Memorial Day is often thought of purely as a long weekend and the the beginning of summer with its true significance overlooked. However, Memorial Day is a day to honor those men and women who have died in service to their country.
It was founded after the American Civil War to honor the soldiers who died in battle, including both Confederate and Union soldiers. Unlike Veteran’s Day, which honors all who have served, Memorial Day is reserved for those who have given their lives in service.
In honor of the holiday’s true meaning, here are 5 patriotic Memorial Day destinations for the perfect weekend getaway.
1. Washington, D.C.
The nation’s capital is the perfect place to visit for an occasion like Memorial Day. In Washington, you can visit the Smithsonian and the Washington Monument, but there are also plenty of activities that are special to Memorial Day Weekend.
Since 2005, D.C. has been hosting an annual Memorial Day parade. Visitors can also go to Arlington National Cemetery for a religious service in honor of Memorial Day.
For a complete list of things to do in Washington, D.C. for the weekend, go to the Washington, D.C. website.
2. Colonial Williamsburg
Williamsburg is a living-history site in Williamsburg, Virginia. It depicts the American city of Williamsburg during the colonial period.
The site is home to historically accurate hotels, restaurants, exhibits, and even a spa. Memorial Day features a special program to honor fallen soldiers. Actors in full regimental dress parade through the town and end by firing volleys in recognition of Memorial Day.
Enjoy stepping back in time with a visit to Colonial Williamsburg.
3. Gettysburg National Park
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is the site of the most famous battle of the Civil War. It is also the place where President Lincoln gave his famous Gettysburg Address. Since Memorial Day was originally founded to honor Civil War soldiers, what better place to visit for the weekend.
The national park offers guided tours, horseback riding, and a museum. Memorial Day weekend is a Living History Weekend at Gettysburg with a battle reenactment.
Check out all the great stuff going on in Gettysburg.
4. Boston, MA
Boston is one of the earliest American cities and is in the heart of New England. It’s the home of the Boston Tea Party, Paul Revere’s Ride, and multiple historical museums.
Boston also has Broadway-style theaters and a great nightlife. For Memorial Day, take a ride on the Freedom Trail and visit sixteen historical sites in the Boston area, then head downtown to catch the Memorial Day parade. In the evening take a cruise on the Boston harbor.
Visit the Boston website to find out all the exciting things to do for the weekend.
5. Columbus, GA
Columbus is the site of Fort Benning, home of the United States Army Infantry. Memorial Day is all about honoring our fallen heroes, and this is where those heroes are made.
Visit the National Infantry Museum just outside the post, where exhibits from all our national wars are on display. This Memorial Day, they are unveiling an IMAX movie shot by soldiers in Iraq. The museum also serves as a convention center for Army formal events.
In Columbus, visit the National Civil War Naval Museum and go for a bike tour in downtown Columbus. Also, go for a performance at the famous Singer Opera House. At the end of the day, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant on the Columbus River.
You can check out all the Memorial Day events in Columbus at the Visitors Bureau.
About the Author:
Jason Kane is an avid traveler with a penchant for historical travel destinations. He currently writes for Travel Docs and he recommends them for any passport and visa needs.