Think “family vacation” and Disney parks, cruise ships and all-inclusive resorts probably spring to mind first. But if you’re after something a little more unique, unconventional and memorable for your next trip away, here are 5 unexpected travel destination ideas for your next family vacation, suggested by Travel Ticker.
#1. Patagonia
Patagonia, a magnificent Argentinean region, has been popular with tourists for decades, but more recently it’s become a top choice for family trips too — and it’s easy to see why. Fantastic, breathtaking natural beauty is paired with a wide variety of outdoor activities for all ages.
Here you can marvel at snow-capped mountains, flower-filled meadows, glaciers and wild animals that kids are bound to love. Argentina’s tourism sector has also worked hard to make the region accessible for families, so you’ll find plenty of fun tours, including horse riding and boat trips, suitable for children of all ages.
There’s some useful information on the Patagonia Argentina website.
#2. South Africa
Ask any child their favourite animal and lions and giraffes are bound to be near the top of the list. Then ask if they’d like to see them in real life!
The idea of Africa as a family holiday destination can feel a bit daunting if you’ve never been, so why not make South Africa your first venture into this amazing continent? With beautiful beaches, great weather and safari options to see all those favourite wild animals, South Africa can also be a great fit for family budgets.
There’s lots of handy information on the South African Tourism website.
Recommended Reading: 10 of the Coolest and Best Vacation Spots for Kids
#3. Hong Kong
One of the most underrated places for a family vacation is Hong Kong. If you don’t mind the long-haul flight, you’ll find this exciting city surprisingly child-friendly, with some amazing attractions and sights. Bonus: city and subway signs are also in English, a legacy of British rule, which makes getting around a lot easier.
Be sure to take the Star Ferry from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island, then ride the funicular railway up to Victoria Peak for spectacular views of the city. Time an evening ferry crossing right and you’ll also catch the choreographed light show played out across the harbourside skyscrapers. And do plan at least one day of your trip for Hong Kong Disneyland.
We stayed in Kowloon on our visit, which was a fascinating experience — right in the heart of this busy city. It took a couple of days to find our bearings, but once we did, we really enjoyed our stay. One tip: Kowloon Park has an outdoor swimming pool that kids will love.
Recommended Reading: 10 Awesome Things to Do In Hong Kong with Kids
#4. Las Vegas, Nevada
Yes, we did say Las Vegas! It can actually make a cracking family vacation destination. First up, there are tons of child-friendly activities located all over the city, and you’ll find it easy to navigate and not too sprawling to get around.
Many hotels also offer amenities for families with small children, such as childproof pools and babysitting services. And kids will love spotting mini replicas of some of the world’s most famous sites, from the Eiffel Tower to Venetian gondolas floating by — a trip to Las Vegas ends up being a mini tour of the globe too!
You can also take in the Grand Canyon, one of the most amazing natural wonders in the world, as a day trip from the city.
You’ll find lots of tips on the Las Vegas Kids website.
Recommended Reading: 10 More of the Coolest and Best Vacation Spots for Kids
#5. Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant, family-friendly city with plenty to offer beyond the beach. Children will love the beautiful stretches of sand, the huge range of activities, and the lush tropical forest just a few miles from the city, home to colourful, vivid birds and animals.
Brazilians are also very family-oriented, which makes visiting with kids easy — you’ll be welcomed warmly at most restaurants, and high chairs are readily available. Find more suggestions for your Rio family trip on the Lonely Planet website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these unconventional destinations suitable for young children?
Every destination on this list has family-friendly options, from gentle nature tours in Patagonia to child-proofed hotel amenities in Las Vegas. As with any trip, it’s worth checking specific tour operators or hotels for age recommendations before you book.
How do I plan a family trip to somewhere less obvious?
Start with what your family enjoys most — wildlife, city sights, beaches or the outdoors — then match that to a destination on this list. Booking through local tourism websites or family travel specialists can help you find child-friendly tours and accommodation.
Are long-haul flights with kids worth it for these destinations?
Many families find that a longer flight is worth it for a genuinely different travel experience. Planning entertainment, snacks and rest breaks for the journey, and choosing accommodation close to the main sights once you land, can make the trip much smoother.
Do I need to plan much in advance for destinations like these?
Yes — because these are less typical family holiday spots, it’s worth researching child-friendly tours, transport options and accommodation in more detail than you might for a standard resort holiday. The tourism websites linked in this article are a good starting point.
Related Articles
- 10 of the Coolest and Best Vacation Spots for Kids
- 10 Awesome Things to Do In Hong Kong with Kids
- 10 More of the Coolest and Best Vacation Spots for Kids
Looking for More Family Travel Inspiration?
Fancy browsing more family holiday ideas before you decide where to go next? Explore our travel section for more destination inspiration, or save this article to come back to when you’re ready to plan.
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Have you visited any of these destinations? Share your tips with us in the comments below.
