Last Updated on August 13, 2019

Finding family friendly attractions, lodging, and entertainment while traveling can be a confusing and tiring ordeal. Let us do the work! We’ve put in hundreds of hours of legwork researching and visiting our fabulous states. From California’s sunny beaches to Maine’s rocky coast; from the deserts of Arizona and Nevada to the lakes of Michigan; from the swamp lands of the south, to the waterfalls of the Pacific Northwest, here are your top 10 things to do with kids across America.

Top 10 Things to do with Kids Across America

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Alabama

Alabama is rich in sites that document the trials and triumphs of our past and offer an unparalleled look at momentous events that have defined our nation. The state is a historic adventure waiting for you and your family from the Native American tribes and Civil War battlefields to the Civil Rights Movement and the birthplace of Helen Keller, there are stories to be told all across the Heart of Dixie. A word of advice- decide if you’re cheering for Alabama’s Crimson Tide or the Auburn Tigers. Football is a religion in Alabama.

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Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Alaska

With over 33,000 miles of coastline and a land area twice the size of Texas, there is much more to explore than just one visit to Alaska can cover. Families will find a little something for everyone, from history buffs to fishermen and skiers to hikers.  Here are ten Alaskan adventures to get you started, and they come with the promise that once you visit, you will have plans to return with a whole to-do list of your own.

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Arizona

Most people who have never been to Arizona probably only know it for two things- cacti and the Grand Canyon. While both of these things are central to Arizona’s identity, the state offers so much more to families looking to explore. Arizona is full of diverse natural beauty, fun urban attractions, and some fantastic family-friendly resorts. Here are our picks for the top ten  things for families to do in Arizona.

Big City Bonus: Check out the top 10 things for families to do in Phoenix!

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Arkansas

Arkansas, officially known as the “Natural State,” will fill the tanks of history buffs, outdoor addicts, and the lovers of true Americana. The 25^th state is the birthplace of Wal-Mart and former President Bill Clinton. Do you need more proof that Arkansas is a gem of a state? Arkansas is home to the only place in the world where you can dig for diamonds and keep what you find. Here are our Top 10 Things for Families to do in Arkansas.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in California

I love California. My heart always leads me back to my home state and its incredible beauty, diversity and culture. Creating a top ten list for families to experience in California was both a joy and heart wrenching experience- I could have easily made it a top 100! After many hours of deliberation, I feel that this list will give families seeking the ultimate California experience just that. Without further ado, here are Trekaroo’s top ten things for families to do in California.

Big City Bonus: Check out the Top 10 Things for Families to Do in sunny San Diego , Los Angeles, Sacramento, or San Francisco!

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Colorado

The majestic beauty of the state of Colorado served as the inspiration to this classic American hymn.  The Centennial State is so rich in natural beauty and diversity that it just begs for you to get outdoors and explore all it has to offer.  No matter what season of the year you visit Colorado, you are sure to find an amazing adventure.

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Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Connecticut

Connecticut, the Constitution State, is rich in history and landscape. The state abuts the Atlantic Ocean offering a home to some great seaside towns. From the gold coast on Fairfield County to the farmlands of the east and west you are never very far from history, action and culture. Although the state is small, it packs a population of 3.5 million, more than three times the state of Montana. In this tiny state there is a variety of must see attractions to get a flavor of all things Connecticut.

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Delaware

Delaware may be among our smallest of states, but you can still find big fun for your family.  It has the honor of being known as the First State and hosts beautiful beaches, natural settings, museums, and history.

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Florida

Since the early 1500’s, explorers of all ages have come to Florida seeking their own version of the fountain of youth. Whether on the white sand beaches or in a Magic Kingdom, families can find their treasures – vacations packed with priceless memories.

Big City Bonus: Explore the Top 10 Things for your Family to do in Miami or check out our top picks in Tampa Bay, Orlando, Jacksonville, or Fort Lauderdale!

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Georgia

Mountains, coastline, lakes, and swamps beckon families to this destination in Dixie. Visit Atlanta, the metropolis of the South. Tour Rockefeller’s vacation home on the coast, or canoe through a menace of alligators and Spanish moss. Descend into muddy caves, or rise to the top of the largest granite outcropping. Ride through the mountains on an antique rail, or saunter the streets of The Walking Dead.  Whatever your family’s flavor of fun, you are bound to find it in Georgia among the peanuts, peaches, and charm of the south.

