Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, offering families a perfect opportunity to unwind, reconnect, and create lasting memories by the water. Lakeside destinations combine the tranquility of calm waters with a variety of outdoor activities—from swimming and boating to hiking and wildlife spotting. Below are eight family-friendly lakeside getaways ideal for Memorial Day weekend 2025, complete with budgets, itineraries, and lodging suggestions to make planning a breeze.
1. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Why Go: Straddling the California–Nevada border, Lake Tahoe captivates with its crystal-clear waters, panoramic mountain vistas, and abundant recreational options. Families can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, scenic gondola rides, and easy lakeside hikes.
Estimated Budget (Family of Four): $2,000–$2,500
(Lodging: $1,200; Food: $500; Activities: $600; Gas/Transfers: $200)
3-Day Itinerary:
- Friday Evening: Arrive and settle in; take a sunset stroll along Commons Beach in Tahoe City.
- Saturday: Rent paddleboards in Tahoe City; picnic at Sand Harbor State Park; explore the Cave Rock Tunnel overlook.
- Sunday: Ride the Heavenly Mountain Gondola for lake and Sierra views; visit the Tahoe Science Center; dinner in South Lake Tahoe.
- Monday: Short family hike on the Tahoe Rim Trail (Tahoe Meadows section); depart after lunch.
Where to Stay: Tahoe City Lodge – Offers spacious family rooms, an outdoor pool, and easy beach access.
2. Lake George, New York
Why Go: Known as the “Queen of American Lakes,” Lake George blends Adirondack beauty with charming village vibes. Ideal for boat cruises, water parks, and gentle hiking trails suitable for all ages.
Estimated Budget (Family of Four): $1,800–$2,200
(Lodging: $1,000; Food: $500; Activities: $400; Gas: $100)
3-Day Itinerary:
- Friday Evening: Drive in and explore Lake George Village; ice cream by the shore.
- Saturday: Family-friendly cruise on the Minne-Ha-Ha paddlewheeler; afternoon at Adirondack Extreme Adventure Park.
- Sunday: Day trip to Fort William Henry; guided historical tour and hands-on activities.
- Monday: Hike Prospector’s Falls Trail; picnic before heading home.
Where to Stay: The Country Inn on Lake George – Features waterfront rooms, a heated pool, and a private beach.
3. Lake Champlain, Vermont/New York
Why Go: Stretching between Vermont and New York, Lake Champlain offers serene sailing conditions, picturesque towns like Burlington, and opportunities for fossil hunts along the shoreline.
Estimated Budget (Family of Four): $1,600–$2,000
(Lodging: $900; Food: $400; Activities: $400; Gas: $100)
3-Day Itinerary:
- Friday Evening: Arrive in Burlington; stroll Church Street Marketplace.
- Saturday: Morning sail on a family catamaran; lunch at a local farm-to-table eatery.
- Sunday: Visit the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum; afternoon stone skipping at Crown Point.
- Monday: Bike part of the Island Line Rail Trail; depart midday.
Where to Stay: Hotel Vermont – Offers family suites, bike rentals, and a central location for lake activities.
4. Lake Lanier, Georgia
Why Go: Just outside Atlanta, Lake Lanier combines easy access with wide-open waters—perfect for boating, tubing, and fishing. Nearby parks offer hiking, picnic spots, and splash pads.
Estimated Budget (Family of Four): $1,400–$1,800
(Lodging: $800; Food: $400; Activities: $400; Gas: $100)
3-Day Itinerary:
- Friday Evening: Check into lakeside cabin; evening swim at the dock.
- Saturday: Rent a pontoon boat for tubing and fishing; lakeside barbecue.
- Sunday: Spend the day at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands water park; family dinner at the resort.
- Monday: Morning nature walk on the Bald Ridge Creek trail; depart after brunch.
Where to Stay: Lanier Islands Legacy Lodge – Features cabin rentals, water park access, and boat rentals.
