Finding the perfect best places to go with preschoolers can make family outings fun, educational, and stress-free. Start with interactive children’s museums, where hands-on exhibits captivate young minds. Zoos and aquariums are also excellent options, as they allow kids to marvel at animals and sea creatures while learning about nature. Outdoor playgrounds and parks are ideal for active exploration, offering space to run, climb, and play. Storytime sessions at local libraries provide a quieter but equally engaging experience, fostering a love for books. Indoor play centers, designed with safety and creativity in mind, are great alternatives on rainy days.
30 Best Places to go with Preschoolers
Nature trails with easy paths or petting farms give little ones a chance to connect with the outdoors. For a splash of adventure, consider amusement parks with toddler-friendly rides. With so many places to go with preschoolers, families can create lasting memories while catering to their children’s interests and energy levels. Explore these places to go with preschoolers to spark joy and curiosity.
1. Places to go with kids in Maribor, Slovenia
Slovenia is a small but vibrant country, especially when it comes to places to go with kids. Rent a car and head north from the capital to Maribor, a compact city that’s just minutes away from active pastimes for all ages.
Things to do in Maribor with kids
Canoeing on the Drava River is available in summer and skiing at the nearby Pohorje resort in winter. In spring, try the resort’s single-track toboggan run that zips down the ski slopes at speeds of up to 30mph.
More adventurous activities await on a rafting tour of the Soča River. It’s a thrilling adventure for the whole family, during which children can learn about the sport from experienced local guides.
Alternatively, spend a day at Canyon Uža, Europe’s largest zipline park. Fearless teens will love soaring on the long zipline that soars above the Uja River Gorge.
2. Reserva Monteverde, Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a world leader in eco and adventure tourism, with Monteverde being a prime example. Nearly half of this protected area is protected as the Bosque Eternal de los Niños (“Eternal Forest of the Children”), a vast expanse of cloud forest, rainforest, and montane evergreen forest filled with trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
As you’d expect, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy: hiking, camping, zip lines, canopy tours, and horseback riding. Getting around Costa Rica is also easy. Our 7-day Costa Rica itinerary is kid-friendly, but if you have more time, consider spending 10 days to fully explore.
Nearby Monteverde Cloudforest Biological Reserve offers more pristine forests and adventurous activities, while Reserva Santa Elena even has stroller-friendly trails.
What to Do in Monteverde with Kids
Monteverde is a playground for curious kids and nature lovers. Start with a ride on the Sky Tram, which winds through the misty cloud forest, giving little explorers a bird’s-eye view of the treetops. Then, take them for a thrilling walk across the Sky Walk suspension bridges — watch their faces light up as they cross the bridges high above the forest floor!
Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds. For a wow-worthy view, head to a lookout point and look out across Nikko Bay.
3. Bali and the Gili Islands, Indonesia
Bali has a fascinating Hindu culture and jaw-dropping tropical landscapes that will captivate any family. But there’s also no shortage of fun activities to keep the kids interested, from Ubud’s monkey forest and shadow puppet shows to swimming in waterfalls at Gitgit and dolphin watching off Bali’s north shore.
When it’s time to relax, the picturesque Gili Islands are a short boat ride away. With white sand and calm waters, Gili Air is the perfect place to enjoy the unforgivingly slow pace of island life, while the turtle hatchery at Gili Meno is also worth a day trip.
Things to do in Bali with kids
Let the kids learn to surf at Kuta Beach, one of Bali’s best beaches. Fully qualified instructors speak English and surfing lessons can include pickup from local hotels.
And don’t forget to arm yourself with our Bali travel tips and our guide to the best time to visit Bali to make the most of your family’s Bali itinerary.
Set sail from Lombok and find out why Gili Nungwi is called Paradise Island on a snorkeling tour, which often includes visits to the islands of Gili Sudak and Gili Kedis.
4. Family Activities in Havana, Cuba
Havana has more to offer families than just colorful buildings and vintage cars. This vibrant city is full of kid-friendly spots and unique experiences.
