The top 5 parent trip destinations in the US

There’s nothing like travel to reconnect with your parents. Experiencing a new destination and learning about local history together are fun, enriching alternatives to a visit back home. And the best part of a parent trip? Space. Rather than hiding out in your childhood bedroom until dinner, you can each take your pick of activities—whether to enjoy together or alone—before reconvening for the evening, preferably somewhere you won’t have to do the dishes for once.

Last year we highlighted our favorite places around the world for parent trips, so this year we’re focusing on the best domestic destinations where the entire family can enjoy the pleasure of everyone’s company – as well as some healthy breathing room.

The Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks are a string of barrier islands that run for over 200 miles along the North Carolina coast. Such a vast stretch of beautiful beaches promise something for everyone – whether you want to surf, bodyboard, or jetski in the Atlantic, or just soak up the sun atop the towering sand dunes. Then, for some history and culture, head to the town of Kill Devil Hills. These days, the winds there attract the country’s kite- and windsurfers, but over 100 years ago this was the very place where the Wright Brothers conducted the first controlled powered airplane flight. Stay close to both the beach and the museum that honors the innovative brothers by booking a night or two at the charming Shutters on the Banks hotel.

Hudson River Valley, New York

The Hudson River Valley is a priceless natural haven for citydwellers across the five boroughs, New Jersey, and beyond. In less than an hour’s drive or train ride, you can escape all the bustle and concrete for lush forests and rolling hills that provide incredible vantage points of the river valley below. There are segments of the Appalachian Trail to hike and dozens of campsites or bed & breakfasts where you can exchange stories around a campfire with your parents. For those who want a dose of culture in the wilderness, head to the Storm King Art Center, which is a stunning open-air sculpture museum. It’s right across the river from the beautiful town of Beacon, where you can shop and dine, before checking in to a night at the Beacon Hermitage, a bed & breakfast full of rustic charm.

Portland, Oregon

Every family has its unique quirks, and Portland is a town that can cater to every last one, from Voodoo Doughnuts cravings to dreams of Adult Soap Box Derby glory. The city is also renowned for both its coffee and microbrews, so spend some time catching up with your folks over a cup of joe or a hoppy pint, before exploring what else the city has to offer. For any bookworms in the family, the legendary Powell’s City of Books is a can’t-miss stop. Also, great natural escapes aren’t too far from the city limits, with Mount HoodNational Park just a two-hour drive east or Tillamook State Park if you’re headed toward the Pacific. For the night, we recommend the Canopy by Hilton in the Pearl District, which perfectly captures Portland’s blend of funky and chic.

Denver, Colorado

While Denver is called the Mile High City, everything you and your parents could wish for—from jaw-dropping natural beauty to world-class art and cuisine—can be found down on the city streets. The city is known for a thriving arts scene, with boutique galleries throughout Denver’s vibrant neighborhoods and the impressive collections housed at the Denver Art Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art. The best way to explore and enjoy some fresh air is by renting a bike to cycle down the city’s 85+ miles of paved trails, which connect to trails that lead to the breathtaking natural landscapes beyond the city limits, including to the Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre. To keep close to the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, book a night at the luxurious Jacquard, Autograph Collection.

Santa Barbara, California

If Santa Barbara’s pearly beaches and crystal waters weren’t enough, then your folks are bound to love what awaits them downtown. Any history buff in the family could get lost for hours as they step back in time, wandering the historic downtown, which is noted for its Spanish-colonial architecture featuring whitewashed facades and bright red roof tiles. For the more outdoorsy or scientifically inclined, catch the ferry to Channel Islands National Park, which is nicknamed the Galapagos of the North thanks to its amazing wildlife and unique terrain. Afterwards, check in to Kimpton Canary Hotel, which seamlessly fuses Santa Barbara’s historic aesthetic with modern luxury.