Top 12 Destinations for Skip-Gen Travel in 2025 | Sixty and Me

Skip-gen travel, where grandparents take their grandchildren on vacation, offers a unique opportunity for bonding and creating lasting memories. However, selecting the right destination is crucial to ensure a rewarding and enjoyable experience for all involved.

Start by considering the interests and preferences of both grandparents and grandchildren. Are they nature enthusiasts, history buffs, or adventure seekers? Tailoring the destination to match everyone’s interests ensures that each family member will be engaged and excited about the trip.

When choosing a destination, consider the age and mobility of grandparents and grandchildren. Opt for destinations that are easily accessible and offer comfortable accommodations. Consider factors such as travel time, ease of transportation within the destination, and the availability of amenities that cater to different age groups.

Prioritize destinations that are safe and suitable for travelers of all ages. Research the local healthcare facilities, vaccination requirements, and any potential health risks associated with the destination. Ensure that accommodations and activities are accessible and adhere to safety standards.

Look for destinations that offer educational and cultural experiences that appeal to both grandparents and grandchildren. Whether it’s exploring historical landmarks, participating in cultural activities, or learning about local traditions, choose a destination that provides opportunities for learning and enrichment.

Consider the season and weather conditions of the destination when planning your trip. Choose a time of year that offers favorable weather for the activities you have in mind. Whether it’s soaking up the sun on a beach vacation or enjoying winter sports in the mountains, selecting the right season ensures an enjoyable and comfortable experience for everyone.

Research destinations that offer a variety of family-friendly activities and attractions. Look for destinations with theme parks, museums, outdoor adventures, and other attractions that cater to different interests and age groups. Having a diverse range of activities ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Finally, involve the entire family in the decision-making process. Consider everyone’s input and preferences to ensure that the chosen destination is a consensus among all family members. By involving everyone in the planning process, you’ll create excitement and anticipation for the upcoming skip-gen adventure.

Rainforest Adventures

Ancient Temples and Shrines

Iconic Cities Exploration

Drives and Landscapes

• Take drives through iconic landscapes featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films, such as the dramatic Southern Alps, lush forests of Fiordland National Park, and the rolling hills of the Hobbiton Movie Set.
• Ride the coastal routes, including the Great Ocean Road in the South Island and the Pacific Coast Highway in the North Island, with stops at pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming seaside towns.

Outdoor Adventures

• Go hiking on world-renowned trails, such as the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Abel Tasman Coast Track, and Routeburn Track, offering stunning vistas of volcanic peaks, turquoise lakes, and native forests.
• Experience thrilling activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating in adventure hubs like Queenstown and Taupo.
• Take cruises through fjords and sounds, such as Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, surrounded by towering cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Maori Culture and Heritage

• Learn about the Maori culture with visits to marae (traditional meeting grounds), where you can learn about Maori customs, traditions, and ancestral stories.
• Experience cultural performances featuring haka (war dance), poi (traditional dance), and waiata (songs), which showcase Maori arts and storytelling.
• See significant cultural sites such as Te Puia in Rotorua, where you can see geothermal wonders and Maori carving and weaving demonstrations.

Wildlife Encounters

• Visit wildlife sanctuaries and conservation reserves to encounter unique native species, including kiwi birds, tuatara (ancient reptiles), and Hector’s dolphins.
• Take wildlife cruises to observe marine life such as seals, penguins, and albatross in their natural habitat.
• Travel to the Otago Peninsula for opportunities to see rare and endangered wildlife, including yellow-eyed penguins, royal albatross, and fur seals.

Geothermal Wonders

• Experience geothermal areas such as Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and Te Puia in Rotorua, where you can witness bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and colorful mineral pools.
• Relax in natural hot springs and thermal pools, offering therapeutic benefits and stunning surroundings.

Culinary Experiences

• Sample New Zealand’s diverse cuisine, including fresh seafood, succulent lamb, and artisanal cheeses, at local markets, restaurants, and food festivals.
• Take food and wine tours to discover the country’s burgeoning culinary scene. You’ll have opportunities to taste regional specialties and meet local producers.

