Labor Day Weekend Getaways Aug 25, 2021
Every year, summer seems to fly by faster than the year before. Now that August is here, it’s time to squeeze in those last day trips and summer vacations. If Labor Day weekend snuck up on you this year, it’s not too late to plan and book a local getaway. Read on for some of our favorite spots, including Martha’s Vineyard, Newburyport, Portland and Newport, all just a short drive or ferry ride from Ora.
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
If you haven’t made your way to Martha’s Vineyard yet this summer, Labor Day weekend is the perfect time to hop on a ferry and escape the city. At the Jazz and Blues Summerfest, you can see performers, enjoy different food vendors, and check out local artisan markets. Not into jazz? Relax on one of the many beaches, view the Aquinnah Cliffs, or rent bikes or kayaks to explore the island by land or sea.
Must see: South Beach (also known as Katama Beach). This beach stretches for three miles with ample parking and bike accessibility.
Newburyport, Massachusetts
Newburyport, MA, is another excellent place to spend the weekend or even just a day. Head to the beach shores of Plum Island, rent a bike or walk on the Clipper City Rail Trail, and check out the historic buildings and museums. Maudslay State Park and the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge feature miles of walking trails, picnic spots and sightseeing. When you’re downtown, be sure to visit the waterfront park while waiting for dinner reservations and check the local calendar for live events happening in the park.
Must See: Plum Island Beach. Just a short drive from Newburyport downtown, this sweeping beach has beautiful views and peaceful water. Arrive early due to limited parking!
Portland, Maine
Head up to Portland, Maine, for great food, beer, and sightseeing. While in Portland, take a ferry to one of the many Casco Bay Islands, where you can discover each island’s unique history, attractions and activities. Check out the historic Old Port starting on Congress Street if you want to stay on the mainland. Here you can find restaurants, boutiques, local art galleries and theatres. Lastly, be sure to take one of Portland’s many brewery tours; with over 20 microbreweries in the city, there are unlimited options for tasting.
Must see: Peaks Island. This island off the Casco Bay Line offers sweeping ocean views, local restaurants and is the perfect place to walk or bike around. Keep an eye out for the WWII buildings and bunkers still located on the island.
Newport, Rhode Island
Newport Rhode Island, just an hour and a half outside of Boston, holds an abundance of attractions, shopping and dining. Newport’s Cliff Walk provides panoramic ocean views on one side and mansions on the other. If you are interested in checking out these Gilded Age Mansions up close, you can schedule a guided tour. Eat local at one of Newport’s many phenomenal restaurants and take a stroll through the streets after dinner, or enjoy a beachside sunset.
Must see: Cliff Walk. This 3.5 mile Cliff Walk offers panoramic views and Gilded Age mansions.
