Some say a ‘family vacation’ is an oxymoron. It’s true, planning a trip that balances comfort, location, affordability, relaxation, and kid-friendly activities is no small feat. But with a bit of imagination (and some extra legroom), an amazing family vacation is easier than it seems.

And 2026 is an especially good year to make it happen. Across the country, cities are marking America’s 250th anniversary, while global moments like the world’s biggest soccer tournament bring added energy to destinations from Boston and Miami to Southern California. Layer in milestone festivals, cultural celebrations, and classic seasonal traditions, and this is a year that gives families even more reason to travel together.

Even better, our one-of-a-kind hotels and resorts are centrally located in some of America’s most exciting cities. From historic capitals to laid-back beach towns, here’s where to travel for your best family vacation yet.

Table of Contents 1. Washington, D.C. 2. Philadelphia 3. Boston 4. Cape Cod 5. Key West 6. Miami Beach 7. Santa Monica

See the Cherry Blossoms in Washington, D.C.

If you’ve never visited Washington, D.C. in the spring, consider this your sign. Warm days, vibrant gardens, and walkable landmarks make it one of the most rewarding seasons to explore the capital, especially with family in tow.

In the springtime, D.C.’s magic is in full bloom. We’re talking about cherry blossom season, when thousands of pink-hued petals take over the District. These beautiful trees are a sight to behold and mark the beginning of D.C.’s famous Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20 – April 12, 2026), a district-wide festival with tons of family activities, live entertainment, arts and crafts, and cherry blossoms galore.

In 2026, the experience is even more meaningful as the city marks America’s 250th anniversary. Expect exhibitions, cultural programming, and citywide moments that bring fresh perspective to iconic sites like the National Mall, Smithsonian museums, and historic neighborhoods.

Stay close to the action at Capitol Hill Hotel, a boutique stay with residential-style comforts families appreciate. Kitchenettes, convertible sofa beds, large closets, and daily continental breakfast make mornings smoother, while thoughtful extras like pack ’n plays and high chairs help younger travelers feel right at home.

As the name might suggest, this modern hotel is in the heart of Capitol Hill, known for its colorful houses, buzzy bistros, and lush green spaces. Gather the family for a bit of fresh air as you explore the nearby United States Botanic Garden, a short walk away. For a relaxing and educational afternoon, head to the Library of Congress Young Readers Center, a five-minute walk from Capitol Hill Hotel. Older kids will love covering more ground and exploring the neighborhood by bike with Capitol Hill Hotel bicycles, ready to be taken for a spin.

Traveling with teens or college kids? Consider The Morrow, a dreamy design hotel near NoMa and Union Station. Things are especially vibrant here in springtime, with cherry blossom fêtes, rooftop parties, run clubs, and pilates all on the docket.

The Morrow is also close to famous D.C. sites, Union Market, and the U.S. Capitol Building. More of an adventurous family? Cruise down the Potomac River by boat or try deep-diving into a world of knowledge at Smithsonian museums. 

After a day of adventure, mom and dad are ready to kick their feet up. The Morrow offers a menu of self-care moments to indulge and relax in the comfort of their rooms, like customized pillows, soothing teas, and spa treatment kits for a perfect night’s sleep. (It’s the little things that count, right?) Kids haven’t been forgotten, either. The Morrow Explorers Program treats young travelers to cookies and milk each night and a backpack full of treasures to make their stay as cozy and fun as possible.

Experience Philadelphia’s Rich History & Culture

Philadelphia blends rich history, vibrant culture, and walkable streets that make it a natural fit for families of all ages. With world-class museums, interactive exhibits, and walkable neighborhoods, it’s easy to fill days with activities that appeal to all ages.

For a refined and welcoming home base, families love The Rittenhouse, perfectly perched over Rittenhouse Square Park. Rooms and suites are spacious and comfortable, with thoughtful touches for younger guests like complimentary in-room movies with popcorn, children’s bathrobes at turndown, and amenities on request for infants and toddlers.

Little ones can look forward to selecting a gift from the hotel’s treasure chest, while everyone can enjoy the daily afternoon tea at the Mary Cassatt Tea Room, a calm tradition set amidst a sunlit garden courtyard. Families can also unwind after a day of exploration at Lacroix, the hotel’s acclaimed French restaurant with seasonal menus and views over the square.

Just beyond the hotel doors, Rittenhouse Square invites easy strolls, picnics, and people-watching, and Philadelphia’s Center City neighborhoods are packed with kid-friendly attractions. The Franklin Institute, a favorite with curious kids, brings science to life with interactive exhibits.

Art lovers can visit the Philadelphia Art Museum or explore mosaic wonders at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens. In 2026, Philadelphia is also alive with celebrations like America’s 250th anniversary, the Philadelphia Flower Show, and family-friendly citywide moments that turn a visit into a milestone experience.

Spend Time Along the Waterfront in Boston

Boston hits the sweet spot for family travel. Walkable neighborhoods, hands-on museums, historic waterfront paths, and open green spaces make it easy to explore without overplanning.

Families staying in the Seaport District will feel right at home at The Envoy Hotel. Many rooms offer sweeping harbor or skyline views, and the Kids Just Want to Have Fun package makes sightseeing simple. It includes daily breakfast, a kids’ welcome amenity, and tickets to the Boston Children’s Museum, so the whole family can enjoy the city together.

Just outside the hotel, families can wander the Institute of Contemporary Art, stroll along nearby parks, or grab bikes to ride the waterfront. When the sun starts to set, head up to the rooftop for panoramic views of the harbor, or sit down to dinner at Para Maria, where Latin-inspired dishes are a hit with kids and adults alike.

