Labor Day travel has become one of the most popular ways Americans celebrate this beloved holiday. Labor Day originated from the Labor Unions to honor and exhibit the American spirit by having a day of rest for its hard-working people — and today, millions of Americans mark the occasion with a memorable long weekend trip.
Today, Labor Day traditionally, marks the end of summer. Many families take the opportunity to take a vacation before the school year really kicks in. Also popular are BBQ’s, football games and lots of big sales at retail stores.
Here are some other interesting facts about the holiday.
- The first Labor Day was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882 in Boston; however it was not a recognized legal holiday for many years.
- It is uncertain who originated the idea for Labor Day – Pete McGuire general secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners or Matthew Maguire, Secretary of Local 344 of the International Association of Machinist in Paterson, NJ
- In 1884 the first Monday in September was selected as the day to observe Labor Day each year.
- The first state to pass the law to observe Labor Day was Oregon on February 21, 1887.
- Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York also passed it as a law in 1887.
- On June 28th, 1894, Congress passed an act making it a legal holiday.
Best Labor Day Travel Ideas for the Long Weekend
Labor Day travel is one of the most popular times to take a domestic trip. The long weekend falls at the end of summer, when temperatures are still warm and many destinations offer their last summer events before the fall season arrives. Here are the best Labor Day travel destinations to consider for your long weekend escape.
Beach Destinations for Labor Day
Labor Day travel to the beach is a classic American tradition. Popular spots like Cape Cod, the Outer Banks, and the Florida Gulf Coast see their final crowds of summer during this holiday weekend. Hotels and vacation rentals are often more affordable than they are in July and August, and the beaches are slightly less packed — while still warm enough for swimming.
National Parks Labor Day Weekend
Labor Day is a fantastic time to visit the national parks for your holiday travel. While summer crowds thin slightly, the parks are still green and warm. Acadia National Park in Maine, Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, and Glacier National Park in Montana all offer spectacular fall foliage that begins to appear in late August and early September. Advance reservations are essential for Labor Day travel to these popular parks.
City Breaks for the Holiday Weekend
City breaks are another wonderful option for Labor Day travel. Cities like Chicago, New Orleans, and Portland, Oregon host special Labor Day festivals and events. Many cities hold end-of-summer concerts, outdoor markets, and cultural events that make the holiday weekend particularly lively. Hotel rates in major cities can be lower than peak summer, making Labor Day an affordable time to explore a new city.
For more travel inspiration, check out our guides on the best places to travel in winter and spring, how to save money on summer travel, and travel traditions from around the world.
Planning Your Labor Day Travel
The key to successful Labor Day travel is booking early. Because the holiday falls on a fixed calendar date (the first Monday of September), everyone knows the date months in advance — which means flights, hotels, and popular campgrounds fill up quickly. Book your Labor Day travel accommodations at least 2-3 months in advance for the best rates and availability.
Whether you’re planning a beach vacation, a national park adventure, or a city getaway, Labor Day travel offers one of the best long weekends of the year. Talk to a travel advisor at Atlas Travel to plan your perfect Labor Day weekend itinerary.
