While there’s nothing wrong with fireworks on the beach to kick off Memorial Day weekend, it’s far from the only option that you have for festivities. In fact, there are tons of travel destinations across the U.S. where you can celebrate even more memorably. These include maritime museums, fun-filled parades, flag shows, and all the barbecue that your stomach can hold. Are you ready to have a great holiday weekend? Avoid the crazy beach traffic and sandy messes and try something new with these Memorial Day hot spots!

New York City

From the towering walls of the Empire State Building to the glitzy billboards of Times Square, New York City is jam-packed with iconic tourist attractions. You could take a dozen trips and still not see everything. As for specific Memorial Day events, you won’t want to miss the Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade. The parade has bagpipes, flag shows, and a 21-gun salute. You can also enjoy seasonal events like “Fleet Week,” a celebration of the many maritime museums and vessels dotting the NYC coastline. It usually starts around Memorial Day.

Page, Arizona

Page is a small town in Arizona located on the shores of Lake Powell, but it leaves a big impression. Page is home to stunning natural scenery ideal for all kinds of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, climbing, swimming, kayaking, and bike riding. Thrill seekers will particularly enjoy Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and its 1,000-foot panorama of the Horseshoe Bend Overlook. Other popular sites include Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, and the Glen Canyon Dam. When you’re done exploring the city of Page, trek just a few miles south to see the Grand Canyon!

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg has a small-town southern charm, even though it’s right near the popular Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You’ll be surrounded by quaint attractions such as Crockett’s Breakfast Camp and the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery. If you want to DIY your Memorial Day celebration, that’s an option, too. There are plenty of parks and campgrounds where you can set up the grill for an old-fashioned cookout. Did you know that the south is renowned for its barbecue? Buy a slab of ribs and some special sauce to taste it for yourself!

Mystic, Connecticut

With a name like Mystic, you might expect this city to be magical, and you’d be right. Among its attractions are the Mystic Seaport, the largest maritime museum in the U.S., and the Mystic Aquarium. Tour the aquarium’s Institute for Exploration, home to a stunning collection of beluga whales. Mystic is a prime destination for anyone interested in things that go in, out, and around water.

Mystic, Connecticut also has a charming, almost historic New England ambiance. So if you’d like to celebrate Memorial Day by transporting yourself back to the turn of the century, Mystic is a great spot for it. There are also tons of quaint spots and hotels for you to stay in during your trip.

Providence, Rhode Island

Providence is the perfect blend of both the old and the new. It was one of the first cities in the U.S. to industrialize. And you can see that legacy in everything from its architecture to its artwork. Memorial Day weekend is a fun time to go exploring since there are many local venues kicking off games, events, and seasonal programs. Whether you’re looking for art festivals, outdoor concerts, food truck competitions, or karaoke nights at local bars, Memorial Day in Providence offers it all.

You Might Also Enjoy: Memorial Day, Minus the Crowds! Great Destinations

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Portsmouth, N.H.

If you visit Portsmouth on Memorial Day, the first thing you’ll notice is the Memorial Day Parade. The next might be the annual Burial at Sea service, a commemoration for soldiers who never made it back to shore. Or, head to one of the free cookouts or other festivities offered to honor our veterans. Even after Memorial Day draws to a close, however, other attractions will beckon. You can enjoy museums, music halls, performance theaters, breweries, escape rooms, and more. There’s even a water park if you want to make a splash on Memorial Day weekend without actually going to the beach!

FAQs: 

Q: When should I start booking accommodations for Memorial Day weekend?
A: It’s best to book your accommodations at least 6–8 weeks in advance. Since Memorial Day weekend is a popular time to travel, rooms in smaller cities like Mystic or Page may sell out quickly.

Q: Are these destinations suitable for families with young kids?
A: Yes, each destination offers family-friendly activities. Places like the Mystic Aquarium, Gatlinburg campgrounds, and NYC’s Fleet Week cater especially well to families with children.

Q: What’s the best way to get around cities like New York or Providence during the holiday weekend?
A: Public transportation is ideal in larger cities like New York and Providence where road closures may occur due to parades. Smaller cities may require a rental car for easier access to local sights.

Q: Are Memorial Day events like parades and cookouts free to attend?
A: Most parades and community cookouts mentioned are free and open to the public. However, some venues or activities (like museums or concerts) may require tickets or fees.

Q: What kind of weather should I expect at these locations in late May?
A: Expect mild to warm weather. Northern destinations like Portsmouth and Mystic may be cooler, while Arizona and Tennessee tend to be hot. Always check the local forecast before traveling.

Q: Is it necessary to reserve campground spots in locations like Gatlinburg ahead of time?
A: Yes, campgrounds can fill up fast for holiday weekends. It’s strongly recommended to reserve your spot online as early as possible through official park or campground websites.

Q: Can I bring pets to these destinations?
A: Pet policies vary by city and venue. Many outdoor parks and campgrounds are pet-friendly, but indoor attractions like museums and aquariums generally don’t allow pets. Check local regulations beforehand.

So, which underrated Memorial Day destination would you rather visit? Tell us below!