Looking for the perfect way to kick off summer? These inspiring places to visit on Memorial Day combine patriotic spirit, outdoor fun, and unforgettable moments to honor the holiday in style.
If you are in a hurry, I recommend:
Unique Places to Visit on Memorial Day:
1. Coeur d' Alene
Location: Coeur d'Alene, ID
Recommended For: Outdoor adventurers, lake lovers, families, history buffs, and art enthusiasts.
What I Love: ♥ "Crystal-blue lake mornings, forest hikes with sweeping views, and fly-fishing serenity—Coeur d’Alene is where nature slows you down and culture pulls you in."
- Paddle across Lake Coeur d'Alene with a kayak or stand-up paddleboard—or cast a line fly fishing nearby.
- Hike scenic trails through Coeur d'Alene National Forest, where the landscapes change with every step.
- Explore downtown galleries on an Art Walk, or dive into regional history at the Museum of North Idaho.
Cost: Most outdoor activities are free or low-cost; gear rentals and museum admission vary.
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for hiking, boating, and biking; winter for snow-covered beauty and cozy retreats.
Local tips: Head to Tubbs Hill for lakeview trails close to downtown. The indoor water park is great for rainy days or family fun.
Distance: About 40 minutes east of Spokane, WA; 6 hours from Seattle.
How to Get to Coeur d'Alene: From I-90, take exit 11 and follow Northwest Boulevard south toward downtown and the lakefront.
Address: Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
2. St Paul, Minnesota
Location: St. Paul, MN
Recommended For: History buffs, museum-goers, families, architecture fans, and city explorers.
What I Love: ♥ "From dinosaur bones to baroque domes, St. Paul blends past and present with flair. It’s a capital city with soul—alive with history, science, gardens, and the mighty Mississippi."
- Discover prehistoric wonders and high-tech exhibits at the Science Museum of Minnesota, including a striking dinosaur gallery and immersive theater.
- Explore the Minnesota History Center and nearby architectural icons like the Cathedral of Saint Paul and the Minnesota State Capitol.
- Enjoy a day with the family at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, home to exotic animals and lush gardens.
Cost: Many attractions are low-cost or free; museum admissions vary by exhibit and age group.
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for mild weather and full access to parks and festivals.
Local tips: Public transit and walking paths connect major sites downtown. Check event calendars for rotating exhibits and family activities.
Distance: Directly adjacent to Minneapolis; about 20 minutes from MSP International Airport.
How to Get to St. Paul: Easily accessed via I-94 or I-35E; downtown is well-marked with visitor parking near the Capitol and museums.
Address: St. Paul, MN 55101
3. Chincoteague Island
Location: Chincoteague Island, VA
Recommended For: Beach lovers, wildlife watchers, seafood fans, history buffs, and romantic getaway seekers.
What I Love: ♥ "Wild ponies on windswept dunes, oysters fresh from the sea, and sunsets over a harbor lined with boats—Chincoteague is timeless coastal magic."
- Search for the island’s famous wild ponies along beaches and marshes—or spot them from a scenic boat tour.
- Clam and oyster like a local on legendary shoals, then savor fresh seafood at beloved waterfront restaurants.
- Explore the Assateague Lighthouse, pedal through a historic bike tour, or unwind in a cozy Victorian B&B.
Cost: Public beaches and trails are free; tours, meals, and lodging vary by season and style.
Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for mild weather, seafood festivals, and the annual Pony Swim in July.
Local tips: Bring binoculars for birding and pony-spotting. Sunrise walks on the beach are unforgettable and often quiet.
Distance: About 2 hours from Virginia Beach or 3 hours from Washington, D.C.
How to Get to Chincoteague Island: Take US-13 to VA-175 east toward the island. Cross the causeway and follow signs to downtown or Assateague National Seashore.
4. Bend, Oregon
Location: Bend, OR
Recommended For: Outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, families, craft beer fans, and adventure travelers.
What I Love: ♥ "In Bend, mountain trails end in brewery tastings, caves lead to lava wonders, and lake reflections are rivaled only by a cold pint. It’s the perfect Memorial Day blend of nature and fun."
- Hike scenic trails from under 2 miles to over 11, with stunning views of lakes and volcanic peaks.
- Explore the Bend Ale Trail, where adventurous hiking meets cold, local craft brews at top breweries.
