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There are many places I think everyone should visit with their family, starting with The Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Hoover Dam… But I also think architectural landmarks are important, and most of all – fun. I love going to the beach or to a theme park, of course, and which kid is going to turn that down? But I also like to take some time to introduce my kids to culture, history, and architecture. A family visit to architectural landmarks blends all of that together, plus it’s fun for everyone.
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think staring at buildings does much. The thing about architecture is, its creativity, problem-solving, and the way a space makes you feel. Kids love huge structures, details you don’t see right away, and anything else that looks like it jumped straight out of a storybook.
Castles, museums, domes, there’s so much to see, so let me show you what I think are the architectural landmarks everybody has to visit with their family at least once.
Places You Shouldn’t Miss
Our world is full of fascinating structures. Some of them are right here in the U.S., some are a bit further away. Here’s my list of places that I think everybody will love.
The Eiffel Tower (France)
There aren’t many landmarks that are as instantly recognizable as the Eiffel Tower. This iron lattice masterpiece is a symbol of beauty and innovation and it was built in 1889. Back then, its construction was groundbreaking, with over 18,000 iron parts. It’s one of the most visited architectural landmarks in the world.
If you decide to go, you can take an elevator to the top to see some truly breathtaking views of Paris. If you want some cardio, though, you can climb the 674 steps to the second level and get a more immersive experience.
Oh, and did you know it originally should have been in Barcelona?
The Sydney Opera House (Australia)
This is one of the most famous buildings in the world and, in my humble opinion, one of the most beautiful ones. Doesn’t it look like a ship that’s ready to sail? It was designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and it’s inspired by natural elements.
You can take a guided tour here and learn about its fascinating history or stop for a show. Whatever you choose, there’s no doubt in my mind you and your family will love it.
Neuschwanstein Castle (Germany)
Now, here’s a fact your kids will love – this castle was the inspiration behind Disney’s Cinderella Castle!
It was built in the 19th century by King Ludwig II and it was meant to bring medieval myths to life with its towers, turrets, and intricate artwork. You’ll find it nestled in the Bavarian Alps and there’s lots to do here. You can explore the grand halls, take a look inside royal chambers, and admire the stunning mountains that surround the castle.
This place looks like it belongs in a fairytale and I can’t imagine a kid not liking it. Honestly, I can’t imagine anyone not being floored by it.
The Frost Museum of Science Miami, Florida (USA)
When it comes to modern architecture that’s sure to leave you breathless, especially if you’re into architecture. You’ll appreciate not just the beauty but the complexity that went into this project in order to create the Planetarium, which is housed within a striking spherical structure that relies on a precisely designed steel truss framework to support the shape.
While there are numerous such marvels across the United States; even if you take just Florida, there’s the Hard Rock Stadium and the MiamiCentral Station in Miami, the Amway Center (home to the Orlando Magic) in Orlando, the Tropicana Field and The Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg – all these are amazing. But for me, the Frost Museum in Miami is simply stunning. I can tell you one thing – you’ll never be bored here!
The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (USA)
We have some truly stunning architecture at home, too! The Crystal Bridges Museum in Arkansas is a masterpiece. Its distinctive roof structures are mainly supported by cable-suspended systems and glued laminated timber arches. The place literally looks like it’s floating and no pictures can do it justice.
There’s an impressive collection of American art inside, but the building itself is just as breathtaking. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls will make you feel like you’re inside and outside at the same time, and the outdoor trails and sculpture gardens give you the chance to explore both art and nature.
The Eden Project (UK)
If you want something futuristic, look no further than Eden Project. Its massive biomes look like giant bubbles and they’re home to different ecosystems from around the world. Tropical rainforest? Mediterranean landscape?
You can see it all here.
What I like about the design best is that it doesn’t just look stunning, it’s a lesson in sustainability and eco-friendly architecture. The biomes are made of lightweight, recyclable materials and inside, you can explore trees and learn about conservation. Here, architecture works with nature, not against it.
Conclusion
So, where will you head off to first? The Cinderella castle? I thought as much. But really, all of these places are masterpieces and it baffles me to think that us humans managed to not just design them, but to actually build them.
These architectural landmarks all look like something out of a dream and I bet you and your family will have the time of your life wherever you decide to go.
Image Credit: depositphotos.com
