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Ultimate Family Travel Bucket List: 119 Adventures Around the World

This family travel bucket list is filled with over 100 family adventures around the world. We love to travel as a family! There are so many places to explore together, the options sometimes seem endless.

Organized by region, this family bucket list will inspire you to plan your next family vacation, long-term travel, outdoor family vacation, or once-in-a-lifetime family adventure! We’ve also indicated age ranges when applicable, though, of course, this may vary by family.

Some of these adventures were part of our Family Year Out ( what is a family year out? ), and others we’re still hoping to see and do!

This article may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase. All our recommendations are independent and are in no way influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative.

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Table of Contents

The Ultimate Family Travel Bucket List

We’ve compiled a list of over 100 family-friendly adventures around the globe- organized by continent. The more we travel, and check a few family bucket list adventures off of the list, the more we realize how incomplete any list is. The more we travel, the more we want to see, and the more we realize how many unique things there are to do around the world!

Family Travel Bucket List Europe:

Some of our favorite trips through Europe include a month in Florence (here’s our best list of things to do in Florence and what to eat in Florence ), and a month in Croatia , including Zagreb , Split , Plitvice , and Zadar .

We also spent a month around the holidays in Vienna, Austria. Vienna is a walkable, enchanting, city, that is one of the safest cities in Europe .

1. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

All the pomp and circumstance of the Changing of the Guard symbolize London for me. Ideally, pop into Buckingham Palace for a tour after the ceremony. Buckingham Palace has been the official London home of the Royal Family since 1837.

Changing of the Guard usually occurs at 11 am, except for Saturday and Tuesday. Make sure to check the official schedule before you go.

2. Visit Stonehenge at Sunset

Stonehenge is closed to the public by sunset, but you can book a special access ticket to watch the sun dip behind the stones.

The Stone Circle Experience gives you access to inside the stone circle either before or after general admission hours. These are timed tickets that allow you to wander among the stones up until 9:00 in the evening. Children are welcome (under 5 are free), but please don’t touch the stones.

If you are concerned with visiting at sunset, you can combine Stonehenge with a trip to Windsor Castle, and the famous town of Bath, all in a one-day trip from London. What a great way to see three bucket-list-worthy sites all at once (and it’s affordable!)

Book Now: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath Tour from London

3. Road Trip around Scotland

Explore Edinburgh, search for the mythical Nessie in Loch Ness, see the reindeer in Cairngorms National Park, and visit the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides Islands. We’re hoping to do this soon, hopefully in the warmer summer months!

4. Stay in a Castle in Ireland

The beds are quite short, but you’ll never forget a night in a real Irish Castle. We stayed at Cabra Castle , in county Kingscourt and I’d go back in a heartbeat!

We arrived after dark on a rainy night, so we didn’t get to explore the grounds as much as I would have liked. It feels very grand to pass a suit of armor on your way down to dinner!

5. Swim with Wild Dolphins in the Azores

Put on your mask and snorkel and go see the dolphins where they live and play! Best for ages 8 and up.

The Azores are nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic with a population of just under 250,000 people. They are an autonomous region of Portugal, with a subtropical climate. The Azores are a 2 1/2 hour flight from Lisbon .

The beaches are rocky and the terrain is wild- you’ll find geothermal hot springs, active volcanos, and natural lava swimming holes. These islands are great places for whale watching and dolphin experiences.

6. Sing Do-Re-Mi in Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is known as the birthplace of Mozart, has dramatic views of the Alps, and you can visit some areas where the Sound of Music was filmed.

To really get into the spirit, take Fräulein Maria’s Bicycle Tour of the areas shown in the film. They have bikes for adults and kids, as well as tandem bikes.

You can also take a Sound of Music tour by bus that includes stops in the town of St Gilgen Mozartplatz, and the town of Mondsee, where you’ll see the Basilica St. Michael where the wedding of Maria and Baron von Trapp was filmed.

Book Now: The Original Sound of Music Tour

Salzburg is a wonderful place to visit for Christmas- explore the festive markets and take a carriage ride through town. A day trip to Salzburg is easy from both Vienna and Munich.

7. Tour the Colosseum in Rome

There is so much history in Rome (and also a lot of cats). Eat gelato and take in centuries of ruins. I loved Rome and could have stayed for weeks.

I went to the Colosseum on my own, and think I would have learned a lot more, with a tour guide. When we visited as a family we booked a guided tour of this incredible place to help it come alive for all of us.

Book Now: Guided Tour of the Colosseum

Interested in Rome? Don’t miss our 4-day Itinerary for first-timers with kids, the best hotels in Trastevere , and our recommendations for the best golf cart tours , and tours of the Roman catacombs .

8. Picnic Under the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is the first landmark that my kids recognized from outside our country. Visiting it will turn what they have seen in books or on maps into a real place that exists outside their imaginations.

Choose a treat or two from one of the gorgeous patisserie windows and picnic near the famous monument. There is so much security set up around the perimeter, that getting actually under the Eiffel Tower is more difficult than it used to be!

9. Visit the Guernsey Islands

A little off the beaten path, but easy to get to, these Channel Islands get the most sunshine in the UK!

Enjoy afternoon tea, look for puffins, learn to surf, kayak, or relax on a sandy beach. Older kids will want to tour the tunnels built by the Germans during their occupation during World War II.

As a bonus, these islands don’t count toward your Schengen Area days!

10. See the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen

This small bronze statue welcomes visitors to Copenhagen harbor. Denmark is consistently rated as one of the happiest countries in the world.

Take a picture next to the mermaid, stroll through the old city, then hop on a canal tour to see the city from the water. Head over to Nature’s Playground in Valbyparken to climb and explore.

11. Marvel at the Alhambra in Spain

The Alhambra in Granada is a large palace complex with elaborate gardens, and water features. You can easily wander all day here if you love staring at intricate tile patterns like I do!

The Alhambra was the royal residence and court in the mid-13th Century, it then became a Christian court in 1492. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a top example of Moorish architecture, and a fascinating mix of the East and the West.

I traveled to Granada pre-kids just to see this astounding site, and I can’t wait to explore this bucket list palace with the kids!

12. Explore the Canals of Amsterdam

Amsterdam was one of Waker’s favorite stops in Europe, and we’re excited to share it with the kids!

Rent a boat to explore the canals or rent bikes to cycle around this flat city. Visit the Rijksmuseum   to see Rembrandts and Vermeers, then head over to the Van Gogh Museum for more fabulous art.

Visit the Anne Frank House to explore the secret annex where she and her family hid for years. This can be an emotional visit, use your judgment for age appropriateness.

13. See Tulips in Bloom in the Netherlands

From mid-April to early May, the tulips bloom in breathtaking fields of color. You can see the tulips about 40 km from Amsterdam in an area called Bollenstreek.

This area is also famous for stunning views of traditional Holland. The Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse are a popular place to view the fields. You can rent a bike to explore the area, or even take a helicopter over the fields.

14. Visit Checkpoint Charlie and the Berlin Wall

Checkpoint Charlie is a famous access point between East and West Berlin during the cold war. There is a museum there, and they’ve left the checkpoint booth, sandbags, and flags so that you can imagine what it might have been like during the cold war. You’ll find it at Friedrichstraße 43-45.

To view what’s left of the Berlin Wall, head to the East Side Gallery to see the longest stretch of surviving wall. More than 100 artists have decorated this area of the wall. Start at the Warschauer Straße or Ostbahnhof railway stations.

15. Visit the Acropolis in Athens

Seeing the Acropolis tower over the city of Athens is an awe-inspiring sight. Climb the hill and explore this archeological wonder.

The amount of history surrounding you can be overwhelming- try this Mythology Tour to put it into perspective and keep the kids entertained.

Book Now: Acropolis Mythology Tou r

Make sure to stop by Syntagma Square to watch the changing of the guard. Consider adding a day trip to your family holiday to see the Temple of Poseidon as well.

16. Explore the Greek Islands

The blue and white color palette of the Greek Islands just oozes relaxation. Take a morning ferry from Athens and enjoy the ride over.

The Cyclades Islands are the closest to Athens and offer plenty of great options. I’ve spent time on Santorini and Naxos and loved them both for different reasons.

Interested in Santorini? Check out this one-day Santorini itinerary .

Mykonos is also on our list of possible islands. From beautiful beaches to a calm atmosphere, wonderful fresh food, ruins, volcanos, and stunning sunsets, Greece has it all. It’s best to visit from late May to September.

17. Eat Chocolate and Waffles in Brussels

Who doesn’t love, chocolate, waffles, french fries, and beer for grown-ups? Brussels offers specialties in all these areas! See the famous Mannekin Pis statue, then visit the Royal Palace and the Musee de Magritte.

18. Explore Medieval Castles in Romania

Bran Castle is the most famous of Romania’s Medieval castles, but its connection with Dracula is tenuous, and it can get crowded.

Corvin Castle and Peles Castle are beautiful and less visited castles. While you are there, sunbathe on the edge of the Black Sea, visit the Berca Mud volcanoes, and stroll the old town of Sighisoara.

19. Take a Boat into the Blue Cave in Croatia

Similar to the Blue Grotto near Capri, the light inside this cave is supposed to be incredible. The Blue Cave is on Bisevo Island, you can take a speedboat here from Split or Dubrovnik. You’ll enter the cave in a wooden boat- it’s best to visit on a bright sunny day, ideally between 11 am and noon.

Book Now: Blue Cave Small Group Tour

20. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride over Cappadocia

Cappadocia in central Turkey is known for its tall rock formations called “fairy chimneys”. This otherworldly landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

One of the best ways to see this area is by hot air balloon- most balloons go up in the early morning for sunrise. To visit the area, take a flight to Kayseri or Nevsehir.

Base yourself in Goreme and stay in a cave hotel. Make sure to visit Uchisar Castle and the underground city of Kaymakli.

Taking a hot air balloon ride has long been on my travel adventure bucket list! I had planned to take one over the deserts of Jordan but windy conditions canceled the flight.

You can also take a balloon ride over coffee farms in Columbia, the temples of Bagan, Myanmar, or Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. The most inexpensive place to fulfill this travel dream is the town of Vang Vieng, Laos.

Hot Air Balloon rides are generally for ages 6+, though some companies go by height (minimum 4′ 6″). Keep in mind that the balloons are loud, so bring ear protection for sensitive ears.

21. Visit the Palaces of St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg is called the “Venice of the North”, and Russia’s “Cultural Capital”. Ever since I read War and Peace I’ve been dreaming of seeing the grand palaces where extravagant balls were held followed by a horse and sleigh ride home.

Visit the grand palace of Peterhof – often compared to Versailles. It has 147 fountains for the kids to run around outside, including some “trick” fountains.

Head 30 km South to see Catherine’s Palace , the summer palace of the tzars.

Lastly, visit the Winter Palace , which houses the world-famous Hermitage Museum . Best for ages 8+.

22. See the Bolshoi Ballet

See a performance of the world-famous Bolshoi Ballet on the historic stage of the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow. You can also take a guided tour of the theater .

23. Go Dog Sledding

Head up to the Northern reaches of Europe to try dog sledding. A form of transportation that has been used for over 2000 years, dog sledding is an ideal way to experience nature in near silence.

Svalbard, Norway is famous for its dog sledding. There are also opportunities in Finland, Andorra, Greenland, and Iceland!

24. See the Northern Lights

Seeing the swirls of the northern lights is definitely a family travel bucket list item! We hoped to see them during our time in Iceland, but no luck. Northern Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Svalbard in Norway, and Abisko, Sweden are locations with a high chance of seeing this phenomenon.

25. Explore the Fjords of Norway

Take the Flam Railway from Myrdal to Flåm, with riveting scenery along the way. Pass endless waterfalls, then take a boat ride through the fjords.

Don’t miss Balestrand, the village that inspired Disney’s Arendelle in the Frozen movies. The best time to visit is June through August. Expect to see snow, even in the height of summer.

26. Watch Whales and Puffins in Iceland

There are lots of amazing things to do in Iceland , but visiting Iceland in the summer means you can see puffins and whales! Puffin tours run from May to August. Look for smaller boats that can get you close to the birds.

This whale watch out of Husavik is on a wooden sailing boat the kids can help sail. Ages 7+ for this tour, others are for all ages.

Book Now: Whale Watch on a Wooden Boat

27. Visit Santa’s Village

Just a few kilometers from Rovaniemi, Finland on the Arctic Circle, is Santa’s Village . Open every day of the year, come meet the reindeer and Santa himself at his main office!

There is no charge for the village or meeting Santa. The Arctic Circle is denoted by a beam of light, and you can get a certificate for crossing the circle. You can get your passport stamped and send postcards from Santa’s Post Office.

You can also visit huskies, go sledding or ice tubing, visit a snow castle, and more!

Family Travel Bucket List Asia :

We started our adventures through Asia with Sri Lanka, then India. We’ve loved our time in SE Asia, including a month in Bali. We also highly recommend a visit to South Korea!

28. Visit Tibet

Stroll through Lhasa, visit the Potala Palace, and learn about Tibetan Buddhist culture. See the emerald-colored, freshwater Yamdrok Lake, visit monasteries, and explore the Himalayas.

Yowangdu Experience Tibet has a great article on Lhasa – covering everything from safety to traveling around.

Tibet is at a high altitude, and the sun can be harsh- make sure to bring sunscreen, and plan to take time to acclimatize to the altitude.

Travel to Tibet is best for kids 5+ based on the risk of altitude sickness. The best times to visit are April-June and September-October.

29. Explore Bhutan

I’m intrigued by this small, landlocked, Himalayan nation where archery is the national sport. Hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the holiest site in Bhutan, which is built into the side of a cliff.

The government requires all tourists to have a preplanned itinerary with a Bhutanese guide. To visit you must pay a daily tourist fee, per person. Adults pay approx. $250 USD per day, children ages 5-12 pay approx. half and children under 5 are free.

While this makes Bhutan very expensive to visit, it also ensures that the tourist attractions are never crowded, or disrespected.

The best times to visit are from October-December and March-April. Due to altitude and the difficulty of the trek to Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan is best for ages 7+.

30. Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

The ABC trek in Nepal is very popular- it will generally take you about 14 days starting and ending in Kathmandu. The scenery along the route is breathtaking, and you’ll stay in traditional tea houses along the route.

You’ll need a guided trip for this outdoor family adventure- I trust G Adventures , I used them in Jordan, and have spoken with other travelers who have used them all over the world.

Book Now: 15 Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The minimum age is 12 for the Annapurna tour. You can also trek to Everest Base Camp, also ages 12+.

Families with younger kids may want to consider a five-day Poon Hill trek. While in Nepal, don’t miss Chitwan National Park- you may see a One-horned Rhino!

31. Find Tigers in the Wild

See tigers, leopards, and sloth bears in Royal Bardia National Park or Chitwan National Park in Nepal. Explore the parks through guided tiger walks, jeep tours, and canoe rides.

Nepal takes animal conservation very seriously, so the animals here are well protected, You can also travel to Ilam in Eastern Nepal to try to spot the endangered red panda.

32. Visit Mustang

I’d never heard of this place until a friend mentioned it, and now it’s definitely on our family travel bucket list!

Mustang is a region of Nepal, close to the Tibet border. It is considered the “lost kingdom”, and was its own kingdom until being incorporated into Nepal in 2008.

Tourists first entered this area in 1992. The Nepalese government now offers a 10-day permit to enter the area with a guide. This International Traveller article has more information. Ages 12+.

33. Slide Down the Great Wall of China

Visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China, located about a two-hour drive from Beijing. Take the gondola to the top of the wall, then walk down the sloping wall until you reach the metal alpine slide.

The ride down takes about five minutes. You are in your own bobsled with a brake, so you control your speed. You’re not actually sliding on the Great Wall, but down the mountain to the base of the wall.

34. See the Terracotta Warriors

The Terracotta Warriors are a series of 2,000-year-old clay statues that guarded the tomb of China’s first Emperor. They were discovered by farmers digging a well in 1974.

You can visit three pits in the Terracotta Museum to see over 8,000 clay warriors, jade weapons, and bronze chariots. Each warrior is life-sized and unique- with different expressions, faces, and clothing.

Originally each warrior was painted and carried a real weapon. The Terracotta Museum is located about an hour East of Xi’an.

35. Ride the Trans Siberian Railway

The Trans Siberian Railway is world-famous. Spend a few days onboard watching the scenery, then step off and enjoy a few days in a town along the way.

There is no set route, but rather a network of rail lines across Russia. The three main routes are Moscow to Vladivostok (the original route), Moscow to Beijing (via Mongolia), which takes about 5 days non-stop including two border crossings; and Moscow to Beijing (via Manchuria) which does not include stops in Mongolia. Here’s a handy map .

Consider starting in Moscow, stopping in Ekaterinburg, Irkutsk (visit Lake Baikal), Ulaanbaatar, and finally Beijing. Adventure Family Life wrote a great post on taking the train with kids which has a lot of useful information.

Children under 5 are free, but they have to share a bed with a traveling adult. Children 5-10 are half-price.

36. Sleep in a Yurt in Mongolia

Spend a few days in Ulaanbaatar, visit Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, and see the giant equestrian statue of Ghengis Khan. Head to the Gobi desert to stay with a family in their ger (yurt), and climb the dunes at Khongoryn Els.

See the Flaming Cliffs, then head to Karakorum, the old capital of Mongolia. Finish with a trip to the Mongolian grasslands and Khustai National Park to see wild horses.

37. See Cherry Blossoms in Japan

The cherry blossoms bloom across Japan in the Spring, starting in late January in the South, and blooming in Tokyo around late March, or early April. You can check forecasts to see predictions for the year.

Called sakura, this is a time of celebration and gatherings of friends and family. Many Japanese celebrate hanami, where they picnic and quietly contemplate life.

Mount Yoshino is a popular spot for hanami, as there are over 30,000 cherry trees. Look for sakura-flavored treats available only during this time.

38. Stay at a Traditional Ryokan in Japan

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese Inn. They can be found all over Japan, but are especially prevalent in areas around hot springs, and the Kyoto area.

You stay in a room with a tatami floor and a futon, which often converts into your dining space. An elaborate traditional dinner is served, as well as breakfast. A bit more expensive than other housing options, they offer a window into Japanese culture and traditions.

We are hoping to stay in a ryokan at Shibu Onsen when we visit the snow monkeys!

39. Visit the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is such an iconic building, of course, it had to make our family travel bucket list! Fly into New Delhi, spend a few days there, then head to Agra to see the Taj Mahal.

Arrive for sunrise, then enter via the East gate. After you are done exploring, head to Agra Fort to see where Shah Jahan, who commissioned the Taj Mahal, was imprisoned after his son seized power.

The Taj Mahal is India’s biggest tourist attraction, it was built using the labor of 1,000 elephants! We wrote a full guide to visiting the Taj Mahal .

From Agra take the train to Jaipur to see “the pink city”, then see wild tigers in Ranthambore National park. Head back to New Dehli, or continue on to Udaipur, the “city of lakes”, then Jodhpur, “the blue city”.

40. Sleep in a Monastery in Myanmar

Myanmar (Burma) is off-limits in 2021, but we’ll leave this intriguing country on our travel bucket list for down the line.

Travelers have written of the beauty and isolation of this country which had just opened up to tourism before the current political climate closed it again.

Hopefully sleeping on a thin pad on the floor of a monastery will be one of our family adventures when the situation calms down.

41. Stay in a Stilt House in Myanmar

Visit the floating gardens of Lake Inle and stay in a bamboo house built on stilts. The woven bamboo allows for air circulation to keep the house cool. Apparently, tomatoes grow year-round in the gardens here!

42. Explore Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has a laid-back attitude and miles of sandy shoreline, it’s also one of the best places in the world to spot a blue whale.

Climb Lion Rock, visit a turtle hatchery on the Southern coast, and take photos of the stilt fisherman! Visit Yala National Park to try to spot a leopard (we saw one named Amber!), and see elephants and water buffalo in the wild.

You can also visit a tea plantation and take a train ride through the beautiful countryside from Kandy to Ella. Some of our favorite beaches are Hiriketiya Beach and Hikkaduwa Beach . Ready to visit? Check out our Sri Lanka itinerary to get started!

43. Cruise Halong Bay

Board a traditional junk boat and cruise Halong Bay in Northern Vietnam. A few hours from Hanoi, the bay is known for its towering limestone rock formations. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s one of the most popular spots in Vietnam.

Choose a two-night cruise if you can- you’ll escape the crowds on the second day. There are so many tour operators, the hardest part is choosing which boat to take!

