70 Best Family Vacations Movies For Your Vacation

Looking for the best family vacations movies to watch together? Here are 70 titles about family, growing up, and vacation to enjoy!

Family movies bring people of all ages together for some quality entertainment that is sure to entertain and delight. Watching movies together is a great way to spend quality time together.

Watching movies as a family can be an enjoyable experience, offering the opportunity for everyone to relax and enjoy a movie together while catching up on each other’s lives.

It can also be educational, providing an opportunity for younger children to learn about different cultures, places, and stories. Just like there are great movies for Earth Day and Memorial Day, there are great movies to watch for family vacations as well!

Additionally, watching a movie as a family can create conversations that help strengthen relationships and bring people closer together and strengthen family bonds.

So when you’re hanging out at the beach house on summer vacation and looking for the best movies to watch, refer to this list for a new pick! They’re perfect for the entire family.

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70 Best Family Vacations Movies For Your Vacation

Here is a list of the 65 best family vacation movies for your vacations:

1. The Princess Diaries (2001)

The Princess Diaries is a 2001 American coming-of-age comedy film directed by Garry Marshall and written by Gina Wendkos based on Meg Cabot’s 2000 novel of the same name.

It stars Anne Hathaway as Mia Thermopolis, a teenager who discovers that she is the heir to the throne of Genovia, with Julie Andrews as her royal grandmother.

2. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a 1982 American science fiction film produced and directed by Steven Spielberg.

This original movie tells the story of Elliott (Henry Thomas), a lonely boy who befriends an extraterrestrial, dubbed “E.T.”, who is stranded on Earth. Elliott and his siblings help E.T. return to his home planet.

3. The Lion King (1994)

The Lion King tells the story of Simba, a young lion who must embrace his role as the rightful king of his native land following the death of his father, Mufasa.

The film follows Simba’s journey as he comes to terms with the responsibilities of adulthood and his destiny to lead the pride.

Along the way, Simba faces fierce enemies, makes new friends, and ultimately learns what it means to be a true leader.

4. Home Alone (1990)

What is this movie about? Kevin McCallister, a eight-year-old boy who is mistakenly left behind when his family goes on Christmas vacation.

While home alone, he must protect the house from two bumbling burglars. Home Alone is a classic family comedy that has been enjoyed by generations, and it continues to thrill viewers with its fun-filled antics.

5. The Sandlot (1993)

The Sandlot is a coming-of-age sports film directed by David Mickey Evans about a group of young baseball players who spend the summer playing on a sandlot.

The film follows the kids as they form friendships, face off against their rival teams, and learn about what it takes to become champions.

It is a heartwarming story that will leave you feeling nostalgic for the days when life was simpler.

5. Finding Nemo (2003)

The film follows the journey of Marlin, an overly cautious clownfish who sets off on a dangerous mission to find his son Nemo after he is unexpectedly separated from him in the Great Barrier Reef.

Along the way, Marlin encounters an array of underwater creatures and learns important life lessons about courage, friendship, and family.

6. Up (2009)

Up is an animated adventure-comedy film directed by Pete Docter and Bob Peterson.

The film follows the story of Carl, an elderly widower who decides to fulfill his late wife’s dream of exploring South America by tying thousands of helium balloons to his house and flying it there.

7. Hook (1991)

Hook is a fantasy-adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg that tells the story of Peter Pan as an adult.

After being kidnapped by Captain Hook and taken to Neverland, Peter must reclaim his identity as Peter Pan and save his children from Hook’s captivity.

With the help of Tinkerbell and the Lost Boys, he embarks on a thrilling journey that is full of whimsical adventures and magical moments.

8. The Goonies

The Goonies is an adventurous comedy-drama directed by Richard Donner.

It follows the story of a group of best friends who set out on a treasure hunt when they learn that their neighborhood could be destroyed by developers.

Along the way, they discover a hidden pirate ship and uncover an ancient secret that could save their town. The Goonies is always a riot and one of the best vacation movies to watch together as a whole family.

