Labor Day’s three-day weekend offers a perfect opportunity to bask in the last few days of summer. Whether travelers are looking for beaches, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, several destinations within a few hours’ drive offer plenty of options. Here are some of the top local getaways from Central Florida, with their distance, highlights, and attractions.
St. Augustine (Approx. 2 hours from Orlando)
Known as the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine blends history with coastal charm. Visitors can tour the Castillo de San Marcos, walk cobblestone streets lined with shops and restaurants, and explore local museums. The city’s beaches also provide a relaxing retreat for those wanting to soak up the sun before summer ends.
Things to Do:
Visit historic sites like Castillo de San Marcos and the Old Jail.
Stroll down St. George Street for dining and shopping.
Relax on Vilano Beach or St. Augustine Beach.
Clearwater Beach (Approx. 2 hours from Orlando)
Consistently ranked among the best beaches in the U.S., Clearwater Beach is a popular choice for a quick coastal escape. With its white sand, clear waters, and lively Pier 60, the area offers both relaxation and entertainment.
Things to Do:
Enjoy water sports like parasailing and jet skiing.
Take a dolphin-watching cruise.
Experience the nightly sunset celebration at Pier 60.
Sarasota (Approx. 2.5 hours from Orlando)
Sarasota combines Gulf Coast beaches with a thriving arts and cultural scene. The city is home to Siesta Key Beach, known for its powdery white sand, as well as The Ringling, an art museum and historic estate.
Things to Do:
Lounge at Siesta Key Beach.
Tour The Ringling Museum and Ca’ d’Zan Mansion.
Explore Sarasota Jungle Gardens.
Savannah, Georgia (Approx. 4.5 hours from Orlando)
For those willing to drive a bit farther, Savannah offers historic architecture, leafy squares, and southern hospitality. The city is known for its charming streets, riverfront views, and vibrant food scene.
Things to Do:
Take a walking tour through Savannah’s historic district.
Explore Forsyth Park and the famous fountain.
Dine along River Street overlooking the Savannah River.
Miami (Approx. 4 hours from Orlando)
Miami provides an urban getaway filled with beaches, nightlife, and cultural attractions. From the Art Deco District in South Beach to Little Havana’s Cuban influences, the city offers a dynamic mix of experiences.
Things to Do:
Sunbathe or swim at South Beach.
Visit the Wynwood Walls for outdoor art displays.
Explore Cuban cuisine and culture in Little Havana.
Crystal River (Approx. 1.5 hours from Orlando)
For a more nature-focused escape, Crystal River is known for its clear springs and manatee encounters. Visitors can kayak, snorkel, or simply enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Things to Do:
Swim or kayak in Three Sisters Springs.
Book a manatee snorkeling tour.
Explore local hiking trails and waterfront dining.
Planning Your Labor Day Getaway
With so many destinations within a short drive, Central Floridians have plenty of choices for a memorable Labor Day weekend. Whether opting for a historic city, a cultural hub, or a quiet natural retreat, each location offers unique ways to celebrate the holiday and make the most of the final days of summer.