fun places to visit with friends near me

50 Fun Things to Do With Friends in 2023

Whether you're looking for something to do outside or at home, we've found plenty to keep you entertained.

But we guarantee there are plenty of budget-friendly good times to be had with your favorite humans closer to home, many of which we've rounded up below. From cozy nights playing board games to hoofing it on area hiking trails , plus hitting up the thrift shops and volunteering...well, anywhere, the following ideas are sure to be crowd-pleasers the whole group will love. Just pick your favorite and start planning. And while you're at it, you might want to send out one of our Best Friend Quotes That Capture What True Friendship Is All About just to let the gang know how much you cherish them (though you probably want to note that doesn't mean you're going to let them win at Monopoly).

Visit a museum.

While tickets for art and historical institutions can get pretty pricey in these days of sky-high inflation, loads of museums have free days or offer special discounts for late afternoon admission. If you've got a big enough group, you might be eligible for reduced prices and even special guided tours with advance reservations.

Have a picnic.

If the weather forecast is promising a good-looking day, soak up all that sunshine by spreading a blanket in your local park and unpacking a potluck picnic. Have everyone bring one goodie, like potato salad , sandwiches , or pie , and then relax and enjoy.

Shop a farmer's market.

Not only is locally sourced produce fresher, tastier , and better for the environment, it can often be cheaper than buying veggies and fruit at the grocery store. Plus, many farmer's markets feature entertainment, food stands and vendors selling handmade items, so you can watch, eat, and browse all morning for next to nothing.

Go for a spin.

Load everyone up in your ride and hit the road to the closest charming small town . Window shop, grab a bite at the local diner, see some historical sites and just...breathe. Can't you feel all that big city stress melting away?

Pick some produce.

There's a lot to love about picking your own fruit and veggies, whether it's apples , berries, pumpkins, peaches, or anything else. (Flowers are also an increasingly popular U-Pick option.) You and your pals do the work, you and your pals reap the benefits: fresh air, sunshine, exercise, yummy food and, of course, time together.

Pitch a tent.

Pack up the camping gear and spend a night or two in the forest with friends. Take a stroll , grill some weenies , or just kick back and chat. You might even get to know each other even better than you already do.

See a psychic.

You know that storefront soothsayer you've always wondered about? Grab the gang and go get your fortune foretold. Betcha you'll hear you'll all be friends forever.

There's nothing like a warm day on cool water, and municipal, state and national parks with lakes often offer economical kayak and canoe rentals. You don't really need much experience to handle one, either—even your beginner buddies will have a good time.

Load up at the library.

Spend an hour or two skimming the stacks and then check out a few books you can all take turns reading. That should spark some lively discussions! In fact, you might even want to...

Start a book club.

Books clubs are great for promoting thoughtful discourse with old friends as well as providing you with a way to make new ones. Just be sure to advertise your club through area bookstores, community groups and the library if you'd like to recruit people from outside your social circle.

Take in a game.

Pro sport matchups, even the beloved everyman game of baseball, have gotten notoriously expensive to attend, but college and especially high school games are much cheaper. For extra fun, dress in the home team's colors, bring your pom poms and don't forget to tailgate !

Hit the trail.

Whether it's a path tucked away deep within a national park or a promenade winding through city gardens, walking and hiking trails are everywhere, affording you and the crew a chance to stretch your legs while enjoying a heaping dose of nature.

Check out a lecture.

Head to the local college and audit a class for a session or two. Not only will you all get to expand your minds a bit, you won't have to worry about tests or getting good grades.

Explore a botanic garden.

Stop and smell the roses at a botanic garden or arboretum, which are often either free or significantly less expensive to enter than other city attractions. Some even allow picnics, so you can count on whiling away at least a few hours on a nice afternoon.

Donate blood.

Okay, so getting punctured might not sound like the most cheery way to spend a couple of hours with friends, but doing good makes you flat-out feel good, and we all know donating blood saves lives.

Craft cocktails.

Why spend the moola on a cocktail class when you can get together with your squad at home and teach each other how to make your favorite adult beverages? You can even give the night a theme, like fall , frozen , or Fourth (of July) drinks.

Ride bikes.

You don't have to fret if someone in your posse doesn't have wheels; bike shares and rentals are everywhere, just like bike lanes have sprouted throughout many cities. If you want to take it a bit easier on your ride, opt for an e-bike, and let it handle some of the work.

Head to a book reading.

Bookstores and libraries periodically host writers signing their books , reading from their work, and even taking questions from the audience. These engaging events, especially great group diversions on a rain-swept or chilly evening, are usually free.

Take a fitness class.

You know what they say: friends that sweat together stay together. Check into your local park and rec department—they often hold low-priced classes in everything from Tai Chi to Pilates, Zumba and more. Or hold your own aerobics class using a YouTube video.

Go to a drive-in movie .

Yep, these throwback wonders still exist, and tickets are usually much cheaper than if you went to a movie theater, even if half your friends don't hide out in the trunk on the way in.

Play games.

Kick off a weekly game night, with each member of the group taking a turn bringing a different board game. You can also add in a night of putting together puzzles , or playing poker and other card games to spice things up.

Have a ball.

From bowling to basketball, baseball to bar sports like cornhole and darts, amateur sports leagues promote camaraderie and let you relive your high school sports glory days. (Or, you know, maybe work through some trauma around them. Dodgeball, we're looking at you.)

Get gardening.

Digging in the dirt just feels good—why do you think kids love to make mud pies? Take turns doing a bit of planting , trimming, deadheading , or weeding in each other's yards and you'll all not only enjoy the experience but get your flower beds looking shipshape in no time.

Hear music.

Hearing live musical performances is simply good for the soul and you don't have to spend a fortune on pricey tickets, either. In the warm weather months, many parks host free evening concerts from area bands, symphonies and other acts. Open mic nites are also a good bet for affordable entertainment.

Nothing will strengthen your friendship quite like volunteering together, no matter if you donate your time and labor to an animal shelter, soup kitchen, political office, community clean-up crew or any other worthy cause.

Make jewelry.

We all love our baubles and bling, and that goes doubly for shiny things we've crafted ourselves. Gather the girls, a couple jewelry-making kits and start DIYing to your hearts' content. Heck, you might want to even get a little sparkling wine involved.

Take a dip.

If the weather's toasty, cool off with a plunge into the nearest swimming hole or public pool. Should you feel like getting fancy, many hotels allow non-guests to use their facilities for a small fee.

Relive your childhood.

Enjoy a blast from the past by breaking out the crayons and coloring books, or drawing murals in chalk on your sidewalks and driveway. And while you at it, you might want to set up a hopscotch grid, too.

Sing karaoke.

Because, seriously, what else is going to cement the bond between you and your buds like belting out a karaoke classic together, whether you're using an at-home system, or hitting those notes for all the world to hear in your favorite dive bar.

There's a reason scrapbooking remains so popular and it's because it's such a meaningful way to preserve memories, while at the same time offering plenty of creative satisfaction. The really nice thing about getting together with a bunch of friends and scrapbooking is that you can all share the stories of your souvenirs and photos as you lay them out on your pages.

Watch the sunrise.

It might not be easy to get those die-hard night owls in your group up before dawn, but promise them thermoses full of good java and you might be able to make it happen. Then, meet up someplace with a killer eastern view, like a mountain overlook or beach, and watch as the new day is born. You can even share some good sunrise quotes if you're looking for extra inspiration.

Speaking of inspiration, for a soul-stirring (and totally free) experience, little can compare with simply watching the night sky. Bring blankets to sit on, a few pairs of good binoculars (or a telescope) and maybe mix up some hot toddies if it's chilly. You might also consider downloading a stargazing app, which can help you identify those heavenly bodies overhead.

Have a spa day.

Pamper each other round robin-style with at-home mani-pedis , facials , and blowouts. Pour some lemon water, indulge in a little gentle gossip and you'll feel like you're all at the spa together, for a fraction of the cost.

Strap on skates.

Whether it's roller skating in the summer or ice skating in the winter, strapping on a pair of skates will make you all feel like kids again. And who doesn't want to recapture a bit of the zeal and zest of their wonder years, if even for only a few hours?

Spying on feathered friends can be a surprisingly satisfying endeavor, especially if you're doing it with your human cohorts. If you want to kick things up a notch, you can always invest in a pair of good birdwatching binoculars , or even a bird feeder camera .

Spark a flame.

If you've got a nice outdoor fireplace or fire pit , get a good blaze going and invite everyone over for some s'mores. Bonus points if someone brings a guitar, or you tell some good ghost stories .

Toss a painting party.

Flip the switch and turn a necessary chore into something a lot more sociable by inviting your friends over to help you paint your bedroom , kitchen , or whatever room requires a refresh. Order pizza, offer up plenty of ice-cold beer, turn on the tunes—and be sure to let them know you'll be happy to return the favor when their walls need a new color.

Give each other makeovers.

Remember in high school, when everyone took turns at sleepovers doing each other's hair and makeup? This is the same concept, only with wine.

Binge a show.

Pick a dreary day, ask everyone to bring their jammies, serve up the snacks and stream a whole series, or at least a few episodes. (FYI, The Morning Show has been dropping Season 3 episodes as of late...and has been already renewed for Season 4 .)

Thrift 'til you drop.

From designer clothes to kitschy housewares, vintage vinyl to beautiful old books, treasures await at thrift stores and garage sales. You'll have to pick through some junk and keep your eyes peeled for deals that are steals, but isn't that half the fun?

Cook dinner.

Convene at whichever friend has the biggest, best-equipped kitchen and have each person make a different dish for dinner . To keep things interesting, you can even require that every recipe be a new, never-tried one.

Craft a vision board.

Manifest your dreams by setting aside a night or two to make a vision board with like-minded chums who believe in the power of visualization and position thinking.

Learn something new.

Cooking, meditation, painting, a second language...there is an almost endless array of new skills and knowledge to acquire, and it's even more fun to learn alongside friends. Take turns teaching each other what you know, or pull up a YouTube tutorial.

Host a movie marathon.

Decide on a theme—for example, films based on true stories , wedding day features, or scary flicks —make a couple of big bowls of popcorn and kick back and watch your silver screen favorites with your fellow cinephiles.

Organize a scavenger hunt.

We love this idea! Admittedly, it will take some doing, but there are plenty of ideas for themes, locations, clues and more available online.

See a theatrical event.

Sure, plays and musicals can be expensive, but catch the show in previews and you'll find ticket prices are often cheaper than after opening night. If you've got a big collection of chums, you might be eligible for a group discount, or see if you can all volunteer to usher and get in for free. Community and college theatrical productions also tend to be less expensive to attend, while still offering a chance for everyone to broaden their cultural horizons.

Throw a themed costume party.

It doesn't even have to be Halloween! Maybe make it a totally 80s bash (for sure for sure), or head west with a request for guests to wear cowfolk costumes . Whatever theme you choose, the evening is pretty much guaranteed to be livelier than if you were hosting a typical "dress casual" shindig.

Learn a dance routine.

You don't have to post it to TikTok, but it'd be cooler if you did.

Have a water balloon fight.

Is there anything better than a friendly water balloon battle on a scorching summer day? Probably, but at the moment we sure can't think of it.

Take a self-guided architecture tour.

Many cities offer free self-guided tours of architectural gems that have been put together by historical societies, convention and visitor bureaus and a wide range of other sources. Or, follow the app GPSmyCity, which features walks in more than 1,500 cities across the world.

Jill Gleeson is a travel journalist and memoirist based in the Appalachian Mountains of western Pennsylvania who has written for websites and publications including Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Country Living, Washingtonian, Gothamist, Canadian Traveller, and EDGE Media Network. Jill is the travel editor for Enchanted Living. Learn more about her journey at gleesonreboots.com.

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73 Fun Things To Do With Friends (For Any Situation)

Are you feeling bored with the same old activities you do with your friends? Looking for fresh ideas to make your hangouts more exciting and memorable? We’ve got you covered! We’ve put together a massive list of fun things to do with your friends, no matter if you want to chill at home or explore the great outdoors.

If you are on a budget, you might also like this list of free and cheap things to do with your friends .

• Creative things
• Places to go

Fun things to do with your friends at home

Whether it’s raining, chilly during winter, or you’re just not in the mood to head outside, there are plenty of entertaining things you can do right at home. Create memorable moments and explore new experiences with these awesome indoor activities. 

1. Play a board game

You and your friends probably have a few board games lying around. Gather them up and host a board game night.

Playing board games with friends is a fantastic way to connect, have fun, and engage in friendly competition. Even if you have to buy a brand-new game, the cost will still be relatively low if you split it between several friends. For inspiration, check out this list of 50 classic board games and Polygon’s list of the best board games.

Games such as poker, blackjack, spoons, and rummy are fun and cost nothing to play if you already have a deck of cards. 

Playing card games with friends is an excellent way to improve your strategic thinking and social skills. If you’d like to try a new game, check out this guide to 40 different games and their rules.

Other games to try

Classic party games, such as Charades, Apples to Apples, and Sardines are simple and fun. 

Playing these games with friends can bring a lot of laughter and enjoyment. You could also play quick “Minute To Win It” games (check out this list for instructions and ideas), video games, or tabletop RPGs.

2. Have a swap meeting for clothing, DVDs, books, or games

Set up a cool and environmentally friendly swap event with your friends for clothes, DVDs, books, or games. Ask everyone to bring things they don’t use or need anymore, and create a swap area in your living room. This way, all of your friends can get new stuff for their closets, entertainment collections, or bookshelves without spending any money. It’s also an awesome way to clean up and discover new favorites. 

If there are things left over that nobody wants, you could have a yard sale and share the money with everyone involved, or give the items to a nearby charity. 

3. Host a potluck lunch or dinner

Break up your eating routine by hosting a potluck lunch or dinner with your friends. Encourage everyone to bring a dish to share, making it a collaborative and exciting dining experience. 

To add a creative twist, pick a theme for your potluck, such as “Italian food,” “favorite comfort food,” or “secret family recipes.” This encourages everyone to try new dishes, and it sparks conversation as people share the stories behind their chosen recipes.

4. Host a movie night

If you’re inviting a small group, you could ask everyone to suggest one movie each. You could also watch films that none of you would ever usually see. For example, if you and your friends normally watch action or sci-fi, try a couple of romantic comedies. Pick an actor and watch as many of their films as possible. 

If your friends love movies and you want to make film nights a regular thing, you could work your way through the American Film Institute’s 100 Greatest American Films Of All Time .

5. Tell each others’ fortunes

Add some mystery to your hangout by trying your hand at fortune-telling. Look up a free guide to palmistry , study the basics, and attempt to read each other’s palms.

If palmistry isn’t your cup of tea, explore the art of tea leaf reading instead. While these methods may not be scientifically accurate, they’re entertaining and can spark fascinating conversations among friends, especially on a rainy day.

6. Host a sleepover

Slumber parties are nostalgic fun and let you pretend to be teenagers again. 

Hosting a sleepover with friends is a great way to build stronger connections and create lasting memories. Do all the things you used to do at a sleepover with teenage friends: watch movies, play games, and share stories late into the night, deepening your friendships and making the experience even more enjoyable.

7. Have a spa day

Turn your home into a spa for a few hours. Tidy up your home and create a relaxing atmosphere with candles, dim lighting, and soothing music or ambient sounds. Serve light, healthy snacks and drinks such as yogurt bowls, hummus with crudites, green tea, and cucumber-infused water. Give each other manicures, hand massages, and face masks. 

If necessary, ask your friends to bring some supplies with them or contribute to the cost. Spa days are usually more popular with girls, but there’s no reason guys can’t enjoy some relaxation and pampering too.

8. Start a fantasy sports league

If you and your friends love to follow sports, start your own fantasy sports league. 

Starting a fantasy sports league adds excitement to watching games. As you manage your own teams and make strategic decisions, you’ll bond over successes and challenges throughout the season. This guide will help you set it up: How to start a fantasy football league .

9. Form a book club

Choose a book, allow one or two weeks for everyone to read it, and then meet up for a discussion.

Forming a book club with friends is an excellent way to expand your literary horizons and engage in thought-provoking conversations, helping to deepen friendships and learn from one another’s perspectives.

If any of your friends are slow readers or have very little free time, it might be a good idea to choose a title that is available as an audiobook. If you pick a book everyone can borrow from the library or read for free online, this activity is completely free.

10. Try new recipes

Invite a couple of friends over and cook dinner together. Find some interesting recipes online or invent your own dishes. 

Trying new recipes with friends is a fun way to develop your cooking skills and discover new flavors. Additionally, cooking together allows you to enjoy a delicious meal you’ve made together.

11. Hold a murder mystery night

If your friends are willing to throw themselves into role-play, hold a murder mystery party. They work for almost any sized group, and you don’t need to spend any money. 

Holding a murder mystery night is a fantastic way to engage in creative problem-solving and teamwork, as everyone works together to solve the mystery. There are lots of free mysteries online you can download, or if you have an active imagination, you could write your own.

12. Set up your own escape room

Visiting an escape room is a fantastic way to spend time with friends, but if there isn’t an escape room near you or you want to save some money, why not set up your own at home? 

Setting up your own escape room is a fun and engaging way to challenge your friends’ problem-solving and teamwork skills. You can find a free mission at Escape Team. Extra missions only cost a few dollars each.

13. Host a themed party

Themed parties give everyone a chance to get creative with decorations, costumes, and food. Here are a few possible themes:

• The 70s/80s/90s or another decade
• Enchanted Forest
• Casino night
• Medieval castle
• Black tie evening
• Roman toga party
• Tropical beach

You could hold a party for your birthday or another big occasion, but you can also hold a party just because you feel like it.

14. Try an online dance class

Clear your living room and take an online dance lesson. You’ll have a great time and get some exercise too. Trying an online dance class with friends is a fun and energetic way to bond, as you learn new moves together and encourage each other throughout the process. 

Sharing laughs and enjoying the experience will create lasting memories while improving your fitness and overall well-being. Check out beginners’ videos on YouTube.

15. Learn some magic card tricks

All you need is some cards and instructions . You could all try learning the same trick or choose different tricks and challenge each other to figure out how each illusion works. 

Learning magic card tricks with friends is an entertaining way to spark creativity and friendly competition. Plus, it’s a fun and unique activity that can lead to a ton of laughs

16. Have a chocolate-tasting session

Buy at least 5 different types of chocolate. (Ask your friends to split the cost if necessary.) Try not to buy any popular brands; look online or in specialty stores for unusual finds. Break the chocolate into pieces and put each variety on a numbered plate. Invite everyone to try every type and compare notes. 

Having a chocolate-tasting session with friends is a delightful way to explore new flavors. It also encourages conversation and connection. If you don’t like chocolate, have a wine or ice cream-tasting session instead.

17. Make bucket lists

Inspire yourselves and each other by writing bucket lists. Compare lists and discuss how you can start turning your dreams into plans. You could also make seasonal lists of things you’d like to do in the coming weeks and months. 

For example, your summer bucket list could include “Go camping for a weekend,” “Go swimming at the lake,” and “Go to an outdoor play or music festival.” If you’re making a winter bucket list, you could include “Go sledding,” “Make a gingerbread house,” “Go ice skating,” or “Make gourmet hot chocolate.” Here is a list with more inspiration to make a bucket list with your best friend .

18. Put up holiday decorations

If you and your friends love decorating your homes for the holidays, you could have a “decorating safari.” As a group, go to everyone’s house in turn and put up decorations while enjoying festive drinks and snacks. 

Putting up holiday decorations together provides a fun way to bond and create lasting memories. This activity allows everyone to share their unique decorating ideas and styles, adding a touch of shared creativity to each home.

19. Have a cocktail-making party

Gather your friends for a cocktail party. BBC Good Food has dozens of recipes you can try. Make your party special by dressing up smartly, putting on some music, and serving some snacks. 

Having a cocktail-making party is a creative way for friends to bond and learn new skills, as you mix and experiment with different ingredients to create delicious drinks. It also encourages conversation, laughter, and shared experiences.

20. Make a time capsule

Find a sturdy waterproof container, fill it with mementos, and keep it hidden for a few years until you and your friends want to open it up and reminisce. You can take a traditional approach and bury your time capsule or just stow it away in a loft or closet. 

Creating a time capsule with friends allows you to capture memories and special moments together. It also gives you something exciting to look forward to when you eventually open the capsule and relive those cherished memories. Check out the Library of Congress’ guide to making a time capsule for inspiration.

21. Do some puzzles

Puzzles can be fun bonding activities. Try working on sudokus, crosswords, word searches, or jigsaws with your friends. If you’re feeling more competitive, have a puzzle race with a prize for the person who completes the puzzle first. 

Doing puzzles with friends helps to exercise your mind and encourages collaboration. It also provides a relaxed environment to unwind, chat, and share a sense of accomplishment once the puzzles are completed. Richardson Puzzles and Games has lots of free puzzles to download. 

22. Take some personality quizzes

Get to know each other better with online personality quizzes. Not many online tests are scientific, but they can still be entertaining and kickstart some interesting conversations. 

Taking personality quizzes with friends is a light-hearted way to learn more about each other’s traits, preferences, and perspectives. The Open Psychometrics site is a great place to start. If you’re looking for indoor activities because of cold weather, you might like this list of things to do with friends in the winter .

Fun things to do with your friends outside

When the weather is good, venture outdoors and try some of these activities. Taking advantage of the sunshine and fresh air, you can explore new experiences and create lasting memories. From sports to nature adventures, these outdoor activities are perfect for bonding and enjoying the great outdoors together.

1. Have a picnic or cookout

Picnics or cookouts can be as simple or elaborate as you like. Don’t forget plates, a blanket, and cutlery. Having a picnic or cookout with friends is a relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors, share delicious food, and create lasting memories. It also provides a casual atmosphere where you can engage in lightweight conversations, play games, and simply unwind in each other’s company.

2. Sit around a campfire

Telling stories around a campfire late at night is a fun way to pass a few hours. Bring some marshmallows for toasting or make smores. 

Sitting around a campfire with friends allows for bonding through storytelling, laughter, and shared experiences. The warm glow of the fire and the delicious treats also make for a memorable night with your friends. 

3. Go hiking

Hiking can be leisurely or extremely challenging, depending on the trail. If some of your friends are a lot fitter than others, make sure you pick a trail that everyone can handle. Take along a picnic lunch and make a day of it. 

Hiking with friends is a great way to explore nature, get some exercise, and strengthen your friendships through shared experiences. 

4. Go cycling

Cycle around a lake, park, or forest, or if you’re feeling energetic, hit a mountain trail. If you don’t have your own bicycles, rent some for a couple of hours. 

Cycling with friends is a fun way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors together.It’s also a low-impact activity that can accommodate various fitness levels, making it inclusive for all your friends to enjoy.

5. Play outdoor games

Outdoor sports and games are perfect in the spring and summer months. Depending on what equipment you have, you could play:

You may be able to find cheap second-hand gear online. If you aren’t into sports, why not go rollerskating or have a water balloon fight? You might like a few more ideas from this list of fun things to do with friends in the summer . And if you live in a place that gets snow, you could have a snowball fight, go sledding, or build snow figures.

6. Walk your dog(s)

If you and your friends have dogs that play well together, meet at the local dog park or take a walk. 

This activity allows your dogs to socialize and exercise, while you and your friends can enjoy each other’s company and catch up on life.

7. Go swimming

Swimming outdoors can help you feel connected with nature, and it’s totally free. Search for “wild swimming [your area]” on Google to find local wild swimming spots. 

