Thanks to sunny skies and pleasant temperatures, May is a great time to travel to many destinations around the U.S. and the world. It might be the perfect time to take that much-needed vacation you’ve been looking for this Memorial Day weekend. Enjoy the three-day weekend in style at these top destinations, whether you’re looking to relax on a white-sand beach or honour fallen soldiers at big-city war memorials. You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for Memorial Day weekend getaways.
Table of Contents
5 Best Memorial Day Weekend Getaways
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- Charleston, South Carolina
- Cape May, New Jersey
- Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
- Mackinac Island, Michigan-
- Las Vegas
Map
Charleston, South Carolina
The ideal location for a Memorial Day weekend getaway is Charleston, South Carolina. The weather is starting to warm up, but it’s not yet scorching hot, making it ideal for exploring the city’s many outdoor attractions.
Start your trip by exploring the historic sites of Charleston. Visit Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, or take a tour of one of the many antebellum homes in the city. Additionally, Charleston’s significance in African American history can be discovered at institutions like the Slave Mart Museum and the Avery Research Centre.
What to Expect:
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- Pleasant weather
- History and Culture
- Beaches
- Food Paradise
- Events
Place to Stay:
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- Wentworth Mansion ($500 per night + food included): This historic mansion offers elegant quarters, a refined restaurant, and a luxurious spa. It’s perfect for a luxurious stay in the heart of Charleston’s historic district.
- The Mills House Hotel ($263 per night): This historic hotel is located in the heart of downtown Charleston and offers a variety of amenities, including a rooftop pool and spa. It’s a great choice for those who want to be close to the action and experience Charleston’s historic charm.
- Hampton Inn Charleston-Downtown ($138-$144 per night): This hotel is another great option for budget-minded travelers outside downtown Charleston. It offers clean and comfortable accommodations with a free breakfast.
How to Reach
By Plane:
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- This is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Charleston.
- The flight cost will vary depending on your origin city, travel dates, and the airline you choose. However, you can expect to find roundtrip flights from major cities in the US for anywhere between Approximately $140 to $600.
By Train:
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- Amtrak serves Charleston with several daily trains from various destinations on the East Coast.
- The cost of a train ticket will vary depending on your origin city, travel dates, and the type of train you choose. However, you can expect to find tickets starting around $40 and going up to $340 depending on the class of service.
By Car:
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- Driving to Charleston can be a great option if you’re coming from a nearby city or state. It allows you to explore the area at your own pace and stop along the way to see other sights.
Total Budget (per person):
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- Accommodation: $100-$500
- Food: $50-$100
- Activities: $50-$100
- Transportation: By Plane:$140- $600
- By Train: $40 – $340
- By Car: Depends gas price
Total Budget: 340$-1200$ (approx)
Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May, New Jersey, is the perfect Memorial Day weekend getaway destination. This charming seaside town offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed trip filled with history and culture.
Start your day off by strolling along the picturesque beachfront promenade, lined with Victorian homes and quaint cottages. Take in the fresh sea air as you make your way to the famous Cape May Lighthouse, where you can climb to the top for stunning views of the surrounding area.
What to Expect:
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- Grand Victorian houses
- Beautiful beaches
- Washington Street Mall
- Cape May Lighthouse
- Relaxed environment
Place to Stay:
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- The Carroll Villa Hotel: This luxurious hotel features plush rooms, an on-site spa, and stunning ocean views. The cost per night should be around $400 (approx).
- The Queen Victoria: This historic B&B offers elegant rooms, a delicious breakfast, and a friendly atmosphere. Nightly rates start at around $208 (approx).
- The Virginia Hotel: This oceanfront hotel boasts beautiful Victorian architecture, spacious rooms, and a relaxing veranda. Budget around $350 (approx) per night.
- Congress Hall: This historic hotel offers a variety of room options, multiple restaurants, a large pool complex, and a spa. Nightly rates start around $313 (approx)
How to Reach
There are a few different ways to reach Cape May, depending on your location.
