Multigenerational travel is growing rapidly. It's not uncommon to see vacationers bringing both their kids and their parents as they escape the routine of home. Here are seven exceptional vacation destinations that cater to the needs of young and old alike.
In and around Atlanta
The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee. Indulge at the most luxurious lakeside escape in the state. With Ritz-Carlton's highly personalized service, your multigenerational memories will last a lifetime. Kids 5-12 enjoy activities with Ritz Kids while the adults golf, fish or boat on Lake Oconee or escape to the spa. Evenings include together-time as you enjoy fine dining, s'mores around the campfire and a dip in the infinity pool.
Adventure Lodge Program. Journey to the forest for the newest excitement from Georgia State Parks – the Adventure Lodge Program. Stay in a newly refurbished lodge room at Amicalola or Unicoi State Parks, or opt for a cabin in the woods with multiple bedrooms. While there, you receive a guide and equipment for a series of adventures including survivalist camping, ziplining, fly-fishing, paddle boarding and more. All ages and aptitudes are welcome, creating a fun learning environment for the entire extended family.
Helen, Georgia. Helen is an affordable and exciting town for children and grandchildren to connect. Stay in a spacious cottage at Smithgall Woods State Park, or opt for a room in the middle of town at the charming Hampton Inn. Tour the world's largest Alpine model railroad at Charlemagne's Kingdom, grab snacks at Fred's Famous Peanuts, walk the short trail to Anna Ruby Falls or drive the Folk Potters Trail for a lesson in cultural and mountain heritage.
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Forrest Hills Mountain Resort. Relax in the mountains at Forrest Hills in Dahlonega, with something for everyone. Their Group Lodges are ideal for family reunions and multigen vacations, with space for even the largest families. Enjoy rafting, kayaking, hiking, canoeing, gold mine tours or shopping and antiquing. Swim at the pool, saunter the hiking trails or schedule a horseback riding session. Everyone will remember the Chuck Wagon ride experience, with horse-drawn wagons leading you to a cookout under the stars, musicians and a bonfire.
Beyond Atlanta
Biltmore. 8,000 acres of history, beauty and excitement await you in the hills of Asheville at Biltmore. Explore Vanderbilt's "castle" with a tour for adults and and a separate tour for kiddos. Relax at the village, taking a moment at the playground, dancing to live music or taking a turn at the weekend Grape Stomp. Visit the animals at the farm in Antler Hill Village or soak up the sun and burn off some energy with outdoor activities such as bike rides and rental, horseback riding, a river float trip or a kid's fly-fishing lesson.
Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. Travel + Leisure named Palmetto Dunes one of the Top 25 World's Best Family Resorts. With spacious villas and myriad activities, it also transitions to an ideal multigen family escape. Choose from a range of outdoor activities for all ages including golf or lessons at the resort's three championship golf courses (one of only two oceanfront courses on the island,) tennis or lessons at one of 26 courts or kayaking or canoeing the resort's 11-mile lagoon. Families will also enjoy biking the resort's 5 miles of paved trails or 50 miles of paths across the island, shopping, waterfront dining and live music at Shelter Cove Harbour across the road and swimming on the resort's 3 miles of Atlantic Ocean beachfront.
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Little St. Simons Island. When you want to escape the hustle and bustle of life, depend on the seclusion of Little St Simons Island for respite. 7 miles of beach and 11,000 acres of undeveloped wilderness are only accessible by boat, creating an oasis for children, parents and grandparents. Call one of the charming cottages home for your stay, while exploring the nature-lovers paradise. All-inclusive accommodations ensure you need not worry about boat transfers, three daily meals, drinks and alcohol, all activities, necessary equipment or Naturalist-led excursions.
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