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Top 10 Labor Day escapes
Maine Lighthouse Cruise
For your last blast this summer, take to the high seas, for a unique cruising experience aboard the Mary Day. A 28-passenger windjammer, the ship offers an intimate and adventurous way to explore the coast and lighthouses of Maine, with a six-day Labor Day sailing (departing September 1) leaving from Camden, and allowing guests a relaxing means of taking in the scenery — and even turns at tending the sails or turning the wheel! The tall ship’s billowing sails give off a picturesque, historic appearance, but your onboard amenities are entirely modern — you’ll have hot showers, and perks like an award-winning cook at your service, as well as spacious sundecks and a cozy main saloon.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
This quaint village a short drive from the natural wonder that is Niagara Falls offers a different kind of Labor Day away, what with its equal servings of world-class theater and wine tasting. This delightful town couldn't be more different than its more famous neighbor, either; settled by United States Loyalists in the years following the American Revolution, Niagara-on-the-Lake is loaded with Victorian homes — many of which double as posh B&Bs — and memories of England, epitomized by the daily tea service at the regally appointed Prince of Wales Hotel. Its renowned Shaw Festival showcases the best of George Bernard Shaw and a host of other comedic playrights each summer, while nearby vineyards — some of which produce superb ice wine — are also within easy reach. If you can't make it for Labor Day, a three-day fall visit is also feasible — the festival continues until late November and harvesting season brings new vintages to try.
Reykjavik
While Iceland might not be an obvious choice for an end-of-summer hurrah, this frigid-sounding place is in fact one very “hot” destination. And, at just five-and-a-half hours from points east, it’s one of the more accessible European capitals for a long-weekend getaway. This dynamic Nordic city has lots to offer, too, from cultural institutions, many of which showcase the island’s unique Viking culture, as well as legendary nightlife, with chic pubs and clubs overflowing with sleek patrons. Reykjavik is also close to some outstanding natural attractions, including hot springs, mountains, glaciers, spouting geysers, waterfalls, and bays, where innumerable outdoor activities await. Considering that most of winter is spent in darkness in this northern outpost, Labor Day is also among your last chances to experience some of the country’s renowned summertime Midnight Sun – albeit, only ‘til 8 or 9 p.m.
Santa Catalina Island
Just a high-speed ferry ride from the California coast, fabled Santa Catalina Island (known more commonly just as Catalina Island), makes a perfect end-of-summer Pacific retreat. West-coasters have easy access to this little gem, once owned by chewing-gum mogul, William Wrigley, which boasts a charming town, beautiful beaches, and abundant wildlife. The island’s Avalon Bay is dotted with yachts and fishing boats while the town of Avalon itself is a haven for romantic B&Bs, delightful restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. With a limited number of cars allowed on the island, most everything is within walking distance of town, but if you want to explore and drive through the rugged hills, you can rent an “autoette” — a cross between a golf cart and a jeep. If you’re feeling seaworthy, hop on a glass-bottom boat ride and marvel at the colorful marine life.
Turks & Caicos
Whether as a place to regroup from too much summer fun or to gear up for the long, vacation-free haul ahead, the Turks & Caicos are tailor-made for a long-weekend beach vacation. At just three hours from the East Coast, the chain is one of the closest Caribbean destinations to the United States, not to mention easier to reach than many points within the country itself. What’s more, the main island, Providenciales, is home to one of the best beaches in the entire Caribbean — Grace Bay. As if that weren’t enough incentive, the islands here are also protected by the third-largest coral-reef system in the world, creating superb turquoise waters for miles. While diving and snorkeling are popular here, there’s not a whole lot else to do but hit the beach with a good book, replenish your sunscreen supplies, and, perhaps, keep an eye out for JoJo, the islands’ resident — and friendly — dolphin.
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