Some summers are just different. This is one of them. In 2026, three extraordinary events overlap in ways that won’t happen again in our lifetimes. Here’s what you need to know and where you need to go to experience it all.

1. Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday 🇺🇸

The United States turns 250 in 2026, and the celebrations will be monumental. Think parades, fireworks, and historic experiences across the country. Perfect for family trips or multi-generational vacations, these events let kids see history come alive. Key stops:

• ​Philadelphia, PA: Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, plus special bicentennial events.
• ​Washington, D.C.: National Mall celebrations, museum exhibits, and interactive experiences for teens.
• ​Boston, MA: Walking tours of historic sites with family-friendly reenactments.

2. FIFA World Cup Fever ⚽

Soccer fans, get ready! The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted in the US, Canada, and Mexico — a once-in-a-generation chance to witness the biggest soccer tournament right in North America. Family-friendly cities with great access to matches include:

• ​Dallas, TX: Stadium tours, match experiences, and kid-friendly fan zones.
• ​Miami: Beaches, nightlife for adults, family attractions, and World Cup excitement.
• ​Mexico City: Combine matches with history, markets, and food tours.

3. Hit the Road: Route 66 Anniversary 🚗
​2026 also marks the anniversary of the iconic Route 66, the “Main Street of America.” This is the perfect excuse for a family road trip where teens won’t complain. Stop for kitschy roadside attractions, historic diners, and photo ops that span generations. Suggested itinerary highlights:

• ​Chicago to St. Louis: Start your journey exploring Midwestern charm.
• ​Oklahoma City: Route 66 museums and quirky roadside stops.
• ​Santa Monica: Celebrate the end of the road with beaches and ocean views.

Pro Tip: Combine events for the ultimate summer adventure. Watch a FIFA match, then hit Route 66 with the family, ending with Fourth of July festivities. These memories are guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Where to Stay & Explore:

• Family-friendly hotels near match venues with shuttle services.
• Roadside inns and vacation rentals along Route 66.
• Downtown hotels in Philadelphia, D.C., and Boston for bicentennial events.

This is the summer to plan ahead - your kids, teens, and extended family will thank you. Don’t let 2026 pass by without creating stories to tell for the next 250 years.

Happy planning!

Kirsten