Plenty of families enjoy the same vacation at the beach or in the mountains every year. They pack up the kids and the car and for a week or two, head out to the surf and sand, or to the mountains. It is tradition, and grown kids will look back on the memories with fondness, even if they complain as the memories are being made. Maybe it is time for a change and may be a great time to shake things up. Instead of the same old experience, try something new and exciting. Choose an unfamiliar destination and plan a trip to see the sights and sounds of a different place. The trip can even have a theme. You may travel to the Northeast and enjoy delicious seafood and evenings on the cape. Or you can head to the Pacific Northwest and enjoy coffee, fresh fish, and Seattle modeling. Seattle models itself after larger U.S. cities, so there will be plenty to see and do. If none of these suits your fancy, consider another option.

If your family is looking for a destination that offers art, music and great cuisine then plan a trip to New Orleans, Louisiana. Following hurricane Katrina, an effort was made to rebuild the downtown portion to its former grandeur, and most believe it has been accomplished. Bourbon Street is hopping every night of the week and whether it is a gourmet meal or simple beignet you crave, you will find it. Younger children may not appreciate what New Orleans has to offer, but teens and parents will love a chance to experience Cajun culture in one of the most fascinating cities in the country.

Maybe you want to expose the family to the politics and history of the country. If this is the case, head to the Mid-Atlantic region where you can experience the Colonial, Civil War, and Revolutionary periods all just a few hours apart. A few days exploring Gettysburg will give kids a chance to learn of the battle between the north and south, and experience fascinating tales of the supernatural. Just a few hours south is Baltimore’s Ft. McHenry is where the Star Bangled Banner was written by Francis Scott Key. You can see our government in action if head south to Washington where you can see our government in action. Following that, head to Williamsburg, Virginia where you can tour villages created to be just like those during Colonial times. This is a vacation that will be jammed packed with adventure and learning. If you are concerned about boring the kids with too many lessons, schedule a day to visit Busch Garden Williamsburg, or Hershey Park in Pennsylvania. The thrill rides in either park will have them laughing and happy in no time at all.

If these cities are no appealing, there are countless other places from which to choose. Miami, San Francisco, Dallas, Denver, Chicago, and New York all feature plenty of action and cities you will want to add to your must-see list.

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