Most boats stop at Surprise Cave and Ti Top Island, and some offer cooking classes or other activities onboard. An alternative is Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay which are less crowded. October to March is the best time to visit.

Check Prices: Halong Bay Tour

44. Visit the Temples of Angkor Watt

Waker and I visited Angkor Watt as part of our honeymoon, and were excited to take the kids there to explore. We spent a month in Cambodia, and found that Siem Reap has become a hipper town, than we expected, with lots of great coffee options .

Check out our guide to the Angkor Temples , as well as all the other amazing things to do in Siem Reap , Cambodia. Consider taking a food tour to learn about Khmer cuisine .

45. Visit an Elephant Sanctuary

When we visited Thailand in 2013, we visited an elephant center where we fed, rode on, and bathed the elephants. We discussed it at the time and felt that our dollars were supporting the care of the animals (who are notoriously expensive to feed).

Animal tourism has evolved since then, and we are now more careful to only support places where the animal’s natural behaviors are encouraged.

We’d love to expose our kids to the wonder of elephants, but in a place where there is no riding or unnatural training. As such, we are hoping to visit an elephant sanctuary to interact with rescued elephants.

Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai is one option that is on the well-worn tourist route.

We highly recommend a visit to the Elephant Valley Project in Mondulkiri, Cambodia. You can spend a half-day walking through the jungle with the elephants, and the other half of the day volunteering around the facility.

Responsible Travel has a great list of Elephant Sanctuaries around the world that you can feel good about supporting.

46. Lounge on a Thai Island

The island beaches of Thailand are well-known for a reason! So many options for relaxing in a tropical paradise. We spent part of our honeymoon in Koh Samui, then took the kids to hang out on Ko Phi Phi, but there are endless options for islands to explore.

47. Relax on the Gili Islands, Indonesia

The Gili Islands are Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. There are no cars on the islands, you either walk, bike, or take a horse-drawn cart to get around.

Gili Trawangan is the largest of the islands with the most nightlife and a night market. Gili Meno is the smallest, least populated island and is known for its turtle sanctuary.

We opted for the middle-sized island of Gili Air, and spent part of our “babymoon” there- it was a bumpy boat ride from Lombok to get there, but the island itself is absolutely lovely.

Family Travel Bucket List Middle East:

The Middle East is packed with history- Petra is one of the Seven New Wonders of the World, and Israel has the most important landmarks for three major religions packed into one city. Abu Dhabi and Dubai pack in family-friendly activities as well- from jaw-dropping architecture to amusement parks.

48. Visit the Ruins of Petra in Jordan

I grew up with the Indiana Jones movies, and ever since I realized Petra was a real place I’ve wanted to visit!

I explored Petra and other places in Jordan for the first time on a G Adventures tour in 2013 and it was just as magical as I’d hoped. Waker didn’t have time off from work, and I knew (hoped) we’d be starting a family soon, so I joined the tour solo, and loved it!

I met lots of friendly people and saw a lot more through the tour than I could have managed in the same amount of time on my own.

Petra is absolutely a bucket list family adventure! We returned in 2022 and explored as a family.

Petra at night is spectacular. There is a musical concert in front of the Treasury (the most well-known facade), and the walkways and treasury area are lit by candlelight.

49. Sleep Under the Stars in Wadi Rum

The Wadi Rum desert is stunning- ride a camel, climb rock arches, and sleep under the stars. We visited on our tour of Jordan but didn’t get a chance to sleep overnight in this beautiful desert, as it was a cold time of year.

50. Float in the Dead Sea

Floating in the Dead Sea is a strange experience- the sea is over 30% salt, so you are extremely buoyant. The mud is supposed to be wonderful for your skin, so you slather it all over yourself and then float in the sunshine.

You can enter the Dead Sea from the Jordanian or the Israeli side, as the middle of the sea forms part of the border between the two countries. I visited the Jordanian side, we could see drones patrolling the Israeli border.

51. Visit Jerusalem

The Holy City for Jews, Muslims, and Christians, there is a ton of history packed into Jerusalem. Visit the old city, the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock, The Church of the Holy Sepulcher, and the Al Aqsa mosque.

Consider a day trip to Bethelem to see the Church of the Nativity (it is easiest to take a tour), or a day trip to the Dead Sea.

It’s worth noting that everything in Israel (restaurants, public transportation) shuts down for the Sabbath from Friday late afternoon to Saturday night. Holy sites generally require that shoulders and knees are covered.

52. Visit the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque

This mosque in Abu Dhabi, UAE is one of the grandest in the world. It is massive- the equivalent of four football fields. Construction began in 1996 and took 12 years to complete.

An international collaboration, the mosque combines Persian, Mughal, and Moorish architecture. The Grand Mosque includes 82 domes and has the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet.

There is no charge to visit the mosque, but you will need to reserve a time . Visit early to beat the heat. There are free guided tours available- don’t miss these tours! You’ll be inside the main space, while others crowd around ropes on the outside.

Women will need to cover up- bring a headscarf, the mosque provides black abayas in a couple of sizes to borrow. Men are also requested to dress conservatively.

53. Tour Iran

Iran is a tricky place for Americans to visit politically, and the State Department currently warns strongly against it. I’ve heard amazing stories from other travelers who found the local people warm and inviting. My Pinterest is filled with images of mosques and tile work in Iran, I’d absolutely love to visit!

Unsure about visiting? Check out this article from Intrepid Travel (from 2018). Even when the situation is a bit more stable, Americans, Brits, and Canadians can only visit on a tour.

Plan to book a tour at least three months ahead as the visa process can be quite long. Note that debit cards and credit cards will not work in Iran.

There are some tours for younger travelers like this tour for ages 5+ from Shiraz to Tehran. I would probably wait until the kids are older and opt for a longer tour like this one from Intrepid Travel for ages 15+.

Family Travel Bucket List Oceania:

54. road trip around new zealand.

We are really hoping to road trip around New Zealand in late 2021, early 2022 (now aiming for 2023!) depending on when the borders open. We are all really excited for the dramatic landscape of New Zealand, and it’s soo far from us in the US that this will be a real treat!

Ideally, we’ll use a relocation service to rent a vehicle, then drive from Auckland stopping at Hobbiton, Rotorua for Geysers, the Redwoods, on to Wellington, then across to the South Island.

We will pan for gold, see a glow worm cave, then head to Queenstown, Milford Sound, and the penguins in Dunedin. We’ll pause at Lake Tekapo to try to see the Southern Lights, then head to Christchurch, and possibly out to Kaikoura to see the whales.

55. Explore a Glow Worm Cave

Taking a boat ride through a glowworm grotto sounds so magical! Arachnocampa Luminosa are unique to New Zealand, you can see them by exploring caves, or going for a guided kayak trip or night hike.

The most famous caves are the Waitomo Caves on the North Island where you go 150 feet underground to see the glowworms in large limestone caves.

On the South Island, you can visit the Te Anau caves . Cruise across Te Anua lake before entering the glowworm grotto. All ages.

Check Prices: Te Anau Caves Glow Worm Tour

56. See the Southern Lights

I didn’t know the Southern Lights existed until I started researching New Zealand. Now the Aurora Australis is definitely on our family outdoor adventure bucket list!

We are hoping to see them at Lake Tekapo, which is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Other good places to see them in New Zealand are Stewart Island and Invercargill.

You can also see the Southern Lights from Tasmania, Australia; Antarctica, and the South Georgia Islands. Some stargazing tours do have an age limit of 6+.

57. Swim with Wild Dolphins

Swim with wild Dusky Dolphins, Hectors Dolphins, and Common Dolphins with Dolphin Encounter in Kaikoura, New Zealand.

You can’t touch the dolphins, but you’ll swim in their natural environment with a snorkel and fins and let them engage you as much as they desire. You can also watch from the boat if you prefer. Ages 8+ to swim with the dolphins.

While in Kaikoura, you can also kayak beside whales, seals, and dolphins.

Book Now: Kaikoura Wildlife Kayak Tour

58. Fly to the Top of a Glacier

When exploring New Zealand, don’t forget the glaciers! This helicopter tour will take you around both the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers before landing in the snow for you to experience them firsthand. These glaciers are the largest in New Zealand and the most visited. They flow almost down to sea level.

59. Explore the Australian Outback

The Australian Outback has such a mystery to it- wild camels, lizards, crocodiles, and poisonous trees!

I did a 7-day tour from Adelaide to Alice Springs and had a fantastic time. We took the dirt roads, stopped for hikes, and camped at night. We visited the opal mines in Cooper Pedy, toured Uluru, and ended in Alice Springs. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and made the whole trip fascinating.

I’d love to take my kids when they are a bit older and do something similar. A lot of tours have you flying into Alice Springs to visit Uluru, I would avoid these, half the fun is getting there!

60. Cuddle a Baby Kangaroo

I got to cuddle a joey on my tour of the Australian outback, and you should too! We visited Josephine’s Gallery and Kangaroo Orphanage in Cooper Pedy- they take in baby kangaroos from all over Southern Australia and raise them until they can be re-homed.

Most of these babies come to them when the mothers are killed on the roads, but the joeys survive in the pouch. They use cloth pouches to simulate the mother and bottle feed them. It’s such a treat to hold them and see what affectionate animals they are.

61. Visit Uluru

Uluru is a sacred sandstone formation in the middle of Australia. Aboriginals believe it was formed by ancestors in the Dreaming. Once called Ayer’s Rock, it was returned to its aboriginal name.

The Anangu people still hold ceremonies in caves at the base of Uluru, and only certain tribe members can climb the rock.

As a tourist, you can walk around the base of the rock and learn about its history and its place in aboriginal culture. It is a beautiful place, and its dominance over the surrounding flat landscape is awe-inspiring.

62. Climb the Harbour Bridge

Ready to climb high over Sydney? Climbing the Harbour Bridge gives you incredible views over Sydney Harbor, including the iconic Sydney Opera House. You clip onto the side of the bridge (so there’s no chance of falling).

It’s exhilarating and totally safe at the same time. I debated whether to spend the money to do this when I was in Sydney, and I’m so glad I did!

63. Dive the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on earth. While there have been worries about coral bleaching and many will say there are better, less touristed spots to dive, this is still definitely on our family bucket list for outdoor adventures!

Visit December-February for the warmest waters and best visibility, March-November is colder, but you are more likely to see large whales.

64. Sail the Whitsunday Islands

The Whitsunday Islands are 74 islands close to the Great Barrier Reef in Northeastern Australia. They are known for their tropical climate, white sand beaches, and great diving, kayaking, and snorkeling.

Whitehaven Beach is famous for its white silica sand. You can take a day cruise, charter a yacht, or settle in for a three-day cruise experience.

65. Relax in Fiji

Fiji has lots of resorts that cater to families- with pools, playgrounds, and kids’ clubs. Explore the boardwalks of Kula Eco Park, visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, or take a day trip to visit additional islands (Fiji has 333 of them).

The best time to visit is April through October. Fiji is located to the East of Australia, and North of New Zealand. It is about a four-hour flight from Australia’s East coast.

Family Travel Bucket List Africa:

We’ve visited Morocco as a family, but still have a lot of Africa to see together!

66. Visit the Egyptian Pyramids

Egypt is high on our family adventure bucket list! S recently became intrigued by the tombs and history of Ancient Egypt, so we’ve been reading a lot about it.

Start in Cairo, and visit the pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. Don’t miss the Egyptian Museum where King Tut lies. Visit Saqqara and the tombs and pyramids there.

Fly to Aswan and take a cruise down the Nile to Luxor in a traditional dahabiya or felucca. Visit the Kom Ombo temple (which we just read about in our Little Passports book) and the Crocodile Museum.

In Luxor, visit the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple. If you have time, head to the Red Sea to relax, or take a train from Luxor back to Cairo.

67. Scuba Dive in the Red Sea

The Red Sea is one of the best places in the world to scuba dive. The water is warm and clear, and wildlife is abundant.

Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Marsa Alam are three of the top spots to dive. There are healthy reefs and world-famous wrecks to dive. During the summer you may spot whale sharks and manta rays.

68. Find the Big Five on an African Safari

The Big Five you try to spot while on safari are: the African leopard, African lion, Cape buffalo, African elephant, and rhinoceros.

Tanzania is known for its game parks- the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are amazing. These more famous parks tend to be more expensive than some others, including Kruger in South Africa. You can also visit the Addo Elephant National Park which is in a malaria-free zone in South Africa.

Some parks allow for self-drive tours. If it is your first time on Safari, I’d advise against this. Our driver was instrumental in ensuring we had a fabulous safari experience. He started us with the smaller animals- on day one we were thrilled to see baboons, by the third day we probably would not have been so enthusiastic.

Our driver was also in contact with other drivers, so he could reroute us when a leopard was spotted in another section of the park.

69. Climb Kilimanjaro

I summited Kilimanjaro with a close friend in 2007- it was tough and incredibly rewarding. If your family is into long treks, this should definitely be on your family bucket list!

The glaciers at the top of Kili are slowly melting, so go as soon as you can! The official minimum age to climb is 10, but 12+ is probably a safer estimate.

70. Relax in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a beach resort destination off the coast of Tanzania with amazing sand beaches. You can also see giant tortoises that are nearly 200 years old on Changuu Island, a protected marine park known for its diving and snorkeling.

Zanzibar is a self-governing state in Tanzania- it consists of two big islands and many small ones. Zanzibar is sometimes called the Spice Islands because cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper grow there.

The old city of Stone Town is a pleasant maze and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The food in Zanzibar is a mix of Indian, Arab, Chinese, Portuguese, and African influences.

Zanzibar is mostly Muslim, so women dress modestly. At one point these islands were the center of the Arab slave trade, so you can visit a former slave market as well as the Mangapwani Caves which were used as holding pens.

To reach Zanzibar take a fast boat from Dar Es Salaam. The best time to visit is June-October.

71. Explore the Souks of Morocco

Morocco is a deluge of sounds and smells. The souks (markets) are fascinating mazes. I visited in 2002 and loved it. I was a little worried about being there on the first anniversary of September 11th but found the people incredibly warm. We visited as a family in 2022, and all enjoyed driving around the country seeing the deserts and the mountains.

Marrakesh and Fez are both “don’t-miss” cities, we created a 10-day Morocco itinerary that includes these as well as Chefchaouen (the blue city), and the beach town of Essaouira.

71. Sleep in a Bedouin Tent in the Desert

One of my favorite memories of visiting the dunes of Merzouga (the red sand dunes where The Mummy movies were filmed) was sleeping in a Bedouin tent in the desert.

We rode camels out to the dunes and had dinner around a campfire. After dinner our Berber guides tried to teach us some basic drumming skills, then we settled down to enjoy the quiet stillness of the desert.

Nowadays, most tents in the desert are rather luxurious- complete with electricity and flush toilets, but it’s still a fun experience.

72. See Lake Retba in Senegal

Lake Retba is called “Lac Rose” for its unusual pink color. The color is created by specific bacteria that are drawn to the salt in the lake. More than 60,000 metric tons of salt are hand-harvested from the lake each year and exported across Western Africa.

Less than an hour’s drive from Dakar, you can swim in the lake or take a rowboat out onto it. The best time to visit is November to June when the salt content is the highest.

73. Look for Gorillas in Uganda

Uganda has some of the last Mountain Gorillas on Earth- there are less than 1,000 left in the wild. The classic gorilla tour includes flying into Entebbe, then taking a jeep to visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest where you will trek in by foot to see the gorillas.

You have about an hour to observe the gorillas and are required to keep a distance of at least 7 meters from them.

Next, you’ll head to Queen Elizabeth National Park to see the traditional safari Big Five, then to Kibale Forest National Park to see chimpanzees and monkeys of various sorts.

The best times to visit are during the drier months of December to February or June to August. Book early, as permits to see the gorillas are limited. You can also do a Gorilla trek in Rwanda’s Parc National de Volcans.  Ages 16+.

74. Explore Tunisia

Tunisia offers a mix of Mediterranean and Arabic cultures. Explore the historic ruins of Carthage, then head to the enormous Colosseum at El Jem.

Venture into the Sahara desert to see where scenes from the planet Tatooine in Stars Wars were filmed. The planet in the movie was named after the nearby town of Tataouine. The underground house where Luke lived with his aunt and uncle is a hotel in Matmata- you can stay there. The best time to visit is October to May.

75. See Penguins in Capetown

Head to Boulder’s Beach in False Bay to see African penguins. Normally found in Southwestern Africa, a pair appeared here in the 1980s and bred. There are now over 2,000 penguins.

There are viewing platforms and boardwalks to let you safely watch the penguins in this protected area. You can also take a double kayak out to see the penguins from the water.

Book Now: Simon’s Town Penguin Kayak Paddle Tour

The penguins are most active between February and August. All ages for viewing, ages 5-8+ for kayaking depending on the company.

76. See the Namaqualand Desert Bloom

For a few weeks every year, the desert blooms- and is covered with flowers of all colors, including some flowers not seen elsewhere in the world. The peak of color is from early to late August depending on the year.

Start in Springbok, South Africa (about 5 1/2 hours north of Capetown), and head south, stopping at the Goegap Nature Reserve and Skilpad Wildflower Reserve. 

Stop in Niewoudtville where many local farms will open their gates for tourists. Next is Cedarberg and Clanwilliam. The Namaqualand Flower Route is popular, and the scarce accommodation fills up quickly. You may need to book up to a year ahead.

77. Visit Victoria Falls

David Livingston was the first Westerner to see this waterfall and named it after the British queen in 1855. Its native name is Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “the smoke that thunders”. It is almost a mile wide, and twice the height of Niagara Falls.

The falls form the border between Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, and Livingstone, Zambia. Whichever country you enter, get a UniVisa upon arrival, so that you can visit both sides of the falls in one day.

78. Relax on the Beaches of Mozambique

Mozambique sits between South Africa and Tanzania, with miles of secluded beaches along the Indian Ocean and great dive spots.

We’re hoping to take a few weeks to chill with friends in Vilanculos as part of our Family Year Out . Vilanculos made this list of the best beaches in Mozambique. The best time to visit is from May to November.

79. Explore Madagascar

The fourth-largest island in the world, Madagascar has so many indigenous species, that it’s sometimes called the “eighth continent”.

Madagascar has three UNESCO World Heritage sites and the only native population of lemurs remaining in the world. Stay in a treehouse, explore the rivers, and see the rock formations of the Petit Tsingy.

Learn about native Malagasy culture, see the giant baobab trees and take a night walk through the rainforest. The best time to visit is from May to October. Recommended for ages 8+.

Family Travel Bucket List North America:

We love road-tripping around the United States, enjoying wacky attractions like Meow Wolf in Santa Fe , or Trees of Mystery in the California Redwoods. Our kids still talk about visiting the Jelly Belly Experience (CA) and the Crayola Factory (PA).

We’ve also visited a lot of National Parks- from smaller parks like the Wright Brothers Memorial , Mammoth Cave , Great Sand Dunes (don’t miss tips for sand sledding ) and Craters of the Moon , to the larger, more famous parks of Glacier , Yellowstone , and Yosemite .

We also love exploring Canada and Mexico. We spent six weeks crossing Mexico, (check out tips for driving in Mexico ) including stops in Ensenada , Puerto Vallarta , the beautiful small town of Yelapa , and historic San Miguel de Allende .

80. Road Trip Across the USA

Whether it’s Route 66 with all its kitsch photo opportunities or circling the National Parks, the American Road Trip is a classic family adventure. Pack the cooler, get ready to sing songs, and eat motel breakfasts!

We took on an Epic 60+ day cross-country family road trip from Connecticut across to Los Angeles, and up to Santa Rosa, CA this summer. We saw friends, hiked in National Parks, and explored big and small towns along the way.

We embarked on a second road trip in the early fall through the American Northwest , followed by a road trip across the Mexican border into Baja Norte .

We got lots of family road trip tips to help you make the most of your road trip, from the best road trip snacks to road trip activities , to a complete list of road trip essentials .

81. Ride Horses on a Dude Ranch

I’d love to take my girls for a week at a dude ranch! Most of them assign you a horse for the week- you help to take care of it as well as ride it. There are campfires, s’mores and games for the kids, and relaxing time for the adults.

82. Visit the Famous National Parks of Utah

Utah has some amazing National Parks including Bryce, Zion, Arches, and Canyonlands. On our summer road trip, we stayed in Bryce Canyon , and hiked in Arches and Canyonlands from a base in Moab .

If you’ll be visiting three or more National Parks, be sure to get an American the Beautiful National Parks Pass. This annual pass grants you admission to National Parks, Monuments, and Preserves. The pass covers everyone in your car, or up to four adults, and means you can leave and re-enter the park easily.

