I know this is probably the last thing you want to hear, but unfortunately, summer is almost over. That means it’s almost time to settle back into the normal rigors of life – school, work, strict schedules. However, before you return to life as you know it, there is still one last extended weekend to look forward to: Labor Day! This holiday generally marks the unofficial end of the summer and the closing of all of the local pools in town, so why not squeeze in one last weekend get-away and live it up a little? Here is a list of 7 last-minute travel plans to consider for this upcoming Labor Day weekend.
1. Explore a nearby city.
As simple as this sounds, often times some really great adventures exist in a town or city right next to you. Take the weekend, book a small cabin, campsite, or even hotel, and just enjoy the weekend walking around, sightseeing, and seeing what this nearby destination has to offer. Experience new shops, new restaurants, new landmarks, and new points of interest. Despite the closeness in proximity, you’d be surprised by the tremendous differences that can be found
between towns as far as culture, community, and the like.
2. Travel to The Big Apple.
Small, nearby towns don’t sound very appealing to you? How about taking a trip to The Big Apple? Flights to New York City are typically 7% cheaper on Labor Day weekend, so if you’ve never gotten a chance to get out and experience this amazing city, now is certainly the best time for it! Whether you’re looking to get a taste of the fine dining, wanting to experience the shopping and entertainment district, or just hoping to catch a glimpse of landmarks like the Empire State Building or Ground Zero, there are so many exciting and memorable destinations within New York City.
3. Spend the day at a State Fair.
Caramel apples, cotton candy, rides, arcades, food and craft vendors, petting zoos, tractor pulls, demolition derbies, pig races, and so much more! If all of this sounds appealing to you, then a State Fair might be the perfect Labor Day celebration for you. What’s more is that they are perfect for families with young children, or even for couples looking to add a little fun to their relationship!
4. If you prefer, spend the day at an amusement park.
Perhaps you like the idea of the fair, but you could do without the sweet, sweet aroma of cow poop and monster truck exhaust. If this is the case, then a theme park or an amusement park might be more your cup of tea. Theme parks and amusement parks typically contain lots of rides, tons of food options, and some even include a water park (although this section might be closed down at this time of year, so be sure to do your research). Amusement parks are relatively inexpensive and it’s super easy to find something to do here for everybody (hence the name “amusement” park). They are an overall great getaway option for the entire family!
5. Go camping in a National Park.
If you prefer a more serene vacation without the bright lights, loud noises, and chaos, you may want to consider a scenic voyage to one of the many National Parks spread all throughout the country. Parks, in general, are a great way to get outside and enjoy the weather while connecting with yourself and with nature at the same time. While hiking, biking, kayaking, or whatever you decide to do during this time away, you can experience some incredible views and opportunities that we often take for granted in our daily busy lives. Bring a tent or fall asleep under the stars – either way, camping in a National Park is a great way to really relax before the summer is over.
6. Take a road trip to a beach.
Life’s a beach. Okay, maybe in reality, it’s not. But you should still definitely spend as much time at the beach as possible, and what better way is there to say goodbye to the summer than by laying out, catching some rays, and listening to the crash of the waves against the shore? Grab a pail and shovel from the local dollar store and let the kids build majestic sand castles while you get the last tan lines you’ll have for the next 6-months. Whether it’s an ocean beach or a lake beach, beaches are all over the place and are usually free (or at least very inexpensive). If there isn’t one close by, make the road trip part of the adventure and do a little sightseeing along the way!
7. Viva Las Vegas.
Looking for something bigger and brighter? Head to Las Vegas! Your time this Labor Day weekend is limited, and you want to be sure to get it all in, so why not visit this amazing city that is literally open all night long? Vegas has a pool, a buffet, and a bar at pretty much every hotel you can find, or you can try your luck at one of the many casino poker tables in this beautiful city. As pricey as Vegas may seem, the hotels during holiday times are actually quite a bit cheaper than other times. Also, it’s not a very common Labor Day weekend getaway destination, so the pools won’t be as crowded and there won’t be as much waiting at the roulette tables!
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