As the symbolic end of the summer, Labor Day in Florida is a holiday celebrated with barbecues, fireworks, parades, and picnics. Plan one last summer getaway to soak in the sunshine before fall is here at one of the best places in the Sunshine State to visit on Labor Day weekend.
St. Augustine
America’s oldest city and one of Florida’s most charming destinations, St. Augustine is a family-friendly area with historical authenticity. Explore the colonial-era Castillo de San Marcos fort, watch re-enactments at the Colonial Quarter, or soak in the sunshine at the peaceful Crescent Beach. Labor Day activities include music concerts in the Plaza de la Constitucion, hair-raising ghost tours of the Old Jail, and a fun-filled Art Walk with live music and entertainment. Plan an overnight stay in one of the hotels in the Historic District.
St. Petersburg
With so many family-friendly activities, St. Petersburg is a fantastic location for Labor Day weekend in Florida. Catch a Rays game, soak in the art scene at a music festival, or watch nearby city Oldsmar celebrate with fireworks, carnival rides, and live music. There is a long list of outdoor fun in St. Pete, including swimming in Fort De Soto Park, sunbathing on St. Pete Beach, and exploring the secluded Caladesi Island. Night revelers can enjoy a craft beer at Cigar City Brewing or get in on the clubbing action at Ybor City.
Destin
Florida’s Emerald Coast jewel, Destin is known for its top-notch fishing, fresh seafood, and sugary white sandy beaches. There are plenty of Labor Day activities, such as live music at the HarborWalk Village, local art at the Baytown Art Walk, and impressive firework displays lighting up the sky at the Destin Harbor and nearby Okaloosa Fishing Pier. Other notable family-friendly activities offered in Destin include setting up camp at Henderson Beach State Park, strolling down the action-packed Destin Harbor Boardwalk, or jumping on inflatable slides at Crab Island Water Park.
Panama City Beach
Situated on “Florida’s Forgotten Coast,” Panama City is a top beach destination in the Panhandle and less touristy than its southern counterparts. Perfect for a long weekend getaway, here you can revel in 27 miles of stunning white quartz sandy Gulf beaches. For a more quiet itinerary, go on a sunset boat tour of the area, take a water shuttle to nearby Shell Island, or observe wildlife in their natural habitat at St. Andrews State Park.
Amelia Island
Spanish moss, beachfront hotels, and stunning beaches make up this charming city where you and your family can enjoy a laid-back Labor Day weekend. At Amelia Island, you’ll find a historic downtown filled with delightful shops and restaurants and one of Florida’s most beloved beaches, Fernandina. Take a family-friendly sunset cruise or explore the paranormal on one of their thrilling ghost tours. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime Amelia Island experience, catch a glimpse of dolphins in the tranquil waters on a guided horseback ride along the pristine shoreline.
Florida Keys
Known for its abundance of outdoor activities, water-loving families will love the Florida Keys for its world-class fishing, diving, and snorkeling. People of all ages can enjoy John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater park containing the only living coral reef in the US, where you can explore a variety of diverse underwater marine life in crystal clear waters.
Pensacola
The epicenter of Florida’s Gulf Coast, Pensacola is famous for its emerald-green waters and sugar-white sands. After soaking in the views of one of the best beaches in the U.S., you can indulge in some of the state’s freshest seafood or unwind at an oceanfront hotel. Labor Day weekend, you can listen to smooth tunes in downtown Pensacola or watch a movie on the beach with Cinemas in the Sand.
Miami
World-renowned for its mix of big city vibes and electric energy, Miami is also surprisingly a great destination for families. While revelers will certainly appreciate the action-packed South Beach, those looking for a different type of escape can visit the Venetian Pool, Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, and the Miami Science Museum. You can also visit Florida’s most popular natural attractions, such as the Everglades National Park, Biscayne National Park, and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park.
Sarasota
Nature-loving families will love Sarasota, as the kids can hunt for sand dollars on Siesta Beach, take a kayak tour of South Lido Nature Park, or marvel at unique Florida wildlife at Myakka River State Park. After a day of fun, make sure to stop by Yoder’s Restaurant & Amish Village for a slice of one of their famous homemade pies.
