For SoCal adrenaline junkies, Knott’s Berry Farm has always been more of a day trip than an overnight staycation. But that might change now that the theme park’s adjacent hotel has spruced itself up with a multimillion-dollar renovation that has given a whole new look to the nearly 50-year-old hotel.

Once a blocky afterthought to the 57-acre theme park, the Knott’s Berry Farm hotel hasn’t always had the cache (or the exorbitant price tag) of, say, a Disney brand hotel, despite being steps from Knott’s most beloved attractions (open a window and you’ll hear the screams of Ghostrider’s victims). Yelp reviews have long complained of a “tired”  look and feel to the hotel’s hallways and guest rooms.

But dinginess be gone! The revamped (and slightly renamed) Knott’s Hotel now has a sophisticated farmhouse-chic feel, with all 322 of the hotel’s guest rooms having been fully renovated. It’s also got a redesigned restaurant, lobby, and meeting spaces. Even better? The bargain price tag is still there, so anyone wanting to get a theme park hotel experience can do it in style… and still have room for a custom lightsaber or two should they decide to tack on a day and go park-hopping elsewhere.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Knotts Berry Farm Hotel’s big makeover:

Joshua Sudock/ Knott’s Berry Farm

The Lobby
You may be 500 steps from the park gates, but step into the lobby and you’ll feel like you’re worlds away from the chaos. A cavernous space with just the right amount of warmth, the lobby’s rustic farmhouse decor is an upscale ode to Knott’s founders, Walter and Cordelia Knott, who started the Knott’s empire when they founded their boysenberry farm at the location that would later become the bustling theme park. Nods to the founders are everywhere, including a guest registration wall made of oversized replicas of the farm’s first jam jars, filled instead with fresh flowers and seasonal displays.

Joshua Sudock/ Knott’s Berry Farm

The Rooms
Keeping with the farmhouse chic, guest rooms are simple and clean (with not a Snoopy or Peanuts© character to be found). Think country guesthouse, bathed in neutral colors and natural wood, with handcrafted details like framed animal prints on the walls.

Got a brood? Queen rooms offer space for up to six plus amenities including a mini refrigerator and a sleeper sofa.

Joshua Sudock/ Knott’s Berry Farm

The Restaurant
At the new Thirty Acres Kitchen and Bar (the name is a nod to the original 30 acres of land that made up the farm), guests can enjoy a “modern version of the farm,” featuring a double-sided wrap-around bar that extends into the lobby. While the 300-degree bar will serve locally inspired craft cocktails and small plates, the full-service restaurant menu will offer distinct twists on traditional American cuisine, with signature dishes and menu items connected to the park’s season. It’s an upscale complement to the neighboring Mrs. Knott’s Fried Chicken Restaurant at Knott’s Marketplace, which serves the legendary fried chicken dinner that started it all back in 1934.

Need a quick bite in the morning? There’s a new walk-up option, The Pantry, which serves Starbucks coffee, snacks, pastries, and grab-n-go options.

Joshua Sudock/Cedar Fair

The Location
This is the best part about staying at the Knott’s Hotel: Not only are you a short walk to the park (meaning, an easy way out at naptime when your tiny coaster fanatic hits a wall), but the hotel is a just short drive from other Orange County destinations including Disneyland, Great Wolf Lodge, and Angel Stadium. It’s also just across the street from Knott’s Soak City (a huge win for anyone who’s ever known the urgent need for a long, hot shower after a day at a waterpark).

Joshua Sudock/ Knott’s Berry Farm

The Price:
You can’t beat $167 a night (what we found when we searched on Expedia) which is less than anything comparable if you wanted to stay at a Disney hotel (we still love you, though, Disney Hotels)—so not only is Knott’s an upscale, clean and comfy place to sleep when your kids are totally wiped after a day at the park, but it could save you a few Disneyland tickets’ worth of cash. Win-win! You can even save on some packages that combine park admission with an overnight stay.

Knott’s Hotel
7675 Crescent Ave.
Buena Park, CA, 90620
Online: Knotts.com/knotts-hotel

Love the idea of camping but don’t feel like setting up a tent? Then glamping is for you! With the choice of cabins, yurts, tent cabins, Airstreams, yurts, and even treehouses, we’ve collected the Bay’s best glamping and cabin camping spots where your family can sleep outside all without setting up your own tent. Find your next glamping adventure today.

Points North

Huttopia Wine Country | Lower Lake, CA

Huttopia Wine Country glamping with kids
Huttopia

This property is about an hour from Napa and miles away from busy city life. Located on the Six Sigma Ranch property, Huttopia Wine Country is a kid-friendly oasis where parents can relax and read a book while kids ride their bikes around the property. You can expect movie nights under the stars, days spent hiking and swimming in the property's pool, and meeting other travelers while you're there. Huttopia's glamping tents are some of the most comfortable that we've seen, many with their own private bathroom. Read our full property review.

Huttopia Wine Country
13444 Spruce Grove Rd.
Lower Lake, CA
Onlinecanada-usa.huttopia.com/en/site/wine-country/

Wildhaven Sonoma—Healdsburg

Kate Loweth

This spot is perfectly situated right on the Russian River and it's definitely going to be your next favorite glamping spot. Oversized glamping tents sleep up to six with a queen bed and two cots for the kids, a two-queen version, or the six-person bunk bed tent.

Bed linens, space heaters for cool nights, bedside lamps, and a covered six-foot deck are included. (Bring your own sleeping bags for the kid cots). Upgrade to a premium tent and add on a fire pit with a cooking grill, picnic table, and additional chairs for your front deck. The riverside tents have the best views, more privacy, and even your own hammock! Shared facilities include restrooms, a shower shed, and BBQs.

Six acres of land plus another four acres of river area are yours to explore at Wildhaven. Go tubing in the Russian River, explore local roads via bikes, rent a kayak or SUP for the day, and head to nearby Healdsburg for wine tasting and plentiful dining options. 

2411 Alexander Valley Rd.
Healdsburg, CA
Online: wildhavensonoma.com

Related: You’ll Love Healdsburg’s Newest Glamping Spot on the Russian River

Russian River RV Campground—Cloverdale

Head up the 101 to Cloverdale for some serious Russian River time at this spot that offers all sorts of glamping and camping options for families. Primarily an RV park, families looking for a glamping experience can book a few nights at the cabins that offer A/C, beds (to sleep up to 6), a full-sized fridge, grilling equipment, and even WiFi if you need it. We found the accommodations to be very comfortable on our recent stay!

The property's highlight is definitely its access to the Russian River. Set up your gear at one of the rocky beach areas and spend the day floating down the river and rock-jumping into the deep pools. Kids can ride their scooters around the property and there's a playground for the little ones. 

33655 Geyers Rd. 
Cloverdale, CA
Online
: rvonthego.com

Inn at Schoolhouse Creek—Little River

https://www.instagram.com/p/CmrdXMUOXI1/?hidecaption=true

If you want some extra space to spread out on your next visit to Mendocino, a kitchen to cook up some farm-fresh eggs in the morning, and a quaint cottage to call home, this is your spot. The Inn at Schoolhouse Creek offers cottages with different layouts to suit the needs of families of all sizes. On a recent visit, we stayed in the Pomo Cottage which had a full kitchen, a bedroom with a king-sized bed, pull-out couches that could sleep up to four people, and a private hot tub for soaks under the sun. The property also has a spa, BBQs for public use, and a gorgeous property and creek for exploring. Dogs are also welcome!

7051 North Highway 1
LIttle River, CA
Online: schoolhousecreek.com

Related: Micro-cation in Mendocino (& the Railbikes Experience All Will Love)

LOGE Mt. Shasta

LOGE, the lifestyle hotel group which brings forgotten motels back to life, welcomes families to its Mt. Shasta property where they'll find family-sized rooms with bunk beds and storage for all your gear. Hotel rooms and covered camping sites all come with your very own hammock by Kammok for relaxing after a day on the trails. Other on-site partnerships include Traeger wood fire grills.

Life is easy at LOGE where you'll find an on-site cafe and bar, fire pits for making new friends, and plenty of outdoor recreation nearby. Even your dog is welcome to join in the fun!

1612 S Mt Shasta Blvd.
Mt. Shasta, CA
Online: logecamps.com

Mendocino Grove—Mendocino

Mendocino Grove

Mendocino Grove is a newcomer to the glamping scene and they know how to do it right. With 60 fully-outfitted tents with lavish beds, your family will not want to leave once you have arrived. Kids can spend the days enjoying the nearby hiking trails and on-site amenities like cornhole, bocce ball and other games. Campfires and gas barbecues make cooking easy. You can even rent cooking equipment so you don't have to lug your pans with you. Luxurious bathrooms and hot water stations make this a no-brainer for families. Relax on a hammock and enjoy the fresh air. At Mendocino Grove, it's R 'n R at its finest.

9601 California Route 1
Mendocino, CA
Onlinemendocinogrove.com

Railroad Park Resort—Dunsmuir

Kate Loweth

Railfans, this is the spot for you! Head north to Siskiyou County and 45 minutes past Redding will get you to Railroad Park Resort where you can glamp in the utmost style. Here families bed down in vintage railroad cabooses that sleep up to five people. You'll have a fridge, full bathroom, WiFi, and microwave as well as an on-site pool, a restaurant (serving breakfast and dinner in a rail car!), and a creek for exploring. They also have an RV and campground with access to the pool. The nearby area is full of waterfalls, fishing spots, and lakes for boating. The perfect family getaway awaits! 

100 Railroad Park Rd.
Dunsmuir, CA
Online: rrpark.com

Related: 10 Things You Must Do in California’s Siskiyou County

Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort—Mt. Shasta City

Kate Loweth

You'll definitely want to bring along some other families when you plan your trip to Lake Siskiyou. This idyllic spot will bring you back to your summer camp days with movies by the lake, a sandy beach with gorgeous mountain scenery, and even an arcade for when you need a little veg-out time. You can bring your RV or pop up a tent in one of the camping sites or glamp out at a cabin lakeside. Cabins come with fire rings for s'mores and kitchens for cooking. You can also dine at the on-site restaurant that serves pizza and other kid-friendly fare. Kids will especially love their time spent in the splash zone—the inflatable water park that offers slides, trampolines, and hours of entertainment (open seasonally).

4239 W. A. Barr Rd.
Mt. Shasta City, CA
Online: lakesiskiyouresort.com

Drakesbad Guest Ranch—Chester

Kate Loweth

Since 1900, guests have made their way to Drakesbad Guest Ranch for some time in nature. Drakesbad's prime location in Lassen Volcanic National Park is only five hours from the Bay Area but a million miles away from the craziness of everyday life. The property offers cabins and bungalows that are perfect for families and all have amazing views of the nearby mountains. There are horses to ride, swings for relaxing, a hot spring-fed pool, and nightly campfires. All rooms come with three meals served at the dining hall so you don't have to worry about cooking for the kids. If you are going to be hiking to Boiling Springs Lake to see the bubbling mud pots, you can opt to take a sack lunch with you.

14423 Chester Warner Valley Rd.
Chester, CA
Onlinedrakesbad.com

Related: Drakesbad Guest Ranch in Lassen Offers Off-the-Grid Adventure

Point Arena Lighthouse—Point Arena

For a truly coastal experience, you can stay right at the Point Arena Lighthouse in one of their six vacation cottages. They come with a well-equipped kitchen, satellite TV, wood-burning fireplace, and the most gorgeous coastal views. Wake up to hear the waves crashing against the rocks and spend your days exploring the 23 acres of land adjacent to the lighthouse.

All lighthouse quarters include unlimited visits to the museum and climbs up the lighthouse tower (a surefire way to tire out the kiddos). Check for seasonal specials to grab yourself a free night or bucks to use at the lighthouse gift shop. Bonus: you can feel good knowing you are supporting this non-profit in its goal of keeping the light on for visitors for generations to come.

