This Presidents Day, it will take 287 candles on the cake to celebrate George Washington’s birth! While we may not be serving cake to the country, his birthday is a federal holiday in which we honor the first president of the United States. For a lot of people, the bank holiday means a long holiday weekend, so why not celebrate with a quick trip? We’ve put together 45 places—one connected to each Commander in Chief—for you to visit this Presidents Day weekend.

ALSO: How to Plan a Vacation for a Cause

Mount Vernon, WA

#1 George Washington: Mount Vernon, VA

The childhood home of our first president is just 13 miles south of the nation’s capital. After growing up there, George and his wife Martha moved back in 1754 and slowly built up the once modest property to the 21-room mansion we know now as Mount Vernon. You can tour the gardens, tombs and on-site distillery.

#2 John Adams: Cambridge, MA

Did you know that Adams, our first vice president and second president, graduated from Harvard? Stroll through the Cambridge campus and you’ll be walking upon the same hallowed ground as Adams did in 1751.

#3 Thomas Jefferson: Paris, France

Why not pop across the pond and head to Paris this Presidents Day weekend? After all, Thomas Jefferson once had a home there, the Hôtel de Langeac, where he and some of his children lived. While it has since been demolished, it was on the corner of the Champs-Elysées, right in the hart of the City of Lights.

#4 James Madison: Madison, WI

The fourth President is known as the Father of the Constitution because of his significant role in writing both the US Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Due to this, the founders of Madison, Wisconsin named the state capital after him. The best time to visit Madison is on a weekend in the fall to take in a UW Badger football game at historic Camp Randall Stadium. After the game, stroll the downtown streets named for 39 other signers of the Constitution.

#5 James Monroe: St. Louis, MO

Monroe was the President who signed the Missouri Compromise, which allowed the Show Me State into the union (along with Maine, to equalize representation in the Senate between North and South). Head to St. Louis to see the Gateway Arch, which was built as a monument to Westward expansion, and to nosh on some of the great BBQ in the country (including KC-style, just don’t tell the locals that’s what you’re looking for).

New Haven, CT

#6 John Quincy Adams: New Haven, CT

While the Adams political family’s life and legacy are mostly linked to Massachusetts, one of the most important contributions J.Q. Adams made in life took place in New Haven, where he argued on behalf of the captives of the slave ship La Amistad, who were eventually freed after a ruling by the US Supreme Court. Visit New Haven’s City Hall to see a monument to La Amistad, then head to the world famous Frank Pepe Pizzeria for their New Haven-style white clam pie, some of the best pizza in the country.

#7 Andrew Jackson: Nashville, TN

Long considered the finest hotel in Music City, The Hermitage is located directly across from the capitol building. Named after the plantation owned by the seventh president, it is on the National Register of Historic Places and has hosted five other presidents. Be sure to check out the men’s room in the basement (women are allowed in due to its fame) which has been awarded the “Restroom of the Year” award on multiple occasions (yes, that’s a real award). Down the street, you can find some of the best live music in the world.

#8 Martin van Buren: Buffalo, NY

Before he was President, Van Buren was a powerhouse of the New York State government, and perhaps his most lasting influence on the state was his support of the Erie Canal. The city of Buffalo, just 20 miles south of Niagara Falls, grew rapidly after the canal was finished. When in Buffalo, there is one landmark that tops all others: The Anchor Bar, where Buffalo Wings were invented in the 1960s.

#9 William Harrison: Palm Springs, CA

Unfortunately for President Harrison, he served the shortest term of any US President, dying of pneumonia just 31 days into his term after refusing to wear an overcoat or hat during his inauguration on a cold, wet January day. His speech was two hours long, after which he rode (still without coat or hat) horseback through DC. Therefore, the best way to honor him is to head to Palm Springs, where your chances of contracting so much as a winter cold are very slim.

#10 John Tyler: Tippecanoe County, IN

“Tippecanoe and Tyler, too” was the campaign song for the tenth President’s vice presidential campaign, the former being a reference to the Hero of Tippecanoe, William Henry Harrison. In Tippecanoe County, you can visit the battleground where Harrison’s forces defeated Shawnee leader Tecumseh, setting up Tyler’s eventual ascension as the first unelected President.

