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The 24 best girls weekend getaways for 2024.

See which amazing locales around the globe are ideal for a girls-only vacation.

The Best Girls Weekend Getaways

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From city to sea, these escapes are perfect for an incredible getaway without the guys.

Whether you want to party it up, get adventurous with some scuba diving or pamper yourselves at a deluxe spa, these fantastic girls trip destinations offer something for every woman in your group. However you choose to spend your vacation, these girls weekend getaways are bound to help you and your best gal pals create lifelong memories.

This city, located in the scenic Sonoran Desert, is a wonderful destination for a memorable girls trip with plenty of options for wellness, art and adventure. Start your day together in Phoenix with a sunrise hot air balloon ride with Hot Air Expeditions, for a bird's-eye view of the sprawling landscape below. Next, explore art and culture at a local museum. The Heard Museum focuses on Indigenous art, and the Phoenix Art Museum displays works from many of the greats, including Monet, Picasso, O'Keeffe and Kahlo. This historic Taliesin West – Frank Lloyd Wright's desert compound, located about 30 miles out of town – is another cool place to wander around in the area.

Don't miss the award-winning cocktail experience at Century Grand. For wellness and pampering, CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa sits about 35 miles north of Phoenix and offers classes focused on personal growth as well as an award-winning spa. Or, head to the remote, all-inclusive Castle Hot Springs resort about 50 miles north of the city to bathe in the mineral-rich waters and dine on farm-fresh produce grown on property. For a resort stay in nearby Scottsdale, opt for the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North or the Sanctuary Camelback Mountain .

Victoria, Canada

Courtesy of Fairmont Express

Reconnect with your friends in this charming waterfront city in British Columbia. Stay at the elegant Fairmont Empress hotel, which recently underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation to update its luxury Fairmont Gold experience. Put on your best dress for the iconic afternoon tea with finger sandwiches or meet the girls for the new Sunset Sips offering with cocktails served in teapots.

For some R&R in Victoria , walk to the newly opened HAVN floating spa to enjoy its outdoor hydrotherapy circuit. Leave time to visit the impressive Butchart Gardens with five themed gardens spanning 55 acres. Victoria is also brimming with historical and cultural sites, including Craigdorrach Castle, and you can find plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking and whale watching as well.

Read: The Top Weekend Getaways From Seattle

Newport Beach, California

For the ultimate girls getaway, it doesn't get much better than Newport Beach . This Orange County destination – located about 45 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles – is home to attractions like Corona del Mar State Beach and the Fashion Island shopping center, an upscale open-air complex. When you need a break from shopping, explore the adjacent 1,000-acre Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve.

For a five-star stay with spacious accommodations, check into The Resort at Pelican Hill . The luxury two-, three- or four-bedroom villas are perfect for a sleepover with the girls. Spend your days lounging by one of the largest circular swimming pools in the U.S., hitting balls at one of the two championship golf courses or getting spoiled at the property's spa. For a waterfront stay, you can't beat the Balboa Bay Resort , located on the picturesque Newport Bay, with views of mega-yachts. Have a girls day at the spa, cruise the bay on a Duffy boat, or head to nearby Lido Marina Village for upscale shopping and gourmet dining.

Read: The Top Weekend Getaways From Los Angeles

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Hit the slopes with your besties at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for world-class skiing and snowboarding in Jackson Hole . After a day on the mountain, head to the iconic Mangy Moose in Teton Village for après-ski cocktails and live music. Hotel Terra and Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole offer easy slope access, as well as luxurious spas for relaxing and recovering.

The mountain adventure doesn't stop when the snow melts. During the summer months, you and your gals can go mountain biking at the Bike Park, take the scenic tram to the top for a waffle with a view at Corbet's Cabin and hike down through wildflowers, or explore new climbing routes on the Via Ferrata. You'll have so much fun that you may even want to return with your family in tow.

Read: The Top Ski Resorts in the U.S.

This Southern California destination provides warm weather, beautiful beaches , gourmet dining and upscale shopping. During the day, head out with the girls for kayaking in La Jolla Cove, hiking at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, visiting one of the many museums in Balboa Park, shopping in the Gaslamp Quarter or exploring California's roots at the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.

There's no shortage of dining options in "America's Finest City." Grab brunch at the lively Bib Gourmand-winning Morning Glory (worth the wait) in Little Italy, go for a sunset dinner cruise with City Experiences and grab after-dinner drinks at the space-inspired Mothership. Cap off your day with a sleepover at the newly opened The Lafayette Hotel and Club, which has been restored to its 1940s glory.

From casino games to shows to grand hotels, Las Vegas offers many ways to spend a weekend away with the girls. To escape the hustle and bustle of the Strip, stay at the Delano Las Vegas , a quieter boutique-style hotel that's part of Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino . Delano guests receive access to all of the larger resort's amenities, including the Mandalay Bay Beach and Shark Reef Aquarium. What's more, the Delano's spa boasts massages, body treatments and facials, and you can also enjoy a seasonal pool with a whimsical submerged chessboard and a lounge with panoramic city views.

For top-notch shopping, head to The Shops at Crystals. Vegas shows are also perfect entertainment for a girls getaway. Catch one of Spiegelworld's adults-only shows, a live performance at the Beverly Theater, a dazzling concert at the new high-tech MSG Sphere or live country music at Ole Red when it opens in early 2024. Weekenders may also enjoy the futuristic AREA15 for immersive art, a secret bar, rides and the surreal worlds of Meow Wolf's Omega Mart.

Palm Springs, California

Warm up in the desert with a weekend in Palm Springs . You and your friends can gossip poolside with a cocktail, enjoy a game of golf or round of tennis, explore the midcentury modern architecture on a self-guided bike tour, or take the Palm Spring Aerial Tramway for beautiful views of the valley below.

For an overnight stay, the Trixie Motel offers a pink party scene created by drag queen Trixie Mattel. You can also find a tranquil escape at the newly opened Azure Sky, with its updated midcentury modern aesthetic, or at Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa in nearby Indian Wells. At night, get dressed up for dinner at the industrial-chic Workshop Kitchen + Bar – one of the city's top restaurants – for contemporary American cuisine.

Lexington, Kentucky

Steal away to the land of all things equine in the rolling green hills of Lexington , where white fences surround picturesque horse farms. Grab your friends and don your race-day best at the Keeneland racecourse, a world-renowned thoroughbred racing destination. Or, go for a horseback ride and stay the night at The Kentucky Castle, a 110-acre estate with European-inspired architecture. Check out the scenery and save time for a bourbon tasting at Woodford Reserve or Buffalo Trace Distillery.

The Embassy Suites by Hilton Lexington Green offers a free cooked-to-order breakfast daily, plus easy access to all of the city's can't-miss shops – including Joseph-Beth Booksellers in addition to the upscale boutiques in Fayette Mall and The Summit at Fritz Farm.

There's no shortage of things to do in Atlanta . Wander through downtown's Centennial Olympic Park and tour the World of Coca-Cola, where you can sip sodas from around the globe, before taking a ride on the SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel. Your group can enjoy some barbecue and bourbon at Twin Smokers BBQ or visit the TikTok-famous mozzarella bar Bastone! before turning in for the night.

Head back to your Lifestyle Suite at the Loews Atlanta Hotel , which is conveniently equipped with a Peloton bike should you want to burn off some calories. The property's spa offers a variety of fitness classes, as well as treatments like body scrubs, facials and massages. For the best views of the city, grab drinks at the Bellyard hotel's Drawbar, located in The Interlock. It has easy access to the area's top attractions, including Puttshack's high-tech mini-golf, Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena. Top shopping areas in Atlanta include the posh Buckhead Village District and the expansive Lenox Square mall.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Georgia

Sun, surf and fun are what you'll find in Miami at nearly any time of year. Spend a day with your friends shopping at the outdoor Lincoln Road Mall or Española Way in Miami Beach , or meandering through murals at the Wynwood Walls art installation, one of Miami's top museums . When you're ready for some nightlife, head to South Beach to dance the night away. Park your pals at the Hotel Indigo Miami Brickell in the Financial District to enjoy sweeping views of the Brickell neighborhood, an outdoor pool and cocktails at Mosaico Kitchen & Bar. For Asian cuisine and a clubbing scene, head to Komodo or Gekkō (owned by Bad Bunny and David Grutman).

