Memorial Day Weekend only comes once a year… and sometimes you want more than a backyard barbecue.
Here are ten Memorial Day Weekend getaways for Northeast families covering every vibe…
Resort stays where someone else handles everything,
Easy day trips that actually feel like you went somewhere,
And special events the kids will talk about all summer long.
Let’s get into…
Memorial Day Weekend Resort Stays That Handle Everything
Looking for a Memorial Day Weekend getaway that takes the pressure off?
These Northeast family resorts make it easy to kick off summer with plenty to do, space to relax, and no need to overplan.
Woodloch Resort
Hawley, PA
Because nothing says long weekend like a water fight you didn’t start.
If you’re hoping to turn Memorial Day Weekend into a full-on family getaway without spending hours figuring out what to do once you get there, Woodloch Resort is it.
With lakefront activities, indoor and outdoor pools, and the option to have all your meals included, Woodloch adds just enough structure to make things easy while the kids stay busy and you don’t have to lift a finger.
Drive time: Around 2 hours from NYC and 3 hours from Philadelphia
Woodloch Resort Location: Hawley, PA (Poconos)
Best for: Ages 3-14 (but older teens will still have a blast)
Why Woodloch Resort works for MDW: Rain? Go bowling. Sun? Head to the lake. Everything’s walkable and scheduled, so you don’t have to plan a thing.
What’s included at Woodloch Resort: All meals, lodging, + activities, with family-style dining and flexible menus for picky eaters.
TLJ Pro Tip: Rooms with separate sleeping areas for kids go fast. Book early if you want more space.
Check current rates and availability at Woodloch Resort.
Rocking Horse Ranch
Highland, NY
All the splash, zero sunburn.
There’s something kind of perfect about spending Memorial Day Weekend at a resort that first opened on Memorial Day Weekend… back in 1958.
Rocking Horse Ranch is an all-inclusive family resort on 500 acres in the Hudson Valley, about 90 minutes from NYC, and it fully leans into the long weekend.
Fireworks, horseback riding, outdoor pools and waterslides opening for the season, a private lake with banana boat rides and kayaks, plus an indoor waterpark, laser tag, rock wall, and nightly entertainment.
Drive time: About 90 minutes from NYC
Rocking Horse Ranch Location: HIghland, NY
Best for: Families who want everything handled and zero planning once they arrive
Why Rocking Horse Ranch works for MDW: Pools and waterslides open for the season, fireworks are included, and the all-inclusive setup means no extra decisions all weekend
What’s included at Rocking Horse Ranch: Accommodations, all meals, horseback riding, waterparks, lake activities, nightly entertainment, and most on-site activities
TLJ Pro tip: Book early… Memorial Day Weekend sells out. If you want to explore while you’re there, pair it with a stop from our Upstate New York Getaways guide or an easy Cold Spring NY Day Trip.
Check current rates and availability at Rocking Horse Ranch
Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod
Hyannis, MA
All the splash, zero sunburn.
If you’re looking to ease into summer with pool time, water slides, and zero pressure to plan a thing, Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod is a strong contender.
This newly opened resort on the Cape has a full indoor waterpark (guests get 50% off entry), an outdoor pool for sunny days, and bright, beachy rooms that feel like a vacation the second you walk in.
And, if your kids somehow still have more energy to burn, Wicked Waves Waterpark and the Cape Cod Inflatable Park are just minutes away… so you can extend the fun without much effort.
Drive time: About 1.5 hours from Boston
Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod Location: Hyannis, MA (Cape Cod)
Best for: Families with kids ages 2-14 who want pool time and vacation vibes.
Why Margaritaville Cape Cod works for MDW: Rain or shine, there’s water fun waiting at Margaritaville Cape Cod, and if you want to explore beyond the pool, the nearby Cape Cod Children’s Museum and Flashback Retro Arcade in Hyannis are easy add-ons for a full weekend win.
What’s included at Margaritaville Cape Cod: Access to hotel amenities + discounted waterpark tickets.
TLJ Pro tip: The family suites go fast…book early if you want space to spread out.
Check current rates and availability at Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod.
Memorial Day Weekend Day Trips That Feel Like a Vacation
Not every weekend needs a hotel stay to feel like a real getaway.
These Memorial Day Weekend day trips check all the boxes: walkable towns, kid-friendly attractions, good food, and just enough to make it feel like you went somewhere.
Mystic, CT
The only mutiny is refusing to leave.
Mystic is like a starter pack for New England charm. You can check out the belugas at the aquarium, climb aboard historic ships at the Seaport, walk the drawbridge downtown, and grab pizza or lobster rolls before heading home.
It’s compact but packed with enough to feel like a real New England adventure, making it the perfect place to spend Memorial Day Weekend.
If you’re starting early, you’ll want to know where to get the best breakfast in Mystic… bonus points if there’s outdoor seating and zero wait.
Drive time: 2.5 hours from NYC, 1.5 from Boston
Best for: Any age…easy with a stroller, fun enough for tweens
Why Mystic, CT works for MDW: Mystic is walkable, open early in the season, and has indoor options if the weather takes a turn.
