It may be hard to believe that summer’s end is just around the corner, but the reality is that Labor Day Weekend, often considered to be the season’s “last hurrah,” is just about upon us. If you haven’t made your travel plans, now is the time to do it. There are plenty of exciting destinations in the U.S. you can visit with your family this holiday weekend.
However, if you want to take advantage of that extra day off and plan a visit to an international destination within easy reach or check off a bucket-list adventure with more of an extended getaway, there are also some fabulous options. Including both domestic U.S. destinations and international getaways like the Caribbean and beautiful Canadian cities, these are the top spots to consider for Labor Day weekend.
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U.S. Getaways
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park offers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the country, along with an abundance of wildlife like moose, elk, and bison. Enjoy hiking scenic trails that lead to waterfalls, a horseback riding excursion, or casting your line in one of the many great trout fishing spots along the Jenny Lake shoreline. Jenny Lake is one of the highlights of the park and a great place to base your stay, whether you want to camp or enjoy a more upscale experience. Jenny Lake Lodge, a luxury eco-resort, features private cabins with incredible views as well as fantastic gourmet cuisine in its dining room.
San Juan Islands, Washington
Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, outdoor adventure, or a family-friendly trip, the San Juan Islands are just a scenic ferry ride from Washington State and offer a long list of things to do. On Orcas Island, you’ll discover a lush, green paradise home to the highest mountain in the archipelago. It sits in Moran State Park, which offers miles and miles of hiking trails, including a trip to the top of Mount Constitution, where breathtaking panoramic views of the island-dotted waters and surrounding snow-capped mountains await. San Juan Island, the most populous of the San Juan Islands, offers a wealth of things to do. Visitors can enjoy everything from biking and kayaking to whale watching, exploring museums, and even visiting an alpaca farm. In the picturesque town of Friday Harbor, streets are lined with art galleries, unique shops, and plenty of outstanding eateries, many of which base their dishes on fresh, local ingredients.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
The seaside town of Cannon Beach on Oregon’s beautiful coast is a fabulous early September destination, with the weather often ideal. It’s often recognized by its well-known landmark, Haystack Rock, a mammoth monolith that sits on the magnificent stretch of coastline. It was formed as a result of lava flow 10 to 17 million years ago. Here you can collect sand dollars at low tide, search through tide pools that are home to all sorts of interesting marine life, build sandcastles, or fly a kite. At nearby Ecola State Park, you’ll find hiking trails that wind through a lush forest, providing glimpses of the glistening Pacific and Tillamook Rock Light, a lonely lighthouse battered by the waves. In town, there are a number of restaurants, gift shops, and art galleries to keep you busy too.
Black Hills, South Dakota
The Black Hills offer opportunities for outdoor adventures along with lots for history buffs and animal lovers too. Located in the southwest corner of South Dakota, this densely forested area is filled with sparkling lakes, waterfalls and wildlife. You can’t see and do it all in three days, so if you have to choose, head to Custer State Park. One of the country’s largest state parks, it boasts miles of scenic hiking trails, the legendary Scenic Needles Highway with its unique rock formations, tranquil lakes for swimming, fishing, and paddle boating, as well as an array of wildlife, including wild burros, bison, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and elk. Just outside the park is iconic Mount Rushmore, a sculpting feat that honors four presidents. To delve into Old West history, head to Deadwood, less than an hour north. The popular HBO series “Deadwood” was filmed here, and you’ll also find interesting museums, gambling and lots more.
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Located seven miles from the Cape Cod coast, Martha’s Vineyard has long been a favorite weekend destination with east coasters. The “Vineyard” is the summer home for a number of celebrities, like singer Carly Simon and news anchor Diane Sawyer, likely because it’s far less developed than its neighbor. Its busy main port, Vineyard Haven, welcomes visitors off the ferries and features a wide array of shops. In Oak Bluffs, you’ll find pizza and ice cream emporiums, and Edgartown is popular for its boutiques, grand whaling captains’ homes, and charming inns. For the most authentic feel, the tiny fishing village of Menemsha is the place to go. Here you’ll have your pick of fresh seafood at a number of colorful seafood shacks along the harbor, and you can enjoy just watching the draggers come in with their nets and fishermen and lobstermen unloading their catches.
