Looking for the perfect getaway this Labor Day? From urban adventures to rural retreats, we have got you covered. Here are our top ten Labor Day destinations for families.
Labor Day Destinations for Family: Cities to See
Orlando, Florida
Of course, what family doesn’t love Orlando? It is one of the most popular destinations on the planet for families, and it is easy to see why. With Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios Orlando, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and SeaWorld Orlando, it is impossible to pack all the fun into one weekend. What better way to beat the “end of summer” blues? Plus you’ll be able to give the kids a great story to tell on the first day of school.
Tip – Check out our article on the 8 biggest amusement parks in the world. Of course, Walt Disney World Resort is the biggest.
San Diego, California
Another perfect warm-weather destination for Labor Day, San Diego has everything that a kid could ever dream of. San Diego Zoo is the most visited zoo in America, and it is a must-see for any animal lover. La Jolla is an especially kid-friendly spot. If you’re an adventurous, outdoorsy family, plan plenty of time for the beaches. It’s an ideal place for kayaking and snorkeling. It’s also got museums, boutique shopping, and incredible restaurants, so there is something for everyone.
New York City, New York
New York City has it all. It is an especially good Labor Day destination for families with older kids. There is an endless line of iconic sites. It is a true delight to uncover as a first time visitor. Show your kids the famous cityscape then grab a slice of classic New York-style pizza. Wander around Central Park then take a cruise to Liberty Island.
Tip – Quin Central Park by Hilton Club Features ‘Go Wild’ Zoo Experience for Children
Labor Day Destinations for Families: Getting Away from It All
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
If you are looking for a low key Labor Day destination for families, Martha’s Vineyard is a prime pick. Rent bikes and cycle from beach to beach then onto Aquinnah Cliffs. Explore the wildlife sanctuaries, go for a live music day out, or visit the education centers at Mass Audubon.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen isn’t just a winter ski destination! In fact, it is a gorgeous getaway for families on Labor Day. Check out the JAS Labor Day Experience or Motherlode Volleyball Classic for a fun day out or go solo for hiking on Ajax Mountain or biking on the Rio Grande Trail.
Tip – Check out our guides on Denver: Family Travel Guide and Denver – Best Family Hotels.
Savannah, Georgia
Another outdoor Labor Day destination for families is the Tybee Island Labor Day Beach Bash. It is a fun day out filled with live music and fireworks. Foodie families will definitely want to go over to the BBQ and Wings Festival on the Savannah Waterfront.
Labor Day Destinations for Family: Low-Cost Options
Washington, D.C.
If you’ve never been to Washington, D.C, there is no better time to go. There are countless free activities over the holiday weekend that make it one of the best Labor Day destinations for your family. The West Lawn of the Capitol is hosting their annual Summer Block Party, and it’s a must-do! Other free attractions and events like the Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, 2019 National Book Festival, and the DC Blues Festival will keep you busy.
While it’s not a small city, rates in Washington D.C. are below the national average, so it’s one of the best Labor Day destinations for a family looking to save a bit of cash.
Rapid City, South Dakota
Rapid City is another place where you can snag a bargain on a hotel, or Nature lovers will be in heaven camping in the Black Hills National Forest. Take your little animal lovers out to see Bear Country USA, Wild Horse Sanctuary, or Custer State Park.
Rapid City, South Dakota is just a 30-minute drive from Mount Rushmore so be sure to plan time for that one your trip as well. It’s a fantastic photo opp and prime for a civics lesson.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is such a beautiful city, and it’s one of our fave Labor Day destinations for any family. There is a vast array of kid-friendly spots like Cool Zoo, City Park, City Putt, Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, Storyland, and the Botanical Garden. New Orleans is one of the most culturally rich cities in the United States, and it is ultra budget-friendly.
Tip – Thinking about driving rather than flying? You need our Essential Tips for Taking a Road Trip with Kids!
International Labor Day Destinations
If you have a long weekend for Labor Day, why not make the most of it? There are so many affordable and exciting family-friendly spots that are just a quick flight.
Tulum, Mexico
The gem of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, the Mayan port city of Tulum on the Caribbean is a dream destination. While you can easily spend weeks (or even months!) exploring, it is still worth visiting for four or five days.
People often ask me if Mexico is still a safe destination for families. Of course, the truth is that it depends. Just like the U.S., some neighborhoods and cities are safer than others. Research is essential, and you will want to know where you are going before you go. This is true for solo travel, of course, and doubly true when you’re going with little ones.
That said, Tulum, Mexico is one of the best Labor Day destinations for any family. Exciting, affordable, beautiful, and child-friendly, this one checks all of the boxes.
Tip – Check out our Discover Mexico Guide.
