I am looking for a place to vacation with grandparents that are in their 80s, my brother and sister and their families. I am the youngest of my siblings at 45, and the cousins are from 24 to 5 years old. Any suggestions?
Multi-generational travel is becoming more and more popular (see our story on Trips with Grandma and Grandpa)--after all, it's a fun-filled way to combine family visits/reunions and vacation time!
Two things to consider when selecting a destination: Does it provide accommodations, services and the right atmosphere for large families? There's nothing worse than being stuck in an oh-so-intimate locale with your rambunctious, fun-loving group! Also, is there a wide range of activities offered -- something to please all ages?
HEAD TO A RESORT
Consider full-scale resorts; they typically offer lots to do with plenty of family-pleasing amenities. For example, at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in pretty Jackson, Wyoming (call 800-443-8613 or click here), you'll find a wide range of accommodations. Multi-bedroom condo rentals offer lots of room--full-size kitchens and large living areas are perfect for family meal gatherings, too. You'll find plenty to do with hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding, wagon train rides, golfing and more. In town, there's shopping, entertainment and dining. Yellowstone National Park, with ranger programs, tours and more, is at your doorstep.
Families in the east have been going to the Mount Washington Hotel and Resort (call 800-258-0330 or click here) for centuries. This grand hotel offers plenty of activities for all ages--not to mention fabulous views of New Hampshire's Presidential mountain range. Nearby are scenic byways and train rides through the mountains, museums, attractions and more.
For general information on condo rentals in top resort areas, call ResortQuest at 877-588-5800 or click here. Tip: For summer bargains, look at winter ski resorts.
FAMILY CAMPS
The YMCA offers a number of family camps throughout the country. For example, the YMCA of the Rockies has resorts at Estes Park Center (call 970-586-3341) and Snow Mountain Ranch (call 970-887-2152) in Colorado with a wide-range of organized activities, children's programs and on-site meals.
SHIPS AHOY
A cruise is a great option for multi-generational travel, especially because the planning that typically goes along with a vacation--where shall we stay? what shall we do? who's going where?--is simple and easy. Sign on and everything--
activities, meals, child care and more--is at your fingertips and family members are free to partake--or relax--as they wish. Look for a family-friendly outfit with roomier cabins (Carnival Cruise Line has cabins 50% roomier than other cruise lines) and reasonable rates. Ask about their special family packages and "kids go free" cruises. Contact Cruise Brokers (call 800-409-1919) or The Cruise Outlet (call 800-775-1884) for bargain prices.
VISIT MICKEY AND THE GANG
Theme parks are not just for kids anymore. At Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, there are spas, dinner shows, guided fishing excursions, golf, boating, even classes in gardening, cooking and photography. Leafy parks, gardens and museums can be found in surrounding towns. A variety of spacious accommodations are available, including villas, vacation homes and condos. Call 407-W-DISNEY or click here.
WILLIAMSBURG HAS IT ALL
The Williamsburg, Virginia area is equally appealing for families traveling en masse. A variety of tours of Colonial Williamsburg cater to a wide range of ages and interests. Nearby are amusement parks and waterslides, historic sites, public gardens, southern plantations, and mansions to tour. Contact the Williamsburg area Convention and Visitors Bureau (call 800-368-6511 or click here.)
HOME ON THE WATER
Finally, if you're looking for something a little more offbeat, consider a houseboating adventure. Spend your days on the water, fishing, swimming, skiing and more. Explore beaches or visit shoreline towns and attractions along the way. There are more than 260 rental locations in North America. Visit the Houseboat Rentals homepage by clicking here for a listing and description of rental opportunities.
Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Originally published in November 2000. Updated July 2006.
