5 Easy Outdoor Weekend Getaways for Families
Planning a family trip can feel like herding cats, but getting everyone outdoors for a weekend shouldn’t require a master’s degree in logistics. Follow some of these travel lessons we’ve learned over the decades so you can still enjoy the time away. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, there are plenty of spots across the US that make for a perfect, easy-to-plan outdoor adventure.
This guide will show you five fantastic destinations that are simple to get to and offer something for every member of your crew. Forget spending your entire weekend in the car—these getaways help you spend more time making memories.
Here are five family-friendly weekend getaways that offer a great mix of adventure and relaxation, perfect for a quick family escape.
1. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
You can have the perfect fall vacation in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Just a short drive from Washington, D.C., Shenandoah National Park is a stunningly accessible mountain retreat. The park’s famous Skyline Drive runs 105 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering incredible views without ever leaving your car.
For more active families, the park has over 500 miles of hiking trails. You can choose from easy, kid-friendly walks like the Limberlost Trail or more challenging hikes to waterfalls and scenic overlooks. Pack a picnic, find a spot with a view, and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
2. The Catskills, New York
If you’re looking for a quick escape from New York City, the Catskills region offers a peaceful, rustic getaway. In just a couple of hours, you can trade skyscrapers for rolling hills and charming small towns. Families can explore places like Kaaterskill Falls, one of New York’s tallest cascading waterfalls, accessible via a moderate trail.
The area is also dotted with family-friendly resorts and farms where you can go apple picking in the fall or visit with friendly animals. This is a great way to show kids where their food comes from while enjoying the fresh mountain air.
3. Texas Hill Country, Texas
For families in central Texas, the Hill Country provides a unique landscape of rolling hills, clear rivers, and vibrant bluebonnets in the spring. Destinations like Garner State Park offer classic family fun, from paddling on the Frio River to nightly summer dances that have been a tradition for generations.
The region is also great for stargazing. The dark skies away from city lights provide a brilliant celestial show, which can be a magical experience for kids and adults alike. This is a low-key but memorable way to connect with nature and each other.
4. Traverse City, Michigan
Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is a fantastic summer and fall destination. The main attraction is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where you can climb massive sand dunes for breathtaking views of the lake. It’s a natural playground that will tire out even the most energetic kids.
Beyond the dunes, you can enjoy the area’s beautiful beaches, go cherry picking at a local orchard, or bike along the scenic TART Trail. The combination of beach fun and gentle adventure makes Traverse City a winner for families.
5. Big Bear Lake, California
A two-hour drive from Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake offers a year-round mountain escape. In the summer, you can go hiking, boating, or fishing on the lake. The Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain provides a bit of managed thrill that kids love.
In the winter, Big Bear transforms into a snowy wonderland with options for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing that cater to all skill levels. This is an easy way for Southern California families to experience the mountains and a change of seasons without a long journey.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
You don’t need to plan an elaborate, week-long vacation to give your family a memorable outdoor experience. A simple weekend trip can be just as rewarding. These family-friendly weekend getaway destinations prove that incredible adventures are often closer than you think. So, pack your bags, rally the troops, and get ready to explore.