Best Family Vacations With Kids: 10 Top Trips for 2026
Looking for the best family vacations with kids in 2026? This list is filled with parent-approved, kid-approved destinations that make travel with little ones easy and fun. Families with children under ten need vacations that are simple to navigate, low-stress, and full of experiences that spark imagination — and every destination on this list checks those boxes.
Whether your kids love characters, beaches, wildlife, or big-ship adventures, these trips deliver unforgettable memories without complicated planning. From all-inclusive resorts and cruise ships to playful theme parks and easy first-time Europe trips, these are the vacations real families love most.
If you’re ready for a getaway that keeps kids happy and lets parents actually relax, here are the top ideas for 2026.
1. Disney Cruise Line
If you want one of the best family vacations with kids, this is undefeated.
Disney Cruise Line makes traveling with little ones ridiculously easy: splash pads, kids’ clubs, character meet-and-greets, Broadway-style shows, and dining designed for families. Parents love the built-in downtime, kids love the magic — everyone wins.
2. Beaches Turks & Caicos
Think Sesame Street character breakfasts, a giant waterpark, calm beaches, and kids’ clubs broken out by age. It’s safe, easy, and almost completely meltdown-proof — which is exactly why families return again and again.
3. Royal Caribbean’s Icon, Utopia, or Wonder of the Seas
From splash zones to surf simulators, playground-style neighborhoods, shows, and incredible kids’ clubs, these itineraries combine big thrills with big relaxation. Perfect for ages 3–10.
4. Universal Orlando
Minions, Transformers, Jurassic World, Wizarding World, and now Epic Universe — this destination is loaded with kid-friendly thrills. Everything is walkable, exciting, and familiar to grade-schoolers who love adventure.
5. Cancun & Playa Mujeres All-Inclusive Resorts
6. Alaska Cruise
Whales, glaciers, dog-sledding adventures, lumberjack shows, wildlife tours… it’s a living nature documentary. Best for ages 6–10 with curious minds and big imaginations.
7. Disneyland Resort
Shorter walkways, simpler park hopping, classic rides, and tons of character interactions. This is perfect for small kids because everything is close, cute, and less overstimulating than WDW.
8. Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
Hawaii + Disney = a match made for families.
Aulani offers calm lagoons, splash zones, a fantastic kids’ club, cultural activities, and just a sprinkle of Disney magic — without theme-park chaos. Ideal for laid-back beach days with a little pixie dust.
9. London (Beginner-Friendly Europe)
A top choice for kids under 10 trying Europe for the first time.Double-decker buses, Harry Potter, royalty, playgrounds everywhere… plus English-speaking and easy to navigate. Parents can relax while kids soak in the magic of a new culture. Be sure to grab our FREE Guide to visiting London with Kids!
10. Great Smoky Mountains Cabin Vacation
Think cabins with game rooms, hot tubs, mountain views, easy hikes, wildlife, and Dollywood. It’s simple, stress-free, and surprisingly memorable for little kids.
Choosing from the best family vacations with kids doesn’t have to be difficult—every destination on this list was designed with families and children under ten in mind. From relaxing beach retreats and magical character experiences to thrilling cruises and first-time Europe adventures, 2026 is full of unforgettable possibilities.
Need help deciding which trip fits your family best?
