Labor Day is right around the corner in the U.S. and if you haven't planned an awesome trip for the long weekend yet, don't panic! Whether you decide to stick around your own city, or are up for a bit of a road trip, there are plenty of last-minute activities you can take advantage of. Our advice: skip the heavily-trafficked tourist spots and opt for something new and under the radar nearby.
Explore White Sands National Monument, New Mexico
One of the most underrated national monuments, this white sand dune field in New Mexico is packed with action for a long weekend. Grab your pack and sleeping bag and stretch out under the starry skies surrounded by a sea of sparkling white sand. Rent a bike and cycle through the monument for unobscured views of the ever-shifting dunes. Or partake in the most popular and family-friendly activity - dune sledding. Make sure you check ahead to secure the proper permits for any activities you may want to try. And remember, the temperatures can rise quickly in the desert, so be prepared with plenty of water and sunscreen to keep you safe.
Sip Wine in Paso Robles, CA
Napa isn't the only California staple for wine-tasting. A four-hour drive from Los Angeles will put you in the heart of the Paso Robles wine country. Known for its Zinfandel, you won't find many industrial vineyards here. Instead the region is populated with local and family-run cellars that produce experimental and ground-breaking blends that rival that of the rest of the state. Spend the weekend hoping through the tasting rooms and driving (or Ubering - remember to stay safe) through the beautiful rolling hills. When you're over the wine, head towards the coast and explore tiny coastal havens like Morro Bay and Cayucos.
Chase Waterfalls in Asheville, North Carolina
Getting outdoors this Labor Day Weekend might sound hot and exhausting, so why not add some refreshment to your adventures? The area around Asheville is littered with stunning waterfalls and swim spots that will cool down your weekend. From the poorly-named Dry Falls to the majestic Rainbow Falls, the Blue Ridge Mountains region offers so much for waterfall chasers. Turn it into a full day, bringing along your own picnic and be sure to snap plenty of photos to capture and compare swim holes.
Beer Tasting in Fort Collins, CO
If vino isn't your thing, head off on a brewery tour in the "Napa Valley of Beer" - Fort Collins. Enjoy tours from the bigger breweries, like Anheuser-Busch and New Belgium Brewing. Or opt for smaller, local craft breweries like Zwei Brewing Co or Maxline Brewing. No matter what kind of beer you like - IPAs, Pale Ale, or stouts - you're sure to find something to suit your tastes. While you're in town, check out hiking trails, biking routes, and even ghost tours to round out a day of drinking.
Get International in Orange, CA
Head south of LA into the quaint town of Orange, California. Every year the city center shuts down for a massive street fair that showcases cuisines, drinks, entertainment and crafts from around the world. Watch Irish step dancing while eating Mexican tacos, washing it all down with German beer. It's worth experiencing over nearby Disneyland, which is sure to be packed with the holiday weekend. When the festivities get too much, drive the thirty-minutes to the beach which yes, may be packed for the long weekend but offer plenty more fun in the sun.
Get Ready for Football in Dallas, TX
Football season is upon us, and if you're as excited for tailgates, touchdowns, and the occasional tears as we are, you'll want to use this weekend to kick off the season (no pun intended). Score tickets to one of the largest football stadiums in the country - Dallas Cowboy Stadium - to watch Miami take on LSU. If you can't get tickets to the game, secure a spot in one of the city's many sports bars or breweries to cheer on all your favorites.
Apple-Picking in Massachusetts
It's officially apple-picking season, and you can make all your flannel dreams come true in Massachusetts. From Honey Pot Hills Orchard to Bear Swamp Orchard, there are hundreds of farms to try your hand at picking sweet fruit. Sip cider, take a hay ride, or just wander the orchard with friends, getting ready for cooler days ahead.