Vacation Roundups

The Best Resorts with Education Adventures for Kids

Last updated 16th October 2017

Taking your kids out of school to go on vacation doesn’t have to mean they’ll be missing out on their education. Resorts across the U.S. have come up with non-traditional options to nurture those inquisitive minds. Your kids will learn about their new surroundings without ever having to sit at a desk! Here are our best picks of resorts with educational programs for kids across the country:

Acqualina Resort and Spa

Children 5 to 12 can now become marine biologists thanks to this sunny paradise’s Aquamarine program in Miami. There are seven themes for kids to explore, from coral reefs to predators of the sea. Each selection uses the latest technology to incorporate virtual learning, arts and crafts, and outdoor activities into lesson plans. They can decorate sea shells, make sock seal pups, recycle old water bottles into sea animals and even watch sea turtles nesting. Half and full day options are available, with lunch included, and kids can participate in as many or few programs as they want. The Aquamarine program is hosted in the newly renovated Children’s Center, designed to give the look and feel of being under water. If you want to check in on your child, parents and approved guests can connect to the program’s “Watch Me Grow” website for a live video feed.

The Ritz-Carlton

At almost every Ritz-Carlton there is an education program sure to fit your child’s interests. Jean-Michel Cousteau, an oceanographic explorer, teamed up with the hotel chain to create awareness about the importance of our actions on the environment. With the Ambassadors of the Environment programs kids can interact with wildlife or create in the kitchen as they learn about land, water, responsibility and culture. The program aims to focus on exploring the ecosystems in which we live. Each Ritz-Carlton location has lessons and outings related to its surroundings. Activities are arranged based on age group and children up to the age of 16 are encouraged to join in. Parents are even welcome to join their kids for select excursions and lessons.

Terranea Resort

Where else can you get up close and personal with falcons? The Aqua-Terra Adventures program gives kids hands on experiences with the flora and fauna of California in Rancho Palos Verdes. It isn’t often programs are able to explore such a wide range of nature in one area. Parents are welcome to join for family adventures hiking coastlines, hitting the surf, or plein air painting. All activities are lead by naturalists and experts in the area.

Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa

Immerse yourself in the culture of New Mexico, a state truly unique in spirit. Located between Albuquerque and Santa Fe on 500 acres of a Pueblo reserve, this resort will teach children about the native roots of the area. A can’t-miss highlight is the around-the-campfire lessons with Native American tribal members, as they tell stories and teach traditional dances. Parents are welcome to join, and even participate, in workshops using clay to make pots or metals to make jewelry. Everyone will learn something on the nature walks and be entertained as tribal members perform cultural rituals.