Where Bonds Strengthen and Thrills Await: Exploring America's Family-Approved Attractions

Teen-Tested, Family-Approved: The Top Attraction for Families with Older Kids

Are you ready for your next family adventure? Some of the best memories, bonding time, and new experiences are waiting for you, your partner, and your kids.

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But for families with teens, finding the perfect attraction can be a challenge. It needs to have something for everyone—the adults who want to connect and the kids, who want something exciting yet safe. If you want to pry them away from the digital world and inspire their engagement in your next family trip, be intentional about choosing attractions and activities that they’re most likely to enjoy.

That’s why we’re proud to share some of the best family attractions that meet both criteria: bonding opportunities and thrills! From the most visited tourist attractions to smaller, hidden gems, this list includes everything from theme parks and museums to national parks and the great outdoors, these attractions will give your family something to talk about for years.

So, let’s take a look at the attractions that are sure to get your teens excited!

Top Attractions in United States for Families with Teens

Here are our picks for the best tourism attractions and activities to consider for your next family travel adventure to keep your teen engaged and inspired.

Washington D.C.

If you’re hoping to take your family to a place with rich history, and your teen has an interest in the inner workings of the government, Washington D.C. is an excellent choice. Visit the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, The National Mall, and the U.S. state capital. Many of these attractions are free, but paid guided tours can be arranged for a more in-depth look at each of these places.

But there’s another side to DC too—one of vibrant art and culture. Visit the Smithsonian museums like the National Museum of African American History and Culture, check out the hip neighborhoods like Dupont Circle and Adams Morgan, and check out local live music shows.

Check out our guide to a teen getaway in DC not focused on history. One of my favorite attractions listed there is the O Mansion, which is a former residence turned hotel, cultural center, and event space with hidden rooms, secret passageways, and more. It’s one of the most unique attractions in Washington DC or the country for that matter.

Shopping and eating in Georgetown might also interest your teen, as there are so many attractions to choose from that line M Street and overlook the Potomac River. We did this Georgetour Food Tour that was fantastic and I hit with our teens.

No matter the season or time of year, DC has something for everyone – from music festivals to cherry blossom viewing in the spring to Christmas markets in December! As an added bonus, book a private vacation photographer and capture family photos in front of your favorite monuments or attractions.

Glacier National Park

You may want to escape the city and get your teen out in nature. Immersing oneself in nature can be a sort of therapy because of the many mental and physical health benefits that come with it. For instance, it can reduce stress, enhance creativity, improve concentration, and help you build muscle with activities like nature walks and hikes.

Visiting one of the national parks, like Glacier National Park, can give you and your teen a chance to experience nature and the health benefits above. Glacier is one of the top-ranked national parks in the U.S., covering two mountain ranges and over 700 lakes across Montana. It offers a unique experience for families with summer activities to enjoy like camping, horseback riding, biking or ATV tours.

If your teen has a driver’s license and is comfortable with mountain roads, let your teen drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road for spectacular views and access to a list of hikes.

How long does it take to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road?

That depends on what type of stops you make, but it typically takes around two hours. We recommend planning for at least three hours, though, in case you want to linger a bit longer or make an unexpected detour. You can always come back and explore more later!

How much does it cost to go to the Sun Road?

Glacier National Park charges an entrance fee of $35.00 per vehicle ($30 for motorcycles) which grants access for seven days. Additionally, there is a nonrefundable $2.00 vehicle reservation fee for the Going to the Sun Road, valid for three days.

In addition to the views and outdoor activities, going for a hike can provide your teen with some great exercise that will help build muscle. As you explore the terrain in Glacier National Park, be sure to take note of any wildlife you see along the way! Visit Lake McDonald for boat tours, horseback riding, and a nice selection of shops and dining options. And consider staying a few days at The Firebrand Hotel or Grouse Mountain Lodge.

During the winter, activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding are also popular for those who don’t mind braving the cold temperatures. For a unique experience, skijoring is a must-try.

With skijoring, participants will be pulled through the snow on cross-country skis by an animal such as a dog or horse. If you aren’t brave enough to try it, you can watch others compete in the annual Whitefish Skijoring Festival!

