Childhood magic only lasts so long. Aside from amusement parks and water park vacations, have you pondered some creative ways to make a magical getaway while they’re still living at home?
Well, we have. And a not-so-well kept secret circulating in the parenting and travel communities these days is an incredibly cool concept of treehouse vacations. These are properties featuring actual miniature dwellings carved or built into large trees where you and your family can rest, play, rejuvenate and create a miniature adventure no one will soon forget.
Now that we’ve got your attention, how does it all work? While there are lots of cool treehouse resorts and rentals to choose from, each has its own identity and special things to offer. We’ve taken a peek into the trees from Coast to Coast to create a list of some of the best treehouse vacations to take with your family. Now, get ready for some serious fun:
Post Modern Retreat
Big Sur, CA
Architecture buffs will be in treehouse heaven at this stunning period escape nestled in the forest of Big Sur, California. Already one of the nation’s most beloved vacation destinations, you can kick it up a notch for your family by staying at one of the on-site treehouse at Post Ranch Inn. Take advantage of all this luxury Carmel-area retreat has to offer, from fine dining and extensive wine selections to the spa, yoga, guided nature walks, and so much more–all while turning in at night in a lovely treehouse that will make core memories for the littles. PS: Binoculars are on loan for all treehouse guests to make sure you enjoy the full experience!
Book Here: Post Ranch Inn
Bright & Airy
Old Fort, NC
Vacation mode will set in as soon as you step foot on this wending, yet intimate, property. The kids will absolutely lose their minds over the rope bridge that greets you and takes you to the front door of this super cool treehouse. Inside, a white, bright, and super-clean aesthetic provides a stark and lovely contrast to the deep greens and browns outside the windows. If you are all Modern Farmhouse and your kids are all Neverland Adventure, this is the treehouse for your family’s next trip.
Book Here: VRBO
Storybook Escape
Dahlonega, GA
This treehouse getaway looks plucked right out of a fairytale. The design is so charming and special, just being there will lead to hours of imaginative play and countless photo opps. For parents, this sweet escape in North Georgia offers up wineries and creative cuisine. The kids will love poking around town or taking a day trip to nearby Helen which boasts such child-friendly destinations as BabyLand General Hospital, also known as the “Cabbage Patch Factory.”
Book Here: airbnb
Castle in the Trees
Weaverville, NC
This resplendent property would be notable whether it was on land or in the sky; the fact that it’s a treehouse simply ups the ante. Guests cite warm and caring property owners who leave no detail overlooked (including heated floors), a slew of amenities to cozy-up your stay including access to a private chef, and of course the sheer magic of staying in such a beautiful home located less than ten miles from the beloved historic city of Asheville.
Book Here: VRBO
Wooded Adventure
Sanford, ME
From the moment they see the spiral staircase that greets you out front, your kiddos will be wondering what awaits you behind the little red front door of this incredible treehouse property in Maine. The interior is a feast for the wood-lover’s eyes, with natural light streaming in to illuminate the simple yet stunning wood plank detail in all of the decor. Located amongst the gorgeous natural beauty the Pine Tree State is known for, spring and summer bring kayaking, nature walks, fishing, and more… In fall the leaves are practically showing off what they’re capable of, and come winter you’ll be less than half an hour from fresh powder for a family skip trip to remember.
Book Here: airbnb
Glamping Among the Trees
Big Sur, CA
Camping dreams meet new heights with the cliffside yurts nestled among the trees at this incredible property in California. A true get-back-to-nature vacation, your home-away-from-home features ocean views and treetops right outside the windows and on your private deck. Elevated dining, coastal California charm, trail hikes, and other offerings pepper a stay that feels ripped right out of a cozy book. Dive in!
Book Here: TreeBones Resort
The Disney Way
Lake Buena Vista, FL
Forego the Mouse or just tack a few extra days onto your Disney World trip to indulge in the old world charm of this magical getaway designed for memory making. The Saratoga Springs Resort offers up a cool Victorian-style hotel, but also their treehouse villas which are a must-see. Your spacious treehouse is a great place to unwind before or after a Parks trip, but the resort itself offers plenty of cool amenities for a stand-alone vacation to enchant even the youngest guests.
Book Here: Disney World
Parents’ Dream
White Salmon, WA
Any of the treehouse vacation destinations on this list will create an awesome escape for your family, but we’re going out on a limb (hee-hee!) to give the Klickitat our parent’s choice award. First, the look is just striking. Dark wood exterior, intricately done stairways and deck, a clean and modern aesthetic make for the perfect backdrop to your family vacay. Additionally, private hiking trails, a full kitchen, and… no WiFi(!) mean you and your brood will escape and indulge in luxury and peace together. Make the most of it, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures!
Book Here: VRBO