Inform the kids, grandparents, and any other family members that you plan to bring along — it's time to embark on a multigenerational vacation. Planning a trip for multiple age groups can be a challenge, but don't worry, you aren't limited to a cruise or typical week at a Disney resort. Skip the traditional vacation and create long-lasting memories and stronger bonds on one of these bucket-list trips for all ages.
African Safari
There’s an inexplicable enchantment to observing wildlife in its natural habitat. And everyone from your child obsessed with The Lion King to your bird-watching parent will love this trip. When it comes to safaris, there’s really no better destination than Africa. Buffalo, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, wildebeests, and zebras are just some of the majestic creatures that you'll spot while exploring the African savanna. Imagine watching animals meet harmoniously to drink at a watering hole in Kruger National Park and seeing the Serengeti migration. Madikwe Safari Lodge in South Africa and Singita Serengeti House in Tanzania are lodges the whole family will love.
Cycling Holiday in France
Cycling is a wonderful way to stay healthy on a trip and it's something the whole family can enjoy. Combine this activity with the wonders of France and you have a holiday of a lifetime. Consider pedaling Brittany’s Emerald Coast and resting along the way at peaceful beaches and atmospheric seaside towns such as Dinard and St. Malo. Or bike the unhurried Loire Valley and sample great food and wine, and visit French châteaux en route.
European Yacht Charter
From the Adriatic to the Aegean, Ionian, and Mediterranean, Europe boasts some of the world’s most beautiful seas. And chartering a yacht is arguably the finest way to explore these features of the old continent. Whether it's island-hopping in Greece, cruising the coastline of Croatia, or sailing around Italy, boat trips are great for family bonding. You’ll have time to enjoy the company of all ages while sailing.
New Zealand Road Trip
Many unforgettable road trips await in New Zealand, so rent a car or motorhome and cruise through the islands. Snow-capped mountain ranges, gigantic glaciers, shimmering deep-blue lakes, and rolling vineyards are just some of the natural features that will make you never want to leave.
Pennsylvania History Trail
Kids will enjoy discovering snippets of national history they previously learned in the classroom, and, let's be honest, us adults could use a refresher course as well. In Pennsylvania, you’ll find some of our country's most emblematic historical landmarks. Walk in the footsteps of Civil War heroes and watch battle reenactments at Gettysburg National Military Park. Less than a three-hour drive east, Philadelphia beckons with the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the National Constitution Center.
U.S. Railway Ride
For those who revel in sitting back and watching the world go by, Amtrak has some wonderful train journeys for families. You can speed around glorious national parks, cruise along dramatic coastlines, and trundle through urban destinations. Kids will love the thought of spending the night on a moving train. Try the Empire Builder, a 46-hour, one-way trip from Chicago to the Pacific Northwest. It includes routes walked by Lewis and Clark and sections of Glacier National Park. For another scenic train route, the California Zephyr cuts through the Rocky Mountains on its 51-hour journey from Chicago to Emeryville, California.
Dude Ranch
Also known as guest ranches, dude ranches present the opportunity to live out the cowboy lifestyles of America’s Wild West. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve saddled up on a horse before; ranch activities range from horse-riding lessons and hiking to clay shooting, square dancing, storytelling, and cooking s’mores over a campfire. Check out Montana’s The Ranch at Rock Creek and Idaho’s Red Horse Mountain Ranch.
Surf Camp in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is the land of pura vida (simple or pure life) and surfing is about as pure as it gets. You can be an absolute beginner or a seasoned pro since Costa Rica’s beaches see waves for all surfing levels. Peaks ’n Swells on the Nicoya Peninsula and Witch’s Rock Surf Camp in Tamarindo have camps that specialize in family surfing classes. In between the surf, you can hike to waterfalls, join in yoga sessions, or simply relax in a hammock.
The Outer Banks in North Carolina
The Outer Banks is a 200-mile stretch of barrier islands off the coastline of North Carolina and southern Virginia. Townhouses line the beachfronts and are the perfect retreat for large groups. Choose from any of the popular towns of Corolla, Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, and Rodanthe. Activities on the islands’ pristine beaches are high on the agenda, but that isn’t all there is to offer. You can go biking, kayaking, golfing, or riding around in a dune buggy to see wild horses on Ocracoke Island. Adventure is clearly calling on the coast of North Carolina.
Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks
Most U.S. National Parks are great for groups that want to experience outdoor adventure, but Utah is blessed with five standout options. Collectively known as the Mighty Five, these parks will let you stand amid the stunning sandstone rock formations of Arches and marvel at the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon. You can enjoy a day hike in Canyonlands, travel to the extraterrestrial lands of Capitol Reef, and go canyoneering in Zion. There are always year-round activities available for all ages.
