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Did you know that the average American only takes about two weeks of vacation a year? And many working adults take even less time off.
It’s understandable, we all have bills to pay and want to advance in our careers. Not to mention, planning a vacation can be hard work, especially if you have children.
But taking time off from work is crucial to your mental and physical health. A little time away from the office can do wonders for your productivity and sense of purpose. And it doesn’t even have to be a long vacation!
Taking weekend family getaways every now and then is all you need to improve your health and your family’s relationships with one another. To help you plan your next adventure, we’ve put together a list of 7 of the most fun family weekend trips.
Keep reading to learn more!
- Washington, D.C.
A visit to Washington, D.C. makes an excellent family vacation, as there is a wealth of museums, landmarks, and tours available free of charge. Your children will love exploring the dinosaur exhibits at the Smithsonian, visiting the pandas at the National Zoo, and seeing the Lincoln Memorial.
In between your adventures, you can hop on the subway or take a quick bus ride to enjoy lunch or dinner at one of the capitol’s many affordable restaurants. If you’re worried about hotel fees, consider staying in Arlington, Virginia, and taking the metro into D.C. during the day.
- Rockford, Illinois
A short drive from Chicago, Rockford, Illinois is a fantastic option for families on the outdoorsy side. Known as the Amateur Sports Capital of the Midwest, Rockford is home to a wide variety of outdoor experiences.
You and your family can visit the Atwood Park Silent Sports Trail System to take advantage of the five miles of hiking and biking trails and free shows. The next day, venture into Rock Cut State Park to try your hand at fishing, ice skating, or skiing.
If you need a break from the sun, Rockford also has some unique, affordable museums, such as the haunted Tinker Swiss Cottage and the Rockford Art Museum.
- Pensacola, Florida
Who doesn’t love a trip to the beach? The sunshine, clear water, and soft sand found at Pensacola, Florida, makes a fun family day trip for anyone!
The Pensacola Bay area is not only gorgeous but affordable, especially in the off-season. And don’t worry, Florida is warm 365 days a year, so you can fully enjoy the beach, even in the fall.
If your children are curious about nature, they will love the Pensacola Beach Eco-Trail, where they can wander through 29 stations details the various plants and animals in the area. And you’ll be able to take plenty of stunning family photos thanks to the Pensacola Photo Trail.
- Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City, Missouri, is a great choice for families, as it offers many free exhibits and free transportation via the KC Streetcar! The Streetcar can carry you anywhere you want to go in downtown Kansas City, from the City Market farmers’ market to the Science City museum and planetarium.
Kansas City is known as the City of Fountains thanks to its more than 200 spectacular water features, all of which you can explore without charge. There’s also the Peace Pavilion and the Hallmark Visitors Center. Spend half of the day at each and learn all about greeting cards and the importance of self-acceptance and cooperation.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
If you’re interested in the ultimate outdoor adventure, look no further than Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee, this National Park is home to some truly amazing activities, including hiking, boating, and wildlife classes.
Admission into the park is free, and the activities are all either low-cost or no cost. However, you will need to rent some equipment, such as a helmet and kids life vest if you plan to take advantage of more intense recreation options like rafting or zip-lining.
- Helen, Georgia
The adorable German town of Helen, Georgia, is just an hour outside of Atlanta in the North Georgia Mountains. You can relax as you float down the Chattahoochee River, then spend the afternoon hiking, biking, or wandering around the downtown area.
There are numerous shops available to explore, including Hansel & Gretal Candy Company, where your little ones can sample candy and other sweets. And in the evening, you and your partner can enjoy a tour of one of the area’s many wineries.
- Dublin, Ohio
Dublin, Ohio, is close to many major cities, including Cleveland, Columbus, and Indianapolis, but feels like an entirely different world. You and your family can get an authentic taste of Ireland while investigating the Irish pubs and treating yourselves to a Shamrock Sundae.
Be on the lookout for the 11 magical spots in the Irish Fairy Door Trail and wander through the sculptures installed by the Dublin Art in Public Places program.
Dublin offers a great deal for the outdoorsy members of your group as well, as its home to more than 100 miles of trails, 60 parks, a splash pad, and several waterfalls.
Take One of These Weekend Family Getaways as Soon as Possible
Well, what are you waiting for? Start planning a few weekend family getaways today! Make it even more fun by including everyone in your planning.
Allow every family member (including your kids!) to choose a weekend trip and schedule it into your year. If you have a family of four, that’s at least four mini-trips that you’ll take in the coming months!
You’ll be amazed by how much better you feel and how close your family becomes after a weekend away.
Looking for more tips on getting the most out of your quality time with your loved ones? Be sure to check out our blog!
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