The Best Places to Go For Memorial Day Weekend

Kicking off the summer season, Memorial Day symbolizes the beginning of warmer days and allows us the opportunity to commemorate the brave U.S. soldiers who have fallen. If you’re wondering where to go for Memorial Day weekend this year, read about some of our favorite places to spend the holiday. While many people associate this day with beach volleyball and lounging on the sand, there are plenty of other destinations perfect for Memorial Day weekend.

When deciding where to go for Memorial Day weekend, make sure you browse our other Select Registry properties. Whether you’re hoping to hit the beach or craving a historic locale, our members offer unique stays in beautiful settings.

Where to Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend

Washington D.C.

Honor the true purpose of Memorial Day with a trip to the United States’ capital in Washington, D.C. Spend the weekend visiting significant memorials and monuments, where you can reflect on our nation’s history. Within the city, you’ll find the Vietnam Memorial, World War II Memorial, and the Arlington National Cemetery. The National Mall is another wonderful place to explore. The ideal destination for history buffs, Washington D.C. is home to dozens of public museums, a handful of which offer free entrance.

Aside from the traditional sites to visit in the capital, you can also attend the country’s largest Memorial Day Parade on this weekend! The city hosts several major events in honor of our country’s veterans throughout the weekend. Attend the free National Memorial Day Concert on the West Lawn of the Capitol or the Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Rally and salute our soldiers.

California Beaches

The Gold Coast is famous for its expansive beaches with soft, white sand, crisp, blue waters, and beautiful people. Southern California, nicknamed SoCal, with the beaches of Santa Monica, Santa Barbara, and San Diego are usually the first places that come to mind when people envision the California coast. Santa Barbara boasts a handful of stunning beaches for lounging, surfing, and swimming. Butterfly Beach in Montecito is the perfect place to catch a West Coast sunset, while Arroyo Burro Beach is a popular spot to bring your canine friend.

Though SoCal beaches are worth exploring, there are also many gorgeous stretches of sand in the northern part of the state. Thousands of colorful sea glass pieces decorate the shore of the Glass Beach in Mendocino. Wander along the Pacific Coast and search for unique pieces to carry home with you. Just 45 minutes south of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay has many notable beach trails, surf spots, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Where to Stay

Sea Rock Inn: If you’re looking for one of the most gorgeous views of the Pacific Coast, you’ll find it right from your room at Sea Rock Inn in Mendocino. Situated atop a cliff overlooking Agate Cove, this inn boasts views of the ocean from every guest room, fireplaces and soaking tubs in the cottages, and luxurious suites.

New Orleans

When visiting New Orleans, you’ll discover a number of great places to celebrate Memorial Day and commemorate fallen soldiers. Spend some time at the National World War II Memorial, which often hosts a special event for this holiday. Listen to the U.S. Marine Band and participate in other events associated with the day. New Orleans is the perfect Memorial Day weekend destination for those looking for a different kind of getaway than the typical beach trip. The annual New Orleans Wine and Food Festival also falls on the weekend of Memorial Day, so you can indulge in some of the city’s best cuisine during your visit.

Florida Beaches

If you’re still wondering where to go for Memorial Day weekend, Florida is another popular coastal destination. From the tropical beaches in Indialantic, Florida, to the serene banks of the Intracoastal Waterway, this state has tons of outdoor activities to do while on vacation.

Where to Stay

St. Francis Inn: This historic St. Augustine inn exudes romantic charm and timeless elegance. Each morning, guests can indulge in a complimentary breakfast buffet and an evening social hour in the dining room or courtyard. If you need a break from the nearby beaches, you can lounge by the property’s beautiful pool.

Windemere Inn by the Sea: Travelers interested in staying close to the beach will love this oceanfront Caribbean-style inn in Melbourne, Florida. You can choose to stay in one of the Main House guest rooms, a Cottage Suite, or Carriage House suite and enjoy luxurious amenities including a massage room, complimentary beach gear, and more.

Browse our collection of Select Registry Florida properties to discover even more beautiful accommodations!