Unforgettable vacations don’t just show you new places—they get you moving through them. For the fourth-annual Good Housekeeping Travel Awards, we uncovered resorts and attractions that get you doing. From overseas adventures and glacier views to hiking, paddling, pedaling and hands-on culture, these picks are built for the fun seekers—families, friend groups and adventure-curious travelers who prioritize memory-making days. Consider this your shortcut to action-packed getaways across parks, peaks and coasts—plus the cruises, spas and stays that keep the energy going.
Outdoor Exploration
Just two miles from the South Gate entrance, Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite greets National Park goers in its wood-beamed lobby with snacks and information about on-property activities. From archery to flashlight walks, stargazing, and rock climbing, a wide array of activities are included in the rate. A dip in one of the property’s three outdoor pools is a popular way to end the day. Multi-bedroom Explorer Cabins help families get a restful night’s sleep so as to have energy for the next day’s action.
TESTER NOTES: Instead of exploring the national park on their own, our tester booked a daylong guided Yosemite 360 Tour, an excursion offered by the resort at an extra charge. πOur guide was such a gem,” she said. “He took us to some cool spots to pick wild gooseberries and raspberries and pan for gold at a river and shared beautiful nature spots and photo ops.”
At Sunriver Resort, about 15 miles south of Bend, families can trade screens for streams, trails, and starry skies. With more than 40 miles of biking and hiking paths weaving along the river, near the golf course, and next to open fields where horses are ready to be ridden, this Pacific Northwest playground makes reconnecting with nature easy. After an evening of stargazing with professional telescopes, you’ll drift off to sleep in a cozy bed until you awaken for the next day’s fun.
TESTER NOTES: “We’re a tennis family, but here we tried pickleball for the first time, and it was so exciting,” said our tester, who visited with her spouse and teenage twins. “The coach who gave us the private lesson was so kind and encouraging. We had a fun, competitive game of pickleball, and his corrections and sports commentator voice made the game even more thrilling.”
Though The Blake at Taos Ski Valley is nestled in a winter hot spot, the stylish 115-room property is among the area’s best places to stay in every season. Skiers love its location bordering Lift 1, the chairlift that whisks guests to steep runs on dry powder. After the ski season wraps up in the spring, there’s mountain biking, hikes to view wildflowers, and UTVing.
TESTER NOTES: An editor and her friend visited in the summer and tried Via Ferrata, a climbing activity. “It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had,” she said. “The instructor was very kind, helpful, and patient. I was nervous, but he helped guide us through it and encouraged us the whole way. The views from the top of the course were beautiful! I also loved the hot tub at the resort, which was surrounded by mountains.”
There's nothing like getting away from the 9-to-5 grind for a weekend mountain getaway. High Peaks Resort snuggled in New York’s lush Adirondack mountains provides a home base that is literally a breath of fresh air. After checking into one of the resort’s three hotels—all with mountain-inspired decor—most guests make a break for the outdoors, hopping on one of the many trails (heads-up: some require reservations) or kayaking on Mirror Lake. While every season has its advantages, fall is beyond spectacular.
TESTER NOTES: “Lake Placid is a really fun place, and the surrounding nature is as beautiful and scenic as any we’ve ever experienced,” said our tester, who road-tripped with his wife. “Our stay was perfect; it’s a very well-run, clean, and comfortable resort. The view of the sun coming up over the mountains, then the rising moon at night, was pure bliss.”
A hotel chain known for beach culture may not be the first place you’d think to book for a mountain getaway, but it turns out to be perfect for that purpose. Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, will whisk you up on its Heavenly Gondola for a day on the slopes and then après-ski you in heated igloos.
TESTER NOTES: Our tester, along with her friend and her pooch, visited in September—still prime time for exploring lake activities and biking. “We loved the vibes of the lobby—it’s pure Margaritaville! Bright, lively, and full of picture-perfect spots that instantlymake you feel like you’re on vacation,” she said. “The bathroom in our suite was a great size—perfect for two ladies getting ready for a night out.” Their favorite on-property restaurant for service and food turned out to be JWB Prime Steakhouse & Seafood.
Picture yourself basking in the Northern Lights from a geothermal-powered hot tub! It can happen at the Hotel Rangá in southern Iceland, where from September to April the aurora borealis puts on a show. If you wish to “rest your eyes” before the nighttime phenomenon, the 52-room property with terracotta floor tiles and gleaming wood offers a Northern Lights wake-up service: If the skies are glowing, the phone will ring.
