Family travel holds a special place in the hearts of many, creating cherished memories that last a lifetime. While some may joke that traveling with children isn’t a true “vacation,” the reality is that family trips, even with their inevitable challenges, are incredibly rewarding. Exploring new destinations or revisiting beloved spots together strengthens family bonds and provides children with invaluable experiences. These adventures become the cornerstones of childhood memories, and even for the youngest travelers, the experience leaves a lasting impact, documented in photos and family stories.
For parents seeking a stress-free family getaway, choosing the right resort is paramount. The ideal family resort simplifies vacation planning and execution by offering comprehensive amenities and services tailored to all ages. Key features of these top-tier destinations include spacious accommodations (with added conveniences like high chairs and child-sized robes), a wide array of age-appropriate activities, diverse dining options to satisfy every palate, and ideally, a dedicated kids’ club. Focusing on domestic destinations within the USA eliminates the complexities of international travel – no passports, long flights (with the exception of Hawaii), currency exchange, or visa requirements. Across the United States, an impressive selection of family-friendly resorts awaits, ranging from expansive properties near iconic attractions like Disney World to luxurious mountain retreats.
Top Family-Friendly Resorts in the USA
Whether you’re actively planning your next family vacation or gathering inspiration for future trips, explore our curated list of the best family resorts in the USA, highly recommended by parents and travel experts.
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Maui
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Four Seasons Resorts
Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: Exceptional service and numerous child-friendly amenities make this an outstanding choice for families with young children.
What to Consider: The resort can be quite crowded during school holiday periods.
The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is a renowned luxury family vacation destination, consistently recognized with accolades and awards. Children can spend their days enjoying the pools, the beautiful ocean waves, playing tennis, and participating in the complimentary kids’ program. Interactive experiences, such as torch lighting ceremonies and Hawaiian storytelling, introduce guests to the local culture. For families with babies and toddlers, the resort provides complimentary pool playpens, beach toys, personalized stuffed animals, strollers, baby monitors, and swings, easing packing burdens. Parents can indulge in relaxation with spa treatments and cocktails by the adults-only infinity pool.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Beach access; three swimming pools; complimentary pool playpens, beach toys, and in-room baby amenities; complimentary Kids for All Seasons program; Hawaiian cultural activities.
- Location: Maui, Hawaii
- Starting Rates: $1,500 per night
Montage Laguna Beach
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Montage Laguna Beach
Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: The kids’ club welcomes children as young as two years old.
What to Consider: This resort is among the more expensive options on this list.
Montage Laguna Beach is a popular destination for families, celebrated for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, excellent service, and diverse recreational activities. Guests of all ages will enjoy the seaside charm that reflects the Laguna Beach lifestyle. While relaxing on the beach or by the saltwater pools is tempting, the resort offers a wide range of activities such as snorkeling, kayaking in the Pacific Ocean, and surfing lessons. The Paintbox children’s program, with half-day sessions, and the Montage merit badge program keep children entertained and engaged. Residential-style villas provide ample space for families. Baby-friendly in-room amenities, including Bloom crib mattresses and diaper pails, add to the convenience for traveling families.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Direct beach access; three saltwater swimming pools (including a children’s pool); beachfront accommodations; Paintbox and Paintbox Petite children’s programs; Montage Merit badges; UPPAbaby rental program; teen spa treatments; 24-hour in-room dining.
- Location: Laguna Beach, California
- Starting Rates: $1,100 per night
The Ranch at Rock Creek
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Ranch at Rock Creek
What We Like: Numerous outdoor activities in stunning natural landscapes.
What to Consider: The resort is a 90-minute drive from Missoula International Airport.
