We all get so busy with day-to-day life that before we know it, the summer vacation is upon us, and we have to quickly figure out what to do with our kids.

Before you start bracing for the ‘I'm bored' statements, here are a few last-minute activity ideas that you can work into your summer schedule.

6 Last-Minute Ideas for Keeping Your Kids Entertained This Summer

If you want to use this upcoming summer vacation to relax and spend some quality time together as a family, here are a few destinations you may want to keep in mind. 

1. Orlando, Florida: The Ultimate Family Playground

Orlando is a no-brainer for a mini summer adventure. Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and LEGOLAND Florida are a hit with kids (and adults!) of all ages.  

Beyond the parks, you can cool off at water parks like Volcano Bay or visit interactive spots like the Crayola Experience. Plus, Orlando is only about an hour's drive from the beaches on both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, so you can easily add a beach day to your trip.

2. Seattle, Washington: Big City Fun

Seattle is an underrated gem for family travel. 

Kids will love the hands-on exhibits at the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), the Seattle Aquarium, and the famous Pike Place Market, where you can watch fishmongers tossing fish through the air.

There's also the option to take a ferry ride across Puget Sound or explore Discovery Park's hiking trails and beaches. Another huge bonus is that Seattle is a top departure port, so you can always make your kid's summer with a last-minute cruise.

3. San Diego, California: Beachy Vibes

San Diego delivers that perfect mix of sunny weather, outdoor fun, and educational activities.

Spend your days exploring the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, riding rollercoasters at Belmont Park, or checking out tide pools at Cabrillo National Monument. 

The beaches, like Coronado and La Jolla Shores, are clean, family-friendly, and perfect for sandcastle-building or gentle surfing lessons, so be sure to pack your sunscreen. Balboa Park is also highly recommended.

4. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: Smoky Mountain Magic

Located at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you'll find Gatlinburg and nearby Pigeon Forge.

If you're in the mood to explore easy mountain trails, take scenic drives, and maybe spot a black bear (from a safe distance!), this destination is great.

In town, you will find attractions such as Dollywood theme park, the Titanic Museum, and indoor attractions like WonderWorks if it rains. 

5. Hershey, Pennsylvania: A Sweet Escape

If your kids have a sweet tooth, Hershey, Pennsylvania, should be at the top of your list.

Hersheypark is packed with coasters, water rides, and games, all with a chocolate-themed twist. You can also visit Hershey's Chocolate World to make your own candy bar or take a free chocolate tour ride. 

The surrounding area is also ideal if you love a countryside holiday.

6. Bar Harbor, Maine: Rugged, Outdoor Adventures

For a cooler, more nature-focused trip, Bar Harbor and nearby Acadia National Park in Maine are unbeatable.

You and your family can bike along the famous carriage roads, hike kid-friendly trails like the Ocean Path, or explore tide pools full of starfish and crabs. Bar Harbor itself is great, too, and you can look forward to ice cream shops, lobster rolls, and whale-watching tours. 

Summer Sorted

Summer might have snuck up on you, but there's still plenty of time to make it unforgettable. These last-minute destination ideas prove that the best memories don't need months of planning.