By Lynn O’Rourke Hayes
From FamilyTravel.com
Make your travel dreams come alive. Here are five family vacation ideas to consider:
The Ozarks, Van Buren, Missouri
There is plenty to compel families in this scenic area that boasts two of America’s clearest and most beautiful spring-fed rivers: the Current River and its major tributary, the Jacks Fork River. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is America’s first Congressionally designated national park for the preservation of a wild river system. Plan to fish, float, paddle, explore caves and hike within this extraordinary, 80,000-acre park. Kids can pick up a free Junior Ranger book filled with activities to do on their own or participate in ranger-guided activities. River Exploration Kits are also available to borrow at no cost.Contact: https://www.nps.gov/ozar/index.htm
Brooks Lake Lodge, Dubois, Wyoming
Sample a genuine dose of Western hospitality at this historic guest ranch tucked deep in the Wyoming wilderness. The nearly century-old, all-inclusive lakeside retreat boasts a full roster of activities in every season. Summer travelers can opt for horseback riding, hiking, canoeing, archery and fishing. When the temperatures dip, look forward to snowmobiling, snowshoeing, sledding and ice fishing. Choose from lodge rooms or individual cabins, each adorned with authentic rustic touches. Wrap yourselves in a thick cozy robe while awaiting a spa treatment and later revel in the blanket of stars from the warmth of the outdoor hot tub.Contact: www.BrooksLake.com
The Whiteface Lodge, Lake Placid, New York
Relax in luxury amid the Adirondack wilderness. Check in and allow the lodge concierge to help you and your clan mix hiking, fly fishing, canoeing, tennis, pickleball and rock climbing into your family holiday. Splash in the pools, bowl, play platform tennis or enjoy the spa. During the summer months, kids ages 3 to 14 can tap into a full range of activities provided by the complimentary Kamp Kanu. After sunset, a fine dining experience awaits the parents while the youth crew enjoys a pizza dinner as well as themed activities that range from Pirates at Play to Space Night. End the evening roasting marshmallows with your family around the campfire.Contact: www.thewhitefacelodge.com
Boston, Massachusetts
If you are ready for an urban adventure, splash into town aboard a history-filled, narrated Boston Duck Tour. Take the sports fans in your crew to Fenway Park for old-timey baseball stories (or choose from an impressive lineup of concert performances.) Visit the Franklin Park Zoo and stroll through Boston Common, a 40-acre green space that once served as a cow pasture for local residents. Spend time on the historic Freedom Trail, where you can tour Paul Revere’s home as well as other important landmarks. Paddle on the Charles River or consider a visit to one or the nation’s newest national parks, Boston’s Harbor Islands National Park for eco-minded, sea-faring fun.Contact: www.bostonusa.com
Grand View Lodge, Brainerd, Minnesota
A four-season family favorite, this historic resort on Gull Lake is a place to make memories.Choose from a wide range of water sports, including banana boat rides, paddle boarding and kayaking. Tee it up on one of two championship golf courses, test the clan’s competitive instincts with lawn games or simply relax on a sandy beach. Stay in the lodge, a cabin or garden cottage. Or, consider North, the new 60-room boutique hotel located on the main property and within easy walking distance to all the most sought-after activities.
Contact: www.grandviewlodge.com
(Lynn O’Rourke Hayes (LOHayes.com) is an author, family travel expert and enthusiastic explorer. Gather more travel intel on Twitter @lohayes, Facebook, or via FamilyTravel.com)
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