Labor Day weekend 2017 is upon us. That means one last chance to get out of town and enjoy the last of summer's warm-weather charms. Unfortunately, you're not the only one wondering where to go for Labor Day weekend. Whether you want to grab pints at a brewery, tour a historic neighborhood, or just relax on a beach trip, you're liable to end up doing so in the presence of a vacationer's worst enemy: crowds of other people.

Don't worry—we're here to help. We found some of the nation's favorite Labor Day weekend getaways and came up with alternatives to keep you satisfied (and sane) during your last weekend away before the leaves begin to fall.

Classic Pick: Chicago

Browse Chicago hotels starting at $49/night.

Our Alternative: Milwaukee

Browse Milwaukee hotels starting at $79/night.

Tourists love the Second City, but if fighting the shopping throng on Michigan Avenue isn't your thing, head just an hour and a half north to Milwaukee instead. It has the same Midwestern friendliness and lakefront beaches—but in a more manageable, far less crowded setting.

Where to stay: The Pfister Hotel, a 4.5-star, 300-room hotel with a prime downtown location. Book a room starting at $247/night.
Must-do activity: You can't visit Milwaukee with taking a brewery tour—or five. Book a brewery tour and tasting for four at MobCraft Beer for $24.
What to eat: Dine on homemade pasta at the hopelessly romantic Pasta Tree. Get $40 worth of dinner for $25.

Classic Pick: Las Vegas

Browse Las Vegas hotels starting at $20/night.

Our Alternative: Niagara Falls

Browse Niagara Falls hotels starting at $34/night.

Vegas just might be the most popular choice for a weekend away, no matter what time of year it is. And when nearly everybody has three days off, it's even busier. Head north instead; it turns out the slot machines at Niagara Falls casinos are just as lucky as their Nevada counterparts. In addition to gaming, you'll find plenty of things to do in Niagara—oh, and those waterfalls aren't bad, either.

Where to stay: The Sheraton at the Falls Hotel, just two blocks from Niagara Falls State Park on the U.S. side. Book a room starting at $99/night.
Must-do activity: Soar above the Falls and snap some incredible pics during a 30-minute helicopter tour from Fly Buffalo NY. Book a helicopter tour starting at $159.
What to eat: Venture over to the Canadian side to feast on prime rib and more at Remington's of Niagara Steak and Seafood. Get a three-course dinner for two for C$93.

Classic Pick: Cancun

Browse Cancun trips starting at $449/person.

Our Alternative: Costa Rica

Browse Costa Rica trips starting at $589/person.

If you prefer that your Labor Day weekend getaways involve sun and surf, consider swapping party-centric Cancún for peaceful, picturesque Costa Rica. The Central American country has an unspoiled coastline perfect for a three-day beach trip; inland, you'll find flocks of tropical birds, lush jungles, and numerous opportunities for adventure.

Where to stay: The Blue River Resort & Hot Springs, an isolated resort tucked into the jungles of Guanacaste and featuring its own private botanical gardens. Book a stay starting at $279.
Must-do activity: A stay at the Blue River Resort & Hot Springs actually includes two activities of your choice, and none is more thrilling than zooming past waterfalls on the Blue River Zip Line Tour.
What to eat: Dine on local specialties like chicharrón (crispy pork) or ceviche.