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- Car: Cape May is located about a 2-hour drive from Philadelphia. There is ample parking available in town, but it can be expensive, especially during peak season. It depends on gas price
- Train: NJ Transit offers train service to Cape May from several points in New Jersey. The train ride is a great way to see the sights of the Jersey Shore. cost $20 to $50
- Bus: Several bus companies offer service to Cape May, including Greyhound and Academy Bus. cost $30 and $75
- Plane: The closest airport to Cape May is Atlantic City International Airport (ACY). From there, you can take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to Cape May. Cost: This depends heavily on your origin city and travel dates
Total Budget (per person):
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- Accommodation:$250- $400
- Food:Budget-friendly: $30-$50 per day
Moderate: $50-$75 per day
Fine dining: $100+ per day
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- Activities:$50
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- Transportation: Train:$20 to $50
Bus: $30 to $75
Total Cost: $380 -$675(approx)
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
For Memorial Day weekend getaways, Lake Tahoe is a beautiful destination. Since the weather is starting to warm up, now is the perfect time to enjoy all the outdoor activities the area has to offer. Known for its crystal clear blue waters and stunning mountain views, Lake Tahoe offers visitors a wide range of activities to enjoy. This picturesque location offers hiking and biking trails, as well as water sports such as kayaking and boating.
If you’re looking for a low-key experience, explore one of the charming towns surrounding the lake. Discover delicious local cuisine at one of their many restaurants or pick up souvenirs at one of their unique shops.
What to Expect:
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- Beautiful Scenery
- Fun Activities
- Casino Entertainment
- Year-Round Activities
Place to Stay:
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- Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Lakefront Resort and Casino: This hotel offers stunning lakefront views, a variety of restaurants and bars, a spa, and a casino. Expect to pay around $300 (approx) or more per night.
- Edgewood Tahoe: This luxurious resort offers stunning lakefront views, world-class golf courses, a spa, and multiple restaurants. Nightly rates here can start at $500 (approx) and up.
- North Lake Tahoe (Tahoe City, CA): offers a more laid-back atmosphere with charming towns, family-friendly beaches, and proximity to Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, another renowned ski resort. Budget: $100-$200
How to Reach
The nearest major airport to Lake Tahoe is Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RENO). From there, you can take a shuttle, taxi, or rideshare to your destination in Lake Tahoe. The cost of transportation will vary depending on the distance and the mode of transportation you choose. Here’s a general estimate:
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- Shuttle: $30-$50 per person
- Taxi: $50-$100 per trip
- Rideshare: Variable depending on distance and demand
Total Budget
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- Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Lakefront Resort and Casino, $300
- Transportation: Roundtrip flight ($300) + Shuttle ($50) = $350 (estimate, adjust based on your flight cost)
- Food: Groceries = $ 50
- Total Estimated Budget: $700 (approx)
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Mackinac Island has become a popular weekend getaway spot for tourists the day after Memorial Day. The picturesque island is known for its historic charm and breathtaking views. Visitors can explore the island’s shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities such as biking and hiking by ferry. Parades and fireworks are also held on the island during Memorial Day weekend.
What to Expect
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- Limited Car Access
- Seasonal Getaway
- Limited Amenities
Place to Stay:
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- Grand Hotel: This iconic Victorian-era hotel is a luxurious experience, but be prepared for a hefty price tag (around $ 500 to $1000 per night).
- Mission Point Resort: This sprawling resort offers a variety of room types, from budget-friendly to luxurious, with rates starting around $300 per night.
- The Chippewa Hotel: This historic hotel located in downtown Mackinac Island offers comfortable accommodations for around $200 per night.
- Bed and Breakfasts: There are many charming B&Bs on the island offering a more intimate experience, with rates starting around $150 per night.
How to Reach
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- Shepler’s Ferry: Rates start around $60 per person (round trip) from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace.
Total Budget (per person):
Accommodation:
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- Budget-friendly option: B&B ($150/night) = $150 per night
- Mid-range option: The Chippewa Hotel ($200/night) = $200 per night
- Luxury option: Grand Hotel ($1000+/night) = Not recommended for budget travellers
Ferry:
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- The round-trip ferry starts at around $60 per person.
Food:
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- This can vary depending on how many meals you eat out and your dining style. Let’s estimate $50 per day for meals.