9. Toy Story (1995)

Toy Story is a computer-animated comedy-adventure film produced by Pixar Animation Studios.

It follows the story of a group of toys led by Woody, a pullstring cowboy doll, who must protect their owner Andy from an evil toy called Sid.

Along the way, the toys learn about the importance of friendship and loyalty.

10. The Incredibles (2004)

The Incredibles is an animated superhero film directed by Brad Bird. The story follows a family of superheroes who must come together to save the world from the evil supervillain Syndrome.

Through their adventures, the family learn important lessons about teamwork and facing their fears in order to become true heroes.

Young children and adults alike love this movie! It’s one of my favorite movies as well.

11. Aladdin (1992)

Aladdin is a family-friendly animated musical fantasy film directed by Ron Clements and John Musker.

The story follows Aladdin, an impoverished street urchin who falls in love with the Sultan’s daughter, Jasmine.

With the help of a magical Genie (voiced by Robin Williams), he must prove himself worthy to win her heart and defeat the evil Jafar.

12. Free Willy (1993)

Free Willy is an inspiring family drama directed by Simon Wincer. It follows the story of a troubled teenager, Jesse, who forms a bond with an orca whale while working at a marine theme park.

He must find a way to free the whale from captivity and help him return to his home in the wild.

13. Mary Poppins (1964)

Mary Poppins is an iconic musical-fantasy film directed by Robert Stevenson. It follows the story of a magical nanny who helps the Banks family rediscover the joys of life.

With the help of her singing and dancing, Mary teaches them important lessons about family love and understanding.

14. National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)

National Lampoon’s Vacation is a hilarious comedy directed by Harold Ramis. It follows the story of the Griswold family and their disastrous cross-country road trip to Wally World theme park.

With plenty of misadventures along the way, they learn important life lessons about patience and understanding each other despite their differences.

15. Twister (1996)

Twister is an action-packed disaster film directed by Jan de Bont. It follows the story of two storm chasers, Bill and Jo, who must risk their lives to save Bill’s estranged family from a series of devastating tornadoes.

With heart-pounding thrills and intense special effects, Twister is a thrilling adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

16. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)

This movie follows the story of Kevin McCallister, who accidentally gets separated from his family while traveling to New York City.

With the help of his clever inventions, he must protect himself from two bumbling criminals and find his way back home.

17. The Parent Trap (1998)

The Parent Trap is a romantic-comedy directed by Nancy Meyers. It follows the story of identical twins, Hallie and Annie, who were separated at birth and accidentally meet each other while attending summer camp.

With the help of their creative schemes, they must reunite their estranged parents and save them from divorce.

18. Jurassic Park (1993)

Jurassic Park is a science-fiction adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg.

The story follows a group of scientists who uncover an island filled with living dinosaurs and must fight for survival against the dangerous creatures.

With extraordinary special effects, Jurassic Park delivers thrilling action and suspense that will keep you entertained from start to finish. This one can be scary for young children so use your parental discretion.

19. The Little Mermaid (1989)

The Little Mermaid is a classic animated musical fantasy film directed by Ron Clements and John Musker.

It follows the story of Ariel, a mermaid princess who dreams of becoming human to pursue her true love.

With the help of her beloved friends, she must find courage and strength to follow her dreams.

20. A Bug’s Life (1998)

The story follows Flik, an ant who embarks on a journey to find bigger bugs to help protect his colony from hungry grasshoppers.

With the help of his insect friends, Flik must learn important lessons about leadership and courage.

21. Stuart Little (1999)

Stuart Little is a heartwarming family comedy directed by Rob Minkoff. It follows the story of an adorable mouse who is adopted into a human family and embarks on a series of thrilling adventures.

With plenty of laughs and lessons about acceptance, Stuart Little is sure to leave you with a smile.

22. The Wizard of Oz (1939)

The Wizard of Oz is an iconic musical fantasy film directed by Victor Fleming. It follows the story of Dorothy, a young girl from Kansas who is transported to the magical land of Oz. With the help of her new friends, she must find her way back home while battling against the Wicked Witch of the West.