Stargazing and Night Sky Viewing

• Experience some of the clearest and darkest skies in the world for stargazing with designated Dark Sky Reserves in locations such as Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mackenzie.
• Join guided stargazing tours and observatory visits to learn about the southern night sky and observe celestial wonders such as the Southern Cross, Magellanic Clouds, and Milky Way.

Rocky Mountain Adventures

• Embark on scenic drives along the Icefields Parkway, one of the most breathtaking routes in the world, offering panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, glaciers, and turquoise lakes.
• Explore Banff National Park, home to iconic landmarks such as Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the town of Banff, nestled amidst stunning alpine scenery.
• Discover Jasper National Park, renowned for its rugged wilderness, sparkling lakes, and abundance of wildlife, including elk, moose, and grizzly bears.

Wildlife Viewing

• Join wildlife tours to observe native wildlife in their natural habitat, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and elusive wolves.
• Visit wildlife hotspots such as the Columbia Icefield area, where you may spot grizzly bears, black bears, and golden eagles.

Railway Journeys

Island Hopping

Medina Exploration

• Wander through the labyrinthine streets of ancient medinas in cities like Marrakech, Fez, and Chefchaouen, where you’ll find bustling souks, hidden squares, and historic landmarks.
• Discover architectural wonders such as the Koutoubia Mosque, Ben Youssef Madrasa, and Bab Boujloud (Blue Gate), each offering a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history and culture.
• Get lost in the maze of narrow alleyways, where you’ll encounter artisans, street vendors, and locals going about their daily lives.

Sahara Desert Adventure

• Embark on a camel trekking excursion into the Sahara Desert, where you’ll traverse towering sand dunes, rugged landscapes, and vast desert plains.
• Experience magical sunrises and sunsets over the desert horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange, pink, and gold.
• Camp overnight in traditional Berber desert camps, enjoying traditional music, dance, and stargazing under the clear desert sky.

Vibrant Souks and Markets

• Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Moroccan souks, where you can shop for colorful textiles, handcrafted ceramics, intricate jewelry, and exotic spices.
• Discover famous markets like Jemaa el-Fna in Marrakech, known for its lively entertainment, street performers, and delicious street food.
• Bargain with local vendors and artisans to score unique souvenirs and treasures to take home.

Historic Landmarks and Palaces

• See historic landmarks and palaces such as the Royal Palace in Rabat, the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, and the Royal Mansour in Marrakech.
• Travel to ancient kasbahs (fortresses) and ksars (fortified villages) in cities like Ait Benhaddou, Skoura, and Ouarzazate, each offering a glimpse into Morocco’s past.

Cultural Experiences

• Attend traditional Moroccan performances such as Gnawa music, Andalusian concerts, and belly dancing shows, showcasing the country’s rich musical heritage.
• Learn about Moroccan traditions and customs through interactive workshops on henna art, Moroccan cuisine, and traditional handicrafts.
• Participate in local festivals and celebrations, such as the Festival of Roses in the Dades Valley or the Imilchil Marriage Festival in the Atlas Mountains.

Culinary Delights

• Indulge in authentic Moroccan cuisine, featuring flavorful tagines, couscous dishes, and savory pastries like pastilla and briouat.
• Take cooking classes to learn how to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes using fresh ingredients and aromatic spices like saffron, cinnamon, and cumin.
• Enjoy mint tea ceremonies, a symbol of Moroccan hospitality, served in ornate tea glasses and accompanied by sweet treats like Moroccan pastries and cookies.

Relaxation and Wellness

• Unwind with hammam spa experiences, traditional Moroccan steam baths that cleanse and rejuvenate the body and mind.
• Escape to tranquil oases and riads (traditional Moroccan houses with inner courtyards) for moments of relaxation and serenity amidst lush gardens and tranquil pools.

Fjord Cruises

• Embark on scenic cruises through Norway’s majestic fjords, including the iconic Geirangerfjord, Nærøyfjord, and Sognefjord, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
• Cruise along the UNESCO-listed Norwegian coastline on Hurtigruten ships, offering a unique blend of coastal scenery, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences.

Northern Lights Adventure

• Chase the elusive Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in Norway’s Arctic regions, including Tromsø, Lofoten, and the North Cape, where you can witness nature’s spectacular light show dancing across the night sky.
• Join guided Northern Lights tours led by knowledgeable local guides, offering the best chances of spotting the auroras and capturing stunning photographs.

