Memorial Day weekend is right around the corner, which means the perfect time for a quick weekend getaway! If you’ve been looking for the best places to travel for quick trips, look no further. In fact, go ahead and bookmark this post to easily return for ideas for your future weekend getaway adventures.
Best Places to Travel for Memorial Day Weekend
Charleston, South Carolina
If you find yourself near the East Coast, then visiting Charleston, South Carolina is a must. It’s a very family-friendly town with lots to see and do. Not to mention, the beach is only about 12 miles away (Folly Beach). The temperatures are perfect as well and the gardens will be fully bloomed by Memorial Day weekend. With its fair share of historic architecture and cobblestone streets, your family will enjoy taking a walk down memory lane. There are also boat tours available on the Charleston Harbor and lots of flora to see at the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Depending on your budget, you can opt-in for a luxurious hotel stay or save some money with a local vacation rental.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Looking to visit the down south bayou? Hopping down to New Orleans for Memorial Day weekend would be the perfect treat. With this area being known for all things history, food, and jazz, you can’t go wrong with squeezing in this destination for a weekend trip. When my husband and I visited for his 40th birthday, we stayed in the luxurious J.W. Marriott. This put us within walking distance of most places we wanted to visit and would definitely be an ideal spot if being close to everything is a priority on your list. New Orleans offers many attractions and activities whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with your family.
Related: Where to Stay JW Marriott New Orleans
📸 Visit Austin, Texas
Austin, Texas
Nestled just an hour and twenty minutes north of San Antonio, you’ll find Austin, Texas to be the perfect Memorial Day weekend getaway spot. Known for their mouthwatering barbeque and perfect outdoor temperatures, you’ll find plenty to do on your weekend adventure. Start with a walk (or hike) in the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake and end with a picnic in the same area. There are also opportunities to enjoy sightseeing, kayaking, and learning about Texas history at the State Capitol. This area is also plentiful in Airbnb locations, hotels, and campsites.
Related: Road Trip Ideas: Places to Visit to Experience Black History
Big Bear Lake, California
We’re no strangers to the lands of California and there is plenty to see and do there. However, if you’re looking for a more laid-back experience with fewer crowds then Big Bear Lake is worth a visit. By the time Memorial Day weekend has arrived, the snow has typically melted and the sunny temperatures are settling in. It is packed with endless outdoor activities from kayaking and canoeing to mountain biking and fishing. You can also enjoy local cuisine with a selection of farm-to-table restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. If you have animal fanatics in your family, they can enjoy the sights of seals, sea lions, otters, bald eagles, and more. While you’re there, be sure to catch Friday Harbor’s annual Memorial Day Parade and ceremony.
Related: Family Travel: 7-Day California Family Vacation – Monterey County + San Diego
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Looking for cheaper hotel rates and fewer crowds? Jackson Hole may be your ideal place. Not to mention, this area still has moderate temperatures during Memorial Day weekend, but lots of opportunities to see wildlife in action. During this time, you can expect many park roadways and the 93-degree thermal pool to be reopened. Get the full experience by staying in a rustic cabin or look for a nearby Airbnb location. Either way, this is a location you’ll remember, should you choose to visit.
As you plan your Memorial Day weekend getaway, keep these places in mind. They each have their own unique activities and adventures to offer, so pick one, plan accordingly, and have fun! Remember to check out my best tips for Memorial Day weekend travel. In the meantime, I’d love to hear from you.
📸 Visit Charlottesville, VA
Charlottesville, Virginia
Want to plan an excursion to Charlottesville? You won’t be disappointed. This area offers some of the best wineries, a “Let’s Roam Charlottesville” walking tour, and an African American Heritage Center (just to name a few). The heritage center is free and open to the public, so I highly recommend stopping by. It is the perfect way to learn about the contributions of the African Americans and peoples of the diaspora locally. As for lodging, you’ll have quite a bit to choose from: hotels near the campus, RV spots, cabins and cottages, vacation rentals, and more.
Where are some places you’ve visited for Memorial Day weekend? Let me know in the comments below.