Has this hectic, responsibility-filled world got you frazzled? Do you wish that you could regain that innocent childlike wonder? Forget about being a grown-up and rediscover that feeling of opening a new box of crayons. Put on your superhero cape as we discover 10 trips that will make you feel like a kid again.
Get Wet and Wild at Water Country USA
Williamsburg, Virginia, USA
Water parks are not just for kids! Water Country USA is full of water slides that have twists, turns and waterfalls in the dark that are a thrill to enjoy again and again. After the thrills, relax as you meander down a lazy river on a raft or catch a wave at the largest wave pool on the East Coast. Stay a few days and head next door to Busch Gardens Colonial Williamsburg for a European-inspired theme park.
Go Back in Time at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire
Mount Hope, Pennsylvania, USA
Hear ye, hear ye! If you ever wanted to be a knight in shining armor or queen for a day, then head to the English shires of central Pennsylvania and check out the Renaissance Faire. Escape to medieval British times for music, dancing and themed shows. Enjoy the fare of over 20 royal kitchens and barter with artisan merchants peddling their handcrafted wares. Dress the part and immerse yourself in a fantasy world that is sure to have you dreaming of quaint olde days of yore!
Build Some Memories at Legoland
Billund, Denmark
Toys that you played with as a kid always bring back fond childhood memories and Legos may have been at the top of your list. Why not head to Billund, Denmark, the birthplace of LEGO, and get lost in a world built entirely out of 60 million of those building blocks. Stay at the Legoland Castle Hotel and you won’t miss any of the fun.
Board the Hogwarts Express to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Orlando, Florida, USA
If you're a fan of the Harry Potter books and films, head to Orlando and live in that magical world of Harry and his friends. Hop aboard the Hogwarts Express and experience the thrill of Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade as you sip on some Butterbeer at the Leaky Cauldron. When you return home, you will want to reread the entire series.
Explore the Magic of Disneyland
Anaheim, California, USA
There is no place like the “happiest place on Earth” to feel like a kid again. The whole Disney chain of amusement parks offer adults from all over the world a chance to be a fairytale princess like Cinderella or a cowboy like Woody from Toy Story. Experience the whimsey of the Magic Kingdom in the original Disneyland park in California. Stay at a themed Disney resort and you will regain the feeling of being a kid.
Have Fun Old-School Style at Coney Island
New York, USA
In today’s world of high-tech amusement parks, Coney Island offers a more nostalgic taste of fun. Escape the madness of Manhattan and take the N Train to the old-school amusement of Brooklyn’s storied Coney Island for some sun, sea and fun. Ride a legendary wooden coaster or walk the boardwalk along the beach while munching on a world-famous Nathan’s hot dog. Forget your cares and let your inner child out during a visit to Coney Island.
Visit an Arcade and Play Laser Tag at iPlay America
New Jersey, USA
A trip to the arcade and a game of laser tag is just what you need to forget about the adult world and get lost in an imaginary one. While there are many arcades and laser tag facilities around the world, check out iPlay America for the premier experience in laser tag. iPlay is in Freehold, New Jersey, about an hour from Philadelphia or New York City. Book an adult party and enjoy hours of fun including laser tag, 4D theaters, go-karts and a high-ropes course. Packages also include amazing food and a full-service bar.
Have a Whimsical Time at Park Güell
Barcelona, Spain
If whimsy brings out the kid in you, then head to Barcelona and check out Park Güell, a public park system that is made up of amazing gardens and weirdly colorful buildings. The park was the brainchild of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi who conceived the idea in 1900 and opened the park in 1926. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a playful urban park that features peaceful green gardens, winding paths and many playful sculptures and mosaics designed by Gaudi himself.
Explore Life Under the Sea at the Georgia Aquarium
Atlanta, Georgia, USA
If you want to experience the largest aquarium in the United States, head to Atlanta and visit the Georgia Aquarium. Immerse yourself in underwater fun and watch the incredible sea life through the largest viewing windows in the world.
Become an Astronaut at Space Camp
Huntsville, Alabama, USA
If your dream as a kid was to be an astronaut, then book a trip to Space Camp. There is a Space Camp for adults and it’s a great way to act out your childhood fantasy of going into outer space. This two-night weekend experience at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, allows you to take part in hands-on, interactive space missions and learn what it takes to be an astronaut.
