Let’s be real for a second: family travel is a beautiful, chaotic, and sometimes slightly terrifying adventure. We’ve all been there: halfway to a destination with a toddler who has decided that "Baby Shark" is the only acceptable soundtrack for the next six hours, or a teenager who hasn’t looked up from their phone since the TSA line.
As a parent and a photographer, I know the struggle. You want those "National Geographic" quality family photos, but you also just want to get through the day without a public meltdown. At Photoguides, we believe you shouldn't have to choose between keeping the peace and capturing the magic.
Whether you’re planning one of those cheap weekend getaways or a month-long international trek, here are 15 of the funnest family travel activities that are guaranteed to keep everyone entertained: and provide some killer photo opportunities.
1. Take an Aerial Tramway or Cable Car
There is something inherently exciting about being suspended hundreds of feet in the air. Places like the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway or the Table Mountain Cable Car offer a "wow" factor that silences even the rowdiest kids.
The Photo Tip: Don't just point the camera at the window. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the interior of the tram with the massive landscape outside. It tells the story of the journey. If you're looking to upgrade your kit before the trip, check out our guide on essential photography gear.
Book it here: Find Scenic Aerial Tours on Viator
2. Competitive Mini-Golf
Mini-golf is the ultimate equalizer. It’s low stakes, high fun, and the courses are usually designed with bright, vibrant colors that look incredible in photos. From mountain-themed courses in the Rockies to neon-lit indoor spots, it’s a great way to kill an afternoon.
The Photo Tip: Get low! Squat down to the height of the ball to get a "pro-golfer" perspective of your kid’s winning putt. The colorful obstacles make for great bokeh (blurred backgrounds).
3. Zoo and Wildlife Park Excursions
Zoos have come a long way. Interactive spots like the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo allow you to feed giraffes, which is a core memory in the making.
The Photo Tip: Animals move fast. Set your camera to burst mode to catch that exact second a giraffe tongue reaches for a cracker. If the lighting is tricky, you might want to look into camera reviews 2024 to see which bodies handle high ISO best.
Book it here: Reserve Zoo and Wildlife Experiences on Viator
4. Kid-Friendly "Summit" Hikes
You don't need to climb Everest to get a great view. Trails like Mesa Arch in Canyonlands or the Hole in the Rock in Phoenix are short enough for little legs but offer world-class vistas.
The Photo Tip: Use "leading lines." Let your kids walk a few yards ahead of you on the trail so the path leads the viewer's eye straight to them and the scenery.
5. Scenic Cog Railways
If your kids are obsessed with trains, a cog railway is a must. The Pikes Peak Cog Railway takes you to 14,115 feet without anyone breaking a sweat. It’s relaxing, historic, and provides panoramic views that are hard to beat.
The Photo Tip: The windows on these trains are often large. Use them to frame your subjects. If the sky is looking a bit "blah" or gray that day, you can always fix it later with our sky overlays.
6. Theme Park Festivals
While the big parks are great, look for "festival" days like those at Silver Dollar City. These events often feature street performers, unique food, and artisan crafts that offer more than just a roller coaster ride.
The Photo Tip: Candid shots are king here. Catch the look of pure joy (or terror) on their faces mid-ride or while they're eating a giant funnel cake.
7. Iconic Landmark "Silly" Shots
Instead of the standard "stand and smile" photo in front of Wrigley Field or the Marilyn Monroe statue, encourage your kids to interact with the landmark. Have them mimic the pose of a statue or look like they’re holding up a building.
The Photo Tip: Use a fast shutter speed to freeze the action if they are jumping or moving around.
8. Deep-Sea Aquariums
Rainy day? No problem. The Shedd Aquarium or SEA LIFE centers are mesmerizing. Watching a shark swim over your head in a glass tunnel is a vibe.
The Photo Tip: Turn off your flash! Flash reflects off the glass and ruins the shot (plus, it scares the fish). Put your lens right up against the glass to minimize reflections.
Book it here: Skip the line at Top Aquariums via Viator
9. Snorkeling and Beach Combing
If you’re near the coast, get the kids in the water. Whether it's the Galápagos or the Florida Keys, the underwater world is a whole new playground.
The Photo Tip: Invest in a cheap waterproof housing or a dedicated action cam. Underwater photos of kids swimming toward the camera are always a hit in the family album.
10. Interactive Science Museums
Museums like the Liberty Science Center are designed for hands-on play. They are basically giant, educational playgrounds.
The Photo Tip: The lighting in museums can be weird. Focus on the expressions of wonder on your children's faces as they interact with exhibits. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the technical side of things, our educational category has plenty of tutorials to help.
11. Miniature Train Rides
For the younger crowd, nothing beats a miniature railroad like the one at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. It’s charming, nostalgic, and much easier to manage than a full-scale locomotive.
The Photo Tip: Pan your camera. Move the camera at the same speed as the train to keep the kids in focus while the background blurs, creating a sense of motion.
12. Ferris Wheels and Piers
The Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier is a classic for a reason. You get a bird’s eye view of the city and the lake, all from the safety of a climate-controlled gondola.
The Photo Tip: Go at "Golden Hour" (the hour before sunset). The light will be soft, warm, and incredibly flattering for family portraits.
13. Tubing and Snow Play
Winter travel is underrated. Places like Woolly’s Tube Park offer high-speed fun without the steep learning curve of skiing.
The Photo Tip: Snow is bright and can trick your camera into underexposing the photo (making it look gray). Bump up your exposure compensation by +1 to keep the snow looking white and crisp.
14. Wildlife Safaris
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, a safari in Kruger National Park is life-changing. Seeing a lion or elephant in the wild is something no one in the family will ever forget. For high-stakes trips like this, you might even consider a professional photography booking experience to ensure the memories are captured perfectly.
The Photo Tip: Focus on the eyes of the animals. It creates an instant connection for the viewer.
Book it here: Book your Family Safari on Viator
15. Urban Cultural Explorations
Don’t be afraid of the city. Exploring the Maboneng Precinct or local street art districts can be a blast. It’s a giant, outdoor art gallery that kids can run around in.
The Photo Tip: Use the street art as a backdrop. Have your kids wear solid colors so they pop against the busy, colorful murals.
Final Thoughts for the Sane Parent
At the end of the day, the best family travel activity is the one that makes you smile. Don't stress the "perfect" itinerary. Some of my favorite photos aren't of the grand monuments; they’re of my kids sharing an ice cream or sleeping in the back of the car.
If you need more inspiration or want to dive deeper into the technical side of photography, browse our reviews or download our latest editing tools.
Remember: Travel is about the stories you bring home. So grab your camera, pack an extra set of batteries (and snacks!), and get out there. You’ve got this!
