Looking for some Labor Day weekend inspiration? Plan your trip with my recommendations for a Labor Day getaway and end the summer with a bang.
In this guide, I’ve included some of my favorite places to golf, sunbathe, hike, and celebrate a night on the town. It also features budget-friendly options, some great family getaways, and places to avoid the crowds.
Labor weekend getaways in the great outdoors
If you enjoy spending time exploring outside these are the destinations for you.
Lake of the Ozarks, MO: For Labor Day fishing trips
Head to Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri to catch some catfish or bass. Great places to cast your line include the Lake of the Ozarks State Park and the Ha Ha Tonka State Park. In addition to fishing from the bank, you can rent a boat and try to land your catch in the middle of the lake.
If you’re new to the sport, consider booking a fishing charter with a guide who knows the best fishing spots on the lake. Both of these parks also offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy other activities, such as hiking, horseback riding, or biking.
Pictured Rocks, MI: For Labor Day weekend hiking
Labor Day weekend is a great time to visit Pictured Rocks in Northern Michigan. At this time of year, the foliage is beginning to change and the temperature is comfortable. Spend your long weekend hiking at Pictured Rocks National Park on the shores of Lake Superior, where you’ll find plenty of short trails for beginners.
For more advanced hikers, try heading out from the parking lot to Mosquito Beach, which is a little over 4 miles. The park also permits apple and berry picking, which can be a fun activity with (or without) kids. After your hike, take a boat cruise or stop by one of the charming boutiques or craft shops in nearby Munising.
Greenville, SC: For a Labor Day golf getaway
South Carolina offers near-perfect weather for golfers. It’s not too hot and not too cold, but just right. The state is also home to some of the most beautiful but challenging golf courses in the US. Most golfers know about Hilton Head, which is one of my favorite places to golf. But did you know the BMW Charity Pro-Am was held in Greenville, SC in 2023? You’ll find numerous golf courses in and around the city of Greenville, where you can put your golf skills to the test.
Budget-friendly Labor Day weekend getaways
If you are on a budget, but you still want to make the most out of your Labor Weekend, here are my top picks.
Atlantic City, NJ: For a budget-friendly getaway in the Northeast
Around Labor Day, temperatures start to cool down in the Northeast. As the summer comes to an end, you’ll also find some great budget-friendly hotel deals in Atlantic City, NJ. During your Labor Day Weekend getaway to Atlantic City, try your luck in the casino or dine at one of its many fine-dining spots.
Crucially, this time of year still has decent enough weather to enjoy the amusement park along the boardwalk. There you’ll find a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and traditional carnival games, making it the perfect spot for the whole family.
Atlantic City is also just a short drive from Pennsylvania and Delaware if you want to add more locations to your visited states map.
Washington, DC: For an affordable Labor Day Weekend Getaway in the Capital
A weekend trip to Washington, DC, can be surprisingly inexpensive if you take advantage of the many free activities on offer. For example, there are numerous landmarks on the National Mall, such as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Washington Monument.
You can also tour the Smithsonian and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. And, of course, visiting the White House is free, though bear in mind that it’s closed on Sundays and Federal holidays. While you’re in DC, take in the beauty of the Potomac River with a walk along the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail.
Green Bay, WI: For a budget-friendly Labor Day weekend getaway in the Midwest
Spend some time in the Midwest during Labor Day weekend at Green Bay, Wisconsin. Green Bay has several budget-friendly hotels, with many near the famous Lambeau Stadium.
Big Packers fan? Getting a ticket to the game can be expensive, but you can book a tour of Lambeau Stadium and the Green Bay Packer Museum while in the city if that’s a little out of your price range.
If you’re a true Cheesehead, you can also learn more about the Packers on a walk through the Packers Heritage Trail. The city also has a lovely botanical garden, a performing arts center, and a zoo.
Best Labor Day weekend getaways for nightlife
Let your hair down and enjoy some music at these party-ready Labor Day weekend destinations.
New Orleans, LA: For great food and music
Labor Day is a great time to visit New Orleans for music lovers. In addition to several live concerts and fall festivals such as Southern Decadence, New Orleans is home to numerous jazz, blues, and live music clubs.
Many of the clubs also feature top DJs, offer stylish cocktails on the menu, and provide plenty of room for dancers to move to the beat. If you want to be near the action, book a hotel on Bourbon Street or in the French Quarter.
New Orleans is also world-famous for its great food, with dishes like gumbo, crawfish, and beignets. Make sure to sample them all while you’re in town.
Nashville, TN: For a Labor Day weekend in Music City
Nashville is not just about country music anymore. In recent years, the music scene here has expanded to include rock, pop, jazz, and blues. Wherever you stay, it’s never hard to find a place to listen to great live music in Music City.
The city is home to several colleges, including Vanderbilt University, with many sports bars by the campus.
This is a great place to hang out if you want to party with a younger crowd.
There are also countless breweries, wineries, and old-fashioned saloons in Nashville. Book your hotel near Lower Broadway Street to be near the party scene. In the daytime, stop by the Grand Old Opry for a tour. They’ll take you backstage where you’ll get to see memorabilia of some of the greatest country singers.
Chicago, IL: For a getaway to Chi-Town
Are you a big nightlife fan? In Chicago, there’s always a party going on somewhere, no matter what day of the week it is. Book a room in a hotel near Wrigley Field, where the Chicago Cubs baseball team plays. You’ll find many of the hottest bars and nightclubs in this part of the city.
Whether you prefer a sophisticated rooftop bar or a casual pub, this is the place to come. It’s also a great spot for salsa or hip-hop dancing, with nightclubs catering to every taste and preference. For a special night, book a seat on one of Chicago’s lively party cruises, where the cocktails and top tunes flow all night.
Sunny and relaxing Labor Day weekend getaways
Looking for something more relaxing this Labor Day? Check out these destinations for a chilled sunny getaway.
Topsail Island, NC: For a Labor Day escape with ocean views
You’ll appreciate the breathtaking ocean views while vacationing on Topsail Island during your Labor Day weekend getaway. Grab a good book and walk to the beach to spend the day on the sand, where you can lie in the sun while listening to the crashing waves and breathing in the salty ocean air.
If you book a room with views of the ocean and a balcony, you can take in the gorgeous vistas while sipping on a glass of Champagne. I’d also recommend going for a relaxing stroll on Jolly Roger Pier while taking a moment for a spot of meditation.
Bainbridge Island, WA: For a relaxing island getaway near Seattle
Hop on the ferry from Seattle to reach idyllic Bainbridge Island, where the crossing takes about 45 minutes. My top tip? Book a night ferry to enjoy mesmerizing views of Seattle’s glittering skyline.
This island is a great place to visit when you’re looking to escape the hectic hustle and bustle of city life, and want some time to slow down and live in the present.
After taking a midday nap, do some wine tasting at one of the local wineries or explore the boutiques for a spot of shopping. There are also contemporary art galleries and a great historical museum.
Destin, FL: For some fun in the sun
Destin, FL is a great option if you’re looking for a great place to take the kids for a family Labor Day weekend getaway. Spend one day frolicking on the beach, and the next taking a long, leisurely stroll along the boardwalk.
There you’ll find several eateries and shops, ziplining, jetskiing, and paddleboarding opportunites. In Destin, you can also scratch a few things off your bucket list, such as parasailing or swimming with dolphins.
I hope these travel ideas have inspired you to plan your perfect Labor Day weekend getaway. It’s worth noting that hotels and flights sell out quickly over the Labor Day weekend. To find the best deals, make your travel plans early.