23. Spy Kids (2001)

Spy Kids is a thrilling family action adventure directed by Robert Rodriguez. It follows the story of two siblings who must go undercover as spies to rescue their parents from an evil mastermind.

With plenty of exciting gadgets and surprises, Spy Kids will keep you entertained until the very end.

24. An American Tail (1986)

An American Tail is an animated musical adventure film directed by Don Bluth. It follows the story of a young mouse who must journey to America in search of a better life. With plenty of memorable songs and fun characters, An American Tail will keep you captivated from start to finish.

25. Matilda (1996)

Matilda is a family comedy-drama directed by Danny DeVito. It follows the story of Matilda, an extraordinary young girl with supernatural abilities who must stand up to her oppressive parents and tyrannical school principal.

With plenty of laughs and lessons about courage and resilience, Matilda is sure to be a movie everyone will enjoy.

26. The Mighty Ducks (1992)

The Mighty Ducks is a family sports comedy directed by Stephen Herek. It follows the story of Gordon Bombay, a former hockey champion who must coach an underdog youth hockey team and help them find their own greatness.

With plenty of heartwarming moments and exciting games, The Mighty Ducks will leave you cheering for more.

27. Peter Pan (1953)

Peter Pan is a classic animated musical fantasy film based on the novel by J.M. Barrie.

It follows the story of Wendy, John and Michael, who are whisked away to Neverland where they meet Peter Pan and his mischievous fairy companion Tinker Bell.

28. Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs (2009)

Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs is an animated adventure comedy directed by Carlos Saldanha.

It follows the story of Manny, an ice-age mammoth who must rescue his fallen family from a mysterious underground world inhabited by dinosaurs.

With plenty of laughs and exciting adventures, Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs will keep you entertained.

29. Babe (1995)

Babe is a heartwarming family comedy-drama directed by Chris Noonan.

It follows the story of a young pig who dreams of becoming a sheepdog and must learn important lessons about courage, loyalty and friendship.

With plenty of humorous moments and touching scenes, Babe is sure to leave you with a smile on your face.

30. Shrek (2001)

Shrek follows the story of an ogre who must embark on a quest to rescue a princess from a dragon in order to reclaim his swamp.

With plenty of laughs, memorable characters and exciting adventures, Shrek will have you cheering for more!

31. The Grinch (2018)

The animated version of The Grinch is one of the best movies ever made, hands down. Christmas time or now, my family loves this telling of the classic tell of the lonesome grinch who learns about friendship and family.

29. Raya and The Last Dragon

Raya and the Last Dragon is an animated fantasy-adventure film that follows the story of Raya, a lone warrior who must track down the last dragon in order to save her broken world from monsters.

Along the way, she faces numerous obstacles and learns valuable lessons about trust and unity.

30. Jumanji (1995)

Jumanji is a fantasy-adventure film directed by Joe Johnston. It follows the story of two children who must contend with a magical board game that brings danger and excitement into their lives.

With plenty of suspense and thrilling moments, Jumanji will have you on the edge of your seat.

31. Guardians of The Galaxy

Guardians of the Galaxy is a superhero film based on the Marvel Comics superheroes of the same name. It follows the story of a group of intergalactic criminals who must team up to stop an evil force from destroying the universe

32. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a fantasy-adventure film based on the novel by C.S. Lewis.

It follows the story of four siblings who must travel to an alternate world filled with magical creatures in order to save it from an evil witch.

33. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs (2009)

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs follows the story of Flint Lockwood, a young inventor who must save his hometown from being destroyed by giant food-related weather phenomena.

34. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a classic holiday comedy directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik. It follows the story of Clark Griswold and his family as they try to have the perfect Christmas, only to be met with calamity at every turn.

35. Indiana Jones and The Raiders of The Lost Ark (1981)

Indiana Jones and The Raiders of The Lost Ark is an action-adventure directed by Steven Spielberg. It follows the story of archaeologist, Indiana Jones, as he embarks on an epic quest to find the lost Ark of the Covenant.

