6 Summer Vacations That Your Kids Don’t Even Know They’ll Love

If traveling is a goal for your family, these key destinations could be perfect for your next trip. We chose six off-the-beaten-path destinations that your kids may not know about, but are sure to remember forever. Each destination we’ve highlighted and hundreds of others are found near a Best Western Hotels & Resorts location. Book your stay at bestwestern.com.

Newport, Oregon

Blending the rocky shores of Washington with the sandy beaches of California, the Oregon coast is a stunning destination year-round. Especially in the summer, your kids will love exploring the tide pools, building castles on the spacious beaches and touring the charming, artsy small towns that dot the coastline.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Every adventurous kid will find wonder and fun in the mountain town of Jackson Hole. The city is just outside of Yellowstone National Park, where kids will stand beneath tall geysers and witness herds of buffalo crossing the road in front of them. Jackson Hole itself sits at the foot of the Grand Tetons mountain range, home to beautiful hikes and serene lakes.

Twin Cities, Minnesota

Year-round fun can be found at the Mall of America, the country’s largest shopping mall. For kids, this is a paradise. The mall is much more than shopping, including multiple food courts, flagship toy stores and even a full-size indoor amusement park. There are more than a dozen Best Western Hotels & Resorts locations in the Twin Cities area.

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Wisconsin Dells is known as the “Water Park Capital of the World.” With numerous large-scale water parks in the area, summer is a popular time to visit Wisconsin Dells. Even in the winter, outdoor and indoor activities abound. Plan your trip at bestwestern.com.

Redwood National Forest, California

Everyone feels small at the base of a Redwood, but kids will be especially in awe of the one-of-a-kind forest. Watch “Star Wars: Return of the Jedi” with the family on the way there and watch them search for Ewoks under every rock and fern.

Crystal River, Florida

Crystal River is the perfect destination for curious children and adults. The city, which is found on the western coast of the Floridian Peninsula, is well-known as the “Manatee Capital of the World.” With as many as 1,000 of the gentle creatures found in their waters, Crystal River is the only place in the United States where you can legally swim with manatees. Guides will show you and your kids how to interact in a humane and friendly way.

Best Western Hotels & Resorts locations can be found in more than 100 countries around the world, giving you access to the most beautiful, exciting and entertaining places on the globe. The next time you plan a trip with your family, discover something off the beaten path and tell us all about it. Share your photos with #BWsmiles for a chance to be featured.