For example, a tour of the planetarium takes you around four floors of rooms, charting a journey from the Big Bang (represented by a light and sound show) through the Big Bang.
For some outdoor fun, head to Parque Almendares. This sprawling park is more than just a patch of urban greenery—it’s a playground for family adventures. Pack a picnic, rent a rowboat for a leisurely paddle down the river, or let the kids play on the mini-golf course. Add in the park’s quirky sculptures and shady paths, and you’ve got a place that’s perfect for calming down while the kids explore.
Things to Do in Cuba with Kids
Cuba is a family-friendly place that combines wonder, culture, and nature, and is a ton of fun. Start in Havana, where kids can explore the interactive planetarium or enjoy a picnic and paddle boat ride in Parque Almendares. For a hands-on history lesson, take a classic car tour of the city’s colorful streets.
Head out of Havana and dive into the Vinales Valley, where kids can explore caves, meet local farmers, and learn about Cuba’s famous tobacco industry. And no Cuba itinerary is complete without a beach — try Varadero or Cayo Coco for crystal-clear waters and soft sand perfect for a family day out.
5. Places to Visit with Kids in Rosario, Argentina
Although Argentina isn’t known as a family destination, it has a lot to recommend it. The food is delicious, and kids will especially appreciate the traditional heladerias, or ice cream parlors. There’s also a stunning variety of landscapes and outdoor activities, and the wildlife-spotting is second to none.
If you’re looking to get away from Buenos Aires, Rosario makes a great base. Not only are there kid-focused attractions like the Jardin de los Ninos and Museo de los Ninos, but you can also take a river cruise or rent a car and work your way to the north side of the stunning Iguazú Falls.
What to do in Argentina with kids
Argentina is full of exciting activities for kids, and a trip to Iguazú Falls is the perfect way to kick off a family-friendly itinerary. Give your kids an unforgettable experience with a boat trip to Gran Aventura, where they’ll experience the full power of the falls. Then, dive into an adventure through the surrounding jungle in a 4×4, spotting wildlife along the way.
For something a little different, try a guided horseback ride through the Puerto Iguazu jungle. You can even visit a historic missionary country and visit a local Guarani community, adding cultural depth to your itinerary.
6. Movie magic in the North Island, New Zealand
New Zealand tops our list of the most beautiful countries in the world. And while the country’s North Island may not have snow-capped mountains, it’s no slouch when it comes to dramatic scenery.
Kids will be mesmerized by the sulfurous smell of Rotorua, the tiny living lights of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, and the bubbling pools of Hot Water Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula. If you rent a motorhome, you can explore at your own pace.
It’s impossible to separate New Zealand from the Lord of the Rings trilogy these days, and young fans will love the Hobbit Holes in Hobbiton, as well as Wellington’s Weta Workshop, the hub of New Zealand’s film industry, where kids can learn all about prop building and prosthetics.
What to do in the North Island with kids
New Zealand’s North Island is packed with experiences that bring its stunning landscapes to life. Start with a guided tour of the Hobbiton movie set, where you can wander through the Shire, peek into the hobbit holes and enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. It’s a must-see for Lord of the Rings fans and a magical stop for families alike.
Then, head to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. This 45-minute boat tour takes you through dark caves lit by thousands of glowworms, creating a magical, starry-eyed atmosphere underground. For more travel inspiration, check out our New Zealand itineraries.
7. Fun Family Vacations in San Ignacio, Belize
Belize is not only one of the best small countries in the world, it’s also one of the safest and easiest to explore in Central America.
Beyond its colorful marine life and beautiful beaches, Belize offers tropical excitement in its malaria-free rainforest. In San Ignacio, start a day at Caves Branch Jungle Lodge, where you can float downriver, spot monkeys and toucans. For more ideas, explore our Belize itineraries for family-friendly adventures across the country.
What to Do in San Ignacio with Kids
At Caves Branch Jungle Lodge near San Ignacio, you can float on an inner tube through lush forests filled with howler monkeys and squawking toucans, then wake up to a dawn chorus of chirping cicadas.