New York City

Friends can find any activity to strike their fancy in New York City . The FreeStyle Pass helps travelers save money and skip ticket lines at multiple attractions, such as One World Observatory – a top NYC observation deck option – and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Check out the city skyline and the Statue of Liberty during a brunch, dinner or other cruise with City Cruises.

Stay in the heart of bustling Times Square at the Crowne Plaza Times Square Manhattan , enjoy a more leisurely escape at the hip Arlo Williamsburg in Brooklyn or book a room in the vibrant Financial District at The Wall Street Hotel for a chic experience. New York City offers seemingly endless places to dine , from the high-end Clement restaurant at The Peninsula New York to the casual Melt Shop lunch spot.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Brooklyn

Napa Valley, California

Picture yourself and your friends sipping wine amid the rolling green hills of Napa Valley . An easy way to get the lay of the land is on a Getaway Adventures bike tour, which stops at wineries in areas like Calistoga. You can even sign up for a hot air balloon ride with Napa Valley Balloons – on a clear day, you can see all the way to San Francisco .

The centrally located Andaz Napa is a modern and convenient hotel to retire to after dining at one of the valley's top restaurants , such as The Grove at Copia with its farm-to-table fare. Also located in Napa is The Meritage Resort and Spa , offering a luxurious stay with on-site tasting rooms, a six-lane bowling alley and Spa Terra. For a storybook getaway with the girls, stay at the Harvest Inn in St. Helena and dine at Gott's Roadside for casual California fare.

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Los Angeles

For the ultimate girls getaway, head to Los Angeles and experience luxury amenities, leading-edge fashion, skyline views and rooftop pools. Check into the historic, boutique Hotel Figueroa – created by women, for women – where you can enjoy a coffin-shaped pool, specialty suites and artwork by local independent female creators. At the five-star Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles , take in some of the best views of the city from the pool on the rooftop, see a concert at LA Live, or shop for clothes and accessories from up-and-coming designers at the nearby LA Fashion District.

Work up a sweat by hiking on Runyon Canyon Trail for views of Hollywood Hills. For a ranch-style getaway with the girls, head to Malibu to stay at the boutique Calamigos Guest Ranch, then dine at the Calamigos Beach Club Restaurant and Lounge, which offers scenic Pacific Ocean vistas just 10 miles from the ranch.

Get your fill of retail therapy along the Magnificent Mile in Chicago . This central thoroughfare, which spans several blocks of Michigan Avenue, is lined with various shops and restaurants and several top hotels. The nearby Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago 's rooms are outfitted with bay windows that overlook the city, and the stylish Silversmith Hotel Chicago Downtown is home to a lively restaurant and lounge.

After a restful night's sleep, stroll through Millennium Park to see the iconic "Bean" sculpture and catch a show in the city's theater district. Of course, no visit would be complete without ordering some deep-dish pizza from a local favorite like Lou Malnati's or Gino's East.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

In the foothills of Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains National Park , you'll find amenities such as live entertainment venues, restaurants, shops and spas. The Island in Pigeon Forge entertainment complex features more than 80 shops and mouthwatering local eateries like Paula Deen's Family Kitchen. You'll find the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, an escape room and the Alcatraz East Crime Museum, which displays iconic artifacts such as Al Capone's rosary.

Also at The Island is the Margaritaville Island Hotel , which has rooms outfitted with fireplaces and private balconies as well as special offers like the "Margarita Package," complete with a frozen concoction maker. Additional Pigeon Forge must-dos include the Dolly Parton's Stampede and Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud performances, which are both top dinner shows in the area .

Santa Barbara, California

Have a quintessential Southern California vacation in Santa Barbara , which is known for its beaches, Spanish colonial-style buildings and abundant shops along the city's main road, State Street. Relax with your buddies at the Kimpton Canary Hotel , which boasts a rooftop pool, free loaner bicycles, and accommodations equipped with four-poster beds and yoga mats. The property's Finch & Fork restaurant serves seafood and classic American dishes.

When you're ready for drinks, venture to downtown's happening Funk Zone, where you can visit wine-tasting rooms such as Pali Wine Co. as well as distilleries and breweries. There are also great trails to hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains. In the nearby town of Los Olivos, in the heart of Santa Barbara Wine Country, you and the girls can enjoy handcrafted wine, expansive views and cozy amenities at Fess Parker; lodging options here include cabins and a charming inn.

Charleston, South Carolina

Step back in time to 17th-century America while on vacation in Charleston . This charming port city in South Carolina is home to preserved historic mansions, beaches, award-winning restaurants and shops. Many of Charleston's popular attractions, such as the Battery and Charleston City Market, are easy to explore on foot or by bike.

After a busy day of sightseeing, gal pals can relax at Wentworth Mansion , a former home built in the 1800s by wealthy Charleston resident Francis Silas Rodgers. The hotel offers plush digs, a spa inside the property's former stables and the highly regarded Circa 1886 restaurant. For under-the-radar dining, The Wreck offers fresh seafood away from the crowds. Also in Charleston's Historic District, the cozy boutique Emeline hotel boasts suites with memorable touches like record players, plus close proximity to picturesque cobblestone streets and charming boutiques.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

It's hard to find a more picturesque destination than Carmel-by-the-Sea , thanks to its misty beaches and homes straight out of a fairy tale. This coastal village, less than 5 miles southwest of Monterey, is an ideal spot to hop on bikes and ride down to the beach and through charming neighborhoods with your gal pals. When you reach downtown, stop to check out the area's shops, restaurants and art galleries. For more beautiful sea views, venture to nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Carmel offers a range of quaint hotels and inns, including the historic La Playa Carmel and the cottage-style Hotel Carmel.

Read: The Top Dog-Friendly Beaches in the U.S.

Charlotte, North Carolina

The plethora of activities in Charlotte – think: artsy events, heart-pumping pursuits and top-notch shopping – makes this Southern city appealing to all kinds of travelers. Try whitewater rafting at the U.S. National Whitewater Center, where visitors will find the world's largest human-made whitewater river, or enjoy ample shopping opportunties at the high-end SouthPark Mall.

For boutique digs in Charlotte, stay at the Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel . Overlooking an urban park in the city center, the property boasts amenities like complimentary loaner bikes, in-room yoga mats, a yoga deck and an on-site restaurant. Angeline's offers Italian-American cuisine at the hotel, while the rooftop Merchant & Trade serves up bar snacks and cocktails.

If you're looking for an international escape that's close to home, head to Toronto . The city's abundance of distinct neighborhoods – such as Little Italy, Greektown, Chinatown and Little India – makes it a superb spot for foodies . Gourmands can pick up specialty items at Kensington Market. Meanwhile, fashionistas may want to shop for designer clothing at Bloor-Yorkville and music enthusiasts can check out top live music venues like Horseshoe Tavern, The Rex and Massey Hall.

When you need a break from all the city has to offer, take advantage of the Bisha Hotel Toronto 's amenities. Set between the Fashion District and Old Toronto, the hotel features a seasonal rooftop infinity pool, steam rooms, and four bars and restaurants, including an eatery with sweeping city panoramas.

New Orleans

A vacation in this city is bound to include time spent sipping hurricanes on Bourbon Street and munching on beignets at Café du Monde. But if partying isn't your scene, don't fret: New Orleans offers something for everyone. The chic South Market district appeals to avid shoppers, Frenchmen Street boasts incredible live music, and the 18th-century Jackson Square is a must for history buffs. A streetcar ride down St. Charles Avenue, which features gorgeous mansions, is also a fun way to pass the time.

New Orleans is home to a variety of hotels, but for traveler-approved amenities and a superb location, hang your hat at the Loews New Orleans Hotel . This property sits in the New Orleans Art District and houses an indoor pool, a restaurant and a fitness center. Another option is the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel with diverse culinary options, spacious rooms and close proximity to many of New Orleans' top attractions .

