There’s nothing quite like a family trip, especially when the kids are still kids. Journeys together can form some of the most cherished memories that bind together the different generations of one family. Sure, it’s been satirized and derided to death (see most of the Vacation movies and some of the best episodes of The Simpsons), but a family vacation is (rightfully so) still an honored tradition.

So with that in mind here are our top five suggestions of memorable trips that families can take together:

Go to Disney World or Disneyland

Seriously, how could we NOT put this on the list?! A Disney destination is designed and created specifically for families, so it’s PERFECT for a family trip (which is probably why Walt Disney Parks and Resorts is the most visited theme park company in the world). There are currently six Disney resorts worldwide, but the most famous (of course) are Disney World and Disneyland. Disneyland in Southern California has the distinction of being the first Disney theme park (and the only one designed and built by Walt Disney himself) and features eight themed “lands”, while Florida’s Disney World is made of four different theme parks (along with two water parks). Both feature rides, food, live entertainment (including actors playing Disney’s iconic characters), and a host of other attractions that are too long to list here. Basically, there’s something for everyone and their families at a Disney resort.

Visit Washington D.C.

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Traveling to the nation’s capital at least once is a must for pretty much every American. And while some kids (as well as adults) may roll their eyes at all the history on display via monuments and museums, there is still something for everyone – regardless of their interests – to see. From the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum to tours of FBI headquarters, there’s sure to be something that will grab any child’s imagination (no matter their age). And the best part? A lot of it is free or pretty inexpensive to see and visit.

Camp in a National Park

If you’re looking for a cost-effective family trip, then you should consider taking a camping trip in one of America’s famous national parks. For over a hundred years, the United States has set aside and maintained areas of wilderness “to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and wildlife” so that they may be “unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations”. There are 59 national parks and majority of them have campgrounds that can be as low as $10 a night for those staying in a tent (the prices get much higher for guests using RVs). Just be sure to make a reservation beforehand.

Take a Family Cruise

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By their very nature, cruises are perfect for family trips. A single fee can take care of  food, lodgings, activities and traveling to exotic locations. Parents and kids can not only spend some quality time together, but also get some much-needed alone time – cruise lines now offer a host of diversions to keep kids busy along with fun group activities that everyone can do together. And let’s not forget, you’re often sailing off to somewhere fun and amazing to visit!

Hit the Road

A road trip is the quintessential American family trip. Packed in a car, heading out along the highway to one destination after another is like no other travel experience. Of course, in today’s digital age with smartphones and tablets, kids aren’t as annoyed by long car trips as they used to be (or annoying to those behind the wheel). Just be sure that the destinations along the route include something for everyone in the car to enjoy…or they’ll just stay on their phones. Then again…     

What’s your most memorable family trip? Tell us in the comments below!