Memorial Day weekend is the perfect excuse to get away for a mini vacay with the kids. Whether you’re looking for a drivable destination that’s all about being active outside or craving a tropical escape, we’ve made a list of destinations we love that offer equal parts relaxation and recreation to inspire your next trip.
DRIVABLE DESTINATIONS
Skytop, PA
Skytop Lodge
This historic resort in the heart of the Pocono Mountains spans 5,500 acres of beautiful landscapes and activities. From paddle tennis and lawn bowling to the treetop adventure course, there’s plenty to do with your crew here. Kids can explore the science of beekeeping and local ecology, join a free history tour of the property, take a guided hike, go on a boat ride, gather around the fire pit and more.
Cape May
Congress Hall
America’s oldest seaside resort, Congress Hall dates back to 1816. Located just steps from the beach in the heart of Cape May, this historic hotel offers lawn games, bike rentals, a spa, and easy access to the town’s famous Victorian architecture. Take a family photo on the iconic yellow-striped lawn chairs and check the schedule for history tours and live music on the lawn. Nearby, you can stroll through Washington Street Mall for ice cream and souvenirs, climb the Cape May Lighthouse for panoramic views, or walk the nature trails at Cape May Point State Park.
Watch Hill, RI
Ocean House
For a luxury weekend getaway, Ocean House offers a blend of historic charm and coastal scenery, perched on the bluffs above Watch Hill Beach. As Rhode Island’s only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star hotel, it’s known for its spectacular Atlantic Ocean views. You and your crew can explore the small, walkable village of Watch Hill—home to a historic carousel, quaint shops, and a classic general store—or walk down to East Beach. The resort offers a range of seasonal activities, including beach walks, croquet, art classes, and movie screenings. On-site dining features locally sourced seafood and regional New England fare, with options ranging from casual to formal.
Lake Placid, NY
High Peaks Resort
lakeplacid.com
Lake Placid in late May is a great time to experience the outdoors without the summer crowds. Visit Olympic sites like the Olympic Center, Mt. Van Hoevenberg, and the Olympic Jumping Complex. Mud season in the Adirondacks typically ends by Memorial Day weekend, but be aware that many trails can still be muddy. One of the best things to do this time of year is stroll Lake Placid’s super charming Main Street for shopping, dog-watching, and lakeside dining. Stay at High Peaks Resort, a family-friendly spot right on Mirror Lake with heated indoor and outdoor pools, a 24-hour fitness center, and dog-friendly accommodations.
Stowe, VT
Topnotch Resort
gostowe.com
Stowe in springtime is all about hiking, biking, kayaking—and mountain views without ski crowds. Walk or bike the Stowe Recreation Path or visit Smugglers’ Notch State Park for waterfall hikes and scenic overlooks. By late May, many lower-elevation trails are usually dry or drying out from mud season, but be aware that higher-elevation trails can still be muddy or wet.
Topnotch Resort is a luxury and family-friendly place to stay with indoor and outdoor heated pools, tennis and pickleball courts, a spa and firepits with s’mores nights. You can also reserve a resort home on the property.
Weston, VT
The Weston
The countryside retreat houses a boutique hotel that offers an elevated escape within the charm of the Green Mountains. With only nine rooms and suites, you’ll feel like you have a private vacay amongst the state-of-the-art spa center, indoor yoga studio, fitness center, bocce ball courts, and kitchen with outdoor gathering areas. At The Left Bank, Chef Brett Combs creates French dishes made from ingredients right from the farm; and its wine list was recently awarded the Wine Spectator Award: Award of Excellence.
Nearby, you can explore the Old Mill Museum, Farrar-Mansur House, The Village Green, the old-fashioned Vermont Country Store and the Weston Village Store, the year-round Weston Village Christmas Shop, and the gorgeous Buttermilk Falls.
Peapack
Pendry Natirar
This Somerset County gem is one of the 100 Best New Hotels of 2025 in the world, and we totally get why. The dreamy escape has a newly opened hotel inside a former mansion, amidst the 500-acre Natirar Park, with the infamous Ninety Acres restaurant and cooking school, a greenhouse that grows produce for the restaurants, outdoor sporting activities, a two-level spa and a kids’ club.
A LUXURY RESORT ESCAPE
Braselton, GA
Château Élan Winery & Resort
Set on 3,500 acres of rolling hills and wooded trails in North Georgia, Château Élan Winery & Resort is perfect for families looking for a mix of nature and upscale accommodations. The property is home to one of the largest wineries in the region, offering over 30 varieties of wine made from on-site vineyards.
The resort has tons of family-friendly activities, too, including afternoon tea, culinary classes, golf, tennis, and a eucalyptus steam room. Eight restaurants serve up something for everyone, from Irish pub fare to French-influenced American cuisine and wellness-forward meals. During your stay, book a family golf lesson at Château Élan Golf Club’s practice facility, take a sunset stroll through the vineyard, and reserve culinary or racquet club experiences.
BEACH + ISLAND GETAWAYS
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa
Located on the largest stretch of private beach in Fort Lauderdale, the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa is a 16-acre oceanfront resort that offers water sports and activities, coastal cuisine at Riva, the resort’s signature restaurant, poolside cabanas, tropical cocktails and more. In your downtime, book a nearby sightseeing cruise, take a sunset catamaran ride, or explore the Everglades on an airboat tour.
Destin, FL
Henderson Beach Resort & Spa
Tucked along the white sands of the Gulf, Henderson Beach Resort is ideal for families looking for both relaxation and active fun. It’s got roomy suites, three pools, easy beach access, and nature trails for exploring. Take a guided bike ride through the dunes, unwind with a spa treatment, or try sunset yoga on the sand. There are activities for all ages, from little ones to teens.
Jamaica
Princess Grand Jamaica
This new all-inclusive resort on Jamaica’s north is ideal for active families. You’ll find ocean-view suites, nine restaurants, and all the kid-friendly perks—like an aquatic park, outdoor movie nights, a VR lounge, and the Wild Princess Water Park. For a bit of adventure, sign up for a family excursion to a private island or try a beachside cooking class together.
Anguilla
Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club
With over two miles of soft white sand along Rendezvous Bay, this 300-acre resort has championship golf, a full-service spa, and eight restaurants serving everything from fine dining at D Richards to casual, kid-approved fare. Explore nature trails, paddleboard in calm waters, or unwind in a hammock with a gorgeous view.
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