Best Destinations for Soaking Up the Last Bit of Summer

Looking for the perfect destination to get away before the kids head off to school in September? Escape for a week or even just a weekend to one of these top favorites.

St. Augustine

This Florida destination calls August and September “easy season” for a good reason — the crowds are smaller, the travel is more affordable, but the experiences are just as enjoyable. Catch one of the largest free music festivals in Florida at the Sing Out Loud Festival, featuring hundreds of acts, Sept. 1–23. Visit one of the many free and affordable attractions, tours and museums. Take an Art Walk on the first Friday evening of the month to see new exhibits and live performances at more than 20 art galleries. Head to St. Augustine Sept. 8 to celebrate Founder’s Day with historical reenactments and living history demonstrations inspired by Pedro Menendez’s landing more than 450 years ago.

St. Lucia

At Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort

, take it easy while enjoying the luxurious lifestyle. Through the rest of the summer, you can enjoy 25 percent off luxury villas, residences and bungalows, but that’s just the start of the perks. While you and your partner partake in morning coffee by your private pool and naps on the beach, the kids can get out all that summer energy at the Sugar Club, which offers fun activities, arts and crafts and more. It’s a great way to relax before the hectic school season begins.

St. Lucia © Garth Archibald | Dreamstime.com

London

Jet across the pond and see the best of London while there’s still a little warmth left in the air. Whether your kids are fans of history or Harry Potter, there’s bound to be something exciting for them to see. The exclusive Lazy Summer Days experience at The Arch London is available through Sept. 9, and includes a lovely picnic in Hyde Park with a gourmet spread and sparkling wine. The luxury hotel is tucked away in a Georgian townhouse for a comfortable hideaway near many top attractions.

Snowshoe, West Va.

If your family is more of the outdoor adventure type, Snowshoe, West Virginia’s, FreeFall Festival could be a great fit. The lineup of free concerts takes place Aug. 31–Sept. 2 in the scenic mountaintop village. While there, enjoy all the outdoor activities the West Virginia Allegheny Mountains can provide. During the same weekend, the resort hosts a beer festival with craft brews from around the country. Other activities include guided hikes, mountain bike races and yoga and art classes.