Family vacations with your kids are a great way to make treasured memories. Bringing grandparents along for these trips can make them even more memorable. Since some seniors might not get out much on their own, these vacations give them good ways to travel and spend time with loved ones. Where are the best places for vacations with grandparents? This depends on a few factors, such as what their interests are and what kinds of physical activities, they’re up for doing. The following are some of the top spots to consider for your next trip with the elders of the family.
The Catskills, New York
The Catskill Mountains in upstate New York provide breathtaking surroundings and tons of outdoor activities for all ages. Old and young alike can spend time fly fishing in local waters, walking on beginner-friendly hiking trails, and taking sightseeing tours of the Hudson River. Other activities include horseback riding, golf, and paddling. Take a scenic drive through the Catskill region to see charming, covered bridges, tree-covered hills, and more. The Catskills also have farmers markets, fun events such as the Stagecoach Run Art Festival, antique shops and other attractions and amenities for all ages to enjoy. From all-inclusive resorts to rustic cabins, the area offers a wide range of lodging.
Family vacations with your kids are a great way to make treasured memories & bringing the grandparents along for these trips can make them even more memorable. Discover some of the best vacation spots to go on with the grandparents.
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Gatlinburg, Tennessee
For a relaxing vacation in the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains, head to Gatlinburg. This eastern Tennessee town is the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most popular national park. Families can all enjoy the beautiful views of the mist-covered mountains, and the great appeal of nature, amid multiple forests, flowers and wildlife. For the less active, this destination offers great places to go for long scenic drives. Luxury Gatlinburg cabins in the area have decks with hot tubs and rocking chairs, so seniors can sit or soak while taking in stunning mountain views. Gatlinburg offers heirloom-quality, unique and handmade items created by the nation’s largest community of independent artisans, as well as abundant entertainment, shopping and dining options.
San Diego, California
San Diego offers a great mix of city life and coastal fun for family vacations that include seniors. It’s also a top destination for grandparents who want to take the grandkids on vacation and give parents a break. Explore historic buildings in Old Town San Diego, enjoy the area’s mild weather in Balboa Park, and head to San Diego Zoo to see tons of animals from around the world. Pacific Beach, Mission Bay, and La Jolla all offer sandy beaches. The two generations can stroll along the shore, watch sea lions, and visit the area’s beachfront amusement park. Lodging in San Diego ranges from beach houses and resorts to bed and breakfasts and campsites.
St. Augustine, Florida
As the oldest city in America, St. Augustine has plenty of historic sites, along with outdoor activities and cultural attractions. Visiting sites such as Castillo De San Marcos, Bridge of Lions, and Fort Matanzas. Learn more about this historic city at the local museums, such as the Pirate and Treasure Museum, or take a trolley tour through city streets. For more active times, play a round of golf, take a sailing tour, or swim with dolphins. St. Augustine has diverse lodgings for all vacation tastes, including amenity-filled condos, luxury resorts, and quaint bed and breakfasts.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Families looking for a slower paced and more secluded vacation spot will enjoy a stay on Mackinac Island. Take a boat over to the island and settle in for a trip full of relaxing activities and fun attractions that all ages can enjoy – this is another great place for grandparents to take grandkids for a memorable vacation. Explore the island in a horse-drawn carriage, fill up on delicious treats at local ice cream parlors, and see how fudge is made, along with samples to see why! Other activities include kayak tours, golf, biking, shopping, and dining. Mackinac Island has many places to stay, from cottages and condos to upscale resorts.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park stretches across the northwestern corner of Wyoming and includes parts of Idaho and Montana. This huge national park is an ideal place to visit with grandparents who love the great outdoors. Yellowstone offers a wide range of hiking trails for all skill levels, so fewer active seniors can easily get around. Families can also take scenic drives to see hot springs, geysers, and other incredible sights. Other activities include boating in Lake Yellowstone, soaking in a natural hot spring, and keeping an eye out for bison and other wildlife. The park has several lodges, as well as campgrounds.
Travel Tips
Traveling with elders usually involves a bit more planning than usual. Keep these tips in mind for a safe and fun trip.
- Explore Special Services. Some attractions, accommodations, and airlines offer special services to make traveling or getting around easier for seniors. Look into these services if you’ll be traveling with older individuals who have limited mobility.
- Fill and Pack All Prescriptions. Make sure any grandparents going along on your trip have all of their prescription medications filled ahead of time. Keep a list of meds (and doctors) handy to ensure that every medication they need is packed away safely, especially if you’ll be flying.
- Plan a Relaxing Itinerary. Senior loved ones might not have the same energy levels as grandkids, and this can work both ways, depending on the ages of each generation. If you’re planning an itinerary, leave time for rest in
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