The Black Forest
Mountain Getaway
Germany's vacationland, so look and book well ahead for lodging. But if you and your kids are into hiking, biking, outdoors, and nature, this area is stunning. No need to shell out for museum tickets or other expensive entrance fees: just step out your front door.
Fair and Fine Dining
You'll get plenty of kid-friendly food here, assuming your kid likes sausages and fresh breads. And if "Wurstsalat" is on the menu, give it a try. But note -- when you get tired of yet another traditional German dish, head to Baiersbronn: there are a total of eight Michelin stars in a 10 mile radius.
Bells & Whistles
I have an admitted soft-spot for tourist towns: one reason is that kids generally love them. German tourist towns are full-up on toy and candy shops, and cheesy-but-fun sights. Like the Worlds Second Largest Coo-Coo Clock. Or a glass-blowing workshop. The Black Forest especially excels in producing and hawking wood carvings: give in and get your kids a toy or three.
Connects With:
Getting here from the US usually is done best through Frankfurt or Zurich, so combine this with the Romantic Road, Switzerland, or even the Moselle Valley.