Top 10 “something for everyone” family vacations

From the Orbitz Parent Panel

As parents planning a family vacation, it’s our job to find something that will make everyone happy. We may not be able to keep everyone happy at every moment, but you can bet that we’ll always look for family vacations that offers a “little something for everyone.” Of course, this gets more complicated if you have kids that span a wide age range, travel with multiple generations, or have a group with diverse interests.

If you’re looking for inspiration, see these top 10 recommendations from the Orbitz Parent Panel for great vacations sure to please the whole gang.

Aruba
From Ian R. — My wife and I have been taking our 2 teens to Aruba for 5 years straight. We stay at the Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino, which has the cleanest, biggest beach. Our days are filled with snorkeling, shopping and lounging on the beach. Nighttime is for gambling (yes, as a family) and trying new restaurants (or revisiting our favorites). See more of my recommendations.

Atlantis Paradise Island
From Mark M. — As if water parks, marine exhibits, and swimming with dolphins wasn’t enough, Atlantis has introduced Kids Camp which now provides age-appropriate activities from toddlers to teens. Highlights include feeding marine life, cooking classes and pottery studios. Adults can hit the casino or gaze at stars, like Jerry Seinfeld. We’re staying at the Harborside Resort at Atlantis next visit.

Cancun, Mexico
From Mike O. — We invited the grandparents to join us at the Barcelo Maya Palace All-Inclusive Complex, an all-inclusive resort along Cancun’s Riviera Maya. The kiddie pool and mini-disco exhausted my toddler each day, while sailing and snorkeling wiped me out. The grandparents kindly babysat one night so my wife and I could see downtown Playa del Carmen. Read the highlights.

Cruises
From Kim W. — Customize a cruise to your family’s schedule and interests. Choose weekend or weeklong cruises. On-board activities and programming run the gamut: rock climbing, surfing, kids camp, teen lounges, Broadway-style shows and spas. When it’s time to eat, almost every ship has a buffet and several restaurants choices. See my recommendations for family-friendly cruise lines.

Disney World
From Mary F. — Disney isn’t just for kids. The resort is adding more attractions that cater to older teens and adults. Go for an adrenaline rush try racing a NASCAR-style stock car or parasailing over Bay Lake. For a mellower experience, consider a massage at the Grand Floridian Spa or a round of golf at one of 5 courses. Plus, parents who are staying at Disney hotels can arrange for babysitters. Find out more.

Hawaii
From Frank G. — Kauai and the Big Island are well-suited for multi-generational family trips. Those who wish to relax can hit the beach or golf. Those needing more adventure can try sea kayaking, zip-lining, or skiing the “pineapple powder” of Mauna Kea. Regardless of age, everyone will remember the beauty of Waimea Canyon (aka “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”) and Volcanoes National Park.

Niagara Falls, Ontario
From Carla A. — My family is returning to the Sheraton On the Falls, which is connected to a 3-acre indoor water park and entertainment complex with 4-D movies and a mini fairground. The hotel’s Christienne Spa is my treat, while my husband hits the Casino Niagara next door. Many restaurants, like Rainforest Café and Planet Hollywood, are extremely family friendly.

Palm Springs, California
From Abby S. — Majestic mountains. Awe-inspiring sunsets. Guaranteed sunshine. Those alone were worth the trip to Palm Springs. We had a great stay at The Westin Mission Hills Resort and Spa, which hosts movie night in the pool. World-renown golf coursesand spas are at every turn — and on property. Our favorite excursion: a Jeep tour of Joshua Tree National Park.

Toronto, Ontario
From Danielle S. — A must-see list includes the Hockey Hall of Fame with its interactive game zone, an exhilarating glass elevator ride up the CN Tower and a walk across a glass floor that looks 1,122 feet down. I recommend the Delta Chelsea Inn for families. It has Camp Chelsea, with activities for ages 5 to 12; Club 33 teen lounge; and a great pool with the “corkscrew” waterslide.

Williamsburg, Virginia
From Mark M. — Start by bringing the family to the historic triangle of Jamestown, Yorktown and Colonial Williamsburg, where the America’s revolutionary roots are preserved. Then amp up the energy with a trip to Busch Gardens and Water Country. Adults can break away to golf at legendary courses, like Golden Horseshoe, or shop at Prime Outlets and Merchant Square.

The Orbitz Parent Panel represents a diverse group of Orbitz employees who share backgrounds in travel and a love for both their children and adventure. Their mission? Uncovering family-friendly vacations that promise world-class fun and discovery as well as rest and relaxation for the whole family.

Tagged: California, Caribbean, Cruise, Disney, Family time, Florida, Hawaii, Top 10 Lists