Here are 9 must-visit USA destinations that deserve a spot on your family travel bucket list. Each one has something truly special to offer — whether it’s history, nature, culture, or just pure adventure!
Historic Ybor City, Florida
Image Credit: Ybor City
When we first explored the Tampa area, we stumbled across Historic Ybor City almost by accident — and it quickly became one of our favorite discoveries. This National Historic Landmark District (one of only three in Florida) feels like you’ve stepped into another time.
Cobblestone streets, charming old cigar factories, and even free-roaming chickens give Ybor a unique character. Founded in 1886, the town became known as the “Cigar Capital of the World” by 1900. Families can soak up the culture by wandering the streets, hopping on a streetcar, or visiting the Ybor City Museum State Park to learn more about its Latin heritage.
The energy here is electric — filled with live music, vibrant food spots, and a community that proudly celebrates its roots. For parents, it’s a cultural gem. For kids, it’s an adventure filled with sights and sounds unlike anywhere else.
You can learn all about the history at the Ybor City Museum State Park!
For more fun things to do in Tampa with kids, click HERE
Sedona, Arizona
Image Credit: Visit Sedona
Arriving in Sedona is like driving into another world. The stunning red rock formations rise dramatically from the desert, creating landscapes that seem almost unreal. But Sedona isn’t just beautiful — it’s packed with adventure.
Families who love the outdoors will find endless hiking trails, from easy walks to the more challenging climbs up Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock. If biking is more your speed, Sedona is a mountain biker’s paradise. Thrill-seekers can hop on Jeep tours across rugged terrain, soar high with helicopter tours, or even try a UFO or stargazing tour for something truly out of this world.
Sedona is also known as a spiritual hub, with energy vortexes that many believe bring healing and balance. Whether or not you buy into the mystical side, one thing’s for sure — this is a destination that will leave your family in awe.
If you want to see Sedona with some adventure thrown in, Jeep Tours are hugely popular in the area, as are Helicopter Tours, and if you want something different, check out the UFO Tours! The Starzing Tours are second to none too!
For more fun things to do in Sedona with kids, click HERE
Deadwood, South Dakota
Step into the Wild West at Deadwood, a town that feels straight out of a movie. Founded in 1876 during the Gold Rush, Deadwood quickly became a hotspot for outlaws, gamblers, and adventurers.
This was the stomping ground of legends like Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok, who famously met his end here while holding the “Dead Man’s Hand” in a poker game. Families can dive into this colorful history at the Adams Museum, or stand on the very spot where Hickok was shot.
The fun doesn’t stop there. Explore the Broken Boot Gold Mine, check out the Days of ’76 Museum, and catch Wild West re-enactments that bring the past to life. With its saloons, old-time architecture, and fascinating tales, Deadwood is an unforgettable stop that turns history into a family adventure.
In fact, you can still see a sign marking that original location where the shooting happened, and learn all about it at the nearby Adams Museum
Deadwood also features some other great attractions to get you into your Wild West mood like Broken Boot Gold Mine and the Days of '76 Museum
For more fun things to do in Deadwood with kids, click HERE
Cody, Wyoming
Named after the legendary Buffalo Bill, Cody is another Wild West gem — and a must-visit if you want a real taste of cowboy culture. Founded in 1896, Cody embraces its frontier heritage with pride.
Families will love Old Trail Town, where original 19th-century buildings and wagons recreate the atmosphere of the late 1800s. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is packed with history, artifacts, and interactive exhibits for curious kids. And if you’re hungry, head to Buffalo Bill’s Irma Hotel — built in 1902 and still serving up a famous prime rib buffet!
Old Trail Town is certainly a highlight for any visit, as all of the 26 buildings you'll see (as well as original horse drawn vehicles too!) were built between 1879 and 1901, and re-located to this location to give you an incredible sense of the 19th century.
Named after William "Buffalo Bill" Cody, who helped found the town in 1896, the town offers some really fun things to do with kids, including nightly summer rodeos, gun fight re-enactments and cowboy music! Also another fun way to immerse yourself in the history is to visit places such as Buffalo Bill's Historical Center as well as visiting places such as Buffalo Bill's Irma Hotel, which Buffalo Bill himself built in 1902, and named after his daughter. Don't miss the delicious food here (including a very famous prime rib buffet!)