Across the harbor, Boston Harbor Hotel offers classic waterfront charm with family-friendly programming. Its Kidventure package includes a DIY cupcake amenity delivered to your room, tickets to the New England Aquarium and the Greenway Carousel, and access to the hotel’s indoor pool — perfect for a rainy day or a break from sightseeing.

From the hotel, families can explore the wide paths of the Harborwalk, take a harbor ferry, or wander to Faneuil Hall and the North End. There’s plenty to see and do, but the real highlight is having a comfortable, kid-friendly home base right on the water.

Enjoy a Coastal Getaway on Cape Cod

Long days with sand between your toes, fresh seafood, and cities full of history and charm — these are only some of the perks of a summer getaway in Massachusetts. From relaxing hideaways on Cape Cod to rich, historical sights in Cambridge, the diversity of Massachusetts offers a fulfilling experience for every member of the family. In the summer, the state comes to life with inviting, warm weather, a host of outdoor activities, and new adventures for curious travelers of all ages.

For the ultimate coastal getaway, book a stay at Sea Crest Beach Resort, the Upper Cape’s only beachfront resort. With a host of picturesque beaches, charming villages, and stunning natural beauty, Cape Cod beckons families to spend lazy summer days playing along the shoreline. When you stay at Sea Crest, you have the coveted opportunity to step foot into the sea as soon as you wake up or watch the warm glow of the sun over North Falmouth as it sets, only steps away from your accommodations.

After working up an appetite at the beach all day, head to Streetscape, where you’ll find not one, not two, but five on-site eateries across the Sea Crest resort. Enjoy New England classics at the waterfront Lantern Room, hang by the beach with fat lobster rolls at The Hatch, grab a pepperoni pie to-go from Buzzards Bay Pizza Co., and top it off with something sweet from Captain Scoops. For anything else, there’s Old Silver Provisions, a one-stop shop for all your beach and breakfast needs.

While summer is a favorite season here, Sea Crest is designed for year-round family travel. There’s an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, floating Maui mats, beach volleyball, and a classic arcade, making it easy to relax and play regardless of the weather. Beyond the resort, families can wander nature preserves, visit historic sites, or shop around town at local boutiques. 

The sparkling waters of Cape Cod and the legendary sunsets draw visitors to Sea Crest year after year, but so do their accommodations. No matter the type of home base you’re looking for, Sea Crest has the room, suite, or cottage that’s right for you. Explore their recently refreshed, nautical-themed guest spaces full of thoughtful amenities like free Wi-Fi, plush pillow-top beds, and mini-refrigerators. Choose from oceanfront rooms, fireplace studio suites, or even cottages that sleep up to eight guests, ensuring that you have a space that exceeds your summer vacation expectations.

Dive Into a Winter Escape in the Florida Keys

When winter starts to feel endless, the Florida Keys offer a welcome reset. Sunny skies, warm breezes, and outdoor adventures make it an ideal destination for families looking to trade layers for flip-flops.

In Key West, make Parrot Key Hotel & Villas your home base, recently named the Best Key West Hotel for Families by Forbes. Tucked away yet centrally located, Parrot Key offers a quiet retreat just a short shuttle ride from Duval Street and Smathers Beach.

Each of the rooms is inspired by nature and seamlessly modern, with an array of views and layouts to choose from. Families especially love the resort’s Three Bedroom Family Villas, designed for space, privacy, and time together.

With room to spread out, private outdoor areas, and easy access to four sparkling pools, these villas make it simple to settle in and stay awhile. Poolside dining at The Grove, casual beach games, on-site watersports, and small touches like board games and books from the PK Family Library help create effortless family moments.

Kick Back on Miami Beach, European-Style 

Closer to the mainland, Miami Beach is just as suited for a family vacation. Foodies have their pick of famous restaurants, sunbums have their ocean, and culture-loving teens get free admission to art museums all over town. 

Miami is stacked with fun things to do, but equally great for doing nothing at all. Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club is a laid-back haven for just that. This European-inspired resort in Miami stretches across an entire city block, complete with a private beachfront dotted with daybeds and dedicated play areas for children. There’s also a pool for kids, an adult-only pool lounge, and plenty of ocean activities nearby, courtesy of Cadillac’s local partners at BouYah Watersports. Speed through waves on a jet ski, cruise around the bay on a kayak, or parasail above this Art Deco paradise. 

Families can also enjoy the hotel’s Italian chophouse, Donna Mare, indulge in seafood at the Bungalow Beach Bar & Grill, or satisfy a sweet tooth with dessert from Il Merkato. 

Soak Up the Sun in Santa Monica

Santa Monica is an easy win for family travel. Sunny weather, wide sidewalks, and a laid-back pace make it simple to explore at your own rhythm. Beach days, bike rides, and casual dining keep everyone happy without overplanning.

The Ambrose Hotel offers a comfortable, thoughtfully designed stay for families who want space to spread out. Its Family Room features two separate king bedrooms connected by a private entry, giving parents and kids their own space while staying close. Luxury linens, plush robes, and multiple TVs make downtime feel just as good as time spent out exploring.

Location is another major perk. Families are a short walk from Palisades Park, the Santa Monica Pier, and the beach, with bike paths and ocean views that make getting around feel like part of the experience. The nearby Third Street Promenade adds shopping, dining, and entertainment that works for all ages.

Back at the hotel, modern amenities and thoughtful details help families recharge between adventures. Whether you’re heading out early for a beach day or winding down after sunset, The Ambrose makes Santa Monica feel easy, relaxed, and well-suited for traveling together.

Start planning your next family vacation with our exclusive special offers, packed with specially-priced rooms, food and drink credits, overnight parking, and other VIP perks!