Finger Lakes, New York

There are 11 Finger Lakes to explore on a scenic girls trip in New York state. Not only can you enjoy outdoor recreation on and in the lakes, but you'll also find opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing and golf. Maximize your time with your friends while visiting several local vineyards on a wine trail, seeing a show at one of the performing arts centers, zip lining at Bristol Mountain, shopping in Canandaigua, visiting a museum or petting an alpaca at Lazy Acre Alpacas.

A variety of accommodations awaits you in the Finger Lakes , ranging from campgrounds and bed-and-breakfasts to resorts and vacation rentals. For a memorable overnighter, opt for the Miami Motel with its art deco '50s vibe or the luxurious and historic Belhurst Castle . When you're choosing where to eat out, great options include farm-to-table cuisine at Kindred Fare, Roots Cafe or the opulent Diciannove Dieci.

Key West, Florida

Escape to the Florida Keys for a tropical getaway with the girls. The southernmost key, Key West , is known for its abundance of ocean activities, year-round warm weather, lively Duval Street, historic homes and a laid-back vibe. Hop on bikes to search for the best key lime pie, kayak through the mangroves, taste rum at Papa's Pilar Rum Distillery, see the six-toed cats at the Ernest Hemingway house, visit the southernmost point in the continental U.S. and go sailing at sunset. For a night out, have a classic shot of whiskey with a pickle juice chaser at one of the iconic bars on the island, such as Sloppy Joe's or Capt. Tony's Saloon.

For overnight accommodations, explore the top resorts in the Florida Keys . You may want to stay at a beachfront property such as The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton . There's also the budget-friendly, adults-only NYAH Key West with bunk beds rooms that sleep up to six guests.

Read: The Top Florida Keys Beaches

Asheville, North Carolina

Courtesy of The Biltmore Company

For a girls trip focused on outdoor adventure, Asheville is a great choice because of its location in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Explore the area's top hikes to get your adrenaline pumping. Your group will love getting a taste of life as a Vanderbilt by staying at the extravagant and historic Biltmore Estate. With 8,000 acres to explore here, activities include hiking, biking, fishing, floating on the river, horseback and carriage rides, bird walks, farm tours and more. Guests can stay at the Village Hotel, The Inn or one of the cottages that sleep up to five.

If you'd rather stay in town, The Foundry Hotel Asheville, Curio Collection by Hilton has a modern industrial ambiance with Appalachian cuisine and elegant guest rooms. With the property located in The Block, Asheville's historic Black business district, you'll be within walking distance of the vibrant downtown scene and its multitude of shopping and dining options.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to planning girls trips with her friends. She prefers to plan getaways in places that offer outdoor adventure and five-star spas. Her favorite destinations include Palms Springs, Jackson Hole and British Columbia. Kolberg used her personal experience and research skills to curate this list of the best girls trip ideas.

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The 30 Best Places for Your Next Girls' Trip, Both Inside and Outside the U.S.

Pack your bags and your best friends.

Figuring out where to go for a girls' trip, though, can be tricky, especially if you have to manage different vacation styles, personalities, and schedules—which is exactly why we compiled a list of the best destinations for your next girls' getaway. Some of the spots are great for a 2- or 3-day weekend (think: Nashville and Austin), while others benefit from a slightly longer stay, such as Portugal or Puerto Rico. Some are ideal for girls who want to go on trip in the U.S. (we recommend taking a road trip from Miami to Key West), while others are perfect for those who are hankering to go abroad, like Dublin and Barcelona). And some destinations provide lots of opportunities for fun in the sun (such as an all-inclusive stay in Jamaica), while others—like Newport, Rhode Island or Palm Springs—offer the ultimate digital detox. Not to mention that we've even included a few girls' trip ideas that would double as a good mother-daughter weekend getaway, like Sonoma or Savannah.

No matter what you choose, keep in mind that amid the coronavirus pandemic, your girls' vacation will probably look a bit different, depending on factors like your vaccination status and where you're headed. So make sure to check what rules are in place at your destination (either through the state health departments or the U.S. Embassies and Consulates ) and follow CDC guidance for how to best protect yourself and others while traveling domestically or internationally .

Ahead, we've rounded up the best girls' trip ideas—from beach vacations perfect for birthday trips to remote places that are all about R&R—and included suggestions for the most fun activities at each destination. Now, all you have to do is pack.

Savannah, Georgia

This coastal Southern charmer (cobblestone streets! Spanish moss!) is perfect for any girls trip where the key word is unwind. Stay at the Perry Lane Hotel that offers contemporary luxury with loads of Instagram-ready areas, including a chic rooftop pool and bar (you can also visit Peregrin for its tasty cocktails and city views even if you're not staying at the property). In the morning, grab a complementary glass of champagne and some of the hotel's bicycles, and head over to nearby Chippewa Square, where Forrest Gump's iconic bench scenes were filmed. (The hotel offers free car service though, if that's more your speed.) Then, make your way over to The Olde Pinke House for brunch and a photo opportunity. (Don't skip the fried green tomatoes!). End the eve with dinner at Cotton & Rye , followed by a nightcap back at Wayward , plus a friendly game of skee-ball at the eclectic bar.

Sonoma, California

If you and your gals can't get enough Chardonnay, say hello to Sonoma . Perfectly situated in California’s wine country, Sonoma is home to more than 425 wineries. Stay at a place like the Ledson Hotel where every room is equipped with king-sized beds, whirlpool tubs, a fireplace, and a balcony where you can split a bottle and reminisce.

Wilmington, North Carolina

If you're looking for a charming, coastal Carolina getaway, Wilmington boasts a scenic, walkable downtown with waterfront dining galore, stunning architecture, and convivial bars and restaurants. (Don't miss the risotto balls at Quanto Basta , the nautical vibe at Seabird , or the live tunes and tacos at Satellite Bar ). There are also multiple beaches to while away the afternoon. Fans of soapy TV shows like Dawson's Creek , One Tree Hill , and Hart of Dixie will especially delight in seeing the filming locations in person, but you need not have watched any of those series to appreciate the city's magnetism. Art aficionados will adore the Cameron Art Museum which will unveil a new sculpture exhibit this November. Stay at the riverfront Embassy Suites for easy access to Cloud 9 rooftop bar where pink sunsets are practically guaranteed. It's also close to the newly opened amphitheater if you're taking in a concert. Or, try Dreamers Welcome for a more boutique-y feel.

Newport, Rhode Island

You can't go to Newport without grabbing some local cuisine at the The Newport Lobster Shack . After lunch at a waterfront picnic table, walk off those lobster rolls with a leisurely stroll on the famed Cliff Walk . The trail is 3.5 miles of beautiful ocean views. Then, explore the historic mansions while pretending you all live there together.

Orlando, Florida

The worst-kept secret in this town is that Walt Disney World is actually a lot of fun without your kids. Of course there's EPCOT where you can drink (and snack) around the world while you're waiting to ride the latest attraction, Remy's Ratatouille . And staying for the brand new light show, in honor of Disney's 50th anniversary, is a spectacular must. Then, Disney Springs is basically The Mouse’s answer to the Vegas Strip: there are over fifty retail stores, foodie-focused restaurants and bars, and live entertainment. Stay at the Hilton Orlando which offers a rare amenity: an adults-only pool and relaxing cabanas. It also has a lazy river and a slide for the kids at heart, plus a shop to sate all of your needs 24 hours a day, and a staff so friendly you'll feel like you're in the Magic Kingdom even if you're just at the breakfast buffet. (Note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you must have valid admission and make a park reservation via the Disney Park Pass system; for more information, visit the Disney World website .)

Key West, Florida

Admire the beaches of Key West by taking a sunset champagne cruise . The islands are also a famous spot for snorkeling . Are your pals thrill-seekers? Take in a ghost or haunted pub crawl tour —you'll see the city in a whole new light. Stay at the luxurious Sunset Key Cottages and wake up to a gorgeous view of the beach.

Charlottesville, Virginia

A small town that punches well above its weight when it comes to food and drink, this Central Virginia charmer is conveniently located close to many Southern cities. The surrounding area, known for its picturesque horse pastures, is also home to the Monticello Wine Trail , which boasts an impressive 33 vineyards. One of the most beloved is Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyard , which serves delicious farm-to-table fare alongside lush varietals like sparkling rosé and their signature red, Easton Blue. Stay at charming 20-room The Clifton , located on a sprawling 100 acres.