For more fun things to do in Cody with kids, click HERE
Mystic, Connecticut
Image Credit: This Is Mystic
If your family loves seaside charm, Mystic is the place to go. Once a major shipbuilding hub, this town has been welcoming visitors since the 1600s. Today, it still feels like a postcard come to life.
Start at the Mystic Seaport Museum, where kids can climb aboard historic ships and learn about maritime history. Visit the Mystic Aquarium to see beluga whales and sea lions, or head out on the water with Mystic Boat Adventures for a fun family ride.
History buffs will love spots like the Denison Homestead Museum, while art lovers can check out the Mystic Museum of Art. And of course, you can’t leave without a slice at the legendary Mystic Pizza — yes, the same one made famous by Julia Roberts’ movie. Between the seafood, the views, and the family-friendly attractions, Mystic is a New England treasure.
Your days here will just be relaxation, walking, eating amazing seafood, and checking out the local attractions, such as Mystic Seaport Museum, and Mystic Aquarium, or perhaps enjoying a boat ride with Mystic Boat Adventures. With such a rich history, it would be a shame to visit Mystic without exploring attractions such as The Denison Homestead Museum and the Mystic Museum of Art
Make sure you stop at Mystic Pizza! Not only does it serve incredibly delicious pizza, but it's also recognisable from the Julia Roberts film Mystic Pizza!
For more fun things to do in Mystic with kids, click HERE
FAQs About Hidden Gem USA Family Destinations
Got questions about visiting these hidden gem USA destinations with kids? We’ve answered the most common queries families have — from the best time to visit, to budget tips, to whether you’ll need a car.
Most families think of theme parks or big cities when planning trips, but these 9 places offer something unique — whether it’s the Wild West history of Deadwood, the cinematic streets of Astoria, or the red rock landscapes of Moab. They give kids new experiences, while parents can enjoy history, culture, and scenery that you don’t find at mainstream attractions.
Yes. Each location has a mix of activities that work for younger children and teens. For example, Mystic has aquariums and boat rides perfect for little ones, while Sedona and Moab have hikes and outdoor challenges that thrill older kids. Olympic National Park is a playground for all ages, from gentle trails to adventurous treks.
Not at all. Many of the activities — like exploring national parks, wandering historic towns, or wildlife spotting — are free or very affordable. Of course, extras like Jeep tours in Sedona or rodeos in Cody have a cost, but you can balance these with budget-friendly options like picnics, hikes, and free museums.
Timing depends on the destination. Summer is great for coastal towns like Mystic and Astoria, while spring and fall are perfect for Sedona and Moab (to avoid extreme desert heat). Winter brings snowy fun to Cody and Estes Park, though these towns are also wonderful in warmer months. Olympic National Park is open year-round, each season offering something different.
For most, yes. Moab, Cody, and Sedona are spread out and best explored by car. However, towns like Ybor City and Mystic are very walkable once you arrive. Renting a car is the easiest way to maximize your time and see more in one trip.
Absolutely. These towns and parks thrive on tourism and welcome families year-round. As with any trip, basic precautions apply — keep an eye on kids in crowded areas, bring plenty of water for hikes, and plan ahead for weather changes.
Definitely! For example, you could pair Moab with a trip through Colorado’s Estes Park, or explore both Olympic National Park and Astoria on a Pacific Northwest adventure. Many of these hidden gems fit naturally into bigger road trip itineraries.
Astoria, Oregon
Image Credit: Astoria Oregon
Even if you’ve never been to Astoria, you’ve probably seen it. This charming coastal town has starred in countless movies — from The Goonies and Kindergarten Cop to Free Willy and Short Circuit. Film fans can explore the Oregon Film Museum to see just how many classics were shot here.
But Astoria is more than a movie set. Founded in 1811, it’s the oldest city in Oregon and the first American settlement west of the Rockies. Families can explore the Heritage Museum to learn about its history, or simply wander the quaint streets lined with shops and cafés.
The scenery is breathtaking, with riverfront views, bridges stretching into the horizon, and a vibrant harbor. Whether you’re here for the films, the history, or just the coastal charm, Astoria is a wonderful family stop that blends fun with culture.
You can learn all about the films at the Oregon Film Museum
Another reason to visit Astoria is the history. The town was founded in 1811, and is actually the oldest city in the entire state of Oregon, AND was the very first American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains - all of which can be learnt at the Heritage Museum
For more fun things to do in Astoria with kids, click HERE
Olympic National Park, Washington State
Image Credit: NPS
For a true nature escape, head to Olympic National Park. Spanning nearly a million acres, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most diverse landscapes in the USA.