Big City Bonus: Check out the Top 10 Things to do in Atlanta with kids!

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Hawaii

There is no other state in the nation quite like Hawaii. Families consistently rank the islands as one of their top vacation destinations for many reasons, including aesthetics. Our 50th state is truly one of the most beautiful spots on the planet, with dramatic geography dominated by volcanoes, palm trees, and pristine beaches. So what is a family to do once they hop off the airplane and set foot on Hawaiian soil? Here are our top ten things to do in Hawaii.

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Idaho

Our 43^rd state has much more to offer families than a yummy potato bar. Idaho boasts several natural wonders in this country. It is home to the furthest inland port for the Pacific Ocean, Lewiston, 465 river miles from the coast. Idaho shares the deepest river gorge in the United States, Hell’s Canyon on the Snake River, with its neighbors Oregon and Washington. Idaho Falls’ Shoshone Falls is actually higher than New York’s infamous Niagara Falls. And, this is just the start. Without further ado, Trekaroo’s Top 10 things to do with families in Idaho!!!

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Illinois

Illinois may be named the Prairie State, but in actuality it is a wonderland of diversity from the bustling city of Chicago, to the rivers to the west, to the stretches of prairie and farmland in central Illinois, to the wooded hills to the south. Whether you are a nature-loving, adventure-seeking, sports-craving, superhero- worshiping, or an animal-loving type of family, Illinois offers a plethora of activities that will satisfy anyone’s needs. Here’s our list of the top ten things your family will love to do in Illinois.

Big City Bonus: Check out the Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Chicago.

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Indiana

It’s been years since I’ve seen the cornfields of Indiana, ridden a speedboat on a beautiful lake there, or stepped over the brickyard of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, yet my heart has not forgotten the fun I had while visiting my cousins as a teenager.  Deep Hoosier love runs through the hearts of the Crossroads of America. I proudly present to you 10 amazing places to visit in Indiana, knowing full well that there are hundreds more that will make this state a great family destination.

Big City Bonus: Explore the Top 10 Things for Families to do in Indy!

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Iowa

It wasn’t long ago- the mid 1800’s- that Iowa was considered quite advanced and the “last civilized stop” before pioneers began their treks along the Oregon or Mormon Trails.  Though Iowa is a very rural state, where pigs outnumber people and corn grows tall, visitors are surprised by the unique opportunities to be found across the state.

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Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Kansas

“There’s no place like home.” We’ve all repeated Dorothy’s quote when we experience that good-to-be-home-feeling. And, that is exactly why Kansas is wonderful; it feels like home whether you live here or not. Maybe it’s the endless wheat fields with a promise of homebaked bread or the sea of grassland dotted with wild sunflowers. Maybe it’s the early settlers’ pioneering spirit that endures in the state’s current generation. Whatever it is, we can all agree that Dorothy was right.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Kentucky

Kentucky can’t wait to roll out bluegrass covered hills and Southern hospitality to welcome you to their state. Among the big cities and the charming small towns, you will find much to discover: outdoor adventures, history, museums, and horses are just a few of the journeys that await you.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Louisiana

Smooth Jazz, rhythmic Cajun and Zydeco music, superstitious folklore, spicy fare that is French, Spanish, Caribbean, and African influenced, as well as varied landscapes including circuitous bayous, white sand beaches, and rambling prairies are just the beginning of what you’ll find in the alluring state of Louisiana. While many may associate Louisiana with rustic hunting activities like those highlighted in the popular reality show Duck Dynasty or the adult happenings of a wild New Orleans Mardi Gras celebration, rest assured there are plenty of activities and sites suitable for families to enjoy here.

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Maine

Lighthouses, lobster, and outdoorsy living are the first things that come to mind for many when they think about Maine.  Perched up in the country’s most northeastern corner, Maine’s offerings include scenic sandy beaches, a wide array of boating adventures, mountains that are a skier’s dream, ample lakes for kayaking, and lush woodsy hiking areas where it is not uncommon to spot a moose. So have a seat, breathe in that fresh crisp air, and discover Maine’s top ten.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Maryland

Just outside of Washington, D.C. lies open farmlands, bustling harbor cities, miles of beautiful shoreline along Chesapeake Bay, and hundreds of family friendly activities. Maryland may be small in size, but it is large in adventures to be had that will delight kids and parents. Check out our favorite Top 10 and get ready to visit the great state of Maryland.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Massachusetts

Historically and culturally significant in American history, traveling in Massachusetts can be like making your way through a living history book. Names like Paul Revere and Samuel Adams, as well as places like Plymouth and Bunker Hill, mark the maps travelers utilize.  There is both fun and learning to be had in your explorations of this commonwealth, so let’s get to it!

