Last-Minute Labor Day Trips That Won't Break The Bank

The dust has barely settled on Independence Day but the traditional end of summer is just around the corner. At least, that's what a Travelocity survey showed—more than 70 percent of Americans believe that Labor Day is the unofficial end of summer. About a quarter of the people in the country plan to go out of town to mark the occasion. Whether you want to go on a one last trip to the beach or to a final summer music festival, you probably want the experience to be inexpensive.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach is a popular vacation resort that extends for four miles along the Pacific Ocean. The town is adorned with bright flowers and lots of places to stop, sit and relax. You'll enjoy gorgeous beaches, odd rock formations, stunning coastline, unique lodgings, and scenic trails at the nearby Ecola State Park. The beach is often recognized by its famous landmark, Haystack Rock, a mammoth monolith.

San Juan Islands, Washington

The islands are ideal for romantic getaways as well as family trips. They are also easily accessible—just a ferry ride away. The San Juan Islands are one of the world's best whale watching spots. The majestic killer whales live in there year round, which makes this the perfect vacation escape for both nature-lovers and adventure-seekers alike. Hike along beaches or through the deep woods of San Juan Island National Historical Park.

Amish Country, Pennsylvania

Escape to Pennsylvania's serene Amish Country. You can stay at the Inn for $140 per night if you book for the week or $240 if you just during the long-weekend, according to Travelzoo. Enjoy the beautiful landscape views of Amish farmlands. In case you miss more action, local restaurants, shopping outlets and attractions are just 10 minutes away.

Chicago, Illinois

The Windy City is a music paradise during Labor Day Weekend. Don't miss the chance to enjoy the Chicago Jazz Festival at the iconic Millennium Park until September 3 and the North Coast Music Festival September 1-3. Head to Navy Pier for the Great American Lobster Fest from September 1-3. Don't miss the spectacular fireworks there, a summer staple in the Second City. The pyrotechnics bonanza show is perfectly synchronized to music on Lake Michigan. Relax at one of Chicago's 23 beaches. You can find hotels in Downtown Chicago for $150 per night.

New York City, New York

The city that never sleeps is always a hotspot. Tourists flock to the city every year to experience the culture, scenery, and special events. Now is a very good time to come. You can actually stay at a new hotel that is near the iconic Empire State building in mid-town Manhattan for $170, or 45 percent off the normal price, according to Travelzoo. Midweek stays are $80 more per night. Just know what to avoid while you're in the city.

Jersey Shore, New Jersey

You don't have to go to the Hamptons and spend a fortune for a nice weekend by the beach. You can stay at Ocean Place Resort & Spa, which sits on prime oceanfront real estate in Long Branch, for $200 per night; this is 40 percent off, according to Travelzoo. It's the only beachfront resort of its caliber between New York City and Atlantic City. Travelzoo members can exclusively save over $150 per night. You can use the fitness center, indoor pool and heated soaking tub for extra $20.

Washington, D.C.

Spend the national holiday at the nation's capital. Go on a walking tour of the monuments and learn about the country's history. One of the highlights of the long weekend is the National Symphony Orchestra's concert, scheduled for September 3. A more active-adventure option is renting a kayak to get a unique view of the city from the Potomac. You can find hotels for as little as $115-$120 per night.

Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis has a jam-packed schedule of events during the long Labor Day weekend. Start with the "Still Bold & Beautiful Day Party," which went so well last year it was scheduled again due to popular demand. This is Memphis, after all; so stop by the Memphis Music and Heritage Festival. Don't overlook the classic activities: Take a tour of Graceland, explore Mud Island, or just take in some blues music on Beale Street. You can find hotels for $140 per night, according to Hotels.com.

Las Vegas, Nevada

You can find Labor Day weekend daily hotel rates in Las Vegas for $140 a night, according to Hotels.com. Las Vegas is known for its wild pool clubs and parties, and Labor Day weekend is a great time to enjoy them. Dance the night away at many of the city's discos on the strip after sundown. There are many adventures in the Sin City that have nothing to do with gambling – hunt for hot springs, hop aboard a hot air balloon, zip line over Boorleg Canyon, and race dune buggies on the outskirts of Vegas.

Williamsburg, Virginia

Enjoy the many commemorative festivals that recognize the sacrifices of those who served for the country. Visit all of the historical locations that are throughout the area; this will make for one fun and educational day. The city is filled with a lot of different restaurants and eateries; do stop by those in Colonial Williamsburg. For a more thrilling experience, ride scary roller coasters at Busch Gardens.

San Antonio, Texas

The Pearl's free Latin music fest is returning on Sunday. Don't miss the Magik Theatre's annual Shakespeare festival. It has moved from the spring to Labor Day and is debuting downtown for the first time in several years. One of the highlights of the holiday weekend is the final tour of "the world's most notorious rock band" – Morley Crue – as the legendary group nears the end of its two-year Final Tour.  There is a lot more to do and see – River Walk, the Alamo and SeaWorld, to name a few. You can still find hotels for about $100.

Daytona Beach, Florida

Daytona Beach is a family-friendly vacation destination, not just an ideal guys-only getaway around Daytona 500 if you are into cars. You can find affordable hotels in this part of Florida with rates averaging $80-$90 per night. Go on a Bourbon, Whiskey or Scotch Tasting on Fridays; enjoy the amuzementrides before they close for the season after Labor Day; and dance the night away at the many live music events all over the city.

Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver is a popular city which offers bargain prices year round, but Labor Day weekend rates usually drop as crowds subside and the weather gets cooler. You can find nightly room rates at around $200, according to Orbitz.com. The city's remarkable scenery is worth the money. Take a stroll through Stanley Park or enjoy the views of the impressive skyscrapers from English Bay. You can find flight from New York for about $350. Several free and popular events include the Richmond World Festival, family-friendly multicultural event at Minoru Park; Bands on the Beach, live music at Harrison Hot Springs; and Music in the Park, afternoon concerts in North Vancouver.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge gets most of its visitors in the winter during the ski season. However, the city is an ideal adventure destination year-round. Escape the dirty city air and go to the mountain for challenging biking up and down rocky hills. Rafting, stand-up paddle boarding, hiking and trail running in the woods are some of the locals' favorite outdoor activities. Budget-friendly lodging at three- and four-star hotels are in abundance since people haven't started going there yet. You can still find rooms for about $120 a night.

Palm Beach, Florida

Want to spend the unofficial end of summer at a famous beach? This is the time to visit Palm Beach and avoid huge crowds. This expensive destination suddenly becomes within range for people travelling on a budget at the end of the summer. A lot of hotels are offering special deals and you can find accommodations for about $100.