Memorial Day weekend gives you three days to get out and explore, no vacation days needed. One-tank road trips mean you can reach awesome spots within a few hours, keep gas costs low, and actually spend your time enjoying the destination—not just staring out the windshield.
Nearly 90% of Memorial Day travelers hit the road instead of flying. If you ask me, that’s the perfect excuse to check out somewhere new that’s been on your radar.
I’ve rounded up seven road trip ideas that fit neatly into a long weekend and won’t have you stopping for gas every two hours. These trips balance drive time with just enough activities to make your weekend feel like a true escape.
Each spot brings something different—mountain views, beach towns, historic gems. There’s a little something for everyone.
Planning a one-tank trip frees up your budget for better food, fun activities, or maybe a comfier place to sleep. I’ve picked routes that work for all kinds of travelers—outdoor adventurers, small-town charm seekers, and culture lovers.
Key Takeaways
- One-tank Memorial Day road trips save money and maximize time at your destination.
- Most places are just a few hours from major cities, offering everything from beaches to mountains to cool historic sites.
- Book your lodging and dining early to dodge crowds and make your trip smoother.
How to Plan a One-Tank Memorial Day Road Trip
A good one-tank Memorial Day road trip starts with smart planning and sticking within 150-200 miles of home. I always focus on three things: picking a destination that feels like a real experience, setting a realistic budget, and packing the right gear for three days on the road.
Choosing a Nearby Destination for Maximum Adventure
First, I figure out my car’s range using a simple formula: miles per gallon x tank size, then multiply by 0.8 for a buffer. Most cars can handle 200-300 miles round trip on a tank.
I look for places 75-150 miles away. That’s just far enough for a real adventure, but not so far you’re stressing about gas. I always check what makes each spot special for Memorial Day.
Here’s what I look for:
- Unique attractions—think historic sites, state parks, or waterfronts
- Crowd levels (nobody wants to spend the weekend in traffic)
- Weather forecasts for that weekend
- Any special events or festivals
I try to find places with lots to do in a small area. Once I’m parked, I’d rather walk to everything than drive more. A lakeside town with beaches, trails, and restaurants close together? Yes, please.
Budgeting for Gas, Dining, and Lodging
I figure out my total trip cost before booking anything. Gas prices spike $0.10-$0.30 during Memorial Day weekend, so I plan for that.
Here’s how my usual Memorial Day trip budget looks:
| Category | Estimated Cost | Money-Saving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Gas (round trip) | $40-$80 | Fill up before the weekend |
| Lodging (2 nights) | $200-$400 | Book 6-8 weeks early |
| Dining (6 meals) | $150-$250 | Mix restaurants & picnics |
| Activities | $50-$100 | Look for free park days |
I always book my stay early—Memorial Day fills up fast. I compare hotels and vacation rentals. Sometimes a little cabin with a kitchen saves me $100+ on meals.
For food, I pack breakfast stuff and snacks. That cuts my food budget by 30-40%. I save restaurant splurges for dinners when I really want to try something local.
Packing Essentials for a Long Weekend Drive
I try to pack light but cover the basics for three days away. My car setup honestly makes or breaks the trip.
I never leave home without:
- Spare tire and jack
- Jumper cables
- Basic tool kit
- Phone charger and backup battery
- Paper maps (cell service isn’t always reliable)
Clothes go into packing cubes—one outfit per day, plus an extra just in case. Memorial Day weather swings between 60-85 degrees, so I always bring layers.
My cooler gets loaded with drinks and snacks. I freeze water bottles overnight so they double as ice and cold drinks.
First-aid kit, sunscreen, and bug spray are a must. Memorial Day is basically the kickoff for bug season. I toss in reusable bags for beach gear or hiking stuff.
For entertainment, I download podcasts and playlists ahead of time. Streaming doesn’t always work in rural areas and burns through data.