This activity is a great way to beat the summer heat while having fun with your friends. Plus, swimming offers a low-impact workout, suitable for people of all fitness levels.

8. Feed the birds

Buy some bird seed and feed the birds at your local park (unless you see signs that forbid you to do so), or set up a bird feeder in your garden. You could also go birdwatching. All you need is a simple guide to birds in your area (check out your local library), plus a pair of binoculars if you’d like a closer view. 

This activity is a relaxing way to enjoy nature with your friends. As you learn to identify different bird species, you might even discover a new hobby that you and your friends can enjoy together.

9. Go Geocaching

Geocaching involves using GPS to find hidden containers (“caches”) outdoors. It’s a good way to explore new places with friends. Get started by downloading the free official Geocaching app . 

This activity adds an element of adventure to your outings, as you work together to solve clues and search for hidden treasures. Plus, it encourages teamwork and problem-solving.

10. Visit the beach

Depending on the type of beach and how much time you want to spend there, you could play games, have a picnic, go surfing, have a cookout, build a sandcastle, go snorkeling, or just take a walk along the shore. 

Visiting the beach with friends creates memorable experiences and offers a chance for everyone to unwind, relax, and enjoy the beauty of nature. 

11. Visit a playground

Wait until the children have gone home and go play on the equipment (as long as it’s sturdy enough to withstand your weight). 

Visiting a playground with friends can bring back nostalgic memories as you engage in lighthearted fun. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to get some fresh air and exercise.

12. Go stargazing

Stargazing is a great spontaneous activity—you just need to go outside at night and look up at the sky. If you’d like to learn more about constellations and planets, download a free guide such as Star Walk 2 .

Sharing this experience with friends allows for both relaxation and meaningful conversations under the vast, beautiful night sky. 

13. Pick your own fruit

Research local “pick your own” farms. You might be able to visit local apple orchards or pumpkin patches in the fall or sunflower patches in the summer. Choosing your own produce is more fun than buying it at the grocery store. 

Picking fruit with friends can turn into a friendly competition or a group effort. It also supports local farmers.

14. Go camping

If you or your friends already have camping supplies, camping in a nearby park or in your backyard is a cheap way to have fun. 

Sharing stories around a campfire, cooking meals together, and exploring nature can strengthen your friendships. Plus, disconnecting from technology for a while can be a healthy move for everyone to unwind. 

15. Do some gardening

Lots of people find weeding, planting flowers, and tending vegetable patches very therapeutic. If you or your friends don’t have a garden, look for community gardening projects in your area and offer to lend a hand. 

Gardening together allows you to bond and it’s a great way to learn new skills from one another. It also gives you a sense of accomplishment as you watch your plants grow and thrive.

16. Play mini-golf

Mini golf is affordable and good for groups. If your friends enjoy it, make it a mission to play all the mini golf courses in your area. 

The friendly competition adds excitement to the game, and you can even create your own mini-golf tournament for bragging rights. 

17. Go horseback riding

Find your nearest riding school or equestrian center and book an introductory lesson. Horseriding can be an expensive hobby, but some schools will give you a discount if it’s your first lesson, so you won’t need to spend a lot of money if you’d like to try it. 

Horseback riding is an exciting and unique experience for everyone involved. Bonding with these majestic animals can create unforgettable memories. 

18. Do an outdoor workout

Go to an outdoor exercise class or Bootcamp and take your friends along with you. Alternatively, you could design your own workout routine. 

Exercising with friends can make the experience more enjoyable and motivate everyone to push themselves harder. Plus, fresh air and sunlight can boost your mood and overall well-being.

19. Visit a botanical garden

Botanical gardens are usually packed with fascinating plants, making them a pleasant place to take a walk and relax in nature with friends. Some gardens also run free or low-cost events, such as talks, guided tours, and art installations. 

Visiting a botanical garden with friends allows you to learn more about the unique plant species or just enjoy the beautiful surroundings. 

Fun things to do with your friends online

Here are some things to do when you’re bored with friends but can’t get together in person. Instead of talking on Zoom or on Facetime, try some of these activities. Engaging in online activities with your friends can help you stay connected and have fun, even when you can’t be together physically.

1. Play online games

There are lots of free and cheap online games you can play with friends, including Minecraft , Fortnite , and Apex Legends. You can also play board games online for a few dollars, including Monopoly and Clue. Search your usual app store to find the official online versions. For a more sedate option, try multiplayer jigsaw puzzles .

2. Watch movies or TV shows

Scener, Netflix Party, Rabbit, and other similar platforms make it easy to share shows and movies with friends. You could have a movie night or binge-watch a series together. 

You can bond over your favorite films or discover new shows, You can also discuss plot twists and share reactions in real-time. This makes it feel like you’re in the same room even when you’re apart.

3. Have a table reading

If you and your friends are big fans of a particular movie or TV show, try finding online scripts and hold a table reading. Look in the BBC Script Library or Simply Scripts for inspiration and free scripts. 

Get creative, practice your acting skills, and have a good laugh impersonating your favorite characters. You can also share your love for the story and discover new aspects of the plot together.

4. Sing karaoke

Find karaoke tracks on Spotify or YouTube and sing along. It doesn’t matter if you can’t sing very well. Just have fun! 

Singing karaoke with your friends allows you to let loose, be silly, and create memorable moments together.

5. Hold a quiz

Use the Random Trivia Generator to come up with questions or write your own. Compete against each other one-on-one, or split into teams. 

Holding a quiz can be a great way to learn new facts, test your knowledge, and engage in friendly competition with your friends. 

• Take an online tour

Explore museums, zoos, and art galleries virtually, including the Guggenheim Museum , the British Museum , and the Louvre . San Diego Zoo has several live animal cams, so you can watch giraffes, koalas, polar bears, and more. 

Taking an online tour with friends is a fun and educational way to spend time together, experiencing new places and learning about art, history, or animals without leaving your homes. Plus, it’s a great alternative for those who live far apart or are unable to travel.

7. Go online shopping together

You could buy things you need, set a budget and challenge each other to find bargains, or just look at some fun and crazy things people are selling online. 

Online shopping together can be a fun way to share opinions on different products, and discover unique items you might not have found on your own. Plus, it can be a great way to help each other save money by spotting deals together.

8. Follow a tutorial or take a class

Learn more about a joint interest or learn a new skill. Look on YouTube, Udemy , and Coursera for free courses, tutorials, and classes. You might also like a few more suggestions for online things you can do with friends . 

Following a tutorial or taking a class together allows you and your friends to share the learning experience, and discuss what you’ve learned. It’s a great way to stay motivated and hold each other accountable.

Creative things to do with friends

If you and your friends are in a creative mood, try these activities. They don’t require much money or specialist equipment, just enthusiasm and time. Creative things are also great activities for introverted people . 

Engaging in creative activities with friends fosters collaboration and inspires new ideas. It also provides an opportunity to express yourselves. 

1. Bake and decorate cookies

Try one of the hundreds of cookie recipes online. Or, if you have no confidence in your baking skills, you can use a store-bought mix. Decorate the cookies with frosting, sprinkles, and anything else you like. Get creative with your designs. 

Baking and decorating cookies with friends provide a chance to learn new techniques from each other. Plus, at the end of the activity, you’ll have delicious treats to share and enjoy!

2. Have a photoshoot

You don’t just have to photograph people! Try a food photoshoot, experiment with still-life photography, or go outside and photograph landscapes. Photoshoots are a wonderful way to make memories, particularly if you take photos of yourself and your friends together. If you have the time and are willing to spend some money, you could compile the best photos into a scrapbook.

3. Do origami

Origami is cheap and doesn’t require much equipment. All you need are a few squares of paper and some online tutorials. Because it’s such a portable activity, you can do it almost anywhere. Take some supplies with you to a coffee shop and have an origami afternoon. 

Practicing origami with friends is a great way to bond and learn new techniques from each other. You can also challenge one another to create more intricate designs.

4. Make music

If you and your friends have instruments, get together and make music. If you don’t have instruments, you can still make music with free apps like GarageBand or Audio Evolution Mobile . 

Creating music together is a fantastic way to bond and express yourselves, while also encouraging collaboration and teamwork. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to learn new skills and experiment with different musical styles.

5. Draw portraits of each other

Set a timer for 5 minutes and sketch each others’ portraits. They don’t have to be realistic drawings. Caricatures and cartoons are fun too. 

This is a great way to bond and laugh at the funny results. It also encourages creativity and offers a fun, lighthearted challenge for everyone involved.

6. Write a story, play, or poem

Working together on a creative writing project is an entertaining way to bond with friends and share ideas. It also allows you to exercise your imagination, learn from each other’s writing styles, and create a unique piece of work that you can all be proud of.

7. Make candles

Candle-making is fairly simple. You can buy essential supplies in most craft stores, and there are lots of online tutorials to help you get started. Have fun customizing your candles with dried flowers, essential oils, and dyes. Once the candles are finished, you’ll have lovely handmade gifts for each other or for others. ProFlowers has a step-by-step guide for beginners .

8. Make some chalk art

Buy some cheap colored chalks and create some original artwork on your driveway. Have fun working together on a huge drawing. At the end of the day, simply wash it away with a hose or pressure washer.

Chalk art is a low-pressure activity since the art is temporary. You can experiment with different styles and themes.

Fun places to go with your friends

Visiting fun places with friends helps create unforgettable memories and offers new opportunities to learn more about each other’s interests.

If you want to go out but feel stuck for ideas, take a look at this list for inspiration.

1. Explore local flea markets

Set yourselves a small budget—for example, $5 each—and see who can buy the weirdest item. Thrift stores and yard sales are other potential goldmines for weird and wonderful objects. Exploring local flea markets also allows you and your friends to discover unique treasures, supporting local businesses and artisans.

2. Find cheap local events

Theater and concert tickets can be expensive. To avoid breaking the bank, hunt down smaller, cheaper gigs like local open mic nights. 

Look in your local press, browse bulletin boards in your community center, or check out your neighborhood’s Facebook page. Or look for food festivals, music festivals, farmers’ markets, and intercultural events, which are usually free.

3. Explore a nearby town

Exploring a nearby town with friends allows you to discover new places, enjoy local cuisine, and learn about the history and culture of the area. Find a town within a reasonable driving distance that you’re not familiar with and visit for the day.

4. Have a scavenger hunt

Make a list of things to find in the local area. For example, if you live in a large town, your list could include “a napkin from a restaurant,” “a squirrel in a tree,” “a funny sign”, “a convertible car,” “a statue,” and “a piece of jewelry worth over $1,000.” Each player or team has to take a photo of each item to prove that they found it. The first person or team to find everything on the list is the winner.

5. Take a ghost tour

If there are any supposedly haunted or spooky spots nearby, go late at night for a scary evening out or search for guided ghost tours in your area.

Taking a ghost tour with friends can be thrilling and entertaining. It’s also a unique way to learn about local history and legends.

6. Visit a museum or art gallery

Visiting a museum or art gallery with friends is a great way to expand your knowledge and spark interesting conversations about various topics. You can share perspectives while appreciating art, culture, or history.

Many museums and galleries are free, and others offer low-cost entry on certain days of the week.

7. Look online for discounted tickets and deals

Groupon offers heavily discounted tickets for lots of activities and random things to do, including paintballing, golf, and more unusual pastimes like axe-throwing. You might also find cheap theater and movie tickets.

8. Go to a funfair or amusement park

The shared excitement and laughter from trying different rides and attractions of such places can strengthen your friendships and provide a day full of entertainment. Dare each other to go on the most exciting rides, or just walk around and eat candy floss and other fair food.

9. Volunteer

Volunteering is one of the most rewarding free things to do. If you and your friends are passionate about a charity or cause, look for volunteering opportunities on VolunteerMatch . You may be able to help out at one-off events or commit to volunteering together on a regular basis.

10. Go to a movie

To save money, choose matinee performances rather than evening movies, or search “dollar movie theater in [your city or area]” to find very cheap tickets. If you don’t feel like sitting in a movie theater, try a drive-in movie instead.

11. Visit an arcade

Arcade games are a fun way to pass a few hours. Pick an arcade that serves good food and drink and make an evening of it.

Competing against each other can bring you and your friends’ lots of fun. Plus, trying to beat high scores or win tickets for prizes adds an extra layer of excitement to your time together.

12. Get a free gym pass

Some upmarket gyms and health clubs offer free trial passes. Sign up with a friend and take advantage of the high-end facilities for a few days. Make sure you cancel the pass afterward so that you don’t incur charges.

13. Go to an improv class

Taking an improv class with your friends is a great way to encourage everyone to think creatively. Plus, it’s a fun opportunity to let loose, share some laughs, and improve your communication skills.

Most large cities have improv groups. Google “improv near me” to find classes. Some theaters offer sessions for teens and young adults.

14. Go to an art class

Attending an art class with friends is an enjoyable way to explore your creative side and learn new techniques. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to bond with your friends as you all discover each other’s artistic talents.

Some art schools offer one-off or drop-in classes for beginners. Google “art classes in [your city or area].”

15. Go bowling

Bowling is a fun and relatively affordable way to pass an hour or two with a group of friends. Plus, it’s an entertaining indoor activity that can be enjoyed regardless of the weather outside.

16. Try a new cafe or restaurant

Exploring new cafes or restaurants can introduce you to different cuisines and cultures, making each outing an exciting experience. 

If you and your friends end up eating or drinking at the same places all the time, mix things up by trying somewhere new. You may discover hidden gems in your area or city.

Viktor is a Counselor specialized in interpersonal communication and relationships. He manages SocialSelf’s scientific review board. Follow on Twitter or read more .

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18 comments.

it helped but we are still bored

Can you make a list of things to so with preteens and with no devices or traveling? My kid’s friend also does not like crafts or baking but my kid does

hey i am a kid can you put a list of kids actives they can do with their friends

Hi this was very useful, although I would appreciate it if you would add more online things (maybe without any video games or yt or any of that stuff), not trying to be petty!

Bro if I don’t like it then just don’t comment

lol I made a list out of this

aw yall are darlins thanks so much apple pies!!

Thanks for the useful info.

Thanks for telling us and coming with tips to do when we have friends coming over!?

That sounds cool we went to the movies and the cafe and park and had a picnic.

i was watching

I just hung out with my friend, and we were bored the whole time, I wish I checked this list sooner 🙂

Thank you so much for telling us what to do with our friends when we are bored

Thank you. We went to a museum. There were statues. Very fun, I recommend it strongly.

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30 Best Trips with Friends! FUN Weekend and International Places to Go

But before you decide on a destination, be sure to keep the personalities and preferences of your friends top of mind. Some friends are awesome to lay on a beach with, but not so great for trekking through the jungle or road tripping through Europe.

My top tip: Embrace the personalities and preferences of who you’re traveling with, and let it guide your destination.

After getting trip ideas below, check out my travel planning guide to help you make it epic.

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15 FUN Places to go with friends on the weekend

I highly recommend OFTEN taking fun trips with friends near where you live. Short and sweet trips are a great way to “test the waters” of traveling with friends without putting too much stress on a relationship. Especially if your travel styles are quite different.

Here are awesome places to go with friends on the weekend, including ideas across the US and Canada.

1. HOUSEBOATING near you

My very first BIG trip with friends was a houseboating weekend in beautiful British Columbia. It was perfect! 

We soaked in the hot tub and slid down the waterslide when we got too hot. Ate way too much ice cream. Met some cuties. And we even crashed. Yup, we did. There’s nothing like a little drama to pull you together! (Make sure you get insurance, ‘cause those boats are harder to steer than they look!)

Find the nearest pretty lake country near you, book a car and make it happen. It’s like camping but with a waterslide.

2. Fun LOS ANGELES weekend getaway for girls

A girls trip to LA is pretty classic. Strut your stuff like Pretty Woman on Rodeo Drive. Hit up the star-prone restaurants. And time it with the Oscars to experience the red carpet. It’s possibly THE most epic place to travel with friends on the weekend.

Or, if you’re not into the Hollywood mayhem, stay on beautiful Santa Monica Beach. Cycle The Strand bike path along the waterfront. Ride the ferris wheel on the pier. And people-watch while enjoying incredible beachfront restaurants.

Where to stay with friends in Los Angeles:

• Casa Del Mar resort and spa (Santa Monica): Right on Santa Monica Beach, with an outdoor pool, restaurants and live music on Sundays. Every room has a hydrotherapy spa tub and floor-to-ceiling windows, some with an ocean view.
• Beverly Wilshire (Beverly Hills): As close as you can get to Rodeo Drive, overlooking Rodeo Drive and the Via Rodeo fountain and steps. An epic place for a trip with friends to explore Rodeo Drive’s boutique shops and cafes.
• SIXTY Beverly Hills (Beverly Hills): Five blocks from Rodeo Drive along Wilshire Blvd, with a pretty rooftop pool and bar.

3. FLORIDA KEYS road trips with friends

A road trip from Miami to the tip of the Florida Keys is the perfect mix of beach and culture. It’s only about 3.5 hours, with plenty of time to stop along the way.

If you’re not from Miami, spend a day exploring its museums, Bayside Marketplace at the waterfront, or cultural neighborhoods like Little Havana.

Then, rent a car and head out to Key West. Along the way, stop to play with dolphins, feel the sand between your toes, and eat and drink with a view. Want more adventure? Where better to go skydiving with the girls than in Key West?!

Find all you need to plan your Florida Keys road trip with friends .

4. NEW ORLEANS weekend getaway with friends

Visiting the plantations in Louisiana would certainly make for a memorable travel experience with friends in the USA. Stay in a former plantation mansion, the elegant Nottoway Plantation that dates back to the 1850s. It’s the south’s largest antebellum mansion, located right on the Mississippi River. It features antiques and fireplaces in the rooms. Plus, an outdoor pool, hot tub, onsite dining and self-guided tours.

Plantations to visit near New Orleans, Louisiana:

• Oak Alley Plantation : Known for the stunning Oak-lined path entrance to this sugarcane plantation. Features tours of the “big house” (with a pretty wrap-around upper balcony), slave cabins, expansive garden and exhibits.
• Whitney Plantation : Famous for its ground-breaking slavery museum, with restored buildings and educational guided tours.
• Destrehan Plantation : Established in 1787, this sugar plantation was the site of one of the three trials following the 1811 Slave Revolt. Features interpretive tours, exhibits and pretty grounds.

5. Fun trips with friends to NEW YORK CITY

New York City can be anything you and your friends want it to be. 

Times Square and Fifth Avenue are perfect for high-end shopping, flashing lights and nightlife. Its museums, Broadway theater and The Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts are epic for the culturalists. Foodies will love exploring Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn. And for those who love relaxation, Central Park, Staten Island and Brooklyn waterfront promise amazing views. I’d argue that NYC is one of the BEST places to travel with friends.

On my trip with friends to NYC, we stayed in a boutique hotel in the Upper West Side . Within a block, we had a small pastry shop, grocery store and plenty of cute cafes. We could easily walk to Central Park and Riverside Park (perfect for a You’ve Got Mail walking tour). And since we were surrounded by residential streets, I got to meet so many dogs out for their walk! Plus, easy subway access to everything else.

Find your perfect place to stay in Manhattan , Brooklyn , Staten Island , Queens and the Bronx (a 3-part series).

6. SEATTLE jazz weekend trips with friends

I love Seattle, Washington. Its Pike Place Market and waterfront restaurants. Plenty of jazz clubs. And lots of excellent shopping and coffee shops, too. Seattle has beautiful waterfront parks, artsy museums, Space Needle views, and boat tours to stay busy. Time it with a concert, too!

When I visited Seattle with one of my best friends, we LOVED the comfortable beds and pillows at the Staypineapple Maxwell Hotel . You simply cannot get a better sleep! It’s colorful vibe is super fun, too, and it has an indoor pool and bikes you can use. Price includes wifi.

Now, as much as I love the Staypineapple beds, you can’t get a better location than The Edgewater . It’s right at Pier 67, with fabulous views of Elliot Bay and the Olympic Mountains. Elegant rooms have fireplaces, cozy furnishings and spa bathroom. The property features an onsite restaurant, gift shop and coffee bar. Price includes wifi and downtown shuttle.

7. Fun LAS VEGAS weekend trips with friends

I’ll admit that Las Vegas is pretty low on my list of places to visit, but I understand the appeal – especially with friends. Awesome shows. Epic shopping. Sights you just won’t see anywhere else.

If you want to embrace the chaos, Las Vegas Strip is the place to stay. If you want to come up to breathe, consider a place like Tahiti Village Resort & Spa near the airport and outlet mall.

You’ll also find some incredible house rentals on VRBO , both near The Strip or near the mountains.

8. Epic CANYON road trips with friends

A great add-on to a friends Vegas trip, especially for the outdoorsy adventurers at heart, is a 2-day canyon road trip . Hike the amazing canyons of Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Canyon North Rim and Antelope slot canyon.

You have some incredible options for places to stay, too. Under Canvas near Lake Powell has lovely tents with a cozy wood-burning stove and private balcony with canyon views. Or book the luxury Amangiri spa resort, tucked right into the rocks. It has an onsite restaurant, bar, concierge, sauna and spa. And the rooms look AMAZING.

9. AMUSEMENT PARK hopping trips with friends

Are you guys dare-devils? How fun would it be to go amusement park hopping together?!

Top on my list are Coney Island in New York City and Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California. In Canada, Montreal’s Six Flags is lots of fun.

To visit a bunch on one trip, take a road trip through California or Pennsylvania. Yup, Pennsylvania! Check out this USA Today article for 17 awesome parks.

10. BEACH resort weekend getaway with friends

You can have an amazing beach resort getaway with friends even without leaving the continental USA. One of my favorite spots is about half an hour from downtown Jacksonville, Florida, at the lovely Ponte Vedra Beach seaside community. It’s also known as San Pablo Island, and is a great mixture of relaxing beaches and bustling Jacksonville nearby.

A wonderful place for a beach weekend getaway with friends is Ponte Vedra Inn and Club . Its beach and gardens are beautiful, with warm and comfortable rooms. Enjoy four heated pools, bikes, seven restaurants and lounges, and plenty of onsite shops and boutiques. Despite all of its amenities, it feels like a charming boutique inn.

Our equivalent for relaxation in Canada is Prince Edward Island. It’s super low-key and perfect for friends who just want to chill.

Dalvay by the Sea Hotel is classic and luxurious, located on the north shore. It’s inside a national park and has an onsite restaurant, bar, tennis courts and bike rentals. Or stay in one of many lovely historic inns in Charlottetown. I highly recommend the charming Fairholm National Historic Inn .

11. Fun ARTSY places to go with friends

Here are two very different types of artsy places to go with friends.

First, East Hampton Art Bed and Breakfast on Long Island. This sprawling property is perfect for art lovers and those looking for a refreshing getaway. Relax in the outdoor pool and jacuzzi while admiring the meditation garden, waterfalls, and lotus pond.

And second, head to Memphis to meet the king! If your friends are big music buffs, you’ll enjoy exploring the Memphis Rock ‘n Soul Museum, Gibson Guitar Factory, and Orpheum Theatre. And of course, the iconic Beale Street’s shops and restaurants. 

Stay at the Peabody Memphis with an onsite dining room, spa, indoor pool and luxurious bathrobes. And don’t miss Peabody’s “March of the ducks” tradition!

12. LAKEFRONT retreat weekend trips with friends

Head to Upstate New York for a weekend trip with friends at the lake. 

