Selected by Toy Tips & Parenting Hints as

"America's Top Family Vacation Locations."

When families travel together, it is important to choose destinations that will be comfortable and enjoyable for the interests of each member of the family! Over the past year, we have scouted out and visited over 46 destinations to narrow choices to accommodate the needs of traveling with a child. We hope to provide ideas and inspiration for families to plan trips that will create together-time memories for life! Reviews include hotels, resorts and destinations with attention to detail for families.

**If you have recently visited a great family vacation location and want to tell us about it, email vacationlocation@toytips.com.

The List of  "America's  Kid Tips-rated

                         Family Vacation Locations."

The Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort
San Antonio, Texas
www.hillcountry.hyatt.com

The 200-acre resort, features nature trails, a 950 foot Ramblin' River, playground, kiddie pool, sand-volleyball pit, spa for mom and dad and a first-of-its’ kind spa just for youths called the SPAhht.

Why we like it?

The property is absolutely breathtaking! It is built on a ranch in the heart of Texas country! Many Texas locals come here for their vacations so the experience allows a true look and feel of a Texan holiday. Located approximately 30 minutes from the famous San Antonio Riverwalk, there is nightlife activity and plenty of restaurants to interest all ages! The property is landscaped with beautiful flowers and trees. Many species of birds (including roadrunners!) are all around and can be found on the private nature walking trail.

Why is it appropriate for families?

There are so many things to do for all ages! The Youth SPAhht, is the first of its' kind and includes massage, facial and hair treatment services just for youths. (Children must be chaperoned by an adult) There is a separate spa for adults located in an architecturally designed barn boasting a relaxing ambiance-it even has old-fashioned rockers on the front porch and its' own swimming pool for privacy.

The Rambling River is a pool that allows age appropriate children, lapsitters or adults to float on an inner tube around a nature trail. We recommend all children wear appropriate floaties if going alone. Remember, small children under age 5 should NOT be on the inner tubes without a parent and discretion must be used.

There are l 3 restaurants located at the property. At each, the wait staff was very friendly and accommodating to our1-year old traveler! With a drink order, each child receives a sippy cup with a straw to take home as a souvenir.

What you should know:

Cribs are available for no charge when you make a reservation. Kids menus are available. An empty refrigerator is provided in each room and snacks and drinks can be purchased in the general store.

ASK FOR the RATE of $179 per night, this gives you a $25 gas credit, breakfast for 2 in the Springhouse Cafe, complimentary valet parking, 50% off golf (includes cart and range balls) and 15% off golf and spa retail products. (The code for this offer is GRDEAL:

NOTE: Summer, mid week, Sunday -Thursday nights) Valid until 8/28/03

For more information, www.hillcountry.hyatt.com

The Best Western IPG Florida
Vacation Homes
Orlando, Florida

For more information, www.bestwestern.com/prop_10317.

Located driving distance from Disney and Universal Studios, we found that staying at these homes feels more “homey” than having the mayhem of traveling and shuttling in/out of the destination parks from a single hotel room. For the price of a single hotel room, guests stay in a house complete with a kitchen, private screened swimming pool, and garage. The smallest of the homes (three bedroom) easily accommodates eight people, The four bedroom accommodates up to 10 people and the five bedroom will house up to 12 people.

Why we like it?

Unlike timeshare or other vacation ownership programs based on time limitation travel, these homes are rented just like hotel rooms with a single cost (not cost per guest) with a two night minimum stay.

Why is it appropriate for families?

Orlando is a theme-park family destination. To keep costs down, families can prepare meals and spend time together in these homes before/after visits to the theme parks. This is an ideal travel choice for large families, reunions or multiple families traveling together encouraging social interaction and a safe meeting place during the stay.

What you should know:

You will need a car! These homes are 18 miles from the airport. When booking one of these homes, go through the Best Western reservation system and upon arrival, check in at the Best Western welcome center in Clermont, FL.

They will provide you with driving directions and your housekey to the property. Maid service is available at no extra charge. However, if you would rather have privacy during your stay and choose to clean the home yourself, a 5% discount is deleted from the bill! For more information, www.bestwestern.com/prop_10317.

Hilton, Waikoloa Village
Kohala Coast, Big Island of Hawaii (Kona)
Hilton.com

Why we like it?

