Top 10 Family-Friendly US Destinations for Summer 2025

Looking for the best places to travel in the US in summer with your family? This guide covers top destinations, activities, and how to stay connected with Jetpac eSIM USA.

Trying to plan a summer vacation to the USA that the whole family will actually enjoy? We’ll list down the best places to visit in summer in the USA with family, whether you’re into beaches, big cities, parks, or areas where the kids can just run wild for a few hours. And while you're sorting out flights, hotels, and where to eat, don’t forget the one thing that you may need: your internet connection.

A Jetpac eSIM USA lets you stay online without swapping SIM cards or dealing with slow hotel Wi-Fi. Just install it before you go, and you're good to go the second you land.

1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana

Yellowstone National Park is perfect for families who want to spend more time outside. Yellowstone is simply breathtaking, no matter which part of the park you’re visiting. Geysers, waterfalls, and bison walking across the road; these are just a few of the many sights you’ll witness. Even the drive through the park feels like an adventure.

There are plenty of short hikes and lookout points that are suitable for younger kids, and older kids will love exploring the wildlife and geothermal features. Cell signal can be spotty once you’re further down in the park, so it helps to set up your Jetpac eSIM USA with unlimited data in advance so you’re covered when you’re near towns or on the road in and out.

2. San Diego, California

If you’re looking for a city where kids can run around and parents can relax, San Diego is hard to beat. The weather’s always good, the beaches are easy to access, and there are plenty of places to explore, such as the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and Legoland.

Balboa Park is another great place if your kids are into museums. Food-wise, you’ll find everything from beachside tacos to family-friendly restaurants with views. This is one of the best US summer destinations for those who want to relax and enjoy adventure at the same time.

3. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is one of the best places to visit in the US in the summer if your family enjoys museums, city views, and outdoor activities. The Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium are both great attractions for kids. Millennium Park features open space, splash fountains, and interesting art installations. In the warmer months, there are outdoor movies, boat rides, and sandy beaches along Lake Michigan.

Everything is easy to reach by train, and there’s always something going on, no matter your kids’ ages. You can grab deep-dish pizza or hit up a local spot for ice cream and just walk around. It’s an ideal summer destination if you want to enjoy city vibes without too many crowds.

4. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

If you're looking for a simple, sunny, and easygoing destination, Myrtle Beach is a great choice. Families can spend the day by the water, walk along the boardwalk, or stop for ice cream and arcade games. There are small amusement parks, mini-golf courses, and laid-back restaurants with ocean views.

The beach itself is wide and sandy, with shallow water that’s perfect for younger kids. In the evening, you can catch fireworks shows, outdoor concerts, or just relax with a stroll by the ocean. If you have more time, you can also visit Georgetown, which is known for amazing restaurants, a waterfront park, and antique stores.

5. Washington, D.C.

You’d be surprised how amazing D.C. is for a family trip. Most of the museums here, including the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of African American History and Culture, and National Gallery of Art, are free to enter and offer many activities for kids. The National Zoological Park is also free, and it’s a nice place to spend a day with kids.

Whether you're a history lover, have a passion for art, or are simply looking for fun activities to enjoy with your kids, Washington, D.C., has plenty of activities for people of all ages. You’ll never have a dull moment here!

6. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

If your family likes being outside but isn’t into extreme hiking or long drives every day, Lake Tahoe is an ideal place. You’ll find a beautiful lake, beaches, paddleboarding, and kid-friendly hikes all within easy reach. The water’s cold, but it’s clean, and most places are family-friendly.

There are also many restaurants and cafes offering delicious food with views. This is also one of those places where eSIM USA travel will greatly help, especially if you’re staying in a cabin or going between towns where cell service can be poor. With Jetpac eSIM USA with unlimited data, you don’t need to think twice about coverage.

7. Orlando, Florida

Let’s be honest: Orlando is a madhouse in summer, as the city is home to world-class theme parks offering an amazing experience for people of all ages. While the parks can be crowded, you can still have a great time if you plan ahead. Try to get to the parks early in the morning, take long breaks for lunch, and use helpful tools like the Genie+ service to make your day smoother. Just be sure to have all your reservation information, park apps, and tickets ready to go before you start your adventure.

Besides the theme parks, there are plenty of other great places to check out with your kids. You can visit the Kennedy Space Center, explore ICON Park, or enjoy a nice walk around Lake Eola Park. There’s something fun for everyone in Orlando!

8. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia is one of the most peaceful national parks in the U.S. Surrounded by pine forests and ocean views, it has a naturally calming atmosphere that makes you want to slow down and breathe. Acadia offers easy hiking trails that are suitable for families with young kids, scenic drives where visitors can stop and take in the sights, and its proximity to Bar Harbor, which features great food and interesting shops.

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and spend quality time outdoors with your family, Acadia is one of the best summer spots in the U.S. Just be sure to pack enough snacks if you’re heading out on the trails.

9. Honolulu, Hawaii

Yes, it’s far. Yes, it’s a longer flight. However, once you arrive, you'll find that Honolulu is surprisingly easy to explore with kids. There are beautiful, calm beaches, a zoo, an aquarium, and scenic hikes that offer stunning views anybody can enjoy.

The atmosphere is safe and welcoming, and the weather is usually fantastic. If you're traveling from the mainland, especially with children, it's a good idea to ensure your phone is set up with the best eSIM USA with unlimited data. This way, you can access maps, find places to eat, and book rides without having to rely on hotel Wi-Fi.

10. Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg is a beautiful city known for its rich history and family-friendly attractions. From historical sites like the beautiful Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown to theme parks like Busch Gardens and Water Country, there’s something for every age group.

Don’t miss out on the Merchants Square retail village located adjacent to Colonial Williamsburg’s town. This 18th-century style village features over 40 shops and restaurants. The sandwiches from “The Cheese Shop” at Merchant’s Square are popular among tourists and locals alike.

Stay Connected with Jetpac eSIM USA

Traveling with family means juggling many things: directions, meal plans, park tickets, and finding activities everyone can enjoy. Having a Jetpac eSIM USA just takes one thing off your plate. It works right away, without swapping SIMs, and it covers you pretty much anywhere in the country.

And if you know you’ll be using your phone a lot for streaming, booking, GPS, and more, the Jetpac eSIM USA with an unlimited data plan makes life a whole lot easier!