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Picture this: it’s Friday afternoon and you’re finally done with work for the week. You have big plans for the weekend, but first you have to pick up the kids from school and daycare. Once you’re all home, it’s time to start dinner and get everyone ready for bed.
Sound familiar? If you’re like most parents, your weekends are spent catching up on chores and errands, with little time left over for fun.
But what if there was a way to make family time both fun and productive?
That’s where family weekend trips come in! A family weekend trip is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time together while exploring a new destination and trying fun new activities together.
But with so many destination options and types of trips available, it can be hard to know where to start:
What are the best types of vacations to take for a family weekend?
Are there any cheap family weekend destinations?
To help you narrow down your choices, we’ve compiled a list of the best types of vacations to take for a family weekend trip in the US. From beach getaways to mountain retreats, there’s something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!
8 Best Types of Vacations for a Family Weekend Trip
8. The Staycation
If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that we can’t take travel for granted. So this year, instead of planning a big family trip, why not focus on some quality time closer to home? A staycation is the perfect way to do that, and there are endless possibilities for how to make it work for your family.
A staycation is always a great option if you’re short on time and looking to keep things low-key. You can explore your own city or town, and it can be a great way to bond with your family. Plus, you don’t have to worry about travel costs or packing! Depending on where you live, it’s likely that there are areas in or around your hometown that you’ve never even explored. This is your chance!
To make the most of your staycation, try to book any activities or excursions in advance so that you can make the most of your time together.
Here are a few staycation activity ideas to get you started:
- Visit a nearby amusement park or water park
- Take a day trip to the beach or mountains
- Explore a new city or town nearby
- Visit a local attraction that you’ve always wanted to see
- Take a hike or go camping in a nearby state park
- Do some stargazing
- Have a picnic in your own backyard or at a nearby park
You don’t have to go far to have a great time! We can almost guarantee that there are plenty of hidden gems right in your own backyard. It’s one of the best types of vacations that doesn’t take a ton of preparation or money to plan.
7. The Farm Stay
If you’re looking for a more unique type of vacation experience, consider booking a farm stay. Farm stays are becoming increasingly popular, and they offer a great opportunity to disconnect from technology and connect with nature.
There are all sorts of different farm stays available, from working farms to more luxury options. You can choose a farm stay based on your interests and budget.
If you’re interested in getting your hands dirty, look for a working farm where you can help with the animals or crops. This is a great way to teach your kids about where their food comes from and how it’s produced.
If you’re looking for more of a relaxing experience, there are plenty of options for that, too. Many farm stays offer upscale accommodations and amenities, like spa services and fine dining. You can also find farm stays that offer access to activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
No matter what type of farm stay you’re looking for, there are bound to be options nearby. And who knows, you might just fall in love with the farm life!
6. The Ski trip
If you’re looking for a winter adventure, why not take a ski trip? Skiing is a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, and it’s a fun activity for the whole family. Some of the most popular cities for a family ski trip are Aspen, Colorado, Park City, Utah, and Jackson Hole, Wyoming, but there are tons of great ski towns all over the US – whether you’re on the West Coast, East Coast, or in the Midwest.
When you’re planning your trip, be sure to research the different ski resorts to find one that’s a good fit for your family. Some resorts are better suited for beginners, while others are better for advanced skiers. You’ll also want to consider things like cost, amenities, and whether or not you want to be close to a town or city.
Skiing can be a bit of a pricey vacation, but there are ways to save money. Look for ski resorts that offer discounts for kids or families, and try to book your trip during the off-peak season. You can also look for package deals that include lodging, lift tickets, and rentals.
Once you’ve found the perfect resort, it’s time to start packing! Be sure to pack all of the essentials, like warm clothes, hats, gloves, and sunscreen. And don’t forget your skis or snowboard! You’ll also need the right gear before you hit the slopes, like skis, poles, boots, and a ski pass. If you don’t have your own equipment, you can usually rent it at the resort.
Now it’s time to hit the slopes! If you’re new to skiing, there are usually beginner trails available. And if you’re traveling with young kids, many resorts offer childcare and ski school programs.
Skiing is a great way to spend a few days on your vacation, and it’s an activity that the whole family can enjoy. It’s a great way to get the kids active, and it’s also a great way to bond as a family.
5. The Camping trip (Best types of vacations for budget travelers)
Camping is a great option for families who enjoy being outdoors. It’s a great way to connect with nature and spend quality time together, and it can be very affordable. Just make sure you’re prepared before you go!
The first step in planning a camping trip is to choose a destination. There are all sorts of different campgrounds available, from state parks to private RV parks. Once you’ve chosen a spot, be sure to make a reservation so you can be sure to get a spot. Some of our favorite camping destinations include the American Southwest and Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, and the Great Smoky Mountains, however, there are great camping options all across the US.
Once you’ve chosen your destination and made a reservation, it’s time to start packing. Be sure to pack all of the essentials, like tents, sleeping bags, flashlights, and food. And don’t forget your camping chairs! You’ll also want to pack any games or activities you might want to do while you’re there.
Camping as a family is the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors and spend a relaxing weekend exploring a new environment. It’s the perfect opportunity to disconnect from technology and connect with nature. And with a little preparation, it can be a great vacation for everyone.
4. The Historical trip
If you’re looking for a different kind of vacation, why not take a trip back in time? There are all sorts of historical destinations across the country that the whole family will enjoy. From early American history to the Civil War, there’s something for everyone.