4550 Lighthouse Rd.
Point Arena, CA
Onlinepointarenalighthouse.com

Coverdale/Healdsburg KOA—Cloverdale

These cabins right near wine country are perfect for families looking to explore this area without having to shell out the big bucks for a hotel. This KOA offers tons of amenities for those with kids—fire pits, barbecues, swimming pool, ping pong table, and even a video arcade. Choose from one and two-bedroom cabins that sleep up to six. Grab a cup of coffee from the on-site coffee stand before you head out on your morning hike.

1166 Asti Ridge Rd.
Cloverdale, CA
Online: koa.com

Bothe-Napa Valley State Park—Calistoga

This beautiful 1,900-acre state park in the heart of Napa Valley boasts 10 trails that run through coastal redwoods, Douglas firs, big-leaf maples (gorgeous in the fall) and oaks; a spring-fed swimming pool for cooling off on steamy summer days; and an easy bike ride to award-winning wineries. And yurts! The year-round campground has three reservable yurts that sleep up to six people and seven smaller ones that can accommodate a family of four. You can also reserve one of the three cabins on site. All include skylights, lockable doors, an outdoor fire pit, and a picnic table, with bathrooms and showers nearby.

3801 St. Helena Hwy.
Calistoga, CA
Online: napavalleystateparks.org

Oz Farm—Point Arena

This off-the-grid spot on the Mendocino Coast offers tranquility like you've never had before. Cabins, yurts, and even geodesic domes are scattered around the property to give you privacy and also offer the option of gathering together with multiple families. Some offer kitchenettes for cooking and most are just a short walk to the river. Included in a cabin rental is access to the community house, which is a shared kitchen, living space, and bathhouse for all Oz Farm guests. This working farm also offers a variety of seasonal produce. Pack light as you'll need to walk a short distance from your car to your residence. 

Directions here
Point Arena, CA
Onlineozfarm.com

Safari West—Santa Rosa

Come to Santa Rosa for the exotic animals and stay for the one-of-a-kind overnight glamping experience at the Safari West wildlife preserve. The heavy canvas tents—imported from Africa—have hardwood floors, and the sounds of wildlife give the feel of camping, while heaters and ceiling fans provide home comforts. While the luxurious bedding is nice, the highlight of the experience for all ages is the more than 800 animals that roam these acres. (Note that the tents are separated from the wildlife for safety reasons.)

3115 Porter Creek Rd.
Santa Rosa, CA
Online: safariwest.com

Windsong Guest Yurt—Point Reyes Station

This secluded glamping spot in Point Reyes Station comes with a California king bed and pull-out couch, a full kitchen, a wood-burning stove and electric heat, and Wi-Fi. With the gorgeous views, abundant nature, and nearby attractions, you won't even notice the cable TV. Start your day right with your complimentary welcome basket filled with fruit, muffins, and eggs before hiking around Point Reyes National Seashore. At night after the kiddos are off in dreamland, you can stargaze from the hot tub in your private garden. There is a two-night minimum stay, although one-night weekday stays can be arranged for special occasions. This place books fast, so check their calendar in advance.

25 McDonald Ln.
Point Reyes Station, CA
Online: windsongcottage.com

Points East

Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort | Midpines, CA

Families looking for the perfect combination of rustic and convenient will love the Yosemite Bug. Located in Midpines on the road between Mariposa and the El Portal entrance, you'll be perfectly located for Yosemite adventures. The Yosemite Bug offers lots of different lodging options—cabins, rooms with private bathrooms, rooms with shared bathrooms, glamping tents, camping spots, and even hostel rooms. There's also an onsite spa. 

Yosemite Bug has trails on the property that will lead you down to a waterfall and swimming hole (be careful as the trails are steep and difficult for little ones). You can rent out snowshoes in the winter (as available). The kids will love the outdoor ping pong and foosball tables and parents will love that the rooms do not have TVs (because, nature!). 

6979 Highway 140
Midpines, CA
Online: yosemitebug.com

Related: All the Ways to Explore Yosemite National Park

Greenhorn Ranch—Quincy

Kate Loweth

Part glamping adventure and part cowboy getaway, Greenhorn Ranch offers the best of both worlds to families who come back year after year (and once you experience it, you'll know why). Horseback riding gets center stage at this ranch in the Lost Sierra that's just four hours from the Bay Area. Saturday night BBQs are a highlight so make sure you book your stay over the weekend. Families will love the rustic elegance of the creekside cabins that will sleep up to six people.

2116 Greenhorn Ranch Rd.
Quincy, CA
Online: tinybeans.com

Wylder Hotel Hope Valley

Kate Loweth

Tucked away on the eastern edge of Hope Valley in the mountain landscape of the Sierra Nevada, Wylder Hotel Hope Valley is an iconic, 165-acre all-season resort built with equal parts relaxation and adventure in mind. Only 25 minutes from South Lake Tahoe, Wylder Hope Valley celebrates the spirit of its natural surroundings, as the West Fork Carson River meanders through the ground’s expansive alpine meadows.

Wylder Hope Valley’s accommodations include 30 uniquely built cabins made across different decades for the past 100 years—ranging from riverfront cabins for two to homesteads for groups of up to eight people.

For the camping enthusiast, there are expansive campgrounds with various sites for tents and RVs. A wide range of onsite activities includes relaxing in a wood-fired sauna, enjoying wine or hot cocoa by the fire, hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing—while off-property adventures await such as hot springs, swimming, kayaking, fishing, skiing, and so much more.

14255 Highway 88
Hope Valley, CA
Online: tinybeans.com

 

Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite

Kate Loweth

If you are looking for modern conveniences in a woodsy setting, pick Evergreen Lodge for your next stay when you visit Yosemite. Right now, Evergreen Lodge is celebrating 100 years of welcoming families to Yosemite and it's the perfect time to visit. The property is located about 10 minutes off highway 120 on the road that takes you to Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. You'll feel like you are totally away from it all when you visit. 

Accommodations include cabins of every size including the two-bedroom family cabins that we definitely recommend for those visiting with little ones. You'll get a bedroom with a king-size bed, another with two twins, and a central living room with a pull-out couch. Custom camping is also available if you really want to get a taste of the outdoors. 

33160 Evergreen Rd.
Groveland, CA
Online: evergreenlodge.com

 

Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins—Yosemite

Kate Loweth

You need to check out the brand-new Explorer Cabins at Tenaya Lodge as families love them. The picturesque cabin development combines the refined comforts of a modern cabin, personalized service, and the perks of a full-service resort—all in a pristine mountain setting. At 650 square feet, the “mountain modern” cabins sleep up to six guests and include a living room, kitchen area, two bedrooms, and a private deck from which to unwind after a day of adventure. The family cabins, outfitted with bunk beds in the second bedroom, are nestled in the interior areas and grouped for easy socialization and community gathering. Kids will especially love the Kids Adventure Course, archery, flashlight hikes, and mountain bikes available for rent.

1122 Highway 41
PO Box 159
Fish Camp, CA
Online: tenayalodge.com

49er Village RV Resort—Plymouth

Nestled in the Sierra Foothills of Amador County, 49er Village RV Resort provides the perfect destination for you and your family. They offer a wide selection of accommodations with hundreds of full-hookup sites and charming cabin rentals. Take a dip in the beautiful swimming pools and hot tub. Enjoy a game of shuffleboard, horseshoes or billiards. Then, get in touch with nature at the fishing ponds.

Offsite, visit the over 35 award-winning wineries and numerous championship golf courses nearby. Or, breathe in the natural beauty of Amador Flower Farm in the Shenandoah Valley.

8265 CA-49
Plymouth, CA
Online: sunrvresorts.com

Inn Town Campground—Nevada City

Are you a tent, trailer, or pillow-top mattress kind of family? Whatever your camping style, the new Inn Town Campground has an option for you, from woodsy tent sites, to spacious RV sites with full hook-ups to prime glamping sites. There are 15 glamping sites available, and each features a large canvas tent erected on an elevated platform and includes perks like private decks, electric lighting (and outlets), and of course, cozy, fully-made-up beds—configurations range from 1 (queen) to 4 (twin) beds. Each glamping tent is decorated with an individual theme and unique furnishings, and some are even designated dog friendly. The back decks feature camp chairs and electric lanterns. There are even extra cots available to accommodate bigger broods.

9 Kidder Ct.
Nevada City, CA
Online: inntowncampground.com

AutoCamp Yosemite—Midpines

AutoCamp welcomes guests to their new Yosemite property that's perfect for families. Nestled on 35 acres in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the Yosemite property features 80 deluxe Airstream trailers as well as 15 luxury tents and three cabins. Airstreams can accommodate up to two adults and two kids (queen bed + pull-out sofa) and the cabins sleep up to five. After a day of hiking, relax by the on-site (heated!) pool or canoe in the freshwater pond. Nights will definitely be spent roasting s'mores around the fire pit and making new friends.

Stargazing events and nature talks among other programming are available. YARTS shuttle service will take you from the property into Yosemite so that you don't have to worry about jockeying for a parking spot. Forgot something? Head to the AutoCamp Shop for all the essentials. 

6323 CA-140
Midpines, CA
Onlineautocamp.com

Lake Camanche—Valley Springs

Venture up to Amador County for some glamping along the shore of Lake Camanche. With both cottages and vacation homes available to rent, there's something for families of all sizes. The cottages include fully-equipped kitchens and a large deck for enjoying the outdoors. The vacation homes can accommodate up to 12 people and include a kitchen, washer/dryer, outdoor dining area, and even a TV. Lake Camanche offers swimming, watersports, fishing, summer movie nights, and more. 

2000 Camanche Rd.
Ione, CA
Onlinelakecamancheresort.com

Points South

Fernwood Resort Cabins—Big Sur

Kate Loweth

Big Sur's heavenly mix of forested mountains, rugged coastline, and lack of cell service make it the ideal locale for getting away. But even if you wanted to sleep on the ground in a tent, scoring a summer spot in the popular Pfieffer Big Sur State Park can feel like trying to win the lottery. Just up the road, and with access to the same trees and beautiful coastal amenities, is the Fernwood Resort. Their tent cabins run alongside the Big Sur River and come with raised beds, picnic tables and fire pits, and access to the camp store and the Fernwood Bar & Grill, for when you don't feel like grilling.

The cabins are a great option for families who don't want the hassle of setting up a tent. Each cabin comes with a fire ring and an outdoor picnic table. The on-site general store has literally anything you'd need from ice cream to water shoes for the river. 

Right down the road are two other Big Sur glamping options: Riverside Campground & Cabins and Big Sur Campground & Cabins

47200 Hwy 1
Big Sur, CA
Online: fernwoodbigsur.com

Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA Holiday—Watsonville

Santa Cruz Monterey Bay KOA Holiday

If you have never brought the kids to a KOA for camping then you are in for a real treat. This spot near Manresa State Beach and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk offers Deluxe Cabins with bunk beds or a sleeping loft for the kids and brand-new Glamping Cabins that are perfect for a romantic getaway. The Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA's activity park includes an outdoor ping pong table, climbing statues, KOA jumping pillow, and a pool.

Perhaps the best part of a KOA is that there are loads of activities for kids that are hosted by on-site counselors (translation: parents can relax). Get strapped in to climb the coconut palm trees, watch movies under the stars, and enjoy s'mores without the cleanup!

1186 San Andreas Rd.
Watsonville, CA
Online: koa.com

Related: 12 Things You Must Do in Santa Cruz (& the Best Spots to Stay!)

Pigeon Point Lighthouse—Pescadero

This hostel recently converted its rooms to private rentals and they are perfect for families. There are three units available and each sleeps up to 10 people. You'll have your own kitchen and an outdoor dining area with gorgeous views of the California coast. Walk just north of the lighthouse and there are some easily-accessible tide pools—perfect for exploring. Swing by downtown Pescadero or Pie Ranch for some tasty grub.

210 Pigeon Point Rd.
Pescadero, CA
Online: hiusa.org

Related: Road Trip! An Inside Look at Pescadero’s Best Spots for Families

Flying Flags RV Resort and Campground—Buellton

Head south on the 101 and just past San Luis Obispo you'll be in the Santa Ynez Valley, a picturesque spot to plan a weekend getaway. Flying Flags RV Resort and Campground takes glamping to a whole other level with swimming pools, a splash park, a playground, an on-site restaurant, WiFi, and even a dog park for Fido. The family-friendly cottages with loft sleep up to six people and include a full kitchen so that you don't have to eat out for every meal. The property also has safari tents, Airstreams, and cabins, as well as tent and RV camping spots. Nearby attractions include OstrichLand, wine tasting galore, and the adorable town of Solvang. 

