AFAR Magazine
10 Unexpected Family Travel Destinations Across the U.S. to Visit This Year
By Tim Chester
"Ring in the nation’s 250th birthday with train rides, hikes, and museums, from Wyoming to Florida and beyond.
Travel changes when you have kids, but it doesn’t have to end; you just need to factor in a few more needs and opinions than before. While there are plenty of international destinations that are great for kids, a long-haul flight and dealing with jet lag can be rough. And with the United States celebrating its 250th birthday in 2026, this is the year to travel domestically. The USA is packed full of must-visit destinations for families, where everyone will have fun (we won’t go so far as to say no one will whine). To help you plan your 2026 travel, we asked a bunch of Afar contributors for their family travel recommendations. Whether you’re toting a toddler or a teen, your next family adventure starts here."