Pack your bags and round up the kids. It’s the official season for travel, and we have a carefully curated list of destinations perfect for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re a history buff ready to travel through time or a foodie ready to chow down in a new city, we’ve hand-selected a dream destination for you, and Marriott Bonvoy has created the perfect rooms to complement your adventure.
Go Museum Hopping in Dallas, Texas
Museum hopping always makes for a great vacation, especially when there are interactive exhibits and beautiful parks nearby. Dallas boasts over 30 museums and plenty of beautiful parks with public art installations, making it ideal for family vacations or a romantic bae-cation.
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science will let you travel through time and space with exhibits that delve deep into everything from dinosaurs to space exploration. Just a half-mile from The Perot is the Dallas Museum of Art–known for its groundbreaking educational programs that kids will enjoy and globally curated art collections perfect for a sophisticated date. A short 8-minute drive from there, you can dig into your roots and history at the African American Museum of Dallas, which is one of the only museums of its kind in the Southwest.
Be sure to check each museum’s website for events and limited time exhibits when planning your trip. Thanks to Marriott Bonvoy, there will always be a conveniently located hotel perfect for your travels. Aloft Dallas Downtown and Sheraton Dallas Hotel by the Galleria offer swanky vibes and romance packages ideal for traveling couples. Families can enjoy spacious, budget-friendly suites at Residence Inn Dallas Plano/Legacy.
A Rustic Family-Friendly Vacay Wrapped In Western Luxury
Looking for family-friendly activities, restorative spa days, and a chance to reconnect with the great outdoors all in one destination? Put Aspen, Colorado on your travel list. Aspen’s stunning mountainous landscape offers breathtaking scenery and a variety of outdoor activities the entire family (including your dog) can enjoy year-round. While hitting the slopes may be the first thing that comes to mind for an Aspen family vacay, luxurious resorts like The St. Regis Aspen Resort help travelers discover the beauty of Colorado in the summer months as well. Their list of family-friendly summer activities includes hot air balloon rides, horseback riding, guided hikes, white water rafting for various experience levels and so much more.
When you’re ready to relax, St. Regis offers a well-vetted directory of qualified local childcare agencies for parents who need a break. You can use this time to soak in transformative wellness treatments at the state-of-the-art RAKxa Wellness Spa or take on more advanced outdoor activities like rock climbing, mountain biking, and off-road jeeps tours. There are also several on-site, fine-dining restaurants that make the perfect date night.
A Southwest Adventure For Big Kids Who Like To Party
South Padre Island, Texas is the ultimate destination for travelers seeking the thrill of daytime adventures without compromising on nightlife. During the day, you can embrace your inner child at Gravity Park– a beachside amusement park with the world’s tallest reverse bungee (The Rocket) and a multi-level Adult Go-Kart track. There’s also a kid’s track that offers a less adrenaline-pumping experience. If you’d rather have your thrills in the water, Beach Waterpark at Isla Blanca is a sprawling, 25-acre oceanside waterpark less than 5 miles from Courtyard South Padre Island.
As the sun sets, dive into South Padre’s lively party scene at beachside bars and lounges. Louie’s Backyard is a popular spot thanks to its Lookout Deck and Bar, fireworks on Friday summer nights, and rotation of live bands. For travelers staying at the Courtyard South Padre Island, you’ll never be more than 20 minutes away from all the action.
No worries if you stay out too late, Marriott Bonvoy members get priority late checkout so you can sleep in or have a quick breakfast before leaving.
Travel Through History In Boston
Boston offers captivating tales of American history and iconic landmarks. One of the most popular walking tours for history buffs is the Black Heritage Trail in Beacon Hill, which guides visitors through roughly 14 ships that played a pivotal role in US and African American history. This tour includes a stop at the former Abiel Smith School, which is now the home of Boston’s Museum of African American History. There’s also no shortage of cobblestone treats, old brick exteriors, and gaslight posts, fitting for one of the oldest cities in US history. Residence Inn Boston Downtown/Seaport captures some of this old-world charm with its exposed brick interiors. For a more elevated experience, complete with a stunning rooftop deck and skyline views, visit The Envoy Hotel – which was named Boston Magazine’s Best Boutique Hotel in 2017.
Take A Trip To The Foodie’s Paradise – Chicago
Take your taste buds on a trip to Chicago. The Windy City is home to more than 50 James Beard Award winners and more than 20 Michelin Star-awarded restaurants. You can plan a week’s worth of food tours without your taste buds ever getting bored. When you’re not chowing down at some of the best restaurants in the country, there are plenty of boat tours that will bless you with gorgeous city views.
Aloft Chicago Mag Mile is an affordable, vibrant, and centrally located hotel that will keep you within arm’s reach of all the city has to offer. With a spacious, lounge-like lobby complete with a pool table and café – you’ll have the perfect space to recharge and socialize after a day out on the town.
A Trip For Back-To-School Shopping… Or Your Own Fashion HaulThere is no general sales tax in Portland, Oregon. What Portland does have, however, is plenty of boutiques and large shopping districts like Nob Hill and the Pearl District. This is one of those trips where you’ll want to bring an empty suitcase. Portland’s artsy atmosphere and creative community make it a treasure trove for unique fashions. Marriott Bonvoy has partnered with Macerich Shopping Centers to offer a Sip and Shop package that gifts up to $500 in savings at participating retailers and complimentary cocktails at check-in. Book your room at Residence Inn Portland Downtown to take advantage of this package. Not to mention the rooms are bright and airy – giving you the perfect backdrop for your massive try-on haul.
Inflation is real, but so is your travel itch. Booking directly with Marriott Bonvoy gives you access to the best rooms at the best rates and their rewards program will help you unlock all the savings and perks to maximize your trip without blowing the budget. Head to the hotel booking pages linked throughout this travel guide to start planning your next dream vacation.