Activities & Tips for Hitting the Road This Memorial Day Weekend
May 22, 2012
It’s estimated that 34 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more this Memorial Day weekend, and most of them plan to get there via car! If you live near any of the destinations below and are up for road trip, read on for some great ideas as well as valuable tips to make the most out of your weekend getaway.
- New York City – The options are endless in NYC as there are an abundance of street fairs, free concerts, family festivals, and walking tours this weekend. Plus, since many New Yorkers will be traveling to the Hamptons this weekend, you’ll find the streets are less crowded, and thus, a more enjoyable experience for tourists. Shop for NYC Hotels
- Washington D.C. – There’s tons to do in Washington DC this weekend as the nation’s capital celebrates this special holiday. Perhaps most noteworthy is the National Memorial Day Parade taking place on Monday at 2pm. Marching bands and veterans from all across the US flock to the area to be part of the parade. There’s also a free concert on the West Lawn of the Capital on Sunday and features actors Joe Mantegna and Gary Sinise, and other guest artists along with the National Symphony Orchestra. Shop for DC Hotels
- Boston – Head to Boston if you’re in the mood for some fun, especially for those seeking a musical adventure! Boston has a full line up events over the course of the weekend including a concert by 20th century American composers featuring clarinetist Ray Lam and pianist Yelena Beriyeva, a Reggae concert, and even a four-day event that features multiple Blues, Celtic, and Country performers (Club Passim Campfire). Shop for Boston Hotels
- Phoenix – Phoenix hosts many festivities this weekend to celebrate the holiday. This weekend, the Academy Drum and Bugle Corps will debut their 2012 musical production “Left of Spring” as the Arizona Academy of the Performing Arts hosts the Memorial Day Celebration at the Pera Club, in nearby Tempe. When visiting Phoenix, consider visiting the Desert Botanical Garden, one of the world’s finest collections of desert plants. Home to 139 rare, threatened and endangered plant species from around the world, there is no finer place to enjoy the desert beauty. The Garden is located in Papago Park in Central Phoenix. Shop for Phoenix Hotels
- Las Vegas – A road trip to Las Vegas never disappoints! You’ll find amazing restaurants, shops, and shows that’ll have you begging for more. This weekend, the 14th annual Punk Rock Bowling and Music Festival heads to downtown Las Vegas, while there are countless special events taking place on the strip. Choose between a weekend-long patio party at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, a Caribbean-inspired Memorial Day party at the Mirage, special concerts at Caesars Palace, and many more… Shop for Las Vegas Hotels
- Sonoma – For those interested in exploring California’s wine country, a road trip to Sonoma will surely delight! There’s a whole slew of events lined up for this weekend, including a food and wine festival on Sunday with seven amazing bands (Oysterpalooza), a Memorial Day Pig Roast where you bring your own side dishes (The Whole Hog), and the much-loved musical duo vocalist Patti Cathcart and guitarist Tuck Andress put on a performance at the Tuck Theater this Saturday. Shop for Sonoma Hotels
As you prepare for your road trip getaway and are gearing up for a weekend jam-packed with festivities, keep the following tips in mind. They’ll help you avoid any potential problems and ensure your travels are safe, fun and as stress-free as possible.
- Make sure your vehicle is ready for the drive – Check all fluids, filters, belts, hoses and tires. Be sure your spare tire is usable and easy to get to. Since you will be in your car for a bit, make sure it is clean.
- Pack your vehicle properly – Heavy items go in first! Be sure all loose items are secured and keep your rear view clear. Be sure not to go over the weight capacity of the vehicle.
- Have plenty of entertainment options available – Keep everyone entertained, especially the kids. Toys, books, DVDs, iPad, iPod, or CDs will keep everyone occupied.
- Be prepared should an emergency arise - Be sure someone knows where you are going and how to reach you in case of an emergency. Don’t forget your driver’s license, vehicle registration, as well as your auto and medical insurance cards. Bring your cell phone charger (consider buying an in-car charger), and prescriptions if necessary. Also, it doesn’t hurt to pack a first aid kit, just in case.
- Know the parking situation of your destination – the city you’re visiting may have entirely different parking rules. Look them up in advance. Additionally, know how much parking at your hotel costs and plan accordingly.
- And finally, have fun! – Since most peoples’ schedules are busy, it’s not so often that the whole family can get together, so remember to have fun and enjoy being together. You’ll create memories to last a lifetime and make sure to document these with plenty of pictures! Don’t forget your cameras and chargers!
Tips written & compiled by the Staff at Travel Impressions
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