The 21 Best Memorial Day Weekend Getaways For 2025
As Memorial Day weekend draws near, so does the chance to hit pause and dive into a well-deserved mini adventure. Whether you’re craving the salty breeze of a seaside town, the crisp air of mountain trails, or a cozy cabin tucked away in the woods, this long weekend is your ticket to recharge and explore.
I’ve put together 21 handpicked destinations across the U.S. that are perfect for your 2025 Memorial Day escape—each offering just the right mix of relaxation and adventure.
So, what kind of traveler are you? A beach bum, a history buff, or a nature chaser? Let’s find the perfect spot to launch your summer in style.
1. Lake Tahoe: Crystal Waters and Mountain Majesty
Memorial Day in Tahoe means snow-capped mountains still visible above sparkling blue waters. You’ll find the perfect balance of outdoor adventure and relaxation here as the summer season begins to unfold.
Hiking trails start opening up while the lake warms just enough for the brave to take a dip. Rent a kayak to explore hidden coves or book a sunset cruise to appreciate the Sierra Nevada’s grandeur.
Many lakeside restaurants open their patios this weekend, serving fresh catches while you enjoy those famous Tahoe sunsets. The crowds are smaller than peak summer but the energy is high as everyone celebrates the season’s arrival.
2. Charleston, SC: Southern Charm in Full Bloom
Cobblestone streets lined with blooming magnolias welcome visitors to Charleston during Memorial Day weekend. The city buzzes with energy as temperatures reach that perfect sweet spot – warm enough for beach days but comfortable for exploring historic districts.
Travel through time as you wander past colorful antebellum homes and stop for sweet tea in shaded courtyards. The nearby beaches on Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach offer refreshing Atlantic waters when the afternoon heat peaks.
Memorial Day brings special events honoring military heritage, fitting for a city steeped in American history. Local seafood reaches its prime this time of year – don’t miss the fresh shrimp and grits at waterfront restaurants.
3. Austin, Texas: Live Music and Lakeside Fun
When the Texas heat hasn’t yet reached its summer intensity, Austin shines as a perfect Memorial Day escape. The city’s famous Barton Springs Pool becomes the refreshing centerpiece of weekend activities, with its constant 68-degree spring-fed waters.
Live music spills from venues throughout the city, with special holiday weekend festivals and outdoor concerts taking advantage of the pleasant late-spring evenings. Lake Travis and Lady Bird Lake offer stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and sunset cruises.
Food truck parks and outdoor patios overflow with people enjoying Austin’s legendary barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine. The laid-back vibe combined with the city’s natural swimming holes creates the ultimate kickoff to summer in true Austin style.
4. Cape Cod: New England’s Coastal Playground
Memorial Day officially awakens this peninsula from its winter slumber as beaches prepare for summer visitors. The Cape’s charming towns like Provincetown and Chatham buzz with shops opening their doors and restaurants unveiling seasonal menus featuring just-caught seafood.
Cycle along the Cape Cod Rail Trail between quaint villages, stopping for the first ice cream cones of the season. Whale watching tours begin their peak season now, offering spectacular chances to see humpbacks returning to feed in the nutrient-rich waters.
Lighthouse tours, cranberry bog walks, and kayaking through salt marshes provide memorable adventures without the mid-summer crowds. Evening temperatures might require a light sweater, perfect for beachside bonfires watching the sunset over the Atlantic.
5. Asheville, NC: Mountain Magic in Spring
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville comes alive with vibrant energy as spring fully embraces the landscape by Memorial Day. The famous Biltmore Estate gardens reach peak bloom, showcasing thousands of flowers in meticulously designed landscapes.
Hiking trails throughout Pisgah National Forest reveal cascading waterfalls surrounded by fresh green foliage. Downtown’s artistic spirit flows through street performances and gallery walks, while rooftop bars serve craft beers from the city’s renowned brewing scene.
The Blue Ridge Parkway offers unforgettable drives with overlooks capturing mist-covered mountains in the distance. Farm-to-table restaurants celebrate the season’s first harvests, creating special holiday weekend menus that showcase the region’s agricultural bounty and Appalachian cooking traditions.
