Memorial Day falls on the last day of May this year and often marks the official start of summer. Long weekends, smoking grills and sunset yacht sails abound.
A holiday representing more than the long days of summer, ever since the culmination of the Civil War, we have taken this day to honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. It is a time to visit cemeteries and memorials and remember those who sacrificed so that we can have the freedoms we do today.
Travel also typically abound this time of year. Last year, Memorial Day travel was at an all-time low. The Washington Post reported that in 2020,
“only about 1.5 million people flew for the holiday, compared to 12 million travelers in 2019.”
Since the CDC announced that it is safe for fully vaccinated people to travel, experts expect Memorial Day travel numbers to start climbing back up with an even more significant uptick in private travel this year.
Although weeks away, private jet charters and luxury destinations are booking quickly. Now is the time to get a jump start on planning a weekend getaway. We thought we would give you a jump start on your travel planning.
Check out these Memorial Day travel ideas and destinations for the perfect long weekend trip:
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Explore history in Washington, D.C.
Head to the nation’s capital for an unforgettable, historic Memorial Day. Explore museums and monuments and catch the National Memorial Day parade down Constitution Avenue. Relax from the day’s excitement in a suite at Viceroy Washington, D.C. Sit back with a glass of Chardonnay at the sophisticated BPM Coffee & Wine, enjoy the night air on the hotel’s spacious patio, or expand your mind with the work of local artists featured in The Salon gallery.
Enjoy fun in the sun in laid-back Florida
Florida is the perfect place to spend the long weekend if outdoor leisure is your game. From its beautiful beaches to idyllic boating canals, we have our eyes set on Fort Lauderdale — one of the best upscale beach cities in Florida to refresh without the crowds. As the summers down south heat, up and the snowbirds make the trek to their summer homes, Memorial Day is your last-chance call for idyllic temperatures, reprieve, and quiet by the ocean.
Travel privately with your entire family or group
Memorial Day calls for family gatherings and reconnecting with friends after a year of minimal group connection. Many luxury resorts and hotels will cater to a private experience with just your group — no other visitors. For example, ÀNI Private Resorts specializes in all-inclusive luxury getaways that will “wow” your party. Expect gourmet meals, creative cocktails, spa treatments, and on-site activities for kids and adults. Visit ÀNI Dominican Republic or ÀNI Anguilla for an experience that everyone will remember for years to come.
Sink a putt on a top golf course
While golf originated in Scotland, it has also become a favorite American pastime. So much so that many of the top golf courses in the world exist on North American soil. Choosing a single green for your Memorial Day weekend can be tricky. Our friends at Cuvée recommend the PGA Stadium at Palm Desert, California, and the Four Seasons Hualalai course in Hawaii, boasting incredible views throughout your match. Check out more of their top golf course picks around the world here.