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Memorial Day weekend trips: 20 Best getaways and vacation ideas
Best destinations for Memorial Day weekend trips, including best trips for couples, families with kids, solo travelers, adventurous, and outdoor lovers.
Memorial Day weekend is a significant time in the United States, held annually on the last Monday of May. Originally established to honor military personnel who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, it has also evolved into the unofficial kickoff of the summer season, often celebrated with parades, gatherings, and, for many, a much-needed short vacation.
So, it’s the best time of the year to start a trip. Let’s see what the best Memorial Day weekend trips are
Because it is a three-day weekend, most travelers prioritize quick, low-stress trips. So, trips are usually scheduled for 2 or 3 days, during which you can usually drive and see what’s around.
Here are the trips you can select based on your preferences.
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Fun Memorial Day weekend social trips
If you’re looking to dive into the summer energy with a group of friends or as a solo traveler, these three cities are the heavy hitters of the holiday weekend.
1. Miami, FL: The ultimate beach party
There are many great things to do in Miami. By late May, the weather is ideal for enjoying both peaceful moments by the coast and lively social gatherings.
- Why it’s fun: The city hosts Urban Beach Week, turning South Beach into a hub of activity. Spend your days at world-class beach clubs and your evenings at legendary nightlife spots.
- Ideal for: Travelers who want to transition seamlessly from a designer bikini/swimsuit to “Miami Chic” evening wear without ever leaving the party.
2. Las Vegas, NV: Pool seasons and superstars
Vegas is one of the best Memorial Day weekend trips, great for a 3-day getaway. This time of the year is the peak of Pool Party Season, where you can enjoy choreographed splashes and world-famous DJs.
- Why it’s fun: The “Dayclub” culture is unrivaled; spots like Encore Beach Club and Wet Republic feel more like festivals than swimming pools. Between the residency shows, high-stakes gaming, and the sheer density of entertainment on the Strip, there is zero “downtime” unless you explicitly schedule it.
- Ideal for: Travelers seeking entertainment and music, and enjoying pool parties. Check the Vegas packing list to ensure you have all you need on this trip.
3. Austin, TX: Live music and riverside lounging
Austin is one of the most distinctive cities in the U.S. It has a mix of tech, music, outdoor life, and a slightly “weird” personality that people either love or don’t quite get.
- Why it’s fun: Memorial Day in Austin often involves “tubing” down the nearby Comal or Guadalupe rivers, which is a Texas social tradition. Back in the city, you’ll find live music in almost every bar and a world-class food truck culture that makes grabbing a late-night bite a social event in itself.
- Ideal for: Foodies and music lovers who want to balance a night of bar-hopping with a day of outdoor adventure.
Cheap Memorial Day weekend trips
Memorial Day weekend trips are not supposed to break your bank account. These three destinations offer high value, low entry costs, and plenty of free entertainment.
1. Great Smoky Mountains, TN
As the most visited national park in the U.S., it is surprisingly one of the most affordable because it charges no entrance fee.
- Why it’s fun: You can spend your entire weekend hiking to waterfalls (like Laurel Falls) or driving the scenic Cades Cove loop for just the cost of a $5 daily parking tag. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer a wide range of “budget motels” and large cabins where groups can split the cost.
- Ideal for: Travelers who enjoy hiking and spending time outdoors.
2. San Antonio, TX
San Antonio consistently ranks as one of the most affordable Memorial Day weekend trips. The energy of the city is best felt along its waterways and in its historic plazas.
- Why it’s fun: Many of the city’s “must-see” attractions are free, including The Alamo and the historic San Antonio Missions (a UNESCO World Heritage site). You can stroll the miles of the River Walk for free, and public transit (VIA) is incredibly cheap at roughly $2.75 for an unlimited day pass.
- Ideal for: History buffs and culture seekers.
3. Denver, CO
Denver is the perfect “hub” for a budget trip because it combines urban perks with immediate access to free outdoor recreation.
- Why it’s fun: The city is famous for its “free days” at museums and its massive park system (like City Park). Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater is free to visit and hike when there isn’t a ticketed show.
- Ideal for: It is particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy craft beer, mountain landscapes, and a laid-back western vibe.
Memorial Day weekend trips for couples
For couples looking to escape the hustle of daily life, the following Memorial Day weekend trips favor a slower pace, focusing on breathtaking scenery, intimate dining, and shared experiences.
1. Napa Valley, CA: Romance in the vineyards
Napa Valley is a romantic escape for couples, offering a blend of luxury, world-class gastronomy, and rolling green hills that look like a painting in late May. It’s also one of the best places for Valentine’s Day.
- Why it’s fun: It is popular for wine tasting, wellness, and scenic adventure. Float over the valley as the sun comes up, followed by a champagne toast. For couples who love a lively atmosphere, BottleRock Music Festival usually takes place over Memorial Day weekend (May 22–24, 2026).
- Ideal for: This destination is perfect for travelers seeking a high quality of life and personalized luxury.