Or how about a half-day canoeing trip with the kids? Hike through a Mennonite community to the remains of an ancient Mayan civilization, then canoe through the cool-water underground caves of Barton Creek.
8. Explore the great outdoors in Colorado, United States
You won’t find finer scenery and cleaner air than Colorado, and if you’re looking for a family trip that embraces the great outdoors, this state begs to be explored.
Start in the compact, mile-high city of Denver, from where it’s a short drive to sparkling alpine lakes and the majestic peaks of the Rockies. Hidden further east is Colorado’s answer to the Grand Canyon — the dramatic Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of America’s most overlooked national parks.
Older kids with a passion for history will also be fascinated by the Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde in the southwestern corner of the state.
What to Do in Colorado with Kids
Colorado is a playground for families looking to combine history with adventure on their itinerary. Start with a day trip from Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park. Kids will love the scenic drives, and you’ll see iconic sights like the Flatiron Rock formations and the famous Stanley Hotel, made famous by the movie The Shining. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.
For something a little different, take the kids on a haunted walking tour of Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. This spooky adventure embraces the city’s dark history with tales of old mansions and spooky encounters. It’s an unforgettable way to delve into Denver’s past – just creepy enough to be fascinating.
9. Experience family-friendly Kerala in India
Kerala offers an Indian experience at a more manageable pace for families with babies or young children.
Start in quaint Fort Cochin, a small, chilled-out quarter of Kochi with good hotels and restaurants. From here, peaceful backwaters are easily reached on day trips, but if you want to spend an overnight on the serene waterways in a houseboat made of wood and palm leaves, start in Alappuzha (Alleppey) or Kumarakom.
Kids will also love the state’s national parks, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary has elephant viewing and bamboo rafting for teens.
Things to do in Kerala with kids
Take a trip to the backwaters of Alleppey on a houseboat tour from Cochin. This will allow you to explore Kerala's famous inland waterways, visit traditional villages and learn about backwater life.
Enjoy a trip to the hill station of Munnar, located 1700 meters above sea level. Most Indian tours from Kochi include a visit to the Tea Museum as well as tea and spice gardens.
10. Nairobi, Kenya
On the surface, this sprawling city might not seem like one of the smartest places to visit with kids. But Nairobi has access to some great kid-friendly attractions.
For example, Nairobi National Park, where lions, leopards, giraffes, and zebras roam free within sight of the city, is a perfect day trip for wildlife viewing.
Or, for a more hands-on experience, try the Giraffe Center where you can feed these elegant, long-necked animals from an elevated gallery. Alternatively, visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust where orphaned elephants are rehabilitated and prepared for life in the wild.
Things to do in Nairobi with kids
Nairobi offers unforgettable wildlife experiences that are perfect for kids. Start with a full-day tour of Nairobi National Park, where you can see lions, rhinos, and zebras against the city skyline. Don’t miss a visit to the Elephant Orphanage, where rescued baby elephants are fed and cared for, and the Giraffe Center, where kids can hand-feed these gentle giants.
For families looking to get more adventurous, consider an overnight safari in Amboseli National Park. Here, you’ll witness breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and meet herds of legendary elephants. It’s an immersive way to introduce kids to Kenya’s incredible wildlife.
11. Places to Visit in Puglia, Italy with Kids
Puglia, at the heel of Italy’s boot, is a great choice for a family vacation in the sun. The pristine beaches are endless, the Salento Peninsula is a highlight, and the seaside town of Otranto, with its massive castle, also has family-friendly appeal.
Inland Puglia is also charming, not least the fairytale trolley houses. Kids will love visiting these pint-sized limestone dwellings with conical roofs, which are dotted throughout the region. Puglia is easy to navigate with kids and can fit perfectly into a 10-day Italy itinerary.
What to Do in Puglia with Kids
For a town full of trolleys, head to UNESCO-protected Alberobello. For added fun, you can even spend a night there, or go on a trolley trail tour with a local guide.
