According to Airbnb, the number of locals staying within 300 miles of home towns has almost doubled over the past five years. And it makes sense. People want to go on vacation to relax, and there’s nothing wrong with shorter, more accessible getaways and exploring destinations closer to home. There’s also the benefit of supporting regional economies. Small businesses, such as local restaurants, shops, and attractions, gain significantly from community tourism. If you’re looking for last-minute trip inspiration, Airbnb has put together a list of places locals are choosing for their holiday stay-cation, and there are some beautiful rentals in these spots, perfect for Labor Day weekend.
Photo: Airbnb
20 Beautiful Last-Minute Airbnbs for a Labor Day Staycation
- Louisville, Kentucky
- Flagstaff, Arizona
- Providence, Rhode Island
- Somerville, Massachusetts
- Syracuse, New York
- Big Bear Lake, California
- New Haven, Connecticut
- North Topsail Beach, North Carolina
- South Padre Island, Texas
- Ocean City, New Jersey
Louisville, Kentucky
Labor Day weekend in Louisville coincides with a bunch of lively festivals and events, making it an ideal time to experience Southern hospitality in an urban setting. You can enjoy the last summer days on the Ohio River, kayaking, fishing, and taking scenic walks along the waterfront, or kick back and cheers with an Old Fashioned at one of the many bourbon distilleries.
Historic cabin near the Kentucky Bourbon Trail
This charming one-bedroom cottage, built in 1783, sits on a 13-acre estate near the famous Bourbon Trail. The two-story cottage has been updated with modern amenities and decorated with antique American and European furnishings and fine art.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $132 per night
Historic home with lots of yard space, a patio, and a deck with views
This two-bedroom home was awarded a historical plaque in 2019. The host proclaims that the previous owners shared a newspaper article from 1979 that said, according to neighborhood legend, the house floated up the river in a flood in the 1930s and was reconstructed into the beautiful home it is today. This is a superb option for those traveling with kids. There’s a lovely open-planned chef’s kitchen for entertaining, a patio with a bar, an upper deck with a view over a nearby bridge, and a hot tub and corn hole in the backyard.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $270 per night
Flagstaff, Arizona
Set among the towering ponderosa pines, Flagstaff offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat. The city and the Airbnbs here, provide a perfect base for exploring the Grand Canyon, plus it has a charming downtown area with art galleries, boutiques, and great dining options.
3-bedroom home near the Grand Canyon
Breathe in the fresh mountain air at North Star Base Camp, resting on the boundary of the national forest. This two-story Flagstaff cabin features an elevated terrace plus five acres of grounds to run around in; all the better if you bring your dog along to this pet-friendly Airbnb. A well-stocked kitchen comes with all the essentials — coffee maker included — to map out your day trips to the Grand Canyon and wider Flagstaff attractions.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $367 per night
Log cabin with kid’s treehouse
Entirely encircled by thick ponderosa pine, it would be impossible to stumble upon this Flagstaff log cabin Airbnb. A wraparound terrace and upper deck provide the perfect vantage point to ogle the fairytale landscape and glimpse deer in the neighboring Coconino Forest. Charming interiors are decked out with woody fixtures and plush linens for a restful sleep. Quick word of warning: if you travel with kids, they’re absolutely going to put out a plea to sleep in the treehouse.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $499 per night
Traveling to Arizona? Check out Matador’s Arizona accommodations guides:
Providence, Rhode Island
Providence offers a variety of outdoor events and festivals, providing opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and beautiful waterfront. Over the weekend, you can enjoy live jazz at the neighborhood-driven restaurant Sarto, attend arts events at The Pawtucket Arts Festival, hop on a comedy brunch tour on the Comedy Bus, and more. Check out the events page at Go Providence for a full list of happenings.
Cottage suite steps away from Brown University and downtown Providence
This beautiful suite is in the historic William Mason House, which dates back to the early 19th century. It’s a great option if you’re looking for an Airbnb with a professional host, aka hotel-like service. It has a distinctive European ambiance and two lavishly decorated bedrooms that sleep up to seven. There are two private entrances, one in a charming circular cobblestone courtyard out the back of the Airbnb.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $377 per night
Brand new, luxurious apartment centrally located in the West End
Located in the West End of Providence, close to some of the best restaurants, art galleries, cinemas, and bars, this chic, romantic Airbnb is perfect for a solo traveler or couple on a Labor Day getaway. It’s on the first floor of a gothic-style Victorian mansion and has secure parking for one vehicle.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $263 per night
Somerville, Massachusetts
Somerville has rapidly transformed into a dynamic and sought-after destination in Massachusetts, and its proximity to Boston makes for an easy getaway. Somerville has a thriving arts scene, exciting restaurants, and lots of green spaces to enjoy. The Mystic River, which runs through the city, is popular for kayaking, fishing, and enjoying the outdoors over Labor Day weekend.