Families can explore temperate rainforests, alpine peaks, and rugged coastlines — all within a single park. Hike through moss-covered trails, spot wildlife, go biking, or simply relax with a picnic in the fresh mountain air. The 73-mile wilderness coastline is especially stunning, with hidden beaches and tide pools waiting to be explored.
What makes Olympic special is how close it feels to civilization — yet once you’re inside, it feels like another world. Kids will love discovering the “rainforest” side of America, and parents will enjoy the tranquility of being surrounded by pure natural beauty.
Located on the Olympic Peninsula, it's a nature loving families dream. Hiking, skiing, wildlife viewing, biking....whilst so close to urban areas, you'll feel miles away - especially with it's 73 mile wilderness coast and the park itself spanning nearly a million acres.
More of a nature getaway than a "here are fun things to do with kids" option in this list, but it truly is a stunning part of the USA - so much so it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
Estes Park, Colorado
Image Credit: Visit Estes Park
Just 70 miles from Denver, Estes Park is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park — and the perfect base for family adventures.
Outdoor activities are endless: fishing, hiking, whitewater rafting, and even horseback riding with local outfitters like Sombrero Ranches. Wildlife spotting is also a highlight — elk are known to wander right through town.
One of the most famous landmarks is the Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s The Shining. Families can take a tour (spooky fun for older kids!) and then enjoy the bustling downtown full of galleries, restaurants, and shops.
With its mix of history, nature, and mountain-town charm, Estes Park gives families both relaxation and adrenaline — all in the heart of Colorado.There are plenty of outdoor adventures to be enjoyed, from fishing, white water rafting, and our personal favorite - horseback riding with companies like Sombrero Ranches
Don't miss a visit to the Stanley Hotel - best known as Stanley Kubrick's inspiration for his classic movie The Shining!
As much as there are outdoor adventures to be had, Estes Park also has plenty of galleries, shopping, events and so many options to enjoy delicious food!
Settled in 1859 and incorporated in 1917, Estes Park lies along the Big Thompson River and is the headquarters for the Rocky Mountain National Park.
For more fun things to do in Estes Park with kids, click HERE
Moab, Utah
Image Credit: Moab City
Finally, no family adventure list would be complete without Moab. Known for its red rock landscapes and national parks, Moab is jaw-droppingly beautiful.
Families can explore Arches National Park, home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, or head to Canyonlands National Park for even more epic scenery. Movies like Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and Thelma & Louise were filmed here, and the Red Cliffs Lodge Movie Museum is a must for film buffs.
Beyond the parks, the Colorado River winds through Moab, offering rafting and water adventures. The town itself is welcoming, with small-town hospitality, unique shops, and delicious food. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration, and a base camp for some of the most unforgettable landscapes in the country.
Moab is home to the stunning Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park so get ready for some incredibly breathaking scenery! Not only is Moab a great base for the national parks, but there are some fascinating things to do in Moab itself.
You might recognise the scenery from films such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crucade, and Thelma & Louise, and some very famous John Wayne westerns, and a visit to Red Cliffs Lodge Movie Museum can tell you all about it through some pretty cool movie memorabilia!
In Moab, you get small town hospitality, the beautiful waters of the Colorado River (which is THE river that runs through the Grand Canyon!) and beautiful red rock landscapes - all the makings of an amazing experience for the family!
For more fun things to do in Moab with kids, click HERE
We hope you have enjoyed our Top 9 Must Visit USA Destinations for 2022 list - if you have any more suggestions you feel should be on this list, don't forget to comment below!
From historic towns and Wild West adventures to national parks and movie-famous cities, these 9 USA destinations prove that family travel doesn’t have to mean crowded theme parks or long lines. Each spot is rich with history, culture, and fun — and offers something for parents and kids to enjoy together.
So next time you’re planning a trip, think beyond the obvious. Whether you choose the cobblestones of Ybor, the red rocks of Sedona, or the mountain air of Estes Park, your family will come home with stories you’ll treasure forever.
Lisa Downs
Lisa has been a content writer for Family Days Out for nearly 10 years, and a keen travel writer for nearly 20. She loves experiencing the best of a city, discovering the many things to do and immersing herself in the culture, and sharing these experiences with others through her writing.
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