Sneaky Summer Vacation Locales With Educational Fun

Just because school is out doesn’t mean the kids will necessarily stop learning. You can easily sneak in some brain-stimulating fun and excitement with a well-planned family vacation — just check out this list of vacation destinations with built-in educational activities the kids won’t mind (or notice).

Scuba in St. Croix

Scuba Diving in St. Croix

Enjoy all the luxury, Caribbean views and relaxation of St. Croix, but with an educational twist for kids at The Buccaneer. This family-owned resort has graced the region for more than 70 years and boasts some of the best offers for summer. Located on 340 acres of tropical landscape, The Buccaneer offers activities for all ages, levels of experience and interests. Recline on the beach with a cocktail in hand, or join the kids for some instructor-led classes and lessons, including the Learn to Scuba class. Lessons are available, in partnership with St. Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventure, for children aged 10 and older and included in the nightly rate of a resort stay. Nightly rates begin at $315 per room.

Building 101 in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

When you think of a beach vacation, you might not have an image of Alabama’s shores in mind, which is what makes the less-traveled sands worth a trip. That, and the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are truly stunning. With more than 30 miles of sandy white beaches and the crystal-blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, families can book a stay with the Lodge at Gulf State Park (rates beginning at $248 a night) and add on a session in Sand Castle 101. With the help of the experts at Sand Castle University, guests can choose various levels of building sessions here.

Golfing in Cooperstown

Less beachy, woodsier — Cooperstown, New York, rests in the Northern Catskill Mountains and offers a quaint reprieve for your nature-loving family. Stay on the calm shores of Otesaga Lake at the Otesaga Resort Hotel, offering easy access to the resort’s award-winning Leatherstocking Golf Course. Teach the kids to tee up at the Junior Golf Clinic, with lessons available for golfers ages 16 and younger. Just go for the day with sessions beginning at $20 per participant, or make it an overnight stay, beginning at $300 a night.

Check out more fun and active family vacation ideas for the summer. With educational elements built into every trip, all that’s left to do is choose a destination.