Eva Darron Ocdvtgfedc0 Unsplash

Planning a family vacation can be difficult, especially if you have young children. You want to expose them to the richness and wonders of the world, but you also don’t want to have to deal with antsy, bored children.

Never fear – these cultural vacations can keep children and parents alike engaged.

The Natural History Museum in London

If you have a child who loves natural science, this is one of the best places in the world to take them. It is home to millions of specimens from all over the world, original editions of Darwin, a ton of dinosaur skeletons, and a massive blue whale skeleton that’s suspended from the roof over the entrance.

What’s more, the area is home to a popup skating rink and local food vendors in winter. It’s close to the Victoria and Albert Museum, which is one of the best resources of applied and decorative arts. Both the V&A and Natural History Museum have staff who help to develop exhibits and activities for kids. Check with them out year-round to see what’s going on.

Mask Making in Venice, Truffle Hunting in Tuscany

Get two northern Italian family getaway ideas for the price of one. Start in glorious Venice with a Ca’Macana Carnival-inspired mask-making workshop that’s perfect for kids who love arts and crafts. After a few days among Venice’s lovely canals and legendary artistic art scene, explore the Tuscan countryside’s natural beauty and culinary wonders, including Podere il Casale in Pienza, which hosts truffle hunts and cooking classes for kids.

Niagara Falls on the Canadian Border

A natural wonder, Niagara Falls is a unique destination which can be accessed from the United States or Canada. Near Buffalo, New York, and a short drive to the falls, don’t forget to pack your rain slicker. Kid friendly tours are held daily to view the falls from the water and it’s breathtaking!  The constant roar of the water and long history of the falls are something the kids will never forget. Dress in layers, since even in summertime the weather is cool and wet.

The Getty Center in Los Angeles

Finally, a fixture in the Southern California cultural scene, The Getty is home to art and artifacts from all over the world. Its collection of European and American art, lush outdoor gardens, and postmodern architecture are especially notable. However, what makes this a great trip for kids is that it’s also just 20 minutes away from the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Between the two, you’re bound to find a cultural adventure that’s fun for the whole family.

Embark on the family adventure of a lifetime with any one of these great travel opportunities for parents and kids.