Finding special places to stay has always been one of my biggest joys when it comes to travelling. And that hasn’t changed since having kids.
We still look for cool, creative and unique accommodation, and steer clear of anything bland. We look for that special something that makes you want to return.
This could be incredible hospitality at a family-run guesthouse, a creative boutique hotel that welcomes families as much as hipsters, or an incredible glamping resort out in nature.
We cover all budgets, and while we favour independents over chains, we do include bigger hotel groups when they’re doing something interesting.
Here are our guides to some of the best places to stay with kids around the world…
Our Airbnb/VRBO guides would also suit people travelling with kids.
USA: Chicago family hotels | Charleston family hotels | Florida Keys family resorts | Los Angeles kid-friendly hotels |Maine family resorts | Miami kid-friendly hotels | New England glamping | San Diego kid-friendly hotels |Savannah kid-friendly hotels | Seattle kid-friendly hotels | Vermont family resorts
EUROPE: Stylish family holidays in Europe | Caserio del Mirador, Spain | Lucknam Park, Cotswolds | Watergate Bay, Cornwall
Every Seattle hotel blog post I read is filled with soulless chain hotels, especially when it comes to Seattle family hotels, but that really doesn’t have to be the way! There’s an ever-expanding scene of creative and unique places to stay in Seattle, and many welcome families. Just because you’re travelling with kids doesn’t mean you … Read more
Our guide to the coolest kid-friendly hotels in San Diego. From stylish San Diego family resorts to hip, boutique hotels, and unique Airbnbs, we have it covered. San Diego is one of those places that people want to move to (I’ve lost count of how many people have told me this dream!). It’s among the … Read more
Glamping in New England is ideal with gorgeous lakes, coast and woodland that beckon you outdoors. Camping is always an option, but if like me, you prefer a bit more comfort, these New England glamping sites are winners. They were among our favourite and most memorable stays on our New England road trip. Let us … Read more
Los Angeles is a proper sprawl of a city with a massive range of different neighborhoods and vibes. You’ve got everything from the glitz of Beverly Hills to the eclectic madness of Venice Beach, and then every option in-between. Where you choose to stay in Los Angeles will hugely shape your impression of the city, … Read more
At Bridges and Balloons, we talk a lot about finding that elusive balance between a holiday kids enjoy and one that retains the style of travel you enjoyed pre-parenthood. Many people are put off the idea of travel altogether once they have kids, while others see package holidays as the only available “easy” option. But … Read more
Imagine a place where you wake up to mountain views and fresh croissants delivered to your door every day. Where the kids can run free, meeting new friends and petting farmyard animals. Where you spend lazy days by the pool or the sea, followed by balmy evenings enjoying meals on your balcony or group dinners … Read more
We fell head over heels for Koh Lanta, Thailand’s laidback island in the Andaman Sea where it often feels like time’s stood still. Unlike Phuket, it’s not wildly developed and you’ll only find a handful of big resorts while the rest are smaller, family-run places. There are Koh Lanta hotel options for all budgets from … Read more
We’ve just returned from a dream of a stay at Rosewood Yurt – the kind of trip that’s a tonic for the soul and feels like a rest even with little kids in tow. Starry skies, cosy mornings and days by the sea conspired for a perfect trip. Before I share all the details, I’m … Read more
Savannah is one of our favourite American cities – full of charm and with a creative thread that weaves through its streets, filled with galleries, shops and restaurants. It’s home to one of the country’s top art schools, after all. Savannah is such a family-friendly destination that we’ve written a full post on things to … Read more