Urban travelers who have children can still enjoy city adventures with careful planning and flexibility. Families are now selecting destinations with direct flight access, walkable downtowns, and ample parks and playgrounds. Accommodations with heated pools and kid-friendly events are also prioritized.
Katie Farrell, a London-based digital director, emphasizes the importance of “fun-for-all” activities that cater to both kids and adults. Recent family outings have included tasting pastries in Valencia, Spain, and swimming near archaeological ruins in Puglia, Italy.
Technology aids in travel planning, with tools like Google Maps helping families find restaurants suitable for children and identifying the best times to visit museums. Families can also create custom walking routes to streamline their experiences.
The following cities are highlighted as excellent family-friendly travel destinations, particularly for spring break:
Washington, D.C.
The National Mall offers a spacious environment for families, especially in the early morning. The National Cherry Blossom Festival, featuring a kite festival on March 29, adds seasonal charm. Families can enjoy free access to numerous museums, including 21 Smithsonian institutions and the National Zoo. The Planet Word museum and the Folger Shakespeare Museum provide engaging activities for children, while outdoor spaces like Rock Creek Park and Theodore Roosevelt Island are perfect for exploration.
Dining options include Little Grand for sourdough pizza and the Union Market food hall, which features diverse food choices and a cozy children's reading room.
Montreal
Spring break travelers may experience different seasons in Montreal, with March visitors enjoying traditional maple syrup brunches and ice skating. In April, outdoor concerts and markets become more prevalent. Mount Royal Park offers extensive outdoor activities, and the Bota Bota Nordic spa provides relaxation options for adults and workshops for older children.
Family-friendly accommodations like Hotel Bonaventure feature unique amenities, while local restaurants serve breakfast favorites.
Portland, Ore.
Portland's efficient public transportation makes it easy for families to explore neighborhoods and children's museums. The Multnomah neighborhood offers healthy dining options, while Forest Park provides extensive trails. The Portland Japanese Garden and Umami Café are excellent spots for relaxation and refreshments.
The Kennedy School hotel, a repurposed elementary school, includes unique features such as an in-house movie theater.
Mexico City
Families can navigate Mexico City easily, with La Condesa and Polanco neighborhoods serving as ideal starting points. Parks such as Parque Mexico and Parque Lincoln offer recreational opportunities and local markets. The Museo Frida Kahlo provides a cultural experience, and local dining options include child-friendly restaurants with engaging environments.
Activities like exploring the Xochimilco canals can introduce children to local traditions and seasonal foods.
Savannah, Ga.
Families visiting Savannah can enjoy interactive experiences at SCADstory and local art displays in city parks. Although popular baseball games may sell out, the city's squares offer pleasant strolling opportunities. Local bookstores and evening walking tours provide cultural insights, while dining options like Brochu’s Family Tradition and Starland Yard cater to all ages.
These cities collectively offer a variety of engaging and enjoyable experiences for families traveling with children.