Memorial Day 2023: Last-minute road trip ideas for long weekends

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN

Escape the early onset summer season by going up north to Milwaukee, a bustling Great Lakes destination recently named to National Geographic’s Best of the World list.

Here, travelers can find plenty of shopping and food options like Bavette La Boucherie and seafood-centric Third Coast Provisions. Historic architecture shines while there’s plenty of incredible art to be seen, including the contemporary craft collection at the Racine Art Museum.

Oh, and the beer. The craft beer flows like water in Brew City thanks to more than two dozen local breweries keeping the tradition alive. A few favorites include Lakefront Brewery, Good City Brewing and MobCraft Beer Brewery Taproom and Pizza.

DES MOINES, IOWA

One of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest deserves to have a spot on your Memorial Day road trip destination must-visit list.

Des Moines is ideal for families. One reason is that it’s home to Adventureland Resort, a high-flying amusement park full of rides for all ages. Another reason is Smash Park, an entertainment paradise that comes complete with arcade games, pickleball courts, shuffleboard and more.

But there’s plenty for adults to do, too. Shop for funky souvenirs at Historic Valley Junction, catch a live show at the Des Moines Performing Arts Center and finish the day at the indisputably cool speakeasy Alleged Lee’s.

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY

There’s so much more to Louisville than baseball bats and the Kentucky Derby. Spirits fans will celebrate the world’s only Urban Bourbon Trail, a memorable experience featuring notable names like Old Forrester Distilling Co., Angel’s Envy Distillery and Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. all lined up along a walkable stretch of downtown road.

Craving barbecue? Order from Feast BBQ to savor everything from brisket and chopped chicken to smoky sausage and crispy smoked tofu. Afterward, grab dessert at Louisville Cream, a small batch ice cream shop scooping flavors like cinnamon roll, crème brûlée and limoncello pound cake.

And fans of greatness have to make time to visit the Muhammad Ali Center, an interactive museum dedicated to the only man who could float like a butterfly and sting like a bee.

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA

Less than four hours away, Indy is an ideal road trip destination for travelers of every kind. Start by biking through White River State Park. Here, you can see the city’s unique mix of green space and urban highlights like the Indianapolis Zoo and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art.

Then, spend some time on Indiana Avenue to take in part of Indy’s Black history and heritage. Dating back to the 1920s, “The Avenue” was once home to more than two dozen jazz clubs. Today, you can embark on walking tours of the area and visit both the Madam Walker Legacy Center and the Kurt Vonnegut Museum & Library.

BENTONVILLE, ARKANSAS

Bentonville may just be the hidden gem of the South.

Located in the northwest corner of Arkansas (and just over five hours from St. Louis), the city sits nestled among the stunning Ozark landscape. Central to any visit is Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, a jaw-dropping institution offering excellently curated exhibitions and architecture free of charge.

After you’ve had your fill at Crystal Bridges, caffeinate at Onyx Coffee Lab, a high-profile roaster known for its attention to detail (and delicious drinks). Then, take the fun outdoors by hiking or biking through one of many parks and trails in the area. Finally, end your trip with a dinner out at The Preacher’s Son, where you’ll be treated to some of the best service and meals in the city.