Memorial Day Getaways to Honor Heroes and Discover U.S. History as a Family

Memorial Day is more than the start of summer—it’s a moment to pause and remember those who gave their lives in service to our country. And while long weekends often come with barbecues and beach days, there’s also something deeply meaningful about using this time to visit places that tell the story of America’s past.

Travel has a powerful way of bringing history to life, especially for families. Visiting national cemeteries, battlefields, and historic landmarks gives us the chance to honor the fallen and teach the next generation why their sacrifice matters. This Memorial Day, consider a getaway that combines reflection with discovery—a journey that both commemorates and connects.

Here are some of the best memorial-focused and historically rich destinations for a meaningful Memorial Day weekend with your family.

1. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania – Walk the Battlefield Where History Turned

Gettysburg is one of the most powerful historic sites in the U.S., and Memorial Day weekend brings special commemorative events to the area. The Gettysburg National Military Park offers guided tours (including family-friendly ones led by costumed interpreters), as well as interactive exhibits at the Museum and Visitor Center.

For kids, there are Jr. Ranger programs and hands-on learning activities that help make the Civil War era more relatable. Don't miss the Gettysburg National Cemetery, where President Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address—one of the most famous speeches honoring fallen soldiers.

📍 Why it’s great for families: History becomes immersive here, and many nearby inns and family lodges offer special programming over the holiday.
⭐ Tip: Bring bikes or plan a driving tour of the battlefield loop—it’s scenic and manageable in an afternoon.

2. Washington, D.C. – A City Built to Remember

There’s no more fitting place to honor Memorial Day than our nation’s capital. Washington, D.C. is home to some of the most moving memorials in the country. Walk the National Mall and visit the World War II Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and Korean War Veterans Memorial—all of which are especially powerful at sunset or lit up at night.

For families, D.C. also means free museums (hello, Smithsonian Air & Space!), paddle boat rides in Tidal Basin, and plenty of green space for kids to roam. Many choose to visit Arlington National Cemetery, where the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier leaves a lasting impression on children and adults alike.

📍 Why it’s great for families: Deeply educational with free activities, stroller-friendly paths, and patriotic energy everywhere.
⭐ Tip: Attend the National Memorial Day Parade (typically on Monday) and stop by the Lincoln Memorial for a moment of reflection.

3. Boston, Massachusetts – Revolution, Remembrance, and Family Fun

Boston offers a unique blend of American Revolution history and modern family-friendly attractions. Over Memorial Day weekend, the Boston Common becomes home to the Massachusetts Military Heroes Fund Flag Garden, where more than 37,000 flags are placed to represent each of the state’s fallen service members.

Families can walk the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path past 16 historic sites—including Paul Revere’s House and the USS Constitution. Stop by Bunker Hill Monument and talk to kids about what freedom has meant through the centuries.

📍 Why it’s great for families: Walkable historic districts, hands-on museums, and harbor cruises that keep even young kids engaged.
⭐ Tip: Book a Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum tour—it’s interactive, educational, and a favorite for kids of all ages.

4. San Antonio, Texas – Alamo Stories and a River Walk to Remember

San Antonio is rich in military history and cultural heritage. While most know it for the Alamo, there are also several key memorials and military museums that honor service members from every branch. Stop by the Veterans Memorial Plazaand the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where families can learn about early U.S. and Spanish history.

Memorial Day weekend often includes local ceremonies and flag dedications across the city. Afterward, cool off with a boat ride on the San Antonio River Walk or enjoy a festive Tex-Mex dinner outside.

📍 Why it’s great for families: Easy city to navigate, with both history and fun built into one trip.
⭐ Tip: Combine this trip with a stop at Natural Bridge Caverns for adventure and balance.

5. Pearl Harbor, Oahu, Hawaii – A Sacred Site in Paradise

If you’re up for a bigger trip, visiting Pearl Harbor is a deeply moving experience, especially on Memorial Day. The USS Arizona Memorial stands as a solemn reminder of the lives lost on December 7, 1941. Kids can explore the Pacific Aviation Museum and see historic planes and exhibits that explain World War II in a meaningful way.

Hawaii offers the perfect blend of reverence and rejuvenation. After a morning of reflection, your family can explore lush botanical gardens, hike Diamond Head, or spend the afternoon snorkeling in Hanauma Bay.

📍 Why it’s great for families: Combines important history lessons with kid-friendly beach and island adventures.
⭐ Tip: Reserve your Pearl Harbor tickets in advance—this site is in high demand year-round.

6. Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia – Time Travel with a Purpose

Step back into the 1700s with a visit to Colonial Williamsburg, one of the largest living history museums in the U.S. Costumed interpreters bring America’s fight for freedom to life, and kids can participate in hands-on activities like candle making, militia training, and blacksmithing.

Nearby Yorktown Battlefield and Jamestown Settlement round out the area’s rich Revolutionary War history. Many locations hold flag ceremonies and tributes throughout Memorial Day weekend, making this a memorable blend of history and holiday.

📍 Why it’s great for families: Interactive learning, wide open spaces, and immersive reenactments that engage all ages.
⭐ Tip: Look into combo tickets that include all three historical parks, and plan time for nearby Busch Gardens for some post-history fun.

Why These Getaways Matter

When we travel to places of remembrance, we do more than honor the past—we teach our children the value of sacrifice, service, and freedom. Memorial Day isn’t just a day off—it’s an opportunity to create meaningful memories, not just relaxing ones.

As a travel advisor (and a mom), I believe in building trips that matter—whether that means a quiet visit to a national cemetery, a walk through a historic battlefield, or a conversation sparked by a museum exhibit. These destinations aren’t just stops on a map—they’re stepping stones to gratitude.

Let’s make this Memorial Day more than just the start of summer. Let’s make it a journey worth remembering.
If you’d like help planning a patriotic getaway or weaving history into your next family vacation, I’d love to help.