TESTER NOTES: “The hotel was warm and extremely inviting—even the upright polar bear just inside the entrance, named Hrammur by local children, seems welcoming,” said our tester. “In the evening, multiple pillar candles are on the hallway table leading to the dining room. The restaurant alone is worth the two-hour drive from Reykjavik.”
About 90 minutes southwest of Atlanta, Callaway Resort & Gardens feels straight out of a storybook. Families can wander through the on-site butterfly center, home to more than 1,000 vibrant species fluttering freely in a glass-enclosed habitat. Seasonal events like the annual Fantasy of Lights and year-round favorites such as a kid-size ropes course and scenic walking trails make this a getaway filled with color, charm, and outdoor fun for all ages.
TESTER NOTES: “I love the variety of adventurous and educational activities,” said our tester, who visited during the resort’s annual pumpkin festival. “The grounds were beautiful! They were well maintained, and my favorite parts were the tucked-away areas to sit and enjoy the garden, the lakes, and the fresh air.”
At Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in the heart of Texas Hill Country, just about everything—from the state-shaped breakfast waffle to the adults-only infinity pool—seems larger than life. Good vibes start in the roomy lobby, where there’s cushy seating, a fireplace, and icy fruit-infused water. Spanning 4,000 acres of Hill Country charm, the resort gives all types of travelers—families, friends, and couples—the space to unwind in style.
TESTER NOTES: “I never got tired of enjoying the view, which was green, expansive, and beautiful,” said our tester, who visited Hill Country as part of a history-themed road trip with his friend, a teacher. “The hotel grounds were meticulously maintained. Off the lobby there was a deck with rocking chairs for people to sit in and enjoy the scenic Hill Country views.”
If your ideal vacation is one where you can do everything without straying far from your room, Oglebay Park Resort delivers. The sprawling West Virginia property combines the comfort of a full-service resort and the fun of a destination filled with things to see and do. On site you’ll find everything from horse stables to golf courses to museums. Oglebay also offers a zoo, swan boats, a nature center, and a ropes course along with common resort amenities like pools and tennis courts.
TESTER NOTES: “The variety of activities is astonishing,” said our tester, who stayed in a comfortable lakeside room at the lodge (larger groups may want to book cottages or cabins). “In particular, the animal encounter at the Good Zoo was amazing; we learned so much and interacted with kangaroos and wallabies!” A chef-led pasta-making workshop proved to be another highlight.
Perched along the Deschutes River, Riverhouse Lodge blends the spirit of Bend’s whitewater rafting scene with the comfort of a resort stay. Most of the 200+ rooms (including some with double bunks that sleep four kids) has a water view, and the property’s easygoing spaces—including the pool that hosts nightly “dive-in” movies—make it an ideal spot to recharge after a day of adventure in town.
TESTER NOTES: “The lodge has a fun, urban, and authentic vibe,” said our tester, who brought her family. “Though the pool isn’t the largest, its decor is contemporary and upbeat, and when you get cold as the sun goes down, you can move into the warmer indoor pool.” One of our tester’s favorite parts of her visit: firepits for roasting s’mores!
Big Group Gathering Spots
In the state that’s known for its bed-and-breakfasts, The Lodge at Spruce Peak stands out: It combines the personal service of a B&B with the space needed to pull off a memorable multigenerational trip. The property, at the base of Vermont’s highest peak, offers a variety of modern accommodation styles (including the new all-electric treehouses) with up to four bedrooms. The larger units contain a full kitchen, a washer and dryer, and a spacious living room.
TESTER NOTES: “The staff went above and beyond in their service to us,” said our tester who visited with three generations of family members. “I will never forget that level of commitment and care.” Our tester was also impressed with the variety of activities (“The golf course is nothing short of spectacular”) and restaurants (“The Linehouse speakeasy was totally unexpected and so well decorated that it could have easily been in New York City.”).
From January through March, Cedar Lakes Estate in New York’s Hudson Valley drops its boho-chic event-venue vibe in favor of becoming a cozy, hygge-inspired winter retreat that feels like Frozen’s Arendelle. While families are welcome all season, the property goes all-out during its special family event around Presidents’ Day. Some of the 36 cabins sleep up to 10 guests, making it easy to bring along grandparents or even another family. Rates include meals, nonalcoholic beverages, and many thoughtfully curated seasonal activities.
