National Parks
Things to See in Joshua Tree: The Ultimate Guide to Iconic Sights & Can’t-Miss Experiences
A look at the best things to see and do in Joshua Tree National Park I don’t know what it is about a desert getaway, but I just love everything about it. The peace and quiet, the sunsets… heck, even the smell–I love it all. And Joshua Tree National Park sure has a way of stopping you in your tracks. Maybe it’s the otherworldly rock formations, the spiky silhouettes of the Joshua trees themselves, or the way the desert light seems to glow at sunrise and sunset. Whatever it is, this park feels different—in the best possible way. If you’re planning a visit and wondering about the best things to…
Explore Yellowstone: 3-Day Itinerary
We just got back from an epic trip in which we explored Glacier National Park, Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. Click here to read about the full itinerary for that trip. We had to condense a lot into a short amount of time, but I feel that with this Yellowstone travel itinerary, you can easily capture the beauty of Yellowstone. Yellowstone is one of those places that you could stay weeks in and still never get enough. And it’s one of the best national parks for kids, and should be on everyone’s family travel bucket list. This Yellowstone travel itinerary can be modified depending on how many days you have…
The Best Glamping Resorts for Families Across the U.S.
I have shared so many resources for camping, along with tons of information about my favorite campgrounds. And I constantly get feedback like “this looks amazing. I wish I liked camping,” or “I wish my spouse would go camping.” If this sounds at all like you, you might be happy to know that there are many glamping resorts that may be more along the lines of what you’re looking for. Glamping (glamorous camping) is the perfect middle ground between “pack the tents” camping and “book a hotel.” For families, it means fresh air, big skies, and easy access to nature — without sleeping on the ground or lugging a giant…
Best Joshua Tree Hotels for Your Desert Getaway
I’ve been dreaming about a trip to Joshua Tree now that the weather is cooling off. Summer in the desert can be brutal, but once fall rolls around, it’s the perfect time to pack a bag and head for wide-open skies, funky desert towns, and some of the most surreal landscapes you’ll ever see. I’ll cover the best Joshua Tree hotels in this post, but there are also some amazing Joshua Tree campgrounds if you prefer to sleep under the stars. If you’re planning a trip to Joshua Tree, it helps to know when to go. Peak season in Joshua Tree runs from October through May, when daytime temperatures are…
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The Top Travel Destinations for Families in 2026
Top Travel Destinations for Any Kind of Family Planning a family vacation is exciting—but it can also feel a little overwhelming. Do you pick one of the best family beach cities where the kids can splash all day? A city packed with history and culture? Or maybe an adventure in nature at one of the best national parks for kids? The truth is, there’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to family travel—but there are definitely destinations that shine when it comes to balancing fun for kids with relaxation (and maybe a cocktail or two) for parents. Here are some of the top travel destinations for families that…
Where to Stay Near Yosemite: The Best Hotels Close to the Park Entrance
Whether you’re going for the epic hikes, jaw-dropping waterfalls, or that perfect family photo in front of Half Dome, choosing the right place to stay is key. If you’re like us, you want something comfortable, close to the entrance, and maybe even with a pool to unwind in after a day of exploring. That’s why I’ve rounded up some of the best hotels close to Yosemite National Park—places that offer convenience and comfort, with family-friendly amenities and gorgeous views to boot. It’s important to note that while there are plenty of lodging options just outside of the entrance to Yosemite, the drive from the entrance into Yosemite Valley is pretty…
North America Bucket List Travel Destinations for Families
Bucket List Travel Places in North America: Unforgettable Adventures Await! If you’re anything like us, your family bucket list is always growing—and for good reason. North America is absolutely bursting with once-in-a-lifetime experiences for families. From jaw-dropping national parks and storybook towns to epic resorts and magical cities, there’s something to excite every kind of traveler—big and small. And I also have some bucket list travel places for each season–like visiting Salem, Massachusetts in the fall. So grab your calendar, start a new note in your phone, and get ready to plan your next unforgettable family getaway. Here are some of the most incredible bucket list destinations in North America…
10 Mountain Towns in the U.S. That Are Perfect for a Family Vacation
I grew up in San Diego, so my heart should belong with the beach. But there is something truly magical about an escape to the mountains. We make a point to plan a family mountain vacation multiple times a year–usually at least once in the winter for a snow trip and once in the summer for a dreamy camping trip. If you’re dreaming of crisp air, scenic hikes, and the kind of vacation that lets your kids roam wild while you sip a cup of coffee with a view, a mountain town might be just the thing. From the Rockies to the Blue Ridge, these family-friendly mountain vacation destinations combine…
Best Hotels and Camping at Zion National Park
Zion is one of the best national parks for kids, and it’s easy to see why. If you’re planning a trip there, you have many great options for staying near Zion National Park (or even in it) depending on your preferences for lodging type (hotels, vacation rentals, or camping). When we recently visited, we stayed at the Watchman Campground just inside the park. But if you’re not up for camping, there are many hotels and lodges that are just steps away. If you’re wondering where to stay for Zion National Park, I have you covered. Be sure to check out my 1-day Zion itinerary as well if your time in…
Grand Teton and Yellowstone Itinerary
The Ultimate 4-Day Grand Teton and Yellowstone Itinerary If you’re planning a trip to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure. These two parks are packed with jaw-dropping scenery, diverse wildlife, and plenty of outdoor activities. This 4-day Grand Teton and Yellowstone itinerary covers the must-see highlights, plus some optional activities if you have more time or want to add a little extra adventure to your trip. If you want to add even more to this trip, check out the trip we did last summer. We started at Glacier National Park before making our way to Yellowstone and Grand Teton. It was truly amazing! Where…
