Did you know that Canada’s Labour Day was originally celebrated in the spring? Well, thank goodness it’s now the first Monday of September. Honestly, what would we do without one final hurrah? Summer is dwindling and Labour Day weekend unofficially represents the end of summer vacation. Even though the summer season technically ends on September 22, we all know that the work and school grind starts back sooner. And you deserve to squeeze in one last summer staycation.
Please note: Before setting out on any type of adventure this year, always check your provincial and federal health and safety guidelines and stay up-to-date with the latest coronavirus travel information.
When is Labour Day in Canada?
Labour Day in Canada falls on Monday, September 7 this year, which means the September long weekend falls on Friday afternoon on September 4. This year, Labour Day weekend getaways may not look the same as years past, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be equally rejuvenating. On the contrary, we’ve seeked out some dreamy, underrated domestic destinations that will put the spark back in your step as we transition to fall. Below we’ve put together some day trips and multiple night trips with ideas for hiking, camping, and more! Even better, they are just a hop, skip and a jump away from major cities across Canada. We dare you not to add these epic spots on your bucket list!
Labour Day weekend getaways from Toronto
Toronto is all fun and games until you just want to get away from the grind. We totally understand! Here are a couple of lush spots for you to soak up the remaining summer weather somewhere outside of the cityscape.
Turkey Point Provincial Park, Ontario
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour and 45 minutes
If you’re looking for the ultimate feels-like-summer getaway without going too far, Turkey Point is a fantastic option for your Labour Day weekend. You’ll forget you’ve left a bustling metropolis like Toronto when you step on the sandy shores of the beach in the village of Turkey Point by the shores of Lake Erie. Take a romantic stroll along the water with your partner or indulge in Ontario’s South Coast wine trails for some wine tastings with some girlfriends. There’s also nearby hiking trails and camping grounds if you want to spend your September long weekend here sleeping under the stars.
Check for the facilities that are available and open ahead of time and practice physical distancing. Get the latest updates from Ontario Parks here.
Manitoulin Island, Ontario
Distance from Toronto: 6 hours
What’s a more enticing Labour Day weekend getaway than escaping to an island? And the largest freshwater island in the world, at that. Manitoulin Island in Lake Huron is the largest freshwater island in the world–making the longer drive from Toronto well worth it! To get here, you’ll have to drive to Tobermory and then catch the ferry from there. Just be sure to reserve your ferry spot in advance. Then get ready to immerse yourself in some exceptional nature. Imagine still, calming canoe routes, peaceful waterfronts, and magical waterfalls. There are so many reasons why Manitoulin Island is one of the top spots to visit in Ontario!
Services and activities may be limited, check any updates here.
Labour Day weekend getaways from Vancouver
When you live in the Vancouver area, you have no shortage of beautiful places to visit within driving distance. We’ve narrowed down a couple of destination treasures below.
Bowen Island, British Columbia
Distance from Vancouver: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Close enough for a day trip yet still feeling like you’re in another world, Bowen Island is the perfect idyllic destination for those looking to get out of Vancouver. It’s just a 20-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay. If you want to be active, there’s plenty of hiking, cycling, kayaking, and golfing to be done here. Or go the relaxing route by snuggling up in a cozy accommodation, only leaving for a scenic walk or an impromptu outdoor yoga session. But you’ll definitely want to get out on the water at some point to take in the breathtaking mountain landscapes. Truly a little piece of paradise!
Sechelt, British Columbia
Distance from Vancouver: 2 hours
Located along the glorious Sunshine Coast, the laid back village of Sechelt has got everything you could need for an unforgettable September long weekend. And Sechelt works as the perfect base to go exploring around the area. Looking to relax on the beach? Look no further. Want some good eats? You bet! Just take a stroll and be drawn in by a fresh cone of gelato or a cold pint of local craft beer. And if you fancy doing something even more adventurous, you can get out to explore the world below with some cold water scuba diving.
Labour Day weekend getaways from Winnipeg
Just a short drive from Winnipeg, these local provincial parks are an excellent choice for your Labour Day weekend this year.
