We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Hotels + Resorts 15 Best Family Resorts in the U.S., According to Parents and Travel Experts From beachfront properties to luxury mountain retreats, these are 15 of the best resorts in the country for a family vacation. By Lindsay Cohn Lindsay Cohn Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Published on May 2, 2024 Photo: Four Seasons Resorts As a mom and travel writer, family travel is something that I’m super passionate about. People often say, “It’s not a vacation once you have kids," — but I disavow that statement. Yes, there will be challenging moments. That’s a given. But exploring new places or returning to tried-and-tested favorites as a family is the stuff that becomes core childhood memories. And even if your kids are too young to remember, you will — and that matters. Plus, they can look back on the photos later. While I subscribe to the philosophy that you can find interesting and age-appropriate stuff to do with kiddos almost anywhere, the truth is not that everyone wants to spend hours searching the internet for kid-friendly activities and accommodations. For many parents, it’s about picking an awesome resort that takes the stress out of planning — and executing — a family vacation. So, what does that look like exactly? Well, it needs spacious accommodations (bonus points for in-room perks like high chairs and tiny robes), ample amenities that cater to guests of all ages, dining options to please palates big and small, and ideally, a kids club. By culling down the consideration set to just domestic destinations, you don’t have to worry about passports, long-haul flights (well, save Hawaii), exchanging currency, or visa requirements. There are so many incredible vacation-making resorts across the country, from sprawling properties minutes from Disney World to luxury mountain lodges. Whether you’re looking for recommendations for an upcoming trip or stockpiling inspiration for the future, scroll on for the best family resorts in the United States, according to parents and travel pros. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Maui Four Seasons Resorts Book Now Also available to book at Expedia.com What We Like Attentive service and tons of extras for little ones make this an excellent pick for families with small children. What to Consider The hotel can get pretty busy during the school holidays. With a list of accolades that’s even longer than its extensive activity schedule, the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Maui — one of the best resorts in Hawaii for 2023, as voted by T+L readers and a WBA Hall of Fame honoree — is a legendary luxury family vacation destination. Keikis spend the days running between the pools and the sparkling azure blue waves, playing tennis, and hanging with pals at the complimentary kids' program. Interactive experiences like torch bearer rituals and Hawaiian star stories teach visitors about local culture. Complimentary pool playpens, beach toys, personalized stuffed animals, strollers, baby monitors, and swings for little ones certainly help ease packing woes and prevent overstuffed suitcases. Parents’ vacation fantasies come true while indulging in stress-melting massages at the spa and sipping cocktails by the adults-only infinity pool. The Details: Standout amenities: Beach access; three pools; complimentary pool playpens, beach toys, and in-room amenities for little ones; complimentary Kids for All Seasons program; Hawaiian culture activitiesLocation: Maui, HawaiiStarting rates: $1,500 per night Montage Laguna Beach Montage Laguna Beach Book Now Also available to book at Expedia.com What We Like The kids club welcomes guests as young as two years old. What to Consider This is one of the pricier resorts on this list. Families flock to Montage Laguna Beach. Voted one of the best resorts in California by Travel + Leisure readers, the 262-key property delights guests of all ages with its laid-back seaside charm that reflects the Laguna Beach lifestyle, stellar service, and recreation opportunities. While you could easily spend the whole time sprawling out on the beach or lounging by the saline swimming pools, the wealth of activities — snorkeling, kayaking excursions in the Pacific Ocean, and surf lessons — makes a compelling case for exploring beyond the cabanas. Half-day Paintbox sessions and collecting Montage merit badges will keep kids thoroughly engaged (and off their iPads). The residential-style villas provide an ideal haven for families. Exceptional baby-friendly in-room amenities include Bloom crib mattresses