A Guide to the Best Places to Travel with an Infant: Exploring Family-Friendly Destinations in the USA and Abroad

Traveling with an infant can feel like a daunting task, but finding the perfect destination can make all the difference. Whether you're longing for sandy beaches or breathtaking national parks, there are plenty of amazing places both within and outside the USA that cater to the needs of families with babies. From the tropical paradise of Hawaii to the charming streets of Charleston, this article highlights the best destinations that will ensure a memorable and stress-free vacation with your little one. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure with your baby in tow.

Hawaii

Kenny and I have a deep love for Hawaii! It's where we tied the knot and enjoyed our babymoon. We can't wait to create more memories here with our little one in the future. Hawaii is an excellent destination for a family trip because the islands are easily navigable, safe, clean, and renowned for being family-friendly. Many resorts offer family-friendly rooms equipped with cribs, bottle sterilizers, and more.

Where to Stay With a Baby in Hawaii

If you're traveling with an infant, I highly recommend visiting either the Big Island or Maui. On the Big Island, my top recommendation is the Four Seasons Hualalai (where Kenny and I have stayed in the past and it's truly a dream!). This resort goes above and beyond to ensure your stay is comfortable, providing cribs, playpens, diapers, wipes, and various other amenities. This convenience eliminates the stress of packing extra items when traveling with a baby.

In Maui, consider staying at the Four Seasons Maui, Westin Maui, or Sheraton Maui. Like the Hualalai property, Four Seasons Maui offers numerous amenities for families. Check out their full list of family amenities on their website.

Get matching family outfits from Kenny Flowers. Photo by @bebanones

Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina

The Montage Palmetto Bluff impressed me immensely as an ideal family destination. If you're seeking an authentic experience of the American South, surrounded by picturesque lowcountry landscapes and abundant wildlife, there's no better place. There's something about this classic Southern escape that instantly brings relaxation. The warm hospitality, exceptional service, rich history, emphasis on lowcountry culture, and stunning South Carolina nature all contribute to the perfect family-friendly experience. Plus, they've thought of everything to make your stay comfortable, including a partnership with Uppababy where you can conveniently rent baby equipment on-site.

30A, Seaside, Florida

Photo Courtesy of @sarahnicolemeduna

It's no secret that 30A, located on Florida's Gulf Coast, boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It's the perfect destination for a family vacation. From fun-filled beach days to movie nights under the stars, a getaway to Seaside is exactly what you need. The beaches are breathtaking and provide an idyllic backdrop for your vacation with your baby!

Where to stay around Seaside, Florida

Consider Alys Beach or Watercolor for your stay.

If you're looking for a conveniently located beachfront rental, this 2-bedroom property in Alys Beach is an excellent choice.

Alternatively, try this charming home in a gated community with a less crowded beach.

Photo Courtesy of VRBO

I highly recommend renting a VRBO in Seaside! There are countless adorable beach houses that will ensure a comfortable stay, especially if you're traveling with friends or family. This beach house, for example, offers free bikes and a private pool, accommodating up to 9 guests. Moreover, this reasonably priced condo right on the waterfront is an excellent option. For larger family gatherings, take a look at this incredible home where the beach is literally your backyard.

Photo Courtesy of WaterColor Inn & Resort

If VRBOs aren't your preferred option, consider booking a room at The WaterColor Inn & Resort (ranked #1 on Trip Advisor as the most kid-friendly hotel in 30A!). You might even get the chance to rock your Watercolors Swim and matching Kenny Flowers/Kiddy Flowers outfits at the resort! 😉

Charleston, South Carolina

In Charleston, you'll find babies and kids everywhere! The city is extremely baby- and kid-friendly, from breweries to beaches.

There are numerous things to do in Charleston, South Carolina with kids. The downtown area is easily accessible with a stroller, and there are plenty of parks and open spaces to enjoy. Be sure to stroll along Rainbow Row and marvel at the charming houses. Don't miss the Battery and, of course, Charleston's best beaches.

