Looking for Labor Day weekend inspiration? Plan your trip with my recommendations for the best Labor Day weekend trips to end the summer with a bang.
In this guide, I’ve included some of my favorite places to golf, sunbathe, hike, and enjoy a night on the town. I’ve also included suggestions based on KAYAK data for travelers looking to explore trending destinations and get good deals from the busiest airports. Let’s dive in.
Where can I go for cheap?
The good news for travelers looking for affordable Labor Day getaways in 2025? There are plenty of excellent flight deals available, both to domestic destinations and those abroad. Below, the cheapest place to travel on Labor Day weekend in the US, with average flights less than $300.
Which destinations are trending in 2025 for Labor Day weekend getaways?
For Labor Day 2025, the following US cities are the top five destinations for travelers, according to data from KAYAK’s Summer Travel Check-In. Fortunately, several of these cities offer a significant drop in prices compared to 2024.
Flights to Las Vegas, for example, are 18% cheaper than last year, while those to New York follow close behind at 17% cheaper. And Seattle-bound travelers can get in on the savings, too: Flights to this popular Pacific Northwest hub are 8% lower than they were in 2024.
Labor Day weekend getaways in the great outdoors.
Whether you’re a beach lover or prefer the mountains, Labor Day offers an excellent time to enjoy the great outdoors — and summer’s last hurrah. Here, my picks for the best Labor Day weekend trips that active-minded travelers will love, from coast to coast.
Lake of the Ozarks, MO: For Labor Day fishing trips.
Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks is a popular spot among anglers, especially for catching catfish or bass. Recommended spots to cast your line include Lake of the Ozarks State Park and Ha Ha Tonka State Park. Newbies also can consider booking a fishing charter with an experienced guide.
Visitors can also rent a boat for fishing as well as exploring the lake. Both parks also offer plenty of other activities such as hiking, horseback riding and biking.
Pictured Rocks, MI: For Labor Day weekend hiking.
Labor Day weekend is a great time to visit Pictured Rocks in Northern Michigan. As summer winds down, the foliage is beginning to change but temps are still mild. Spend your long weekend hiking at Pictured Rocks National Park on the shores of Lake Superior, where you’ll find plenty of short trails ideal for beginners.
For more advanced hikers, try heading to Mosquito Beach, which is a little over 4 miles away. The park also permits apple and berry picking, which can be a fun activity with (or without) kids. Afterward, take a boat cruise or stop by one of the charming boutiques or craft shops in nearby Munising.
Greenville, SC: For a Labor Day getaway perfect for golfers or cyclists.
South Carolina offers warm weather ideal for golfers. The state is also home to some of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses in the US. You’ll find numerous options and around Greenville, where you can put your golf skills to the test. Biking is big here, too, both for recreational riders and more serious cyclists, with dedicated bike lanes and plenty of long-distance routes frequented by the pros.
When it’s time for a break or a bite to eat, Downtown Greenville is a lovely spot brimming with restaurants, bars, and boutiques along the Reedy River.
Budget-friendly Labor Day weekend getaways.
While the holiday is indeed a popular time for a trip, Labor Day weekend getaways don’t have to break the budget. With a bit of advance planning, savvy travelers can enjoy some time away without worrying about high costs. Here, my top picks for the cheapest places to travel for Labor Day weekend this year.
Atlantic City, NJ: For a budget-friendly getaway in the Northeast.
Around Labor Day, temperatures start to cool down in the Northeast. Visitors can also take advantage of end-of-summer deals on budget-friendly hotel deals in Atlantic City, NJ. Visitors can try their luck in one of the city’s casinos — but you don’t even have to win big to enjoy an upscale meal at one of its many fine dining spots.
The end-of-summer weather is still ideal for savoring the amusement park along the boardwalk. A Ferris wheel, carousel, and traditional carnival games all but guarantee fun for the whole family. Atlantic City is also just a short drive from Pennsylvania and Delaware for travelers who want to extend their trip.
San Diego, CA: For a budget-friendly, Cali-style Labor Day Weekend.
Nicknamed America’s Finest City, this beloved SoCal hotspot beckons for an idyllic long weekend getaway, with plenty of free or low-cost ways to soak up the West Coast vibe. First of all, there’s the beach: San Diego County boasts more than 70 miles of coastline with free access (you may have to pay for parking). When hunger strikes, plenty of options for food trucks and fast casual dining let you dig into the local dining culture (fish tacos, anyone?) without spending a fortune.
Meanwhile, San Diego’s neighborhoods are delightfully unique, each offering its own distinct flavor. Hop on a bike (or simply stroll around on foot) for another free way to explore the city. Finally, one attraction well worth shelling out for (especially for first-time visitors): a trip to the world-famous San Diego Zoo.
Washington, DC: For an affordable Labor Day Weekend getaway in the nation’s capital.
A weekend trip to Washington, DC, can be surprisingly affordable if you take advantage of the many free activities and museums on offer. To start, check out several public landmarks on the National Mall, such as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Washington Monument.
You can also tour the Smithsonian, the world’s largest museum, research and education complex, which also includes the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden (access is free). While you’re in the nation’s capital, take in the beauty of the Potomac River with a walk along the 12-mile Anacostia Riverwalk Trail — which is also free.
