In 2025, the generation that gave us rock 'n' roll and the Civil Rights Movement is rewriting another rule: what it means to grow old. As bucket-list travel among older generations rises, they are more than willing to foot the bill if all generations come along for the adventure.
According to a recent Booking.com survey, nearly half (49%) of baby boomers -- born between 1946 and 1964 -- opt to spend their savings for next year on unforgettable experiences rather than leave an inheritance behind.
80% of them even happily foot the bill for multigenerational vacations, prioritizing shared memories over material legacies.
Squaremouth, a leading U.S. travel insurance marketplace, recently revealed similar findings: 53% of all travelers in 2025 will be baby boomers, a 6% increase from last year. Around 47% are planning a multigenerational vacation, surpassing all other group travel types and marking a 17% rise compared to 2024.
The challenges were clear, says Abby Price, who traveled with her young children and grandparents in their 60s. She found it difficult to coordinate activities that appealed to the entire family. As this wave of all-ages travel groups hits the road, the question remains: Is the tourism industry equipped to meet their diverse needs and expectations? Multiple European hotels and resorts are.
Cracking Codes and Chasing Clues Together
Kilkea Castle, a 12th-century fortress and award-winning resort, is Ireland's first and only castle hotel to feature themed escape rooms, perfect for families looking to bond through mystery and problem-solving. Owners Jay and Christy Cashman created four escape rooms inspired by Jay's memorable experience with his family in the U.S.
"The overall reviews have been exceedingly positive," says Kilkea Castle Director of Sales Adrian Mooney, highlighting the two identical Dueling Dungeons rooms where teams can play against each other.
Families with kids who want to be the next Nancy Drew or Sherlock Holmes can visit Grand Resort Bad Ragaz in Switzerland and help find the mischief-causing troll on Pizola Mountain.
"We have been privileged to welcome families of all sizes from all over the world," says Milos Colovic, General Manager at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz. He adds that while families appreciate the Family Spa, the Children's Villa, and the Michelin-star dining tailored for younger guests, the Detective Trail on Pizol Mountain is a colorful addition to collaborative experiences.
Adventurous Activities Bridge Generations
According to Booking.com's findings, 23% of baby boomers surveyed expressed interest in high-octane adventures, a significant increase from just 10% in 2024. While this suggests most grandparents are not ready to skydive, go white-water rafting, or hike the Scottish mountains, they may be open to adventurous, family-friendly activities.
Crete, the southernmost island of Greece, is not only a sun-soaked paradise known for its ancient history and pink sand beach but also a playground for families of all ages.
Creta Maris Resort, the island's first-ever five-star eco-resort, is leading the way with its 43,000-square-foot water park, one of Europe's largest open-air cinemas, and sports activities like tennis, mini-golf, basketball, and boccia.
For a cultural twist, guests can join Cretan cooking classes or enjoy vibrant folklore shows where they can learn a step or two.
Families can step back in time and explore medieval adventures at SCHLOSS Roxburghe in Scotland, United Kingdom. This Destination by Hyatt launched its "Roots to Reunion" program this October to capture the interest of multigenerational families.
Within the program, a Family Travel Expert sets up a three-day itinerary, including activities like archery, clay pigeon shooting, and air rifle shooting.
Family Bonding Through Timeless Traditions
Historic Castello di Reschio, a 1,000-year-old castle estate in Umbria, Italy, stands out with its hands-on truffle-hunting experience and private family cooking class.
Umbria is one of Italy's most prominent truffle-producing regions, a practice dating back to the 15th century. In Castello di Reschio, families truffle hunt with an expert guide and their skilled dogs. After, foragers prepare a meal together with their findings.
Who doesn't love pasta? In neighboring Tuscany, Renaissance Tuscany Il Coccio Resort invites families for an all-ages pasta-making experience. The course features handmade pasta, customizable menus for kids and teens, chef hats and aprons for all, and wine for the adults.
"Cooking is an act of love towards the other person," says Lorenzo Venanzi, Assistant Head Chef at Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa. "Family is central to Italian culture, and if we can offer a way for families to grow closer and connect on a deeper level, then we are truly beyond happy."
Families interested in hands-on experiences that blend craftsmanship, history, and creativity can try watchmaking at Switzerland's La Réserve Genève Hotel and Spa.
Reliving Childhood and Exploring Family Roots
Finland's Apukka Resort designs adventures with connection in mind. With no kids' clubs, babysitting services, or televisions in the rooms, the focus is on connecting with nature, animals, and the Finnish way of life.
A highlight is the Reindeer Ride to Santa through the Magic Forest, where parents and grandparents often relive their childhood alongside the kids. Baking gingerbread, learning elf skills, sending good wishes to loved ones, and meeting Santa Claus fill these two-hour tours with Christmas magic for all ages.
Reliving the magic of childhood can also mean exploring your family's past. Ireland's Dromoland Castle, a 16th-century estate and former home of the royal O'Briens, leans on in-house genealogist Lorna Moloney to uncover fascinating ancestry details.
"Given that a high volume of our visitors coming from the North American market would have some Irish ancestry in their own family lines, it became clear that this was an offering guests would be incredibly grateful to be able to delve into," says Grainne O'Rourke, Marketing Manager at Dromoland Castle.
Family history comes alive in surprising ways, like birth records, marriages, land deeds, and ship logs. One family discovered their relation to the famous female pirate Grace O'Malley. Another learned her great-great-grandfather had a tattoo of Queen Victoria on his bicep.
"Feedback has been wonderful. Most are quite surprised about the level of detail that can be uncovered. It is quite a cathartic and emotional journey for guests," says Mr. O'Malley.
Traveling together is not just about the destinations. It is also about the stories you will tell for years to come. What kind of legacy would mean more to your family: the things you leave behind or the memories you create together?
This article was produced by Media Decision and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.