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.
Desert Pearl Inn and Springdale, UT
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.
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
This is one of my favorite places to stay when I want a Memorial Day getaway filled with mountain charm and small-town warmth. The inn sits at the edge of downtown, surrounded by pine-covered hills and history. I instantly thought our journey was worth it!
We drove east from Spokane for about an hour and a half, the road threading through forested mountains and narrow valleys before reaching the old mining town of Wallace.
I drove into Wallace just as the sun dipped behind the Bitterroot Mountains. The streets were quiet, lined with brick buildings and old mining signs, and I thought,
What I loved most about The Wallace Inn is its warm, lodge-style atmosphere. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with plush beds, simple but thoughtful décor, and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. My favorite touch was the view of the surrounding mountains—it made waking up here feel peaceful and refreshing.
My room had a view of the mountains and the scent of wood smoke hung lightly in the air.
The location is another highlight. Wallace is a charming historic town, known as the “Silver Capital of the World,” with preserved 19th-century architecture, quirky shops, and a surprising number of local restaurants and breweries.
To book, check availability or prices for Wallace Inn.
What I loved best:
From the inn, I could easily explore the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, Idaho for biking, visit nearby mines, or take a scenic drive through the mountains, my favorite highlight.
Denver and The Jacquard
When I'm in the mood for an effortlessly chic urban escape as a part of our larger road trip, this area near downtown Denver is a standout! I was so impressed by this chic boutique hotel in the stylish Cherry Creek North neighborhood, which masterfully blends modern luxury with an artistic, fashion-forward edge.
We drove about 35 minutes from Denver International Airport, the Rocky Mountains rising in the distance as we reached Cherry Creek. The neighborhood mixed boutique shops, art galleries, and tree-lined streets, and when we pulled up to The Jacquard, I felt like we had found a modern, stylish base in the middle of it all.
For this trip, I wanted to explore both Denver’s cultural side and the outdoors, splitting time between museums, city walks, and evenings relaxing at the hotel’s rooftop.
From the moment I entered the sleek lobby, adorned with polished stone surfaces, dramatic lighting, and curated art, I knew I was in for a sophisticated yet welcoming stay.
The hotel’s design strikes the perfect balance between contemporary elegance and approachable comfort, making it feel cosmopolitan without being overwhelming.
Our guest room for four days was spacious and thoughtfully designed, with floor-to-ceiling windows that filled the space with natural light and gave us sweeping views of Denver’s skyline and the Rocky Mountains. Our plush king-sized bed, dressed in premium linens, paired beautifully with sleek wood accents, geometric décor, and a spa-like bathroom featuring a rainfall shower and luxury bath products.
I also loved the hi-tech touches, from the smart TV to intuitive lighting controls, that made the room both stylish and functional.
The hotel’s signature restaurant, Narrative, quickly became a favorite spot, offering elevated New American cuisine and an impressive wine library in a chic, relaxed setting.
Located right in Cherry Creek, The Jacquard placed me within steps of upscale boutiques, art galleries, and trendy cafés, while still being just minutes from downtown Denver. This hotel truly stood out for its blend of modern design, upscale amenities, and an unbeatable location that made my stay both stylish and memorable.
To book, check availability or prices for The Jacquard.
What I loved best:
The rooftop pool and bar were absolute highlights! Lounging high above the city with 360-degree views and sipping a hand-crafted cocktail at sunset felt like a quintessential Denver experience.
Carmel and L'Auberge Carmel
On the West Coast, head to the lovely town of Carmel and spend your weekend on the beach. Stay at my favorite hotel: L'Auberge Carmel.
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.
