With summer finally here, millions of Americans will be heading to the beach for their family vacation. The beach is great, but it’s not for everyone. Even people who love the beach will crave something different every now and again. That’s where we’re happy to help. Today, we’re looking at 5 of the best vacations for seniors that will raise the bar and give you some unforgettable memories. First up…
All-Inclusive Resort
If you’re looking for a stress-free, leave-the-world-behind vacation, a Caribbean all-inclusive resort is the top option. All-inclusive resorts aren’t only in the Caribbean either. If you’re looking for something a little different, try a resort option in Europe, Asia, or Africa.
All you need to do is wake up and choose what you’re doing that day.
They’re also known as all-expenses-paid resorts for a reason. In most cases, everything on the resort is paid for: the room, the food, the drinks, and the activities. All you need to do is wake up and choose what you’re doing that day. Sit by the pool with a drink? Free. Grab breakfast and play in a beach volleyball tournament? Free. Go dancing? Guess what – free.
Some resorts have extras that you can add to your resort bill, like a spa or an off-resort excursion, but these are entirely optional.
A Cruise
Much like all-inclusive resorts, many cruises include many of the traditional costs of a vacation in your room bill (though many don’t include alcohol). But cruises do have two key advantages over resorts. The first is that you can generally save money on a cruise since they tend to be less expensive than resorts.
Each of those trips include several stops that let you stretch your legs and explore something different.
The other is that cruises are mobile, allowing you to see several places on the same vacation. For example, some Caribbean cruises will stop in Key West, Jamaica, and the Bahamas. Each stop offers something a little bit different, keeping the trip fresh.
Popular cruises are in Alaska, Hong Kong, the Rhine River, and the Mediterranean. Each of those trips include several stops that let you stretch your legs and explore something different.
East Coast History Tour
One of the best vacations for seniors that love history is an East Coast history road trip. Much of the early history of the United States clusters on the East Coast, allowing you to take in a lot in a few weeks. To give you an idea of what you can fit into your trip, we’ve drawn up a basic itinerary for a 17-day trip. The trip would look like:
- 3 Days in Boston, MA
- Suggested Day Trips: Boston’s Freedom Trail, Salem, MA, and Plymouth, MA.
- 2 Days in New York City, NY
- Suggested Day Trips: Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and 9/11 Memorial & Museum.
- 2 Days in Philadelphia, PA
- Suggested Day Trips: Philadelphia’s Historic District and the Museum of the American Revolution, Valley Forge National Historic Park, and Eastern State Penitentiary.
- 1 Day in Gettysburg, PA
- 2 Days in Washington, DC
- Suggested Day Trips: The Smithsonian Museums, the National Mall Monuments, United States Government Tours (U.S. Capitol and the White House), and Holocaust Museum.
- 2 Days in Colonial Williamsburg, VA
- Suggested Day Trips: Jamestown, historic Civil War sites, Yorktown Battlefield and Museum, and Mount Vernon.
- 1 Day in Charleston, SC
- Suggested Day Trips: Fort Sumter, Patriots Point and the Medal of Honor Museum, and the Confederate Museum
- 1 Day in Savannah, GA
- Suggested Day Trips: Savannah Ghost Tour, American Prohibition Museum, Old Town Trolley Tour, and a Plantation Carriage Tour.
- 1 Day of Travel to New Orleans, LA (Stop in Mobile, AL)
- 2 Days in New Orleans, LA
- Suggested Day Trips: The French Quarter, World War II Museum, River Boat Trip, Swamp Tour
- Return Home
This is only a suggested plan. If you have extra time, there are many places to stop off. For example, the Antietam battlefield is a great stop off between Gettysburg and Washington, DC. Appomattox Court House, where the Civil War famously ended, could be a day trip while you’re in Williamsburg. If you’re looking to do this trip, do your research, and you’ll uncover some gems!
Las Vegas or Atlantic City
While gambling is a big draw under their bright lights, it’s not the only reason to check these two cities out.
Las Vegas (or Atlantic City for East Coasters) has a lot to offer. What you see and do really depends on how long you’re staying there. While gambling is a big draw under their bright lights, it’s not the only reason to check these two cities out.
Both have become popular hubs for performers and top notch entertainment. Vegas’ connection to singers is legendary, with the Rat Pack making it their favorite haunt for years. That trend continues today with some of the biggest names in entertainment gracing both Las Vegas and Atlantic City’s stages every night.
Both cities have also been growing reputations in the dining world, for you foodies out there. In 2017, there are 11 restaurants in Las Vegas awarded with Michelin Stars, while Atlantic City is continues to draw top culinary talent, including the likes of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsey.
Highway 1 Road Trip
By sticking to Highway 1, you’ll see much of the best that the Golden State has to offer.
If the East Coast History Tour piqued your interest, check out the Highway 1 road trip. By sticking to Highway 1 and following the California coast, you’ll see much of the best that the Golden State has to offer.
This road will take you through the biggest cities of California: San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. In each of these cities, you’ll have access to a host of historic sites, great restaurants, and world class entertainment.
Highway 1 also happens to pass right through California’s famous wine country. Stop off for a meal and a glass of wine, or plan a few days touring the vineyards.
Much like an East Coast road trip, there is a lot to see along Highway 1. Planning a few extra days is a stellar idea if you want to get the most out of it. The Further Reading section below contains several suggested itineraries for a West Coast trip.
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Summer is a great time to take a well-deserved vacation. The weather is warm, the days are long, and the grandkids are out of school. It’s time to enjoy your leisure time. With these vacations for seniors in hand, you’ll turn your trips into unforgettable experiences. Have a great trip!
Further Reading
GapYear — 13 Incredible Stops on a Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
Sunset — Ultimate California Highway 1 Road Trip
Visit California — Highway One Classic
