Not everyone plans a getaway for Memorial Day weekend. But if you don't want to be stuck in the house with the kids for three (whole) days, a solidly-planned day trip with the family may do you some good.
To avoid traffic, don't travel Friday evening or Saturday morning or Monday - at all. Which leaves Saturday and Sunday as days to take one of these day trips.
A Day at the Delaware Beaches
Being a native Delawarean, I will tell you that Delaware beaches are the best. (It's OK, I listed my biases in .)
But, seriously, the drive isn't too bad from our region and there's lots of options once you get there — from the games and rides on the Rehoboth boardwalk and outlet shopping, to the bars in Dewey, to the award-winning seafood and even just a good old picnic on one of the seven beaches.
Although it's always crowded down on the beach (not shore) on Memorial Day weekend, if you get there early and leave late, you'll avoid most traffic. Be sure to pack a cooler with lots of water, sandwiches and snacks for the family. Glass bottles aren't allowed on most beaches, so make sure it's plastic and bring your own trash bags.
My tips for the your day at the beach — go to Tower Road, it's a state park beach just off Route 1 in Delaware (in between Dewey and Bethany) and has concession stands, showers and parking at $8 for the whole day for cars with out-of-state tags. Then head over to restaurants on the Rehoboth boardwalk like Grottos Pizza or Nicola's Stomboli's. There will be lines, so if you have kids bring a snack, and have someone wait at the restaurant, while you take the little ones over to the arcade, the t-shirt shop or to try taffy.
Experience the Civil War in Gettysburg, PA
This three-day battleground in 1863 of the Civil War is remembered for being the largest battle ever fought in North America. More than 165,000 soldiers fought in the Battle of Gettysburg and 51,000 soldiers died.
There's plenty to do like a bus or walking tour of the battlegrounds, a ghost bus tour, you can visit museums and wineries and more.
Monday the town will host its annual parade through East Main Street.
Hike at Harpers Ferry, WV
Check out this National Park that spans three states—Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. The site is known for the largest surrender of federal troops during the Civil War. But now, it's a park that offers scenic hikes, events and a historic town center.
You can also try horseback riding, fishing or rafting.
Play on the Waterfront in Annapolis, MD
There's lots to do Memorial Day weekend in Annapolis. You could take a boat out onto the water, feast on crabs, or check out a free concert.
If you go you may want to take a look at the hours of operation of the museums you might want to visit and plan your day around that since some places may be closed this weekend. However, City Dock is open, full of shops, restaurants and reasons to get out on the water.
Have another great day trip suggestion? Tell us in the comments!