Activities:
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- Many free activities exist (hiking, biking), but some attractions have entrance fees. Let’s budget $20 per day for activities.
Total Budget:Budget-friendly: $280, Mid-range Option:$330
Must Read: 12 Most Romantic Getaways In Michigan
Las Vegas
A Memorial Day weekend getaway to Las Vegas is the perfect way to enjoy its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. Try your luck at one of the many casinos on the famous Las Vegas Strip or catch a show. The nearby Red Rock Canyon offers breathtaking hiking trails and picturesque views for outdoor enthusiasts. A popular resort city in Nevada’s Mojave Desert, Las Vegas is often called Vegas. It is known for its casinos, luxurious hotels, entertainment options, and nightlife.
What to Expect
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- 100 casinos on the Strip alone
- Las Vegas is also home to a wide variety of shows
- Las Vegas has some of the best restaurants in the world
- Las Vegas is a shopper’s paradise
- There is no better nightlife than in Las Vegas
Place to Stay:
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- Hostels: Las Vegas has a growing number of hostels, which offer dorm beds for as low as $30 per night. This is an awesome choice for solo travelers or those on a tight budget!
- Motels: Off the Strip, there are a lot of motels that provide reasonably priced, spotless rooms. Prices typically start at around $50 per night.
- Boutique Hotels: Las Vegas has a growing number of boutique hotels, which offer a unique and stylish experience. Usually, rates begin at approximately $150 per night.
- Luxury Hotels: Las Vegas is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, offering world-class amenities and services. Usually starting at $300 per night, prices can increase from there.
How to Reach
Flight Costs:
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- This is generally the fastest option, but costs can vary significantly depending on several factors: Flights from major cities tend to be more expensive.
- Flights are typically more expensive during peak seasons and holidays.
- Different airlines have different pricing structures.
- Estimated Range: Roundtrip flights from major US cities can range from ~$200 to $500+, depending on the abovementioned factors
By Car:
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- Gas: Use a gas cost calculator like AAA’s TripTik to estimate gas costs based on your vehicle’s mileage, gas prices, and starting location.
- Tolls: Research specific toll costs on your chosen route.
- Parking: Daily parking rates at Las Vegas casinos and hotels can range from $15 to $50. Look for free guest parking options if available, or consider off-strip parking with shuttles.
By Bus:
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- Ticket Prices: vary depending on the company, route, and travel dates. Use platforms like Wanderu or FlixBus to compare prices.
- Services: Some buses offer Wi-Fi, restrooms, and reclining seats, which may affect the ticket price.
- Estimated Range: Expect fares to start around $28 (one-way) and go up from there depending on the chosen route and amenities.
Total Budget (per person):
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- Budget Traveler: Accommodation ($75/night) + Food ($50/day) + Free Entertainment + Walking = $175 per day
- Moderate Traveler: Accommodation ($150/night) + Food ($75/day) + Show ($100) + Public Transportation ($20) = $345 per day
- Luxury Traveler: Accommodation ($300+/night) + Fine Dining ($150/day) + Multiple Shows/Activities ($300+) = $750+ per day
Must Read:13 Awesome Places To Visit Near Las Vegas
FAQ’S Of Memorial Day weekend getaways
When should I book my Memorial Day getaway?
Book 2-3 months in advance (around February/March) for the best deals and widest selection. Last-minute deals can exist but be prepared for limited options.
What’s the budget for a Memorial Day weekend trip?
Costs vary depending on location, activities, and accommodation. Consider gas prices, if driving, and potential markups during peak season.
Are there any deals or discounts for Memorial Day weekends?
Many hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals offer special packages or discounts for Memorial Day weekend. Look for promotions online and contact accommodations directly.
What are some popular beach destinations for Memorial Day weekend?
The Outer Banks, Myrtle Beach, Virginia Beach, and California beaches are all popular choices.
What activities are popular for Memorial Day weekend getaways?
Beach lounging, hiking, camping, barbecues, attending parades or memorial services, and exploring local attractions are all popular options.
Are there any kid-friendly Memorial Day weekend getaways?
Many resorts and destinations cater to families. Look for options with pools, kids’ clubs, or proximity to theme parks or water parks.