13 Best Multigenerational Family Vacation Destinations USA Has To Offer

Are you still searching for the best multigenerational vacation destinations and having a hard time deciding which is the right fit for your family? If so, we’re here to help! Over the last 13+ years, our family has taken a multigenerational vacation every year. Here are some of our top family-friendly locations.

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Best Multigenerational Family Vacation Destinations USA

If you are wondering what a multigenerational vacation is, it’s basically a trip you go on with your extended family. It can include grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, etc.. This type of vacation is a great way to encourage quality family bonding and create new memories that will last a lifetime.

Check out our 7 Reasons You Need To Experience Multigenerational Travel.

National Parks

At the top of our of best multigenerational vacation destinations in the U.S. list is visiting any National Park. With over 423 National Park sites throughout the United States, no matter which Park you choose there is something for everyone to take part in.

If you have older grandparents with mobility issues, keep an eye out for National Parks with scenic drives, like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. If there are a lot of children on your vacation, look for a National Park with family-friendly hikes to waterfalls or interactive educational programs. Also, don’t forget to stop and get your booklet for the Junior Ranger Program.

Checkout these Yellowstone National Park vacation rentals for large groups.

Tennessee

Speaking of National Parks, Tennessee is the gateway to one of our favorite parks, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In Tennessee there are three major cities that surround the park, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Townsend, and each one is unique in its own way.

Checkout these Great Smoky Mountains National Park vacation rentals for large groups.

Pigeon Forge

If you love doing all of the touristy things while on vacation, check out Pigeon Forge. It includes places like Dollywood Theme Park, the Titanic Museum, mountain coaster rides, helicopter tours, and even an indoor snow facility.

Check out these Pigeon Forge vacation rentals for large groups.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is the perfect mix of touristy and small town feel. You can soar through the treetops at Anakeesta, walk across the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America at the Sky Bridge, or get up close with sting rays and penguins at Ripley’s Aquarium. There is also an entrance into the National Park in Gatlinburg that is close to Grotto Falls and the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail scenic drive.

Check out these Gatlinburg vacation rentals for large groups.

Townsend

Townsend is know as the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies” and with good reason. We have stayed in Townsend multiple times, both with my in-laws and with Charlene’s family, and each time we fall deeper in love with it! You can spend the day tubbing down the Little River, exploring caves, horseback riding through the National Park, or soaking in the amazing mountain view from your vacation rental. The Townsend entrance to the park is also the perfect spot to take your customary National Park sign photo.

Check out these Townsend vacation rentals for large groups.

Hawaii

The Aloha State truly offers something for everyone, each island is so unique and different from the rest. You can enjoy adventures of all different activity levels, such as:

• Snorkeling (on a boat cruise or offshore)
• Whale watching on a boat cruise
• Driving to the summit of a volcano
• Relaxing on the warm, sandy beaches
• Attending a luau
• Exploring the island from the air on a helicopter tour
• Enjoying Hawaiian Shave Ice (Maui, Big Island)
• Taking a waterfall tour

The possibilities are endless!

Hawai’i Travel Tips

Hawaii is on many people’s “bucket lists”. While it is totally worth the trip, the distance travelled to get there may be a deterrent for some. Older travelers may feel more comfortable traveling with family members to make the journey, making Hawai’i a great option for multigenerational travel.

My husband’s parents actually joined us for their first visit to Hawai’i. They loved that we were already familiar with the island(s), culture, and travelling required to get there. When planning, we realized they were looking for a resort experience which was very different than our “local vibe” rental we had booked. They decided to stay 15 minutes away from us… and that’s ok! Just because you are travelling together doesn’t mean you all have to stay at the same location to have a great time.

If you need help planning your trip, here are 11 Tips For How To Plan An Enjoyable Multigenerational Vacation.

We all got to experience exactly what we were looking for in a Hawai’i vacation, sometimes together and sometimes separately. It’s important to remember that everyone has their own “dream vacation” ideas and a little time apart while travelling isn’t a bad thing.

Check out these Hawai’i vacation rentals for large groups.

