Embarking on a multigenerational vacation isn’t just a trip; it’s a full-scale family affair! These adventures offer a unique opportunity to save money by sharing expenses, distribute responsibilities among multiple generations, and create core memories destined to become cherished family tales (like the time my grandma mastered the hula at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, or the time my dad accidentally turned the vacation rental into a bubble-filled spectacle by putting dish soap in the dishwasher). With myriad attractions for all ages, Florida stands out as the unrivaled choice for multigenerational travel, serving as a maximum-value, all-inclusive destination.
While the trip is sure to be a blast, there’s a lot of planning involved to ensure everyone’s vacation dreams come true. But fear not, we’re here to make it a breeze. Put on your party planning hat, because you’re in for an unforgettable adventure!
10 tips for organizing an epic multigenerational Florida vacation
1. Set realistic expectations
Open communication is the key to a harmonious multigenerational getaway to Florida. When planning your trip, it’s essential to set realistic expectations from the start to understand each family member’s goals. A simple chat about activities, budget and who’s up for kid duty ensures everyone’s on the same page. This way, you can cater to the diverse needs and desires of every generation in the crew.
2. Cater to everyone’s bucket list
In Florida, turning everyone’s vacation dreams into a reality is not just possible; it’s a breeze. Whether Grandma is eager for quality time with the grandkids, Grandpa wants to delve into history, the grandkids are eyeing roller coasters, and Mom and Dad are envisioning beach relaxation (yes, it’s possible!), Florida’s all-inclusive charm packs maximum value into your family getaway.
3. Book your accommodations first
It’s simple logic (and any mom will tell you): well-rested people are happier and much more delightful travel companions. Thus, when it comes to planning a multigenerational trip, it’s wise to secure your accommodation before delving into day trips and activities. Whether opting for a resort or a spacious vacation home large enough for your entire clan, you’ll feel better about planning the whole trip once you get this locked in. If vacation homes are your vibe, look no further than Kissimmee—the Vacation Home Capital of the World, with over 30,000 vacation homes to choose from.
4. Schedule enough downtime
It’s not merely about avoiding being overbooked; it’s about deliberately carving out time for doing absolutely nothing! Recognize the diverse energy levels across different generations, and aim for no more than one major activity per day—and keep a few days entirely open for a much-needed recharge. With all that Florida has to offer, you’ll also undoubtedly want to have time for spontaneous wandering or basking in nature.
5. Plan kid-friendly activities (that adults will love, too!)
Let’s be honest, most adults are kids at heart—and between theme parks, zoos, museums and nature, Florida has no shortage of attractions that appeal to everyone. Create moments for shared multigenerational bonding by planning a day trip to the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne, Florida (ranked as the third best zoo in the U.S. in 2023) where you can stroll shaded boardwalks, cool off in the Indian River Play Lagoon, and get up-close and personal with some of the zoos most exotic animals.
6. Consider accessibility needs
In the meticulous planning of multigenerational travel, addressing accessibility becomes a pivotal consideration for all accommodations and attractions. Will you be pushing a stroller or a wheelchair? Is the vacation home equipped with child-safety features like balcony guards or secure pool areas? Addressing these factors well in advance prevents surprises or the need for last-minute adjustments. For a comprehensive guide, VISIT FLORIDA is an excellent starting point, offering curated lists of destinations that thoughtfully cater to varying needs, including wheelchair accessibility and amenities for children with diverse abilities.
7. Be mindful of meal planning
If there’s one thing you can’t escape on vacation, it’s meal planning. Luckily, Florida is brimming with family-friendly food options. From farmers’ markets and farm-to-table options to restaurants celebrating the region’s cultural cuisine, you’ll have no shortage of choices to satisfy diverse palates. To sidestep decision fatigue, make a list of desired eateries in the area, stock up on snacks and essentials upon arrival, and share the responsibilities by assigning different adults to take the lead on dinner nights when you opt to stay in. This could also be a time to plan things like a DIY pizza or taco night, where family members share the task of preparing a meal and make treasured memories at the same time.
8. Divide the planning
One of the advantages of multigenerational travel lies in having a surplus of hands-on adults to distribute tasks. Delegate responsibilities by assigning adults specific planning categories, such as meals, photography, excursion bookings and accommodations, ensuring that no one person is left to shoulder it all. If the planning still feels overwhelming, consider outsourcing. Florida is full of travel experts ready to assist in crafting the perfect vacation for every family member.
9. Set expectations to split up sometimes
In the realm of multigenerational travel, where the focus is on quality time together, no one should feel obligated to participate in every activity as a group. Encourage individual preferences, such as grandparents visiting a museum or opting out of kid-centered activities. This flexibility allows everyone to tailor their experiences. To regroup, share the day’s activities over a fun family dinner. And speaking of meals, if the grandparents are keen for some QT with the grandkids, Mom and Dad can even scoot out for a romantic date night, savoring the diverse culinary delights that Florida has to offer.
10. Plan a photoshoot
When it comes down to it, multigenerational travel is ultimately about spending time together and making lasting memories. Planning a family photoshoot is an unmissable opportunity to commemorate the trip. You don’t have to coordinate outfits or even hire a professional photographer—just intentionally plan a day or evening to take group photos. Florida’s abundant natural beauty serves as an ideal backdrop, providing a picturesque setting for your family snapshots. Grandparents will love the photos and you’ll have a tangible treasured memory of your trip to the Sunshine State.
Multigenerational vacations might not happen every year, but they’re guaranteed to be unforgettable, lifetime-worthy experiences that are 100% worth the planning effort. And when you choose Florida, it’s destined to become the best vacation ever.