Where to Stay With a Baby in Charleston

In my opinion, the best places to stay in Charleston with your baby are Wild Dunes Resort or Hotel Bennett. You can book a stay at Wild Dunes Resort, either at the hotel itself or in one of their VRBO properties located in Isle of Palms. This area is known for its beautiful beaches, dining options, and sea turtles. If you prefer a downtown hotel within walking distance of attractions, Hotel Bennett is an excellent choice.

San Diego, California

San Diego, located in California, is renowned for its stunning beaches and consistently pleasant weather throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for families seeking a beach getaway.

As an added treat, San Diego is home to Lego Land, a must-visit attraction for children! I highly recommend visiting the San Diego Zoo as well, which is not only one of the world's best zoos but also holds a special place in my heart. Other notable family-friendly attractions include Sea World and Balboa Park, where you can explore with your little one in tow.

Where to Stay With a Baby in San Diego

For those looking for a luxurious hotel experience, I suggest Hotel Del Coronado. This historic hotel boasts one of California's finest beaches and remains a personal favorite of mine.

San Diego Mission Bay Resort is another excellent option, offering fantastic amenities for both parents and infants.

If you're interested in booking a VRBO in San Diego, you'll find numerous excellent options available. Personally, I highly recommend the neighborhood of La Jolla, where my grandparents live and where I've spent a significant amount of time. In La Jolla, I suggest considering the sophisticated beach-front sanctuary or the luxury condo located in the heart of the village. In case you prefer a house, this spacious three-bedroom home in La Jolla is perfect for a party of six.

If you're on a budget, you can't go wrong with this affordable yet comfortable two-bedroom property right on the water, available for just $183 per night!

Orlando, Florida

Photo Courtesy of @darylanndenner

For many people, Orlando, Florida is known as the happiest place on earth. It's a place where dreams come true and children get to experience their favorite princesses and superheroes in real life at Disney World. Orlando should be a prime choice for bringing your kids on a memorable vacation. Disney World will likely be one of the most cherished memories from their childhood. And if you're yearning for a perfect blend of beach vacation and Disney adventure, consider going on a Disney Cruise!

Where to Stay With a Baby in Orlando

There are several options for accommodations right within the Disney World complex, from Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge to the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, conveniently located near EPCOT. However, my top recommendation would be the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. This exceptional resort offers the best of both worlds – the luxurious experience of the Four Seasons brand combined with the convenience of staying right on the Walt Disney World property!

Sonoma, California

Sonoma isn't just reserved for bachelorette parties and girls' trips. The surrounding towns of Sonoma are incredibly welcoming and offer a relaxing atmosphere. Many of the local restaurants are not only luxurious but also family-friendly. Furthermore, if you've been eagerly awaiting an opportunity to enjoy wine again after a year or more, why not indulge in the finest wineries that California has to offer while exploring Sonoma with your baby in tow?!

Where to Stay With a Baby in Sonoma

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, part of the renowned Fairmont brand, is an excellent choice for families. This establishment offers spacious rooms and a wide range of family-friendly activities.

For those seeking a bed and breakfast experience in Sonoma, I highly recommend Beltane Ranch. This charming establishment features standalone cottages that offer privacy and ample space. Each cottage even includes a convenient kitchenette, allowing you to prepare meals with ease without having to venture into town.

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio is a fantastic destination for families with young children. The city offers attractions such as a zoo, a children's train, and The DoSeum, an interactive museum specially designed for kids. Additionally, the riverwalk is a convenient area to explore, perfect for leisurely strolls with your UppaBaby stroller!

Where to Stay With a Baby in San Antonio

Two top recommendations for accommodations in San Antonio are Hotel Emma and JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa. Hotel Emma, known for its five-star luxury, provides cribs and baby products for infants, as well as a stylish hotel bar for parents to enjoy. JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa offers over 1,000 rooms with various layouts, catering to your specific needs. They also have a dedicated pool for young children and shaded cabanas with refrigerators to keep bottles cool.