TESTER NOTES: ”Being greeted with handcrafted hot chocolate set the tone for our cozy, highlight-filled stay,” said our tester, who visited with her husband and son during a special family weekend. “From ice fishing, which included a tackle box filled with snacks, to playing board games in their tree house, the activities and service were absolutely impeccable.”
With lodging options offering up to three bedrooms, the new Grand Hyatt Deer Valley makes it easy for the whole family—pets included—to stay together. Located at the base of Deer Valley’s highly anticipated ski expansion (opening in December 2025), the property’s spacious condos feel like elevated homes-away-from-home, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing mountain views, fireplaces, full kitchens, and cozy living areas for gathering. Outside, families can play on the oversize outdoor chess board (shown).
TESTER NOTES: “The family suite was exquisite, with sweeping views of Jordanelle State Park across the road,” noted our tester. “The kitchen was incredibly well equipped. The main room also had a terrific selection of coffee-table books relevant to the Park City area. These weren’t just there for decorative purposes. They felt like part of the experience, and I found myself dipping into them all during my stay.”
About 70 miles north of Atlanta, the Barnsley Resort offers 39 newly renovated estate cottages that are made for multigenerational getaways. They range from one to seven bedrooms, and each has its own character, inspired by the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A new family pool—with an activity island, a lazy river, and a waterslide—adds extra fun for all ages, and evenings around the firepits roasting s’mores bring everyone together to end the day on a sweet note.
TESTER NOTES: “Being from Alabama, I felt very comforted by the Southern-inspired decor,” said our tester, who noted that her favorite touches were the wooden bed frame, the patterned wallpaper, and the plantation-style shutters. She was also pleasantly surprised that the restaurants, including the new pet-friendly Biergarten and Jules, were within comfortable walking distance of this beautifully landscaped resort.
Psst empty nesters, family vacations don’t have to end when the “kids” are in their 20s. The Hyatt Vacation Club at Piñon Pointe offers well-priced two-bedroom villas that sleep up to eight. The villas, which have sweeping views of the area’s famous Red Rocks and are walkable to shops and restaurants, each have a kitchen, a stone fireplace, Southwestern decor, and a patio or balcony.
TESTER NOTES: “Our family had such an incredible stay at Hyatt Piñon Pointe,” said our tester, who traveled with her three grown children, two of whom brought their significant others. “Our highlights included the morning sound bath, which was incredibly therapeutic; bath salt and tie-dye workshops; and stargazing!” Her crew also appreciated the help-yourself treats at the activity center and the in-room washer/dryer: After all, there’s nothing like going home with clean laundry!
Orlando’s Theme-Park Stays
Blending the perks of a Disney stay with the value and flexibility of a non-Disney property, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort consists of three hotels in the EPCOT and Hollywood Studios area. You also get access to Disney hotel perks like extended park hours and advance booking of Lightning Lanes. There are nearly two dozen on-site dining options, and guests can earn or redeem Marriott Bonvoy points during their stay.
TESTER NOTES: “The biggest highlight of our stay was dinner at Il Mulino. The food and the service were both fabulous. It’s now one of our favorite Disney restaurants,” said our tester, who has Disney World annual passes. “My kids also loved the arcade inside the Dolphin. It was bigger than typical arcades at Disney resorts.” She added that the grounds “really elevated the experience and made us feel like we were at a luxury resort.”
Four- to nine-bedroom villas, many with themed bedrooms, arcades, pools, and movie rooms, make Villatel Orlando Resort the place to stay if your big crew is heading to Universal—a hop, skip, and a free shuttle ride away. In fact, the houses and the new on-site waterpark with a lazy river and a tube slide are so appealing that some kids choose to forgo a theme park day for extra time at the resort.
TESTER NOTES: “The gaming options inside our villa were a major hit. We played games for hours!” said our tester, who stayed in a six-bedroom villa. “Even my mom had a great time playing a few games with the kids. I loved that they had tabletop options too.” Our tester also described the property as “picture-perfect,” with the villas “looking like a scene out of Pleasantville.”
Combining a trip to Disney with the vibe of a tropical vacation, Evermore Orlando Resort is located just outside Disney World. Its four- to 11-bedroom homes make staying with a large groups under one roof possible and have impressive touches you won’t find elsewhere, such as tube slides inside some of the houses. Smaller groups are best accommodated at Evermore’s flats and villas near the property's massive bay, which will make you feel as if you have been transported to the Caribbean.
