45 Best Places to Visit with Your Grandchildren This Summer

Are you searching for places to visit with your grandkids this summer? Taking your grandkids out for a day of fun is always enjoyable. You don’t even have to venture far if you prefer not to. Below is a list of local attractions in your town and destinations across the country where you can have a fantastic time this summer!

Local Places

The Zoo

Visit the zoo with your grandchildren to have an educational and fun-filled day. At the zoo, you can explore a variety of animal exhibits, engage in interactive learning experiences, and witness captivating wildlife shows. Take this opportunity to teach your grandchildren about different species, conservation efforts, and the importance of preserving natural habitats. Don’t forget to pack some snacks for a picnic amidst the exotic surroundings, and be sure to capture memorable moments together as you bond over the wonders of the animal kingdom.

Ways to Keep the Cost Down

• Look for discounted tickets or special promotions offered by the zoo (senior discounts!).
• Consider bringing your own snacks and drinks to avoid purchasing food at expensive stands.
• Check if the zoo offers free admission days or discounts for local residents to save on entrance fees.
• Bring reusable water bottles.
• Consider purchasing a zoo membership. Zoo membership passes can cost anywhere from $100-$300 for four people (depending on the location, of course). But, they come with tons of benefits; Unlimited zoo visits for the year, a percentage off at gift shops, access to special members-only deals, etc. Think of it this way – $30 per daily admission for a family of 4 equals $120. Your pass will pay for itself in 2-3 visits alone!

The Library

In addition to renting books, movies, and music, your grandchildren can explore a wide range of activities and events for all ages – FOR FREE! Attend an interactive storytime. Participate in educational workshops, arts and crafts sessions, or special guest lectures that the library may offer. Take advantage of the quiet reading areas to spend quality time together reading stories or exploring new topics of interest. Don’t forget to ask the staff about any upcoming family-friendly events or themed exhibits that could enrich your next visit!

A Used Bookstore

If your grandkids are a bunch of bookworms, take them to a used bookstore to stock up on great reads. Not only will you save money, but you may also come across fantastic sales. Additionally, many used bookstores host special events for children, providing opportunities for interactive learning and literary exploration.

Berry Picking

Spend a sunny day outdoors picking fresh, ripe berries at a local farm or orchard. Afterward, head back home to enjoy the fruits of your labor by baking a delicious pie or whipping up some muffins. Bond over the baking process, share family recipes, and savor the sweet rewards of your shared experience. This is a fun and rewarding activity that combines outdoor exploration with culinary creativity, making it a perfect summer pastime for all ages!

Farmers Market

Explore a local farmer’s market with your grandkids for a fun and enriching experience. Apart from the array of fresh fruits and vegetables available, you can spend the day discovering one-of-a-kind artworks, handmade decor, antiques, artisanal crafts, and much more from local vendors. Engage the kids in choosing colorful produce, discussing meal ideas, and planning recipes to try in the upcoming weeks. Encourage them to appreciate the diverse talents of local artisans and craftsmen.

The Pool

The pool is always a summer staple, so go get your splash on. Whether you choose to visit a public pool, a swimming lake, or a community pool with designated play areas, there are plenty of options to suit your preferences. Don’t forget to prioritize water safety by ensuring everyone follows proper swimming protocols, supervising young swimmers closely, and being mindful of sun protection measures.

Petting Zoo

Go to the petting zoo and participate in hands-on experiences where your grandkids can touch, feed, and learn about various animals up close. Take the opportunity to educate them about animal care, habitats, and behaviors while fostering empathy and respect for all living beings.

A State Park

Go to a state park and enjoy all it offers. State parks offer a variety of outdoor activities for people of all ages and interests. Here are some of the things you can do when you visit one:

