Taking the Kids: A spring break to please everyone

We all know that traveling with kids (and grandkids) can be messy, aggravating, expensive and, of course, wonderful. Lots of memories are a big bonus.

Planning a trip that will please everyone can be just as difficult. It’s important to realize — and remind everyone — that everyone will need to compromise, that no one will get their pick of what to do and where to go all of the time. A good life lesson!

As you discuss where you want to go this spring and what you want to do when you get there, have that all-important budget discussion. How much will each child be able to spend on souvenirs? How can they help you plan so you can alternate free activities (perhaps local playgrounds or an afternoon at the awesome hotel pool) with ones that will stretch the budget (theme parks, restaurant meals).

Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s talk spring break. With our partners at Family Travel Forum and Little Family Adventure, we’ve come up with 24 Spring Break Ideas to Meet Every Family’s Wish List. (Hopefully, anyway!)

Do you want to hit the slopes (many think spring skiing is the best!) or relax on a sunny beach? Maybe the kids have been begging to cruise away or explore a new city (New York, San Francisco, London or Paris, perhaps.)

How about a national park before the summer crowds arrive? Explore Mammoth Cave, the world’s longest known cave system, and meet the fossil of a new shark species found there. You can paddle the brackish waters reminiscent of “Swamp Thing” at Congaree National Park. If you have a child in fourth grade, the complimentary Every Kid Outdoors Annual 4th Grade Pass covers park entry for all children under 16 and up to three adults per passholder and includes the vehicle entrance fee. If you plan to visit more than one park in a year, save with an annual America the Beautiful pass ($80) that also covers all federal recreation sites. If the grandparents are coming, look for Senior Passes (ages 62 and up ) and free passes for military personnel and those with permanent disabilities. Check your park’s website to book ahead for special free activities, guided hikes and talks, and the Junior Ranger program.

Maui is recovering after the devastating August 2023 wildfire that destroyed the historic port of Lahaina and killed nearly 100 people in West Maui. Now, Maui locals and Hawaiian officials are urging tourists to return as tourism dollars can help communities rebuild. However, locals caution visitors to avoid Lahaina, which is closed, and be respectful of all Hawaiian survivors.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority maintains an up-to-date site that recommends where to go and where to avoid. There is plenty else to see and do around the island. Support locals by booking a snorkeling or sailing trip. Viator has several options for luaus and whale watching, as well. Opt for local restaurants. Take the famously winding road to Hana and stay a while.

If your budget allows, the Four Seasons Maui is where the first season of the HBO dramedy “White Lotus” was filmed. Get a vacation rental in Wailea. Fairmont Kea Lani’ has recently opened a new cultural center, Hale Kukuna, the island’s largest resort cultural center and it also serves as a connection for the community. It is 24/7 open-air accessible and provides education resources for guests and local community members. The Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, situated on 23 oceanfront acres, is now open with a Return to Maui package with a donation earmarked for each stay.

Besides hotels, Wailea has multiple vacation rentals, golf courses, beaches, restaurants and more. Shop and eat locally. And tip well!

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