Author: Grasshopper Greg

There are plenty of fun, kid-friendly travel ideas for the best family vacations in the Southwest United States. The American Southwest is filled with incredible destinations which are perfect for family exploration. Whether you are looking to visit historical attractions, soak up scenic views, or admire the desert landscape, there is something for everyone here. As a travel-savvy mom or dad, its time to get the kids ready to explore. This way, you can start building life-long memories, break your usual routine, and open your children’s minds to new experiences. To help you get started, check out these kid-friendly ideas for the best family vacations in the Southwest.

Visit The Mighty Five In Utah

First and foremost, Utah’s Mighty Five is a great kid-friendly idea for the best Southwest family vacations. The Mighty 5 refers to five incredible national parks located throughout the Southern half of Utah. Here, families can experience Zion, Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Bryce Canyon National Parks. Each of these world-famous opportunities delivers unrivaled beauty, serenity, and scenery. Even better, there is plenty of great boating, hiking, and biking that the entire family can enjoy. If you are looking to add more National Parks to your itinerary, check out our official Montana outdoor travel and adventure guide. Certainly, Utah’s Mighty 5 is a great destination for your kid-friendly Southwest family vacation.

Go Glamping

Families looking to soak up the Great Outdoors in the American Southwest are rapidly booking glamping travel expeditions. Rent a cabin or family yurt and set off on your journey. Typically, these include a wood stove, fireplace, and propane kitchen appliances. If you are seeking a more luxurious experience, check out RV rentals. Of course, these vehicles pack all the comforts of home, include TVs, bathrooms, and electricity. Once you get your RV, you can begin embarking on the Southwest’s best road trip. Be sure to make the drive from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend. Absolutely, going glamping is a great kid-friendly idea for the best Southwest family vacations.

Explore The Grand Canyon

Next, the Grand Canyon is one of the best kid-friendly Southwest vacations to experience with the family. There is plenty for kids to do when visiting the Grand Canyon in Arizona. For a start, you can bike along the rim trail, ride the train, and walk to Shoshone Point. Afterwards, take a hike up the Bright Angel Trail. Then, you can have your children get sworn in as Grand Canyon Junior Rangers. Surely, this is an amazing experience you will never forget. After all, the Grand Canyon is one of the best travel experiences in the US. Surely, explore the Grand Canyon for a fun, kid-friendly family vacation in the Southwest United States.

Visit Some Museums

Before you head home, soak up some knowledge at the Southwest’s best family-friendly museums. In AZ, some of the best kid-friendly museums include the Pioneer Living History Village, Arizona Railway Museum, Arizona Science Center, and the Musical Instrument Museum. For families that love eccentric oddities, stop by the International UFO Museum & Research Center, Tinkertown Museum, and the Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures. Definitely, visit some fun, educational museums on your kid-friendly family Southwest vacation.

Travel To New Mexico

In addition, consider booking your family a kid-friendly vacation to New Mexico. New Mexico is widely-renowned for its diverse cultures, fun adventures, and educational hands-on museums. Even better, families will love New Mexico’s world-famous festivals and events. One of the most popular is the Hot Air Balloon Festival, which is held every year in Albuquerque. To find out more, check out our guide to hot air ballooning in Albuquerque NM. For families of outdoor enthusiasts, be sure to stop by White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, and Chaco Culture National Parks. You may even want to add a visit a trip to Bandelier or Petroglyph National Monument to your family-friendly itinerary. Indeed, New Mexico is ripe with great opportunity for family travel enthusiasts.

There are plenty of amazing kid-friendly ideas for the best family vacations in the Southwest USA. First off, check out the Mighty 5, Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Next, head over to Arizona, where you can admire the beauty of the Grand Canyon. In addition, travel to New Mexico. To get the most from your vacation, try to time it along wit the Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival. Before you head home, learn something at some of the best Southwest museums. Follow the points highlighted above to learn about kid-friendly ideas for the best family vacations in the Southwest.

When you think of the beaches of California, The Beach Boys music, surfers, volleyball and rollerblading come to mind. California Beaches all have their unique personality and features. The coastline is very long and can be enjoyed at any time of the year with its natural beauty. Driving along the coast of California you will find the views change dramatically from north to south. Some of the beaches listed below are well-known but others are a little away from the crowds and totally idyllic. Either way you will enjoy them all.

Natural Bridges State Park

Located right in Between Half Moon Bay and Monterey, beach-loving tourists will find Natural Bridges State Park. Right in Santa Cruz, his park and beach is a great spot to see birds, migrating whales, seals and otters. Along the beach, tide pools give you a glimpse of life beneath the sea. During low tide you may see shore crabs, sea stars, and other colorful life. Stop at the Visitors Center to pick up a guide of what you may see in the tide pools.

