Relaxation, zero work, and new surroundings are common themes in a typical summer family vacation. But what if you could mobilize a classroom and make your next trip educational too?
Booking family trips with an education-enriching twist is the new way to vacation, and these trips are aptly called ‘Edu-vacations.’ Mixing fun and new environments alongside informational experiences can make for an unforgettable trip for your kids. Here are some top destinations and tips for a family edu-vacation.
What is an Edu vacation?
An edu-vacation is a family getaway that centers on learning something new through cultural immersion or educational experiences. For example, this could look like traveling to a new town and learning about the indigenous history or nearby wildlife. We’ll cover more examples of Edu vacations below.
Best Summer Edu-vacation Locations + Tips
Get ready to make new family memories with these exciting destinations across the U.S. and Canada. Also, consider following our tips to make the most of your experiences.
Nature + Wildlife
A nature-based Edu vacation is excellent if your kids enjoy meeting friendly animal friends or studying outdoors. Seek an edge vacation in nature and wildlife, like mountainous Colorado or coastal South Padre Island, Texas. Don’t forget to pack according to your family’s plans.
1. Morrison, Colorado Educational Attractions:
- Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater
- Dinosaur Ridge
- Mount Falcon Castle Trail
- Tiny Town
- Morrison Natural History Museum
Tip:
Visit Morrison from late summer to early spring to experience the best time of the year for natural attractions.
2. South Padre Island, Texas Educational Attractions:
- Laguna Madre Nature Trail
- Sea Turtle, Inc.
- Sea Ranch Marina
- Island Adventure Park
- South Padre Island Nature Center
Tip:
Avoid traveling in March, and early April since Spring Break activity can triple hotel rates. If your family prefers a home-like vacation, consider rentals in South Padre, Island.
Adventure + Theme Parks
If you are looking for exploration and educational experiences, there are many options ranging from the sunny west coast to the scenic north. Make some memories at the top educational attractions in Banff, Canada, or Anaheim, California.
3. Banff, Canada Educational Attractions:
- Bankhead Ghost Town
- Tunnel Mountain Hike
- Wildlife Interpretive Centre
- Sunshine Meadows Gondola Ride
Tip:
Book your vacation between late summer and early spring if you want to catch the Northern Lights.
4. Anaheim, California Educational Attractions:
- Disneyland Resort
- Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center
- Rock City Climbing Center
- The Rinks Anaheim ICE
- Adventure City
Tip:
Book your reservations in advance if you plan to travel on Angel’s gameday or during other significant local events.
Budget-Friendly
Traveling as a family usually requires more considerable reservations and spending more money. Luckily you can visit top educational attractions in a town known for its national parks and wildlife or a city known for being “first in-flight.”
5. Estes Park, Colorado Educational Attractions:
- Trout Haven Fishing Pond
- Open Air Adventure Park
- Rocky Mountain Conservancy
- The Hedge Maze at Stanley Hotel
- Rocky Mountain National Park
Tip:
Plan out hikes and book your permits in advance when visiting Rocky Mountain National Park.
6. Asheville, North Carolina Educational Attractions:
- WNC Nature Center
- Adventure Center of Asheville
- Asheville Urban Trail
- North Carolina Arboretum
- Asheville Museum of Science
To avoid crowds or long lines, visit attractions in the morning.
These top destinations and tips will prep you for a fun and educational experience that your children will gush about in the Fall. We hope this guide gives you indoor or outdoor, coastal or mountainous, intimate or scenic trip options that your family will be ecstatic to secure.