Labor Day weekend marks the end of summer and offers a perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy a long break before the fall season begins. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or family-friendly activities, there are plenty of ways to make the most of this holiday. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do on Labor Day weekend, along with specific locations that are ideal for each activity.
Our Top 10 Things to do this Labor Day
- Explore Local Festivals
- Hit the Beach
- Plan a Camping Trip
- Host a Backyard Barbecue
- Visit a National Park
- Take a Road Trip
- Attend a Sports Event
- Explore a New City
- Enjoy Outdoor Activities
- Relax at a Spa
1. Explore Local Festivals
Local festivals abound during Labor Day weekend, celebrating everything from music and food to arts and crafts. For an unforgettable experience, head to the Bumbershoot Festival in Seattle, Washington, which features an eclectic mix of music, comedy, and arts. This festival is perfect for those who enjoy a cultural scene and want to experience Seattle’s unique artistic vibe.
Alternatively, check out the Chicago Jazz Festival in Illinois for some incredible live performances. Known for its rich history in jazz music, Chicago offers a phenomenal setting for music lovers to enjoy world-class jazz in the picturesque setting of Millennium Park.
Attending local festivals is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and make the most of the Labor Day weekend festivities. Here is a comprehensive US Festival Guide to help you out.
2. Hit the Beach
If you’re near the coast, Labor Day weekend is an excellent time for a beach getaway. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina offers sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball, along with special events like fireworks shows. With its wide sandy shores and family-friendly atmosphere, Myrtle Beach is a great destination for those looking to relax and enjoy the ocean.
Another excellent choice is Santa Monica Beach in California, famous for its iconic pier and boardwalk. Here, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as biking along the beachfront, playing arcade games on the pier, and dining at waterfront restaurants.
Spending time at the beach is an ideal way to soak up the last rays of summer sunshine and create lasting memories with family and friends.
3. Plan a Camping Trip
Escape the city and immerse yourself in nature with a camping trip. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling North Carolina and Tennessee, provides stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. The park’s vast network of hiking trails and scenic viewpoints make it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
For a coastal camping experience, consider Acadia National Park in Maine, where you can enjoy hiking and breathtaking ocean views. Acadia’s unique landscape of rocky coastlines, dense forests, and serene lakes offers a tranquil retreat for those looking to connect with nature.
Camping during Labor Day weekend allows you to unplug from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the peacefulness of the great outdoors.
4. Host a Backyard Barbecue
Celebrate with friends and family by hosting a classic backyard barbecue. If you’re in Austin, Texas, take advantage of the local barbecue culture and grill up some delicious fare. Austin’s reputation for exceptional barbecue means you can find high-quality meats and unique recipes to impress your guests.
Kansas City, Missouri is also known for its barbecue, making it an ideal place to stock up on supplies for your gathering. Set up lawn games like cornhole or frisbee to keep everyone entertained, and consider preparing a variety of dishes to cater to all tastes.
A backyard barbecue is a simple yet enjoyable way to bring people together and savor the end of summer.
5. Visit a National Park
Labor Day weekend is a fantastic time to explore one of America’s stunning national parks. Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming offers geothermal wonders and diverse wildlife. With its famous geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife, Yellowstone provides an awe-inspiring adventure for visitors of all ages.
Yosemite National Park in California is renowned for its majestic peaks and scenic trails. Known for iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome, Yosemite is a haven for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers.
Be sure to check for any special programs or ranger-led tours that might be available, as these can enhance your experience and provide deeper insights into the natural wonders of the parks.
6. Take a Road Trip
Pack up the car and hit the open road for a memorable road trip. Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway in California for breathtaking coastal views, stopping at picturesque towns and scenic overlooks along the way. The route offers numerous opportunities for sightseeing, dining, and exploring the natural beauty of the California coastline.
Alternatively, explore the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina, known for its stunning mountain vistas and charming small towns. This scenic drive provides a peaceful escape with plenty of spots for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the lush landscapes.
