Family Fun

Make a getaway as a family, whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or indoor fun. See animals at zoos and farms, learn about the world around us at nature centers, explore history at museums and on excursion railroad lines that cater to young and old alike and embrace adventure with tubing and other family-friendly adventures.

Bison and elk at Wildlife Prairie Park in Hanna City, Illinois (photo by Brielle Kuchinski)

Encounter over 180 animals at this Hanna City, Illinois, destination that is home to coyotes, cougars, black bears, bison and more.

Interior of Belle Isle Aquarium in Detroit, Michigan (photo by Matt Shuert)

Visit Detroit, Michigan, to see America’s oldest aquarium: a beautifully preserved building that houses a collection of 182 aquatic species.

Stalactites and stalagmites at Squire Boone Caverns in Mauckport, Indiana (photo courtesy of Squire Boone Caverns)

Head to Mauckport, Indiana, to explore this subterranean marvel, which is home to the largest publicly accessible active rimstone dam in the United States.

Kamin Science Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (photo by Becky Thurner)

This hands-on museum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, teaches visitors about the wonders of space, the human body and the city’s waterways. 

Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory in Niagara Falls, Ontario (photo by Rob Anzit)

Immerse yourself in butterflies at this Niagara Falls, Ontario, spot that allows guests to get up-close with the colorful creatures and learn about their life cycle. 

It’s A Wonderful Life Museum in Seneca Falls, New York (photo by Henry Law)

Immerse yourself in the world of this classic holiday film in Seneca Falls, New York, the community that inspired parts of the fictional town of Bedford Falls in the movie. 

America’s Christmas Hometown in Santa Claus, Indiana (photo courtesy of santaclausind.org)

Celebrate the holiday season in Santa Claus, Indiana, where every day feels like Christmas and the Jolly Old Elf is found around every turn. 

Hershey’s Chocolate World in Hershey, Pennsylvania (photo courtesy of The Hershey Co.)

This sweet spot in Hershey, Pennsylvania, brings the fun with a fun ride, interactive experiences and plenty of chocolate to go around. 

Apple River Fort State Historic Site in Elizabeth, Illinois (photo by Matt Haas)

Explore life on the Midwestern frontier in Elizabeth, Illinois, at this living-history destination with activities, costumed reenactors and special events. 

True Treats Historic Candy in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia (photo courtesy of True Treats Historic Candy)

This unique candy shop in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, offers a curated collection of sweet treats that are served up with a side of history.