200+ Attractions Across the US - Kid Friendly Edition

We’ve written about the best attractions in each state already, from the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Alabama to Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. But it’s not always easy or fun to visit these places with kids in tow. Your toddler may not care about rockets just yet and your teenager probably wants to do anything other than spend hours immersed in nature with no internet.

This list of the best attractions across the U.S. is kid focused, telling you the most fun and entertaining things you can do with your children in each state.

Alabama

If your kid loves animals and you find yourself in Alabama, you’re going to want to take them to the Alabama Safari Park. The park spans 350 acres and is home to tigers, camels, zebras, giraffes, and more. You can buy buckets of animal feed or head on over to the petting zoo to feed baby goats and other farm animals.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Alabama are the Birmingham Zoo, the Children’s Museum of the Shoals, and the Imagination Place Children’s Museum.

Alaska

Definitely go on a Northern Lights and Arctic Circle Tour if you’re traveling with teenagers. Because most of the tours happen late at night and in cold temperatures, it’s probably not suitable for toddlers but teenagers love to experience the magical light show created by nature – even if it’s just to post on Instagram.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Alaska are the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, the Denali Park Zipline Adventure, and the Anchorage Museum.

Arizona

Castles N Coasters in Phoenix is one of the main reasons why Arizona is considered such a family friendly vacation destination. This theme park is filled with rides and attractions from fun kiddie rides to heart-pumping coasters.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Arizona are the Grand Canyon Railway, the Sonora Desert Museum, and the Children’s Museum of Phoenix.

Arkansas

The Magic Springs Theme & Water Park and Hot Springs in Arkansas is perfect for kids of all ages because they have rides and attractions that cater to the entire family. Know that most of the roller coasters have a 32-inch height requirement though there are others that little ones can ride with an adult accompanying them.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Arkansas are the Museum of Discovery in Little Rock, Blanchard Springs Cavern, and the Scott Family Amazeum in Bentonville that even has a Hershey Lab where you can taste test chocolate.

California

While Disneyland and other kid-friendly theme parks in California are some of the more obvious places to visit, here are a couple you might not know about but won’t want to miss. The San Diego Zoo is the largest zoo in the world and there are lots of hands-on exhibits that kids love – they might even get to feed some of their favorite animals!

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in California are the Santa Monica Pier, Raging Waters waterpark, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Colorado

Visiting the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs is an incredible experience for kids aged three or older. It’s the only mountain zoo in the entire United States and they host tons of interactive seasonal events and even have an electric safari.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Colorado are Elitch Gardens in Denver, the WOW! Children’s Museum in Lafayette, and the Colorado Railroad Museum – especially if your kid loves trains!

Connecticut

If your little one is in their dinosaur stage where they want everything from dino pajamas to dino-shaped nuggets, take them to the Dinosaur Place at Nature’s Art Village. There are over 50 life-sized dinosaur exhibits, mazes, ziplines, and obstacle courses for people of all ages.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Connecticut are the IT Adventures Ropes Course, the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat, and the Mystic Aquarium.

Delaware

Funland in Rehoboth Beach is one of those quirky attractions that’s like a non-stop state fair at the boardwalk.  There are games, rides, and food stalls – everything that the family needs to ensure everyone has a good time.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Delaware are the Winterthur Enchanted Woods which is a fairytale come to life on a 1,000 acres, the Marshall Steam Museum, and one of my favorites – the Delaware Children’s Museum. They have tons of interactive games and exhibits such as a kids’ speedway, a mini train, and more.

Florida

Being home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, LEGOLAND, and more makes Florida the theme park capital of the world and is a haven for kids of all ages. Other than the obvious attractions though, you’re going to want to take them to the Kennedy Space Center because it will blow their minds. Not only can you wander the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and the Rocket Garden, there are astronaut training simulators and an amazing shuttle launch experience.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Florida are Biscayne National Park and the Key West

Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.

Georgia

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta has several interactive, hands-on exhibits that will thrill toddlers to 8 year olds. Their Step Up To Science permanent exhibit enhances STEM understanding and really lets kids explore their imagination.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Georgia are the Georgia Aquarium, Six Flags Over Georgia, and the World of Coca Cola.

Hawaii

The Children’s Discovery Center in Hawaii is a popular children’s attraction and gets over 200,000 visitors every year. The exhibits are really creative and engage kids up to nine years old by letting their imagination run wild.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Hawaii are the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center, Sea Life Park Hawaii, and the Honolulu Zoo.

Idaho

Idaho may not be at the top of your list of family friendly vacations destinations but the Roaring Springs Waterpark in Meridian will prove you wrong. There are multiple swimming pools, water slides, games, and more for kids from 8 months to 18 years.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Idaho are Yellowstone Bear World, Silverwoods Theme Park, and skiing at Bald Mountain (preferred for kids 5 and older).