Inns of Aurora is a community of five lakefront properties. They’re beautiful and cozy, with wine tastings, yoga and painting classes. Plus, a private beach, lakeside firepits, paddling and bikes. Organic, fair-trade coffee and fresh scones in the morning. Farm-to-table restaurant during the day. Book a room with a fireplace and lake views.

13. Fun weekend trips with friends in TEXAS

There are plenty of beautiful resorts in Texas perfect for weekend trips with friends. One of my favorites is the JL Bar Ranch Resort and Spa in lovely Texas Hill Country. This estate is grand, with a full-service spa, outdoor pool and two restaurants. Plus, pretty gardens to explore, complete with a fountain. Rooms offer warm decor, with gorgeous dark wood accents, furnished patios, bathrobes and slippers. Price includes wifi.

Another favorite is Commodore Perry Estate in Austin Texas. Its manicured gardens are gorgeous, as is the massive library with floor-to-ceiling bookcases and plush couches. You’ll also spend plenty of time in its elegant tea room, pool, terrace and restaurant. Book a room with a terrace for pretty views. Price includes wifi and shuttle service.

14. WINE AND SPA getaways with friends

Do you girls love sipping wine and relaxing with beautiful views? One of the best places to travel with friends in the USA is Napa Valley, California. Napa Valley is about 1.5 hours northeast of the San Francisco International Airport. You’ll find more than 375 wineries, more than 150 restaurants, and beautiful weather year-round. Napa Valley is nestled among two mountain ranges, with incredible views wherever you look.

For weekend getaways with friends at Canadian wineries, choose from gorgeous views in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario, and Annapolis Valley in Nova Scotia. All three locations have excellent wines, spas and views.

Where to stay for a wine and spa getaway with the girls:

• Auberge du Soleil Resort (Rutherford, California): This gorgeous resort is the ultimate friends weekend getaway, surrounded by a 33-acre olive grove. Relax in cabanas at the pool. Indulge at the spa and fine dining restaurant.
• Therapy Vineyards (Okanagan, BC): Suites overlook the vineyard and Okanagan Lake, with oversized windows, fireplace, patio and oversized tub. The property also has an outdoor fireplace and hot tub, and serves breakfast.
• Prince of Wales (Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario): This elegant Victorian-style luxury hotel is the perfect base for exploring nearby wineries. Features an onsite spa and indoor pool. Enjoy traditional English tea at the onsite restaurant and local wines in the cozy lounge.

15. CRAFTING retreat with the girls

There’s something about a crafting getaway that screams “treat”! How often do you dedicate time to create together?

You can find accommodations that offer things like cooking classes or join a retreat that focuses on a particular craft, like painting. For me and my friends, we’d just bring our favorite crafting supplies to a cozy cabin retreat with a hot tub and views.

15 BEST Places to travel with friends in Europe and the world

Taking international trips with friends is a sure way to create lasting memories and bonds. But the stress of international travel will put pressure on your friendship. Make sure you choose a destination that complements your relationship and how you enjoy spending time together.

In Europe, my favorite place to look for accommodations is Plum Guide . You’ll find the coolest house rentals ever, all verified and not all ridiculously expensive.

Here are awesome places to travel with friends in the world, including Europe.

16. European CASTLE getaway with friends

Take your international trip with friends around Europe chasing castles! The biggest challenge will be narrowing your castle adventure to a geographical area, like England or France.

Pick the most iconic castle or area you most want to see and plan the rest of your friends vacation from there. Here are three ideas:

• Neuschwanstein Castle (Germany): The most classic fairytale-like castle nestled in the Bavarian Alps. Take in its stunning architecture, lush surroundings, and panoramic views. Other (relatively) nearby castles to visit include the medieval and mountaintop Hohenwerfen Fortress in Austria and 
• Château de Chambord (France): A Renaissance masterpiece with elegant French architecture and vast gardens. It’ll enchant you with its grand halls and intricate details. Other notable French castles to visit include the lovely Château de Chenonceau built atop an old mill and the opulent Palace of Versailles.
• Eilean Donan Castle (Scotland): A remarkably enchanting castle among many in Scotland, with its charming bridge and moss-covered walls near the entrance to the Isle of Skye. My other favorite castles are on the opposite side of Scotland: the grand Sterling Castle and romantic cliffside Dunnottar Castle.

17. International trips with friends to AUSTRIA

Austria is a captivating blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and cultural experiences. Start your trip with friends in Vienna , the capital city. It’s a hub of art, music and architecture, with magnificent palaces, cathedrals and museums. Pick accommodations near City Center so you can walk to St. Stephen’s Cathedral for evening drinks.

Then, travel through the Danube’s Wachau Valley before heading south to Salzburg. Wachau Valley is a beautiful area of vineyards and cute villages along the river valley. I also highly recommend a stop at Stift Melk Abbey .

Roam the streets and hills surrounding the lovely city of Salzburg , the birthplace of Mozart and setting for the Sound of Music. It’s a charming old town with cobblestone streets, lovely gardens, and the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress looming above.

18. ENGLAND road trips with friends

Take a road trip with friends through the English countryside. There are SO many romantic castles, parks and gardens. Quaint villages in the Cotswolds. Rugged rolling hills in the Lake District. And haunting mysteries of Rosslyn Chapel. Experience England’s beauty on a drive from London to Edinburgh .

If you’d prefer a relaxing group tour rather than driving yourself, check out excellent tours of England from Trafalgar . Include a tour of Scotland and Ireland, too.

Find amazing places to stay on PlumGuide.com .

19. EUROPEAN CRUISE vacation with friends 

A European cruise vacation with friends would be AMAZING. You have all the benefits of world-class service, entertainment and food. Plus the gorgeous cities, islands and rugged coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. Elegant spires off the Baltic Sea. Incredible history and the Cliffs of Dover off the North Sea. And then the more intimate cruise experience of exploring the Rhine or Danube.

Choosing your perfect European cruise option will be the toughest part. River cruises are quite unique, and an incredible way to experience Europe together.

20. Road trips through ITALY with friends

I’ve been to Italy only once and long to go back. There is SO much to see in Italy and it would be absolutely amazing to experience it with my best girl friends. Given the variety of sights to see, I recommend either getting a train pass for the time you’re there or renting a car.

On a road trip through Italy, start and stop in the vibrant city of Rome. Rome is a must-visit for historical landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain. Stroll its charmings streets while indulging in pastas and gelato.

Then head up to Venice, a unique floating city built on canals. On your return to Rome, stop in Florence to see the famous Statue of David and beautiful churches. Then calm things down with a few days exploring the stunning Cinque Terre coastline and Tuscany wineries.

If you have more time, continue south of Rome to explore the historic ruins of Pompeii. It’s just south of Naples, another gorgeous coastal city. Sorrento and the Amalfi coast promise more spectacular views and memories for an epic trip with friends.

Find amazing home rentals on PlumGuide.com and hotels on Booking.com .

21. Explore ICELAND on a trip with friends

Iceland is a magical land of fire and ice, with waterfalls, the Blue Lagoon and ice caves. It’s an amazing trip with friends who love exploring nature’s wonders … and don’t mind a remote experience. There are no Starbucks in Iceland! But you will find other delicious coffee.

Visit the famous Golden Circle, which includes the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Þingvellir National Park. Take in the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and nearby Diamond Beach. Hike through the mesmerizing landscapes of Landmannalaugar or the volcanic region of Mývatn. Discover rugged fjords and black sand beaches, and then soak in the soothing Blue Lagoon geothermal spa.

If you want to explore Iceland’s famous ice caves or chase the Northern Lights, you must come in winter. Plan your friend’s trip between mid-November and mid-March.

22. Fun CARIBBEAN CRUISE trips with friends

A cruise is as easy as they come for trips with friends. Choose a destination, timing, and go!

A super easy cruise vacation for friends would be the Bahamas or Caribbean. Hop from beautiful island to beautiful island, all while enjoying luxury amenities, entertainment, and dining onboard.

A cruise is also a fantastic solution to taking trips with friends who have different interests. So long as you can agree on a cruise destination, you can go your separate ways in the afternoon and come back together at dinner.

Explore cruises on CruiseDirect.com .

23. INDIA adventure places to travel with friends

India is rich in cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and unforgettable experiences for friends traveling together. Explore the bustling streets of Delhi and vibrant markets of Jaipur. Visit the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. And take a spiritual journey in Varanasi.

But to see the best of India on your trip with friends, you need to leave the popular northern cities. Travel south to the popular Kovalam Beach and witness the breathtaking landscapes of Kerala’s backwaters.

Find incredible treehouses for your next best adventure with friends! Check out these treehouses on Booking.com , including in India, Chile, Costa Rica and more.

24. International trips with friends to THAILAND

Are you and your friends intrigued by Asian culture and finding the perfect secluded beach (like in The Beach movie)? Then I’m guessing Thailand is on your radar for international places to visit with friends. 

My main tip for visiting Thailand is to get out of Bangkok as quickly as possible. It’s busy, smoggy and not especially friendly. Instead, head north to Chiang Mai to experience the floating markets . Climb an ancient temple and brush up against an elephant. Then indulge at a beach resort at Phuket or the Phi Phi islands . Bask on white sand beach, surrounded by gorgeous limestone peaks and perfect turquoise waters.

Interested in a guided group tour? I highly recommend Intrepid small group tours for an incredibly rich, “local” experience. They have tours into Northern and Southern Thailand, including food and beach tours!

You may also like 5 Charities in SE Asia Tourists Should Visit .

25. Epic CAMBODIA trips with friends

Ancient temples, jungle and Tomb Raider. And an incredibly resilient people that carry an awful history of genocide. Cambodia is a place that will touch your soul and guarantees a friends trip you’ll never forget.

You’ll want to visit both the capital of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, home to the famous temples. In Phnom Penh, visit markets, temples and gardens. But hold onto your food, because those monkeys are gutsy! And my opinion is that tourists should pay their respects at the genocide sites . How else can we begin to appreciate what their people have been through?

In Siem Reap, explore the gorgeous temple ruins of Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm. A local guide can also take you to lesser-known temples you can climb with a jungle view all to yourself. Be sure to have a drink at The Red Piano and ask for a Tomb Raider drink. Cheers!

When I was in Siem Reap, my sister challenged me to do more than visit, so I will challenge you. Read about my experience of donating blood in Cambodia . (Yes, it was safe.)

26. JAPANESE MONASTERY places to travel with friends

I’ve only had a taste of visiting Japan on a layover in Tokyo on our way to Vietnam, but they completely charmed me with their hospitality! Japan is now on my bucket list, and specifically the zen experience of staying in Japanese monasteries.

Two iconic Japanese monastery communities to visit on a trip with friends include Kōya-san (Mount Kōya) and Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). Mount Kōya is in a mountainous region about 7 hours southwest of Tokyo. It’s home to over a hundred temples including the famous Kongōbu-ji. Stay in shukubo (temple lodgings) with traditional Japanese-style rooms, vegetarian meals, and the opportunity to participate in morning meditations.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is right in Kyoto. It’s known for its stunning golden exterior, and creates a breathtaking view as it reflects off the surrounding pond. Explore its exquisite gardens and the historic tea house inside the complex.

27. Fun AUSTRALIA beach road trips with friends

Australia is known for powdery white-sand beaches. So, rent a car and go beach-hopping on a road trip with friends!

Fly into Sydney and start your trip with friends at the iconic Bondi Beach . It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent surf and coastal walks. Take in the lively beach culture as you sample the many beachside cafes.

Then, head south for about 3 hours to Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay. It holds a Guinness World Record for having the whitest sand. Swim and snorkel at these beautiful clear waters and enjoy the laid-back coastal vibe.

Along the way, stop at the coastal Royal National Park and inland Heathcote National Park . They offer rugged hiking and other adventures that balance nicely with beach-bumming!

28. International trips with friends to BRAZIL

Have you heard of Iguazu Falls? Iguazu Falls is the world’s LARGEST waterfall, made up of a massive 270 separate falls! Check it out for yourself in the best virtual tours of waterfalls around the world . Iguazu Falls is right on the Brazil and Argentina border. 

Along with Iguazu Falls, experience Brazil’s beaches, rainforest and Rio de Janeiro. Make the epic climb up to Christ the Redeemer for epic views.

If you’re interested in a guided tour, check out Trafalgar’s tours in South America . This would be an easy way to explore the best sights on a trip with friends.

29. COSTA RICA best places to travel with friends

I SO want to experience the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve in Costa Rica. And stay in treehouse resorts. It sounds incredible.

Costa Rica is a tropical paradise known for its incredible biodiversity and natural wonders. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve offers breathtaking views, misty forests, and the chance to see rare wildlife. The nearby Arenal Volcano National Park provides thrilling hikes and hot springs for relaxing afterwards. 

For a beach experience, head to Manuel Antonio National Park. Manuel Antonio National Park is renowned for stunning beaches and lots of wildlife, perfect for relaxing and snorkeling. It’s on the Pacific Ocean and accessible by road.

With its lush rainforests, stunning coastlines, and eco-friendly practices, Costa Rica offers a memorable and sustainable travel experience for friends.

30. Fun MEXICO beach trips with friends

There’s a reason why North Americans flock to beautiful Mexico! Mexico has some of the world’s finest beaches, best preserved Mayan ruins and fascinating, colorful cultures. But with all the options, where should you travel with friends? I suggest two. 

First, Cancun is an obvious choice. It’s a world-class destination with something for everyone. Exquisite beaches, first-class hotels, a more authentic downtown area, Mayan ruins and fantastic weather year-round. For an incredible trip with Mom to Cancun, stay at the adults-only all-inclusive Le Blanc Spa Resort . 

A second, quieter choice is Playa Maroma. About 30 miles from Riviera Maya, Playa Maroma has arguably the best beaches in the world. Plus rainforests and snorkeling right off the beach. A beautiful all-inclusive resort to check out is Catalonia Playa Maroma .

You may also like:

• How to travel with friends: Trip planning
• How to find better accommodations
• Trips with Mom and Trips with Dad

Featured photo: Priscilla Du Preez from Unsplash.

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Travel Tips and Trivia

Last Updated: January 23, 2024

30 Super Fun Places to Go With Friends [Best Friends Trip Ideas]

Hunting for some fun places to go with friends? Check out this long list of the best places to travel with friends! It includes countries, cities, and local suggestions for an unforgettable best friends trip.

Danny Newman

Looking for some fun places to go with friends? I hope this post helps!

There’s only one thing that makes travelling better:

Travelling with your friends!

Maybe that’s why 58% of us prefer to travel with friends than travelling solo or with a tour group.

If you’re searching for some fun places to go with friends, you’ve come to the right place.

Today, I’m going through the best places to travel with friends around the world.

Whether you’re on a tight budget, an adrenaline junkie, or a sun worshipper, there’s a destination on this list that’s perfect for your next best friends trip!

Ready to feel inspired? Dive into the list below to find the perfect travel destination for you and your besties!

Here we go, then: 30 super fun places perfect for a best friends trip!

Interested in the best places to travel with friends ? You might also like these:

• 60 Awesome Adventure Dates Ideas
• Top 11 West Coast National Parks to Visit
• 20 Places with Crystal Clear Water
• 20 Coldest Countries in the World
• 20 Hottest Countries on Earth
• 12 Famous Landmarks in Asia
• 30 of the Best Outdoor Adventure Books
• 120 Best Songs about Adventure
• 10 Reasons Why Travelling Is Fun
• Best Jobs for Adventurers

Fun Places to Go With Friends on a Budget

1. thailand.

It’s a backpacker Mecca for a reason — Thailand is cheap, user-friendly, safe, and unbelievably fun for a best friends trip.

Get your party on at Bangkok’s Khao San Road, head up north to Chiang Mai to volunteer at an elephant rescue, then finish with some relaxation on the gorgeous southern beaches of Krabi and Ko Phi Phi.

2. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic (or “DR”) offers everything you’d want in a Caribbean vacation at a fraction of what you’d pay on other islands.

Stay at an all-inclusive resort, ride horses on the beach, snorkel through the crystal clear waters, or go ziplining through the treetops. Then you’ll be ready to hop on a party cruise boat and dance the night away.

Europe isn’t known for being the cheapest continent to travel to, but you can still find great deals in countries like Croatia.

It has just as much history and Mediterranean charm as Italy, Spain, or Greece, but if you travel during the autumn, winter, or spring, you won’t blow your travel budget!

Tour historic castles, go island hopping, sample local wine and beer, then marvel at the waterfalls in Plitvice Lake National Park.

4. Guatemala

Beaches, mountains, volcanoes, rainforests, and ancient ruins — what more could you ask for in your search for places to go with your best friends?

Guatemala packs the cultural and ecological punch of Costa Rica at a (much) cheaper price tag. Wander the colonial cobblestone streets of Antigua, trek through lush tropical jungles, then pull up a lounge chair beneath a postcard-perfect palm tree.

Another Southeast Asian hotspot, Vietnam belongs at the top of your list of fun places to go with friends.

Sample some of the healthiest and cheapest street food in Asia as you meander the bustling, chaotic streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

When you’re ready to slow down, take a cruise through spectacular Ha Long Bay or go for a trek through the traditional hill tribe region of Sapa.

In the following section, we’ll run through the best vacation for friends who loves adventure!

Best Vacation for Friends Who Love Adventure

From arid coastlines to ancient civilizations nestled high in the Andes, Peru is a must-see for any group of friends who loves a good adventure.

Wander through the archaeological sites outside Cusco before you tackle the 4-day Inca Trail, considered to be one of the top treks in the world. You’ll be rewarded with the unforgettable sight of Macchu Picchu at the end!

Eight of the world’s fourteen highest mountains are in Nepal. So if you’re wondering where to go with friends who love the great outdoors, Nepal is as extreme as it gets!

Get your fill of delicious curries in the capital city of Kathmandu before voyaging to Chitwan National Park in search of tigers and elephants.

Then lace up your hiking boots and get ready for the trek of a lifetime on either the Everest or the Annapurna Circuits for an up-close encounter with the Himalayas.

8. New Zealand

Whatever you and your friends fancy, you’ll find an extreme (and extremely awesome) version of it in New Zealand.

Hit the northern beaches for scuba diving, surfing, and kiteboarding, then soak your worries away in the natural geothermal hot springs at Rotorua.

When you’re ready to kick back into high gear, head south to Queenstown for an endless array of adrenaline thrills such as bungee jumping, skydiving, paragliding, jetboating, and heli-skiing.

This Nordic island nation in the North Atlantic is home to some of the harshest and most dramatic landscapes on earth.

Ride Icelandic ponies across the tundra, get up close to active volcanic lava flows, marvel at the Glacier Lagoon and the black sand Diamond Beach, then relax into the hot glowing waters of the Blue Lagoon.

Bonus points if you’re brave enough to try hakarl and “Black Death” — also known as fermented shark and the equally pungent Brennevin liquor.

10. Tanzania

Is an African safari the best vacation for friends? Travel to Tanzania with your posse and your answer will be a resounding “Yes!”

Take a safari across the Serengeti in search of the “Big 5” or climb to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak. Then head east to the island of Zanzibar to explore its white sand beaches and diverse African, Indian, and Muslim cultures.

Do you know where to go with friends that love history?  Check out these ones…

Where to Go With Friends Who Love History

11. cambodia.

Lying in the centre of mainland Southeast Asia, Cambodia has a long, fascinating, and often tragic history.

Tap into your inner Tomb Raider and begin with a tour of the jaw-dropping Temples of Angkor, a once-mighty civilization that vanished into the jungle for almost 1,000 years.

Then head down to Phnom Penh to tour the Killing Fields and learn about the Khmer Rouge — one of the most atrocious (and surprisingly recent) genocides in human history.

Turkey sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia and has been a major centre of human civilization since — well, the dawn of man.

Start in the exotic city of Istanbul, once the head of the mighty Ottoman Empire and home to over 3,000 mosques .

Venture east to Cappadocia and take a hot air balloon ride over the region’s bizarre rock-cut houses and churches. Along the way, you’ll find remains of every great empire that passed through Turkey, from the Greeks to the Romans to the Ottomans.

Greece is definitely one of the best places to go with friends who adore history.

Walk in the footsteps of ancient Greek philosophers at the Acropolis in Athens. Tour the famous archaeological ruins in Delphi, Mycenae, and Olympia. Then it’s all aboard for some island hopping to Santorini, Mykonos, and other jewels of the Aegean Sea.

Tick a major item off your bucket list with a best friends trip to Egypt, where you’ll come face to face with some of the greatest archaeological treasures in the world.

Ride camels through the desert around the mind-boggling Pyramids of Giza. Marvel at the 4,000-year-old Temple of Karnak, the largest religious structure ever built, along with Luxor’s Valley of the Kings where King Tut’s tomb was discovered.

If you still can’t get enough, add the temples of Abu Simbel, the ancient port city of Alexandria, or a trek to the top of Mount Sinai to your itinerary.

If you’re ready for the “history buff” trip of a lifetime, add China to your list of fun places to go with friends.

Hike along the Great Wall and get lost in Beijing’s Forbidden City, then travel south to Xian to see the 13,000 Terracotta Warriors

Eat some seriously spicy food in the Szechuan province before you journey further south to learn about Buddhist culture and customs in Tibet.

Or you can travel north along the ancient Silk Road and learn more about the powerful dynasties that controlled the first global trade routes.

If you and your besties are into partying, these are the best places to travel with friends!

Best Places to Travel With Friends & Party

16. cartagena, colombia.

One of South America’s most beloved party hubs, Cartagena is a prime choice for bachelor and bachelorette parties (or any group of travelling friends).

This Caribbean gem was founded in the 16th century, so there’s plenty of colonial architecture and gorgeous beaches to explore.

The main event, though, happens after the sun goes down when the city lights up with parties. Go club-hopping with your besties and dance the night away, or rent an Airbnb villa and throw yourselves the ultimate private pool party.

17. Bali, Indonesia

The island of Bali is known for its peaceful temples and rice terraces, but it’s also a haven for pleasure-seekers.

Book your stay in Kuta or Sanur and get ready to party hard with your besties and hundreds of new friends. Beach bonfires, bar crawls, cheap drinks, and delicious street food await!

If you have any energy left over in the morning, sign up for surf lessons or a day trip to the charming (and equally party-friendly) city of Ubud.

18. Cancun & Cozumel, Mexico

The ultimate destination for spring breakers, bachelor parties, or any other excuse you need, Cancun and its neighbouring island of Cozumel won’t disappoint.

Book your stay at an all-inclusive resort along the Caribbean Sea and get ready to do as much (or as little) as you desire. Enjoy those free-flow drinks while you relax under a beach umbrella or dine at the pool’s swim-up bar.

And if you need a break from the booze, there’s plenty to see and do, from ziplining and touring ancient Mayan ruins to scuba diving with whale sharks.

19. Barcelona, Spain

Wondering where to go with friends who like to do a little bit of everything? Barcelona is your destination!

This Mediterranean city truly has it all — ancient history dating back to Roman times, modern art galleries and Gaudi’s bizarre architecture, and some of the most delicious cuisine anywhere in the world.

Wander the narrow streets of the Gothic quarter for cheap drinks and free tapas before you settle in to watch the sunset over Barceloneta Beach.

20. Las Vegas, Nevada (USA)

Does Las Vegas really need any introduction?

This US city (oddly built in the middle of the desert) has been featured in films, books, and pop culture as the ultimate place to cut loose and let your fantasies unwind.

