Family Vacations that Spark Ingenuity

Summer vacation season is finally upon us. A time for rest, fun, fights over stereo control, and (hopefully) family memories that will last for years to come. But before you take your clan on a trip to see the world’s largest ball of twine, consider a trip that’s as much inspiration as it is destination. Behold: our picks for family vacation destinations guaranteed to spark ingenuity.

The Crayola Factory

Easton, Penn.

$18.99 per person (Age 3+)

Is there any smell in all the world the elicits memories of creativity better than a box of new crayons? Now imagine that smell a million times over. The Crayola Factory in Easton, Pennsylvania, is home to interactive exhibits, the world’s largest crayon, a crayon-themed playground, and of course, a glimpse at how crayons are crafted. The masters of coloring suggest devoting 3-4 hours to your visit, which will over an area bigger than a football field.

Edison & Ford Estates

Fort Meyers, Flor.

$18-30 per person depending on age (Kids 5 and Under Free)

Hidden in plain sight in suburban Florida sit two estates with one intriguing history. Its where two families shared winter vacations, a meal or two, and a lasting friendship. What made matters even more interesting is that their names were Edison and Ford. Two of the most influential inventors of all time, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford were actually good friends, too. When they needed a vacation, they journeyed to Fort Myers for some R&R as well as some legendary collaboration. See the laboratory where the inventive buddies joined Harvey Firestone for afternoons of experiments, and get up close to prototypes that shaped the future.

Hershey’s Chocolate World

Hershey, Penn.

$28+ per person

There’s something unusual in the air about Hershey, Pennsylvian, and you can literally smell it. It’s chocolate. Lots and lots of chocolate. The town named after the bar named after the world’s leading chocolatier has a lot to offer families. $28 grants a person admission to the factory, a ticket to a 4D movie, and a pass at crafting their own candy bar.

Legoland

San Diego, Cali.

$90+ per person

For the parents fielding conflicting demands for a waterpark, riding roller coasters, and spending some creative time indoors, Legoland is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. The San Diego theme park features colorful hotels, building-sized Lego creations, and a number of attractions you’d expect at a Six Flags-type amusement park. As an amusement park, admission is pricier than any other destination listed above, but the variety of activities make is well worth saving up for.