The USA TODAY Travel team, much like us at Family Circle Travel, thrives on exploring incredible destinations and sharing those gems with our readers. In 2024, their team embarked on journeys across the globe, from tranquil coastal retreats to bustling urban centers. Now, they’re sharing their top five destinations that left a lasting impression and are perfect to add to your family’s 2025 travel plans.
These aren’t just typical tourist traps; these are destinations that captivated the USA TODAY team with their unique charm, delicious food, rich culture, and breathtaking scenery – all essential ingredients for unforgettable family vacations.
Looking for inspiration for your next family adventure? Here are the five destinations that resonated with the USA TODAY Travel team in 2024 and promise to deliver even more magic for your family in 2025.
Discover the Wonders of Eastern Australia with Your Family
Australia is more than just a single trip destination; it’s a continent of diverse regions waiting to be explored. One visit simply isn’t enough to experience its vast beauty. After experiencing the captivating landscapes of Tasmania, the allure of Australia’s Gold Coast became irresistible. While Tasmania offers pristine wilderness, the Gold Coast beckons families with sun-drenched beaches, vibrant nightlife, and thrilling amusement parks – a perfect blend for a family vacation.
The Gold Coast’s extensive coastline is a haven for beach-loving families. The relaxed beach culture invites everyone to bask in the sun, learn to surf on world-class waves, or enjoy peaceful sunset strolls along the shore. Imagine building sandcastles with your kids, swimming in the refreshing ocean, or simply relaxing with a book while soaking up the Australian sunshine.
For families seeking thrills beyond the beach, the Gold Coast delivers with world-class theme parks like Warner Bros. Movie World and Dreamworld. These parks offer a fantastic array of rides, shows, and attractions that will keep kids of all ages entertained for days. And for families wanting to connect with Australia’s unique wildlife, the hinterlands are easily accessible, featuring sanctuaries where you can encounter kangaroos, koalas, and a variety of native birds. Explore the lush rainforests of Lamington and Springbrook National Parks, boasting stunning waterfalls, scenic hiking trails suitable for families, and diverse native wildlife. Don’t miss the Glow Worm Caves and the Natural Bridge, natural wonders that echo the beauty of Tasmania but with a distinct tropical touch.
Foodie families will rejoice in the Gold Coast’s bustling culinary scene. Fresh seafood is abundant, rooftop bars offer stunning views, and you’ll find cuisine from around the globe to satisfy every palate. From casual beachfront cafes to family-friendly restaurants, dining options are plentiful and diverse.
Following a memorable trip to Tasmania, the Gold Coast is a top recommendation for your next family adventure in Eastern Australia, especially during the U.S. winter months. It combines Australia’s iconic coastal charm with a wealth of attractions and warm, inviting weather, creating the perfect family getaway.
Montreal: Experience European Culture Closer to Home with Your Family
Montreal often flies under the radar for many North American families when considering international destinations. It’s geographically close, but its unique charm and European vibe are often overlooked. However, after a visit last spring, the USA TODAY Travel team member realized it should have been a priority years ago. Montreal’s historic district provides a taste of Europe without the long and tiring transatlantic flight, making it ideal for families with younger children or those seeking shorter travel times. The city boasts rich cultural institutions, a lively food scene, and a thriving cruise port offering exciting small-ship adventures.
A late May trip brought pleasant weather, perfect for exploring Montreal on foot or using the efficient public transit system. The city is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to navigate with strollers and little legs. Beyond famous landmarks like the breathtaking Gothic Revival Notre-Dame Basilica, families should explore local businesses to truly experience Montreal’s unique personality. Wander through charming neighborhoods, browse local shops, and soak in the city’s atmosphere.
Four days were spent discovering restaurants, cozy coffee shops, and more, indulging in French cuisine, delectable pastries, and expertly crafted espresso drinks. Even a local gin distillery, Cirka Distilleries, was a delightful find (be sure to try the Pomelo liqueur!). On Laurier West Avenue in the business district, shop owners warmly greeted customers, adding a personal touch to the experience. Montreal offers a blend of big-city amenities with a welcoming, small-town feel, perfect for families.
Montreal stands out as an easy international family travel destination. It’s a short drive or flight from many parts of the U.S. While French is the official language in Quebec, English is widely spoken, making communication effortless for English-speaking families. With so much to see and do, and its close proximity, Montreal is a fantastic option for a family trip that feels both international and accessible.