You can gamble, you can dance, you can see some of the best shows on earth, and you can drink ‘til you drop — all while enjoying the luxurious resort hotels along “The Strip.”

Next up: some fun trips to take with friends for relaxation and unwinding…

10 Fun Trips to Take With Friends to Relax

Has all this jet-setting tired you out? If you and your friends have relaxation as your ultimate goal, consider one of these destinations to help you unwind.

21. The Algarve, Portugal

22. Hawaii, USA

23. The Lake District, England

24. Montego Bay, Jamaica

25. Vientiane, Laos

26. Amalfi Coast, Italy

27. British Virgin Islands

28. Cape Town, South Africa

29. Montevideo, Uruguay

30. Boracay, Philippines

Last but not least, here are some ideas of nearby places to go with your best friends!

Bonus: Places to Go With Your Best Friends Close to Home

Understandably, you might not have the budget to hop on a plane and jet off to Southeast Asia tomorrow.

Does this mean you and your besties are doomed to a life of boredom?

Not at all! Whether you live in a big city, a small town, or somewhere in between, you can make amazing memories in a nearby location such as:

• A national park
• A wildlife preserve
• A seaside resort
• A historical monument
• A campsite in the mountains
• A major shopping centre or outlet mall
• An Escape Room
• An amusement park
• A miniature golf course
• A skating rink
• An art gallery
• A sporting event
• A live concert
• A theatre performance
• A festival, fair, or carnival
• A lake or river
• A new restaurant or bar
• A farmer’s market

Some of these destinations could be right in your own backyard! Do some research, find out what’s happening in your area, and make some plans for your next staycation.

Where Will Your Best Friends Trip Take You?

With so many fun places to go with friends, the hardest part might be making time to see it all!

Start by choosing the most appealing destination on this list and go from there.

And if you need some time to save up, that’s okay too! There are sure to be some amazing places to go with your best friends right in your own backyard.

Now that you know where to go with friends, what’s next? Get inspired for your upcoming holiday with these awesome adventure travel ideas .

17 Fun Trips to Take With Friends

Traveling with friends can be a life-changing experience. Check out this list of fun trips to take with friends and create a lifetime of memories!

From weekend getaways to New York City to long-haul adventures across Southeast Asia, traveling with friends can be an unforgettable experience. You not only learn a lot about each other but also about yourself. You also create great new memories that are sure to last a lifetime! It’s a time when you can focus on self-care and reflection and think about how lucky you are to have so many great people in your life.

We know how important and meaningful traveling with friends can be. So, we’ve put together a list of fun trips to take with friends. These adventures around the world can be done with just your bestie or with a whole heap of friends!

Enjoying Precious Time With Let’s Roam

If you’re interested in fun trips to take with friends, bonding must be on the brain! Let’s Roam is dedicated to helping you enjoy every precious moment of time you have with friends and family. It doesn’t matter if you’re hanging out at home or exploring the world! With hundreds of great scavenger hunts in cities across the globe, expertly designed scratch-off adventure books full of fun activities, and virtual games that are perfect for both kids and adults, Let’s Roam gives you plenty of great ways to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary!

Great Travel Experiences to Enjoy With Friends

Below, you will find a long list of travel ideas you can do with friends. Since we know some of these places may be a bit far to travel to from North America, we’ve included some additional adventures. You can include these in your trip to make the most of your travel time! We’ve also included some useful travel tips for traveling with friends based on our own decades of travel experience. 

1. Go snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef.

Roughly the size of 70 million football fields, the Great Barrier Reef off of the eastern coast of Australia is big. Like, really, really big. It’s the world’s largest coral reef system and is home to millions of colorful fish, turtles, sharks, sea snakes, dolphins, seabirds, eels, mollusks, sponges, and, of course, coral. Thanks to this incredible biodiversity and how easily accessible it is from cities like Sydney and Melbourne, it’s high on the bucket lists of many travelers. So, why not take a trip with a great group of friends?

You can choose to visit the Great Barrier Reef on a day trip from Cairns. These boats tend to be big and crowded. It can be difficult to explore the reefs without having a lot of other people around. Alternatively, you can book a spot on one of the liveaboard diving boats that go out for a few days at a time. This is a great option if you have the time and the budget. It allows you to experience the reef with significantly fewer people, and it gives you the chance to spend the night floating above this breathtaking natural landscape.

Expert tip: While you’re underwater, you’re very likely to hear a chomping sound, like someone or something is taking a big bite of something crunchy. That’s actually the colorful parrotfish eating algae off the coral. They’re an important part of the reef’s ecosystem. It’s one of my favorite parts of snorkeling, and I love watching the fish happily chomp away on the coral. 

Additional Adventures in Australia

After you’ve snorkeled the Great Barrier Reef, you can continue your Australian adventure by heading up through northern Queensland to the Daintree Rainforest. This is the oldest rainforest in the world at a whopping 135 million years old. You can visit as a day trip from Cairns or spend the night in one of the many lodges located nearby. There are many different hiking trails within the rainforest that let you get a closer look at the unique flora and fauna there. 

2. Spend a weekend visiting the historic bars of New York City.

New York is a fascinating city, and many tourists barely even scratch the surface of what it has to offer. For many people, their first visit to the Big Apple includes highlights like Times Square and Broadway, Central Park, and the World Trade Center. However, if you want to see how New Yorkers really spend their time and learn more about the cultural fabric of the city, why not spend a weekend bar hopping through some of the city’s historic dive bars? 

The many dive bars scattered across the island of Manhattan are a treasure trove for history buffs looking to get a peek at old NYC. Some of the most popular historic bars, like McSorley’s, Rudy’s, and Jeremy’s Ale House, still have much of their original decor. If you look closely, you can often see the ornate woodwork, colorful flooring, and vaulted ceilings of yesteryears. To make it even better, the drinks are often much, much cheaper than what you would pay at some of the trendy bars of the Meatpacking District or Midtown. 

To help break up your day of drinking a bit, we suggest taking the time to see some of the many attractions located near the bars, especially ones off the beaten tourist path, such as the many tiny parks hidden amongst apartment buildings and niche museums that you had no idea even existed. 

While you’re there, don’t forget to check out one of the Let’s Roam New York scavenger hunts ! These hunts are expertly designed to help you get off the normal tourist trail and see some of the lesser-known sights. From the public art of Chelsea to the ghost of Greenwich , there’s something to fit the unique tastes of every traveler!

3. Check out the nightlife of Hong Kong.

With buildings that reach high into the sky, sparkling seas, and emerald-green hills, Hong Kong is one of the world’s most photogenic mega-cities. It’s also one of the most vibrant. While New York is often considered the city that never sleeps, Hong Kong can easily be considered the Big Apple’s sister from another mister. 

Additional Adventures in Hong Kong

If you don’t have a Chinese visa but still want to combine your trip to Hong Kong with another nearby destination, we highly recommend taking the ferry to Macau. Once a Portuguese colony, Macau is now the Las Vegas of Asia with tons of casinos, grandiose hotels, entertainment venues, and bars. You can still see vestiges of its colonial days in the downtown area as well as some of the original Chinese casinos built there. This creates a fascinating juxtaposition that you can’t find anywhere else and makes it well worth the trip.

4. Take a road trip across Patagonia.

With wide open spaces, rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming mountain towns, Patagonia is the ultimate destination for a road trip. You can begin your journey in Santiago and head south, crisscrossing the border of Chile and Argentina. Or, head straight down to Ushuaia, the end of the world, and work your way north from there. 

When you’re planning your journey, make sure to leave plenty of time for hiking. This region is home to some of the world’s most magnificent hikes, including the incomparable W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park. This five-day trek takes you high into the Andes Mountains, offering breathtaking views and breathtaking ascents along the way! 

Additional Adventures in Chile and Argentina 

The lands of Patagonia take a surprisingly long time to get to from the United States, so if you have the time, we definitely recommend staying a bit longer to see other great destinations. Check out the enigmatic Easter Island, the beautiful city of Buenos Aires, or Iguassu Falls, one of the world’s biggest waterfalls. Domestic flights are relatively inexpensive, which makes it easy to travel around. There’s so much to see that you may find yourself wishing you had many months to spend there!

5. Say hello to Lady Luck in Las Vegas.

Will luck be a lady tonight? This is something you can only find out by organizing a fun getaway to Las Vegas ! Las Vegas, Nevada, has come a long way from its days as the original Sin City. Besides what feels like an endless line of slot machines and over-the-top casinos that make you feel like you’re in some weird version of Disneyland, Las Vegas offers some of the world’s best hotels, entertainment venues, bars, and restaurants just waiting to show you a good time (and to take some of that hard-earned money off your hands!). It’s even the temporary home to some of the country’s most famous musical artists who have long-running residencies there. 

This fun combination of activities makes it the perfect spot for weekend getaways for anyone wanting to spend the day lounging by the pool with a colorful cocktail in hand, trying their luck on the slot machines, and watching their favorite musicians sing their hearts out.

6. Hit up the all-inclusive resorts of the Yucatan Peninsula.

While it’s fun to DIY your own trip, sometimes nothing beats a week at an all-inclusive resort with your best friends. Gone is the stress of having to pick a restaurant, call a taxi, or find a bar to go to. Instead, you have everything you need all under one roof! All-inclusive resorts range from intimate affairs with a handful of restaurants and idyllic poolsides to full-blown resorts with tons of restaurants, pools, and activities to choose from. These ones are usually a bit better suited for groups of friends, but to each their own, right? The beauty of going to an all-inclusive resort lies in the lack of planning you need to put into it. You can simply show up and be you!

While you can find all-inclusive resorts scattered across the Caribbean and Southeast Asia, we love going to the ones in the Yucatan simply because there is so much to do around them! Not only is the peninsula blessed with gorgeous white sand beaches and marvelous weather most of the year, but it’s also dotted with ancient Mayan ruins, fascinating sinkholes that are perfect for swimming in, and colorful colonial towns. This gives you the chance to easily learn more about the history, culture, and geography of this amazing country! 

Some of the most popular areas to stay in include Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, but you can find high-end resorts dotted all along the coastline. 

7. Swim with whale sharks in Mexico.

Mexico is famous for having good food, beautiful scenery, great weather, and friendly people. However, if you still need another reason to visit this amazing country, we have one more for you. Mexico is also one of the few places in the world where you can swim with whale sharks.

Whale sharks are the biggest fish on the planet, measuring more than 40 feet in length and weighing as much as 47,000 pounds. Their mouths alone can stretch up to five feet wide with 300 tiny teeth. Although they’re considered sharks, they’re not dangerous to humans. In fact, these gentle giants eat only plankton. Swimming with whale sharks is an incredible experience. Although you get just a few minutes in the water with them due to strict conservation rules, it feels like a lifetime as you watch their muscular bodies glide gracefully below you.

The best place to join a whale shark tour is in Isla de Mujeres, just a short boat ride from Cancun. This tourist-friendly island has a downtown area lined with budget-friendly accommodation options, souvenir shops, and restaurants. It’s a nice, laid-back spot to spend a few days before or after your trip, and it gives you a little taste of Mexico without having to deal with all the craziness of Cancun. 

8. Explore the Tuscan wine country in Italy.

While Napa Valley is considered one of the best wine regions in the US, why not think a bit bigger when it comes to having an awesome and memorable vacation with your besties? Just imagine yourselves sitting with a glass of Chianti, overlooking rolling hills lined with vineyards and dotted with historic farmhouses. Taking a wine tour of Tuscany is a great way to try a whole new range of mouthwatering wines that you normally wouldn’t have access to and learn more about Italian culture and heritage. 

The wine region of Tuscany in Italy is relatively easy to get to from major tourist hotspots like Florence, Rome, and Milan. Otherwise, you can base yourself in one of the smaller cities or towns nearby, like Sienna, San Gimignano, and Pisa. Here, you will find a wide range of accommodation options, including boutique hotels, charming B&Bs, and vacation rentals. There are also tons of different wine tours that you can choose from. Otherwise, you can create your own DIY wine tour and make your way to the wineries by train, car, or bike. Or go on foot for tours of the wineries and wine tastings. 

Additional Adventures in Italy

After you’ve tasted the nectar of the gods in Tuscany, why not visit the ancient delights of Rome or Pompeii? Check out the Renaissance masterpieces in Florence or pretend like you’re holding up a certain tower in Pisa. The comprehensive and budget-friendly train network makes it easy to get around!

9. Take the train across Canada.

All aboard! Epic train rides like the Orient Express may seem like a thing of the past, but in fact, they’re thriving in many parts of the world! The Blue Train in South Africa and The Ghan in Australia are still Mesmerizing riders today. But if you want to try something a little closer to home, you may want to consider riding the long-distance rails of Canada!

Train rides in Canada can range from multi-day adventures to shorter hops between destinations. Some of the most popular routes include Halifax to Montreal and the much longer Rocky Mountaineer that goes from Vancouver all the way to Banff. This luxurious rail journey takes you along the Canadian Pacific Railway in custom-designed trains complete with panoramic glass roofs. The daytime views along the way are breathtaking. At night, you can stop in towns like Whistler, Jasper, Lake Louise, and Quesnel.

10. Visit the honky tonks of Nashville.

Nashville has been THE place to go in the US for live music for decades. From the stages of the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium to the bustling honky tonks of the Broadway Historic District, it’s easy to see why it earned the nickname “Music City.” If you and your friends love spending a night out on the town shaking your groove thing, Nashville has plenty of fun in store for you! 

One of the best ways to get the night rolling is with our Nashville Bar Crawl Scavenger Hunt ! This hunt will take you to some of the best bars and watering holes in Nashville, giving you plenty of chances to make new memories as you complete one quirky challenge after another!

During the day, you can either explore the many different museums on offer in Music City or head out for a day trip to Mammoth Cave National Park or to the Jack Daniel Distillery, both of which are about an hour and a half drive away. You can also combine it with a mini road trip to Memphis!

11. Go for a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia.

Famous for its fairy chimneys, Cappadocia looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. And there’s no better way to view these than from up above! There’s something quite magical about going on a hot air balloon ride. From feeling the heat of the fire to seeing the earth slowly melt away below you, hot air balloons have a special something that many other air activities don’t. It’s an even more memorable experience when you’re flying over something amazing!

Flights depart nearly every morning, weather permitting, and you only normally need to book a few days in advance. Make sure to wear plenty of warm clothes, as it can get pretty chilly up there, and have your cameras ready!

Additional Adventures in Turkey

Before or after visiting Cappadocia, make sure to spend some time exploring Istanbul. Straddling both Europe and Asia, this city truly is where east meets west. It’s a fascinating blend of cultures from all over the world. From there, you can head down to Izmir and begin a southwest Turkey road trip down toward Ephesus, one of the many ancient wonders left behind by the Romans. 

12. Island hop in the Aegean Sea.

Most of us have probably seen photos of the Greek Isles. The white-washed houses with their blue roofs surrounded by the sparkling Aegean Sea are the stuff that dreams are made of. This image has graced everything from mouse pads to coffee mugs. While islands like Santorini, Patmos, Mykonos, and Rhodes are incredibly beautiful, one of the best things about visiting them is just how accessible they are!

Although there are many cruises that roam the waters between the Greek islands, you can visit many of the islands simply by hopping onto one of the many ferries leaving Athens, Greece. While this does require a bit more planning than simply booking a cruise, this gives you the chance to spend as much time as you want on each of the islands. You can see what they’re like when the cruises leave. 

Additional Adventures in Greece

Once you’ve finished island-hopping, you may want to consider spending a few days exploring the ancient ruins of Athens or traveling up to see the sky-high monasteries of Meteora.

13. Unlock your inner mermaid at Miami Beach.

The beautiful shoreline and sunny weather of Florida have been attracting northerners for centuries, and Miami has long been at the top of the list of must-see destinations. From the white sand beach to the curvy Art Deco architecture, Miami Beach feels like a completely different city than the rest of Miami. By day, you can be lounging around in the sun or wandering up the cute residential streets. By night, you can go to some of the hottest clubs in the entire country. 

If you plan on spending the full day at the beach, there are places where you can grab beach chairs and umbrella rentals that allow you to get extra comfy, and don’t forget to bring plenty of sunscreen with you! Nothing ruins a great vacation faster than a painful sunburn. 

Travel tip: While you’re in Miami, don’t forget to visit Wyndood Walls. This collection of street art and murals spread across warehouses and shop exteriors resembles a long line of outdoor art galleries. The neighborhood is also home to a few microbreweries and pop-up restaurants, making it a great place for foodies and craft beer lovers who are in serious need of a break from the beach. 

14. Get weird in Austin, Texas. 

Located in the great state of Texas, Austin is unapologetically weird. Home to both the University of Texas’s main campus and the Texas State Capitol, the city has an interesting mix of government buildings and a fun, youthful energy. As you would expect from a city this diverse, there is a wide range of restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions to choose from. You can even do your very own pub crawl while you’re there! 

Austin isn’t just all culture-vulturing, though. There are plenty of unique activities to do here. During your stay, you can cool down at Barton Springs, a natural pool full of fresh water, watch millions of bats take flight at the Congress Avenue Bridge, take a stroll around Lady Bird Lake, or pick up your very own pair of authentic cowboy boots at Allen’s Boots, an Austin institution!

15. Enjoy a week of outdoor adventures in Iceland.

Iceland was once a bit of a hidden gem for outdoor adventure and other-worldly natural attractions. However, with the rise of low-cost airlines and a massive drop in their currency, Iceland became much more accessible as a vacation destination. Suddenly, it exploded onto seemingly every must-see list. While the excitement surrounding Iceland as a destination has abated a bit, this doesn’t mean that it is any less stunning than it was a few years ago. It simply means that you are likely to have many of the biggest sites all to yourself! 

Most people start their trip in the capital city of Reykjavik before venturing out for an epic road trip on Iceland’s famous Ring Road. Stretching 825 miles, this road takes you by some of the biggest natural attractions in the country, including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Dyrhólaey cliffs, and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. While the entire road can be driven in 24 hours, it is best to slow down and take your time so that you can truly enjoy all of the many waterfalls, glaciers, gorges, and hiking trails you see along the way. 

Before you leave, make sure to take some time to relax at the Blue Lagoon, which is conveniently located close to the airport. This will give you some time to reflect on your remarkable journey and all of the magnificent things you saw and did!

16. Get your jazz on in New Orleans.

Throughout the course of history, the city of New Orleans changed hands repeatedly. This wave of cultures left an undeniable mark on the city in terms of architecture, culture, cuisine, and, of course, music. New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, so what better place could there be to spend a few evenings at a smoky jazz club listening to these lively melodies? Some of the most popular places to listen to jazz music include the historic Preservation Hall and the intimate The Spotted Cat, so one of these should be your first port of call regardless of whether you are a jazz aficionado or a new fan!

While New Orleans is famous for its nightlife, there is plenty to do during the day as well! You can explore the streets of the French Quarter, explore the wide boulevards lined with stately homes in the Garden District, or visit world-class museums, such as the National WWII Museum or the New Orleans Museum of Art.

Travel tip: If you plan on traveling to New Orleans during Mardi Gras, make sure to book your accommodation well in advance as places tend to sell out very quickly!

17. Explore the natural wonders of Costa Rica.

Thanks to the country’s focus on providing excellent ecotourism experiences, the country of Costa Rica has been a fantastic vacation destination for decades. With beautiful beaches, tranquil cloud forests, smoking volcanoes, and gushing waterfalls, Costa Rica provides the perfect backdrop for tons of great outdoor activities. During your trip, you can put some miles in on the hiking trails, go ziplining above the treeline, or spend your days relaxing on the beach, enjoying the sea breezes coming off the Caribbean.

Travel tip: Prices for hotels and activities have gone up substantially in Costa Rica over the past few decades, making it one of the most expensive travel destinations in Latin America. Make sure to double-check the prices of things before you book your hotels and flights to ensure you will be able to have the vacation you’re dreaming of without having to empty your bank account too much!

So, Ready to Roam?

We hope this list of fun trips to take with friends has given you plenty of inspiration! As always, we would love to hear your feedback, so please let us know if there are any great adventures you think should be added to this list!

If you would like to learn more about any of these destinations, make sure to check out the Let’s Roam Explorer blog , where you can find hundreds of travel guides, to-do lists, and blog posts about both domestic and international travel. You can also download the Let’s Roam app to find scavenger hunts near you as well as user-generated info on destinations around the world. 

Frequently Asked Questions

If you want to have a nice time, what about a weekend in New York or Las Vegas ? If you want to go further afield, Australia , Argentina , and Italy are great options for something unique and memorable!

To make a friends’ trip a bit more fun for everyone, why not try a fun-filled destination scavenger hunt ? With hundreds of hunts to choose from, there is sure to be one perfect for your group!

Mexico , Australia , and Costa Rica all have beautiful beaches and are easy to travel to with friends. Download the Let’s Roam app to see how the locals spend their time in these great spots!

If you want to ensure that you have a great trip with friends , try to schedule a mixture of unique activities like scavenger hunts with plenty of free time for people to explore on their own!

New York , Las Vegas , and Miami all have something unique to offer, making them great destinations for getaways with friends ! Get the Let’s Roam app to access travel tips for these locations and more!

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18 Great Trips to Take With a Group

From Mykonos to Aspen, these are unforgettable group trips for every type of traveler.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

The chance to explore an exciting new destination, or revisit a favorite spot, with your pals is one of the great joys of travel. Virtually any place has the potential to be great for a vacation with friends. (You just might have to get a bit creative in some cases.) That being said, some spots are just inherently better suited for a fabulous group trip. And that can take many forms. It might mean lively nightlife, stellar restaurants with space to accommodate your entire crew, loads of activities, or wide, sandy beaches for everyone to sprawl out in the sunshine.

In need of group trip ideas? Our list includes 18 awesome options, whether your ideal getaway is an action-packed city break or a relaxing island escape .

Tokyo, Japan

At once futuristic and deeply rooted in the past, Tokyo showcases glimmering skyscrapers alongside ancient pagodas, giant megamalls, and tiny artisan shops that honor centuries-old traditions. Book an omakase experience (depending on the size of the restaurant, you might have the whole place to yourself) and then hit the pint-size drinking dens in Golden Gai. Splurge on a traditional luxury ryokan stay with an on-site onsen in the middle of the city at Aman Tokyo .

Ibiza, Spain

Many people consider Ibiza to be the ultimate group trip. That's because this Balearic island paradise is famed for its nightlife. Of course, it's not all about bar hopping and beach clubs. Pals who prefer to relax instead of party can visit secluded coves, traipse around the chiller villages, browse the artisan shops, or just make the Six Senses Ibiza vacation HQ. Ibiza also brims with natural beauty and hosts many yoga retreats throughout the year.

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Searching for the perfect place to surf, do yoga, and chill with your pals? Santa Teresa is a laid-back beach town on Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula with beautiful beaches, great food, and a relaxed pace. It has an international dining scene with cuisine to please any palette, spirited bars right on the sand to watch the stunning sunsets, and lovely local boutiques to pick up souvenirs. And ATV excursions, hiking, and zip-lining offer plenty of opportunities for adventure.

Scottsdale, Arizona

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Scottsdale is quickly gaining steam as a go-to destination for group trips thanks to its broad variety of activities, restaurants, and accommodations. Love high-flying fun? Sunrise hot air balloon rides over the desert await. Craving a little R&R? Book a rejuvenating massage at one of the many destination spas . After a group dinner at FnB Restaurant , snooze at ADERO Scottsdale , the only Autograph Collection property in a certified Dark Sky Community.