180 Avenue of the Flags
Buellton, CA
Onlinehighwaywestvacations.com

Related: Road Trip: Santa Ynez Valley

Costanoa—Pescadero

With words like “spa” and “eco-adventure” in the description, you might think Costanoa was a retreat for grown-ups. And you'd be right, but this place understands that kids need a break from the daily grind, too. Drop your kids in a two-hour nature-themed camp on weekends and Wednesdays, then check into the spa for a massage, head out on the adjacent trails on bike or horse (rentals of both available on site), or just crawl back in bed with a good book (or iPad: even the tent cabins are equipped with free Wi-Fi). There are many levels of "roughing it" here. There's also a KOA campground on site, for tents and RVs. Shared Comfort Stations throughout the campground offer clean bathrooms, showers, and dry saunas.

2001 Rossi Road at Hwy 1
Pescadero, CA
Online: costanoa.com

Treebones Resort—Big Sur

It's hard to top a stay in one of the fully furnished yurts at Big Sur's Treebones Resort. These circular fabric-covered structures with wood lattice frames offer private decks, breathtaking ocean and mountain vistas, and an ideal jumping-off point for coastal exploration, on foot or by kayak. The Wild Coast Restaurant and Sushi bar offers fresh, local, organic food. Yurts large enough to host a family are booked well in advance—weekends are especially scarce—so do plan ahead. Also, kids must be over age 6 to stay at Treebones. 

71895 Hwy 1
Big Sur, CA
Online: treebonesresort.com

Other Options

Treehouses in California That You Can Rent

If life in a treehouse is just what you need in your life, check out this list of 14 California treehouses that are available on Airbnb. California is full of whimsical treehouses where you can sleep closer to the stars from deep in the forest or right in the heart of a city. 

Loads of Options on Glamping Hub

When searching for the perfect glamping sites to visit with your loved ones, be sure to check out Glamping Hub. With over 1,000 family-friendly accommodations in Northern California, glamping families are sure to find the best spot to spend their next adventure. Some must-visits include a stylish yurt nestled among the Redwoods, perfect for a family of four looking to disconnect in the heart of the forest, or these two stunning tree house cabins for four guests found tucked into the thick of Carmel. From yurts to tree houses, safari tents, and more, you and your family will be sure to have the most unique experience when booking a glamping getaway in California

Online: glampinghub.com

 

Glamping offers families the best of both worlds—a night in the great outdoors without having to pitch a tent or sleep on the ground. These spots take your family camping adventure to another level with fire pits, stargazing, on-site restaurants, hot springs, and even personal valets. Whether you choose to sleep in a safari tent, railroad car, or yurt with a view of the ocean, your next family glamping vacation will be one to remember!

Best Glamping Spots in the West

Fireside Resort | Wilson, WY

Fireside Resort

Just minutes from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Fireside Resort offers 25 pint-sized, luxuriously outfitted tiny house rental units designed by Wheelhaus. Each place has its own outdoor fire pit and deck. Cabins sleep up to six people and have full kitchens so you can stock up before your visit and spend some time cooking as a family. The resort is located a stone’s throw from Grand Teton National Park and the Jackson Hole ski slopes. From whitewater rafting to hiking, to going horseback riding, there is plenty to do in Wilson, Jackson Hole, and the surrounding areas.

The Resort at Paws Up | Greenough, MT

The Resort at Paws Up glamping with kids
Stuart Thurlkill

From mid-May to mid-October, The Resort at Paws Up offers six camps with safari-style luxury tents that cater to families, couples, and groups. Each camp also has its own restaurant and amazing views of the Blackfoot River. You'll find tents with up to three bedrooms, each with its en suite bathrooms, heated floors, private decks, electricity, air conditioning and heat, Wi-Fi, and daily housekeeping service. Families love this resort for its extensive outdoor adventure offerings including fly-fishing, horseback riding, hiking, and so much more. Kids ages 3-12 can join the Kids Corps of Discovery for adventures just for them. 

Huttopia Wine Country | Lower Lake, CA

Huttopia Wine Country glamping with kids
Huttopia

This property is about an hour from Napa and miles away from busy city life. Located on the Six Sigma Ranch property, Huttopia Wine Country is a kid-friendly oasis where parents can relax and read a book while kids ride their bikes around the property. You can expect movie nights under the stars, days spent hiking and swimming in the property's pool, and meeting other travelers while you're there. Huttopia's glamping tents are some of the most comfortable that we've seen, many with their own private bathroom. Read our full property review

AutoCamp Zion | Virgin, UT

AutoCamp

The beauty of the red rock landscape is your backyard when you book your stay at AutoCamp’s location near Zion National Park this spring or summer. You can bed down for the night in a dreamy Airstream or canvas tent and have direct access to all of Zion’s hikes and adventure opportunities without having to go through the park’s busy front entrance. Read all about it

Conestoga Ranch | Garden City, UT

Conestoga Ranch has a variety of unique and luxurious lodging options. The Royal and Grand Tents sleep up to six guests and include en-suite bathrooms. Kids especially love staying in one of the custom-made Conestoga wagons that sleep up to six people with a king-size bed and either one or two sets of bunk beds. The wagons are fully mobile and may be moved to offer a customized group experience.

Royal Gorge Cabins Glamping Tents | Cañon City, CO

Royal Gorge Cabins Glamping Tents

Located an hour southwest of Colorado Springs, the Royal Gorge Cabins Glamping Tents feature two queen beds and can accommodate a family of four. Built on a concrete slab with in-floor radiant heat, the tents include luxury linens, plenty of lighting, wicker seating, a desk, WiFi, and electricity. Tents also feature private outdoor patios with an outdoor table, seating around a wood-burning fire pit, and a complimentary fire kit. A bathhouse with showers and restrooms is nearby.

El Capitan Canyon | Santa Barbara, CA

El Capitan Canyon

Camping is made easy in a cedar cabin that has all the amenities you need for a relaxing adventure with nature at El Capitan Canyon. Each cabin has its own picnic table and firepit so that you can roast up some s'mores under the stars. Deer, birds, trees, and nature surround your clan at this camp area with plenty to do. You'll find a camp store and restaurant full of amenities. Further, truly glamp it up by ordering a BBQ kit delivered right to your campsite. Then, fire up the grill and eat up. 

Greenhorn Ranch | Quincy, CA

Kate Loweth

Just north of Tahoe, you'll find the gorgeous, off-the-beaten-path area of the Lost Sierras. Here you can really get away from it all and spend some time with your family among massive trees and native animals. Greenhorn Ranch in Quincy, CA is the perfect vacation for families who want to get away from it all and experience dude ranch life. The Pines and Creekside cabins are great options for families. The one-bedroom option has a king-sized bed in its own room. The main room has a queen and twin-over-twin bunk bed. Private bathrooms and daily housekeeping are included. Each cabin has a porch swing right out front. 

Related: 11 Reasons Greenhorn Ranch is the Perfect Getaway for Families

Mendocino Grove | Mendocino, CA

Mendocino Grove

Mendocino Grove has 60 fully outfitted tents with lavish beds and your family will not want to leave once you have arrived. Campfires and gas barbecues make cooking easy. You can even rent cooking equipment, so you don't have to lug your pans with you. Luxurious bathrooms and hot water stations make this a no-brainer for families. Relax on a hammock and enjoy the fresh air. 

Related: Micro-cation in Mendocino (& the Railbikes Experience All Will Love)

Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch | Stanley, ID

Perfect for multi-generational family gatherings, the 900-acre Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch offers an opportunity to slow down, sit by the fire, and play a game of cards with the Sawtooth Mountains in the distance. You won’t find TVs, radios or phones in the rooms and honestly, you won’t even miss them with all the outdoor activities available. Instead, find adjoining pairs of cabin rooms that sleep up to six people with the comfiest beds on the planet, cozy fireplaces, and generous bathrooms. Stays are all-inclusive, and you’ll get delicious local cuisines like elk and salmon, along with gourmet sandwiches to take with you on your daily adventures. 

Related: Get Unplugged at Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch

Best Glamping Spots in the Southwest

Under Canvas Grand Canyon | Valle, AZ

BaileyMade

Set upon 160 acres of secluded piñon and juniper forest, Under Canvas Grand Canyon is located just 25 minutes from the South Rim entrance to Grand Canyon National Park. Offering upscale accommodations near one of the Seven Wonders of the world, Under Canvas Grand Canyon invites visitors to explore Arizona’s vast landscape and the grandeur of the Grand Canyon with safari-inspired glamping accommodations in Valle, Arizona. Families will love the suite option that includes a Deluxe camping tent with a king-size bed and en-suite bathroom, along with a lounge area that sleeps another two people. 

Other Under Canvas locations: Bryce Canyon, Lake Powell, Moab, Yellowstone, Glacier, Zion, Acadia, Great Smoky Mountains, Mount Rushmore, and more

Best Glamping Spots in the Midwest

Kimberly Creek Retreat | Ashland, NE

Kimberly Creek Retreat

Nature meets luxury at Kimberly Creek Retreat, a glamping destination situated on over 20 acres of wooded land in Ashland, Nebraska. This tranquil, family-owned getaway includes stylish cabins, pods, and geodomes outfitted with cozy beds, bathrooms, and electricity. The newest addition to their offerings includes a decked-out grain bin. The Grain Bin cabin even features a "binzebo" and hot tub. Kimberly Creek’s extensive trail network offers guests an abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities, and the retreat is just five minutes from Mahoney State Park for even more outdoor adventures. 

Big Cedar Lodge | Ridgedale, MO

Big Cedar Lodge

The wilderness resort of Big Cedar Lodge is a 4,600-acre destination in Missouri’s Ozark Mountains where you can slow down and get back to your roots—among wide open spaces encompassing gorgeous green hills, the 43,000-acre Table Rock Lake, cozy log cabins, ancient caves, spring-fed creeks, and waterfalls, cotton candy sunsets and connecting to the world beneath crystal clear stars. As a sweet “welcome back” for summer, the resort’s incredible glamping experience at Camp Long Creek comes with complimentary s’ mores kits. 

Fuller’s Resort and Campground on Clear Lake—Buchanan, MI

Fuller's Resort is an awesome glampsite that is less than an hour and a half outside of Chicago. With various glamping options from an authentic log cabin to major luxe-living in the cottages that include beds, bathrooms with showers, full kitchens, cable TV, and air conditioning, you can pick your family’s level of outdoorsy-ness when you book your trip. Although the log cabin doesn’t have a kitchen or bathroom like in 1835 when it was built, it’s the most popular rental onsite, so grab it while you can. 

Best Glamping Sites on the East Coast

Purposely Lost | Springvale, ME

Purposely Lost Maine glamping for families
Purposely Lost

You're going to want to run off to the woods when you see these properties. Purposely Lost offers two hobbit houses and three treehouses on 15 wooded acres in Maine. Each unit has a full kitchen, a hot tub, a fire pit, and a private dock for trout fishing, swimming, and canoeing. They are all solar-powered and eco-friendly with design features meant to make the most of the small spaces. There's even one designed after the hobbit home in The Lord of the Rings!

Huttopia | Sanford, ME and Albany, NH

Huttopia

Huttopia Southern Maine lies in a stunning forest area in Sanford, next to the private Sand Pond and 15 miles from the famed seaside towns of Kennebunkport and Wells. Accommodations range from The Trappeur Tent to the Vista Tiny Houses to the lakefront Trappeurs with private access to the pond—all featuring a beautiful wooden bathroom and kitchen, full electricity, and accommodating up to five guests. 

For an additional New England option, Huttopia White Mountains is a haven of greenery in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, complete with a dribbling creek running through the property and a background of the beautiful Iona Lake. Nearby, guests can also hike Mount Washington, explore the White Mountains National Forest that expands across a quarter of New Hampshire, and discover Meredith and the region of Lake Winnipesaukee.