Chicago, Illinois

Photo Courtesy of @sarahnicolemeduna

If you desire the vibrancy of cities like New York City or Washington D.C., but hesitate due to the potential challenges of navigating with a stroller, Chicago is an excellent alternative. Chicago is a cleaner city compared to both NYC and D.C., and it boasts a higher overall level of safety. The city is relatively compact and easy to navigate, with the added benefit of avoiding the sky-high prices typically associated with Manhattan. Additionally, many streets and sidewalks in Chicago are designed with strollers in mind, providing a seamless experience. Numerous museums even offer special stroller tours!

Where to Stay With a Baby in Chicago

Warwick Allerton – Chicago, named the best hotel for families in Chicago by hotels.com, should be your top choice. This property offers complimentary cribs and playpens for infants, as well as babysitting services for an additional fee. Daily housekeeping ensures your stay is comfortable and hassle-free. Another great option is 21c Hotel Museum Chicago, providing complimentary cribs and beds for babies. For parents, the hotel features a luxurious on-site spa.

Sedona with a Baby or Toddler

We embarked on a family vacation to Sedona, Arizona when our children were 2 years old and just 3 months old. This trip marked our first true "hiking vacation" with our little ones. If your family enjoys hiking, Sedona is one of the best destinations in the United States for traveling with toddlers.

The scenery in Sedona is breathtaking, and there are numerous short but rewarding hikes suitable for toddlers. We also took on more challenging hikes by carrying our daughter in a backpack carrier designed for hiking with toddlers.

Apart from the incredible hiking opportunities, getting around and finding family-friendly accommodations in Sedona was a breeze. With Phoenix nearby, Sedona serves as an ideal destination for an extended family vacation.

For more details about exploring Sedona with a baby or toddler, please visit our article on Sedona with a Baby or Toddler.

Palm Springs with a Baby or Toddler

Palm Springs, California is an excellent destination to escape to during the winter months. It offers convenient access to Disneyland, Legoland, and Joshua Tree National Park, making it an ideal location for a family trip with a baby in the United States. A visit to Palm Springs with little ones guarantees a fun and hassle-free vacation.

There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes to enjoy in Palm Springs, numerous excellent restaurants to choose from, and a wide range of family-friendly resorts and hotels to suit any budget.

From Palm Springs, you can easily embark on a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park, followed by a relaxing day by the hotel pool. Take a day or two to visit Legoland and Disneyland before returning to Palm Springs for some quality downtime. Every moment spent in Palm Springs with small kids will be cherished.

For families with slightly older kids, we recommend reading our post on Palm Springs with Kids on the Family Can Travel website.

For more information about traveling to Palm Springs with a baby or toddler, visit our comprehensive guide on Palm Springs with a Baby or Toddler.

Exploring Savannah with Toddlers

During our incredible road trip through the southeastern United States with our toddlers, we had the pleasure of visiting the enchanting cities of Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina. One of the absolute must-see attractions in Savannah with kids is the Wormsloe Historic Site, where you can marvel at the scenic road lined with majestic oak trees adorned with Spanish moss.

If you have some extra time, be sure to explore the kid-friendly hiking trails at Wormsloe. One of the hikes even offers a chance for your little ones to discover a replica house from the plantation era.

We highly recommend dedicating a day to strolling through the charming streets of Savannah. Make a stop at Ellis Square, where toddlers can have a blast playing in the fountain, and indulge in some sweet treats along River Street.

Afterward, hop in your rental car and venture out to explore the exquisite countryside surrounding Savannah. Skidaway State Park boasts shorter trails that are perfect for hiking with a baby or toddler. Keep an eye out for dolphins in the Skidaway Narrows River if you're lucky!

Enjoying New York City with a Baby or Toddler

We embarked on a trip to New York City with our almost one-year-old, and we discovered that Manhattan is incredibly baby-friendly, contrary to what one might expect. Traveling to the Big Apple with a baby or toddler can make for a fantastic family holiday in the United States. With a baby carrier and a lightweight travel stroller, you can easily navigate the city without the need for rental cars or worrying about bulky car seats.

There are countless activities the whole family can enjoy in New York City, and finding parks for your little one to play in is a breeze. With a wide selection of family-friendly hotels and a limitless array of family-oriented attractions, NYC is undoubtedly one of the best cities to visit with toddlers. However, bear in mind that the bustling city environment may be quite stimulating for your baby or toddler, making it challenging for them to nap on-the-go.

