5 Memorial Day Weekend Getaways
Looking for a Memorial Day weekend getaway idea? This is my favorite weekend for getting into the summer spirit. I recently updated my article on our favorite May destinations. This one, though, has just my absolute favorite Memorial Day road trips, including affordable ideas.
Springdale, UT and Desert Pearl Inn
Memorial Day weekend temperatures are already in the 80s midday in Springdale, Utah which makes this one of my favorite hot weather destinations. You'll be able to enjoy swimming during the day, and cooler evenings that we found perfect for stargazing.
Need a cool place to stay? We love the Desert Pearl Inn just under an hour from St. George and minutes from the Zion National Park entrance. The pool here is the best part because of the red rock canyon scenery. But our room for two days was just as nice because it had large windows overlooking the cliffs. This is a super cool family adventure spot for your next Memorial Day weekend!
To book, check availability or prices for Desert Pearl Inn.
What I loved best:
We especially appreciated the in-room kitchenette for quick snacks.
Washington D.C. and the InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf
Since Memorial Day is about honoring our nation's heroes who died in the performance of their duties, visiting Washington D.C. is always a good idea. Memorial Day is on the last Monday in May but in D.C. you will find events throughout the weekend and even the week leading up to it if you want to get here early.
There is the National Memorial Day Parade on Constitution Ave, a wreath-laying at Arlington National Cemetery, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial service, among others.
One of my favorite places to stay is the InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf because it's right on the water. The hotel has floor-to-ceiling windows from which you can admire the Potomac River and the Wharf. During Memorial Day weekend, it's usually warm enough to swim in the rooftop pool since midday temperatures can reach mid-70s.
Either way, you can relax on the terrace, then have a date at the rooftop bar, followed by fresh seafood at the hotel restaurant. For more options just outside the hotel door, The Wharf itself has restaurants and live music.
To book, check availability or prices for InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf.
A downside? I have to warn you that driving in D.C. on Memorial Day weekend is best avoided.
Local tip: The 1-Day Unlimited Metro Pass for $13.50 is the best value if you are planning multiple stops. A one-way Metro ride typically costs between $2–$5 USD. You can also go for a tour with a local guide, however book early on Memorial Day weekend.
Wallace, Idaho & The Wallace Inn
For a cooler Memorial day weekend getaway with temperatures in the 60s and 70s during the day, Wallace, Idaho is just perfect. This is especially the case if you enjoy outdoor activities.
Wallace may be small with a population with just under 1,000 full time residents, but it has heaps of things to see and do. It's actually a 19th-century silver-mining town and the entire downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places. Locals told us that the mayor named the "Center of the Universe" over 20 years ago and the name stuck. You can visit the famous manhole cover at Bank and Sixth Streets that's the "Center of the Universe".
Moreover, you can tour the Sierra Silver Mine, bike on the Route of the Hiawatha, and hike along the Pulaski Tunnel Trail.
While in town, check into The Wallace Inn. It's not your typical inn and is totally family friendly. You can splash in the indoor heated pool, and ask for a suite to have more room on your family vacation.
To book, check availability or prices for Wallace Inn.
What I loved best:
For even more excitement, drive less than an hour to Coeur d'Alene.
Denver and The Jacquard
Like the idea of a mountain escape like Wallace above, but prefer a larger city that's easier to fly to? I recommend Denver this month because you'll have access to heaps of cultural attractions, Memorial Day weekend events, and outdoor spaces too. Plus dining here is amazing so you can look forward to a special Memorial Day meal.
If you are feeling patriotic, you can pay respects at Fort Logan National Cemetery or take a tour of the Colorado State Capitol. Attend the Memorial Day Parade with veteran groups, live music, and ceremonies.
What about accommodations? Once of my favorite hotels is The Jacquard in Cherry Creek. We discovered this modern hotel while attending the Cherry Creek Arts Festival during our Fourth of July trip to Denver. But it works equally well for a Memorial Day Stay. The area is filled with art galleries and shops made for exploring.
Our guest room at The Jacquard for four days had floor-to-ceiling windows. You can see Denver’s skyline and the Rocky Mountains. We loved how everything was high tech, from lighting controls to the smart TV. We got back to the room tired after all the events and had great room service from the hotel's restaurant Narrative.
To book, check availability or prices for The Jacquard.
What I loved best:
Lounging high above the city with 360-degree views. The rooftop pool and bar were absolute highlights!
Carmel and L'Auberge Carmel
Ready for a sandy beach Memorial Day weekend? On the West Coast, head to the lovely town of Carmel and spend your weekend on the beach. While Memorial Day temperatures are still in the 60s, you can relax with a beach picnic, hike on coastal trails, and enjoy great food.
For a more solemn Memorial Day weekend, Carmel offers ceremonies to honor fallen service members at nearby memorial parks.
What I loved best:
Carmel is one of my favorite Memorial Day weekend getaways. Stay at my favorite hotel in town: L'Auberge Carmel. You'll find it just blocks from Carmel Beach and you can look forward to a 5-star experience. I have to warn you that since there are just 20-rooms, they sell out quickly during Memorial Day weekend.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
