The unofficial end of summer is just around the corner—Labor Day is September 2nd!
This holiday weekend marks a transition, a time to say goodbye to the carefree days of summer and hello to the routines of fall. Labor Day Weekend is the perfect opportunity for a family getaway, one last chance to let loose together before settling into all that the school year has to offer.
If you’re eager to do something special but aren’t sure where to go, don’t worry! This guide covers everything you need to know, from destination ideas and travel tips to packing essentials and family-friendly activities along the East Coast of the United States.
Top East Coast Destinations for a Family Friendly Labor Day Weekend
1. Best Family Friendly Beach Getaways on the East Coast
- Cape Cod, Massachusetts: Known for its charming coastal towns, lighthouses, and sandy beaches, Cape Cod is a quintessential New England getaway. Families can enjoy whale watching, exploring historic sites, and indulging in fresh seafood. The area is perfect for biking along the Cape Cod Rail Trail or relaxing on the calm waters of the bay beaches.
- Ocean City, Maryland: A vibrant beach destination, Ocean City offers a bustling boardwalk filled with arcades, restaurants, and shops. The wide, sandy beaches are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building, making it a favorite for family vacations. Don’t miss the chance to catch a sunrise over the Atlantic or try out a local delicacy—The Maryland Crab Cake!
- Virginia Beach, Virginia: Virginia Beach is a family-friendly destination with a lively boardwalk, miles of sandy shoreline, and plenty of outdoor activities. For a quieter experience, head to Sandbridge Beach, known for its serene atmosphere and the natural beauty of Back Bay Wildlife Refuge, or Dam Neck Beach, a secluded spot available to military families. Whether you’re into surfing, kayaking, or simply soaking up the sun, Virginia Beach has something for everyone.
- Outer Banks, North Carolina: Not just the hit Netflix show! The Outer Banks is a string of barrier islands offering stunning natural beauty, historic lighthouses, and unspoiled beaches. Families can explore the wild dunes, visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial, or enjoy a variety of water sports. This peaceful coastal area is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and connect with nature.
- Beaches of Florida: Florida boasts some of the most diverse and beautiful beaches in the country, from the white sands of the Gulf Coast to the vibrant shores of Miami Beach. Families can explore the calm waters of the Gulf, the lively atmosphere of Daytona Beach, or the pristine natural beauty of the Florida Keys. With year-round sunshine, Florida’s beaches are an ideal destination for a relaxing and fun-filled Labor Day weekend.
2. Scenic Mountain Escapes for a Peaceful Weekend
- Acadia National Park, Maine: Celebrate Labor Day weekend in the breathtaking Acadia National Park, where mountains meet the sea. Hike up Cadillac Mountain to catch the first sunrise in the U.S. or enjoy a scenic bike ride along the park’s historic carriage roads. The crisp early fall air and stunning coastal views make it an ideal time to explore this New England gem. Don’t forget to visit the charming town of Bar Harbor for a taste of local seafood and quaint shops.
- Shenandoah National Park, Virginia: Shenandoah National Park is a fantastic Labor Day weekend destination for those looking to unwind in nature. Take a leisurely drive along Skyline Drive, where you can stop at overlooks to soak in the stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With over 500 miles of hiking trails, including sections of the Appalachian Trail, there’s plenty to explore. Enjoy the last long weekend of summer by camping under the stars, hiking to a waterfall, or simply relaxing in this peaceful mountain setting.
3. Discover History : Family Adventures in East Coast Historic Cities
- Boston, Massachusetts: Spend the weekend in Boston, where history comes alive at every turn. Walk the famous Freedom Trail to explore key sites from the American Revolution, or take a harbor cruise to see the city from the water. Boston’s blend of historic charm and vibrant modern culture makes it an ideal destination for families and history buffs alike. Don’t miss the chance to visit Boston Common or catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park.
- Newport, Rhode Island: Newport offers a perfect getaway with its stunning coastal views and Gilded Age mansions. Stroll along the famous Cliff Walk for breathtaking ocean vistas and a glimpse into the opulent past of America’s elite. Explore the historic downtown, filled with charming shops, restaurants, and centuries-old architecture. Newport’s rich history, beautiful scenery, and seaside ambiance make it a wonderful spot to end the summer.