Capri, Italy

An upscale coastal Italian getaway with glamorous hotels such as Capri Palace Jumeirah and villa rentals, fresh-caught seafood, chartered boat tours, scenic hikes, a chairlift to the highest point on the island , sun-drenched afternoons at La Fontelina , and aperitivo at the iconic Grand Hotel Quisisana , Capri is a dreamy trip to take with friends. Just be sure to book all your reservations well in advance as things fill up quickly during high season — especially for larger groups.

Cartagena, Colombia

Perched on Colombia's Caribbean coast, Cartagena turns on the charm and makes for a sizzling group getaway. Within its 16th-century stone walls sits a warren of cobbled corridors, preserved Spanish colonial buildings, bougainvillea-clad balconies, striking churches like Catedral de San Pedro Claver, and bustling plazas where groups can sit and sip cocktails while watching local performers. It's also a popular beach destination and provides access to the palm-fringed shores of Isla de Barú and the Islas del Rosario.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

A charming and energetic city with a little bit of everything for everyone, Amsterdam looks like a postcard with colorful old houses, canals, flower-clad bridges, and bike paths. There are many excellent restaurants, fascinating museums, cool neighborhoods, and glorious green spaces such as the famous Vondelpark. And with everything from dance clubs and dive bars to upscale cocktail bars and underground speakeasies, Amsterdam very much deserves its reputation as a party capital of Europe.

The cosmopolitan gateway to the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is easily accessible with direct flights from most major East Coast airport hubs (which makes things much easier if you have travel buddies flying in from all over). This popular Caribbean vacation destination also wows with its beautiful beaches, incredible snorkeling, interesting cultural sights, and duty-free shopping in the capital of Charlotte Amalie.

New Orleans, Louisiana

A soulful and spirited city on the Mississippi River, New Orleans is a non-stop good time with bars and live music venues around every corner. Need a break from the more raucous side of things? Chow down on flavorful Creole cuisine, go for a ride on the historic St. Charles streetcar, and (provided you're all feeling brave) book an after-dark ghost tour. Then recharge at one of the many design-forward boutique hotels such as The Chloe and Hotel Saint Vincent .

Aspen, Colorado

World-class slopes, swanky lodgings like Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection , and a convivial apres ski scene make Aspen the it destination for the jetset crowd come winter. But this legendary Colorado locale also shines during the other seasons. Wildflowers bloom in the spring, summer brings sunny conditions for trekking and cycling, and fall is prime for leaf peeping. We guarantee everyone in your crew will shout out hiking the Maroon Bells as a highlight of the trip.

Bali, Indonesia

There's a reason why everyone who visits Bali falls in love. The Island of the Gods is a magical place with an irresistible mix of nature, culture, wellness, and nightlife. Beautiful beaches, lush rice terraces, yoga, clifftop temples, fishing villages, flavorful cuisine, spa rituals, and jaw-dropping sunsets are just a few of the highlights. And a trip to this Indonesian paradise won't drain your bank account. Groups can split a huge serviced Balinese villa with a pool and ocean views.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

A renowned brewery culture remains one of the biggest reasons to take a trip to Milwaukee . For groups, that translates to good times and sprawling spaces to sip microbrews. In between pints, crews can do a tour to learn about the history of the city's beer industry. A prime perch on Lake Michigan's western shore means access to all sorts of fun waterfront activities, from kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding to jet skiing and sightseeing boat cruises.

Marrakech, Morocco

Hypnotic and at times dizzying, Marrakech is an intoxicating mix of maze-like alleyways, vibrant souks, Moorish architecture, grand palaces, manicured gardens, and ornate mosques. Moments of peace and refreshing mint tea can be found at El Fenn's rooftop refuge above the madness of the medina. Down to splurge on a serene, next-level luxurious stay with your closest friends? The Grand Riad at Royal Mansour Marrakech has a cinema, library, hammam, gym, and two swimming pools.

Da Nang, Vietnam

Does your crew love trying local delicacies? The central Vietnam city of Da Nang is a culinary powerhouse with an array of palate-pleasing delights. The night market stalls overflow with fresh-hauled seafood, and the fragrant aroma of bún chả cá fills the air outside the cafes. Besides mouth-watering food, there are sandy beaches, the Marble Mountains, the Ba Na Hills, and the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort for a swish group stay.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

For some groups, the stress of planning a holiday overshadows the excitement of actually escaping somewhere awesome. That's when a luxury all-inclusive resort comes into play. If you'd rather hit "book" and let the rest unfold in easy, breezy vacation style, consider jetting off to Punta Cana for a few days of oceanfront bliss, great food, and fun with your buddies at the top-rated Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana on beautiful Juanillo Beach.

London, United Kingdom

Love sightseeing, shopping, and theater? London is the perfect place to indulge those passions with your pals. It's home to Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and countless other recognizable landmarks, plus posh shops such as Harrods and Dover Street Market as well as the treasure trove of vintage stores in East London. Of course, no trip would be complete without afternoon tea, taking in a show at Shakespeare's Globe, and shacking up at a five-star London legend like Claridge's .

Vancouver, Canada

Movie and television buffs will jump at the chance to visit Vancouver . Beyond serving as the filming location for countless motion pictures and shows, this dynamic British Columbia seaport dishes up diverse cuisine, live music, art galleries and museums, and outdoor adventure. Want to stay in the heart of the action? Groups will love the 1,492-square-foot Rosewood Suite at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia , which features two bedrooms and a rooftop garden terrace with a plunge pool.

Mykonos, Greece

When a group trip means devouring whole grilled octopus, poppin' bottles, and dancing on tables, it's got to be Mykonos. Greece's unofficial party island has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and tons of bars and beach clubs where world-famous DJs spin tunes. It also boasts five-star hotels with impeccable service and amenities to help you recover from a big night out. Because everyone knows the best hangover cure is a dip in your private plunge pool followed by an in-room massage.

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Adulting , College , Lifestyle · April 23, 2023

100 Fun Things To Do With Friends When Bored At Home Or Outside

Spending time with friends is essential for our mental health and well-being. It’s a chance to connect, laugh, rewind and create unforgettable memories. But sometimes, it can be challenging to come up with new and exciting things to do together. That’s where this article comes in.

We’ve compiled a list of 100 fun things to do with friends that are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and create unforgettable moments. From outdoor adventures to creative pursuits, cultural experiences to food adventures, and even relaxation and self-care, there’s something for everyone on this list.

One of the best things about spending time with friends is the opportunity to try new things and step outside of your comfort zone. Maybe you’ve never been rock climbing before, but your friend is an experienced climber who can show you the ropes. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to try a new cuisine but haven’t found the right restaurant. With the variety of activities on this list, there’s sure to be something that piques your interest and gets you excited to try something new.

Not only do these activities provide a chance to have fun and create memories, but they also strengthen our relationships with our friends. When we share experiences and have fun together, we build trust, deepen our connections, and create a sense of belonging. These bonds can be especially important during challenging times, providing support and a sense of community.

So whether you’re looking for an adventure, a creative outlet, or simply a chance to relax and unwind, these 100 fun things to do with friends are sure to provide an enjoyable and memorable experience. So grab your friends, pick an activity, and start making memories that will last a lifetime.

Table of Contents

100 Fun Things To Do With Friends When Bored

Outdoor Adventures

1. Go hiking

Find a local trail and explore the great outdoors while getting some exercise.

2. Have a picnic

Pack a basket of your favorite snacks and enjoy a scenic spot in the park.

3. Play frisbee

Grab a frisbee and head to a nearby open field for a game of catch.

4. Try geocaching

Join the treasure hunt and find hidden objects with your friends.

5. Rent a kayak or canoe

Explore the waterways while bonding with your friends.

6. Go camping

Unplug from technology and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

7. Attend a sports game

Cheer on your favorite team together.

8. Go on a bike ride

Rent bikes and explore the city on two wheels.

9. Visit a local farmers’ market

Sample fresh produce and support local vendors.

10. Go fishing

Cast a line and enjoy some peaceful time by the water.

Creative Pursuits

11. Have a DIY day

Get crafty and create something together, from home decor to jewelry.

12. Host a paint night

Set up a canvas and some paints, and let your inner artists shine.

13. Start a book club

Choose a book to read together and discuss your thoughts.

14. Take a cooking class

Learn a new recipe or cuisine and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

15. Go to a wine and paint night

Sip on some wine while creating a masterpiece.

16. Attend a pottery class

Get your hands dirty and create some unique pottery pieces.

17. Have a karaoke night

Sing your hearts out to your favorite tunes.

18. Take a photography class

Learn new techniques and capture some beautiful moments.

19. Play board games

Bring out the classics or try something new.

20. Have a movie marathon

Choose a genre and binge-watch your favorite films.

Cultural Experiences

• Visit a museum: Learn about art, history, or science together.
• Attend a concert: Sing along to your favorite songs live.
• Go to a play or musical: Get dressed up and enjoy some live theater.
• Visit a zoo or aquarium: See some amazing animals up close.
• Attend a festival or fair: Indulge in some delicious food and experience local culture.
• Take a dance class: Learn a new style of dance and show off your moves.
• Go to a comedy show: Laugh together at some hilarious jokes.
• Visit a historical site: Learn about the past and the significance of the place.
• Attend a cultural event: Experience different customs and traditions from around the world.
• Take a language class: Learn a new language together and practice speaking.
• Play laser tag: Get your adrenaline pumping and have a blast.
• Go rock climbing: Challenge yourself and conquer new heights.
• Play mini-golf: Putt your way to victory and enjoy some friendly competition.
• Visit a trampoline park: Bounce around and let loose.
• Go to an escape room: Solve puzzles and work together to escape.
• Play beach volleyball: Hit the sand and get active.
• Try indoor skydiving: Experience the thrill of skydiving in a safe environment.
• Take a fitness class: Get your sweat on and try a new workout.
• Have a water balloon fight: Cool off on a hot day and have some fun.

Food Adventures

• Have a potluck: Each person brings a dish to share and enjoy a variety of foods.
• Go on a food crawl: Try different restaurants and cuisines in one neighborhood.
• Host a brunch party: Cook up some delicious breakfast foods and enjoy a lazy morning together.
• Make homemade pizza: Gather your favorite toppings and have a pizza-making party.
• Have a fondue night: Melt cheese or chocolate and dip your favorite foods.
• Make ice cream sundaes: Set up a sundae bar and enjoy some sweet treats.
• Host a barbecue: Grill up some burgers and hot dogs and enjoy the outdoors.
• Have a wine and cheese night: Pair different cheeses with different wines and enjoy the flavors.
• Bake together: Try a new recipe and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
• Host a themed dinner party: Choose a theme and decorate and cook accordingly.

Relaxation and Self-Care

• Have a spa day: Give each other facials, massages, and manicures.
• Go to a hot springs: Soak in the warm water and relax.
• Book a manicure and pedicure and get your nails pampered .
• Take a meditation class: Learn to quiet your mind and find inner peace.
• Have a game night: Unwind and enjoy each other’s company over some games.
• Go to a sauna: Sweat out the toxins and rejuvenate your body.
• Get a group massage: Book a spa day and enjoy some pampering together.
• Have a movie night: Snuggle up and watch a favorite movie.
• Take a walk in nature: Connect with the beauty of the outdoors and relax.
• Have a sleepover: Stay up late, eat junk food, and enjoy some quality time together.

Travel and Adventure

• Take a road trip: Explore a new place and create unforgettable memories.
• Go on a weekend getaway: Relax and unwind in a new location.
• Visit a nearby city : Check out the sights and sounds of a nearby metropolis.
• Rent an Airbnb: Stay in a unique place and have a memorable experience.
• Visit a theme park: Enjoy some thrilling rides and attractions.
• Go on a cruise: Relax and enjoy the sea and sun.
• Take a hot air balloon ride: Experience the beauty of the world from above.
• Go on a camping trip: Unplug from technology and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
• Visit a national park : Explore the beauty of the natural world.
• Go on a hike: Find a local trail and explore the great outdoors while getting some exercise.

More Fun Activities to Enjoy with Friends

• Take a pottery class: Get your hands dirty and create unique pottery pieces together.
• Go fruit picking: Enjoy the outdoors and pick your own fresh produce.
• Play laser tag: Compete against each other in a fun and exciting game.
• Visit an amusement park: Ride roller coasters and enjoy the attractions with your friends.
• Have a game night: Compete in a variety of games, from board games to video games.
• Go to a water park: Cool off on hot summer days and enjoy the water slides.
• Have a spa day: Relax and unwind with facials, massages, and other spa treatments.
• Attend a comedy show: Laugh together at hilarious jokes and skits.
• Host a karaoke night: Sing your hearts out to your favorite songs.
• Go ice skating: Glide on the ice and enjoy the winter season with your friends.
• Have a scavenger hunt: Solve clues and find hidden items around town.
• Take a dance class: Learn a new style of dance and show off your moves together.
• Go to a sporting event: Cheer on your favorite team and enjoy the game with your friends.
• Visit a planetarium: Learn about the stars and planets together.
• Have a game of paintball: Compete in teams and have fun shooting paintballs.
• Play a Q&A card game to get to know each other better.
• Have a bonfire: Gather around a fire, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the outdoors.
• Attend a craft fair: Check out unique handmade items and support local artists.
• Go to a rooftop bar: Enjoy a drink with a view and catch up with your friends.
• Have a tea party: Enjoy tea and finger foods while catching up with each other.
• Try indoor rock climbing: Challenge yourselves and have fun climbing walls.
• Go on a sunset cruise: Enjoy the beauty of the sunset while cruising on the water.
• Visit a flower field: Take in the beauty of blooming flowers and take some great photos.
• Have a day at the beach: Swim, sunbathe, and relax by the ocean with your friends.
• Go to a drive-in movie: Watch a movie under the stars from the comfort of your car.
• Have a board game marathon: Play board games for hours and enjoy some friendly competition.
• Go to a wine tasting: Try different wines and enjoy the flavors with your friends.
• Take a boat tour: Explore a new location by water and see some amazing sights.
• Host a costume party: Dress up and have fun with a themed party .
• Go stargazing: Enjoy the beauty of the night sky and the stars above.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What are some cheap things to do with friends?

A: Some affordable ideas include having a potluck, playing board games, going to a free museum, and having a picnic.

Q: What are some fun things to do with friends indoors?

A: Indoor activities include having a DIY day, playing board games, hosting a movie marathon, attending a paint night, and having a game night.

Q: What are some unique things to do with friends?

A: Some unique ideas include taking a hot air balloon ride, visiting a trampoline park, attending a wine and paint night, and renting an Airbnb.

Q: What are some outdoor activities to do with friends?

A: Outdoor activities include hiking, having a picnic, playing frisbee, trying geocaching, and renting a kayak or canoe.

Q: What are some cultural experiences to have with friends?

A: Cultural experiences include visiting a museum, attending a concert, going to a play or musical, and taking a language class.

Q: How can I plan a fun day with my friends ?

A: Start by discussing with your friends what activities they would enjoy, then create an itinerary and make any necessary reservations. Don’t forget to factor in time for breaks and meals.

In conclusion, spending time with friends is an essential aspect of our lives, and it’s important to make the most of it. With these 100 fun things to do with friends, there’s no shortage of ideas for creating unforgettable memories and strengthening our relationships.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures , creative pursuits, cultural experiences, food adventures, or relaxation and self-care, there’s something for everyone on this list. The key is to find activities that align with your interests and passions and to have fun with the people you care about.

Moreover, these activities can help us step out of our comfort zones, try new things, and learn from our friends’ experiences. When we approach these activities with an open mind and a willingness to learn and grow, we can create unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.

Above all, spending time with friends provides us with a sense of belonging, support, and community. It’s a chance to share experiences, laugh, and connect with people who understand us and support us through life’s ups and downs.

So whether you’re planning a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a night in, these 100 fun things to do with friends offer endless opportunities for creating unforgettable moments and strengthening your relationships. So what are you waiting for? Grab your friends, pick an activity, and start making memories that will last a lifetime.

You’ll Also Love These;

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• 100+ Fun Indoor & Outdoor Things to Do in Spring This Year

100+ Fun Things To Do By Yourself When Bored (Discover New Passions)

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May 2, 2023 at 12:40 pm

There’s some great ideas here. I love the active fun ideas!

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26 Inexpensive Ways to Have Fun with Your Friends Any Time of the Week

Last Updated: November 3, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Desiree Panlilio and by wikiHow staff writer, Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA . Desiree Panlilio is a Teen Life Coach and the Owner of Encouraging Teens, LLC. With over three years of experience, she specializes in helping teens and young adults define roles, set goals, develop healthy academic and personal habits, grow in leadership potential, and create their life paths. Desiree holds a BSN in Nursing from The University of Victoria and an MA in Human Services Counseling with a concentration in Life Coaching from Liberty University. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 199,639 times.

Looking for something to do? It’s time to send out that group invite because you’re about to have plans. With our help, you’ll never run out of things to do. Whether you’re flush with cash or want to have fun for free, we’ve got you covered with this definitive list of places to hang out with your friends.

Things You Should Know

• You can hang out for free at places like libraries, parks, and the mall.
• To save money, visit locations like bowling alleys, movie theaters, and museums during off-peak hours or on free days.
• Look for local events and themed nights at coffee shops, such as poetry readings, open mic nights, and movie nights.

Coffee Shop

• Open mic nights.
• Poetry readings.
• Live music.
• Movie nights.

• Go on a scavenger hunt inside the mall! You and your friends will have a blast competing against each other or working together as a team. [3] X Trustworthy Source Science Direct Online archive of peer-reviewed research on scientific, technical and medical topics Go to source

Movie Theater

• You might follow with a visit to a restaurant or coffee shop to talk about the film. You could also meet at someone’s home to chat and sip on soda or coffee.
• Save money on your theater tickets by going during the matinee. [4] X Research source Most theaters have lower prices from opening until the late afternoon.

Bowling Alley

• Most bowling alleys offer special rates during their slow hours, like Tuesday evenings or early Sundays. You can save a lot of money by bowling during these times.

Escape Room

• You could also make your own escape room at home .

• Some laser tag arenas share facilities with a mini golf course or arcade. You might be able to do several fun things all on the same day.

Mini Golf Course

• During busy times, courses typically have a stroke limit or group limit so there aren’t long delays. If this is the case, make sure you’re keeping pace with the other groups playing.

• Most arcades offer bonus game “tokens” if you buy a lot at one time. Consider combining your money so you can get free game plays by buying all of your “tokens” in one transaction.

Skating Rink

• Most skating rinks also sell food, so you can eat lunch or dinner between skates.
• Ask the DJ if you and your friends can request your favorite song.

• Most museums are open during typical business hours. If you work or attend classes on weekdays, the weekend might be the best time to go.
• If you’re on a budget, check your local museums to find out when they have free days.

Art Gallery

• Try to go on the gallery’s opening night so you can enjoy free snacks and drinks. This is a great way to go out on a budget.

Painting Studio

• A paint-and-sip is perfect for all ages. If you’re over 21, you can bring wine or beer to drink if you like. Otherwise, soda, tea, or seltzer are all great options if you want something other than water.

• Try reserving a table or study room so you and your friends can work on a hobby. You might play a (quiet) board game , write stories and share them, or draw.

Park or Yard

• Play softball or frisbee.
• Walking the park trails.
• Having a picnic.
• Laying out on a blanket and reading.
• Painting the landscape with [1] .
• Playing games like [2] , [3] , or [4] .

Sport Court or Field

• You don’t have to be good at sports to have fun playing with your friends.
• Most high schools allow community members to use the outdoor facilities after school hours, but check your local district’s rules.

• Make s’mores .
• Tell scary stories .
• Make homemade cocktails or mocktails.
• Play games.
• Listen to music.

Community Pool

• Some RV parks, hotels, apartment complexes, and natatoriums allow the public to swim in their pool for a low fee.
• Only bring drinks that come in cans or plastic bottles because glass is typically forbidden at pools. If it breaks, glass becomes a major hazard.

Beach, Lake, Pond, or River

• Lounge on a blanket.
• Go swimming.
• Play beach volleyball.
• Build a sandcastle.
• Go fishing.

• Watching a movie marathon.
• Playing board games.
• Hosting a video game tournament.
• Doing a homemade spa day .
• Having a fancy dinner party.
• Making crafts.
• Redecorating your room.
• Having a barbecue.
• Learning a dance on TikTok or YouTube.

• It helps to set a price range so that no one picks a place that’s too expensive for someone in your group. For instance, you might make a rule that the restaurant must have a few entrees that are around $15 a plate or less.

• Go on a bar crawl! Travel between bars on foot or by rideshare service, depending on what’s easier in your city.

School Events

• Join a club.
• Watch high school sports.
• Go to a dance.
• Audition for or attend a play.
• Go to a school carnival.

Local Events

• Outdoor movies
• Farmers markets

Nonprofit Organization

• Volunteer at your local animal shelter.
• Serve food at a soup kitchen.
• Read to small children or the elderly.
• Deliver food for Meals-on-Wheels.
• Build houses with Habitat for Humanity.

Religious Center

• If your religious center has a bulletin board or program, you’ll find the events calendar there. You could also ask an usher or the secretary.

• Google Hangouts
• Microsoft Teams

Community Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2015/08/06/chapter-2-how-teens-hang-out-and-stay-in-touch-with-their-closest-friends/
• ↑ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022103122000750
• ↑ https://psychcentral.com/blog/how-watching-movies-can-benefit-our-mental-health
• ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3508761/
• ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/social-instincts/202204/3-reasons-why-visiting-art-museum-can-boost-your-mood
• ↑ https://positivepsychology.com/gratitude-exercises/
• ↑ https://raisingchildren.net.au/teens/behaviour/peers-friends-trends/teen-parties
• ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/automatic-you/202208/are-we-really-having-fun-bars-or-just-escaping-reality
• ↑ https://dc.cod.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1370&context=essai
• ↑ https://positivepsychology.com/10-traits-positive-community/
• ↑ https://raisingchildren.net.au/pre-teens/entertainment-technology/free-time-activities/community-activity
• ↑ https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/reaching-faithful
• ↑ https://www.apa.org/monitor/2014/02/video-game

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8 amazing places to travel with friends

Mar 28, 2023 • 7 min read

Traveling with friends in Buenos Aires is a great adventure © South_agency / Getty Images

A holiday with friends is the perfect opportunity to escape the obligations that often come with romantic getaways, family holidays, and business trips.

Good friends will constitute some of the longest-term relationships you will ever form, and such relationships deserve that ultimate sort of celebration: getting away somewhere special together.

Whether your friendship is fuelled by heart-to-hearts in classy cafes or high-adrenaline adventures in the wilderness, these are the 8 best places in the world to travel with friends.

1. Buenos Aires, Argentina

South America ’s suavest destination, the Argentine capital Buenos Aires , is a sharp-dressing, good-looking city. For friends wanting an inexpensive taste of the good life, this is the place to go. Its historic and classy café scene is Paris-like, its excellent red wines are affordable and full-bodied ( Argentina is the spiritual home of Malbec, after all) and the steaks here are so huge you’ll need to share – even in the finest city restaurants like Don Julio .

The ‘to do’ list knows no limits, either: gorgeous, manicured parks best perambulated with a pal, explosive nightlife that will sate even the most exuberant compadre’s penchant for partying, plus an array of majestically faded architecture means the backdrop is invariably beautiful. The culture in BA is incredible, too. Think South America’s most respected opera house and some of the most fervent football matches on the globe . Plus, as the home of tango , it’s a great place to learn to dance with the pressure off.

