Some say a ‘family vacation’ is an oxymoron. It’s true, planning a trip that balances comfort, location, affordability, relaxation, and kid-friendly activities is no small feat. But with a bit of imagination, and some extra legroom, an amazing family vacation is easier than it seems.

For spring break getaways, summer vacations, and multigenerational family reunions, Independent Collection Hotels & Resorts offer just that: extra-spacious rooms and suites, convenient on-site dining by award-winning chefs, pool and beach amenities, fun activities for kiddos, and unforgettable memories you’ll cherish forever. 

Even better, our one-of-a-kind hotels and resorts are centrally located in some of America’s most exciting destinations. From the Florida Keys to Cape Cod, here’s where to travel for your best family vacation yet.

See the Cherry Blossoms in Washington, D.C.

If you’ve never been to Washington, D.C. during the spring, consider this your sign to change that. There’s no feeling quite like strolling through the National Mall or wandering the magnificent Sculpture Garden at the National Gallery of Art, surrounded by clear blue skies and warm, delicious sunshine.

In the springtime, D.C.’s magic is in full bloom. We’re talking about cherry blossom season, when thousands of pink-hued petals take over the District. These beautiful trees are a sight to behold and mark the beginning of D.C.’s famous Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20, 2025 – April 13, 2025), a district-wide festival with tons of family activities, live entertainment, arts and crafts, and cherry blossoms galore.

As always, D.C. is also ripe with world-class museums, historic sites, and top-rated restaurants to engage kids (and grown-ups!) in a whole new way. From the Washington National Cathedral to the International Spy Museum, there really is something for every member of the family.

Stay close to the action at Capitol Hill Hotel, a boutique D.C. hotel with residential amenities like kitchenettes, convertible sofa beds, and large closets. There are also high chairs, pack ‘n plays, and daily continental breakfast to make you feel right at home. 

As the name might suggest, this modern hotel is in the heart of Capitol Hill, known for its colorful houses, buzzy bistros, and lush green spaces. Gather the family for a bit of fresh air as you explore the nearby United States Botanic Garden, a short walk away. For a relaxing and educational afternoon, head to the Library of Congress Young Readers Center, a five-minute walk from Capitol Hill Hotel. Older kids will love covering more ground and exploring the neighborhood by bike with Capitol Hill Hotel bicycles, ready to be taken for a spin.

Traveling with teens or college kids? Consider The Morrow, a dreamy design hotel near NoMa and Union Station. Things are especially vibrant here in springtime, with cherry blossom fêtes, rooftop parties, run clubs, and pilates all on the docket. Visit in March for the official Spring Sake Festival and “Sakura at Sunset” tea ceremonies with calming meditation and cherry blossom tea (complimentary for guests). 

The Morrow is also close to famous D.C. sites, Union Market and the U.S. Capitol Building. More of an adventurous family? Cruise down the Potomac River by boat or try deep-diving into a world of knowledge at Smithsonian museums. 

After a day of adventure, mom and dad are ready to kick their feet up. The Morrow offers a menu of self-care moments to indulge and relax in the comfort of their rooms, like customized pillows for a perfect night’s sleep and cedarwood aromatherapy. (It’s the little things that count, right?) Kids haven’t been forgotten, either. The Morrow Explorers Program treats young travelers to cookies and milk each night and a backpack full of treasures to make their stay as cozy and fun as possible.

(Bonus: Both hotels offer Cherry Blossom packages with specially priced rooms and local guides to the best vantage points!)

Have a Classic New England Summer on Cape Cod

Long days with sand between your toes, fresh seafood, and cities full of history and charm — these are only some of the perks of a summer getaway in Massachusetts. From relaxing hideaways on Cape Cod to rich, historical sights in Cambridge, the diversity of Massachusetts offers a fulfilling experience for every member of the family. In the summer, the state comes to life with inviting, warm weather, a host of outdoor activities, and new adventures for curious travelers of all ages.

For the ultimate coastal getaway, book a stay at Sea Crest Beach Resort, Cape Cod’s only beachfront resort. With a host of picturesque beaches, charming villages, and stunning natural beauty, Cape Cod beckons families to spend lazy summer days playing along the shoreline. When you stay at Sea Crest, you have the coveted opportunity to step foot into the sea as soon as you wake up or watch the warm glow of the sun over North Falmouth as it sets, only steps away from your accommodations.

After working up an appetite at the beach all day, head to Streetscape, where you’ll find not one, not two, but five on-site eateries across the Sea Crest resort. Enjoy New England classics at the waterfront Lantern Room, hang by the beach with fat lobster rolls at The Hatch, grab a pepperoni pie to-go from Buzzards Bay Pizza Co., and top it off with something sweet from Captain Scoops. For anything else, there’s Old Silver Provisions, a one-stop shop for all your beach and breakfast needs.

