Date Published: July 2026
Summer is a unique season in the mortgage industry. Phones seem a little quieter, email response times get a little longer, and recruiting conversations often take a back seat as loan officers, executives, and referral partners spend time with their families. For recruiters, it’s one of the most challenging times of the year to connect with top talent—not because people aren’t interested, but because they’re enjoying well-earned summer vacations. Rather than fighting the seasonal slowdown, it’s a great reminder that everyone needs time to step away, recharge, and create lasting memories. After all, the mortgage industry is built on relationships, but it’s also built on people—and people need time away from the daily grind.
As families begin planning their 2026 getaways, several destinations are standing out for offering the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and experiences that appeal to both kids and adults. Here are ten of the best family vacation destinations to consider this year.
1. Orlando, Florida
It’s no surprise that Orlando remains the gold standard for family vacations. With Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort—including the new Epic Universe—and LEGOLAND Florida, families can easily fill an entire week with unforgettable experiences. The city continues to evolve, making it an ideal destination for both first-time visitors and returning families.
2. Costa Rica
Families looking for something beyond amusement parks are increasingly choosing Costa Rica. Imagine spotting sloths in the rainforest, walking across hanging bridges, ziplining through the jungle, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and exploring active volcanoes—all in one trip. It’s an incredible opportunity for children to experience nature firsthand while creating memories they’ll never forget.
3. Japan
Japan has become one of the world’s most exciting family destinations. From Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea to riding the famous bullet train and exploring centuries-old temples, Japan blends modern entertainment with rich cultural experiences. It’s remarkably clean, safe, and welcoming, making it an excellent choice for adventurous families.
4. Yellowstone National Park
Sometimes the best vacations don’t require passport stamps. Yellowstone offers families the chance to disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature. Watching Old Faithful erupt, spotting bison and elk, hiking scenic trails, and earning Junior Ranger badges make this an unforgettable educational adventure.
5. Maui, Hawaii
If your family is craving a slower pace, Maui delivers. Beautiful beaches, snorkeling with sea turtles, scenic drives along the Road to Hana, and unforgettable sunsets create the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration. It’s a destination where both parents and children can truly unwind.
6. Washington, D.C.
One of America’s best values for family travel, Washington, D.C., offers world-class museums, historic landmarks, and the National Zoo—many of them completely free. It’s the perfect blend of education and entertainment, especially for school-aged children who can experience history beyond the pages of a textbook.
7. San Diego, California
With near-perfect weather year-round, San Diego checks nearly every box for families. Spend the morning at the world-famous San Diego Zoo, the afternoon building sandcastles at Coronado Beach, and another day exploring LEGOLAND California. The city’s laid-back atmosphere makes vacationing feel effortless.
Bonus: For those with a love for the Supernatural, the Hotel Del Coronado has long been established as one of the most haunted hotels in the U.S.
8. Italy
Italy may surprise many families by how welcoming it is to travelers with children. Whether enjoying authentic pizza in Rome, cruising through Venice, exploring the rolling hills of Tuscany, or relaxing near Lake Garda, Italy offers an ideal combination of history, culture, incredible food, and unforgettable scenery.
9. Alaska
For families seeking something truly different, Alaska delivers once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Glacier cruises, whale watching, wildlife encounters, scenic railroads, and visits to Denali National Park create adventures that children—and adults—will talk about for years.
10. Carlsbad, California
Often overshadowed by larger California destinations, Carlsbad has quietly become one of the country’s best family vacation spots. With beautiful beaches, LEGOLAND California, a charming downtown, and a relaxed coastal vibe, it’s an ideal destination for families with younger children.
Why Taking Time Away Matters
The mortgage business rarely slows down. There is always another loan to close, another recruiting call to make, another market update to analyze, and another client who needs your attention. It’s easy to convince yourself that this is the year to skip vacation.
But the truth is, the best professionals understand that long-term success requires balance. Taking time to recharge doesn’t diminish productivity—it often enhances it. Stepping away allows you to return with renewed energy, fresh perspective, and a greater appreciation for the work you do and the people you do it for.
At the end of the day, mortgages help people build lives and create memories in the homes they love. It’s only fitting that we take time to create some unforgettable memories with our own families as well.
Where are you going on your next vacation?
By: Mary Newberry