Killington, Vermont

There’s never really a bad time to visit Vermont: stunning foliage in the fall, beautiful hiking in the summer, and, of course, some of the best skiing on the East Coast once the temperatures plummet. Killington may be the best mountain of them all , featuring world-class slopes, of course, but for the less coordinated, there’s also ski bikes, tubing, and even Snowcat-drawn sleigh rides. If you're looking for a major (yet worthwhile) splurge, repair your aching limbs with a night at Twin Farms , a cozy inn with a seasonally changing restaurant. Or, stay at any number of nearby B&Bs.

Las Vegas, Nevada

No girls trip list is complete without including Sin City. But for those who haven’t visited since their bachelorette days, much has changed. Top-tier talent like Katy Perry, Celine Dion, and Carrie Underwood are rumored to have residencies in the works at the at Resorts World Las Vegas and food has evolved from sticky all-you-can-eat buffets to celebrity seafood favorite CATCH Las Vegas at ARIA Resort & Casino , and the stunning, 64-story-high Rivea by Alain Ducasse at Delano Las Vegas . Book a stay at the sleek Cosmopolitan , which has super chic rooms and private spa suites for groups at its Sahra Spa & Hammam .

Austin, Texas

Two words: breakfast tacos . Of course, the crowds don’t flock to Austin just for the food: excellent live music, Insta-worthy hotels, and the gorgeous landscape make it a pretty perfect vacation destination. Snag rooms at Hotel San Jose , an oasis with garden courtyards and a pool hidden in the middle of trendy South Congress. At night, be sure to check out the Rainey Street Historic District , a residential-turned-commercial row where bungalow homes were turned into lively bars. Recover the next day by booking services at Lake Austin Spa Resort —they can even provide water taxi service to their gorgeous Texas Hill Country grounds.

And while definitely not in Austin, if you're up for a road trip to a place where you can experience the best of Hill Country, the Inn at Dos Brisas offers opulent casitas or hacienda, where you and your pals can unwind with wine by the fire. While it's certainly a splurge, it's a unique spot for a special occasion, like a birthday trip.

Hawaii Island, Hawaii

It’s hard to imagine natural beauty that could rival that of the Big Island : site-seeing includes everything from the world’s most active volcano, gargantuan waterfalls, black and green sand beaches, and even helicopter tours of the impossibly green valleys. Of course, group hikes call for spa sessions, which the Hualalai Spa and Sports Club located at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is perfect for. Outdoor treatment rooms, reflexology walking streams, and Hawaiian-inspired treatments make the experience unforgettable. Don’t miss the “boga” classes: that’s yoga conducted on floating mats, of course.

Miami, Florida

It’s hard to think of another American city that’s as fun as this Florida playground. For a one-stop shop, stay at buzzy hotel The Confidante Miami Beach . Situated around 20 blocks north of the hustle and bustle of Ocean Drive, this quieter oasis is perfect if you and your girls take your R&R quite seriously. One of its two pools is dedicated exclusively to families, meaning you can sneak away to the other if children are splashing around a bit too much. And in addition to colorful popsicles courtesy of Cielito Artisan Pops , there's also a Hello Bello amenity cart packed with plant-based poolside essentials like SPF, bug spray, and body lotion. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Rosie's before heading to the beach or checking out the Instagram-worthy murals at Wynwood Walls . Or, try the more urban Thēsis Hotel Miami , which has a sunny rooftop pool with stellar views, and, perhaps more importantly, a poolside bar.

Nashville, Tennessee

There’s a reason why you see a bachelorette party nearly every 50 feet in Music City: Southern hospitality mixes with unbelievable live music and a bustling bar scene to create a perfect storm of happiness. Stay at the Bobby Hotel , just minutes from the famed Printer’s Alley clubs and bars of downtown. If the rowdy bustle of Broadway isn't for you, unwind at the property's rooftop pool, complete with an airstream ripe for the 'gram or enjoy a cocktail at the stunning lobby bar below. Then, recover the next morning with a traditional (and rib-sticking) meal at Arnold’s Country Kitchen to sample the city’s famed meat-and-three plate. For dinner, don't skip the mac and cheese at Mockingbird . And, of course, grab loads of ooey-gooey Goo Goo Clusters as souvenirs.

New Orleans, Louisiana

It's always the perfect time to visit The Big Easy . And, as the city that proudly claims to have invented the cocktail, the bar scene here is second to none. Make a beeline for The Sazerac Restaurant to sample the namesake cocktail, of course, but don’t skimp on the Ramos Gin Fizzes either; they require a solid 12 minutes of shaking. No trip here is complete without dinner at New Orleans grande dame Brennan’s , famed for inventing the flashy (and incredibly delicious) flaming bananas foster. Boutique Henry Howard Hotel offers the perfect respite from the crowds, as does the NOPSI Hotel 's soothing rooftop. Or, you can't go wrong with the centrally-located and ever-glam Ritz-Carlton .

Palm Springs, California

Coachella and other music festivals may have put this spot on the map, but this scenic area in Southern California is pretty heavenly year-round (and, with 350 days of sunshine, it’s especially enticing during blustery winter months). Architecture buffs will love Villa Royale , a boutique hotel with Mission Revival and Mid-Century Modern touches all over. Workshop Kitchen + Bar is perfect for group dinners, with its farm-to-table small plates like fried cauliflower steak and wood-fired pizzas. End the night at its sister bar Truss & Twine , whose menu includes a whole selection of tasty tiki drinks.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

While parts of this Caribbean island are still recovering from Hurricane Maria, the bustling capital of San Juan is back in business (and eager for tourists to return). Beach-loving pals should book a room at the Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort , which offers beginning surfing, stand-up paddling, and zip-lining. While exploring old San Juan, make sure to stop in at El Jibarito for excellent renditions of classic Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo with camarones al ajillo (that’s mashed plantains with shrimp in garlic sauce). Finish the night at La Factoria , a speakeasy that’s been voted one of the top 50 bars in the world. (Note: Travel to and from Puerto Rico is currently permitted as long as as visitors comply with all necessary health and safety requirements; for more information, visit discoverpuertorico.com .)

Lisbon, Portugal

Just like San Francisco, Lisbon, Portugal is famous for its historic tram lines. Built more than 2,000 years ago, St. George's Castle is one of the most visible landmarks of Lisbon's historic center. From it, you can see the Tagus river and the city from a whole different perspective. Take in the nightlife in the city's famous Bairro Alton district. Go down to the beachfront Cascias , about 30 minutes away from Lisbon, and enjoy some fresh seafood. (Note: While Portugal is currently closed to American tourists, it is expected to reopen this summer ; for the most up-to-date information, check with the U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Portugal .)

Amsterdam, Netherlands

While you can't go wrong with a number of Amsterdam's historic hotels, consider renting a houseboat instead and then spend a weekend exploring the canals, eating pastries and taking in attractions like the Van Gogh Museum , which houses the largest collection of his work in the world. (Note: U.S. Citizens are not currently permitted to enter the Netherlands; for reopening updates, check with the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in the Netherlands .)

Florence, Italy

If you and your friends are fans of pasta, gelato (and who isn't?), shopping (check out the Basilica di San Lorenzo !) and history, then this is a top destination. Take a bus or walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo to see the entire city center of Florence from a whole different view. This plaza provides a spectacular look at the Duomo . (Note: While Italy is currently closed to American tourists, it is expected to reopen this summer ; for the most up-to-date information, check with the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Italy .)

Marrakesh, Morocco

Okay, so it's likely a longer flight than most of these destinations, and definitely a splurge but certainly a memorable experience. Take in the landscapes at the Jardin Majorelle and then make your way to the YSL museum to learn all about the creator of the fashion brand and his ties to Morocco. Want to feel like a true celebrity? Grab a drink at the famous La Mamounia Hotel and snap a picture in any one of their Insta-famous mosaic-tile rooms. (Note: American tourists are allowed to enter Morocco as long as they meet certain requirements, like confirmed hotel or travel agency reservations and a negative PCR COVID-19 test; for more information, check with the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Morocco .)

Juliet Izon is a New York-based freelance writer who focuses on travel, food, interior design, and entertainment.

