Best destinations for families to explore wildlife and history 

Restore your spirit in the natural world. Here are five places to consider.

Take to a national water trail

The National Water Trails System, a network of 22 river, lake and other waterway trails, designated as such by the U.S. Department of Interior, offers families vacation and recreational opportunities in scenic regions of the U.S. For example, New York’s Hudson River Greenway Water Trail stretches from the Adirondacks to Battery Park in Manhattan. With more than 100 designated access points and campsites approximately every 15 miles, paddlers can choose from day trips or multiday journeys along the 256-mile trail. Look forward to exploring wildlife marshes, islands and historic sites as well as nearby hiking trails. Local outfitters, guides and equipment rentals are available to enhance your trip.

More info hudsonrivergreenwaywatertrail.org

Learn about the night sky (Flagstaff, Arizona)

Expect stellar stargazing as well as the chance to tour the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, the first city to be designated a Dark Sky City by the International DarkSky Association. Visit for access to a scientific extravaganza that includes the Orbits Curiosity Zone children’s exhibit hall, the Stardust Lab Astronomy Gallery for all ages, a new rooftop planetarium, the Giovale Open Deck Observatory (with six state-of-the-art telescopes), and historical tours and exhibits. You can also see the telescope via which Pluto was discovered in the 1930s and peer through the century-old Clark Telescope. Lowell Observatory is an independent, nonprofit research institution, founded in 1894 by mathematician and astronomer Percival Lowell.

More info lowell.edu

Observe alligators and more (The Everglades, Florida)

The "river of grass" is perhaps best known for its abundant wildlife, most notably a plethora of alligators, crocodiles and colorful wading birds. Fewer visitors are aware that the 2400 square miles of protected landscape is also home to relics that date to the Cold War. In the far reaches of the park you’ll find a former U.S. Army missile site, built soon after the Cuban missile crisis, that protected South Florida from aerial attack for more than 15 years. Beginning in 2009, the now-abandoned Nike Missile Site HM — 69 opened for tours. Visitors will learn the story of its aboveground construction and visit missile sites, guard dog kennels, barracks and control centers during ranger-led tours. Check the park website for schedules and registration.

More info nps.gov/ever

Explore Southern Utah (Capitol Reef, Utah)

Have you ever explored a Waterpocket Fold? It’s a geologic monocline, described as a wrinkle on the earth, that extends almost 100 miles. You’ll find it inside Capitol Reef National Park, a lesser-known gem in south-central Utah. Stretching for 381 miles, the park treats visitors to geologic wonders similar to those found in Zion or Arches, but in a more isolated and varied setting. Visit the Fruita historic district for a window onto the world of the early Mormon settlers. Pioneer remnants include a one-room schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop and a refurbished homestead. The property also includes 19 orchards, featuring more than 3,000 fruit-laden trees. For a fresh taste treat, stop in to the 1908 Gifford homestead where fresh pies, scones and ice cream are sold in the old kitchen.

More info nps.gov/care

Tour caves in Kentucky (Mammoth Cave National Park)

This national park in the scenic hill country of south-central Kentucky preserves the world's longest known cave system and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and an International Biosphere Region. Explore some of the 400 miles of vast chambers and complex labyrinths on a variety of tours designed to appeal to multiple ages and abilities. If you are not sure spelunking is for you and your family, consider the short, small-group Introduction to Caving tour. Later enjoy camping, hiking and canoeing along the scenic Green River. Reservations are strongly recommended.

More info nps.gov/maca