Monarch Grove

The park’s Monarch Grove is home for thousands of Monarchs, making it a great stop for your endangered wildlife species vacation. The mild seaside climate and eucalyptus grove provide an ideal place for them to stay until spring. Late October and all of November is often the best time to go observe the Monarchs.

Watch the surfing action, especially when the waves are high. It is also a good spot to watch the sunset. Call (831) 423-4609 for hours and special events being held on the dates you plan on going.

Half Moon Bay

The drive from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay is stunning, and it compares to the Big Sur area as one of the most beautiful stretches of oceanfront highway in California. Take Highway 1 North for 47 miles to get there.

There are plenty of incredible beaches to visit in Half Moon Bay. For a start, check out Venice, Francis, Roosevelt, and Dune Beach. With so many options, this is a favorite destination for beach-lovers. Simultaneously, its miles of stunning oceanfront walkways make it an excellent stop for hikers and runners.

Poplar Beach

Poplar Beach is a great spot for animal lovers. After all, the park is dog-friendly and known for horseback riding. If you are interested in partaking, check out Sea Horse Ranch, which helps riders navigate the Coastal Equestrian Trail. From here, you can experience spectacular ocean views, scenic bluffs, and more. The Early Bird Special is a 2-Hour Trail & Beach Ride offered at 8:00am for $ 60. It is $ 100 at any other point in the day. Seahorseranch.org

Pillar Point Harbor

In the nearby community of Princeton-by-the-Sea, the picturesque Pillar Point Harbor has fishing boats and an old wooden pier. This harbor is also the departure point for whale watching, as well as fishing charter boats.

Huli Cat will take you whale watching for 3 hours $ 65. Humpback Whales can be seen April-Nov and Gray Whales Jan-Mar. hulicat.com

Several waterfront restaurants offer fabulous views and fresh seafood. You can’t go wrong with Barbara’s Fishtrap with beachside tables overlooking the harbor at 281 Capistrano Road, and Sam’s Chowder House at 4210 N. Cabrillo Highway.

Then, stop by the famous Pillar Point Harbor. This amazing beach spot overlooks the towering waves of Mavericks Beach, which often reach height of thirty feet. Notable surfers from all over the world travel to this sport to catch these incredible waves.

Keep in mind that the parking lot will quickly fill up whenever big waves are predicted. Simultaneously, eager tourists will cover the bluffs to watch some great surfing action. Be sure to bring some binoculars along with you. After all, some of the best waves are often up to two miles out. To access, follow a simple trail that stretches for a half-mile to the beach. You can always take the Pillar Point Bluff Trail too. This follows the coastal ridge, where better wave views are possible. Certainly, this is one of the best off the beaten path beach towns to visit in California.

Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach is southwest of Los Angeles and is in-between Manhattan and Redondo beaches. It has almost 2 miles of ocean beach. There is excellent surf, good swimming areas, and volleyball nets along the sand. Volleyball tournaments and surf festivals take place throughout the year.

Enjoy the Strand there by stopping by Hermosa Cyclery. You can rent bikes, skates and beach gear just steps from one of the most spectacular bicycle paths in the world. Enjoy a ride along the beach and no reservation is needed. hermosacyclery.com

Right in town there are 10 murals in the area that you can see that represent the history and culture of the city of Hermosa Beach. hermosamurals.org The Hermosa Beach Historical Society may start offering mural tours in 2022.

Stop at Jeffers in town to rent bicycles or beach chairs for the day. $ 20 bicycle and $ 6 for beach chairs.

Here is a good tip for your day here. Once you have a parking spot, don’t give it up. The locals walk or bike everywhere. Move your car only when you’re ready to head home.

Stick around in the evening and go to the Comedy & Magic Club. They have been part of the Hermosa Beach community since 1978 and they are known for hosting Jay Leno weekly. Jay is a friend of the club, not an owner, and loves to perform in front of a small, intimate audience.

Just a quick walk from the beach is Grandview Inn. Here, you will find everything you need just a short walk away. For example, tourists generally love the local restaurants, nightclubs, and salons. Even better, this location is just 7 miles from LAX. Starts at $ 179/night for 2 adults.

Crystal Cove State Park

Right off the Pacific Coast Highway, be sure to stop at Crystal Cove State Park. Located right between Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar, this spot is essential to stop by on your PCH itinerary.

Start at Moro Beach. Walk through the short tunnel to get to this beach. Very popular with body boarders, paddle boarders, fisherman, and kayakers.

Reef Point has beach access using the very short trail that travels north right down to the beach. A stairway takes you into Scotchman’s Cove and, to the south, a ramp down to Muddy Creek. That is a great body surfing spot.

Pelican Point has a 1 mile multi-use trail paralleling the coast line that offers a view of the coastal bluff and wildlife.

The beachcomber Cafe’ is a unique beach cottage where you can enjoy California cuisine with a spectacular oceanside view. It is right on the beach and we recommend breakfast or lunch. Dinner is pricey. thebeachcombercafe.com

Prismo Beach

Much further north on the Central Coast, stop by Prismo Beach. Here, you will experience a totally different feel and ambiance compared to SoCal beaches.