Nashville, TN

#11 James Polk: Nashville, TN

President Polk grew up in Tennessee and his final resting spot is at the State Capitol Building. Nashville is having a hot moment on the travel scene right now so gather your friends and family and head south for a weekend of country music on Broadway followed by Tennessee hot chicken at Hattie B’s, and whiskey at the Jack Daniels Distillery.

#12 Zachary Taylor: Louisville, KY

Old Rough and Ready grew up on a tobacco plantation in Louisville and while the 10,000 acres his family owned may be long gone, there is lots to do in Louisville—including a visit to Zachary Taylor House, number twelve’s boyhood home. Visit the first weekend of May, and you can’t miss the famed Kentucky Derby. Pack a preppy outfit, big fancy hat, and your drinking shoes because the mint juleps will be flowing.

#13 Millard Fillmore: The Finger Lakes, NY

Fillmore grew up in a log cabin in Cayuga County, New York which is near the Finger Lakes. The series of long, skinny lakes in Upstate NY are known for its vineyards. The Wine Trail offers an organized day of wine tasting, but there are also lots of breweries and distillers if grapes aren’t your thing. If you’re a teetotaler, take a hike to Buttermilk Falls instead!

#14 Franklin Pierce: Portsmouth, NH

We aren’t sure if President Pierce ever actually visited Portsmouth, but this charming port town is way cooler than the tiny village of Hillsborough where he was born. A few hours east, Portsmouth is chock full of fisherman charm, lobster rolls, and adorable vintage boutiques. It’s the perfect place to spend a weekend strolling its cobblestone streets.

Las Vegas, NV Photo: Mike Shubic

#15 James Buchanan: Las Vegas, NV

The only bachelor President (and often considered one of the worst), James Buchanan never married so his orphaned niece served as First Lady. Where do most bachelors travel? Vegas, Baby! At least…most bachelor parties do, but that’s close enough! Head to Sin City for a weekend of gambling and shows but remember: Whatever drama happens in Vegas, stays there!

#16 Abraham Lincoln: Gettysburg, PA

This Pennsylvania town where Lincoln delivered his famous address is rich in history. Visit the Gettysburg National Battlefield and there you’ll also find a museum with plenty of Civil War artifacts. History nerds will get to geek out at the memorial where Lincoln gave the revered speech.

#17 Andrew Johnson: Philadelphia, PA

Andrew Johnson was the first US President to be impeached. Therefore, we recommend going to a Philadelphia bar wearing a New York Giants jersey, so you too can get the feeling of being thrown out of a place.

#18 Ulysses S. Grant: West Point, NY

President Grant is among the notable alumni of the prestigious West Point Academy in Upstate New York. Visitors can tour the campus and even catch a football game in autumn. In fact, that’s the best time of year to visit, as Upstate New York is one of the best places to catch fall foliage. Take in the gorgeous colors around West Point and then head for the Catskills, where the leaves changing colors are likely to take your breath away!

#19 Rutherford B. Hayes: South Mountain, MD

Rutherford B. Hayes was a staunch abolitionist, and was injured fighting for the Union at the Battle of South Mountain, near Boonsboro. Hike through beautiful South Mountain on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail to honor him.

Cleveland, OH

#20 James Garfield: Cleveland, OH

President Garfield was born outside of Cleveland, and his humble Midwestern roots are often noted as an important part of his worldview. That blue collar attitude is still an essential component of Cleveland’s DNA, and is on full display in the city’s booming meat-centric food scene. Go for casual classics like a Polish Boy (kielbasa, coleslaw, French fries and barbecue sauce all on a hot dog bun), stay for celebrity chef Michael Symon’s refined comfort foods like beef cheek pierogi and smoked pork chops at Lola Bistro.

#21 Chester Arthur: Providence, RI

Though generally ranked as an average President, we know one thing C.A. Arthur excelled at: sideburns. Therefore, in honor of those glorious chops, we suggest heading to Providence where you can visit Burnside Park, named for General Abrose Burnside, whose name gives us the (corrupted) common moniker for side whiskers, and who also had some serious moustachery.