Firelight Camps—Ithaca, NY

Firelight Camps

The Finger Lakes region’s Firelight Camps at La Tourelle Resort & Spa offers families the chance to explore the resort’s 70-acre property, ending at Ithaca’s famous gorge waterfalls. Immersed in nature, you’ll sleep like a log among the trees and wake to birdsong as silhouettes of leaves dance on the tent walls. Nature meets luxury in these furnished tents, which are outfitted with hardwood floors, plush king or double queen beds, a private tented porch with rocking chairs, battery-powered lanterns, and a writer’s desk and chair.

Best Glamping Spots in the South

Cameron Ranch Glamping | Coldsprings, TX

Cameron Ranch Glamping
Cameron Ranch Glamping

Cameron Ranch Glamping welcomes families to their haven away from it all, just an hour's drive from Houston and 10 minutes from Sam Houston National Forest and the pristine waters of Lake Livingston. Here you can choose from two extraordinary glamping structures—a captivating Geo Dome and an enchanting Mirror House. Stargazing, fishing, grilling, and hiking are all on the agenda as you reconnect with family. 

The Cabins at Copperhill | Copperhill, TN

The Cabins at Copperhill TN glamping for families
The Cabins at Copperhill

The Cabins at Copperhill are located on a secluded 8 acres at the base of the Cherokee National Forest. With plenty of nearby outdoor activities, families can enjoy the upper Ocoee River that flows peacefully by, fish in the pond on the property, take a short ride to the National Forest for some hiking, or visit America's only Olympic Whitewater Rafting course. There’s also a scenic train ride, apple picking, wine + beer tasting, horseback riding, and ziplining nearby. They offer three glamping tents and four cabins. The glamping tents each boast large queen beds, covered porches, and private bathhouse accessibility. The Main Lodge is also available to guests with a pool table, games, gas grill, large screen TV, and surround-sound system. 

Geronimo Creek Retreat | Seguin, TX

Cool off at this gorgeous spot that’s right on a creek, perfect for tubing. With many different accommodations to choose from including fully-air conditioned getaway cabins, there’s something for every family at Geronimo Creek Retreat. Kitchenettes in the cabins make life easy when you are vacationing with kids. There are four elevated treehouses located next to and overlooking the spring-fed Geronimo Creek, affording guests a serene view of the water from each unit. These are also air-conditioned and come with a full kitchen and private bathroom.

El Cosmico | Marfa, TX

El Cosmico takes its inspiration from a long American history of hippies, nomads, bohemians, and those living a life of self-determination. Here you can choose from a number of sleeping spots: the Cosmic Kasita, decked-out trailers, yurts, safari tents, and more.

Westgate River Ranch | River Ranch, FL

Westgate River Ranch Resort

The secluded Westgate River Ranch Resort and Rodeo is a great vacation for those looking to escape into the great outdoors and glamp in style. Located next to the Kissimmee River in Central Florida, this one-of-a-kind dude ranch offers glamping tents equipped with heating and air-conditioning, full furnishings, upgraded linens, and a personal concierge to cater to your every whim! When it’s time to refuel after a fun day on the ranch, you will be able to enjoy a mouth-watering BBQ at the Westgate Smokehouse Grill. 

Twin Lakes Camp Resort | DeFuniak Springs, FL

Accommodations like no other, Twin Lakes Camp Resort offers Glamping Tents which combine “back to nature” tent camping with glamour and added luxurious amenities. No need to bring your sleeping bags since every tent has a king-size bed. Some tents have bunk beds and can accommodate up to six people. No worries about the weather forecast; the Glamping Tents are fully air-conditioned and heated, creating a glamorous getaway any time of the year.

Even MORE Glamping Spots

Inn Town Campground

If you'd like ideas on glamping spots in Northern California including wine country, Tahoe, and Big Sur, check out this story

Our favorite San Diego glamping spots including the totally-awesome dome in Joshua Tree can be found here and our favorite SoCal yurt spots can be found here

Seattle has some awesome yurts you can rent and some cabins that will bring you all the nature you've been craving. 

When the Willamette Valley is calling, head to one of these cabins and yurts near Portland

This story includes glamping spots within driving distance of Chicago, including Wisconsin and Michigan. 

Head to this story for glamping spots near NYC including the cutest treehouse yurt that you'll want to live in forever. 

Hotels schmotels. If you want to make your vacay extra-extraordinary—you’ve got to make your overnight accommodations as much a destination as any place else. So whether you want to spend the night on a battleship, sleep on a big cat refuge, or hunker down on your own private island, there are oddities galore when it comes to Airbnb vacation rentals. You’re going to have a hard time deciding which one to book next, trust us! 

Star Wars House - Orlando, FL

Airbnb

If you're planning a trip to a galaxy far, far away, Airbnb has the perfect place for you to stay in Orlando, Florida. Twelve Parsecs is a 9-bedroom house located just 15 minutes away from Disney World, making it the perfect place for a family of Jedi warriors to rest their heads while visiting Galaxy's Edge. The home includes a heated pool and resort amenities at the Champions Gate Oasis resort that include a water park, two golf courses, a splash pad, a game room, a theater, and more. The hosts have also left behind 16 Star Wars Easter eggs for guests to find. Read more here

Sleeps: 16
Cost: $477/night
Online: airbnb.com

The Bruno Steel House | Ransom Canyon, TX

Bruno Steel art unique vacation rental
Airbnb

This house is gorgeous, more of an art sculpture than your normal box-shaped residence. You'll get plenty of room for your whole family and views of the gorgeous canyon. 

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $400/night
Online: airbnb.com

boat unique vacation rental
Airbnb

This ark is such a welcoming space and we know you're going to enjoy visiting. It sits on over 50 acres of land that includes a pond for fishing and a year-round creek. 

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $225/night
Online: airbnb.com

Bedrock Homestead | Boulder, UT

bedrock flintstones house unique vacation rentals
Airbnb

Live out your Flintstones dreams at this hydroelectric homestead and working farm. You'll have an entire west wing to yourself and a shared kitchen and common rooms. Climb to the top of the cave to see the expansive stars and enjoy your morning coffee up there. The area has numerous options for hiking, mountain biking and exploring. 

Sleeps: 5
Cost: $275/night
Online: airbnb.com

The Nut House Treehouse | Aubrey, TX

nut house treehouse unique vacation rentals
Airbnb

Your little ones will go nuts for this too-cute vacation rental in Texas that looks like an acorn! Sit on the porch and listen to the creek flowing nearby before you head inside to the circular sitting area and lofted bedroom. 

Sleeps: 2
Cost: $266/night
Online: airbnb.com 

Fillmore Treehouse with Farm Stay—Fillmore, CA

treehouse with farm stay unique vacation rental
Airbnb

Drive about an hour north of LA and you'll discover this secluded treehouse in an orchard of orange and avocado trees. It's located on a working farm with chickens, goats, ducks, and more—which makes it an ideal spot for a parent-kid getaway (only two guests are allowed). The recently built treehouse boasts a comfy queen bed, a cute kitchenette, and a full-size shower. Watch the sunset from the large deck, complete with a fire pit to satisfy your s'mores fix. After dark, you and your little one can enjoy some stargazing far from the city lights. 

Sleeps: 2
Cost:
$214/night
Online:
 airbnb.com

Sleep in a Train Caboose - Joseph, OR

green caboose unique vacation rental
Airbnb

Wake up to this gorgeous view in your green caboose. The caboose is located behind an original Train Depot built in 1906 which used to be located in Enterprise, Oregon. It was moved in 1980 to its present location, one mile north of the town of Joseph, to serve as a residence. The caboose is completely self-contained with a small fridge, electric stove top burners, table and stools, a shower with rainfall shower head, linens and towels, cooking utensils, and an RV-style toilet room. There is one main bedroom with a full-size bed with a memory foam mattress. Two twin bunk beds are separated from the main bedroom with drapery. 

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $145/night
Online: airbnb.com

Related: All Aboard These Incredible Train Car Vacation Rentals

Off-Grid UNIMOG Zombie-Proof Adventure - Kimberly, AL

this zombie-proof rental is one of the best Airbnbs for kids
Airbnb

How cool is this Airbnb? This 1966 UNIMOG was used as a movie prop in the Hunger Games and the Walking Dead. Two people can sleep in the UNIMOG and there are spots for additional people to sleep on the open-air sleeping loft. You are totally off the grid at this spot as you'll drop your car at the farm's goat pen and throw your belongings in the back of the UTV. Staff will drive you what will seem like a hundred miles away from society onto the 105-acre sanctuary. You will hike beautiful scenery, play in the river and chill in your lounge chair on an observation deck that lets you truly escape the world below. 

Sleeps: 4 but more can be accommodated. Dogs allowed.
Cost: $102/night
Online: airbnb.com

Private Island Log Cabin - Monmouth, ME

unique vacation rental private island in Maine
Airbnb

If you REALLY want to get away from society, this is the Airbnb for you. Your cabin is on its own private island which you access by private pontoon ride from the mainland. Spend your days fishing, boating, and swimming while you enjoy this fully off-grid adventure. Island concierge service is available if you need to have any supplies restocked during your stay. Unwind by the campfire, watch the sunset, and listen to the loons as they settle in for the night.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $196/night
Online: airbnb.com

Stay In an Historic Lighthouse - Cape Cod, MA

This lighthouse in Cape Cod, MA is one of the best Airbnbs for kids
Wing's Neck Lighthhouse

For a true New England vacation with a killer view, you can have this entire historic lighthouse and its adjacent home all to yourself. Located at the tip of Wings Neck Point along the western coast of Cape Cod, the lighthouse was built in 1849 and completely renovated in 2003. Formerly a U.S. Coast Guard lighthouse, the light tower still stands next to the original three-bedroom keeper's home. Kids will love climbing the whirling stairs and subsequent ladder to reach the glass top of the lighthouse, where they'll get a 360-degree view of the Atlantic Ocean and the adjacent rocky shores. And, when just looking at the water isn't enough, there is a private sandy beach nearby where kids can swim in the gentle waves of the bay. 

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $430/night
Online: airbnb.com

Underground in a Hobbit House - Santa Fe, TN

Airbnb

Lord of the Rings fans will geek out at the opportunity to stay a night in a hobbit house. These underground pods—located on a crop farm near Nashville, Tennessee—look like little hills from afar; but get closer and see the wooden walls and the giant round doorways. There are two pods for sleeping (for up to four guests each), with separate pods for the kitchen and dining rooms. Communal barbecue and sitting areas are located around the eco-farm to bring people together. Kids will love exploring the trails and looking for waterfalls (there are two of them) across the farm's 15 acres. There's also a chicken coop where you are free to collect fresh eggs for breakfast. A unique vacation rental you won't soon forget!

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $375/night
Online: airbnb.com

 

The Earthship—El Prado, NM

Airbnb

The Phoenix Earthship (which is located near Taos, NM, not Phoenix, AZ) is a work of art and guaranteed to make a unique family vacation the kids will never forget. The greenhouse makes a lush environment in the high mountain desert, with banana trees, grapevines, birds, turtles, and a fish pond. The entire property is off-grid, sustainable and unique. There is also a food garden, chickens, and views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Part of a massive 630-acre Earthship subdivision, the only official off-grid subdivision in the world, you'll find stars for days. It's also within driving distance of artsy Taos.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $270/night
Online: airbnb.com

Dome Dwelling - Woodridge, NY

Airbnb

Got a whole crew in tow? Check out this amazing dome for a group vacation in the Catskill Mountains, located in New York. There’s a communal outdoor kitchen, an outdoor shower and bath, a fire pit, a pizza oven, and a bathroom available. Kids will love swimming in the pond and adults will enjoy watching from the wood-fired cedar hot tub. The property, perfect for multi-generational families, also has bunnies, sheep and goats.

