Teens are often the most overlooked guests in the hospitality industry. They are too old for kids' clubs and not quite ready for adult lounges. Most hotels provide little that truly appeals to them. Yet, they play a powerful role in shaping the family travel choices and experiences.
Hotels need to provide something new and exciting and go beyond just offering basic amenities like a pool and Wi-Fi. It's important to think creatively and cater to the interests of this socially-savvy generation. Here are five fun ideas to help your hotel stand out and make teens feel welcomed.
No Parents Allowed: 5 Ways to Wow Your Teen Guests
1 - Pop-Up Boba Stand
Set up an aesthetically pleasing bubble tea stand by the lobby, poolside or near your lounge—creating an inviting space for teens to connect and relax. Let them customise their drinks with fun toppings like classic pearls and jelly cubes, while adding signature hotel-inspired flavours for a unique touch.
This simple, Instagram-worthy setup not only fulfils sweet cravings but also fosters a vibrant social hub where teens can gather, sip and make lasting memories.
2 - Mini 90s Throwback Vintage Fair
Picture CDs, retro tees, Polaroids and sneakers—a mini vintage fair hosted right at your hotel that brings the 90s and early 2000s back in style. This on-property pop-up taps into trends today’s teens love, offering a playful mix of nostalgia and self-expression through curated vintage finds.
It’s the perfect way to spark conversation, encourage exploration and give teens something unexpected to look forward to during their stay. Set the mood with a CD-era playlist and consider running the fair regularly during peak family travel seasons to create a signature guest experience that stands out.
3 - Teen-Only Lounge
Creating a teen-only space, even if it's temporary, shows that your hotel values its teenage guests and understands their need for independence. This designated area provides a relaxed environment for them to hang out, recharge and connect on their own terms. You can transform an underutilised lounge or function room into a casual retreat by adding beanbags, charging stations, gaming consoles and a self-serve snack basket. Incorporate ambient lighting, playful signage and a playlist curated by teens to establish a vibrant atmosphere.
To ensure safety and maintain the energy of the space, consider offering specific teen lounge hours during the afternoon and early evening—times when staff can monitor the area. Whether teens visit to relax alone or to socialise with friends, having a well-timed, dedicated space like this can greatly enhance their stay.
4 - Pamper Packages for Teens
Traditional spa experiences often lean toward the sensual and sophisticated—great for adults, but not always the right fit for younger guests. Create a mini spa experience designed especially for teens that’s fun, approachable and age-appropriate. Offer a pampering teenage package with facials, nail art and soothing under-eye masks.
It’s a perfect way for teens to unwind, whether they’re looking for a quiet moment alone, quality time with siblings or a chance to connect with new friends.
5 - Playlist Wall with Song Voting
Give teens real agency over their hangout space by letting them choose the music that plays. Set up a QR code-based polling system in your teen lounge or common area, allowing guests to vote from a curated list of trending, age-appropriate songs. The live poll results can be displayed on a screen in the lounge, turning the process into a dynamic part of the experience. Votes cast throughout the day will determine the official playlist for the following day—giving teens something to look forward to and talk about.
This approach empowers teens and creates a sense of community. Whether it’s relaxing afternoon tracks or upbeat evening hits, they will enjoy hearing their selections play, knowing they set the mood.
Teens Talk—Make Sure They’re Talking About You
It’s important to create experiences that serve all ages of your family guests—not just the little ones or the adults. By including teens in thoughtful ways, you create a stay that feels more complete and unforgettable for the whole family.
Simple activities that require minimal investment can create moments of connection and fun that teens value. Thoughtful touches like these can turn your hotel into a standout destination—one they’ll talk about (and share in their socials) long after check-out.
Check out the article below to discover more ideas to elevate your hotel property's family-friendly offerings:
Wan Tsau
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