TESTER NOTES: “Our 11-bedroom house was the highlight of our trip. My first reaction on entering the property was a feeling of ‘Wow!’ and disbelief, even though I had seen it in photos,” said our tester, who stayed with a friend group consisting of multiple families. “It was so spacious and luxurious. We ended up spending a lot more time at the house than I had anticipated! The private pool was warm and relaxing. Our group swam in it all hours of the day, even right before bedtime.”
For theme park fans who crave a little respite between rope-dropping and rides, Grande Lakes Orlando—home to both the JW Marriott and the Ritz-Carlton—offers an ideal home base to help balance excitement with serenity. Spend your mornings at Disney or Universal, then retreat to a 500-acre oasis complete with tranquil lakes, a working farm, and, during the holidays, a festive ice-skating rink. It offers the reset every theme park vacationer needs.
TESTER NOTES: “If you’re traveling with kids—young or grown—book a family suite at the JW Marriott,” advised our tester. “A comfortable living area separates the main space from a room with a queen bed and bunk beds.” She also suggested eating dinner on the property. “Primo has delicious Italian food and can cater to a variety of dietary needs,” she added.
Cruise Getaways
The brand-new Disney Destiny debuts a Heroes & Villains theme on its sailings from Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas and Western Caribbean. The third ship in the Wish class, it features fan-favorite experiences like the AquaMouse water ride, Worlds of Marvel restaurant and Haunted Mansion Parlor. New highlights include a Broadway-style Hercules show, a Lion King-themed restaurant, and a Cruella De Vil–inspired piano bar.
TEST RESULTS: Our tester sailed on a preview with her family and praised the amount of immersive activities. "I've gotten bored while cruising in the past, but there was always something fun to do," she said, adding, "Starting on the first day, my 7-year-old kept asking when we could sail on the Destiny again!" While they still got their classic Disney fix with Mickey & friends and the princesses, the hero- and villain–themed elements made for a unique experience that reaches a wider audience.
Don’t let the name fool you: Virgin Voyages is experienced at getting adults of all ages and backgrounds to let loose! The 11-year-old cruise line has four ships (including the new Brilliant Lady, with sailings out of New York City, Miami, Los Angeles, and Seattle in the coming months) and puts an edge on normal cruise activities: Picture a two-story nightclub with three bars, bingo with divas, and “salty” trivia in a pub.
TESTER NOTES: Both groups of testers agreed that the Test Kitchen—a five-course dining experience designed by a Michelin-starred chef—was the culinary highlight of the trip. They also praised the spacious cabins, complete with hammocks on private balconies, as well as the ship’s inventive adults-only entertainment. “The entertainment was definitely more creative and more adult than I’ve seen on other cruises,” said one tester.
Sailing round-trip from Miami to the Western or Eastern Caribbean, the new MSC World America takes family fun to the next level. Highlights include a 10,000-square-foot LEGO-themed kids’ club, a “cliffhanger” swing that sends thrill-seekers soaring safely over the ocean, and an 11-story dry slide shaped like a shark. Beyond the onboard excitement, families can enjoy teen-friendly entertainment such as Dirty Dancing In Concert and a stop at MSC’s new private island in the Bahamas, home to a marine conservation center and more than two miles of white-sand beaches.
TESTER NOTES: “Floating on water mats at the private island was a highlight for three of us,” said our tester, who sailed with her two teenage sons. The crew also made the experience memorable and educational: “The staff was always so helpful. My children started to look for certain members each day.”
The 450-passenger Seabourn Encore, sailing in Japan and Alaska in 2026, pulls out all the stops with food and service. Alcoholic beverages, including an extensive wine collection, as well as all restaurant dining, tips, and Wi-Fi, are wrapped up in the all-inclusive pricing. With one staff member for every guest, the team will quickly get to know your preferences and anticipate every need, from extra towels to diet soda in the minibar.
TESTER NOTES: “We were impressed by the staff’s special touches,” said our tester. “They knew we were celebrating my son’s master’s degree, and they made him a cake and decorated a card with musical notes, since he majored in music.” Our tester described all the food as “outstanding”and especially enjoyed “dining alfresco in the Colonnade,” a bistro-style restaurant.
Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Star of the Seas, sails seven-night itineraries from Florida’s Port Canaveral to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Onboard, guests can make a splash at the largest water park at sea, featuring one-of-a-kind slides. The ship also offers standout entertainment, including Back to the Future: The Musical, a first-at-sea production inspired by the hit West End and Broadway show.