The Ranch at Rock Creek offers families a chance to reconnect with nature in a beautiful setting surrounded by mountains, meadows, and streams. Carolyn Addison from Black Tomato, a mother of two, highlights the opportunity for quality family time away from modern distractions. Activities include horseback riding, sporting clays, fly fishing, mountain biking, and even a bowling alley, ensuring something for everyone. The Flint’s Forest Rangers Kids Club provides morning and afternoon sessions where children can observe wildlife, learn about cowboy history, mine for sapphires, ride ponies, and participate in geocaching. Luxurious private homes and cabins, along with glamping cabins, offer family-friendly accommodation options. The ranch also provides baby equipment like car seats, high chairs, and cribs, as well as babysitting services.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Flint’s Forest Rangers Kid’s Club; horseback riding; sapphire mining; swimming pool; bowling alley; private homes and cabins; glamping tents.
- Location: Philipsburg, Montana
- Starting Rates: $2,300 per night (all inclusive) for two guests; $900 additional nightly charge for guests age six and over.
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort
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Courtesy of Four Seasons Resorts
Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: This luxurious resort is conveniently located near Disney theme parks with complimentary shuttle service.
What to Consider: It’s a more expensive option compared to many other Disney area resorts.
For many families, a Disney World trip is a dream vacation. Staying at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort elevates this experience to another level of magic. This five-star property, a World’s Best Awards winner, provides the perfect blend of park excitement and resort relaxation. The resort features a five-acre water park with slides and a lazy river, as well as character breakfasts with Goofy and friends. While children enjoy the complimentary Kids For All Seasons program, parents can unwind at the adult-only pool, play golf, or enjoy spa treatments. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, providing ample space for families. Elizabeth Rhodes, T+L special projects editor, recommends Capa, the rooftop Michelin-starred restaurant, for its Disney fireworks views.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Spacious rooms with private terraces; five-acre waterpark; complimentary Kids for All Seasons program; tennis courts; 18-hole golf course; adult-only pool; kids under five eat free at select restaurants; breakfast with Goofy; complimentary transportation to the parks.
- Location: Orlando, Florida
- Starting Rates: $1,295 per night
Turtle Bay Resort
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Turtle Bay Resort
Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: Extensive on-site activities, including 12 miles of hiking trails.
What to Consider: Dining can be pricey, although kids’ menus are available.
Turtle Bay Resort, located on O‘ahu’s North Shore, is a Hawaiian paradise and consistently recognized as one of the best family hotels in Hawaii. This expansive property features seven beaches, three pools (including a kids’ pool with slides), nine restaurants, stables, and a 468-acre working farm. Guests can enjoy a wide range of activities, from snorkeling with sea turtles and surfing lessons with professionals to hula lessons and pony rides. A recent guest highlighted Kariel’s Mermaid Academy as a particular favorite for children. All rooms offer ocean views, and most include a balcony or lanai, perfect for relaxing while children nap. For enhanced privacy and luxury, oceanfront bungalows are available.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Ocean-view rooms; three swimming pools; seven beaches; stables; championship Arnold Palmer-designed golf course; 468-acre farm; hula and ukulele lessons; beach cruisers.
- Location: O‘ahu, Hawaii
- Starting Rates: $700 per night
The Ritz-Carlton, Naples
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Marriott
Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: Unbeatable beachfront location.
What to Consider: Be aware of hurricane season forecasts when planning a visit.
The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, a long-time family favorite, has been recently renovated, enhancing its appeal for guests of all ages. Following a $100 million refurbishment, this five-star resort on Vanderbilt Beach offers a relaxed country club atmosphere. Features include a game lawn, kid-friendly activities like stuffed animal making, and a guacamole cart. Water sports and beachside cabanas are also available. New air-conditioned poolside bungalows offer a comfortable retreat for naps or a break from the sun. Rooms with balconies and ocean views provide stunning vistas. Guests in the Vanderbilt Tower enjoy access to the largest club lounge in North America, with food, drinks, and a kids’ play area.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: All rooms have balconies and ocean views; watersports; poolside bungalows; beach cabanas; club lounge; Ritz Kids programming; complimentary shuttle service to The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón.
- Location: Naples, Florida
- Starting Rates: $699 per night
The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection
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Auberge Resorts Collection
Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: Vast open spaces for children to explore and play freely.
What to Consider: Activities might be better suited for older children.
