Ah, Summer. School is almost out, and that means that your kids are probably hungry for adventure. With the end of classes, it is the perfect time to take your little ones on a trip that they won't soon forget!

I remember this period of time very fondly from my childhood. The end of school meant my family's annual, "All-American" vacation was fast-approaching. My parents would take a week off from their busy jobs, and the family would take a week long vacation in a new place in the States. We discovered the Grand Canyon in my early teens, took a road-trip through the Badlands in South Dakota another year, and even hopped on a plane to visit sunny San Diego, California. Being from the Northeastern part of the USA, we would also take some vacation days to splash around in the cold waters off of the coast of Maine, or eat some famous Clam Chowder down on Cape Cod in Massachusetts. Here are some great, affordable places to check out for your family's next vacation in the States! 

The Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks are barrier islands just off of the coast of North Carolina. They host an abundance of family-friendly activities, and not to mention stunning ocean views, that are sure to keep your family entertained for days.

Main Attractions

1. Jockey's Ridge State Park: Enjoy the tallest sand dunes on the East Coast, as well as beautiful beaches, kayaking, kite-sailing, and more. 
2. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: Be sure to check out this stunning, black-and-white striped Lighthouse in the Southern Outer Banks. It is the tallest brick lighthouse in the nation. You can also climb it, if you dare.
3. Wild Horses of Carova: Take some time to gaze in amazement at clusters of wild horses found on the deserted beaches of Carova in the Northern Outer Banks. They are believed to be the direct descendants of Spanish Mustangs from the early 1500s. 

Glacier National Park, Montana

Discover the sheer, wild beauty of this national park nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Montana. Glacier National park is home to different kinds of wildlife, lakes, and over 1,583 sq-miles of rugged mountain peaks and valleys carved by ancient glaciers.

Main Attractions

1. Going-to-the-Sun Road: Enjoy breathtaking views of the park while cycling/driving along this 50-mile stretch of road. Stop and grab a bite to eat at a picnic area, and soak up the scenery.
2. Grinnell Glacier: This glacier is located in the centre of Glacier National park. Embark on a picture-perfect a hiking trip with unparalleled alpine views.
3. Red Bus Tour:  This bus tour is a great way to get a general overview of the park in one day. The tours are run by knowledgable tour guides who are sure to give you a lot of great history and background on the sites you will see. 

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

I may be biased (I live around 90 minutes from the beginning of the Cape), but Cape Cod is truly an amazing place to take your kids on a vacation. It has a little bit of everything: historical quaint seashore towns, delicious food, and all kinds of ocean activities from swimming to fishing.

Main Attractions

1. Beaches: Check out these famous beaches for their location and views  
   • Sandy Neck Beach, Barnstable
   • Old Silver Beach, Falmouth
   • Cape Cod National Seashore
2. Martha's Vineyard / Nantucket: A visit to the Cape would not be complete without visiting the beautiful and historic Cape Cod islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard. These islands are only reachable by plane or ferry, and this aspect only adds to their charm. They are also overflowing with beaches, golf courses, restaurants, and art galleries/ boutiques.
3. Whale-Watching Tours: Take the whole family for an afternoon whale watching tour in the Atlantic. It is definitely bound to be a memorable experience for everyone on board. Great cruises with knowledgable crew members can be found in Provincetown, Barnstable, and other Cape towns. 

Happy travels!