#22 and #24 Grover Cleveland: Princeton, NJ

Cleveland retired to Princeton after his second go around as President, where he worked at the university. Part college town, part charming village, Princeton is always worth a visit to stroll along Nassau Street for some high-end shopping and a bite to eat.

#23 Benjamin Harrison: Cape May, NJ

Grandson to the aforementioned one-month President, president William Henry Harrison spent many hot DC summers in beautiful Cape May. Rent one of the beautiful Victorian homes along the beach or stay at the Grand Hotel for a truly American summer vacation.

Havana, Cuba

#25 William McKinley: Havana, Cuba

McKinley presided over the Spanish-American War, which ended with Cuba’s independence from Spain in 1898. A lot has happened since then, but US citizens can still freely visit Cuba via cruise ship, so explore beautiful and exciting Havana for a mojito and a complete throwback experience.

#26 Theodore Roosevelt: North Dakota

The grandfather of the US conservation movement, Rough Rider Teddy loved himself some nature, and while North Dakota might not be high on most people’s bucket lists, it’s worth it just to visit 110-square-mile Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a prairie mecca of rolling hills and abundant wildlife.

#27 William Taft: Cincinnati, OH

The only person to have held the offices of President and Chief Justice, William Taft was born in Cincinnati in 1857. A lot has changed in The Queen City since then and should you find yourself there, you must try Skyline chili. Beer pairs well with the hearty dish so perhaps take a brewery tour afterward. Rhinegeist is a local fave and has a sweet rooftop.

#29 Woodrow Wilson: Hot Springs, VA

Many presidents took up golfing as a hobby, but perhaps no one loved the game more than Woodrow Wilson (current president excluded). He is said to have played 1,000 rounds of golf in his presidency and even had his Secret Service team paint golfballs black so he could play in the snow. One of his favorite courses was the Old Course at The Homestead. Now the Omni Homestead Resort, you can still visit and play the same course that Wilson, and many other Commander in Chiefs once played!

San Francisco, CA | http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikeroque/

#29 Warren Harding: San Francisco, CA

President Harding died at The Palace Hotel in 1923, after a summer speaking tour with his wife. While there are lots of theories about his death (did his wife kill him?!) San Francisco was his last stop on the tour. After you’ve hunted the property for his ghost, head down to the Embarcadero and stroll the waterfront. The Ferry Building has lots of restaurants (The Slanted Door is amazing!) and shops, and beautiful views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.

#30 Calvin Coolidge: Black Hills, SD

After a few standard vacations, Calvin Coolidge yearned for something different and set out to explore the Great Plains. His trip out west took him to the Black Hills, where you can see Mount Rushmore. There might not be a more appropriate place to celebrate Presidents Day than a place where a few of their faces are carved into the side of a mountain!

#31 Herbert Hoover: Rapadian Camp, Virginia

Herbert Hoover bought the land for his summer retreat right before the huge stock market crash in 1929. The 13-cabin camp offered a quiet retreat for him and his wife during what would become to worst depression in history. You can still visit there today for a weekend in the woods.

#32 Franklin D. Roosevelt: The Bahamas

Franklin D. Roosevelt led the United States through the Great Depression and his reward to himself was fishing! During his presidency, he took several fishing trips to the Bahamas and you can, too. Whether you’re hoping to reel in a marlin, kingfish, mackerel or bonefish, the Bahamas are one of the best places for fishing.

Southernmost point in the US (Key West, Florida).

#34 Harry S. Truman: Key West, FL

President Truman and First Lady Bess often escaped the stress of Washington D.C. for the laid back atmosphere of Key West. Down at the Southernmost tip of the US, the houses come in cotton candy-colored pastels, the drinks are strong and the seafood amazing. A few hours in this lazy, happy town and you can certainly see why someone, especially a president, would come down to relax and recharge.

#34 Dwight Eisenhower: Western France

Eisenhower, before becoming President, was a five-star general in the US Army during World War II, and was in charge of planning and executing the invasion of France and Germany, which ended the war. You can go to the beaches of Normandy today to see where that invasion began, then spend some time in the French countryside, where there won’t be a bratwurst in sight.