Wander the narrow streets of the town, explore the famous trolley houses and learn about the fascinating history of Alberobello - it's like stepping into another world.
If you're also visiting Rome, check out our guide to things to do in Rome with kids for more family-friendly ideas.
12. Family days out in the West Midlands, England
The West Midlands might not be the most obvious destination for a family holiday in England, but the region has plenty of surprisingly good fun activities for kids.
You can watch the big games at the West Midlands Safari Park or head to the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley to step back in time to the 1930s and eat the best chips ever. The secret is frying them in beef dripping.
Then there's Birmingham, which has an excellent sea life centre. Or you could head to Derby, a picturesque gateway to the Peak District.
What to do in the West Midlands with kids
Book a family ticket to Alton Towers Resort and try out 40 rides and attractions, including the world’s first rollercoaster and the UK’s only CBeebies Land.
Then hop on the Severn Valley Steam Railway, which runs between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth. This nostalgic train journey takes you through beautiful countryside, giving kids a taste of classic steam travel. It’s a fun and relaxing way to experience the beauty of the region while stepping back in time.
13. Go Vampire Hunting in Bran, Romania
For older kids, Romania’s Transylvania is a feast for the senses with its strange folklore. The historic city of Brasov is one of Rough Guides’ top things to do in Romania, and its nearby neighbor, Bran Castle, is a must-do with kids.
With its menacing facade, turrets, ramparts, and precarious position, teetering on a rocky bluff against a backdrop of mountains, Bran Castle is the ultimate vampire count’s hideout.
The historical figure behind Romania’s Dracula legend (Vlad Țepeș) is every bit as terrifying as Bram Stoker’s fiction: he wasn’t known as “The Impaler” for nothing.
There are countless other atmospheric sites connected to the legend, not least Poenari Castle, where Vlad once lived, and the country’s “cult of the dead” is never far from the surface.
What to do in Transylvania with kids
Transylvania is a land of legends and wild landscapes that are perfect for family travel. Start with a guided tour of Bran Castle, where you and the kids can wander the spooky rooms while learning about the castle’s infamous history.
Traveling with wildlife-crazy kids? Take a small-group brown bear-watching tour in Brasov to see these amazing creatures in their natural habitat.
14. Find family festivals in Edinburgh, Scotland
The Scottish capital has a small enough city center to wander around and a number of fun and educational attractions for the whole family. It may be one of the most beautiful places in Scotland, as voted by Rough Guide readers.
But what really sets Edinburgh apart are its festivals. There are 12 major festivals throughout the year, from storytelling events and science festivals to the world-famous Fringe.
If you’re not visiting during the festive season, the camera obscura makes for some hilarious family photos. Then, of course, there’s the Museum of Childhood, where you can get nostalgic and the kids can get hands-on.
What to do in Edinburgh with kids
Don’t miss the chance to include a magical guided walking tour of Harry Potter’s birthplace, Edinburgh, on your Scotland itinerary. Kids can test their knowledge with an audio-visual quiz, find their Hogwarts house and see Tom Riddle’s grave.
Take an Edinburgh Underground Vaults Tour with older kids to explore beneath the Old Town. The vaults date back to the early 18th century and are filled with stories of murders, witches and other spooky happenings.
15. Family Beach Fun in Brittany, France
For a classic European beach vacation, it’s hard to beat Brittany — the ruggedly beautiful northwest region of France.
For families, it offers everything from charming seaside resorts and friendly campsites to remote coves and rocky headlands.
For a first-time visit, base yourself in Saint-Malo, where a strip of gorgeous beaches stretches east from the winding streets of the old walled city.
What to do in Brittany with kids
Take the kids to the Grand Aquarium of Saint-Malo for hours of total immersion and discovery with 10,000 fish and other marine creatures.
Older kids can try windsurfing or catamaran sailing at the Saint-Malo Surf School, while adults can feast on fresh oysters and local ciders.
