Family Weekend Getaways in the United States

I found that family weekend getaways in the United States are the perfect mix of fun, adventure, and relaxation, making them a great choice for creating lasting memories together. Within just a short trip, you can find destinations that balance outdoor activities, kid-friendly attractions, and opportunities for parents to unwind. What makes family getaways so appealing is their variety, whether your family loves nature, history, or hands-on experiences, there’s always something new to discover.

Finding the right place to stay adds to the excitement — from spacious resorts with pools and activities, to cozy cabins and family-friendly hotels right in the heart of the action. Here are some of the most unique U.S. family getaways I came across that I think you’ll love for your next weekend adventure.

1. Skytop Lodge in the Pocono Mountains

We drove about 2 hours west from New York City into the Pocono Mountains where Skytop Lodge felt like summer camp and a country estate all at once.

From the moment I arrived, I felt like I had stepped into a timeless retreat that blended elegance with nature.

I was immediately struck by the grand stone architecture and the sweeping views of forests and lakes—it felt like the perfect place to disconnect and recharge.

I loved waking up to crisp mountain air and spending my mornings strolling the trails that stretched across thousands of acres of pristine land.

One of my favorite parts of the lodge was the wide range of activities available—whether it was kayaking on the lake, hiking scenic paths, or trying out archery, I never ran out of things to do.

I also found it to be a wonderful spot for a family trip, with so many options to keep everyone entertained, from golf and tennis to a dedicated kids’ camp during the summer months.

I thought the dining experiences were exceptional, offering both cozy casual spots and elegant meals with mountain views that made each bite feel special.

I especially enjoyed unwinding in the indoor pool and spa area, where I could relax after a full day outdoors.

I also loved sitting by the fireplace in the grand lobby in the evenings, surrounded by rustic wood beams and stonework that gave the lodge its authentic mountain charm.

For me, Skytop Lodge isn’t just a stay—it’s a true Pocono experience that feels both relaxing and full of adventure at the same time.

Travel Tips:

• Cost: Mid-to-high
• Address: Skytop Lodge, One Skytop, Skytop, PA 18357

2. Margaritaville Beach House Key West

We drove about 3.5 hours south from Miami down the Overseas Highway to Key West.

At Margaritaville Beach House Key West, I felt the laid-back island vibe that instantly put me at ease.

I loved how the tropical décor and breezy atmosphere made it feel like a true escape, with colorful accents and plenty of open-air spaces to soak up the Florida sunshine.

My room was spacious, bright, and filled with coastal charm, complete with a private balcony that overlooked lush gardens and gave me the perfect spot for morning coffee.

I thought the pool area was one of the best features—it had a relaxed energy with lounge chairs, swaying palms, and a tiki bar that kept the cocktails flowing.

I also enjoyed the on-site restaurant, where fresh seafood and island-inspired dishes made every meal feel like a treat, especially when paired with a margarita at sunset.

I found that the location was ideal, just steps from Smathers Beach, which made it easy for me to spend hours by the ocean whenever I wanted.

I also loved that bikes were available to rent, so I could easily explore the streets of Old Town Key West and discover its lively shops, bars, and historic sites.

I felt like every corner of the property encouraged relaxation, from hammocks tucked under palm trees to cozy fire pits perfect for unwinding at night.

For me, Margaritaville Beach House Key West was the perfect blend of fun, comfort, and island spirit—it’s a stay I’ll never forget.

Travel Tips:

• Cost: Moderate to high
• Address: Margaritaville Beach House Key West, 2001 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040

3. The Crawford Hotel in Denver, Colorado

We flew about 2 hours from Austin into Denver, the “Mile High City”.

I walked through the Great Hall of Denver’s Union Station and immediately felt I had arrived somewhere truly special—The Crawford Hotel felt like a hidden world of elegance tucked inside a bustling transit hub.

I found myself fascinated by the way the hotel blends historic grandeur with modern luxury, housed within a beautifully restored Beaux-Arts train station originally built in 1914 and revitalized into a stunning hospitality centerpiece.

I loved that each of the 112 rooms is uniquely designed, with themes paying homage to different eras of rail travel—whether it’s vintage Pullman-style charm or lofty, bright suites with exposed beams and city views.

I also appreciated how seamlessly The Crawford functions as both hotel and downtown hub—my lobby was the Great Hall itself, a grand public space alive with shops, cafés, and bars, where locals and travelers mingle beneath soaring ceilings.

I thought it was the best location imaginable—walking distance to Lower Downtown’s restaurants and the Museum of Contemporary Art, with complimentary access to fitness facilities, e-bikes, and even a Tesla shuttle included in nightly fees.

I found the reimagined Great Hall and refined guest rooms shine following recent upgrades, with jewel-toned accents, richer furnishings, and elevated public spaces that showcase both historical beauty and contemporary comfort.

I felt totally enchanted when I stepped into the private lobby—The Parlour—and was offered a welcome drink before slipping upstairs to my suite via a discreet private elevator.

I discovered a stay at The Crawford Hotel isn’t just accommodation—it’s a romantic journey through Denver’s past, reimagined for today’s traveler.

Travel Tips:

• Cost: Moderate to upscale
• Address: The Crawford, 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202

4. Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite

We drove about 4 hours east from San Francisco into Yosemite National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of America’s most famous parks.

Designated in 1890, Yosemite helped launch the entire national park movement. I stood in awe at Yosemite Valley, where El Capitan and Half Dome rise thousands of feet, and visited the Ansel Adams Gallery, celebrating the photographer who made these landscapes iconic.

