Not Just for Kids: Vacation Ideas the Whole Family Will Enjoy

(StatePoint) Traveling with the family? The most common challenge these days is finding a destination that makes everyone happy — and then striking a balance between activities for the kids, and fun for adults.

But there are now plenty of destinations designed to make family travel easy. For example, Orlando, Florida, which unsurprisingly takes the title as number one “hot spot” for domestic travel, according to a new survey by Priceline, has become more than just a classic vacation for families. An explosion of new offerings has made it an ideal destination for all ages.

To juggle your family member’s competing interests, check out these travel tips:

New Attractions
You may have some favorite destinations you’ve traveled to repeatedly. Be sure to keep things new and exciting by tossing out your outdated guidebook. Your vacation this year should include some fresh attractions.

For example, those who’ve traveled to Orlando in the past are unlikely to have visited the brand new I-Drive 360, an entertainment complex. At its heart lies the Orlando Eye, a 400-foot-tall observation wheel providing breathtaking Central Florida views.

Between taking snapshots with Mickey and traveling the world at Epcot, check out the big changes happening at Orlando theme parks, including Walt Disney World Resort, which is transforming Downtown Disney into Disney Springs, doubling the number of shops and other venues.

Plan and Buy Ahead
Consider buying tickets to attractions in advance. By buying online, you can avoid standing in line and wearing out young legs before you even get through the gate.

Oftentimes, you can find great discounts on entry prices if you plan ahead and bundle together various local sites.

Dining
The entire vacation doesn’t have to revolve around the kids menu! Foodie parents on vacation need some time to explore and indulge in local cuisines.

And it’s no surprise that the top family travel destinations have been expanding their dining offerings. If you’re headed to Orlando, check out sophisticated dining options from James Beard nominated chefs at restaurants like Ravenous Pig, Victoria & Albert’s or Rusty Spoon. For dinner with a view, Capa at Four Seasons Resort Orlando provides guests with breath-taking views of local theme park’s fireworks. Craving food, cocktails and entertainment? Combine your evening activities at a single venue like The Whiskey, welcoming lovers of gourmet burgers, craft cocktails and rock ‘n roll, with over 100 brands of whiskey.

The Great Indoors
Long days in the sun can take their toll, particularly on younger children. If you’re heading somewhere sunny, stay safe with sunscreen and by drinking plenty of water. Plus, don’t forget to mix it up with some indoor culture as well.

From performing arts centers to indoor theme parks to museums, there are plenty of ways to see the town from the inside out.

Go Mobile
New apps can make navigating your destination easier. From theme park and restaurant guides to a parking finder, let technology help you save time and money.

And be sure to visit your destination’s official tourism website for trip-planning resources and to download free apps. For instance, the VisitOrlando.com site aggregates some of the best new offers and has the latest information on new attractions.

With the right destination and smart advance planning, family travel can be stress-free and fun for kids and their adult chaperones.