Below, we share our top three family weekend getaway spots in the Ozarks. Find out where to go, what to do, and places to stay coming from our family's personal experiences. Start planning your next family getaway right now.
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It’s no secret that the Ozarks hold a special place in our hearts. That’s why we love planning weekend family weekend getaways there.Â
In this post, we give you family weekend getaway ideas for each of the states in the Ozarks: including Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.
Family Weekend Getaways in Oklahoma
If there was just one place we could recommend in Oklahoma for a family weekend getaway, it would be a unanimous vote for The Gathering Place.
What: The Gathering Place is a super-sized playground. It’s a huge place that caters to every kid and kid at heart. Here’s a sampling of what you’ll find at the gathering place:
Climbing structures
Castles
Playhouses
Sand
Water
Sand and Water together
Slides
Ice cream
Picnic areas
Nature paths
Splash Pad
Private changing rooms and family bathrooms
We have dedicated an entire post on the Gathering Place. Read about our family’s experience here.Â
Where: 2650 S. John Williams Way E., Tulsa, Oklahoma.
What to Do & Bring: Bring the kids to explore the 100 acre park. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy under the reading tree. Bring a swimsuit and a towel to splash in the water. Trust us, one day at this park is enough adventure to fill your weekend. You’ll probably need to come back on day 2 to finish exploring.
Cost: Free admission and Free Parking
Where to Stay: We love staying at vacation rentals like this affordable modern cottage in Tulsa that’s less than 5 minutes from the Gathering Place.Â
Another option for an overnight stay on this family weekend getaway is Natural Falls State Park. This park has a lovely campground and glamping options. Plus, you can find a beautiful waterfall just a short hike into the woods. This park was on our way to Tulsa, about an hour away. Read more about Natural Falls here.
Missouri Family Weekend Getaways
The Show-Me State has plenty of opportunities for families to get away for the weekend and spend time together. One of our favorite places to visit in the Missouri Ozarks for a weekend getaway is Wonders of Wildlife in Springfield, MO.
What: Wonders of Wildlife is a museum. And it makes the list because it’s just awe-inspiring. It’s so well-done that you could never take it all in during a single visit. There are actually two museums to see here, so you’ll get your money’s worth.
Where: 500 West Sunshine St, Springfield, MO
What to Do: Learn about Native American History, take in the sights of carefully posed taxidermied animals to embrace the wild and feel the presence of God’s beautiful creation. Watch playful penguins swimming, diving, and jumping in their happy habitat. Pet the stingrays.
Cost: $25-50 per person
Where to Stay: We are partial to staying at vacation rentals because we love the uniqueness and privacy that each place brings. It adds another level of cherished memories making any family weekend getaway complete.
This 2 Bedroom 1 Bathroom Cape Cod in Springfield, Missouri sleeps a family of 6. There's plenty of room in the backyard to hang out by the pool or on the deck. Plus, it's pet friendly. Check availability.
Family Weekend Getaways in Arkansas
Arkansas is so under-rated! The natural state has a lot of opportunities for family weekend getaways. The bucket list item here: Visit the Mountain Biking Capital of the World.
What: If you’ve never heard of Bentonville, you’re in for a treat. Here, you’ll find endless mountain biking trails and a culture of outdoor enthusiasts. If your family is a sporty group, you’ll love exploring the trails here.Â
Where: Bentonville, Arkansas
What to Do: Check out all the free mountain biking trails. Bring your own bike or rent one. Read our post here for how to rent a bike in Bentonville. Visit Coler Mountain - one of only a few Mountain Biking Preserves in the nation. While you’re there, check out the open-air cafe, which is only accessible by trail.
If biking isn't your thing, check out the rest of the city on our personalized Bentonville Scavenger Hunt for families.
Here’s a few of the trails to check out in Bentonville:
All American Mountain Biking Trail
Coler Mountain Bike Preserve
If you’re new to mountain biking, check out our beginner’s guide to mountain biking.
Where to Stay: There is no shortage of vacation rentals in Bentonville. Most are themed around the mountain biking culture and are located close to downtown trails.
5 More Family Getaway Ideas
Looking for more ideas for weekend getaways with the family? Here are 5 more ideas to get you started.
Branson Attractions - Branson, MO
Indoor Waterpark Resort - Branson, MO
City Museum - St. Louis, MO
Roaring River State Park - MO
Devil’s Den State Park - AR