Make your final weekend of summer the best one yet and head to the Smokies! This incredible vacation destination offers something for everyone. Have fun, make memories, and celebrate an unforgettable end to the season.
Go for a Hike
Explore the mountains that made the area famous. Great Smoky Mountain National Park, the most visited national park in the country, has lots of great trails and beautiful waterfalls. You can spend a few hours or the whole day. The park is free to enter and trail maps can be picked up from one of the four visitors centers. Not in the mood for a hike? You can picnic, bike ride, or fish as well. Either way, get away from the bustle of everyday life and escape to the peace and beauty of nature. Check out their website for more information: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/index.htm.
Visit Dollywood
If hiking sounds a little too tame, spend the day in Dollywood, the beloved family theme park created by country singer Dolly Parton. With over 40 rides, 15 shows, and shops featuring the rich heritage of the Smokies, there’s really something for everyone. Labor Day is officially the last day to play in Dollywood’s Splash Country Water Park before it closes for the season. An homage to Dolly’s summers spent swimming in Tennessee Rivers, the award winning water park has over 35 acres of shops, dining, and splash-worthy fun. Get the details at http://www.dollywood.com/.
Celebrate America at the 111th Canton Labor Day Festival
Canton, North Carolina, is proud of their determination to keep the “made in a America” manufacturing legacy alive and has been celebrating since 1906, the longest running Labor Day festival in the south. The celebration features concerts by big country names like Ricky Skaggs, Balsam Range, and Chatham County Line. Come hungry – food trucks and local churches will provide a range of mouthwatering options. There’s a kid’s zone with inflatables, face painting, and more at a very affordable one ticket price. With a vintage car show, historical museum, Gospel music experience, handmade craft expo, and parade, you’ll have a hard time squeezing all the American fun into one day. All the details can be found here: http://www.cantonlaborday.com/.
Go Shopping
You may be in one of the most beautiful and historical sights in America, but no one will blame you for wanting to hit the mall. The Smokies are well known as a top shopping destination, so take advantage of those Labor Day sales! Snag great deals on designer clothes and brand names at the numerous shopping outlets and malls. Find one of a kind items (or food) at one of the boutiques, handmade arts and craft stores, or specialty gift shops. Or search for a treasure and take home a piece of history from an antique shop. So make sure to leave room in your suitcase! Check out http://www.visitmysmokies.com/what-to-do/shopping/ for more information!
Labor Day is just around the corner. Start planning your incredible trip to the Smokies!