This is a great spot if you are looking to see some bright Monarch Butterflies. These amazing creatures flock here annually between October and February. For butterfly viewing, check out the grove, right off of Highway 1 in South Prismo Beach. Keep in mind that the Monarchs that visit Prismo are unlike any other species. In fact, they live for nearly half-a-year, whereas traditional Monarch butterflies only live for four to six weeks.

The Natural History Museum In Morro Bay is an excellent resource for information about Monarchs. The panoramic waterfront view from the museum is amazing! There are daily talks at 11am and 2pm. For more information call 805-773-5301.

Before leaving Prismo, be sure to check out some massive clams. After all, the Prismo Clam is one of the biggest on the California Coast. This makes this under-the-radar beach town the perfect location for clamming, which is permitted here all year. To get started, grab a clam fork, bucket, caliper, and head over to Grand Avenue.

Before any clams can be taken, they need to measure at least 4.5 inches in diameter. Also, you will need a saltwater fishing license. If you just want a day pass, you can purchase one for less than $10. Even with this, you will still be limited to ten clams a day for each person. To avoid getting sick, do not eat any clams from shells that are closed.

The Pismo Beach Pier juts out into the Pacific from the center of Pismo Beach giving visitors a nice view of the beach. It is best known for fishing and surfing. You can fly a kite or watch seagulls.

Then, walk out to the pier and admire the spectacular hills and ocean. Afterwards, walk under the pier where you can experience the waves up close and personal. On the northern side of the beach, experience the spectacular Wilmar Stairs. There are spectacular ocean views from here. Use the wooden stairway to access the beach. The Pier is just a short walk away along the beach.

If you plan on staying overnight, The Inn at the Cove is oceanfront with a cliff top setting. There is a heated pool and access to Elmer Ross Beach for swimming. Rates in the off-season are $160 which includes breakfast, Wi-Fi and parking. Kontiki Inn is another option. Rooms are all oceanfront. Nightly rates Sun thru Thurs for up to two people are $130, off season.

As you see, there are beaches in California for all activities. Try to experience them in all parts of the state. The best part is that all the views are free! Once you have made your way through the top hidden towns in California, you are ready to begin seeing the best secret Caribbean islands without a cruise ship.

There are plenty of incredible mail boat travel adventures for cruise vacation enthusiasts. Small, mail boat cruises offer truly amazing experiences to far-out frontiers, under-the-radar destinations, and luxurious locations. Here, you can explore remote beaches, quaint small towns, and frozen shorelines. As a cruise value traveler, there has never been a better time to set-sail on your ocean adventure. This way, you can see new places, try something new, and achieve exceptional ticket barrier. Read on to learn about the top mail boat travel adventures in the world for cruise vacationers.

Hurtigruten Mail Boat Cruise, Norway

First off, the Hurtigruten mail boat cruise is an excellent attraction to see Norway’s spectacular coastline, as well as breathtaking fjord scenery. These cruises run between the charming cities of Kirkenes in the North, and Bergen, Norway in the South. Crossing along the Artic Circle, these tours are offered year round. Of course, this is the perfect choice if you are looking to experience the Northern Lights or midnight sun. If you are planning this for your next getaway, check out our recent guide on money-saving travel hacks for cruise vacations. Certainly, the Hurtigruten mail boat cruise is a great Nordic travel experience to take this year.

Pelorus Mail Boat Cruise, Havelock, New Zealand

Next, New Zealand’s Pelorus mail boat cruise is an excellent option to explore the jagged beaks and deep, sunken valleys of the Marlborough Sounds. This tour delivers mail to some prominent residents on the most remote corners of the sound. During your journey, you may see some fur seals, penguins, and dolphins. At the same time, you captain will provide you with educational information about the local residents. Some tours will even a complete tour of New Zealand muscle farms, which is truly an incredible experience. Surely, take an adventurous Pelorus mail boat cruise in remote New Zealand.

Lake Geneva Mail Boat Tour, Wisconsin

You can always take the Lake Geneva mail boar tour in Wisconsin, which recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. Visitors can experience this journey for about $35 for adults. Over the course of your journey, you will make stops at over fifty piers. At each point, your captain will provide insightful information about the historic mansion homes, estates, and history. You may even learn about some famous Chicagoans from notable US history. To date, this is still the only continuous marine mail delivery service that uses jumpers in the entire world. Therefore, your ride is also part of history. Undeniably, this is one of the best travel experiences in the US. Indeed, Lake Geneva’s mail boat tour is a great way to experience U.S history, culture, and explore remote towns.