Road trips offer the flexibility to explore at your own pace and create spontaneous adventures.
7. Attend a Sports Event
For sports enthusiasts, Labor Day weekend often coincides with exciting events. Head to New York City to catch a U.S. Open tennis match, where you can witness top athletes compete in one of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments. The electric atmosphere of the U.S. Open, combined with the energy of New York City, makes for an unforgettable experience.
Alternatively, visit Indianapolis, Indiana for the annual NHRA U.S. Nationals drag racing event. Known as one of the biggest events in drag racing, the U.S. Nationals attract fans from all over to witness high-speed thrills and impressive performances.
Check your local sports schedule and grab tickets to cheer on your favorite team or athlete, making the most of the exciting sports action during the holiday weekend.
8. Explore a New City
If you’re up for a bit of travel, consider exploring a new city. Nashville, Tennessee offers music scenes and southern charm. Known as the “Music City,” Nashville is home to legendary venues like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame, making it a must-visit for music lovers.
San Francisco, California is perfect for exploring iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, scenic waterfront, and rich cultural history provide endless opportunities for exploration.
Discovering a new place can be invigorating and memorable, offering a fresh perspective and unique experiences. For more city escape ideas, take a look at our suggestions for 9 Places To Go For Labor Day.
9. Enjoy Outdoor Adventures
Labor Day weekend is perfect for outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or biking. In Denver, Colorado, you can rent equipment and explore scenic mountain trails or waterways. Denver’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Lake Tahoe, straddling California and Nevada, is another fantastic option for water sports and breathtaking landscapes. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe, surrounded by majestic mountains, provide a stunning backdrop for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other outdoor adventures.
These activities are great for both adventure seekers and those looking to enjoy nature at a leisurely pace.
10. Relax at a Spa
For those seeking relaxation, a day at the spa can be incredibly rejuvenating. Sedona, Arizona is famous for its luxury spas and healing red rock landscapes. The tranquil environment of Sedona, combined with its top-notch spa facilities, makes it a perfect destination for a wellness retreat.
Alternatively, visit Hot Springs, Arkansas, known for its historic bathhouses and therapeutic thermal waters. The natural hot springs of this charming town offer a soothing escape, allowing you to unwind and recharge.
Treat yourself to a massage, facial, or soak in a hot tub, and take advantage of special packages and discounts that many spas offer for the holiday weekend.
What is Labor Day?
Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States, celebrated on the first Monday in September each year. This holiday honors the contributions and achievements of American workers and serves as a tribute to the labor movement’s role in shaping the nation’s economic and social progress.
The origins of Labor Day date back to the late 19th century, a time of significant industrial growth in the United States. The labor movement was gaining momentum, advocating for fair wages, reasonable working hours, and safer working conditions. The first Labor Day parade took place on September 5, 1882, in New York City, organized by the Central Labor Union. This event aimed to bring together various labor organizations and demonstrate their solidarity.
Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894, following a push from labor unions and widespread support from the American public. The legislation was signed into law by President Grover Cleveland, making it an official day of recognition for the nation’s workers.
Today, Labor Day not only commemorates the struggles and achievements of the labor movement but also marks the unofficial end of summer. It is celebrated with various activities, including parades, picnics, and festivals, offering Americans a chance to relax and enjoy a long weekend with family and friends.
So whether you choose to relax at home, embark on an outdoor adventure, or explore a new destination, the key is to enjoy the time off and create lasting memories.
Before you jet off, pre-book your airport parking with AirportParkingReservations.com. Plan ahead, stay safe, and make the most of this well-deserved holiday weekend.
Happy Labor Day!
Photos by: Brett Sayles – Pexels | Rich Font – Unsplash | Scott Goodwill – Unsplash | Jo Jo – Unsplash | Akshay Reddy – Unsplash | Will Truettner – Unsplash | Dylan Freedom – Unsplash | Tanner Boriack – Unsplash | Harrison Fitts – Unsplash | Andrea Piacquadio – Pexels
