4 trips that even your teens will think are cool
Finding the perfect trip for your whole family might be challenging, especially if they all vary in ages. Travelling with kids, particularly teenagers, either makes or breaks your vacation. You’ll want to make sure your youngsters are equally as excited about the upcoming trip. Alamo Rent A Car recommends the trendiest destinations, that even your teens will think are “cool”. Forget about the “Mom, Dad, are we there yet?” Your next trip will be an equally incredible experience for your whole family!
Regardless of the type of family vacation you are planning this year, the following list offers a variety of destinations ranging from savvy outdoor adventures in Arizona to trendy concrete jungle activities in New York City.
1. Grand Canyon, Arizona
While dad drives along the SR 64 and mom appreciates the pine trees between rocky columns of the South Rim, the teen takes a live video of the breathtaking sunset for their next Instagram story.
Visiting the Grand Canyon offers many opportunities to get out in the fresh air and appreciate one of the world’s natural wonders. A successful Grand Canyon family tour needs to include appropriate excursions for all age groups. Find a nice balance between sightseeing and down time and limit the hours spent stuck together inside a vehicle. Tip Alert! Take the alternative road of Highway 89 North to Cameron to enter through the lesser used East Entrance (known as Desert View). When you hit Cameron, make a lunch stop at The Cameron Trading Post to try the famous Native American “Navajo Tacos,” the perfect recharge for a sunset hike.
Although there is no bad time to visit the canyon, keep in mind that sometimes winter conditions might interfere with snow and ice causing road closures.
2. Kauai Island, Hawaii
Although it may be tempting to sit by the beach with a cold drink and just relax, hitting the road is the best way to see Kauai. You’ll have the freedom to visit the top places and explore the rushing waterfalls, orangey canyons, vibrant green mountains, and golden beaches.
Because the Island of Kauai is big, it is recommended to divide the trip by coastal activities and inland adventures. During the first half, get a tan and visit Popiu beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. If you are lucky enough, you might be able to see Hawaiian monk seals sunbathing on the shore!
Then you can visit the Wailua Falls, located north of Lihue and south end of the Wailua River, which is Kauwai’s most famous waterfall. This dramatic double-tiered cascade throws rainbows when sun hits the mist; the perfect scene for a family picture!
3. Yosemite National Park, California
It’s time for your kids to put their video games down and experience an outdoor hike with a delicious smores break.
All the roads in Yosemite National Park are scenic, but the most famous scenic drive is along the Tioga Road, a 46-mile (62 km) drive from Crane Flat to Tioga Pass. The road is typically open from late May through mid-November, making it the best time to visit the park. Three stops you won’t want to miss along this road trip are: Olmsted Point, lounge and have a smores fire; Tenaya Lake, the largest natural lake in Yosemite and perfect for water activities; and Lembert Dome, an incredible climbing spot.
4. New York City, New York
New York, the city than never sleeps, just like your teenage kids pulling an all-nighter homework (or more like watching Netflix). From Broadway shows to eating the best American burger, New York City offers the same family experience but in an urban environment. Visit the Empire State Building, one of the United States’ most famous landmarks for a spectacular view of the city. Head to Coney Island for a delightful afternoon of classic rides and thrilling rides at Luna Park; don’t forget to try the cotton candy and boardwalk hot dogs!
If the city’s hustle and bustle is too much, you can hit the road to South Hampton beach in Long Island, lined by mansions and voted one of the best beaches in the country.
Our last tip for your next successful family trip is to plan and run the activities by your kids, selecting activities you can all enjoy. Warn them about getting FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) to make sure they won’t miss your next family vacation!