Pictured: Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial in Put-in-Pay
Labor Day weekend is the unofficial farewell to summer, and the perfect excuse to squeeze in one more adventure before the seasons change. From Lake Erie escapes to wooded campgrounds and scenic destinations, you don’t have to travel far to feel like you’ve truly gotten away. Here are some places where you can make the most of the long Labor Day weekend and give summer a well-deserved send-off.
PUT-IN-BAY
For a classic Lake Erie getaway, hop on the ferry and head to Put-in-Bay. The island offers a little bit of everything for a long weekend, from waterfront dining and local wineries to sightseeing and golf cart adventures around the island.
KELLEYS ISLAND
For a quieter island experience, consider Kelleys Island. Spend your weekend biking around the island, exploring the Glacial Grooves, enjoying the water or simply slowing down and taking in the scenery. It’s a great alternative for anyone who loves the idea of an island vacation but wants something a little more laid-back than the hustle and bustle of Put-in-Bay.
MAUMEE BAY STATE PARK
Located just east of Toledo, Maumee Bay State Park offers a convenient combination of Lake Erie shoreline, trails, wetlands, wildlife viewing, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. It has a variety of options for your stay with camping, cabins, and a lodge. Spend your days at the beach, lodge pool or exploring the trails, then end the evening around the campfire.
STERLING STATE PARK
Michigan’s only state park located on Lake Erie makes for an easy weekend retreat from both Southeast Michigan and Northwest Ohio. William C. Sterling State Park in Monroe offers more than a mile of sandy beach, hiking opportunities, fishing, and lakefront camping.
Pictured: Robinson Falls in Hocking County, OH
HOCKING HILLS
If your ideal getaway involves hiking trails, waterfalls, rock formations, and a cozy cabin, Hocking Hills is hard to beat. Located roughly three hours from Toledo, the region offers a completely different landscape from Northwest Ohio, with dramatic cliffs, gorges and wooded trails. Spend the weekend exploring Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, Cedar Falls or Conkle’s Hollow, then head back to your cabin for a relaxing evening. With cabins, lodges, and campsites throughout the region, there are plenty of ways to make the trip as rustic—or luxurious—as you’d like.
RONDEAU
How about an adventure into Ontario? Rondeau Provincial Park offers a beautiful combination of beach, forest, wetlands and camping along Lake Erie. It’s an especially attractive choice for nature lovers looking for something a little different without having to travel a great distance.
IRISH HILLS
Michigan’s Irish Hills region is another easy option for a change of scenery. With rolling countryside, lakes, parks and outdoor recreation, it offers plenty of opportunities to unplug without committing to a long road trip. Spend the weekend boating, hiking, fishing or exploring the small towns and scenic roads throughout the region.
You don’t need a plane ticket—or even a full week off—to make the most of Labor Day. From Lake Erie beaches and island adventures to campfires, hiking and cozy cabins, there are plenty of ways to make the weekend memorable. Pack the cooler, load up the car, and take advantage of the destinations waiting within a few hours from home. The last hurrah of summer is closer than you think!