Labor Day Weekend marks the end of Summer and the beginning of Autumn. For many this is the last chance to schedule a quick vacation and enjoy the fading summer weather. Before the leaves start changing colors and falling onto the ground, consider a final hurrah with these Labor Day Vacations.
Experience the Adirondacks in Long Lake
Experience Adirondack culture with a trip up north to Long Lake. In Long Lake, visit the historic Adirondack Hotel. There, you’ll find panoramic views of the lake off the two verandas. If that’s not enough of an incredible view, tour the area from above in a seaplane with an experienced pilot. These pilots will teach you about the history of the 6 million acres that make up the Adirondack Park while you take in the scenery from above. To learn more about the flora and fauna of the park, check out the Wild Center in Tupper Lake, just a short drive away. Don’t forget to pick up a couple Adirondack themed souvenirs at either Hoss’s Country Corner or ADK Trading Post. On the other hand, if you’re feeling outdoorsy, check out the numerous hiking trails in the Park. For example, Long Lake is the starting point for the famous Roosevelt-Marcy Trail.
Explore Arts & Culture in Bethel
Nestled between the Catskill Mountains, Bethel, NY is a place that celebrates artistic spirit. Known for hosting Woodstock Music & Art Fair in 1969, an artistic tradition continues today with the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. This center entertains many through its film screenings and music concerts. To learn more about its continued legacy, visit the Museum at Bethel Woods. Whereas if you’re looking to enjoy the mountains before the weather starts to cool down, you can visit Catskill Mountain Railroad or the Hunter Mountain zipline. Both of these places offer surreal views of the region.
Tour the Thousand Islands in Alexandria Bay
The next entry on our list of Labor Day vacations is Alexandria Bay. First, cruise the waters of the Thousand Islands by boat. Uncle Sam Tours offers a boat cruise that guides visitors to a number of historic sights. Alternatively, you can pick a helicopter tour of the region to have an unforgettable air adventure. The next stop has to be visiting Boldt Castle. Boldt Castle was a project of millionaire George C Boldt. He started the project as a tribute to his wife Louise; however, the project was never finished. Today, the castle is a destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Finally, finish this Labor Day vacation by trying the local wine at Thousand Islands Winery in Alexandria Bay. This winery offers over 20 varieties of wine across five categories. To sample a greater variety of drinks, be sure to check out the Thousand Island Beverage Trail.
Climb to Gorgeous Views in Ithaca
The fourth entry on our list of Labor Day vacations features the rugged gorges of Ithaca. See the area’s wild beauty while exploring the winding path through Robert H Treman State Park. Whilst in the park, you cannot miss the incredible view of Lucifer Falls, a 115-foot waterfall. Although the waterfalls in Robert H. Treman State Park are great, the most impressive waterfall in the area is Ithaca Falls. At 150-feet, the current rushes to create a breath-taking waterfall. A short drive away, you can find the Cascadilla Gorge Trail. The trail connects downtown Ithaca with the campus of Cornell University. Along the trail, visitors can see scenic vistas and unique wildlife. Adjacent to Cornell University, you can experience the serenity of the Cornell Botanic Gardens.
See History Come Alive in Plattsburgh
Bordering Canada, Plattsburgh is a city with a unique history. This history can be seen clearly in its relationship with its Canadian neighbor through the War of 1812. The war had such an impact on the city that there’s a museum dedicated to telling the stories of American forces stationed here. Another historical site is the Kent Delord House Museum which details the Battle of Plattsburgh from the perspective of Judge Kent Delord. While the War of 1812 is the most notable event in Plattsburgh’s history, the region has also been known for its auto industry. The Champlain Valley Transportation Museum is dedicated to providing visitors with an interactive look into the region’s transportation history.