Top 7 Memorial Day Weekend Road Trips on a Tank of Gas
Memorial Day weekend 2025 is the perfect excuse to hit the road and see what’s close by. These routes give you scenic drives and memorable stops—no fuel anxiety needed.
Pacific Coast Highway: Scenic Ocean Views and Stops
The Pacific Coast Highway between Corona del Mar and Laguna Beach is classic SoCal—amazing ocean views, and you won’t even burn half a tank.
Start at Crystal Cove State Park, where old-school cottages from the 1920s and 30s line the sand. There are 18 miles of trails with killer ocean views.
Low tide brings out tide pools packed with sea creatures. I love grabbing a breakfast burrito at The Beachcomber Café, right on the sand—it just tastes better with waves in the background.
This route is about 60 miles round trip from most SoCal starting points. There are plenty of spots to pull over for photos or beach access. Plan for two to three hours of driving, plus however long you want to wander beaches and trails.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Mountain Beauty and Culture
The Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville, North Carolina, is a mountain lover’s dream and totally doable on one tank. The road winds through the Appalachians, with overlooks every few miles.
I focus on a 100-mile stretch that covers the Folk Art Center, Mount Pisgah, and Looking Glass Rock. The Folk Art Center is full of handmade Appalachian crafts and sometimes live demos.
Wildflowers bloom everywhere in May. The 45 mph speed limit means you’ll save gas and really take in the views. Pack a picnic—restaurants are pretty rare here. If you’re up early, you might spot deer or wild turkeys crossing the road.
Historic Route 66: Classic Americana Attractions
A chunk of Route 66 through Oklahoma or Arizona makes a great Memorial Day trip for anyone into classic Americana. I like the 150-mile stretch between Oklahoma City and Amarillo—think retro diners, vintage motels, and weird roadside attractions.
The Blue Whale of Catoosa is a must for photos. Pops 66 in Arcadia has a 66-foot soda bottle and dozens of soda flavors—quirky but fun.
Old gas stations turned museums pop up along the way. The drive is mostly flat highways with small towns scattered in. Most cars can do this on a single tank, even with stops. The flat terrain helps keep fuel use low.
Gulf Islands National Seashore: Relaxing Coastal Escapes
Gulf Islands National Seashore on Mississippi’s coast has powdery beaches and is an easy drive from New Orleans, Mobile, or Pensacola. Ship Island needs a ferry from Gulfport, but you can hit the mainland beaches directly.
Fort Massachusetts on Ship Island mixes history and beach time. I always bring binoculars to spot dolphins in the water. Back on land, Ocean Springs and Biloxi have great seafood and cozy places to stay.
Beach Boulevard runs along the Gulf, with views for miles. This area stays less crowded than Florida’s beaches. Flat coastal roads mean you’ll get the most out of your gas. Mornings are the best for wildlife and cooler temps before the heat rolls in.
Underrated Gems for Memorial Day Travel
Skip the crowds and try these lesser-known spots. They’re all within a tank of gas from big cities and offer their own unique experiences.
Crystal Cove State Park: Coastal Adventure in California
Crystal Cove State Park might be my favorite SoCal secret for Memorial Day. It’s tucked between Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar, with 3.2 miles of coastline, tide pools, hiking, and old beach cottages. Only about 50 miles from LA—super easy trip.
Park Highlights:
- Beach fun: swimming, surfing, beachcombing
- Historic cottages from the 1930s and 40s
- Over 2,400 acres of backcountry trails
- Entry is $15 per vehicle
The Shake Shack at the beach serves up breakfast and lunch with an ocean view. If you want parking, arrive early—lots fill up by mid-morning.
Georgetown, South Carolina: History and Harbor Views
Georgetown sits where five rivers meet the Atlantic, and it’s actually older than Charleston. The downtown is packed with antebellum homes, oak trees, and waterfront dining.
Walk the Harborwalk for views of shrimp boats. The Rice Museum is worth a stop if you’re into local history. Front Street has shops and restaurants serving up Lowcountry dishes.
