Best U.S. Hotels for a Multigenerational Family Vacation

Multigenerational travel is a huge trend for the foreseeable future — now, more than ever, families realize the value of meaningful time together in a setting that offers a wealth of quality activities. The key? Planning for larger family groups requires attention to features and facets that make a property well suited for multiple ages. Consider these 15 U.S. resorts, all of which offer appealing locales and a little something special for everyone.

Top Multigenerational Family Vacation Destinations

Carmel Valley Ranch, CA

Carmel Valley Ranch is a beautiful resort set in California’s verdant Monterey Peninsula. Accommodations are ideally configured for families, and amenities abound for all age groups, including family and adult-only swimming pools, a toddler pool with spray area, the Ranch Hands Kids’ Club, a beekeeping experience, an 18-hole golf course and range, an equestrian center, tennis, hiking trails, and an onsite restaurant with an extensive wine list.

Tanque Verde Guest Ranch, AZ

Unplug and tune in to your extended family at Tanque Verde Guest Ranch, a Western dude ranch in the Sonoran Desert. Located a stone’s throw from Tucson, Tanque Verde is known for its excellent horseback program, suited to all ages and abilities. There are plenty of other activities ranging from basketball and tennis to hiking and a spa. This laid-back ranch has something for everyone and the relaxed vibe is spot-on — everyone will feel at ease.

The Resort at Paws Up, MT

Gorgeous mountain scenery abounds in Montana, and at the family-run Resort at Paws Up, the secluded wilderness brings families together to reconnect. Choose a luxury home or the popular “glamping” experience — combining the best of camping and a luxury hotel, including butler service. Your group will be busy from sunup to sundown, with a vast array of outdoor activities ranging from horseback riding, river rafting and ATV drives, to fly-fishing, skeet shooting, rappelling, a kids’ club and chuck wagon rides.

Sunriver Resort, OR

Looking for an active family destination, room to roam and accommodation options galore? Sunriver Resort in Oregon has a bounty of natural beauty and plenty of activities to keep everyone engaged. In addition to horseback riding, river rafting, biking, hiking, rock climbing, tennis and golf, there is a kids’ club. Families can choose from a stay in the lodge or one of the many private homes.

Flathead Lake Lodge, MT

Set on the pristine shores of Flathead Lake in Bigfork, Montana, this historic, family-owned property has been a choice destination for all-inclusive dude ranch experiences for decades. One- to three-bedroom log cabins and lodges suit a multitude of family sizes. Things to do here are plentiful for all ages: swimming, sailing, horseback riding, water sports and more ranch activities than you can count.

Inn by the Sea, ME

Let the natural beauty of Maine win over your family at the Inn by the Sea. Just 15 minutes outside Portland, this beautifully kept property has a keen focus on service and sustainability. Suites and cottages are ideal for family groups. Enjoy the onsite spa, a range of coastal activities, a private boardwalk and a nightly bonfire. Go from June to October for the chance take a lobster catch outing, and feel free to bring pets, who will be warmly welcomed.

Audubon Cottages, LA

New Orleans is an ideal destination for groups of varying ages, and Audubon Cottages in the French Quarter will beckon you with elegant charm. These quaint one and two-bedroom cottages evoke a feeling of true Southern hospitality and provide plenty of room to spread out and relax after enjoying the sights; large groups can rent all six of them and enjoy exclusive use of the property. Families will enjoy starting the day with a charming continental breakfast that can be taken in the garden house, in their private courtyards or by the heated pool.

Honua Kai, HI

Honua Kai is a fantastic, affordable beachfront option on Maui for those seeking plenty of space plus condo amenities paired with hotel services. Young children will be entertained at the pool and can enjoy a cozy break from the sun in the cabanas. This property is a smart choice for families looking to mix it up with the ability to cook for themselves (there’s a market on the grounds), enjoy the onsite restaurant or take advantage of all that nearby Lahaina has to offer.

