Top 10 Vacation Activites for Teens

Some of the best times that our family has had, were when our kids hit their teens years and we took vacations together. When you plan a family vacation, sit down together as a team and discuss everyone's favorite activities. See if you can incorporate a little of what everyone enjoys into your family hiatus! A little planning goes a long way.

Our teens said that doing something out of the ordinary is what made our vacations so special. Here is our short list of our favorite 10 activities:

1. Good Food. This is not understated. Our kids said that good food added to the thrill of vacationing!

2. Entertainment. This can come in the form of Theme Parks and Imax Movies, or just movies rented to watch during your condo or hotel stay.

3. Boating, water skiing and tubing. Our kids have great memories of the year we rented a boat for the day. It was a $250 day, but we all had a blast.

4. Snorkeling. If you're planning to be near the ocean, make sure everyone has a mask and snorkel. This can make beach time an awesome experience!

5. Camping, hiking and rock-climbing. If you're the camping-type of family, be sure and research the different areas that offer hiking and rock-climbing. This can be an incredible family-building time.

6. Spelunking. Our family had the privilege to explore several wild caves with their owners. We actually took our 4 year old, along with our teens, and she did great. We showed no fear, so she just followed course!

7. Canoeing and kayaking. Again, research the areas where you can rent the equipment. Don't make the mistake, however, of planning a trip that is too long. We once took a nearly 20 mile trip, and not everyone was happy about how difficult it was.

8. Snowboarding and snow-skiing. This takes a lot of planning and equipment, but what a great vacation if you can pull it off!

9. Historical sites. Almost everywhere you visit, there are historical sites that your family can visit and learn about together.

10. Museums. There are art and historical museums in nearly every town and many of them are free!

Be sure and take advantage of sites like yahoo travel reviews and national & state park sites. Do a search for the general areas you plan to visit and maximize the favorite hot spots! It's amazing what you can find to do.

Most of all, vacations are meant to strengthen family ties. Find ways to spend time together that everyone can enjoy.