Around 88% of families in the U.S. were “very likely” or “likely” to travel with their child within a year, according to a survey conducted by the Family Travel Association. Rainer Jenss, Founder of the FTA, notes that although a vast majority of families are willing to travel, many struggle to find meaningful information about places to visit and things to do with kids. Safety is another important consideration for most. If you are planning a holiday soon and big city life intrigues you, there is no reason why you can’t take children along. Find the inspiration you need in this list of three cities that kids will love.
San Diego
There is no wonder why San Diego has made it to the top of TripAdvisor’s list of child-friendly cities in the U.S. Packed with parks, the famous San Diego Zoo, theme parks and aquariums, it is also close to the sea, making it an ideal choice for kids wishing to brave the waves, learn to surf, or try an activity like kayaking or stand-up paddling with their parents. Some of the coolest things to do include stopping for a meal at Seaport Village, picking up a few cool pieces at LEGOLAND California, and having a picnic at Balboa Park. San Diego is also home to a bevy of museums – everything from the Air and Space Museum to the Fleet Science Center, and the Children’s Discovery Museum. Active families can opt for so many outdoor activities – including falconry lessons and golf. Those who are into simple living in the big city should head to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for an energetic walk. Animal lovers, meanwhile, cannot miss out on an exciting whale watching escapade.
Barcelona
Barcelona often makes it to the top of family friendly holiday lists, largely because it is full of artistry and color. Moreover, it is located close to the sea, so that holidaymakers can take their pick from walks throughout the city, to lazy days just lying on the beach and catching some sun. This city is ideal for families wishing to savor simplicity in a city that is just as magical when you are shopping at its street markets as when you are catching a sophisticated show at the opera. The first thing to see for those into art and architecture are the famous houses by Gaudí, the most emblematic of which are located in the city center and within walking distance of each other. Houses like the Casa Batlló, whose facade is embellished with pastel-hued mosaic made of broken tiles, are dreamlike, to say the least. Kids love visiting this home, which is inspired on the magic of city life. Another must for kids is the Güell Park also designed by Gaudí and featuring colorful animal mosaics, delicate tile work and structures that seem taken from a storybook.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong offers travelers a wonderful combination of cutting edge architecture, attraction pars like Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park, and delicious street food in which treats like the Hong Kong egg waffle are sold by the thousand every day. Don”t leave this city without heading for The Peak: featuring a stunning view of some of the most stunning skyscrapers in Asia. Soak in a bit of knowledge at the Hong Kong Science Museum, boasting over 500 exhibits - including the first-ever DC3 airliner designed by Cathay Pacific.
We have mentioned just a few child-friendly cities that offer an attractive blend of educational, natural, and entertainment activities. When searching for the perfect destination, safety is also important, as is a good transport system that will enable you to make the most of the few days you can get away. Hopefully, these cities will reveal the extent to which adults’ and kids’ tastes often match – beauty, color, and scientific discoveries ignite the passions of all of us - young or old.
Here are several great getaways that are easily accessible from the tri-state area to explore this summer.
With the help of these simple tips, anyone can travel on a budget if they plan accordingly and take advantage of some cost-saving opportunities.