Most of us want to travel, but can’t always afford to take a ton of time off. Thankfully, Canadians have a few summer long weekends that are perfect for a quick getaway to recharge your batteries.

The best part of travel is discovering something new, and sometimes, that something new is in a destination that’s not topping the Instagram trends. We think that some of the best travel stories come from lesser-known spots, which is why this list has ideas for weekend getaways to heavy-hitter locations, but also a couple of spots you may not have considered for a quick, long weekend summer trip. Keep reading to find out how to make the most of your stat holidays this summer and start planning your unforgettable long weekend.

Mark these Canada stat holidays on your calendar to maximize your summer-long weekend

Knowing the dates of Canada’s summer stat holidays can help you plan your long weekend in advance and maximize your time off. Sometimes, holidays fall midweek, so while you won’t get built-in long weekends, they’re still a great opportunity to extend your time off strategically. 

• Victoria Day: Monday before May 25 (Nationwide except for NB, NS, NL)

• St. Jean Baptiste Day (QC): June 24

• Canada Day (Nationwide): July 1

• Civic Holiday (AB, BC, SK, ON, NB, NU): First Monday in August

• Labour Day: First Monday in September

Best long weekend trips to take for your stat holidays in Canada

Wondering where to go for your stat holiday getaway this summer? If you’re stuck on summer long weekend trip inspiration this year, don’t worry—we have a few recommendations up our sleeves.

Want to go somewhere a little different for your summer stat holiday trip this year? Portland, Oregon, is a beloved but underrated destination on the US West Coast. 

Discover why the city’s unofficial slogan is “Keep Portland Weird” by wandering the streets of downtown Portland before heading out for a refreshing nature escape. Land on Friday night, crash at the chic and affordable Hotel Zags, and take a day trip to hike Mount Hood on Saturday. Need a snack after all that hiking? Hit up the famous Voodoo Doughnuts to get your sugar rush.

Stay domestic for your stat holiday getaway with a quick flight over to beautiful British Columbia (or a ferry if you’re already there) to enjoy the stunning scenery Vancouver Island has to offer. Go whale-watching, explore the local trails, or take a walk down the charming Fisherman’s Wharf. 

Got little ones? The Victoria Bug Zoo might be of interest. Make your long weekend feel even longer with a luxurious and comfy stay at the Dashwood Manor Seaside Bed & Breakfast.

Bonus BC recommendation: Not feeling the island? Hop on a flight to Kelowna, British Columbia, instead to hike the Kettle Valley Rail Trail and crash at the more wallet-friendly Prestige Beach House.

Chicago has a lot to offer for a quick weekend getaway. From the fun and colourful gaybourhood Boystown (the first officially recognized gay village in the United States!) to the awe-inspiring Art Institute of Chicago and live music nights at Grant Park, there’s so much to do in Chicago for a fun-filled, summer-long weekend. Of course, a visit to the Windy City isn’t complete without a stop at the city’s famous public art sculpture, The Bean (not what it’s really called, by the way—its official name is Cloud Gate).

Take advantage of your summer stat holiday and come here during Pride month to show off your colours, or stop by in July for some warm-weather walking and a chance to see the city prepare for Independence Day. Spend your nights in the lovely Millennium Hotel Knickerbocker Chicago. 

Loaded with history, culture, and, not to mention, amazing food, Montreal is a must-visit for all Canadians (in our humble opinion, of course). Summers in Montreal are something else: If you’re a music lover, visit Piknic Electronik in Parc Jean-Drapeau, or explore the underrated yet captivating Canadian Centre for Architecture for some must-see art. 

Check another thing off your bucket list and grab a classic smoked meat sandwich at the world-famous Schwartz’s Deli. Located on The Main, a visit to Schwartz's is the perfect starting point for exploring Le Plateau and other unmissable Montreal neighbourhoods. 

All these activities will make your summer stat holiday long weekend getaway feel even longer. Looking for a place to crash? Book a bed at the Chateau Versailles in late June to see how Quebec celebrates its national provincial day.

The city's so nice, they named it twice. Whether you’re a seasoned New York City visitor or taking on the role of a first-time tourist, there’s no shortage of things to do in the world’s most cosmopolitan metropolis. 

Visit stylish Brooklyn and enjoy a trip to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, or find yourself in the centre of Manhattan, where you can stay at the Artezen Hotel and explore some of those quirky New York neighbourhoods you’re always hearing about. 

Looking to indulge in something touristy but also save some money? Check out the TKTS Booth in Times Square to get discounted tickets to some of the top Broadway shows. 

Pro travel tip: Visit during the Victoria Day long weekend in the summer, before it gets too hot and sticky in the city.

Not feeling New York City prices? Not a problem—Philly is a city that’s just as cool and a bit more budget-friendly. Did you know that Philadelphia has more outdoor sculptures than any other city in the US? You do now.

Come during the August stat holiday to maximize the summertime vibes in the city of Brotherly Love and see them all. Stay right downtown at Courtyard by Marriott Philadelphia Downtown, only a 20-minute walk away from the famous Liberty Bell. Oh, and don’t forget to grab a famous Philly cheesesteak while you’re here.

Looking for more summer travel inspiration?

Looking for more weekend getaway ideas? Explore affordable flights across Canada and the US and start planning your next summer escape. With easy search tools and new deals popping up every day, it’s easier than ever to turn a stat long weekend into a trip you won’t forget.