From ranches and resorts to Disney and Dollywood, experts share family travel tips to help you plan and make the most out of your time
The mélange of family travel possibilities, including an array of accommodation styles, can put the brakes on trip planning. Luckily, we’ve consulted with some of the top multigenerational family travel experts in the industry. They’ve generously shared their wisdom and family travel tips on how to find the best accommodation that suits each group and occasion.
The task of navigating the diverse landscape of family structures and accommodation choices can be daunting, but with the guidance of these leading professionals, you’ll be well-equipped. They’ve crafted experiences that not only withstand generational differences but flourish amidst the delightful cacophony of family travel.
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Family Travel Advisors Provide Insight on How to Begin Planning
Everyone knows how much work goes into planning a family trip, no matter what size and scale or occasion. What they may not know, however, are the more intricate questions to ask before even reaching out to a family travel advisor.
Angie Wheeler, co-owner of The Unique Traveler with Kristi Howard, advises families to first “have a sit-down with the whole group before contacting your travel advisor and figure out the best times for the group.” She points out, “If this trip is to celebrate an important milestone, make sure that is the first thing you tell your advisor.”
Getting your ducks in a row will help your advisor understand the needs and wishes of your group. In fact, Jessica Griscavage, mom and founder and CEO of Runway Travel, agrees that asking the right questions is the most important first step. She has been providing outstanding family travel opportunities to places like Japan and Grand Cayman for multigenerational groups for decades.
She recommends asking, “Are they celebrating a milestone, an anniversary, a celebration, or is this simply to have the family together?” Maybe it’s a multigenerational gathering with teenagers, grandparents, aunts, and uncles in tow or a quiet vacation with mom and grandma. Whatever the occasion, consider those who will be attending and what the trip will ultimately look like for everyone.
Consider Diverse Accommodation Styles
The second consideration is your family’s base camp for the duration of the trip. But asking your travel advisor which accommodation their favorite is would not be realistic. There isn’t any single hotel, resort or other option that’s a perfect fit for every group. A wide selection of diverse family accommodation options is available, catering to many group styles and celebrations.
Families fit comfortably at the Beach Village at The Del with many options to choose from. Photo credit: Hotel Del Coronado
Kristin Luz, owner of Family Travel and Adventures, knows a lot about the intricacies of planning a family trip and finding the perfect home away from home. Specializing in multigenerational trips to Europe, Costa Rica, and the U.S., Kristen shares her wisdom for finding the right digs.
“When considering a resort for a family reunion or other multigenerational vacation, some things I suggest folks consider include a variety of room types with different configurations.”
She explains that while some groups are comfortable in standard hotel accommodations, families with babies and teenagers might want more privacy and space. Kristin suggests families explore options that include connecting rooms for semi-privacy and suite-style setups.
Research Age-Appropriate Activities for Families
Kristen also advises looking for accommodation options with “activities and amenities on-site but also nearby.” This could include resorts, hotels, and other lodging with pools and spas, kids’ programming, games and other child-friendly activities. Don’t forget to investigate on and off-site dining options that will appeal to the age range of your group.
Take surf lessons with the family at Hotel Del Coronado for lasting memories. Photo credit: Hotel Del Coronado
“At the same time,” she adds, “selecting a location that also has attractions nearby offers a nice variety to the reunion. This could be a cute town for wandering and wine-tasting, a national or state park for exploring, or a city for fun activities like a food or bike tour.”
East and West Coast Multigenerational Family Accommodations
Angie reveals several places she’d recommend for an exceptional multigenerational gathering, depending on the group’s needs, style and occasion.
Omni at Hilton Head provides many family-friendly onsite activities enjoyable by all ages and abilities. Photo credit: Omni Resorts
East Coast beach resorts for family groups
Folks on the East Coast should check out the Omni at Hilton Head on beautiful Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, according to Angie.
“It has a kids’ camp, accommodations for the whole family, golf, swimming, a great beach, dining and a spa. You can also take day trips to nearby Savannah or Charleston.”
Nearby island adventures include Zipline Hilton Head 8 miles away, offering canopy tours and eco-adventures, and Palmetto Dunes Golf, Tennis and Pickleball, only a mile down the road. There are also several marinas offering boat tours for families looking to get out on the water.
