Yes, you can still plan a fun family vacation – even if it’s at the last minute! Let’s get real: coordinating a family trip is not a small task. Between work, school, and trying to run a household, it’s easy to let summer sneak up and realize you have no plans! But if you are worried it’s too late to make this summer one to remember, fear not! There is still plenty of availability in some of the iconic vacation destinations that you’ve always wanted to travel to- and I am here to help you make it happen.
Whether you are looking for a national park adventure, a beach getaway, or even a trip to a theme park, I’ve got you covered. When you’re working with an expert, you don’t need months of planning and experience. With just a touch of spontaneity and some expert guidance, you’ll be on your way in no time!
If you are unsure about where to even begin or what destination you would even want to travel to, don’t worry – I’ve got you! Read on to hear about some of my top last minute family friendly summer getaway destinations.
1. Turks & Caicos
Imagine a beach resort that is practically designed for families. With multiple water parks, fun characters, and activities for kids, tweens, and teens, a Turks and Caicos resort is one of the easiest and stress-free family friendly summer getaways to book last-minute.
I’ve had good luck finding availability at resorts in Turks and Caicos even in peak months by monitoring cancellations and using partner access. Plus, they’re all-inclusive, so once you arrive, you can actually relax.
Parents always love the nanny services and kid clubs, while older kids can enjoy beach volleyball, snorkeling, and nighttime movie nights under the stars. Such an easy and breezy getaway!
2. Yellowstone & Grand Teton
If you are looking for some wide-open spaces and fresh mountain air, a last-minute adventure to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks might be just what the doctor ordered! With colorful geysers, incredible wildlife sightings, hiking trails, and some of the best stargazing you can imagine, it will be a trip for the books!
I can help you snag a last-minute booking at one of the lodges and cabins inside or near the parks that are family-friendly and even give you access to guided tours, junior ranger programs, and fun activities for kids. You may even want to try staying at a classic Dude Ranch!
Summer is also the best time for white water rafting, horseback riding, and of course, some good old s’mores around the campfire!
3. Orlando, Florida
It’s no surprise Orlando is on the list- it’s every kid’s dream vacation destination! And it is a classic getaway for a reason. With so many theme parks and things to do here, it’s a destination that is sure to be full of magic, fun and adventure!
The idea of planning a Disney or Universal vacation last-minute may sound overwhelming, it is totally different when you have an expert in your back pocket to help guide you.
With insider tips that help you make the most of your trip and special access to last-minute room promotions, I can help you build a seamless itinerary that works for your family’s pace and interests. From Genie+ strategies to VIP park tours, I’ll help make your spontaneous theme park adventure totally stress free so you can focus on the fun.
4. Banff National Park
Don’t sleep on Summer in Canada! The National Parks (especially Banff!) are a family paradise. Think of it as an adventure playground. From climbing the Via Ferrata (a fun mix between hiking and rock climbing) and mountain biking to lakeside beaches and gondola rides, it offers nonstop action for kids and grown-ups alike.
With some seriously gorgeous hotels that look like castles, you won’t be camping here (unless you want to!) Amazing restaurants, spas, and a cute high end downtown area await you.
This is one of the international destinations that you luckily don’t have to deal with jetlag for! Banff is a great fit for outdoorsy families who want a mix of luxury and adventure, and yes, you can totally do it even if it’s last-minute.
5. San Diego
If your family wants it all: beaches, zoos and cultural attractions- San Diego might be the perfect destination for you! There’s something for every age group here, from the world-famous San Diego Zoo to LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, and trendy surfing and beach towns like La Jolla and Coronado.
Even at the last-minute, I can help you find resort deals that are both convenient and comfortable for families. I can tailor a relaxed but activity-packed trip that balances fun and downtime, so everyone gets what they need.
With the San Diego airport close by and easy to access, San Diego is one of the easiest and most versatile family friendly summer getaways to plan last-minute- especially for West Coast travelers!
6. Dollywood and the Smoky Mountains
Want to take the kids somewhere different this summer? The smoky mountains and Dollywood are such a fun destination for families. With a mix of the beautiful nature in the smokies and the fun and quirky nonstop action in the theme parks, this destination might be just what you are looking for your last-minute summer trip!
Think hiking in the forest and relaxing in a hot tub one day and riding rollercoasters and eating cinnamon bread the next! There is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Whether you want to stay in a log cabin or even one of Dolly’s hotels, I can help you find last-minute hotel or cabin deals here, and the relatively short travel time makes it manageable even with younger kids.
7. Disney Cruises
There’s nothing better than a Disney Cruise for families with kids of all ages! This action-packed vacation option is an automatic win; a vacation the whole family will be talking about for years to come!
With so much to see and do from waterparks on board, fun shore excursions in destination, shows, character meet and greets, immersive dinners, and fun interactive games; it’s a step away from screen time and into real connection without sacrificing any of the fun!
Sail into your next dream family vacation this summer! If you’re somewhat flexible with dates, I can help you find a cruise that is a perfect fit for you and your family. That way you can focus on the magic, excitement, and fun that is sure to be had.
These family friendly summer vacation ideas are proof that you don’t have to settle just because you’re running a little behind on the planning. From relaxing all-inclusive beach resorts to serene nature escapes and even fun theme park adventures, there are still so many incredible options to make this summer one your family will talk about for years to come.
And I’m here to help you make it a magical summer; with no overwhelm involved! I can help with booking flights, finding the perfect accommodations, and building an itinerary that keeps every family member happy, no matter the age. Let’s get your family summer trip on the calendar. Which adventure sounds perfect for you? Let me know in the comments!
