Planning a family vacation that appeals to the interests of families with teenagers can be quite a challenge. You want a trip that’s engaging, fun, and memorable, but also provides opportunities for growth and learning.
Worry not! We’ve compiled a list of the top 15 best vacations with teens’ ideas in mind, ranging from all-inclusive resorts and outdoor adventures to city escapes and educational vacations.
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey with your teens!
Key Takeaways
Explore the world’s top family-friendly destinations in 2024, from all-inclusive resorts to outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters.
Create unforgettable memories with your teens on an educational vacation or thrilling adventure sports getaway!
Bond with your family while exploring iconic cities, stunning landscapes, and majestic wildlife around the globe!
Top All-Inclusive Resorts for Families with Teens
Having fun at a beach resort
All-inclusive resorts are an excellent choice for families aiming for a stress-free vacation that satisfies everyone. These resorts cater to the whole family, offering a wide range of activities and programs tailored for both younger and older kids.
Some top all-inclusive resorts for family vacations with teens include Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa, Grand Velas Riviera Maya in Mexico, and Club Med Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.
With thrilling activities such as water sports, teen clubs, and outdoor adventures, these destinations guarantee a fantastic getaway for the whole family.
Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa
Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa makes a fantastic destination if your teens have a penchant for the beach and water sports.
Water sports are popular at all-inclusive resorts for family vacations
This all-inclusive resort offers exciting activities for teenagers, such as water sports, an Xbox Play Lounge, and teen-only nightclubs.
Parents can enjoy some downtime at the spa or indulge in delicious dining options. With a mix of relaxation and adventure, Beaches Turks & Caicos is sure to be a hit for the whole family.
Grand Velas, Riviera Maya, Mexico
If you’re aiming for a luxurious family vacation, consider Grand Velas Riviera Maya in Mexico.
This all-inclusive resort provides both adventure and relaxation, with a teen club that offers thrilling activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and more. For an added bonus, explore the area around Cancun, where teens will love Ventura Park , ATV tours , zip-lining or even day tours to see the nearby Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza .
Grand Velas Riviera Maya truly provides an unforgettable family getaway.
Club Med Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Another all-inclusive resort that perfectly serves families with teenagers is Club Med Punta Cana . The resort offers a variety of exciting activities, such as archery, tennis, sailing, windsurfing, beach parties, and more.
Just because you’re staying at a resort, don’t limit yourself. Get out and explore the area around Punta Cana and do exciting activities such as horseback riding on the beach, dune buggy adventures, and ziplining .
With so many options , your teens will never run out of things to do, making Club Med Punta Cana an ideal vacation destination.
Outdoor Adventure Destinations for Active Teens
Consider an adventure-filled vacation in Costa Rica , Yellowstone National Park, or a trip to Iceland if your teen has a fondness for the great outdoors.
Each location offers unique outdoor experiences, from wildlife encounters and hiking trails to adrenaline-pumping activities like zip-lining and white-water rafting.
These best vacation destinations provide the perfect opportunity for active families to bond and create lasting memories through unforgettable experiences. Discover our top family vacation ideas to make the most of your next adventure.
Costa Rica
Outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers will find a paradise in Costa Rica.
Teenagers ziplining through the jungle
With its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife , and stunning beaches, this Central American gem offers a plethora of exciting activities for teens. Zip-lining through the forest canopy, white-water rafting on roaring rivers, and encountering sea turtles on pristine beaches are just a few examples of the thrilling experiences that await your family in Costa Rica.
Yellowstone National Park, USA
Primarily located in Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park is a destination not to be missed by families in search of outdoor adventures .
Stunning nature in Yellowstone
As the world’s first national park, Yellowstone offers a unique mix of geological wonders, abundant wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
Your teens can embark on exhilarating hikes, go whitewater rafting , spot bison and bears, and marvel at the park’s geysers and mud pots. With so many unforgettable experiences to be had, Yellowstone National Park is an ideal vacation spot for active teens.
Iceland
Iceland, known as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” offers a captivating destination for adventurous teens.
A teenage girl exploring Iceland
Explore a diverse range of natural wonders, including geothermal marvels at the famous Blue Lagoon and various natural hot springs. Engage in glacier adventures such as Snow Mobile adventures and ice cave exploration to witness stunning ice formations.
Discover volcanic landscapes , including active volcanoes and the unique opportunity to walk between tectonic plates.
During the winter months, marvel at the celestial display of the Northern Lights. Explore beautiful waterfalls like Gullfoss and encounter abundant birdlife, including puffins and Arctic terns, while enjoying hiking and birdwatching.