Buy Now: Annual National Parks Pass

82. Climb the Statue of Liberty

Lady Liberty is a New York City icon. Take the ferry out to see her and climb all the way to her crown! The same ferry will take you to Ellis Island as well.

The crown of the statue was closed after September 11, 2001, for security purposes. There were plans to reopen it before 2020 closed the interior of the statue completely.

Check the official website for updates. You can find more details about visiting the Statue of Liberty in our Beginners Guide to New York City

83. Spend Autumn Leaf Peeping in New England

I grew up in New England, so the seasonal change of colors is easy to take for granted. If you haven’t visited to see the fall colors, you really must!

Peak viewing is usually late September in Northern Maine, and about mid-October in Connecticut. Use this Fall foliage map to see color predictions by state.

Leaf peeping can be combined with other fall activities such as Fall festivals, apple picking (and eating apple cider donuts), corn mazes, and hayrides.

84. Explore the National Mall, Washington D.C.

The National Mall in Washington D.C. is full of monuments, memorials, and museums, all free to the public. From seeing the original signed Declaration of Independence to Dorthy’s Slippers from The Wizard of Oz , there’s always more to see and do. Visiting Washington DC with kids is always a great idea!

When you’re in the area, don’t forget to visit Mt. Vernon , Washington’s family estate.

85. Visit New Orleans and Eat Beignets

New Orleans is known for its Mardi Gras parties (and those are lots of fun!) but there’s plenty for families to do as well. Wander the French Quarter and visit Jackson Square to hear musicians and see fortune-tellers.

Visit the Presbytère Museum to learn about Hurricane Katrina, and then see some Mardi Gras costumes and learn about the history of the celebration.

Make sure to stop for beignets- little square pastries covered in powdered sugar that resemble fried dough- at either Cafe du Monde or Café Beignet. 

Listen to some live jazz and try some Creole dishes like po’boys or gumbo. Ride a streetcar, take a steamboat cruise up the Mississippi, or an airboat swamp tour to look for alligators.

Check out the Artmazing Gallery – 13 selfie rooms, including one where money rains down on you!

You may also consider visiting the Whitney Plantation which focuses on the lives of the enslaved people on the plantation, it’s about an hour’s drive from New Orleans.

86. Watch a Rocket Launch at Kennedy Space Center

Watch a rocket launch from Cape Canaveral! Check the calendar, launches include unmanned rockets and SpaceX capsules headed to the International Space Station. Watch from the visitor center viewing area next to the Space Shuttle Atlantis.

The Kennedy Space Center has so much to offer! Visit their rocket garden to see real rockets, see the Astronaut Hall of Fame, and learn about the Apollo missions.

Step inside an astronaut training simulator to learn to pilot a space shuttle. Kids 10+ can opt for the full Astronaut Training Experience , which is a 4-5 hour program that includes simulated mars terrain.

87. Swim with Manatees in Florida

Crystal River, Florida, is the only place to legally swim with manatees. The water stays warm here all year round, so in the winter around 400 manatees migrate here, though you can visit them year-round. These endangered mammals each weigh about 1,000 pounds and are slow and gentle.

You can take a tour from Crystal River or a day trip from Orlando (about 90 minutes away) that includes manatees, lunch, an airboat ride, and a trip to Homosassa State Wildlife Park. Ages 3+.

Book Now: Manatee Tour from Orlando

88. Visit Cuba

I’d love to take a family trip to Cuba! It’s so close to the United States, yet we have been restricted from visiting for so long. The rich culture, colorful buildings, and beautiful beaches all sound enchanting.

I’d love to visit during the Havana Jazz Festival in December. Plan to explore Havana, stay in Casa Particulares (local homes), take a salsa class in Vinales, and relax on the beach in Trinidad.

Cuba is currently difficult for Americans to travel to, hopefully, these restrictions will loosen over the next few years. You’ll need a government permit to visit and a travel visa.

The easiest way to do this is through a tour company that can provide a Support the Cuban People travel license , though this can get expensive. Options include private tours with Global Family Travels , and group or private tours through Cuba Explorer .

Once you arrive your debit and credit cards won’t work, and you will probably need a local sim for your cellphone. Internet access may be limited. The best time to visit is December to May.

89. Visit the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a must-see. Plan to spend a few days exploring it. We are staying inside the park this summer so we can see the sunrise in the park and take a few hikes. We also took a helicopter ride over the canyon!

Update: We didn’t love it. In fact, we might skip the Grand Canyon on our next road trip!

90. Raft the Colorado River

An adventurous way to see another side of the Grand Canyon is to raft the Colorado River through the canyon. Plan for at least 3-4 days of rafting, and camping on the river’s edge at night. Ages 10+.

91. Visit Yellowstone Park

Old Faithful should be on every family’s outdoor travel bucket list! We wrote a 3-day guide to Yellowstone with kids . The famous geyser inside Yellowstone Park erupts around 20 times per day.

Visit Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States. You can view the spring from above from a viewing platform on the Fairy Falls trail.

Explore Yellowstone Canyon- take in the view from Artist’s Point then head out on Uncle Tom’s trail.

Don’t miss the Lamar Valley drive where you may see wild bison, deer, or bears. This drive can be combined with visiting Mammoth Hot Springs.

92. Explore Native American History

There are lots of places to explore various Native American cultures around the United States. These experiences help balance some of the European-biased histories we were taught in school.

On our cross-country road trip , we visited several places that largely focus on the colonial and settler experience- from stops at Colonial Williamsburg to the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead in Kansas. While both include the native experience to some extent, it is not their focus. We also learned about the Oregon Trail by visiting some of the stops along the trail.

To balance this with some of the native experience, we started the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington DC (which we don’t recommend for families). We then visited the Oconaluftee Indian Village in Cherokee, NC which is focused on the Cherokee people, which we highly recommend! The Cherokee Heritage Center in Tahlequah, OK also has a living history village (focused on 1710) and an exhibit on the Trail of Tears.

Explore Mesa Verde National Park (check out our tips for the best of Mesa Verde ) to learn about the Pueblo people. and Taos Pueblo to learn more about how the Taos people are combining modern life with ancient traditions.

93. Visit Disney

A Disney theme park visit should definitely be on every family’s travel bucket list! While I’m not one to visit Disney again and again (and we generally don’t include theme parks in our plans), Disney magic is pretty special. I’m excited to see the kid’s faces light up when we see some of their favorite characters!

We visited Disneyland in December of 2021. We spent one day in Disneyland and had a Park Hopper starting in California Adventure for the second day. At ages 4 and 7, our kids were the perfect age to soak up the wonder and loved seeing the characters, the parade, and the fireworks show.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Lulu . This hotel is an easy 10-minute walk from the parks, with a shuttle stop right outside the hotel. The rooms were cute and comfortable.

94. Kayak or Swim in a Bioluminescent Bay

We kayaked to a bioluminescent lagoon in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, it was amazing! There are beaches around the world that sometimes have bioluminescent plankton, but they can be unpredictable.

A Nomad’s Passport did a great post pulling together options around the world. All of these experiences take place after dark, so many are for ages 8+.

We were able to snorkel with bioluminescent plankton in Columbia, on the Rosario Islands .

95. Take an Alaskan Cruise

I’m not a cruise person generally, but an Alaskan cruise would be the exception! I’d love to take a cruise on a smaller boat and be able to kayak out to see the wildlife and spectacular scenery.

Our kids love watching PBS’s Molly of Denali , so we’re all excited to learn more about Alaska and its native traditions.

96. Swim with Manta Rays

Head to Kona on the Big Island, Hawaii to swim with manta rays. You’ll see the sunset from your boat, then snorkel alongside these magnificent creatures. You can also scuba dive with the rays.

You’ll have a float with a light shining down- the light attracts the plankton, and the manta rays then come to eat the plankton. These reef manta rays can grow up to 18 feet, on average the rays in Kona are about 12 feet.

Book Now: Swim with Manta Rays in Kona, Hawaii

Swimming with Manta rays is also available in the Maldives, the Galapagos, and the Great Barrier Reef. Often at those locations, you’ll see manta rays where they go to get their skin cleaned, rather than where they are feeding.

97. Drive the Road to Hana

The Road to Hana in Maui starts in Kahului and winds along 64 miles to the town on Hana. You’ll explore the rainforest, and see waterfalls, roadside stands, and other attractions including the seven sacred pools and a red-sand beach.

The drive is stunning. When I drove it we listened to audio commentary via cassette while we drove- now you can download Gypsy Guide to your phone before you leave. Take your time, stop along the way, and don’t rush! The journey is the destination in this case.

98. Snorkel with Sea Turtles

Watching a large sea turtle gently swim by is an amazing experience! I swam with them in Hanauma Bay , on Oahu. Hanauma Bay is within a volcanic cone and is a marine life conservation area. The Bay now limits visitors and is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays to give the wildlife a break.

You can also take a snorkeling tour to Turtle Canyons on Oahu or Turtle Town on Maui to snorkel with Green Sea Turtles in the open ocean.

Book Now: Maui Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkel Tour

You are most likely to see the turtles between 11 am and 2 pm. There are many beaches you can visit in Maui where you have a high chance of seeing sea turtles- including Slaughterhouse Beach, Black Rock Beach, and Maluaka Beach (Turtle Town). On Oahu try Laniakea Beach, Kahe Point, and Kaupo Bay.

99. See Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is often associated with the Great American Road Trip. You can visit either the American or Canadian side. From the American side, don’t miss the Cave of the Winds, and take the Maid of the Mist out to Bridal Falls. Ponchos are required of course.

From the Canadian side, take the Hornblower cruise out to the falls, ride the SkyWheel, or take a helicopter ride above the falls.

100. Practice your French in Montreal

Dust off your French language skills for a visit to charming Montreal! Stroll along the cobblestone streets of Vieux-Montreal while eating poutine.

Visit Mount Royal and take a paddleboat out onto Beaver Lake. Check out the botanical garden, the planetarium, or Voiles en Voiles- a pirate ship that houses ropes courses, rappelling, and aerial activities.

Have Barbie fans in your house? Don’t miss the free 5,000-square-foot Barbie Expo exhibit.

101. Explore Sunny Vancouver

Less than an hour from the US border, Vancouver is known for its sunny days and easy access to snow-capped mountains. Explore Stanley Park where you’ll find playgrounds and totems carved by native peoples.

Take a water taxi over to Granville Island for a great public market and a sprinkler park. Take the gondola up Grouse Mountain, or visit Victoria island to have high tea at the Fairmont Hotel.

102. See Polar Bears in Churchill

Head to Churchill, Manitoba to see polar bears in the wild. In October and November, the bears gather in groups, waiting for the “big freeze” so they can head out onto the ice for seal hunting.

Take a tour to see the bears in an all-terrain tundra vehicle, watch for arctic foxes and see the Northern lights. Ages 8+.

Travel Bucket List Central and South America:

I traveled overland through Central America in my 20s, then we spent over 5 months in South America as a family. We loved practicing our language skills and watching how the language and culture shifted from Colombia to Peru (don’t skip Lima ), to Argentina and Brazil (we wished we had longer in Sao Paulo ).

We also wrote travel tips for South America specifically for families- you’ll often find lines just for families when traveling here.

103. Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

In the 1400s Pachacuti built the citadel of Machu Picchu high in the (now Peruvian) Andes. A four or five-day hike brings you to the ruins of this city.

Plan to acclimatize for a few days in Cusco due to the 11,000-foot elevation. There are also fabulous day trips from Cusco to other areas of the Sacred Valley. If you have time, don’t miss Ollantaytambo as well.

Cusco will be the starting point for your Inca Trail hike. On day three you’ll be at over 13,000 feet before descending into Machu Picchu. The trail can be narrow and has steep steps. Best for ages 12+.

There is a one-day Inca Trail hike alternative that is more suitable for families with younger kids. You’ll still enter at the Sun Gate but without the strenuous multi-day hike.

Book Now: One Day Inca Trail for Families

104. Explore the Bolivian Salt Flats

Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat- covering more than 10 kilometers. These flats create a mirror effect reflecting the sky in the wet season (November to March), and a patterned effect in salt during the dry season (May to October).

The salt flats are at over 12,000 feet. They can be reached from the town of Uyuni, or on a tour from La Paz. Multi-day tours include seeing wild flamingos, hot springs, and colorful lakes.

105. Explore Patagonia

Trek through Las Glaciares National Park, stare in awe at the Perito Moreno Glacier, or even take a kayak up close to it (ages 14+).

See the emperor penguins in Tierra del Fuego National Park- the only place they live in the wild outside of Antarctica. This area on the very tip of Argentina is known as the “End of the World”.

Patagonia can be explored from Chile or from Argentina. Flying is often the easiest way to get around as there are large distances between cities.

106. Ride Horses in Mendoza

Mendoza is one of Argentina’s most famous wine regions, but it’s also home to grasslands, mountains, and the gaucho culture (cowboy culture). Take a horse ride across the hills and enjoy Asado (traditional barbeque) for lunch. Ages 6+.

107. Explore the Amazon Rainforest

Most of the Amazonian rainforest is within Brazil. After exploring Rio de Janeiro, head to Manaus, then take a boat to where the Rio Negro and the Rio Solimoes meet.

Dine at a floating restaurant, see lily pads as big as kids, then head out on a boat to cruise through the Amazon. You’ll see macaws, monkeys, piranhas, and more.

You can also explore the Amazon from Peru – either the Iquitos or Tambopata region. The high season is from December through March. Ages 8+.

108. Visit the Galapagos Islands 

A visit to the giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies of the Galapagos Islands is definitely high on our family adventure travel bucket list!

The Galapagos Islands are about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. You can choose to do a boat-based or land-based exploration of the islands.

The Galapagos can be expensive to get to, you can also visit Isla de la Plata “the poor man’s Galapagos” to see blue-footed boobies. Visit the Galapagos any time of year, ages 8+.

109. Watch Boats go Through the Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is a 50-mile feat of engineering that opened in 1914. You can visit easily from Panama City and watch a boat slowly move through the locks.

The Miraflores Locks is the best place to watch- there is a detailed explanation of the canal in the visitors center, then head to the viewing platform to watch the boats. Best for ages 12+.

110. See the Caño Cristales River in Columbia

The Caño Cristales River has been described as a “liquid rainbow”. During July, August, and September, a water plant blooms turning the river red, white, black, and yellow. Located in the Sierra de la Macarena National Park, accessible from the town of La Macarena.

Colombia has some fantastic family destinations, including Medellin , Guatape , Jardin , and Cartagena .

111. Swim with Stingrays in Belize

Head to Shark and Ray Alley to swim with nurse sharks and large stingrays. The animals are used to the idea that the boats bring food and will come quite close to snorkelers. Most tours leave from Caye Caulker in Belize.

You can also swim with stingrays in Grand Cayman- you’ll find large South Atlantic rays in an area dubbed Stingray City. Antigua also has opportunities to swim with Southern Rays. Ages 6+.

112. Visit the ATM Cave in Belize

The Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave is the most popular cave in Belize. This cave was a spiritual site for the Mayan people and was discovered by them around 300 AD. The cave was opened to the public in 1998.

Archeologists believe that human sacrifice took place in this cave, including the sacrifice of small children. Pottery, human remains, and other artifacts are still in the cave for viewing. No cameras are allowed in.

The journey to the cave involves a trek through the jungle, swimming, darkness, and scrambling over rocks. The cave is located about an hour’s drive from San Ignacio. At least ages 8+.

113. Experience Tango in Buenos Aries

Buenos Aires is the “Paris of South America”. Visit the colorful La Boca neighborhood to enjoy the street art and watch impromptu performances of the tango. Stop at a cafe to try some delicious alfajores.

While you are in La Boca, take a walking tour of the Boca Junior soccer stadium. Many restaurants offer a dinner and dance show where you can watch more tango.

We spent one month in Buenos Aires during our Family Gap Year . We loved our time there and would all love to go back.

114. Spy on Sloths in the Wild

Sloths generally hang out in lush tropical jungles, often sleeping high up in trees. Make sure not to touch them as this is very stressful for the animals!

Sloths can be found around Costa Rica- in the Arenal area try taking a guided walk of the private Bogarin Trail. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve also has sloths, though mostly nocturnal, so you’ll need to take a night walk. The Rincon de la Vieja National Park has sloths, though you may need a guided tour to spot them.

In Peru, visit Tambopata National Reserve and take a night walk through the jungle to spot sloths. Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve near Iquitos has brown-throated sloths, and you may also see pink river dolphins or jaguars!

We were lucky to spy a sloth in the wild while visiting the colorful, vibrant city of Cartagena .

115. Climb Temples in Tikal

Tikal absolutely took my breath away. Incredible temples are spread over acres of thick Guatemalan jungle. Monkeys scream from the trees and lemurs dance around your feet. Of all the ruins that I’ve visited across Central America, this is the one I’d most like to return to.

Tikal was a Mayan city that at one point housed up to 100,000 people. Only a fraction of the city has been excavated. You can climb the main temples, for a wonderful view across the jungle canopy. Most temples have narrow steps and no railing, so I’d advise at least age 8+ to get the most out of the site.

116. See Solstice at Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is a Mayan ruin on the plains of the Yucatan. Just a few hours drive from Cancun, It’s most famous for its main temple which acts as a calendar. On the yearly equinoxes, as the light hits the temple it looks like a serpent slowly descending the stairs of the temple. There is a light show each evening that recreates this phenomenon, but I’d love to see it in actuality!

Chichen Itza is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Go early in the day, as the heat can get intense, and shade is limited. The best time to visit is November to April.

117. Get Wet at Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls on the border of Brazil and Argentina is another one of the new “Seven Natural Wonders” of the world. It is actually made up of 275 separate waterfalls.

To visit from Brazil, fly from Rio de Janeiro to Foz do Iguacu. From there, you can visit the falls by either taking the Cataratas Hiking Trail to a boardwalk with views of the falls, or you can take a boat closer to the falls. You can opt for a “wet” or “dry” boat, depending on how close to the falls you’d like to get.

In Argentina, fly to Puerto Iguazu. On this side of the falls, there are more hiking trails with views of the falls. Take the green trail to the lower circuit trail- it has eight viewpoints and some places to stop and rest. Boat rides on the Argentine side are for 12+ only. A lot of visitors opt to visit both sides of the falls, crossing the border is pretty easy.

Family Travel Bucket List Antarctica:

We haven’t made it here yet, but we hear it’s amazing!

118. Explore Antactica

Head over the rough seas of Drake’s Passage to get to Antarctica! See waddling penguins, sunning seals, calving glaciers, and enormous icebergs.

The elusive Southern Lights can be seen year-round, though your best chance during the touring season is in March. Tours range from 10-20+ days in length. The summer months of December to March are the best time to visit. Best for ages 8+.

119. Step onto South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands

There are no residents of these islands, and they are claimed by both Britain and Argentina. The famous explorer Ernest Shackleton is buried here. These islands along with the Falkland islands are sometimes combined with Antarctica on longer cruises.

The South Georgia Islands have kelp forests and the largest colony of emperor penguins on earth. You’ll also see albatross penguins, king penguins, fur seals, and elephant seals. Ages 10+.

There You Have It: Family Travel Bucket List

I had so much fun putting together this ultimate family vacation bucket list- the more research I do, the more places I want to add to our family travel bucket list! I hope this helped you put together some family travel bucket list ideas for your next big adventure.

Did we miss any travel adventures that are on your family bucket list? We’re always willing to add new ideas or destinations!

Need advice about traveling with kids? Check out our best family travel tips and tips to stay safe when traveling.

Cynthia Matthews von Berg is the founder of Sharing the Wander. She is a passionate traveler, mom, and travel coach specializing in long-term travel and family travel. She and her family embarked on a Family Gap Year in 2021, and haven't looked back.

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Bucket List Family Reveals Hacks for Easier Traveling with Kids — Fighting Jet Lag, Packing and More (Exclusive)

Jessica and Garrett Gee, better known as "The Bucket List Family" are sharing their tips and tricks for family travel in a new book

The Bucket List Family/Instagram

The world of travel has become increasingly stressful over the years — and bringing along the kids can come with an extra layer of challenges.

Jessica and Garrett Gee, better known as " The Bucket List Family ," have become pros at family travel, jet-setting worldwide with their three young kids and hitting more than 90 countries after deciding to sell all their belongings and permanently hit the road in 2015.

Along with their three kids, Dorothy, 11, Manilla, 9, and Callahan, 6, the couple has traveled around the globe, explored new cultures, made memories as a family and learned how to successfully travel as a group, all of which Jessica discusses in her new book, Bucket List Family Travel , out now.