Don’t miss:
- Kaminski House Museum (a 1769 Georgian home)
- Georgetown Lighthouse
- Hopsewee Plantation
- Local seafood markets
Everything’s open through Memorial Day. Georgetown is about 60 miles from Myrtle Beach and 65 from Charleston.
Manteo, North Carolina: Quiet Beach Town with Heritage
Manteo, on Roanoke Island in the Outer Banks, is a chill alternative to busy Nags Head. The waterfront downtown has galleries, bookstores, and seafood spots right on the boardwalk.
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site marks the first English settlement in North America. The North Carolina Aquarium has a 285,000-gallon ocean tank—kids love it. Take the free ferry to Hatteras Island for more beach time.
Key stops:
- Elizabeth II ship replica
- Roanoke Island Festival Park
- The Lost Colony outdoor drama (starts late May)
- Jockey’s Ridge State Park (just 20 minutes away)
Manteo is about 90 miles from Norfolk, so it’s an easy drive from several East Coast cities.
Dining and Lodging Tips for Your Road Trip
Memorial Day road trips need a little extra planning for food and places to stay. Restaurants get slammed, and hotels fill up weeks in advance.
Finding Local Eats and Unique Cafes
Book your restaurant tables before you even leave home. Memorial Day means packed dining rooms and long waits for walk-ins. Reservation apps or a quick call save a ton of hassle.
Skip the chains if you can. Local diners and cafes usually have better food for less money. I use Google Maps to find highly rated local spots along the way.
Food planning tips:
- Bring snacks and drinks to avoid pricey gas stations
- Use restaurant apps for discounts
- Double-check hours—some close early on holidays
- Pack a cooler with sandwich stuff for easy lunches
If you plan to cook or grill, shop for groceries before Thursday. Stores get crazy as the weekend approaches.
Booking Accommodation Along Your Route
I always lock in my lodging 4-6 weeks ahead. Hotels and rentals go fast for Memorial Day, and late bookings mean higher prices or slim pickings.
Consider staying just outside busy tourist zones. Towns 20-30 minutes away are often cheaper and less crowded. The short drive in is worth it.
Lodging booking checklist:
- Compare prices on different sites
- Read recent guest reviews
- Check the cancellation policy
- Confirm pet rules if you’re bringing animals
- Look for free parking and breakfast
Chains are reliable and good for points, but local motels or B&Bs can be more memorable—and sometimes a better deal. Just book early, whatever you pick.
Making the Most of Memorial Day Weekend 2025
Memorial Day weekend 2025 is your chance to try something new without blowing your budget. With a little planning and an eye for adventure, a simple road trip can turn into a weekend you’ll actually remember.
Traveling Efficiently on a Budget
Let’s talk about making every drop of gas count. For Memorial Day road trips, I always map out my route ahead of time—otherwise, you risk burning fuel in traffic or chasing last-minute deals. Did you know nearly 40 million people hit the road by car during Memorial Day 2025? No wonder things get chaotic.
Here are some money-saving strategies I swear by:
- Map your route carefully. Pick spots you can reach on a single tank—usually 300 to 400 miles, depending on your car.
- Book accommodations early. I compare prices on review sites before they spike. Waiting until the last minute rarely pays off.
- Pack your own snacks and meals. Grocery store runs are way cheaper than eating out at every stop.
- Time your departure well. If you leave super early or after dinner, you’ll probably dodge traffic and save on gas.
Honestly, I love one-tank trips. They cut out the hassle of constant fuel stops and keep my budget predictable. I know what I’m spending and usually get the best deal at my local station.
If you can swing it, try traveling mid-week. Hotels and attractions often drop their prices, and you’ll skip the Friday crowds.
Creating Lasting Memories with Road Trip Experiences
Memorial Day weekend isn’t just about getting somewhere. I try to focus on the journey—sometimes, that’s where the best stories happen.
Stop at local attractions you spot along the way. You’d be surprised how many small towns have quirky diners, old-school museums, or scenic overlooks that highways totally miss. Those random finds? They’re usually what I talk about most later.
