Choosing a weekend travel destination for Memorial Day requires more considerationthan for most holidays, if only because the temperate loveliness of late spring spreads across America so equally. The harsh weather of winter has long passed in the North, humid heat waves have yet to spread in the South and everything glows with serenity just about everywhere. No matter where you live, at least one of these destinations should excite your imagination without ravaging your wallet.<\/p>\n
Given the focus of the holiday, a historically appropriate destination would be Annapolis, Maryland. Long ago, it served as the capital of the U.S. for nearly a year and is now home to the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. Start by getting a room at one of the three Historic Inns of Annapolis, all in the quaint historic downtown district, or if you\u2019re not traveling with children, find a bed-and-breakfast to add even more charm. (The closer to the bay you can find one, the better.)<\/p>\n
During the day, take a mild afternoon walk to the free Maritime Museum to see cutaway boats and an 850-gallon oyster aquarium in the old Pearl brand oyster packing plant, then head to Boatyard Bar and Grill for Maryland\u2019s famously delicious blue crabs. (Don\u2019t miss the Sunday special of half off oysters and clams!) After dinner, take in the classic stage show 42nd Street at the Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre (tickets $20). Make sure you tour the historic St. Anne\u2019s Church and the Maryland State House before Monday, though, as they will close for the holiday.<\/p>\n\n\t\t