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Top 5 Unexpected Travel Destinations for Families with Young Children

Top 5 Unexpected Travel Destinations for Families with Young Children

Posted by Barry S. on 14th Oct 2024

When planning a family vacation with young children, it's easy to gravitate toward well-known, family-friendly destinations like Disneyland or beach resorts. But why settle for the usual haunts when you can stumble upon unexpected travel treasures that are just as thrilling for kids as they are for adults? Hidden gems offer an identical rush of adrenaline, a safe haven, and a blast, minus the overwhelming hordes and steep prices. Want to veer off the family vacation grid? Explore these five hidden gems that are sure to captivate your little explorers.

1. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a fairy-tale city that feels like it’s straight out of a storybook. With its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and medieval architecture, Bruges is not only beautiful but also incredibly family-friendly. Walking is the way to go here, and parents can breathe a sigh of relief - this tiny neighborhood is neatly packed, with zero besoin for Olympian feats of stroller pushing.

Family-Friendly Activities:

  • Canal Boat Tours: Spend an afternoon drifting along Bruges' picturesque canals and you'll likely captivate even the most restless of young travelers with the serene beauty on display.
  • Choco-Story Musem: Imagine stepping into a space where chocolate seeps into every corner, and you'll find yourself in the delightful Choco-Story Museum. In this heavenly destination, kids can get up close and personal with the chocolate-making process, learning about the craft while enjoying some yummy samples – a dream come true for young chocolate lovers!
  • Minnewater Park: A peaceful park perfect for picnicking and running around. Feel the traditional Dutch vibes by taking a leisurely walk to visit the iconic windmills.

The Benefits for Kids are Crystal Clear: Bruges proves that education doesn't have to be boring, with kid-centric hotspots that blend excitement with enrichment, all within easy strolling distance of each other. Plus, what child wouldn’t love a visit to a chocolate museum?

2. Tulum, Mexico

If you're looking for a relaxing beach destination but want to avoid the crowds and commercialized vibe of places like Cancun, Tulum is a fantastic option. You know the sweet spot where boredom ceases to exist? Yep, this very one! Sizzling summertime fun fuses with blasts from the past in an explosive duo that catapults young senses into orbit.

Family-Friendly Activities:

  • Tulum Mayan Ruins: Explore ancient Mayan ruins perched on cliffs overlooking the ocean. At the ancient ruins, kids can experience history firsthand – imaging life in a bygone era – all while enjoying the picturesque setting.
  • Cenotes: These natural swimming holes are a unique experience that kids will love. You'll find the perfect spot for a family day out here, where the calm and crystal-clear water invites little ones to take their first strokes.
  • Quiet Beaches: Tulum’s beaches are known for being more serene, with shallow waters ideal for younger children to splash around safely.

Why It’s Great for Kids: Tulum’s low-key atmosphere is perfect for families looking to relax without worrying about the hustle and bustle. The calm beaches and natural attractions like cenotes offer safe and engaging activities for kids.

3. Ljubljana, Slovenia

In the heart of Slovenia lies Ljubljana, a city that shows dedication to its environmental goals and holds families in high regard. Grab your little ones and get ready to discover a city that's made for family adventures - its compact size, car-free zones, and plethora of parks create the perfect recipe for an unforgettable experience.

Family-Friendly Activities:

  • Dragon Bridge and Ljubljana Castle: Kids will love the fairy-tale atmosphere of Ljubljana’s Dragon Bridge and its fascinating folklore. A trip to Ljubljana Castle, with its views and interactive exhibits, will capture their imagination.
  • Tivoli Park: Let the sights and sounds of the city fade away, replaced by a soothing blend of scenic beauty and recreational delights. Imagine a day spent laughing, playing, and exploring with your loved ones in a picturesque setting - that's exactly what you'll get at this incredible park, boasting top-notch playgrounds, rolling open spaces, and serene trails that beckon discovery.
  • Ljubljanica River Cruise: Take a gentle boat ride along the Ljubljanica River to enjoy the city from a different perspective. This charming way to experience Ljubljana will leave your little travelers beaming with excitement.

Get ready for some serious kid-appeal - this is what they've been waiting for. No traffc lights to navigate, no crowded sidewalks to steer clear of - just strolling Freedom Square with little ones in tow. Welcome to Ljubljana's vibrant city center, where family bonding happens effortlessly. Imagine being able to trade buildings for blue skies and city sounds for bird songs – this enchanting location offers families just that, along with a whopping side of adventure.

4. Tasmania, Australia

Tasmania might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of a family vacation, but this Australian island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife experiences that will leave your kids in awe. Families who crave adventure will feel right at home here.

Family-Friendly Activities:

  • Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary: Kids can meet iconic Australian animals like kangaroos, wombats, and Tasmanian devils up close. We believe kids learn best by doing, so we've created programs that let them explore and discover the importance of wildlife conservation.
  • Cradle Mountain: Explore the natural beauty of Cradle Mountain with short, easy hikes that are perfect for little legs. Get ready to connect with nature - and each other - in this expansive outdoor setting that's bursting with activities and opportunities for shared fun.
  • Tasmania's Freycinet National Park: Need a break from the hustle and bustle? This park's crystal-clear waters and sugar-white sand provide the perfect remedy. Take a leisurely swim, settle in for a picnic, or simply bask in the sun's warm rays – the ultimate beach day awaits.

Kid-Approved: Here's Why They Love it! In Tasmania, rich wilderness areas meld seamlessly with charming towns, creating the perfect fusion of excitement and tranquility, where adventurers can take on the wild or simply soak up the serene atmosphere. Imagine the thrill on your kids' faces when they encounter animals they've only read about in books - it's an adventure they'll never forget!

5. Portland, Maine, USA

For a coastal getaway with a charming small-town feel, Portland, Maine, is an unexpected yet delightful destination for families. With its scenic beauty, historical landmarks, and fresh seafood, Portland offers a little bit of everything.

Family-Friendly Activities:

  • Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine: This interactive museum is designed for young children to learn through play, offering hands-on exhibits and performances that will keep them entertained for hours.
  • Lighthouses and Beaches: Portland’s coast is dotted with picturesque lighthouses and beautiful beaches. Visit Portland Head Light , one of the most iconic lighthouses in New England, or enjoy a beach day at one of the nearby shorelines.
  • Lobster Boat Tours: Take a family-friendly lobster boat tour where kids can learn how lobster traps work and experience the thrill of being out on the water.

The kids' verdict is in: this is a hit! Portland offers the perfect blend of coastal adventure and small-town charm. Families will feel right at home in this charming setting, where broad beaches, engaging museums, and breathless outdoor activities offer something for everyone.

Conclusion

Ditch the ordinary and forge your own adventure by opting for a lesser-traveled destination - it's the perfect way to collect meaningful experiences and create lifelong memories with your loved ones. Forget the usual suspects and consider these offbeat destinations for your next family getaway: Bruges, with its charming medieval streets, and Tasmania, where wilderness adventures await - both offer a refreshing change of pace for kids and adults. Family vacations don't have to follow the same old script. Instead, shake things up with a visit to these five hidden gems, where rich history, exhilarating outdoor adventures, and idyllic beach retreats await.

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