24+ Ideas for The Best Family Weekend Getaways In The US For 2025

A family weekend getaway is always much needed to help your whole family escape from the daily grind. What could be better than spending your favourite two days of the week relaxing somewhere new?

Although we always have opportunities for longer holidays all year round, from spring breaks, summer holidays, fall foliage tours, and winter escapes, mini breaks at the weekend are always worth our time and money. It allows kids to relax from the piles of schoolwork and adults to refresh themselves for even more productive projects and business plans to come.

That's why we've gathered the best spots for a quick family holiday across the US. They will hit the spot even when you’re short on time and wish to travel on budget. So, check out our list, pack up your suitcase, and jump on some of the best family adventures this year (maybe this weekend!).

Short On Time? Here Is Our List Of The Best Ideas For A Family Weekend Getaway In 2024

1. San Diego, California - Best for The Beaches and Temperature Weather
2. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Best for Budget Plans
3. Yosemite National Park - Best for Active holidays
4. Gatlinburg, Tennessee - Best For Sweep Views
5. Outer Banks - Laid-Back Family Breaks
6. Orlando, Florida - Best for Theme Parks
7. Cape Cod, Massachusetts - Best for Summertime Mini Holidays
8. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina - Best For Watersports Playground
9. Williamsburg, Virginia - Best For Historic Districts
10. Redwood National & State Parks - Best For Reconnection to The Nature
11. Niagara Falls - Best For Epic Views
12. Mystic, Connecticut - Best for Maritime-Obsessed Kids
13. Pocono Mountains - Best for Stunning Natural Landscapes
14. Yellowstone National Park - Best for Geologic Wonders
15. Oahu, Hawaii - Best For Surfers
16. Colorado Springs - Best for Hiking
17. Philadelphia - Best for Historic Buffs
18. Washington, D.C - Best for An Educational Getaway
19. San Antonio, Texas - Best for A Leisure Stroll Along The River Walk
20. Wisconsin Dells - Best Known As The Waterpark Capital Of The World
21. Disney World - Best for All-In-One Weekend Getaway
22. Branson, Missouri - Best for Family-Friendly Atmosphere
23. Morro Bay, California - Best for A Serene Seaside Getaway
24. Hilton Head, South Carolina - Best for Golfing And Biking
25. New York City, New York - Best for Street Performances and Shows
26. Chicago, Illinois - Best for A Family City Tour

1. San Diego, California - Best for The Beaches and Temperature Weather

Beach time never goes out of season in San Diego. Photo by Stephen - stock.adobe.com

Pack your swimwear and enjoy San Diego's 70 miles of coastline with the city's year-round temperature and weather. Beach time in the city usually means a variety of things, from surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, and whale watching. 

If you bring the whole crew along, check out family-friendly spots like Mission Beach, Coronado Beach or La Jolla Shores for its calmer waves and atmosphere. 

You can also explore the city further by hiking along the sandstone cliffs at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve before stopping by the town's famous breweries or wineries to taste some artisan beverages. 

Not only pristine beaches, this Southern California city also has water parks, theme parks, and kid-friendly museums for everyone to explore all day long. For little comic fans, don't miss out on San Diego Comic-Con, held annually in San Diego, which is also the largest comic convention in the world. 

2. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Best for Budget Plans

Pittsburgh is perfect for exploring, even when you're on a budget. Photo by woodsnorth - stock.adobe.com

From Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium to the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh, families are sure to run out of time before they run out of fun at "Kidsburgh". The city also welcomes families with affordable lunch spots and free subway rides to explore the town. It makes for a great, affordable family holiday with an old-school town charm.

If your family is a big sports fan, you can root for the Steelers at Heinz Field or catch a game at PNC Park. For nature lovers, you can stroll through the Victorian greenhouse at Phipps Conservatory or hike through the 150 miles of Great Allegheny Passage - or both of them.

3. Yosemite National Park - Best for More Active Holidays

 Such a breathtaking destination for a weekend getaway, isn’t it? Photo by digidreamgrafix - stock.adobe.com

Spanning 1,200 square miles, Yosemite welcomes families with a world of wonders, its popular waterfalls, beautiful mountains, valleys and forests.

There are many hikes for active travellers to test their fitness. Although not all are for average hikers (you'd better save trails like Half Dome for the pros), the views at the end will pay off. 

The park is also one of the best places in the world for rock climbing. You can bump into many brave climbers who want to conquer the El Capitan's 3000-foot vertical rock face. 

Landmarks like Mariposa Grove and Half Dome are worth visiting for first-timers. After a long day of exploring, have a good time strolling and eating at the family-friendly Yosemite Valley. 