What’s in Mystic, CT: Mystic Aquarium, Seaport Museum, Olde Mistick Village, playgrounds, and food on the waterfront.
TLJ Pro tip: Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream is worth the line (and bribes for good behavior)
Portsmouth, NH
Proof that a stroll counts as an activity.
Portsmouth, NH, is one of those Memorial Day Weekend day trips that just work. It is charming and historic, walkable, and packed with spots that actually welcome families.
It’s the kind of place where you can wander, park hop, and let the day unfold.
Drive time: About 1 hour from Boston
Best for: Families who love history and exploring a charming town at their own pace
Why Portsmouth, NH, works for MDW: Portsmouth, NH, is a walkable town along the waterfront with spring flowers and plenty of ways to stay outside.
What’s in Portsmouth, NH: The Seacoast Science Center, Prescott Park, Albacore Park, Peirce Island Playground, amazing local eats, and harbor views
TLJ Pro tip: Start with brunch at The Friendly Toast and then head to Peirce Island for a picnic or playground break.
Amusement Parks Perfect for Memorial Day Weekend
Nothing says “Memorial Day Weekend” like sugar, sunscreen, and mild overstimulation.
These amusement parks in the Northeast bring just the right amount of thrill and enough structure to make it feel like you nailed the plan.
Lake Compounce
Bristol, CT
Guaranteed to wear them out before dinner.
If you’re looking for a Memorial Day Weekend plan that screams summer’s here, this is it.
Lake Compounce has been around since 1846, making it the oldest continuously operating amusement park in the country…and it still knows how to bring the fun.
With over 40 rides and Connecticut’s biggest water park, Lake Compounce delivers real thrills for older kids and is small enough to handle with snack-hungry littles in tow.
And yes, the water park opens Memorial Day Weekend. (brrrrrr)
Drive time: About 2 hours from NYC, 2 hours from Boston
Lake Compounce Location: Bristol, CT
Best for: Ages 4–15, especially if they like mixing dry rides and water slides.
Why Lake Compounce works for MDW: You’ll get full access to both the park and the water rides, plus the crowds at Lake Compounce are manageable this early in the season.
What’s included at Lake Compounce: All rides + water park access with general admission.
TLJ Pro tip: Arrive early and knock out the popular rides before lines pick up mid-afternoon. Want more to do in the area? Here’s our guide to fun things to do in Connecticut over school breaks… and if you’re up for a detour, check out these surprisingly fun things to do in New Haven with kids.
Tickets start at $39.99 online. Check hours and buy in advance at lakecompounce.com.
Hersheypark
Hershey, PA
Get your summer started at the sweetest place on Earth
If Memorial Day Weekend needs a theme, Hersheypark is happy to provide one… and yes, it involves chocolate.
Memorial Day Weekend is when Hersheypark flips into full summer mode, with the Boardwalk water park opening for the season.
Water slides, lazy river, wave pool, and splash zones for little ones… all included with park admission.
For 2026, there are also two new water play areas debuting at Bayside Pier, which makes this an even better year to go.
Drive time: About 90 minutes from Philadelphia and 3 hours from NYC
Hersheypark Location: Hershey, PA
Best for: Ages 2+, rides for all ages
Why Hersheypark works for MDW: t’s opening weekend for the water park, resort pools are open, and crowds haven’t fully hit peak summer yet
What’s included at Hersheypark: All rides, the Boardwalk water park, and ZooAmerica with general admission (parking is separate)
TLJ Pro tip: Stay at Hershey Lodge or Hershey Inn & Suites for early park access and resort perks.
Lancaster, PA isn’t far from Hershey and worth a trip on it’s own. If you happen to be passing through the area, these are all the places to eat in Lancaster where kids can play.
Check hours and pricing at hersheypark.com
Curious about turning this into an overnight adventure?
Dutch Wonderland
Lancaster, PA
First real roller coaster energy.
Dutch Wonderland is a fairy tale–themed amusement park that is basically a rite of passage for Northeast families.
With pint-sized coasters, gentle rides, costumed characters, and a splash pad made for little legs, it’s the perfect intro to amusement parks for the 2–10 crowd.
And with Dutch Wonderland’s season officially kicking off Memorial Day Weekend, the timing couldn’t be better.
If your crew lives for thrills, don’t miss our full list of the most Exciting Things to do in Lancaster… Dutch Wonderland is just the beginning.
Drive time: About 1.5 hours from Philadelphia and 3 hours from NYC
Dutch Wonderland Location: Lancaster, PA
Best for: Ages 2–10, especially first-time park-goers.
Why Dutch Wonderland works for MDW: Short lines, shaded park, character meet-and-greets, and just enough water play if it’s warm.
What’s included at Dutch Wonderland: Admission covers all rides and splash areas. Parking is not included.
TLJ Pro tip: Buy tickets online to save money… and skip the ticket booth line.
Check hours and pricing at dutchwonderland.com.
Memorial Day Weekend Events Worth the Detour
Looking for more than just backyard barbecue vibes this Memorial Day Weekend? These high-energy events are the kind of thing you’ll be glad you planned ahead for.
