Best Places to Visit Memorial Day Weekend: 15 Getaways to Kickstart Summer
Best Places to Visit Memorial Day Weekend: 15 Getaways to Kickstart Summer
Looking for the best places to visit on Memorial Day weekend? Discover fifteen incredible destinations across the U.S. perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers. From beaches to mountain escapes, start your summer right!
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer in the U.S.—a long weekend to relax, honor, and explore. With pleasant weather and a patriotic vibe, it is the perfect time to take a break and recharge. Whether you are seeking beach bliss, mountain peace, or small-town charm, there is a perfect spot for everyone.
In this ultimate guide, we have rounded up fifteen top destinations across the U.S. for your Memorial Day getaway. We have included travel tips, things to do, where to stay, and pro traveler advice—so you can make the most of your 3-day adventure.
1. Charleston, South Carolina
Why Go:
History, beaches, and Southern charm collide in Charleston. Explore Cobblestone streets, dine at Al Fresco, and enjoy early summer on Folly Beach.
Things to Do:
- Visit historic plantations and gardens.
- Take a ghost tour through the French Quarter.
- Kayak through Shem Creek at sunset.
Pro Tip:
Book early—Charleston is a Memorial Day favorite and hotels fill fast!
2. Washington, D.C.
Why Go:
What better place to honor Memorial Day than the nation’s capital? Enjoy parades, memorials, and springtime blooms in full force.
Top Events:
- National Memorial Day Parade
- Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Rally
- Concert at the Capitol
Do not Miss:
The changing of the guard at Arlington National Cemetery.
3. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Why Go:
Lake Tahoe offers snow-capped mountains AND summer sunshine. Hike, paddleboard, or relax by the water.
Things to Do:
- Scenic Emerald Bay hike
- Paddleboard rentals at King’s Beach
- Sunset at Sand Harbor
Where to Stay:
Try South Lake Tahoe for nightlife or North Shore for tranquility.
4. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Why Go:
Quaint seaside towns, lighthouses, lobster rolls—it does not get Newer England than this.
Best Towns:
- Provincetown (artsy and friendly)
- Chatham (classic Cape vibes)
- Falmouth (ferry to Martha’s Vineyard!)
Pro Tip:
Bring a bike, the Cape Cod Rail Trail is perfect in late May.
5. Miami, Florida
Why Go:
Turn up the heat with beaches, nightlife, and Caribbean-style vibes.
Must-Dos:
- Hit South Beach early for the best spot.
- Explore Wynwood Walls and Little Havana.
- Try a sunset boat cruise around Biscayne Bay.
Pro Tip:
Stay in Coconut Grove or Brickell for a quieter escape from the crowds.
6. Asheville, North Carolina
Why Go:
Tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville mixes bohemian vibes with outdoor adventure.
Top Activities:
- Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Visit the Biltmore Estate.
- Explore local breweries and farm-to-table eateries.
Bonus:
Late May = rhododendron bloom season!
7. Monterey and Big Sur, California
Why Go:
Few places in the U.S. rival the raw coastal beauty of Big Sur in spring.
Things to Do:
- Drive Pacific Coast Highway
- Stop at McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge
- Whale watching in Monterey Bay
Where to Stay:
Splurge on Ventana or go rustic with a cliffside yurt.
8. Nashville, Tennessee
Why Go:
Live music, BBQ, and sunshine—it is a party all weekend long.
Must:
- Broadway’s honky-tonks
- Centennial Park + Parthenon
- Hot chicken at Hattie B’s
Events:
Catch the Memorial Day Music Fest at a local venue!
9. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana
Why Go:
Wildlife sightings are at their peak and the park is lesscrowded than in July.
Do not Miss:
- Old Faithful
- Grand Prismatic Spring
- Bison in Lamar Valley
Pro Tip:
Stay just outside the park (West Yellowstone) for better hotel options.
10. Sedona, Arizona
Why Go:
Desert sun, red rocks, and soul-stirring hikes await.
Best Hikes:
- Cathedral Rock
- Devil’s Bridge
- Bell Rock Trail
Pro Tip:
Book a spa or vortex tour for a unique local experience.
11. Orlando, Florida
Why Go:
Great for families—parks, pools, and early summer specials.
Top Attractions:
- Disney World
- Universal Studios
- Kennedy Space Center
Budget Tip:
Visit in late May before school ends for shorter lines.
12. Austin, Texas
Why Go:
Lakes, live music, and laid-back vibes make Austin a Memorial Day gem.
What to Do:
- Paddle Lady Bird Lake
- Stroll South Congress
- Day trip to Hill Country wineries
Where to Eat:
Do not leave without trying Franklin BBQ.
13. Chicago, Illinois
Why Go:
Windy City bursts into life on Memorial Day with parades and lakefront fun.
Top Spots:
- Millennium Park
- Navy Pier fireworks
- Architectural boat tour
Pro Tip:
Pack layers—it can get breezy near the lake.
14. Glacier National Park, Montana
Why Go:
Timely access to one of the most breathtaking parks in the U.S.
Best Sights:
- Lake McDonald
- Going-to-the-Sun Road (if open!)
- Avalanche Lake hike!
Pro Tip:
Bring bear spray and check road conditions ahead.
15. Outer Banks, North Carolina
Why Go:
Quiet beach towns, wild horses, and lighthouses—what more could you want?
Top Activities:
- Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial
- Climb Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
- Kayak the Sound
Where to Stay:
Look for beachfront rentals in Corolla or Duck.
Pro Tips for Planning Your Memorial Day Trip
- Book early: Hotels and campgrounds fill fast.
- Plan for traffic: Avoid peak travel times on Friday and Monday.
- Pack flexible: Layered outfits, rain gear, and outdoor shoes.
- Honor the day: Attend a local ceremony or visit a veterans' memorial.
Memorial Day weekend is more than a long weekend—it is a time to recharge, explore, and remember. Whether you want to hike a mountain, dip your toes in the ocean, or simply try something new, the U.S. offers incredible options coast to coast.
Ready to plan your perfect Memorial Day getaway? Tell us in the comments: Where are you heading this Memorial Day weekend?
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