For a memorable day trip, head to Mont Saint-Michel in nearby Normandy and explore the historic sites of Saint-Malo. Kids will love hearing stories of pilgrims, pirates, and explorers as they wander through this charming medieval town.
United States, State of Florida, City of Davie, Flamingo Garden Botanical Collection and Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary, many flamingos walking through the garden
16. Astronauts and Alligators in Florida, USA
Florida can't be beat when it comes to theme parks, but if Orlando isn't your idea of a vacation, don't discount the Sunshine State.
To the northeast, you can drive to the beach in Daytona, or shake your bones at the shuttle launch experience at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
For something a little more serene, kids will be fascinated by gators in the subtropical desert of Everglades National Park, or you can head to Tampa Bay and the coast to the northwest to swim with manatees in the Crystal River.
What to do in Florida with kids
Enjoy a full day of unique experiences at the world’s most authentic space attraction — the Kennedy Space Center.
Ready for an up-close gator encounter? Try an Everglades National Park airboat tour, explore the extraordinary wetlands with a guide, and take in a wildlife show where kids have the chance to hold a baby alligator.
17. Explore Kid-Friendly Toronto, Canada
Toronto is buzzing with kid-friendly activities, from marveling at the chic skyline to riding a streetcar through the city to buying tickets to climb the famous CN Tower or seeing dinosaur bones and Native Canadian headdresses at the Royal Ontario Museum.
Chinatown and nearby Kensington Market are great browsing and strolling areas, and the Toronto Islands are just a ferry ride away.
Things to do in Toronto with kids
Visit Niagara Falls from Toronto. Stopover in Niagara-on-the-Lake and see attractions like the Floral Clock and Whirlpool Rapids, then enjoy a few hours at the falls.
Don’t forget to visit the Royal Ontario Museum. Canada’s largest museum, it houses a world-class art collection and artifacts ranging from dinosaurs to mummies. For more family travel ideas, check out our Canada Itineraries.
18. Enjoy a seaside break on the Isle of Wight
For a nostalgic, classic beach holiday that brings back rosy memories of your own childhood, look no further than the Isle of Wight.
There’s plenty to keep the kids entertained here, from rock pooling and playing on safe sandy beaches to a raft of old-school attractions including a model village and a steam railway.
Don’t miss Blackgang Chain, the UK’s oldest amusement park. Rambling through cliff-top gardens, it’s a child’s fantasy of pirates, cowboys and princesses, although the star turns are life-sized animatronic dinosaurs.
For a spectacular view of the south coast, head to the Emirates Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth. Then head down to Shanklin, one of our top 30 best seaside towns in the UK.
Things to do with kids on the Isle of Wight
To see how Victorian royalty lived, visit the historic Osborne House. Reportedly a favorite home of Queen Victoria, kids will love exploring the private beach and playing around the adventure playground.
Alternatively, be mesmerized by Carisbrooke Castle, another royal residence on the island and quite a bit older than Osborne House. This experience also offers the bonus of sinister legends and the cute Carisbrooke donkey.
19. Reykjavik, Iceland
This landscape of rare geological youth feels absolutely alive – the earth spews gases, cascades of waterfalls seem to be erupting for the first time, and the Northern Lights dance across the sky. You can easily experience many wonders on a day trip from the pint-sized, kid-friendly capital, Reykjavik.
The “Golden Circle” circuit is well-established, while the otherworldly Blue Lagoon is also a common excursion. Soaking in the warm waters of the lagoon and steaming all around, kids will feel like they’ve entered another realm. If you want to know more, check out the best places to stay in Iceland.
You could remind them that Iceland is home to the húldfólk, or “hidden people,” magical creatures that are invisible to the human eye. The locals believe in them so strongly that construction projects have been moved to avoid their supposed habitat.
What to do in Reykjavik with kids
Take a trip along Iceland’s Golden Circle to experience stunning natural scenery and visit the legendary Geysir area, as well as the spectacular Gálfos waterfall and Þingvellir National Park. If you have time, make sure to take the 10-day Ring Road trip!