6. Sedona, Arizona: Red Rock Wonders
Memorial Day brings ideal conditions to Sedona – warm enough for creek swimming but not yet reaching summer’s scorching temperatures. The famous red rock formations glow dramatically during sunrise and sunset hikes, creating photography opportunities that seem almost supernatural.
Jeep tours take adventurous visitors deep into the rugged landscape while gentler souls can explore the town’s renowned vortex sites believed to radiate energy and facilitate meditation. Oak Creek provides cool relief with swimming holes tucked between towering canyon walls.
The night skies offer another spectacular show as Sedona’s dark sky designation ensures stellar stargazing. Local restaurants set tables on patios overlooking the magnificent landscape, serving southwestern cuisine paired with Arizona wines from nearby Verde Valley vineyards.
7. New Orleans: Jazz and Jubilation
If you’re seeking a cultural feast this Memorial Day, New Orleans delivers with its intoxicating blend of music, food, and celebration. The Greek Festival typically coincides with the holiday weekend, adding another layer to the city’s cultural tapestry with Mediterranean flavors and dancing.
The French Quarter’s streets fill with jazz processions while courtyard restaurants serve crawfish boils and frozen cocktails to beat the warming southern temperatures. City Park offers kayaking on peaceful lagoons beneath ancient oak trees draped with Spanish moss.
Nighttime brings legendary music venues to life with special holiday performances showcasing the city’s unparalleled jazz heritage. Morning beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde provide the perfect fuel for exploring the Garden District’s historic mansions and above-ground cemeteries.
8. San Diego: Sun-Soaked Paradise
San Diego’s perfect weather makes it an ideal Memorial Day destination, with temperatures hovering in the mid-70s and abundant sunshine. The city’s beaches come alive as locals and visitors spread blankets across the golden sand, with Mission Beach’s boardwalk filled with rollerbladers and cyclists.
Balboa Park’s gardens burst with color while museums offer special holiday weekend exhibits. San Diego Bay hosts impressive military displays honoring fallen service members, appropriate for the city’s strong naval heritage.
La Jolla Cove invites snorkelers to discover vibrant marine life in protected waters, where sea lions often make amusing appearances. The Gaslamp Quarter transforms in the evenings with rooftop bars and outdoor dining under string lights, creating the perfect atmosphere to toast the unofficial start of summer.
9. Hudson Valley: Riverside Retreats and Country Charm
Just a short drive from NYC, the Hudson Valley offers a refreshing escape with rolling hills and riverfront towns coming into full bloom by Memorial Day. Historic estates like Kykuit and Vanderbilt Mansion open their gardens for special weekend tours, showcasing meticulously maintained landscapes.
Farm-to-table restaurants create special holiday menus featuring the first harvests of asparagus, rhubarb, and spring greens from surrounding farms. Hiking trails through the Catskills reward with spectacular views while the Hudson River invites kayaking adventures.
Charming towns like Rhinebeck and Cold Spring welcome visitors with independent boutiques and local art galleries. Wineries and cideries throughout the region host tastings on outdoor patios, often accompanied by live music against backdrops of vineyard-covered hillsides.
10. Miami Beach: Art Deco and Azure Waters
Miami Beach reaches a sweet spot during Memorial Day—the winter crowds have departed while summer’s intense heat hasn’t yet arrived. Ocean Drive showcases its famous Art Deco architecture against clear blue skies as sidewalk cafes fill with people watching the parade of beachgoers and vintage cars.
The turquoise Atlantic waters stay refreshingly cool, perfect for swimming when afternoon temperatures climb. Wynwood’s art district offers self-guided mural tours while the Design District showcases luxury shopping beneath innovative architectural canopies.
Boat rentals allow exploration of Biscayne Bay’s hidden islands and sandbars. Evenings bring legendary nightlife options, from rooftop pools with downtown views to beachfront clubs where dancing continues until sunrise, creating the ultimate kickoff to summer.
11. Napa Valley: Wine Country Celebration
Memorial Day in Napa means vines covered in fresh green leaves against rolling hillsides. Wineries host special holiday weekend events with outdoor tastings, vineyard tours, and limited release pours that showcase the region’s world-class vintages.