2. Ko Tao, Thailand

Taking the plunge together assumes a whole new meaning in Ko Tao , an island idyll marooned in the Gulf of Thailand. Scuba diving is the local lifeblood here and cheap prices and oh-so-clear water reveal a rich menagerie of sea life – not least the turtles from which the island derives its name. As one of the planet’s best locations for learning to dive, taking classes in tandem with your friends is much more fun, especially when chatting about the marine creatures you’ve spotted on one of Ko Tao’s heavenly white sand beaches afterward.

If you prefer affirming your friendship above the surface, Ko Tao is increasingly a hiking destination, too, with several trails bisecting the hilly, jungle-clad interior.

3. Munich, Germany

Quaffing lots of lovely beer in lavish surrounds in Europe ’s hub of all things hop. For many friends, this will be the only incentive they need to indulge in the Bavarian capital Munich , a city that grafts hard to make its drinking scene globally renowned.

There are six major breweries here serving a stunning array of ornate beer halls, colonnaded, frescoed, and embellished by grand beer gardens. Home of the original Oktoberfest too, Munich’s various magnificent drinking establishments make each day feel like a celebration of fermented froth. Work up a thirst wandering around one of the continent’s largest city parks, Englischer Garten , where there also happens to be... a big beer garden.

4. San Francisco, USA

One of the 20th century’s most rigorously documented friendship groups, the Beat Generation, had San Francisco as their hangout. Emblazoned with the legacy of 1960s counterculture and a phenomenal music scene – bands like the Grateful Dead and Jefferson Airplane originated here – come to drink in the history-drenched bars that Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsburg and Neal Cassady frequented — like Vesuvio Café .

After that, clock some of the planet’s best and brightest street art in the Haight and Ashbury neighborhood , or check out the legendary live music scene with your pals. If that doesn’t do it for you, pan out a little. Take a cruise around the City by the Bay, which encompasses talismanic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz , or pull out all the stops with a foray into the USA’s most fabled wine country, Napa Valley , an hour’s drive north.

5. Budapest, Hungary

It’s difficult to conceive of a finer thing to do with friends than touring Europe’s only capital to sit on natural thermal springs, Budapest , sampling its dozen-odd historic spa complexes. These toasty waters are conducive for relaxing, gossiping, healing (body-beneficial minerals like magnesium, calcium and sodium are purportedly present), and even a game of chess (a big thing in Budapest’s baths). Start soaking up Budapest’s bathing culture with a dunk in turn-of-the-century Széchenyi Baths, where you can treat yourselves to a massage too.

6. Petra, Jordan

Nurture your friendship with a trip to perhaps the planet’s most remarkable Unesco World Heritage Site, the striking sandstone city of  Petra . If the Nabataeans managed to pull off the impressive feat of establishing this dramatic desert city by carving it out of the rocks in the 4th and 3rd centuries BC, then there should be nothing and nowhere you and your mates feel you can’t do or go.

The approach – through a narrow, twisting passage between sheer rock walls known as the Siq – is an aptly enthralling trailer for the show of craftsmanship in the hidden city ahead. Here, the center of the drama is the Treasury, its Hellenistic façade sculpted in exquisite detail out of the iron-rich red sandstone cliff – although the Monastery, tucked away higher up in the complex, is similarly hewn from the rocks and far bigger. Get here early, for the 6 am opening, to dodge the crowds and see the sunrise on your special adventure together, bathing Petra’s phenomenal monuments in a red and pink glow.

7. Sydney to Gold Coast, Australia

It’s road trip time. One of Australia’s quintessential rides goes from Oceania’s biggest city Sydney to the Gold Coast , one of its most glorious beach destinations. For you and your buddies, though, it will be less about beginnings and ends and more about the journey: 850km along the Pacific Highway for coast lovers or 1000km via the New England Highway if you fancy mixing wine country in with your water time. Either way promises stunning national parks.

While neither distance needs to take upwards of a day, you’ll want to stretch it to several. A long drive dotted with magical stop-offs and far-removed from a rigid, rushed schedule is the optimal environment for letting your long-term friendships catch up, nurture and grow – and we guarantee, there is not one of you who won’t enthuse about some aspect of this east coast adventure.

On the Pacific Highway route, seek out the nation’s cutest marsupials in koala-dense Port Macquarie, chill in serene beach towns like Byron Bay , or swim and surf off the golden sands that rim this coast. On the New England Highway option, catapult your friendship into the churning waters of a Nymboida River rafting trip , or toast each other in Hunter Valley ’s mountain-backed vineyards.

8. New York City, USA

New York has something for every visitor. Better yet, most of it is available around the clock. If you and your pals can’t get mutually excited over the beacon of the arts, the fulcrum of fine dining, the kernel of culture, and the nexus of nightlife that makes NYC what it is, then you’ll likely struggle to agree on anywhere to travel together. Taking a bite out of the Big Apple can feel oddly familiar even for first-timers – this is one of the world’s most-filmed cities after all – yet utterly unique at the same time.

By day, bond with your bestie at a classy Manhattan café – the place that made a leisurely brunch out cool. Then climb a lofty building like the Empire State Building for unforgettable metropolis views, before hitting a titanic museum , like the Guggenheim , or seeing the sights linked with the planet’s best-known TV show about friends… Friends !

The after-dark experiences are just as legendary: head out to a historic speakeasy , all-night diner or jazz club to get acquainted with the city’s wildly diverse soul while you have one of those companionable catch-ups these trips are tailor-made for.

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Trending : Sustainable Holidays Resource Guide

37 Eco-Friendly Fun Things To Do With Friends

Spending time with friends as adults is important (even if it’s hard to do as parents). And heading to the mall or local shopping joint isn’t a great use of resources. Check out these fun things to do with friends (that aren’t shopping, because we have more than enough stuff). Hint: I saved the best for last.

This post contains affiliate links.

As adults, it can really easy to get caught up in the everyday hum-drum of sports practices, school events, work commitments, and the doldrums of daily life. Before we know it, months have passed, and we haven’t hung out with any adult friends.

M is a total extrovert, so he makes it a big priority to find fun things to do with friends that fit into our schedule. While he’s good about planning to have other families over and meet up with other couples for dinner, I have to be more intentional about making time to hang out with my friends.

If you’re looking for some eco-friendly fun things to do with friends, I’ve put together a list of things that I think you might like (and won’t destroy the planet). While they’re perfect for National Girlfriend Day , it’s great to spend time with friends any time of year. Life pulls us in so many other directions, that it’s often helpful to step back and prioritize spending time with friends once in a while.

Skip Shopping For National Girlfriend Day

As you might imagine, I skipped the spending spree at the mall on my list of eco-friendly friend dates. While there is a time and a place for shopping, shopping as a social activity or sport often results in excess consumption.

Our landfills are drowning in overconsumption, and most of us already have enough new clothes, shoes, and handbags. So skip the mall when you’re planning your next friend date, and try one of these things instead.

With that in mind, there are lots of fun things to do with friends aside from shopping. Next time you’re inclined to head to the store to pass time, consider one of these alternative activities instead. Which one of these fun friend dates sounds the most interesting to you?

1. Shop Your Friend’s Closet

If you’re similar in size, head to your friend’s house (or have them come to your house) and see what you can find in each other’s closets. If you’re ambitious, host a clothing swap with a handful of friends. Make a party out of trying on new-to-you clothes without spending a dime or creating any new fast fashion waste.

2. Shop Without Your Wallet

If you really love walking around the mall and checking out all the fashion inspiration, leave your wallet at home. If you find something you love, you can always put it on hold or order it online once you get home. The delay will give you some time to decide how much you really love it and if it’s worth the money. Chances are it won’t seem nearly as swoon-worthy the next day. 

3. Declutter and Donate Together

Take some time to go through your closets or homes and declutter together. Then find great homes for the things you no longer need. Post them on your local Buy Nothing groups or sell them on Facebook Marketplace . If you can’t sell them, give them away for free on Facebook Marketplace. Good-quality clothing and home goods may support a local thrift shop or resale store.

4. Grab a Bite To Eat

It’s much easier to enjoy good conversation over a table than while you’re each wandering around racks and hopping in and out of fitting rooms. If you typically buy something, the cost of the food won’t be any more expensive (and probably less) than the clothes you would have purchased.

5. Host a Potluck Dinner

Invite a few friends over and have them each bring their favorite dish. Cooking at home creates a whole lot less waste than eating out (in many cases). If you really want to reduce food waste, encourage each of your friends to bring a container for any leftovers. It’s a great way to have some extra food for the next few days and not throw away whatever you don’t eat that day.

6. Bake Cookies Together

I’m a big fan of chocolate, so I’m almost always leaning toward some version of a chocolate chip cookie. You can make traditional chocolate chip cookies, these chocolate peanut chip cookies , or these fancy salted, Nutella-stuffed chocolate chip cookies if you’re feeling ambitious. Just be ready to share them because they are quite rich (and incredibly delicious).

7. Host a Mending Night

I don’t know about you, but I always have a pile of clothes that need a few small repairs that I never seem to make time to complete. Make a social night out of mending and extend the life of the garments you love.

Gather up a few friends with some needles, buttons, and thread, and bring the clothes you need to fix. Add some snacks and a bottle of wine or some fun drinks to make it a productive party while also keeping clothes out of the landfill.

8. Make Upcycled Candles

Gather up a few jars from a thrift shop or whatever you have around the house and make your own candles together . Add some essential oils to find the perfect scent. There are tons of tutorials online to find the right one for you using mostly things you already have on hand.

9. Build a Charcuterie Board

Charcuterie boards are all the rage, and they’re fun and tasty too. We make “leftover charcuterie boards” for our kids , and they are always a hit for dinner. Make a charcuterie board to enjoy together with all the things you love while also using up the odds and ends in your fridge. It’s a win for mealtime and for reducing food waste .

10. Have a Game Night

If you’re up for hanging with a few friends, host a game night. There are tons of great board games. Even many games made for families are great even if it’s only adults around the table. I like Sushi Go , Dragonwood and Dragonrealm , and Ticket To Ride , if you need some suggestions. I have played all of them with only adults, and it was super fun.

11. Go On a Picnic

Skip the restaurant, and bring your own food to the park. This does not have to be fancy at all. Bring a few snacks and a blanket or grab a seat on a park bench. Enjoy your snacks and each other’s company. 

After the last year or two, many of us have gotten pretty good at hanging out with friends outdoors. Picnics are popular for good reason. Soak us some sun instead of fluorescent lights while spending time with a friend.

12. Go For a Walk or a Hike Together

Next time a friend asks to meet up, take a walk together at the local park. If you don’t live near each other, find a park to meet between the two of you. So many towns have great walking paths.

If you’re not sure how to find a good park for walking, check out the municipal websites for the town where you plan to meet. They often have a Parks and Recreation page that highlights walking paths and outdoor areas for recreational use.

Alternatively, use Google Maps to find green space in the geographical area you’d like to meet. Find the name of the park by zooming in on the map. You can also switch to satellite view in Google Maps to see what recreational space might be available at the park. Then search online for more information about the park on review sites, municipal sites, and community sites.

You could also take a walk through a local arboretum. We have a large arboretum not far from where live, and it’s such a gorgeous escape into nature with plenty of space to meander and chat.

If you have more time, spend the day hiking together at a state or regional park near your home. Check out these great tips to find hiking paths in your area if you aren’t sure where to find the right path for your adventure.

13. Attend a Local Event

Find a cool music festival, farmers’ market, author reading, or another local event in your area that suits both of your interests. Many of the events may even be free to attend. It’s always great to support local companies and your local economy too! [link]

14. Go Bowling Together

When was the last time you went bowling? We occasionally take our boys, and it’s a great activity for a day with bad weather. It’s no pricier than a new pair of pants or a couple of shirts, and you can laugh at the silly shoes.

Evenings might have leagues to workaround, but it’s worth looking into especially if you’re not planning to visit during traditional league times. No matter how great a bowler you are, it’s an activity people of various levels can do together.

15. Visit A Water Park or Amusement Park

Water parks and amusement parks don’t just have to be for kids, right? Check out one near your house. It could be super fun as long as it has areas that are suitable for adults.

16. Take a Cooking Class Together

I have taken a cooking class with friends a couple of times, and it was really fun. Not only did we enjoy the evening together, but we also learned some new culinary skills and had delicious recipes to take home with us. The goodness just keeps on going!

17. Try An Online Class Together

Check out a site like Craftsy for a fun online class to take together. You could bake a fancy cake, learn to arrange flowers, build a small birdhouse, or try a variety of other creative activities together with some guidance from an expert.

18. Visit A Local Farm To Pick Produce

If it’s the right time of year, visit a local farm to pick strawberries, apples, pumpkins, or whatever produce is in season. Supporting your local farmers is so important . And getting your food from farms near your home significantly reduces the carbon footprint of the food you eat. Plus, it’s just fun to be outside with a friend!

19. Try A Dance Class Together

Even if you’re not a natural dancer (I have no rhythm), take a local dance class together and enjoy the music. Be sure not to take yourself too seriously. It’s supposed to be fun, so laugh at yourself, laugh at each other, and enjoy the exercise!

20. Try Stand Up Paddle Boarding

I’ve never tried stand-up paddle (SUP) boarding, though I’ve heard it’s not that hard. Find a local spot that hosts classes or rents SUP boards and head out onto the water. It’s supposed to be great exercise. And who doesn’t love a little time on the water with friends?!

21. Try Out an Escape Room

There are several different types of escape rooms that you can try with groups or even just one friend. My brother-in-law and his girlfriend did an escape experience together during which they had to escape from separate coffins. It sounded a little nuts to me, but it could be super fun if that’s up your alley.

22. Be a Tourist In Your Own Town

You know that list of things you’ve wanted to check out in your local area that you just never get around to doing? Check off one of those activities with a girlfriend or two.

Maybe there’s a historical site you’ve been planning to visit or a favorite art gallery that you pass but never stop in to see. Look up the popular tourist attractions in your town and visit one that you haven’t seen before.

23. Watch a Sunset Together

Find a cool spot in the park or at a restaurant that has great views of the sunset. Recently, I was looking for spots like this in Philly, and soon we are going to check out Sunset Social . They have great views of the skyline and the sunset while also serving some small snacks and drinks. I bet you could find places like this in your area with a quick internet search for “good spots to watch the sunset in [fill in the city where you live]”.

24. Ride Bicycles or Scooters Together

Take your bikes out on the town. If you don’t have a bike, rent one or borrow one from a friend. Biking is such a fun way to see a city from a different perspective when we’re often riding around in cars much of the time.

Some cities even have scooter rental systems. Try renting a scooter and fly around your city to some of the local hot spots. Bonus that these have tiny carbon footprints!

25. Go Rock Climbing Together

Find a spot to go indoor rock climbing. Be sure to check ahead of time to understand the requirements, reservations, etc… Some places require basic belaying training before you can rock climb on your own. Other places allow you to use one of their employees to belay (or hold the rope so you don’t fall) for you, so there is less planning involved. It’s a great workout, and you’ll probably discover muscles you haven’t used in a very long time.

26. Grab a Coffee, Hot Chocolate, or Drink at the Bar Together

Find a local coffee shop and grab a coffee or hot chocolate together. It’s not expensive, and you can sit and chat for as long as you’d like. If it’s too late for coffee, grab a drink at a local bar.

27. Get Manicures or Pedicures

I know it’s cliche, but would the list even be complete without it? This is something my sisters and I typically do when we get together (which is only about once or twice a year because we all live so far apart). But it’s a nice time to relax and catch up.

28. Try an Outdoor Fitness Class

While visiting my sister recently, she took us to a donation-based community fitness class. We got a great workout, some fresh air, and supported two local people supplementing their income with great workout classes.

29. Make A Festive Craft Together

Head to Pinterest to find the perfect upcycled DIY project for the season. Depending on the season, you could make a wreath from foraged greens and pinecones , dress a mantle with fall produce and other compostable decorations, create a Halloween costume from pieces you find at the thrift shop, or create a bouquet of wildflowers.

30. Binge Watch Your Favorite Show With Homemade Popcorn

Gather up together to watch a million bazillion episodes of your favorite television show. Pop some homemade popcorn, especially if you can make your own from kernels instead of the pre-packaged alternatives from the grocery store. Homemade popcorn is super easy to make. Check out these homemade popcorn recipes for sweet and salty flavors, as well as my favorite little gadget to pop our own popcorn in the microwave .

31. Make a Photo Book Together

Most of us have 37,483 photos on our phones that get lost in the digital world. Use an app like Shutterfly or Mixbook to easily upload those photos from your phone into a digital scrapbook. Go through the photos together and write up fun captions and reflect on the good memories. Looking back on the fun events will probably be nearly as fun as doing them again!

32. Have a Bonfire

Stack up the sticks and make a bonfire to enjoy a summer or fall evening. Don’t forget to have s’mores (because what’s a bonfire without s’mores???!). If you can, compost the wood ash after the fire. It’s great for a compost pile so long as you have plenty of food scraps to balance it out.

Not sure how to compost? I’ve definitely got that taken care of for you .

33. Make Ice Cream Sundaes

Head to the grocery store and gather up goodies to make your own ice cream sundaes. The bulk section has tons of great toppings so you can load up goodies without all the packaging waste. Bonus points if you make your own ice cream, like this homemade strawberry ice cream . Even though it’s pink, it’s not just for Valentine’s Day.

34. Visit a Local Animal Shelter

If you’re a fan of animals, visit a local animal shelter together. The animals would love the company, and the employees could use the help I’m sure.

35. Tend a Public Garden Together

There are many public gardens and landscaping areas that could use some love. Don’t trespass, of course, but many organizations would probably love a few extra hands helping them care for their flowers and plants.

For example, I sit on the board of our local library . We were thrilled when a patron asked if she could help us clean up the flowers and landscaping at the entrance of the building. It looks so much nicer now, and the library doesn’t have the budget to hire professional landscapers for regular maintenance.

36. Volunteer Together

There are lots of ways to volunteer in your local community. Helping at a food bank, for example, is a great activity that doesn’t require a lot of training or recurring commitment. You could also volunteer to help at a local charity event like a 5k or other fundraiser in the area. I’m sure the organizers would appreciate the extra hands.

37. Do a Litter Pick Up

Wait, what? Get together to pick up trash? Yep. It’s totally a thing. If you don’t believe me, check out the litter pick-up I did with my friend, Jess. I shared several tips for litter picking with friends to make it fun. And it’s a great way to enjoy a local park, get some fresh air, and do some good for your community too.

Do you have any favorite things to do with friends? I’d love to hear your ideas. Going for a walk through a local park is my favorite way to meet up with friends. How about you?

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10 Fun Places to Go With Friends: Exciting Travel Ideas!

There are no better travel companions than your besties. Exploring a new part of the world might just be the best bonding experience. But what are fun places to go with friends? Here’s a list of 10 spots your travel buddies will love!

There’s no better travel companion than your best friend or a group of your closest pals. You usually enjoy doing the same things, so putting together an itinerary can be easy and fun! It’s also an excellent opportunity to spend quality time together and strengthen your bond.

Choosing the right destination makes all the difference! You need a spot with suitable accommodation for small groups, plenty of activities that you’ll all enjoy, and sometimes a place that is budget friendly so that everyone can enjoy traveling together without any money awkwardness.

With that in mind, these are my top 10 recommendations for the best fun places to go with friends on vacation in 2023. There are options for beach lovers, culture buffs, and party animals.

New to planning trips with friends? Read  tips and tricks on how to plan a vacation trip with friends .

10 Fun Places to travel to with Friends

Here are the top 10 fun places to go with friends. From the USA to Australia, there are some brilliant destinations all over the globe, and what better way to discover this planet than with your friends?

10. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is unforgettable during Mardi Gras in February and Halloween in October. But it’s also a fantastic place to visit with friends all year round if you enjoy music and partying. You can find affordable shared accommodation near the French Quarter, where most bars stay open late, and scores of excellent Creole and Cajun restaurants exist.

During the day, stroll through the beautiful garden district and several fascinating cemeteries. Get some culture at the  National WWII Museum , or hit up the amusement rides at  City Park . In the early evening, take a  Voodoo tour  or get your fortune read. Next, hit up some Jazz and Blues venues before taking to Bourbon Street until dawn.

9. Reykjavik, Iceland

If you and your friends prefer to explore the world’s natural wonders and disconnect from life’s stresses, head to Reykjavik in Iceland. 

Reykjavik is an excellent base for exploring some of Iceland’s best sites via the Golden Circle. This ring road lets you take in some of the country’s best waterfalls, national parks, lava fields, and glacial lagoons.

Plan many inspiring hikes together, including a trip to one of the country’s famous hot springs to relax and rejuvenate. A boat trip to encounter whales and puffins and an evening watching the aurora borealis, the northern lights, is an unmissable experience. This guide on  things to do in Iceland  is sure to inspire you.

8. Lisbon, Portugal

Suppose you’re looking for an affordable Mediterranean destination for a trip with friends. In that case, Lisbon should be at the top of your list. 

Lisbon perfectly combines old European culture, Mediterranean weather and cuisine, art and culture, beaches, and lively nightlife. There’s something for every taste, and it won’t break the bank.

During the day, wander the Alfama district for old Portuguese charm and visit some of the city’s incredible museums. The  Museu Coleção Berardo  is a contemporary art gallery displaying works from the twentieth century. Or visit the  Museum of the Orient  for a cultural explosion of beauty and ancient history. 

You can catch the train to Cascais to find beautiful sandy beaches or spend the day shopping at Feira da Ladra, a top flea market since the 13th century. There’s so much to see! This guide on  things to do in Lisbon  will help you narrow the options!

In the early evening, you’re spoiled for choice with excellent Mediterranean food and places to taste local wine and rich sweet port. The club scene is one of the best in the country, but don’t expect  Lisbon nightlife  to get started before midnight.

7. Prague, Czech Republic

Suppose you and your friends enjoy catching up over a drink and making new friends with travelers worldwide. In that case, Prague is an ideal destination. It’s also one of the most affordable cities in Europe, so you can travel on a budget that suits everyone.

Prague is famous for its beer and has more bars per capita than anywhere else. Line your stomach with heavy Eastern European cuisine, including sauerkraut, goulash, bread dumplings, and fried cheese. At every bar and restaurant, you’ll encounter other travelers looking to share stories and make new memories. 

This is all done against a Medieval backdrop, with layers of architecture dating from around the 10th century onwards. Go to Old Town, see the Astronomical Clock and Church of Our Lady, explore the fascinating 15th-century Jewish cemetery, and hike up to Prague Castle.

Prague is undoubtedly one of the most fun places to go with friends and caters to every type of traveler and budget. This guide on  where to stay in Prague  will help you and your besties find the perfect pad.

6. Bogota, Colombia

Colombia is the most biodiverse country in the world, bordered by the Amazon Rainforest, Andes Mountains, and the Caribbean Sea. The country is safer than its reputation suggests, but it will still be more fun to explore within a team’s safety. Taking on this destination is a bonding experience for besties.

The capital, Bogota, is a great place to stay to find a mix of historic charm and modern urban culture. Take a bike tour of the city when you arrive to get the lay of the land, and then stay in the La Candelaria or Callejon Embudo districts for the best restaurants, bars, and shops. 

Expect great coffee and fruity cocktails. The city is home to some surprisingly good museums, including the  Gold Museum  and the Botero Art Museum.

