The Memorial Day Weekend is fast approaching, and with it comes the unofficial start of summer, a time for remembrance, and a much-anticipated three-day break. If you haven’t made plans yet, don’t despair! There are plenty of fantastic, easy last-minute getaways perfect for enjoying the long weekend.
Whether you’re craving mountain air, city excitement, or a quiet escape, options abound across the United States. This guide will help you discover accessible destinations for a memorable Memorial Day Weekend, even if you’re booking on short notice.
The key to a successful last-minute Memorial Day Weekend trip is flexibility. Consider destinations that are within driving distance to avoid the hassle and expense of last-minute flights. Look for places with a wide range of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to state park cabins or even well-located city hotels that might have unexpected availability. Embrace the spontaneity, and you might discover your new favorite getaway.
Unforgettable Memorial Day Weekend Escapes
Embarking on a spontaneous trip during the Memorial Day Weekend can be incredibly rewarding. It’s a chance to break from routine, explore new surroundings, and create lasting memories without months of meticulous planning. The following destinations are chosen for their accessibility, variety of activities, and potential for last-minute lodging finds. Remember to check local event schedules, as many communities host special Memorial Day Weekend observances.
1. Asheville, North Carolina: A Blue Ridge Memorial Day Weekend
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and urban charm, making it an ideal choice for a last-minute Memorial Day Weekend. Its driveable accessibility from many Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic states is a significant plus. The city boasts a vibrant arts scene, numerous craft breweries, and a renowned culinary landscape. You can spend your days hiking or driving along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, exploring waterfalls, and then return to the city for an evening of live music and delicious food.
For last-minute accommodations, look beyond the downtown core to nearby towns or explore options like cabin rentals or boutique inns that might have late availability. The Biltmore Estate, while popular, might have timed entry tickets available. Alternatively, the North Carolina Arboretum offers beautiful gardens and trails. A Memorial Day Weekend in Asheville provides a refreshing mountain escape with plenty of activities to fill your days, catering to both nature lovers and culture enthusiasts. Remember to check for any local Memorial Day Weekend events or parades.
2. The Finger Lakes Region, New York: A Lakeside Memorial Day Weekend
The Finger Lakes region in upstate New York is a stunning destination for a relaxing and scenic Memorial Day Weekend. Known for its eleven glacial lakes, dramatic gorges, and an abundance of wineries, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and wine lovers alike. Driving is the best way to explore the region, allowing you to hop between charming towns like Skaneateles, Ithaca, and Watkins Glen. Each lake offers unique attractions, from Watkins Glen State Park’s incredible gorge trail to the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail.
Last-minute lodging can often be found in smaller B&Bs, vacation rentals slightly off the main lakefronts, or even campgrounds if you’re equipped for it. Many wineries and breweries welcome visitors without reservations, though it’s always good to call ahead for larger groups during a holiday weekend. Enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing by the water. The slower pace of life in the Finger Lakes makes it a perfect antidote to city stress, offering a refreshing Memorial Day Weekend experience. This region often hosts local markets and small-town Memorial Day Weekend festivities.
3. Hocking Hills, Ohio: A Natural Memorial Day Weekend Retreat
For a true escape into nature, consider Hocking Hills in southeastern Ohio for your Memorial Day Weekend. This region is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, including towering cliffs, deep gorges, picturesque waterfalls, and lush forests. Hocking Hills State Park is the main draw, with popular spots like Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls. The area is predominantly rural, offering a peaceful retreat from urban hustle. It’s easily driveable from many parts of the Midwest.
The primary accommodation here is cabins, ranging from rustic to luxurious, and many can be booked online. While popular, searching for cancellations or less-advertised properties can yield last-minute gems. Alternatively, there are some inns and campgrounds.
Activities are centered around the outdoors: hiking, zip-lining, canoeing, and stargazing (the area has minimal light pollution). A Memorial Day Weekend in Hocking Hills is about disconnecting and reconnecting with nature. Pack your hiking boots and prepare for an adventure. Many local businesses might have special hours or offerings for the Memorial Day Weekend.
4. San Antonio, Texas: A Cultural Memorial Day Weekend Adventure
If a city break with a rich cultural tapestry appeals to you, San Antonio, Texas, is an excellent choice for a Memorial Day Weekend getaway. This vibrant city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. The famed River Walk, the historic Alamo, and the Missions National Historical Park (a UNESCO World Heritage site) are must-sees. San Antonio is a major city with good flight connectivity and is also driveable from many parts of Texas and neighboring states.
Hotel availability in a large city like San Antonio can be surprisingly good for last-minute planners, especially if you’re flexible with location (e.g., staying slightly outside the immediate River Walk area). The city’s diverse neighborhoods, like the Pearl District with its trendy shops and restaurants, or King William Historic District with its beautiful architecture, offer plenty to explore. Enjoy delicious Tex-Mex cuisine, explore art galleries, and perhaps catch a local Memorial Day Weekend event. San Antonio provides a lively and engaging urban escape for the holiday.
5. Coastal Maine (e.g., Portland & South): A Charming Memorial Day Weekend
The southern coast of Maine, including the vibrant city of Portland and charming towns like Kennebunkport and Ogunquit, offers a quintessential New England Memorial Day Weekend experience. Expect picturesque lighthouses, rugged coastlines, fresh seafood, and quaint villages. Portland provides a lively small-city feel with excellent restaurants, breweries, and art galleries, while the smaller towns offer a more relaxed pace. This area is a popular drive for those in the Northeast.
