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Kids love summer vacation. It’s freedom to do what they want, when they want, and how they want. The last thing they want to do is learn more over their precious break. This list of 5 entertaining and educational summer vacation ideas perfect for kids has been chosen, not to teach, but to be so much fun that they have no idea they’re learning. Forget the summer slide, traveling with kids can uncover knowledge while having a blast on your next vacation.
In This Post:
1. Walk With the Dinosaurs
Step right into the prehistoric past at Dinosaur Land, in Vernal, Utah. This area attracts visitors worldwide and offers up close and personal experiences with the visible evidence of these magnificent and monstrous life forms that once inhabited the land. Dinosaur National Monument is a great place for families to view a variety of unique dinosaur fossils and footprints, as well as, many ancient stone carvings–petroglyphs and stone paintings–pictographs from the early inhabitants. Covering more than 200,000 acres, the park features a dinosaur quarry that can be viewed with more than 1,500 fossils that are still embedded in the cliff face. Enhance your dinosaur exploration even further and visit Dinoland.com, a great resource for planning the ultimate dinosaur trip to Vernal, UT
2. Virginia’s Historic Triangle
The Historic Triangle known as; Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown, are essential pieces to American history. Families can become a part of the past in the largest living history museum in the U.S. located at Colonial Williamsburg. The colonial town remains in character 24 hours a day and is an immersive way for children to experience 18th-century history. Dive deep into the archaeological discoveries found in Jamestown–the remnants of a colonial story. Visit the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown and even muster alongside with the troops in a reenactment of Continental Army encampment or participate in the daily life of Revolution-era farm. Living history is a fabulous way to engage the whole family while experiencing America’s heritage.
3. Blast Off to Space
The U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama is a great museum for the family to blast off into the discoveries of space. The museum is a Smithsonian affiliate and showcases rockets, achievements, and artifacts of the U.S. space program. Follow the journey–past, present, and future of space travel and discovery. Learn about America’s Space Race and NASA’s plan for the moon landing, the space shuttle program, the International Space Station, and become a part of the dreamers with a look into the future of commercial space travel and the latest innovations.
4. Explore the Volcanoes
Is there anything more spectacular than active volcanism? Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on Hawaii Island–the Big Island. Kīlauea and Mauna Loa are active volcanoes featured in the park. See the dense ferns coating the entrance to Thurston Lava Tube–Nāhuku. Experience unique biomes and land features–actively learning about geology and earth science. Take a drive along Crater Rim, passing by steam vents and the Jaggar Museum–featuring volcanology exhibits and incredible views of Halema'uma'u Crater.
5. Night at the Museum
Family visits to the museum can already make an impression on any child. The Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History located in Washington D.C. is world-renowned. Filled with impressive relics, treasures, and natural wonders the museum suddenly becomes more than a way to connect with the pieces to the past, the museum offers sleepovers, making it a perfect family destination. The wonders of the museum’s halls are yours to explore.
Summer vacations can be educational as well as entertaining. One of the main benefits of these types of trip is that they are excellent for children and adults. It brings you closer together as a family–learning hands-on from experts and each other. Your family also can discover new cultures and perspectives on our own history. These 5 Entertaining and Educational Summer Vacation Ideas Perfect for Kids are sure to give you options for your next family trip.
