It’s the weekend that marks the end of your summer white wardrobe, but it’s also the perfect excuse to bid adieu to summer in a fun, new destination.
Check out our picks for stellar destinations to visit this Labor Day weekend.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Nothing says Americana summer like the mini-golf courses, water parks, daiquiri bars and t-shirt shops of Myrtle Beach, so it’s the quintessential destination to wave goodbye to the season. Its coastal vibe hits heavy on the outdoor activities. This Labor Day weekend, attend the 5th annual Beach, Boogie, and BBQ Festival in Grand Park and take advantage of the barbecue competition. With car shows, arcades, food vendors, and constant live entertainment, there’s no shortage of things to do in Myrtle Beach.
Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
They’re not really mountains (they’re actually dissected plateaus), and the lake is actually a human-made structure – but Ozarks and its surrounding environment create an idyllic atmosphere for natural refuge. The area peaks during summer months with championship golf and serious fishing, but travelers looking to simply relax can hop in and out of waterfront hotels and restaurants, visit a winery or unwind at a nearby spa. The area has it all, and is perfect for both families and nightlife-seekers.
Washington, DC
A variety of music hits the streets of the country’s capital this Labor Day weekend. See the National Symphony Orchestra perform a free concert on the West Lawn of the US Capitol, or check out the DC Blues Festival that Saturday, Sept. 4 at the Carter Barron Amphitheater. Beatles fans can also revel in Abbey Road on the River from Sept. 2-6, where more than 50 bands from around the world play tribute to the fabulous foursome.
Fire Island, New York
Just off the eastern tip of Long Island, Fire Island makes a brilliant alternative to the Hamptons. Strutting a chilled-out vibe that translates into cycling, boardwalk-strolling, and lounging on the beach, the island is the ultimate destination for travelers looking to completely disconnect. No cars are allowed, so forget the traffic and exhaust of typical vacation islands. When you’re looking to check back into civilization, find Ocean Beach, where you’ll find a plethora of hotels, restaurants and bars.
Block Island, Rhode Island
Block Island hangs out with the smallest state in the country, but it packs a big punch when it comes to warm weather reverie. Spend Labor Day in New Shoreham to be within walking distance of beaches, stores and bars. During the day, explore the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs on the southeast side, or stroll through the sand and unspoiled nature of the shore. At night, take pleasure in the charm of coastal nightlife.
San Diego, California
Flip flops and surfboards – two icons that pretty much sum up the attitude of this SoCal city. If you’re celebrating Labor Day by longing for more summer, this is the place to do it. Ride the ocean-front roller coaster of Mission Beach, or see the San Diego Symphony play in Seaport Village. Go from laid-back La Jolla beaches to gussied up cocktails in Gaslamp to experience San Diego on all cylinders.
Detroit, Michigan
If you’re dancing to the beat of your own tune this Labor Day weekend, you might want to consider catching the 31st annual Detroit Jazz festival. Tributes to artists like Art Blakey, Ray Brown, Miles Davis, Horace Silver, Betty Carter and Gil Evans along with performances by jazz groups, school ensembles and choirs will rock Motor City for three days straight. Top it all off with the Labor Day parade on Monday.
Sausalito, California
Just outside of San Francisco, Sausalito stands as a timeless picture of summer in the Pacific Northwest. Come this Labor Day weekend for the 58th Annual Art Festival, which brings together big names from the contemporary art scene and displays their work along the shores of the California coast. Explore the historic waterfront and its distinct art galleries and shops, and even meet the artists one-on-one.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Every weekend is a party in Las Vegas, but from Sept. 3-6, Sin City will light up in a pool party extravaganza. The Strip expects 2 million visitors, and is handing out VIP passes and hotel discounts for smart travelers that plan ahead. Check out events at nightclubs like Pure, Vanity, Jet, and Tao, and spend your days at pool parties of Wet Republic, Rehab, and Bare. There’s also a lineup of celebrities and DJs that will soon be announced.
Great Falls, Montana
If you’re in the mood to wave goodbye to summer in au natural fashion, consider Great Falls, Montana. Getting a dose of the Old West will bring you back to the days of Lewis and Clark. See river canyons and white sandstone cliffs, and spend time on the water fly-fishing, white-water rafting, kayaking and canoeing. For history buffs, there are plenty of museums and cultural tours, as well as seven Native American reservations to learn about. For the site’s claim to fame, hike to the famous series of five waterfalls that gave Great Falls its name.