Indiana Jones is one of my favorite stories of all time.

36. The Fifth Element (1997)

The Fifth Element is a science fiction action film directed by Luc Besson. It follows the story of a former soldier who must save the world from destruction when an alien threat emerges.

If you’ve never seen this movie, don’t miss it! It’s a classic.

37. Far From Home: The Adventure of Yellow Dog (1995)

Far From Home is a family drama directed by Phillip Borsos. It follows the story of a young boy who must bravely take care of his dog, Yellow, after they become stranded in the wilderness.

38. Old Yeller (1957)

Old Yeller is a family drama directed by Robert Stevenson. It follows the story of a young boy and his beloved dog, Old Yeller, who must bravely protect his family from danger. Note that it has a very sad ending.

39. The Great Outdoors (1988)

The Great Outdoors is a comedy-drama directed by Howard Deutch. It follows the story of two families who must put aside their differences when their vacation becomes anything but relaxing.

40. RV (2006)

RV is a family comedy directed by Barry Sonnenfeld. It follows the story of Bob Munro, a stressed-out executive who embarks on a cross-country road trip in an RV with his family.

41. Little Fockers (2010)

Little Fockers is a comedy directed by Paul Weitz. It follows the story of Greg and his family as they struggle to adjust to their new life, while dealing with their in-laws and all the hilarity that ensues.

42. Diary of a Wimpy Kid (2010)

Diary of a Wimpy Kid is a family comedy directed by Thor Freudenthal. It follows the story of Greg and his misadventures as he navigates middle school while trying to fit in.

43. Hotel Transylvania (2012)

Hotel Transylvania is an animated comedy directed by Genndy Tartakovsky. It follows the story of Dracula and his daughter as they welcome creatures from all over the world to their monstrous hotel.

44. July Rising (2022)

Sixteen year old Andy must navigate inheriting her grandfather’s orchard while picking the path for her future.

45. The Descendants (2011)

The Descendants follows the story of a Hawaiian man and his family as they struggle to come to terms with life after his wife’s death.

With powerful performances and heartfelt moments, The Descendants will have you captivated until the very end.

46. Brave (2012)

Brave is an animated fantasy-adventure directed by Mark Andrew and Brenda Chapman. It follows the story of Merida, a Scottish princess who must bravely challenge tradition in order to save her kingdom.

47. A Goofy Movie (1995)

A Goofy Movie is an animated comedy-adventure directed by Kevin Lima. It follows the story of Goofy and his son, Max, as they embark on a wild road trip across America in order to reconnect with each other.

48. National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985)

National Lampoon’s European Vacation is a comedy directed by Amy Heckerling. It follows the story of the Griswolds as they explore Europe, while getting into all kinds of misadventures along the way.

49. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)

Little Miss Sunshine follows the story of a dysfunctional family as they go on a road trip in order to get their young daughter to the finals of a beauty pageant. With plenty of laughs and heartfelt moments, Little Miss Sunshine will surely put a smile on your face!

50. Beethoven’s 3rd (2000)

Beethoven’s 3rd is a comedy-adventure directed by David M. Evans. It follows the story of a St Bernard puppy who escapes and embarks on an adventure, while being pursued by two bungling thieves.

51. Daddy Day Care (2003)

Daddy Day Care is a comedy directed by Steve Carr. It follows the story of two fathers who decide to open their own daycare center in order to save money for their families.

52. Wild Hogs (2007)

Wild Hogs is a comedy directed by Walt Becker. It follows the story of four middle-aged men who embark on a wild road trip in order to recapture their lost youth and find themselves.

53. Wild Child (2008)

Wild Child is a comedy-drama directed by Nick Moore. It follows the story of a rebellious teenager who is sent to an elite boarding school in England, where she must learn to fit in and find her own identity.

54. The Sandlot (1993)

The Sandlot is a coming-of-age comedy directed by David M. Evans. It follows the story of a group of young baseball players who must learn how to work together while facing various obstacles and challenges along the way.