While in NYC, don't miss the opportunity to attend a New York Yankees game with your little one and savor the unique experience of being part of the action.

North Conway: A Toddler's Paradise

After receiving several recommendations, we decided to visit North Conway, New Hampshire, with our toddler, and it turned out to be an incredible experience. There is a plethora of fantastic activities to enjoy in North Conway with toddlers. From short hikes to fun-filled days at Echo Lake and Story Land, there are endless ways to keep your little one entertained and happy during your visit.

If your family is inclined towards more active pursuits, be sure not to miss out on the best hikes in the White Mountains, specifically tailored for families with babies or toddlers.

A Memorable Trip to Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach, California, is another gem for families traveling with toddlers. With its family-friendly beach resorts, playgrounds, and exciting day trips, there is an abundance of enjoyable activities for you and your little ones in Huntington Beach.

Magical Moments at the Magic Kingdom

If you have a daughter who is obsessed with Disney Princesses, a visit to the Magic Kingdom at Disney World in Orlando, Florida, is a must. The joy of seeing your child's eyes light up when they meet their favorite princesses is priceless. Of course, the Magic Kingdom offers fun for the entire family. It is easy to explore with a toddler, although it can be a bit pricey. Keep in mind that there are certain things to know before visiting Disney World, especially if you have limited time and are traveling with a baby or toddler.

While in Orlando, consider taking a break from the Disney theme parks and enjoying an airboat ride just an hour's drive away.

Disneyland: A Magical Experience for the Whole Family

Visiting Disneyland in California with just a baby may not be worth it unless you and your family are huge Disney fans. However, if you are traveling with both a toddler and a baby, you'll find plenty of family fun at Disneyland. Before embarking on your Disneyland adventure, be sure to read the best tips for visiting Disneyland with a baby, as well as tips for enjoying Disneyland with toddlers.

Legoland: A Toddler's Dream Come True

Legoland is undeniably a special place for toddlers and is among the top destinations to visit in the USA with young children. With its abundance of small rides and play areas, you'll have no trouble keeping your toddler entertained throughout the entire day (or several days) at Legoland. Even if your toddler isn't yet into Legos, the park's smaller size compared to Disney makes it an ideal choice for young children. Parents will appreciate shorter waiting times and smaller crowds at Legoland.

Discovering Wilmington's Hidden Delights

When we decided to use Wilmington, North Carolina as a stopover during a long drive from Charleston, South Carolina to Shenandoah National Park, we had no idea what to expect. However, after spending a full day exploring Wilmington with toddlers, we regretted not having planned more time in this charming city.

Wilmington surprised us with its wealth of outdoor activities. We searched for Venus Flytraps in Carolina Beach State Park, played on the beach at the Fort Fisher Recreation Area, and embarked on an exciting Eco Tour of Masonboro Island. Furthermore, finding delicious food was a breeze in Wilmington. Although our visit was brief, we firmly believe that Wilmington is one of the best vacation spots in the USA for toddlers.

Unforgettable Times in Asheville with a Baby or Toddler

With its vibrant brewery scene, excellent restaurants, and abundant opportunities to enjoy nature, Asheville, North Carolina, should definitely be on your list of places to visit with a baby or toddler. Discover the best recommendations from a local and savor every moment in this charming and welcoming city.

Sanibel Island: A Family-Friendly Destination for Traveling with a Toddler

Sanibel Island, located in Florida, is an exceptionally family-friendly destination for those traveling with a toddler. It is a wonderful place to visit within the United States, offering a variety of attractions and amenities suitable for families. As you explore the island, you'll encounter families with children of all ages, providing an opportunity to engage in conversations and learn about the highlights of their trip.

Sanibel Island is equipped with an extensive network of bike paths, making it incredibly convenient to get around the island by bike. While having a rental car is not essential, it allows for additional exploration opportunities beyond the island.

To make the most of your experience on Sanibel Island with a toddler, consider staying at a top-notch family resort like the Sundial Resort. This resort offers a multitude of amenities, including a pool where you can spend countless hours and easy access to the beach. Additionally, there are other enjoyable activities to engage in on Sanibel Island with your toddler, including collecting seashells on the beach, visiting Ding Darling National Park, and exploring Captiva Island.

