Memorial Day Weekend: Reflect, Reconnect, Explore

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” – John F. Kennedy

As Memorial Day weekend draws near, it's easy to get caught up in planning that much-anticipated escape. But this holiday, observed on the last Monday of May (this year, May 26th), has deep roots in remembrance. Originally known as Decoration Day, it's a tradition born from the aftermath of the Civil War, a time when the nation first came together to honor its fallen military personnel.

What's so uniquely American about this weekend is the way we hold both remembrance and celebration in our hearts. We honor those who gave their lives for our freedom while simultaneously embracing the very liberties they fought to protect. This balance of reflection and joy makes Memorial Day getaways particularly meaningful.

Before planning your weekend escape, consider participating in a memorial service, visiting a veterans' cemetery, or simply pausing for the National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 PM local time. It's a powerful way to connect with the true spirit of the holiday. With remembrance guiding us and relaxation calling, here are some Memorial Day weekend getaways to honor the holiday’s spirit while enjoying a well-deserved escape.

West Coast Wonders

Alaska cruise

Willamette Valley, OR

Amtrak's Pacific Coast Starlight

Big Sur, CA

A road trip from Seattle to the Willamette Valley – The scenic drive south from Seattle takes you through Washington's evergreen forests before crossing into Oregon's wine country. The Willamette Valley, with its rolling hills and over 700 wineries, has earned its reputation as the "Napa Valley of the North" – though locals might argue it offers a more intimate, authentic experience. Famous for its world-class Pinot Noir, the region also excels in Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Riesling varieties. Plan stops in charming towns like McMinnville, Carlton, and Dundee, where family-owned tasting rooms offer personalized experiences you won't find in more commercialized wine regions. Many wineries also feature farm-to-table restaurants with panoramic vineyard views – perfect for lingering over lunch after a morning of tastings.

Alaska cruise – Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of Alaska's prime cruising season, when temperatures grow milder but tourist crowds haven't reached their peak. A 7-day cruise typically departs from Seattle or Vancouver, sailing through the spectacular Inside Passage. Many itineraries include Ketchikan, known for its native totem poles and nearby Misty Fjords National Monument; Juneau, where you can helicopter to Mendenhall Glacier; and Skagway, gateway to gold rush history. The real stars of these voyages are the natural wonders: calving glaciers in Glacier Bay National Park, breaching humpback whales, and fjords flanked by towering mountains. While not a traditional weekend getaway, last-minute deals are often available as cruise lines look to fill remaining cabins, making this bucket-list adventure surprisingly accessible.

Coast Starlight – For those who believe the journey is as important as the destination, Amtrak's Coast Starlight offers one of America's most spectacular train routes. The complete journey between Seattle and Los Angeles takes 35 hours, but shorter segments make perfect weekend trips. The leg from Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo includes the route's most breathtaking coastal views as the train hugs cliffsides overlooking the Pacific. For Memorial Day weekend, consider boarding in Oakland for an overnight journey to Santa Barbara, with comfortable sleeping accommodations and a dining car serving regional cuisine and wines. The Starlight's observation car, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, offers unmatched views of the Cascade Range, Mount Shasta, the Sacramento Valley, and finally, the Pacific coastline.

Big Sur – This 90-mile stretch of California's central coast represents American road-tripping at its most majestic. Sandwiched between the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Highway 1 winds along cliffs hundreds of feet above the surf, connecting a string of state parks, beaches, and small communities. The famous Bixby Creek Bridge offers one of the coast's most photographed vistas, while McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park presents the rare sight of a waterfall emptying directly onto a beach. Between these landmarks, discover hidden coves, redwood groves, and hillside restaurants with panoramic ocean views. The journey itself, whether approached from San Francisco in the north or Los Angeles in the south, delivers scenery that rivals any destination. As a side note, Bixby Tales was inspired by a long weekend with friends along this magical coastline (read it here).  

East Coast Escapes

Hudson Valley, NY

Charleston, SC

Coastal Maine, ME

Turks and Caicos

While the West Coast offers stunning getaways, the East Coast provides equally compelling destinations that blend historical significance with natural beauty:

Coastal Maine – Coastal Maine in late May offers a perfect escape, where the raw beauty of the Atlantic coastline meets the charm of New England towns. Discover the rugged beauty of Coastal Maine stretching from the vibrant city of Portland to the iconic shores of Bar Harbor. This is a time of quiet beauty, before the summer rush, with many beloved seasonal spots opening their doors. Lose yourself in the grandeur of Acadia National Park, where you can pedal along historic carriage roads or hike to soaring summits with endless ocean views. Cap off your adventures with the quintessential Maine experience: fresh, mouthwatering lobster rolls in a picturesque harbor setting.

Hudson Valley, New York – Just a couple of hours' scenic drive from Manhattan lies the Hudson Valley, a region brimming with delightful contrasts. Indulge in the authentic flavors of farm-to-table dining, lose yourself in the monumental art of Dia Beacon and the sprawling sculptures of Storm King, wander through centuries of history in its charming homes, and discover invigorating hikes that unveil stunning panoramic views of the Hudson River. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor adventurer, this harmonious blend of cultural inspiration and natural splendor makes the Hudson Valley an irresistible destination for a weekend of discovery.

Charleston, South Carolina – Here, Southern hospitality isn't just a saying, it's a way of life. Experience the warmth of genuine Southern hospitality, admire the city's stunning and historic architecture, and savor the distinctive tastes of Lowcountry cuisine. A visit to Fort Sumter National Monument offers a powerful opportunity for reflection. When you're ready to unwind, the nearby beaches beckon with the promise of sun-kissed relaxation. Charleston offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and coastal ease.

Caribbean Cruise to Turks and Caicos – If you’re seeking warmer waters this Memorial Day, last-minute cruise deals to the Caribbean can offer exceptional value. Departing from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or other East Coast ports, a 3-5 day cruise to Turks and Caicos promises pristine white sand beaches and some of the world's most beautiful turquoise waters. Grand Turk, the main cruise port, offers excellent snorkeling right off the beach, colonial architecture in Cockburn Town, and the Grand Turk Lighthouse with sweeping Atlantic views. Most cruise lines feature Memorial Day-themed events onboard, creating a perfect balance between honoring the holiday and enjoying a tropical escape.

Memorial Day weekend is a unique time – a blend of anticipation for long-awaited trips and a solemn acknowledgment of sacrifice. The most meaningful getaways, in my experience, thoughtfully weave together these two threads. These are the trips that hold space for both joy and remembrance. Consider destinations that allow for moments of quiet reflection alongside the celebration of the freedoms we enjoy. Because no matter where your travels take you, it's worth pausing to remember that the very opportunity to explore this beautiful country, to wander freely from coast to coast, represents exactly what so many brave men and women gave their lives to protect.  

Wherever your Memorial Day travels may lead you, may you find joy in the journey and moments of gratitude. And if, in planning those adventures, you ever find yourself seeking a little guidance, please don’t hesitate to reach out at Bixby X FORA.

A Special Remembrance: Alongside the collective remembrance this Memorial Day, we especially remember my father, Felix H. a retired Navy veteran who served our country bravely for many years.  His years of dedicated service and his love for the seas will not be forgotten.