Hello, Summer! The Top 45 Memorial Day Weekend Destinations in the US

If all you need for the perfect long weekend is a white sandy beach, palm trees blowing in the wind, and rose-coloured sunsets over the ocean, Key West has you (more than) covered. Throw in a B&B in one of the pastel-coloured villages and a bountiful coral reef for the icing on the cake.

Hello, beachfront boardwalks, dozens of arcades, underwater fish exhibits, outdoor patios perfect for sipping on Prosecco as the sun goes down, and an old-fashioned amusement park! It's no wonder this coastal South Carolina gem has been lauded as a prime Memorial weekend getaway for decades.

This rugged region of Texas is peppered with quirky towns, nature reserves, stunning sunset views, and more than 50 wineries. Catch a live music show and be sure to check out the food and wine events serving up fresh artisanal fare and local vino throughout the weekend.

This hook-shaped peninsula in Massachusetts is dotted with historic lighthouses, charming little villages and fishing towns, freshly caught seafood shacks, and miles upon miles of beautiful beaches.

Belted by the magnificent Santa Ynez Mountains, this breezy beach enclave is alive with local wineries, five-star restaurants, dramatic sunset views, and colorful Spanish-style villages. There's a bundle of celebratory events planned, including a backpack tour to honour our veterans and a Memorial Day 5k.

Serrated cliffs that fall into the hazy Pacific, rolling vineyards, charming art villages, sea lions and otters, and breathtaking vistas at every turn – why choose just one location when you can drink in all the spectacular West Coast has to offer along the Pacific Coast Highway?

Lake culture and live music collide in this hip Texas city, and are there any better activities for when the sun is shining and the weather is warm than those? Be sure to stop for fuel at one of the city's more than 1,200 food trucks for Texas BBQ; Kimchi fries; or tacos, tacos, and tacos.

Hello, foodie haven! This forested pocket of New York state is celebrated for its rich farm-to-table culinary concepts, but the views can be just as filling as the farm fresh fare. Spend the weekend amidst the stunning natural surroundings at the 150-year-old Mohonk Mountain House – a Victorian castle resort flanked by 40,000 acres of forest.

Nestled into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, this casual college town is consistently rated as one of the happiest and healthiest cities in the US. When you get a taste of the craft beer scene, vibrant art collectives, and fresh mountain air, you'll instantly see why.

Stretching over 150 miles in the PNW, this rolling valley is dotted with babbling rivers, parks and green spaces, quirky towns, and more than 500 vineyards and tasting rooms. May also happens to be wine month in Oregon, so it's the perfect time to enjoy the fresh Spring weather and taste some of the finest Pinot Noirs in the world.

Whale watching, camping, waterfront parks, hiking, kayaking – this rocky island in Northwest Washington is ready for action.

The beauty of this spectacular slice of Arizona is that you can make your trip as wild and exhilarating or relaxing and meditative as you'd like – the choice is yours! Hike, stargaze, go on a Pink Jeep Tour, get pampered at a spa, meditate in a treehouse (offered at L'Auberge de Sedona), or merely get lost in the vastness of the surrounding red rock buttes.

Time seems to slow on this dreamy island off the coast of South Carolina. Soak up all the R&R you can on the sugary beaches, check out the Island Art Festival, and be sure to leave enough room in your suitcase because the Tanger Outlets will be hosting their huge annual Memorial Day sale.

An artsy town tucked into the shadow of Pike's Peak, Manitou Springs is a refreshing mix of historic buildings, art shops and boutiques, craft beer and modern culinary concepts, and tons of opportunity for outdoor adventure. If you're feeling brave, grab a water bottle and climb the Manitou Incline – 2,744 steps in total!

You'll feel like you've stepped inside a storybook in this quaint lakefront town nestled along the largest natural body of water in Colorado. It might be called the snowmobiling capital of the state, but its seemingly endless water activities and outdoor recreation make it a prime Memorial Day destination, too.

Just off the coast of Cape Cod, this tiny island makes up in idyllic charm what it lacks in size. Lighthouses, stunning sunrises, cobblestone streets, and historic architecture make Nantucket the perfect three-day escape for those looking to rest, relax, and soak up authentic New England charm.

Get your kicks on the country's most famous road trip route. Connecting Chicago and LA over the course of 2,500 miles, Route 66 provides a front row seat to dramatic vistas, famous motels and gas stations, and a ton of tourist attractions. May typically offers prime road trip weather, so get the snacks and playlist ready!

With granite cliffs, massive limestone towers, and gushing waterfalls, this tiny lake town is as majestic as it is exhilarating. And because of its prime position in the Sierra Nevadas, the lifts are still open on Memorial Day. With the live music and specials surrounding the holiday weekend, you can expect a party!

Spend your weekend on Ocean City's famous beachfront boardwalk, where you'll find arcades, thrill rides and rollercoasters, and fresh seafood restaurants and outdoor bars. Memorial Day kicks off the resort's Summer season, so the activities will be in full swing, from fireworks to water sports.

Dripping in European charm, this Danish-inspired city in Southern California serves its visitors numerous local wineries, a famed craft beer scene, art exhibits and museums, and ample boutique shopping.