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Vacation Ideas for Families with Hard-to-Please Adolescents

As parents of teens, we know the challenge of finding vacation spots that cater to their unique and often hard-to-please tastes. Whether your teenager is an adrenaline junkie, a culture enthusiast, or just looking to chill, I’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll explore ten diverse destinations and their teen-friendly activities that are sure to impress even the most discerning adolescents.

1. Wisconsin Dells, WI: The Waterpark Capital

Why Wisconsin Dells? Known as the Waterpark Capital of the World, Families can stay for two weeks and still not visit all the slides. This is a paradise for teens who love water adventures.

Teen Activity: Waterpark Adventures and Ziplining
Explore the world-famous Noah’s Ark Water Park or try ziplining adventures at Wilderness Resort for an exhilarating experience. Visit Mt. Olympus, where you can take on nine-foot-tall waves. Tired of water activities you can also attempt The Wizard Quest, the first fantasy “family bonding” game in the country.

2. Porto, Portugal: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Why Porto? With its rich history and vibrant street art, Porto offers a unique European experience. This city is practically crime-free, budget friendly and small enough to be walkable. The perfect place for your teen to get a taste of independence.

Teen Activity: Douro River Cruise and Street Art Exploration
Take a budget-friendly Douro River cruise and explore the city’s colorful street art in areas like Ribeira. Visit the world famous “Harry Potter Library” – Livraria Lello.

3. Myrtle Beach, SC: Sun, Sand, and Entertainment

Why Myrtle Beach? This coastal city is a hub for beach activities and entertainment.

Teen Activity: Beach Sports and Broadway at the Beach
There are more than 50 beaches to choose from in the area. Enjoy beach volleyball or visit Broadway at the Beach for dining, shopping, and entertainment like Ripley’s Aquarium. If your teen is aspiring to join the PGA Tour, there are over 90 golf courses which host junior opens throughout the year.

4. Space Coast, FL: For the Aspiring Astronaut

Why Space Coast? The home of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, it’s a dream for space enthusiasts. Want to try something truly amazing, visit the bioluminescent lagoon for teens who are obsessed with LED lights. This area is one of the very few places where you can see this phenomenon.

Teen Activity: Kennedy Space Center and Surfing Lessons
Explore the Kennedy Space Center and take surfing lessons at Cocoa Beach.

5. Denver, CO: Outdoor Adventure and City Life

Why Denver? Denver offers a mix of urban excitement and outdoor activities, for those teens who want to play in the mountains but have big city amenities.

Teen Activity: Red Rocks Amphitheatre, City Park and more
Attend a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre and explore city parks like Confluence Park for kayaking. Take your selfie obsessed teen to the Denver Selfie Museum, where backdrops are “insta-worthy”. Capture some amazing tricks at the 60,000 square foot Denver Skate Park. Take your teen to the Denver Art Museum where kids 18 and under are free!

6. Jackson Hole, WY: Wilderness and Wildlife

Why Jackson Hole? Known for its stunning natural scenery and wildlife. Everything is within walking distance and teens can explore on their own.

Teen Activity: National Park Tours and Mountain Biking
Visit nearby National Parks like Yellowstone and go mountain biking in Teton National Forest. Rent bikes and ride 56 miles of paved paths or 115 miles of mountain bike trails with the most striking valley views.

7. Tenerife, Spain: Island Adventure

Why Tenerife? This Canary Island is known for its beaches, volcanic landscapes, and water sports.

Teen Activity: Teide National Park and Water Sports
Explore Teide National Park and enjoy water sports at beaches like Playa de las Américas. Ride the zero-gravity slide at Siam Park or head out on a quad safari to Spain’s highest village.

8. Louisville, KY: A Cultural Hub

Why Louisville? Louisville is rich in culture, history, and fun activities.

Teen Activity: Louisville Slugger Museum and Urban Exploration
Visit the Louisville Slugger Museum and explore the urban art scene in NuLu. Tech-savvy teens will enjoy a visit to Overdrive, a state-of-the-art center with racing simulators and more than 100 virtual reality games. Visit the Louisville Mega Cavern with more than 20 miles of underground tunnels and the only underground ziplines in the world.

9. Whistler, Canada: Year-Round Resort Fun

Why Whistler? Whistler is a world-renowned resort town with activities year-round.

Teen Activity: Skiing/Snowboarding and Mountain Biking
In winter, hit the slopes for skiing or snowboarding. Drop into teen group ski or snowboard lessons at Whistler Blackcomb (venue of the 2010 Olympics). Teens not wanting to partake in winter activities can hang out at the teen youth center which boasts three rooms of video games, movies, skateboarding and special events. In summer, try mountain biking on Whistler Mountain. Sign up for Summer Gravity Mountain biking camps where your teen will learn from the pros and meet other teens with like interest. Golfers 16 and under golf free with an adult on Whistler’s award-winning golf courses (discounts available for older teens).

10. Chiang Mai, Thailand: Cultural Immersion

Why Chiang Mai? Known for its rich culture and beautiful temples.

Teen Activity: Temple Hopping and Thai Cooking Classes
Explore ancient temples like Wat Phra Singh and take a Thai cooking class including a shopping trip to some of Southeast Asia’s most colorful markets. Volunteer at one of the many elephant sanctuaries. Elephant Nature Park has one-night programs open for families with kids of all ages. Schedule your trip in November and enjoy the world-famous Yi Peng Lantern Festival or go in April for Songkran, the world’s largest water fight – where weapons range from buckets to squirt guns and hoses.


Traveling with teenagers can be a rewarding experience for the whole family. By choosing destinations with activities that align with their interests, you can ensure an enjoyable and memorable vacation. From the thrill of waterparks to the allure of historical cities, each of these destinations offers something special for your family’s next adventure. Remember, involving your teens in the planning process can make the trip even more exciting for them and most importantly teach them about other cultures. These adventures will help them open their minds and learn things that books not always teach. As always, Call us to make your planning experience a walk in the park…Happy travels!

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