Kids love to learn, especially when that learning is wrapped up in an exciting package. Places like historic Williamsburg, Virginia, and St. Augustine, Florida, have something to offer kids of all ages. Sites such as these are rich in history. Kids get to learn about how people from other time periods lived. Williamsburg focuses on life before the Revolutionary War. One of the highlights of St. Augustine is its Spanish architecture.
Another interesting place to go with kids is to the state capitol. If you phone ahead you can usually schedule a guided tour. This is easier to accomplish during off periods when the legislature is not in session. There should still be staff available to speak with guests and answer any questions that children might have about the different job duties of the people employed there. The topic of government can be somewhat dry to children but when they are able to have some direct experience with where it all takes place they sometimes express more of an interest.
A visit to the library can provide more than enough excitement for younger children. During the summer most libraries will have a summer reading program. Certain times are set aside for each age group and guest readers come in to read to the children and lead other activities that would interest each individual age group. Classes are sometimes available for older kids and teenagers that focus on trendy interests such as scrap booking or crafting.
Most kids love to visit theme parks like as King's Island or King's Dominion, Sea World and Walt Disney World. These theme parks each have a special focus, so your choice could be based on the children's interests. Sea World has ocean life and aquariums. King's Island and King's Dominion have a multicultural theme with different sections representing different countries. Disney World has Universal Studios and Hollywood Studios so kids can go visit an actual movie set.
Museums such as the Smithsonian can provide kids with more than enough interest to keep them entertained. There are plenty of hands on exhibits to keep children busy as well as hold their interest. Most states have cultural museums that provide activities for kids.