The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection, is a repeat winner in World’s Best Awards, praised for its family-friendly atmosphere. The resort offers activities like nature scavenger hunts, swimming, and outdoor dining, creating a welcoming environment for families. Spacious and modern Earth Suites provide comfortable accommodations for families. Outdoor fire pits are perfect for making s’mores. Animal lovers will enjoy the 30,000-square-foot equestrian center and horse rescue sanctuary. Activities for older children and adults include e-biking and axe throwing. Gracie’s Farm offers educational experiences about organic agriculture.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Hiking; fly fishing; clay shooting; heli-skiing; organic farm; 30,000-square-foot indoor equestrian center; Saving Gracie horse rescue sanctuary; farm-to-table restaurant; nature-driven spa; on-site High West Whiskey distillery.
- Location: Wanship, Utah
- Starting Rates: $1,299 per night
Montage Deer Valley
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Montage Deer Valley
Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: Spacious accommodations are especially appealing with attractive off-season rates.
What to Consider: Some amenities and activities are not available during the off-season.
Montage Deer Valley, a luxury mountain resort and 2023 World’s Best Awards winner, is ideal for family vacations, especially during the shoulder season in Park City. Family activities include archery lessons, snow tubing, a pub with arcade games and bowling, and a kids’ club. The resort provides direct access to hiking trails and ski slopes. A canine ambassador adds to the welcoming atmosphere for children. Indoor and outdoor pools allow year-round swimming, and the 35,000-square-foot spa caters to adults. Compass Sports simplifies outdoor adventures with gear rentals and lift tickets. Nightly s’mores by the fire pit offer a delightful end to the day.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Mountain-view rooms and suites; ski-in/ski-out access; indoor and outdoor pools; six dining options; Paintbox children’s program; Montage Merit badges; UPPAbaby rental program; Compass Sports.
- Location: Park City, Utah
- Starting Rates: $450 per night
Ojai Valley Inn
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Ojai Valley Inn
Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: Unique and engaging programming, including private golf and tennis lessons.
What to Consider: Camp Oak does not accept children under four years old, and many activities incur extra costs.
Ojai Valley Inn offers a variety of engaging activities for families. Camp Oaks provides arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, and science experiments for children aged 4 to 12. The Pixie Pool is a hit with younger swimmers, and the artist cottage and apothecary host daily craft hours. Horseback riding, tennis clinics, in-room game night baskets, s’mores, face painting, and balloon twisting further enhance family bonding opportunities. Parents can enjoy adult-only amenities like a pool, spa, and championship golf course.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Family pool; adults-only pool; golf course; kid’s camp; mountain-view rooms with fireplaces, tubs, and terraces; spa; artist cottage and apothecary.
- Location: Ojai, California
- Starting Rates: $709 per night
C Lazy U Ranch
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C Lazy U Ranch
What We Like: An expansive 8,500-acre ranch with abundant outdoor activities.
What to Consider: Located two hours and 15 minutes from Denver International Airport.
C Lazy U Ranch, an all-inclusive, four-season dude ranch in the Rocky Mountains, provides a Wild West-themed family vacation. Recognized as a top resort in Colorado by T+L readers, it offers adventure activities for all ages. Guests can enjoy horseback riding, cattle pushing, archery, axe throwing, fly fishing, mountain biking, and ziplining. Relaxation options include a creekside spa and hot tub. Kids and teens programs introduce ranch life through age-appropriate, supervised activities. Evenings conclude with campfire gatherings before guests retire to cozy cabins.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Cabins with wood-burning fireplaces; C.O. Bigelow bath products; horseback riding; cattle pushing; archery.
- Location: Granby, Colorado
- Starting Rates: $392 per night
The Resort at Paws Up
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The Resort at Paws Up
What We Like: Extensive activity offerings and round-trip airport transfers are included.
What to Consider: A deposit is required to make a booking.
The Resort at Paws Up, a luxury family-friendly retreat in Montana’s Blackfoot Valley, encourages outdoor recreation over screen time. This expansive 35,000-acre wilderness offers over 100 miles of trails, fly fishing, go-carts, horsemanship lessons, and mosaic workshops. The Kids Corps of Discovery program provides supervised activities for children ages 3 to 12, allowing parents time to relax at the spa or engage in adult wilderness activities. Vacation homes and deluxe glamping tents provide nature-immersed accommodation with creature comforts.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: 70-plus activities; 100 miles of trails; meals are included; all home accommodation guests have access to a Lexus SUV; round trip airport transfers.