4. Gatlinburg, Tennessee - Best For Sweep Views

Scenic landscapes for your family's escape. Photo by Narrow Window Photog - stock.adobe.com

Gatlinburg is the gateway to the massive Great Smoky Mountains National Park. That's why many attractions in town can offer families a sweeping view of the nearby park. 

But where can you get the best view of the town? Check out the Gatlinburg SkyLift, where you can ride to the top of the Mountain at 1,800 feet elevation. 

Then, try to cross the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America right there and pass through the lush forests. Last but not least, don't forget to bring your kids to the Gatlinburg Space Needle observation deck (up to 407 feet) for a bird's eye view of the city. 

While in Gatlinburg, try renting a cabin. Whether going on a weekend getaway with your other half or with a large family, you can find perfect lodging from 340 Cabins of the Smoky Mountains. 

Arriving with toddlers? This village in the Smokies is tailored to take care of that, with its pancake houses, candy shops, and craft galleries dotting around the town.

5. Outer Banks - Laid-Back Family Breaks

Come and feel the serenity and spirit of Outer Banks. Photo by EyesTravelling - stock.adobe.com

If you want to take a break from the bustling city, consider Outer Banks - a small town with the charm of a tight-knit community. Within this area, you can hop into all types of water excursions, from fishing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing to kiteboarding. Scuba diving and snorkelling here are super popular as they are the best way to explore 3,000 shipwrecks underwater of “the graveyard of the Atlantic”. 

Above anything else, families love the OBX for secluded beaches and rugged dunes that won't feel touristy all year round. Yet you still can find a comfy stay at the ocean edge, like Surf Side Hotel, along with restaurants, shops, and galleries to fill your itinerary. 

You can also have a day out visiting the Wright Brothers National Memorial, hearing the stories of Wilbur and Orville Wright marking the birthplace of powered flight. Visiting the North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island and a round of mini golf courses are classic family things to do at the OBX.

6. Orlando, Florida - Best for Theme Parks

Roller Coaster rides and shows in Orlando can fill your entire weekend on their own. Photo by MontenegroStock - stock.adobe.com

The Florida city is an all-time favourite stop for families and kids of any age. Why? Let's just say Universal Studios Orlando and Walt Disney World. That would be convincing enough. But don't miss the nearby tourist destinations like Universal’s Volcano Bay and SeaWorld Orlando. 

Orlando is more than just a home of theme parks, however. Beautiful golf courses coupled with a subtropical climate make the city a great escape for golfers.

For something that the whole family will enjoy together, browse the shops at the Mall at Millenia or treat yourself to good food at a fine dining restaurant. For a break from the crowd, visit the tropical garden of Harry P. Leu Gardens to breathe in the fresh air or see a Broadway performance at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

7. Cape Cod, Massachusetts - Best for Summertime Holidays

Some of America's finest and most iconic lighthouses lie in Cape Cod. Photo by Naya Na - stock.adobe.com

Fresh lobster rolls and the expansive sandy coasts of Cape Cod are the call of summer for any Boston-ites. The peninsula is for big adventures in the outdoors, with a 22-mile scenic trail rail and 550 miles of pristine beaches. 

On a single day, you can plan to visit the 19th-century Nauset Lighthouse for your family members to learn about marine history and Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary for kids to know more about the wildlife. 

The biggest fun for the kids, however, should be the spectacular whale-watching show. You should be at Cape Cod between April and October as the whales arrive from warmer climes to feed in the teeming waters. 

For an all-in-one family getaway spot, we suggest checking in Villages at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club, on the northern tip of Cape Cod. The resort is kid-friendly, as you will soon find your little ones losing track of time with the paddle-boarding, oyster bed tours, and kayaking there.

8. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina - Best For Watersports Playground

Take in the ocean views and skyline from the iconic SkyWheel. Photo by Chansak Joe A. - stock.adobe.com

There are plenty of activities you can do by the shore at Myrtle Beach. Bikers will immediately be pulled by the nutmeg-coloured sand that is compact to pedal on. Off the shoreline is the clear water perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving.

Even on a lazy day when you don't want to get wet, you can otherwise rent a paddleboard or kayak to discover the coastal town at your own pace. 

Myrtle Beach is also a hidden golf holiday destination, with 90 championship courses for all skill levels. You can still catch up with some good rounds during your family holidays, as most golf courses are free for kids under 16 with a paying adult. 

9. Williamsburg, Virginia - Best For Historic Districts

Back in time to colonial Virginia at Colonial Williamsburg. Humberto Moreno, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Image resized.

