6 Family-Friendly Summer Vacation Ideas Inspired by Our Favorite Animated Characters
As if planning for a family vacation wasn’t hard enough, there is so much detail that goes into customizing a family-friendly trip that will not only momentarily take us away from the hustle and bustle that is everyday life but also make unforgettable memories for our children. Why stay at a standard 4-star hotel when you can stay in a room that has been inspired by your favorite Disney movie, or better yet, swim in an indoor pool that looks like it came straight out of a Pirates of the Caribbean movie? Resorts these days are designed not only to help us rest and relax, but also to titillate imaginations and bring to life memorable scenes from our favorite films. After all, if there’s one thing that will help my children get through their breakfast, it’s breakfast with their favorite movie character. Check out some of these family-friendly summer vacation ideas inspired by our favorite movies from Booking.com and Disney below …
1. Gardaland Hotel Resort | Via Palù VR, Italy
Photo Credit: Gardaland Hotel Facebook
This is a great summer vacation idea because not only do the adults enjoy the benefit of vacationing in Europe, but kids get to enjoy suites that were inspired by some of our favorite fantasy-inspired animations. The Gardaland Hotel Resort in Via Palù VR, Italy is seriously a dream come true for kids. In addition to the traditional hotel suite, the resort also offers themed rooms, from pirates to princesses to an Ice Age suite. Plus, you’re in Italy. You definitely can’t beat that!
2. Gaylord Palms Resort | Orlando, Florida
Photo Credit: Gaylord Palms Resort Facebook
The Gaylord Palms Resort is actually one of my favorite resorts in Central Florida, as the property is massive and is just oodles of fun for both adults and kids alike. Located less than five miles from the gates of Disney’s Epcot, this hotel features some of Florida’s best attractions. From the modeled rainforest in the St. Augustine Atrium to the indoor ship-port in the Key West Lagoon, the Gaylord Palms Resort acts as a large play space for all children. Additionally, families will have direct access to LEGOLAND theme park from the hotel.
4. The Drayton Manor Hotel | Tamworth, England
Photo Credit: Drayton Manor Twitter
If your kids are huge Thomas the Train fans, this is a must. And if you’re wanting to take a trip across the pond, well, this is a perfect excuse to go as well. And while it is a bit of a drive from London, it’s a very family-friendly destination that has a zoo and Thomas the Train-inspired theme park nearby. Disney’s Art of Animation Hotel | Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Photo Credit: Disney
No, not everything is better under the sea! Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is the newest go-to accommodation property in Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. I recently toured the property this past week and let me tell you, it is AMAZING, especially if you’re a huge fan of some of Disney’s most unforgettable films. The resort has delightfully themed family suites and awesomely detailed courtyards, inspired by films such as Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid. And plus, if you’ve ever stayed at a Disney resort, you’ll know that their accommodations are top notch from service and food to hospitality and entertainment. Need I say more? This hotel is a great place for families to sit back, relax, and enjoy the numerous amenities the resort has to offer. Seriously, it’s like an ’80s kid’s dream come true! And if you’re lucky enough, Charlie Brown along with Snoopy and his friends can come tuck you in at night. Talk about a perfect way to end each day of your summer vacation, right?