• Hiking – State parks typically have miles of trails that wind through forests, meadows, wetlands, and along scenic overlooks. Hiking is a great way to get some exercise, enjoy nature, and spot wildlife.
• Camping – Many state parks offer camping facilities, from campsites with basic amenities to cabins.
• Boating – If there’s a lake or river, you can go boating, kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding. This is a great way to explore the park from a different perspective and get some exercise.
• Fishing – Fish from the shore, a boat, or a pier.
• Swimming – If there’s a beach or swimming area, you can go for a swim to cool off on a hot day.
• Picnicking – Pack a lunch and find a scenic spot to enjoy a picnic. Many state parks have picnic tables and shelters available.
• Biking – Many state parks have bike trails that are perfect for a leisurely ride or a more challenging workout.
• Horseback Riding – Some state parks offer horseback riding trails.
• Rock Climbing – If there are cliffs or rock formations, you may be able to go rock climbing.
• Wildlife Watching – State parks are home to a variety of wildlife, such as birds, deer, rabbits, and squirrels. Keep your eyes peeled and you may be lucky enough to spot some animals in their natural habitat.
• Geocaching – Geocaching is a techy treasure hunt that uses GPS to find hidden caches. This is a fun activity for everyone that can get you exploring all parts of the park.
• Volunteer – Many state parks rely on volunteers to help with a variety of tasks, such as trail maintenance, planting trees, and educating visitors. Volunteering is a great way for you and your grandchildren to give back to the community and learn more about the park.

The Dog Park

If you have a dog, go to the dog park and take your grandchild with you. Encourage them to participate in simple activities like throwing a ball, running around with the dog, or simply observing the playful antics. Dog parks also provide an excellent opportunity to teach important lessons about pet care, respect for animals, and the significance of following rules and etiquette in shared spaces.

Cat Cafe

If you have a local cat cafe in your town and you have older grandchildren, take them for a day of cuddly fun. You will make a difference also by helping take care of the cats at the cafe with admission. This is not a good activity for younger children, as most cafes have age limits. 

The Ice Cream Parlor

Go to the ice cream parlor for a scoop or two of your favorite sweet treats. Here are some highly-rated parlors across the country that are known for their unique flavors and high-quality ingredients:

• McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams – A California staple, McConnell’s is currently three generations in. They use fresh, local ingredients and their ice cream is known for its rich and creamy texture.
• Salt & Straw – This popular creamery offers innovative and seasonal flavors alongside classic favorites. They are known for their fun and adventurous flavor combinations, like Avocado with Stracciatella or Black Olive Brittle with Goat Cheese.
• Braum’s – This popular chain offers ice cream, frozen yogurt, baked goods, and even has a grill menu. They are known for their fresh, high-quality ingredients and delicious flavors.
• Culver’s – This popular chain is known for its fresh, made-to-order ButterBurgers and frozen custard. Their custard is richer and denser than traditional ice cream.

Go Out to Eat

Indulge in a special dining experience by treating your grandchildren to breakfast or lunch at a restaurant of their choosing. Or, embrace the spirit of adventure by trying out a new dining spot together, venturing beyond familiar tastes. For an even more memorable outing, consider taking a day trip to a destination that offers a unique and distinct atmosphere. Opt for somewhere entirely different from your usual haunts—a small town with charming boutiques, a scenic coastal village, or even a historical landmark.

Explore a Children’s Museum

Take your grandkids on an amazing adventure of learning and fun at a children’s museum or discovery center! These museums are like giant playgrounds for curious minds.

• They have cool stuff to see and touch, like science experiments and art projects.
• Kids can learn about history, nature, and all sorts of other neat things!
• The activities are designed just for kids, so they can learn while having a blast.

There are many children’s museums all over the United States. Here are some famous ones:

• The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis has tons of exhibits, even dinosaur bones!
• The Exploratorium in San Francisco lets kids play with all kinds of cool things.
• The Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia lets kids explore a pretend town and more!

Movie Matinee

Take them to a movie matinee in the early afternoon. Here are some reasons why taking your grandchildren to the movies during the day might be a better option than at night:

• Daytime movies don’t disrupt bedtime routines. Little ones (especially toddlers and preschoolers) might get cranky or overtired if a movie runs late into the evening.
• Younger children may have a shorter attention span. A daytime movie allows them to be more focused and engaged.
• Kids usually have more energy during the day. They can be more excited and enjoy the movie experience without getting restless.
• Some theaters offer matinee discounts for movies before a certain time in the afternoon.
• Daytime showings are typically less crowded than evenings or weekends.