Illinois

The Great Wolf Lodge in Illinois is one of those attractions you could visit rain or shine. The indoor waterpark is filled with endless swimming pools, water slides, play areas, and even a floating river. The kids will never want to leave.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Illinois are Six Flags Great America, Santa’s Village Azoosment Park, and the Discovery Center Museum in Rockford.

Indiana

There are tons of kid-friendly attractions in indiana and one that really stands out is the Greattimes Family Fun Park. With bumper boats, gokarts, an arcade, mini golf, a play area, and so much more, you can spend hours in there with your kids and never be bored.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Indiana are The Children’s Maze, Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, the WonderLab Science Museum, and Zip City Indy.

Iowa

One of my favorite attractions for kids in Iowa is the Living History Farm. Sitting on 500 acres, the farm portrays a village in 1875. Your kids can get hands on with these interactive historic exhibits all while learning what life was like over 150 years ago.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Iowa are the Blank Park Zoo (the train ride is fun!), the Science Center of Iowa, and the Iowa Children’s Museum.

Kansas

Exploration Place is a science museum in Wichita that is full of hands-on science and discovery programs, exhibits, live shows, films, and more. Built for children ages 5 and younger, the museum lets them experience man’s first steps on the moon, learn about survival tactics, and explore everything from the rainforests to the mountains.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Kansas are Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, Museum at Prairiefire, and the Safari Zoological Park.

Kentucky

The Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo is one of the most unique interactive animal parks I’ve ever seen. You can tour the Mammoth Onyx Cave, go mining for gems, feed the kangaroos in the outback, and walk through a cage of Lorries – one might even land on you!

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Kentucky are Dinosaur World, Explorium of Lexington, and the Newport Aquarium.

Louisiana

The Prehistoric Park in Henderson, Louisiana is a children’s amusement center that kids love, especially if they’re into dinosaurs! They can explore the park, dig for fossils, and see some life-sized dinosaur exhibits.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Louisiana are the Alexandria Zoological Park, Gone Wild Safari, and the Louisiana Children’s Museum.

Maine

While all the exhibits and theater shows make the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine the perfect outing for kids in Portland, you can find something similar in most states. Instead, the next time you’re in Maine, take your kids to a Portland Sea Dogs Baseball Game. The minor league baseball games are budget-friendly, family-friendly, and just so much fun.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Maine are seeing exotic wildlife in York’s Wild Kingdom and going on exciting rides and slides at Funtown Splashtown USA.

Maryland

The Port Discovery Children’s Museum is sure to be the highlight of any kid’s trip to Maryland! There are three floors of exhibits, all of which stimulates a child’s mind and imagination. They’ll spend hours there and never want to leave.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Maryland are the National Aquarium, Adventure Park USA, and Pirate Adventures on the Chesapeake.

Massachusetts

The VinKari Safari: Children’s Indoor Playground and Party Place in Massachusetts is perfect if you’re there with babies and toddlers. There is a large variety of toys and the play equipment and indoor playgrounds are immaculate.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Massachusetts are the Animal Adventures Family Zoo & Rescue Center,  LEGOLAND and Discovery Center Boston, and for the more adventurous, K1 Speed – Indoor Go Karts.

Michigan

Fun for teens and younger kids, Paradise Park in Michigan is an amusement park complete with an indoor arcade, laser tag, mini-golf, and a go-kart track.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Michigan are the Flint Children’s Museum, Domino’s Farms Petting Farm, and Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum which has exhibits specifically for kids.

Minnesota

The Crayola Experience Mall of America may just be one of the best attractions for children in the US. The magic of Crayola comes to life in this 60,000 square foot space. There are over 26 hands-on attractions such as naming and wrapping your own Crayola crayon, starring in your own coloring page, learning about how crayons are made, and so much more.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Minnesota are the Amazing Mirror Maze, the Minnesota Children’s Museum, and SEA LIFE.

Mississippi

The Zip’N Fun Adventure Park in Mississippi is an amusement park with attractions for both kids and adults. There are zip lines, swinging logs, skybridges, and over 50 treetop games. The adventure course will develop some core memories for your kid.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Mississippi are the Mississippi Children’s Museum, Ocean Adventures Marine Park, and the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science.

Missouri

Recommended for everyone aged 2 to 12, the Myseum in Missouri is filled with over 30 highly interactive, fun exhibits. Some of the most popular exhibits are Glo-Shapes, Alien Landscapes, an interactive video wall, a play zoo vet clinic, and even a dino dig where you never know what fossils will be uncovered.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Missouri are Bigfoot Fun Park, the Wonders Of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, and Big Joel’s Safari Petting Zoo & Educational Park.