West Coast options for families
“On the West Coast, a great option is the Hotel Del Coronado, which has a wonderful beach, where you can have a bonfire or attend a movie on the beach on certain dates.” Families can also take part in kids’ programs and surf lessons suitable for anyone willing to give it a go at this historic hotel in sunny San Diego.
The newly-renovated Beach Village at The Del is a premier multigenerational accommodation providing access to secluded pools, a private chef, complimentary lounge chairs, umbrellas, cabanas and beach beds, priority reservations across the resort, a personal concierge and more. In addition, Shore House at The Del offers an elevated hotel experience within spacious seaside villas complete with well-equipped kitchens, a washer and dryer, sizable verandas, and more.
If a wild experience is what you’re looking for, Angie suggests heading west to Montana and The Resort at Paws Up. Family-friendly for all ages, the ranch offers great on-site dining and a rejuvenating spa, surrounded by wilderness as far as the eye can see. There are also special activities for the little ones and outdoor adventures like horseback riding, hiking and fishing.
The Resort at Paws Up lodging options and activities offer families variety and one-of-a-kind experiences. Photo credit: The Resort at Paws Up
Jessica also knows a thing or two about ranch stays and advises about possible age limits, saying, “Ranches are a fantastic getaway for multigenerational trips; however, a lot of times the activities are really only appropriate for children starting at seven or eight years old.”
Cruises are Built for Family Travel
Jessica with Runway Travel explains, “Cruising is an excellent option for multigenerational travel. Families can travel to multiple countries with only having to unpack once.” In addition, “Families can pick and choose excursions with their interests and their pace” adding that groups typically gather for dinner.
She says, “Cruising can be anything from a large ship with all of the bells and whistles to expeditions exploring unique and remote destinations.” In fact, many families consider taking a multigenerational cruise to celebrate special events and milestones because they have something for every age to enjoy.
Themed Multigenerational Family Accommodation Options
The first place that comes to most everyone’s mind with a mention of themed vacation destinations is Disney World. Angie acknowledges that Orlando is a super family-friendly and popular destination, whether for fans of Mickey Mouse, Harry Potter and everything in between.
In fact, she assures, “Both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando are great for families. There are accommodations for everyone, the parks have more than you can possibly fit into a day or three, and each has an entertainment, shopping and dining district beyond the parks themselves.”
Family adventures abound at Dollywood. Photo credit Jeremy Thompson/Flickr.
Angie also suggests Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee for unique multigenerational gatherings. This family-oriented resort offers delicious dining options, children’s rides, and, of course, music. The resort is also conveniently located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park which offers hiking opportunities and provides a one-of-a-kind scenic drive.
Family Travel Tips for Budgeting and Early Planning
For Angie, “It’s important to find out the whole dynamic.” This comes in the form of having a sit-down with everyone to discuss the reasons for the trip.
She adds, “It’s very important to have one contact person for the family, but make sure everyone is heard and accounted for and there is something special just for them.”
According to Kristin, “I’d say the biggest advice I have for someone planning a family reunion is to remember that not everyone is traveling on your budget. Have a frank conversation with anticipated guests about the budget, particularly those you know are more cost sensitive. You may want to do a little research first to determine the general cost per night of a couple of resorts you are considering, and then get their input.”
When budgeting your trip, it’s important to consider accommodation options discussed among the group as they tend to be the biggest expense.
While helping families plan magical trips, Jessica says, “Budget and destination are always the next conversation. I have to make sure that what they are looking for will work in their budget. Sometimes a villa will work best for a group and sometimes a cruise or an all-inclusive will be the best option.”
She also advises to “Plan ahead! Coordinating calendars is certainly a challenge. As soon as families have agreed on a date, the sooner you plant, the better.” She says this will ensure the best prices, availability and accommodation options.
Take the advice of the professionals and, in the words of Angie Wheeler, “Pack your patience, treasure being with your family and making memories together and you will have a great vacation.”
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By Heather Dale, Managing Editor
Header photo of family living space courtesy of Shore House at The Del.