Big City Bonus: Check out the Top 10 Things for Families to do in fabulous Boston.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Michigan

Both locals and visitors appreciate Michigan‘s claim to fame as a water wonderland. Michigan borders four of the five Great Lakes providing the longest freshwater coastline in the nation, and boasts over 11,000 inland lakes which means that anywhere you go in Michigan, you are never more than six miles away from a body of water. Explore our Top 10.

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Minnesota

When most people think about Minnesota, snow, hotdish, and nice folks come to mind. Though I believe we are nice and I love my own Top Secret Cheesy Wild Rice Hotdish, I am proud to report that we have much more for families. Minnesota is full of pristine lakes, full-service resorts, historically significant people and places, and lots of wild space. Sadly, this is not a top 100 list–because believe me, we could fill it! 

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Mississippi

Mississippi. It’s the state with the name that every American school child loves to spell in a chanting voice. “M-I-S-S-I-S-S-I-P-P-I!” The state of Mississippi has more than just a great name though, it’s a place full of natural wonders, city fun, and lots of history for families to explore. Come with us on a journey through the family-friendly fun of Mississippi!

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Missouri

After experiencing the Show Me State at its best one summer, I found that Missouri offers plenty of family fun. Long gone is the thought that Missouri is only a senior citizen destination; kids will be squealing and smiling as they beg, “Show Me more, mom and dad!” Here are our top ten things to do in Missouri for families, along with some fun suggestions to help plan your foray around this southern state, full of diversity and dandy destinations.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Montana

Everything in Montana is big. Big mountains, big sky, big lakes, and big fun for families. From the great prairies of the east to the steep Rocky Mountains of the west, there is a vast diversity in activities. With all the grandeur, families will find that spending time outdoors is much more enjoyable than indoors. Relax Montana-style and get ready for an amazing collection of big fun for families.

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Nebraska

Nebraska is one of six states sectioned by the 100^th meridian, that invisible dividing line between the dry western half of the United States and the wetter eastern portion. Signs aren’t needed to determine where it hits in Nebraska either. As in the frontier days, a majority of Nebraskans live in the eastern half of the state while out in the west, bison and cattle roam vast open spaces and yucca-capped buttes remain untouched by modern development.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Nevada

A visit to Nevada can feel like stepping into a Western movie. When traveling in Nevada, it’s normal to drive 50-100 miles between towns outside of the major metro areas of Las Vegas, Reno, and Carson City. Nevada’s nickname is the Silver State, dating from the Nevada silver rush days of the mid 1800′s when a fortune’s worth of silver could literally be shoveled off the ground! Before you dash out the door with your diaper bag and shovel, plan ahead and read Trekaroo’s top ten things for families to do in Nevada.

Big City Bonus: Explore the top 10 things for families to do in Las Vegas. 

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in New Hampshire

Variety is the spice of life. New Hampshire livens that up with a dose of New England charm and offers visitors a fabulous medley of family-friendly activities for a small New England state spanning just over 9000 square miles. From the White Mountains to the Lakes Region and the shore, there is a ton for either an adventure-seeking or a relaxation-minded family to do. In the fall, foliage beckons. Skiing is fun to do in the winter while spring brings fabulous hiking. It’s all about beaches near the lakes or ocean during the summer.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in New Jersey

I’m a Jersey Girl. I’ve never lived anywhere else, and like most New Jerseyians, I feel like my state is one of the best. With so much to see and do here in New Jersey, there is always someplace new to explore with our families. Whether you are looking for a mountain escape, city living, beach front getaway, or country living, we’ve got it all and we have four beautiful seasons to enjoy it in.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in New Mexico

New Mexico’s state bird, the roadrunner, is the basis of the famous cartoon character Road Runner, who uses his speed and cunning to outmaneuver his antagonist, Wile E. Coyote. From a travel perspective, Wile. E Coyote taught me a valuable lesson: poor planning trumps intelligence every time. If you’re planning a family vacation to The Land of Enchantment, read Trekaroo’s top 10 things for families to do in New Mexico before you hit the ground running. Meep Meep!