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25 Best Girls' Trip Ideas for an Unforgettable Getaway With Your Friends

If you're always talking about vacationing with your besties, now's the time to make it happen.

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But travel is the ultimate bonding experience for best friends and an amazing way to recharge and refocus. So it's a goal well worth prioritizing, despite the challenges involved with logistics and coordination. These girls' trip ideas include something for every group — whether you're all about adventure, relaxation, city sightseeing, or wandering off the grid. Our picks include both far-flung destinations, and plenty of domestic travel options that require no passport (or jet lag) at all. And these girls trip ideas include options for every group's budget , from wallet-friendly road trips to bucket-list international travels.

No matter where you go, you're sure to have a life-affirming, laughter-inspiring, friendship-rejuvenating good time. So get to booking and make it happen — no excuses!

Ready to get packing? Don't forget to check out our picks for the best luggage on Amazon , and best travel dresses to pack for every destination.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas has long been a hot spot for bachelorette parties and wild girls' nights out on the town and for good reason. The Strip is only a few minutes from the airport and home to upscale hotels, the must-see dancing Fountains of Bellagio , mainstream restaurants, and no shortage of shows. Get the girls together for a baller group stay at Sky Suites at Aria , with its own food and drinks lounge and airport transportation included.

Rome, Italy

Focus on the “eat” of an eat, pray, love-style getaway with a girls trip to the Eternal City. Visit the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Sistine Chapel, and more — all with ample stops for pizza, pasta, gelato, and vino, of course. Stay at the Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese with its Settimo restaurant and lounge bar on the roof terrace, overlooking all the splendor of the city.

Maui, Hawaii

The beaches and turquoise waters make for a dreamy and relaxing getaway, and the lively dining, pool, and shopping scenes combine for the ultimate girls trip. Stay at the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea to live out The White Lotus experience IRL. And make a plan for the new experience, A Wayfinder's Journey , led by the distinguished female Hawaiian navigator Kala Baybayan Tanaka aboard a private catamaran.

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Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs and its environs all around the Southern California desert region make for a girls trip packed with fun under the sun and swaying palms. (Definitely pack that SPF!) The Thompson Palm Springs hotel is readying for a chic opening. Or in Indian Wells, get your splash on in the lazy river with two enormous water slides at the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells . (Don’t forget to snap your social media selfies in front of the “Desert Vibes Only” neon wall!)

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New York City, New York

There's a lot to see in NYC. Luckily, you can see almost all of it from the observation deck at The Edge . And if you and your girls are looking for a real thrill, you can even sign up to scale the building . It's the perfect bonding moment for any group dedicated to new challenges and conquering fears. Then, spend the rest of the trip exploring the various shows, restaurants, and boat tours available.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The iconic Rocky Steps , photos at the Liberty Bell , and drinks at the bar in the Four Seasons Hotel are all great stops for a girls' trip in Philly.

For a bucket list trip, Fiji is more accessible than you think: It’s the same distance from the U.S. West Coast as London via nonstop flight. Stay at Vomo Island Fiji for spa, scuba, snorkeling, and incredible South Pacific cuisine.

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Baltimore, Maryland

When it comes to sightseeing, you can't go wrong with a stop at the Baltimore Inner Harbor , home to the Maryland Science Center , the National Aquarium , Top of the World Observation Level , and amazing seafood dining.

Downtown Dubai isn't just home to the world's tallest man-made structure, the Burj Khalifa. It's home to a guaranteed glamorous girls' trip experience, with modern architecture, luxury shopping, and pristine beaches. It's also home to plenty of Real Housewives lore, if your group loves Bravo. And it's where Beyoncé famously performed at the opening of the new Atlantis The Royal .

Ocean City, Maryland

If your friend circle consists of mom friends who are sick of cleaning up after other people, they'll enjoy the beaches of Ocean City. The locale is ranked amongst the cleanest in America. For oceanfront and in- ocean dining, Seacrets is a local favorite.

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Lighthouses, The African American Heritage Trail , and access to seafood make this charming location a top pick for a trip with the girls.

Newport, Rhode Island

Those who dream about living the mansion life will love a trip to Newport to expand on that fantasy. The town is famous for the mansions along Bellevue Avenue . Book a stay at Gurney's Resort for some R&R and Instagram-worthy photos lounging by the pool.

Savannah, Georgia

Friend groups dreaming of living like a Southern belle won't be disappointed with a trip to Savannah. People come for the Southern charm and stay for the horse-drawn carriages, bed and breakfasts, and river boat cruises.

Charleston, South Carolina

Cobblestone streets, boardwalks, and The Pineapple Fountain are amongst the landmarks great for tourists and girlfriends looking for some fun photo spots.

New Orleans, Louisiana

When a hit movie called Girls Trip takes place in this travel hot spot, it only makes sense you follow suit with a girls' trip of your own. Besides being home to the Essence Festival , New Orleans is known for the sounds of soul and the infusion of French cuisine. In short, there will never be a dull moment on a trip here.

Catalina Island, California

Just off the coast of California, this getaway is well known by natives of the state and the perfect place to head to for anyone who prefers to escape the crowds of Los Angeles (...for island crowds, when summertime demand swells the lively beaches and restaurants here). The 22-mile island is easily traveled by foot or golf cart. It's home to diving, paddling, a casino, several spas, and plenty of reasons to relax and disconnect.

Houston, Texas

Houston may be well known for its space center and museums, but it's also the perfect spot for hitting the trails. The Buffalo Bayou has several hundred acres of park land. Rent a canoe, see the hidden art, and paddle through downtown Houston as you admire the natural beauty. If you and your girls are kids at heart, take the hour and a half drive down to adults-only waterpark The Cove at BearX . Or, enjoy a wine tasting at Pur Noire Urban Wineries or Sable Gate Winery .

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is home to rooftop bars, rich history, and a captivating architecture boat tour that's sure to impress. The best part is, its central location makes finding direct flights a breeze for the most part. For friends looking for a high-class experience, a stay at the Sofitel Chicago and shopping along the Magnificent Mile can provide a healthy dose of luxury.

Pigeon Point, Tobago

For the crew who's had enough of the typical Caribbean tourist attractions, Tobago is a hidden gem not to be missed. It's located north of the main island of Trinidad and home to Buccoo Reef and lush rainforests perfect for bird watching. Not to be missed is the Nylon Pool — a naturally made pool surrounded by white sand in the middle of the ocean safe enough for visitors to swim in and enjoy. Spend the night at the secluded Bacolet Beach Club after indulging in some curry chicken and roti.

Nassau, Bahamas

The Bahamas is a no-brainer decision for friends living on the East Coast. The ease in finding short direct flights makes planning a stress-free experience — something all busy friends can appreciate. Once there, head to the Junkanoo Museum to learn more about Bahamian culture.

Terri Huggins Hart is an award-winning journalist, lifestyle writer, parenting writer, and race and culture writer who is convinced she's figured out the trick to living life with no regrets: do what you love, give love, lead with love. She's also the writer of an active monthly newsletter sharing tips for motivation and emotional well-being. When not writing, she can be found working out via Zumba or pole dancing, reciting her favorite affirmations and covering her adorable kids in kisses. You can learn more about Terri on her website, TerrificWords.com, or following her on social media @terrificwords.

Alesandra is a digital travel and lifestyle journalist based in Los Angeles whose work has appeared in Good Housekeeping , Woman’s Day , Prevention , Insider, Glamour , Shondaland, AFAR, Parents , TODAY and countless other online and print outlets. Alesandra has a masters degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor’s degree from UC Berkeley. An avid traveler, she trots the globe with her husband and their twins.

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20 all-American girls trip ideas with never-ending fun things to do

There's nothing like spending quality time with your girlfriends. Whatever you and your best girls love doing together—from Sunday brunches or Netflix binge-athons to dancing like no one is watching on a night out—our girlfriends keep us sane. They’ve seen us at our best and our worst, and loved us through it all. Thinking of a way to celebrate these special bonds? Two words: Girls trip!

There are so many amazing girls trip ideas across the USA, it can be hard to choose. No two groups of girlfriends are the same, so whether you’re looking to soak up the nightlife, the sun, fun attractions, great food, or all of the above, we’ve compiled some of our favorite girlfriend getaways to take this year.

