It'll be packed during Memorial Day.. but not crazy like Spring Break, if that's what you have in mind.

With that being said, you should have a great time...

Boardwalk and Summit are right next to Spinnaker and Club La Vela... which will be jammin for Memorial Day.

Edgewater, Holiday Inn and Chateau are in the middle of the strip...

Calypso and Emerald Beach are closer to Pier Park if that's what you're looking for.

Majestic, Plaza, Shores of Panama and Beach Tower are also great choices.

Just throwing this out there, but a vacation rental house might be a good idea for a large group... especially if you want to party. Try Counts-Oakes Resort Properties... they can set you up with something nice and affordable.

And the Gold Nugget is in town across the bridge (I'm sure the subject will come up)