and diaper pails. The Details: Standout amenities: Direct beach access; three saltwater swimming pools (including a children’s pool); beachfront accommodations; Paintbox and Paintbox Petite children’s programs; Montage Merit badges; UPPAbaby rental program; teen spa treatments; 24-hour in-room diningLocation: Laguna Beach, CaliforniaStarting rates: $1,100 per night The Ranch at Rock Creek Ranch at Rock Creek Book Now What We Like Outdoor activities abound in truly gorgeous landscapes. What to Consider The resort is 90 minutes from Missoula International Airport. “Surrounded by mountains, meadows, and streams, The Ranch at Rock Creek allows families to spend quality time together in nature — far away from the distractions of the fast-paced modern world,” says Carolyn Addison, head of product at Black Tomato and a mom of two. With horseback riding, sporting clays, fly fishing, mountain biking, and a bowling alley, there's really something for everyone. Morning and afternoon sessions at Flint’s Forest Rangers Kids Club gives youngsters a chance to peep at wildlife, learn about cowboy history, mine for sapphires, ride ponies, and go geocaching. The luxurious private homes and cabins within walking distance of the main lodge and glamping cabins are a hit with families. The property also provides car seats, high chairs, cribs, pack ‘n plays, and babysitting services. The Details: Standout amenities: Flint’s Forest Rangers Kid’s Club; horseback riding; sapphire mining, swimming pool; bowling alley; private homes and cabins; glamping tentsLocation: Philipsburg, MontanaStarting rates: $2,300 per night (all inclusive) for two guests; $900 additional nightly charge for guests age six and over Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort Courtesy of Four Seasons Resorts Book Now Also available to book at Hotels.com What We Like The luxe resort is just a short complimentary shuttle ride away from the theme parks. What to Consider This property is more expensive than many nearby Disney resorts. A visit to Disney World tops the travel wishlist for many kids (and adults). What makes a trip to “The Most Magical Place on Earth” even more, well, magical? Staying at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, a World's Best Awards winner in 2021. After all the rides and live entertainment at the park, the five-star property is the perfect place to relax and continue the fun. The family-fave highlights include the five-acre waterpark with slides, a lazy river, and breakfast with Goofy and his pals. While kiddos are off having a blast at the complimentary Kids For All Seasons supervised children's camp, parents can take a well-deserved break by the adult-only pool, play 18 holes of golf, or relish spa treatments. Plus, the rooms are luxurious and super spacious, so families have plenty of space to spread out. “Don’t miss Capa for rooftop Michelin-starred dining that offers views of the nightly Disney fireworks,” says Elizabeth Rhodes, T+L special projects editor, of her recent stay. The Details: Standout amenities: Spacious rooms with private terraces; five-acre waterpark; complimentary Kids for All Seasons program, tennis courts; 18-hole golf course; adult-only pool; kids under five eat free at select restaurants; breakfast with Goofy; complimentary transportation to the parksLocation: Orlando, FloridaStarting rates: $1,295 per night Turtle Bay Resort Turtle Bay Resort Book Now Also available to book at Expedia.com What We Like There's plenty to do on-site, including 12 miles of hiking trails. What to Consider Meals can be expensive, but kids menus are available. One of the best hotels in Hawaii for families, Turtle Bay Resort is a slice of pristine paradise on the North Shore of O‘ahu. The sprawling property boasts seven sun-drenched beaches, three main swimming pools (including a kids' pool with water slides), nine restaurants, stables, and a 468-acre working farm. It’s also famous for having a boredom-busting lineup of activities, ranging from snorkeling with sea turtles and learning to surf alongside a pro to hula lessons and pony rides. My best friend recently went with her daughters, who especially enjoyed Kariel's Mermaid Academy. All the rooms have ocean views, and most also feature a lanai or balcony, which is particularly nice to use while little ones nap. For families seeking even more exclusivity, there are 42 ocean bungalows steps from the sand. The Details: Standout amenities: Ocean-view rooms, three swimming pools; seven beaches; stables; championship Arnold Palmer-designed golf course; 468-acre farm; hula and ukulele Lessons; beach cruisersLocation: O‘ahu, HawaiiStarting rates: $700 per night The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Marriott Book Now What We Like The beachfront location is hard to beat. What to Consider Keep an eye on the forecast during hurricane season. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, is a longtime family favorite. Thanks to a $100-million renovation, the five-star resort on beautiful Vanderbilt Beach has even more guests of all ages to love. According to T+L editor-in-chief Jacqui Gifford, the refurbished property “feels like a relaxed country club” with a game lawn, kid-centric sign-up activities like stuffed animal-making, and a made-to-order guacamole cart. Add to that water sports and serviced beachside cabanas. The new air-conditioned poolside bungalows are ideal for mid-day naps or a break from the sun (and maybe an episode of Bluey on the flat-screen TV). Rooms with balconies and ocean views wow. Book one of the accommodations in the new Vanderbilt Tower for access to food, drinks, and the kid's play area in the largest club lounge in North America. The Details: Standout amenities: All rooms have balconies and ocean views; watersports; poolside bungalows; beach cabanas; club lounge; Ritz Kids programming; complimentary shuttle service to The Ritz-Carlton Naples, TiburónLocation: Naples, FloridaStarting rates: $699 per night The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection Auberge Resorts Collection Book Now Also available to book at Expedia.com What We Like The resort has endless space for kids to roam free. What to Consider Activities may be better suited to older kids. Admittedly, I visited The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection — a repeat winner in our World’s Best Awards — solo while pregnant with our second baby. But the entire time, I kept saying I wanted to return with Miles. I thought of him whenever I saw smiling kids running up the gravel paths on a nature scavenger hunt, swimming in the pool, or coloring and eating burgers on the outdoor restaurant terrace. The spacious, contemporary Earth Suites mean families have plenty of stylish space to spread out. And the outdoor fire pits are perfect for roasting s’mores. For animal lovers, there’s a 30,000-square-foot indoor equestrian center and a horse rescue sanctuary. Older adventurers can do e-biking and axe throwing. It’s also super cool to take kids to Gracie's Farm to learn about organic agriculture. The Details: Standout amenities: Hiking; fly fishing; clay shooting; heli-skiing; organic farm; 30,000-square-foot indoor equestrian center; Saving Gracie horse rescue sanctuary; farm-to-table restaurant; nature-driven spa; on-site High West Whiskey distilleryLocation: Wanship, UtahStarting rates: $1,299 per night Montage Deer Valley Montage Deer Valley Book Now Also available to book at Expedia.com What We Like Spacious accommodations are especially attractive with reasonable off-season rates. What to Consider Some amenities and activities aren’t available during the off-season. Park City is one of my absolute favorite shoulder season destinations. This past fall, we brought Miles to Montage Deer Valley and discovered it to be ideal for families. The luxury mountain resort and 2023 World’s Best Awards winner offers activities like archery lessons and snow tubing, a pub with arcade games and a bowling alley, a kids club, and direct access to hiking paths and groomed slopes. Our toddler had a blast playing with the canine ambassador, and I’ll never forget the glee on his face when he saw the adorable in-suite camping setup. Thanks to indoor and outdoor pools, guests can swim year-round, and adults will love the serene oasis of a 35,000-square-foot spa. Active types can rely on Compass Sports to take the guesswork out of adventuring with gear rentals and lift tickets, and the nightly s’mores around the fire is a sweet way to end the end. The Details: Standout amenities: Mountain-view rooms and suites; ski-in/ski-out access; indoor and outdoor pools; six dining options; Paintbox children’s program; Montage Merit badges; UPPAbaby rental program; Compass SportsLocation: Park City, UtahStarting rates: $450 per night Ojai Valley Inn Ojai Valley Inn Book Now Also available to book at Hotels.com What We Like Unique and engaging programming, including private golf and tennis lessons. What to Consider Camp Oak doesn’t accept kids under four years old, and many activities cost extra. Even though then-11-month-old Miles was too young to join in on the fun at Camp Oaks during our Ojai Valley Inn stay, the offerings — which include arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, and science experiments — are sure to delight young guests (ages 4 to 12) during the day and weekend night sessions. I watched little swimmers playing with noodles and paddling around in the Pixie Pool before digging into a plate of delicious-looking chicken fingers and fries. The artist cottage and apothecary hosts daily craft hours to make soaps, terrariums, tie-dye, and more. Horseback riding, tennis clinics, in-room game night baskets, s’mores, and events like face painting and balloon twisting mean even more opportunities for family bonding. The adults-only pool, spa, and championship golf course are great spots for parents to escape. The Details: Standout amenities: Family pool; adults-only pool; golf course; kid’s camp; mountain-view rooms with fireplaces, tubs, and terraces; spa; artist cottage and apothecaryLocation: Ojai, CaliforniaStarting rates: $709 per night C Lazy U Ranch C Lazy U Ranch Book Now What We Like It's an 8,500-acre ranch with tons of outdoor activities. What to Consider It's two hours and 15 minutes from Denver International Airport. Saddle up for Wild West-themed family fun at C Lazy U Ranch, an all-inclusive, four-season dude ranch in the Rocky Mountains. Voted among the favorite resorts in Colorado of 2023 by T+L readers, the property promises an adventure-packed vacation that city slickers and cowboys will appreciate. Guests can try horseback riding, cattle pushing, archery, axe throwing, fly fishing, mountain biking, and ziplining. Prefer more leisurely pursuits? Head to the creekside spa for massages or a soothing soak in the hot tub. The excellent kids and teens program gives cowpokes a first taste of ranch life through age-appropriate activities supervised by trained counselors. At the end of the day, everyone comes together to swap stories around the campfire before retiring to cozy cabins for a restful slumber. The Details: Standout amenities: Cabins with wood-burning fireplaces; C.O. Bigelow bath products; horseback riding; cattle pushing; archeryLocation: Granby, ColoradoStarting rates: $392 per night The Resort at Paws Up The Resort at Paws Up Book Now What We Like The resort offers a huge variety of activities, plus round-trip airport transfers. What to Consider A deposit is required to book. A surefire way to get the kids off their iPads? Book a trip to The Resort at Paws Up. At this cattle ranch turned luxury family-friendly retreat and WBA honoree in the Blackfoot Valley, outdoor recreation trumps screen time. More than 35,000 acres of Montana wilderness is the backdrop for endless adventure. Spend days exploring 100 miles of walking trails, fly fishing on the river, ride go-carts, learn horsemanship skills, and do mosaic workshops with your crew. During half- or full-day sessions at the Kids Corps of Discovery, children ages 3 to 12 get to swim, paint, go geocaching, and more. That gives parents plenty of time to relax at the spa or participate in an adult-only wilderness activity. Vacation homes and glamping sites with deluxe tents (open mid-May through mid-October) are the ideal home base for families who want to be immersed in nature without sacrificing creature comforts. The Details: Standout amenities: 70-plus activities; 100 miles of trails; meals are included; all home accommodation guests have access to a Lexus SUV; round trip airport transfersLocation: Greenough, MontanaStarting rates: $2,265 per night for two adults and two children The Cloister at Sea Island The Cloister at Sea Island Book Now Also available to book at Kayak.com What We Like Plenty for kids and adults to do together or apart; Camp Cloister starts at age three. What to Consider One-hour drive from Jacksonville International Airport; you may need to rent a car. Named among T+L readers’ favorite resorts in the South, The Cloister at Sea Island is one of the true grand dames of family resorts. Guest rooms, suites, and residences have creature comforts like wood furnishings, deep-soaking tubs (ideal for bathing littles), and Mediterranean-style arched windows. “From tennis to crabbing, the 50-acre property supplies an array of activities tailored to all members of the family,” says Addison. Itineraries for nature enthusiasts include falconry, hawk walks, and visits to the nature center. Relaxation seekers can chill out at the beach club. “We relished the Kids Nights Out program, which ensures an escape for both the young ones and parents seeking a child-free evening.” While bingo night and family paint parties promise endless laughter and memories. “Horseback riding on