TESTER NOTES: “I loved the entertainment,” said our tester, who brought her cousin. “We really enjoyed the dueling piano bar, the water show, and the musical, plus the karaoke bar and the arcade.” She described the food as “spectacular,” noting, “The dining hall spread included a fantastic seafood station with grilled lobster, shrimp cocktail, and scallops.”
Seeing Alaska’s snowcapped glaciers is the trip of a lifetime, and Princess Cruises makes the journey seamless aboard the Discovery Princess, one of its newest ships. Sailing the seven-night “Voyage of the Glaciers” itinerary between Vancouver and Anchorage in 2026, the ship includes a coveted stop at Glacier Bay National Park—a rare privilege among large cruise lines. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Discovery Princess offers multigenerational travelers a comfortable, scenic way to experience Alaska’s natural wonders together.
TESTER NOTES: “We saw an incredible abundance of wildlife on our well-run Princess excursions, including marmots, whales, orcas, seals, sea lions, bald eagles, otters, and even bears,” said our tester, who sailed with her teenage son. “On the ship, we loved the Movies Under the Stars that played most afternoons on the deck.”
Camping & Glamping Spots
Imagine yourself at sleepaway camp—but this time you get to experience it with your kids. That’s the feeling at YMCA of the Rockies Snow Mountain Ranch, a 5,000-acre family haven about 30 minutes from the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. Multi-bedroom cabins and lodge rooms are simple but comfortable, with modern essentials like running water and electricity. But the real draw is the sheer variety of activities: dogsledding, waterfall hikes, fishing, pottery painting, and more—most are included in rates that can be as low as $109 per night in summer.
TESTER NOTES: “We knew the cabins didn’t have TV, so we brought the girls’ tablets,” said our tester. “It turned out they didn’t have one single minute of screen time all weekend. They were far too busy with all the activities to bother to ask.” Our tester also noted that the kids loved the cafeteria meals and that they were able to find options to accommodate their food allergies.
Smarter than your average campground, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort Zion draws families with a slide-filled water park and a floating obstacle course on a man-made lake—and it is located less than an hour from the entrance to Zion National Park. Guests can choose from cabins, full-hookup pull-through RV spots, and tent sites, some of which feature the unique Boo Boo Day Cave, complete with air conditioning, a small living area, and a kitchenette.
TESTER NOTES: “Our kids loved the jumping pillow, which had a great shade cover over it, making jumping fun even on a hot day,” said our tester, whose family was on a RV road trip. “There is also an excellent playground that our kids really enjoyed.” In addition, he appreciated the size of the RV spots and having a large firepit and grill to use. “Compared to other great campground experiences,” he said, “the site was large, and we didn’t feel like we were stacked on top of our neighbors.”
Friend groups will feel on top of the world at Desolation Hotel Hope Valley, where next-level glamping meets rustic charm in 27 fully renovated historic cabins that seem straight out of a storybook. Each features elevated touches like Frette linens, and a wood-fired sauna—available to all guests—adds a spa-like element to the mountain setting. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast and dinner just steps away, and guests can also visit the hotel’s sister property in South Lake Tahoe (about 30 minutes away) for exclusive access to a private beach.
TESTER NOTES: “The fresh mountain air, the peaceful surroundings, and zero TVs—just pure nature—were exactly what we needed,” said our tester, who brought a friend and stayed in a cozy cabin with two queen beds and a full kitchen. “We loved unwinding by the firepit, relaxing in the sauna, and getting shocked by a cold-water shower. Our skin was refreshed and glowing!”
All-Inclusive Mountain Resorts
This all-inclusive family-owned resort in the Pocono Mountains understands what it’s like to vacation with kids. At Woodloch Pines, step stools are near bathroom sinks, littles have their own pool area away from the rambunctious bigger kids, and the schedule of more than 30 rotating daily activities ensures that everyone in your crew will have something they’d like to do. Scenic boat rides, mini golf tournaments, and seasonal activities (like a Yule log hunt) make for priceless vacation memories—many families come year after year!
TESTER NOTES: “It was heaven for my 4-year-old,” said our tester. “The resort was made with kids like mine in mind.” She was impressed with the range of indoor and outdoor activities: “It rained the day we arrived, so we spent a lot of time at the ‘forest,‘ a huge padded treehouse playground for kids 3 to 12.” She also liked that one of the owners greeted families in the dining room wearing a tie and pants with cartoon characters pm them: “It was a touch of genuine hospitality like I’ve never seen.”
