Planning a Multi-Generational Vacation
Photo submitted by guest.
Planning a trip that brings together grandparents, parents, and kids can feel overwhelming—but the right destination makes all the difference! If you’re looking for the perfect mix of relaxation, connection, and classic lake life, a stay at The Shores on Lake Ida offers everything you need for a seamless multigenerational vacation in Minnesota.
Whether you’re gathering for a special occasion or starting a new family tradition, here’s how to plan a trip everyone will love!
Why Minnesota is Perfect for Multigenerational Vacations
Minnesota is known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” and for good reason. Families have been coming “up north” for generations to unplug, reconnect, and enjoy the outdoors together. The Alexandria area—home to The Shores on Lake Ida—is especially ideal for families thanks to calm, family-friendly lake, a slower pace of life outside the city, easy access to outdoor activities, and a welcoming, small-town feel. At least we think we have that welcoming small-town feel! Check out Explore Alexandria Tourism’s page to help plan your trip!
Choose a Resort Designed for Families
One of the biggest mistakes in planning a large family trip is choosing the wrong accommodations. Hotels separate people. The right resort brings them together. At The Shores on Lake Ida, families enjoy:
Spacious house rentals with room for multiple generations
Shared spaces for meals, games, and conversation
Private sleeping areas for comfort and downtime
And perhaps the best feature - lakeside access just steps from your door!
This setup creates the perfect balance between togetherness and personal space—something every family needs.
Photo submitted by guest.
Plan Activities for All Ages (Without Overplanning)
The key to a successful multigenerational vacation is flexibility. You don’t need a packed itinerary—you need options. At The Shores on Lake Ida, your days can naturally include:
Fishing right off the dock
Swimming in a safe, gradual-entry lake with a water bouncer, water slide, kayaks, paddleboards and a paddle boat
Pontoon rides and relaxing on the water
Yard games and lakeside lounging
Nearby, you can also explore places like Lake Carlos State Park for hiking, biking, and nature trails.
Keep Meals Simple and Memorable
Food brings everyone together—but it shouldn’t become stressful. Here’s what could work best for large families:
Rotate cooking responsibilities between households
Grill easy, crowd-pleasing meals
Plan one or two special dinners
Keep breakfasts and lunches flexible and perhaps something that could be enjoyed on the boat
And of course—no Minnesota lake vacation is complete without s’mores by the fire!
Make It Comfortable for Every Generation
The best family vacations are the ones where everyone feels included. At The Shores on Lake Ida:
Easy lake access makes it simple for all ages to enjoy the water
Relaxed surroundings allow grandparents to unwind
Kids have safe playgrounds and open spaces to play
Parents can finally slow down
No long drives. No complicated logistics. Just quality time together.
Photo submitted by guest
Start a Family Tradition
Many families who visit once make it an annual tradition—and it’s easy to see why. Popular traditions include:
Annual family photos by the lake
Fishing contests between generations
Matching shirts or themed dinners
A final-night campfire to wrap up the trip
These simple traditions turn a vacation into something your family looks forward to every year.
Capture the Moments That Matter
When you bring multiple generations together, those memories are priceless. Take the photos. Record the laughter. Capture the candid, unplanned moments. Because years from now, this won’t just be a trip—it’ll be part of your family’s story.
Photo submitted by guest.
Book Your Minnesota Family Vacation Early
The best summer weeks in Alexandria, Minnesota fill quickly—especially for larger family groups. If you’ve been thinking about planning a multigenerational vacation in Minnesota, now is the time to start.
Experience The Shores on Lake Ida
At The Shores on Lake Ida, everything is designed to make family vacations easier, more meaningful, and more memorable.
Peaceful lakeside setting
Family-friendly accommodations
Activities for every generation
A true “up north” Minnesota experience
Because the best vacations aren’t about doing more—they’re about being together. Come stay with us and enjoy the “good ol’ days”!