And the best part? TripAdvisor can help you plan your whole girls trip itinerary. We check up to 200 booking sites to bring you the lowest price on hotels , plus we have thousands of bookable tours, activities, attraction tickets, and other travel experiences directly on our site . Our new 24-hour cancellation policy (for in-destination experiences) means you can pre-book before arriving, but still have the flexibility to cancel if your itinerary changes.

All you need to do now? Call up your best girls, pack a bag or two, and get ready to make some incredible memories.

New Orleans, Louisiana

There is always something fun going on in the vibrant city of New Orleans, making it an ideal choice for your girls getaway. Does your crew love to indulge in delicious and authentic cuisine? Check out the Original Taste of the French Quarter tour, where you’ll walk through this historic neighborhood sampling cuisine from six local eateries along the way. Fondly known as the City of the Dead, NoLa has tons of ghost tours to choose from if you and your girls are up for some haunted history. When night falls, hit colorful Bourbon Street for its one-of-a-kind nightlife. Say “Cheers!” with your besties on a New Orleans Pub Crawl , and end the night wearing way more beaded necklaces than you came with.

San Antonio, Texas

In San Antonio, the options for fun are as colorful and varied as you and your crew. Take extraordinary photographs at the Japanese Tea Gardens , soak up the sun at SeaWorld San Antonio , or spend a night laughing at the famed Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club . The Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour is a great choice to take in the whole city, and a ticket also includes a River Cruise and admission to the observation deck at the Tower of the Americas. And, of course, how could we forget to recommend a trip to the historic Alamo ? San Antonio has a little something for everyone, making it a prime girls trip idea.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Spend your girls vacation exploring a the unique art scene, trendy restaurants, and dynamic entertainment of Oklahoma City. The Paseo Arts District is a prime location for casual fun, where you can stroll through the over twenty galleries and decide amongst nine restaurants ranging from quaint cafes to craft beer havens. The Plaza District is a great choice for meandering through adorable shops, eating, drinking, and catching up. If you’re in the mood for a thrill, the interactive magic show at Max’s Magic Theatre is sure to leave you and your girls amazed and laughing. Pre-book a few walking tours for even more sightseeing, like this Mansions and Marvels tour or a city walking tour .

Asheville, North Carolina

Gorgeous mountain landscapes, historic architecture, and a dynamic art scene await you and your girlfriends in Asheville . If your perfect girlfriend getaway involves spending time in the great outdoors, don’t miss out on the Hiking Tour of Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls . Snap a group photo in front of Biltmore Estates ; the expansive mansion looks practically fit for royalty (perfect for you and your girls!) For a memorable night out, there are plenty of brewery tours to choose from, though the comedy-based LaZoom Bus Beer Tour may be one of the most unique.

Laguna Beach, California

If the terms “Girls Vacation” and “beach” go hand in hand for you, Laguna Beach marks the perfect destination . There are tons of gorgeous, sandy beaches to choose from, but a particularly special one is Crescent Bay Point Park . Along with the sun, sand, and surf, the park is home to dozens of adorable beach-themed shops and restaurants. Seeking adventure? A Kayak Tour or Stand Up Paddle Board lesson is a great way to take in the beauty of the beach while bonding with your besties. Get your taste buds firing with a Best Bites of Laguna food tour , and once night falls, bring your girls and your newfound beach vibes to the old-school cool Sandpiper Lounge , complete with live music and dancing.

Austin, Texas

With a city slogan like “Keep Austin Weird,” Austin is the perfect choice for a girls vacation if your crew is seeking a unique and festive getaway. Start the party at 6th Street , a street blocked off for pedestrians to enjoy music, bars, restaurants, and celebratory vibes. For the nature lovers, visit the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center for tours through gorgeous canyons with stunning waterfalls or experience Austin’s urban and natural sides on the Walnut Creek Bike Tour . And for some laid back fun, take the girls for a photo-op at the I Love You So Much mural (a not-so-subtle way to let them know how you feel!)

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

A sunny city by the water, Fort Lauderdale is a girls trip idea with much to offer. The Jungle Queen Riverboat Dinner Cruise , which will take you by boat past mansions and yachts and make a stop at the beautiful Jungle Queen Tropical Isle, will leave you dreaming. Stroll down twinkly-lighted and eclectic Las Olas Boulevard for great food and shopping, or hit similarly named Las Olas Beach for a suntan or refreshing dip in the ocean. Nightlife is plentiful in Fort Lauderdale; The Parrot bar is one option for a relaxed atmosphere complete with ocean views.

Sedona Arizona

If your ideal girlfriend getaway includes rest, relaxation, and stunning nature, Sedona is exactly what you’re looking for. The Sedona Soul Spa or Mclean Meditation Institute are just two of Sedona’s many relaxation centers for those seeking peace and rejuvenation. If you’re feeling more adventurous, check out the Broken Arrow Jeep Tour , an off-road trip through the gorgeous red rock canyon. Take in more breathtaking views on a drive or hike through the Oak Creek Canyon . You and your girlfriends will leave feeling refreshed and closer than ever.

Miami, Florida

Turquoise waters, unparalleled nightlife, Cuban-infused cuisine, and fabulous shopping await you and your girls in Miami. During the day, ogle at exotic animals and sealife at Zoo Miami or the Seaquarium . Go alligator spotting and embrace a need for speed on a Miami Everglades Airboat Adventure . Take in Miami’s unique art scene at your own pace or on a Street Art Tour in the neighborhood of Wynwood , followed up by shopping and eating your way through Bayside Marketplace . If the dance floor is calling your name, seize the night on one of Miami’s many Club Crawls .

Brooklyn, New York

Consider crossing Brooklyn off your travel bucket list for your next girls vacation. Arguably New York City’s coolest burrow, this neighborhood is chalk-full of art, craft beer, and hipster vibes. Visit Brooklyn Bridge Park , a shoreline park dotted with shops, a carousel, building-sized murals, and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, for a relaxing afternoon. The Williamsburg Smorgasburg is a must-see; the weekly festival offers over 100 food vendors as well as a full outdoor bar. For the beer-lovers among you, the Brooklyn Brewery is a favorite of locals and visitors alike; or take your girlfriends on a stroll through craft beer heaven during Sunday Funday: A Boozy Brooklyn Tour .

San Francisco, California

After snapping a group photo at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge , dive into all the rest that San Francisco has to offer as one of the best girls trip ideas in America. Check out Fisherman’s Wharf for scenic of the bay, tons of restaurants, and adorable local shops. Try not to get dizzy while you and the girls laugh your way down Lombard Street , the curviest street in the world. With the world renowned wines of Napa Valley just a short trip away, leave your driving direction app-of-choice dormant on a Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Tour that picks you up right in the city.

Chicago, Illinois

If heights aren’t a deal breaker for you and your crew, then a visit (and a few minutes on an elevator) to Skydeck Chicago is the best way to take in incredible views of the whole city of Chicago . You can even step out on the glass floor jutting out at the very top of the building, if that’s your cup of tea! Back on the ground, a trip to Millennium Park offers lakefront views, a an outdoor music pavilion, and even a ferris wheel. To take in the whole city at your own pace, Chicago also offers a convenient and fun Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour . For the sake of your foodie friends, consider planning your girls vacation to Chicago during the annual Taste of Chicago festival , the world’s largest food festival occurring every summer.

Portland, Oregon

Food, drinks, natural beauty, nightlife and a truly one-of-a-kind culture make Portland a first-rate girls trip idea. For the outdoorsy among you, there are tons of hiking experiences to choose from. Enjoy a half-day hiking tour through the beautiful Multnomah Falls or one through the Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls (or save yourself from this impossible choice and do both!). Visit Skidmore Market to peruse unique and eclectic goods and nibble on tasty treats like fresh Kettle Corn. When night falls, Helium Comedy Club is a local favorite for a laugh. Portland is also home to several brewery tours for the enjoyment of you and your best girls.