"Back in 2015, we were in a unique situation where my husband was finishing college and had an app and sold it to Snapchat. So all of a sudden we were these 28-year-old millionaires not really knowing what was next in life," Jessica tells PEOPLE. "I didn't know what I wanted for my future. So I was like, 'Let's do a little bit of traveling, see what's out there, experience the world.'"

"Those were the famous last words. That's when a little bit of traveling ended up as three years of full-time travel, almost to a hundred countries and a career out of traveling with our children."

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 

The pair, who tied the knot in 2009, took their first trip when their daughter Dorothy was almost 3 and son Manilla was 11 months. "We went to Fiji. It quickly became a favorite and I think maybe five times we've been back," says Garrett.

The family journeyed around the Pacific Southwest, visiting Tonga, then New Zealand and Australia. Eventually, they traveled around for three years before settling down in Hawaii in 2018, around the same time they welcomed their third baby, as Jessica and Garrett "wanted some consistency" for their kids.

"We wanted our kids to have friends. We wanted our kids to go to school. So we bought the house in 2018, moved in the fall of 2018 and we've been there ever since. Now they do go to school and every school holiday, every fall break, every spring break, every summer break, we're usually on the road," adds Jessica.

With tons of travel experience under their belt, the couple is offering other families some helpful parenting hacks to make for an easier vacation experience.

"My number one is just choosing your attitude. So much stuff can go on and travel days can be long and miserable and stressful. So the kids are going to feed off of you 100 percent," she tells PEOPLE. "Something we did, especially when the kids were younger, was we had these bedtime stories with the kids."

"We would tell the stories of our next adventure. So instead of, 'We're traveling across to Europe, it's going to be an 18-hour travel day and it's going to be long,' it was an adventure. 'We're getting on a magical airplane and we're going to go see these cool castles in England and do all this.' We just tried to make everything as magical as possible, so the travel itself was an adventure and not anything to be dreaded."

The mom of three also suggests getting the kids involved in their packing.

"Have them pack their own little backpacks. Have them choose their snacks or a little toy. Just getting them involved gets them super excited for the trip ahead and just more engaged," she recommends.

When it comes to dealing with jet lag, the couple has plenty of experience with combatting the issue and now has it down to a science.

"We have a really good system down, where anytime we travel to a new place, the day we arrive it's very important that no matter how tired we are we will not nap," Garrett explains.

"Because as soon as we take a nap, it's over. So we will not take a nap that first day and we'll stay awake until the sun goes down. That first day we'll do as much as we can outside so that your eyes literally see the sun go up, go across the sky, and set," he continues. "When your eyes see that, it just does wonders to reset your internal system. By that time, you're exhausted, so you quite often sleep through the night and then you wake up reset. So we're pretty good about the first 24 hours being able to hard reset no matter where we travel."

With that said, the couple still emphasizes the importance of giving your kids "a ton of grace." "Everyone's going to be a little tired and cranky that first day or two," adds Jessica.

Next up the family of five will be traveling on a National Geographic boat for 25 days to Antarctica, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and we're so excited," says Jess.

"As a family we all love wildlife and so a lot of our travels are based around what wildlife we can experience," adds Garrett. "We're very excited."

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The Ultimate Guide to Bucket List Family Travel with a Baby

Are you dreaming of travelling the world with your baby but unsure where to start? Travelling with a baby can be challenging, but it doesn’t mean giving up on your bucket list adventures. With proper planning and preparation, you can have a memorable and successful family trip with your little one. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to plan a bucket list family travel with a baby. From choosing a family-friendly destination to packing smartly, and staying healthy and safe, we’ve got you covered.

Ultimate Guide to Bucket List Family Travel with a Baby Learn how to plan for a successful bucket list family travel with a baby with this ultimate guide. – Discover factors to consider when choosing a baby-friendly destination, tips for planning a successful itinerary, and best modes of transportation for a family travel with a baby. – Get insights on essential items to pack for a baby during a family trip, advice on dealing with common challenges, and tips on taking great photos and videos to preserve your memories.

Travelling with a baby can be an enriching experience for the whole family. It’s a chance to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones and expose your baby to new cultures, sights, and sounds. However, planning a bucket list family travel with a baby requires more attention to detail and preparation.

As a mother who has travelled extensively with my baby, I understand the challenges and rewards of travelling with a little one. In this guide, I will share my personal experience, insights, and tips for planning and executing a successful bucket list family travel with a baby.

Choosing a Family-Friendly Destination

When choosing a destination for a bucket list family travel with a baby, several factors need to be considered. Firstly, you need to choose a destination that is family-friendly, with suitable facilities and amenities for babies and toddlers. You also need to consider the climate, the distance from home, and the ease of getting around the destination.

Some bucket list family-friendly destinations to consider include Paris, Bali, Cape Town, and Tokyo. Paris offers a mix of culture, history, and gastronomy, with plenty of baby-friendly attractions such as parks and museums. Bali is a tropical paradise with beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and baby-friendly activities such as swimming and hiking. Cape Town offers a unique blend of nature and urban life, with breathtaking scenery, outdoor activities, and baby-friendly attractions such as the aquarium. Tokyo is a vibrant city with a fascinating culture, delicious cuisine, and baby-friendly attractions such as the zoo and the theme parks.

When researching and selecting a destination, consider your family’s specific needs and preferences. Do you prefer adventure or relaxation? Are you looking for a city or beach destination? Will you be travelling during peak season or off-season? Make a list of your priorities and use them to narrow down your destination options.

Planning the Trip Itinerary

Planning a successful itinerary for a bucket list family travel with a baby requires careful consideration of your baby’s needs and preferences. It’s essential to balance adult and child-friendly activities and ensure that your baby has enough rest and downtime during the trip.

When planning your itinerary, focus on activities and attractions that are suitable for babies and toddlers, such as parks, museums, and aquariums. Choose activities that are not too physically demanding and can be easily adapted to your baby’s schedule. Consider scheduling nap time and feeding times into your itinerary and plan for breaks in between activities.

It’s also important to incorporate activities that adults will enjoy, such as local cuisine, cultural experiences, and historical sites. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust your itinerary depending on your baby’s mood and needs.

Transportation

The mode of transportation you choose for a bucket list family travel with a baby depends on several factors, such as the distance of your destination and your baby’s age and temperament. If flying, consider booking a direct flight to minimize travel time and reduce the chances of delays and cancellations. If driving, plan for frequent rest stops and breaks to ensure your baby’s comfort and safety.

When travelling with a baby on a plane, train, or car, ensure that you have all the necessary baby gear, such as a car seat, stroller, and carrier. Pack extra essentials, such as diapers, wipes, and formula, in case of delays or unexpected circumstances.

To ensure your baby’s comfort during travel, consider bringing a few familiar items from home, such as a favourite toy or blanket. You can also bring snacks and entertainment to keep your baby occupied during the trip.

Accommodation

Choosing the right accommodation for a bucket list family travel with a baby is crucial to ensure your baby’s comfort and safety. Look for family-friendly hotels and vacation rentals that offer baby-friendly amenities, such as cribs, high chairs, and baby gates. Consider the location and proximity to baby-friendly activities and attractions.

When selecting accommodation, ask about the availability of baby amenities and services, such as babysitting and daycare facilities. Ensure that the accommodation is safe and suitable for babies and toddlers, with no hazards or potential safety risks.

Packing for a Bucket List Family Travel with a Baby

Packing for a bucket list family travel with a baby requires careful planning and consideration of your baby’s needs and preferences. Pack essentials such as diapers, wipes, formula, and baby food. Pack extra clothes and blankets in case of spills or accidents.

To pack efficiently, consider using packing cubes or bags to separate items by category. This makes it easier to find what you need quickly and reduces the chances of overpacking. Consider packing items that make travelling with a baby easier, such as a baby carrier or a portable changing pad.

Tips for Travelling with a Baby

Travelling with a baby can be challenging, but with the right strategies and attitude, it can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips for travelling with babies and toddlers:

• Plan for breaks and downtime during the trip to ensure your baby’s comfort and happiness.
• Pack snacks and entertainment to keep your baby occupied during the trip.
• Be flexible and willing to adjust your itinerary depending on your baby’s needs and mood.
• Be prepared for common challenges such as feeding, sleeping, and changing diapers.
• Keep your baby’s safety and well-being in mind at all times.

Overcoming the Challenges of Travelling with a Baby

Travelling with a baby can be challenging, and it’s important to be prepared for the potential challenges that may arise. These challenges include jet lag, illness, and unexpected disruptions.

To overcome these challenges, it’s essential to plan and prepare accordingly. Research your destination’s climate and pack appropriate clothing and gear. Consult with your doctor before travelling and ensure that your baby is up-to-date on all vaccinations and medical check-ups. Bring a first-aid kit with essential items such as band-aids and fever medication.

Personal Story: Balancing Adult and Child-Friendly Activities

During our family trip to Hawaii, my husband and I wanted to visit the famous Pearl Harbor Memorial, but we were worried about bringing our six-month-old daughter along. We didn’t want to leave her with a babysitter, but we also didn’t want to subject her to a long and emotional tour.

After some research, we discovered that Pearl Harbor offers a “babes in arms” program for parents with infants. We were able to take turns visiting the memorial while the other stayed with our daughter in a comfortable lounge area. This allowed us to experience an important historical site while also making sure our baby was safe and happy.

We learned that balancing adult and child-friendly activities during a family trip requires some creativity and research, but it’s worth it to have a successful and enjoyable trip for everyone.

Capturing Memories

Documenting your bucket list family travel with a baby is a great way to preserve memories and share your experience with others. Here are some tips for capturing memories:

• Use a high-quality camera or smartphone to take photos and videos.
• Get creative with your photos by using different angles and perspectives.
• Take advantage of natural lighting to enhance your photos.
• Create a photo album or scrapbook to preserve your memories.

Pros and Cons of Bucket List Family Travel with a Baby

Like any travel, there are pros and cons to travelling with a baby. Here are some of the pros and cons of bucket list family travel with a baby:

While there are some challenges to bucket list family travel with a baby, the benefits of creating lasting memories and exposing your baby to new experiences make it a worthwhile adventure.

Is it safe to travel with a baby?

Yes, it is safe to travel with a baby as long as you take the necessary precautions and prepare accordingly. Consult with your doctor before travelling and ensure that your baby is up-to-date on all vaccinations and medical check-ups.

What should I pack for a bucket list family travel with a baby?

When packing for a bucket list family travel with a baby, pack essentials such as diapers, wipes, formula, and baby food. Pack extra clothes and blankets in case of spills or accidents. Consider packing items that make travelling with a baby easier, such as a baby carrier or a portable changing pad.

What are some bucket list family-friendly destinations to consider?

Some bucket list family-friendly destinations to consider include Paris, Bali, Cape Town, and Tokyo. When selecting a destination, consider your family’s specific needs and preferences.

How can I ensure my baby’s comfort during travel?

To ensure your baby’s comfort during travel, consider bringing a few familiar items from home, such as a favourite toy or blanket. Pack snacks and entertainment to keep your baby occupied during the trip. Plan for breaks and downtime during the trip to ensure your baby’s comfort and happiness.

• baby-friendly destinations
• family travel
• family-friendly accommodation
• travel itinerary
• travelling with a baby

Travelist Press

Unveiling the Best Travel Bucket List Books for Your Next Adventure

Clearwater, FL: A Must-Visit Destination for Your Bucket List Group Travel

How these parents travel the world with 3 kids

Jess and Garrett Gee are the creators of The Bucket List Family . The parents of three sold off their possessions in order to travel and experience the world with their young children. Here, mom Jess shares some insight into their journey and some tips on traveling with kids.

In 2015, we sold everything we owned and set off for what we thought would only be a few months of travel, but those few months turned into three years.

When we initially left, we created a short bucket list, which has now turned into a lifelong journey. We've swam with humpback whales in Tonga, had breakfast with giraffes in Kenya , slept in castles in Ireland and lived like locals.

MORE: The Bucket List Family shares top tips for traveling amid the pandemic

We quickly learned that a bucket list doesn't have to be a list at all, it's about living life with purpose, and recognizing that there are certain bucket list experiences to be had each and every day of your life. Whether that is around the world, in your own backyard or showing something you love to the ones you love. These experiences have made us brave, encouraged us to try new things we thought we would never do, and helped us to be more open-minded and open-hearted.

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In the last five years, Dorothy and Manilla have been to 83 countries, and baby Calihan has been to 37. About two years ago, we set up a home base in Hawaii and truly love where we live. The kids (and Garrett) surf every day and when the right travel opportunity arises, we are ready to pack our bags again!

We've got a few travel tips, whether you're traveling with your family or on your own. We often get asked how we've managed to travel full time with our children and there's a few things we've always kept in mind.

1. Remember how much kids feed off your energy.

If you are stressed, they will feel that stress. Travel days can easily become stressful, so we think it's super important to keep yourself in check for not just the kids, but yourself as well.

Try your best to enjoy every step of the journey.

2. Tell bedtime stories

We also do something really fun the night before we travel where we tell the kids bedtime stories about what to expect and what to get excited about.

We find saying things like, "We're going on a magical plane with snacks and movies, and it's taking us to a magical destination" gets them really excited.

3. Lighten your load

Another big one is how we pack. Pack light! You can buy diapers, wipes and formula everywhere, and most hotels will set up a crib or car seat for you as long as you ask in advance.

4. Keep COVID in mind

As the world is preparing to travel post-pandemic, we recommend knowing the hotel cancellation policy ahead of time. Most destinations are transparent about their rebooking policy, but with COVID-19, best to double check.

MORE: Suite of the week: Beachfront in Mexico at Banyan Tree Mayakoba

This year especially, we will be booking places that have as few people as possible, whether that be a rental home, RV, maybe a campsite, etc.

And of course, follow the COVID testing policies wherever you're going and for when you go back home, which will make everything easier.

In figuring out where to eat or what to do, most tourism boards or resorts are on social media, so we'll check out their pages ahead of time and bookmark what interests us. We absolutely love to support local businesses, so we'll usually try to find a bed and breakfast, restaurant or activity that's really important to the community.

MORE: Here are 11 places travelers hope to go in 2021

At the end of the day, we do our best to stay present and grateful that we're able to travel together as a family, and experience a new culture and adventure.

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Family Travel Bucket List: 50 ideas for the best family adventures

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Who doesn’t like a bucket list? I’m guilty! Can’t resist reading a “list of things to do before I die”! And since we travel with our kids, I absolutely wanted to have our own family travel bucket list !

We took the time to sit together and listen to each other’s ultimate bucket list ideas. And we came up with our top 50 family adventures . Trips and experiences we want to do with our kids before they grow up. These are just a part of all our ideas, but we have to start somewhere!

Some ideas might be easy to fulfil, others are far more out of reach. But one step at a time, I am convinced we will achieve (almost) all the items on our family travel bucket list!

The list will be updated constantly. Every time we can check an item on our list, we’ll add a picture and link to our family adventure article.

Some amazing travel ideas with kids we forgot? Feel free to leave us a comment and maybe we can add it to our family travel bucket list!

Table of Contents

Our Family Travel Bucket List

1. watch an erupting volcano in guatemala or hawaii, 2. swim with whales in tonga, 3. explore uluru in australia and learn about the aboriginals.

In 2018, we did a road trip for 3 months in Australia . During our epic journey through the outback on the Stuart Highway from Darwin to Adelaide, we stopped for 3 days at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Read more: Stuart Highway: an epic outback adventure

Everything about this place exceeded our expectations! There is something special about the area. If you come here, take your time to explore the area. Do the base walk, learn about the indigenous culture, indulge yourself in the magic, …

Uluru certainly deserves its place on any family travel bucket list!

Read more: Travel Diary: Stuart Highway and Uluru

Check different tours and activities around Uluru here.

4. Buy a converted bus and road trip from Alaska to Mexico

5. see the northern light, 6. visit the faroe islands, 7. road trip with an original kombi campervan, 8. take one of the great railways, such as the transmongolien express, the amtrak railway across the usa or the old ghan railway, 9. visit jerusalem.

During our second visit to Israel in 2017, we had the chance to explore Jerusalem. It was everything we hoped for!

Jerusalem breaths history and religion and the kids learned a lot on the subject. But we also enjoyed the vibrant streets, colourful markets and lovely restaurants and bars.

Check different tours and activities in Jerusalem here.

10. Stay at Giraffe Manor

11. experience dia de los muertos in mexico, 12. learn how to surf.

During our stay in Australia in 2018, we got our first surfing experience. It had been on our list for a long time and finally, we got the chance to try it out, at Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast of Australia, of all places!

Together with Go Ride a Wave we took a beginners family surfing lesson. Boy did we have fun! If you have never done this, we can highly recommend it! Should be on every family travel bucket list!

Read more: Our first family surfing lesson with Go Ride a Wave

13. Explore Yellowstone National Park

14. visit machu picchu in peru, 15. travel through italy with an original vespa, 16. island hop between the greek islands, 17. take a cruise to an exotic location, 18. volunteer as a family at a wildlife conservation centre, 19. go camel trekking in the sahara and spend the night under the stars with the berbers in the desert., 20. sail to the galapagos islands and discover the wildlife, 21. spend a night in an overwater bungalow in an exotic location such as the maldives, fiji or bora bora, 22. watch gorillas in their natural habitat, 23. spot wildlife in borneo.

In 2018, we visited Malaysian Borneo and spotted lots of wildlife in Bako National Park and during our 3D/2N Kinabatangan River experience . We spotted the orangutan, proboscis monkey, saltwater crocodile and many more!

The kids absolutely love this family adventure. We can highly recommend Borneo with kids for your next family trip!

Read more: other articles about Malaysia and Borneo

Check different tours and activities in Borneo here.

24. Road trip through Iceland

25. visit the great wall near beijing, 26. do a horse trekking in mongolia, 27. trek to the mount everest base camp and stay overnight, 28. explore the temples of angkor in cambodia.

In 2008, we already visited Angkor as a couple. The kids, however, didn’t have the chance to see these amazing temples. So we definitely want to go back.

29. See the Taj Mahal by sunset

30. discover the amazon rainforest, 31. float in the dead sea.

Friends of ours lived in Israel for a few years, and we got to visit them two times. During both our trips, we drove to the Dead Sea to explore this strange environment.

Floating in the Dead Sea is a special experience, it deserves its spot on this family travel bucket list. The mud baths afterwards were lots of fun as well.

I have to be honest though, you have to be careful with young kids. They can’t have the water in their eyes and if they have any little wounds, that will hurt!

Our youngest had a lot of mosquito bites (scratched open) and these bites started to hurt a lot when she entered the salty water. But in the end, she did have a lot of fun! So if you have the chance, definitely come over here!

Check different tours and activities around the Dead Sea here.

32. Visit Tibet

33. stay on a ranch in the usa or australia, 34. dive the great barrier reef, 35. drive from chicago to la alongside the old route 66, or what’s left of it..

Route 66 can’t be missed on any travel bucket list. We didn’t drive all the way down from Chicago to LA, but we did do a part of the legendary Route 66 with our 11-month old daughter in 2011.

The part we did was promising, so we’ll have to come back with our daughters to do the whole route.

36. Visit New England in the fall

37. visit harry potter at universal studios, 38. see the cherry blossoms in japan, 39. do a family safari in africa, 40. road trip through australia with our own 4wd with rooftop tent or bus.

Going to Australia had been a dream for quite a while. Doing so with our own jeep or bus even more! So when we landed in Darwin in 2018, ready for a 3-month road trip, we were very excited to buy our own jeep with a rooftop tent.

Although it didn’t all go according to plan (we had a car break down and were stuck for three weeks in Katherine ), we loved our time in Australia and can’t wait to go back to Australia. This time we want to buy ourselves a Toyota Coaster and explore Western Australia and the tropical North End. To be continued…

Read more: All of our articles about Australia

41. Visit Lapland during Christmas or wintertime

42. explore antarctica, 43. experience dog sledding in one of the scandinavian countries, iceland or alaska, 44. travel along the silk road through uzbekistan and kazachstan, 45. do a road trip through new zealand.

New Zealand is about as far as we can go from our home country Belgium and had been on our family travel bucket list for a long time. So we were very happy to explore the North and South Island of New Zealand for 5 weeks in total in 2019.

It has been one of our most interesting and amazing trips ever! On the South Island, nature is simply breathtaking. On the North Island, we learned a lot about volcanos, thermal activity and geysers. And of course, we tried to find a Kiwi!