Mauna Lani, HI

For a fabulous luxury resort experience that is immersed in Hawaiian culture and breathtaking beauty, the Auberge Mauna Lani is a great choice. A wide range of activities are offered on-site, and the spacious suites and residences (ranging from 1,000-4,000 square feet) give families plenty of room to spend time together.

Basin Harbor Club, VT

Nestled on Lake Champlain, Basin Harbor Club caters fantastically to multigenerational families by combining the best of a traditional family resort with modern-day accommodations and amenities. The range of onsite activities is vast — everything from a day spa to the kids’ camp, golf, water sports, tennis, hiking and biking — and even extends to nightly entertainment, including storytellers, fireside s’mores and a talent show. Dining options are plentiful, and older children and teens will enjoy the freedom to explore and roam this expansive property.

Lighthouse Inn, MA

The Lighthouse Inn lures guests with its classic, laid-back Cape Cod vibe. Families will feel transported to a time gone by as they enjoy this simple oceanfront property’s pool and private beach. Enjoy traditional rooms or oceanfront cottages and amusements like basketball, volleyball, shuffleboard, miniature golf and table tennis. A kids’ club at mealtimes allows adults to enjoy a relaxed dinner on their own.

Fairmont Kea Lani, HI

Maui is a dreamy escape for guests of every age and the Fairmont Kea Lani, Hawaii’s only oceanfront all-suite and villa resort, fits the multigenerational bill. The multiple pools, including one with slides, are sure to please the keiki (kids), and the award-winning spa will be a bright spot for grown-ups. In addition to snorkeling, scuba diving and the other water activities you might expect from a Hawaiian resort, make sure to check out the unique Hawaii Canoe Experience and the Ocean Discovery Program.

Omni La Costa, CA

Located in San Diego’s North County, Omni La Costa is the epitome of coastal chic. The Spanish Colonial aesthetic will entrance young and old alike, including family-friendly accommodations (some with kitchens), beautifully manicured common areas and multiple pools. Highlights for kids include water slides, the extensive kids’ club and Vibz game lounge. Parents will be delighted by the acclaimed spa, tennis, golf and the Chopra Wellness Center. If you can bring yourself to leave this delightful oasis, Carlsbad is at your doorstep and Legoland is only 10 minutes away.

Cheeca Lodge, FL

Ready to frolic and bask in the tropical ambiance of the Florida Keys? Cheeca Lodge welcomes families with sumptuous rooms and suites, an oceanfront setting, gracious common areas and extensive amenities. Relax in style at the adult pool while the kids enjoy Camp Cheeca, the kids’ club; or partake in the fun at the family pool, fishing pier and stocked lagoon.

Palmetto Bluff, SC

For a step back in time and a family gathering at a slower, more Southern pace, the Montage Palmetto Bluff gets rave reviews from Ciao Bambino staff and clients. It is luxurious enough to keep discerning adults satisfied, but casual enough for kids to feel as though they belong here. The multi-bedroom houses scattered around the property are perfectly for multi-family groups.

Evergreen Lodge, CA

Evergreen Lodge is an ideal retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the Yosemite Park area. The resort offers a variety of summer camp-style activities, from horseshoes to table tennis and swimming to an outdoor fire pit. This rustic and inviting property has flexible accommodations for families, including one- and two-bedroom cabins, and knowledgeable local guides. Best of all, it caters specifically to those seeking a family atmosphere.

Deer Valley Ranch, CO

Deer Valley Dude Ranch is a breath of fresh air — literally and figuratively. Set amid stunning Colorado mountain beauty, families can enjoy a bevy of authentic “out West” activities, while also taking advantage of the freedom, safety and space to roam. Accommodations are simple but suited to larger groups, with cabins up to four bedrooms. Family memories from a stay here will linger long after you ride off into the sunset.

Editor’s Note: Photos courtesy of the individual properties pictured.