- Washington, D.C.: Spend the weekend in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., where history and culture converge. Explore iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol. Wander through the National Mall and visit world-class museums, all free of charge, including the Smithsonian Institution and the National Museum of American History. Washington, D.C. offers a powerful and inspiring backdrop for a weekend filled with history, making it an ideal destination for families and history enthusiasts alike.
- Williamsburg, Virginia: Step back in time this weekend in Williamsburg, where Colonial America comes to life. Visit Colonial Williamsburg to experience living history, with costumed interpreters, historic buildings, and hands-on activities for the whole family. Nearby, explore Jamestown and Yorktown to complete the Historic Triangle. Williamsburg offers a blend of education and entertainment, making it an enriching getaway for all ages.
Must Try Family Adventures on the East Coast
The East Coast is packed with family-friendly activities, whether you’re into the great outdoors, history and cultural experiences, or just taking a moment to relax. Below are some of my favorite family experiences—be sure to check out the interactive map below (coming soon) to explore all that the East Coast has to offer your family.
1. Explore the Best Outdoor Adventures on the East Coast
- Acadia National Park (Maine): Home to the famous Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast of the United States. The summit is the first to see the dawn of a new day. You can drive to the summit, but where’s the fun in that? There are several trails of varying difficulty to choose from, each one making the summit an experience you’ll never forget. If summiting a mountain isn’t on your bucket list, check out the carriage roads, perfect for biking or a leisurely stroll. Don’t forget to stop in at Jordan Pond House for a popover!
- Shenandoah National Park (Virginia): Hike a section of the Appalachian Trail and take in Virginia’s natural beauty. Whether you make it a day trip or a full backpacking weekend, Shenandoah National Park has something for every family.
- First Landing State Park (Virginia): Walk where the first English settlers landed in Virginia! Stroll or ride your bikes through the marshy landscapes and take a cooling dip in the bay—just watch out for the jellyfish! Or, take an early morning trip to try your hand at catching crabs for dinner that night.
2. Interactive Learning: Family Friendly Educational Activities
- Mystic Aquarium (Connecticut): Located in the small New England town of Mystic, Connecticut, this aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, from penguins to sea lions—and you can’t forget the beluga whales! The touch tanks and live shows are sure to capture the hearts of visitors of all ages. You can’t go wrong making this a stop on your next family outing.
- Smithsonian Museums (Washington, D.C.): The Smithsonian Museums hold some of America’s greatest treasures. With museums and galleries covering everything from dinosaurs to American pop culture, there’s something for everyone. Best of all, admission to these world-class museums is FREE!
- Jet Viewing Area (Virginia): Want to hear freedom roar? After soaking in the sun and splashing in the Atlantic Ocean, head to the NAS Oceana Jet Viewing Area to watch military jets land and take off. It’s a must-see in this military area. Check the calendar for the annual air show to watch a variety of aircraft display their abilities.
3. Relaxation and Connect : The Top Spots for Family Bonding
- Silver Sands State Park (Connecticut): After a long drive or a busy day exploring, take a dip in the Long Island Sound at Silver Sands State Park in Milford, Connecticut. When the tide is low, stroll across the sandbar to the connecting island for some exploring or just to get a different view.
- Little Island Park (Virginia): Want to feel the salty sea breeze without dealing with the crowds? Little Island Park in the Sandbridge area of Virginia Beach is where you need to be! You get the sun and surf without the crowds and noise of the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.
- Camp Jellystone Asheboro (North Carolina): Located on the outskirts of Asheboro, North Carolina, Jellystone is the ideal family camping experience. Whether you camp in a tent, an RV, or a cabin, they have a spot for you. Jellystone hosts a multitude of family activities, has a pool, playground, and miles of walking trails. This location is also not far from the North Carolina Zoo, the largest natural habitat zoo in the world!
Essential Travel Tips for a Hassle Free Labor Day Weekend
1. Must Have Packing Essentials for a Stress Free Labor Day Weekend
- Patience: The first thing you should pack is your patience. You’ll need plenty of it. The crowds are big, the traffic is mighty, and chances are your kids will be extra excited. Take a deep breath and know you will get there and back.
- Clothing Layers: Depending on where you go on the East Coast, the weather can be unpredictable. Mornings and evenings might give you a taste of fall, but the day can warm up to full-on summer. Be prepared by bringing extra layers.
- Sunscreen: Whether you’re planning to hit the beaches of Florida or summit the mountains of Maine, pack sunscreen or wear sunscreen layers. The last thing you want as a souvenir is a sunburn.