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, many near the famous Lambeau Field.
Packers fans won’t want to miss a stadium tour of world-famous Lambeau Field and the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame and Museum for a more budget-friendly option that will still give you your Packers fix. Cheeseheads also can walk or take a bike ride along the Packers Heritage Trail, a free tour of 25 landmark locations brimming with history about the team and its fans.
But there’s plenty more to Green Bay than its beloved football team. The city also has a lovely botanical garden, performing arts center, and zoo, just to name a few highlights.
Best Labor Day weekend getaways for nightlife.
If you’re ready to let your hair down over Labor Day weekend, these destinations deliver with excellent bars, restaurants, and nightlife.
New Orleans, LA: For great food and music.
Labor Day is a great time to visit New Orleans for music lovers. In addition to live concerts and fall festivals such as Southern Decadence, New Orleans is home to numerous jazz, blues, and live music clubs. Many clubs feature top DJs and stylish cocktails.
The Big Easy is also world-famous for its outstanding cuisine, with signature dishes like gumbo crawfish. And after a long night out, you can’t beat Nola favorites like strong chicory coffee and beignets to knock out the cobwebs in the morning.
If you want to be near the action, book a hotel in the French Quarter (but keep in mind that Bourbon Street can be a bit rowdy). Properties in the beautiful Garden District, meanwhile, may offer a more relaxed stay.
Las Vegas, Nevada: An end-of-summer getaway in Sin City.
For an epic, end-of-summer getaway all but guaranteed to make memories, there’s no better place than Vegas, baby. In May, the city celebrated its 120th anniversary, which makes it a fine time to round up your most fun travel buddies for a weekend of whatever your hearts desire. Casino and club hopping, culinary indulgences, or world-class shows: It’s all here in its magnificent, over-the-top glory.
While The Strip is the celebrated epicenter for nightlife, a visit to its historic downtown is highly recommended, too. The Fremont Street area in recent years has unveiled a remarkable renovation and restoration that has brought new life to its old school casinos, bars, and restaurants.
Nashville, TN: For a Labor Day weekend in Music City.
Nashville is no longer just the world’s country music capital. The city’s booming music scene has expanded in recent years to include rock, pop, jazz, and blues. Wherever you stay, you’ll have oodles of options for live performances in Music City.
Beyond music, Nashville boasts countless breweries, wineries, and old-fashioned saloons. For easy access to its nightlife, book your hotel near Lower Broadway Street. By day, don’t miss visiting the world-famous Grand Ole Opry for a tour, as well as backstage access where you’ll can see memorabilia from renowned country singers through the decades.
Nashville also is home to several notable colleges, including Vanderbilt University, with many sports bars and restaurants close to campus — a solid option for twenty-something travelers who want to mingle with a college-age crowd.
Chicago, IL: For an end-of-summer getaway to Chi-Town.
In Chicago, there’s always a party happening, no matter what day of the week it is. For easy access to the Windy City’s hottest bars and nightclubs, book a room near Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs.
Whether you prefer a sophisticated rooftop bar or casual pub, this neighborhood is the city’s nightlife hotspot. Venues cater to every taste and preference, with plenty of options for salsa or hip-hop clubs, too. For a special night, book a seat on one of Chicago’s lively party cruises, where cocktails and top tunes flow all night on the city’s waterways.
Laid-back, sun-centric Labor Day weekend getaways.
For Labor Day weekend getaways full of sun, sand, and downtime, these destinations fit the bill. In addition to their prime locations on beautiful coastlines, you’ll find plenty to do beyond the beach, from boardwalk strolls to excellent seafood restaurants.
Topsail Island, NC: For a Labor Day escape with ocean views.
A 26-mile barrier island off the North Carolina’s coast, Topsail Island is a popular spot for Labor Day weekend getaways. Relaxing on the beach is always a winning option (but beware that the surf can be high, so keep an eye on little ones). Topsail also is a great place for finding shells and shark teeth.
And about those lookout towers perched along the coastline: They’re a testament to Topsail’s history as a guided missile testing site after World War II. Some towers have even been renovated into beach houses.
If you can swing it budget-wise, book a room with ocean views and a balcony, perfect for soaking up the island’s stunning sunsets.
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.)
Bainbridge is a lovely option for a leisurely weekend when you’re craving an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. But don’t plan on being bored. In addition to abundant outdoor offerings (kayaking, biking, and sailing, to name a few), the destination boasts local wineries, boutiques, and art galleries; there’s a great historical museum, too.
Destin, FL: End-of-summer fun on Florida’s Emerald Coast.
This Panhandle beach town — located on Florida’s Emerald Coast, so named for its gem-colored water — is an excellent family-friendly destination for a Labor Day weekend getaway.
The beach is the star of the show here: Destin boasts miles of spectacular, sugar-white sand coastline that rivals its Caribbean counterparts. Anglers also will find plenty to keep them busy; after all, Destin’s nickname is “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” There are plenty of options for full- and half-day fishing charters, as well as boat tours for snorkeling, dolphin viewing, and more.
When you’ve had your fill of sand, sun, and surf, check out one of the town’s beloved bars or seafood restaurants. Two perennial favorites among locals: AJ’s, located right in Destin Harbor, and a few miles down the beach, The Back Porch.
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.