Hot Springs, South Dakota

From biking the Mickelson Trail to taking a guided kayak tour down the Missouri River, Hot Springs is a gateway to a multitude of outdoor activities that are bound to captivate teenagers and parents alike. The Black Hills offer opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and even rock climbing, allowing families to bond over thrilling experiences in the midst of nature’s beauty.

Hot Springs is the southern gateway to the Black Hills and is known for its natural hot springs. Relax in one of the two developed mineral hot springs or take a short drive to Wind Cave National Park, home of the world’s longest cave system, as well as Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Crazy Horse Memorial. Families can explore the town’s historic district, complete with well-preserved architecture and charming shops.

Nearby Custer State Park offers wildlife viewing, including the famous bison herds, which can be especially exciting for younger family members. The park also has camping spots and trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. For a unique experience, stop by the Mammoth Site to learn about their Ice Age fossils.

Find more things to do in Hot Springs, SD here.

Nickelodeon Universe

Nickelodeon Universe is located in Bloomington, Minnesota at the Mall of America. It’s the first indoor Nickelodeon-themed amusement park and 27 rides and attractions based on Nickelodeon characters and shows.

Some of the most popular attractions at Nickelodeon Universe that your teen would find fun include:

Rock of Ages Black Light Mini Golf
Avatar Airbender
Fairly Odd Coaster
Dutchman’s Deck Adventure Course
Shredder’s Mutant Masher
Pepsi Orange Streak

In addition to Nickelodeon Universe, the mall also offers a host of shopping, dining, and entertainment options including an escape room, and SeaLife Minnesota Aquarium. If you want to make a weekend out of a trip to the Mall of America, there are several hotels connected to the mall or nearby for your convenience.

In the past, we’ve stayed at the nearby Hyatt Regency Bloomington-Minneapolis which has an outstanding on-site restaurant. No matter what you decide to do, Mall of America is a great place for an unforgettable day with your teen!

Bonus: If you’re looking for additional entertainment options nearby, why not visit the Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley and be surrounded by thousands of animals from around the world? Or take a trip to Minnehaha Falls, a scenic 53-foot waterfall located near the Mississippi River. These attractions are within an hour’s drive from Mall of America and well worth your time!

Bay Beach Amusement Park

Headed to Wisconsin? Stop at Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay. It’s one of the longest-standing amusement parks, opening in 1892. Unlike other theme parks, one of the best things about this park is that admission and parking are free.

You just have to pay for tickets for rides and games. The cost ranges from 25 cents to two dollars, so you get a lot of bang for your buck.

The park’s most popular ride is the Zippin Pippin, which was originally built in 1912. It’s an old-fashioned wooden roller coaster that was Elvis Presley’s favorite ride. Some of the popular thrill rides, like Bay Beast, 100-foot Ferris Wheel, and Sea Dragon. A variety of concession stands are spread throughout the park. You can also bring snacks and pack a picnic lunch to enjoy with your family.

There are several other places to visit nearby Bay Beach Amusement Park. Go feed geese, embark on nature trails, and see other animals at The Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary. And have a fun go-karting competition with your teen at Kastle Karts.

Bonus: If you’re looking for more family attractions near me, be sure to check out the nearby Lambeau Field, home of the Green Bay Packers and Titletown entertainment complex. Take a tour of the stadium and catch a free movie at the Titletown outdoor theater during the summer months.

During the winter months, Titletown turns Ariens Hill into an urban tubing hill and also offers a public skating rink adjacent to the hill.

Read more about other family activities in Green Bay you can explore on your visit.

Puerto Rico

Your family might need a trip to somewhere with beautiful beaches and a touch of Caribbean culture. Puerto Rico offers both of these things, as well as a more grown-up trip vibe your teen would appreciate. Plus no passport is needed for American citizens.

Start with a Visit to La Placita, where you can find lots of fresh fruit and vegetable stands, dancing, and some of the best cuisine Puerto Rico has to offer. You can take your teen horseback riding, zip lining, or ATV riding at El Yunque National Rainforest.