Indiana

Indiana Dunes Region – Best Multigenerational Vacation Destinations

Northwest Indiana is home to our Nation’s newest National Park, but that isn’t the only reason it made out list of the top of the best multigenerational vacation destinations. Situated along the southern shores of Lake Michigan, the Indiana Dunes region has activities and attractions for all ages. Many of the region’s “things-to-do” are within a 30-45 minute drive from the Indiana Dunes National Park depending on which area of it you are exploring.

Check out our posts on the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, Indiana Dunes State Park Campground and Nature Center, and the Historic Chellberg Farm at the Indiana Dunes National Park.

Things-to-Do in the Indiana Dunes region include:

• Exploring the Indiana Dunes National Park and the Indiana Dunes State Park. Both offer activities such as: camping, hiking trails, swimming at beaches, ranger led programs, nature centers, climbing towering sand dunes, bird watching, volunteer opportunities, beautiful sunsets and on a clear day, views of the Chicago skyline on the horizon.
• Visiting Washington Park Zoo, a 1930’s zoo located directly across from Lake Michigan.
• Attend a theatre production at the historic 125 year old Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso, IN.
• Go train watching in Chesterton, IN. Dozens of trains pass through town each day, making this an excellent spot to watch the rails.
• Support local businesses and restaurants by checking out the charming downtown streets of Valparaiso, Chesterton, or Michigan City. 
• Take a ride on the South Shore train into Chicago for a day trip to the Windy City.
• Give back to the Indiana Dunes community by attending a beach clean-up hosted by Mermaid Straw, a local NW Indiana small business, making a big impact on reducing single-use-plastics. Check out why we love Mermaid Straw!

Check out these Indiana Dunes area vacation rentals for large groups.

Florida – Best Multigenerational Family Vacation Ideas

When most people think of Florida, two things immediately come to mind: theme parks and beaches. But don’t let that fool you! There is so much more to explore and that is why Florida is one of the best multigenerational vacation destinations in the U.S..

Theme Parks

If your family loves theme parks, Florida does not disappoint! There is Disney World for the Disney fans, Universal Studios for the movie buffs, Kennedy Space Center for the inspiring astronaut, and even a park dedicated to a favorite childhood toy, LEGOLAND. Don’t forget to check out the hidden botanical garden located inside LEGOLAND Florida.

Check out these Orlando vacation rentals for large groups.

Beach Destinations

Now, you can’t go to Florida without visiting the beach. I mean, I’m sure there is a law against it or something! (Kidding!) But don’t worry, there is no shortage of white, sandy beaches and incredible sunsets to enjoy no matter where you are staying.

When our family visits Florida, you will usually find us on the Gulf side of Florida. There are many different cities that line the Gulf coast that are perfect for a multigenerational vacation.

If you are looking for a low-key, “Old Florida” type beach vacation, I highly suggest Anna Maria Island. Sarasota is a great mix of relaxation along with tons of things to do and explore for the whole family. Tampa has an incredible zoo, and Clearwater is where you will find one of our favorite aquariums, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

Check out these Anna Maria Island vacation rentals for large groups.

Florida’s Wild Side!

When visiting Florida, make sure you get out in nature to experience Florida’s WILD side! Some family-friendly outdoor activities include:

• An airboat ride that takes you deep into a cypress forest
• An eco-tourism kayak adventure to a private island or through a wildlife refuge
• An eco-friendly dolphin tour so you can watch dolphins in their natural habitat
• Or a parasailing adventure where you can soar high above the ocean while dolphins and sea turtles swim below you

If your family loves being out in nature, surrounded by wildlife, there are a lot of options throughout the state of Florida.

Check out these Merritt Island vacation rentals for large groups.

Michigan

We may be a little bias since we live here, but Michigan is an awesome place to visit when it comes to multigenerational travel. If you’re looking for natural beauty and year round fun, Michigan has it!

Mackinac Island

If you are looking for a slow paced vacation, head to Mackinac Island. Located at the tip of the lower Peninsula, Mackinac Island is like stepping back in time. 80% of the Island is a state park so much of the Island looks a lot like it did over 100 years ago. There are also no cars allowed on the Island which means you can only get around by horse and carriage, walking, or biking. Something to take into consideration if you have family members with mobility issues.

