Historically intended to celebrate the contributions and achievements of American workers, most people nowadays see Labor Day as the last big hurrah of summer. While we won’t argue with your reasons for celebrating this day off from work, we will encourage you to pack a bag and come enjoy it in Newport! To help you make the most of your long weekend here, we’ve put together some ideas below.
Where to rest your head is typically the most important consideration when planning a weekend getaway. Newport has a wide variety of overnight accommodations: condos perfect for just a few guests, house rentals for larger groups, cozy hotel rooms overlooking the ocean, and even a floating bed and breakfast! If sleeping al fresco is more your style, reserve a camping spot or yurt at South Beach Campground or Beverly Beach State Park. More information about overnight options is available on our Lodging page.
While the beach is one of the most popular attractions in Newport, there are a multitude of other adventures perfect for the whole family. Head down to the bayfront and explore Ripley’s Believe It or Not World of Adventure for some thrilling and unbelievable sights. Or, visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium and check out their new attractions including a nature play area, an outdoor amphitheater and a headwaters feature. If you’re looking to get in some exercise with your sightseeing, book a kayaking tour and experience a truly unique perspective of Yaquina Bay.
It wouldn’t be Labor Day weekend without a barbeque. But instead of serving the same old hamburgers and hot dogs, why don’t you uplevel your menu and grill some salmon, albacore tuna, or oysters? You can buy fresh seafood at a number of places located on the historic bayfront like the fish market at Local Ocean Seafoods, Fish Peddlers Market, or Chelsea Rose Seafood. For additional tastiness, be sure to stop by the Newport Farmers Market for seasonal produce, pastries, and other artisanal delicacies.
Even though it’s widely considered to be the symbolic end of summer, Labor Day weekend also marks the beginning of a very important season…football! If you’re looking to sneak off and catch a game, leave the kids with their grandparents and head to one of Newport’s watering holes to cheer on your team. Popular places for viewing football are Bier One Brewing, Newport Brewing Company, Off The Hook or Szabo's Steakhouse.
We understand this is the time of year when it feels like life starts to speed up. Whether it’s kids returning to school, shorter days, impending Q3 deadlines, and so on, September stress is real. So why don’t you treat yourself to one last long, slow weekend before your daily routine intensifies? Come to Newport where you can rest, relax, and enjoy the waning days of summer.