Sleeps: 16
Cost: $379/night
Online: airbnb.com

Castle with a Pool—Los Angeles, CA

Airbnb

For your little knights and princesses, this newly restored 1920s castle is straight out of a storybook. Original details like stone turrets, gothic arches, and exposed beams abound. It's a splurge, but so worth it. The grounds are completely enclosed by stone walls and offer a private courtyard off the master, a built-in fire pit, and a spacious pool to play in.

Sleeps:
6
Cost: $1,004/night
Online: airbnb.com

Related: Live Out Your Fairytale Dreams in These 12 Castles You Can Rent

Sleep in a Silo at Laughing Llama Farm—Troy, TX

unique vacation rental silo house
Airbnb

Located near Waco, Texas, and about 20 miles from the downtown area, this expansive farm stay includes an incredibly unique converted grain silo with all the amenities, including a sleeping loft, full bathroom, kitchen, and a fishing pond on site. Visit with the sheep and llamas and relax in the peace and quiet. 

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $118/night
Online: airbnb.com

Go Rustic in a Navajo Earth Hut - Page, AZ

Airbnb

Have you ever thought about how cool it would be to stay in a Navajo hut, with an earthen floor and a wood-burning stove? This rustic Native American-owned traditional Navajo hut near Page, Arizona accommodates four family members and has a fully-stocked bathroom nearby and an outside fire pit where you’ll cook your dinner under the moonlight. The best part: you’ll wake up to a traditional Navajo breakfast complete with blue corn porridge, fresh fruit, and ranch coffee or tea sourced from the land. Keep a look out for roaming sheep, sheepdogs, and horses before you set off for a visit to the nearby Grand Canyon. This unique vacation rental is a kid favorite!

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $210/night
Online: airbnb.com

 

Float House at Jack Creek | Astoria, OR

Airbnb

You'll love this delightful float house on the John Day River, minutes from charming Astoria. This home offers a perfect place to enjoy river recreation and relaxation. Originally a floating store, guests now enjoy all the modern conveniences mixed with old-world charm. Sitting adjacent to 16 acres of farmland, enjoy the peace and serenity of country life or use it as a jumping-off point for your adventure on the coast.

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $200/night
Online: airbnb.com

Related: All Hands on Deck: 13 Houseboats to Rent with Your Crew

Safari West—Santa Rosa, CA

Safari West

Come to Santa Rosa for the exotic animals and stay for the one-of-a-kind overnight glamping experience at the Safari West wildlife preserve. The heavy canvas tents—imported from Africa—have hardwood floors (albeit polished), and the sounds of wildlife give the feel of camping, while heaters and ceiling fans provide home comforts. While the luxurious bedding is nice, the highlight of the experience for all ages is the more than 800 animals that roam these acres. (Note that the tents are separated from the wildlife for safety reasons.) Take a 3-hour tour of the property on an open-air safari Jeep (must be age 4 or older for this). The on-site Savanna Grill offers indoor and outdoor dining and wines from area vines, as well as Africa.

Online: safariwest.com

Play All Day at a Gaming House - Orlando, FL

The Great Escape Parkside

This 15-bedroom mansion devoted to games will wow grown-ups as much as it does their little gamers. Built by the same couple who made The Sweet Escape, this bastion to all things playable lets guests walk inside their favorite board and video games. It's a gamer's paradise: There's a LEGO room covered in foam blocks; a Ms. Pac-Man room that'll make you feel like it's 1985 (it comes with a multi-cade arcade machine and an Atari 2600); and a CLUE room that also works as an escape room. There's also a huge pool with a lazy river and waterslide; a human whack-a-mole game that's just begging for social media likes; a human bowling game that puts people inside Zorb balls to knock down giant bowling pins; and a giant dartboard that uses Velcro soccer balls instead of darts. 

Rates start at $1,595 a night (sleeps up to 54 people). 

Online: greatescapeparkside.com

Overnight on a Battleship - Corpus Christi, TX

texasfeel via Flickr

Ahoy, sailors! Grab your sleeping bag and pillow and spend the night aboard the U.S.S. Lexington, a retired aircraft carrier that has been docked in the Corpus Christi harbor since 1991 as a living history museum. Overnights on the battleship mean a unique first-person lesson in history: Not only will you get to bunk in the crew's original quarters; you'll also get a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship and hear stories from its past (the ship was heavily used during World War 2). Overnighters are also treated to a nighttime scavenger hunt, a movie in the 3D MEGA Theater, a few good old-fashioned ghost stories, a flag ceremony and two trips through the chow line.  

Hint: The ship is large and there are stairs, so wear comfortable shoes. 

Rate: $75 per person (for one night). Kids must be five and up to attend the sleepover. 

Online: usslexington.com

Stay in a Haunted Hotel - Cheyenne, WY

The Plains Hotel

If you're going to stay in a hotel, you may as well make it a haunted one! In downtown Cheyenne, Wyoming, you’ll find the beautiful Historic Plains Hotel, a National Historic Landmark, built in 1911. This hotel is full of local Wyoming art, and stained glass, and several websites claim paranormal activity at the hotel—including Trip Advisor reviews. Visitors to Cheyenne can embark on a Cheyenne Trolley Ghost Tour to learn more about the Historic Plains Hotel ghost activity and the cowboys and Indians of the wild west. Jill Pope, who has worked for Visit Cheyenne and the Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, has written two books on haunted Cheyenne and she leads tours and lectures that include the Historic Plains Hotel. Whether you believe in ghosts or just love hearing folklore, a night at the Historic Plains Hotel will be a night to remember.

Online: theplainshotel.com

Additional reporting by Melissa Heckscher & Wendy Altschuler

Please note, prices listed were valid at the time of publication but rates can fluctuate at different times of the year. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

When planning a family vacation in the Caribbean, locating the perfect beach resort can make all the difference. With clear blue waters, white sand, and plenty of sunshine, these resorts in the Caribbean are ideal for families looking to relax. Home to more than 700 islands with multiple languages and cultures, every part of the region differs slightly from the next. 

The Buccaneer  | St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Situated on the Caribbean Sea and Christiansted Harbor, The Buccaneer provides views for miles. Three beaches offer different ways to relax by the water or, for those who love watersports, enjoy the complimentary kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear available to guests. There are also two pools, yoga classes, an 18-course golf course, a tennis club, three restaurants, and a spa onsite. Traditional hotel rooms are available, along with suites for those needing extra space. Need more room than a two-bedroom suite provides? The resort also has a 6-bedroom beach compound that’s a short walk away and includes use of the resort’s service, maid service, a car rental, and concierge service.

 

Beaches Turks and Caicos | Turks and Caicos

What’s better than an all-inclusive family vacation full of fun and familiar characters? From the five villages that allow families a different vibe depending on which one they’re visiting all of the included activities, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained at Beaches Turks and Caicos. The Pirates Island Waterpark has a surf simulator, waterslides, and a lazy river to relax in. Lay out at one of the eight pools on the property. Or head to the beach to ride a hydro bike, take out a Hobie Cat boat, or go snorkeling. Those who want to stay on land can play table tennis or basketball or use the fitness center. And with 21 restaurants and four food trucks included in the price, no one will ever go hungry during their vacation.

When parents are ready for some time alone, the kids’ camp gives kids from toddlers to teens a supervised place to meet others their age. There are even chances for kids of all ages to interact with their favorite Sesame Street® character during dance parties, storytime, parades, and character breakfasts.

 

Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana | Dominican Republic

Trampolines, tightropes, arcades, and age-appropriate kids’ clubs help make the all-inclusive Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana an eventful family getaway. Spend plenty of time in the water by heading to one of the four pools or enjoying the slides and lazy river at the water park. Or head down to the beach to enjoy a cabana on the sand. When it’s time to grab a meal or drink, there are plenty of options, including some open 24 hours a day. Don’t forget to book a treatment and hydrotherapy in the resort’s spa.

 

The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa | Cayman Islands

Exploring all Seven Mile Beach offers is easy from the Westin Grand Cayman. With stunning sunrises, dolphin sightings, and calm surf, enjoying time on the beach is a top thing to do while on the island. At the hotel, guests can enjoy the largest freshwater pool on the island, attend a stand-up paddle board clinic, eat at one of the six resort restaurants, or indulge in an in-suite massage.

 

Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort | Curaçao

Rated a AAA Four Diamond Resort, the Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort provides a relaxing escape only minutes from the country’s capital city. Two pools offer a place to cool off, while the beachfront location allows guests to enjoy the clear waters off the coast of Curaçao. Enjoy a relaxing walk through the resort’s botanical gardens to enjoy tropical flora. When younger family members need a breather from their parents, the kid’s club allows them to hang out with others their age. There are also four restaurants onsite to keep everyone satisfied. 

 

Curtain Bluff | Antigua

Situated on a point in the south of Antigua, Curtain Bluff provides visitors with a secluded escape from their everyday life. A smaller resort, all 72 suites and rooms are directly on the beach or a few steps away, providing spectacular views and accessibility. Room rates include various activities, including waterskiing, fitness classes, kids club, tennis, and windsurfers, while cooking classes and spa treatments are available for an additional charge. The two onsite restaurants offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and a traditional British afternoon tea is available.

 

Atlantis Paradise Island | Bahamas

No family member will ever complain about being bored at Atlantis Paradise Island. With five hotels and 21 restaurants in one resort, plenty of options exist to please every family style. Spend the day at Aquaventure, the resort’s 141-acre water area with 20 swimming areas, water slides, beaches, and 11 pools. Animal lovers will want to explore the marine habitat that allows guests to swim with dolphins and other aquatic life. When parents want to head to the resort’s casino or spa, family members ages 3 to 12 can attend the kids’ club. There are also non-motorized water sports, a teen nightclub, a comedy club and shows to enjoy during the vacation.

Read more: Atlantis Is the Paradise You’ve Been Looking For (Here’s Why!)

Half Moon | Jamaica

Three hotel experiences, a world-class golf course, an award-winning spa with overwater treatment rooms and multiple onsite restaurants help make a family stay at Half Moon memorable. Enjoy the inclusive water sports activities. Sign up to explore the equestrian center, where there are riding lessons, a petting zoo, and horse riding activities in the Caribbean Sea. Explore the children’s village, where kids can spend time with trained counselors. Or just relax at one of the resort’s three beaches or pools, taking in the white sands and clear waters. Meal plans are also available to add on to help make the trip feel more like an all-inclusive resort. 

 

Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa | Saint Lucia

Eighty-five acres of fun welcome guests to Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa. This all-inclusive hotel has a family-friendly wing designed to make young ones feel at home and parents comfortable. Overlooking CocoLand, Saint Lucia’s largest waterpark, rooms have mini refrigerators and private balconies. Children of all ages can enjoy the water slide, aqua playground, and lazy river at the water park. And a kids’ club lets young ones enjoy a mini rock climbing wall, animal sanctuary, and other activities while mom and dad enjoy the spa or try a kitesurfing class.

 

Divi Aruba All Inclusive | Aruba

Spending time together as a family or doing your own thing is easy when staying at the all-inclusive Divi Aruba. Packages geared for families provide special pricing for guests ages 17 and under, while activities like biking around the island, hanging out at the beach, and enjoying the 30-foot rock wall allow families to spend plenty of time together. When it’s time for a break, the Sea Turtles Club give children ages 4-12 time to have fun with others their age. Giving parents time to head to the golf course, have a treatment at the spa, or grab a tropical drink at one of the onsite bars and restaurants.

It also has a dedicated marine biologist on staff

Picture this: You’ve just endured a long flight from the U.S. (about 11 hours from SFO) and a small plane takes you from Nadi Airport on a journey over lush, green mountains and some of the most gorgeous turquoise-blue ocean you’ve ever seen. Your family vacation to Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is just beginning when you arrive at Savusavu Airport on Fiji’s second-largest island. The smiling staff members are there to welcome your family and transport you to the resort that will become your home away from home for the duration of your stay in Fiji.

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is an eco-luxury property with a focus on cultural immersion and environmental education but in our opinion, the star is their kids’ club program—Bula Club. We’ll get into the nitty gritty details below, but trust us, it’s the main reason families return year after year.