Mount Washington Lake Winnipesaukee Boat Tour, New Hampshire

Then, set sail on the U.S mail boat travel cruise in Mount Washington, New Hampshire. This incredible journey makes four island stops, where you will learn about local lake history, culture, and scenery. On a nice day, you will receive impeccable views of the nearby islands and surrounding terrain. While aboard, fill out a custom postcard, which can then be mailed right off the ship. Then, finish your journey with a memorable, unique collectible stamp. Absolutely, the Lake Winnipesaukee mail boat cruise is one of the best travel experiences in the world.

Monhegan Mailboat Experience, Port Clyde, Maine

At the same time, climb aboard the Monhegan mailboat experience, which still serves a central role to Maine’s remote island communities. After leaving Port Clyde, this spectacular cruise immediately embarks to the Marshall Point Lighthouse. On your journey, you will see plenty of amazing animals, such as puffins. You may even see some small whales and porpoises. On the way back, you may even see some wildlife sitting on the famous “Seal Rock.” Therefore, it is a great destination for your endangered wildlife travel itinerary. Throughout the trip, you will also pass by lobstermen, pleasure watercraft, and sailboats gliding along. Definitely, the Monhegan mailboat experience is an amazing cruise journey to take this summer.

There are plenty of amazing mail boat travel adventures in the world for cruise vacationers. First off, visit Norway to see the spectacular shoreline and amazing scenic fjords. Next, set sail on the Pelorus cruise to explore remote New Zealand. In addition, Lake Geneva offers plenty of relatively affordable and informational cruise options. Of course, the Mount Washington tour and Monhegan mail boat experience are great options for travelers looking to stay in the Northeast. Follow the points highlighted above to learn about the top mail boat travel adventures in the world for cruise vacationers.

There are plenty of under-the-radar, secret Caribbean islands you can visit without booking a cruise ship ticket. Cruise ship travel is a great option for convenient, amenity-packed Caribbean travel. However, these large commercial ships are known to spoil the authentic, cultural island life. Fortunately, there are a few terrific holdouts left all throughout the Caribbean islands. Here, you can enjoy tourist-free beaches, offshore reefs, and sustainable lodges. This is the perfect choice if you are looking to soak up the sun, catch a tan, or spend the afternoon relaxing in a hammock. To help you get started, read on to learn about the best secret Caribbean islands without cruise ships for crowd-free travel.

Anguilla

First off, check out Anguilla for spectacular beaches, breathtaking scenery, and incredible culture. Located less than 10 miles off the coast of St. Martin, Anguilla is a convenient, easily-accessible destination to visit. Most visitors choose to get here through St. Maarten’s SXM International Airport. Once you are here, you can easily get to the island via ferry or sea shuttle. However, there is always air transfer services available if you get easily seasick. While you are on the island, some of the best beaches to visit include Shoal Bay East, Sandy Ground, and Island Harbour. Shoal Bay East is two miles of perfect white sand and great for swimming, snorkeling or a nice long walk. It has been named a top beach to go to by many top tourist magazines. There are good beach bars and open-air restaurants right there along the water. Sandy Ground is where many boats dock when they visit. Island Harbour is a photogenic fishing village lined with fishing boats. You can find some nice eateries there.

If you are looking for a scuba or snorkeling day trip, visit Sandy, Prickly Pear, and Anguillita islands as well.

Sandy Island has a white sandy beach, a beach bar, and fresh seafood. It is a quick shuttle ride away ( $ 10 per person roundtrip) and a good spot for an afternoon.

Prickly Pear is a great remote spot for lunch and relaxation. It is 20 minutes north of Anguilla. You will find two restaurants and bars, a large salt pond, and some of the clearest waters in all of Anguilla.  Anguillita is a small, rocky island nearby. It has good scuba diving and snorkelling where you can see barracudas, stingrays, and turtles. Certainly, Anguilla is an excellent, off the beaten path beach town to visit in the Caribbean.

St. John

Located on the U.S Virgin Islands, St. John is another spectacular secret Caribbean island to visit this summer. The majority of St. John is part of the Virgin Islands National Park. Therefore, it is one of the most quiet, calm, and truly natural Caribbean beaches. On the island, some of the most popular destinations are Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay Beach. Other great experiences include climbing America Hill, going on an Arawak expedition, or walking the Reef Bay trail. To see more of the beaches, check out Salt Pond Bay, Mongoose Junction, and Jumbie Beach as well. Indeed, St. John is one of the best secret Caribbean islands without cruise ships for crowd-free vacations.

Dominica

Of course, Dominica is a spectacular Caribbean island for calm, relaxing, and crowd-free getaways. Known as the “Nature Island,” Dominica is widely known for its vast rainforests and impeccable scenery. Simultaneously, it is known to be home to an abundance of unique animals, making it the perfect destination for your endangered wildlife species vacation. While you are here, be sure to visit Morne Trois Pitons National Park. Here, you can walk down the Waitukubuli National Trail, which is the first long-distance trail located in the Caribbean. Also in the park, be sure to stop by the eerie-looking, mystical boiling lake. Other must-see attractions include Victoria Falls, Cabrits National Park, and Roseau. Absolutely, Dominica is one of the best secret Caribbean islands without cruise ships for crowd-free travel.