While classic beachfront hotels might be booked, look for inns, B&Bs, or motels slightly inland or in less-trafficked towns. Portland itself has a good range of hotel options. Enjoy scenic drives along Route 1, visit Nubble Light, walk along Marginal Way in Ogunquit, or indulge in a lobster bake. The Memorial Day Weekend marks the beginning of the busy season, but the shoulder-season feel can still be present, offering a pleasant atmosphere. Many communities will host Memorial Day Weekend parades or services, adding a touch of local tradition to your visit.
6. Door County, Wisconsin: A Peninsula Memorial Day Weekend
Often called the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” Door County, Wisconsin, is a picturesque peninsula jutting into Lake Michigan. It’s known for its charming small towns, stunning shoreline, state parks, orchards, and art galleries. A Memorial Day Weekend here offers a chance to enjoy the awakening of spring, with cherry blossoms possibly still in bloom and pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. It’s a favored drive-to destination for many in the Midwest.
Accommodation options include historic inns, B&Bs, cottages, and resorts. Last-minute finds might require some searching, perhaps focusing on slightly less central locations or looking for cancellations. Explore Peninsula State Park, take a ferry to Washington Island, visit the iconic Cana Island Lighthouse, and sample local cherries and fish boils. The pace is relaxed, perfect for unwinding. The numerous small towns each have their own character, making a drive through the county a delightful experience for your Memorial Day Weekend.
7. Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga, nestled along the Tennessee River and surrounded by mountains, has transformed into a vibrant hub for outdoor adventure and family fun, making it a great pick for an active Memorial Day Weekend. Attractions like Lookout Mountain (with Rock City and Ruby Falls), the Tennessee Aquarium, and the pedestrian-friendly Walnut Street Bridge offer diverse experiences. The city is easily accessible by car from many parts of the Southeast.
Chattanooga has a good selection of hotels downtown and in surrounding areas, offering potential for last-minute availability. Beyond the main attractions, explore the Bluff View Art District, go whitewater rafting on the nearby Ocoee River, or hike and bike the numerous trails. The city’s revitalized riverfront is a great place to stroll and relax. Chattanooga offers a compelling mix of natural beauty and urban amenities for a dynamic Memorial Day Weekend that caters to various interests. Local observances for Memorial Day Weekend often take place, reflecting the area’s rich history.
8. Santa Fe, New Mexico
For a unique cultural immersion, Santa Fe, New Mexico, offers an enchanting Memorial Day Weekend getaway. Known for its distinctive Pueblo-Spanish colonial architecture, thriving arts scene (Canyon Road is a must-visit), and rich Native American heritage, Santa Fe provides a truly different atmosphere. The high desert setting and clear air add to its allure. While it might require a flight for some, its unique appeal makes it worth considering for a long weekend.
Look for lodging in boutique hotels, historic inns, or vacation rentals. While popular, Santa Fe has a broad range of options, and being flexible with location can help secure a last-minute booking. Explore the historic Plaza, visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, delve into the numerous galleries, and savor the unique New Mexican cuisine. The surrounding landscape also offers opportunities for hiking. A Memorial Day Weekend in Santa Fe is a journey into art, history, and a distinctive Southwestern culture.
9. Sacramento, California: A Historic Memorial Day Weekend
Often overshadowed by California’s coastal giants, Sacramento offers a surprisingly engaging and accessible Memorial Day Weekend destination. As the state capital, it’s rich in history, particularly relating to the Gold Rush era, beautifully preserved in the Old Sacramento Waterfront district. The city also boasts a burgeoning food scene, numerous craft breweries, and lovely parks along the American River. It’s more laid-back and often more affordable than LA or San Francisco for a last-minute trip.
Sacramento has a wide array of hotel options, from major chains to boutique establishments, increasing the chances of finding last-minute rooms. Explore the California State Railroad Museum, tour the State Capitol, stroll or bike the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, or visit Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park. The city’s “Farm-to-Fork” ethos means great dining experiences. For a less crowded California Memorial Day Weekend with a good mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities, Sacramento is a solid choice.
10. Your Local or Regional State Park System
Sometimes the easiest and most rewarding last-minute Memorial Day Weekend getaway is right in your backyard, or a short drive away, at a state park. Nearly every state boasts a fantastic system of state parks offering diverse landscapes – from beaches and forests to mountains and deserts. These parks often provide affordable lodging options like cabins, yurts, or campsites, though booking ahead is usually wise, last-minute cancellations do happen.
The beauty of choosing a state park is the simplicity. Activities are typically centered on nature: hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. Many parks also have visitor centers with educational exhibits. Check your state’s Department of Natural Resources or Parks and Recreation website for locations, availability, and any special Memorial Day Weekend programs. This option minimizes travel stress and maximizes relaxation and connection with the natural world, offering a refreshing and budget-friendly Memorial Day Weekend.
No matter where you choose to go, or even if you opt for a relaxing staycation, the essence of the Memorial Day Weekend is to pause, remember, and appreciate. These last-minute getaway ideas are designed to inspire a spontaneous adventure, proving that a memorable holiday doesn’t always require months of planning. Pack a bag, embrace the journey, and make this Memorial Day Weekend one to remember.