Enjoy an epic whale-watching cruise from Reykjavik to Faxaflói Bay. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, and if you or your kids don’t spot a whale, you’ll get another trip for free.
Can’t wait for your Iceland trip? Increase your chances of an unforgettable trip by choosing one of the best places to stay in Reykjavik and checking out our Iceland itineraries.
20. Go Wild in Zion National Park, USA
If you’re looking to introduce young kids to the joys of Utah’s outdoors, spectacular Zion National Park is one of the most accessible places to start.
Shuttle buses and well-marked trails (starting at just a half-mile long) make exploring Zion Canyon’s stunning waterfalls and wildlife a breeze.
Add in horseback riding, ranger-led youth tours, and campfires at one of the park’s three campsites, and you’ve got yourself a memorable family trip.
What to Do in Zion National Park with Kids
Take the kids on a canyon tour of Zion National Park, during which you can usually experience a thrilling UTV ride and then hike into the East Zion backcountry to see the famous slot canyon formations.
For a memorable end to the day, book a sunset ATV adventure near the park. This thrilling ride takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of southern Utah, such as Sand Hollow State Park, as the sun sinks below the horizon, casting vibrant colors on the red rocks. It's a delightful way to wrap up your Zion experience.
21. Show Kids Lake Retba in Senegal
Senegal, Africa, has a lot to offer families, from wide-open beaches to the wild Atlantic coast to some seriously weird natural wonders.
The pink-hued Lake Retba, at its brightest, is a stunning sight. There are paved sand dunes for you and your 4X4 to explore, and don’t miss Ile de Fadiouth – a small island in the south made entirely of shells.
Things to do in Senegal with kids
Go on a Senegal Family Safari with a local guide so you and your kids can walk with lions in the Fathala Wildlife Reserve – one of the country’s most famous parks.
We recommend taking a trip to the pink lake from Dakar or Sally to give kids a closer look at the beautiful waters of Lake Retba. Finish your trip with a 4X4 dune bashing around Senegal’s Atlantic coast or a trip to Ile de Fadiouth, a unique island made entirely of shells.
22. Antalya, Turkey is packed with activities
Antalya, in southern Turkey, is packed with activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Behind Konyaaltı Beach is the Antalya Aquarium (complete with 4-D cinema), Wildpark (dedicated to insects and reptiles), and – for when the kids can’t stand the heat – an indoor snow park.
Next door is Antalya Minicity, which features 1:25 scale recreations of Turkey’s most iconic landmarks. The Toy Museum in Antalya’s harbor provides a fun distraction from the beach.
Things to do in Antalya with kids
Antalya offers plenty of activities for families, especially those with older children. For an unforgettable adventure, include a quad bike safari in the rugged Taurus Mountains on your Turkey itinerary. These impressive peaks form a natural barrier between the coastal region and the Anatolian plateau, providing an exciting off-road journey with stunning views.
Back in Antalya, you can also explore the city’s rich history and natural beauty. Visit the ancient ruins of Perge or Termessos, where kids can imagine life in ancient Turkey, or take a boat trip to see the stunning Duden Falls on the Mediterranean.
23. Take Family Time in Tokyo, Japan
Japan has many kid-friendly destinations, but while there are activities that the whole family will enjoy - like everything else - you're spoilt for choice in Tokyo.
The Ghibli Museum and Odaiba are highlights of any Japan itinerary, and there are plenty of huge parks and interactive museums to explore together.
Tokyo Disneyland is also nearby, while Yokohama (for Chinatown and another Ferris wheel), Kamakura and Nikko (more nature and history, less neon) are all doable in a day trip.
Things to do in Tokyo with kids
Visit the Tokyo Legoland Discovery Center where kids can immerse themselves in an indoor world of play and learning surrounded by over 3 million LEGO bricks.
See Tokyo from the water on a river cruise from Asakusa to the city's Odaiba district. Sail along the Sumida River and Tokyo Bay and take in views of the Tokyo Skytree, Hamarikyu Gardens, Rainbow Bridge and more.
