Are you dreaming of escaping on your next family getaway? Ready to load the family up and take a vacation? If you ever took a road trip with your family, I am sure you remember. Whether your memories are good or bad, you remember. Families often have their own oral history and road trips are ideal times for storytelling. Family vacations are a fantastic way to build your relationships and your family’s story.
Yellowstone National Park
This is an epic family destination. According to this blog post on ShopAdelaides.com, “It is one of the most visited of the US national parks and boasts an astounding number of wildlife, beautiful views, and truly amazing geological activity. Old Faithful and the rest of the geysers in the western region of the park are sights that will interest anyone with even a passing interest in earth and environmental science.” It appeals to kids of all ages, as well as the adult members of your family.
Visiting Yellowstone allows you to adapt your trip to meet your specific needs. Do you need to get out of the car and move? There are walking trails and small hikes at most of the features. The majority of these trails are stroller and wheelchair friendly. Do you have members of the family that would rather just ride in the car? Plenty of thermal features and all of the animals can be seen via the road. Kids can even earn a junior ranger patch.
The most important thing to remember at Yellowstone is to follow the rules. Do not approach the wildlife. They are wild. They could hurt you. Stay on paths and walkways. Thermal features are hot. You wouldn’t want to have a member of your family burnt. When in doubt, err on the side of safety.
Washington, DC
This destination offers a multitude of free activities. Sure, food and lodging can be steep, but saving on museum admission will help balance the costs. All of the Smithsonians, as well as the monuments, are open to the public, free of charge. Plan to spend a lot of time on the National Mall. From the Natural History Museum to the Lincoln Memorial, everyone will enjoy something there.
If you can, you will also want to take time to visit the National Zoo. It also offers free admission. If you should visit in summer, take plenty of water and don’t forget to walk slowly through the various misting stations available in the Zoo.
You children will most likely love to ride the metro. According to U.S. News, “[The metro] is the best way to get around Washington, D.C., is via the clean, safe and efficient Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority public transportation system.” This combination of subway and buses can get you just about anywhere you want to go in the city. The subway is a very clean and safe way to get around the city. Should you have your own vehicle, you may just want to park it at your hotel. DC is known as one of the worst cities to drive in.
Whether your family visits one of these destinations, or whether you just drive to Grandma and Grandpa’s house a few states away, be sure to cherish the time you have together. Build your family lore. Enjoy the individuals in your family. Get used to answering, “Are we there yet?”
Originally posted on March 9, 2015 @ 8:34 am
