With the unofficial end of summer around the corner, we think it’s worth spending those final sun-filled days doing what you love. From listening to jazz in the Rockies to lounging on the beach in Laguna, here are the best places to spend Labor Day this year.
For Beach Lovers: Laguna Beach, California
Spend the final days of summer on the sunny beaches and crystal coves of SoCal. Stay at one of the town’s quaint beachfront hotels like the Montage Laguna Beach or the Inn at Laguna Beach. When you’re done enjoying the surf and sand, check out a local production at the Laguna Playhouse, art at the Laguna Art-A-Fair and dine at local hotspot Las Brisas.
For Boat Lovers: St. Michaels, Maryland
Located on Maryland’s Eastern shore, this hidden gem is a favorite among sailors and foodies alike. Stay at the charming Inn at Perry Island while spending the weekend enjoying food and wine tastings and sailing the picturesque Chesapeake Bay. On August 31, the 22nd Annual Charity Boat Auction at the Maritime Museum packs in a day of BBQ, entertainment and more than 70 donated boats waiting to be auctioned off. But whatever you do, don’t leave town without sampling world-famous Chesapeake Bay crabs at The Crab Claw.
For Music Lovers: Panama City Beach, Florida
A little bit of beach, a little bit of country. Panama City Beach hosts two epic beachfront music festivals during the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam August 30-September 1 at Frank Brown Park. Thousands of country music fans will gather to listen to Tim McGraw, Jason Aldean, Kid Rock, and other big names.
For a Romantic Getaway: Charleston, South Carolina
Experience quintessential southern charm in Charleston with antebellum mansions, beautiful beaches, and award-winning cuisine. Beyond candlelit dinners and carriage rides, Labor Day brings even more activities to the Holy City. From the Cast off Fishing Tournament to the Jam on the Water Music series, there’s no shortage of excitement in the air. For the perfect end to your weekend, don’t miss Sunset at Fort Sumter. With BBQ, rich history presentations, and unsurpassed sunsets, you’ll discover why this historical gem was voted “Top City” in the USA by Conde Nast.
For Thrill Seekers: Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando, Florida
Adventure-seekers will get an adrenaline rush as they chose their own heart-pumping music before the 90-degree vertical climb, drop and 65 mph race on Hollywood’s RipRide Rockit. Muggles and wizards alike experience the magic of Harry Potter along with Universal Orlando Resort’s newest coaster, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. If all the excitement gets too hot to handle, cool off on thrilling water slides or relax under swaying palms at Universal Volcano Bay, a water theme park like nothing you’ve ever experienced.
For Mountain Lovers: Aspen, Colorado
Aspen makes a great Labor Day weekend getaway. Besides the breathtaking mountains and fresh, crisp air, the famous Jazz Aspen Snowmass features intimate jazz performances in multiple venues around Aspen. This year’s performers include Sting, John Mayer, Wheezer and more. Ajax Tavern’s 8th annual Rocky Mountain Oyster Festival serves up plenty of food and fun including a raw bar, BBQ favorites, wine, beer, live music, dancing, and silent auctions.
For Family Fun: Crystal River, Florida
Grab your mask, snorkel and mesh bag and head off on a scavenger hunt unlike no other in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, as you search for delicious bay scallops. Take your fresh catch home or have a local restaurant cook them to perfection. Charter boats with knowledgeable captains are available for hire, you may even spot a few friendly manatees hanging out in the nearby springs. It’s a Florida favorite activity for the entire family.
For Wine Lovers: Sonoma, California
Gourmands and oenophiles alike will relish in wine and food exploration at the Taste of Sonoma. Sample hundreds of wines and culinary delights, created by celebrated local chefs, on the beautiful grounds of Sonoma State University. Along with tastings from the county’s 18 regions, you’ll have the opportunity to talk with winemakers, learn wine and food pairing tips and listen to music at THE event of the year.
Where ever your Labor Day plans takes you, spend time doing what you love and giving summer a spectacular send-off as the cooler fall air awaits.
