Taking a family trip can be a great opportunity to introduce your kids to new cultures and historical sites. While going to theme parks and beaches is always fun, you might want to find a destination that offers both fun and enrichment for your family.
There are so many places you can go to expose your family to history, science, nature, technology, and art. Choose any of these fabulous destinations, and your kids will have so much fun they won’t even realize they’re learning.
Here are 11 Educational Trips to Plan for Your Family This Summer
1. Franklin Institute, Philadelphia
This museum is different than most. You can touch just about anything! The Franklin Institute has countless interactive exhibits for your children to enjoy. Families will also enjoy taking in a show at the in-house planetarium. Along with its permanent exhibits, the museum frequently brings in new and exciting showcases and IMAX experiences.
Families with different sensory needs will have everything they need here. Sensory backpacks containing noise-canceling headphones and other helpful tools are available at the ticket desk. If you would like to avoid over-stimulating areas of the museum, you can grab a sensory alert map as well.
2. Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Are any of your kids fascinated by space? The Kennedy Space Center has many attractions that kids of all ages – and their parents – will love.
Very young children will enjoy the space-themed indoor playground, Planet Play. Older kids can experience space simulations, take a ride that feels like a space launch, explore microgravity while in a model of part of the International Space Station, view the space shuttle Atlantis, and meet a real astronaut.
3. Monterey Bay Aquarium, Monterey, California
This aquarium was the inspiration for the Marine Life Institute in Disney Pixar’s “Finding Dory.” Located right on the ocean, you can view exhibits inside and watch the wildlife outside from observation decks.
You will see marine life of all types here, including some local animals. The otter exhibit is a fan favorite. When you visit the aquarium, ask about the feeding times and plan around those, which are when the animals will be most active. Also, try the Splash Zone, Open Sea, and Kelp Forest exhibits. As an extra perk for families with little ones, kids 4 and under get free admission.
4. Washington, D.C.
If you have the time, go for a visit to our nation’s capital. Spring is one of the best times to visit due to the famous cherry blossoms, which bloom between late March and early April. Tour the White House or the Capitol building. Take in one of the many museums, such as the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Even with the traffic of a major city, Washington, D.C., is easy to get around with its extensive public transportation. You could easily spend multiple days here and still only see a fraction of what this great city offers.
5. Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica
If you’re looking for an adventure abroad, the Caribbean is a great region to consider for families. Depending on where you live in the U.S., the time difference and flight length will not be quite as long as a trip to Europe, Africa or Asia. If it’s your children’s first time leaving the country, Costa Rica is one destination that has a lot of opportunities for families.
Check out the Manuel Antonio National Park, where you and your kids can see amazing wildlife like iguanas, toucans, squirrel monkeys, parrots and sloths. Seeing incredible rainforests full of unfamiliar flora and fauna will be an experience you won’t soon forget.
