Summer is approaching, and what better way to relax than to enjoy the Memorial Day 2025 weekend? Yes, this day holds a special place in the hearts of Americans. It’s a time to celebrate veterans, get together with loved ones, and, of course, travel to new locations. Travel trends for this year show that people are looking for unusual places to spend Memorial Day, as they want to get away from the popular tourist attractions and try something a little less conventional.
This article lists some of the most unusual places to spend Memorial Day 2025 that offer not only leisure but also excitement and life-changing events, from the creative streets of Asheville, North Carolina, to the breathtaking scenery of Sedona, Arizona. These locations have something to offer everyone, whether you’re organizing a last-minute vacation with friends or a family vacation during the holiday weekend.
Departing From NYC:
1. Hudson, NY
Along the Hudson River, Hudson is a quaint city with lots of antique stores and great restaurants. It is an excellent starting place for exploring the area because of its close proximity to the Catskills and other recreational areas. Therefore, we advise booking a bus ticket with OurBus and making Hudson your first stop if you’re thinking about taking a road trip outside of New York City this Memorial Day weekend. You can have a quiet picnic by the riverbanks, tour the Olana Historic Site, or take a stroll down Warren Street.
Why it’s affordable: No need for a rental car, excellent local cuisine, and a walkable town.
2. Paltz, NY
Imagine a hip little town surrounded by mountains and a friendly local. The charming hamlet of New Paltz is located in the Hudson Valley of New York, approximately 20 minutes away from the Poughkeepsie Train Station. Take a respite from the buzz of the city and catch your breath. From stores and eateries to outdoor pursuits for the casual and dedicated fitness enthusiast, New Paltz has a lot to offer, especially during Memorial Day weekend. As you take a respite from the rush of the city, you may also catch your breath.
Pro Tip: Before checking into a comfortable Airbnb or lodge, take the early OurBus and enjoy a full day of activity.
3. Philadelphia, NY
Although it merits its own attention, Philadelphia is also a fantastic choice for New Yorkers seeking a short but culturally rich vacation. Pose with the Liberty Bell, visit the renowned Reading Terminal Market, and delve into American history at Independence Hall.
In particular, Philadelphia’s Memorial Day parade consistently attracts huge crowds. Marching bands, military groups and veteran floats will be witnessed by onlookers from the parade’s starting point to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The event will take place on Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Bonus: Compared to other East Coast cities, it’s one of the most reasonably priced to visit and stay.
Departing from Philadelphia:
4. Lancaster, PA
Are you looking for something fun to do over Memorial Day weekend in Lancaster, Pennsylvania? For many of us, Memorial Day marks the unofficial beginning of summer, complete with blockbuster discounts, backyard barbecues, and pool openings. Remember to pay tribute to the courageous men and women who lost their lives defending our freedoms and serving our nation, as this is what the weekend is really about. You can ride a bike through rural roads with covered bridges, explore a working farm, or peruse handcrafted items.
Budget tip: Hearty and reasonably priced meals can be found at local markets and farm-to-table restaurants.
5. Asbury Park, New Jersey
Asbury Park, a short bus ride from Philadelphia, has become a popular beachside destination. Imagine the allure of a traditional boardwalk with a contemporary twist—wide, accessible beaches, boutique stores, stylish cafes, and live music. For a day vacation or an overnight stay near the water, it’s ideal.
With unique beach events, outdoor concerts, and a lively early-summer buzz in the air, Memorial Day weekend adds even more charm. It’s among the greatest reasonably priced Memorial Day vacation spots for people looking for sun, fun, and a little beach time.
Expert advice: Make reservations in advance! It especially is popular around Memorial Day 2025.
Departing from Washington, D.C.:
6. Charlottesville, Virginia
Charlottesville, Virginia, tucked away in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, provides a lovely fusion of outdoor activities, culture, and history. This quaint city offers something for everyone, regardless of your interests—history, cuisine, or the great outdoors. There are plenty of enjoyable activities and events to choose from. Memorial Day Weekend is packed with events, such as drunken cruises and parades. Enjoy the greatest Memorial Day 2025 celebration in Charlottesville; it’s time to greet summer with this joy and celebration.
Bonus: A benefit of OurBus is that comfortable rides allow you to forego the rental and concentrate on having a great weekend.
7. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Harpers Ferry is a hidden gem for a more sedate, outdoor escape. This charming hamlet provides hiking, kayaking, and Civil War history in a small, walkable area. You can find this city situated at the meeting point of two namely rivers: Potomac and Shenandoah. Enjoying the fresh mountain air while exploring its picturesque trails and historic sites is ideal during Memorial Day weekend. Harpers Ferry offers ageless elegance and serene beauty for a low-key Memorial Day weekend only a short bus ride from Washington, D.C.
Packing advice: Bring a camera, hiking shoes, and a picnic blanket since you’ll need all three.
Departing from Boston:
8. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Portsmouth offers plenty of seaside appeal and is only an hour and a half from Boston. Savor delectable seafood, tour old houses or go on a harbor cruise. This is a tranquil getaway from the city thanks to its cobblestone lanes, independent bookshops, and beach breeze.
With local activities, waterfront celebrations, and the ideal weather for a relaxed beach getaway, Memorial Day weekend adds even more charm. For those seeking a New England experience without the crowds, it’s the perfect low-cost Memorial Day weekend getaway destination.
Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples, and anyone who enjoys seaside communities without the high costs of Cape Cod.
9. Northampton, MA
Where else can you find excellent coffee, buildings that have been conserved over the years, a lively music scene, students reciting Plath, a local food movement, top-notch museums and art galleries, quirky stores, interesting eateries, and locals who are excited to play outside all year round? Well, perhaps Europe, but that’s a long way off. Consider visiting Northampton for a Memorial Day weekend trip that is affordable. You may unwind, explore, and let the long weekend inspire you there with its creative energy and friendly charm.
Where to stay: For a brief visit, inexpensive motels and quaint neighborhood B&Bs provide good rates.
10. Poconos, PA
The Poconos are beckoning if your dream Memorial Day weekend involves comfortable cabins, hiking through the forest, relaxing by a lake, or simply being completely at peace. OurBus routes connect this mountain region to NYC, Philadelphia, and even D.C., making it a popular destination for people who want to unplug without traveling far.
Bonus for low-cost travel: Travel in groups and divide the cost of accommodations; you can also enjoy the groups discount for students from OurBus.
To Wrap Up
There is no need for costly flights or packed tourist traps over Memorial Day weekend. You may travel to these beautiful locations in comfort, affordability, and without stress when you use OurBus. All you need to do is reserve a seat, bring minimal luggage, and set out.
When summer officially starts, where will you be? OurBus has your route covered, so start planning your Memorial Day 2025 weekend now!
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