8 affordable Labor Day weekend getaways

End-of-summer vacation destinations that won’t break the bank.

Published August 2023

Downtown New Orleans trolly system.

For several destinations, Labor Day is the final opportunity to enjoy the summer weather before the season changes to fall and the days get shorter. Many people take advantage of the three-day holiday weekend with one last trip before summer sunsets.

According to Vacasa’s 2023 Summer Travel Trends report, 41% of Americans will travel for Labor Day weekend. Labor Day vacation hotspots include a variety of beaches, urban destinations, national parks and attraction-based destinations, so no matter your preference, there’s an affordable option.

If you're looking to book last-minute travel plans, we’ve got you covered. We compiled a list of the most affordable destinations to visit during Labor Day weekend, and here’s what we found.

1. Orlando, Florida

Bask in Central Florida’s warm weather by visiting Orlando, the theme park capital of the world. Even if theme parks aren’t exactly your thing, Orlando offers a variety of activities to meet every traveler’s needs—from foodies to retail therapists to art enthusiasts.

2. Cape Canaveral, Florida

Situated on Florida’s Space Coast, Cape Canaveral is the home of the Kennedy Space Center, the hub of the nation’s space program. Housing one of the busiest cruise terminals in the world, Cape Canaveral is not short of activities and things to do, including beaches, the Brevard Zoo and some of the best waterfront dining on the Space Coast.

3. Key West, Florida

Famously known for being 90 miles from Cuba and Florida’s southernmost point, Key West appeals to water enthusiasts, with snorkeling, diving, dolphin encounters and boat rides being some of the city’s most popular attractions. If you prefer land activities, don’t worry, you can visit museums or stroll down Duval Street, where you’ll find local shops and eateries.

4. Boise, Idaho

Boise is conveniently located just steps from mountains, rivers and hiking trails. If you’re looking for a Pacific Northwest escape, this nature oasis should be high on your list. The city prides itself on being clean, vibrant, artistic and lively and promises visitors a good time—especially in its pedestrian-only downtown core.

5. Brian Head, Utah

Sitting at a 9,800 ft base elevation, Brian Head has given itself the tagline, Mountains of Memories. If you come to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and explore the mountains, there’s never a dull moment in this quaint village, with activities ranging from avalanche tubing to ATVing to disc golf.

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

Nicknamed the “Big Easy,” New Orleans, Louisiana, is a foodie’s paradise and music to a jazz lover’s ears. The French Quarter is the heart of the city and the oldest neighborhood famous for its nightlife, vibrant-colored buildings and cast-iron balconies.

7. South Padre Island, Texas

Located off the southern coast of Texas, South Padre Island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters. Beach activities like surfing, sand castle building, kiteboarding and windsurfing are the norm here.

8. Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix is known for many things, including its year-round warm temperatures, high-end spas, golf courses and native plants, to name a few. The weather is perfect for nature activities like horseback riding or hiking through the Sonoran Desert as a way to send off summer.

You might also like...