Labor Day 2014 is upon us. It's three days of opportunity to have an adventure, enjoy the outdoors, sample some delectable dining and enjoy an end-of-summer getaway in a fine hotel (optimally with a pool, because swimming weather isn't going to last forever).

All of which make Valley Forge and Montgomery County the perfect place to hang out this Labor Day Weekend:

  • Photography in the late-summer sunlight takes on an almost magical quality, as the area begins the transition into fall. The Nature Photography Workshop offered by Norristown Farm Park on Saturday, August 30, should yield stunning results, given the time of year and the abundance of wildlife. The free session - perfect for shutterbugs of all ages and sophistication levels of equipment - lasts about two hours, and walking shoes are recommended. If you're more into observing than snapping, simply bring a pair of binoculars.
  • Fly on over to the Elmwood Park Zoo on Saturday, August 30, for the thrilling Birds in Flight live show. This entertaining and educational program features various live species that soar over the audience. In addition, the giraffe-feeding encounters continue, but not for much longer (the giraffes will be relocated to a warmer climate this fall). While you're there, check out the new zipline course; as our blog explained, it is an unforgettable adventure and covers a wide range of appropriate ages and abilities.
  • The Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles houses dozens of automobiles, trucks, and motorcycles manufactured while the industry was still in its infancy. The displays range from Model Ts to luxury sedans, all restored to their metallic majesty. See them and numerous other examples of vintage vehicles (plus food, vendors and music) at the 49th Annual Duryea Day, Saturday, August 30.
  • Devote part of your weekend to unplugging, especially before that school calendar begins hopping or your fall work projects begin piling up on the desk. The Evolve Music and Yoga Festival at Fellowship Farm, Pottstown, runs all weekend long, from August 29 to September 1. The four days celebrate the creativity of the human spirit and bring together more than 50 bands, yoga instructors, visionary artists, environmentalists and guest speakers in a lively exchange of energy and ideas.
  • Green Lane Park offers many opportunities for a Labor Day escape. Come for a day and fish, hike, bike, run or tour by kayak, paddleboard or pontoon boat. For a mere $20 a night, pitch a tent at one of the camping sites, as our blogger recently did.

For accommodations that offer a bit more in the way of amenities than camping, The Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board's website is stocked with special hotel offers (that include a bag full of giveaways) to celebrate the ability to "Let Freedom Reign" in Montgomery County. Coupled with a notable lunch or dinner out (let us recommend the Garden Grille & Bar), you couldn't do better in planning a stellar Labor Day Weekend.