Memorial Day, the last Monday in May, signals the start of the summer season. To take advantage of the wonderful weather, about one in three Americans travel over the long weekend. The federal holiday originally honored fallen soldiers who fought in the Civil War, which claimed more lives than any other conflict in U.S. history. Today, it is a day to remember all who died while serving in the country’s armed forces. One of the best ways to honor the country is to see it. Take a private chartered flight for Memorial Day weekend, and make this year the ultimate upgrade from the traditional backyard barbecue.
Luxury Memorial Day Destinations
Washington, D.C.
Photo by George Rex
When you want to spend Memorial Day honoring the country’s true heroes, the nation’s capital is the ultimate destination. After checking in to the exquisite Hay-Adams Hotel in Lafayette Square, stroll the National Mall and pay your respects at nearby war memorials. At the Lincoln Memorial, read Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, one of the most inspiring speeches about sacrifice.
On Sunday evening, make your way to the U.S. Capitol building’s West Lawn to see the annual star-studded National Memorial Day Concert. The concert’s lineup includes Renée Fleming, The Beach Boys, Alfie Boe, National Symphony Orchestra and prestigious chorus from various military branches.
On Monday, Arlington National Cemetery will host a variety of events, beginning at 11:00 a.m. Before you go home, be sure to see the National Memorial Day Parade on Constitution Avenue at 2:00 p.m. The parade is one of the largest in the country.
New York City
Photo by Dan Desmet, New York District public affairs
Next to Washington, D.C., New York City is a prime choice for a Memorial Day getaway. There is always something to do and there is always a good reason to go. This year, Memorial Day falls during New York Fleet Week, so charter a boat for a fabulous NYC boat tour before going on public ship tour in Brooklyn.
To get the most out of your stay, book a suite at the elegant Plaza hotel overlooking Central Park. After settling in a bit, add to you art collection by heading to Greenwich Village to see hundreds of unique works displayed by original artists at the Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit.
Because there is nothing more American than eating a hotdog and watching a game, a baseball game is a can’t-miss. During Memorial Day weekend, the Mets host four home games against the LA Dodgers and Chicago White Sox at Citi Field in Flushing.
Memorial Day Parades abound in New York City with one in every borough. The largest is the Little Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade in Douglaston at 2:00 p.m. One of the country’s oldest and most popular parades is the Brooklyn’s Kings County Memorial Day Parade, which celebrates its 149th anniversary in 2016.
Las Vegas
Photo by Camilo Rueda López
If you seek non-stop fun, Las Vegas is your go-to Memorial Day destination. Since there are no shortages of luxury accommodations along the Strip, book a hotel near the events that you want to attend. A premium choice is the Palazzo.
This Memorial Day, the long weekend is packed with a plethora of pool club parties, nightclub events (don’t forget the VIP passes) and unforgettable concerts. Headliners include Santana, Chris Tucker, The Who, Jennifer Lopez, David Guetta, Lil Wayne, and Strfkr & Com Truise. In addition, UFC fighters Thomas Almeida and Cody Garbrandt faceoff at the Mandalay Bay on Sunday night.