For families with school-age children, the BIG Island of Hawaii is a rich in history and mythology to both enjoy and learn. The island is majestic and the has 3 volcanoes that co-exist with snow-capped mountains and ancient stone altars. The driving time around the island is about 6 hours and includes waterfalls, rainforests, national parks and a beautiful ocean coast. There are 2 sides to the island, Hilo and Kona, it is worth the time to see both.

Why Is It Appropriate for Families:

There are a variety of activities for children to do including snorkeling, a175 foot water slide (child must be a minimum height), miniature golf course that resembles an executive golf course, DolphinQuest® swim with dolphins experience (child must be a minimum age, extra charge applies) and Camp Menehune (age 5-12) an adult-supervised day-time and evening program where children can capture their own Hawaiian memories. Each day includes crafts, games and water activities geared toward the theme of the day. (An extra charge applies) All 9 restaurants on the property have child-friendly meal choices.

Guest Accommodations include a variety of rooms including garden/mountain views, partial ocean views, ocean views, one bedroom suites (Ideal for families with 1-3 small children) and two bedroom suites (Ideal for larger families or families that bring a nanny)

What you should know:

This property is located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. The Pacific Ocean can be very rocky and deep. Based on daily changing water conditions, families may venture to beaches on the island for swimming in the ocean, however many do not have lifeguards. Aqua socks or water shoes are recommended. It is always smart to find out ahead of time about the locations of rock and coral and the prevalence of jellyfish, man-o'-war or other hazards.

Transportation

Getting to the resort: fly into Kona Airport (18 miles from the hotel) or drive 2 1/2 hours from Hilo Airport to the hotel. A car is recommended if you plan to travel the island and visit Volcano National Park and Parker Ranch nearby the resort. Guests can take a cruise in a mahogany boat or ride an air-conditioned tram to rooms. (no extra charge). For more information, Hilton.com

Hyatt Fisherman’s Wharf
San Francsisco, CA
Hyatt.com

Why we like it?

This property is located right in the heart of the world-famous Fisherman's Wharf , within walking distance to Pier 39, harbor cruises to visit Alcatraz, the Cannery and Ghirardelli Square. For families with children of any age, there is so much to do and see. This area is ideal for a weekend getaway or a family reunion, especially those families who enjoy fresh seafood (at the market only a few blocks away)

Why is it appropriate for families?

If possible, book the “Julia” suite, a convenient and comfortable accommodation for families to have the feel of an apartment while staying in the hotel. Complete with kitchen, dining area, wet bar, living space with comfortable couches and a television, private bedroom and large Jacuzzi bathroom, there is an adjoining room (extra room charge) should more room or privacy be needed. If this suite is not available, the regular hotel rooms are wonderful but the reason to stay here is that the property is located in the perfect area for families visiting the Wharf area.

What you should know:

The property is located across from the Powell and Mason Cable Car Line. A ride for about one mile will bring you to Union Square. If you plan to stay within the Fisherman’s Wharf area, a car is not needed. However, depending on the size of your family (with luggage), you may want to have one for convenience. There is an extra parking fee per day. A one-way taxi ride to/from the airport can run about $40.For more information: http://fishermanswharf.hyatt.com/property/index.jhtml

The Cliff House Resort and Spa

Ogunquit, Maine
www.cliffhousemaine.com

Why we like it?

This property is located on cliffs (yes,caution must be considered with families of small children) right on the ocean. The sounds of the water and waves create an ambiance that is natural, relaxing and breathtaking. This resort has been managed by the same family for 3 generations and there is an obvious atttention to every detail. The menus include local and regional ingredients such as fresh blueberries and lobster.A new spa was recently built and the services signature treatments such as a Maine Wild Rose Body Wrap or facial enhanced with Wild Maine Blueberries.

Why is it appropriate for families?

This is a location for the family looking for relaxation, pampering and some quiet time. This is a place to  play a board game, take a walk or enjoy the sightseeing in the area. Close-by, there is a small town with restaurants, art galleries and shops but there is no heavy bustle of a big city.

What you should know:

The property is on the South Coast of Maine and opens in the Spring and closes in the Fall. This is a summer based resort for relaxation and family entertainment. This is the kind of location that families come back to year after year so plan accordingly and well in advance.  Note: Some of the buildings are under renovation. Ask about noise when booking your room.