(BPT) – Family vacations are as unique as the families that enjoy them. If your family vacations in 2016 involved returning to the same destinations again and again, 2017 is a great time to take embrace the weekend, step away from the traditional and explore a new city. So grab your family, pack your bags and plan your next family vacation around the activities available in any of these five family-friendly cities.
1. Dallas
Dallas may be known for its business district and professional sports teams, but the city has plenty of other, lesser-known attractions that make it a great place for a family vacation. Animal lovers must visit the Dallas Zoo. As the largest zoo in Texas, it spans more than 95 acres. For those who enjoy aquatic wildlife, the Dallas World Aquarium is a must see. Finally, if you think your inner ear is up to it, thrill seekers will love Zero Gravity Thrill Park. There, you can bungee jump seven stories, or simply drop 16 stories into a large net at the Nothing but Net ride. All of it makes for an exciting, memorable visit.
2. Chicago
The Windy City has plenty of activities for the kids. Museums such as the Field Museum, Museum of Science and Industry and the Chicago History Museum provide plenty of conversation starters. Navy Pier is a historic landmark with a wonderful carnival and great restaurants. If you want to get a view of the entire city, nothing beats the Sears Tower.
3. Atlanta
The Alliance Theatre, widely recognized as the flagship theater in the southeast, performs kid-friendly shows all year. Meanwhile, fans of the screen will enjoy movie tours of the sites used in The Blind Side, The Walking Dead and Anchorman 2. And in Atlanta, how you see the city is half the fun. Stir your nostalgic side with an old-fashioned streetcar ride or step into the modern day with Segway and electric car tours. Whatever you decide, there is plenty to see and do.
4. Washington D.C.
Our country’s capital is a site worth seeing at least once and is a great opportunity to share a more cultural and historic experience with the kids. The National Mall is home to the Smithsonian museums, the White House and the U.S. Capitol. For the most rewarding experience, it’s best to choose a hotel nearby. For example, Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington D.C. Convention Center hotel is centrally located. Plus, it’s perfect for families considering it is just a short ride away from the National Zoo and other Washington D.C. attractions. When was the last time your family visited the zoo all together?
5. Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s draw starts with the Please Touch Museum. Designed specifically for children ages 1-7, the museum is more than 100 years old and includes two floors of interactive areas designed especially for kids. In addition, the city is also home to Sesame Place, the only theme park in the nation dedicated solely to the beloved characters of Sesame Street. Finally, if you’re interested in teaching your children more about the country’s history, Philadelphia and its Independence National Historical Park can’t be beat.
Plan your vacation today
Once you have chosen your destination, make sure to choose a hotel with lots of added value. Embassy Suites by Hilton’s two-room suites will offer parents some private time at the end of a long day and with a free, cooked-to-order breakfast, it should satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, once the kids are in bed, parents can take advantage of the evening reception, which features complimentary snacks and drinks for two hours every night.
A great family vacation starts with a great plan so don’t delay. Gather your family together and map out your next trip by choosing the events that look most interesting to your group. Wherever you decide to go, with the entire family together, it’s going to be great. Visit embassysuites.com to plan your weekend getaway.