55. Mr. Bean’s Holiday (2007)

Mr. Bean’s Holiday follows the story of Mr. Bean as he embarks on an adventure in the South of France, where he must deal with all kinds of crazy situations and characters.

56. Just Go With It (2011)

Starring Jennifer Aniston and Adam Sandler, Just Go With It follows the story of a man and woman who must fake a wedding in order to save face, while also learning what true love is along the way.

57. Cadillac Records (2008)

Cadillac Records is a drama directed by Darnell Martin. It follows the story of iconic blues artist Muddy Waters as he rises to fame in 1950s Chicago, while facing discrimination and personal struggles along the way.

58. Paddington 2 (2017)

Paddington 2 is an animated family comedy directed by Paul King. It follows the story of Paddington Bear as he embarks on a mission to find the perfect present for his Aunt Lucy’s 100th birthday, while being pursued by a nefarious thief along the way.

59. Uncle Buck (1989)

Uncle Buck is a comedy directed by John Hughes. It follows the story of an irresponsible uncle who must suddenly take care of his nieces and nephews, while learning valuable lessons about love and family.

This is rated R so use your discretion!

60. The Princess Bride (1987)

The Princess Bride is a fantasy-romantic comedy directed by Rob Reiner. It follows the story of an unusual princess and her farmer companion as they race against time to save their true love, while facing all kinds of dangers.

61. Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Family Reunion (2006)

Madea’s Family Reunion is a comedy-drama directed by Tyler Perry. It follows the story of an extended family who assembles for their annual reunion and must grapple with complicated relationships and difficult life choices.

62. Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)

Planes, Trains and Automobiles is a comedy directed by John Hughes. It follows the story of two unlikely companions as they attempt to travel home for Thanksgiving, while facing all kinds of wacky circumstances.

63. Yogi Bear’s All-Star Comedy Christmas Caper (1982)

Yogi Bear’s All-Star Comedy Christmas Caper is a holiday comedy directed by Ray Patterson. It follows the story of Yogi Bear and his friends as they attempt to save Jellystone from the evil plans of Zack, while also trying to spread some Christmas cheer.

64. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation 2: Cousin Eddie’s Island Adventure (2003)

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation 2: Cousin Eddie’s Island Adventure is a holiday comedy directed by Nick Marck. It follows the story of Cousin Eddie and his family as they embark on a tropical island adventure, while trying to save themselves from danger.

65. Yogi Bear’s Great Escape (1987)

Yogi Bear’s Great Escape is an animated adventure directed by Ray Patterson. It follows the story of Yogi and Boo Boo as they attempt to break out of their zoo cages and reclaim their freedom, while being pursued by a ruthless zookeeper.

66. The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty (2013)

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is a comedy-drama directed by Ben Stiller. It follows the story of an everyday man as he embarks on a thrilling journey to find proof for his employer’s missing negative, while also discovering his own courage and strength along the way.

67. Elf (2003)

Elf is a Christmas fantasy comedy directed by Jon Favreau. It follows the story of a man raised as an elf at the North Pole as he embarks on a mission to find his biological father in New York City, while learning what true family and Christmas spirit means.

68. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

Mrs. Doubtfire is a comedy directed by Chris Columbus. It follows the story of a divorced father who disguises himself as an elderly housekeeper to be closer to his children, while also learning about responsibility and family along the way.

69. My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)

My Big Fat Greek Wedding is a romantic-comedy directed by Joel Zwick. It follows the story of a Greek-American woman who falls in love with a non-Greek man and must learn to balance her two cultures, while also learning valuable lessons about family and acceptance.

70. The Blind Side (2009)

The Blind Side is a biographical drama directed by John Lee Hancock. It follows the story of a homeless African-American teenager as he is adopted by a caring family and given an opportunity to become successful, while learning valuable lessons about self-confidence and faith.

Final Thoughts on Family Vacations Movies

These family vacation movies provide a great way for all members of the family to come together and enjoy some quality entertainment. Enjoy your family movie night!

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