Learn more about visiting Sanibel Island with a Toddler

Exploring U.S. National Parks with a Baby or Toddler

The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking national parks, many of which are highly accessible for families traveling with a baby or toddler. These national parks boast phenomenal scenery and offer a tremendous opportunity to travel with your little ones.

If you and your family enjoy hiking, you won't want to miss these best hikes in the USA suitable for babies or toddlers.

Here are some of the top U.S. National Parks to visit with toddlers or babies:

Toddler Hikes in Arches National Park

Photo: FamilyCanTravel.comDuring our family road trip in Utah, we had the pleasure of visiting all five of the Mighty 5 National Parks. Each park offered a unique experience. For families traveling to Utah with a toddler or baby, we highly recommend visiting Zion National Park or Arches National Park with small children.

Driving through Arches National Park is an awe-inspiring experience on its own, with breathtaking vistas at every turn. However, there are several notable spots to pause and explore. We discovered a variety of toddler-friendly hikes in Arches National Park, such as the short trails leading to Landscape Arch and Sand Dune Arch. These hikes offer a wonderful opportunity for your toddler to experience hiking while also allowing time for play in the sand. Don't forget to include a stop at Double Arch and Windows Arch for additional fun.

For more tips on planning a Utah road trip with a toddler, check out this post: Utah Road Trip with a Toddler.

Discover Toddler-Friendly Hiking in Arches National Park

Zion National Park: A Fantastic Destination for Families

Photo: FamilyCanTravel.comIf you're just starting to hike with a toddler or traveling with a baby, Zion National Park is an excellent choice. This national park offers a range of options for families, including both leisurely strolls along flat, paved trails and more challenging hikes. The paved trails in particular are suitable for strollers, making it convenient to explore Zion National Park with a little one.

To enjoy stroller-friendly trails in Zion National Park, we recommend the Pa'rus Trail and the Riverside Walk. The Pa'rus Trail stretches along a long, paved path and provides stunning views. The Riverside Walk is mostly flat and takes you into the canyon, where the popular Narrows hike begins.

For those who prefer hiking with a baby carrier, there are more challenging hikes to embark on, such as the Watchman Trail.

Plan an Unforgettable Trip to Zion National Park with Kids

Joshua Tree National Park: A Kid-Friendly Wonderland

Photo: FamilyCanTravel.comJoshua Tree National Park, located in sunny California, is a perfect destination for toddlers and kids. If you have an active toddler who enjoys running and climbing, Joshua Tree National Park is an ideal place to travel within the United States.

The park offers numerous short hikes and ample opportunities for rock climbing. Take your toddler to see Skull Rock and continue along the trail toward the campground. Even better, choose to stay at one of the campgrounds, where you'll typically find rocks that are perfect for climbing.

Photo: FamilyCanTravel.comIf you're hiking in Joshua Tree National Park with a baby or a toddler in a backpack carrier, you don't have to miss out on more challenging hikes, such as the one leading to the summit of Ryan Mountain. It's important to ensure you have the appropriate toddler hiking gear before hitting the trails!

Discover the Wonders of Joshua Tree National Park with Toddlers

White Sands National Park: An Unforgettable Adventure with a Baby or Toddler

Formerly known as White Sands National Monument, White Sands National Park in New Mexico is a must-visit destination. During our family trip to New Mexico, we had the pleasure of visiting White Sands National Park with our baby and had an incredible experience. The vast expanse of soft, white sand dunes is truly a sight to behold. And don't forget to stop by a nearby pistachio farm for some deliciously flavored pistachios!

When visiting White Sands National Park, be prepared for a day of fun sliding down the sand dunes with your kids. Additionally, it's important to protect yourselves from the sun and heat, and ensure you have plenty of water.

