The best multi-generational family vacations in the U.S.
Discover the best places to go for multi-generational family vacations—where grandparents, parents, and kids can reconnect in nature.
Planning a trip with your extended family? When you're bringing together toddlers, teens, parents, and grandparents, finding the right destination can feel like solving a puzzle. The key? Choose places that offer a mix of nature, flexibility, and comfort for every age and stage.
From lakefront lodges to coastal cottages, here are the best multi-generational family vacation spots designed to bring everyone together and create lasting memories.
Lake Tahoe delivers year-round outdoor fun, making it one of the best places for multi-generational family vacations in the USA. In summer, rent a waterfront cabin and spend your days paddleboarding, boating, and enjoying scenic picnics. In winter, the slopes at Heavenly and Northstar offer options for every skill level (and après-ski hot chocolate for the kids).
Travel tip: Many Tahoe vacation rentals are spacious enough for extended family, with multiple bedrooms and private docks.
Home to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is perfect for multi-generational families who love ocean views and forest trails. Hike together along family-friendly paths like Jordan Pond or take a scenic drive along Park Loop Road. The town itself is walkable and full of lobster shacks, ice cream shops, and waterfront views—ideal for slow strolls with grandparents or little ones in tow.
Travel tip: Look for homes just outside town with views of Frenchman Bay and ample porch space.
Often overlooked, Branson is one of the best multi-generational family vacation destinations in the U.S., especially for large family groups. With a mix of kid-friendly attractions like Silver Dollar City, live shows for the grandparents, and boating on Table Rock Lake, Branson hits the sweet spot of fun and affordability. It’s also a drivable destination for many Midwest families.
Travel tip: Rent a lakeside cabin or vacation home for cross-generation fun on the water.
The Outer Banks delivers that rare vacation magic where three generations can actually agree on plans. Picture wild horses, lighthouse climbs, and lazy beach days, all from sprawling rental homes with pools, master suites, and bunk rooms. Whether your crew wants surf fishing or beach naps, everyone arrives happy in OBX.
Travel tip: Get group photos on the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park at sunset.
Just outside Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is where families go to experience boundless nature. Picture elk casually strolling past your breakfast table while kids plan the day's adventure. Easy mountain hikes, scenic drives, and cozy lodge stays create the perfect mix—everyone gets their own space, but those campfire nights bring three generations together naturally.
Travel tip: Visit Trail Ridge Road to experience one of the most scenic drives in America.
San Diego delivers sunshine, surf, and something for everyone in your crew. While grandparents soak up the scene at La Jolla Cove, kids go wild at the world-famous zoo. Harbor cruises, Balboa Park adventures, and endless beach days mean nobody gets bored..
Travel tip: Book a coastal rental along Mission Beach or Del Mar to stay close to the ocean and major attractions.
From Dollywood's thrills to the Great Smoky Mountains' natural beauty, Tennessee delivers the perfect mix for every generation. Grandparents love the mountain views while kids go crazy for the theme park rides. Multi-level log cabins with game rooms and hot tubs create the ideal setup—everyone gets their space, but those mountain sunsets bring the whole family together on the deck.
Travel tip: Take the scenic chairlift at Anakeesta for breathtaking mountain views that'll wow every generation, from wide-eyed kids to camera-ready grandparents.
A hidden gem in Central Oregon, Sunriver is tailor-made for family groups who love nature without the crowds. Miles of bike paths, riverside picnic spots, and easy access to Bend make this community a premier destination for those seeking peaceful bonding time. Plus, many homes come with bikes, kayaks, and passes to the community aquatic center.
Travel tip: Cruising by bike is the perfect way to explore together while keeping everyone from toddlers to grandparents engaged.
Destinations with diverse activities, accessible accommodations, flexible scheduling options, and attractions appealing to all ages, from toddlers to grandparents, work best.
Choose spacious vacation rentals, balance active and restful activities, involve everyone in the planning process, and consider the accessibility needs of older family members.
Vacation rentals with multiple bedrooms, private bathrooms, common gathering areas, and amenities like pools or game rooms accommodate all generations comfortably. What's more, we also recommend exploring accessible vacation rentals for folks with additional needs.
Plan diverse activities, schedule downtime, let each generation choose activities, ensure accessibility, and select destinations with something for all ages.
