With families spread out over the country, spending time together is more important than ever. A family vacation allows you to bond, and gives everyone an experience to cherish. You’ll never forget the look on your grandkids’ faces when they see their first sunset over the Pacific or the hike that ended at a roaring waterfall. We’ve gathered family vacation ideas that span from easy-going to all-in to help you plan your next getaway.
Who: Families that are sea bound but not boundless
Where: Cruises that cater to kids and kids at heart
Why: Cruises provide activities for kids of all ages, allowing your grandchildren some space to be themselves. Meanwhile, the 21+ family members can indulge in the adult-only areas. Moreover, you won’t have to deal with planning meals. The larger cruise ships have a plethora of dining options. You’ll find something to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What: Carnival Cruises separate kids into four age groups and Norwegian specializes in providing fun-filled entertainment options for tykes to teens.
Who: Families that want a bit of everything
Where: Small towns a little off the beaten path
Why: Not every family getaway has to be to the great beyond. Places like Manchester, Vermont, offer something for everybody, and you won’t have to deal with maneuvering around a big city.
What: Look for activities near the town, as short excursions are better when it comes to road trips for seniors and toddlers. Manchester has the Lincoln Family Home, Lye Brook Falls, and North Meadow Farm—all close by. If you find yourself out in the country, a local farm can be a fun place to take kids on vacation as it gives them a chance to make friends with some furry fellows.
Who: Families that love the great outdoors
Where: One of the many national parks in the United States
Why: What did everyone do before they were glued to their screens? They went outside and played—all day long. Disconnect from your devices and reconnect with your family and nature.
What: The bigger national parks are more likely to have updated facilities. For example, Zion National Park in Utah offers shuttles allowing everyone a chance to enjoy the great outdoors. And even if you skip a major hike, many of these places offer postcard-worthy views from every picnic table or cabin window.
For Who: Families that want everything taken care of
Where: All-inclusive resorts
Why: Sometimes you just want to spend time together, without shuttling the fam all around town. All-inclusive resorts check off everything on your family’s fun list. These resorts offer many of the same amenities of a cruise, except you have more to explore.
What: If white-sand beaches and turquoise warm water sound lovely, head to one of the resorts that dot the Caribbean coast. For families that like a spice of international flair, Mexico offers resorts for every budget.
With the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia® you can find the right package for your family get-together. Whether you choose to cruise or take a hike, you are sure to make lasting memories with your whole crew.