You can also do a deep dive into 500 years of Puerto Rican history at Old San Juan. And don’t forget to enjoy a family beach day at Playa Colora. Cayo Icaco, or Fajardo La Cordillera.

For an unforgettable outdoor experience, take a boat ride to explore the natural wonders along Bio Bay and take an underwater tour of La Parguera with its bioluminescent waters.

Hoover Dam

Among the most visited places along the Colorado. Hoover Dam is a great destination for families with teens to explore the wonderful desert landscape and get an up-close look at the engineering marvel that is Hoover Dam.

Teens can take guided tours of the dam, power plant, and Historic Era Railroad Museum to learn about how this modern marvel functions, or explore the nearby Boulder City. With its spectacular architecture and beautiful views of the Colorado River, this is an attraction teens won’t want to miss!

Bonus: Las Vegas is nearby and is the ultimate destination for any teen looking for a fun and exciting adventure. With its spectacular shows, world-class restaurants, and exciting attractions, there’s plenty to do in this dazzling city!

Teens can take in a show at one of the many casinos or explore one of the vibrant neighborhoods like Fremont Street. Plus if you are seeking sun and warm temperatures in the winter, Las Vegas is the place to be!

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is one national park your teen will have an unforgettable experience. Yellowstone stretches across 2.2 million acres from the northwest corner of Wyoming through Idaho and Montana.

Hopefully, you’ll get to see an eruption in progress at the Old Faithful Geyser. Let your teen lead the four-mile hike on Elephant Back Trail. Go on wildlife-spotting adventures through Hayden Valley and Norris Geyser Basin.

Stay for a while and make this a family camping trip. You can’t go wrong with Madison Campground, Lewis Lake Campground, or Grant Village Campground.

Mammoth Hot Springs is worth checking out too and offers additional lodging options if you don’t want to camp. There are also many more activities like bird watching, fishing, and boating as well as ranger-led programs offered throughout the year.

Bonus: Grand Teton National Park is located just south of Yellowstone and provides even more opportunities to explore. Make sure to pack the right gear, including layers for varying temperatures in different areas. Don’t forget to bring a map (or download one) so you don’t miss any hidden gems along your journey!

Bonus: Find out when the National Park Service offers free admission days throughout the year. That way, you can take full advantage of the parks and save some money.

Miami, Florida

Miami is a vibrant destination with plenty of sights and sounds to explore. The city has a mix of art, culture, food, and entertainment that will make any traveler feel right at home. It’s also a great destination for national parks.

The city is the center of Latin American culture with a huge Latin and Cuban-American population in Miami. Take your family to Little Havana to explore Calle Ocho, taste lots of Cuban cuisine in Versailles, and watch live performances and concerts at Cubaocho.

Visit the historic Art Deco district in South Beach, see the largest open-air street art installations in Wynwood District, or take a stroll along the iconic Ocean Drive. Be sure to try some delicious Cuban cuisine while you’re there! Finally, visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens for a taste of old-world elegance.

Miami is also home to Biscayne Bay and the Biscayne National Park, where your teen can do various water-based activities, like fishing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and diving. Explore lush mangroves and coral reefs while you’re there. Take a boat tour and spot wildlife such as turtles, dolphins, sea lions, and manatees.

Of course, you can’t miss Everglades National Park that allows visitors to explore the unique landscape of “River Of Grass” and spot wildlife such as alligators, manatees, and birds like roseate spoonbills and wood storks. Take an airboat or swamp buggy tour, go canoeing, and explore the park’s trails for a unique experience your teen won’t forget.

Tip: You can purchase annual passes to all the national parks in Miami for discounted entry throughout the year.

New York City

The Big Apple is perfect for the cosmopolitan teen who loves shopping, good food, and nightlife. Take in a show on Broadway, get tickets to a favorite TV show taping, stroll through Times Square and Central Park, explore art galleries like The Met or MoMA, and check out the city’s vibrant street art. Don’t forget to visit Brooklyn to soak up its unique atmosphere and hip vibes.

When we visit NYC, we like to stay in a hotel near Times Square close to all the attractions, restaurants, and nightlife while offering great value for money. Plus, it is easy to get around the city with the subway system just steps away from the hotel lobby!