Los Angeles, California

A pure friendship between women is akin to a true Hollywood love story… why not celebrate that love in the city of stars itself? Los Angeles has much to offer , whether or not you and your best girls are pop culture fiends. For breathtaking views of LA’s rolling hills, visit the Griffith Observatory ; go at night for incredible snapshots of stars and city lights. Universal Studios is right around the corner, offering hours of entertainment-themed rides and attractions. Find some of the best shopping in town at outdoor shopping center The Grove , or ogle at the finer things in life on iconic Rodeo Drive .

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is packed with fun ideas for your girlfriend getaway , including a visit to world-famous Pike Place Market , one of just a few authentic farmers markets in the States packed with delicious eats and lively scenery. If you’re having trouble picking a restaurant from a seemingly endless list of choices, try out a Chef Guided Happy Hour Tour and sip/nibble your way around the market. Chihuly Garden and Glass will leave your crew in awe at enormous and intricate glass sculptures (while adding some serious color to your Instagram grid).

Kansas City, Missouri

There is always something fun going on at City Market in Kansas City , where you and the girls can shop and eat almost any kind of food you’re in the mood for. Have fun while finding out how well your crew would do in crisis-mode at one of five different Escape Rooms throughout the city. If live music is your thing, the Blue Room jazz club is a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike. The Amigoni Urban Winery is the place to be for some of the best food and drink in town, and it’s also a stop on the Uncorked Tour to four Kansas City breweries and wineries. And you can’t leave Kansas City without trying the delectable barbecue cuisine .

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Spend your girls vacation experiencing the southwest in beautiful Santa Fe. Choose between a leisurely float down the river or a whitewater adventure with Santa Fe Rafting Company . During a summer visit, don’t miss a visit to the Santa Fe Bandstand , New Mexico’s largest free music series featuring nationally touring artists to local musicians. Enjoy some delicious bites and while learning a little local knowledge on a Santa Fe Food and History Walking Tour , or experience ranch life at the living history museum El Rancho de las Golondrinas .

Baltimore, Maryland

Good morning, Baltimore ! This city is a great girls trip idea, offering fun attractions, great food, and a unique art scene. Walters Art Museum , a cultural hotspot of Baltimore, inspires with works of art spanning thousands of years. Enjoy some lighthearted fun with your best girls at Mustang Alleys , an old-school bowling alley and bar. Experience this historic city from the water and snap some great pictures on the Inner Harbor Sunset Sail . For pasta and pizza lovers alike (is anyone not raising their hand?), visit Little Italy to indulge in rich, authentic Italian cuisine.

Salem, Massachusetts

Salem is the unofficial ghost capital of the USA, with its fascinating and terrifying history of the Witch Trials of the 1600’s. A girls vacation here is perfect for Halloween lovers and history buffs. Take it all in at the Salem Witch Village museum, or experience history on foot on one of Salem’s haunted-themed walking tours . Take the girls for one of the best psychic readings in the region at Omen: Psychic Parlor and Witchcraft Emporium . And if all of this dark and mystic activity has you in need of a drink at the end of the day, Far from the Tree Cider offers craft beers and ciders (and no ghost-theme).

St. Augustine, Florida

Begin your trip to beautiful St. Augustine at the Wild Reserve , where you and the girls can get up close and personal with some of the world’s most exotic big cats, including rare and endangered White Tigers. If that doesn’t meet your nature fix, enjoy a memorable kayak trip through St. Augustines’ beautiful estuaries and shorelines. For a walk on the weirder side, visit Ripley’s Believe it or Not museum , offering tons of interactive exhibits for you and your girls to enjoy. To indulge in the best of St. Augustine’s food and drinks, check out one of the city’s several food tours and pub crawls .

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25 Best Girls' Weekend Getaway Destinations to Visit With Your Besties

Boston, Seattle and Palm Springs are only a few destinations you all will find affordable and fun.

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Quality time spent with your closest girlfriends is a necessity. Whether you all have the chance to catch up over drinks or plan a night in ordering takeout and watching your favorite rom-coms, the bonding experience of enjoying the company of your besties is always time well spent. It’s because of these unforgettable moments that planning the ultimate girls' weekend getaway should be at the top of your agenda this year.

All-inclusive resorts, cozy hotels and vacation home rentals help you make planning a bachelorette trip , birthday trip or reunion weekend stay in any location a total no brainer. All that’s left to do is to grab your girl squad and go. Happy travels!

Nantucket, Massachusetts

If you need a mental reset, Nantucket is the place to go. Although the idyllic island is quiet, you won't find yourself bored. Enjoy morning runs along the beach, strolls through the historic cobblestone streets and drives on the sandy white beaches. Nantucket has a surprisingly sprawling food and drink scene. Cisco Brewers is a fun spot to grab a drink and Millie's serves up great margaritas and fish tacos. Don't leave without grabbing a cup of coffee from Handlebar Cafe —the cute shop was featured on an episode of HGTV's Island Life . Stay at Nantucket Hotel & Resort , which offer suites and cottages big enough for all your girl pals.

Napa Valley, California

Home to more than 400 wineries, a trip to Napa is as close as you can get to wine country heaven. The valley is just a two-hour drive north of San Francisco, which makes it easy to get to while still offering the feel of a distant vacay. Perfectly landscaped rolling hills and bright green vineyards will greet you upon arrival. Recently renovated, The Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa is the ideal home base for your girls' weekend. Between wine tastings, dine at some of the valley's Michelin-starred restaurants, unwind during a spa treatment or partake in some retail therapy.

EXPLORE NAPA VALLEY

Savannah, Georgia

Craving some Southern hospitality? Head to Savannah, Georgia, to enjoy a slower and more meaningful pace of life. It's easy to walk around this historic city while taking in the beauty of the live oaks and magnolias. Because the city is known to be one of the most haunted in the United States, there are plenty of ghost tours worth taking if you dare. The vibe at the Thompson Savannah on the city's riverfront is 100 percent.

EXPLORE SAVANNAH

Austin, Texas

Home to some of the best barbecue in the country, Austin has become an increasingly popular destination for bachelorette parties and weekend getaways. Visitors love venturing out to Rainey Street for a fun scene and craft cocktails. Plan to spend an afternoon walking along South Congress Avenue, where there's ample shopping, restaurants and music venues. Odd Duck is a popular dinner spot and Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew is loved by locals. The new EVEN Hotel Austin is budget-friendly, well-designed and fun!

EXPLORE AUSTIN

St. Michaels, Maryland

Maryland's Eastern Shore is an overlooked travel destination—and it shouldn't be! While visiting, you can set sail on a sunset cruise or hire a captain to take you out on a yacht. If you're looking for a place to stay, consider the Inn at Perry Cabin , which served as the main filming location for Wedding Crashers. The luxury resort is set on the waterfront, offering guests sweeping views and easy access to boating activities. While staying at the resort, practice your tennis game, play a round of golf or relax by the pool.

EXPLORE ST. MICHAELS

New York City, New York

The Big Apple truly has something to offer every type of traveler — Broadway shows, strolls through Central Park and shopping on the Upper East Side. Bemelmans Bar is a special place to indulge in a cocktail and light bites — it's located inside The Carlyle Hotel and features murals by Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the classic Madeline children’s books. Brunch in the city is also a good vibe, but nothing is better than a traditional New York bagel.

EXPLORE NEW YORK CITY

Cape May, New Jersey

Just a few hours driving from Manhattan, Cape May is an easy place to escape the madness of city life. The seaside town is located at the southernmost tip of the Jersey Shore but the whimsical charm will make you feel like you're walking through the pages of a storybook. Stay at Beach Plum Farm for a cozy and unique experience. The 62-acre property has five cottages that you can choose to rent during your stay. Guests get their own personal golf carts to use throughout their trip and love the attention to detail provided by staff members, like having fresh doughnuts and coffee delivered to the porch each morning. Shop at the local boutiques, take a walk along the sandy beach, buy some chocolates from Louisa's , and enjoy dinner and a Cape May Mule at The Ebbitt Room .

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Scottsdale, Arizona

Head to Scottsdale if you’re in the mood for a party scene. The old town area is packed with clubs and casual bars and the dining provides some of the best eats in the southwest. Toca Madera is a must-try—order guacamole for the table, which has pomegranate seeds mixed in it for a unique flavor. If you want to break a sweat without suffering through the Scottsdale heat, sign up for a FloatFit Fitness yoga class at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess . The workout class is held on a paddle board raft in the hotel’s pool.

