TripAdvisor recently announced the picks on its "Travelers' Choice: Great Places to Discover" list. The following are some popular, close-to-home destinations that parents and kids can explore this summer.
Branson, Mo.
www.explorebranson.com
Great for: ________________Music Lovers
Reasons to Go: Considered to be the live-music capital of Missouri, Branson offers nearly 100 music, magic and comedy shows every day. Between shows, families can enjoy the surrounding Ozark Mountains and its recreational activities, such as fishing, biking and watersports.
Don't Miss: Presley's Country Jubilee is considered to be one of Branson's best variety shows and is in the first theater opened on the city's famous Highway 76. Also a family favorite, the New Shanghai Circus/Acrobats of China features dramatic interpretations of classic Chinese dance and performance art. Silver Dollar City is an old-time amusement park that also features crafts such as basket weaving and more. The park takes families back in time and features rides, shows and live music.
Destin, Fla.
www.emeraldcoastfl.com
Great for: ________________Classic Family Fun
Reasons to Go: Between the white-sand beaches and world-famous fishing, this small resort community holds a number of annual festivals celebrating its fishing lifestyle. Known as the world's luckiest fishing village, Destin works hard to preserve its heritage and natural environment.
Don't Miss: Families can spend a day at Destin Harbor, where they can have fun in the sun, rent a pontoon boat and eat at a variety of restaurants. They can also enjoy a clean and beautiful beach or explore one of the hiking trails at Henderson Beach State Park. Several local companies assist in activities such as parasailing off the coast, fishing, snorkeling and even dolphin-watching. Gator Beach is a free attraction that allows guests to feed and learn about the alligators in the display.
Lake George Region, N.Y.
www.visitlakegeorge.com
Great for: ________________Thrill-Seekers
Reasons to Go: The Lake George Region is perfect for fishing, boating and swimming in the warmer months, and some beaches even have kids' play areas. There are also a number of adrenaline-pumping activities in the area.
Don't Miss: Summertime is the time to go whitewater rafting in the Hudson River Gorge for a heart-thumping ride. Another option for families seeking thrills and excitement is the Six Flags Great Escape theme park with its many roller coasters and rides. Adirondack Extreme Adventure is the largest aerial tree-top adventure park in the world and offers different courses to challenge kids and their parents. To slow things down, families can go on a guided tour of the Natural Stone Bridge and Caves or take a scenic steamboat ride around Lake George.
Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
www.mypigeonforge.com
Great for: ________________Outdoor Adventure
Reasons to Go: At the gateway to the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge is just right for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, camping and wildlife viewing. There is a wide range of fun and excitement for the whole family in the area, and many attractions offer special programs for kids.
Don't Miss: Along with all of the activities accessible in Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove offers breathtaking landscapes and a perfect setting for families to enjoy the outdoors. Parrot Mountain and Gardens features hands-on interaction with birds. Nearby, Dollywood theme park features coasters, waterslides and live bluegrass and gospel concerts. Families can have an interactive experience at another must-see: the world's largest Titanic museum, which is shaped like the ship itself.
Willamsburg, Vir.
www.visitwilliamsburg.com
Great for: ________________History Buffs
Reasons to Go: Summer in Willamsburg offers a chance to learn about American history through hands-on educational experiences. Parents can make history come alive for kids and, then, treat them to an exciting trip to one of the area's theme parks or waterparks.
Don't Miss: At Colonial
Williamsburg, cast members teach families about the way English settlers lived during their first years in America. Between checking out the restored buildings and log houses, tanning deer hides and playing Native American games, kids will find plenty of activities to hold their interest. In addition, Busch Gardens is the place to go for more modern fun, with rides, animal shows and live entertainment. To cool off, families can head to Water Country USA, a nearby waterp
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