Guana Island

Next, think about planning a secret Caribbean vacation to Guana island. Locatedon the British Virgin Islands, Guana is a minimally touched, hidden Caribbean getaway. To get here, most tourists fly into Beef Island, which is also located in the BVI. From here, you can take a short boat ride over to Guana’s white sandy beaches. If you are having trouble finding flights, you can always book directly to San Juan, Puerto Rico or St. Thomas in the United States Virgin Islands. From here, you will have to take an hour-long flight to Tortola, which is a beautiful destination in itself. Then, you can take another short ten minute boat ride to reach Guana. Surely, Guana island is a great destination in the Caribbean to visit without cruise ships.

La Desirade

Right in the French West Indies, La Desirade is another must-see, under-the-radar destination in the Caribbean. Less than 10 square miles, this truly is a quiet, calming location for tourism-free travel. After all, the island’s name literally translates to “The Forgotten.” While you are here, be sure to visit Souffleur and Baie Mahault, two of the island’s best beaches. Here, you will still find tall palm trees and incredible, untouched white sands. Afterwards, head over to Grande-Anse, the city’s main village, to soak up some of the history. Since this island is very remote, you should take special precautions when preparing for travel. Check out our guide on the top travel safety essentials to help you get ready. Definitely, La Desirade is an impeccable secret Caribbean island without cruise ships for crowd free travel.

There are plenty of secret, off-the-beaten path Caribbean islands to vacation to without a cruise ship. First and foremost, visit the island of Anguilla, right off the coast of St. Martin. Next, check out Guana in the British Virgin Islands. Right on the USVI, St. John is another must-see, under-the-radar island to visit. Of course, Dominica is another largely untouched, spectacular Caribbean Island. Moreover, stop by La Desirade for calming, relaxing beach tourism. Follow the points highlighted above to learn about the best secret Caribbean islands without cruise ships for crowd-free travel.

There are several great family vacations in the Midwest for nearby, local summer getaways. The Midwest is made up of underrated states like Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, and Iowa. Of course, Midwestern states and cities rarely fall at the top of lists for “exciting destinations to visit with the family.” However, it is time to rethink the middle of the United States as your next vacation destination. Here, value travelers, such as yourself, can experience stunning beaches, quaint historic towns, and exhilarating adventures. To help you plan your next excursion, read on to learn about the best family vacations in the Midwest for local summer getaways.

Branson, Missouri

First off, Branson, MO is one of the best travel experiences in the US for your summer family vacation. Branson is commonly associated with incredible live music, artisan performances, and action-packed thrill rides. While you are in town, be sure to check out the famous Titanic Museum, Branson Zipline, as well as the Scenic Railway. Then, take the family over to Silver Dollar City, the city’s 69-acre amusement park. It has a 1880’s theme and you can get better value with a 2 day ticket for $ 94 instead of the 1 day admission for $ 74 ages 12+. For dining, head over to Dolly Parton’s Stampede, an exciting dinner-theater extravaganza.

There are 30 theaters and over 100 shows to choose from for entertainment around the Hwy 76 Entertainment District. Check out bransonshows.com to see what shows are being offered at half price for the date you are looking for. If you are flexible on your choices you can save a lot of money. To get out and enjoy the great outdoors, stop by Table Rock State Park and Lake Taneycomo. Here, the entire family can enjoy boating, camping, as well as trout fishing. Certainly, check out Branson, Missouri on your Midwestern family vacation this summer.

Door County, Wisconsin

In addition, Door County, WI is another one of the best family vacations in the Midwest for local summer getaways. Just 3 1/2 hours from Chicago, Door County is an excellent, local destination to experience this summer. There are five state parks and 19 county parks in Door County alone. Bring the family to The Farm, where the kids can milk goats, feed animals, and watch chicks hatch. Then, head over to the popular Peninsula State Park, where you will enjoy hiking trails, immaculate beaches, and an informative nature center.

For food, you will have to try a Fish Boil, which is undeniably Door County’s signature meal. This is prepared by boiling local Lake Michigan whitefish over a huge open fire. Add salt to the water and then add potatoes. Once the potatoes are cooked, onions are added. Once the fish are just about ready, the boil master will signal that the boil over is about to start, which is the fiery spectacle that occurs when kerosene is thrown onto the fire. The mild whitefish, potatoes and onion are served with melted butter, lemon wedges, coleslaw or salad, bread, and a slice of fresh-baked Door County cherry pie. Cherries are a staple at local orchards and are ripe for the picking mid-July to mid-August. The cherry industry is a staple of Door County. Because Door County fish boils are so popular, many restaurants recommend calling ahead for reservations.Try White Gull Inn or Pelletier’s in Fish Creek or Waterfront Mary’s Bar & Grill in Sturgeon Bay. It will run $ 20-25 pp.

