This conceptual paper explores how Iran’s underutilized cultural heritage can be reimagined to engage international tourists from a family-and child-centered perspective. While Iran possesses a vast array of tangible, intangible, and natural heritage resources, prevailing tourism practices often exclude the needs and interests of families and children, audiences increasingly recognized as vital to sustainable cultural tourism. Grounded in interdisciplinary insights from heritage interpretation, developmental theory, and inclusive design, this study proposes an integrated conceptual framework consisting of four interrelated dimensions: (1) heritage assets, (2) child-centered experience design, (3) perception and narrative systems, and (4) enabling mechanisms. The model advances theoretical discourse by shifting the focus from heritage as static and adult-oriented to a dynamic, intergenerational process of co-creation. This study provides both conceptual clarity and practical direction. This study informs policymakers, designers, and heritage managers on how to create culturally relevant, emotionally engaging, and developmentally appropriate tourism experiences. Although not empirically tested, this model lays the foundation for future validation through participatory case studies, experiential research, and crosscultural adaptation. In conclusion, this study calls for a redefinition of heritage tourism as a space of shared meaningmaking, where culture is not merely displayed but lived through intergenerational dialogue and imaginative participation.