Top Cities for Multigenerational Family Travel

Thinking of vacationing with your immediate family and including the grandparents this year? It’s becoming quite the popular trend in the United States. According to a recent study by D.K. Shifflet & Associates, 27 percent of all overnight leisure travel is now considered multigenerational, which includes any and all combinations of several generations of family members.

Once the grandparents (or grandkids) are in, the next decision to make is where to go. Here are three travel destinations receiving top billing for multigenerational vacations:

1. Orlando

All generations can appreciate the diversity of Orlando. Whether it’s getting up close with the dolphins at Sea World or experiencing Diagon Alley and other Wizarding World of Harry Potter attractions at Universal Studios, there are plenty of activities for the whole family. In addition, Florida weather is generally comfortable at all times of the year with daily high temperatures averaging 70 degrees or above. To experience Orlando at its coolest, plan your visit in January - April or October - December.

If you’ll be visiting the Walt Disney World Resort, research some activities for all ages. While the grandchildren might enjoy Splash Mountain, the grandparents might prefer a ride around Tom Sawyer Island on the Liberty Square Riverboat. Many of the Disney parks also have seasonal events. For example, while some family members stroll through Italy, the gardeners in the family can catch a presentation from their favorite HGTV star during Epcot’s annual International Flower and Garden Festival held from March through mid-May. To cap off a great day, dine together at the award-winning Be Our Guest Restaurant in the Magic Kingdom Park (make reservations up to six months in advance).

Finally, no trip to Florida is complete without getting those toes in the sand. The sandy beaches of New Smyrna Beach are located just an hour from the heart of Orlando, so a friendly sandcastle contest should definitely make its way onto your agenda.

2. Las Vegas

Las Vegas truly offers something for everyone. This entertainment mecca provides attractions ranging from thrilling roller coasters to notable golf courses to fabulous nighttime shows. The beloved Flamingo’s Wildlife Habitat, located at the Flamingo Hotel is a free attraction featuring Chilean flamingos, other exotic birds, fish and turtles. Vegas Indoor Skydiving on the Las Vegas Strip offers a memorable simulated skydiving experience for everyone over 40 pounds. Be sure to smile because photos of this family event are sure to turn up on your teen’s Instagram account and the grandparents’ Facebook page.

For the 21-year-old adults in the group who wish to gamble, Circus Circus is a great compromise. This full-fledged casino features a top level of arcade games and is home to the Adventuredome. Voted the best place to go for those under 21 in the 2014 Las Vegas-Review Journal poll, the Adventuredome has roller coasters and rides for little ones.

Also, swing by the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay to feed sharks, sea turtles and stingrays. Las Vegas is also a convenient home base for day trips, such as a drive to Utah’s Zion National Park. Zion offers hiking and other outdoor experiences in one of our nation’s most beautiful national parks – a sure bet for creating lifelong memories.

3. Chicago

Eager to experience the Windy City with the whole family? Have a cup of tea at the Drake Hotel’s Palm Court. There, Queen Elizabeth II, the Empress of Japan and Princess Diana were separately spotted sipping afternoon tea, and scenes from movies including “Risky Business,” “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” and “What Women Want” were filmed there.

Then, spend a day at the Lincoln Park Zoo. This admission-free zoo is open every day of the year and is home to creatures of all sizes. During the summer and fall, you can watch Zoovies on the gorgeous lawn, and during the colder months, enjoy the beautiful lights in what’s known as a real-life “Winter Wonderland.”

View Chicago’s architectural wonders such as the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), the Wrigley Building and the John Hancock Center from The Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise along the Chicago River. For a physical challenge, you can kayak the river, or if wheels are more your speed, opt for a Chicago Segway Tour.

Then, finish off a busy day with unique Chicago-Style Pizza at Giordano’s Pizzeria, where each pie is made with thick, deep-dish crust, sauce on the top and cheese throughout.