Read more: Our articles about New Zealand

46. Take a cruise through Halong Bay in Vietnam

47. rent our own island for a couple of days, 48. fly a hot air balloon through cappadocia in turkey or bagan in myanmar, 49. walk on salar de uyuni in bolivia, 50. island hop in hawaii.

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7 Continents, 40 Countries. Our 10-Year Family Travel Bucket List

• Post author By Melissa
• Post date October 16, 2023
• 15 Comments on 7 Continents, 40 Countries. Our 10-Year Family Travel Bucket List

Traveling with kids takes a lot more planning than traveling solo or even traveling as a couple . Beyond just the additional effort that goes into packing for a baby or toddler , there is so much more research that also goes into planning family trips. It’s always good to know what cultural differences to expect and what comforts from home you may not have abroad . Gone are the days of booking plane tickets on a whim and jetting off to a new country without an itinerary written out, a hotel booked, or an idea of what we’ll do once we’re there.

Nowadays, we have a 10-year travel plan . (What can I say, I like to be prepared.) That 10-year plan is basically our family travel bucket list, and it’s something I recommend all families who are interested in traveling sit down and make.

What is a family travel bucket list?

Our family travel bucket list is basically a 10-year calendar of places we plan to visit each year. Knowing in advance where we may go, helps us to budget accordingly, research destinations in advance, and find awesome flight and hotel deals.

Our 10-year travel plan started one pre-kid night while in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. While having a beer or two, my now-husband and I put pen to bar napkin and literally wrote down every country we hoped to visit over the next decade.

It was a fun conversation. We started by making a list of the countries we each wanted to visit the most and divided the countries out by year. By the end of the night, and a few beers later, we had made a semi-realistic calendar of places we hope to visit. It was the beginning of our family travel bucket list.

Periodically, we discuss our travel plan and review all of the places we plan to go in the future. Sometimes a destination that may not have originally been on our radar may suddenly interest us, and we adjust our travel plan to fit it in.

Of course, the list isn’t set in stone. It’s constantly changing based on various factors. For example, we were supposed to go to Colombia one summer, but instead headed to Belize and Guatemala .

We changed our plans simply because we found a great deal on airfare to Belize City. Airfare to Colombia was higher than we wanted to pay that summer, so we postponed the trip by a couple of years. We did finally make it to Colombia, and had a blast in Cartagena , but we waited until we found a good deal that fit our schedule.

How to make a 10-year family travel plan

Before you sit down to make a travel plan, you need to consider a few things.

Time constraints

First, you need to think about how much time you have off from your job each year. This includes vacation days as well as your normal scheduled days off each year. You probably have more time off to travel than you realize if you can take shorter trips and combine holidays and weekends with vacation days.

Work and school commitments

You also need to consider the various times of year when you can and cannot travel. Depending on your career, there may be some times of year when traveling isn’t feasible. For example, we don’t travel in spring because my husband’s career and position does not really allow for it.

Families with children in school often need to make a travel plan that works around their child’s school calendar. If your kids are in school, it would also be beneficial to plan your destinations around the things your children may be learning in school to coincide with their curriculum.

Finally, when making a family travel plan you need to consider your travel budget. How much can you realistically afford to travel while still being able to pay bills and save for the future? If you are fortunate enough to work remotely, you also need to consider whether you will have the necessary connectivity to work during your trips if needed.

How we laid out our 10 year family travel plan

Each year, we usually take at least two international trips… One in North or South America, and one in Europe, Asia or Oceania.  (I also like balance if you can’t tell.) This has been our plan since we first got married in 2012.

The only year we modified that plan was 2015 when our daughter was born. That year, sleep deprivation and a major life change got the best of us. While we still went abroad twice during her first year of life, we stuck to countries closer to home. Because, let’s face it, flying with a baby is tough.

Typically, we also try to balance out a more expensive destination with a budget-friendly one each year. For example, on a year that includes a trip to the pricier European region of Scandinavia , our second international trip might be to somewhere easier on the pocketbook like Mexico .

Our 10-year travel plan not only gives us trips to look forward to but it gives us a rough idea of how much money we need to save for upcoming adventures. We keep an eye on airfare to specific destinations. And the minute prices drops, we often buy before they go back up.

So what is on our family travel bucket list?

We have a family travel goal of visiting all 7 continents before our daughter turns ten. There are approximately 40 countries on our family travel bucket list for the next ten years. As each year passes, we build on the list and add new destinations. Here’s a look at our 10-year family travel bucket list.

2015 (Our daughter’s birth year)

USA trips (our home country) Costa Rica Canada

Canada (again – we love it!) Belize Guatemala Germany Czech Republic Austria Slovakia Poland

China Japan Mexico

Colombia Panama Denmark Sweden Norway

Iceland Spain Portugal Morocco

*** 2020 sucked! We made it to none of these countries, thanks to a pandemic that kept the whole world home.*** Australia New Zealand Aruba Bonaire

*** 2021 also sucked! These countries are also on hold for another year.*** Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Peru

Slovenia United Kingdom Netherlands Belgium Luxembourg

Singapore Thailand Hong Kong

Argentina Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda

South Africa Zimbabwe Cuba

In addition to our international trips, we also travel domestically numerous times a year. Those trips are more spontaneous and typically less expensive, therefore we don’t have any domestic trips on our family travel plan. While this list will inevitably change, having a family travel bucket list allows us to budget, plan accordingly, monitor deals, and get our daughter excited about new upcoming destinations.

For other families who travel frequently, do you have one of these weird lists planning out the next 10 years of your life? And if you’ve had a family travel bucket list for awhile, how closely have you stuck to it and what is on it?

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15 comments on “7 Continents, 40 Countries. Our 10-Year Family Travel Bucket List”

This sounds just like me & my husband ? I thought I was the only one who planned so far in advance! So jealous of your upcoming trips 🙂

Haha! I’m glad we aren’t the only ones. For some reason, I felt like if we actually wrote it down it would be more likely to happen. And so far, it has worked.

This is great – I am not nearly as organized! Like everyone though I do have a bucket list – two places we really want to take our kids to soon are Spain and Japan. Hoping for next summer.

Both of those countries are on our bucket list/travel plan too. We are hoping to see both Japan and China next summer, but I’m not sure it’s feasible with only two weeks. I won’t truly know until I start planning the trip, which I won’t start doing until this time next year.

I don’t have ten years planned in advance, more like two 🙂 but I do also have a list of all of the countries I want to visit!

So where do you want to go in the next two years? Anywhere exciting? Happy travels!

This Summer, we are taking our 7 year old to The Philippines (where my husband’s family is from), on road trips to Maine & Pennsylvania, and I’m doing a girls’ trip to Peru. In October, DC.

In two years I want to try for another baby so I want to go to Australia, New Zealand, and France first! So much to look forward to, but those ones aren’t booked just yet. I never feel like I’m going anywhere until I’ve got tickets 😉

Wow! That all sounds amazing! I’ve never been to the Philippines, but I’ve heard it is beautiful. (It’s on my 10 year plan… so is Peru.. and Australia… and New Zealand.) 😉

The Philippines is amazing! We went to several islands as a part of our honeymoon (also, Japan) and it was gorgeous (just not Manila, so much). I can’t wait to go back again and see more of the islands. Especially showing my son the culture this time.

I had a kind of 6 years travel plan and I have done some of the places from that list but I’ve also done others. As you said, airline tickets and other life things can change plans:)

What’s on your list in the next six years? I love hearing about other’s travel plans.

I don’t have a new plan right now. But NYC is on my list definitely, Ireland and Amsterdam too:) and Germany asap!

Ireland is amazing! We did a road trip across Ireland a couple of years ago. Happy travels!

You will not be surprised to learn that I am all about the long term travel planning. Next year we’re going skiing for the first time (New Mexcio) and actually plan to take 2018 “off” in an attempt to save money and vacation days for Baby #2. Since we stick to 1 big trip per year, the 2018/2019 plan is Hawaii, and for the unassigned years, we have Germany/Swizerland/Austria/Czech Republic as one trip, an island that starts with St. (Croix, John, Kitt, Maarten, Tropez…you catch my drift), Costa Rica and Alaska on the agenda 🙂

I am not surprised at all by this! And both Hawaii and your next Europe trip sound amazing! I really, really need to put Hawaii on the list. It’s such a long flight though that I always find myself thinking “if I’m going to be in a plane that long I might as well get a passport stamp”… So we end up in Europe instead. 🙂

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Tips for traveling with kids from parents who've been on the road for 1 1/2 years

If you think packing up the minivan for a weekend at grandma’s is overwhelming, try prepping for 1 1/2 years on the road. Jessica and Garrett Gee have been traveling with their two kids , Dorothy, 4, and Manilla, 2, since August 2015.

After Garrett sold Scan Inc., an app he co-founded, to Snapchat for $54 million in 2014, he and wife Jessica decided to invest their earnings, sell most of their worldly possessions and travel the world using the money they made — roughly $45,000 — from their giant garage sale.

The family chronicles their adventures on the Bucket List Family blog, as well as on Instagram and YouTube , including diving with seals in Australia, swimming with the pigs in the Bahamas and surfing in Fiji.

The Gees are also committed to philanthropic work. Inspired by prayer flags in Nepal, they designed “ adventure bands ” that can be used as a scarf, headband or armband, and sell them through their website to raise money to build a school in the landlocked Himalayan country in South Asia. The first batch of bands sold out within three hours, raising $10,000.

RELATED: After getting laid off, man asks friends to send him anywhere in the world

In addition to supporting charities, they take nominations from their community and surprise other families with travel experiences. “We’ll be surprising a family to join us in Bali, where we’re volunteering at an orphanage,” Garrett, 28, said. “It’s this community effort to pick a family and send them somewhere incredible.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/BQijcXrABq5

Here’s a look at what they’ve learned and how they’ve handled the logistics of long-term travel with kids.

1. Kids don’t need that much stuff.

Jessica, 30, says she made the mistake early in their travels of packing everything they might need, including a double stroller and extra clothes and towels. They’ve since pared down. The family still carries a small travel stroller that folds down and fits in the overhead compartment, but for most other things they’ll buy or rent it once they get there. They don’t travel with a car seat, because island destinations don’t involve much driving. When they fly to Europe and rent a car, they’ll also rent a car seat. “Everything else, like diapers, we buy those wherever we go because people have kids everywhere,” Garrett said.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKtf5LnghXB

RELATED: Here are the best and worst airlines for handling luggage

The Gees also don’t carry heavy jackets or warm weather clothing; when they travel somewhere cold, they’ll immediately buy jackets on arrival and stay in that climate for several months, or buy lighter items for balmier destinations. (Additionally, they'll gradually worked their way around the globe in short flights instead of making huge jumps to lessen the impact of jet lag.)

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCrH6jFRBB3

As for the kids’ toys, the Gees have a family rule that the kids pack and carry their own backpacks with toys. “If the backpack is too heavy and they don’t want to carry it, they have too many toys,” Garrett said. Jessica says Dorothy has actually thrived with fewer toys. “It mostly just means she is spending more time outside playing in the water or collecting sea shells or finding little bugs or animals,” she added.

RELATED: 40 must-see places to take your kids before they're grown

2. You don’t need a fancy cellphone plan.

When the Gees first hit the road, they agreed to a tight travel budget. They decided to stick to living off the proceeds from their big garage sale, and not touch their savings or the money earned from the sale of Garrett's company. If they ran out of money, the couple would stop their journey. But they now make enough money as a traveling family, working with brands and companies through their social media accounts, to extend their travels.

One expense that had to go? International cellphone plans. Instead, the Gees use their iPhones when they have access to Wi-Fi. The couple say this budget cut has had an unexpected benefit: feeling more balanced and present with the family. “When we were out of the house, we didn't ever use our phones because they didn't work,” said Jessica. “So we would spend the majority of the day disconnected from phones and enjoying our family adventures, conversations, and you know, old-fashioned good stuff.” When they’re on Wi-Fi at a hotel or temporary rental, they stay in touch with friends and family members using Skype, Facetime or Google Hangouts.

RELATED: Here are the 10 best hotels for families — and those on a budget

https://www.instagram.com/p/BGJ4knwRBNQ

3. Other countries have decent (and affordable) medical care.

The only recurring bill the Gees have is medical travel insurance in case someone gets sick or injured. They take care of routine doctor and dentist visits when they return to the U.S. at Christmastime, but both children have had emergency room visits for stitches on the road.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BNwjsf4gGPa

Dorothy slipped in the shower and split open her chin in Thailand, and Manilla needed stitches in Nepal . Even in a more remote area of Nepal, Garrett says the kids were in good hands, and the cost of the ER visit wasn’t hard on their wallets. “Both of those emergency room trips ended up costing around $200,” he said. “I’m not even sure we tapped our insurance for that.”

RELATED: The 14 most annoying things people do on a plane

4. Kids are remarkably adaptable.

Garrett says their kids have enjoyed trying new foods and exploring new cultures. “One of my favorite things as a parent is to see this effect that traveling has had on our kids,” he said. “I think kids are just going to grow accustomed to their surroundings. If you let them be high maintenance, they’ll be high maintenance.”

Without the option of Cheerios or Lucky Charms, the kids have tried new dishes like udon noodles in Kyoto and fried bananas in Thailand. “We have a family rule that if there’s something new, you always have to try it,” Garrett said. “You don’t have to finish it but you have to try at least one bite. Almost always they’ll try one bite and like it.” (Squid and caviar were another story.)

https://www.instagram.com/p/BQV4vvHAKwR

Garrett remembers a run-down hotel in Nepal that was a little outside the parents’ comfort zone. “We were killing cockroaches, but (Dorothy) said it was her favorite because she’d never been in a shower where she got to squeegee the water,” he said.

“In a funny way,” added Jessica, “the kids have probably adapted easier than us parents!”

23 Bucket List Trips for Families Who Love the Outdoors

Are you looking for the perfect bucket list trips for your family?

I get it! As an adventure family, our family adventure bucket list keeps getting longer and longer.

There are so many amazing places to discover around the world that it can be hard to decide where to go. The more I plan trips, the more I want to go explore the entire world with my kids.

Having a bucket list for family trips helps plan future adventures, but it’s also perfect for daydreaming.

It’s why, with the help of other traveling families, we’ve listed amazing family adventures for your bucket list.

So, let’s start dreaming with some family travel bucket list ideas around the world.

Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links . If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost . Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you .

USA Family Vacation Bucket List Trips

Below is the family bucket list of some of the best USA family vacations to add to your bucket list. From swimming with stingrays to discovering national parks and road-tripping across the Western USA , your family will love the following ideas.

If you are looking for unique outdoor family adventures in the USA, check out our article here .

 1. Swim With Stingrays in Grand Cayman

Suggested by Chantelle Kincy from Flannels or Flip Flops

Stingray City is a sandbar located 25 miles off the coast of Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands. The water is only 2-4 feet deep, so even non-swimmers can enjoy this activity.  

Throughout the years, fishermen would stop at this sandbar to clean their catch before heading home.  The local stingrays would then come to eat the scraps of food.  They grew accustomed to this routine, and now about 50 stingrays make Stingray City their permanent home.  Others come and go as well, so numbers can fluctuate.  

The stingrays that make their home in Stingray City can be up to 6 feet wide! They are silky smooth and like to rub against you.  They do not have teeth but instead have a mouth that sucks food in. You can put food in your hands or between your toes, and they will glide over you and suck it out.  

There is a multitude of tours that leave Grand Cayman and head out to Stingray City. It makes an excellent stop as a cruise excursion. Most tours include the boat ride out to the sandbar and then a lesson on the stingrays and the ability to get in the water and interact with them.

Some tours also include snorkeling to go see starfish .

You can interact as much as you like. We had fun holding them and petting them, as well as feeding them.  If you don’t want to touch them, the Cayman waters are crystal clear, so you can enjoy watching them from the boat!  Stingray City is a must for all family bucket lists!

Kids and adults of all ages will love this experience!

2. Hike the Antelope Canyon, Arizona, USA

Suggested by Karee from Our Woven Journey

Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona, is easily one of the most fascinating places to see in America! There are almost 1,000 slot canyons in the United States, which is one of the most famous. However, many Americans have never even heard of it, much less visited it.

Located in Navajo territory, anyone wanting to visit either Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon or Canyon X will need to book a guided tour:

• Guided tour of Lower Antelope Canyon
• Guided tour of Upper Antelope Canyon
• Guided tour of Antelope Canyon X

Exploring the canyons on your own isn’t allowed. However, the tour guides are very knowledgeable and share many facts about the area and its history that is worth paying to take the tour. 

When traveling with children, you’ll want to check recommendations before deciding which one is right for your family. If your little one isn’t walking yet, you’ll need to carry them the entire length of the canyon. The Lower Canyon also has some pretty steep stairs that younger children may not be ready for.

Also, remember that selfie sticks, tripods, and backpacks aren’t allowed on tour, but there are tours available just for photographers. 

Right now is a great time to plan outdoor vacations , and while you’re planning your trip, be sure to make time to see Horseshoe Bend. It’s only seven miles away, and although it’s very different from Antelope Canyon, it’s another amazing Arizona landmark you’ll want to see!

3. Explore the Underrated Museums in St. Louis, Missouri, USA

Suggested by Rebecca from Whatever Packs Your Bag

St. Louis, Missouri, is a great budget-friendly family destination. All the Museums in St. Louis are FREE (well, not all, but a huge majority of them). The St. Louis Science Center is amazing, especially for younger kids, ages 4-10, who will love this experience.

They have amazing rotating exhibits, and for a small fee ($14 for both) you can see a movie in the Omnimax theater and experience an amazing trip through space in the Planetarium.

The Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful gardens in the world. There are smaller gardens throughout that are inspired by gardening styles from all over the world. The Japanese Garden and the Koi Fish Feeding Bridge are must-see hits. There is something so tranquil about it. There is also an Asian Lantern Festival every year, and if you can go and see the beautiful lanterns, it’s a must-see hit for sure.

The Saint Louis Art Museum (SLAM) is another must. They have the most remarkable Egyptian Wing with a real sarcophagus! The kids will love these Egyptian treasures.

The Iconic St. Louis Arch is big, historic, and super fun to take pictures of. They have revamped the entire park surrounding the Arch, so if you haven’t been in the last 5+ years, then you are in for a treat. The line to get into the Arch can be very long and inside can be a little claustrophobic.

There are Steamboats that run along the Mississippi River, and the kids loved them. This is an extra cost, but it was worth it for the opportunity to sit down and relax a bit while still having a beautiful view.

The last must-see is Ted Drewes custard. It is a St. Louis institution and gives the kids something to look forward to after a long day.

4. Hike around Sedona, Arizona, USA

Suggested by Brittany from Travel By Brit

Hiking in Sedona, Arizona, is an unforgettable, scenic family travel bucket list experience, especially for families with adventurous preteens or teenagers. 

Sedona has tons of hikes through the beautiful red rocks and Oak Creek Canyon to ensure all skill levels can participate: 

• West Fork Trail is an easy, 7.2-mile hike where you’ll cross a river several times to end up in a large, breathtaking canyon.
• Devil’s Bridge is an iconic, 4.2-mile hike that’s moderately difficult and perfect for a photo!
• Cathedral Rock is a strenuous, 1.2-mile climb where you’re met with stunning views of the Sedona skyline after gaining nearly 750 feet in elevation. 

After hiking, there are plenty of things to do in Sedona to fill your vacation. Take a swim at Slide Rock State Park, go on a Pink Jeep Tour, shop at Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, and grab some authentic Mexican food in Uptown Sedona. 

And while you’re in Arizona, don’t miss the chance to visit The Grand Canyon. It’s a two-hour drive from Sedona, and you’ll find plenty more hikes to experience while you’re there!

5. Visit the Iconic Statue of Liberty in New York City, New York, USA

Suggested by Daphna from A Tiny Trip

Visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in New York City is one of the quintessential American experiences and should be on every family travel bucket list. The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of freedom and one of the most famous monuments in the United States.

To get to Liberty Island and Ellis Island, you’ll need to take the ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Expect to arrive early and wait in line, as there is thorough airport-like security. Plan to purchase tickets ahead of time if traveling during a busy season. Note that all cruises go to both islands.

You can also book a tour from Pier 36 .

Visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with kids is a great family activity, as you can enjoy the ferry rides and explore the islands. However, note that the exhibitions are not geared toward small children. Ellis Island, in particular, is best suited for ages 8 and over. Older children will appreciate being able to read about the history of immigration in America.

