Sometimes you just need an easy getaway that does not require flights, complicated planning, or a full week away. Luckily Memphis is within driving distance of so many great family-friendly destinations perfect for long weekends, quick summer trips, and easy road trip vacations. From mountain towns and outdoor adventures to city escapes and relaxing resorts, these are some of the best weekend trips within 5 hours of Memphis for families.
Chattanooga
Chattanooga is one of our favorite family-friendly mountain getaways because there is so much to do for both kids and adults. Stay at Treetop Escapes for unique cabins that feel like treehouses. Families love visiting Ruby Falls, Rock City, the Tennessee Aquarium, and the Incline Railway while also enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery and walkable downtown area.
Nashville
Nashville makes such a fun weekend trip for families thanks to the mix of live music, great restaurants, museums, shopping, and family attractions. The Gaylord Opryland Resort is a destination all on its own with beautiful indoor gardens, restaurants, and access to SoundWaves Water Park. From Broadway to the Nashville Zoo and the Country Music Hall of Fame, there is something for every age group.
Hot Springs
Hot Springs is such an underrated road trip destination for families. Stay at the historic Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa to experience one of the city’s most iconic hotels while being just steps from Bathhouse Row. Between bathhouses, lake activities, hiking trails, Magic Springs, and the cute downtown shops and restaurants, it feels like a relaxing getaway without being overly far from Memphis.
Bentonville
Bentonville has quickly become one of the coolest family-friendly destinations in the South. We recommend staying at Embassy Suites Northwest Arkansas for its spacious suites, complimentary breakfast, and convenient location near many of the area’s top attractions. Families love visiting Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, the Scott Family Amazeum, exploring the outdoor trails, and enjoying the charming downtown filled with great restaurants and shops.
Louisville
Louisville is such a fun city for a long weekend thanks to family attractions like the Louisville Slugger Museum, Kentucky Science Center, great restaurants, and waterfront activities. The Omni Louisville Hotel is a great home base with family-friendly amenities and an ideal downtown location close to many of the city’s top attractions.
St. Louis
St. Louis is packed with family-friendly attractions including the Gateway Arch, City Museum, the St. Louis Zoo, Union Station, and incredible parks. Staying at the St. Louis Union Station Hotel puts you right in the heart of the action and adds another attraction with its historic train station, aquarium, and Ferris wheel.
Birmingham
Birmingham is another great Southern city for an easy family getaway. Stay at Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa, where families can enjoy beautiful grounds, indoor and outdoor pools with a waterslide, great dining, and plenty of space to relax after a day of exploring. Between the Birmingham Zoo, McWane Science Center, Railroad Park, and fun local restaurants, it is such an easy drivable destination for a quick weekend away.
Oxford
Oxford may be known as a college town, but it also makes a charming slower-paced weekend trip for families. Stay at The Oliver Hotel in the heart of the Square so you can easily walk to restaurants, boutiques, coffee shops, and local attractions while soaking up the town’s Southern charm.
Little Rock
Little Rock is a convenient family getaway with museums, parks, riverfront trails, restaurants, and the Little Rock Zoo all within a very manageable drive from Memphis. The Capital Hotel is a beautiful historic property that offers a comfortable stay in the heart of downtown, making it easy to explore the city.
Huntsville
Huntsville is one of the best destinations for families with kids interested in science and space. Stay at 106 Jefferson for a stylish downtown experience close to restaurants and attractions. The U.S. Space & Rocket Center alone is worth the trip, and the city also has beautiful parks and plenty of family-friendly things to do.
Whether you’re planning a summer road trip, a fall weekend away, or simply looking for an easy escape from Memphis, these family-friendly destinations offer something for every age and travel style. The best part is that they’re all close enough to enjoy over a long weekend, making it easy to create lasting memories without spending hours on a plane.