- Location: Greenough, Montana
- Starting Rates: $2,265 per night for two adults and two children
The Cloister at Sea Island
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The Cloister at Sea Island
What We Like: Many activities for both kids and adults, together or separately; Camp Cloister starts at age three.
What to Consider: One-hour drive from Jacksonville International Airport; car rental may be necessary.
The Cloister at Sea Island, a grand family resort, is celebrated as a top resort in the South by T+L readers. Accommodations include guest rooms, suites, and residences with comfortable amenities. The 50-acre property offers diverse activities, from tennis to crabbing. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy falconry, hawk walks, and visits to the nature center. Relaxation options include the beach club. The Kids Nights Out program provides childcare for parents seeking an evening alone. Family-friendly activities include bingo night and paint parties. Horseback riding on the beach and the family pool are highlighted guest favorites.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: One-, two-, and three-bedroom accommodations; Molton Brown toiletries; outdoor swimming pool; tennis courts; beach club; bike rentals; family paint parties; Kids Nights Out program.
- Location: Sea Island, Georgia
- Starting Rates: $600 per night
Big Cedar Lodge
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Big Cedar Lodge
Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: Excellent value with a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities.
What to Consider: Can feel somewhat like an amusement park in atmosphere.
Big Cedar Lodge, a lakeside resort in Missouri’s Ozark Mountains, offers extensive family fun and is a repeat World’s Best Awards winner. Outdoor activities range from boating and fishing to swimming and mini-golf, and lawn movies. Fun Mountain, a 30,000-square-foot entertainment zone, features underwater-themed bowling, rock climbing, a ropes course, arcade games, go-karts, and laser tag. Accommodation options include waterfront cottages, log cabins, suites, and glamping tents, suitable for large family groups and reunions.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Entertainment zone with underwater-themed bowling, rock climbing, a ropes course, arcade games, go-karts, laser tag; mini golf; glamping site.
- Location: Ridgedale, Missouri
- Starting Rates: $369 per night
Chatham Bars Inn
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Chatham Bars Inn
Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: Beachfront hotel within walking distance of Main Street.
What to Consider: Many amenities are seasonal.
Chatham Bars Inn, a charming and elegant oceanfront resort in Cape Cod, holds a special place for families. It offers a private sandy beach, a zero-entry pool with cabanas, a kiddie pool, and tennis clinics. Summer kids’ programming and on-site boat excursions like whale watching and lobstering are available. Authentic clambakes provide a nostalgic New England experience.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Private beach; zero-entry pool with cabanas; kiddie pool; on-site dock with a fleet of boats; tennis clinics; complimentary supervised Kids Crew with interactive programs.
- Location: Chatham, Massachusetts
- Starting Rates: $650 per night
Know Before You Go
Decide on Your Ideal Vacation Style
The USA offers a vast range of landscapes and vacation experiences, from Colorado mountains to Hawaiian beaches. Consider what type of family vacation best suits your preferences. Do you envision relaxing by the pool, adventurous alpine escapes, or theme park thrills?
Consider Travel Time and Logistics
Travel logistics, especially with children, can be a significant factor. Long flights, layovers, and time zone changes can be challenging. Evaluate your family’s tolerance for travel complexities and consider factors like airport transfers, car rentals, and public transportation at your destination.
Be Mindful of Your Budget
Luxury family resorts offer exceptional experiences, but budget-friendly options are also plentiful. Traveling during the off-season, outside of peak periods like summer and winter holidays, can help reduce costs.
How We Chose These Hotels
This list of family resorts is compiled by travel journalist and mother of two, Lindsay Cohn, based on personal experience, research, and insights from Travel + Leisure editors and industry professionals who are also parents. Many of these resorts have been recognized in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards, voted by T+L readers.