Martha’s Vineyard also hosts the annual Labor Day Weekend Festival, featuring Island Artists with unique furniture, clothing, ceramics, jewelry and fine art, all made by some of the island’s top artists.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is a year-round party destination and a whole lot more. If you’re looking for a weekend filled with excitement, head to New Orleans for the amazing nightlife, including live jazz, as well as fabulous cuisine. It’s just about guaranteed that Labor Day weekend will be wild, as it draws people from around the world to join in on parties, parades and contests for its annual Southern Decadence event. The celebration of LGBT culture is open to all, and you’ll see lots of people strutting around in elaborate costumes. Bars host all sorts of events, including live music, DJs, and drag shows.
Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in America and one of its most beautiful. Set across the border of California and Nevada, its brilliant waters vary in color from emerald to Caribbean blue. Along its shores are 55 acres of sandy beaches, rocky coves and forest areas. As it still tends to be quite warm, if not sizzling hot, in early September, it’s ideal for swimming over Labor Day weekend and even scuba diving. Visitors can also enjoy lake cruises and kayaking, as well as hiking and biking in the surrounding mountains. This is also the time many arrive to watch a huge fireworks extravaganza that’s shot right over the lake after dusk. While the display can be seen throughout town, the view from the lake is the most spectacular, and the Mississippi-style paddle wheeler known as the M.S. Dixie II offers the opportunity to watch from the water while enjoying live entertainment too.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a charming city oozing with Southern hospitality and a whole lot more. Boasting some of the prettiest beaches on the east coast, it’s a haven for sun worshipers, ocean enthusiasts, surfers, and kiteboarders too. Sunset cruises around the harbor, picking up fresh produce at the festive farmers market and attending the annual Greater Charleston Lowcountry Jazz Festival, which features big-name musicians, are just a few of the popular things on top for Labor Day weekend.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona has long been considered a sacred place by Native Americans, and many visitors head here for its healing energies as well as its gorgeous red rock scenery and multiple recreational opportunities. If you’re in need of a potentially life-changing escape, this is the spot. Renowned for its vortexes, you can sit with a spiritual guide to take part in healing meditations and breathing exercises in these powerful spots or take a mystical tour with a Native guide who shares spiritual wisdom and sacred songs. If that’s not up your alley, you can always go on a scenic hike, rent a 4X4 and hit the back roads, indulge in spa treatments, or just browse the many galleries and boutiques in town.
The Forks, Maine
Northern Outdoors Adventure Resort in The Forks, Maine, known as the state’s mecca for whitewater rafting, is a great place to spend a long weekend. Located where the Dead River and Kennebec River meet, it’s the starting point for riding these two rivers. A stay at the resort offers the chance to jump into a raft with a group of friends, family members, or both and experience the thrill of paddling down class III-IV rapids. After conquering the river, you can relax with a cold microbrew at the resort, soothe sore muscles in the hot tub and then relax by a campfire. The resort offers individual rooms as well as cozy log cabins and condos, as well as campgrounds with cabin tents, RV and tent sites.
Catalina Island, California
Located about 20 miles off the Southern California coast, Catalina Island offers a Mediterranean-like escape and some of the very best snorkeling in the continental U.S. The pristine, crystal-clear water is home to abundant marine life that includes one of the heaviest concentrations of fish found anywhere off the west coast. If you don’t want to get wet, explore the underworld by glass bottom boat or just take advantage of the many activities on land, from hiking and biking to golfing. There are walking food tours and a myriad of shopping, dining, and entertainment options too.
Savannah, Georgia
Georgia’s oldest city, Savannah, was established in 1733 and is home to several historic districts with cobbled streets, grand antebellum mansions, and parks with ancient oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Visitors can explore its history and soak up its charm with an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic downtown with its well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century homes, elegant squares, and lush gardens. Enjoy picnics in Forsyth Park, shopping and dining along River Street, and days at beautiful beaches nearby on Tybee Island.
Olympic National Park, Washington
If you’re looking for outdoor adventure among lush scenery with beaches and towering mountains, Olympic National Park should be at the top of your list. While it’s likely to be busy over Labor Day weekend, as this park covers a massive 922,650 acres in a remote corner of the Pacific Northwest, it’s easy to find solitude among the beauty of unspoiled nature. There are miles and miles of hiking leading to glorious waterfalls, hot springs, and wildflower-filled meadows. Watch for wildlife like deer, black bears, elk, and mountain goats on land, while whales, dolphins, seals, and sea lions can be spotted along the coast and bald eagles soar through the skies. At Lake Crescent, there are pedal boats, row boats, hydro bikes, kayaks, and canoes available for rent for fun on the water.
