Memorial Day Weekend is a special time in the United States, honouring the unofficial start of summer. It is a time to honour the fearless men and women who served in the armed forces and also begin the season with travel, friends, and loved ones. This year, with changing travel trends, people are escaping the traditional tourist hotspots and seeking new holiday destinations for Memorial Day that both unwind and exhilarate them. Instead of the traditional beach getaways or theme park rides, travellers are eager for alternative breaks that offer one-of-a-kind experiences. From the bohemian streets of Asheville, North Carolina, to Sedona’s awe-inspiring red rocks of Arizona, this article features five incredible destinations that are ideal for your Memorial Day Weekend getaway. Whether it’s a family vacation or an impromptu holiday with your friends, these places have something unique to offer everyone.
Why Use Different Destinations for Memorial Day?
Come on—busy hotspots like Miami or Disneyland are a hassle on holiday weekends. The lines, the crowds, and the high prices are just enough to make your vacation more stressful than relaxing. That is why more and more travellers are looking for off-the-beaten-path Memorial Day destinations that are far from busy. These off-the-beaten-path locations enable you to experience local culture, enjoy outdoor recreation, and create memories that are real and memorable. Imagine visiting a serene town with stunning views or experiencing a local festival without fighting crowds. These locations not only enable you to unwind but also offer fun Memorial Day activities you won’t experience at the big-chain locations. Budget or looking for something special, these websites will make your holiday weekend unforgettable.
Top 5 Unique U.S. Destinations for Memorial Day Weekend
Ready to plan an unforgettable Memorial Day Weekend? Look no further than these five top destinations across the U.S. that are full of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Each spot offers a mix of local culture, outdoor activities, and cozy accommodations to make your getaway out of this world. Let’s dive into these off-the-beaten-path destinations and discover why they are perfect for this holiday weekend.
Destination 1: Asheville, North Carolina – Art and Nature in the Mountains
Asheville, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a paradise on earth for anyone who loves art and nature. Asheville city is a vibrant city and has a vibrant arts scene with galleries and studios showcasing local artists. Start your holiday by walking through the River Arts District, where you can watch artists at work and browse through great souvenirs. If you are a nature lover, there are beautiful mountain views and peaceful strolls surrounding the area. During Memorial Day Weekend, don’t miss attending the Asheville Herb Festival—a local event where you can learn about herbs, taste the finest food, and shop for local crafts. For a cozy stay, book a room at the Grand Bohemian Hotel, which offers luxury with spectacular views of the mountains. When the hunger pangs strike, go to Spanish tapas at Curate or laid-back vibe at White Duck Taco Shop. Asheville is a great place for a Memorial Day weekend trip with a blend of culture and nature.
Destination 2: Sedona, Arizona – Red Rocks and Spiritual Vibes
Sedona is a spiritual place with its scenic red rock backdrop and peaceful spiritual ambience. It’s perfect for travellers seeking adventure and peace. Fill your day with hiking trails like Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock, the vistas leaving you breathless. In case you’re not ready for that kind of exercise, a motor tour of Red Rock Country is just as pretty. Art lovers will enjoy the Sedona Arts Festival, held over Memorial Day Weekend, when local artists tent to exhibit their work. After a day of exploring, treat yourself to a spa day at the Enchantment Resort, where spa treatments are offered with stunning red rock views. Enjoy meals at The Hudson with delicious American cuisine and view or at Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill with Latin-flavoured cuisine. Sedona is a top Memorial Day weekend destination for hiking and adventure travel, blending nature and relaxation in beautiful balance.
Destination 3: New Orleans, Louisiana – A Taste of Culture and History
New Orleans is a city that’s wide awake with music, food, and history. It’s a unique place to spend Memorial Day because it offers an equal mix of celebration and reenactment. Kick off your vacation in the French Quarter, where you can hear live jazz on each corner and taste famous beignets at Café du Monde. Families can look forward to the Memorial Day parades, honoring military heroes but also the city’s vibrant culture. For a relaxing outing, head to City Park—it offers playgrounds, gardens, and a sculpture garden that both kids and adults will appreciate. After dark, head to the lively action on Frenchmen Street, where local bands play wonderful music. For dining, Commander’s Palace is a requirement for its Creole classics, or you can stop into Coop’s Place and get a casual meal of neighborhood staples like jambalaya. New Orleans is a high-ranking family-friendly Memorial Day travel destination, offering a high-density cultural experience.