Williamsburg is long known as a historical town with a famed living museum called Colonial Williamsburg. Here, history comes to life as you interact with actors in period costumes who vividly portray daily life in Colonial America. Next, take your kiddos to Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center for a complete historical journey.

But, if you are there for an active getaway, the city also has three large waterparks. Water Country USA, the biggest of them all, has everything from water slides, raft rides, and pools to water coasters for all the water thrills your kids will look for. You can also get some sweat at the Virginia Capital Trail, a paved bicycle path of 52 miles that connects the city with Richmond.

10. Redwood National & State Parks - Best For Reconnection With The Nature

If you had one full day in nature, you would have an amazing day! Photo by Galyna Andrushko - stock.adobe.com

You can find some of the tallest trees in the Redwood National & State Parks alongside old redwoods, prairies, and long coastlines. There is also Elk Meadow where kids and adults alike will be excited spotting herds of elk grazing. 

We recommend signing up for guided tide pool walks for those without a lot of time to get by the ocean back home. If you're lucky, you can catch whales between December and April. 

If this is the first hike of your kiddos, consider starting at Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail. Stretching 1.5 miles and fairly flat, the trail lets them explore the tall trees and magical rolling fog without having to take a strenuous hike. 

11. Niagara Falls - Best For Epic Views

Sign up for a boat tour to get you as close as possible to the stunning Falls. Photo by Alicina - stock.adobe.com

It's easy to see why Niagara Falls is among the best family holidays in Canada. The biggest reason is, of course, the falls, known for their spectacular water spray and the highest speed in the world. 

The good news is there are many viewpoints to watch the three waterfalls (that made up Niagara Falls) - American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. You can do it from both the Canadian and American sides.

Cliffton Hill is another great stop for everyone in the family, with kid-friendly shops, restaurants, fast-food joints, and museums. Your little ones will love go-karts and mini-golf there. 

For a small family without kids in tow, why not chance your luck with the nearby Casino Resort? If you still have some money left later, have some pints at the Beer Garden, people-watch, and have fun.

12. Mystic, Connecticut - Best for Maritime-Obsessed Kids

Mystic was once a shipbuilding and whaling hub between the 17th and 19th centuries. Photo by demerzel21 - stock.adobe.com

This little waterfront town is a dream come true for kids who love maritime activities. Mystic Seaport Museum - the leading maritime museum in the US - is where they can spend hours exploring sailing ships and boats. 

At Mystic Aquarium, visitors can also have a lovely encounter with beluga whales and Steller sea lions. Mystic Bridge Historic District is also a great place for some quality family time. Stunning architecture, ice cream parlours, and pizzerias will be sure to keep everyone happy and entertained. 

If you still have half of a day left, consider chartering a boat and going fishing on the calm water of Mason's Island, just a few minutes from downtown!

13. Pocono Mountains - Best for Stunning Natural Landscapes

Pocono Mountains is perfect to visit for both summer and winter holidayers. Photo by Alex Krassel - stock.adobe.com

Just two hours by car from Philly or New York, the Ponoco is a great destination for those looking for nature, fresh air, and landscapes. Summertime in the mountains is for wilderness adventures, as families can have fun with whitewater rafting, scenic hikes, and water parks. Winter is also no less exciting with snow tubing, skiing, and ice fishing.

Above anything else, Ponoco is a heaven for nature lovers, as the name itself suggests “Creek between two hills”. On a single day of your family weekend getaway, you'll have a lot of places to cross off, with Ponoco’s 150 lakes, 20 waterfalls, and 9 State Parks (both outdoors and indoors).

14. Yellowstone National Park - Best for Geologic Wonders

The iconic Old Faithful geyser is evidence of the volcanic history of the park. Photo by digidreamgrafix - stock.adobe.com

Yellowstone National Park welcomes families with affordable camping, lodging and admission fees. Your family can stay at the campsite for several nights without breaking the bank. Note that you should book in advance except for Mammoth Campground.

This USA First National Park draws the crowd with its hot springs, with the Old Faithful geyser as a must to visit for first-timers. You'll need an entire day to explore half the world's active geysers, as well as check-in geologic landmarks like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River.

The park also has over 900 miles of hiking trails, along with alpine tundras, canyons, and mountains. While this might seem a bit hard to explore in one trip, remember that you can always come back for more. 

15. Oahu, Hawaii - Best For Surfers

A trip to Oahu won't be complete without riding at least one epic wave. Photo by Davidzfr - stock.adobe.com

If you’re looking for the best place to learn to surf, it should be the rolling breaks of Oahu. The island has anything from manageable waves at Puaena Point and Chun's Reef for beginners to legendary breaks at Sunset Beach and Pipeline. 