While White Sands National Park was the highlight of our New Mexico visit, we also made stops in Roswell, Ruidoso, and Santa Fe. New Mexico offers plenty of places to create unforgettable memories during a road trip with a baby or toddler.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: A Family Destination Worth Exploring

Photo: FamilyCanTravel.comThe Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the USA, is a fantastic destination for families. With nearby tourist towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, you'll find endless opportunities for family-friendly activities. Given the multitude of options, we consider the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to be one of the best places to travel with a baby or toddler in the United States.

With toddler-friendly hikes like Clingmans Dome, chairlift rides up to Anakeesta, and visits to the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, you'll find that there's so much to do and so little time. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers an array of recreational opportunities to keep your family entertained.

Discover the Wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Toddlers

Acadia National Park: Camping Adventure with a Baby

For parents yearning to embark on a camping adventure with a baby, Acadia National Park in beautiful Maine is the perfect destination.

Acadia National Park, one of the smaller national parks in the United States, is connected to several small towns, allowing for easy relaxation after a day of hiking with your baby.

Our contributor, Christina of Niko Explores, shares invaluable insights into visiting Acadia National Park with a baby. Learn everything you need to know before your trip!

Enjoy an Unforgettable Experience in Acadia National Park with a Baby

Shenandoah National Park: A Nature Retreat for Families with Toddlers

Shenandoah National Park, situated in Virginia, offers the perfect opportunity to immerse your family in nature while enjoying hikes with toddlers.

There are numerous easy and enjoyable hikes in Shenandoah that are perfect for toddlers. Keep an eye out for wildlife during your adventures!

Explore Shenandoah National Park with Toddlers

Best destinations for traveling with a baby in the United States

Hawaii

Hawaii boasts incredible weather and stunning beaches. What sets Hawaii apart as a travel destination is its ability to accommodate everyone, including families with young children. When packing for Hawaii, make sure to bring baby-safe sunscreen and all the essential beach items. It's important to note that both Hawaii and all other destinations in the US require car seats for children. In Hawaii, you can also choose to bring a stroller or an infant carrier. The best time to visit Hawaii is from December to April when the weather is pleasant. O’ahu, in particular, is a wonderful island for families with great resorts.

Recommended accommodations in Hawaii for families with babies: Turtle Bay Resort is a secluded and laid-back resort located on the North Shore, made famous by the movie "Forgetting Sarah Marshall". It offers beach cottages just a few feet from the ocean, providing a picturesque setting for you and your baby. Another great option is Aqua Oasis, a Hawaiian-style hotel located in the heart of Waikiki beach, offering easy access to the beach, shops, and restaurants.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is known for being a family-friendly city and welcomes visitors with open arms. When visiting Minneapolis, especially during the colder seasons, it is essential to dress in layers to stay warm. The winter months are actually the best time to visit Minneapolis, as the city knows how to make winter enjoyable. Activities such as the beautiful ice palace, the holidazzle marketplace, and ice skating opportunities create a magical winter wonderland. Minneapolis is also very stroller-friendly, with some strollers specifically designed for navigating snowy sidewalks.

Recommended accommodations in Minneapolis for families with babies: The Westin Minneapolis is a lovely hotel located in the heart of downtown, offering easy access to explore the city. It features an indoor pool, hot tub, and a spacious gym, making it a great choice for families with toddlers or kids.

Seattle

Seattle, known for its coffee and high-tech hubs, is a fantastic city to visit with little ones. Public transportation is easily accessible, and taking a bus ride can be an exciting experience for your child. Seattle enjoys mild winters and the best time to visit is from June to September when the weather is wonderful. It's recommended to bring a stroller for exploring the city, although it's important to note that there are some hilly areas. Seattle offers a range of family-friendly activities such as visiting Pike Place Market, the Children's Museum, and enjoying the views from the Space Needle.

Recommended accommodations in Seattle for families with babies: The Fairmont Olympic Hotel is an elegant hotel located in the center of downtown, offering convenient access to popular attractions such as the Great Wheel and Pike Place Market. They provide cribs, high chairs, children's bathrobes, and menus to cater to families with children.

