“Nostalgification” is more than just a tongue-twister — it’s a travel trend that’s picking up steam.
The 2025 Hilton Trends Report predicts that over the next year, Americans will be a driving force in the trend of “taking vacations and booking travel experiences inspired by nostalgic memories.” As one example, 58% of travelers with children want to return to destinations they visited as kids.
Likewise, a key finding of the Travel Trends 2025 report by Amadeus and Globetrender is the desire to revisit childhood experiences on vacation.
"Nostalgia (nos·tal·gia) — A sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past, typically for a period or place with happy personal connections."
Enjoy Family Traditions with Hilton Grand Vacations
Membership with Hilton Grand Vacations is all about prioritizing exactly the kind of time away that defines nostalgia travel.
For the past 20-plus years, Member Bill I. and his family of seven have gotten together to reconnect and enjoy family traditions during their annual vacation at Hilton Hawaiian Village® Waikiki Beach Resort.
Bill’s children recalled fond memories of playing catch on the resort lawn, enjoying their favorite treat at the local ice cream parlor and watching spectacular fireworks on each visit.
“I’m Mr. Family Man — I wish I could capture this experience forever and ever,” Bill said. His son wants to continue the same traveling traditions with his kids someday.
Elevating Multigenerational Travel
Another way Hilton Grand Vacations Members recreate nostalgic experiences on vacation is by traveling with extended family. Multigenerational getaways are a snap, thanks to spacious accommodations with multiple bedrooms, full kitchens and resort amenities to please all ages.
Member Eric Z. shared how his family, including his wife, son and parents, vacation affordably together through their Hilton Grand Vacations membership.
“Cliché as it may sound, families that play together stay together,” he said. “We strengthen family bonds during special times like Christmas and birthdays, but there’s nothing quite like the memories created while traveling together.”
People and Properties Make All the Difference
From art deco architecture to an authentic mountain lodge, nostalgic experiences start with where you stay. For Eric Z., it’s all about the ambiance — and ideal location — of McAlpin Ocean Plaza, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club in Miami Beach, Florida.
“We’ve stayed there each of the last 11 years to attend the South Beach Food & Wine Festival,” he said, noting that the familiarity they’ve built with Team Members makes all the difference.
"It's like coming home. The team knows us and welcomes us like family.”
Here are more expert tips from Eric for making the most of vacation membership while revisiting favorite activities with family and friends.
Add Nostalgia to Any Vacation with These Travel Traditions
Depending on where and when you travel, try adding a new tradition to your vacation for nostalgic, family fun.
Snowball Fight
When the snow begins to fly, enjoy some spontaneous outdoor play like a snowball fight or other snow games for kids. Then cozy up to a fireplace with some nice, hot cocoa. Odds are, it will be unforgettable.
Movie Night
Set aside one night for a family-friendly film that everyone can enjoy, with fresh-popped popcorn and an assortment of old-fashioned movie candy.
Cooks in the Kitchen
Many Hilton Grand Vacations resorts feature Suites with full kitchens, so bring a favorite family recipe and enjoy making it together. See some of the benefits of cooking with kids here.
Family Photo Op
Whether you’re posing in your PJs or in a more formal setting, enjoy having a pic to look back on from a designated time on every trip. Here are some great tips for getting the best vacation photos you’ll share for years to come.
Read how one family finds comfort in the healing power of their nostalgic getaways.