Family home five miles from Boston
This light-filled family Airbnb is less than five miles from Boston. It’s ideally located in Somerville, just a short walk from Tufts, the MBTA train to Harvard and Boston Common. The home has been recently renovated and has three bedrooms, perfect for a family getaway.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $425 per night
Stylish apartment minutes from Tufts University
This two-bedroom apartment is another equally well-appointed Airbnb in Somerville. It’s close to many cafes and restaurants and just a short stroll from Tufts University. There’s free parking in the driveway, and a lovely backyard space has outdoor dining, seating areas, and a large BBQ for Labor Day grilling.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $398 per night
Traveling to Massachusetts? Check out Matador’s Massachusetts accommodations guides:
- The Best Airbnbs in Boston, From Beacon Hill to a Ship in the Harbor
- The 8 Finest Hotels in Boston Within Walking Distance to All Must-See Downtown Attractions
- These Striking Boston Hotels Give You Easy Access to Everything in the City
- This Luxury “Campground” Lets You Glamp Surrounded by Cape Cod’s Stunning Natural Beauty
Syracuse, New York
As a historic college town, Syracuse has an evolving cultural scene with renowned institutions like Syracuse University and Le Moyne College. You can explore world-class museums like the Everson Museum of Art and the Onondaga Historical Association or take advantage of its proximity to the Adirondack and Finger Lakes regions for water sports galore. You can also attend The Great New York State Fair, which runs over Labor Day weekend and features concerts, food, rides, and exhibits.
Cozy, stylish 1920s 2-bedroom walking distance from James Street
If you’re considering visiting Syracuse by public transport, this two-bedroom home is a great option. It’s in a very walkable area close to local restaurants, a coffee shop, bookstores, and local shops on James Street. Originally a 1920s bungalow, the owners have added an additional master bedroom suite, which is a perfect escape for those who’d like some peace and quiet over the weekend.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $203 per night
Plush, colorful apartment centrally located in downtown Syracuse
This central apartment is located in downtown Syracuse. The brand-new Airbnb might require sunglasses — the owners have not shied away from color or neon, but it has everything you’d expect (and need) from a modern rental. It’s also a top five percent Airbnb, which means it has outstanding five-star reviews from past guests.
Six guests, one bedroom
Price: $109 per night
Big Bear Lake, California
Labor Day weekend in Big Bear Lake is heaven on Earth. As summer crowds dissipate, you can enjoy a more tranquil visit while still taking advantage of the area’s outdoor playground. The foliage is also beginning to turn, creating a stunning backdrop for hiking and photography.
Luxury lakefront home with a hot tub and panoramic views
On the shores of Big Bear Lake, this luxury A-frame cabin is the ultimate lakefront getaway. The light drenched home offers panoramic views over the water and mountains. There’s a expansive deck with a hot tub, an EV charger, private dock, and it’s dog friendly.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $852 per night
Modern A-frame mountain retreat
A-frames seem to be in fashion in Big Bear, and this family retreat is located in one of the area’s most desirable neighborhoods. It also borders the national forest, so there are plenty of hiking trails nearby. It’s an ideal rental for a group, as there are outdoor games, a movie screen projector, and a huge grill on the wrap-around deck.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $327 per night
Traveling to Southern California? Check out Matador’s California accommodations guides:
- Get The Most Out of Palm Springs At These Guest Favorite Airbnbs
- 8 Gorgeous Palm Springs Airbnbs With Private Pools
- The 9 Best Palm Springs Airbnbs for a Bachelorette Party to Remember
- These Are the Best Cannabis-Friendly Airbnbs in Los Angeles
- 9 dreamy oceanfront Airbnbs up and down the California coast
- 10 soulful beach Airbnbs for the perfect SoCal yoga retreat
New Haven, Connecticut
With the approach of fall, New Haven comes into its own and the weather is often nice, making outdoor activities even more enjoyable. The town hosts various events and festivals for all ages over the weekend, such as apple picking at Bishop’s Orchards.
