✨ 11 U.S. Cities We've Explored & Loved as a Traveling Family

Real recommendations from a digital nomad family living life by design.

We’ve visited some truly amazing places across the U.S. — and these cities stood out not just for their charm, but for how they made us feel. Whether it was a perfect blend of nature and culture, a warm community vibe, or surprisingly family-friendly adventures, these places made our hearts happy.

Here are 11 of our favorite U.S. cities we’ve actually been to, with things to do, places to explore, and why we’d totally go back.

🗽 1. New York City, NY

You don’t need to be a fast-paced city person to love NYC. It’s overstimulating in the best way — with endless ways to learn, play, eat, and explore. We have 2 uncles in the city so we go there A LOT... here are a few of our favorite things to do!

Family Favorites:

• Central Park (boating, playgrounds, & world-class people-watching)

• The Museum of Natural History – perfect for worldschooling science

• The High Line – an elevated walking trail through the city

• Broadway or Off-Broadway shows – many kid-friendly options, we are huge Hamilfans!!

• Pizza from literally anywhere (but we’re partial to Joe’s)

Why we love it: It’s inspiring. Busy, yes — but also energizing and filled with possibility.

🌸 2. Savannah, GA

Savannah feels like stepping into another era. Spanish moss, historic squares, and that delicious, sleepy-Southern charm.

Family Favorites:

• Bonaventure Cemetery – a quiet, beautiful walk filled with history.

• Old Town Trolley Tour – fun way to learn the city without walking far

• Forsyth Park – iconic fountain, huge playground. Great for pictures!

• Ghost tours – yes, even for kids! (We did one and loved it)

• Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room –(pictured above) a family-style Southern food experience that will guarantee you will come back every visit. Completely worth the 2 hour line! Located on Jones St, they are only open 11-2. Come early and often :)

Why we love it: Walkable, slow-paced, and packed with personality. It’s a city that invites lingering.

Book reccommendation: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil: A Savannah Story... SO Good!!

🌊 3. San Diego, CA

I think it means Saint Diego... for those who appreciate the Anchorman reference. Sunshine, surf, and smiles — San Diego is California at its most family-friendly. None of the LA drama, but all of the fun in the sun!

Family Favorites:

• La Jolla Cove – watch sea lions + tide pool exploring

• Balboa Park – museums, gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo

• Coronado Island – beach day + ice cream heaven

• Sunset Cliffs – a must at golden hour- See the Green Flash!

• Taco Tuesday everywhere 🌮

Why we love it: The weather is near perfect, and everything feels designed with families in mind. Breezy and beautiful.

🌴 4. Charleston, SC

If Savannah is dreamy and romantic, Charleston is elegant and graceful. Gorgeous homes, amazing seafood, and a deep, layered history.

Family Favorites:

• Waterfront Park – splash pad + iconic pineapple fountain

• Folly Beach or Isle of Palms – great for low-key beach days

• Carriage rides through the historic district

• Charleston City Market – local art + Southern treats

• Fort Sumter – great for history-loving kids (or grown-ups)

Why we love it: A beautiful mix of beach days and historic discovery.

☕ 5. Portland, OR

Portland is weird in the best possible way. Green, gritty, and overflowing with creativity.

Family Favorites:

• Washington Park – home to a zoo, gardens, and great trails

• Saturday Market – quirky crafts + food trucks galore

• Powell’s City of Books – a dreamy worldschooling stop

• Multnomah Falls – just a short drive out of the city

• Voodoo Doughnut – because of course

Why we love it: It embraces its weirdness, and the nature nearby is unreal.

🌆 6. Chicago, IL

Chicago gives big-city energy without the NYC overwhelm. It’s artsy, urban, and beautifully situated by the lake.

Family Favorites:

• Millennium Park – Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) + outdoor concerts

• Navy Pier – rides, food, and boat tours

• Chicago Children’s Museum

• Architecture river cruise – surprisingly fun for all ages

• Deep dish pizza – you’ve got to try it once

Why we love it: Friendly Midwestern vibes with world-class culture and views.

🎷 7. New Orleans, LA

Beyond Bourbon Street lies one of the most vibrant cities we’ve ever experienced — full of culture, music, and magic. We don't drink, but when I did I would love a Pimms cup in NOLA!

Family Favorites:

• French Market + beignets at Café du Monde

• Street musicians in the French Quarter

• The Garden District – beautiful homes + easy streetcar rides

• Audubon Aquarium + Insectarium

• Ghost & history tours (kid-appropriate versions available)

Why we love it: It’s a sensory experience — food, music, history, and color all in one place.

Book Recommendation: The Witching Hour by Anne Rice

🏜️ 8. Sedona, AZ

Sedona feels sacred. The red rocks, the peaceful energy, and the access to nature make it ideal for grounding and connecting.

Family Favorites:

• Cathedral Rock + Bell Rock hikes (easy family trails available)

• Chapel of the Holy Cross – built into the rocks

• Stargazing – Sedona has some of the clearest night skies

• Crystal shops + art galleries – lots of interactive pieces for kids

• Slide Rock State Park – natural water slides in the rocks!

Why we love it: Nature + peace + magic. A must-visit if you want to reconnect.

🏔️ 9. Denver, CO

Denver blends city life with mountain adventure. It's clean, creative, and full of open skies.

Family Favorites:

• Union Station – restored and packed with food, shops, and energy

• Denver Museum of Nature & Science

• Botanic Gardens + Cherry Creek Trail

• Day trips to Boulder or Rocky Mountain National Park

• Lots of great parks, playgrounds, and coffee shops with Wi-Fi

Why we love it: It’s ideal for remote work + day hikes — and very family-friendly.

🌵 10. Palm Springs, CA

Mid-century modern meets desert magic. Palm Springs is chic, sunny, and full of hidden gems.

Family Favorites:

• Aerial Tramway up to Mt. San Jacinto – epic views

• Pool time (almost everywhere) – most rentals have one

• The Living Desert Zoo + Gardens – underrated and fun

• Joshua Tree National Park (short drive)

• Shops and murals in downtown Palm Springs

Why we love it: Relaxed desert vibes + just enough to do. A great recharge destination.

🌻 11. Grand Rapids, MI

A Midwest gem that surprised us with its creativity, community, and green spaces.

Family Favorites:

• Frederik Meijer Gardens – botanical gardens + sculpture park

• The Children’s Museum – super interactive

• Downtown Market – great for worldschooling foodies

• Walks along the Grand River

• Easy drive to Lake Michigan beaches

Why we love it: One of our favorite cities in our home state! It’s low-key and authentic. A great “home base” kind of city. We love Art Prize which takes place in late September. A must do in GR.

🧳 Final Thoughts

These aren’t just destinations — they’re chapters in our family’s story. Every city gave us new perspectives, deeper connections, and some unforgettable lessons along the way.

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