Bogota is a city that boasts a wide variety of  things to do . Make time for some day trips out of town to discover some unique natural wonders within just a few hours of Bogota. Visit the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral, a glowing underground place of worship, Lake Guatavita, or the fantastic waterfalls of La Chorrera Falls and Tequendama Falls. 

5. Bali, Indonesia

If you’re looking for fun places to go with friends, Bali has to find its way onto your travel bucket list. What could be better than renting a private beach villa with your friends or staying together in a luxury resort? You’ll find pristine beaches and affordable accommodations in Bali. 

While it’s one of the most expensive places in Indonesia, it’s cheap when compared to the United States or Europe. These tips on  the best time to go to Bali  will help your group settle on a date that suits everyone.

Stay close to the beach for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing—the waves are excellent. There are also plenty of beach parties almost 24 hours a day if you know where to go. If you prefer a more relaxed day, take a car or a boat to one of the country’s more remote beaches.

If you feel like getting active, there are plenty of beautiful hikes, many of them to gorgeous temples. There are more than 10,000 temples in the area. Recuperate in the afternoon with a massage, and then get dressed with your besties to head out to a high-end restaurant or club.

4. Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is another excellent Southeast Asian destination if you’re looking for fantastic beaches and affordable resorts for a group trip. There are also plenty of beach parties and delicious Thai food to eat. There are so many fun places to go with friends when you’re visiting Phuket. 

Bangtao Beach is an eight-kilometer stretch of white sands and crystal clear waters, and you must eat at one of the floating restaurants at Laem Hin Pier. As well as beaches, parties, and clubs, you can visit the  Green Elephant Sanctuary Park , the Chalong Bay Rum Distillery, Bang Pae Waterfall, see the Big Buddha, and experience the ladyboy show at Simon Cabaret. 

If you’re a little overwhelmed by all the choices, here’s a helpful guide on  things to do in Phuket for first-timers .

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and tends to have the most options, but there are plenty more islands to explore. You can also check out Ko Samui, Ko Tao, and Ko Pha Ngan. Why not take a  boat tour around the Phi Phi islands  surrounding Phuket - talk about fun places to go with friends!

3. Hanoi, Vietnam

Suppose you’re looking for an affordable but exotic destination where you and your friends can eat, drink, and be entertained without breaking the bank. In that case, Hanoi in Vietnam should be on your list of fun places to go with friends.

Hanoi is a beautiful city with a rich history. While it’s a city of modern skyscrapers, it’s also spotted with ancient temples, Chinese-style pagodas, and French colonial mansions. But the city doesn’t feel like a concrete jungle thanks to the more than two dozen lakes. Plenty of sites like the Temple of Literature and the  Museum of Ethnology exist.

As you explore, enjoy some of the world’s cheapest beer and best street food, including unusual delicacies such as ostrich meat and traditional Vietnamese dishes such as Pho and Banh Xeo meat-stuffed crepes.

2. Napa Valley, California

This is for a more luxurious getaway with the besties, especially if you all love wine! If you’re looking for one of those fun places to go with friends that’s just peaceful and easy, head to Napa Valley in California. 

As well as finding a luxurious villa for the group, you must book a  wine tour  and visit some of the 400 wineries in the area. Try French-inspired bubblies, artisanal Pinots, and award-winning Sauvignon Blancs and Cabernets.

You can also spend days boutique shopping in downtown Napa or at one of the many spas in the area. Sign up for a group yoga session or take a bike tour across the valley. If you don’t want to party in your accommodation, then there’s the lively but sophisticated nightlife in Napa.

1. Gold Coast, Australia

If you want to experience the best of what Australia offers on a trip with friends, head to the Gold Coast for fantastic beaches, dramatic national parks, and lively nightlife. You’ll also find some of the country’s largest shopping centers if you do some shared retail therapy too! 

The Gold Coast is one of the most fun places to go with friends if you’re heading to Australia.

Find an apartment close to the main beach area with a veranda overlooking the ocean or an Airbnb on a suburban street. Work on your tan during the day, or take a surf lesson at one of the many surf schools in Surfers Paradise. 

You might also catch an international surf competition if you’re lucky with your dates. 

If you’ve got transport, there’s plenty to do within a short drive. You’ll find hikes, scenic views, and waterfalls up Tamborine Mountain if you love nature. If you’re looking for something to raise your adrenaline levels, head to one of the many nearby theme parks, including:

• Movie World

Make sure everyone is happy with what you’ve planned by reading another helpful  guide to trip planning with friends .

Plan Your Trip Collaborative with Pilot!

The logistics of planning a collaborative trip can be challenging. Coordinating schedules and budgets and ensuring everyone gets their top priorities on the to-do list can be a logistical challenge. But that’s where Pilot can save the day!

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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10 Fun Places To Go On A Road Trip With Friends

Are you looking for a fun and exciting way to spend time with your friends? A road trip is the perfect solution! Not only does it allow you to bond and make memories with your friends, but it also gives you the freedom to explore new places and create your own adventure. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go.

To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of 30 fun places to go on a road trip with friends, from the bustling streets of New Orleans to the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing getaway, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your friends, pack your bags, and hit the road!

1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

 The Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is a great place to visit while on a road trip with friends because it offers a wide variety of activities and breathtaking scenery. The park is home to the Grand Canyon, one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the United States.

The Canyon offers a wide variety of hiking trails, from easy rim walks to strenuous backcountry treks, that will allow you and your friends to explore the Canyon and take in its stunning views. The park also offers scenic drives along the rim of the canyon.

Additionally, the park offers camping and picnic areas, as well as ranger-led activities and educational programs that will give you and your friends an opportunity to learn more about the Canyon’s geology and history.

Aside from the natural beauty, the park is also near other great places like Sedona, Route 66, and Hoover Dam. This can make the road trip more diverse and fun.

2. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park in California is a great place to visit while on a road trip with friends because it offers a wide variety of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. The park is known for its stunning granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias that will provide a great backdrop for your road trip.

The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks that will allow you and your friends to explore the park and take in its natural beauty. The park also offers scenic drives through the park, where you can take in the breathtaking views from various overlooks.

Yosemite is also home to iconic landmarks such as Half Dome and El Capitan, which are great places to hike or climb. The park also offers opportunities for rock climbing, rock scrambling, and bouldering.

Related: Picnic Lunch Ideas For Hiking

3, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming is a great destination for a road trip with friends due to its abundance of natural wonders and recreational opportunities. The park is home to some of the world’s most famous geysers, such as Old Faithful, as well as hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. These natural features provide an unparalleled and unique outdoor experience that you and your friends will not find elsewhere.

The park also boasts a wide variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, wolves, and many species of birds. This makes it an ideal spot for wildlife watching and photography.

4. Acadia National Park, Maine

In my opinion, Acadia National Park in Maine is a great place to visit with friends during a road trip because of its diversity of landscapes and recreational opportunities. The park is located on the coast of Maine and it offers a unique blend of rugged coastal cliffs, secluded beaches, and lush forests, providing a great variety of settings for your road trip.

The park offers a wide range of hiking trails, including the Precipice Trail, Jordan Pond Path, and the Precipice Trail, that will allow you and your friends to explore the park and take in its natural beauty. The park also offers scenic drives, such as the Park Loop Road

Acadia National Park is also home to several historic sites, such as the Jordan Pond House and the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, which are great places to explore and learn about the park’s history.

5. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park in Utah is a great place to visit with friends during a road trip because of its stunning natural beauty and abundance of recreational opportunities. The park is known for its towering red rock cliffs and canyons, which provide a unique and breathtaking landscape that is perfect for exploring and taking photos.

The park offers a wide range of hiking trails, from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks such as Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Observation Point, that will allow you and your friends to explore the park and take in its natural beauty.

Zion National Park also offers recreational activities such as rock climbing, rock scrambling, and canyoneering that will provide an adrenaline rush for adventure-seekers.

Related: Dehydrated Backpacking Meals

6. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park in California is a great place to visit with friends during a road trip because of its unique desert landscape and abundance of recreational opportunities. The park is known for its Joshua trees and other desert plants, as well as its rock formations and rugged terrain, which provide a unique and otherworldly landscape that is perfect for exploring and taking photos.

The park offers a wide range of hiking trails, from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks such as Hidden Valley and Ryan Mountain, that will allow you and your friends to explore the park.

As you can see, From hiking some of the country’s most scenic trails and seeing unique flora and fauna to exploring unique desert museums and seeing the spectacular night sky, Joshua Tree National Park has something for everyone. Plus, the small towns and cities surrounding the park provide great food, entertainment, and shopping. Finally, the park’s location in the California desert region makes it a great winter trip, with warm days and cool nights.

7. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park in Montana is a great place to visit with friends during a road trip because of its stunning natural beauty, abundance of recreational opportunities, and historic significance. The park is known for its glaciers, alpine meadows, and rugged peaks, which provide a unique and breathtaking landscape that is perfect for exploring and taking photos.

The park offers a wide range of hiking trails, from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks such as the Highline Trail and the Grinnell Glacier Trail.

So, from sweeping views of jagged mountains and fields of wildflowers to incredible waterfalls and a chance to see wildlife, Glacier National Park is sure to leave an impression on everyone in the group. Plus, there are plenty of activities such as challenging treks, backcountry camping, a scenic drive, family-friendly hikes, and more. There’s also the opportunity to stay in unique accommodations explore nearby cool cities with great food and shopping, and even take a guided tour of the park.

8. The Great River Road, Wisconsin

Yes, the Great River Road is a fun place to visit with friends while on a road trip! The Great River Road is a 3,000-mile scenic byway that runs along the Mississippi River, stretching across 10 states, including Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana.

The Great River Road offers a diverse range of landscapes, from rolling hills to picturesque bluffs, providing a great backdrop for a road trip. Along the way, you can stop at historic towns and villages, such as Galena, Illinois, and Natchez, Mississippi, which offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.

Along the way, you can also visit state and national parks, such as the Effigy Mounds National Monument in Iowa, the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum in Missouri, and the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi.

There are even plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, such as biking the Great River Road, fishing at Kinnickinnic State Park, snacking at the Smiling Pelican Bakeshop, and birdwatching in Lynxville. Visitors also can explore some of the quaint towns along the route, such as Stockholm and Pepin, and enjoy the local cuisine and culture.

9. Route 66, Illinois to California

Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road,” is a historic highway that spans from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, and it’s the ultimate American road trip experience, offering a chance to explore a variety of different places and cultures, as well as iconic roadside scenes, such as neon signage and kitschy Americana.

This route offers a unique and nostalgic experience, as it passes through a variety of landscapes, small towns, and cities, allowing you to discover America’s history, culture, and landmarks.

The route offers a wide range of activities and sights to see, such as visiting historic diners, motels, and gas stations along the way, experiencing the different cultures and cuisines of the towns you pass through, and visiting landmarks such as the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, and the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas.

Route 66 also offers recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as fishing, hunting, and boating, in the National Parks and forests it passes through, such as Petrified Forest National Park, Mojave National Preserve, and Grand Canyon National Park.

Related: Camper Accessories For Outside

10. The Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of America’s most scenic drives, running for 469 miles through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and North Carolina. It offers stunning views, plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, as well as historic and cultural attractions.

What’s more? The route offers a wide range of activities and sights to see, such as the Mabry Mill, the Blue Ridge Music Center, and the Folk Art Center, experiencing the different cultures and cuisines of the towns you pass through, and visiting landmarks such as the Linville Falls, the Craggy Gardens, and the Mount Mitchell State Park, the highest peak in the Eastern United States.

The Blue Ridge Parkway also offers recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as fishing, hunting, and boating, in the National Parks and forests it passes through, such as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Shenandoah National Park, and the George Washington National Forest.

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30 Captivating and Fun Places to Go in NYC - Memories and Amusement Await

If you want to hoop around the Big Apple with your buddies and friends during your vacations or holidays, we have many things for you. The grand city is full of exciting activities and excellent tourist attractions in New York . Various fun places to go in NYC with friends are rooftop bars, restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, bakeries, food streets, and food markets to enjoy delicious international and local food and flavors, several amusement park activities and fun rides, dance and music, theater shows, clubs, and pubs, seashores, beaches, museums, art exhibitions, theater shows, musicals and concert, movies and cinema, books and libraries, shops and shopping malls, public parks, events, and festivals, to enjoy the evenings and fantastic things to do in NYC with a group of friends with your group of friends and make a memoir for the NYC vacation trip.

List of 30 Stunning & Fun Things to Do in NYC and NY

You will get several entertainment and amusement activities and dazzling things to do in New York City with your friends and pals. Check out the list of stunning spots and fun things to do in NYC. It's not only for tourists, but locals can also enjoy the lovely and fun things to do in NYC this weekend.

1. The Madison Square Garden, New York City

Madison Square Garden is a multiplex entertainment arena full of fun and amusement in Midtown Manhattan, New York. You can enjoy exciting activities like Billy Joel music concerts, Beacon Theater shows, Radio City shows, and The Theater for music, comedy, arts, sports, and special events in NYC.

2. Aire Ancient Baths Chicago, Spa, and Wellness

Aire Ancient Baths in Chicago and New York is a great spa and wellness spot that offers exotic bath experiences with salt scrubs, water pools and steam baths, massages, exfoliation, artificial waterfalls, and floats for various packages and offers for its regular clients.

3. City Days Scavenger Hunt, New York City

City Days scavenger hunt is an escape room-like urban game, an immersive experience for a great adventure, thrill, and excitement to explore and discover the great mystery and fun.

4. The Queen’s Ball, New York City

The Queen’s Ball is an immersive experience for the exclusive event that tells the story of the famous Bridgerton show. You will experience the fantastic ball with great dance performances, music, drinks, exact scenarios with Queen Charlotte, and more fun with the great ambiance of this fascinating event.

5. The Guggenheim Museum, New York City

Guggenheim Museum is on Fifth Avenue, Manhattan. The museum displays sculptures, prints, art, and collectibles from famous artists like the Gego Measuring Infinity exhibition, Sarah Zee Timelapse collection, Picasso of Paris collections, and French artist Thanhauser’s collections.

6. The Botanical Garden, New York City

The Botanical Garden, NYC, is a beautiful museum and a research center for several plant species. It has a green forest, a home gardening center, a native plant garden, a rock garden, seasonal walk tours, and a library for a research center. You can find several fun things to do at the park with your friends.

7. The Cauldron NYC, New York City

The Cauldron is a fantasy-themed based cocktail bar that takes you into an immersive experience with unicorns, cauldrons, magic wands, and potions, and you will get your cocktails by mixing drinks through unicorns and cauldrons.

8. The Yankee Stadium, New York City

Yankee Stadium is the sports venue in Bronx, New York City. It’s a significant sports stadium where famous baseball and soccer teams play the most fascinating games at the battleground.

9. The Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls is a famous city in New York at the Niagra Riverbank. Niagra Falls has the most fascinating natural scenes and three huge waterfalls at the Niagra River in the Niagra Falls State Park. It’s a fantastic tourist spot and the most stunning camping and glamping site in New York.

10. The National Air and Space Museum, Washington DC

The National Air and Space Museum is in Washington, DC. The museum displays air and space art collectibles and artifacts that tell the stories of the great astronauts of the United States and the history of Air and space evolution.

11. The Admire International Art, Washington DC

The Admire International Art is a gallery of exclusive and outstanding collections of modern art and contemporary artists; Pablo Picasso, Joan Miro, Marc Chagall, Pierre Soulages, and Manolo Valdes.

12. The Ghostbusters Firehouse, New York

The Ghostbusters Firehouse is an actual firehouse in New York associated with Hook and Ladder Company Eight. This firehouse is a popular film location and is used for the famous supernatural comedy movie Ghost Busters. Due to the super hit movie and its prime scenes in this firehouse, it has a fantastic popularity, and its fans visit the firehouse to keep the lovely memories of the famous film scenes.

13. The Manhattan Rooftop, New York

Several outstanding rooftop bars and restaurants are in Times Square, Manhattan. Enjoy the fantastic cocktails, beers, wines, and delicious international cuisines at these rooftop bars and restaurants while enjoying the breathtaking views of Times Square and the Manhattan skyline.

14. The Iconic Comedy Cellar, New York

The Comedy Cellar is in Greenwich Village, New York. It’s famous for its excellent standup comedy shows with live performances, and the renowned comedians perform the show at the comedy cellar in NYC.

15. Fun Skydiving at iFLY Westchester, NYC

So, here's the fun and excitement bursting with Skydiving at iFly Westchester in New York City. Enjoy your great time with pals and buddies and experience the thrill and adventure of skydiving at the indoor wind tunnel. No fear of the worst weather and accidents, no more climbing or jumping, you can skydive in the safe tunnel without any hazel security. It's one of my best activities to do in new york with my buddies.

16. The Escape Rooms Experience, NYC

Real-life gaming challenges are over here, and the striking objects at the stunning escape rooms are waiting for you; the games of adventures and the games of escape; an immersive adventure experience gives you thrilling chills and great fun. You will get sixty minutes to solve the puzzles and achieve the challenges in five escape rooms. The Heist, The Prison Break, Special Ops-Mysterious Market, The Playground, and The Gold Rush escape room are fun places to go with friends.

The Escape Rooms Experience is the most remarkable thing to do in NYC for first-timers to enjoy with friends.

17. The Photo Lab Studio, NYC

The Photo Lab is a self-portrait studio that allows its customers to become photographers and models. You can visit the stunning photo lab with your friends to get cool selfies and snapshots of your choices. They will provide a complete photo studio setup with all high-quality professional cameras, lights, and interiors. You can set up your experience with friends and family pictures and create unique clicks for a reasonable price. You can grab the offer to get the digital copy for free for a specific time. It’s one of the best things to do with friends in NYC.

18. Arcadia Earth AR VR Experience, NYC

Arcadia Earth is a great immersive experience to learn about the planet Earth with highly advanced AR/VR technology and various fun things to do with friends in NYC. You will know how human actions can affect the planet Earth and the possible outcomes of these actions in the future via VR and AR project mapping Arcadia Earth . Here you will find the best installations of Augmented reality, and multi-sensory projections will expand the new era of the world and see planet Earth differently.

19. Long Island Aquarium, NYC

Long Island Aquarium is the best marine life experience in real-time and one of the most incredible fun places to visit in NY on Coney Island. It's the Lost City of Atlantis-themed aquarium that allows its visitors to dive underwater and watch the marine life under the ocean live standing beside them. It's a must-see place in NYC with your friends, and you enjoy watching them confront the stunning wild sharks, giant octopuses, and other sea creatures.

20. The Hamptons Beaches, NY

The Hamptons are on East Long Island, with beautiful farmland, villages, and a seaside community. Its beaches are one of the most incredible fun and entertainment for friends, picnic parties, and fun with friends in NYC. The five famous Hamptons beaches are Egypt Beach, Georgica Beach, Main Beach, Two Mile Hollow Beach, and Wiborg Beach in East Hamptons, NY. It’s one of the best fun places to go on vacation with friends.

21. The Museum of Ice Creams, NYC

The Museum of Ice Creams nyc is in Soho, one of the tremendous fun places in NYC. It is the most fantastic experience for fun and chilling sweetness with your friends and family. A huge funky pool of excitement offers a wide enmity to take colorful and vibrant clicks for social media to share your interactive experience with the world!

So, if you'd love to taste the yummy flavors of more ice creams, check out the Sweet Museum of Ice Creams in New York City. You can taste the various delicious flavors of ice cream and make a cone of the flavors of your choice at the end of the experience. It’s one of the outstanding fun things to do in NYC with friends.

22. The Rooftop Cinema Club, NYC

Enjoy the exciting and thrilling movies at the Rooftop Cinema Club of Sky Lawn Embassy Suites, NYC. It’s somewhere fun to go with friends, where you can enjoy watching movies under the stars with your buddies. This rooftop cinema has a giant LED screen and comfy chairs with personal headsets, and you can grab some food and drinks from the Bar on the rooftop. Choose your favorite movie at the cinema and have a great time out in NYC with friends. It's one of the Best Restaurants and bars in New York and offers a rooftop cinema club.

23. The Ladurée Patio Garden, NYC

Ladurée is a fascinating Garden that serves the best food in Soho, NYC. It's a French restaurant with Parisian vibes and ambiance, elegant style, and decorated with delicious food, cocktails, and beverages. Enjoy a great lunch and tea with your friends and family in this patio garden. It’s one of the most stunning places to go with friends in NYC.

24. The Barcade Gaming Zone, NYC

The Barcade is a bar and restaurant, but it has a gaming zone and offers exciting games like Street Fighter and Pin Ball video games on the spot. It’s one of the great fun places to go with friends. So, you can enjoy food and drinks with your friends and play thrilling video games at the Barcade in Chelsea, NYC.

25. The Bang-Bang Tattoos, NYC

The most thrilling activity in the US is engraving a Tattoo, and it’s one of the unique things to do in NYC. Keith Bang-Bang McCurdy is the most popular tattoo artist in NYC. Bang-Bang Tattoos have tattooed renowned celebrities Rihanna and Justin Bieber.

26. The Cotton Club in Harlem, NYC

The fantastic jazz venue in Harlem is the Cotton Club. The fun and entertainment, electric jazz streams with stunning settings, enjoy the evening with music and rhythm with your buddies and make your trip more amazing with Cotton Club music events. You will experience the most new things to do in NYC.

27. The Coffee Shops, NYC

Restaurants and bars are one of a kind in NYC to explore the lovely lunch and dinners, but the best coffee in New York City is available at fantastic coffee shops in the city. Toby's Estate Coffee is a popular spot, and it’s one of the best places to go with friends for roasted Australian coffee. They serve delicious snacks, but the coffee beans are amazing to taste the world's flavors. Enjoy your evenings with your friends and loved ones at the lovely Toby's Estate Coffee Spot to taste the Australian roasted coffee and learn various brewing methods for a flavorful cup of coffee.

You can explore the awe-inspiring coffee shops in the Upper West Side , Manhattan, and have a yummy coffee with your buddies.

28. The Spyscape Museum, NYC

The Spyscape Museum is a real-time immersive experience with spy film character figures and exciting activities, advanced technology and thrilling games, chilling lasers, spy art collectibles, and fun things to do in New York City. It's a deep dive into the spy world and starting new exciting games like escape rooms experience.

29. The Scavenger Hunts Real-time Games Experience, New York City

The Scavenger Hunting Games is a real-time exciting adventure, with incredible thrills and chills and outstanding things to do in New York with friends. It offers tremendous skills through puzzles, sorting out hidden objects, and resolving mysteries and riddles through brilliant activities and horrible and crucial events. Still, it's a real-time game challenge, fun, and a lot of random activities to do with friends for intelligent people, so enjoy the hunt with a group of friends for fantastic adventures in New York City.

The famous companies that offer scavenger hunts are Midtown Scavenger Hunt Adventures, Central Park Adventures , NYC Midtown Exploration, and thrilling games and adventures for the explorers.

30. The Friends Experience Exhibition, NYC

The Friend’s Experience is a fun exhibition themed on the popular TV show "The Friends" organized by Warner Bros, Themed Entertainment, and SuperflyX. If you're a show fan or trying to hang out with your buddies, it could be the best spot to check out the exhibition as the same things shown in the TV series and the fun things to do with friends in NYC. Enjoy a real-time experience of the Friends Show, all the things are the same, an orange couch and other things like an actual TV series, and at the end, you can buy the best NYC souvenirs from the Experience Store of the unusual Friends exhibition in NYC.