the beach was the highlight of a wonderful recent trip to Sea Island, and I loved the family pool,” said Rhodes. The Details: Standout amenities: One-, two-, and three-bedroom accommodations; Molton Brown toiletries; outdoor swimming pool; tennis courts; beach club; bike rentals; family paint parties; Kids Nights Out programLocation: Sea Island, GeorgiaStarting rates: $600 per night Big Cedar Lodge Big Cedar Lodge Book Now Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com What We Like The resort offers great value with loads of indoor and outdoor fun. What to Consider It can feel a bit like an amusement park. Few places match the family fun potential of Big Cedar Lodge, a lakeside resort and repeat WBA winner in Missouri's Ozark Mountains. There are many ways to enjoy the great outdoors — whether renting a boat, fishing, swimming, playing mini golf, or rolling out a blanket for movies on the lawn. Fun Mountain, the 30,000-square-foot entertainment zone, ups the ante on indoor excitement with underwater-themed bowling, rock climbing, a ropes course, arcade games, go-karts, and laser tag. The waterfront cottages, log cabins, enormous suites, and glamping tents accommodate groups large and small. So invite the grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Why not plan a family reunion? The Details: Standout amenities: Entertainment zone with underwater-themed bowling, rock climbing, a ropes course, arcade games, go-karts, laser tag; mini golf; glamping siteLocation: Ridgedale, MissouriStarting rates: $369 per night Chatham Bars Inn Chatham Bars Inn Book Now Also available to book at Expedia.com What We Like The beachfront hotel is just a short walk to Main Street. What to Consider Many amenities are seasonal. “I grew up going to Cape Cod, so it has a special place in my heart. And I love returning with my family. Our go-stay is the charming Chatham Bars Inn, an elegant and timeless oceanfront resort in the quintessentially quaint town of Chatham,” says Addison. “I fondly remember sitting out with my kids on the oceanfront veranda and watching the sunrise.” The property has a private sandy beach ideal for lounging, building sandcastles, and swimming. There’s also a zero-entry pool with cabanas, a kiddie pool, tennis clinics for all ages, and summer kids programming. The on-site dock and fleet of boats are perfect for family excursions such as whale watching, sailing, fishing, and lobstering. While authentic clambakes give off nostalgic New England vibes. The Details: Standout amenities: Private beach; zero-entry pool with cabanas; kiddie pool; on-site dock with a fleet of boats; tennis clinics; complimentary supervised Kids Crew with interactive programsLocation: Chatham, MassachusettsStarting rates: $650 per night Know Before You Go Decide what kind of vacation you want. From the mountains of Colorado to the beaches of Hawaii, the United States is massive and filled with diverse scenery. Equally varied are the types of family holidays available to travelers. Do you prefer lounging by a sun-splashed pool? Perhaps an alpine escape steeped in rugged adventure is more your speed? Maybe it’s the thrill of adrenaline-pumping rides and snapping photos with costumed characters? Consider travel time and logistics. Traveling with kids can be stressful — especially regarding red eyes, changing planes, and tight connections. The more logistics, the greater the chance that someone might have a meltdown (and I’m not just talking about little ones). Depending on your kids' ages and jet-setting experience, it might be more feasible to hop on a long-haul plane to Hawaii. Some parents (and kids) do better with jet lag than others, so the time difference is also something to consider. It’s also essential to think about logistics on the ground. Do you need to rent a car? What’s public transportation like? Does the resort provide a shuttle service to and from the airport? Be mindful of budget. Many luxury resorts (with price tags to match) do a phenomenal job of catering to families. But there are plenty of more wallet-friendly options as well. You can also save money by skipping peak periods like summer vacation and winter break and visiting during the off-season. How We Chose These Hotels Lindsay Cohn is a travel journalist and mom of two young boys. The resorts on this list were chosen based on her personal experience and research and the first-hand accounts of Travel + Leisure editors and industry professionals — all of whom are parents. Many of these resorts have also been voted into their respective categories in the World’s Best Awards by T+L readers.