24. Enjoy the adventure at Cape Tribulation, Australia
Cape Tribulation in Queensland is an amazing adventure for children and adults too. With both lush forests and palm tree-lined beaches, there are plenty of activities on offer.
You can also take a boat trip from the cape to the Great Barrier Reef or trek through the Daintree Rainforest on the lookout for prehistoric cassowaries, avoiding crocodiles, spiders, and snakes along the way. Daredevils may want to include a night walk through the rainforest or a thrilling zip-wire ride through the jungle as part of their Aussie itinerary.
What to do in Queensland with kids
Thrill kids with an ocean safari off the Daintree Coast — an out-of-this-world cruise that includes snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef with experienced local guides.
Take a tour of the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation by 4WD with friendly expert guides. Spot wildlife in their natural habitat, enjoy spectacular views and learn about the extraordinary environment.
25. Kids will be wild about Wales, UK
It's hard to pick any one place in Wales because the country is brimming with options for family-friendly itineraries.
Pembrokeshire has beautiful beaches and a rugged coastline ripe for exploration, whether you want to take a walk on the Coast Path or get a bit more hands-on with some coasteering and kayaking.
Up in North Wales, adventure hubs like Zip World, where a four-person zip line is capable of speeds up to 100mph, and Bounce Below, a series of trampolines inside underground caves, are bound to keep kids happy
What to do in Wales with kids
See Snowdonia National Park from the water on a Llyn Padarn-guided kayaking adventure. Paddle the glacial lake, enjoy fresh mountain air, see historic Welsh castles, and even go for a swim.
Explore the stunning southeast of Wales on a tour of the Wye Valley and Brecon Beacons — you'll get to see everything from Tintern Abbey to the dramatic Upper Wye Gorge.
26. The Maldives, Indian Ocean
The Maldives might seem like a honeymoon-only destination, but if you're in the market for a dreamy family trip, bear in mind that most resorts are child-friendly, though it's best to check first to avoid being surrounded by just-married couples.
Rent a hut on the beach and children will spend hours playing in the white sand, jumping in waves and snorkeling in the shallow waters.
Many islands have swimming pools and offer beach games, kayak hire, and dolphin-spotting trips too, with diving courses for older children.
What to do in Maldives with kids
There are plenty of adventures for the whole family in the Maldives that go beyond the usual tropical vacations. Start with snorkeling or a glass-bottom boat tour, where kids can admire colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and maybe even a friendly sea turtle. Many resorts also offer kids' clubs with activities such as treasure hunts, beach games, and craft workshops.
For a unique adventure, try a dolphin-watching cruise at sunset. End the day with an outdoor movie on the beach where you can relax under the stars. The Maldives offers the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure for families.
27. Winter sun breaks in Ko Lanta, Thailand
Ko Samui or Ko Lanta are great options for a Thailand itinerary, with plenty of facilities and lots of distractions for kids. If the thought of resorts makes you shudder, Thailand has a well-developed traveler infrastructure making it fairly easy to head to a more secluded island or part of the mainland.
Thailand is especially great for kids in January – National Children's Day (the second Saturday of the month) means free activities and public transport for children throughout the country.
What to do in Ko Samui and Ko Lanta with kids
Book an ethical elephant sanctuary tour in Ko Samui so your kids can spend time with elephants in their jungle home, and make some of the best vacation memories ever.
Over in Ko Lanta, take the family on a mangrove kayaking tour. Paddle through lush mangroves, spotting exotic birds and wildlife along the way. Older kids and teens will love the thrill of exploring this wild, untouched paradise. These activities make for unforgettable family memories in Thailand’s tropical islands.
28. Cape Town, South Africa
The outdoors is never far away in Cape Town, which makes the city a particularly great destination in South Africa for children.