Conclusion:

Tourists and visitors might get some fun attractions to explore the spots and activities in NYC with friends. Still, the locals can also hang out with buddies from several amazing things and activities in the Big Apple and NY. If you’re curious about what to do in NYC with friends. Let’s check here for the best options.

You can enter the food cafes, coffee shops, restaurants, bars, clubs and pubs, patio lunches and dinners, cruise dinner parties, Jet skiing and kayaking, speed boating, and Helicopter tour of NYC's skyline.

Tourists can get help from locals to plan an itinerary for the NYC trip, but here's the best guide on planning a trip to New York . It might be helpful and exciting for you. Now, you can choose the best time to visit the best spots, find fantastic places to hang out with friends in NYC and do fun activities in the grand city of the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you have a good day out with friends, how do you plan a fun day out, where can i hang out with friends, how to survive with little money, what kind of activities do you do with your friends.

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Fun Places to Go with Friends: 5 Awesome Group Trip Destinations

by Danielle Owen | Jun 27, 2023 | Group Travel | 0 comments

Whether you’re looking to travel domestically or internationally, there are plenty of fun places to go with friends in the United States and around the world.

No matter what kind of vibe you’re going for, these destinations have something for every type of friend group to enjoy themselves on their vacation. Foodies will love Mexico City, partiers will find their heaven in Las Vegas, and beach bums can relax on a quiet Greek island . Once you’re committed to the trip , choose your favorite destination and start planning your friends’ vacay.

The top 5 fun places to go with friends include:

Fun places to go with friends: top 5 destinations

Riviera maya.

The Caribbean epicenter, Cancun takes the cake when it comes to fun places to go with friends. Whether you choose to stay at a resort in Cancun or rent out a villa in boho Tulum, there’s something for everyone on the Yucatan Peninsula. Rent a car while you’re here to take turns driving to places like Chichen Itza, the ancient Mayan ruins, or Isla Mujeres , a tiny island off the coast perfect for escaping reality.

Azul Beach Resort Riviera Cancun , located just 20 minutes from the airport, offers swim up suites and a variety of different activities to help you and your friends make the most of your Mexican vacation.

Mexico City

Vibrant Mexico City has endless options for keeping busy on a friend trip. Escape rooms, bowling, and nightlife are all readily available when you’re itching to have some fun on vacation with your friends.

When you’re ready for more arts and culture, you’ll find yourself spoiled for options. Visit Casa Azul, Frieda Kahlo’s former residence with Diego Rivera. The Anthropology Museum is so massive you could spend an entire day wandering the halls, immersing yourself in Mexican history and culture. Outside of the city, take a day trip to the remains of the ancient city of Teotihuacán.

Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is a favorite destination of West Coasters with plenty of quick and easy direct flights from airports like San Francisco, Phoenix, Denver, and Seattle. All will have you touched down, margarita-in-hand, in well under 5 hours. Enjoy the nightlife in downtown Cabo or head out on a daytime boat tour or fishing expedition.

Cabo is full of beautiful beaches and awesome options for treating yourself at luxury all-inclusive resorts. Looking to explore beyond the beach? Rent a car with your friends and road trip up the Baja California peninsula to towns like Todos Santos and La Paz.

Discover the best places to stay in Cabo San Lucas .

2. Las Vegas

The quintessential party trip destination, Las Vegas is never going to lose its appeal when it comes to fun places to go with friends. The party scene is world-famous, with popular DJs playing music from daytime pool parties straight through the night. However, there are plenty of other sides to Sin City.

Las Vegas has long been a hotspot for some of the world’s best exhibitions. Bodies: The Exhibition uses real, preserved human organs and full corpses to give us a glimpse at what we all look like on the inside. Titanic: The Exhibition is full of fascinating artifacts and stories from the world’s most famous shipwreck.

While the city is full of glitzy resorts and off-the-strip hotels, our favorite places to stay with friends in Vegas include Aria and the Wynn/Encore . In addition, this is one of our favorite destinations on the West Coast to explore on a road trip with friends .

Discover the 3 best Las Vegas hotels with balconies.

Looking for a fun place to go with friends on the European continent? Greece is one of our favorite destinations for group travel and it’s particularly wonderful when traveling with your friend crew.

Choose the island to best suit your group, whether you’re looking to party on Mykonos, relax in a villa on Crete, or explore nature off the beaten track on the island of Skopelos. You can’t go wrong with the stunning beaches of Greece, the delicious locally-made wine, and the laidback island time (that extends to the mainland!).

4. Colombia

Upbeat Medellin, chilled out Cartagena, or bustling Bogota are all great options for a friend trip to Colombia with direct flights from many places across the United States. You can’t go wrong with a group trip to Colombia as you’ll never be at a loss for fun activities, delicious restaurants, and side excursions from wherever you choose to stay.

Medellin, the city of eternal spring, is a great year-round option for friend trips. Try paragliding from the beautiful mountains outside of the city, or take a day trip to Guatape, one of the most colorful cities on Earth. From Guatape, you can visit nearby El Pinol, a massive rock with over 700 stairs to the top. Once you’ve made the climb, enjoy taking a breather looking out over the beautiful, lake-strewn vistas. Travelers can also take a tour to one of the former residences of Pablo Escobar nearby.

Of all the fun places to go with friends, Colombia is certainly one of the most exciting.

You can also check out more of the best countries to visit in South America for inspiration.

Our neighbor to the north offers many different destinations, each perfect for a friend group getaway in its own way.

Montreal and Vancouver are two of our favorite destinations for having fun with friends. Both cities have a thriving restaurant scene, with plenty of options for high-end cuisine or street food. They are also both surrounded by beautiful scenery with plenty of parks and open spaces.

Ready to start planning your trip with your friends? Troupe makes it easy for groups to vote on which destination they want to visit, share itineraries, choose accommodations, and more! Check it out here.

For more on these destinations, check out:

• Hidden Gems in Mexico
• All-inclusive Water Park Resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean
• Where to Stay in Tulum
• The 5 Best Swim-up Rooms in Cancun
• Summer in Vancouver
• Things to do in Bogota, Colombia
• 3 Quiet Greek Islands

Or if none of those float your boat, try exploring Ireland’s capital and enjoy the best of Dublin .

Entertainment

15 fun places in delhi-ncr for youngster, get craziest experience with your buddies, updated - feb. 19, 2024 13 min read.

Are you and your friends always pondering over where to go and what to do in Delhi-NCR? Haven't we all become bored with just going out to a food joint , eating and just coming back home. Where we think there are hardly any things to do except maybe roaming around some shady malls in Delhi which are come out to be boring sometimes until you want to shop.

Well, Delhi has much more to offer than just these kind of kinds of stuff. Delhi-NCR region has some crazy out-of-the-box opportunities about which you might have never heard before and once you get acquainted with them, you'll want to check them all off your list! This things to do in Delhi are the perfect opportunities to bond and enjoy whether it be just your friends or even your family, cousins or whosever.

These 15 best places to visit in Delhi-NCR are sure going to be on your list when you decide to go out the next time for some super fun thrill and activities -  September  2023 . 

List of Fun Places in Delhi-NCR For Youngster

1. soap-football - saket.

As weird and intriguing this may sound, the concept is as brilliant and unique . The 1st ever Soap-Football arena opened in Delhi .  55 minutes, 2 teams and 1 winner is the super amazing concept of the game that you play with a minimum of your 4 friends (maximum 5 per team) along with 2 substitutes. A massive , heavily-cushioned plastic floor covered with diluted soap water played barefoot sure does break your fall and let you have the time of your life. It doesn't even matter if you are athletic or not, you are just there to run, fall a lot and have a blast of your time. The place has definitely made itself to be  one of the  best places to hangout in Delhi .

Advice:  Carry a change of clothes. There are shower rooms available for cleaning up Where:  2nd Floor, Outside Food Court, DLF Place, Saket ( GET DIRECTIONS ) Price:  Rs 3,300 Onwards (Weekdays) & Rs 4,300 Onwards (Weekends)  Know More:   Soap Football Delhi

2. SkyJumper Trampoline Park - Gurgaon

Not so long ago, Gurgaon became home to India's largest trampoline park and no one could contain their excitement. The park has 100 interconnected trampolines that are perfect for everyone above the age of 2 and of any level of fitness. You have a lot of optionable activities to participate in, inside the arena itself such as the  volleyball , dodgeball , swinging ropes and wall walks .

A big pit with your foam squares which are an alternative to your childhood favorite ball pits will definitely attract you. They have also very recently started classes called " Reboot Fitness " and organize them in different batches, including special ones for kids. It doesn't end just here.  The place organizes parties as well  making it one of the best things to do in Delhi-NCR. 

Where:  SkyJumper Trampoline Park, ILD Trade Centre, Sohna Road, Sector-47 ( GET DIRECTIONS ) Price:  Rs 350 Onwards (Weekdays) & Rs 450 Onwards (Weekends) per person Know More:   Sky Jumper Trampoline Park

3. Ski India - Noida

Ski India: India's largest snow adventure park is also in Delhi-NCR.  Spread over One Lakh Sq.ft. this amusement cum adventure park is one of the must-visit places in Delhi-NCR with your friends and family and experiences the fun time of your life.  Sci-fi-themed snow park in the DLF Mall of India featuring ice skating, sledding and much more is a very interesting and unique opportunity to do something different from the regular.

With good music playing in the whole arena giving you the opportunity to have a little dance party too , and regular showers of snowfall make the place worthy of your time. The experience is totally unique and super fun. It makes for the super cool places in Delhi to hang out with your friends . 

4. Codebreak 60 - Kamla Nagar

A real-life room escaping challenge where you are the live-sized players. Real-Life experience of being stuck in a game? This is it! The grand live size moto of "1 Hour 1 Team 1 Goal - Escape" if You can run and chill through your body. The experience is crazy and wild and a must try once in your life . You are locked inside a room and the clock starts ticking. You have exactly 1 Hour, to unravel the mystery and escape. The challenge is to break the code, solve some puzzles and find your way out. Additionally, you also have to fulfil some purposes as per the game you choose to play.

The various game options range from ' The killer invention ', ' Egypt: The Pharaoh's Curse ' and ' The Final Hour ' making the place one of the finest places to visit in Delhi with our friends.  The place is open from 11 am to 9 pm every day  and you need to book your slot beforehand and hope that it's free when you reach.

Where:  Codebreak 60 - Room Escape Games, D-150, Kamla Nagar ( GET DIRECTIONS ) Price:  Price per person decreases with the number of people in your group. It starts at Rs 800 per head for a group of 2 and goes on to Rs. 500 per head for a group of 5 or 5+ Know More: Codebreak60

5. Mystery Rooms, Rajouri Garden & Gurgaon

A unique interactive, entertainment experience is also a ' live escape game ' that grants you adventurous missions , experience, adrenaline rush, challenging tasks and lots of mystery . It is a challenging race against the clock where the sole motive is to get yourself out of a theme based room before time kicks you out!

It's as easy as it is hard as everything you need to escape is inside the room waiting to meet your eyes, and you just need to power to analyze and interpret it well for your purpose. This is one game that will challenge all your senses. 

Where:   1.  B-7/9, Ring Rd, Block WZ, Rajouri Garden ( GET DIRECTIONS )                 2.  K-3/106, Dakshin Marg, DLF Phase 2, Gurugram ( GET DIRECTIONS )

6. Barney's Den - Hauz Khas

Barney's Den as in your favorite from How I Met Your Mother is an expert way to Laser Tag your friends! From the quirky graffiti to the memorable quotes, Barney's Den has the perfect ambiance for anyone who loves the show - HIMYM. They have great equipment which is comfortable for all age groups and  offers games for beginners and pro-level laser tag players making it one of the best places to visit in Delhi with your friends.

Where:  Barney's Den, 12, Hauz Khas Tank, Hauz Khas Village, Deer Park ( GET DIRECTIONS ) Prices:  Per Person Rs. 350 (Weekdays) and Rs. 400(Weekends)

7. PaintBall

Are you waiting for a game to get a chance to just shoot somebody? (Not literally!) Then you already know that the colorful, cheerful and crazy game of paintball is the right thing for you. For a fresher or even a well-seasoned paintballer, Delhi has many arena options for paintball. Whichever's closest, pick the one! Just lock your goals, fill the multicolored ammunitions and get firing! Paintball is a great way to spend your time and is one of the most fun places to hang out in Delhi either with your friends or family.

2.   Rockshots Paintball Sports:  S11/C3, Pandav Nagar Ext. ( GET DIRECTIONS )     Price - Rs 500-1,200

3.   Shootout Zone:  A- 265, Andheria Modh, Near Kissan Haat ( GET DIRECTIONS )     Price - Rs, 500-800

4.   The Paintball Rocks:  The Paintball Rocks, Sector 23A, Gurgaon ( GET DIRECTIONS )     Price - Rs. 250-400

8. Indian Mountaineering Foundation - South Campus

Food , Coffee , Video Games , Clubbing , Books - Every Delhiite's outdoor activities surprisingly. If you want to be adventurous for a day and not spend days, money and hours trekking or going to mountains for adventure sports then worry not! Delhi also has the facilities for you. Now we wonder if there is anything that Delhi doesn't have! For the adventurous and fun-loving spirit in you. The Indian Mountaineering Foundation is one of the perfect places to visit in Delhi with your friends. 

Famous for adventurous and fun activities in Delhi, the sports climbing wall should definitely not be missed! The activity is available from Tuesday to Sunday from 9.00 a.m to 1.00 p.m and 4.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m

Where:  Indian Mountaineering Foundation, 6, Benito Juarez Marg, South Campus ( GET DIRECTIONS ) Prices:  Rs. 150 per head Know More:   Indian Mountaineering Foundation

9. Delhi Eye - Kalindi Kunj

We all know well about the famous London Eye but how many of us actually know the Delhi Eye in the city? Hardly any! The Delhi Eye Ferris wheel was installed at Kalindi Kunj Park in the Okhla neighborhood of Delhi in October 2014 .  The wheel has 36 air-conditioned cabins , each able to carry six passengers , from which Akshardham Temple , Humayun's Tomb , Lotus Temple , Qutb Minar and Red Fort are visible on a clear day. This is surely a true marvel in itself.

Where:  Kalindi Kunj, Maulana Azad Road, Abul Fazal Enclave, Jasola Vihar ( GET DIRECTIONS ) Price:  Just for the Wheel - Rs. 250 per head for a normal cabin and Rs. 500 for a VIP cabin.

10. Nehru Planetarium

No, you didn't read that wrong! Gone are the days when planetariums and museum were just part of the primary school curriculum. The place literally takes you to space making it one of the coolest things to do in Delhi. Spend your outing away from the regular chaotic places and spend some time under this marvelous creation. Be charmed by the stars, planets, the solar systems and much more on your journey to space. Not only for your friends, but the spot makes for a cute romantic date place too !

The regular programmes of the Planetarium include  public shows at 11:30 AM  (English),  1:30 PM  (Hindi),  3:00 PM  (English) and  4:00 PM  (Hindi). The topics included in these programmes are continuously updated. Do something different and go out with a purpose. It's the best things you could do for yourself.

Where:  Nehru Planetarium Delhi, Teen Murti House, Teen Murti Marg Area ( GET DIRECTIONS ) Price:  Rs. 60 per head Know More:   Nehru Planetarium  

11. Light And Sound Show At Red Fort & Purana Qila

All of you for sure must have seen the Red Fort whether just passing by or a school field trip or for the perfect family picnic spot it is. But how many of us actually know about the magical light and sound at the fort which is an absolute treat to the eyes. The spectacular show displays history making your evening ten folds better.  It gives Red Fort history the with colored spotlights.

It is constantly getting upgraded which is why w.e.f from 11.06.2018 until further order due to enhancements of the show it has been suspended .

12.  National Gallery of Modern Art

The National Gallery Of Modern Art is the premier institute in the country that houses modern and contemporary Indian art . It's such a shame that we Delhiites ignore these gem of places that reside in Delhi. Museums could still be a pass if you are not interested, but the modern art gallery is a sure sight to enjoy. The breathtaking art and the location and scenery of the place will surely make for one of the most amazing places to visit in Delhi with your friends.  

13. The Grand Venice Mall - Noida

Now you may ask what's special about a mall, right? Well, it's for sure proved that Noida houses no ordinary Malls. The Great Indian Venice Mall has to be your next place to hang out in Delhi for 2 very obvious reasons - Gondola Rides, Zip Line and the largest Trampoline Park in North India . The Mall recently launched India's first Indoor Zip Lines and the people are going crazy! 

Grand Venice is India’s first Venetian theme based mega tourist destination and brings to life a perfect blend of magic, mystery, romance with the architecture of Venice. The Gondola rides give you the sight of the amazing replicas of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Fountain de' Trevi ( The musical fountain ), bell tower ( Light tower ).

Where:  The Grand Venice Mall, Near Pari Chowk, Greater Noida ( GET DIRECTIONS ) Prices:  The Gondola Ride cost is Rs.300/person and for a group of 4 you pay for 3(Rs.900) and the Zip Line is for Rs. 500 per person whereas the Flying Fox is for Rs. 700 per person Know More:   The Grand Venice Mall

14. Art Galleries At The Indian Habitat Centre And Wall Graffitis At Lodhi Road

A true architectural marvel, the Indian Habitat Centre is a place like no other literally. With the cutest and classiest dinners to art galleries and auditoriums , the place needs to be in one of your go-to places to visit in Delhi with your friends. It is beautiful, clean, serene, and the restaurants serve some mouth-watering delicacies . Apart from the beautiful art galleries and food, just outside on the Lodhi Road are the famous spot where all the wall graffitis can be seen. They sure are a sight to watch and any photographers paradise . These need to be on your hangout places in Delhi at any cost!

15. SMAAASH

Now, this is obvious. For places to visit in Delhi with friends, SMAAASH had to be there! For the ultimate gaming experience , the SMAAASH alley is up top. Not only gaming but for bowling, go-karting, cricket and other things too , SMAAASH is a futuristic indoor entertainment place that you'll definitely get hooked to and for sure wouldn't want to get out of! The place has a food parlor inside to satisfy your food cravings too which ultimately means that they plan to keep you inside only!

So, what are you waiting for? Update you WhatsApp groups and plan your next outing to these crazy and fun-filled places to hang out in Delhi.

Q. Cheapest and good food in Delhi A.  Food joints at Hudson Lane and Satyaniketan

Q. Amusement Parks in Delhi A. 1. Worlds Of Wonder     2. Adventure Island     3.  Drizzling Land     4.  Aapno Ghar     5.  Fun n Food Village

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Packing Light

Fun Places To Travel With Friends In The USA

UPDATED March 25, 2022 by Randy Antwerp

Being with friends makes traveling more fun and memorable. Even if you think that you already know your friends well, you’ll be surprised to discover things that you didn’t know before you got to travel together. The time spent traveling with your friends will strengthen your bond and friendship. 

If you plan to take a vacation with your group of friends, check out some of the fun places to travel with friends in this article. We will also give you a few ideas on how to prepare for a group trip with friends to the must-see places in the USA.

Preparing for a Group Trip with Friends

To make sure that everyone will enjoy the trip as a group, here are some of the things you should consider and prepare for when traveling with friends.

1. Select a coordinator of the group.

Assign who will lead and coordinate all the matters that need to be decided on for the group trip. This person will serve as the group’s coordinator who will play an essential role in the overall coordination from booking plane tickets, accommodation, and scheduling of activities.

2. Determine the group’s interests and goals.

Make a list of all the interests of the people in the group. This will serve as a guide to planning the destination and activities. Identify group travel goals. This will also help you choose whether you will explore arts and culture, do outdoor adventures, go on educational trips, or chill with indoor activities. Choose your destination as a group to make sure that everyone agrees with the plan.

3. Create a loose itinerary of your schedule and activities.

To maximize your time during the group vacation, set an itinerary from the time you leave your starting point to the time of return. Take note that this itinerary doesn’t have to be set in stone. It should be open to adjustments especially when things don’t go according to plan.

4. Set a budget.

Set the group travel budget for airfare, transportation, accommodation, meals, and activities. Make sure that everyone brings their own pocket money for personal use and to cover any additional or emergency expenses.

>> Enjoy some snacks while on the road with a bag of chips .

5. Check the season.

The best places to visit in the USA by month may vary depending on the season. Knowing the specific season will give your group ideas about what to expect for the entire trip, including what activities you can and cannot do.

6. Find the best deals when booking tickets and accommodations.

Be sure to book your airline tickets and accommodations ahead of time. Early booking will give you cheaper airfare and accommodation fees. Some airlines and destinations also offer great discounts when booking for a group.

Best Group Destinations in the USA

Some of the fun places to travel with friends are New York City, Grand Canyon, and Oahu. These are commonly included in the must-see places in the USA.

New York City, New York

Located in the northeastern part of the USA, New York City is probably one of the most fun places to travel with friends. It is considered the world’s financial and cultural capital. With a whopping 8.3 million population, it is one of the world’s most populous megacities. 

The city of New York has many things to offer its visitors. There are various places to visit in the city. Don’t miss the famous Times Square , one of the busiest places for pedestrians in the world. It is famous for electric ads, theaters, shopping, and dining. 

While in New York, you can visit the One World Observatory , the tallest building in North America. Here, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the city from 1,250 ft. above ground. If you and your friends are into arts, you must visit the Guggenheim Museum to enjoy impressionist, early modern, and contemporary art exhibitions. 

While you’re in the city, check out the Brooklyn Bridge, one of the main tourist spots in NYC. Other popular spots include Wall Street and the Statue of Liberty. These are just a few places that make New York one of the coolest cities in the US.  The best time to visit New York is from April to June, and from November to December as the city turns to its festive mode. The ideal length of stay in the city is five days. A week’s stay in NYC can cost more than $1,600 per person.

Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon can be found in the state of Arizona. It is one of the seven wonders of the world and boasts of picturesque rock formations that are millions of years old. Aside from the spectacular views at the Grand Canyon, there are so many fun things to do in the area, making it one of the fun places to visit with friends. 

Marvel at the colorful rock formations at the Grand Canyon National Park and hike along the walking trails specifically designed for tourists. You and your friends can also take a helicopter tour or a mule ride. You can experience a rafting tour along the Colorado River. 

A week’s stay in the Grand Canyon would cost approximately $910 per person. Temperatures are cool from March to May and from September to November, making it an ideal time to visit the place.

Oahu, Hawaii

If you are looking for a fun island getaway, Oahu is one of the fun places to visit with friends. It is one of the most visited islands in Hawaii, known for the world-renowned Waikiki Beach and Pearl Harbor. Tourists on the island can enjoy the pristine beaches and fantastic mountain views where you can feel one with nature. 

Take a short hike in the Lanikai Pillbox to see the amazing view of Lanikai Beach and the nearby mountains. Explore Maunawili Falls to experience cliff diving, visit Makapu’u Lighthouse, and see humpback whales. Try surfing on the North Shore with its huge waves. You can also visit the Black Rock Beach and Kualoa Ranch , the filming site of some famous movies. You won’t run out of things to do when in Oahu.

The best time to visit Oahu is from April to June when the weather is beautiful. You can also visit from September to December when the island is less crowded. A week’s stay in Oahu would cost about $1,862 per person.

For the most fun places to travel with friends, plan your trip to New York City, the Grand Canyon, or Oahu, Hawaii. You can start planning early for your most awaited travel adventure with your friends to get a better flight and hotel deal. Just take note of our recommendations and you are good to go!

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