One of the best ways to see the best places in NYC for less is by getting a CityPASS. It provides discounted admission to some of the best tourist attractions in the city including the Empire State Building, the American Museum of Natural History, and your choice of three of the following:

Top of the Rock Observation Deck
Ferry Access to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
9/11 Memorial & Museum
Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Guggenheim Museum

With the NYC CityPASS, you save 40% off individual admission prices. Adults are $138 and Children ages 6-17 are $118. For a family with two adults and two children under age 17, you save over $380 and tickets are good for 9 days from first use. Learn more and buy your tickets here.

New Orleans

There are plenty of fun family activities in New Orleans for teenagers. The iconic French Quarter, filled with historic sites and lively entertainment, is perfect for a teen-friendly exploration. Teens can enjoy the unique Creole culture, explore the live music scene on Bourbon Street, or take a tour of the city’s many cemeteries.

The famous landmark Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is also a must-visit site for families. Teens can learn about conservation and witness the beauty of sea creatures from around the world. For those looking to explore further, there are plenty of outdoor activities like swamp tours or bike rides through City Park.

For history buffs, the National World War II Museum provides an interactive experience that educates and entertains. The Ogden Museum of Southern Art is also a great place to explore regional artwork.

Shopping, food, and nightlife are also popular activities for teens visiting New Orleans. Along Magazine Street, there are many boutiques filled with unique items and souvenirs that can be found nowhere else in the world. Young foodies will enjoy exploring all the different dishes New Orleans has to offer, like po’boys, red beans and rice, gumbo, and beignets. A trip to Cafe DuMonde is a must for beignets. Lastly, live music is always in abundance from jazz to blues to funk.

Bonus: Nearby Jefferson Parish (located between New Orleans and the airport and south to Grand Isle in the Gulf of Mexico offers more family-friendly attractions away from Bourbon Street and the French Quarter. Here, there are plenty of outdoor recreational activities including swamp boat tours, fishing, and boating along the banks of Lake Pontchartrain, Lake Salvador, or visiting one of the parish’s many beaches.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Whether you’re looking for secluded beaches, wildlife refuges, or adventurous activities like kiteboarding and windsurfing – there’s something for everyone in the Outer Banks. While here you can explore the 180-mile chain of barrier islands that include multiple state parks, lighthouses, and nature preserves. It’s also one of the best places on the East Coast to hunt for sea glass. It’s truly a place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you.

While in the Outer Banks, be sure to take an ATV tour of Carova Beach. Here you can see wild horses and other wildlife up close or drive on the sand with your 4×4 vehicle. Enjoy spending time at some of the local museums like the Wright Brothers Memorial, checking out Jockey’s Ridge State Park, or taking a day trip to Ocracoke Island. In addition, the Outer Banks offers an array of activities such as fishing, crabbing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more.

San Diego

For the best year-around family destination, I can think of no better place than the beautiful city of San Diego. There are so many great attractions in this city, from the beautiful beaches to the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The zoo has over 3,700 animals and is a must-see for any family. Other popular activities include Balboa Park which offers a variety of museums and gardens, or a trip to Coronado Island for a fantastic beach day.

Growing up, our family would stay on Mission Beach or Pacific Beach for a week-long getaway. There are plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, and stores to explore on the boardwalk. You can also take a Segway tour or rent kayaks and paddle boards for hours of fun in the sun! These days I really like the feel of Shelter Island and the Kona Kai Resort on the bayside. It’s quiet, yet still close to all the action.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a must-see attraction for families with teens. Not only does the area have incredible natural beauty, offering stunning views of the Falls from many vantage points, but there is also a wide range of attractions and activities that teens would find exciting.

The Niagara Climbing Adventure offers a safe but thrilling experience for teen adventurers to explore the falls up close. Meanwhile, Maid of the Mist Boat Tour gives visitors a chance to take in the dramatic views of Horseshoe Falls while taking a boat ride right along the edge.