Take the perks of an all-inclusive resort and place them at the base of a world-class ski mountain, and you have the glorious Club Med Québec Charlevoix. Adults and kids 4 and up can ski to their hearts’ content, with group ski and snowboard lessons at no extra charge. (Toddler lessons and supervised snow play are available for an additional fee.) Bit given that there are many other winter activities too—including sledding, snowshoeing, and ice-skating—you might find yourself off the slopes more often than you expected.
TESTER NOTES: “This was a top-flight skiing experience. Having skied most mountains on the East Coast, I can say that Le Massif de Charlevoix is up there with the very best—and we weren’t even there during peak snow season,” said our tester, who brought his 12-year-old son and stayed in a one-bedroom suite with a kitchen. “Rich, varied terrain suited to all ski levels, superb operations, and some of the most majestic runs I’ve ever been on, with sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River, made our father-son trip really special.”
Arriving at San Ysidro Ranch, about 20 minutes from downtown Santa Barbara, feels like stepping into a storybook—and you’ll never want to break the spell. More than three dozen cottages, each with boho-chic decor, a cozy fireplace, and a private outdoor plunge pool, set the stage for what just might be the most romantic weekend of your life. While you could easily spend your entire stay tucked inside your cottage, the flower-filled grounds—with cobblestoned lantern-lit paths and butterflies fluttering by—are too enchanting not to explore.
TESTER NOTES: “Our cottage, The Citrus, had a lemon tree in the front yard and a wrought-iron table where we ate room service breakfast,” said our tester, who visited with her spouse. “The restaurant’s delicious food and drink options, like a fresh seafood tower, felt opulent yet approachable. Once you get to the ranch, any plans to leave will go out the door! We had the most romantic 48 hours ever.”
Guided Adventures
If you’ve been dreaming of exploring Italy through its local gems that may be a bit off the beaten path, this is the trip for you. The 10-night Collette Tuscan & Umbrian Countryside Tour journeys through smaller areas like Assisi and Siena along with making must-see stops in Florence and Rome. Collette crafts seamless itineraries filled with authentic cultural encounters, regional cuisine, and vetted hotel options.
TESTER NOTES: “We had the opportunity to enjoy authentic experiences we would never have known about on our own,” said our tester, who traveled with her spouse. “We went on a hot-air balloon ride, truffle hunting on a sustainable farm, and to a vineyard run totally by women for a wine tasting, and we had a wonderful meal at the home of a local whose son played for us a couple of tunes on their baby grand piano.” Our tester also noted that with a cap of 24 guests on the tour, she and her spouse received plenty of personal attention from the knowledgeable guides.
Sailing to Alaska is always magnificent, but doing so with a team of naturalists, scientists, and teachers takes it to the next level. That's what unfolds on National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions seven-night cruises between Juneau and Sitka. Around 100 guests sail through Alaska’s Inside Passage, where they can find “hidden” fjords, kayak past a glacier, and even learn how to drive an inflatable Zodiac boat to get a bird’s-eye view of wildlife. Unlike with traditional cruising, the days are planned out for you here, though you can often select the intensity of your adventure.
TESTER NOTES: “Many excursions included delightful small additions like a hot cider boat you could paddle up to in your kayak for a refreshment,” said our tester, who brought her 12-year-old. "The naturalists were truly one of the most wonderful parts about this experience, taking turns giving talks about specialties like wildlife photography while guiding small-group hikes and zodiac tours."
Glamping in the Gobi Desert in Mongolia is a thing, and adventure pro Nomadic Expeditions curates weeklong treks in the highly-sought-after Asian travel spot. Guests stay in bespoke gers, similar to yurts, with running water, electricity, fans, and even Wi-Fi at Three Camel Lodge. Every day guides whisk travelers off for adventures, from looking for fossils on the Flaming Cliffs to riding camels to the sand dunes.
TESTER NOTES: “We enjoyed the freshly grown and prepared food at the ger camp, seeing the amazing sunrises on the desert, and hearing the local students perform on traditional instruments,” said our tester, who visited with her son, a recent college graduate. “Our guide was with us through the whole trip and had a wealth of information. She very much tried to accommodate anything, even my son’s interest in obscure foods and music! Her Mongolian playlist was always going as we rode around the region.”
Spas & Wellness Retreats
Repeat customers are the norm at Hilton Head Health Wellness Resort & Spa, an all-inclusive experience in a beautiful beach town. Guests select one of four programs—including Life Balance about mindfulness and Metabolic Health for weight loss—and receive assessments, coaching, and a class schedule. Beach adventures like kayaking make the experience seem more like vacation. The on-site restaurant provides healthier versions of favorite, and a cooking class experience shows you how to make the dishes at home.