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in New York

The beating heart of modern business and culture may be rooted in New York City, but the rest of the state cradles the Big Apple’s metropolitan onslaught with classic Americana. Sweeping beauty, majestic mountains, Olympic spirit, and early American history is painstakingly and lovingly preserved in the Empire State for all to enjoy. Living up to the reasoning behind the state’s nickname, New York’s top ten list highlights the variety of sites and resources in this region.

Big City Bonus: Check out the Top 10 things for families to do in bustling New York City as well as the Top 10 Things for Families to do in Syracuse. 

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in North Carolina

One of the original 13 colonies and the last to adopt its state motto of  “Esse quam videri” (To be, rather than to seem),” North Carolina is exactly what it seems—a state offering a seemingly endless array of breathtaking beaches, national parks, mountain ski resorts, charming small towns, and historic sites that stretch back to the our nation’s earliest days. The Tar Heel State also offers more recreational activities than you’ll have time to enjoy in one vacation! Without further ado and in no particular order, here are Trekaroo’s top ten things for families to do in North Carolina.

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in North Dakota

North Dakota invites visitors to come with the tagline, “Arrive a Guest. Leave a Legend.” This phrase precisely describes North Dakota. Legends abound in this great state. Legends exist in the stories passed down from generations of Northern Great Plains Indians. Legends exist in the diaries of Lewis and Clark, who found Sakakawea here and asked her to join their Corps of Discovery. Legends exist in the biography of Theodore Roosevelt who found that the North Dakota badlands strengthen character. North Dakota is the land of legends and they invite your family to be their guests. Here are the top ten things for families to do as they arrive as guests and leave as legends in North Dakota.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Ohio

From theme parks and racetracks, to hall of fame museums and Amish Country, Ohio offers a stunning array of adventures for families to enjoy. The residents of this state have made substantial contributions to pop culture, sports competition and history. They took great risk to stand up against unfair laws, and faced the unknown while exploring outer space.  Not only have they inspired amazing experiences for your family to visit, they’ve left great messages about courage, conviction and harmony that your family will be talking about long after your trip ends.

Big City Bonus: Explore the Top 10 Things to do in Cleveland and Columbus. 

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Oklahoma

Oklahoma – a state where diverse landscapes and rich cultures beckon visitors to explore and enjoy. Early settlers grabbed a piece of Oklahoma land before it was officially released by the Homestead Act; sooner, rather than later and thus the nickname “the Sooner State” was established. I guess those land grabbers already knew how wonderful Oklahoma would be.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Oregon

Dispel the notion that all of Oregon is wet and rainy. In truth, families can experience nearly any climate and terrain within Oregon’s borders. Want a beach vacation? Oregon’s got it. Feel like camping in the mountains? Sure! Interested in a cultural city stay, a farm tour, or a desert excursion? Oregon has all of that, too. It’s only fitting that our “Top 10″  list for Oregon reflects its geological diversity! Without further ado, here are Trekaroo’s Top 10 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit in Oregon!

Big City Bonus: Check out the Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Portland!

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania, the Keystone State, got its nickname for being in the middle of the original 13 colonies, thus holding the colonies together like a keystone. Today, Pennsylvania is the keystone of family vacations and is our “go to” vacation spot.  Having visited many, many times, we can always find something new to explore and simply love heading back to a family favorite.   I know that your family can make many memories visiting Pennsylvania, just as ours has.

Big City Bonus: Check out the Top 10 things for families to do in historic Philadelphia or check out the Top 10 Things for Families to do in Pittsburgh!

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Rhode Island

At just over 1200 square miles, Little Rhody may be the smallest state in the USA, but it packs in a bunch of spots for family fun and entertainment. The northern part of Rhode Island is rich with history while the southern area, with over 400 miles of shoreline, claims some great beach and water activities. Take a peak and think about visiting the “Ocean State.”