Of course, there are also benefits to nighttime movie outings, like making it a special family event or a “date night” with the oldest kiddo. Ultimately, the best time depends on your grandchild’s age and your preferences.

The Playground

Going to the playground is a great way to spend quality time with your grandchildren. You can play with them on the equipment, chat, laugh, and make some happy memories together.

Water Park

Make a splash at a water park with your grandkids! They’ll have a blast zooming down the slides, playing in the water, and cooling off on a hot summer day. There are all kinds of rides at the water park, from super tall slides to relaxing lazy rivers. No matter how adventurous your grandkids (and you!) are, there’s something for everyone. Not sure where to go? Here are some of the country’s top-rated water parks:

• Universal’s Volcano Bay (Orlando, Florida) – This water park is part of Universal Orlando and is known for its immersive Volcano theme, thrilling rides like the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, and relaxing experiences like the Kopiko Wai Winding River.
• Dollywood’s Splash Country (Pigeon Forge, Tennessee) – This water park is part of the Dollywood theme park and features a variety of water rides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. It’s known for its family-friendly atmosphere and scenic mountain views.
• Noah’s Ark Waterpark (Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin) – Noah’s Ark is a massive water park that boasts over 50 water slides, multiple wave pools, and a variety of other attractions.
• Water Country USA (Williamsburg, Virginia) – This water park is located near Busch Gardens Williamsburg and features a variety of water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. It’s known for its classic water park attractions and family-friendly atmosphere.
• Schlitterbahn New Braunfels (New Braunfels, Texas) – This water park is known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World” and features a huge selection of water slides, a lazy river, and a variety of other attractions. It’s known for its innovative rides and exciting water experiences.
• Lost Island Waterpark (Waterloo, Iowa) – Lost Island features a variety of water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.

Virtual Reality Lounge

Teens will love going to a virtual reality (VR) lounge. It’s an arcade where you can experience VR games without having to buy all the equipment yourself. A couple of things to keep in mind when planning a visit to one: There’s usually an admission fee or hourly rate and some VR experiences may have age restrictions due to content or complexity.

Escape Room

An escape room is a physical adventure game where you and a group of people are locked in a themed room. You have a set amount of time (usually 60 minutes) to use your teamwork, problem-solving skills, and creativity to find clues, solve puzzles, and escape the room. Escape rooms come in all sorts of themes, from pirates and mysteries to outer space adventures and bank heists. This is a fun outing for older grandchildren.

Drive-In Movie

These places of nostalgia are few, but if you have a drive-in theater, take the kids for a fun evening. 

Movie Under the Stars

Lots of towns offer free movies during the summer. They set up a big screen in a park, and you can watch a movie with the stars shining bright above you. Grab your comfy blankets, yummy snacks, and drinks, and pack up the grandkids for a fun night outside!

DIY Field Trip

Cater your “field trip day” to your grandchild’s interests. Do they love to cook? Go to a kitchen store, book a cooking class, and then go out to eat. Do they love animals? Go to the petting zoo, visit the pet store, and then go out to eat. Here are some more field trip day ideas:

Science Day

• Start the day at a science museum or discovery center.
• Head to a planetarium to learn about the stars, planets, and beyond. Some planetariums even have shows geared towards kids.
• Grab lunch at a restaurant with a science theme, or head home with some take-out and watch the Twilight Zone.

Art Day

• Visit an art museum and explore different artistic styles.
• Take an art class together and learn a new artistic skill like painting, pottery making, or jewelry design.
• Have a picnic lunch in a park surrounded by sculptures or gardens.

History Day

• Explore a historical site or landmark. Many historical sites offer guided tours or interactive exhibits that bring history to life.
• Visit a local library and search for books about historical figures or events that your grandchild is interested in.
• Have lunch at a restaurant with a historical theme, like a colonial tavern or a medieval-style restaurant.

Book Day

• Start the day at a bookstore and let your grandchild pick out a new book.
• Attend a story time at your local library or bookstore. Many libraries have special programs designed for different age groups.
• Grab lunch at a cafe with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for curling up with a good book.

Music Day

• Visit a music store and let your grandchild try out different instruments.
• Catch a live performance at a local music venue.
• Have lunch at a restaurant with live music, where you can enjoy a meal and some tunes.