When you’re planning your trip, be sure to research the different historical sites in the area. Many of them offer tours, and some even have reenactments. You’ll also want to consider things like cost, amenities, and whether or not you want to be close to a town or city.
Some popular historical destinations for families include:
- Williamsburg, Virginia
- Plymouth, Massachusetts
- Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
A historical weekend getaway doesn’t have to cost a fortune either – there are a few different ways to save money on your trip and enjoy a cheap family weekend getaway. One way is to look for historical sites that offer discounts for kids or families. You can also try to book your trip during the off-peak season. And if you’re really looking to save, you can always camp out at one of the many camping sites near historical destinations.
When you’re packing for your trip, be sure to pack comfortable clothes and shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, and you’ll want to be sure you’re comfortable. You’ll also want to pack any necessary items, like a camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
This type of vacation is like a trip back in time and is the perfect way to learn about history while spending quality time with the family. It’s a great opportunity to explore new places and see things you’ve never seen before, and maybe even learn a thing or two!
3. The Beach Vacation (Best types of vacations for Summer)
Nothing says summer like a trip to the beach! If you’re looking for a classic family vacation, a beach trip is the perfect option. Whether you’re looking to lounge on the sand or enjoy some of the many activities the beach has to offer, there’s something for everyone at the beach. It’s one of the most classic types of vacations that makes for a great getaway at any time of year.
When you’re planning your trip, be sure to choose a destination that has activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. If you have young kids, you’ll want to find a spot with a playground or shallow water. And if you’re looking for a little more excitement, there are plenty of beaches with wave pools or water parks.
Depending on what coast you’re closest to, there are all sorts of different beach destinations to choose from.
If you’re on the East Coast, some popular choices include:
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
- Virginia Beach, Virginia
- Ocean City, Maryland
And if you’re on the West Coast, try California’s Huntington Beach or San Diego’s Mission Beach.
If you’re not living on the coast, don’t panic! Landlocked states like Colorado and Wisconsin have some great beach destinations as well. For example, Wisconsin’s Lake Geneva is a popular destination for families, and it’s only about an hour from Chicago.
Once you’ve chosen your destination, it’s time to start packing: Be sure to pack all of the essentials, like swimsuits, beach towels, and sunscreen. And don’t forget the snacks! You’ll also want to pack any games or activities you might want to do while you’re there, like frisbees or beach balls.
A beach vacation is the perfect way to relax and enjoy some quality time with the family. It’s a great opportunity to soak up some sun, enjoy the water, and just have some fun!
2. The Mountain getaway
If you’re looking for a scenic and adventurous getaway, a mountain getaway is the perfect option. There are plenty of mountains across the country to choose from, so you can pick a destination that’s close to home or plan an epic road trip to somewhere new. And no matter what time of year it is, there’s always something to do in the mountains.
In the winter, you can hit the slopes for some downhill skiing or cross-country skiing. Or if you’re not a fan of the cold, you can enjoy some of the other winter activities the mountains have to offer, like snowshoeing or ice skating.
And in the summer, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore, as well as lakes for swimming and fishing. No matter what time of year you go, you’re sure to find plenty of activities to keep everyone in the family busy.
When you’re planning your trip, be sure to take the time to research the different mountain ranges. You’ll want to find a destination that has the activities you’re interested in and is the right level of difficulty for your group. And don’t forget to factor in the cost of lodging and transportation when you’re budgeting for your trip.
Some great mountain destinations include Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, California’s Sierra Nevada, and New Hampshire’s White Mountains. And if you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, try Alaska’s Denali National Park or Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park.
No matter what destination you choose, a mountain getaway is sure to be an unforgettable experience for you and the family!
1. The Urban exploration
When you think of taking a family weekend getaway, you usually think of going someplace scenic and peaceful. But sometimes the best trips are the ones where you can explore a new city and learn about its culture and history! Why not spend a family weekend exploring a big city?
It may not be your first thought when it comes to the types of vacations to take for a family weekend, but it’s definitely something worth considering! If you’re looking for an urban adventure, there are plenty of great cities to choose from all across the country.
If you’re interested in art and architecture, you might want to visit a city like New York City or Boston. Here, you’ll have no shortage of museums and historical sites to explore. And if you’re looking for a little more excitement, try Chicago or San Francisco. These cities have plenty to offer in terms of nightlife, dining, and shopping.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back weekend, try somewhere like San Diego or Seattle. Of course, there are plenty of other great cities to choose from as well. There are endless possibilities when it comes to urban exploration!
When you’re planning your trip, be sure to do some research on the city you’re visiting. You’ll want to find out about the best neighborhoods to stay in and the best activities for families. And don’t forget to budget for transportation and lodging. Usually, these costs will run a bit higher in bigger cities, so that is something to be mindful of when planning.
A family weekend spent in a big city may be a bit more hectic than a traditional vacation, but it’s sure to be an adventure your family will never forget! It’s a great opportunity to see a new city and get to experience what it would be like to live there, even if only for a few days.
What are your favorite types of vacations?
There are so many types of vacations and tons of great options for family weekend trips! Whether you’re looking to stay close to home or travel a bit further, there are plenty of options that will be sure to please everyone in the family.
From farm stays and ski resorts to big-city adventures, with a little bit of planning, you’re sure to find the perfect trip for your family. Did you know that Perth is a perfect weekend getaway