#35 John F. Kennedy: Martha’s Vineyard, MA

The Kennedy family was a fixture on the island and JFK spent lots of time on Martha’s Vineyard. He would sail over from Hyannis Port and dock in Edgartown. The town is full of New England charm, lots of chowder, and plenty of preppy attire. Spend a weekend here lounging on the beach, popping into cute boutiques or visiting some of the maritime museums.

#36 Lyndon B. Johnson: Austin, TX

Austin is a favorite city for anyone who loves music. The SXSW Festival is held there every spring and you can always count on being able to catch live music around town. If you need something a little quieter, head to the LBJ Presidential Library at the University of Texas. He wanted it to be accessible to everyone so while there is a charge to enter for most, they offer free admission several days a year!

San Clemente, California

#37 Richard Nixon: San Clemente, CA

Bet you don’t need us to twist your arm to convince you to travel to California? The sunny city of San Clemente is right in the heart of Orange County. Beautiful beaches, surf breaks and stunning bluffs line the coast. President Nixon’s “Western White House,” La Casa Pacifica, sits right on the beach and was last listed for sale in 2018 for a cool $63.5M.

#38 Gerald Ford: Grand Rapids, MI

Gerald Ford became President among scandalous circumstances. When Nixon was busted for Watergate, Ford was bumped up in rank. Long before that, he grew up in Grand Rapids where beer is king. Nicknamed Beer City, obviously this should be your drink of choice while in town. Start at Grand Rapids Brewing Co. and drink your way through town.

#39 Jimmy Carter: Plains, GA

While the 2010 census recorded a population of less than 800 people, this adorable little town is where Jimmy Carter was born. It was one of his favorite places to go back to throughout his life and if you take a peek at the main drag, you’ll see why. It looks like a postcard for Americana, with vintage facades flying the US flag. Bet you could also get some of the peanuts Carter was a fan of.

#40 Ronald Reagan: Iowa City, IA

Presidents, or at least presidential hopefuls, love Iowa so it’s no surprise that Ronald Reagan once swung through this hip college town. He famously dined at beloved greasy spoon the Hamburg Inn No. 2 (a plaque marks where he sat). Other highlights include the lively Ped Mall and the impressive Old Capitol Museum.

#41 George H.W. Bush: Kennebunkport, ME

While he built his oil business in Texas, number 41 bought Walker’s Point, his grandfather’s estate in Kennebunkport, Maine. He purchased it in 1980, years before he would become president, when he was unsure of what his political future looked like. At least in Maine, he knew his summers would be filled with lobster, sunset sails, and the quaint boutiques of Dock Square. Yours could, too, if you visit!

#42 Bill Clinton: Little Rock, AR

Want to visit the Oval Office but haven’t received an official invitation? In Little Rock, where President Clinton lived, there is an exact replica and you can tour it. Afterwards, visit the William J. Clinton President Library and Museum or stroll the Little Rock Zoo.

#43 George Walker Bush: Houston, TX

Houston, the old stomping grounds of President George W. Bush, is a true melting pot. In recent years it has become as diverse as cities like New York and LA, so you can count on experiencing lots of other cultures and some amazing food while you’re there. Plus, you can visit the Space Center Houston or head down to Galveston for a day at the beach.

Honolulu, HI

#44 Barack Obama: Honolulu, HI

How does a tropical vacation sound? It’s (almost) always sunny in Hawaii and President Obama was born on the gorgeous island of Oahu. While you’re there, visit the Pearl Harbor memorial, hike Diamond Head crater, enjoy the best shave ice you’ve ever had, stroll Waikiki Beach and get a tan!

#45 Donald Trump: Palm Beach, FL

Number 45’s winter home, Mar-A-Lago, sits on the tip of ritzy Palm Beach. The property is off limits to the masses, but island highlights open to the rest of us include strolling the shops along fancy Worth Avenue, cocktails at the legendary Breakers Hotel and a visit to the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum—an opulent nod to the Gilded Age.

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