Designer 2-bed apartment in Wooster square
This designer apartment was the former Coca-Cola bottling plant and has been stylishly renovated into a stunning two-bedroom. It’s on Wooster Square, steps from historic Wooster Street, and, according to the host, minutes from the best pizza in New Haven. Past guests rave about the level of detail and service from the hosts, who go the extra mile to make a memorable stay.
Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $282 per night
Huge 5-bedroom house fit for royalty
This is one of the most sought-after Airbnbs in New Haven, and it’s easy to see why. This stunning five-bedroom house looks more like a mansion. The host says no expense has been spared decorating and setting up this rental. There’s a beautiful sun-drenched porch with a dining table for eight, an enormous hot tub, a home gym, and a private garden.
Ten guests, five bedrooms
Price: $458 per night
North Topsail Beach, North Carolina
A Labor Day weekend getaway to North Topsail Beach offers a final chance to enjoy warm weather and beach activities. While the island doesn’t host large-scale events like other coastal destinations like its southern neighbors Myrtle Beach or Charleston, its chilled vibes, family-friendly atmosphere, and abundance of outdoor pursuits make it an ideal place to relax and unwind.
Round cottage with wrap-around deck near the beach
You can sit on this fabulous round cottage’s deck and listen to the waves; it’s that close to the beach. The open-concept floor plan includes a full kitchen, a separate central dining space, a cozy living area, and two bedrooms. The interior celebrated its surroundings with bohemian-beach style decor and Gray Malin-inspired artwork.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $218 per night
Beach house so close to the ocean you could fish from the deck
You can almost touch the ocean from this private beach access rental. The upper deck has pergola shading, while the lower spa deck has an outdoor shower, lounge chairs, and plenty of room to chill while looking out over the ocean. The views from this property are unmatched. It’s within the top five percent of listed Airbnbs, and although it might not have a dishwasher, this is one to bookmark.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $475 per night
South Padre Island, Texas
As the summer season begins to wind down, South Padre Island hosts a number of events and activities to celebrate the long weekend. Expect superb firework displays and epic sale shopping for beach essentials.
1-bedroom beachfront condo seconds away from Majestic Beach
South Padre Island goes off at this time of year, so finding a rental here can be challenging. However, if you’re a solo traveler or couple, check out this one-bedroom beachfront condo. Majestic Beach is just outside the sliding doors, and there’s private access to the sand. As it’s in a complex, guests can use the communal pool and make use of the free parking. If you have extra guests, there’s a pull-out queen-sized sofa bed. This is another Airbnb that is within the top five percent of rentals and has outstanding reviews.
Five guests, one bedroom
Price: $290 per night
Single-story home half a block from the ocean
Named the “Surf Shack,” this single-story rental is rustic yet modern. It has an epic backyard with a private heated pool and a cabana, and it’s centrally located on the island. From the rental, you can walk to the beach, shops, restaurants, and nightlife at the bayfront bars. Pets are welcome, too, and the yard is fenced in.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $375 per night
Ocean City, New Jersey
Ocean City offers a classic seaside experience with its wide, sandy beaches, iconic boardwalk, and family-friendly atmosphere. The Ocean City Music Pier will be rocking out with live music and fireworks. And if you’d like to get your steps in, the annual OCNJ Labor Day Race, a popular beach run, takes place on Monday.
Brand new single-family home five minutes from the beach
The host says all you need is your swimsuit for your vacation here. This house has everything you need for an Ocean City beach getaway. The beach and boardwalk (14th Street) are around five minutes away, and many shops, restaurants, and playparks are nearby, too. You can enjoy your morning coffee with a peak of the ocean from the gorgeous front porch, make a cocktail at the in-house bar, wash your sandy feet in the outdoor shower, and use beach essentials included in your stay.
Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $409 per night
Large private home with some of the best sunset views in the area
The deck of this large private home is out of this world. From here, you can watch beautiful sunsets, boats sail on the intercostal waterway, and seabirds soar over nearby wetlands. The house has a chef’s kitchen, but if you’d rather eat out, some of the best restaurants in the area are a short bike ride away. Lighting is smart home enabled, and there’s a storage locker under the porch with bikes and beach gear that you can use. 
Nine guests, three bedrooms
Price: $440 per night