Today, more than 50% of the trips that grandparents take involve family and friends. Many grandparents love to pack up and hit the road with their grandkids, enjoying new experiences together. These trips promise a rewarding experience that can deepen bonds and help create cherished memories.
01 Yellowstone National Park
The U.S.’s first national park, Yellowstone is famous for its geothermal features like Old Faithful. Located primarily in Wyoming, this western park is also home to an incredible array of wildlife like grizzly bears, bison, timber wolves, and bald eagles. The park features arresting views of the Rockies, comfortable lodging, and even guided tours. For an unforgettable nature-inspired experience, Yellowstone is sure to deliver. Must-see park attractions include Mammoth Hot Springs, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and Tower Fall.
02 London
If you want to travel abroad with your grandchildren, consider a trip to jolly old London Town. With its long and illustrious past, London is filled with historic and cultural attractions that are sure to interest both kids and adults. When planning your London travel itinerary, consider setting aside time for a Thames boat ride, a tour of London Tour, a visit to Buckingham Palace, a few selfies in front of Big Ben, a city tour on a double-decker bus, a trip to London Zoo, and a thrilling ride on the London Eye. From tea at the Ritz to on-the-go lunches with fish and chips, London promises unforgettable experiences for all.
03 Galveston, Texas
Galveston is ideally situated on the gulf coast of the great state of Texas. It's a popular destination for families with kids because it has many great activities to keep kids of all ages busy. Start with Galveston Pier, where kids can soar on amusement rides, enjoy cotton candy and relish being seaside. Don't miss the Strand in downtown Galveston, which is lined with historic shops filled with a trove of treasures.
04 Breckinridge, Colorado
Breckinridge is known for its magnificent ski slopes, but there are tons of things to do with the grandkids that don't involve sliding down a mountain. The town is alive with kid-friendly activities, like the giant yellow waterslide in the Breckinridge Recreation Center, the Great Rubber Duck Race held each year on Breckinridge River, and of course, bicycling in town or the mountains.
05 Rome, Italy
Are your grandkids picky eaters? Better play it safe and head to Rome for all the spaghetti they can eat! Rome, of course, has more to offer than just its mouthwatering cuisine. Families can spend the day at famous Roman attractions like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the eerie Roman Catacombs, the Spanish Steps, and Trevi Fountain. Rome is filled with museums, galleries, shops, and, of course, restaurants.
06 Orlando, Florida
If you’re looking for a vacation destination that’s filled with family-friendly attractions, hotels, and sunny weather, look no further than Orlando. Disney World’s Magic Kingdom offers no-fail fun for kids in the form of exciting rides and familiar and beloved Disney characters. Orlando also features a wide range of hotels and resorts to suit every style. Combined with amazing restaurants and other major area attractions like Universal Studios, Epcot, specialty museums, boat rides, interactive animal encounters, and more, Orlando has something for everyone.
07 Cancun, Mexico
With its turquoise waters, rich culture, all-inclusive packages at world-class resorts, it’s no wonder that travelers from all over the world choose to visit Cancun. Cancun features tropical beaches, exciting water sports like snorkeling and scuba, and hiking adventures near ancient Mayan ruins. Kids and grandparents can enjoy visiting nearby Chichen Itza or the El Meco Archaeological Site.
08 Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is a veritable playground, thanks to the amusement rides and arcades located right on the shores. The grandkids will never tire of running their toy tucks along the sand or body surfing in the waves. Don't forget to visit Broadway Grand Prix Family Race Park for racing fun for older kids. Bring the kids through Hannah's Maze of Mirrors and see their delight at the crazy reflections.
09 Vancouver, Canada
Located on British Columbia’s picturesque Pacific coast, Vancouver offers indoor and outdoor activities that attract people of all generations. Vancouver is home to world-class ski resorts, first-class hotels, and amazing restaurants. Popular family-friendly attractions include Granville Island, which hosts an annual International Children’s Festival, Greater Vancouver Zoo, Maplewood Farm, and the H.R. MacMillan Space Center. Consider a whale-watching excursion or family hike at Pacific Spirit Regional Park.
10 Kissimmee, Florida
Kissimmee is teeming with fun activities for your grandkids. You can also see gators in person while safely perched atop a worthy vessel on one of the area's fun airboat rides. Or visit Old Town Kissimmee which is chock full of unique retro rides, and games. Bring a picnic to Kissimmee Lakefront Park, let the kids roam on shaded playground equipment, or rent a boat for a leisurely ride on Lake Tohopekaliga.
11 Jamaica
If the family could do with some tropical warmth and crystal-clear beaches, consider booking a flight to Jamaica. The island features a wide array of things to see and do for both adults and children. Explore the markets of Montego Bay. Climb Dunn’s River Falls near Ocho Rios. Go parasailing above the glittering beaches of Negril. Jamaica features many world-class resorts on the country’s postcard-worthy beaches and all the jerk chicken you can eat!
12 Washington D.C.
Families are a celebration of heritage, and if you’re looking for a destination that’s all about American heritage, plan a trip to Washington D.C. There is a myriad of child-friendly things to see and do in the American capital. Grandparents and kids can explore all the features of the National Mall. Be sure to visit the Smithsonian Museums like the Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum. There’s even a National Spy Museum that’s sure to be intriguing to older kids and adults. Families will find that D.C. brims with tours, restaurants, and hotels to suit a wide array of budgets.
13 Kruger National Park, South Africa
If you want to bring your grandkids on the trip of a lifetime, consider a safari at South Africa’s Kruger National Park. Yes, there are dangerous animals like lions and snakes that make their home there, but families can take guided tours, and book stays are family-friendly resorts rather than taking a self-driving tour. Some of the lodges offer ranger-led activities game drives that are especially enjoyable for kids. The lodges also feature many upscale amenities like swimming pools, spa treatments, and wilderness walks.
14 Grand Canyon, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is a classic American vacation destination--and with one glimpse of the majestic river-carved canyon, you’ll understand why. The 18-mile wide canyon offers fabulous hiking experiences complemented by million-year-old-views of earth’s exposed geology. Families can also enjoy river rafting excursions and stays at amenity-filled hotels. Consider taking a helicopter flight above the canyon, visiting nearby Havasu falls or enjoying a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway.
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