Marine education and activities are also a huge focus at the resort and that’s evidenced by the fact that they have a marine biologist on staff and a dive center on the property. You can even get scuba-certified when you arrive to take advantage of the diving program while you are there. Night snorkeling, kayaking, and days by the pool are all on the agenda.

What’s it like to stay at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort?

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort bure
Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort

The minute you arrive at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort (JMCR), you are welcomed with music and a tropical beverage before you are whisked off to the bure you will call home for your stay. Here you’ll get your welcome foot massage as you take in the sounds of the waves crashing offshore in Savusavu Bay.

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort bure

Bures are wood-and-straw huts and there 25 to choose from with many different layouts available for families. You’ll find larger split-level bures where parents have a king bed and there is a section for the kids to sleep as well. A 2-bedroom layout includes a separate bedroom with attached bathroom that’s perfect when traveling with older kids.

No matter what layout you choose, they come with an outdoor deck and hammock that’s perfect for relaxing while the kids are at the Bula Club. You’ll love the indoor-outdoor feel of the bures where you can enjoy the sounds of the waves as you drift off to sleep.

What’s included with your stay at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort?

Jean-Michel Cousteau is an all-inclusive resort and your rate includes meals, non-alcoholic beverages, transfers from Savusava Airport, daily Bula Club for the kids, and tons of on-site activities like yoga, snorkeling, eco-walks, marine biologist talks, and so much more. Perhaps the best perk is the laundry service that will get your washed and folded clothes back to you in 24 hours. It’s a great way to keep your luggage to a minimum.

What is the kids club like at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort?

Just wait to be blown away. The Bula Club at JMCR offers care for kids from 2 months old up to age 12. There is a dedicated Bula Club just a short walk from the front desk where you’ll find water play areas, a pool with a mini water slide, sports courts, a kitchen and outdoor dining area, a playground, a zipline, a trampoline, and a hut where children can nap. It’s pretty much a kid paradise and we can understand why the kids love going here!

Care for babies and toddlers: For the littlest visitors ages 0-5, a dedicated nanny is assigned to each child for the duration of their stay. This nanny is available to provide care for the child from 8:30 a.m. -6 p.m. daily, after which one nanny is assigned per bure until 9 p.m. The nanny will stop by the breakfast table to make arrangements for the child for the day and find out what the family’s preferences are for napping, dining, and activities.

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort dance performance

Care for kids ages 6-12: Kids in this age group are assigned a buddy during their stay. Buddy groups can have up to five kids and they have activities at the Bula Club throughout the day including games, water play, cooking classes, gardening, and so much more. They can participate in a Junior Chef Program where they visit the property’s organic garden, harvest produce, and assist kitchen staff in preparing lunch or dinner.

Kids can also participate in the resort’s amazing School Under the Sea Program. A daily schedule of activities centers around the day’s marine theme such as coral planting and sea creatures. Activities for the day can range from snorkeling, educational activities, a rainforest and waterfall tour, a local school visit, crafts, and learning about aspects of Fijian culture. Kids who complete the program get a “graduation” ceremony and a t-shirt to take home with them.

The Nannies/Mannies & Buddies: During our time at the property, we could really see the bond that formed between the nannies/buddies and their charges. Families told us that they returned to the resort year after year and their child would request the same buddy each time. There were even a few tears shed by kids when leaving the resort and having to say goodbye to their buddies. It really is a magical program with very caring people on staff who have worked at the resort for many years.

What activities are available at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort?

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort basket making

You can stay as busy or as relaxed as you’d like at JMCR. Every evening you’ll receive an agenda for the next day’s activities that could be anything from beachside yoga to night snorkeling. We recommend booking an afternoon at the spa and getting the Koko Rapture massage where you are massaged with fermented cacao paste and wrapped in banana leaves. It’s just as heavenly as it sounds!

Fijian Culture: There are many opportunities to learn about Fijian culture throughout your stay. The resort offers weekly village visits where you can meet local Fijians, purchase crafts, participate in the cava ceremony, and learn about their traditions. On-property activities during our stay include basket making, a Fijian lovo meal, and a cava ceremony amoung others.

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort marine biologist with kids
Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort

Marine Activities: Savusavu Bay offers an underwater world that is waiting for you to explore when you visit Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort. On the day we arrived, we enjoyed lunch and then immediately changed into swimsuits to head out on the afternoon’s snorkeling excursion, just a 10-minute boat ride away. The resort’s marine biologist accompanied us in the water and used a writing board to tell us the names of fish and creatures we spotted.

Scuba diving is available on-property for an additional fee and you can even get scuba-certified if needed. Other water activities included kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding, and our favorite—night snorkeling. We even got to see some bioluminescent creatures when we turned off our underwater flashlights!

Throughout our stay, the marine biologist presented talks about the coral reefs, sharks, and fish that make up the Fijian waters. She took us on a walk to the mangroves at the end of the property to talk about their importance and showed us how the property is actively replanting the mangroves (this is a favorite activity of the children).

Getting to Fiji

Fiji Airways flies direct from LAX (10.5 hours) and SFO (11 hours) to Nadi Airport. From there you board a much smaller plane for the hour-long flight to Savusavu Airport where you are greeted by friendly JMCR staff who will transport you to the property. The only real tricky part of this journey is navigating from the international terminal to the domestic terminal at Nadi Airport but the resort has someone there to meet you and walk you over (and the airport is quite small). If you have a lengthy layover at Nadi Airport on your way home, it is worth it to pay to get into the Fiji Airways lounge as it had lots of seating and offered a nice buffet and bar selection.

Final Thoughts

@k8loweth

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort in Fiji. A magical place! #jeanmichelcousteau #fiji #travel #travelbucketlist #traveltiktok

♬ September (Dreamy Version) – JU$t

One of the most impressive things about our visit to Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort was how long the staff members had been working there—some of them over two decades! We really felt like we were joining their community when we visited and we heard many stories about how the property supported their staff members through difficult times, truly valuing them as people and not just employees. It was clear that the property placed a strong focus on supporting not only the staff but also the local community, which is rare for resort properties like this.

We could see why people rave about what a magical place Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is, and why they return year after year.

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort
Savusavu, Fiji
Online: fijiresort.com

Editor’s note: This trip was paid for by Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort but all the opinions belong to the writer. 

No tricks, just treats! We’ve rounded up New York City’s spookiest neighborhoods and events to score candy for Halloween

Halloween in NYC is a month-long celebration! Explore New York City’s spooky side this October with creepy stories, haunted houses, ghouls, and ghosts of all kinds. Join costume parades (or have your dog join one), make Halloween-themed crafts, learn about the traditions and animals that are associated with the holiday, carve some pumpkins, and so much more. We’ve also rounded up some of the best neighborhoods for trick-or-treating in New York City. Check out the best spots to see the spookiest decorations, walk in the most family-friendly parades, and, of course, score the best candy. Note that things start early, with some gatherings happening as early as 3:30 p.m. Now go forth, be safe, and get that candy!

Halloween Parades and Events in New York City

Bronx Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo

Sep. 30-Oct. 29: Don your Halloween costume and visit the zoo on weekends for spooky happenings, like magic shows, mind-reading demonstrations, pumpkin carving workshops, costume parades, arts, crafts, and puppets, and so much more. Best of all, the Halloween celebrations are included with your zoo admission. Event details.

Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade

Oct. 21: For a little while it looked like this beloved puprade wasn’t happening this year, but thanks to community involvement and a last-minute sponsor, the Halloween dog parade is back on! Dress your pupper in your favorite costume and join the parade, then try your luck in the costume competition (which is free but has limited spaces). Event details.

Bleecker Playground Annual Halloween Parade and Festival

Oct. 22: The whole neighborhood is pitching in for this family fun festival, where kids can try different Halloween decorating (from cupcakes to shoes!). There are plenty of other activities, as well, like kid-friendly chess matches, face painting, a trading post for toys and books, themed arts and crafts, and more. Event details.

Halloween Howl at Carl Schurz Park

Oct. 22: Stop by with your costumed pups for the annual dog parade at Carl Schurz Park. Join over 200 other doggos putting their best foot forward before a panel of judges. Event details.

Central Park Pumpkin Flotilla

Oct. 26: Send your jack-o-lantern floating down the Harlem Meer in this magical evening event. To be a part of the flotilla, your pumpkin should weigh about 8 lbs. (post-gutting, with the lid), and don’t use anything to decorate the pumpkin that could be potentially hazardous for the wildlife. Event details.

Williamsbridge Oval Haunted House

Oct. 27: This haunted house is more like a spooky house, but it’s still recommended that you don’t bring kids under 10 years old to this event. Get moderately scared by the witches, ghosts, and ghouls of the Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center. Event details.

Halloween Harvest Festival at Socrates Sculpture Park

Oct. 28: What do you do with your pumpkins after you’re done carving them? You launch them in a catapult, of course! Socrates Sculpture Park’s annual “Flight of the Gourds” is back and better than ever, featuring a dog costume contest, live music, delish food, workshops, and high-flying pumpkins headed straight for the compost pile. Event details.

The Great Pupkin in Fort Greene Park

Oct. 28: Think your pup has what it takes to win over the crowd in all his costumed glory? Then head over to the Great Pupkin Parade, where costumed pooches strut their stuff. Now in its 25th year, this event features some of the most extravagant and ridiculous(ly cute) dog costumes in the city. Event details.

Fall Fad Market at the Invisible Dog Art Center

Oct. 28-29: If you’re searching for a more relaxed and crafty Halloween celebration, the Fall Fad Market is the perfect place for you. Featuring over 50 small businesses and designers, this craft fair is a quaint and cozy way to spend your pre-Halloween weekend with smaller kids or kiddos who’ll appreciate the goodies and trinkets. Plus, it’s a great place to pick up some unique holiday presents. Event details.

Corlears Hook Park Trick or Treating

Oct. 29: Corlears Hook Park invites the whole neighborhood to come out and play in this community event. Stations will be set up around the park, presented by local businesses and families, and featuring tricks and treats for the kids. Event details.

Washington Market Park Halloween Parade and Concert

Oct. 29: This community event is led by the spectacular Queer Big Apple Corps Marching Band, making it a boisterously good time for everyone. Put on your Halloween costume and join the procession through the spooky decorated park grounds. Event details.

Brooklyn Bowl’s Halloween Spectacular

Oct. 29: Presented by the Rock and Roll Playhouse, this live music event is kid-friendly and a spooky good time. It’s also a good cause: the Playhouse will be supporting UNICEF and requesting donations to help children and families around the world access basic human needs. Event details.

Halloween on the Farm at Queens County Farm

Oct. 29: The fall festival at Queens County Farm culminates in this Halloween extravaganza, which features a DJ dance party, Halloween hayrides, spooky crafts, and other fun for the whole family. Don’t miss the Amazine Maize Maze and the spooky farmhouse experience. Plus, go trick or treating among the animals! Event details.

American Museum of Natural History’s Spooky Space

Oct. 31: Space might not be the first thing you think of when you think of Halloween, but outer space is a pretty spooky and magical place. This special Hayden Planetarium screening is led by scientist Jackie Faherty and takes audiences through the eerier side of space. Explore the chilling mysteries of the universe! Event details.

Halloween Boo Bash at the Ulmer Park Library

Oct. 31: Smaller kids can sing and dance with “Bubbles” in this silly and cute Halloween celebration for tots. Stick around for the Halloween carnival, which will feature games, crafts, and prize giveaways. And if this event isn’t within reach for you, check out your local library’s events leading up to Halloween—chances are, there are some fun themed activities happening at a library near you. Event details.

BAMboo! at the Brooklyn Academy of Music

Oct. 31: At the annual BAM Boo! event, costumed kids will enjoy music, carnival games, arts and crafts, and, of course, plenty of candy and trick-or-treating! After, you can hit up the shops at Atlantic Terminal for a few more goodies. Event details.

Annual Children’s Halloween Parade in Washington Square Park

Oct. 31: If the big Village Halloween parade is too much for your little ones (and we don’t blame them), this smaller, kid-oriented version might be a better option for them. Come out to enjoy live performances, play games, snag treats, and, of course, show off your awesome costume.  Event details.

