbean is calling your family to visit this summer. Snorkel Turtle Cove to see these alluring creatures in their natural habitat. You can also go parasailing, kayaking, or just enjoy the island life on the beach. Day cruises to the British Virgin Islands are available if you’d like to do a little island hopping.

Where to stay: Enjoy breathtaking views at the Bolongo Bay Beach Resort. The hotel offers its own Catamaran service to bring you on snorkeling trips or on a sunset cruise. Have a look at these other family friendly hotels as well.

See our current airfares to St. Thomas (STT) from all over the US and Canada

Tokyo

Cross the Pacific with your family this summer and explore the bustling city of Tokyo. The kids will get a kick out of a Tokyo Robot Evening Cabaret Show. A visit to Disneyland Tokyo could be an interesting alternative to the parks in the US. You’ll also be able to take a bullet train to Mt. Fuji for a fun-filled day trip.

Where to stay: Lodging in Tokyo can be expensive. You may have to stay outside the center to find reasonable prices. Here’s some family friendly options from TripAdvisor. The Family Inn Saiko has affordable rates and a local vibe, which will give you a true Japanese experience.

See our current airfares to Tokyo-Narita (NRT) and Tokyo-Haneda (HND) from all over the US and Canada