16 Jan 2026, Fri

You don’t need a passport at these 7 US destinations that feel international

Traveling internationally as a family is a true privilege, but not everyone can swing a journey abroad. Flights alone can put you well over budget, especially if you need to purchase multiple seats. Yet for parents who want to take their kids to a new, unfamiliar place without breaking the bank, there’s still hope. Dotted around the country are unique U.S. family vacations that feel just like a visit to another country.

Satisfy your craving for foreign landscapes and cultures with one of these seven spots for unique family vacations in the continental United States. (Note that most of these destinations also offer the chance to learn about the area’s Native American history, which shouldn’t be missed.

Why you can trust us: At FamilyVacationist, our picks are always based on our own real-world experiences, local knowledge and interviews, and in-depth analysis of travel trends. Read more about our travel recommendation methodology here.

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1. Chimayo, New Mexico
2. Solvang, California
3. Alys Beach, Florida
4. Holland, Michigan
5. 1000 Islands, New York
6. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
7. Helen, Georgia

Source:USA Today