Boo!KCM at the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music

Oct. 31: The night of the living drums is upon us, and the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music has wrangled them into a fun evening event. This free celebration has spooky musical performances, candy giveaways, and a haunted instrument garden. Event details.

Park Slope Halloween Parade

Oct. 31: For Park Slope’s somewhat legendary parade, bring your costume A-game and join in at any point along the route, or enjoy the creative and creepy costumes as a spectator. While you’re in the neighborhood, be sure to hit some of the brownstone-lined streets, where residents are known for their out-of-this-world decorations. Event details.

NYC Village Halloween Parade

Oct. 31: This is the big one. Starting at 7 p.m., this famous parade is loud, crowded, and rowdy—it’s a mainstay of the holiday so we feel like we have to mention it, but it’s not the most kid-friendly spot. Save this one for the older children, or celebrate earlier with the Washington Square Park kids’ parade. Event details.

Jackson Heights Halloween Parade

Oct. 31: This is the other big one. This Queens neighborhood’s wildly popular Halloween Parade is the second-largest Halloween kids parade in NYC. As if marching in that wasn’t enough reward in itself, at the end of the procession, all kids get goodie bags. After the parade, kids can hit the apartment buildings in the area to score big. Event details.

The Best Trick-or-Treating Neighborhoods in Manhattan

Governors Island

Governors Island usually hosts a Halloween event during the two weekends leading up to the holiday. Here, you’ll find arts and crafts, pumpkin picking, photo-ops, and trick-or-treating on the historical island. Kids parade around Nolan Park, stopping by every participating house, where the people are friendly and dressed up, and the candy is plentiful.

Meatpacking District

The Meatpacking District is a top destination for trick-or-treaters this year, thanks to the neighborhood’s “Treats in the Streets” event. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on October 21, participating vendors will be handing out candy and treats to costumed revelers. The block party will feature live music, a doggie costume contest, and a bunch of treats and activities for kids. Walk the High Line for a birds-eye view of the festivities and for more opportunities to get treats from volunteers. Download a map on the website and head out for a big haul!

Chelsea

Kick off trick-or-treating in Clement Clarke Moore Park—known by locals as “Seal Park”—on 10th Avenue at 22nd Street, then walk up and down the decorated brownstone blocks around the General Theological Seminary. The west side neighborhood’s most popular streets for gathering the goods are 21st and 22nd Streets between Ninth and Tenth Avenues; for less of a crowd, head to the houses between Eighth and Ninth Avenues. Stop by Chelsea Market for a break from the cold and some more treats, as the space usually hosts trick-or-treating events on Halloween.

Midtown

The East Midtown Partnership is bringing trick-or-treating back to the streets of Midtown, and promises the event will be bigger and better than ever. Visit on Halloween from 3-7 for a packed schedule of events and candy. Families can pick up a trick-or-treating bag at Sunrise (139 East 56th Street at Lexington Avenue)—where you can also participate in free pumpkin painting—or the plaza outside 919 3rd Avenue (at East 56th Street). Check out the spooky photo booth at the plaza, then make your way around the neighborhood’s businesses. You can view a map of participating locations on the website.

Hamilton Heights

Uptown in Hamilton Heights, head to 141st to 145th Street between Broadway and Amsterdam, where residents deck out their townhouses in a new theme each year, making for an especially festive treat gathering.

Harlem

In Harlem, you can’t go wrong with 121st Street, starting at Marcus Garvey Park and hitting the brownstones all the way to Frederick Douglass Boulevard. Another great spot is Strivers Row, at 138th and 139th Street and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard as well as a bit further north, at Hamilton Terrace between 141st and 144th Streets, where houses are decked out each year with impressive Halloween displays.

Tribeca

Stores around Washington Market Park will be decorated in style and handing out candy on Halloween, as will storefronts and houses along Duane, Reade, and Church Streets.

Upper West Side

Walk up Columbus Ave between 68th and 77th Streets for some great trick or treating (the streets might also be closed to traffic that day, but check ahead to be sure!), or switch over to Amsterdam Street around 111th Street.

Upper East Side

The best spots for trick or treating in the Upper East Side seem to be 78th and 82nd Streets, but make sure to leave time to take in the sights: The neighborhood is known for spooky and over-the-top Halloween decorations. Check out hot spots on East 78th, between Park and Lexington Avenue as well as East 67th, 72nd, and 74th between Fifth Ave and Madison. Stop by for some impressive skeletons, painted pumpkins, smoke-breathing dragons, and more spooky fun.

Queens: The Best Trick-or-Treating Neighborhoods in Queens

Forest Hills

Forest Hills Gardens will make you doubt you’re in NYC. The leafy and historic enclave is a trick-or-treater’s paradise, with tree-lined streets and stately single-family houses. There’s always activity on the busy thoroughfare of Continental and 71st Avenues, and if you prefer to visit businesses and storefronts over houses, Metropolitan Avenue in Forest Hills proper has a lot to offer for costumed kids.

Middle Village

For an authentic, suburban, small-town vibe, head to Middle Village. Highly residential, with mostly single-family homes, this neighborhood contains lots of houses spooked up for the holidays (think big inflatables) and pedestrian-friendly streets for tiny trick-or-treaters. Juniper Valley Park is a beloved neighborhood park that often hosts Halloween goodies for the kids, which in the past have included tables full of candy and decked-out car trunks that would compete with any house decor display.

Sunnyside Gardens

For a similar feel to Middle Village that’s a little easier to get to by subway (it’s a short walk from the 46th St./Bliss St. stop on the 7 line) try Sunnyside Gardens. One of New York’s first planned communities, this cohesive landmarked area’s streets of charming houses and oversized trees make for manageable and picturesque candy collecting.

The Best Trick-or-Treating Neighborhoods and Events in Brooklyn

Bedford Stuyvesant

This community is so organized it has a map of Halloween hot spots and blocks welcoming kids, and orange and black balloons to let you know where to go. There will be candy for kids and even dog-friendly treats! Don’t miss the Theme House on Jefferson Avenue between Throop & Tompkins. The fun begins at 4:30. Find the Halloween 2023 map here!

Brooklyn Heights

It’s hard to find more festive blocks in The Heights than Garden Place and Grace Court Alley, which are typically blocked off from traffic in honor of the holiday. Residents go all out, constructing elaborate Halloween displays in front of the street’s historic brownstones—fake coffins, life-size mummies, smoke machines, jack-o’lanterns en masse, etc. It’s a festive and very busy scene, so go early if you want to come out of it with treats in the bucket. For a quieter but still lovely trick-or-treating experience, head to nearby streets Remsen and Joralemon.

Cobble Hill

Costumed kids and parents cram into this small Brownstone Brooklyn neighborhood for the annual Halloween parade. Afterward, the main drag of Court Street and the surrounding blocks are filled with trick-or-treaters. (Venture further down Court to Carroll Gardens for even more candy and brownstones with large front gardens tricked-out for the holiday.) Be on time: It’s not uncommon for businesses and homes to have their candy stash completely cleared out by the festive, costumed throngs early on.

Ditmas Park

Not only does Ditmas Park bring the candy and the spooky decor, but with its huge Victorian homes and wide, tree-lined streets, it’s a lovely place to revel in Halloween fun. Young ghosts and goblins gather in front of the Halloween House on the intersection of Argyle and Albemarle Roads before heading out to the rest of the nabe. Franklin Street is a popular destination for commercial trick or treating, while the brownstones between Franklin Street and Manhattan Avenue are all dressed up in spooky decor and welcoming candy-seeking children.

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Dumbo

Dumbo usually hosts an annual DUMBOween event, in which costumed participants make their way through Dumbo and Brooklyn Bridge Park, led by live music and puppets. The parade is followed up by family-friendly activities in the Archway. Additionally, more than 40 Dumbo businesses will offer trick-or-treating at their storefronts on Halloween!

Kensington

You can feel the excitement mounting in this residential neighborhood as Halloween approaches, as more and more decorations are added to the single-family homes. Head to the numbered blocks (3rd, 4th, 5th) between Caton and Albemarle, and make sure to hit Fourth Street, which is closed to traffic and rocks out hard, with music, games, and scores of families.

Windsor Terrace

South of Park Slope and north of Kensington, Windsor Terrace is a neighborhood of residential streets with lots of houses that also really get into the holiday. Head to blocks between Vanderbilt Avenue and Fort Hamilton Parkway and don’t miss Third Street between Vanderbilt and Greenwood Avenues, which in the past, has been closed to traffic on Halloween.

The Best Trick-or-Treating Neighborhoods in the Bronx

Riverdale

The upscale ‘hood of Riverdale always makes for some good candy collecting, but the area’s neighbor, the community of Fieldston, is worthy of destination trick-or-treating. With much of it recognized as a landmarked historic district, the positively suburban-feeling area is filled with trees and beautiful houses that set the perfect backdrop for Halloween activities. (The varied architectural styles range from Tudor and Art and Crafts, to “manor” and “castle.”) There’s a good chance you’ll forget you’re in New York City.

City Island

Whether you take part in City Island’s Halloween Parade or just visit for the trick or treating, City Island is worth a visit on Halloween. The community feel is generally strong on City Island, and many doors are open to parade goers: Storefronts and homes along the parade route hand out candy to costumed partiers.

The Best Trick-or-Treating Neighborhoods in Staten Island

Mid Island

The suburban feel of Staten Island lends itself to more room and creativity, resulting in some absolutely incredible Halloween displays. Some of the best can be found in and just outside of Bulls Head. Check out the houses on Caswell Ave between Willowbrook Road and Woolley Avenue—in fact,  278 Caswell Avenue is known as “The Halloween House” and attracts tourists each year who marvel at their extravagant displays. Another hot spot are the streets that branch out from Gannon Avenue N, near Ingram Woods.

The coastal views are unlike anything you’ve seen before

You don’t have to have a full week vacation to get some rest and recharge with your crew. Mendocino is the perfect option for a family micro-cation as you can drive there when work and school get out on Friday and enjoy the weekend on the coast. We have the full scoop on all the family-friendly Mendocino activities your kids will love including the Skunk Train railbikes and horseback riding on the beach. Book your Mendocino escape today!

Getting There

Kate Loweth

Just over three hours north of San Francisco, the drive to Mendocino County can definitely be part of the adventure. A less windy route takes you from 101 to exit at Railroad Avenue where you head to toward Bodega Bay on the coast. Cows, horses and goats will keep the kids entertained along the way. Stop at Bodega Bay Oyster Company for some local shellfish. If you time your arrival for Saturday or Sunday noon-4 p.m., they will be serving up barbecued oysters!

Bodega Bay is another great stop along your drive. Bribe the kids with taffy from Patrick's Salt Water Taffy (pink building on the coastal side of Highway 1 in Bodega Bay) and then grab some fried artichokes with a gorgeous view at The Birds Cafe.

Stock up for your Mendocino visit with a stop at Surf Market in Gualala. In addition to picnic staples like local cheese, bread and sandwich fixings, you can purchase some fresh fish or sausage from their extensive meat counter to cook up for your dinner.

If you are to driving through Anderson Valley don't miss The Apple Farm. Head off the main road for just a moment on the way into Hendy Woods State Park and you will find this adorable farm stand were they serve delicious apple cider and offer hard cider tastings on the weekend. Be sure to grab a bottle of the non-alcoholic variety to sip as your finish your drive through the redwoods. The Apple Farm also has overnight accommodations. 

Adventures

Kate Loweth

Skunk Train – Fort Bragg
All aboard! Fort Bragg is where you can catch the Skunk Train for a ride through the redwoods along Pudding Creek. This train (so named because oldsters claimed that you could smell it coming before you'd see it) has both indoor cars and an outdoor car so that you can walk around and make the most of your ride. The Pudding Creek Express is a one-hour, 7-mile round trip tour that takes you over the first tracks laid down by the California Western Railroad. Snacks and beverages (including beer and wine) are available for purchase on the train. 