Indeed, Door County, Wisconsin is one of the best family vacations in the Midwest for family travelers.

Rapid City, South Dakota

Next, Rapid City, SD is another incredible family vacation destination in the Midwest. Known as a Gateway to Mount Rushmore, there are many incredible attractions and destinations to explore in this area. However, Rapid City is most commonly known for its animal viewing opportunities, making it the perfect destination for endangered wildlife travel. Take the family on a drive through the 18 mile Custer State Park. Here, nearly 1,500 bison are continuously free roaming throughout the parkgrounds. One great hike to take is around  Sylvan Lake. There are stunning rock formations and is spectacular. Sunday Gulch is a four mile loop with stream crossings. You can take a slow drive on the 14 mile Needles Highway and appreciate the beauty that you see. Take a drive on Wildlife Loop Road and you may see buffalo and burros.

Before you leave town, be sure to stop in the famous Badlands National Park, as well as the star of the show, Mount Rushmore.

You do not need a reservation for any programs at Mount Rushmore, including the Evening Lighting Ceremony. The 15 minute Sculptor’s Studio Talk is  about the tools and techniques used in the carving of the famous sculpture. The 45 minute evening program  focus  on the presidents, patriotism and the nation’s history. You will see the film “Freedom: America’s Lasting Legacy” and then ends with the lighting of the memorial. Explore the history of the Black Hills and the American Indian tribes who have passed through there for thousands of years. Learn the customs and traditions of local American Indian communities. 10:30- 3:00 on Tuesdays and Thursdays only.  A Self-Guided audio tour is also available to hear the story of Mount Rushmore through music, interviews, historic recordings and sound effects while walking a scenic route around the park. Small fee. Of course programs and lectures change throughout the year based on weather and expected attendance. 30 minutes from Rapid City.

Visiting the Badlands you can also learn about the history of The Lakota people who have always lived there. – Many notable leaders and warriors including Crazy Horse and Red Cloud were crucial to their history. The southern area of Badlands including the White River Visitor Center is on the Pine Ridge Reservation. The visitor center has exhibits  about Lakota history and culture. Certain dates you can experience cultural demonstrations involving music, dancing, and crafts.

It is home to a large population of the American Bison. 1,200 bison are in the Badlands today. As recently as the early 1800s, there were 30 million bison roaming North America. By the late 1800s, European settlers cut that number to fewer than 1,000.  Badlands has played  an important role in the growth of the Bison. You can drive the parks most popular road — Badlands Loop Road, also known as Highway 240. Catch beautiful landscapes, informational exhibits, and glimpses of wildlife on this incredible drive. There are over a dozen of overlooks to soak in the scenery. One hour from Rapid City.

Surely, visit Rapid City, South Dakota on your Midwest local summer family vacation getaway.

Duluth, Minnesota

Duluth is a quaint, charming city located on the Lake Superior Port. Here, visitors can experience incredible Great Lakes attractions, relax in the great outdoors, and enjoy an incredible small town. In this delightful city, you will enjoy miles of hiking trails, acres of scenic parkland, and urban walking trails. One of the more unique experiences in this area is fly fishing, which takes place on some of Duluth’s many trout streams. The conditions are ideal due to the cooler water temperatures in late fall and early spring. There are no shortage of choices. Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout and salmon to name a few. Within an easy drive of Duluth you can head to Sargent Creek, Miller Creek, Lester River, Amity Creek, Chester Creek, Steward Creek and Lake Superior. If you want to learn basic fly casting prior to going contact greatlakeflyfish.com at $ 40 per person per hour. Want to go out for a half day experience with a guide on the North Shore of Lake Superior? $ 200 and then $ 50 for each additional person. They can also rent you any equipment you forgot to bring with you. namebini.com. For more active travelers, try your hand at kayaking or paddleboarding. When the weather is not as nice, take a drive down the Scenic Skyline Parkway, which stretches for over 20 miles through the city.  You will see views of the harbor and the shoreline of Lake Superior. Along the way you have opportunities for hiking, cross-country skiing, mountain biking and picnic areas. A main attraction is the Duluth Traverse Trail – a mountain bike trail that covers the entire length of the city. In the north, Hawk Ridge is an excellent spot for watching migratory birds in spring and fall. Absolutely, Duluth, MN is one of the best, scenic family vacations in the Midwest for local summer getaways.

Fargo, North Dakota

Fargo, ND is another must-see family vacation destination in the United States. Fargo is often recognized for its deep agricultural roots, college town energy, and rich Scandinavian history. North Dakota’s largest city is largely known for small town friendliness and unique, eccentric oddities. Here, families will enjoy amazing museums, such as the Fargo Air Museum, Plains Art, and the Roger Maris Museum. The Fargo Air Museum is home to aircraft of all eras. You can see two hangars full of aircraft ranging from a Wright Brothers’ flyer to the MQ-1 Predator unmanned aircraft. Many of the planes are still able to fly which is unique and  not found in the vast majority of the nation’s air museums. They even offer a 15 minute flight simulator experience for $ 10. The Plains Art Museum is free and its permanent collection has over 4,000 local, regional, and national works, including Native American art.