Oahu is famous for the state capital, Honolulu, stunning Waikiki Beach, and historic Pearl Harbor. You'll love the lovely blend of cosmopolitan feel, local culture and relaxation. And did we mention it is one of the cheaper Hawaiian islands to visit?

If you set out for an active escape, consider going on a half-day whale-watching tour, snorkelling at Hanauma Bay, or hiking Diamond Head. Honolulu Museum of Art and the Hawaii State Art Museum show out-of-towners that Oahu is also filled with culture, and the sunken battleship at Pearl Harbor will give your kids a glance at the past Oahu. 

16. Colorado Springs - Best for Hiking 

From easy hikes to multi-day adventures, you can find it all in Colorado Springs. Photo by arinahabich - stock.adobe.com

With more than 55 attractions in town, including Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and the Colorado Springs Olympic & Paralympic Museum, Colorado Springs is more than ideal for a family break. Your child will also have a good time hand-feeding giraffes at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the highest zoo you can find in the country.

For older kids and grown-ups, let's try to reach the summit of Pikes Peak, which inspires what is written in the song “America the Beautiful”. If you’re after more hiking trails, check in to Garden of the Gods Park, where you will be in awe of the towering red rock formations along the way. 

17. Philadelphia - Best for Historic Buffs

American history is even more relevant, real and fun in Philadelphia. Photo by Monica - stock.adobe.com

If your itinerary mostly covers historic sites, you should stay in the Old City. The Liberty Bell, Betsy Ross House and Independence Hall are within the neighbourhood and, best of all, are free to enter. 

There are also scenic yet underrated spots like the Schuylkill River, where you can take a kayak tour to see the city from the water. Last but not least, add the fine art of Fairmount to your list if you still have time to spare. 

Don't forget to check out South Philly Barbacoa for a taste of Legendary Barbacoa and homestyle Mexican fare! The breweries of Manayunk are also a local favourite, where you can enjoy craft brews and cheesesteaks while enjoying the view of the Schuylkill River on their patio. 

18. Washington, D.C - Best for An Educational Getaway

Washington might be short on glamour, but it's a major hub of culture and history. Photo by BRIAN_KINNEY - stock.adobe.com

The national capital is more popular than ever for its kid-friendly, world-class museums and attractions. Most are free! The district's National Museum of Natural History and Smithsonian National Museum of American History are some of the best to visit among the city's 70 museums.

Families can take a walking tour of the National Mall, where kids can explore 12 favourite architectural gems of America. If your kiddos are passionate about reading, the book collection in the Library of Congress will keep them entertained for hours. 

Washington is not only for the history buffs, however. The city is lively with indie boutiques, breweries, and fine restaurants that you will need an entire Sunday to cover. Green spaces like Rock Creek Park and the U.S. National Arboretum are also good for outdoorsy tourists. 

19. San Antonio, Texas - Best for A Leisure Stroll Along The River Walk

Riverwalk in San Antonio by night. Photo by Wangkun Jia - stock.adobe.com

San Antonio is a place for entertainment and educational enrichment at once! You can learn and explore alongside your kids at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, the San Antonio Museum of Art or the McNay Art Museum.

Or spend an entire day at Schlitterbahn and Six Flags Fiesta Texas for thrilling rides and dizzying roller coasters with your kids. We also recommend the DoMuseum for its STEM-based exhibits that give your kids quality time for playing and learning.

The famed River Walk, which winds 15 miles through the heart of the city, is so iconic that it doesn't need our recommendation. So, take a tour. 

You can see lines of shops, restaurants, and bars welcoming tourists and hear flamenco music played by street performers. And allow the kids to sample San Antonio’s signature dish - chilli - to their heart content.

20. Wisconsin Dells - Best Known As The WaterPark Capital Of The World

Wisconsin Dells has more water parks than anywhere else. Photo by Aaron - stock.adobe.com

Just 55 miles north of Madison, you will find unique water slides and rides at the water capital of the planet - Wisconsin Dells. A day pass to Noah’s Ark Water Park is worth it for your kids to splash around and race down the Raja. 

A mile from downtown, the unique Deer Park can also excite animal lovers of all ages,  where you can feed and pose for photos with 100 species. 

If you’re after an all-inclusive weekend spot, the town also has some nice options. Kalahari Resorts has both indoor and outdoor parks, which have Sahara Sidewinders slides that literally drop you from the roof to the splashdown below. 

CabinZero's tips: If you visit the city between mid-April and early November, take a boat tour to see unique rock formations along the Wisconsin River. 

21. Disney World - Best for All-In-One Weekend Getaway

Disney World is massive, and that's why the park alone can keep your whole family entertained and refreshed on a weekend getaway. The park is specifically for families and kids, and you will never forget seeing your kids’ reactions the first time they see Ariel or Belle in real life.

