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Best of the Best Things to do 2023
Travelers' Choice
Travelers' Choice

Best of the Best Things to Do

Family-Friendly Experiences - World

We award Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best to experiences and attractions with a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from our community over a 12-month period. Each winner has passed our rigorous trust and safety standards. Fewer than 1% of Tripadvisor’s 8 million listings are awarded Best of the Best, signifying the highest level of excellence in travel.

Congrats to all of the 2023 winners and a big thanks to the travelers who made it possible.

Below are the 2023 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Family Experiences that are great for kids and the parents who tag along with them.


01.
Hilton Head Island is known as one of North America’s best spots for watching dolphins in the wild. Get out on the water and take in amazing views of these intelligent, playful creatures during this private boat tour. With a Lowcountry Master Naturalist as your captain and guide, you’ll learn all about the ecology of Hilton Head while watching the dolphins along with other wildlife including rays, sharks, and sea turtles. Just your group (up to six passengers) cruising the waters, watching dolphins eating, playing, and socializing.
Quick facts
 Duration: 1h 30m
 Ages 0-120, max of 6 per group

02.
2,305 reviews
This immersive chocolate-making experience is deal for traveling families or groups, or for rainy days. Create a unique souvenir by making your own Scottish-themed chocolate before heading to the tasting room to sample a wide selection of chocolates from both Scottish and international chocolatiers, including haggis chocolate, chili chocolate, gin chocolate and many more
Quick facts
 Duration: 1h 30m
 Ages 6-110, max of 6 per group
03.
312 reviews
Families visiting York—this is the perfect experience for children and wizard-loving adults alike. Kids will enjoy a more engaging experience exploring York's history, magic, and mystery by walking around the city with a guide dressed as a wizard. Along the way, hear jokes, watch close-up magic, and search for mythical creatures at interesting locations–such as the York Minster, and the Shambles.
Quick facts
 Duration: 1h
 Ages 0-100, max of 15 per group
04.
4,393 reviews
Access parts of Aruba that’re difficult to reach any other way on a Jeep safari tour of Arikok National Park and the Natural Pool. Discover landscapes forged by volcanic rock, stop to admire highlights such as Dos Playa Beach and Fontein Garden, and increase your chances of spotting marine life with snorkel gear.
Quick facts
 Duration: 4h 30m
 Ages 2-99, max of 9 per group
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05.
2,742 reviews
Learn to make pizza and gelato during this culinary experience on a Tuscan estate near Florence, perfect for lovers of culture and cuisine. Your professional Italian chef provides a fun hands-on cooking lesson that culminates in a 3-course feast of appetizers, pizza, and gelato, accompanied by wine and beer. Plus, you'll receive a recipe booklet to take home and practice your newfound skills.
Quick facts
 Duration: 5h
 Ages 8-99, max of 15 per group
06.
98 reviews
Explore the waters around Grand Cayman with this 4-, 6-, or 8-hour private boat charter from George Town. The 32-foot (9.5-meter) yacht can accommodate up to 12 passengers and is equipped with everything you need to enjoy your day. Alongside a local guide, see some of the most radiant reefs in the world, visit the famous Stingray City, stop for lunch at Rum point, and relax at the secluded Starfish Point.
Quick facts
 4–8 hours
 Ages 0-99, max of 12 per group
07.
107 reviews
This small, family-friendly group tour is capped at 12 people to ensure maximum interaction and learning. Hear about the gladiators who once fought on the ground you’re standing on at the Colosseum, then explore the Roman Forum, including the Senate where Julius Caesar met his untimely death. Your guide plays games and treasure hunts with the kids along the way.
Quick facts
 Duration: 2h 30m
 Ages 0-99, max of 12 per group
08.
227 reviews
Have two hours of fun in the waves of Tamarindo on this private surf lesson, suitable for all levels. Your instructors will give you plenty of instruction both in and out of the water, so there’s a very good chance you’ll catch a wave. If you don’t, you’ll receive a free second lesson. Your board is provided, so just show up ready to surf.
Quick facts
 Duration: 2h
 Ages 4-80, max of 15 per group
09.
3,678 reviews
Experience one of the best whale-sighting destinations in the world on this guided, 4-hour whale-watching cruise around the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Hop on a high-speed catamaran that gets to and from the whales in the least amount of time possible. See humpback and fin whales, plus Atlantic white-sided dolphins and harbour porpoises with the help of a naturalist guide. The on-board galley offers hot meals, snacks and beverages for purchase during the trip.
Quick facts
 Duration: 4h
 Ages 0-99, max of 10 per group
10.
415 reviews
Discover the highlights of Los Angeles on a small-group full-day tour from Anaheim. Visit famous movie and TV locales such as Hollywood's Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Sign, the Sunset Strip, Rodeo Drive, and the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills. Stop for lunch at the farmer's market, then wind down your day at Santa Monica Beach and Venice Beach. Your small-group tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from hotels Anaheim Resort Area and Buena Park.
Quick facts
 9–10 hours
 Ages 0-99, max of 14 per group
11.
152 reviews
Embark on a catamaran cruise on the turquoise waters off Punta Cana with other families for a fun day on the water. Everything is taken care of for you: use of snorkeling equipment for both kids and adults, as well as lunch (kids menu available) on board the boat and convenient round-trip transportation from your hotel.
Quick facts
 Duration: 4h
 Ages 0-99, max of 15 per group
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12.
357 reviews
Enjoy a quick sail off Australia’s southwest coast on this pirate ship adventure from Mandurah. Board this classic vessel at the island’s port and explore gorgeous canals, watch for bottlenose dolphins and enjoy marvelous views with on-board telescopes. Dress up with your favorite pirate costume, ring the ship’s bell and take a turn behind the wheel.
Quick facts
 Duration: 45m
 Ages 0-99, max of 15 per group
13.
296 reviews
Experience a marvelous mix of magic and comedy at the unforgettable Outta Control Dinner Show in Orlando. Head to the venue and grab your reserved seat for a 90-minute improv comedy performance full of energy, interaction and fun. While you watch, enjoy pizza, salad and soft drinks. Allow yourself to be swept away by the incredible performance that’ll have you rolling in the aisles! Upgrade to include admission to WonderWorks amusement park or an exciting Lazer-tag game.
Quick facts
 2–4 hours
 Ages 0-100, max of 15 per group
14.
177 reviews
Find out what it takes to be an ancient Roman gladiator at the Gladiator School of Rome. During a hands-on lesson with instructors from the Historic Group of Rome, learn how to fight with authentic weapons of the time while wearing a traditional gladiator tunic and belt. Located on the Appian Way, not far from the Colosseum, this class is a unique and interactive way to learn about ancient Roman history, sports, and culture. Select a lesson time when booking.
Quick facts
 Duration: 2h
 Ages 0-99, max of 15 per group
15.
103 reviews
Zoo Ave is an important center for animal rescue and rehabilitation, with a vast natural landscape, ornamental gardens, a large number of native and endangered species. This general admission ticket provides entry to the zoo and allows you to explore at your own pace. Learn about local wildlife, see a variety of well-cared-for animals with ample space to thrive, and observe animal rescue and rehabilitation in action.
Quick facts
 2–4 hours
 Ages 2-99, max of 15 per group
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