There is nothing quite like a family vacation. You will be creating memories that last a lifetime by taking your family to visit another part of the world. Deciding where to go is often the hardest decision of all. As you ponder your destination, do not forget to consider Israel, a country with a rich history and culture that spans thousands of years.

Even though Israel is a small nation, only slightly larger than New Jersey, you will be amazed at the number of places that a family will enjoy visiting. Regardless of your religious background, one cannot help but get caught up in the amazing amount of attractions and museums here. There are more than enough activities for children to enjoy, including the beaches, museums, restaurants, and historical sites. You never have to worry about anyone in the family getting bored when taking a family vacation to Israel.

It is particularly useful to know that most tourists who come to Israel take their entire families. In fact, Israel is a very child-friendly country. Many of the trails are designated as “family trails,” and there are many museums that offer many opportunities for kids to learn and have fun. There are workshops in some of the museums for kids to get involved in arts and crafts including pottery, mosaics, bread making and other activities. Kids will also be delighted to find that some of the ancient sites have mysterious tunnels and caves to explore and secret staircases to hide-a-way towers.

The Biblical Zoo in Jerusalem gives kids an opportunity to visit with some furry friends and there are also many petting zoos throughout the area. Camel rides are an amazing thrill for kids, as they sit where they can see the whole world from their camel perch. In Eilat, the whole family can swim with the dolphins on a beautiful private beach. Many of the hotels have a club just for kids where they can enjoy socializing with other young people, doing crafts and other activities together. There are plenty of spacious areas for the younger ones to run and play.

One interesting place to visit is the Eretz Israel Museum in Tel Aviv. This is actually a group of museums all clustered together into one location and name. The family could plan a whole day here, as there is so much to do. The main building shows exhibits of ancient glass and ceramic artifacts, while the folklore section features objects from Israel’s past, especially the traditions and ceremonies of their rich culture. The Tell Quasile Excavation site shows remnants of the Philistines who lived in this area in the 12th century. “Voyage through the Universe” is a simulated flight that features moving floors and special effects. Located inside the Plantetarium, this is an exciting place for kids of all ages.

Another place to visit that is enjoyable to children is Mini Israel, located east of Tel Aviv in Central Israel. This amazing replica is all of Israel condensed into only thirteen acres. Built on a 1:25 scale of the Holy Land, this area contains miniatures of 350 Israeli buildings relating to history, religion and modern life. The park area is designed in the shape of the Star of David and is divided into six sections to help tourists understand the geography of the country. There are miniatures of the cities of Caesarea and the Old City of Jerusalem, which includes the Western Wall. This is a great place to visit as you first arrive in Israel or right before you leave, as it is very close to the Ben Gurion International Airport.

The Herzliya Museum of Art features both contemporary and historical art side by side. In the museum’s educational wing there are opportunities for children to explore videos and photography and there are also workshops featuring creative activities and classes for all ages. Herzliya is on the central coast of Israel and is a part of the Tel Aviv district.

These are just a few of the family oriented places to visit in Israel. You will find the hotels in Jerusalem be family-friendly also, with many choices and varieties to choose from. Perhaps you have decided to find accommodations at a Herzliya hotel, where you will enjoy some magnificent views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Regardless of which Israel hotel you decide on, you will find your family time here to be refreshing and fun for everyone. Israel is a country that appreciates “family” and you will not be disappointed to find many activities and sites to explore. No other place on earth offers such a complete experience for family vacationers.