City Escapes for Culture-Loving Teens
A temple in Tokyo
New York City, London, or Tokyo are exciting cities to consider for a trip if your teens are passionate about culture and city life. Each city offers a wealth of cultural experiences, including:
World-class museums
Historic landmarks
Vibrant theater scenes
Bustling shopping districts
With so many captivating sights and experiences to be had, New York City, Tokyo, and London are perfect for creating memories and exposing teens to local cultures.
New York City
As a cultural mecca, New York City has something to offer everyone, including your culturally curious teens. Some exciting activities and experiences in the Big Apple include:
Checking out the city Skyline of New York
Visiting renowned museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History
Catching a Broadway show
Exploring the diverse neighbourhoods
With its iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building , One Vanderbilt , The Statue of Liberty and the 9/11 Memorial , there are endless opportunities for exploration in New York City. This is one place that is sure to captivate and inspire your teens.
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Looking for more New York inspiration? Read our New York with Teens guide
London, United Kingdom
Steeped in history and culture, London offers an unforgettable experience for families with teens.
A teenager in London
Explore famous landmarks like the Tower of London , Westminster Abbey, and the British Museum , or catch a show in London’s famed West End theatre district.
Big-ticket fun and memorable attractions like the London Eye and the London Dungeon will be memorable. A trip to Warner Bros. Studios for Harry Potter fans or Wemberly Stadium for sports fans is a must.
London’s multicultural neighbourhoods , historic sites, and world-class museums make it an ideal destination for teens interested in experiencing a rich cultural blend.
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Planning a family holiday to London? Find inspiration with London with Teens article
Tokyo, Japan
With its fascinating blend of modern and traditional culture , Tokyo is an exciting destination for teens. From the bustling shopping districts and lively cafes to the serene temples and beautiful gardens, Tokyo has something for everyone.
Why not plan a trip to Tokyo Disney or immerse yourself in the TeamLab Planets Exhibition ? Check out the views from Tokyo Skytree , enjoy sightseeing on the hop-on, hop-off bus, and learn to make sushi.
Teens will love exploring the city’s unique neighbourhoods and areas like Shibuya , indulging in delicious cuisine, and experiencing the vibrant culture firsthand.
A trip to Tokyo is sure to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family. If you have time, jump on a bullet train and visit the nearby cities of Kyoto and Osaka .
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Are your teens into theme parks and anime? Tokyo with teens is the ideal destination
Road Trips for Bonding with Teens
Nothing brings a family closer than a road trip adventure. Hitting the open road and exploring new destinations together creates lasting memories and strengthens family bonds.
The Great Ocean Road in Australia
Consider a drive along the North Coast 500 in Scotland , a journey across the iconic Route 66 in the USA, or a cruise along the scenic Great Ocean Road in Australia for an unforgettable road trip experience.
These road trips offer stunning landscapes, unique attractions, and countless opportunities for fun and bonding with your teens.
The North Coast 500 – Scotland
One of the most unforgettable road trips in the United Kingdom for creating memories, especially for most teens, is the North Coast 500.
Stunning scenery in Scotland with teenagers on a road trip.
This 500-mile journey encircles the rugged northern coastline of Scotland , treating family travellers to a breathtaking array of experiences.
From pristine white sandy beaches to majestic mountains and remote fishing villages, this route offers it all whether your family stays in a hotel or rents a motorhome .
Beginning in Inverness , the adventure unfolds as it winds through the Black Isle, Easter Ross, and Caithness, encompassing the northernmost point, John O’Groats.
The journey continues , leading down the western coast and south through Sutherland and Wester Ross before returning to Inverness . It’s an expedition that guarantees cherished memories for teens and the entire family.
Route 66, USA
Route 66 is your go-to for a classic American road trip. This historic highway, once the main traveller’s route heading west, is now a nostalgic journey through roadside attractions, diners, and historic sites. The road trip stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica on a 3,940-kilometre journey.
Treasures of the past are waiting to be discovered on Route 66
Your teens will love discovering the quirky Americana of the Cadillac Ranch, the Blue Whale of Catoosa, and the Meramec Caverns. Passing through major centres such as Flagstaff, Albuquerque, Amarillo, Oklahoma City, and St. Louis before finishing in Chicago.
With its unique charm and fascinating history, Route 66 offers an unforgettable bonding experience for the whole family.
Great Ocean Road, Australia
Offering spectacular coastal views, abundant wildlife , and thrilling outdoor activities, the Great Ocean Road in Australia is a scenic drive. Along the way, families can spot koalas, kangaroos, and even whales while also enjoying surfing , hiking, and exploring the famous Twelve Apostles rock formations.