It's hard to beat the city's fabulous beaches, the highlight of which for most kids is Boulders, home to a resident penguin-breeding colony. The beach at Fish Hoek, a little further north, boasts a playground alongside its beautiful beach and gentle waves.
Cape Town also offers many parks and open spaces that are worth including in your itinerary – perfect for picnicking in fine weather, while for rainy days there's a handful of good, interactive museums.
What to do in Cape Town with kids
Visit Cape Point and Boulders Beach with your kids to see the famous penguin colony, and possibly spot whales at the right time of year.
Older kids will be fascinated by a Robben Island tour from Cape Town. Take a ferry to visit the prison where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, then learn about South Africa's history from one of the former prisoners.
29. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The epic wildlife of the Galápagos Islands makes adults feel like kids — and makes kids feel like they just can't believe their luck.
They’ll tiptoe between giant tortoises, have birds land inches from their nose, splash around in the shallows with playful baby sea lions, and snorkel near hammerheads and enormous turtles.
When they tire of the wildlife one-on-ones, regale them with tales of 16th and 17th-century pirates who hid out on the islands. The landscape remains (almost) exactly as those old sea dogs would have found it and there’s even some ancient pirate graffiti to boot.
What to do in the Galápagos Islands with kids
Visit Bartolome Island and Sulivan Bay with kids to see the extraordinary landscape of the Galápagos, play on beaches, and snorkel with penguins.
Include a boat tour to visit Tortuga Bay, La Loberia, Canal del Amor, and Playa de los Perros beaches in your Galapagos Islands itinerary. Expect to see sea lions, marine iguanas, reef sharks, and much more.
30. Explore kid-size Tobago, Caribbean
Tiny Tobago is perhaps the most laid-back place in the Caribbean for kids as it provides dozens of activities and wildlife experiences, from beachside horse-riding to hummingbird spotting.
Instead of high-rise hotels, you’ll find small-scale guesthouses accustomed to catering to families. Kids will love steel bands and street eats, fresh juice, and safe swimming beaches. Just remember, once you've been "Tobagoed" you will want to go back.
What to do in Tobago with kids
Be sure to include in your itinerary a tour of the Maine Ridge Forest Reserve in Tobago, the oldest protected reserve in the world.
Take a nature and snorkeling boat trip to Little Tobago island from beautiful, secluded Batteaux Bay before heading over to the headland to swim in Pirate's Bay, Charlotteville.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the best places to go with preschoolers for fun and learning?
Some of the best places include children’s museums, zoos, aquariums, libraries with storytime, outdoor playgrounds, and nature trails. These spots combine entertainment with opportunities to learn and explore.
2. Are there indoor places to go with preschoolers for bad weather days?
Yes, indoor play centers, trampoline parks, children’s libraries, and aquariums are excellent options for bad weather. Many also offer toddler-friendly activities to keep young kids engaged.
3. How can I find places to go with preschoolers near me?
You can search online for local attractions, ask other parents for recommendations, or check community boards and family-friendly event calendars in your area.
4. What should I pack for outings with preschoolers?
Bring snacks, water, a change of clothes, diapers (if needed), sunscreen, hats, and any comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket. Don’t forget a stroller for longer outings.
5. Are amusement parks suitable for preschoolers?
Yes, many amusement parks have designated toddler-friendly areas with age-appropriate rides and activities. Always check height and age restrictions before visiting.
6. Can I visit places to go with preschoolers on a budget?
Absolutely! Public parks, libraries, free community events, and some museums or zoos with “free admission days” are fantastic budget-friendly options.
Introduction
Planning outings for young children can be both exciting and challenging. When considering places to go with preschoolers, it’s essential to find destinations that are safe, engaging, and age-appropriate. Preschoolers are curious, energetic, and eager to explore, so the ideal places should provide opportunities for hands-on learning, physical activity, and sensory experiences. From interactive museums and nature trails to indoor play areas and petting farms, there’s no shortage of options to keep little ones entertained. Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing or a chance to nurture your child’s development, discovering the right places to go with preschoolers ensures lasting memories and endless smiles.