Montana

Montana might not be at the top of your list when choosing a family vacation destination, but if you are there, make sure to stop by the Wise Wonders Science and Discovery Museum. This childrens’ museum in Billings has tons of kid-focused exhibits, weekly events, and day camps. Your child will be able to play, learn, build, and imagine the day away.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Montana are the Flippin’ Family Fun amusement center, the Children’s Museum of Montana, and The Reef Indoor Water Park which is housed inside the Big Horn Resort.

Nebraska

There are lots of water parks and adventure parks in Nebraska but the Omaha Children’s Museum is one of the most popular kid-friendly attractions in the state. There are activities and exhibits for kids of all ages and they’ll have so much fun while learning something new.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Nebraska are the Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides, the Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park, and Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.

Nevada

While Nevada is home to the adult’s playground known as Las Vegas, it’s actually full of entertaining options for kids as well. The Discovery Children’s Museum in Vegas is a learning museum with exhibits that allow kids to explore science, art, food, and more. It’s perfect for kids two and older so take your toddler there asap.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Nevada are the Uptown Jungle Fun Park, Lost Worlds Myth & Magic, and The Adventuredome Indoor Theme Park (teenagers love this last one!).

New Hampshire

Story Land is a unique theme park in New Hampshire that focuses on fairy tale and nursery rhyme themed attractions. There are live shows, rides, and so many fun things to do for kids and adults. Fairytales come to life in exhibits like the Rap-Tour Safari, the Little Dreamers Nursery Rhyme Play Area, and the Character Dinner where you can eat with Cinderella, Humpty Dumpty, and others.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in New Hampshire are the trained bear shows at Clark’s Bears, Chickster’s activity park, and the indoor amusement park, Fun World.

New Jersey

The massive Adventure Aquarium is one of the attractions that kids of all ages love the most in New Jersey. There are stingrays, hippos, and other animals to meet, as well as an underwater shark tunnel, and a 4-D experience theater. It’s sure to be an amazing experience for the entire family.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in New Jersey are the Garden State Discovery Museum, Camden Children’s Garden, and the Land of Make Believe in Hope Township.

New Mexico

Get outdoors and embrace nature in New Mexico’s Hinkle Family Fun Center. There’s rock wall climbing, bumper cars, paintball, laser tag, an arcade, and more fun for visitors of all ages.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in New Mexico are Adventure Mountain, Pillow’s Funtrackers amusement park, and the Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park.

New York

The Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling is an art museum for kids! It’s the perfect way to introduce them to curated exhibits, have their own masterpieces put on display, and even learn about interactive art and storytelling. There are tons of exhibitions and events scheduled throughout the year.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in New York are the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, Victorian Gardens Amusement Park, and the Central Park Zoo which has a petting zoo little ones love.

North Carolina

The Jungle Rapids Family Fun Water Park is one of those places where you’ll spend the entire day and you’ll want to go back again before your visit is over. There’s a great jungle gym for toddlers, a rock climbing wall, a go-kart track, playground, minigolf, bumper cars, laser tag, a swimming pool, rides, and so much more.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in North Carolina are the Wheels Fun Park, Greensboro Children’s Museum, and the Museum of Life and Science in Durham.

North Dakota

The Dakota Zoo is home to over 600 animals such as grizzly bears and tigers, so it’s no wonder that it’s a wonderful place to visit for kids of all ages. There are also lots of events and activities scheduled throughout the year – it’s sure to be a zoo experience unlike any other.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in North Dakota are the SuperSlide Amusement Park, Children’s Museum-Yunker Farm, and the Northern Air Family Fun Center.

Ohio

The Fun ‘n’ Stuff amusement center in Macedonia is an indoor and outdoor entertainment center for the entire family that has a 4.4 star rating on Google Reviews. People love all of the different activities that they offer and it’s a perfect way for the kids to spend the day tiring themselves out and enjoying their vacation.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Ohio are the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, the Magic Mountain Fun Center, and the Little Buckeye Children’s Museum.

Oklahoma

For a fun and local experience in Oklahoma that you won’t find anywhere else, visit the Orr Family Farm. The great big open space is filled with activities like balloon bouncing, tricycle racing, giant slides, hay rides, and even mini zip lines for kids – it’s adventure at its finest.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Oklahoma are Brickopolis Entertainment, Cactus Jack’s Family Fun Center, and the Oklahoma Railway Museum.

Pennsylvania

The Hands-on House Children’s Museum of Lancaster is a venue created specifically for those aged between two and ten. There are interactive exhibits, events, classes, and play areas for kids that will really get their creativity flowing.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Pennsylvania are Tiny Town, Dutch Wonderland, and the Lahey Family Fun Park.

Rhode Island

Instead of a vacation filled with museums and educational attractions only, have fun at the Adventureland Family Fun Park in Rhode Island. There is a go-kart track, batting cages, bumper boats, mini golf, an arcade, an indoor carousel, and more. Visitors of all ages will definitely have a good time.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Rhode Island are the Providence Children’s Museum, Kidz Kastle amusement park, and Carousel Village in Roger Williams Park.