Kids will love the experience of riding the railbikes and we totally recommend it for families. Two riders are seated on a double recumbent bike that rests right on the train tracks. With power-assisted pedaling, you and your partner make your way along the tracks for a 30-minute ride. When you get to your destination, you have some time to take a hike in the woods or grab a snack before you head back into town. 

After your ride, check to see if the Mendocino Coast Model Railroad is open for visitors. Your Skunk Train ticket will get you in to check out over 1,300 feet of track that document the area's logging history. You may have trouble getting the little LEGO lovers past the kid-level train table out front (strategically placed to let them touch the LEGO trains and not the model trains inside). 

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens – Fort Bragg
Color is everywhere at the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. The succulent garden offers colorful cactus and spots to sit and enjoy your afternoon. March and April bring the fragrant rhododendrons that thrive in this coastal climate. Come in the summer and the vegetable garden will be full of life. Stop by to see if any strawberries are ripe and try one for yourself.

Russian Gulch State Park – Mendocino
There are tons of state park options to get your redwood fix in Mendocino County. Russian Gulch State Park offers a view of a collapsed sea cave called Devil’s Punchbowl just a short walk from the parking lot (high tide provides the most drama). If you have more time to spend in the park, hike the Fern Canyon Loop Trail to check out the waterfall.

Sarah Montoya

Catch a Canoe & Bicycles Too - Mendocino
Nestled in a small cove on Big River Estuary, just before it flows into Mendocino Bay, is the adventure destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Established in 1982, Catch a Canoe and Bicycles Too offers ultra-stable redwood outriggers, kayaks, canoes, SUP and bicycle rentals for anyone who wants to explore beautiful Big River and beyond. Cruise down the water to see seal or otters on shore and plenty of birds catching fish. You can even bring Fido along on the Canine Cruiser, a specially-designed rig that allows dogs to see all the action.

Ross Ranch Horseback Riding - Manchester
Go for a horseback ride on the beach or through the redwoods with the skilled horses of Ross Ranch. Kids 6 and up can participate in this experience (we highly recommend the beach ride!) that lasts about 1.5 hours in the saddle. You'll take a slow pace down to the sand where the horses will walk along a gorgeous and nearly-deserted beach. 

Ford House Museum – Mendocino
If you've got some history buffs in your crew, definitely plan to stop at the Ford House Museum in Mendocino. Here you can take a look at a huge diorama depicting the town as it stood in 1890 (count how many water towers you can find!). Check out the whale bones and learn how whales use baleen to filter feed in the waters off Mendocino.

Kate Loweth

B. Bryan Preserve – Point Arena
Did you know that Mendocino County is home to giraffes, antelopes and zebras? Around 100 of these majestic animals live at B. Bryan Preserve in Point Arena and you can bring the kids there for a visit. They are currently offering self-guided car tours and guided tours aboard a 1974 open-air Land Rover where you can learn how they breed critically-endangered and endangered African hoof stock. You can even spend the night in one of the on-site cottages.

Point Arena Lighthouse – Point Arena
Get a bit of a history lesson along with a gorgeous view of the coastline when you visit the Point Arena Lighthouse. This non-profit that is completely dependent on visitors is a great place to spend the afternoon. Begin your visit at the museum where you can learn the history of the lighthouse and see the original 1908 First Order Fresnel lens that was removed from the lighthouse in 2009. Learn how the lighthouse keepers were responsible for keeping the light going and cleaning every nook and cranny of the lens. Head to the whale watch room where you can borrow some binoculars to try and spot a gray whale offshore. After your museum visit, climb the 145 steps to the top of the tallest lighthouse tower on the West Coast where you will get a 360 degree view of the coastline along with an informative lesson from the tour guide there. 

Pennyroyal Farm – Boonville
Take your trip home via Highway 128 so that you can pass through Boonville, home to Pennyroyal Farm. This farmstead creamery and winery offers daily tours of the barn where you can meet the goats and sheep that live there. Learn all of their names (yes, each one has a name!), how these animals are raised and how their milk is turned into cheese. Time your visit with lambing season in the spring for an extra-special treat. Your tour ends with a wine and cheese tasting for the parents and a grape juice and cheese tasting for the kids. 

Beaches and Tide Pools

Kate Loweth

Bowling Ball Beach – Point Arena
Bowling Ball Beach is so named because of the massive bowling ball-shaped formations that line the beach when the tide is low. These are concretions—sedimentary rock formed when mineral cements bind grains of sand or stone into larger formations. You can access the trail to Bowling Ball Beach at mile marker 11.41 where the sign reads "Park facing south only." Here, take the northern path across the bluffs and follow the stairs down. At the bottom, you will likely have to scramble across downed logs to access the beach. Just take it slow and the adventure will be worth it!

Glass Beach – Fort Bragg
Treasure hunters flock to Glass Beach to search the sands for glass made smooth by years of riding the waves offshore. From 1906 to 1967, everything from cars to batteries to bottles, cans and appliances were unceremoniously pushed over the cliffs into the ocean. Mother Nature turned this trash into treasure of tiny sea glass. Get the kids to search for colors from clear to the more rare reds and blues. Just make sure that all treasures get left behind for the next visitor to enjoy. As with all California State Parks, the glass found at Glass Beach is protected and should not be taken home.

MacKerricher State Park – Fort Bragg
A prime spot for tide pools, MacKerricher State Park is just three miles from downtown Fort Bragg. Stop in at the visitors center when you arrive to feel pelts from animals that live in the area and see how your size compares to that of a whale. Then follow the map to the boardwalk and seal watching station. If you arrive when the tide is low, the area has a massive tide pool that will keep the kids busy for hours. Look for colorful sea stars and speedy sand crabs. Then venture on down the boardwalk to look for seals sunning themselves on the rocks.

Where to Eat

Kate Loweth

Mendocino has no shortage of great spots to grab a bite for the road or to enjoy a meal with a view. Frankie's offers the kid-favorite combo of pizza and ice cream. The thin crust cheese satisfies any kid appetite and the candy cap mushroom ice cream is a sweet treat for adventurous eaters. When the sun is out and the fog stays away, pick a spot on the deck at Flow Restaurant where the view is gorgeous and the fish tacos are a favorite. If you are looking for a family friendly fine dining experience MacCullum House Inn staff is happy to accommodate your kids pallet. Although the restaurant does not have a kids menu the chef is willing to adjust some items to be sure your kids find something they like and the banana split with house made ice cream is delightful. 

In Fort Bragg's Noyo Harbor, the Harborview Restaurant at the Noyo Harbor Inn gets top billing for gorgeous views and delicious food to go along with it. Book a spot on the deck and just might spot a seal swimming by during your appetizer course. So fun! You can also head to the harbor itself for some of the freshest fish you've ever had. We loved the casual vibe on the outdoor deck at Noyo Fish Company (definitely get the fish tacos). 

The quaint town of Point Arena has a tiny coffee shop, Little Green Bean, that offers tons of area recommendations while you wait for your beans to be ground and your pour-over drip coffee to brew. Head across the street to Franny's Cup and Saucer to satisfy your sweet tooth. Open Wednesday-Saturday, favorites at Franny's are the macarons, giant gingersnaps and not-to-be-missed Friday donuts. The Point Arena Wharf has a coffee shop so grab a cup of coffee and walk the pier, climb some rocks and look for sea creatures in the tide pools.

 

Where to Stay

Noyo Harbor Inn

Noyo Harbor Inn—Fort Bragg
You'll love the location of the Noyo Harbor Inn for your visit to Mendocino and all the conveniences it offers. Located just above Noyo Harbor, you'll be off the main drag of Fort Bragg with views of the harbor right out your window. It's right down the street from the Skunk Train and Glass Beach, and just a short drive to the Point Cabrillo Lighthouse. Families will enjoy the spacious rooms with balconies, giant ensuite tubs and coffee maker/mini fridge. The on-site restaurant offers top-notch service and some of the best food in town. Make sure you request table on the deck for the best views. 

500 Casa Del Noyo 
Fort Bragg, CA
Online: noyoharborinn.com

Kate Loweth

Inn at Schoolhouse Creek—Little River
If you want some extra space to spread out, a kitchen to cook up some farm-fresh eggs in the morning and a quaint cottage to call home, this is your spot. The Inn at Schoolhouse Creek offers cottages with different layouts to suit the needs of families of all sizes. On a recent visit we stayed in the Pomo Cottage that had a full kitchen, bedroom with king-sized bed, pull out couches that could sleep up to four people and a private hot tub for soaks under the sun. The property also has a spa (currently closed), BBQs for public use and a gorgeous property and creek for exploring. Dogs are also welcome!

7051 North Highway 1
LIttle River, CA
Online: schoolhousecreek.com

Sarah Montoya

Mendocino Grove – Mendocino
Even though Mendocino Grove has only been open for a few years, they have glamping down. Safari tents on wooden platforms welcome you to this gorgeous area just five minutes from downtown Mendocino. There are two family tent options, queen bed with two twin beds (sleeps 4) and queen bed with four bunk beds that comfortably sleeps six. You'll be cozy for the night as they have bed warmers for all your campers. Each campsite has its own fire ring for campfires and you can purchase wood and s'mores kits on site. 

Amenities that you'll love include spa-quality bathrooms and hot showers. Wake up to coffee, oatmeal, and hot chocolate at the community area in the center of the camp, with additional items for purchase. Mendocino Grove has bocce ball, hammocks, hiking trails and a volleyball court to keep the kiddies busy. Depending on when you stay you may be able to enjoy a free concert, participate in a yoga class, or support local farmers with their Farmer Dinner Series. For some on-the-water time, walk down the hill to Catch-a-Canoe to rent a kayak or outrigger canoe for the morning.

9601 CA-1
Mendocino, CA
Onlinemendocinogrove.com

Kate Loweth

The Little River Inn – Little River
Located right in the middle of all the Mendocino County action, the Little River Inn knows what keeps families happy when they are away from home. Each room on this property has rocking chairs with a view of the coast and if you are lucky, some amazing sunsets. Rooms are equipped with a small fridge, Keurig coffee maker, TV and WiFi. Borrow a game or movie from the front desk to keep the kids entertained, or hike down the trail to the nearby beach. Golf, tennis and spa services are also available on site. If you choose to stay in one of the onsite cottages you may even be able to enjoy a coastal view from your private hot tub. Definitely pick up a box of their fudge and a bag of their cookies when you check in.

The hotel's restaurant offers both breakfast and dinner with a view of the crashing waves or the hotel's beautiful garden. Breakfast choices include Ole's Swedish Hotcakes (the short stack is still big enough to share), Little River Inn scones and loads of egg options. If you are there for Sunday brunch, make sure you ask for your complimentary glass of champagne. For dinner, kids can choose from options like the monster burger (which really is quite large) or fish and chips. Give yourself a few extra minutes of peaceful dining and ask for their coloring packet—a dozen-page booklet that gives the history of Mendocino County and area highlights, all for you to color!

7901 N. Highway One
Little River, CA
Onlinelittleriverinn.com

Point Arena Lighthouse Vacation Cottages – Point Arena
For a truly coastal experience, you can stay right at the Point Arena Lighthouse in one of their six vacation cottages. Three of them comfortably sleep six people with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. They come with a well-equipped kitchen, satellite TV, wood-burning fireplace and the most gorgeous coastal views. Wake up to hear the waves crashing against the rocks and spend your days exploring the 23 acres of land adjacent to the lighthouse. 

4550 Lighthouse Road
Point Arena, CA
Onlinepointarenalighthouse.com

MacCallum House Inn

MacCallum House

MacCallum House is a boutique hotel and restaurant in the heart of the town of Mendocino. This Victorian home is surrounded by beautiful gardens and has 19 rooms in the main house. In addition to the main house the inn offers a variety of accommodations including a stay in the historic barn, cottages, suites and more. Many of the spaces include fireplaces, hot tubs, and ocean views. With so many options you are sure to find the perfect room accommodations for your family. The MacCallum House Restaurant is part of California's original farm-to-table and chef-driven dining movement and provides a delicious taste of local, fresh and seasonal cuisine. 

45020 Albion Street
Mendocino, CA
Online: MacCallum House