According to research conducted by the Family Holiday Association, the benefits of a family vacation go the distance when it comes to your kids' happiness and wellbeing. Half (49%) of the respondents report that their happiest memory is of a family vacation. More than half (55%) agree that family vacations are responsible for happy memories that will last a lifetime.
However, the most remarkable data suggests a correlation between family vacations and resiliency.
"One hundred percent of Family Holiday Association families said that the memories they made together on vacation have helped them cope with difficult times."
The bottom line? A family vacation is a time well spent. Here are nine family-friendly vacation destinations ideal for your crew's memory-making.
1. Orlando, Florida
Home to “the most magical place on earth,” Orlando is a great kid-friendly vacation destination.
But Walt Disney WorldⓇ and Universal StudiosⓇ are just a couple of the many attractions the city offers.
After getting your fill of theme parks, consider cooling off at a water park, blasting off with a visit to Kennedy Space Center or get a bird’s eye view of the Sunshine State from a hot air balloon.
In short, there’s fun for everyone in Orlando.
Where to stay in Orlando: With four Hilton Grand Vacations resorts in Orlando — including one right across the street from SeaWorld® — you’ll find spacious 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom suites just the right size for your tribe.
2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
As one of the most popular family vacation destinations on the East Coast, Myrtle Beach offers diverse family fun. Savor the sand, surf and southern charm of this beloved beach town.
And if you’re looking for activities beyond the beach, you’ll find no shortage of attractions for all ages. Ride the sky wheel at the boardwalk, practice your putting skills at one of the area’s many mini-golf courses or learn something new at the Children’s Museum of South Carolina.
Where to stay in Myrtle Beach: Hilton Grand Vacations boasts three Myrtle Beach resorts including Hilton Grand Vacations at Anderson Ocean Club, Ocean 22 by Hilton Grand Vacations and Ocean Enclave by Hilton Grand Vacations.
3. New York City
Families with young children may want to wait a few years before visiting the City That Never Sleeps. But if you have older kids, New York City is abound with things to do and see. Hop aboard a Statue of Liberty cruise to see the United States’ symbol of freedom.
Stroll down to Broadway and catch a kid-friendly show like “The Lion King,” and appreciate the Big Apple’s signature sights with a walk at the High Line or through Central Park.
Where to stay in New York: Soak in the famous NYC skyline from the comfort of one of our four (soon to be five) Hilton Grand Vacations' Midtown timeshare properties, including The Hilton Club — New York, The Residences by Hilton Club, West 57th Street by Hilton Club and The Quin by Hilton Club.
4. Hilton Head, South Carolina
Experience Lowcountry living on Hilton Head Island. Hit the sand and dig your toes into more than 12 miles of pristine beaches. Race up the 114 steps of Harbor Town Lighthouse to get an unbeatable view of the shoreline.
Leave the car at your resort and grab dinner using the island’s network of bike trails. And if you have young children, dress up and play pretend at the local children’s museum. When you’re done, get a double scoop of ice cream at the island’s first micro-creamery.
Where to stay in Hilton Head Island: Kick back and relax with oceanfront views at Ocean Oak Resort by Hilton Grand Vacations.
5. Washington, D.C.
Immerse your family in the landmarks of our nation’s capital. Whether you choose guided or self-guided tours, there are no shortage of educational opportunities in D.C. Pedal next to iconic monuments or catch a trolley to Arlington National Cemetery.
Get up close with the animals at the National Zoo, or step into the shoes of a sleuth at the International Spy Museum.
Where to stay in Washington, D.C.: With a prime spot in the heart of this capital city, The District by Hilton Club allows ideal access to the historic wonders and modern marvels of Washington, D.C.
6. San Diego, California
Prepare to make a splash during your stay at this popular Golden Coast destination. Take a dip in the Pacific at one of the city’s beaches or brave the splash zone at SeaWorld's Shamu show.
Catch a San Diego Padres baseball game at Petco Park, see the wildlife at the world-famous San Diego Zoo or try on your lab coat while exploring the Fleet Science Center.
Where to stay in San Diego: Hit the spa while your kids enjoy resort-style amenities like children’s activities at Hilton Grand Vacations at MarBrisa, Carlsbad SeaPointe Resort or Grand Pacific Palisades Resort — breathtaking views of the Pacific included.
7. Breckenridge, Colorado
If you're ready for adventure, check out Breckenridge. Experience world-class golf, horseback riding, mountain biking, whitewater rafting and – of course – skiing.
Sink a hole-in-one at a miniature golf course, battle your way through an obstacle course or whisk your way down the peak on a mountain slide. Evenings can be filled with trolley rides to the Riverwalk Center or enjoy a free summer concert.
Where to stay in Breckenridge: Nestled near the base of the Breckenridge Ski Resort, Valdoro Mountain Lodge combines award-winning architecture with an elegant Rocky Mountain ambiance.
8. Park City, Utah
Known for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, Park City is filled with adventure in the summer, too. Enjoy a scenic view aboard the Heber Valley Railroad. Go for a bike ride or hike with the whole family, or take a refreshing soak in a geothermal spring at the Homestead Crater.
Top it all off with a visit to Utah Olympic Park — home of the 2002 Winter Olympics. There, you’ll find zip lining, a ropes course and even summer bobsledding.
Where to stay in Park City: Inspired by Park City’s mountain heritage, Sunrise Lodge, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, blends rustic architecture with modern elegance to create a vacation setting that redefines what it means to get away.
9. Honolulu, Hawaii
The Aloha State offers adventure and relaxation. The island of Oahu embodies the classic Hawaiian experience.
Grab your surfboard, catch some waves and enjoy the island views from Waikiki Beach. Let your kids shake hands with the sea turtles in touch tanks or experience sea life in its native habitat while snorkeling. Then, immerse yourself in Hawaii’s culture during a luau at Hilton Hawaiian Village®.
Where to stay in Honolulu: With Hilton Grand Vacations, you have five resorts from which to choose at historic Hilton Hawaiian Village in Honolulu, including the 38-story Grand Islander.
Redefine How you Share Time
No matter how or where you choose to travel, vacation ownership with Hilton Grand Vacations makes regular family vacations accessible. From award-winning resorts to a growing list of popular travel destinations, the benefits of Hilton Grand Vacations timeshare are vast and varied.
Explore How Hilton Grand Vacations Works to see why it's right for you.