Want to get away for Memorial Day weekend? Here are five last-minute trip ideas.
Lake Champlain, Vermont — Basin Harbor Club
Perched on the banks of Lake Champlain, Basin Harbor Club’s Adirondack-style resort is great for guests looking for fun in the sun this holiday. Take advantage of the water sports and boating available in the harbor, play a round of golf on the resort’s 18-hole course, or choose to relax with a great book in a comfortable rocking chair. But don’t be surprised if you run into some wildlife during your stay — the property is designated as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary (from $171.33/night for a 3-night stay). basinharbor.com
Solvang, California — The Hamlet Inn
North of Santa Barbara, the quirky town of Solvang was founded in 1911 by Danes looking to escape the harsh winters elsewhere in the country. This sun-drenched destination is beloved for easy access to vineyards in the Santa Ynez Valley (you might recognize Solvang from the movie “Sideways”). This Memorial Day weekend, enjoy complimentary bike rentals, live music at the Sevtap Tasting Room, and the 3rd annual Chef’s Picnic in the Park with a cooking demonstration and wine tasting (from $189/night). thehamletinn.com
Jackson Hole, Wyoming — Hotel Terra
Jackson Hole may be best known as a popular ski destination, but come spring the Wyoming mountain town is a perfect getaway for travelers seeking outdoor adventure. The LEED-Silver certified Hotel Terra is an eco-conscious lodging choice, and its location near both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks provides nature lovers with ample opportunity for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and river rafting. If you’re headed there over Memorial Day weekend, don’t miss the Jackson Hole Rodeo. Cowboys and cowgirls kick off the summer with a must-see roping and riding competition (from $127.20/night). hotelterrajacksonhole.com
Cape Coral, Florida — Westin Cape Coral Resort
With breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, the Caloosahatchee River, and Tarpon Point Marina, this family-friendly resort has something for everyone. Kids can participate in the hotel’s new Westin Kids Club with activities like bike riding, painting, and visiting the nearby butterfly garden, while adults spend the day enjoying the resort’s three outdoor pools, clay tennis courts, and complimentary bike rentals. Be sure to ask about their Memorial Day special events, including a poolside barbecue (from $209/night). westincapecoral.com
Chicago — Acme Hotel Company
Located just 2 1/2 blocks from the Magnificent Mile, Acme Hotel Company is a stylish, convenient base for exploring Chicago’s best shops, restaurants, and cultural sights like Millennium Park. Quirky design touches, such as red lips on the bathroom mirror and mannequin trapeze artists suspended in the courtyard, add a touch of whimsy to your Windy City stay (from $204/night for a 3-night stay over Memorial Day Weekend). acmehotelcompany.com
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