A single-day Park Hopper ticket will give you permission to visit the Four Parks: Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. We recommend spending extra for Genie+, as your kids won't have to get in line for their favourite attractions.

If you want to take a break from the park, Disney Springs has a long list of restaurants, shops, and live music performances to keep everyone entertained. For a post-meal adventure, Vintage Amphicar Tours there will give you a fantastic ride on your dream retro boat.

22. Branson, Missouri - Best for Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Take it slow at Table Rock Lake, Branson. Photo by nsc_photography - stock.adobe.com

Named as a family-friendly alternative to Las Vegas, Branson also offers many kids-approved, free attractions. The Silver Dollar City Amusement Park, for example, is not only for its famous rides and attractions but also for its impressive look, which replicates a mining town from the 1880s.

Titanic Museum Attraction, White Water Branson, and The Track Family Fun Parks are also within the town. Your kids are sure to have plenty of good time playing and exploring in the same place. 

For nature lovers, Table Rock Lake is also a must to check in for swimming, fishing, boating, and even scuba diving. 

Don't forget to check out the spectacular water and fire show at Branson Landing, which happens every hour. Along the Branson Strip at night, families can enjoy late-night plays, musicals, or live comedy performances after their dinner. 

23. Morro Bay, California - Best for A Serene Seaside Getaway

Morro Rock is the icon of the town. Photo by Leo_Visions - stock.adobe.com

Right off Highway 1 on the Central Coast of California, you'll find the little, cute town of Morro Bay. The first thing that stands out in front of your eyes is the Morro Rock - a volcanic monolith rising from the depths of the sea. 

Next up is the wild and rugged Morro Beach, with miles of open sand for strolling, picnicking and sailing. Just two miles away, The Morro Strand is also a great spot for surfers to ride some amazing waves. 

But what makes Morro Bay extra special for kids is its wildlife. You can easily catch otters and sea lions from the coast, while whale-watching tours departing from Embarcadero are also regularly available for families.

24. Hilton Head, South Carolina - Best for Golfing And Biking

Photo By On Adobe Stock. Hilton Head is a Gold-level biking community, according to the League of American Bicyclists.

Outdoor living is a thing here at Hilton Head. The island has 60 miles of leisure pathways, which means it's never more ideal to take a ride around the town. Plus, golfers of all levels also enjoy a good round at some of Hilton Head's award-winning golf courses. 

You can also enjoy the best getaway there without even swinging a golf club or pedalling. Twelve miles of pristine beaches are great for strolling and surfing. Naturally surrounded by water, the island also draws dolphin lovers and those into fishing or stand-up paddle boarding.

In between these coastal adventures, you can take a little break from the freshest Oysters in a fine restaurant, browse ritzy shopping malls, and visit the Coastal Discovery Museum. 

25. New York City, New York - Best for Street Performances and Shows

A family weekend getaway in New York doesn't have to break your bank. Photo by Maridav - stock.adobe.com

A family trip in New York can include landmarks like the American Museum of Natural History and the New York Transit Museum. But, good times in the city can also happen right on the street. If you arrive during the Battery Dance Festival, your kids can have a different way to explore the city with free performances and $1 dance workshops. 

Broadway Week also means you can grab two-for-one tickets for amazing shows and comedies. And let's not forget about kids’ dream dishes, from pizza, burgers, and bagels to ice cream. New York has some of the best restaurants in the country for all of them.

26. Chicago, Illinois - Best for A Family City Tour

Attractions in Chicago can keep your little ones busy the entire trip. Photo by PhotoSpirit - stock.adobe.com

Visiting Millennium Park and taking photos of the Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as “The Bean” is a must to do in Chicago. The second best thing is to take your kids up to the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck for a sweeping view of the city before window-shopping Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile.

Just like New York, this big city is also full of kid-friendly attractions that fill up your weekend trip. We're talking about the Chicago Children's Museum, Field Museum, Lincoln Park Zoo and Maggie Daley Park. Little ones will lose track of time ice skating and roller skating there. 

Plan Your Next Family Weekend Getaway With These 25+ Ideas!

Planning a family weekend getaway is a whole new level of prepping. Your time is short, so your mini holiday has to be somewhere not too far from home. When counting in the toddlers, destinations with kid-friendly parks, playgrounds, interactive museums, and zoos are always the plus.

We hope our list of the best family weekend escapes can give you some inspiration for your next trip. If you’re looking for more holiday ideas, packing tips, or travel guides, make sure to check out more articles on our website. Happy travel!

KELSEY