7 Memorial Day Date Ideas That DON'T Involve Traveling

A three-day weekend with your sweetie sounds beyond amazing. But when it’s Memorial Day, adding travel to your weekend isn't always the best idea. The last weekend in May is infamous for nightmarish traveling. Luckily, you and your beau can still enjoy a sweet weekend together without hitting the road. Here are some fun ideas to keep you busy.

Whether it’s a backyard date or a huge bash with all your friends, breaking out the grill for the first time this season is a great way to welcome summer. Whip out your best barbecue recipes, summery sips, and fresh fruit. 

It may not yet be warm enough to get in the water, but it’s likely getting nice enough to enjoy the sand and sun! Pack a few snacks, some drinks, and your favorite beach towels for an afternoon of lounging on the sand. Feeling active? Bring a beach ball or a volleyball net. 

Plenty of big cities and small towns host Memorial Day festivals. Even if you're not so into the carnival rides, you’ll likely find tasty fair treats (funnel cake, anyone?), live music, and lots of summer vibes. 

Fireplaces may feel wintery, but a fire built in the great outdoors just screams summer. Bring hot dogs or marshmallows to roast over the open flame. 

Pack all your favorite summer foods — like fresh strawberries and a bottle of chilled white wine — for an outside feast. Post up at a picnic table at a local park or set up a blanket in your backyard. 

If the weather doesn’t feel particularly summery, head to the theater for a cozy day inside. Our picks this year? Blockbusters “Captain America: Civil War” or “X-Men Apocalypse,” George Clooney’s “Money Monster,” and the new Ryan Gosling/Russell Crow/Matt Bomer comedy “Nice Guys." 

Local farmer’s markets often start in mid-May, so Memorial Day is the perfect time to peruse the offerings. Shop together for ingredients, then spend an evening cooking a meal with your produce. 

You know those tourist attractions that you've passed by a million times but never actually checked out? Pretend you're on vacation and go see 'em!