Family summer vacations don't have to mean sweltering heat. Discover 5 cool-weather destinations perfect for travel with kids this summer.

In this episode of Family Travel Unpacked, host Melissa shares real experiences from epic family road trips and international adventures where summer temps stay comfortable. From Alaska's midnight sun and bear viewing to Iceland's glaciers, plus drivable trips through Michigan's Upper Peninsula and a NY-Canada loop through Quebec City and Niagara Falls—these destinations deliver adventure without the August misery.

Episode Highlights:

• Alaska: Dog sledding, Lake Clark bear viewing, Kenai Fjords cruise (10+ days)
• Iceland: Private glacier hiking, whale watching in Húsavík (10-11 days)
• NY & Canada: Finger Lakes to Quebec City to Toronto road trip (2 weeks)
• Michigan: Mackinac Island, Pictured Rocks, Tahquamenon Falls (10 days)
• Australia: Great Barrier Reef & Daintree Rainforest in their winter (3-4 weeks)

Plus honest budgeting tips, points & miles strategies, and age recommendations for each destination. Full itineraries and resources at thefamilyvoyage.com.

00:00 Welcome + Why Cool-Weather Summer Trips Are the Move
01:20 Destination #1: Alaska — Epic Wildlife, Long Days & Road Trip Planning
07:02 Destination #2: Iceland — Road Trip Basics, Weather & Who It’s Best For
12:28 Destination #3: New York State + Canada Road Trip Overview
16:42 Destination #4: Michigan Road Trip — Mackinac Island to the U.P.
21:05 Destination #5: Australia — A Winter-in-July Family Adventure Plan
26:30 Wrap-Up: The 5 Cool-Weather Summer Family Vacation Picks

Alaska:
Things to do in Alaska with kids
10 Day Alaska Itinerary
AK Husky Adventures
Kenai Fjords cruise

Iceland
Best Iceland Tours & Activities
Glacier Encounter - 10% off with code THEFAMILYVOYAGE10
Whale watching in Husavik

New York & Canada Road Trip
New York & Canada Road Trip Itinerary

Michigan
Michigan Road Trip Itinerary
Things to do in Munising
Things to do in Houghton

Australia
1-4 Week Australia Itineraries
How to get to Australia on miles

Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone.

Blog The Family Voyage

Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel

Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop!

Chase Sapphire credit cards