Destination 4: Portland, Oregon – Funky Fun and Outdoor Adventures
Portland is a city that just loves to be weird, so it’s a great Memorial Day Weekend destination. It’s famous for food carts, craft breweries, and beautiful parks. Over the long holiday weekend, the Portland Rose Festival gets underway with parades, live music, and stunning floral displays—the perfect way to go local. If you’re a nature buff, head to Forest Park, America’s largest urban forest, with miles of walking trails. For a scenic outing, head out to the Columbia River Gorge to view such waterfalls as Multnomah Falls. Kids will have a fun-filled day at the Oregon Zoo or Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) with hands-on activities for all. Gourmets will love Pok Pok for Thai street food or Voodoo Doughnut for innovative, delicious donuts. Portland is a perfect spontaneous weekend getaway with plenty of Memorial Day weekend events to take part in.
Destination 5: Charleston, South Carolina – History and Coastal Charm
Charleston is a charming city with a combination of historic charm and coastal ease. This Memorial Day Weekend, walk along the cobblestone streets of the historic district and take in the colorful buildings. Stop by the Fort Sumter National Monument and learn about Charleston’s history during the Civil War—a poignant stop to pay respects to the importance of the holiday. Memorial Day ceremony at Waterfront Park is also a way of paying respects in the midst of the city’s beauty. For a dose of beach existence, head to Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island for a day in the sun along the shores. At lunchtime, Husk offers great Lowcountry dishes, or savor fresh seafood with a view of the water at Fleet Landing. Charleston is an excellent Memorial Day weekend beach vacation and scenic retreat destination that encompasses history, culture, and nature.
Day-by-Day Guide to Your Memorial Day Weekend
Here’s a day-by-day breakdown for each destination to get the best of your three-day Memorial Day Weekend:
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Asheville:
Day 1—Arrive and walk through the River Arts District, then eat at Curate.
Day 2—Visit the Biltmore Estate and attend the Asheville Herb Festival, then watch a sunset from a vantage point.
Day 3—Hike the Blue Ridge Parkway and unwind at a nearby brewery before departing.
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Sedona:
Day 1—Arrive and drive Red Rock Country for orientation.
Day 2—Hike Cathedral Rock in the morning, then afternoon visit the Sedona Arts Festival.
Day 3—Indulge in a wellness retreat or spa at Enchantment Resort before leaving.
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New Orleans:
Day 1—Arrive and discover the French Quarter, which includes an evening of live jazz at a local club.
Day 2—Participate in Memorial Day parades, followed by an afternoon in City Park with family.
Day 3—Visit the National WWII Museum and indulge in one last Creole dinner before departing.
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Portland:
Day 1—Arrive and stroll downtown, snacking on treats from neighborhood food trucks.
Day 2—Visit the Portland Rose Festival, followed by the Oregon Zoo for an exhilarating experience.
Day 3—Hike in Forest Park or drive to Columbia River Gorge for views of waterfalls before returning.
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Charleston:
Day 1—Arrive and walk around the historic district, soaking up the architecture.
Day 2—Take the morning ferry to Fort Sumter, then see the Memorial Day ceremony at Waterfront Park.
Day 3—Kick back at Folly Beach and have a seafood lunch at Fleet Landing before leaving.
Practical Tips for an Easy Trip
- Asheville: Everything is fairly family-friendly; wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Sedona: Schedule outdoor activities for the early morning to escape the heat during the afternoon.
- New Orleans: Walk is the way to see the French Quarter; also, use public transportation.
- Portland: Bike around—it’s a very bike-friendly city.
- Charleston: Park somewhere else and walk or ride-share downtown.
How to Get There: Transportation Details
- Asheville: Fly into Asheville Regional Airport or drive up from the mountains.
- Sedona: The closest airport is at Flagstaff, which is an hour’s drive from Sedona.
- New Orleans: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport can be reached by direct flights from major cities.
- Portland: Portland International Airport is within easy reach, situated near downtown Portland.
- Charleston: Fly into Charleston International Airport, with easy access to the city.
Safety and Health Tips for Travelers
- Hydrate with plenty of water, particularly in the heat of Sedona and Charleston.
- Apply sunscreen and insect repellent when outside.
- Take care of your belongings in tourist areas such as New Orleans’ French Quarter.
- Look at local weather reports and dress in layers for chilly evenings.
Make This Memorial Day Weekend Unforgettable
Memorial Day Weekend is the perfect time to honor those who served while creating new memories with family. No matter if hiking in Asheville, soaking up Sedona’s spiritual vibes, or enjoying New Orleans’ jazz and creole foods, these unconventional Memorial Day destinations are for everybody. Fill your suitcases, round up your friends or family, and begin an adventure that honors contemplation and travel happiness!