Combine your visit to Liberty Island with all the other fun things there are to do in New York City! Check out museums, restaurants, shows, and more in one of the most exciting cities in the world!

Some of the best attractions for families in New York City include:

• Visiting to Empire State Building (and skipping the line)
• The Lion King Broadway Tickets
• Top of the Rock Observation Desk
• American Dream SEA LIFE Aquarium

6. Do a Road Trip across Colorado, USA

Suggested by Meg from Fox in the Fores

Road-tripping Colorado is a magical experience at any age, but even more so if you do it with kids! There are so many beautiful Colorado road trip stops that are kid-friendly that you could spend an entire month hitting up the best places, and it still wouldn’t be enough time.

A road trip through Colorado is great for children of any age, but to be able to see and do more (there are a ton of hiking options here for kids!), it’s best for kids aged 8+.

A few must-sees in your itinerary are Glenwood Springs, where you’ll find many outdoor adventures like fishing and horseback riding, as well as the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. Next, head to Grand Junction , where you can drive around to hit some of the best viewpoints, offering jaw-dropping vistas of insane-looking red rock formations.

For an in-depth history lesson, visit Mesa Verde National Park next, where you can find easy hikes that lead to ancient dwellings and petroglyphs, and finish off the day with a train ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.

For a kid-friendly desert adventure, head to Great Sand Dunes National Park, where you’ll find sandboarding adventures at a mini desert in the heart of Colorado. Don’t forget to spend a day exploring Denver, where you’ll find a ton of museums and activities to choose from:

• Children’s Museum of Denver,
• Denver Botanic Garden
• Denver Museum of Nature and Science,
• Rocky Mountain Zipline Adventure
• Downtown Aquarium, and
• the Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park are musts for kids!)

Bucket List Places to Visit in Canada

Below is a Canada travel bucket list of trips you should do in your life.

7. Drive along the Icefields Parkway, Alberta, Canada

Suggested by us, Love Life Abroad

Driving along the Icefields Parkway is considered by many “a drive of a lifetime”. The Icefields Parkway is a 230-km scenic road from Lake Louise, in Banff National Park , to Jasper , in Jasper National Park. To have experienced it this winter, we can only agree.

While not all kids like to be stuck in a car for hours, this drive is a pretty cool one for the whole family. The idea when driving on the Icefields Parkway is not to get from point A (Lake Louise) to point B (Jasper), but rather to make the drive the journey in itself and to take advantage of the breathtaking views and attractions on the way.

This drive includes a lot of fun stops:

• Hike to Peyto Lake Lookout and admire the view.
• Stop at Tangle Falls and take a few clichés of the waterfalls right by the road.
• Do a guided tour of the Columbia Icefield glacier
• Take a small hike to the Athabasca Falls

The drive is beautiful, but it’s in the middle of the Rocky Mountains, so the weather can be super unpredictable. Take your time, enjoy the ride, and take plenty of pictures along the way.

8. Chase Waterfalls at Well Gray Provincial Park, British Columbia, Canada

Suggested by Debbie from World Adventurists

Wells Gray Provincial Park is British Columbia’s fourth largest provincial park, with 5000km² of mostly untouched Canadian wilderness.  With 41 named waterfalls, Wells Gray is known as a waterfall paradise. Experiencing the power and beauty of the waterfalls is an excellent trip for families and kids of all ages.

It’s also nice to know that several waterfalls are easily accessible with only a short walk or easy hike from the car. Even the fourth largest waterfall in Canada, the iconic Helmcken Falls, is a short walk to the viewing platform. Other popular waterfalls are Spahats Falls, Moul Falls, and Dawson Falls.

You’ll also find alpine meadow hiking, guided wilderness safaris, boat tours of Clearwater Lake, and clear lakes for a refreshing swim on a hot day.

The best way to experience Wells Gray with family is by camping while you experience the beauty and power of nature and connect over a blazing campfire.

To experience all of the highlights of Wells Gray, you’ll want at least a few days to explore. However, there is SO much to see that you’ll likely want to return for more.

If you’re venturing from Vancouver, you will start on Highway 1, then take the Coquihalla (Highway 5) to Kamloops, and continue on north to Clearwater. It is a five-hour drive from Vancouver.

9. Snorkel (or Scuba Dive) in Cuba

Suggested by Carley from Home to Havana

While often overlooked as a scuba diving and snorkeling destination in the region, Cuba is home to some of the Caribbean’s best and most untouched reefs, and with the growing tourist sector, they’re easier than ever to explore.

Best for kids at least ten or older or in their early teens, exploring Cuba’s reefs with scuba diving lessons or certification, or even snorkeling excursions, is a fantastic way to get an entirely new take on Cuba and the Caribbean as a family.

One of Cuba’s best destinations for exploring the ocean is Jardines de la Reina – “the Gardens of the Queen” – known for having some of the Caribbean’s great diversity of species. Excursions close to shore or further out along the archipelago of the island on Cuba’s southern coast are easily designed for divers of all levels.

This is also a destination for an adrenaline rush, as certain areas of the Jardines de la Reina are known for Caribbean reef sharks, and dive excursions can take you to close for an unforgettable experience with older kids and adventure seekers.

For an excursion closer to Havana, the famous white Playa Coral sand beach at Varadero also offers some incredible snorkeling destinations. At the same time, Playa Coral might not look like much from the shore.

Under the water, you’ll find countless species of colorful fish and coral. Make sure you have travel insurance for Cuba that specifically covers scuba diving or snorkeling before you arrive – Cuba requires travelers to show proof of health coverage valid on the island when entering the country.

Europe’s Family Travel Bucket List

10. spend a day among dinosaurs at dinopark funtana, croatia.

Suggested by Martina & Jürgen from Places of Juma

A really cool place for an unforgettable family trip is the lovely Dinopark Funtana . This park is located in Istria, Croatia , just 2 kilometers from the resort of Vrsar, and is a really popular attraction, especially among families with children.  Both – young and older ones – will love this park, where you can spend some fun hours.

On an area of 80,000 m², this great amusement park offers a variety of life-size and movable dinosaur statues, which are guaranteed to amaze children. You walk along a 1.5-kilometer-long wooden path and discover, in the middle of the Croatian forests, 80+ real-size dinosaurs.

Some of them move and make noises, which is fascinating. You almost feel like you are in the real Jurassic Park. And it’s an authentic and unforgettable experience to see these wonderful creatures!

In addition to dinosaurs, you can even expect several more highlights! Don’t miss visiting the pirate ship TORTUGA, having an adrenaline ride at the DRAGON COASTER and TWISTER FLY carousel, as well as the Stone Station ride and the Mini Train. There’s also a really cool dinosaur cinema and a small museum with various dinosaur shows. Great fun for the whole family!

❤️  You may also like to read: ❤️ What to Do in Drumheller: Playgrounds, Dinos, & More!

11. Pretend to Be a Royal Family at the Kings and Queens Promenade of Chateau de Fontainebleau, France

Suggested by Elisa from World in Paris

If you visit Paris with the family, you will love the day trip to Château de Fontainebleau . Because who doesn’t like a fairy tale castle in the middle of the forest with princes and princesses?

Château de Fontainebleau is located 68 Km southeast of Paris, and it is straightforward to reach by train + shuttle bus. Once there, get ready for magnificent rooms and halls richly decorated. After all, Fontainebleau is considered the true home of the French Kings!

From the 12th century, with the construction of the first keep to the Second Empire, Fontainebleau has been a royal residence, and all members of French ruling dynasties have lived within these walls for longer or shorter periods. Even the Sun King loved to visit Fontainebleau, at least before the construction of Versailles!

To make the visit more entertaining for the kids, Fontainebleau offers period clothes for rent. Kids love to wander through the long corridors in their royal clothes or do some pirouettes in the dancing room.

After visiting the château , don’t miss the surrounding gardens, with plenty of space for running, jumping, and more pictures. The area close to the canal is ideal for a picnic on the grass.

For the most adventurous, France Montgolfières offers flights over Fontainebleau’s forest on a hot air balloon – from April to the end of October – and the meeting point is just in front of Château of Fontainebleau.

Although flying over the château is not guaranteed (the itinerary depends on the wind), it is truly a magical experience

12. Experience the Van Life around Switzerland

Suggested by Kat from Wandering Bird

One of our best family experiences was campervanning around Switzerland with our daughter. We spent 4 weeks exploring this gorgeous country, and there’s so much to do. 

Switzerland is a fantastic choice for a family trip- the scenery is a combination of breathtaking mountain views, turquoise lakes, and picturesque towns, but many people speak excellent English, and they are wonderfully welcoming people. 

Our daughter was a teenager when we visited, but most of our activities could have been done with kids of any age. She loved camping in our van high up in the mountains and walking to the lakes to take photos- a new hobby she fell in love with. 

Some of the other highlights from our trip included a trip up the famous Gelmerbahn Funicular- one of the steepest mountain railways in the world (with an incredible lake at the top), standing on a platform in the middle of the Rhine Falls- one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe, and eating chocolate. Lots and lots of delicious chocolate. 

Campervanning is a perfect way to explore, as it allows you to move at your own pace without having to book expensive hotels in advance. It also allows you to spend quality time together as a family- we played more games and talked about random stuff on that trip than we had for years. It was a wonderful way to reconnect.

13. Learn How to Make Authentic Belgium Waffles in Brussels, Belgium

Suggested by Tanya from TravelsAndTreasures

Delicious food, quaint streets, historic architecture, outdoor markets, and famous frites (or fries) are just a few reasons to visit Brussels, Belgium.  Sign up at the Waffle Workshop for a fun family experience that is memorable and tasty for all ages.  You may never want to eat another frozen waffle again!

Did you know that there is not one but two types of Belgian waffles? You will learn all about them on your mini-tour, which starts from the Grand Place.  The stroll down Waffle Street, where these airy, fluffy bites are sold as snacks for just one euro and will get your taste buds twirling. 

At the workshop, families may work as a team together or partner with other participants in the kitchen.  Your knowledgeable instructor will teach you how to operate the waffle iron, the importance of the ingredients, and how to make them perfectly. 

You’ll have everything you need to whip up a batch (this is when the real fun begins)!  The collection of toppings is vast – from butter, syrup, and whipped cream to bananas, strawberries, caramel, and chocolate.  From the kitchen, the Lotus Biscoff cookie butter is a must-try. 

Whether you make cute faces or pile the mixings high, make sure you start the workshop hungry because there will be lots of waffles to eat!  It’s an engaging and creative family experience.

You can also do a Belgian chocolate workshop .

14. Take a Dolphins and Whales Watching Tour in Madeira Island, Portugal

Suggested by Edyta from Say Yes To Madeira ,

Madeira Island, Portugal, is a lovely all-year-round destination, and there is one activity that the entire family should enjoy – dolphin & whale watching tours .

There are many ways to observe sea animals on Madeira: catamarans, private yachts, or RIB speedboats being the most popular ones. Multiple operators offer such tours in the Port of Funchal or Calheta. Speedboats may not be the most suitable choice for families with small kids, but they will be an adventure for everyone else.

Some speedboat tours allow you to even swim with dolphins in open ocean waters. However, I would only recommend it to older children who know how to swim well, how to use a snorkeling set, and are not afraid of water. It is a great way to see those magnificent animals underwater without visiting attractions that keep them in captivity.

If there are small children in your family, I would recommend a catamaran or a private boat, as those are more child-friendly. Catamaran are slower but bigger and more comfortable, usually have a bathroom, a small bar, and provide some shade.

On a catamaran, even if you are not lucky enough to spot any sea animals, you can relax on a comfortable catamaran net . It is a lovely way to spend a day on Madeira, which both kids and parents can enjoy.

15. Create Your Own Castle Hunting Tour in Belgium

Suggested by Caroline Muller from Veggiewayfarer

The little Kingdom of Belgium has much to offer if you are traveling with a family. It has a wealth of history, delicious cuisine, and no less than 3000 castles to explore! Why not allow the kids to indulge in their princess and knight fantasies while teaching them a little bit about the history of Belgium?

The easiest way of exploring the castles is by using Brussels as a basis. While most of the castles are accessible via public transport, it might be more convenient to rent a car for a day to explore as many castles around Brussels as possible. Every castle is just that little bit different and adds to the fascinating story that Belgium has to tell.

If you want to give the kids a real feel of what it was like to live in a castle, make sure to head to Gaasbeek Castle. If romantic turrets and dreams of Prince Charming are on the menu, take a drive to De Viron Castle.

For a more sturdy castle worthy of a knight, Bouchout Castle is the place to be! The castles are sure to capture the attention of kids of any age, and even parents might just find this family travel bucket list experience good fun!

16. Learn How to Make Delicious Italian Pasta in Rome, Italy

Suggested by Olivia from Girl With Blue Sails

On your family travel bucket list should be an Italian pasta-making class in Rome . Following instructions together, getting hands-on, and sharing your delicious creations with each other is such a fun bonding experience. The instructors are always local chefs, the groups are always kept small, and the memories made last a lifetime. 

Rome is on many family bucket lists to see major sights like the Colosseum or the Roman Forum . One underrated activity, however, is the group pasta-making class , where families really get to dive into the Italian culture. There are many popular pasta-making classes in Rome from which to choose. All will include a couple of types of pasta, some include deserts, and almost all include wine for the parents. 

The ages of the kids who will enjoy a pasta class can vary greatly, but it seems pasta classes are good for kids aged 7 and up. Stools or booster seats can be used for the little ones, and if they lose interest, there is no harm done as the rest of the group will be making plenty of pasta to share. 

A typical Italian pasta course begins with making the dough, where families get to mix flour and egg right on the table with their hands. Next is the sauce, which always fills the room with delicious spiced aromas. Once the pasta is done and ready, the group always gathers together to enjoy their meal with their new group of friends.

❤️  You may also like to read: ❤️ Truffle Hunting in Italy: Our Complete Wishlist of Stops

17. Hop from Island to Island in Greece

Suggested by Dymphe from Dyma Abroad

Island hopping in Greece is a family experience you should definitely add to your bucket list! Greece is a country that is wonderful to visit, and there are many beautiful places in Greece . Also, there are lots of islands in the country. In total, there are about 6000 islands.

You can visit a lot of them, and each island has something unique to offer. Some are very well-known, such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete. Traveling to a Greek island is a wonderful experience, but what’s even better is to see multiple islands in one trip when island hopping.

You’ll take a ferry from one island to another, and each journey by ferry lasts a few hours or less. Kids will have a lot of new experiences when they see several islands during one trip.

For example, it’s very fun to see the typical Greek houses of Mykonos, to see the beaches of Santorini, or to see ancient ruins on Naxos. Also, the trip by ferry on its own is very fun for kids. Who doesn’t like to hop on board and see the sea from the boat?

18. Visit Paleolithic Cave Art in Dordogne, France

Suggested by Erica from TripScholars

An ultimate family travel bucket list experience is a visit to the prehistoric sites and decorated caves of the Vézère Valley. This UNESCO World Heritage site lies in the idyllic Dordogne region of France and contains some of the best paleolithic cave art in the world.

Your visit will have a powerful impact on all family members and inspire memories to last a lifetime.

Families will visit Lascaux, often called the Sistine Chapple of Prehistory. Although the original cave is now closed to visitors, Lascaux IV offers both an inspiring reproduction and a multi-media educational museum that is engaging for kids of all ages.

Decorated caves that you can still visit today are centered around the idyllic town of Les Eyzies-de-Tayac, also known as the “Capital of Prehistory.”  It is well worth the effort to research ticket availability in advance to share the profound experience of seeing cave art with your family.

Everyone, but especially those with mobility issues or smaller children, can enjoy Rouffignac Cave. You ride in a small train deep into the cave to see remarkable cave art and cave bear dens.

The Dordogne is also filled with story-book castles, medieval villages, stunning natural scenery, living history exhibits, as well as historic vineyards and farms.

The region can be enjoyed by children of all ages, but school-age kids and older will appreciate the tours for educational resources to enhance your trip and learn more about the area. Visit Tripscholars . Crafting a perfect family vacation around the caves is a fascinating addition to your family bucket list!

19. Do a Husky Sledding Ride in Lapland, Finland

Suggested by Catherine from Passports and Adventures

An amazing experience to have on your bucket list for family travel is husky sledding in Lapland . Most families I know would love to visit Lapland with kids , and enjoying a husky sledding experience is just one of the most amazing things to enjoy while combining your trip with a visit to see Santa himself.

Husky sledding involves racing through the snow of forests and over frozen lakes in a sled pulled by a team of husky dogs. This is what they are trained for and is something they clearly love. It is a thrilling ride and can be enjoyed with kids from around the age of four, with one parent driving the sled while the other holds the child tight in the sled.

You do need to choose the company carefully to ensure they are reputable and ethical and look after their dogs well. But once you do your research, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. Most experiences last about 40 minutes to 1 hour , which is sufficient, given the cold and wintery temperatures outside.

Other things to do in Lapland as a family include seeing Santa, of course. You can also attend Elf School, enjoy reindeer sleigh rides, visit cultural museums in the capital of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi, and also enjoy snowball fights and make snow angels.

Lapland is a magical place in winter, especially just before Christmas, and is a bucket list place to visit.

❤️  You may also like to read: ❤️ Boundary Ranch in Kananaskis: What to Do Year-Round

20. Walk Down the Gorge in Wales, UK

Suggested by Rachel from Average Lives

Gorge walking in Wales needs to be on your family travel bucket list because it is a unique and extraordinary experience. In a nutshell, gorge walking is an adventure activity where you follow a journey through incredible rock formations.

You can help support each other as you ramble through the gorge and have an epic adventure together. A great place to go gorge walking is in the spectacular Brecon Beacons National Park in South Wales because it is a natural playground and has different routes for different ages and groups. 

It is useful to know that you should always book to go gorge walking with a company guide and not attempt it yourself. The guides are certified safe and will tailor the course depending on the people they have in front of them.

They also provide all the equipment so your family can stay safe and warm. Most companies recommend that children are aged 10+, and the activity lasts between 3 to 4 hours, depending on your group size.

The Brecon Beacons National Park is known as waterfall country. Therefore, if you decide to add this to your family bucket list, you can explore the nearby Four Falls Trail, and if you’re not too tired from the scrambling, you can hike up the spectacular Pen y Fan.

Are you ready for an unforgettable family adventure? Even adults can unleash their inner child!

Asia & Africa’s Family Travel Bucket List

21. hike mount fuji, japan.

Suggested by Cortney from Tin Can Living

Every family should add hiking Japan’s Mt. Fuji on the island of Honshu to their bucket list.  It is the highest mountain in Japan at 12388 ft. The views are just magical. It is a perfect family activity for parents with teenagers.  The switchbacks and trails make the climb less difficult and possible for someone with no physical limitations.

Most people begin their hike at station 5. This is where the restaurants and shops are. When at station 5, purchase a hiking stick. This is a stick that you take with you to each station and have a symbol burned in. This makes the best souvenir of your trek.

These stations are a great place to have a rest, take in the view, adjust to the altitude, and hydrate. There are 10 stations in total on the Mt. Fuji hike. There are several different trails that you can take. You will need to do some planning before you hike. 

It can take up to 10 hours to complete the entire hike. There are huts, if you reserve in advance, that you can stay overnight and catch the sunset in the morning. Some people choose to do this and complete their hike the next day.

If you choose to do it in one day, plan to keep a steady pace and start early. When you climb up, you have to come back down. It is very difficult to come down in the dark. Great pictures, great memories, and wonderful stories await. Do your research and get to climbing with your family. You won’t regret it!!

22. Join a Safari Tour in Kenya

Suggested by Steph & Lewis from Book It Let’s Go

Going on an African safari is a bucket list adventure for most people and is a fantastic activity to do as a family. When thinking of a safari destination, Kenya is a firm favorite amongst travelers, and with 23 National Parks , 28 National Reserves, 4 marine National Parks, 6 marine National Reserves, and 4 national sanctuaries, it is easy to find the perfect family-friendly safari.

Lots of safari offers are long stays, being either 7, 10, or 14 days. This is not ideal for families with younger children as safari days themselves are long and tiring even for adults. The best option for a family safari is a 3-4 day safari covering just one national park or reserve.

This will allow plenty of time to see the big five and enjoy the safari lodges in Kenya . Some safari companies and lodges will not allow guests younger than 10 years old, so bear that in mind when choosing a safari.

Family safari accommodation can range from budget to luxury. Still, the ideal family accommodation would be one with a pool to keep children entertained when you are not out spotting wildlife.

Another thing to consider is the food served. Safari Lodge food can often be very basic, with only a few choices. Go with a lodge that serves a buffet, so picky eaters have plenty to choose from. Again, consider Kenya in your bucket list trips with kids.