- Bug Deterrent: Don’t just think about mosquitoes—ticks can be a problem too. Wear bright clothing to make ticks stand out and always do a tick check after leaving the woods or high grass areas. Don’t forget about your pets! Make sure they’re up to date on flea and tick prevention before you go, and do a check when you get home.
- First Aid Kit: You never know when you may need a first aid kit. Carry one in the car, in your beach bag, and in your hiking pack. From cuts to blisters to sprains, you need to be able to handle it all before getting to help. It’s always a good idea to carry pet first aid supplies as well—our furry companions are just as much at risk for injury as we are.
2. Kid Friendly Travel Tips for an Enjoyable Labor Day Weekend
- Travel Entertainment: Let’s be honest—iPads can be lifesavers. Load them with movies and shows, maybe even something related to your weekend destination. From Disney to documentaries, don’t underestimate the power of a screen, especially during those inevitable holiday traffic jams. Want a more family bonding car ride? Try classic car games like the license plate game or I Spy. You could also put on a family-friendly audiobook.
- Travel Snacks: Is it really a road trip if you don’t bring snacks? I pack low-mess, easy, convenient, healthy snacks (trail mix, nuts, dried fruit, beef jerky). But over the years, I’ve learned that to keep the peace, everyone gets to pick out one special snack—whatever they want. I just draw the line at things they have to dip.
- Keeping the Car Clean: Kids are messy as it is, but somehow in the car, they become a hundred times messier. To combat this on a car trip, I keep a plastic grocery bag or two available for trash, as well as paper towels and wipes. Because with kids, it’s not just a mess—it’s a sticky mess.
3. Traveling with Pets : How to Keep Your Fury Friends Happy
- Accommodations: Check your accommodations for the pet policy. Some locations limit the number of pets, type of pet, and size. Using an application like BringFido will help narrow down your options.
- Leash and Harness: Most, if not all, places will have a leash policy for the safety of guests, both human and canine. Check your stay’s specific policy—some will limit leash length, while others are fine with longer leads.
- Tags: Make sure your dog’s tags are updated with the correct information. I like to put their name, my phone number, and my husband’s number. Since we travel often, it doesn’t make sense to put an address. You could also buy key rings with a paper insert to write a room or site number on as well. If your animal is chipped, make sure the information is up to date.
- Shot Records: Some places require shot records, while others do not. It’s a good idea to have them on hand for those cases and any situations that may arise if you need to take your pet to an emergency vet.
- Medication: Just like with your medications, make sure you have enough for your pets. I always like to pack a day or two extra just in case. If you need refills, get them before you leave!
- Food and Water: They need to eat too! Bring a bag that will get you through the weekend—one of the smaller bags is usually enough for us. Don’t forget their food and water bowls, as most places do not supply these. A towel to go under is helpful and provides for quick cleanup.
- Bedding: Bring your pet’s favorite bedding. Being in a new place can be stressful for our pets, and having something of comfort with a familiar scent can help ease their anxiety.
- Treats: Because they are the goodest girls and boys ever!
4. Save Money : Budget Friendly Tips for Your Labor Day Vacation
- Diversify Your Stay: Hotels tend to be most expensive during holiday weekends. Consider a vacation rental or, for an even more budget-friendly option, look for a camping spot!
- Price Shop: Use sites like Kayak or Trivago to compare hotel rates. But don’t book through those sites—once you find a rate you like, go to the hotel directly. Sometimes they have cheaper rates and may price match. Also, if you need to change or modify your reservation, it’s easier if you book directly through the hotel.
- Use Rewards: If you have a membership with a hotel, like Marriott’s Bonvoy, it can be useful to use your points for a free night or two. Or, if you have travel points with a credit card, now’s the time to use them!
- Use Discounts: If you’re a member of AAA or AARP, you can get discounts on hotel stays. If you’re a member of Good Sam, you can get discounts on campgrounds. If you’re a first responder, law enforcement, or military, check for those discounts as well. Usually, you can’t combine, but you can compare and use the better rate.
Conclusion
Summer may be coming to a close, but that doesn’t mean your family’s adventures have to end. The East Coast is a fantastic place to explore over the long holiday weekend. From the tip of Maine to the very bottom of Florida, you’ll find diverse American culture and countless memories to be made.
Check out the interactive (coming soon) for more family-friendly destinations and activities along the East Coast to plan your perfect getaway.