Great Places to Travel With Adult Children
A few years ago, we decided to replace Christmas gifts with family experiences. You see, our children are all grown up now and don’t yet have their own families. So, we’re taking advantage of this in-between time to capture some family memories before they have their own families and have holiday plans of their own.
That decision changed everything. What started as a simple family trip idea has become our favorite way to spend quality time together. Traveling with adult kids—especially young adult children in their early 20s—opens the door to different places, deeper conversations, and shared experiences that look very different from trips with young children or little kids.
If you’re searching for places to travel with adult children, this guide highlights some of the best family vacation destinations, from road trips and small towns to the best international family vacations.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them—at no additional cost to you. I only share products and experiences I genuinely love and think you will too.
Why Multigenerational Travel Works Well With Adult Kids
Multigenerational travel looks different when your family members include adult kids, significant others, and sometimes even extended family. You’re no longer planning around nap times or water parks (though those still have their place). Instead, the best parts of these trips come from flexibility and variety.
Adult kids want:
- Separate rooms and common areas
- Outdoor activities and active adventures
- Fine dining mixed with casual local spots
- A great city vibe or beautiful scenery
Parents want:
- Easy access and walkable areas
- A perfect spot to relax (hello, hot tub and hot springs)
- A large house or rental that fits everyone comfortably
The best way to balance all of that is choosing destinations that offer different things for kids of all ages—especially older kids and young adults.
Best Places to Travel With Adult Children in the United States
When you’re searching for destinations for travel with adult children, it’s important to choose something the whole family will enjoy. Here are some of my favorites.
San Diego & La Jolla, California
San Diego is a great place for a family trip with adult kids. With beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and a laid-back pace, it works for both first time visitors and a second time return.
- La Jolla’s coastal views and sea lions
- Easy day trips and nearby towns
- Great city energy with a relaxed feel
- Perfect time to visit: late spring
It’s one of those favorite places where everyone finds their own favorite things.
Pro Tip: Consider staying at Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina – A highly rated bayfront hotel with spacious rooms and easy access to waterfront walks, Seaport Village, and dining—great for families who want convenience and views.
Miami, Florida
Miami is an excellent place to travel with adult children. There are a variety of fun activities, delicious restaurants, vibrant bars, and of course, beautiful beaches.
- Built-in flexibility for young adults: independent exploring in neighborhoods like Wynwood, Little Havana, and South Beach.
- Varitey of food and culture everyone enjoys
- Outdoor activities beyond the beach
- Easy day trips and extensions: Miami’s location makes it simple to add the Florida Keys, Biscayne National Park
Pro Tip: We love Loews Miami Beach Hotel. It is located in the South Beach area convenient to restaurants and shopping.
Florida Keys & Key West
The Florida Keys are a perfect place for adult kids who want sunshine, snorkeling, and a little nightlife.
- Coral reefs and shore excursions
- Road trip vibes with beautiful scenery
- Ideal for a long weekend or holiday season escape
Add in Old Town charm, water activities, and sunset cruises, and it’s easy to see why this is an absolute favorite place for many families.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans blends rich history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable food—making it a great idea for a family trip.
- Walkable neighborhoods and iconic streetcars
- Deep history, museums, and nearby plantations
- Perfect spot for culture, music, and meaningful experiences
Pro-Tip: Consider staying at Copper Vine Wine Pub & Inn. It’s conveniently located to dining and attractions and is housed above a beautiful wine pub and restaurant.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
If your family loves small towns, beach houses, and a slower pace, the Outer Banks on the East Coast are a must-visit destination.
- Large house rentals with separate rooms
- Historic sites and rich history
- Perfect for nature lovers and quality time
This is one of the best family vacation spots for reconnecting without distractions.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
For families who enjoy national parks, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great way to mix outdoor adventures with cozy downtime.
- Horseback riding and hiking
- Hot tubs and cabin stays
- Nearby towns with local dining
It’s one of the best family vacation destinations in the United States for active adventures with adult kids.
Pro-Tip: The Margaritaville Resort downtown Gatlinburg is steps away from dining and entertainment. Plus, It’s a fun environment for the entire family.
Tybee Island, Georgia
Tybee Island offers beautiful beaches, historic sites, and easy access to Savannah—making it a great idea for a family trip.
- Walkable island life
- Rich history and nearby towns
- Perfect spot for a relaxed pace
Best International Family Vacations With Adult Kids
If international travel is on your radar, these destinations are consistently rated highly for multigenerational trips.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico combines culture, food, and adventure in a way that works beautifully for young adult children.
- Old San Juan’s colorful streets and historic sites
- Easy rental car access
- No passports required for U.S. travelers
It’s a perfect time destination for families wanting international flavor without complexity.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is ideal for families who love outdoor activities and nature lovers looking for a trip of a lifetime.
- Ziplining, waterfalls, and national parks
- Beautiful scenery and eco-adventures
- Best time to visit depends on region, but dry season is popular
This is one of the best international family vacations for active families.
Southern Caribbean Cruises
Cruise lines make traveling with adult kids surprisingly easy—especially Southern Caribbean cruises.
- Shore excursions everyone can enjoy
- No need to constantly repack
- Perfect for families with different interests
Cruises are a great way to ensure everyone experiences amazing things while still having independence.
South Africa & Cape Town
For families ready for something bold, South Africa—especially Cape Town—is unforgettable.
- Beautiful beaches, mountains, and wine country
- Rich history and modern culture
- Truly a trip of a lifetime
This destination works best when adult kids are comfortable with long-haul travel and adventure.
Other Places to Travel With Adult Children
Walt Disney World & Orlando
Theme parks aren’t only for young kids and little kids. Walt Disney World offers:
- Food festivals and special events
- Water parks and behind-the-scenes tours
- Nearby stops like Kennedy Space Center
For families traveling with adult kids, it’s about choosing the best things that fit everyone’s interests.
Planning Tips From Travel Experts
- Choose destinations with easy access and flexible activities
- Look for rentals with common areas and separate rooms
- Mix structured plans with free time
- Consider shoulder seasons like late spring for fewer crowds
If you book through affiliate links on this site, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you—good luck planning your next adventure!
Why These Trips Matter More Than Ever
In recent years, we’ve learned that time together is the most valuable gift. Traveling with adult children creates space for laughter, reflection, and shared experience—something that’s harder to replicate once careers, partners, and young kids enter the picture.
Whether it’s a road trip through small towns, exploring major cities like Mexico City, or soaking in hot springs after a day of hiking, these trips become a special place in your family story.
Because one day, you’ll look back and realize these were the best parts all along.
If you’re looking for more inspiration on places to travel with adult children, follow along on Facebook or Instagram where I share favorite places, thoughtful travel ideas, and stories designed to help families make the most of this meaningful season of life.