Cultural Experiences

• Visit charming coastal towns and villages steeped in history and tradition, such as Bergen, Ålesund, and Trondheim, with their colorful wooden houses, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene.
• Tour UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Bryggen in Bergen, the old town of Røros, and the Vega Archipelago, each offering insights into Norway’s cultural and architectural heritage.
• Learn about Norway’s indigenous Sami culture in the Arctic regions, where you can visit Sami settlements, reindeer herding camps, and museums showcasing traditional Sami crafts and customs.

Fjord Activities

• Enjoy outdoor activities in and around the fjords, including kayaking, canoeing, and boat tours that offer unique perspectives of the rugged coastline and dramatic landscapes.
• Go fishing for salmon, trout, and Arctic char in crystal-clear fjord waters, with opportunities for guided fishing excursions and seafood tasting experiences.

Scenic Rail Journeys

• Experience some of the world’s most scenic train journeys on routes like the Flåm Railway, the Bergen Line, and the Nordland Line, offering panoramic views of mountains, fjords, and valleys.
• Ride the famous Flam Railway, one of the steepest railway lines in the world, descending from the mountain village of Myrdal to the fjord village of Flåm.

Wildlife Encounters

• Spot native wildlife such as reindeer, elk, and Arctic foxes in Norway’s wilderness areas, with opportunities for wildlife safaris, birdwatching tours, and photography expeditions.
• Cruise along Norway’s coastline to observe marine life such as whales, dolphins, seals, and seabirds. You may even see orcas, humpback whales, and sperm whales in their natural habitat.

Skiing and Winter Sports

• Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports in Norway’s mountain resorts and ski areas, including Hemsedal, Trysil, and Geilo, offering a variety of slopes for all skill levels.
• Experience cross-country skiing on well-groomed trails through scenic landscapes, with options for guided tours, lessons, and equipment rental.

Tango in Buenos Aires

• Immerse yourself in the passion and rhythm of the tango in Buenos Aires, where you can watch captivating tango performances in historic milongas (tango clubs) or even take tango lessons to learn the moves yourself.
• Discover the colorful neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, such as La Boca and San Telmo, where you’ll find vibrant street art, bustling markets, and lively tango demonstrations in the streets.

Iguazu Falls Adventure

• Marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of Iguazu Falls, one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, located on the border between Argentina and Brazil.
• Take guided tours to learn about the network of trails and walkways surrounding the falls, offering panoramic views of the cascading waterfalls, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife.
• Experience the power of the falls up close with exhilarating boat rides that take you right to the base of the thundering cascades.

Culinary Delights

• Indulge in Argentina’s world-renowned cuisine, with highlights including succulent Argentine steak (asado), empanadas, and traditional dishes like locro (hearty stew) and milanesa.
• Savor Argentine wines, particularly Malbec, in wine regions like Mendoza and Cafayate. Visit vineyards, taste local varieties, and enjoy wine-pairing experiences.
• Sample delicious desserts such as dulce de leche, alfajores (filled cookies), and helado (artisanal ice cream) from gelaterias and pastry shops across the country.

Patagonia Exploration

• Travel to the stunning landscapes of Argentine Patagonia, home to towering mountains, sparkling lakes, and vast glaciers.
• Visit Los Glaciares National Park to see the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier. You can take boat tours or even trek on the glacier itself.
• Discover the natural beauty of the Andean region in northern Patagonia, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting in places like Bariloche and El Chaltén.

Gaucho Culture

• Experience the rich traditions of Argentine gauchos (cowboys) with visits to estancias (ranches) in the Pampas region, where you can participate in horseback riding, cattle herding, and traditional folkloric shows.
• Learn about gaucho culture and history through guided tours, museum visits, and cultural demonstrations showcasing traditional music, dance, and clothing.

Wildlife Watching

• Discover Argentina’s diverse wildlife in national parks and reserves, including the Valdes Peninsula, Ibera Wetlands, and Peninsula de Magdalena.
• Spot iconic species such as penguins, whales, sea lions, and exotic bird species in their natural habitats, with opportunities for guided wildlife tours and eco-friendly excursions.