The Cave of the Winds and Observation Tower are also located within the park. The Cave of the Winds features guided tours through ancient caverns, during which visitors can observe fascinating geological formations. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Niagara Falls is a top destination for families with teens.

Universal Studios Hollywood

If you are in Southern California, this theme park is also nearby and offers a peek into film history with rides for all ages. The theme park has thrill rides like the Revenge of the Mummy and several movie-themed attractions like The Simpsons Ride, Shrek 4D, and Transformers: The Ride 3D. There are also plenty of shops, live entertainment, and dining options. Universal Studios Hollywood truly has something for everyone!

Walt Disney World Resort

We can’t round out this list of teen-approved attractions and activities without mentioning Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. You’ll need at least a week here if you want to thoroughly enjoy all four parks, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios.

Each park has a host of rides, shops, dining experiences, and attractions. Some of the best include:

Haunted Mansion;
Epcot’s World Showcase;
Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor;
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror;
Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom;
Kilimanjaro Safaris at Harambe Wildlife Reserve.

This amusement park is more than just rides. It is also a way to engage with nature and make memories for years to come.

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Central Florida

There’s more to do in Central Florida besides theme parks. From the colorful downtown area of Orlando to the beaches of Daytona, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to check out:

Gatorland
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Orlando Eye and Madame Tussauds Orlando
Daytona Beach Boardwalk & Pier
Downtown Disney Marketplace
Safari Wilderness Ranch

Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or a few days, there’s enough to do in Central Florida to keep everyone entertained. From thrilling rides to cultural experiences, you won’t run out of ways to have fun with family and friends.

Maximize Your Time With Your Teen No Matter Where You Visit

The whole point of taking your teen on any family travel adventure is to spend time with them. You want to bond, have fun, and make memories with them that they’ll carry for the rest of their life.

So, it’s important to put some things in play that help you maximize your time with your teen and ensure they’re having the best time when visiting attractions and doing activities. Start with prioritizing safety.

Prioritize Safety

Safety is key on any family trip. All it takes is one injury or dangerous situation to cut the trip short. So, make sure you know how and where to access emergency services at the place you’re visiting. Allow your teen to be independent in some regard, but set some ground rules about where they can go by themselves.

Also, be safe when traveling to your destination. This means ensuring your vehicle is in good shape to drive. Avoid distracted driving as well. Don’t eat or text while you’re driving and keep everyone in the car orderly. You must make sure that you all get to your destination as safely as possible.

Consider Limiting Screen Time

As mentioned above, teenagers are known to be glued to their phones. They’re also fond of social media and can spend hours a day scrolling their feeds.

You don’t want them spending all of their time on the phone or social media while you’re on your family adventure. They’ll miss out on bonding with you and their siblings as well as all the attraction or activity has to offer.

Consider limiting your teen’s use of social media and tech devices during your family travels. For example, you could allow them to get on their phones during the road trip, and then they have to give their phone to you once you reach your destination. If you do decide to let your teen use their phone during the trip, discuss what types of apps and activities are appropriate to use ahead of time.

Leave Room for Spontaneity

The planned activities and attractions are great. But your teen also needs a little freedom. They need time to explore and discover things that aren’t on your itinerary. You also need space to pull them away for much-needed one-on-one time.

So, don’t plan every second of your trip. Leave some room for spontaneity. Stop at a few places your teen points out on the road trip. Pull over to see a waterfall or go on a short hike. Eat at random restaurants and go to markets. Your teen will appreciate the opportunity to live in the moment.

Conclusion

Teens aren’t the easiest people to get excited about a family trip. They’re in their own worlds and want to stay in them. But if you take some time to figure out which attractions and activities they’d be most interested in, you can get them on board with your next family travel adventure and keep them smiling and engaged throughout it.

I hope you found some inspiration in these top tourist destinations in USA. From scenic sightseeing spots in Yellowstone to bustling cities like New York City’s Times Square, the USA has something for everyone. So start planning your next adventure today!

For more family travel inspiration, check out our latest posts here:

Don’t forget to invite your friends to our Facebook groups! We would also love to see your vacation pictures!

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Where Bonds Strengthen and Thrills Await: Exploring America’s Family-Approved Attractions