Hot air balloon rides offer spectacular sunrise views of the entire valley, giving perspective to this remarkable landscape shaped by generations of winemakers. Picnic lunches in vineyard gardens feature local cheeses, fresh-baked breads, and seasonal fruits.
The Napa Valley Wine Train creates special holiday weekend journeys through the valley, combining gourmet dining with spectacular views. Downtown Napa and Yountville’s restaurants extend their patios for alfresco dining under string lights, creating the perfect atmosphere for celebrating the season’s arrival with world-class cuisine.
12. Portland, Oregon: Rose City in Bloom
Portland earns its “Rose City” nickname by Memorial Day weekend as the International Rose Test Garden bursts into spectacular bloom. The city’s famous food cart pods set up extra outdoor seating, creating festive atmospheres where visitors can sample global cuisines while enjoying the perfect late-spring weather.
Bike rentals offer the ideal way to explore the city’s extensive trail network, including the scenic Waterfront Park path along the Willamette River. Day trips to nearby waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge provide refreshing natural escapes just minutes from downtown.
Craft breweries celebrate the holiday with special releases and brewery garden parties. The Portland Saturday Market expands for the holiday weekend, showcasing local artisans and musicians creating a festive atmosphere that captures the city’s creative spirit.
13. Savannah, Georgia: Spanish Moss and Southern Hospitality
Savannah’s historic squares become verdant havens by Memorial Day, with Spanish moss swaying from ancient oak trees creating natural canopies. Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop along cobblestone streets while visitors explore the city’s perfectly preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture.
Tybee Island, just minutes away, offers Atlantic beaches without the crowds of more commercial destinations. The weekend typically brings special tours of historic homes and gardens not normally open to the public, providing glimpses into Savannah’s storied past.
Riverfront restaurants set tables along the Savannah River, where massive cargo ships glide by as diners enjoy fresh seafood and southern classics. Evening ghost tours take on special significance during the patriotic holiday, connecting visitors to the city’s complex history through entertaining storytelling.
14. Outer Banks: Atlantic Coastal Escape
North Carolina’s barrier islands welcome the official beach season during Memorial Day weekend, with rental homes opening their doors to summer’s first visitors. The beaches stretch endlessly with plenty of room to spread out, while water temperatures begin reaching comfortable swimming levels.
Climb the famous lighthouse at Cape Hatteras or Bodie Island for panoramic Atlantic views. Wild horses still roam freely in Corolla, creating magical encounters for lucky visitors exploring the northern beaches.
Fresh seafood markets offer just-caught fish and shrimp for vacation home grilling, while local restaurants open seasonal decks overlooking sound waters. Evening beach bonfires (with permits) create perfect endings to sun-filled days, with stargazing opportunities enhanced by the islands’ relative lack of light pollution.
15. Denver, Colorado: Mountain Gateway Adventures
Denver offers the perfect blend of urban excitement and mountain access for Memorial Day travelers. The city’s rooftop bars and beer gardens come alive as residents celebrate winter’s end, with the downtown scene buzzing with outdoor concerts and holiday events.
Day trips to nearby Rocky Mountain National Park reveal snowcapped peaks contrasting with valleys bursting into spring bloom. The famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre typically hosts special concerts for the holiday weekend, combining world-class music with unbeatable natural acoustics and scenery.
The city’s extensive bike trail network invites exploration, with rental stations throughout downtown making it easy to navigate between breweries, parks, and cultural attractions. Mountain towns like Boulder and Golden make perfect side trips, offering charming main streets and hiking trails with spectacular views.
16. Chicago, Illinois: Lakefront Urban Escape
Chicago transforms by Memorial Day as winter’s grip fully releases and the city embraces outdoor living. Navy Pier comes alive with special holiday weekend fireworks while Lake Michigan’s beaches fill with sunbathers and volleyball players celebrating summer’s unofficial start.
Architecture river cruises offer the perfect introduction to the city’s famous skyline and building history. Millennium Park hosts free concerts with picnickers spreading blankets beneath the iconic Bean sculpture, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the downtown area.
