Written by Michelle Rae Uy. Amended from original version.
Perhaps no one is more deserving of a vacation than busy families. Months of early morning alarms, repetitive routines and mundane responsibilities can take a toll on kids and adults alike. Leaving the daily grind to spend a week or two in an unforgettable locale during spring break is just the ticket for a well-deserved system reboot. The following five family-friendly spring break destinations offer a range of experiences for a memorable getaway.
1. Orlando, Florida
For a family-friendly stay, Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate is chock-full of family-friendly offerings. The Omni Kids Crew program welcomes the youngest guests to the resort, while the Mokara Spa rejuvenates adults during their stay. For some competitive fun, on-site golf courses range from miniature to championship so that everyone can get swinging. The resort also boasts several restaurants, three- to four-bedroom suites and several resort activities for the whole family, including a lighted basketball course, an arcade, a lazy river, and Orlando’s only resort wave pool. To supplement a theme park vacation, Omni Orlando also offers complimentary shuttle rides to Walt Disney World.
2. San Francisco, California
Omni San Francisco Hotel, nestled in the Financial District, takes full advantage of the city’s many facets. The property’s recommended itinerary includes a diverse array of activities, from visiting the historical attractions and cultural sites to carving out time to immerse your group in nature or indulge in delicious dishes.
There are plenty of ways to keep everyone entertained. Hop aboard a famous cable car, get some exercise walking across the Golden Gate Bridge or visit Fisherman’s Wharf for food, fun and sea lions. For an especially exciting experience, take a ferry to Alcatraz Island for a tour the infamous prison.
3. San Diego, California
Omni San Diego is the perfect hotel if you are looking to be in the center of the hustle and bustle of the city. Located in the heart of the historic Gaslamp Quarter, families are minutes away from popular attractions include Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld. Families can also catch a San Diego Padres game at PETCO Park, which is connected to the hotel via a pedestrian skywalk.
For those looking for a more relaxing visit to the San Diego area, Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, California, is located just north of San Diego near many of the city’s most popular attractions, including Legoland, which is a must for families. Guests can also soak up the sun at one of the many nearby beaches, birdwatch at Batiquitos Lagoon or learn about preserving the environment at Agua Hedionda Lagoon. Kids and adults alike may also enjoy witnessing spring blooms at the colorful Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch.
4. San Antonio, Texas
For an ideal, family-friendly base where grandparents can be as comfortable as the kids, Omni La Mansión del Rio has all of the essential amenities in a striking Spanish Colonial setting. These include the Hospitality Parlor Suites that may be expanded to a two-bedroom suite that fits a family of six or more. While the kids are on an Omni Kids Crew scavenger hunt, which takes them throughout the historic hotel, the adults can indulge in treatments at the Mokara Spa. Later, the whole family can meet for a “dive-in movie.” Or, for a more local flavor, watch a live Mariachi performance at the pool.
5. Palm Springs, California
This being a desert destination, water parks top many lists of favorite local activities, and Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa boasts its very own. The resort’s Splashtopia features a 425-foot lazy river, two 100-foot waterslides and a cliff-side Jacuzzi for all-around family fun. For parents looking for time alone as a couple, the Azure adults-only pool is a quiet place to relax and enjoy a cocktail. Other resort activities include golf at one of the resort’s three distinct nine-hole courses, tennis and a 20,000 square-foot European spa.
For more inspiration, check out our favorite beach destinations for spring break.