Take photos at spots that mean something to you. I’m not just snapping the same touristy shot as everyone else. Maybe it’s sunrise at a rest stop or the backseat piled with gear—it’s your story.
Eat like a local. Every region has its own flavor, whether it’s fresh seafood on the coast or barbecue down South. I always ask locals where they’d go for dinner.
I toss in a frisbee or hiking shoes, too. Memorial Day weather usually means you can walk a beach, hike a trail, or picnic by a lake—and those moments stick with you way longer than anything you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re planning a Memorial Day road trip, you probably have a bunch of questions. I’ve pulled together some of the ones people ask me most often, and I’ll share what’s worked for me.
Lake Sinclair in Georgia is a solid pick for travelers watching their wallets. The lake’s huge—15,300 acres—and you can swim or fish for free, plus it rarely feels crowded.
Gulf Islands National Seashore in Mississippi is another gem. Public beaches don’t cost a dime, and ferry rides to Ship Island are still pretty affordable.
St. Louis is kind of a sleeper hit. You get world-class attractions like the Zoo, Science Center, and Art Museum—all free.
Hot Springs, Arkansas? You can soak in thermal baths and hit free hiking trails, then sample mineral water from public fountains. Not bad for zero dollars.
Crystal Cove in California stretches between Corona del Mar and Laguna Beach. You get tide pools and 18 miles of hiking trails with ocean views—honestly, it’s stunning.
Oval Beach in Saugatuck, Michigan is another favorite. The water looks almost Caribbean, and the dunes make it feel far from the usual Midwest scene.
Gulf Islands National Seashore has those powdery white beaches you dream about, minus the Florida crowds. Ship Island even has a historic fort if you want a break from the sun.
I keep coming back to these spots because they’re beautiful and way less crowded than the big-name beaches.
I always start by figuring out my total distance and dividing by my car’s highway miles per gallon. That tells me how many gallons I’ll need.
Then I add 10 to 15 percent extra, just in case I hit unexpected detours or traffic. Holiday weekends almost always mean slower going.
Most newer cars can go 300 to 400 miles on a tank, but I stick to destinations within 200 to 250 miles. That way, I’m not sweating the gas gauge.
Cruise control helps a ton—steady speeds mean better mileage. And I avoid slamming the brakes or flooring it, which really eats up fuel.
Honestly, it depends where you’re starting, but I’ve got a few favorites. Lake Placid, Florida is easy to reach from most central Florida cities.
Center Hill Lake in Tennessee is just a couple of hours from Nashville, with 18,000 acres of emerald water and limestone bluffs.
Red River Gorge in Kentucky offers over 100 natural sandstone arches. It’s inside Daniel Boone National Forest, so you get trails for every skill level.
Door County, Wisconsin stretches 70 miles into Lake Michigan. You’ll find charming villages, five state parks, and 11 historic lighthouses.
In my experience, booking early saves the most money for Memorial Day. Hotels usually give discounts if you reserve six to eight weeks ahead.
State parks often waive entrance fees or offer camping deals on the holiday weekend. I always check their websites for the latest promos.
Some gas stations along major highways roll out price specials for Memorial Day. I use fuel price apps to track down the best deals.
Watercraft rentals? Many marinas offer multi-day packages for the long weekend, and booking direct usually beats third-party sites.
So, AAA estimates that about 39.4 million Americans hit the road by car for Memorial Day weekend. Out of 45 million total travelers, that’s a whopping 87 percent choosing to drive.
Why do so many people pick road trips? Well, it’s mostly about flexibility and saving some cash. When you drive, you can pack extra snacks, bring all the beach chairs you want, and just pull over whenever something catches your eye.
But here’s something I’ve learned the hard way: traffic gets wild. If you want to dodge those endless lines of brake lights, try leaving super early in the morning—or, honestly, wait until after the evening rush dies down.
Trust me, your future self will thank you.