23. Ride aboard the Trans Mongolian Express, Russia, Mongolia & China

Suggested by Lotte from Phenomenal Globe

Riding the Trans Mongolian Express with kids is definitely a bucket list-worthy and once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will get to discover three countries (Russia, Mongolia, and China) and cultures, see a huge variety of landscapes, and cover a distance of no less than 7621 kilometers.  

From the impressive Kremlin to the seemingly endless birch forests along the Moscow to Irkutsk stretch, the vastness of Lake Baikal and the rolling green plains of Mongolia, and the ancient history of the Forbidden City in China, there is no shortage of highlights when traveling the Trans Mongolian Express.

Staying in a yurt in Mongolia is probably something your kids won’t ever forget (and neither will you). If you have kids with an adventurous mind, they might even be brave enough to try fresh yak milk… 

Regarding the best age for this trip, we did this family travel bucket list journey with our 10-month-old and thought it was a very convenient age. Our son slept wonderfully during the train journey (probably due to the comforting rocking motion), and he could safely crawl around our compartment.  

I don’t particularly recommend this trip for kids 1.5-5 years old as they will probably get bored. However, kids aged 6 years and older will enjoy this trip as you can teach them about the history of the train line, follow the train route on a map, play card games together, and much more.  

A final word of advice when traveling with a baby: either bring a very small travel stroller or a baby carrier, as the compartments aren’t big enough to fit a large pushchair.

FAQs: Family Travel Bucket List

How do i make a family bucket list.

To make a family bucket list, first decide what activities your family would like to do together. Talk with each family member and brainstorm ideas for things to do inside and outside the house. Brainstorm different activities that everyone wants and can contribute to. Once you have collected all the ideas, devise a plan for accomplishing them in time. Think about how much time each task will take and how much money should be used. Lastly, ensure you are realistic about what is possible in the given timeframe.

How do I make my family trip memorable?

To make your family trip unforgettable, I suggest you plan more fun activities for everyone in the family. You could hike in a scenic location or visit some local attractions. Document the trip with pictures and videos and relax with your family because that’s what will create happy memories for all.

What is a travel bucket list?

A travel bucket list is a list of places and experiences, including anything from visiting a large city or historical monuments to visiting a remote island or going on an adventure in the wilderness.

Why have a travel bucket list?

Having a travel bucket list is a great way to stay motivated and inspired to explore the world! It helps you determine what you want to do on your trips so you can make the most of your time away. A travel bucket list can also give you ideas for new places and different cultures to experience. Plus, it helps you plan and budget for future trips and keep track of all the fantastic places you’ve already seen.

Final Thoughts: Family Travel Bucket List

Taking a bucket list trip with your family is a perfect way to create lasting memories and explore the natural world at its finest.

With our list of 23 Bucket List Trips for Families Who Love the Outdoors, you’ll find an adventure your whole family will enjoy – whether visiting the Antelope Canyon, Arizona, or hiking through Sedona, in Arizona.

No matter your interests, there’s something on this list for everyone.

Now let us know – what is on your family’s bucket list? Share your ideas in the comments section below!

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• Driving Across Canada Tips for an Epic Family Road Trip
• USA Road Trips with Kids
• 39 Unique Things to Do in California With Kids: Add Them to Your List

✍️ Meet Emilie, the founder of Love Life Abroad ✍️ Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She’s a born wanderer. From an early age, she wanted to be on the move. Whether searching for a condo in California (at age 16) or flying to Ireland to see musician Damien Rice, she’s always looked for any excuse to pack a bag and explore. Now, she has two boys, who are planning epic road trips and adventures as much as possible. Emilie helps families with young children to plan unique road trips and outdoor adventures because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids?

Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.

25+ Bucket List Adventures to do with your Kids before they Grow Up

This post may contain affiliate links where we earn from qualifying purchases. As an amazon associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Find out more in our disclosure .

You only have so many years with your kids at home with you and like it or not, time is ticking by FAST!  If you’re like me, you look back on your childhood and the memories are endless, so as a parent, it’s only natural to want to provide our kids with the most amazing adventures that we can.  Because like we talk about a lot around here, adventures mean memories and memories strengthen relationships.

If you do it right and get your kids loving adventure when they’re young, you’ll probably create your best travel and adventure companion FOR LIFE!

Best Adventures to do with your kids BEFORE they grow up.

We’ve searched all over and are highlighting some of the absolute best adventures you can do with kids while they’re still young.  If you have suggestions for more, we’d love to hear about them in the comments!

Swim with Whale Sharks in the Maldives with Kids

We’ve gone swimming with whale sharks in a couple of places, but our kids favorite experience was swimming with whale sharks in the Maldives (we did the whole trip for $50/person/day , so it’s much more affordable than people think).  This excursion was the highlight of our time in the Maldives since we got to get so close to the whale sharks.  Other places where we have been swimming with them, the sharks were much more scared of people, so we only got glimpses of them, but in the Maldives, they were calmer so we got to spend a lot of time in the water with them, and at one point, one of the whale sharks just hung out with us for 30-45 minutes!  Our youngest kids were a little nervous about the size of the whale sharks and just wanted to stay on the boat, but our 6 and 9 year old thought it was incredible.

Swim in a Mexican Cenote with Kids

If you’re planning a trip to the southern end of Mexico (Cancun, Merida or Cozumel areas), make sure to check out a few cenotes while you’re there.  Cenotes are freshwater sinkholes that are deep in the jungle and this area has THOUSANDS of them.  Some are the size of a swimming pool, others are the size of a lake, and some go underground for miles and miles making them the prime area for divers to explore.  We’ve written all about the best cenotes with kids where we share which ones are the most accessible, the most affordable, and especially the most fun (lots of rope swings or ziplines which make them perfect with kids!).  Many of them have life jackets at them, so they are really suitable for all ages and swimming abilities.

Crawl through an Egyptian Pyramid with your Kids

There are few places in the world where history comes to life quite like Egypt.  Probably because Egyptian history is so unique and most schools teach it from a young age.  Egypt is a great place to travel with kids (and yes, we felt totally safe with our kids there – read about it here ).  While seeing the sights there is a great experience that kids will think is fun, one of the most exciting things that you can do there is to explore the inside of a pyramid.  There are several pyramids that you can explore, including the Pyramids at Giza, but we recommend getting off the beaten path and avoiding the crowds.  We took our family inside the Red Pyramid and we were the only people there.  Sure, it was a bit creepy and unknown, which was exactly what going inside a pyramid should be, since it let us really experience what it might have been like thousands of years ago (which is an experience you WON’T get with hundreds of other tourists there).  Our imaginations where running wild as we explored and crawled through tunnels, making this one of the most memorable experiences we’ve done with our kids.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride with Kids in Cappadocia Turkey

Explore the tombs of Petra Jordan with Kids

Ready to channel your inner Indiana Jones?  There’s no better place to do it than at the site in Petra Jordan.  What is left of the ancient city of Petra is a series of canals, carvings, and of course tombs!  The best part is that you can go inside most of them and really explore around inside.  You’ll see where bodies were placed, but the real wonder is just trying to fathom how this city was carved out of the rock by hand over a thousand years ago.  While many visitors just make the walk into the treasury and turn around, you should really plan on spending at least 2 days in Petra, with one of those going all the way out to the Monastery.  Petra really is a wonderland for kids a nd the Jordanian people are some of the most kind we’ve ever met (especially if you have really young kids!).  It’s one of the top stops we recommend that people visit with their kids!  Though don’t make the same mistake that we did and visit Petra BEFORE you head to the Dead Sea…head here to read all about what a disaster the Dead Sea was for us!

Hiking with Kids in the Swiss Alps

Learn How to Surf with your Kids

Learning how to surf doesn’t require that you live on the beach or have bleached blonde hair.  But if you want to be successful at learning how to surf, it does require several lessons on a good beginner beach.  If you’re traveling to somewhere like California or Hawaii, expect to pay several hundred dollars for lessons, in addition to getting a good wetsuit so you can stay in the water long enough to learn.  However, if you’re looking for an amazing cultural experience and some spectacular beaches, you could do what we did and learn to surf somewhere unique.  Our family learned to surf in El Salvado r, and we paid only $10 a lesson (yes, $10!!).  We got to learn on some great beginner waves and had almost the entire place to ourselves.  Not to mention the fact that El Salvador is one of the most beautiful places that we’ve ever visited.  Don’t forget to read all about what you need to know before you visit El Salvador as well as why El Salvador topped our list for adventure travel in 2018 .

Take Your Kids on a Multi-Day Whitewater Rafting Trip

Whitewater rafting is one of the very best adventures that you can do as a family.  If you choose your river carefully, you can find the perfect balance of fun and extreme which will leave you with amazing memories and experiences you can look back on for the rest of your life.  While most people think about a trip down the Grand Canyon that takes WEEKS, the reality is that there are rivers all over the place that are suitable for multi-day trips with kids that don’t have the take all your time (and money).  We’ve taken our kids as young as age one down the Colorado River on some calmer sections, and it has worked out great.  We’ve also taken our older kids on sections of the Green River on the Gates of Lodore as well as Desolation Canyon as young as age 6.  Obviously where you choose to go depends on your location, kids ages, and how wild of a ride you are looking for.  While our family has done this for years and have all our own equipment, the easiest way to go on a big rafting trip is with a guided tour.

Teach Your Kids how to Ski

Learning how to ski is a must do for a winter vacationers .  And because it’s not limited to a specific destination, it’s really accessible all over the world (yes, you can even skin in Dubai!)  The feeling of gliding across the snow is so exhilarating and it’s something that anyone can learn how to do!  Whether you choose to teach your own kids to ski (we’ll how you how here , here , here , and here ), or choose to put them in ski lessons, it’s something that they can learn the basics of in a few days.  While there are TONS of options for where to ski, if you’re a beginner, choose where to go based on price.  Once your skills are more advanced, then choose a resort that suits your style (our current fave is Solitude in Utah , though Arapahoe Basin in Colorado is a close second!)

Read Next: Why we Love Arapahoe Basin

Let Your Kids Roast Marshmallows on an Active Volcano

This is one of those experiences that our kids will absolutely NEVER FORGET.  Hiking the Pacaya Volcano with young kids was kind of a surreal experience.  Starting out from the town of Antigua Guatemala, this volcano, is about a 90 minute drive, and there are many tour operators that will take you up for a great price (we paid about $10/person for a guided tour).  To make the hike easier for our kids, we hired 2 horses and guides for them to ride ($10 each, and can be arranged when you arrive).  Once you start hiking, it feels like a regular jungle hike – that is until you start hearing the booms and the rumbling.  Yes, you guessed right – volcanic eruptions happening right then!  As you get closer to the top, you’ll start seeing glimpses of the volcano with its tufts of smoke rising out of it.   We were lucky enough to get some drone footage so that we could get an up close view of what was happening, and we were MIND BLOWN.  While the top of the volcano is a couple of miles from where the trail is, you can still see lava shooting out of the top and the occasional boulder being shot out as well.  After you reach the top of your hike, there are several steam vents where the heat from the lava is vented out.  This is where you roast your marshmallows, but be careful – they cook VERY quickly and the steam is super hot!  It’s a great place for a s’more unlike any other!  This is accessible for all ages and we took our kids at ages 1, 4, 6, 8, and 11.

We also reached out to some of our favorite travel writers to ask them their suggestions for the absolute best kid friendly adventures.  Here’s what they came up with:

Take Your Kids to Antarctica

If your family has a sense of adventure and enjoys natural beauty and wildlife, then they will love visiting Antarctica. There is no shortage of things to see and do in Antarctica with numerous opportunities to view the abundant wildlife including numerous species of penguins, whales, seals and seabirds. There is a lot to see from the ship and you will also have the opportunity to take Zodiac excursions to explore the area and make landings.  Some expeditions also offer additional adventures and activities such as sea kayaking, hiking, cross-country skiing, and camping overnight.  Visiting Antarctica is very educational, there are daily onboard lectures offered by scientists, researchers and other specialists about the environment and Antarctic wildlife.  Expedition cruises to Antarctica are VERY expensive – expect to pay at least $8,000 to $15,000 USD per person but the cost varies depends on your ship, cabin and travel dates.

Contributed by Matilda from The Travel Sisters

Chase the Northern Lights with your Kids

Chasing the Northern Lights is one thing we recommend everyone do once in their lives. The magical auroras are something we believe everyone should try to see. And when they say “chase the Northern Lights”, sometimes it’s quite literal. There are several countries you can find the northern lights, like Iceland, Finland, Canada, Norway, and even some parts of the U.S. to name a few. It doesn’t cost anything if you head out on your own, but if you opt for a tour, you’re more likely to find the best spots to catch them. There are snowmobile tours, driving tours, snow ski tours, and several other ways to chase the lights. As soon as you spot the lights, you’ll be so mesmerized that you’ll want to stay as long as possible, watching them dance across the sky. It’s truly an amazing sight to see! We recommend giving your kids that experience before they leave the house for good.

Contributed by Sara from Our Kind of Crazy

Canyoneering with Kids in or near Zion National Park

Canyoneering is an ideal outdoor family adventure that combines hiking, rappelling, down-climbing, stemming, squeezing through slot canyons, and even wading or swimming. Zion National Park in Utah is the perfect place for this sport. However, to go canyoneering inside the park, you must obtain a backcountry permit, you’ll need your own ropes and gear, and you should really know what you’re doing.

For newbies to canyoneering, book a commercially guided tour with a local vendor in the town of Springdale your gateway to Zion. They will teach you simply, while providing modern, safe equipment, tell you how to dress for the day, drive you to the canyoneering site, and guide you every step of the way on this bucket list family adventure. In a guided group, you are looking at spending $110-155 per person for 4-5 hour excursion, depending on the size of your group.

If your kids are older tweens and teens with stamina, I’d consider booking an eight hour canyoneering experience so you can all really get the hang of things! Since commercially guided canyoneering trips are not allowed inside Zion National Park, the canyoneering company will take you to slot canyons just outside the park — like those found in the nearby Kolob Terraces.

See why our rad family loved canyoneering just outside Zion National Park here . 

Contributed by Tanya from Rad Family Travel

Exploring the Ruins of Machu Pichu With Kids

Heading to Machu Picchu in Peru is often considered one of those things that you do either before kids or once they’ve grown up. But after exploring this magical Incan city with kids, I can tell you, it’s an amazing and unforgettable place for family travel.

Many people are concerned about altitude sickness in kids during a visit here. While Machu Picchu is located among some of the most stunningly beautiful mountains in the Andes, contrary to popular belief, this ancient city isn’t actually at that high of an altitude. The Incan capital of Cusco sits far higher in elevation. And you must pass through Cusco to get to Machu Picchu.

Kids will be mesmerized by the magical train journey up to the city of Aguas Calientes. The towering, glacier-topped mountains are a thrill to take in. But the real treat is when you first take in the Machu Picchu overlook. Standing there, hand-in-hand with your kids while you stare at the postcard-perfect city is an experience you will want to live over again and again.

Getting to Machu Picchu isn’t cheap. Tours often run in the thousands of dollars. And it does require some planning. This includes a local guide while you are at the historic site. You also need to navigate a series of flights or land excursions between Lima to Cusco and Aguas Calientes. But the journey is as memorable as the ultimate destination.

And as you explore Machu Picchu with your children , the magic continues. From the roaming llama’s and Alpaca to the wild and creative buildings, families will find adventure everywhere in Machu Picchu. And, if that doesn’t sell you, know that Hiram Bingham, who re-discovered this lost city, was actually guided there by two local children whose family still live at the base of the mountain.

Contributed by Kevin from Wandering Wagars

Take your Kids Kayaking in Bioluminescent Waters

One of the most incredible adventures to take with your kids before they leave is kayaking in bioluminescent waters. One of the easiest ways to see this from the US is to visit Puerto Rico . You can take a kayak tour where you will glide through a mile of beautiful mangroves in the moonlight. Once you reach the end of the mangroves you’ll see the water start to sparkle!

The bioluminescence (meaning the water actually glows in the dark) is caused by special plankton in the water. It’s tough work kayaking through the dark, but the amazing site makes it all worth it!  It’s such a great bonding experience to see such a rare occurrence in nature together. The bioluminescence is nearly impossible to photograph. But that makes it an even more special experience that just you and your child will remember for the rest of your lives!

Contributed by Vanessa from Wanderlust Crew

Family Safari in South Africa

A South African safari is a magical experience and a truly amazing adventure to share with kids before they leave home. I have so many incredible memories with my mum chasing the Big 5 in the South African wilderness. We have taken our own kids along on the journey and, although he is still too young to remember, we’ve even done a safari with a baby !

A South African safari is a bucket list adventure and an amazing one to share with kids. Together we caught our first glimpses of majestic elephants, rhino, buffalo, leopard and rhino roaming the plains. We’ve giggled as monkeys tried to break into our bedroom, held our breath as lions walked alongside our truck and watched in awe as a 3-day old elephant took its tentative first steps. The remote camps are a total escape and an amazing opportunity to disconnect, make memories and appreciate the magic of each and every moment.

As a family, we’ve explored Kruger National Park and the Sabi Sands and Madikwe Game Reserves in South Africa where our nights in safari lodges have cost anything from US $200 to US$2000 per night. The rates include accommodation, food and twice daily game drives.

Contributed by Elaine from Show Them The Globe

Backpacking the Havasu Falls Trail with Kids

The Havasu Falls Trail is a really unique backpacking trail located in the United States Grand Canyon in Arizona and would make for a fantastic adventure to go on with your kids before they left home. People come from all over the United States in order to see the beautiful, crystal blue waters and the 5 amazing waterfalls along this iconic trail. The hike is roughly 25 miles long round trip if you hike all the way down to Beaver Falls which is the final waterfall of the hike, and you should plan to spend at minimum 3 days doing this hike.

The biggest thing to know about this trail is that it requires a bit of advanced planning. The Havasu Falls trails is becoming one of the most popular hikes in the entire United States. Permits easily sell out the day they open up. Be ready to apply for permits early February and be prepared to spend a bit of money to get them. In 2019, permits cost up to $125 per person per day, but trust me, it’s worth the cost. If you are lucky enough to score permits, this will most certainly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you and your kids. All 5 of the waterfalls along the trail are absolutely breathtaking and like nothing else you can see in the United States. Be sure to put the Havasu Falls hike high on your bucket list! You won’t regret it!

Contributed by Allison from She Dreams of Alpine

See the Monarch Butterfly Migration With Your Kids

It was almost a decade earlier that we had watched the BBC Life episode showing the monarch butterfly migration from as far as Canada down to Mexico. I recall being in awe and it was swiftly added to our “must see” list. Fast forward to 2018, when we were booking our flights to Mexico City, and we were looking for one more spot in Mexico to fill our two weeks. We chose Valle de Bravo because of it’s nearby mountains and reputation for having some good hiking. It wasn’t until we dug a little deeper that we realized it was exactly where you could see all the monarch butterflies who had traveled so far for the winter. Even better, we would be there in late February, just in time to see them before they started the long journey north. It felt like this had fallen into our laps and there was no question, we had to go! And not only that, we would get to witness it with our two kids!

There are a few monarch butterfly sanctuaries that can be reached from Mexico City, but the closest one to Valle de Bravo was the Piedra Herrada Sanctuary. It takes 2-3 hours to get from Mexico City to Valle de Bravo, depending on traffic, which makes a day tour possible but a long day. We recommend staying at least one night if traveling to Valle de Bravo with kids . It’s a charming town with incredible scenery and some amazing food.

Seeing the butterflies is pretty easy. The ride by taxi from Valle de Bravo is approximately 1 hour (slightly less). The entry ticket is quite cheap at around $4 USD and includes a mandatory guide. From there you can choose to hike up or hire a horse. We opted to hike up the 1.2 miles (2km) and though it was quite dusty, it was a pleasant walk in the forest. Both our kids, who were 3 & 5 years old, were easily able to manage it. Once at the top, the trail gets a little trickier in the trees with some steep spots, but again with a little help our kids did fine.

Once you make it to the top, you sit in absolute amazement (and silence) at the millions of butterflies hanging on the trees and flying around. We were fortunate to be there on a sunny day and got to witness the butterflies being quite active as the sun shone through the trees. In all, we were there for about 45 minutes and left shocked at how quiet our kids were the entire time. We expect they were as mesmerized by the butterflies as we were!