Boston Calling Music Festival
Allston, MA
Because live music isn’t just for grown-ups.
I know, I know… kids at a music festival sounds like a bold choice.
But hear me out; Boston Calling is surprisingly family-friendly.
This annual three-day music festival takes over the Harvard Athletic Complex every Memorial Day Weekend, and it’s way more doable with kids than you’d expect.
Music starts around 2 pm, so you can catch great live sets without pushing bedtime. You’ll see plenty of other families there (yes, even babies in headphones), because kids under 10 get in free.
There’s also no shortage of good food, interactive art, and space to hang if the kids need a break between sets.
Drive time: Around 4.5 hours from NYC
Boston Calling Location: Allston, MA (Harvard’s Athletic Complex)
Best for: Music-loving families with older kids or festival-curious toddlers.
Why Boston Calling works for MDW: Boston Calling is a full-on experience that delivers that summer just kicked off feeling in the best way.
What’s included at Boston Calling: 1 to 3 day tickets available in either GA or VIP; kids under 10 are free with a ticketed adult.
TLJ Pro tip: 2026 Boston Calling is taking a hiatus due to the World Cup but will return full force in 2027.
Check the lineup and passes at bostoncalling.com.
FourLeaf Air Show
Jones Beach, NY
Bonus points if your kid yells “whoa” at the same time you do.
This one’s a Memorial Day Weekend classic for a reason. The FourLeaf Air Show (formerly the Bethpage Air Show) turns Jones Beach into a high-flying spectacle with stunt pilots, skydivers, and the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds all performing over the ocean.
It’s loud, thrilling, and surprisingly kid-friendly…especially for airplane-obsessed little ones.
It’s also totally free (minus parking, $10), which makes it one of the best high-impact, low-commitment events of the weekend.
Drive time: About 1 hour from NYC
FourLeaf Air Show Location: Jones Beach, NY (Long Island)
Best for: All ages, especially plane-obsessed kids and parents who want a beach day with built-in entertainment.
Why FourLeaf Air Show works for MDW: Kicks off the summer season with big energy and no admission fees.
What’s included at FourLeaf Air Show: The air show is free; $10 parking at Jones Beach. If free is the vibe this weekend, we’ve got a full list of Free Things to do in Manhattan that’s actually worth your time.
TLJ Pro tip: Arrive early, bring headphones for sensitive ears, and be prepared to walk if the main lots fill up.
Check event details and timing at fourleafairshow.com.
Have plane-loving kids that can never get enough?
Keep the aviation vibes going at these airport-viewing restaurants near NYC…
Memorial Day Weekend FAQ
Everything you need to know before you plan your Memorial Day Weekend
What should I pack for a Memorial Day Weekend trip with kids?
Think layers… Memorial Day Weekend weather in the Northeast can go either way.
Pack sunscreen, a light rain jacket, and at least one extra outfit per kid. If you’re hitting an amusement park or resort, water shoes and a dry bag are worth throwing in.
And if you’re doing a day trip, pack snacks. Always pack snacks.
Is Memorial Day Weekend a good time to visit these destinations?
Yes… and here’s why. Most of these spots are actually at their best over Memorial Day Weekend.
Amusement parks are opening for the season so rides are fresh and lines are shorter than peak July.
Resorts are fully staffed and energized for the summer kickoff. And outdoor destinations like Mystic and Portsmouth are in full spring bloom without the peak summer crowds yet.
What's the best Memorial Day Weekend getaway for toddlers?
Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster PA is hard to beat for the under-5 crowd.
It’s specifically designed for little ones with gentle rides, character meet-and-greets, and a splash pad. Rocking Horse Ranch is another strong pick with its indoor waterpark, private lake, and all-inclusive setup that takes the pressure off parents completely.
What's the difference between a day trip and an overnight for Memorial Day Weekend?
A day trip works great if you want low commitment… pack up, go, come home.
Mystic, Portsmouth, and the FourLeaf Air Show are all doable without an overnight bag.
But if you want Memorial Day Weekend to actually feel like a getaway an overnight at Woodloch, Rocking Horse Ranch, or Margaritaville Cape Cod is worth every penny.
Quick Recap: Where to Spend Memorial Day Weekend
Whether you’re booking a resort, planning a quick road trip, or just looking for something different to do, these Memorial Day Weekend ideas are all vetted, kid-tested, and fun-approved.
Want a full weekend where someone else handles the schedule? Woodloch Resort makes it easy.
Looking for pool time, beach-town vibes, and zero airport lines? Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod is calling.
Prefer a Memorial Day Weekend day trip that still feels like a real adventure? Mystic, CT or Portsmouth, NH are both worth the drive.
Need a high-energy day without packing an overnight bag? Lake Compounce and Dutch Wonderland deliver.
Want to shake things up and make a core memory? Boston Calling or the FourLeaf Air Show will do the trick.
Want to find the best stops along I-95 between New York City and Boston? This list of roadside stops is sure to make your kids squeal with happiness.
Whatever kind of vibe you’re going for this Memorial Day Weekend…laid-back, all-in, or something in between, there’s something here that’ll make it feel like summer officially started.
Happy travels…