Aspen, Colorado
Located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Aspen is one of the most beautiful and famous of the state’s mountain towns. Over Labor Day weekend, there are all sorts of events to enjoy, including Jazz Aspen Snowmass, which features big-name jazz artists. Enjoy a myriad of outdoor activities like the hike to the Maroon Bells, with the Elk Mountain peaks reflected across the still waters of Maroon Lake, or simply catch a bird’s-eye view over the dramatic landscape from the Silver Queen Gondola. Mountain biking, horseback riding, world-class fly fishing, and hot-air balloon rides are all possible too, and after a day of fun, you’ll find a wealth of fantastic restaurants for sampling the delicious local cuisine.
International Getaways
Bonaire
Bonaire is one of the “ABC” islands which means it’s outside of the hurricane belt, making it perfect for an early September trip. This Dutch Caribbean isle is a tropical paradise with pink flamingos, gorgeous beaches, and opportunities for recreational activities like kite surfing and kayaking. There’s plenty to do in its main city of Kralendijk, too, with warm and friendly locals, a colorful, lively culture, and the chance to shop for items made by local artisans. Foodies can look forward to a wide range of eateries serving delicious bites, from gourmet food trucks to fine dining establishments.
Zihuatanejo, Mexico
Located along the Pacific Coast of Mexico in the state of Guerrero, Zihuatanejo is a charming, relaxed fishing village that offers a tranquil escape just north of bustling Ixtapa. It’s a paradise of beautiful beaches while narrow cobbled streets downtown hide fantastic local restaurants, bars, boutiques, and artisan studios. In the evening, couples and families enjoy strolling the waterfront promenade, which makes it easy to understand why Andy and Red chose this spot to live out their post-prison days in the film “The Shawshank Redemption.”
Iceland
The end of summer is the perfect time to visit Iceland, with visitor numbers decreasing while the waterfalls are powerfully flowing and the landscapes are stunningly green. Yet, temperatures are typically still in the relatively comfortable range from the upper 40s to mid-50s. The Blue Lagoon and natural hot springs dotted across the country provide a soothing soak while surrounded by spectacular scenery. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of activities, from Super Jeep tours to horseback riding and hiking. Plus, if you’re traveling from the east coast, it’s surprisingly easy to get there, with flights taking an average of only about five hours, less than many require to get to the U.S. west coast.
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
If you’re craving a European vacation but don’t have the time to fly across the Atlantic, Montreal is the perfect pick. This French-speaking city is Canada’s cultural capital, complete with cobbled streets and centuries-old buildings in Vieux-Montreal that can be explored via a horse-drawn carriage ride. It’s a foodie haven, providing the opportunity to sample everything from poutine, the national dish served at countless eateries, to international year-round markets like Jean-Talon and Atwater with its incredible selection of pastries and cheeses. There are world-renowned eateries for fine dining, too, like the hearty fare featuring venison, boar, and elk, elevated by Chef Martin Picard at Au Pied au Cochon.
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Victoria is just a hop, skip, and jump from Seattle and within easy reach of many cities in the western U.S. Located on Vancouver Island, it has a very British feel, complete with tea rooms and double-decker buses while being surrounded by spectacular mountains and water. Known as the “Garden City,” Butchart Gardens is a must to visit with some 700 plant varieties that will still be in bloom through October, and this is still a good time for whale watching with boat tours that will bring you to see orcas, humpbacks, and other marine life. When you’re ready to head indoors, consider visiting the Royal BC Museum, often ranked as Canada’s top museum for those who want to learn about natural and human history.
The Abacos, Bahamas
The Bahamas is a quick trip for many, especially those on the east coast, making it easy to enjoy time in paradise. But you don’t have to visit busy Paradise Island. You might consider one of the spectacular Out Islands like The Abacos, known for its dazzling white and pink sandy beaches. The famous swimming pigs can be spotted in this archipelago, too, along with colorful parrots and exotic marine life. Plus, uninhabited cays, pristine forests, vibrant, colorful reefs, and villages that seem as if they’ve been frozen in time can all be explored too.