Immerse Your Family in the Magic of Japan
“I want to go back to Japan” – a sentiment echoed by the USA TODAY Travel team member after just three days in this captivating country. Japan offers an unparalleled travel experience, blending futuristic cities with ancient traditions and stunning natural landscapes.
Three days is simply not enough to explore Tokyo, let alone the rest of Japan. Much of the visit was spent at Tokyo Disney Resort, a bucket-list destination for theme park enthusiasts and home to the spectacular new Fantasy Springs. Theme parks alone could occupy a family for a week, with options like Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, Sanrio Puroland in Tama, and Ghibli Park in Nagakute. But beyond the theme parks, Japan offers bustling, high-tech cities and serene countryside seemingly untouched by time. Imagine experiencing the vibrant energy of Tokyo followed by the peaceful tranquility of rural Japanese villages – a diverse experience for the whole family.
Japan’s extensive public transportation system makes getting around efficient, although navigating it can be an adventure in itself. Even getting lost can lead to heartwarming encounters, like the businessman who went out of his way to help with directions, exemplifying the renowned Japanese courtesy. This kindness and helpfulness are common throughout Japan, making it a welcoming destination for families.
And then there’s the food. Japanese cuisine is a delight for all ages. From the incredible variety of convenience store snacks and vending machine treats to delicious and affordable food stall offerings, every meal is prepared with pride and care, even fast food. For a future trip, exploring sit-down meals, including wagyu steak omakase, is a must. Japan is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored by families.
British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley: A Hidden Gem for Family Fun in Canada
The Okanagan Valley in British Columbia may not be on every American family’s travel radar, but it’s a destination well worth discovering and surprisingly easy to reach. This region offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, delicious food and wine, and stunning scenery, making it an ideal family getaway.
British Columbia’s interior is known as its historic fruit-growing region, making it a fantastic place for families (parents!) to enjoy wine-tasting experiences featuring vintages not readily available south of the border. The Okanagan Valley is also an outdoor paradise, offering hiking and biking trails, water activities on pristine lakes during the summer, and nearby ski resorts for winter adventures. Active families will find endless opportunities for recreation. Complementing the outdoor activities is a strong farm-to-table food scene and a range of lodging options to suit various budgets, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for every family.
A work trip unexpectedly revealed the beauty of the Okanagan, sparking a desire to return. As the region recovers from wildfires and recent harsh winters, the vineyards are innovating, promising exciting new and experimental wines to discover. The Okanagan Valley is a destination to share with friends and family, perfect for a long weekend getaway or an extended family vacation.
Fiji: A Bucket-List Family Destination That Lives Up to the Dream
Fiji is often considered a far-off, dream destination, but after visiting in June, the USA TODAY Travel team member confirms it truly lives up to the hype. And surprisingly, it’s not that difficult to get to, with direct flights available from Los Angeles. Fiji is a tropical paradise that deserves a spot on every family’s travel bucket list.
Fiji is a place where rich culture and stunning natural beauty speak for themselves. Boasting some of the most picturesque beaches imaginable – a high compliment coming from someone living in Hawaii – Fiji also offers ample opportunities for adventure. Imagine diving with manta rays during the day and reef sharks at night, or surfing the famous Cloudbreak wave as the sun sets – unforgettable experiences for adventurous families.
Fiji is also committed to becoming a sustainable destination, crucial for an island nation vulnerable to climate change. Travelers can support Fiji’s sustainability efforts by participating in activities like volunteering with local nonprofits to conserve coral reefs or spending time in local villages to learn about Fijian culture firsthand. These experiences offer valuable educational opportunities for children, teaching them about environmental responsibility and cultural respect.
If Fiji is even mentioned in conversation, it’s highly recommended to make a family trip a reality. With a subtropical climate, Fiji is a year-round destination, making it perfect for family vacations anytime. Start planning your dream family escape to Fiji!
These five destinations, recommended by USA TODAY Travel, offer a diverse range of experiences perfect for family vacations in 2025. From thrilling theme parks and beach adventures in Eastern Australia to European charm in Montreal, cultural immersion in Japan, outdoor fun in British Columbia, and tropical paradise in Fiji, there’s a destination to suit every family’s interests and travel style. Start planning your unforgettable family adventure today!
