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You don’t have to break the bank to take a vacation this Memorial Day weekend. In fact, there are plenty of affordable destinations that are accessible by bus or train. Whether you’re looking to visit your family in a nearby city or go on an adventure, you’ll find plenty of low prices on bus and train tickets on Wanderu.
Memorial Day Weekend is one of the biggest travel holidays in the United States! Rather than waiting last minute to book your tickets to your destination, reserve your seats early to make sure you won’t be stuck at home for the holiday. On Wanderu, you’ll find Memorial Day bus deals and tickets to some of the most exciting destinations you can visit on a long weekend, like the ones listed below.
New York City
Top Activities
- Attend the Memorial Day Parade in Brooklyn: Experience one of the oldest Memorial Day parades in the country, held in Bay Ridge.
- Explore the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: Visit this historic aircraft carrier turned museum, which hosts special Memorial Day events.
- Relax at Central Park: Enjoy a picnic or rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse.
- Catch a Broadway Show: Secure tickets to a popular Broadway performance for an unforgettable evening.
Pro Tip: For a unique perspective, take a sunset cruise around Manhattan to see the skyline illuminated.
Book your trip:
Washington, DC
Top Activities
- National Memorial Day Parade: Attend the parade along Constitution Avenue featuring marching bands and veterans.
- Visit Arlington National Cemetery: Pay respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and witness the Changing of the Guard.
- Explore the National Mall: Tour iconic monuments and memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial and World War II Memorial.
- Smithsonian Museums: Take advantage of free admission to museums like the National Museum of American History.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot for the parade and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Book your trip:
Boston, MA
Top Activities
- Walk the Freedom Trail: Explore 16 historical sites over a 2.5-mile route.
- Boston Common Flag Garden: Witness the display of thousands of American flags honoring fallen soldiers.
- Visit the USS Constitution: Tour the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel afloat.
- Enjoy a Red Sox Game: Catch a baseball game at the historic Fenway Park.
Pro Tip: Join a guided Freedom Trail tour to gain deeper insights into Boston’s rich history.
Book your trip:
Philadelphia, PA
Top Activities
- Independence National Historical Park: Visit the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
- Memorial Day Weekend Fireworks: Enjoy fireworks displays along the Delaware River waterfront.
- Explore the Museum of the American Revolution: Engage with interactive exhibits detailing the nation’s founding.
- Graffiti Pier: Discover this unofficial open-air art gallery showcasing vibrant street art.
Pro Tip: Take a walking tour of Old City to fully appreciate Philadelphia’s colonial architecture and history.
Book your trip:
New Orleans, LA
Top Activities
- Bayou Boogaloo Festival: Enjoy live music, local food, and art along the banks of Bayou St. John.
- National WWII Museum: Explore extensive exhibits and multimedia experiences detailing World War II history.
- French Quarter Exploration: Stroll through historic streets, savor beignets at Café du Monde, and listen to live jazz.
- Steamboat Natchez Cruise: Take a scenic cruise along the Mississippi River with live jazz music.
Pro Tip: Book festival accommodations early, as hotels fill up quickly during holiday weekends.
Book your trip:
Miami, FL
Top Activities
- Urban Beach Week: Participate in one of the largest urban music festivals with events throughout South Beach.
- Visit the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM): Explore contemporary art exhibits in a stunning waterfront building.
- Relax on South Beach: Sunbathe, swim, or enjoy water sports on the iconic beach.
- Explore Little Havana: Experience Cuban culture through food, music, and art along Calle Ocho.
Pro Tip: Use public transportation or ride-sharing services to navigate crowded areas during the busy weekend.
Book your trip:
Chicago, IL
Top Activities
- Navy Pier Fireworks: Watch a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Michigan.
- Millennium Park: Visit the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture and enjoy free concerts at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
- Chicago Riverwalk: Stroll along the river, dine at waterfront restaurants, or take an architecture boat tour.
- Visit the Art Institute of Chicago: Explore a vast collection of artworks, including Grant Wood’s “American Gothic.”
Pro Tip: Purchase a CityPASS to save on admission to multiple top attractions.
Book your trip:
San Francisco, CA
Top Activities
- Presidio Picnic: Join locals for food trucks and lawn games in the scenic Presidio park.
- Visit Alcatraz Island: Tour the infamous former prison with audio guides detailing its history.
- Explore Fisherman’s Wharf: Enjoy fresh seafood, street performances, and visit the sea lions at Pier 39.
- Golden Gate Park: Rent a bike to explore gardens, museums, and lakes within the expansive park.
Pro Tip: Dress in layers, as San Francisco’s weather can change rapidly throughout the day.
Book your trip:
Atlanta, GA
Top Activities
- Atlanta Jazz Festival: Enjoy one of the country’s largest free jazz festivals in Piedmont Park.
- Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park: Tour Dr. King’s childhood home and the Ebenezer Baptist Church.
- Explore the BeltLine: Walk or bike this multi-use trail featuring art installations, parks, and eateries.
- Georgia Aquarium: Discover marine life exhibits, including a massive tank with whale sharks.
Pro Tip: Arrive early for festival events to secure a good spot and bring a blanket or chair for seating.
Book your trip:
Seattle, WA
Top Activities
- Folklife Festival: Experience diverse music, dance, and cultural performances at Seattle Center.
- Pike Place Market: Browse local vendors, watch fishmongers, and enjoy fresh seafood.
- Chihuly Garden and Glass: Marvel at intricate glass sculptures in this unique museum.
- Kerry Park: Capture panoramic views of the Seattle skyline and Mount Rainier.
Pro Tip: Use public transit to navigate the city, as parking can be limited during busy weekends.
Book your trip:
Houston, TX
Top Activities
- Memorial Day Hero Salute in Kingwood: Honor the day with a morning parade and community gathering in northeast Houston.
- Explore the Museum District: Visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science or stroll the galleries at the Contemporary Arts Museum.
- BBQ & Live Music at Discovery Green: Pack a blanket for a chill afternoon of food trucks, lawn games, and local performances.
- Visit Space Center Houston: See moon rocks, real spacecraft, and get hands-on with interactive exhibits.
Pro Tip: Book tickets in advance for museum visits – Memorial Day weekend draws a big crowd.
Book your trip:
So whether you’re in the mood for jazz in Atlanta, fireworks in Chicago, or just want to sweat it out in South Beach with strangers you’ll never see again—Memorial Day weekend is calling. Don’t wait until your wallet screams “too late!” Lock in your trip now with a bus or train ride on Wanderu. Cheap seats, big vibes, no middle seats. Let’s ride.
