When the need for vacation is looming, you automatically start thinking of all the places you’d like to visit. The world is a big place and the options are endless, so we figured we’d help narrow the possibilities a bit. Here are 10 of our favorite, most breathtaking and unusual destinations for every family’s wish list.

1. Northern California This is home to the Redwood Forest where some of the biggest, tallest trees in the world can be found. In fact, the tree trunks are wide enough for visitors to drive or walk through! Parents may choose to sign up for group classes or hikes to learn about deforestation and climate control issues. Children are welcome to join and explore the forest’s beauty and wildlife up close and personal.

2. Zakynthos Island, Greece As a well-known summer resort, Zakynthos Island offers plenty for all ages. Kids may choose to spend their time swimming in the ocean’s crystal blue water or playing water sports,while parents luxuriate at the spa, or explore the shipwreck sunk not far from shore.

3. Hunan, China Kids will love this magical place where the film Avatar was filmed. Full of quartzite sandstone columns, caves, waterfalls and endangered wildlife, Hunan is an exploratory dream come true for all ages! Parents who aren’t afraid of heights should be sure to visit Tianmen Mountain’s Coiling Dragon Cliff skywalk that stands over 1,400 meters high!

4. Petra, Jordan Southern Jordan’s “Rose City” is a historic city and archaeological site. With its steep drop-offs, cliffs, and limited ways to travel with children (only by foot, camel, or horseback), Petra may not top this list as the most family-friendly destination. However, if you can find a way, take time to visit the tombs, temples, and columns of Bab Al-Siq.

5. Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria, Germany For the Frozen-loving kiddos, don’t miss a visit to Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle. This magical German palace seems to be pulled straight from the pages of a fairy tale and holds plenty of beauty, history and intrigue for all.

6. New Zealand While there are many exciting things for adults to do in New Zealand from adventure sports, boating, and admiring the botanical gardens, children, parents, and hobbits alike may enjoy the Waikato region’s tiny homes featured in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

7. Finland There is no better place to watch the Aurora Borealis light up the night sky than in Finland. If you and your children are starstruck (and not in the Hollywood way), Finland is a great place for a family vacation. Depending on when you visit, take the kids to Santa’s village or head to Moominworld where they can enjoy theme park rides as you admire the quaint, colorful structures and natural setting.

8. Boryeong Mud Festival, South Korea Heading to South Korea with your children may not sound like a great family vacation, but if you make it there for the Boryeong Mud Festival, you’ll see why they should tag along! While you join in on the messy fun with other adults, the little ones can have their own muddy fun in the kid’s section.

9. Rangali Island, Maldives If you visit Maldives, make sure to book your stay in an underwater hotel where marine life swims over your head at all hours of the day and night, then spend nearly every day on the beach where the kids can swim and play. Parents can rejuvenate while soaking up the sun and sipping a tasty cocktail on the sandy shorelines.

10. Antelope Park, Arizona Antelope Park is full of stunning curved rock formations that are a delight to everyone’s eyes. Park visitors have no shortage of activities, from hiking the more dangerous areas of the park (for Mom and Dad) to roping an imaginary animal and pumping water from a well (for the young ones).

If you have any questions or would like to learn about other amazing places to visit with the kids, feel free to send us an email with your inquiries. We’ll be delighted to help get you started on your next family adventure!