If it is your first time to Mackinac Island, and you’re feeling overwhelmed with the planning, check out our Mackinac Island Travel Tips & Suggestions Facebook Group.

However, there are plenty of things to do on the island that each family member will enjoy:

• Take part in the island’s history by shooting a canon at Fort Mackinac
• Hiking trails that lead to huge rock formations
• Biking the loop around the Island
• Lilac Festival in the spring
• The Butterfly House
• Shopping
• and eating fudge! (Ryba’s Fudge Shop has a vegan, and allergy friendly fudge that just melts in your mouth.)

If you are looking to stay on the Island, Mission Point Resort offers different types of rooms to meet your needs: family suites, pet-friendly rooms, handicap accessible, etc.. Plus, there is something to do at the Resort for every age group in your family.

National Lakeshores

Michigan is also home to not one, but TWO National Lakeshores: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (located in the upper Peninsula and lines the shores of Lake Superior) and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (located in the northern part of the lower Peninsula, along the shores of Lake Michigan). Both parks offer incredible views of rock formations, hiking trails, and views from the top of 400 foot tall sand dunes!

When visiting Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, I highly recommend either a boat tour or a kayak tour in order to fully appreciate the shear size and beauty of the rock cliffs. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers scenic drives and stunning views of turquoise water. You will fill like you are in the Caribbean! Both of these National Lakeshores are some of the best multigenerational vacation destinations in the United States.

Check out these Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore vacation rentals and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore vacation rentals for large groups.

Beach Towns

Since Michigan is home to 4 out of the 5 Great Lakes, there is no shortage of incredible beach towns. Up and down Michigan’s coastline are beach towns that are steeped in history, like Muskegon, or filled with arts and trendy restaurants like Traverse City, or home to the largest tulip festival in the United States, Tulip Time, like Holland. (This festival has been going on for over 90 years. You will feel like you have been transported to the Netherlands!)

While every town that lines the lakeshore is different from another, the one thing they all have in common is beautiful beaches! Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, beach towels, and some snacks. Trust us, you won’t want to leave once you’ve experienced Michigan beaches!

Check out these vacation rentals in Muskegon, Traverse City, and Holland that are for large groups.

Arizona

Sedona

Stunning red rock scenery, dry, warm weather and a laid-back feel, make Sedona a great option for one of the best multigenerational vacation destination. Everything you’ll need for your stay is located along a charming stretch of shops, restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations, and shopping boutiques.

Activities for all ages include:

• Hiking trails of all difficulty levels
• Exploring a vortex
• Taking a train ride through Verde Valley
• Enjoying a hot air balloon ride
• Horseback riding
• Visiting historic sites

There are lots of nearby places to explore around Sedona as well. My husband and I really enjoyed exploring Jerome, a ghost town perched atop a mountainside. We even did a walking ghost tour… super spooky (I wouldn’t recommend for kids)!

Sedona is such a unique location with a variety of lodging options. There are even campgrounds nearby if you’re planning a camping trip. We just love the quiet, wide-open desert spaces just waiting to be explored. So much adventure and mystery!

Check out these Sedona vacation rentals for large groups.

Colorado

If your family loves being outdoors, than Colorado is definitely worth adding to your list! During our most recent multigenerational vacation to Colorado we visited the towns of Evergreen and Morrison. Morrison is a small town in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, that is known as the “Gateway to the Rocky Mountains”, and Evergreen became a popular summer vacation spot in the 1920’s and still retains its historic charm to this day.

Besides the natural beauty that surrounds you in Colorado, there are plenty of accessible things to do for family members of all ages to enjoy. Some of our favorites things to do were historic home tours, an art sculpture walk, Dinosaur Ridge, the Morrison Natural History Museum, and the Lariat Loop Scenic Drive where you don’t even have to get out of the car to enjoy the scenery!

More Of the Best Multi Generational Vacation Ideas

Both of our families have enjoyed every one of these destinations, and think they are a great fit when traveling with extended family members. This list will continue to grow as our family has a couple multigenerational vacations lined up, so make sure you save it for later! Let us know in the comments below if you have visited a destination that would be a great fit for multigenerational travel.