- Adventure with the family through lava tubes, kayaking trips, caving experiences, or playtime at Sun Mountain Fun Center.
Cost: Most outdoor activities are free; beer tastings, rentals, and attractions vary in price.
Best time to visit: Memorial Day weekend kicks off ideal summer weather and trail accessibility.
Local tips: Bring layers—the weather can shift quickly. Check for brewery events on the Ale Trail app, and reserve kayaking spots early.
Distance: About 3 hours from Portland, OR or 6.5 hours from San Francisco, CA.
How to Get to Bend: Take US-97 into town. The city is easily navigable by car, with downtown, trailheads, and breweries well signed and accessible.
5. Hood River, Oregon
Location: Hood River, OR
Recommended For: Hikers, families, fruit lovers, cyclists, paddlers, and history enthusiasts.
What I Love: ♥ "With trails that hug the Columbia Gorge, fruit stands bursting with fresh harvest, and paddleboards gliding across the river, Hood River captures Oregon’s spirit in every season."
- Hike scenic routes like the Gorge 400 Trail or bike the Twin Tunnels Trail, both rich in natural beauty and history.
- Drive the Hood River Fruit Loop—35 miles of orchards, cider stops, and farm stands filled with fresh produce and local goods.
- Play at Waterfront Park with kayaking, swimming, or stand-up paddleboarding, or head indoors to the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum for vintage inspiration.
Cost: Most trails and parks are free; museums, tastings, and produce purchases vary in price.
Best time to visit: Spring for blossoms and orchard views; summer for fruit-picking and water sports; fall for harvest festivals.
Local tips: Start early on Fruit Loop drives to beat the crowds. Wear layers—weather along the Gorge can change quickly.
Distance: About 1 hour and 15 minutes east of Portland, OR via I-84.
How to Get to Hood River: Take I-84 east along the Columbia River Gorge; exit at Hood River and follow signs toward downtown, parks, or the Fruit Loop route.
Romantic Places to Visit on Memorial Day:
6. Biloxi, Mississippi
Location: Biloxi, MS
Recommended For: Beachgoers, casino visitors, seafood lovers, water sports fans, and Memorial Day travelers.
What I Love: ♥ "Whether it’s a jet-ski on the Gulf, blackjack in the casino, or sunset over fresh oysters, Biloxi delivers the ultimate mix of coastal fun and Southern charm."
- Unwind on powder-white beaches or explore the Gulf by kayak, paddleboard, or even scuba diving with local outfitters.
- Experience Biloxi's cultural side with a Bay St. Louis Historical Walking Tour and a variety of museums and family attractions.
- Feast on fresh seafood at beloved local restaurants after a day of sun, surf, and sightseeing.
Cost: Beach access is free; guided tours, attractions, and casino activities vary in price.
Best time to visit: Memorial Day weekend for beach weather, vibrant events, and the start of Gulf Coast summer.
Local tips: Book accommodations early for Memorial Day weekend. Airley Lake Recreation Area is a great escape for hiking or biking just outside town.
Distance: About 1.5 hours from New Orleans, LA; 1 hour from Mobile, AL.
How to Get to Biloxi: Take I-10 to I-110 S, which leads straight into the heart of Biloxi. Beachfront roads offer scenic access to restaurants, casinos, and public parks.
7. Burlington, Vermont
Location: Burlington, VT
Recommended For: Foodies, outdoor lovers, music fans, shoppers, and Memorial Day weekenders.
What I Love: ♥ "Between kayak glides on Lake Champlain and chocolate truffle bites downtown, Burlington wraps charm, flavor, and lakeside fun into one perfect long weekend."
- Stroll through the historic downtown filled with unique boutiques, artisan shops, and tasty local eats—or join a Segway or Brew Tour to explore in style.
- Play at Waterfront Park with kayaking, swimming, or sailing lessons—or relax aboard a peaceful sunset cruise.
- Taste Burlington’s foodie scene, from chocolatiers and breweries to farm-to-fork restaurants, then enjoy live music or theater in the vibrant nightlife district.
Cost: Most outdoor parks are free; tour and dining experiences vary in price.
Best time to visit: Memorial Day weekend for great weather, downtown buzz, and access to water activities and trails.
Local tips: Book sunset cruises and brewery tours ahead of time. Church Street Marketplace is ideal for street performers and shopping.
Distance: About 3.5 hours from Boston; 1.5 hours from Montreal.