Contributed by Celine from Family Can Travel

Travel on the Trans Siberian Railroad as a Family

One of our best family travel adventures has been an epic, overland trip by train from Hong Kong to the U.K. For part of this trip, we achieved a long-held dream and travelled on the iconic Trans Siberian Railway across Russia. We travelled from the Mongolia border to St. Petersburg making stops along the way in Irkutsk in Eastern Siberia and in Moscow. It was an incredible, once in a lifetime trip.

Travelling by train allows you to see the diversity of landscapes, flora and architecture within one country. In Russia, we journeyed through dense birch and larch forests, past Lake Baikal (the deepest lake in the world), alongside beautiful wildflower meadows and through modern industrial cities and tiny country towns with wooden houses. You have time on a train journey to interact with your fellow passengers. The cost of travelling on the Trans Siberian railway varies dramatically. There is no one, overall Trans Siberian rail ticket; you must buy a ticket for each segment of your trip depending on the stops you wish to make. Travelling long distance by train was great with kids; we played lots of games and caught up on school work. Our three children loved looking out the window, wandering the different carriages and sleeping in the rocking bunk beds!

Contributed by Sinead from Map Made Memories

Visiting Acadia National Park with Kids

One of the best family adventures on the East Coast is Acadia National Park located in Maine. This beautiful national park features easy to moderate hikes, beautiful sunsets from Cadillac Mountain, a sandy beach to explore as well as tidal pools to find little sea creatures. More adventurous families can look into kayaking the shore, rock climbing up the cliffsides and stargazing late at night. Everyone can enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride along the carriage roads and popovers with ice cream at the Jordan Pond Tea House. With the town of Bar Harbor minutes away from the entrance to the park, you can find easy lodging with something to suit every price point. From a cozy B&B to full-service hotels along the shore and camping options nearby. Bar Harbor also offers many restaurants to choose from and plenty of lobster dishes if you’d like. Speaking of Lobster, take a boat ride out to the harbor and learn about why Maine is one of the biggest exporters of Lobster. Check out these articles to see why Acadia National Park with the neighboring town of Bar Harbor Maine are an absolute delight.

Contributed by Chelsea from Pack More Into Life

Visiting the Grand Canyon with Kids

  National Park holidays make for some of the best family adventures – for kids of all ages! We went to the Grand Canyon with our toddler recently, and I was fascinated watching him take it all in. We did two things in particular that were pretty awesome: some great family-friendly hikes and a helicopter tour.

Our hike to Shoshone Point wasn’t just kid-friendly, it was stroller-friendly! Flat and easy, it’s definitely the trail to choose if you have kids a wide range of ages, because it can accommodate the whole family. Even though our son was too young to walk it, we cheered him on anyway as we strolled him along (he’ll be hiking by himself as soon as he’s able, so we figured we should start early with the encouragement!) . Bonus: there’s an open area with picnic tables at the point, so it’s a great place to take a packed lunch.

Our hike on the South Kaibab trail to Ooh Aah Point was narrow, steep and uneven – not the slightest bit stroller-friendly, so we used a baby carrier. But older kids, especially tweens and teens, could probably tackle this trail with mom and dad and feel a pretty great sense of accomplishment at the end!

The helicopter tour was a pretty big splurge for us, at about $200 each. But it was well worth it, being able to see such a spectacular natural wonder form a birds-eye perspective. Our trip to the Grand Canyon was such a success, we plan on visiting a different national park every year until he moves out!

Contributed by Mary Beth from MB Sees .

Family Cruise on Vietnam’s Halong Bay

A Halong Bay cruise in Vietnam is an experience we were so grateful to have had with our eldest daughter, and while she was quite young at the time, she had a blast too! This would be best for kids who are school age, so they can really appreciate the environment and culture. It also means they can participate in all the different activities along the way too.

This was our daughters first cruise experience and cruising Halong Bay is nothing like the big luxury cruise ships with loads of on board entertainment. This is more about the scenery, food and excursions you have off the boat! Although in saying that, the cruise staff make it loads of fun on board too!

We did our cruise with Au Co Cruises and the cost for a 3 night Halong Bay cruise is around $400US per person. It includes all meals and excursions, although there are cheaper alternatives available too. We went with this option to give us a family friendly option suited to cruising with a toddler .

Experiencing Halong Bay is a great reminder for kids to disconnect and enjoy their surroundings. During our cruise we did loads of family fun activities, like kayaking around rock formations, walking through caves and visiting local villages. Showing your children how other cultures live is an experience they don’t get in the classroom.

Halong Bay is one of the most scenic places in the world and it will encourage you to connect as a family, with minimal distractions from the outside world.

Contributed by Holly from Four Around The World

Stay in a Mongolian Ger with Your Kids

Arriving off the Trans Mongolia into the capital of Mongolia was a moment we will always cherish. After 48 hours of travelling on a train we were keen to explore, stretch our legs and head for the hills! We had booked an Airbnb which was actually a traditional Mongolian home called a Ger . The nomadic families in Mongolia will set up their Ger and it’s able to be transported across the country to follow the weather and landscape for their herds. We loved living in s Ger without any electricity, running water or any modern day conveniences. It allowed us to reconnect as a family, to live simply, to appreciate nature and to enjoy star gazing at night. While galloping across the plains on a horse I actually cried as I was so thrilled to actually be there with my family, living our best lives and really challenging ourselves.

Contributed by Bron from Smiths Holiday Road

Take the Kids to India

For some of us, adventure travel is often defined by the degree of difference to home. Of far flung countries with foreign language, food and culture. Rajasthan in northern India is one such place.  From ancient palaces in Jaipur, white marble temples in Ranakpur, the blue city of Jodhpur and the desert fort of Jaisalmer, there are impressive sights to see wherever you go.

But the real reason why India is so great with kids is the everyday is an adventure too. Cows wander the streets, marching bands lead wedding processions through town and street vendors sell anything and everything. Foreign children are treated like superstars and every meal is an adventure as you try the delicious snacks, curries and desserts on offer.

Better still for family travelers, India is an affordable country to travel in. Food is cheap and plentiful. There is a huge range of accommodation available, and there are opportunities to organise home stays for a unique travel experience. Getting around is possible on trains, buses or private cars with drivers.

India is an assault on the senses in every way. It can be a challenging place to visit, but it is also one of the most memorable adventures to take with kids before they leave home.

Contributed by Rachel from Adventure and Sunshine

Learn to Scuba Dive with your Kids

Scuba Diving in Curacao It’s not easy for a mother to finds ways to bond with her teenage son that that don’t include video games, dirt bikes or soccer.  While planning a family vacation to the Caribbean island of Curacao, I had an epiphany… why not ask my teenage son to join me on a dive?  Scuba diving could be a great multi-generational activity.

Curacao’s calm east coast beaches offer up to 100 feet of visibility and warm, inviting, reef-laden waters which were perfect for his first dive.  Like me, he was mesmerized by the otherworldly sights and sounds of the sea.  The clear turquoise water contained many varieties of coral and sea grasses.  Marine life was abundant with trumpet fish darting about, lionfish splaying their spire-like fins, and the toothy grin of a moray eel as we glided past.  What teenage boy wouldn’t love such visual treats?

It was a fantastic, memorable adventure, and the opportunity to experience the underwater world through the eyes of my offspring was priceless.  The cost for an introductory dive, sometimes called a “resort dive,” in the Caribbean varies widely, from $125 to $250 depending on the location.

Contributed by Patti from Luggage and Lipstick

Take your kids Ziplining

If you want to score absolute Brownie points with your kids then put Ziplining on your bucket list. Lago Maggiore ZIPline is a 80mph 2k flight across some of the most stunning scenery in the foothills of the Italian Alps close to Lake Maggiore. A single flight costs 48 Euro’s per pair as part of a family ticket and hiring a Go-Pro for evidence you did it is optional. You meet at The Nest and get to watch a few flights coming in first which kickstarts the old adrenaline and gets you pumped before you make a 15 minute car journey to the top. All harnessed in you’re all set for the next few minutes of breath-taking views with your child of choice. It looks terrifying, however this will be the most euphoric experience you will ever have and is made even more memorable that you get to share it with your kids – they will be dining out on tales of your petrified shrieks for years to come! You may not believe it now but you’ll be wanting to fly again once you come into land. Brilliantly The Nest is set up for you to enjoy everyone else’s incoming flights too, complimented unquestionably with a rewarding cold beer and the epic views you just flew over. For more information you can read about our full experience here. 

Contributed by Alex from My Life Long Holiday

Interrailing across Europe as a Family

Europe is such a beautiful and diverse continent it can be hard to decide exactly where to take the kids during their precious holiday time. Why not make it into the ultimate adventure and show them as much as possible by Interrailing across Europe.

Interrail is essentially a train ticket which allows you to travel throughout the whole of Europe on just one ticket. You can buy different time periods and choose either first or second class travel. We chose 7 days of travel within 1 month which is currently £295 for an adult ticket, a youth (anyone between 11 and 27) is £228 and the best part is that kids under 11 are completely free! So much cheaper than flying!

If you want guaranteed seats on certain trains, you’ll have to make reservations which add a little more to your overall cost, some are free, some can be as little as £5 and some countries such as Spain and Italy require compulsory reservations which can get pricey.

You’ll need to put in a lot of research to plan where you want to visit and work out the best route. For an itinerary which shows you as much of Europe as possible, we left London on the Eurostar and visited Brussels, Amsterdam, Utrecht, Prague, Innsbruck, Bologna, Tuscany, Como and Milan. We took in modern cities, the history of Central Europe, the breathtaking mountains of the Austrian Alps and the charming hill towns of Italy.

My daughter learned so much as we went and soaked up all the different locations like a sponge. The best thing about an interrail adventure is the time spent as a family on the trains. You will really talk and connect without outside distractions, play cards and learn to switch off together.

Contributed by Karen from Are We There Yet Kids

Hi, I’m Jessica, a mom of 5 kids and married to my favorite adventure partner. I love to bike, ski, camp and hike. We've visited over 40 countries with our kids, but are equally happy on the road as we are exploring our home state of Utah.

Worldschooling – The Exact Curriculum You Need To Take Your Kids Education On The Road

Best things to do in cappadocia turkey with kids (and what to avoid), 1 thought on “25+ bucket list adventures to do with your kids before they grow up”.

What a fantastic list of adventures with kids around the world. So many great bucket list ideas — we often talk of interrailing across Europe with our kids. Thanks so much!

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Charging elephant kills an American woman on 'bucket list trip' in Zambia

An American woman who was on what she had called her "last big trip" was killed when a charging elephant flipped over the car she was traveling in at a national park in Zambia .

The “aggressive” creature buffeted the vehicle carrying six tourists and a guide, tour operator Wilderness said in a statement Tuesday. It said the 79-year-old victim died after Saturday's incident on a game drive at the Kafue National Park in western Zambia.

The company did not name the victim but Rona Wells, her daughter, identified her as Gail Mattson in a post on Facebook. She said her mother died in a “tragic accident while on her dream adventure.”

A video circulating on social media apparently showing the incident shows a large elephant running toward a car, which slows down as the animal approaches its left side. The elephant then flips the vehicle over and the passengers can be heard gasping as the car rolls over.

NBC News does not know the condition or identity of the person who filmed the video.

Photos shared online of the car, which is emblazoned with the logo of the tour operator, show it tipped onto its side after the incident, with a deep dent in two of its side doors.

Wilderness, which describes itself as a “leading conservation and hospitality company” operating in eight African countries, including Zambia, did not respond to NBC News when asked to confirm the authenticity of the video and the photos.

But the tour operator’s CEO, Keith Vincent, said in the statement that the company’s “guides are all extremely well trained and experienced.”

"Sadly in this instance the terrain and vegetation was such that the guide’s route became blocked and he could not move the vehicle out of harm’s way quickly enough,” he added.

Another woman was also injured in the incident and taken to a medical facility in South Africa, the Wilderness statement said, adding that four others were treated for minor injuries.

“It’s extremely rare to see an elephant that irate,” Marlon du Toit, a wildlife photographer and safari guide, told the “TODAY” show Thursday. “Across Africa, there are thousands and thousands of guests on safari on a daily basis with no negative consequences.”

The exact cause of Mattson’s death was unclear, but the company said her body would be repatriated to her family in the United States with the support of local Zambian authorities and the U.S. Embassy in the capital, Lusaka.

“This is a tragic event and we extend our deepest condolences to the family of the guest who died,” the statement added.

NBC News has reached out to Mattson's family for further comment.

Kafue National Park is Zambia’s largest and oldest national park, according to its website, and spans an area of more than 8,000 square miles. Vast regions of the park remain unexplored and the website says it is home to a variety of untamed wildlife.

A 'bucket list trip'

Mattson spent her winters in Sun City West, Arizona, playing bridge and cards, but during the rest of the year, she "travels all over the world," her friend Brenda Biggs told NBC News. Biggs and her husband, John Longabauth, became friends with Mattson when they moved to the area 6 ½ years ago.

Longabauth said Mattson spoke to the couple about her upcoming safari trip about two weeks ago, and called it "one of her bucket list trips." He said she was very excited for the adventure.

Before she left, she gave the couple concert tickets for a show that would happen while she was traveling, telling them to enjoy the concert and "I'll see you when I get back," Longabauth recalled of the conversation.

Biggs said Mattson, who was almost 80 years old, told her that the African safari was her "my last big trip." She said Mattson was "super excited because it was like the culmination of all the trips that she had gone on."

An avid traveler, Mattson took to trips to Europe and Asia, Longabauth recalled, noting that she might have been to South America, too.

Biggs called her friend "flamboyant," "friendly" and "fabulous" and said she loved bright colors. Mattson had taken over Biggs’ job as the event planner for their 200-member bridge club, she said.

"Gail was one of the more up people you'd ever want to meet," Longabauth said. "She was always up. She was always optimistic. She was always seeing the good side of everybody."

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com

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15 Boomer Bucket List Places to Visit in Retirement

Posted: February 25, 2024 | Last updated: February 25, 2024

Baby boomers, born from 1945 to 1964, love to travel. They account for about 80% of luxury travel spending and enjoy traveling across the globe to their favorite destinations, from the exotic to the action-packed.

Prepare for adventure and discover some favorite baby boomer destinations to add to your bucket list.

1. Machu Picchu

Explore the mysterious “Lost City of the Incas” in Machu Picchu. If you’re feeling brave, hike the Inca trail or take a more leisurely journey by bus to reach the spectacular view of the Inca village beneath the glorious Andes. Hire a local guide to explore the ruins and enjoy two to three educational hours in this magnificent place.

Paris is on nearly everyone’s travel bucket list . Enjoy the cozy cafes and sip delicious coffee while gazing at the sparkling lights on the Eiffel Tower. Listen to the Parisians’ delicious French accents. “C’est magnifique.” Walk along the Seine and stroll around Luxembourg Gardens. Take the bustling metro and take in the historic charm of the Paris museums. There’s so much to do in Paris. Recapture the romance of your youth and leave France feeling revitalized.

Add the capital of the United Kingdom to your baby boomer bucket list if you’ve never visited London. It’s a cultured city replete with history and art. Choose from over 20 museums, including the renowned National Gallery and British Museum. Other venues not to be missed include the Tower of London, the Churchill War Rooms, and Westminster Abbey.

London has an excellent public transportation network, with two airports (Gatwick and Heathrow) and many taxi cabs and buses. If you fancy a shopping spree, grab your wallet and head to Harrods, “the” luxury department store in Knightsbridge.

4. Bologna, Italy

Bologna is a culinary playground for tourists with some of the best cuisine in Italy. It has an abundance of architectural and cultural treasures, over 50 museums, and miles of delightful, public, covered walkways.

Don’t leave without visiting Piazza Maggiore, the magnificent epicenter of Bologna that is much more than your average city square. Breathe in centuries of tradition and culture and create lasting memories.

If you enjoy quiet beaches, clear seas, and azure skies, go to the Greek Isles. Escape the hustle and bustle of life and soak in the romantic ambiance. Enjoy fresh food, first-class lodging, and a warm welcome. Rent a car and travel the islands to see cliff colors that dazzle the senses.

6. Antarctica

Antarctica is a stunning place to add to your bucket list if you’re looking for a grand adventure. If money is no object, consider a luxury expedition cruise. Antarctica’s white-covered mountains and icebergs rising out of the sea are like nowhere else in the world. Watch for playful whales and frolicking seals from the ship. If you feel like pursuing a real adventure, hire a kayak and explore the hidden coves. Going to Antarctica is a trip that will satisfy even the worldliest traveler and will inspire you to look for more from your baby boomer adventures.

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime trip to China. Starting in Hong Kong, enjoy delicious cuisine, fantastic shopping, and stunning harbor views from Victoria Peak. Visit the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square in Beijing, China’s imperial capital. If you’re feeling adventurous, walk along the Great Wall. It’s 4,000 miles long, so enjoy the dramatic views, but don’t plan to hike the entire wall. Wrap up your travels with a trip to Shanghai to enjoy China’s largest city.

8. Bora Bora

For a romantic destination, head to Bora Bora. Stay in a private, dreamy, overwater bungalow built on stilts overlooking a crystal clear lagoon. It’s the perfect location to renew your vows, celebrate your retirement, or reignite the passion of your younger years. Bora Bora is a luxury trip, but you deserve something special.

Croatian cities have centuries of history and splendid architecture. Escape the cities and visit the stunning National Park waterfalls. The popular “Game of Thrones” series filmed many scenes in this magnificent venue. Take a boat trip (book a high-speed boat for a two-hour journey from Rovinj to Venice), and enjoy every moment of the glorious Croatian coastlines.

10. Costa Rica

There is so much to experience in Costa Rica. Whether you love sprawling coastlines, jungles and rainforests, steaming volcanoes, or hot springs, there’s something for everyone. Observe various land animals, such as wildcats, sloths, and monkeys. Or, head to the water to watch whales and sea turtles in their natural habitat. Costa Rica is a five-star experience with luxurious resorts catering to your every whim.

11. Iceland and the Northern Lights

Is a trip to see the aurora borealis on your wishlist? If so, visit Iceland during the winter when you are more likely to experience this feast of colors in the sky. September to March is the best time. If you want a five-star luxury stay, consider the Silica Hotel. Head to Iceland’s most visited otherworldly attraction and dip in the 102-degree lagoon.

If the pyramids, the Nile, and the Great Sphinx appeal to your senses, add Egypt to your list. Visiting the Grand Egyptian Museum is a must for museum-loving travelers. It has over 20,000 artifacts on display, including over 5,000 from Pharaoh Tutankhamun’s tomb. There are planned group trips available that take care of transfers, meals, entry tickets, and other arrangements so you can relax and enjoy your visit to Egypt.

13. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Travel & Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler voted this location “Best City in the World” for two consecutive years. It’s a fantastic destination for art lovers, with over 100 art galleries you can visit. Enjoy colonial architecture, quaint cobblestone streets, and delicious food . If you fancy an educational trip, you could choose from art, cooking, writing, yoga, history classes, and more. There’s something for all baby boomers in San Miguel de Allende.

14. Ireland

Ireland is a cornucopia of lush green fields. Visit Dublin, Belfast, Kilkenny, Killarney and County Cork. Go to an Irish pub for a glass of Guinness, listening to lilting traditional Irish music. Or take in historical sites, monuments, beaches, and waterfalls. You can even stay in a castle, including Carton House, Adare Manor, or Dromoland.

The thrills of Africa are unrivaled. Plan a guided safari trip to see wild animals like elephants, wildebeest, lions, giraffes, and hippos in their natural habitat. Enjoy the comfort of a luxury lodge, some with regular visits from curious giraffes. The Kenya Wildlife all-inclusive safari is popular with baby boomers, not least because it includes visiting the Elephant Orphans Nursery.

10 States Americans Are Leaving in Droves and 5 States They Are Moving To

Do you know what’s becoming as American as apple pie? Internal migration! People are packing up and moving from sea to shining sea, but why? Let’s dive into this great American shuffle; check out the top 10 states folks are abandoning and the top five they’re flocking toward. What motivates the movers? Is it the quest for better jobs, sunnier skies, or just a change of scenery? Buckle up as we hit the road to discover what’s pulling Americans in new directions!

15 Destinations American Retirees Are Living in That Are Cheap

Are you dreaming of retiring to a place where your savings stretch further, the climate is more to your liking, and new cultural experiences await at every corner? You’re not alone. Many American retirees are looking abroad for their golden years, seeking destinations where they can enjoy a rich quality of life without the high costs of living in the United States. This article explores 15 such places around the globe where the combination of affordable living, beautiful surroundings, and welcoming communities create the perfect retirement oasis.

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