2018 is just around the corner and we’re already dreaming of where the year will take us. After all, planning vacations and the anticipation leading up to them are part of the fun of travel, so get a head start on next year’s globetrotting with a look at our must-visit destinations for families in 2018.
Cape Cod
You can’t go wrong with classic Americana and Cape Cod has that sleepy, New England vibe that has become a summer staple. Rent bikes and cycle the oceanfront Shining Sea Bikeway, spend a relaxing day at Race Point Beach (fueled by a picnic lunch of made-to-order sandwiches from Angel Foods), or explore Heritage Museum & Gardens, where a vintage carousel, an antique car collection, gorgeous gardens, and an adventure park where kids can climb and zip line through the trees will keep everyone entertained for hours.
Edinburgh
The friendly locals, magical castles, and medieval streets of Edinburgh add up to one charming family destination. The Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is full of fun, interactive optical illusions, plus rooftop views of the city. Trek to Craigmillar Castle in the south of Edinburgh for a crowd-free castle experience where kids can explore to their hearts’ content. Climb the tower for views of Holyrood Park and Edinburgh Castle.
Montréal
Family-friendly foods like poutine, bagels, steamed hot dogs washed down with orange juleps are enough of a draw to head to Montréal on their own, but add world-class parks, charming architecture, and interesting historical sites? Well, you should probably plan on booking your tickets now.
Porto
Save this trip for the over stroller age kids. In Porto, it’s all about getting outdoors and exploring. Start in one of Porto’s beautiful outdoor gardens, such as the Crystal Palace Gardens, where peacocks roam freely. Be sure to save a day to spend at the iconic tidal pools of Leça de Palmeira. Designed by one of Portugal’s most famous architects, the saltwater pools overlook the sea for views that make the paltry entrance fee an absolute steal.
Anchorage
Lace up your hiking boots and head to Anchorage, Alaska for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Hike or cycle the Coastal Trail and keep an eye out for eagles and moose. Plan a visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center for a closer look at Alaska’s rich indigenous culture. Inside, you can experience Alaska Native dancing and storytelling. Surrounding a beautiful lake outside, you can visit six life-size native dwellings and learn about each tribe’s daily life.
Bangkok
Get your budding foodies to Bangkok, stat, and sign the whole family up for a market visit and cooking class. A Little Something is a cooking school for kids and families with courses offered aimed at different age ranges. The school is even decked out with special cooking utensils and tools designed specifically for kids. After you’ve had your fill of Thai cuisine, hop on one of Bangkok’s river boats for a unique view of the city. Cheap, fast, and used by locals, the Khlong Saen Saep Boat Service is a great option to get around the city.
San José
San José is the perfect home base for a vacation filled with adventures for families. Zip line or ride an aerial tram through the Costa Rican rainforest while watching for native plants and animals. River rafting offers plenty of kid-friendly options, including river tubing and floating tours, where you can sit back, relax, and let your guide do all the hard work. Within the city, plan a trip to Museo de los Niños, where kids can participate in indoor zip lining, plus interactive displays cover everything from space to banana plantations.
Seoul
Experience the dichotomy of old and new in Seoul. See the bustling, urban side of Seoul with a trip to the observatory at N Seoul Tower for a 360-degree view of the city. Then, step back in time at Korean Folk Village, where entertainment varies from tightrope acrobats and equestrian feats to traditional Korean fairytales.
Auckland
Sunny skies and beautiful beaches are just a few good reasons to go to Auckland next year. Heading to Auckland’s iconic island to check out New Zealand’s youngest volcano is up there, too. Rangitoto Island’s popular summit trek is suitable for kids and at the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf.
See more: Anchorage – Auckland – Bangkok – Cape Cod – Edinburgh – family – kids – Montréal – Porto – San José – Seoul