Roger Maris hit a then record 61 home runs during the 1961 season for the New York Yankees, breaking Babe Ruth’s single-season record of 60 home runs in 1927. His museum is located near the Aquarium Court at West Acres Shopping Center. Notable museum features include a video room for watching historic footage while sitting on actual Yankee Stadium seats from the Maris era., a replica of Roger’s Yankee Stadium monument, a replica of Roger’s 1961 locker and displays and artifacts from Roger’s youth and Major League playing days.

“Sometimes I wish I never hit those 61 home runs. All I want is to be treated like any other player. I never wanted all this hoopla. All I wanted is to be a good ballplayer, hit 25 or 30 homers, drive in around a hundred runs, hit .280, and help my club win pennants. I just wanted to be one of the guys, an average player with a good season.” – Roger Maris

Then, head over to some iconic state parks, like Fort Ransom, Turtle River, and Icelandic. In Fort Ransom you can relax on the Sheyenne River by canoeing or kayaking. For a unique overnight experience, book the Percheron Wagon for $ 85/night. It has a rustic exterior but the interior is quite homey. The wagon has a king bed, and a set of twin bunk beds. It also includes a refrigerator, microwave, four barstools around a wagon wheel table and air conditioning. Turtle River is a good fishing spot. It is stocked with rainbow trout.

Icelandic Park is on Lake Renwick. Boating, swimming and fishing are a few summer activities while snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are options in the winter. You have the three mile trail in the Gunlogson Nature Preserve. The 200-acre area along the Tongue River is a sanctuary for plants, birds and wildlife. Rare species exist in the preserve, such as the Pileated Woodpecker and Western Wood-Pewee.

Definitely, Fargo, North Dakota is the perfect local getaway destination for your summer family vacation.

There are several incredibly, underrated family vacations in the Midwest that are perfect for local summer getaways. First, explore Branson, Missouri for live music, thrill rides, and Ozark-themed attractions. Next, Rapid City, SD is the perfect destinations for wildlife travel enthusiasts. In addition, check out Door County, Wisconsin, which is less than a 4 hour drive from Chicago. Of course, Duluth is an excellent destination for families seeking a quieter, more quaint destination. Moreover, check out Fargo, ND for plenty of unique, eccentric oddities. If you are seeking something busier and more urban, check out our awesome guide on the best free tours with the Chicago greeter program. Follow the points highlighted above to learn about the best family vacations in the Midwest for local summer getaways.

There are plenty of quiet, secret, and beautiful off the beaten path beach towns to visit this summer. Looking to the country’s best beaches is a great start for value travelers looking to plan the greatest vacations. Unfortunately, this often means massive crowds, expensive accommodations, and costly flights. Therefore, many vacationers, such as yourself, are checking out trips to quieter, more-secretive beach towns throughout the United States. Here, you can experience natural, untouched beauty, as well as significantly smaller crowds. This way, you can truly unwind, relax, and save money on all your activities. To help you plan your next vacation under the sun, read on to learn about the quiet and secret off the beaten beach towns to visit this summer.

Sanibel Island, Florida

First off, Sanibel Island is a quiet beach town that many have not been to. Located 25 miles south of Fort Myers, Sanibel Island is located on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida. This immaculate destination is a paradise for nature travel enthusiasts. This area is known for world class shelling. The best months to go for that is October and November because tides are at their lowest. You will definitely need beach shoes and a shelling bag. Visit the Bailey- Matthews National Shell Museum and pick up their shell guide to help you out on the beaches. 2 hours needed at this museum.  You can also catch the daily 1 hour beach walks with a scientist who will point out what you see along the way. $ 15 ages 18+ and call 239-395-2233 to make a reservation. Meeting spot is at the Island Inn. You can also get out on the water for 6 hours with a Naturalist and see Dolphins, go swimming, and shelling. 8:30-2:30 with time for lunch. $69 ages 13+ not including the cost of lunch.  adventureinparadiseinc.com

Great place for some Old Florida Coastal Comfort Food is Island Cow. 2163 Periwinkle Way

While you are in the area, check out Bowman’s Beach, Blind Pass Beach, and Captiva Island. For animal lovers, head over to the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, as well as the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Before you leave for your vacation, be sure to check out our guide on the art of travel planning. Certainly, Sanibel Island, Florida is a great secret, off the beaten path beach town to visit this summer.