For even more adventure, Sea Crest has you covered. There’s an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, floating Maui mats, beach volleyball, and a classic arcade – in case there weren’t enough activities. Beyond the resort, families can wander nature preserves, visit historic sites, or shop around town at local boutiques. 

The sparkling waters of Cape Cod and the legendary sunsets draw visitors to Sea Crest year after year, but so do their accommodations. No matter the type of home base you’re looking for, Sea Crest has the room, suite, or cottage that’s right for you. Explore their recently refreshed, nautical-themed guest spaces full of thoughtful amenities like free Wi-Fi, plush pillow-top beds, and mini-refrigerators. Choose from oceanfront rooms, fireplace studio suites, or even cottages that sleep up to eight guests, ensuring that you have a space that exceeds your summer vacation expectations.

Take in the Sites and Scenery in Cambridge

If beach days aren’t your cup of tea, then set your sights on Cambridge — a diverse, historic, and vibrant destination for a family trip. Get lost in streets filled with Victorian architecture, discover hubs of academic prestige at nearby universities, and spend hours on end in inspiring bookstores and libraries.

No trip to Cambridge would be complete without exploring Harvard Square — a Cambridge institution. This is where you’ll find the Harvard Museum of Natural History, a renowned museum dedicated to enhancing public understanding and appreciation of the natural world and the human place in it. From there, you can make your way toward the Charles River, where you can take in its beauty with a little adventure by renting kayaks or simply with a stroll or bike ride along its path.

When the time comes for rest and a family regroup, Freepoint Hotel is ready to welcome you. This modern, family-friendly hotel in Cambridge is minutes from downtown Boston and many exciting sites, plus famous universities (hello, Harvard!) and beautiful views of the Charles River. Even more to love, Freepoint has cozy in-room amenities to make everyone feel at home – think ultra-soft bathrobes, rainfall showers, and luxe bathing products. 

Kids getting hangry? Check out Freepoint Kitchen & Cocktails, the hotel’s on-site restaurant serving classic American fare that’s picky eater-approved. And for the grown-ups, how about a glass of Cambridge bourbon? (It’s vacation, after all…) Enjoy it all from the comfort of Freepoint’s secret garden, a quiet open-air courtyard layered in greenery, sculptural furnishings, and cozy fire pits – the perfect place for morning coffee or an afternoon read while kids are napping upstairs.

Dive Into a Winter Getaway in the Florida Keys

Winter can feel like the longest season of the year. Between wearing countless layers to keep warm and gloomy gray skies, it’s the perfect opportunity to book a cheerful family getaway and take a break from your routine. So whether you’re searching for a holiday escape or need a post-New Year vacation, shake off the winter blues with some fun-filled memories made in Florida. With vibrant cultural activities and pristine beaches, winter in Florida is unlike any other locale.

Consider Key West for your winter escape, with its laid-back atmosphere, charming streets, historic sights, and water activities. Step into a world of white sands and glimmering pools when you make Parrot Key Hotel & Villas your home base. Boasting the most spacious accommodations in Key West, each of the rooms, suites, and villas is surrounded by lush native landscaping, inviting you and your family to an intimate and comfortable hideaway.

Each of the rooms is inspired by nature and seamlessly modern, with an array of views and layouts to choose from. Once you’re settled in, head out on your first Florida adventure with the family. Consider going on a thrilling snorkeling tour, going to the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, and visiting the historic Hemingway Home and Museum. If you prefer to stay on the property, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly activities, such as beach games, poolside fun, and watersport rentals. 

Next on the agenda, be sure to take advantage of the hotel’s beach shuttle service, which conveniently transports you to and from the area’s most stunning sights, such as Old Town and Smathers Beach. There’s no better place to make lasting family memories than on the shores of the beautiful Florida Keys.

Kick Back on Miami Beach, European-Style 

Closer to the mainland, Miami Beach is just as suited for a family vacation. Foodies have their pick of famous restaurants, sunbums have their ocean, and culture-loving teens get free admission to art museums all over town. 

Miami is stacked with fun things to do, but equally great for doing nothing at all. Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club is a laid-back haven for just that. This European-inspired resort in Miami stretches across an entire city block, complete with a private beachfront dotted with daybeds and dedicated play areas for children. There’s also a pool for kids, an adult-only pool lounge, and plenty of ocean activities nearby, courtesy of Cadillac’s local partners at BouYah Watersports. Speed through waves on a jet ski, cruise around the bay on a kayak, or parasail above this Art Deco paradise. 

Families can also enjoy the hotel’s Italian chophouse, Donna Mare, snack on seafood at the Bungalow Beach Bar & Grill, or curl up with a box of French macarons from Il Merkato, a gourmet pastry cafe at the base of Cadillac Hotel – perfect for busy mornings before Miami Beach adventures. 

Start planning your next family vacation with our exclusive special offers, packed with specially-priced rooms, food and drink credits, overnight parking, and other VIP perks!