Whiteshell Provincial Park, Manitoba
Distance from Winnipeg: 1 hour and 30 minutes
This destination is truly a natural sanctuary. Packed with dazzling rivers, lakes, beaches, and campsites, such as West Hawk Lake, Falcon Lake, and Pine Point Rapids, Whiteshell Provincial Park has got everything you could want. Get back into the great outdoors with the people that matter most this September long weekend! Manitoba Parks is happy to host campers for Labour Day weekend and into the fall, so check out the fall camping guide here.
Book your online camping reservation in advance here.
Nopiming Provincial Park, Manitoba
Distance from Winnipeg: 2 hours and 30 minutes
This park is named after the Anishinabe word meaning “entrance to the wilderness” and that’s truly what it represents. This is where remote Manitoba really shines and you’d be remiss if you didn’t take advantage of an opportunity to camp here, or plan in a multi-day backcountry canoe trip through this diverse, ecological terrain. Nopiming Provincial Park is definitely for the adventurous at heart.
Book your online camping reservation in advance here.
Labour Day weekend getaways from Montreal
Fancy some waterfalls and outdoor wonderlands? Who would have thought these places were so close to Montreal! Quebec truly has some fantastic getaway spots just ready to be explored safely this Labour Day weekend.
Chutes du Plaisance, Quebec
Distance from Montreal: 1 hour and 30 minutes
This is the perfect day trip for those looking to get away from the city with family or a close group of friends. Make a fun road trip out of it, jamming to some upbeat tunes and playing car games on the way. The Plaisance Waterfalls is a great lookout spot for a picnic and a hike that brings you up close and personal to the falls’ natural beauty. Imagine a 63-metre drop and only a 1 km hike to get to the best observation point. Where can I sign up?
The falls are currently open from 10 am to 5 pm every day. For updated information, check their website here.
Montebello, Quebec
Distance from Montreal: 1 hour
Montebello is a bit of a more luxurious September long weekend escape, but still tranquil enough to feel like you’ve really left the city. This historic village in the Outaouais region offers tons of activities you can get lost in, including: hiking, golfing, horseback riding, and fishing. There are a number of beautiful resorts and hotels to fit every budget, from the Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello to Le Petit Château Montebello B&B. Or go explore further into the heart of Canadian wildlife in Parc Omega, an 890-hectare park boasting nature at its best. You can stay at one of their wolf lodges or wolf chalets which offer large bay windows that bring you face-to-face with grey wolves.
Reservations for Parc Omega must be made and purchased in advance online.
Looking for some Labour Day weekend adventures closer to the city? Check out these hiking trails near Montreal.
Labour Day weekend getaways from Calgary
There’s more waiting on Calgary’s doorstep than just the familiar Lake Louise. While these are exceptional, natural areas, there are a lot more wonders to discover near Calgary.
Golden, B.C.
Distance from Calgary: 3 hours
This may be in the province over, but it’s a do-able drive from Calgary. Golden is an accurate representation of this underrated, yet exquisite welcome mat into the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Plan a Labour Day weekend trip to Golden and get up close and personal to stunning hiking trails, waterfalls, and beautiful lakes.
Golden is currently open to visitors from all provinces, but stay updated with the businesses that are currently in operation.
Two Jack Lake
Distance from Calgary: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Two Jack Lake is the perfect place to set up camp for a Labour Day weekend getaway. A smaller lake with big sunset views, you’ll be spoiled with panoramic colourful sunsets and sunrises. Hike the shoreside trails and relax by the shimmering blue water while listening to nature’s soundtrack. Talk about pure bliss.
If you plan on camping here, make sure to reserve your spot ahead of time.
We hope this inspired you to explore the beautiful surroundings that are just outside your door, at least until we can get back out and explore the world again. Just because travel looks a little different, doesn’t mean we still can’t enjoy and make the most out of the remaining summer weather we have. Travel safely, carry your face mask, and always check local guidelines before booking.
Want to read more?
- Stay informed with the latest coronavirus travel advice
- Travel checklist 2020: What you need to know
- Coronavirus travel questions: Here are your COVID-19 queries answered
- Here’s why a wellness getaway could be the post-coronavirus stress-buster you need