2. Sedona, AZ: Wellness and red rock magic
Sedona is a sanctuary for couples who find romance in nature and spiritual rejuvenation. The dramatic red rock formations provide a backdrop like nowhere else on Earth.
- Why it’s fun: Sunset at Cathedral Rock is wonderful. Hike to one of the famous vortex sites to watch the rocks glow fiery red at dusk. If you like stargazing, a guided stargazing session is incredibly intimate.
- Ideal for: Couples looking for a mix of adventure and peace.
3. Charleston, SC: Historic charm and coastal elegance
Charleston feels like a European city hidden in the American South, with its cobblestone streets, gas-lit alleys, and horse-drawn carriages.
- Why it’s fun: It offers a blend of historic scenes, elegance, and deep charm. Sunset Harbor Sail is a classic tall ship sailing around the harbor with enjoyable scenes. Piccolo Spoleto Festival often kicks off on Memorial Day weekend, filling the city with live jazz and outdoor concerts.
- Ideal for: Couples who love capturing romantic moments and exploring historical sites.
Memorial Day weekend trips with kids
If you want to plan a trip with your family and kids, enjoy the following destinations:
1. Orlando, FL: The all-out adventure
If your kids have boundless energy and want to see their favorite characters, Orlando is the gold standard.
- Why it’s fun: Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and LEGOLAND for kids, and hotels with great pools for parents to rest.
2. San Diego, CA: The chill coastal escape
San Diego offers a more laid-back pace with some of the best weather in the country.
- Why it’s fun: San Diego has interesting places for kids, like the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and Coronado Beach. USS Midway Museum is also a great place to visit during Memorial Day.
- Note: San Diego has great festivals for kids, including San Diego Comic-Con, which is held in July.
3. Washington, D.C. The hands-on history lesson
D.C. is surprisingly kid-friendly because so many of the best attractions are free and allow kids to run around.
- Why it’s fun: If you want to educate your kids about history, take them to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Zoo. You can also attend the National Memorial Day Parade, which is the largest in the country.
Best Memorial Day weekend trips on the East Coast
Whether you are looking to kick off summer with beachside festivals or prefer a quiet escape into lush valleys and historic towns, these are some of the best trips for Memorial Day weekend on the East Coast.
- Outer Banks, NC: Enjoy world-class kite flying at the dunes or climb historic lighthouses.
- Cape May, NJ: This charming seaside town kicks off the season with a mix of Victorian elegance and festive energy, often featuring community parades and oceanfront concerts.
- Hudson Valley, NY: Late May is a stunning time to visit this region as the lush greenery returns to the riverbanks, making it a prime spot for scenic hikes and outdoor food festivals.
- Asheville, NC: The downtown area comes alive with street performers and the famous Friday night drum circle, providing a uniquely soulful soundtrack to the long weekend.
Memorial Day weekend trips from NYC (Quick getaways)
If you don’t have much time to spend the whole weekend, the following trips are great last-minute plans. You can find one of the best car rental companies in the US and start your day trip from NYC.
- The Hamptons: This coastal escape, which is almost 2 hours from NYC, is great for spontaneous trips, offering easy access to beaches and pop-ups via Jitney or LIRR.
- Catskills: For those wanting to trade skyscrapers for scenery, the region offers vast hiking trails and cozy lodges just a few hours north of the city. It’s 2-3 hours from NYC.
- Washington, D.C.: It has free museums and moving Memorial Day ceremonies. However, it’s almost 4 hours from NYC.
- Boston: With its deep historical roots and beautiful waterfront, there are great things to do in Boston, especially during Memorial Day weekend, like enjoying time along the Freedom Trail or the Charles River. You can get there within 4 hours.
How to plan a Memorial Day weekend trip (Last-minute tips)
This weekend is busy for travel, so be prepared:
- Booking timing: Prices may rise or be limited if the weekend is near. Focus on nearby destinations, within driving distance, to avoid expensive airfare.
- Transport options: Road trips will be the best option during this holiday weekend. You will have the freedom to change plans if a place feels too crowded.
- Avoiding crowds: Skip crowds by choosing small towns over big beach cities.
Stay connected during your Memorial Day weekend trip with Holafly
If you are planning Memorial Day weekend trips from abroad, instead of purchasing a local SIM card, you can stay connected during your trip using Holafly eSIM, with unlimited data, no roaming charges, and easy setup.
With flexible plan durations, you can purchase Holafly USA eSIM for 1 day to 90 days, making it a great option for those who want to travel to the US just for the weekend. The daily price ranges from USD$3.90 to $1.55/day. So, the more you stay in the US, the cheaper the daily prices get.
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Formerly a travel journalist turned marketing copywriter, I found my way back to the travel world with Holafly—my dream company that made remote work possible. My motto? “Dream big and make it happen.” I’m passionate about writing, exploring the world, and staying active through walking, running, swimming, and hiking. I also love learning, reflecting, and connecting with inspiring minds.