TESTER NOTES: The spa turned out to be our tester’s favorite element. “I had a really wonderful massage and facial,” she said. “The locker room is nice and has showers and all the items you need to get ready. The relaxation room was so peaceful, with its large window in front of a lot of trees.” When it came to the food, she said, “The dishes are very fresh, local, and seasonal. I was surprised that the meals were quite filling and portioned snacks were available throughout the day.”
Let’s start with this: The Lodge at Woodloch may have a 40,000-square-foot indoor-outdoor spa that rivals the best in the world, but there’s not an ounce of pretension here. You can even wear spa robes to dinner in the elegant dining room, then head out for bird-watching treks on which getting muddy is part of the fun. The resort has an expansive spa with 27 treatment rooms and a “snow room” featuring the real thing, and its activity lineup is equally impressive. Whether you’re in the mood to tap dance, throw a hatchet, or float blissfully in the spa pool, this place makes it all possible.
TESTER NOTES: “While the spa was about as top-notch as they come, the array of activities sets this property apart,” said our tester, who brought her college-age daughter. “Learning how to make flower arrangements might even be more memorable than the fantastic massages we had. I’m going back soon—with my girlfriends!”
The first wellness resort in the Caribbean is still running at top speed! BodyHoliday, perched on a secluded beach in St. Lucia, lives up to its promise: “Give us your body for a week and we’ll give you back your mind!” Part of its recipe for mental renewal involves giving all guests a daily spa treatment. Enticing activities (from sailing to scuba diving) and meals made with ingredients from the resort's organic garden also fuel guests’ well-being.
TESTER NOTES: “The I-TAL, an exploration of plant-based eating, was our most memorable experience,” said our tester, who visited with her two adult daughters. "After learning about the medicinal benefits of different plants and herbs in the property’s hilltop garden, we sliced up the goodies in a beautiful cafe and dined on the most magnificent plant-based dishes.” She recommends getting the spa’s aloe wrap toward the end of your stay, as it helps ease sunburn.
If you’ve been torn between booking a spa getaway and planning a family vacation, Omni Homestead Resort & Spa in Virginia’s Allegheny Mountains delivers both under one roof. The resort strikes the perfect balance, with a lively kids’ club (for ages 5 to 10) and a spa you’ll never forget. In addition to standout treatments like the Cranberry Fig Body Glow and the Active Life Massage, guests can soak in the natural mineral springs. When it’s time to regroup, families can enjoy the on-site movie theater or the sprawling pool complex.
TESTER NOTES: “The resort spa is one of the most beautiful and well-appointed wellness spaces I have ever seen,” said our well-traveled tester, who had a blowout, a facial, and a massage while her husband took the kids to the pool. And should the kids want in on some of the spa action, the salon area offers treatments for children 5 and up.
Memorable Attractions
High above Midtown Manhattan, Summit One Vanderbilt redefines what an observation deck can be. Perched atop one of the city’s tallest skyscrapers, this dazzling experience blends art, architecture, and pure imagination. Panoramic skyline views meet mirrored rooms that multiply light and perspective, creating the illusion of floating among the clouds. Interactive elements—like projecting your image onto a digital sky or wandering through a sea of helium-filled silver spheres—turn a classic New York City view into a full sensory experience.
TESTER NOTES: “I’ve been to many New York City observation decks, but this took it one step beyond by making it into an immersive art installation,” said our tester. “There is also an outdoor wraparound deck on the 93rd floor.”
Established as a theme park in the 1940s, Knott’s Berry Farm near Anaheim continues to be a top amusement destination while never forgetting its historical roots. Visitors of all ages can take in shows, visit an Old West ghost town, and hop on rides of all thrill levels. The HangTime dive coaster boasts the steepest drop in the entire Golden State, and every season offers a unique celebration, such as the Knott’s Boysenberry Festival each spring. (The hybrid fruit was first widely propagated by Knott’s, and now dozens of boysenberry-infused foods, drinks, and desserts are available along with live music and entertainment.)
TESTER NOTES: “The kids, ages 6 to 15, couldn’t get enough of the boysenberry drink as well as the savory boysenberry honey garlic wings,” said our tester, who was also impressed by the “versatility in ride options and terrific choices in arcade and carnival games to be played.”
