Seventy percent of parents now consider their children’s preferences when choosing a vacation destination, according to Hilton’s 2025 Trends Report. As Gen Alpha, the generation born from 2010 onward, gains influence in family travel decisions, resorts across the United States adapt what it means to be family friendly.

That label once suggested playgrounds, kids’ menus and maybe a staffed activity center. Today, families look for accommodations that work for toddlers and teens, parents and grandparents, sometimes all under the same roof. They want flexible layouts like multi-bedroom suites, activities that balance screen-free downtime with social connection, wellness offerings for kids and adults, and experiences that reflect the destination rather than a generic setup.

“As a luxury travel writer and parent, I’ve learned that the right resort can make or break a family vacation. When my kids were younger, one of my top priorities was choosing a resort with ground-level rooms that offered direct access to the pool. It was a strategic decision that made nap schedules, snack runs and mid-day breaks effortless. Resorts that understand the rhythms of family travel — those little logistical details — tend to stand out every time.”

The change isn’t just about adding more amenities. It reflects a broader shift in how families travel. Many stay longer and mix vacation time with remote work for parents or school for kids. They look for places that do more than provide a bed for the night. They want resorts where everyone can relax, reconnect and stay entertained, regardless of age.

Inside the shift toward experience-driven family travel

With kid-friendly hospitality now considered a $175 billion opportunity globally, according to Wanderland’s Kids Hospitality Report, some U.S. resorts lead the way in adapting to modern family needs. These five destinations highlight how resorts rethink what it means to be family friendly, whether it’s a beachside retreat, a desert escape or a city stay with resort-style perks.

Mission Point Resort — Mackinac Island, Michigan

Located on car-free Mackinac Island, Mission Point Resort offers families a slower pace and plenty of room to spread out. The 18-acre property includes large open lawn spaces, fire pits, Adirondack chairs and views of the sparkling Straits of Mackinac, making it an easy place for kids to roam and everyone to unwind.

Leaning into the demand for kid-friendly hospitality, the resort offers a complimentary Kid’s Club each morning. Parents can take advantage of the on-site spa and morning wellness classes or simply enjoy the chance to unplug. Wi-Fi is available, but much of the island’s appeal lies in being away from screens.

In addition to an 18-hole putting course that includes glow-in-the-dark fun, families can rent bikes, explore hiking trails or check out the island’s historic landmarks nearby. For a more structured itinerary, Mission Point keeps a calendar packed with bookable experiences to keep guests of all ages busy.

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess — Scottsdale, Arizona

Far beyond a basic hotel with a swimming pool, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess delivers a full-scale resort experience designed with families in mind. With six pools, a waterslide and seasonal activities built around school breaks and holidays, it has become a go-to destination for families visiting the Sonoran Desert.

The AAA Five Diamond resort blends upscale comfort with family-friendly convenience. It offers roomy accommodations, a variety of on-site dining options and activities designed to keep all ages entertained.

During spring break and summer, the Trailblazers Kids Club entertains with daily themed activities, while older kids can participate in sports clinics, fishing at the on-site lagoon or nighttime dive-in movies. For parents, the 44,000-square-foot Well & Being Spa and championship golf courses add to the resort’s multi-generational appeal.

Dining options range from casual tacos by the pool to upscale restaurants. The resort’s seasonal events, like its summer Trailblazers Kids Club programming or festive holiday light displays, make it easy for families to plan return visits to Scottsdale at different times of the year.

Evermore Orlando Resort — Orlando, Florida

Opened in 2024, Evermore Orlando Resort reimagines what a family resort can be, offering the space, flexibility and amenities today’s families increasingly expect. The 1,100-acre property blends the comforts of home with the perks of a full-scale resort, featuring an 8-acre crystal-clear lagoon with sandy beaches, paddleboarding and kayak access, all just minutes from Walt Disney World.

Designed with multigenerational travelers in mind, accommodations range from two-bedroom flats to 11-bedroom vacation homes, many with bunk rooms for kids, private pools and full kitchens for easy meals together. On-site dining, activity programming and a fitness center give families plenty to do without leaving the property, and shared access to the adjacent Conrad Orlando brings luxury touches like spa services and upscale dining.

Evermore combines resort-level amenities with the freedom of residential-style lodging. It caters to families who want connection and breathing room, whether they’re headed to Orlando’s theme parks or staying put for a slower-paced vacation.

Fairmont Orchid — Kohala Coast, Hawaii

For families looking to blend outdoor adventure with cultural enrichment and wellness, the Fairmont Orchid delivers a well-rounded Hawaiian resort experience. Set on 32 acres along the Big Island’s Kohala Coast, the property includes a protected oceanfront lagoon ideal for younger swimmers, paddleboarding and snorkeling. The private lagoon gives kids safer access to the water without leaving the resort.

Spacious guest rooms and suites with private lanais give families room to spread out, making it easier for multiple generations to travel together. On-site dining keeps mealtimes simple, especially after a full day in the sun.

Parents can relax at the award-winning Spa Without Walls or join a yoga class on the lawn. Meanwhile, kids can participate in cultural activities such as lei-making or hula lessons that offer a hands-on look at the island’s history and traditions.

The Fairmont Orchid offers families a place to relax, spend meaningful time together and feel like they’re vacationing in Hawaii, not just anywhere with a beach. This mix of downtime and local experiences exemplifies what many families now look for in a resort.

Level Hotel — Seattle, Washington

While not a traditional resort, Level Seattle checks many of the same boxes that today’s families look for, including space, flexibility and built-in amenities that make travel easier. Located just minutes from Seattle’s top downtown attractions, the property offers fully furnished suites with up to three bedrooms, in-unit laundry and full kitchens, giving families the comfort and convenience of home.

The amenities read more like a high-end resort than a standard hotel. There are indoor and outdoor pools, rooftop lounges, a basketball court with a rock climbing wall, an enormous fitness center and even a dedicated playroom for kids. Need to keep up with music lessons while on vacation? There’s a music room with a full drum set and a baby grand piano available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Families can even enjoy a theater room, challenge each other to karaoke or hang out in one of the recreation areas, and there are many to choose from. The variety means every age group can stay active, unwind or do a bit of both.

Level is a great fit for families planning longer stays or mixing work with vacation. Its central location and apartment-style setup make it an easy home base for exploring the city while still covering the needs of a modern family getaway.

Where resorts go from here

As more families prioritize connection, comfort and meaningful experiences, resorts rethink what family friendly really means. Accommodations are becoming more flexible, activities are more inclusive and wellness features are designed with all ages in mind. The shift reflects the growing opportunity for U.S. properties ready to meet the needs of today’s travelers.