Labor day weekend is coming up! September 4-6 will ring the unofficial bell of the last weekend of the summer. If that doesn’t call for a celebration… what does?!
We are big supporters of going away for the weekend to take a break and disconnect. It’s one of the best ways to re-energize ourselves, clear our busy minds, relax, and have fun!
Although we love going on long faraway trips, sometimes it’s just not possible. Does that mean we will pass on the opportunity to add a little adventure into our week? Nope, far from it! We’ll just need to be a little more creative!
So if you can’t travel far this Labor Day Weekend, we put together 5 ways to spend the weekend in an unexpected way and recharge your battery for the second part of the year!
Farewell Summer (but come back soon!😇)
1. Go backcountry camping
There’s nothing like disconnecting and recharging in the backcountry. The best part is that you don’t need to go very far to feel like you’ve been transported to totally new scenery. Spending the weekend closer to nature, sleeping on the ground, gazing at the stars, and gathering around the campfire (if Smokey the Bear says you can make fires) will make you feel like you are thousands of miles away from home.
Turn off all devices and recharge in nature. Recognize how little stuff you need to have a great time. Great for kids and adults of all ages and different skill levels. Go by yourself, with your partner, with friends, or take along the entire family.
We all could use a little more nature time before the end of the Summer.
If you are in Vancouver, WA area, here are some our favorite spots to go backcountry camping:
- Siouxon Creek Trail in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
- Indian Heaven Wilderness in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
- Ingalls Way Trail and Headlight Basin in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
- Enchantment Area Wilderness in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
2. Go glamping
Upgrade your camping experience and go glamping!
It’s the excitement of being outdoors, with the comfort of all amenities you may need.
It’s also a great way to spend the weekend in a different setting, still closer to nature, without having to carry your tent everywhere. This is a great family-friendly option.
To find incredible glamping experiences close to you, go check out HipCamp – the Airbnb for camping & glamping stays.
3. Book a staycation at a hotel
Ever wondered how it feels to be a tourist in your own town? You don’t need to go far to feel like you’re on vacation. Book a night in a fancy hotel downtown or a quaint bed & breakfast. Just spend the day exploring. Ask the concierge what places are worth a visit.
Check out blogs about what to do and let yourself be surprised! You’ll start looking at your own city with bright new eyes.
If you are in the Vancouver, WA area, check out:
- The various McMenamins hotels throughout the area
- Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood
- Or if you want to stay closer to town, consider the Heathman Lodge
4. Swap homes with a friend
Want to explore a new area while staying on a budget? Play The Holiday and swap your house with a friend. Ask around if anyone needs a break from their daily routine and would be interested to stay at your place while you check out their area!
You’ll immerse yourself in a new environment. Look at the books they read, the movies they have, the neighborhood coffee shops, etc. You can even ask them to leave you a list of recommendations. And do the same for them!
5. Stay at an unusual house
From houseboats to chalets, to treehouses, to yurts, Airbnb has a ton of options for you! Check out their explore page and find what will work best for you!
Vacations are not always about the destination. It can also be about the way you travel or where you stay. And that will make your weekend unforgettable.
Can’t get out of town? Make the best of it!
So… how are you going to spend Labor Day Weekend? Let us know!
We hope you had a great Summer. Let’s enjoy it till the end!
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