Nature Day

• Hike in a local park or nature preserve.
• Visit a botanical garden and learn about different types of plants and flowers.
• Have a picnic lunch by a lake or stream and enjoy the peacefulness of nature.

Engineer Day

• Visit a construction site (from a safe distance of course!) and observe the different machines and tools being used.
• Go to a hardware store and let your grandchild pick out a small project kit to build together at home.
• Have lunch at a restaurant with a view of a bridge, skyscraper, or other impressive piece of engineering.

The Aquarium

Take your grandkids on an underwater adventure at a local aquarium! See amazing fish, playful otters, and graceful sea turtles. Touch stingrays, watch jellyfish, and learn about ocean life through fun exhibits and presentations. It’ll be a fun and educational experience you’ll both remember!

The Planetarium

Blast off to the planetarium with your grandkids! See dazzling shows about space, planets, and stars. Learn about the universe through cool exhibits and telescopes.

Visit a Fire Station

Call your local fire station and see if you can take your young grandchildren for a visit. Many fire stations welcome visitors, especially young children. They’ll get to see real fire trucks and equipment, meet firefighters, and maybe even learn about fire safety in a fun way.

Visit a Battlefield

Take your grandkids on a historical adventure by visiting a battlefield near you! Imagine soldiers and battles from the past as you explore the grounds where history unfolded. Walk the hallowed grounds and talk to your grandkids about the battles that happened there. Who were the key players? How did the battles affect the area and the country? Encourage them to ask questions and imagine what it was like for the soldiers who fought. Here are some famous US battlefields you can visit:

• Gettysburg National Military Park (Pennsylvania)
• Antietam National Battlefield (Maryland)
• Saratoga National Historical Park (New York)

Go to a Local Sporting Event

Catch a summer game with your grandkids! Cheer on your local baseball, soccer, or basketball team. Feel the energy of the crowd and see amazing athletic skills up close. Explain the game and answer their questions. It’s a fun way to bond, share team spirit, and make memories that last!

Miniature Golfing

Taking your grandchildren miniature golfing is a fantastic way to create lasting memories and have a blast together. It’s an active and affordable outing that gets you both some fresh air and exercise in a relaxed setting. Mini golf is perfect for all ages and abilities, so grandparents and grandchildren can enjoy a friendly competition while developing hand-eye coordination, putting skills, and strategic thinking in a fun way.

Go to the Carnival

Head to your local carnival for a day of summer fun with the kids! Indulge in cotton candy, ride the carousel, and win silly prizes together. From the Ferris wheel to classic carnival games, there’s something for everyone.

The State Fair

Take your grandkids on a summer adventure at the state fair! From thrilling rides and yummy fair food to amazing exhibits and live shows, there’s something for everyone. It’s a day of exploration, delicious treats, and unforgettable memories!

An Outdoor Concert

Catch some live music this summer! Explore your local scene with free park concerts or see a bigger band at a nearby venue. Pack a picnic and dance the night away. It’s a fun way to bond, discover new music, and create lasting summer memories!

Go Garage Sale Hunting

Taking your grandchildren to garage sales can turn a simple outing into a treasure hunt filled with learning and fun. From discovering unique toys and books to spotting quirky decorations and clothes, it can be exciting for them to explore and search for bargains. Checking out garage sales can also be a valuable lesson in understanding the concept of value as they see the difference between new and used items. Here are some tips for taking your grandchildren to garage sales:

• Set a budget beforehand and let your grandkids know how much they can spend.
• Talk about safety and following your instructions while at the sale.
• Bring bags or a wagon to carry your finds.
• Have fun and be open to unexpected discoveries!

Go Shopping

While there might be more adventurous options out there, don’t underestimate the power of a simple trip to the mall. It can be a surprising lifesaver on a rainy day! Beyond shopping, many malls also have fun activities like bowling alleys, arcades, movie theaters, or dedicated play areas, ensuring there’s something to keep everyone entertained. As your grandchildren get older, the mall can even be a safe space to practice some independence, whether it’s browsing stores with a set budget or grabbing a snack at the food court.

Visit a Farm

Check out your local farms and see if they have any activities going on. Some farms have playgrounds that kids can play in with lots of things to do. 