Built for kids under 12, Legoland California brilliantly mixes imaginative rides with real-world experiences. You can follow a fairy-tale-esque boat journey with a driving school experience complete with traffic lights, a bubble car wash, and a chance to earn your license. Early 2026 will see the launch of a space-themed land complete with an indoor cosmic coaster. Families with neurodivergent children, note that the park has sensory rooms if your child needs a break.
TESTER NOTES: “Hands-down, our kids’ favorite ride was the LEGO Technic Coaster. The steep drop was a big hit with the entire family,” said our tester. "The best age to visit the park is probably 6 to 8—that's when kids will most likely be tall enough to ride the bigger rides and short enough to go on the little-kid ones.”
Houston, we have a problem solver! Children’s Museum Houston turns kids into full-fledged thinkers through engaging and interactive exhibits. Here, learning is an adventure, as when discovering the unstoppable force of water that pours from the 18-foot FlowWorks Cauldron. Kids can become inventors and create their own devices or design the fastest boats they can. If your kiddos dream about being spies, they can take part in an hour-long game that will transform them into secret agents capable of cracking codes.
TESTER NOTES: “We really enjoyed Kidtropolis, USA. Little visitors get to ‘work’ at realistic places like a grocery store, a restaurant, and a news station," said our tester. “They can also collect a paycheck and deposit to or withdraw from an ATM. It’s very well done and lifelike. I saw my 5-year-old really understand and learn at the museum.”
Mixing relaxation with adventure, Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day club where guests can snorkel through a coral reef teeming with rays and tropical fish, float along a serene lazy river, and share the water with playful dolphins. Between encounters, you can wander through an aviary where birds swoop close enough to land on your arm. Admission includes breakfast, lunch, drinks, and snacks throughout the day—don’t skip the pineapple-and-vanilla soft-serve.
TESTER NOTES: “The dolphin and flamingo encounters were amazing. We held on as the dolphins pulled us through the water. The flamingos like to gently nibble on people’s hair. We really got up close with the animals—they called it a reverse petting zoo,” said our tester, who visited with her spouse and 9-year-old. “You have to be 6 or older for a lot of the animal experiences, and the attraction nicely caps the crowd level so you don’t have to push through anyone to feed the birds.”
Next stop: Grand Canyon National Park! Board the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, Arizona, to the park’s South Rim. Even before you get going, you’ll witness a confrontation between the Cataract Creek Gang and the town marshal. You’ll journey for a little more than two hours, watching the scenery and listening to musicians. After three hours in the South Rim’s Historic Village, you'll begin your journey back to Williams—but then a train robbery unfolds.
TESTER NOTES: “The train ride was so entertaining,” says our tester, who visited with his family. He noted that you could select from six classes of seating, from classic Pullman cars with no AC to a luxury dome. His crew opted for the midpriced “first-class” option, which includes free snacks and drinks.
It won’t be long before your crew realizes why the initials of Wonders of Wildlife spell out “WOW.” More than 35,000 creatures live among this museum’s habitats and exhibits, which include a three-story version of the Great Barrier Reef, a nocturnal swamp, and a 237-foot shipwreck. The displays aren’t just fun for fish to swim through—you can walk down underwater tunnels and into a limestone cave. Along the way, you’ll be treated to glimpses of sharks, eels, and rays and have the opportunity to encounter penguins.
TESTER NOTES: “Highlights for our whole family included touching the stingrays, close-up views of sea turtles and rays in the exhibits, and seeing alligators get fed,” said our tester, who spent more than three hours at the aquarium. “My 7-year-old also really enjoyed the Green Anaconda, and my husband said the jellyfish exhibit was a favorite.”
After experiencing Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s fusion of exquisite art and horticultural beauty, your family members may just want to plant themselves in this Grand Rapids oasis. Dotting a landscape of walking paths and waterways is a collection of sculptures by artists including Rodin and featuring an ever-changing group of fresh contemporary works. The gardens are equally diverse. Not far from an exhibit showing off plants that have adapted to the driest places on Earth, you can see a tropical conservatory with birds, waterfalls, and bridges. Kids will be captivated by the children’s garden with its 10 themed areas.
TESTER NOTES: “The gardens far exceeded my expectations. Everyone in our group, especially my 6-year-old son, loved learning about the plants and seeing Venus flytraps up close,” said our tester. “A special exhibit had fun busts, including one of Kermit the Frog. Another highlight was the children’s garden with a treehouse.”