New York City

New York City offers a multitude of activities even with a baby in tow. Strollers are perfectly fine in the city, and utilizing public transportation is recommended to avoid the hassle of carrying a car seat everywhere. The best time to visit New York City is in the fall when the trees change colors, creating a beautiful atmosphere. Central Park is a must-visit destination for families, with attractions such as the Central Park Zoo, carousel, and numerous playgrounds. Other activities include visiting the Manhattan Children's Museum and taking a boat tour to see the Statue of Liberty.

Recommended accommodations in New York City for families with babies: The Four Seasons Hotel New York is a luxurious five-star hotel with an art deco style. Located in Midtown East, it offers easy access to Central Park, Madison Avenue, and other popular landmarks. Children under 18 years old can stay in the same room with their parents at no additional charge. The hotel provides amenities such as coloring books, crayons or toys, children's toiletries, and complimentary baby bottles.

Orlando

Orlando is a renowned travel destination for families with kids, including babies. The best time to visit Orlando is from March to May, as the weather is pleasant and it's not the peak tourist season. Packing for Orlando, especially when visiting popular resorts or theme parks, can be made easier by utilizing rental options for strollers and car seats. Many family-friendly resorts in Orlando cater specifically to the needs of families with kids.

Recommended accommodations in Orlando for families with babies: The Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek is a resort located near Walt Disney World, offering convenient transportation to all the parks. The resort features pools, a lazy river, and water slides. Another great option is the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, which offers a private lake, an outdoor lagoon pool with water slides, and a children's play area.

Best destinations for traveling with a baby outside the United States

Barbados

Barbados is an excellent destination for families with kids of all ages, thanks to its beautiful beaches and pleasant weather. The island is small, safe, and the locals are known for their friendliness, making it a perfect place for families with babies. When packing for Barbados, be sure to include a child-appropriate car seat, as seatbelt laws are enforced. Don't forget to bring essential beach items such as baby-friendly sunscreen, swim diapers, a beach towel, and beach toys. The best time to visit Barbados is between mid-December and April when the air is less humid and temperatures are warm. Holetown is famous for its family-friendly beaches.

Recommended accommodations in Barbados for families with babies: Colony Club by Elegant Hotels is located on the wonderful West Coast, with easy access to restaurants and other amenities. The hotel offers a bottle steamer, gloves, bowls, detergent, and sponges for washing bottles. It also provides great facilities for kids, including pools, a beach, and free watersports.

Mexico

Cancun is an excellent destination for an international trip with a baby due to its ease of travel. Traveling to Mexico from the US is relatively simple and only requires a 4-hour flight from the USA. During this time, you can entertain your child on the flight without any hassle.

Mexicans are renowned for their warm hospitality and love for children, making it a welcoming destination for families with babies. However, it is important to note that locals may want to interact with your baby by petting, playing, or touching, which may vary in your comfort level. It is recommended to be prepared for how you want to respond to these interactions.

When traveling with a formula-fed baby, it is important to use bottled water to prepare their formula. Additionally, car seat laws are not strictly enforced in Mexico, but having one is advisable for safe transportation. Planning to visit Mexico between November and March is ideal for beach lovers, as this period is outside hurricane season and offers agreeable weather conditions.

For families looking for fun places to visit in Mexico, Cancun/Mayan Riviera is highly recommended. It offers numerous family-friendly beaches and all-inclusive resorts that cater to families. Some recommended accommodations for families with babies in Mexico include the Grand Palladium Kantenah, Grand Palladium Colonial, and Grand Palladium White Sand, which are all five-star, all-inclusive resorts with a wide range of facilities and activities for children. Additionally, they provide a dedicated baby club service for children aged 1 to 3, which is a unique offering among hotels.

Visiting a Theme Park

Walt Disney World. (Photo by Summer Hull/The Points Guy)While your baby may not be tall enough to ride their first roller coaster for a few more years, there's still plenty of fun to be had at a theme park. And if you and your partner decide to take turns riding roller coasters without the baby, they won't even notice.

All joking aside, theme parks offer many benefits for babies. They provide a noisy and colorful environment that can keep babies engaged for surprisingly long periods of time. However, if your baby is sensitive to loud noises, it would be a good idea to bring noise-canceling headphones.