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in South Carolina

The words “smiling places and beautiful places” emblazon South Carolina license plates. This tagline aptly describes South Carolina, a state that is deeply rooted in tradition, American history, southern charm, hospitality, and beautiful scenery. Slow down and come visit South Carolina to soak in the rich history that has made this state a perfect vacation destination for families. These are the top 10 things to do in South Carolina during your family vacation full of smiling places and beautiful places.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in South Dakota

South Dakota, the land of great faces and great places, is rich in pioneer, exploration and archeological history while boasting beautiful wide open whispering prairies, stunning jutting mountains, crystal clear lakes and lazy windy rivers (giving it more shoreline than the state of Florida!!)  The population of the entire state is on par with the city of San Francisco, so there is lots of land for roaming and exploring. Although the state boasts numerous attractions that are sure to delight the history or science buffs, there are just as many beautiful spots to simply sit, relax and watch a laid back evening mosey on by.

Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Tennessee

Tennessee is a state of many titles. From the birthplace of rock and roll to the land of the Great Smokies, Tennessee is a travel utopia for families who desire music knowledge, a living history lesson, outdoor adventures, and nature experiences. These are our choices for the Tennessee top 10 things to do with the family.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Texas

Howdy ya’ll!! Have you heard the moniker, “everything’s bigger in Texas?” Well it’s true. When I think of Texas, I think big! Biggest continental state, big scenery, big art galleries, big belt buckles, and big fun for families! From Big Tex to big canyons, Texas is a mecca for family fun in a BIG way. Here are Trekaroo’s Top 10 Family-Friendly Activities in Texas.

Big City Bonus: Explore the top 10 things for families to do in San Antonio

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Utah

Life is elevated in Utah, where diverse geology has shaped the land and rich history has shaped the culture providing visitors with opportunities galore. Here families can experience world class ski resorts, five national parks, an inland ocean, and historical sites which celebrate cultures that persevered in Utah’s rugged desolation. This list of top 10 things for families to do in Utah is in no way ranked in order from least to greatest. Instead, this list is the cliff note travel guide for families visiting Utah; a starting point to experience life elevated.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Vermont

Picturesque and quaint, Vermont’s tiny towns of clapboard Colonial homes, church steeples and pristine country side oozes with New England charm. The state is filled with unspoiled scenery, most of it either lush forest or pristine countryside dotted with farms.  It is also a place filled with fun childhood surprises perfect for exploring, so let’s get started!

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Virginia

It’s no secret why Virginia’s state motto is “Virginia is for Lovers.” Simply put, whatever you love to do, you’ll find it in Virginia. The Old Dominion offers quirky roadside wonders, cool places for kids, miles of beaches, unspoiled wilderness, soaring mountains, and some of the oldest towns in North America. If you’ve never been before, or are looking for assistance in creating a memorable vacation itinerary, here are our picks for the top ten things for families to do in Virginia.

Big City Bonus: Explore nearby D.C. with our Top 10 Things for Families to do in Washington D.C.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Washington

One hundred and twenty-five years ago an ancestor of mine traveled from the Midwest to Washington State and our family has been here ever since. Why would we leave? Wherever we go in Washington State, there’s something interesting to experience. Thinking about making your own journey west with your family? Here are our top ten things for families to do in Washington State!

Big City Bonus: Explore the top 10 things for families to do in Seattle!

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in West Virginia

West Virginia offers a plethora of activities for its visitors. Nicknamed the “Mountain State” and given the tagline of “Wild and Wonderful,” West Virginia’s rugged terrain was formed by the Appalachian Mountains. This landscape makes for incredible outdoor fun. Its history is just as rugged; it was the only state formed by seceding from a confederate state during the civil war. Here are the top activities for kids that help make West Virginia wild and wonderful.

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is the quintessential Midwestern state with a boat load of variety to boot. With shoreline on two of the Great Lakes, some pretty rocking metropolitan areas, a waterpark bonanza, and a legacy of farming and agriculture, Wisconsin offers a medley of attractions for families to enjoy. Gear up with your fishing pole and grab some cheese for a fantastic tour.

Big City Bonus: Explore the top 10 things for families to do in Milwaukee!

Top 10 Things for Families to Do in Wyoming

The name “Wyoming” comes from an Algonquian word meaning “at the big river flat.” It’s no surprise that the state is filled with natural wonders, wide-open spaces, and outdoor adventure for families. Wyoming is a great pick for a family road trip, historical trip for kids studying pioneering and Native American history, or an adventure vacation filled with sports from river rafting to hiking to skiing.

Lead image by: Bigstock/jimglab