Cultural Heritage

• Discover Argentina’s colonial heritage in cities like Salta, Cordoba, and Rosario. See historic landmarks, churches, and museums that showcase the country’s cultural and architectural heritage.
• Learn about indigenous cultures and traditions in northern Argentina, with visits to indigenous communities, archaeological sites, and cultural festivals celebrating native customs and rituals.

Exotic Flavors and Street Food

• Dive into Thailand’s vibrant street food scene, sampling a variety of exotic flavors and dishes such as pad thai, som tum (green papaya salad), and mango sticky rice.
• Experience the night markets like Bangkok’s Chatuchak Weekend Market and Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar, where you can feast on delicious street food, shop for souvenirs, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
• Take cooking classes to learn how to prepare authentic Thai dishes, visiting local markets to source fresh ingredients and herbs for your culinary creations.

Ornate Temples and Palaces

• Marvel at the grandeur of Bangkok’s iconic temples and palaces, including the opulent Grand Palace, Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), and Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn).
• Travel to ancient temple complexes like Ayutthaya Historical Park and Sukhothai Historical Park, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, where you can wander among ancient ruins and majestic Buddha statues.
• Travel to Chiang Mai’s historic Old City, home to numerous temples such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, each showcasing exquisite architecture and intricate decorative details.

Beaches and Islands

• Relax on Thailand’s world-famous beaches and islands, such as Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi, with their powder-white sands, crystal-clear waters, and swaying palm trees.
• Explore hidden gems like Koh Lipe, Koh Tao, and Koh Phi Phi, where you can snorkel, dive, and kayak in pristine marine environments teeming with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.
• Take island-hopping boat tours to see secluded beaches, limestone cliffs, and emerald lagoons, with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and beach picnics.

Elephant Sanctuaries and Wildlife Encounters

• Visit ethical elephant sanctuaries in northern Thailand, such as Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai and Elephant Hills in Khao Sok National Park, where you can observe and interact with rescued elephants in their natural habitat.
• See wildlife reserves and national parks like Khao Yai, Doi Inthanon, and Khao Sok, home to diverse flora and fauna including gibbons, hornbills, and tropical birds.
• Go on guided wildlife tours and jungle treks, with chances to spot wildlife such as monkeys, monitor lizards, and even wild elephants in their natural surroundings.

Cultural Experiences

• Experience traditional Thai culture through cultural performances such as classical Thai dance, Muay Thai (Thai boxing) matches, and traditional puppet shows.
• Participate in Buddhist rituals and ceremonies, such as almsgiving to monks, meditation retreats, and temple blessings, to gain insights into Thai spirituality and customs.
• Attend local festivals and celebrations, such as Songkran (Thai New Year), Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights), and Yi Peng (Lantern Festival), where you can join in colorful processions, cultural performances, and traditional rituals.

Jungle Adventures and Eco-Tourism

• Travel to Thailand’s lush jungles and rainforests on eco-friendly adventures with opportunities to discover hidden waterfalls, caves, and wildlife.
• Stay in eco-lodges and nature resorts located in pristine wilderness areas, offering sustainable accommodations and immersive nature experiences.
• Support local conservation efforts and community-based tourism initiatives, such as mangrove reforestation projects, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and sustainable farming practices.

United States (National Parks Road Trip)  

Scenic Drives and Iconic Landscapes  

• Drive along the Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone, where you can witness geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife.  
• Explore the Grand Canyon’s South Rim via Desert View Drive, with breathtaking viewpoints along the way.  
• Take the Tioga Pass Road in Yosemite, offering sweeping alpine views and access to lesser-visited parts of the park.  

Wildlife and Nature Encounters 

• Spot bison, elk, and bears in Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley, often called “America’s Serengeti.”  
• Watch for California condors soaring over the Grand Canyon, one of the rarest birds in the world.  
• See black bears and deer in the lush meadows of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  

Family-Friendly Hiking and Outdoor Adventures  

• Stroll the easy Old Faithful Geyser Loop in Yellowstone to see the park’s most famous geyser erupt.  
• Hike the Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon, with rest stops along the way for young travelers.  
• Walk among giant sequoias on Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove Trail, perfect for all ages.  

Junior Ranger Programs and Educational Experiences