How to Get to Burlington: Take I-89 into the city. Downtown and Waterfront Park are easily walkable from most lodging options.
8. Canyonlands National Park, Utah
Location: Canyonlands National Park, UT
Recommended For: Hikers, off-roaders, rafters, campers, photographers, and outdoor adventurers.
What I Love: ♥ "Staring out from Island in the Sky, with 300,000 acres of sculpted desert below, you feel both small and infinite. Canyonlands is nature’s masterpiece—and Memorial Day is the perfect time to explore it."
- Hike through one of four unique park districts—each with awe-inspiring canyons, arches, mesas, and spires.
- Drive the Island in the Sky scenic routes or test your skills on thrilling 4x4 off-road trails.
- Raft the Colorado or Green Rivers for an adrenaline-pumping ride through the desert’s dramatic canyons.
Cost: $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass; camping and river permits require additional reservations and fees.
Best time to visit: Memorial Day weekend for warm, comfortable weather and full access to trails, rivers, and scenic drives.
Local tips: Island in the Sky is the most accessible for day trips; reserve campsites and backcountry permits early. Pack water—temperatures can rise quickly even in spring.
Distance: About 40 minutes from Moab, UT; 4 hours from Salt Lake City.
How to Get to Canyonlands National Park: From Moab, take US-191 north to UT-313 west for access to Island in the Sky. Other districts require separate routes—check NPS maps before heading out.
9. Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Location: Cedar Rapids, IA
Recommended For: Cultural travelers, families, cyclists, history buffs, and Memorial Day weekend explorers.
What I Love: ♥ "With charming Czech villages, miles of scenic trails, and vibrant arts tucked into the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids proves that small cities can offer big discoveries."
- Explore the National Czech and Slovak Museum and stroll the Czech Village–New Bohemia District to connect with 19th-century immigrant heritage.
- Cycle or hike over 50 miles of trails or unwind with a round of golf and a visit to Old Macdonald's Farm at Bever Park with the kids.
- Discover local culture through art museums, live theater, galleries, and a growing creative community in downtown Cedar Rapids.
Cost: Many parks and trails are free; museum and cultural event prices vary.
Best time to visit: Memorial Day weekend for mild weather, outdoor recreation, and local events celebrating culture and community.
Local tips: Visit NewBo City Market for food, crafts, and local vibes. Many trails connect downtown to nearby parks—great for a full-day adventure.
Distance: About 30 minutes north of Iowa City; 4 hours from Chicago, IL.
How to Get to Cedar Rapids: Take I-380 or US-30 into the city. Downtown is compact and walkable, with parking near key attractions like museums and trailheads.
10. Kauai, Hawaii
Location: Kauai, HI
Recommended For: Adventure seekers, couples, outdoor lovers, beachgoers, and Memorial Day vacationers.
What I Love: ♥ "Soaring cliffs, jungle ziplines, secret beaches, and waterfalls you can only reach by kayak—Kauai isn’t just paradise, it’s your playground."
- Dive into the Na Pali Coast with snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving in crystal-clear waters rich with sea life.
- Explore by kayak or tube, or go off-road with ziplining and 4X4 adventures through lush valleys and rugged terrain.
- Hike trails in Kokee State Park or along the Wailua River, tee off at world-class golf courses, or take a Blue Hawaii helicopter tour for unforgettable island views.
Cost: Beach access is free; tours, gear rentals, and excursions vary in price—helicopter tours are a splurge-worthy highlight.
Best time to visit: Memorial Day weekend for warm weather, smaller crowds than peak summer, and full access to trails and water activities.
Local tips: Book water and air tours in advance—they fill fast. Early mornings offer calmer seas and better visibility for ocean adventures.
Distance: Kauai is accessible via Lihue Airport (LIH), with inter-island flights from Honolulu or direct flights from select mainland cities.
How to Get to Kauai: Fly into Lihue Airport and rent a car to explore the island. The island is small enough to drive around in a few hours but filled with unforgettable stops along the way.
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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What is Memorial Day and why is it celebrated?
- Memorial Day is celebrated each year on the last Monday of May to honor all the men and women who have lost their lives in the armed forces.
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Why is Memorial Day weekend a popular time to travel?
- As the days get longer and the harsh winter weather recedes from memory, the long Memorial Day weekend is a great time to get away for a few days and enjoy the start of summer.
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