Bermuda
Only a two-hour flight from Washington, DC, New York City, or Boston, Bermuda is within easy reach, and September is a beautiful month to be there with flowers in bloom, the weather relatively mild, and the water wonderfully warm for swimming. While it is at risk for hurricanes, they aren’t all that common here, and you may be able to take advantage of off-season discounts while avoiding the crowds. This British overseas territory offers many postcard-perfect stretches of sand, an abundance of mouthwatering cuisine, and a rich maritime history that can be seen among well-preserved cobbled alleys and colonial architecture in St. George, along with the cannon-laden forts.
Sao Miguel, The Azores
The Azores experience near-perfect weather in September, with temperatures that average in the mid-70s during the day. If you can fly from Boston, non-stop flights will get you there in under five hours. A fabulous less-visited destination, Sao Miguel is the largest of the nine islands of the archipelago, known for its relaxing hot springs, stunning waterfalls, lagoons, and volcanic craters. A hiker’s paradise, there are over 20 official trails like the bucket-list eight-mile trek on the Praia-Lagoa do Fogo trail. This is also one of the best destinations in the Atlantic for whale and dolphin watching, with everything from sperm and fin whales to sei, pilot, and minke whales spotted here. Risso’s dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, and the Atlantic spotted dolphin can all be seen here too.
Grand Cayman Island, The Cayman Islands
Grand Cayman is just 90 minutes from Miami and less than four hours from New York or Chicago. The largest of The Caymans, you’ll find plenty to do, especially if you want to spend time in the water. There are countless beautiful beaches with white powdery sands while the sea is like swimming in a warm bath. At Sting Ray City, a shallow sandbar, you can wade out into the crystal-clear water and be surrounded by hundreds of gentle stingrays. Or visit the Cayman Turtle Centre and swim with the sea turtles.
Costa Rica
With two coasts and two international airports, Costa Rica is easily accessible from much of the U.S., and with September the off-season, there are often deals on both airfare and accommodation. While the Pacific side will be rainy, the beautiful Caribbean coast is dry this time of year. Less developed than its Pacific counterpart, it’s an ideal destination for the adventurous traveler in search of nature. Enjoy a lush jungle that’s home to all sorts of colorful birds, monkeys, sloths, and lots of other wildlife, along with plenty of swoon-worthy beaches for peaceful strolls and clear, calm water for snorkeling.
Belize
How about 2.5 hours from Houston or three hours from Miami, Dallas, or Atlanta? Belize is home to ancient Mayan ruins, tropical rainforests, and the world’s second-largest barrier reef for snorkeling with a mind-boggling array of marine life. The 700-mile-long reef follows the entire coast and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The over 200 little islands off the coast are surrounded by some of the clearest turquoise water you’ll ever lay eyes on, with the beaches blindingly white. Plus, the cuisine here is incredibly tasty, with Caribbean-style offerings like jerk chicken and coconut rice often grilled right on the sand.
Mexico City, Mexico
While September is part of the rainy season in Mexico City, the rain usually falls only briefly in the afternoon or evening, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the outdoors. Check out the local markets or explore Chapultepec Park, one of the largest city parks in the Western Hemisphere, home to a zoo, a lake with opportunities for paddleboarding, multiple museums, and a big amusement park. Free performances are often hosted here, like the mesmerizing 600-year-old Dance of the Flying Men. If the rain gets too heavy (and even if it doesn’t), you won’t want to miss the National Museum of Anthropology. It’s so big it would be easy to spend an entire day here, as Mexico’s largest and most-visited institution.
Shannon, Ireland
Dublin isn’t the only option if you’re thinking about Ireland. You can avoid much of the hassle by flying into Shannon on the west coast, with nonstops available from multiple U.S. cities, including Boston and New York City. It will also put you close to some of the top attractions in the Emerald Isle, including Bunratty Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, The Burren, and ferries to the Aran Islands known for their Old World feel with residents here speaking the Irish language in addition to English.
Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Banff is within easy reach of the U.S. whether you want to drive across the border or fly into Calgary International Airport and then make the 90-minute drive west. The town itself sits within the national park, nestled in a valley surrounded by soaring mountains, jewel-hued lakes, canyons, and hot springs, with opportunities to spot abundant wildlife, from bears to moose. Early September often brings idyllic weather for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, climbing, caving, and zip-line rides, while the Banff Gondola provides a bird’s-eye view over it all, including enchanting Lake Louise with its surreal turquoise waters.
