This summer has thrown many families for a loop. Summer plans may have yet again gotten sidetracked by the health crisis, leaving everyone feeling a little unfulfilled and restless.
The good news is that it's not too late to change your mind. Depending on where you're located, you likely have a few low-key, last-minute trip options that may be available to you. We're all uncertain how long the health crisis will continue. Learning how to safely travel during this time may make more sense for you and your family than waiting it out an indefinite amount of time.
If you're looking to squeeze a last-minute trip into the late days of summer or early days of fall, these are some quiet destinations where you can have a great time without too many crowds, too much stress, and, most importantly, spending too much money.
Boulder, Colorado
Colorado may seem like more of a winter destination, but it has a lot to offer a family who is into the outdoors in summer and fall. Even if you're not an athletic family, there's a lot to enjoy in the downtown area, including shopping, restaurants, and art galleries. Kids will enjoy visits to attractions like Fiske Planetarium and the University of Colorado Museum of Natural History, which is scheduled to reopen this fall.
Wichita, Kansas
Wichita, Kansas, is a fun stop for an artsy family. There are your standard vacation attractions like water parks and adventure parks, but there are also a lot of creative events, from conventions to exhibitions and more. It's an affordable stop that's popular with families, but you won't be battling crowds.
Bethany Beach, Delaware
Bethany Beach is a beautiful beach destination, especially for families. It's got all the charm and draw of other East Coast beach towns but with a lot less of the crowding. There's a gorgeous, fun-filled boardwalk to explore, tons of family-friendly activities, and charming, unique places to stay that won't break the bank.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe, New Mexico, might seem like a place you want to visit without the kids, but if you find yourselves heading there as a family, there's plenty to enjoy. It's a culture-rich area packed with museums, art installations, and more.
Avalon, New Jersey
If you're looking for another low-key beach destination on the East Coast, check out Avalon, New Jersey. It's cool on beach days, which makes it perfect for families who want to avoid heat and burns but take in all the beach goodness. There's also plenty to explore in neighboring Stone Harbor.
Branson, Missouri
Branson, Missouri, is home to a lot of interesting attractions families might enjoy. One of them is the Titanic Museum Attraction, a very immersive experience. When you're ready to wind down and listen to some tunes while eating some food, there are a number of amazing venues featuring live music.
Ashland, Oregon
There are awesome attractions around beautiful Ashland, Oregon, for the whole family to enjoy. Visit Crater Lake National Park for hiking, swimming, fishing, and other water sports. Ride horses and ski when the seasons call for it, and embrace the outdoors.
Fort Worth, Texas
Fort Worth has a lot of incredible attractions for families to check out, from the water gardens to the botanic gardens to the zoo! There are museums for history lovers (and cowgirl lovers, too). If you've never checked out rodeo culture, here's the place to start, with tons of entertaining shows that will leave you amazed.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a great place for families, whether you're outdoorsy or more into culture and attractions. Check out Hollywood cars and pinballs at unique museums, or hit a local adventure park for an adrenaline rush.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Acadia National Park is one of the biggest draws to Bar Harbor, Maine, with the highest rocky headlands along the Atlantic coastline of the United States. Dive in to Dive-In Theater with Diver Ed, a two-hour underwater family experience.
Destin, Florida
If you and your family just love the idea of kicking back at an all-inclusive resort in the heat, Destin, Florida, might be just what the doctor ordered. Watercraft riding, golf, beach hangs, fruity drinks — yep, all on the menu!
Tucson, Arizona
Become one with the desert in Tucson, Arizona. Explore the natural world at the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, a three-in-one zoo, natural history museum, and botanical garden. There's also the Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium, where kids can take on interactive logic puzzles.
Dauphin Island, Alabama
Dauphin Island, Alabama, is great for a family that loves marine life, with a number of interesting educational opportunities. You can tour Fort Gaines and learn about its rich history and have a picnic at a scenic park or beach when the day is through.
Plum Island, Massachusetts
Plum Island, Massachusetts, is a great spot for a short, sweet getaway. Check out the lighthouse and enjoy the avian life that's native to the island. Enjoy a day at sea, and end it with a delicious New England lobster roll.
Sandpoint, Idaho
Sandpoint, Idaho, is a beautiful, scenic place to enjoy all your favorite vacation activities. There's hiking, fishing, horseback riding, lake sports, and more.
