The final days of summer are closing in.  I find this always makes me a bit sad.  Why?  Saying goodbye to summer is like saying so long to a fun friend that is both entertaining and full of ideas for amusing things to do.  Like running barefoot through the sprinkler, riding your bike on a bright sunny day, or making your favorite sundae.  Luckily there is Labor Day, the official end-of-summer goodbye party.  A time to escape and give summer a proper send-off.

See Related Post [4 Great Labor Day Mini Vacations]

This year I am drawn to the idea of a lake escape.  Or maybe I feel this way because it’s Shark Week. Lakes have so much to offer, you can easily fill a day or two with lazy activities or exciting adventures. Here are my top ideas for a Labor Day lake getaway:

Lake Michigan, Chicago, Illinois

Almost any three-day weekend is a good excuse to head to Chicago.  With summer hanging on by a thread, you should definitely rent a bike and ride along the waterfront, stopping for a nice lunch along the way.  The Navy Pier fireworks are always a good way to enjoy the lake experience into the night after a long day on the beach.  If you need a sun and sand break, head to Wrigley Field to take in a ballgame.  There is usually at least one game over the holiday weekend.

Lady Bird Lake, Austin, Texas

If you love outdoor fitness, water sports, and live music, then Austin needs to be on your radar for Labor Day.  Leave the picnics and BBQ behind, get out on the trail for a walk, and soak in the urban landscape.  It’s well known that you simply can’t beat Austin for live music and a fun night out, so take in a show and enjoy some amazing artists.  When you’re ready to enjoy the lake, try a SUP (stand-up paddle board) lesson or an afternoon floating around the city in a kayak.

Lake George, New York

If you’re looking for a fun, family vacation with a great location on the lake and amazing views, then you might try the Sagamore at Bolton Landing.  The property is pretty amazing, and you can enjoy a drink on the deck or book your stay there.  The best thing about Lake George is you can make your vacation with various cabins, lodges, and campgrounds, all available in the area.  The only mandatory ingredient is to get out on the lake in a boat, cruise, kayak, or fishing charter.  You’ll find yourself coming back year after year.

Jackson Lake, Wyoming

One of the most beautiful lakes you will ever see is in the majestic Grand Teton National Park.  In my dreams, I’m sailing along this almost 15-mile lake located at the base of the Tetons.  The scenery is stunning, and you can spend your hours watching wildlife, boating, and sitting on the deck enjoying a cold one.  Oh, and there’s the quaint town of Jackson Hole nearby, where you can escape for live music, shopping, and dinner.

Lake Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Another family-friendly and fun lake destination, Lake Coeur d’Alene, is a good place to just park for a week and play in the water.  Enjoy the sunny beaches, water skiing, tubing, jet skiing, kayaking, fishing, and touring the area by cruise or seaplane.  An incredible golf experience on the shore includes the world’s only floating green.  To make it really easy on yourself, stay at the Coeur d’Alene Resort, where everything is right outside your front door.

Lake Tahoe, California

There’s so much that goes on at Lake Tahoe your mind will spin just trying to fit it all into a long weekend.  You have to be smart and focused.  I recommend you do the following in no particular order.  First, enjoy the lake and shoreline doing your choice of water sports or just hanging out on the beach.  Drive and then hike up to Emerald Bay for the amazing vistas (arrive before 10 am).  Take your chairs, beverages, and snacks and head to the waterfront for an amazing display of fireworks.  Get a seat along the shore where you are pretty close to the show, which is choreographed to music.  You’ll have a nice relaxing weekend before you start back to work and school.

Do you do Labor Day at the lake?

More from Samantha Brown:

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