Life never slows down - ever.

Because of this, my family and I make it a point to make sure we’ve got some built-in time to catch our breath and reset - and one of the best ways to do this is by vacationing together.

Vacations are an excuse to spend some much-needed quality time together while taking in some gorgeous sites. They also give us a chance to check out some of the best airports in the country!

Ok, that last one was a lie. Some of them are nice though.

I’ve always made it a point to plan trips around destinations that my entire family can enjoy together - and today, I’m going to share my top five findings with you in the hopes that you and your family can start putting together the perfect vacation that you deserve!

Destination #1 - Orlando, Florida

Exciting thrills and memorable performances will immerse your family in the fairytale world of Walt Disney. It’s the perfect escape from reality, and has enough to jam pack your entire vacation without ever leaving the resort.

Seriously - my family and I spent close to five days just park-hopping and experiencing the entire thing. It’s a blast.

Not into mouse ears? Not a problem.

Orlando isn’t shy about sharing its different types of theme parks. Universal Orlando is an entire vacation in itself - between the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, timeless joy rides like E.T., and enough comic-themed attractions to satisfy even the most dedicated nerd, your family is sure to find something that they’ll love.

Destination #2 - Destin/Fort Walton Beach, Florida

If you’re looking for the perfect hideaway, far from the crowds at the Orlando theme parks, the Destin/Fort Walton Beach area in Florida is the choice.

You won’t find a more beautiful escape. We spent hours just taking in the gorgeous atmosphere of the Emerald Coast - between sight-seeing, animal watching, and boat rides, there’s plenty to do regardless of your age, especially for your family vacation.

Some of the best views of this area come from the local businesses that offer a bunch of different experiences for you to take advantage of. Checking out dolphins from afar is cool, but wouldn’t it be better if you got up close and personal with these awesome creatures?

Take it from me - my family and I took the opportunity to rent a pontoon boat and came away with piles of Instagram-worthy photos and memories to last a lifetime.

Destination #3 - Yellowstone National Park

If you’re more of the outdoorsy type, or if you’re just looking to experience something new together, Yellowstone National Park is the perfect destination to build that family camaraderie.

My kids loved Old Faithful, the legendary geyser that’s still going strong to this day! And if you’re a wildlife lover, this is the place for you. Our car actually was visited by a local Bison on our way out into the park - but I’d be quick with your camera as they don’t tend to want to stay around for long!

My advice? Skip the hotels and take advantage of one of Yellowstone’s many campsites for the true park experience.

Destination #4 - San Diego, California

From 70 miles of absolutely stunning shoreline, to tons of family-friendly attractions and experiences, San Diego stands above so many other destinations as the perfect vacation spot.

For you and the family, my suggestion is to visit one of either Mission Beach, Coronado Beach, or La Jolla Beach. We enjoyed these the best, not just for the views and the beautiful sand, but quieter crowds and more tranquil waters meant the kids could have their fun without worry.

We followed that up with a trip to the San Diego Air & Space Museum, and capped off the day with the Fleet Science Center. Really, whatever you choose to do you won’t be disappointed.

Destination #5 - Ocean City, Maryland

If you’re someone that’s looking to recreate the old charm of the traditional vacation, but still wants to have a good time, Ocean City is the perfect travel spot.

The Boardwalk will have you feeling like you hopped in a time machine and headed back to the 1950s - end to end novelty shops, picturesque sand and beachfront, and plenty of amusement rides that will provide tons of fun for hours on end.

Ocean City does a great job of giving their boardwalk that old-school feel too. Bright carnival lights line the length of it, and your kids will LOVE the retro arcades throughout the walk.

The best news? ANY of these choices would be an excellent adventure for you and your family. Use this guide as a jump-start towards your next family getaway!