5. Lake Travis, Texas
Why Go: West of Austin, Lake Travis is renowned for its clear blue waters, scenic cliffs, and recreational marinas. Families can swim at public beaches, explore waterfalls at Krause Springs, and enjoy a lakeside sunset cruise.
Estimated Budget (Family of Four): $1,500–$1,900
(Lodging: $900; Food: $400; Activities: $400; Gas: $200)
3-Day Itinerary:
- Friday Evening: Arrive in Marble Falls; dinner overlooking Inks Lake.
- Saturday: Morning swim at Hippie Hollow Park (clothing-optional area for adults; alternative beach for families at Pace Bend).
- Sunday: Day trip to Krause Springs; picnic in the gardens.
- Monday: Family-friendly sunset cruise on Lake Travis; depart post-cruise.
Where to Stay: Lakeway Resort and Spa – Offers family suites, a private marina, and multiple pools.
6. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Why Go: Famous for its extensive shoreline and family attractions, Lake of the Ozarks features water parks, mini-golf, and scenic caves. Boating and jet-skiing are popular, alongside tranquil coves for swimming.
Estimated Budget (Family of Four): $1,700–$2,200
(Lodging: $1,000; Food: $500; Activities: $400; Gas: $200)
3-Day Itinerary:
- Friday Evening: Explore Camden on the Lake boardwalk; lakeside eats.
- Saturday: Visit BigSurf Waterpark; afternoon cave tour at Bridal Cave.
- Sunday: Rent jet skis and explore Ha Ha Tonka State Park; picnic by the springs.
- Monday: Family kayak trip in a quiet cove; depart after lunch.
Where to Stay: Margaritaville Lake Resort – Offers comfortable cabins, pools, and easy access to lake activities.
7. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire
Why Go: New England’s largest lake, Winnipesaukee offers charming towns like Wolfeboro, scenic cruises, and beaches ideal for families. Nearby hiking and minigolf provide variety.
Estimated Budget (Family of Four): $1,600–$2,000
(Lodging: $900; Food: $400; Activities: $400; Gas: $100)
3-Day Itinerary:
- Friday Evening: Arrive in Wolfeboro; stroll the harbor.
- Saturday: Morning MS Mount Washington cruise; afternoon at Weirs Beach arcade.
- Sunday: Beach day at Albee Beach; family mini-golf at Pirate’s Cove.
- Monday: Hike Mount Major for panoramic lake views; depart midday.
Where to Stay: The Lodge at Belmont Bay – Features two pools, lake-view rooms, and boat rentals.
8. Table Rock Lake, Missouri/Arkansas
Why Go: Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Table Rock Lake offers clear waters, floating eateries, and Bass Pro signature attractions. Families can enjoy swim beaches, zip-lining, and nature trails.
Estimated Budget (Family of Four): $1,800–$2,300
(Lodging: $1,100; Food: $500; Activities: $400; Gas: $200)
3-Day Itinerary:
- Friday Evening: Check into resort; evening swim at the beachfront pool.
- Saturday: Spend the day at Big Cedar Lodge’s Top of the Rock; float dinner cruise on the lake.
- Sunday: Zip-line adventure at Shepherd of the Hills; afternoon relaxation at resort beach.
- Monday: Kayak tour around Table Rock Dam; depart after brunch.
Where to Stay: Big Cedar Lodge – Offers cabins, multiple pools, and lakefront dining options.
Final Tips for a Smooth Memorial Day Weekend Trip
- Book Early: Lakeside properties fill up quickly for holiday weekends—reserve lodging and activities well in advance.
- Check Local Regulations: Some parks require permits or have entrance fees; verify details before traveling.
- Pack Essentials: Sunscreen, life jackets, reusable water bottles, and portable phone chargers are must-haves.
- Plan for Weather: Spring showers can occur; pack light rain gear and have indoor alternatives ready.
- Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adjust plans for crowds or changing conditions—enjoy the lakeside adventure!
These eight lakeside destinations offer memorable experiences for families celebrating Memorial Day weekend. Whether you prefer mountain-backed shores or wide-open expanses, there’s a perfect lake waiting for your next adventure.