Tybee Island, Georgia

In addition, Tybee Island is one of America’s most off the beaten path beach getaways. Many visitors stop at Tybee Island during their trip to Savannah. This charming barrier island is located only 20 minutes from the city. Filled with incredible beaches, historic lighthouses, and charming people, there is something for everybody here. If you are searching for an active adventure, go sea kayaking, biking, or take a thrilling dolphin adventure. Fresh oysters are served right out of the marshlands and creeks at Crab Shack. They are served raw or steamed. Boiled Shrimp is also available. Coco’s has a large patio with river and marina views where you can watch the sunset and the shrimp boats come in for the day. Order the wild Georgia shrimp. cocostybee.com  Right by Coco’s head out with captain Mike’s for a 1 hour boat ride to see dolphins and passing shrimp boats. $ 25 ages 13+. They also have a sunset boat ride for $ 35 1 hour 15 min. tybeedolphins.com. Maybe you will be lucky enough to see Sea Turtles. The nesting season is May-October and you can call the Marine Science Center at 912-786-5917 for updates since it is unpredictable. Tybeemarinescience.org. Rent a bicycle or beach gear for the day or week at Tim’s Bike and Beach Gear. Bicycles are $ 15 for the day or $ 60 for the week. timsbeachgear.com. The lighthouse has 178 steps and is a great place at sunset when it is open. There are select days where tours are given and special ones that involve sunsets. Please check for availability in advance at 912-786-5801. Tours are $ 25 and the one at sunset is $ 50. Bird watching, and searching for historic fossils are also great options.. Indeed, be sure to visit Tybee Island, GA on your value beach vacation this summer.

Secret Beach, Texas

As the name suggests, Secret Beach is an amazing under the radar beach town to explore this summer. While Austin is commonly associated with good food and music, there are several exceptional beaches to explore in the area. Secret Beach is a perfect example. It is a 15 minute walk from Roy Guerrero Park and it is a beach for dipping your toes- no swimming allowed. Located just along the Colorado River, the beach is known for soft sands, hiking trails, and amazing campsites. Afterwards, you can explore some of the town’s incredible restaurants and bars. Surely, explore Secret Beach is one of the best experiences in Texas for tourists and locals alike.

Capitola, California

Of course, many value travelers visit the off the beaten beach town of Capitola, California. Capitola resembles a quiet, colorful beachside town on the Italian coast. It is 35 miles north of Monterey. Located south of Santa Cruz, this is one of the first-ever seaside towns in CA. You can learn to surf with Capitola Beach Company. 2 hour lessons are $ 100 ages 12+. capitolabeachco.com or call 831-462-5222. Go whale watching nearby in Santa Cruz. You will see Humpback Whales April-Nov. You will be out there for 3 1/2-4 hours and it is $ 61 ages 14+ santacruzwhalewatching.com. Kite flying is a big pastime there as well. Rainbow City Limit sells assorted kites for under $ 25. 116 San Jose Ave. While visiting, you can admire the brightly-colored cottages, go fishing, sunbathing, or surfing. Similarly, many travelers take up paddle boarding or sail boating. Once the sun goes down, there is plenty to explore in the historic downtown area. If you have time for a daytrip, head out to Nisene Marks State Park, where you can witness the inspiring redwoods trees. Absolutely, check out Capitola, California on your off the beaten path beach town getaway.

Barnegat Light, New Jersey

Moreover, Barnegat Light, NJ is a can’t-miss, off the beaten path beach town to visit this summer. Located on the much quieter, north end of Long Beach Island, Barnegat Light is filled with great attractions for the entire family to enjoy. Leave the car and catch the LBI Shuttle which covers all 18 miles of LBI on the Blvd.  In Barnegat Light the shuttle goes up Bay View Ave. past Viking Village to the lighthouse. In Ship Bottom the Shuttle goes between 5th and 10th Streets on Central to avoid the circle. For more information call 609-342-2111

In Barnegat Light you can climb to the top of a lighthouse, set sail on a fishing charter, or relax on the shores of Island Beach State Park. The Barnegat Lighthouse State Park offers a lighthouse, picnicking and fishing. There are spacious beaches, excellent surf fishing, bay fishing and crabbing. Visitors can additionally rent bikes, boats, or surreys to better see the island. If you are looking for excitement for a night or two, head down the opposite end of the island to Fantasy Island Amusement Park, and plenty of additional attractions. Indubitably, Barnegat Light New Jersey is a great, off the beaten path beach town to visit this upcoming summer.

There are plenty of quiet and secret off the beaten path beach towns to visit this summer. First, experience the secluded, enchanting beaches of Sanibel Island, FL. In addition, Tybee Island is one of the best travel experiences in the US. Of course, visit the soft, sandy, and beautiful coasts on Secret Beach, Texas. Then, spend some time in the colorful, relaxing beach town of Capitola, CA. Moreover, check out the quiet town of Barnegat Light, located on the north end of LBI. Follow the points highlighted above to learn about the quiet and secret off the beaten beach towns to visit this summer.