Memorial Day weekend is the ultimate green light for summer.
Landing on Monday, May 25, 2026, this three-day weekend (May 23â25) is the perfect excuse to pack your bags, cash in some PTO, and officially kick off the summer travel season.
Whether you are craving warm sandy beaches, thrilling theme parks, or the electric energy of a bustling metropolis, there are incredible spots to celebrate. But with so many options, deciding where to go for Memorial Day weekend 2026 can feel overwhelming.
To help you plan the ultimate long weekend trip, weâve rounded up the absolute best Memorial Day getaways across the country.
Grab your sunglasses and letâs dive into the top 13 destinations!
đïž The historic & patriotic East Coast
If you want to honor the true meaning of the holiday while enjoying incredible springtime weather, the East Coast is calling your name.
1. Washington, D.C.
There is arguably no better place to spend Memorial Day than the nation’s capital. Washington, D.C. goes all out for the holiday. You can witness the massive National Memorial Day Parade down Constitution Avenue, attend the rolling thunder motorcycle rallies, and pay your respects at Arlington National Cemetery. Plus, the Smithsonian museums are totally free!
2. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Kick off your summer where America began! Philly is a fantastic long weekend getaway. Explore the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, then grab a legendary Philly cheesesteak. Spend your evenings relaxing in a hammock at Spruce Street Harbor Park, which usually opens right around Memorial Day weekend.
3. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston perfectly blends history with modern summer fun. Walk the iconic Freedom Trail, catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, or head over to the Harvard Allston Campus for the annual Boston Calling Music Festivalâa massive staple of Memorial Day weekend in New England!
4. New York City, New York
NYC is electric in late May. Memorial Day weekend coincides with Fleet Week, meaning the city is buzzing with sailors, ship tours, and military demonstrations. Rent a bike in Central Park, catch a spectacular Broadway show, or walk the High Line before grabbing drinks at a rooftop bar overlooking the Manhattan skyline.
âïž Sun, sand, and theme parks
Craving sunshine, pool parties, and rollercoasters? Head South for the ultimate tropical and family-friendly Memorial Day vacations.
5. Miami, Florida
If your goal is to party, tan, and eat incredible food, Miami is the ultimate destination. South Beach hosts some of the best Memorial Day weekend pool parties in the world. When you’re done lounging by the water, explore the colorful Art Deco Historic District or grab authentic Cuban food in Little Havana.
6. Orlando, Florida
Looking for the best family getaway for Memorial Day 2026? Orlando is the undisputed champion. Late May is the sweet spot: the weather is warm enough for water parks like Volcano Bay, but you beat the massive mid-summer crowds at Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. Book a resort with a lazy river and you are set!
7. Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is a phenomenal Southern escape. The weather in May is gorgeousâperfect for strolling through the massive Piedmont Park or hopping on the BeltLine for a brewery crawl. Music lovers should absolutely plan their trip around the Atlanta Jazz Festival, a massive free event that typically dominates the city during Memorial Day weekend.
đïž Big city energy in the Midwest & South
Sometimes you just want incredible food, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene.
8. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago comes alive when the weather warms up! Spend your Memorial Day weekend taking an architectural boat tour down the Chicago River, eating deep-dish pizza, and snapping photos at the Bean in Millennium Park. Don’t miss the Navy Pier fireworks that kick off their summer schedule right around the holiday weekend.
9. Dallas, Texas
Everything is bigger in Texas, including Memorial Day weekend! Dallas is a paradise for foodies and nightlife enthusiasts. Spend your days conquering the famous “Margarita Mile,” eating world-class Texas BBQ, and exploring the vibrant street art and live music scene in the Deep Ellum neighborhood.
đ West Coast vibes and coastal breezes
From the Pacific Northwest to sunny SoCal, the West Coast offers some of the most scenic Memorial Day weekend trips in the country.
10. Los Angeles, California
For a glamorous start to your summer, head to LA. Memorial Day weekend is prime time for cruising the Pacific Coast Highway, hiking up to the Hollywood Sign, or catching some waves in Malibu. The cityâs rooftop bars and chic restaurants are in full swing, making it the perfect spot for a stylish weekend getaway.
11. San Diego, California
If you want guaranteed perfect weather, San Diego is the answer. With temperatures hovering in the 70s, itâs the ideal climate for relaxing on Coronado Beach, exploring the world-famous San Diego Zoo, or grabbing fish tacos in the bustling Gaslamp Quarter. It is laid-back, family-friendly, and beautiful.
12. San Francisco, California
Skip the extreme heat and head to San Francisco for a breezy, iconic Memorial Day weekend. Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge, eat fresh clam chowder at Fisherman’s Wharf, and take a ferry over to Alcatraz. The cool spring fog makes exploring the city’s hilly neighborhoods a total breeze.
13. Seattle, Washington
The Pacific Northwest is stunning in late May. Seattle is a fantastic destination for culture and coffee lovers. Grab a latte at the original Starbucks, watch the fish-tossers at Pike Place Market, and take in the panoramic views from the top of the Space Needle. Plus, the massive Northwest Folklife Festival usually takes over the Seattle Center during Memorial Day weekend!
Book your Memorial Day 2026 getaway today with Wonderbox!
With Memorial Day 2026 falling on May 25, now is the time to start planning. Whether you decide to walk the historic streets of Washington D.C., party on the beaches of Miami, or ride the coasters in Orlando, this long weekend is your chance to kick off summer the right way.
Travel Tip: Memorial Day is one of the busiest travel weekends of the year in the U.S. Be sure to book your flights, hotels, and experience tickets early to secure the best rates!
Where will your summer begin? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Memorial Day weekend!