Evergreen Lodge gave us starry skies, cabin vibes, and the kind of family adventures that make lifelong memories.

I felt like I had stumbled upon a hidden retreat tucked deep into the forest.

I loved how the property blended rustic charm with modern comfort, giving me the perfect basecamp for exploring Yosemite while still feeling cozy and cared for.

My cabin was warm and inviting, with woodsy décor, comfortable bedding, and a private deck where I could relax under the tall pines.

I thought one of the best features was the sense of community—I found fire pits, outdoor seating areas, and evening activities that made it easy to connect with other travelers or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere on my own.

I spent my days hiking nearby trails and then came back to unwind at the lodge’s tavern, where hearty meals and craft cocktails hit the spot after hours outdoors.

I also discovered a wide range of amenities, from a saltwater pool and hot tub to guided excursions that made it effortless to dive into Yosemite adventures without the stress of planning every detail.

I especially loved that Evergreen offered both family-friendly activities and quiet corners for relaxation, creating a balance that worked perfectly for me.

I felt that the staff went out of their way to make my stay memorable, offering local tips and genuine hospitality that made me feel at home in the wilderness.

For me, Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite was not just a place to stay—it was a romantic and authentic mountain escape that captured the spirit of the park itself.

A downside? The rustic cabins were charming, but the lodge’s remote location meant long drives into Yosemite Valley. With a kid in tow, the extra travel time wore us out a bit.

Travel Tips:

• Cost: Moderate
• Address: 33160 Evergreen Rd, Groveland, CA 95321

5. Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri

We flew from Austin to Branson (about 1.5 hours), then drove 20 minutes south to Ridgedale, a small community perched on the shores of Table Rock Lake. I explored the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum, which showcases Native American artifacts and frontier history, then took in views of the Ozark hills rolling down to the water.

Big Cedar Lodge was bigger than we expected, and somehow still felt like home.

From the moment I pulled onto the property, I felt like I had discovered a hidden retreat surrounded by the beauty of the Ozark Mountains.

I loved how the lodge combined rustic luxury with natural charm—log cabins, stone fireplaces, and sweeping lake views made me feel both cozy and inspired.

My room came with warm wood accents, plush bedding, and a private balcony that overlooked Table Rock Lake, giving me the perfect spot to enjoy my morning coffee.

I thought one of the best parts of the stay was the incredible variety of outdoor activities—fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and golf were all right at my fingertips.

I also discovered that the resort had a world-class spa, where I could unwind with treatments inspired by the surrounding nature, leaving me completely refreshed.

I spent my evenings dining at one of the lodge’s restaurants, where farm-to-table dishes and lakeside views made every meal feel special.

I especially loved the family-friendly atmosphere, with plenty of activities for kids while still offering quiet, romantic corners for those looking for a peaceful escape.

I found the pools, lazy river, and even the cave-inspired bowling alley to be unique touches that added to the fun and charm of the property.

For me, Big Cedar Lodge wasn’t just a stay—it was an unforgettable Missouri getaway that blended outdoor adventure with warm, welcoming comfort.

Travel Tips:

• Cost: Moderate to luxury depending on lodging
• Address: Big Cedar Lodge, 190 Top of the Rock Rd, Ridgedale, MO 65739

6. Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village

We flew about 2.5 hours from Austin to Fort Myers, then drove 30 minutes west to Cape Coral. Once swampland, the city boomed in the 1960s with its now-famous grid of canals, more than 400 miles, the most of any city in the world.

The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village gave us calm mornings and active afternoons, all with a view of the water.

I loved how the property overlooked the Caloosahatchee River and the Gulf of Mexico, giving me sweeping views of boats, mangroves, and endless blue water.

My suite was spacious and elegant, with a private balcony that quickly became my favorite spot for morning coffee and evening sunsets.

I thought one of the best parts of the resort was the marina itself—walking along the docks, watching yachts come and go, and feeling the sea breeze made me feel like I was in a private coastal retreat.

I also enjoyed the variety of amenities, from multiple pools and tennis courts to the full-service spa, where I could completely unwind.

I discovered delicious dining options on-site, with fresh seafood and locally inspired dishes that tasted even better with the water views.

I especially loved the easy access to nature, with kayak rentals, dolphin tours, and nearby trails that let me experience Florida’s wild side just steps away from my room.

I felt that the staff went above and beyond, offering warm service and plenty of thoughtful touches that made my stay seamless and relaxing.

For me, the Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village was a hidden gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast—perfect for both a family trip and a romantic escape by the water.

Travel Tips:

• Cost: Mid-to-high range
• Address: The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village, 5951 Silver King Blvd, Cape Coral, FL 33914

7. Why We’d Go Back

Each of these spots gave us something special: a new trail to hike, a hotel that felt like home, a poolside laugh we didn’t even realize we’d been missing. Whether in the mountains, on the beach, or in the middle of a city adventure, these weekend getaways reminded us that family time doesn’t have to be far, it just has to be intentional. And a little bit of fun helps too.

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind Vacation Idea. My husband, son, and I spent years on the road, basing ourselves in each place for one or two months at a time. This has allowed me to experience each destination as a local, and I'm eager to help you with travel itineraries, weekend inspiration, and local tips. I love to chase unique experiences and revisit old favorites, anything from great sunsets to places of mystery. I have 30 years of experience, over 400,000 social media followers, and my work as a travel expert has been mentioned on ABC6 Morning Show, Best of the Web, and USA Today. When I'm not traveling around the USA, I live in Austin, TX. Click for more.

 

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