The city’s diverse neighborhoods showcase special holiday food festivals and street fairs, highlighting Chicago’s incredible cultural diversity. Rooftop bars and riverside restaurants open their outdoor spaces, creating perfect venues for enjoying the long weekend with spectacular urban views.
17. Santa Fe: Desert Magic and Cultural Riches
Santa Fe’s adobe architecture glows golden in the late May sunshine, creating a magical backdrop for Memorial Day explorations. The historic Plaza buzzes with activity as Native American artisans display intricate jewelry and pottery beneath the portal of the Palace of the Governors.
Memorial Day weekend often coincides with the opening of the Santa Fe Opera’s preview season, offering world-class performances in an open-air theater with sunset mountain views. Hiking trails through the nearby Sangre de Cristo Mountains reveal aspen groves beginning their spring growth.
The city’s renowned restaurants serve innovative dishes blending Spanish, Native American, and modern influences on scenic patios. Evening temperatures cool pleasantly, perfect for strolling Canyon Road’s famous gallery district as the sunset paints the desert landscape in spectacular oranges and purples.
18. Palm Springs: Desert Oasis Retreat
Palm Springs offers a stylish desert getaway before summer’s intense heat arrives. The city’s mid-century modern architecture stands brilliantly against blue skies and palm-lined streets, with hotel pools becoming social hubs for holiday weekend celebrations.
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway whisks visitors from desert floor to mountain peaks in minutes, where hiking trails offer cooler temperatures and spectacular valley views. Joshua Tree National Park, just a short drive away, invites exploration of its otherworldly landscape.
Vintage shops and art galleries in the Uptown Design District provide air-conditioned browsing between pool sessions. Evening temperatures create perfect conditions for outdoor dining at restaurants featuring celebrity chefs and innovative cocktails, while stargazing tours reveal spectacular night skies away from city lights.
19. Big Sur: Dramatic Coastal Wilderness
Big Sur’s legendary coastline reaches peak beauty around Memorial Day, with wildflowers dotting green hillsides that plunge dramatically into the Pacific. The famous Highway 1 drive becomes an unforgettable experience as fog typically clears for perfect visibility of the rugged shoreline.
Hiking trails through redwood forests lead to hidden beaches and waterfalls, with options ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. The region’s iconic Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls provide perfect photo opportunities to capture nature’s grandeur.
Luxury resorts perched on cliffs offer spectacular ocean-view dining, while campgrounds provide more rustic experiences under star-filled skies. The nearby village of Carmel offers charming shopping and dining options, creating the perfect complement to Big Sur’s natural wonders for a complete Memorial Day escape.
20. Maui, Hawaii: Tropical Paradise Perfection
Maui hits a sweet spot during Memorial Day weekend – perfect weather, slightly smaller crowds than winter, and vibrant island energy. The Road to Hana reveals its full glory with waterfalls flowing strong and tropical forests lush with recent spring rains.
Snorkeling trips to Molokini Crater showcase Hawaii’s incredible marine diversity, with visibility often at its yearly best. Sunrise visits to Haleakalā National Park offer otherworldly views above the clouds, while sunset luaus on Kaanapali Beach provide authentic cultural experiences.
Upcountry farm tours highlight the island’s agricultural diversity with tastings of locally grown coffee, chocolate, and tropical fruits. The historic town of Lahaina offers shopping and dining options with spectacular ocean views, perfect for watching the holiday weekend unfold in paradise.
21. Glacier National Park: Wilderness Awakening
Memorial Day marks a special time at Glacier as the park awakens from winter slumber. While some high-elevation trails remain snow-covered, many lower paths open to reveal spectacular waterfalls powered by spring meltwater cascading through dramatic valleys.
The famous Going-to-the-Sun Road typically begins partial opening, allowing access to breathtaking viewpoints without summer’s heavy traffic. Wildlife viewing reaches prime conditions as bears, mountain goats, and other animals become more active in the warming temperatures.
Lake McDonald’s crystal waters reflect snow-capped peaks in perfect mirror images, creating postcard-worthy photographs. The holiday weekend typically brings special ranger programs highlighting the park’s natural and cultural history, while evenings at historic lodges feature storytelling around massive stone fireplaces.