The stunning landscapes and exhilarating experiences offered by the Great Ocean Road make it an ideal road trip destination for families with adventurous teens.
Educational Vacations for Inquisitive Teens
An educational vacation can offer both fun and enrichment for families with inquisitive teens. Destinations like Washington, DC, Rome, and Gyeongju offer many learning opportunities, from museums and historical sites to immersive cultural experiences.
These vacations not only entertain but also inspire a lifelong love of learning and curiosity in your teenagers.
Washington DC
The capital of the United States, Washington, DC , is an ideal destination for an educational family vacation .
The city is home to numerous museums, landmarks, and historical sites, such as:
The Smithsonian National Zoo
The National Museum of Natural History
The National Air and Space Museum
The National Mall
The White House
The Lincoln Memorial
Teens can explore attractions like the National Baseball Hall and learn about American history while enjoying their vacation.
With its rich history and countless attractions, Washington, DC, offers an engaging and educational experience for families with teens.
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Does D.C. interest you, is it on your list of places to visit? We have a D.C with Teens guide
Rome, Italy
The Eternal City, Rome in Italy , offers a perfect blend of ancient history, art, and architecture for inquisitive teens.
From exploring the Colosseum and Roman Forum to admiring the masterpieces at the Vatican Museums, Rome offers a treasure trove of cultural experiences.
Teens can also try their hand at a cooking class or simply wander the charming cobblestone streets, discovering the city’s rich history and vibrant culture at every turn.
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Gyeongju South Korea
Gyeongju, South Korea’s historical gem, boasts a plethora of cultural treasures to learn about . Begin your journey at the UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple, a masterpiece of Silla Dynasty architecture.
Exploring Historic Sites in South Korea
Nearby, the Seokguram Grotto shelters an impressive granite Buddha. Dive into history at the Gyeongju National Museum, showcasing artefacts from the Silla Dynasty. Wander the picturesque Anapji Pond and visit the ancient Cheomseongdae Observatory.
Explore the reconstructed Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, and discover ancient tombs at the Daereungwon Tomb Complex. Hike through Namsan for a blend of nature and historic treasures.
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Adventure Sports for Thrill-Seeking Teens
Consider a vacation to exhilarating destinations like Queenstown, New Zealand; Interlaken, Switzerland; or Whistler, Canada, if your teens are thrill-seekers with a passion for adventure sports.
Jet Boating in Queenstown
Each location offers adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, and white-water rafting that will push your teens’ limits and create unforgettable memories.
These destinations cater to active families and provide the perfect opportunity for teens to test their boundaries and conquer their fears through activities like horseback riding and roller coasters at theme parks.
Make sure you get travel insurance that covers adventure activities
Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown, New Zealand, known as the adventure capital of the world , offers a variety of thrilling activities for adrenaline-seeking teens. From bungee jumping off the Kawarau Bridge to skydiving over stunning landscapes and jet boating through narrow canyons, Queenstown has something for every thrill-seeker.
With its breathtaking scenery and countless adventure sports options, a trip to Queenstown is sure to be an unforgettable experience for your teens.
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If the whole family is not into adventure sports, our Queenstown with Teens guide has plenty of alternatives for you
Interlaken, Switzerland
Interlaken, nestled between two stunning lakes in the heart of the Swiss Alps , is a hotspot for a plethora of adventure sports for teens seeking a thrill.
A scenic lookout in Interlaken
Paragliding over picturesque landscapes, canyoning through rugged terrain, and white-water rafting down raging rivers are just a few of the exhilarating activities available in this breathtaking destination.
With its stunning scenery and thrilling adventures , Interlaken is an ideal vacation spot for active and daring teens.
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Whistler, Canada
Whistler, a world-renowned ski resort in Canada, boasts more than just skiing and snowboarding .
Teenagers mountain biking in Whistler, Canada
In addition to its world-class winter sports options, Whistler provides a range of adrenaline-pumping activities such as zip-lining , mountain biking , and heli-skiing.
With its diverse outdoor offerings, breathtaking scenery, and easy access from Vancouver , Whistler is a perfect destination for active and thrill-seeking teens.
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Attractions to see and activities to do in Whistler.
Wildlife Encounters for Animal-Loving Teens
A wildlife encounter can offer an unforgettable and awe-inspiring experience for animal-loving teens.
Interacting with Australian wildlife
Destinations like the Galapagos Islands, Kruger National Park, and Borneo
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