Labor Day weekend is the last hurrah of the summer season before we settle into fall. It seems that on September first — regardless of the weather — everyone is wearing boots and scarves and sipping fall-spiced coffee.

Every long weekend has a popularized way to spend those three days. Since Labor Day weekend is about savoring the last lazy days of summer, many people opt for a beachside getaway. If a 4-day weekend isn’t in your forecast, don’t feel bad! You can still “get away” without a getaway. Check out our tips for a restorative summer staycation, plan to stay local, and get inspired by these ideas.

Relaxing Labor Day Weekend Activities

1. Local Beach

You don’t need to travel far and wide to enjoy a beach vacation. If you’re near the coast, travel to one of your local beaches for a getaway that’s close to home. Think outside the box: lakes and rivers have beaches too! Opt for lesser known destinations if you can. Fewer crowds means more relaxation.

2. Cultural Weekend

Instead of going to a new exotic locale, why not be a tourist in your own backyard? We often overlook sites and attractions that are closest to us. Discover museums, historic sites, and art galleries that are near to you and see your hometown from the eyes of a visitor.

3. Picnic

It’s a bit old fashioned, but classics never go out of style. Pack a picnic and plan to spend a lazy afternoon in a local park. Lounging under a shady tree, reading, or enjoying your family’s company outdoors is a wonderful way to wrap up the summer season.

4. Hiking

Maybe you can’t make a mountain getaway work for you, but how about a nice long hike? Search for nearby trails and make a day of it. What better way to end your summer than in a peaceful natural environment, soaking up some great views.

5. Explore a New City

If you can swing a day trip, consider visiting your nearest major city. Even if you live in a metropolitan area, consider taking a drive or a train to a new city for the day. This will give you the thrill of getting away and being a tourist, without the hefty price tag of an urban hotel or Airbnb. Have an adventure!

6. Spa Day

Not all of us know the feeling of “carefree summer days.” If you’re aching for a much-needed vacation, but it isn’t in the cards — how about splurging on a spa day? Many spas have affordable half day packages or discounts if you purchase three or more services. Explore your options and plan to take some time to relax.

7. On the Water

Maybe you’re unable to rent a boat, but how about a kayak or canoe at a nearby lake or river? Not only is kayaking great exercise, it’s a peaceful, meditative activity. Just you on the water surrounded by leafy green foliage. Take it all in at a slower pace.

8. Seafood Feast

Many associate summer with the ocean, beaches, and an abundance of fresh seafood. Why not getaway to a local restaurant and enjoy some seafood? Maybe the restaurant is on a beach, on a lake, or inland. But with the right ambiance, you’ll feel like you’re a million miles away from home. If you like to cook, skip the restaurant and try out some beach-inspired recipes at home!

9. Bike Ride

Summers of childhood were usually filled with long bike rides: down the street, to friend’s houses, on back roads. If you don’t own a bike, consider renting or borrowing one for the weekend. Spend a day trying to recapture those simple childhood thrills.

10. Let’s not and say we did?

Are you ‘that friend’ or ‘the family’ who is known, perhaps a little too well, for being the life of the party or the host with the most? Why not sit this one out? Spend a weekend at home, lounging in your pajamas, eating takeout, and putting your feet up before the busy holiday season kicks in. This is the last long weekend of the summer, but not the last one of the year!

For more ideas for rest and relaxation this fall season, check out The Pajama Company at our blog, thepajamacompany.com/blog.