There are two things that every parent needs to know about traveling with kids: It’s always worth it, and it never feels that way in the planning. So much of the focus devoted to planning a vacation is put on the least pleasant parts of the trip — planes, airports, costs. But we are here to remind you that the second you’re out your door, the trip takes on a joyous life all its own. There are new adventures, gentle challenges, and the incomparably rewarding experience of acclimating together to life in a new place.

In short, family travel pushes us to explore and to find comfortable new rhythms as a family. For our Family Travel Issue, we curated a list of exceptional travel experiences selected by and for parents that are worth considering. A world class culinary experience at a Colombia restaurant that’s also a kid-friendly paradise. An old-school family amusement park that’s still going strong today. A New Hampshire lodge that offers the best that mountains offer in a less daunting package. From short getaways to once-in-a-lifetime bucket list experiences, there’s something in it for every family.