On Memorial Day, families across the U.S. come together to honor those who have served and sacrificed for their country.
Like many other holidays, Memorial Day is often marked by gatherings of multiple generations – kids, parents, and grandparents – celebrating with backyard barbecues or group activities such as visiting national parks.
MaxTour, a Las Vegas-based tour company specializing in small group excursions, recently surveyed 3,000 families, asking them where they would most like to spend Memorial Day with their loved ones if distance were not a factor.
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Here are the top 10 destinations:
#1 First Landing State Park, Virginia Beach, Virginia Taking the top spot, this park boasts 20 miles of trails and 1.5 miles of sandy Chesapeake Bay beachfront, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the scenic beach.
#2 Cape Cod National Seashore, Cape Cod, Massachusetts A close second, this area offers over 40 miles of beach, marshes, ponds, and uplands to explore. Families will appreciate the gentle hiking trails, educational programs, and well-equipped beaches with restrooms and changing facilities.
#3 St. Simons Island Beaches, St. Simons Island, Georgia This beautiful spot features expansive beaches and a historic lighthouse, with numerous access points for a perfect family day by the sea.
#4 Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia A profound place of national remembrance, this cemetery is significant for Memorial Day observances, featuring ceremonies and the iconic Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
#5 Clearwater Beach, Clearwater, Florida In fifth place overall, known for its broad, sandy shores and calm waters, Clearwater Beach offers a relaxed beach day with accessible amenities such as showers, restrooms, and eateries.
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#6 Island Beach State Park, Seaside Park, New Jersey Island Beach State Park provides a less developed beach experience with over 10 miles of sandy beaches surrounded by natural dunes and maritime forests.
#7 San Antonio River Walk, San Antonio, Texas The River Walk features peaceful stretches ideal for family picnics or walks along the banks of the San Antonio River.
#8 Ocean City Boardwalk, Ocean City, New Jersey Ocean City Boardwalk, in 8th place, is perfect for strolling, dining, and entertainment by the beach, featuring attractions like arcades and a small amusement park.
#9 Outer Banks Beaches, North Carolina
Known for their wide sandy shores and beauty, these beaches are ideal for beachcombing, kite flying, or simply relaxing by the sea.
#10 Liberty State Park, Jersey City, New Jersey Rounding out the top 10, this park offers stunning views of iconic landmarks and extensive amenities for picnicking, playing, or enjoying a leisurely walk along the waterfront.
Florida had two other best Memorial Day destinations:
#13 Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota
Siesta Key Beach is famous for its fine, white sand and crystal clear waters, making it a perfect spot for a family day out. The beach is well-maintained with lifeguards on duty, picnic areas, and volleyball courts. There are also playgrounds nearby, and the flat, wide beach is accessible for all ages, making it ideal for a relaxing Memorial Day.
#44 Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Key Biscayne This state park offers more than just a beautiful beach; it also has historic sites like the Cape Florida Lighthouse, which visitors can tour. The park’s beaches are ideal for swimming, and there are plenty of shaded picnic areas and BBQ grills available for a family gathering.
“Memorial Day is a special time for families to come together and honor the brave men and women who have served our country,” says Matthew Meier of MaxTour. “Our survey highlights some of the most cherished destinations where families can create lasting memories while paying tribute to our heroes. Whether it’s enjoying a scenic hike, a day at the beach, or participating in a solemn ceremony, these locations offer something meaningful for everyone.”
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