Fun Places Across the Country

Knoebels Grove Amusement Park (Elysburg, PA)

If you live in or near Pennsylvania, check out Knoebels. This park was a huge part of my summers as a kid growing up. Some highlights include free parking and no park admission fee. There are lots of rides for all ages and plenty of places to eat. You can get a quick bite at one of the many food kiosks or eat at one of the on-site restaurants. Knoebels also has a vast pool to go swimming (must pay to swim) and they also have a campground and cottages as well that you can book and stay at the park. You will not be disappointed with this family-friendly park.

Destin, Florida

The beach at Destin, Florida isn’t just another stretch of sand – it’s a beach lover’s paradise. Sugar-white sand, made from finely ground quartz and crushed seashells is incredibly soft underfoot, perfect for sinking your toes in and building sandcastle masterpieces. The shallow waters take on a breathtaking emerald-green hue thanks to the unique sand, offering stunning clarity that’s ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Plus, the calm nature of the water makes Destin a perfect spot for families with young children who can splash around safely. Destin offers a variety of water activities for all ages, from kayaking and paddleboarding to parasailing and deep-sea fishing. And when you dry off, there are plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options close by!

Take a Disney Cruise

If you can’t go to Disney World, take a Disney Cruise. They are full of activities and entertainment for all ages. Unforgettable family adventure! Magic, shows, characters, pools, & delicious food onboard. Explore ports, relax on beaches, & create memories that last!

Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is a fantastic destination for a grandparent-grandchild adventure! Atlanta offers a winning combo of educational and entertaining experiences. From the awe-inspiring Georgia Aquarium to the fascinating World of Coca-Cola and the beautiful Atlanta Botanical Garden, your grandkids can learn and explore in exciting ways.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga, Tennessee is a hidden gem waiting to be explored with your grandchildren! This city offers a perfect blend of adventure, exploration, and family-friendly fun that will create lasting memories for everyone. Dive into the underwater wonders of the Tennessee Aquarium, one of the largest in the US. Hike or bike along scenic trails, take in breathtaking views from Lookout Mountain, or take a train ride on the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo.

Nashville, Tennessee

This is the perfect place for country music lovers of all ages. Take in a show, go to the Johnny Cash Museum, and eat amazing down-home food. Even better, plan ahead to attend CMA Fest in June, where you can meet and get up close and personal with your favorite country music acts. 

Legoland (San Diego, CA)

At Legoland, you will find rides, activities, and live shows to keep everyone entertained. There is something here for all ages.

Louisville, Kentucky

If you and your grandkids have a love of baseball, this is where you need to be. You can go to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, take in a game with the Louisville Cardinals, go to the zoo, or visit the Kentucky Science Center.

Washington, DC

Washington DC isn’t just about stuffy museums and political buildings – it’s a city brimming with history, learning opportunities, and exciting experiences that will ignite curiosity and spark lasting memories for all ages. Here’s why taking your grandchildren to DC is a fantastic idea:

• DC is an open-air museum where history comes alive. Stroll along the National Mall, past iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, and feel the weight of history.
• Visit one (or all) of DC’s world-class museums like the National Air and Space Museum or the Natural History Museum.
• DC caters to a variety of interests. Science enthusiasts will love the museums, history buffs will be enthralled by monuments and memorials, and animal lovers can visit the National Zoo. There are even boat tours on the Potomac River or spooky ghost tours for older kids!

Huntsville, Alabama

If your grandkids are all about space, this is the place to be. They will love the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and other kid-friendly attractions like the EarlyWorks Children’s Museum and the Huntsville Museum of Art.

St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis has a lot to offer, including The City Museum, the Saint Louis Science Center, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the Saint Louis Zoo. 

Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh has lots of kid-friendly things to do, including The Marbles Kids Museum and the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. Pullen Park is a great place to take them for some outdoor fun, featuring a carousel, playground, and rides via boat and train. 

Where Will You Take YOUR Grandchildren This Summer?

There are all kinds of places you can take your grandkids to this summer. You can either stay close to home or be adventurous and take a great vacation together. Either way, you are bound to have tons of fun and make lots of memories with your grandchildren to last a lifetime.

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