Additionally, theme parks are places where it's expected to see lots of kids. If your baby has a meltdown or accidentally throws your popcorn bucket at someone, you'll be surrounded by understanding parents who have likely experienced the same situations and will likely overlook it.

Selecting the Right Theme Park

Character breakfast at Topolino's Terrace at Disney's Riviera Resort. (Photo by Dia Adams/The Points Guy)It would be remiss not to mention Walt Disney World as one of the top baby-friendly vacation spots. Even if you've been to the park multiple times before, experiencing it through your baby's eyes for the first time is truly magical. To make your visit as convenient as possible, consider staying at one of Disney's on-site hotels, which offer complimentary transportation to and from the parks. Many of these hotels also have baby pools or splash pads for your little one to enjoy. If you want to capture those precious first-visit memories, you can have an artist create a hand-cut silhouette portrait of your baby at Magic Kingdom or Disney Springs, or you can visit the Disney PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs for a family portrait.

The entrance to Legoland California. (Photo courtesy of Legoland California)Even though your baby may not yet have the dexterity to build with Lego bricks, they are certainly not too young for Legoland California Resort. This park offers over a dozen attractions with no height requirement, including sand pits where they can dig for dinosaur bones, a Duplo-themed interactive playground, a Coast Cruise boat ride, and a Legoland Express train. Additionally, there is a convenient baby care center in the park where you can comfortably feed and change your baby. If you stay at the on-site hotel, you'll have easy access to your room for nap time or when you need to change your baby's clothes.

Essential Items to Bring

Considering that many theme parks are located in areas with high temperatures, it's important to be prepared. Pack a fan designed to be clipped onto your stroller to keep your baby cool. Don't forget to bring sun-protective clothing and a stylish pair of baby sunglasses to shield their eyes from the sun.

Mountain Retreat

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Wyoming. (Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Jackson Hole)What better way to stimulate your baby's developing senses than by immersing them in nature? They can breathe in the fresh mountain air, touch leaves and pinecones (and maybe even taste them), listen to birds sing in the trees, and appreciate the grandeur of nature.

Related: Best ski resorts for families in North America

While your baby explores the wonders of the natural world, you can escape the daily routine and find relaxation in a peaceful setting. If possible, choose accommodations that are spacious enough to accommodate the grandparents, providing built-in babysitting help.

Choosing the Perfect Mountain Retreat

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole in Wyoming. (Photo courtesy of Four Seasons)Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole in Teton Village, Wyoming, is a luxurious mountain lodge resort located just under 30 minutes away from Grand Teton National Park. The rooms are cozy and feature a fireplace and a furnished balcony with stunning mountain views. If you're traveling with your extended family, consider booking a residence-style room with up to five bedrooms. During your stay, take a refreshing swim in the heated outdoor pool, ride an aerial tram to the top of Rendezvous Peak, and, in the winter, enjoy a magical horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow.

Hyatt Place Keystone in Colorado. (Photo courtesy of Booking.com)Hyatt Place Keystone in Keystone, Colorado, is a fantastic starting point for your mountain adventures. Even if your adventures consist of simply relaxing in the hot tub while watching the majestic mountain views, this hotel is perfect for families. Your stay includes breakfast and coffee, which is always a welcoming sight for tired parents. Opting for a suite instead of a standard room gives you a separate bedroom where you can put your baby down for a nap while enjoying quality time together.

Essential Items to Bring

If you're planning a winter visit, don't forget to pack appropriate winter gear to keep your baby warm. While it may be adorable to see your baby in a snowsuit, most snowsuits are not safe to use in a car seat. Alternatively, you can use a car seat or stroller cover that keeps your baby warm without adding extra bulk.

Whether you're seeking a tropical getaway or an adventure in the great outdoors, there are plenty of amazing destinations to explore with your little one. From the stunning beaches of Hawaii and Palmetto Bluff to the vibrant cities of New York and Chicago, the United States offers a plethora of options for traveling with an infant. For those looking to venture outside the country, Mexico provides a perfect blend of culture and relaxation. Whether you choose to visit a theme park or embark on a mountain retreat, these destinations offer endless opportunities for making unforgettable memories with your baby. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the joy of traveling with your little one by your side.