South Carolina

The EdVenture Children’s Museum in South Carolina has over 350 hands-on exhibits for kids of all ages to learn and have fun with nature, science, biology, and more. It is the second largest children’s museum in the US.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in South Carolina are Frankie’s Fun Park, Fun Warehouse, and WonderWorks Myrtle Beach.

South Dakota

We all know that Old MacDonald had a farm but how many of us can say we’ve been to that farm. Old MacDonald’s Farm in Rapid City, South Dakota lets kids get up close and personal with lots of farm animals. There’s also a play area and so much more to keep the kids occupied.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in South Dakota are Storybook Island, Rushmore Tramway Adventures, and Dinosaur Park.

Tennessee

The Adventure Science Center in Nashville is a non-profit science museum with over 175 hands-on exhibits. There are interactive displays and play areas that delve in physics, biology, space, earth science, and more, while still being entertaining and fun.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Tennessee are Castle of Chaos, The Monkey’s Treehouse, and the RainForest Adventures Discovery Zoo.

Texas

The Children’s Museum in Houston is a busy family museum that has nearly five stars in Google Reviews because of how amazing it is. It’s interactive, fun, and lets kids get hands on and messy while learning about new things. If you have teenagers they might prefer the Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark which is full of slides and pools they’ll love.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Texas are the Kemah Boardwalk, the K1 Speed indoor go-kart venue, and the Fire Museum of Texas.

Utah

Ricochet Canyon in Utah is a favorite with younger kids. There are rides, activities, and attractions like the Ricochet Canyon Railroad, the Little Miner Hand Pump Cars, and a hay wagon ride with a witch. Afterward, head over to the Happy Camper Deli & Bakery for some snacks and drinks.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Utah are SeaQuest Utah where you can snorkel with stingrays and the Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum which houses the Mark Miller Subaru Express Service Exhibit where kids can learn all about working under the hood of a car.

Vermont

If you’re in Vermont on a family vacation, do not leave without visiting the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory. You can see how teddy bears are made and you can even create your very own. The teddy bears are guaranteed for life and the attraction is so nice that even 14 and 15 year olds have a good time.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Vermont are the Montshire Museum of Science, the Billings Farm & Museum, and the Vermont Toy Museum.

Virginia

The Autobahn Indoor Speedway in Virginia is a go-kart track that the older kids in your life are going to love. In addition to their thrilling go-karting races, they also have axe throwing which is something even the adults are going to want to get in on.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Virginia are the Leesburg Animal Park, Dinosaur Land, and the FunVille Playground and Cafe.

Washington

If your little one is all about the bugs and creepy crawlies, take him or her to the Bug and Reptile Museum in Navy Yard City, Washington. The kid-friendly exhibits have both live and preserved bugs – some of which they can even touch and get to know better!

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Washington are Imagine Children’s Museum, the Seattle Aquarium, and the Cat Tales Wildlife Center which is home to lions, tigers, pumas, jaguars, and more.

West Virginia

What kid doesn’t love toys – the Kruger Street Toy and Train Museum has some amazing model train layouts that operate all year long. It attracts the kids and adults alike – just bring your conductor hat along. There are also exhibits of classic toys that will make you nostalgic and let you connect with your kid over.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in West Virginia are the West Virginia State Wildlife Center, Lost World Caverns, and the Wonderment Puppet Theater.

Wisconsin

The Mt. Olympus Parks Parthenon Water and Theme Park in Wisconsin is an adventure park that has tons of activities to engage kids of all ages. There’s a dedicated indoor/ outdoor water park and a theme park filled with roller coasters and other rides. Your teenager is never going to want to get off the Hades 360 roller coaster.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Wisconsin are the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, Madison Children’s Museum, and the Tom Foolery’s Adventure Park which has a climbing wall, bowling, and a six-story ferris wheel.

Wyoming

The Jackson Hole Children’s Museum is a wonderful museum where there are lots of activities, exhibits, educational programs, and summer camps for kids of all ages. They have play areas that resemble supermarkets, veterinary offices, and so much more for kids to dive into and let their imagination run wild.

Other fun and interesting kid-friendly attractions in Wyoming are the Paul Smith Children’s Village at the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens, the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, and the National Museum of Wildlife Art which has a dedicated children’s area.

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You don’t have to stick to the usuals like Anaheim or Orlando to have fun with your kids during a family vacation. Pick any state of your choice and incorporate some of the amazing kid-friendly attractions we’ve mentioned above and everyone in the family is guaranteed to have a good time.

If you’ve already visited a couple of these places, let us know which ones and how you and your kids liked them in the comments below.

Short Infographic on 200+ Attractions Across the US – Kid-Friendly Edition:

Kid Friendly attractions in all 50 states