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Washington, D.C.

Got a history buff in your group? D.C. will offer them their fix while catering to every type of traveler's needs. Beyond the basics of checking out the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, go undercover and explore the world of espionage at the International Spy Museum or tap into your creative side at the Smithsonian American Art Museum . (Keep in mind that many DC museums still require advance reservations.) The Georgetown area is an excellent place to stay and eat! Wolfgang Puck's CUT is located in the Rosewood Washington D.C. in Georgetown (which offers townhouses for a dreamy girls' weekend in the city). Brasserie Liberté serves up scrumptious French cuisine and cocktails while Bourbon Steak at the Four Seasons Hotel has cuts of beef that will melt in your mouth and a female executive chef to boot. Over in the Navy Yards area, where the Washington Nationals play, Osteria Morini wows with its brunch favorites, including mimosas in several flavors and divine ricotta pancakes.

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Palm Springs, California

For a winter or spring girls' getaway, Palm Springs shines. Book one of the many charming hotels with a pool so you and your girlfriends can lounge outside with mimosas in hand. With a large heated pool, 21 casitas and suites with massive California hand-painted flower murals and a guest-only speakeasy champagne rosé bar, the Fleur Noire Hotel fits the bill. As far as activities around town go, check out the shops in downtown, explore the city on a Jeep tour , or get sporty with a round of golf at a nearby course—there are more than 100 courses in the area.

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Denver, Colorado

Denver is a no-brainer if you're eager to travel somewhere that offers the perfect combination of city and nature. Hike at Red Rocks Park, attend a Rockies or Broncos game, check out art displays in the RiNo District , brunch downtown or kayak in Evergreen Lake, all within a 30-mile radius. Be sure to stop by Washington Park —which many refer to as Denver's Central Park — for a picnic. If downtown isn't really your scene, the Cherry Creek neighborhood boasts a variety of boutiques, bars and restaurants without the busy city feel. Stay at the Curtis Denver, a budget-minded pick which has fun themed rooms and suites for pop-culture buffs.

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San Diego, California

If you're traveling to San Diego sans kids or conferences, zero in on the Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy. These two neighborhoods near downtown are packed with restaurants, bars, shops and boutique hotels, like the Pendry San Diego. In Little Italy, the food and atmosphere at Kettner Exchange makes for the perfect girls-night-out vibe. Order the Dirty Verde, which is made with tequila, lime, cucumber, poblano chile liqueur and paprika oil — it's one of the best cocktails they serve.

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Palm Beach, Florida

Giving off major Lily Pulitzer vibes, Palm Beach is a classy and feminine place to spend a girls' weekend. Travelers rave about the rooms and overall vibe of The Colony Palm Beach . The property has a retro beachy feel that makes it super Instagrammable. Grab lunch at Honor Bar and plan a spa day or sign up for tennis lessons at The Breakers .

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Woodstock, Vermont

Flock to Woodstock, Vermont, in the fall to catch sight of some stunning foliage. Colonial character meets New England countryside in this quaint town. The Woodstock Inn & Resort , which is set against the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park, is a popular choice for travelers to call home while visiting. Perfectly manicured landscaping and authentic New England craftsmanship greets guests upon arrival. The onsite spa offers services like a Himalayan salt stone massage and an espresso mud body scrub, tempting guests to never check out. The hotel can also assist with registering you and your group for a cooking class.

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RELATED: Stunning Places to See Fall Foliage in New England

Watch Hill, Rhode Island

If Taylor Swift owns a house in Watch Hill then it must be a good girls' trip spot, right? Consider this one of the most picturesque destinations in the United States. Local businesses like cute coffee shops and boutiques add a special touch to this seafront town. Spend your days relaxing on the beach, biking along perfectly paved paths or reading poolside. Whether you stay at a hotel like Ocean House or a house rental, stream rom-coms at night to complete the vibe.

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Chicago, Illinois

A trip to Chicago isn't complete without posing in front of the famous bean at Millennium Park or taking a boat tour through the Chicago River. Art and design fans will surely fall in love with the city's architecture and character. Fresh from a glow-up, the Hyatt Regency Chicago — right on the Chicago Riverwalk– is a convenient home base. Nearby, 360 Chicago is a trendy place to enjoy a craft cocktail while taking in the city's views from 1,000 feet up.

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Boston, Massachusetts

Luxury and history collide in the city of Boston. Walk the historic neighborhood of Beacon Hill, one of the most photographed areas in the city. Round up your girlfriends and shop around the cute local boutiques on Newbury Street, then grab a latte from one of the trendy cafes in the area. You can find some delicious cannolis in Boston's Little Italy, which locals refer to as North End— Mike's Pastry is a go-to. The Whitney, a boutique hotel in the Beacon Hood neighborhood, has two-bedroom suites so your whole girl squad can join the fun.

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Lexington, Kentucky

Head to the horse capital of the world and you'll find yourself immersed in country beauty with the added benefit of Southern hospitality. For unique accommodations, stay just outside of Lexington at The Kentucky Castle , a 100-acre farm that has just 15 rooms. One must-do activity during your stay: Split the cost of a rental car with the rest of the gals in your group and take a drive through the rolling hills and whimsical country side.

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Seattle, Washington

Seattle provides visitors with a home base for both city and island adventures. You heard that right—Bainbridge island, just a 45-minute ferry ride from the city, is a fun place to wine taste and explore while in Seattle. Plan to spend a day on the island and be camera-ready for the views of Seattle on your ferry ride back. The rooftop bar at the Thompson Seattle is a local hotspot. Another reason to stay at the hotel: It's a short walk to Pike's Place Market, chock full of interesting eats.

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Montauk, New York

There's a reason New Yorkers love to flee to the Hamptons — it's the perfect place to unwind during a long weekend. The seashell-lined beaches are just as inviting as the bar scene. Frequent visitors rave about the luxe beachside accommodations at Gurney's Montauk , but even if you don't book a room there, make sure you swing by their Beach Club. It's a 2,000-foot long private beach that non-resort guests can also enjoy — rent a day bed or lounge sofa, or hang out by the bar.

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9 Best Destinations for Girlfriend Getaways

Jun 14, 2021

See recent posts by Cortney Fries

With the rollout of vaccines, revenge travel is on the rise. Pent-up wanderlust has us planning epic trips with friends that we’ve missed. When you’re ready to hit the open road, here are nine destinations for every type of girlfriend getaway. Whether you’d prefer an outdoorsy escape, wining and dining or rejuvenating spa treatments, we’ve gathered girls’ trip ideas from across the country that will make your group even more excited about getting together again.

Conjure Up Old Hollywood Glam in Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs is the perfect place to soak up the sun in retro glam. This California desert location is surrounded by gorgeous mountain views, brimming with exceptional food, and full of unique ways to reconnect. You can glide over gorgeous views of Chino Canyon on Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, see the San Andreas Fault on a Desert Adventures Jeep Tour, or ride horses in Morongo Valley.

Go vintage shopping on Palm Canyon Drive, indulge in a drag queen brunch at Oscar’s, hike nearby Joshua Tree National Park or partake in a sound bath. 

Select Your Own Adventures in Bachelor Gulch, Colorado

Stir up your sense of adventure at the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch in the Vail Valley. One of the largest freestanding log cabins in North America, this sprawling, mountainous property beckons recharging in the fresh air with a year-round pool and bubbling hot tubs.

This summer the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch is offering the Edge of Wild experience , where guests staying three nights receive a $200 credit to choose their own adventures, from guided hikes, mountainside dining, and world-class spa experiences. Try your hand at archery or baton twirling. The Whiskey & Woodburning and Painting & Pino classes offer opportunities to stretch your creative muscles.

Related: 18 Best All-Inclusive Mexico Resorts for Families 2021

Say Cheers to Craft Beverages in Loudoun County, Virginia

Known as D.C.’s Napa Valley, you can toast to five female leaders in the craft beverage industry in Loudoun County, Virginia, where wineries and tasting rooms are surrounded by rolling hills and horse farms. Sip dry rosés at Cana Vineyards & Winery. Sample beers crafted by the female header brewer at Old Ox Brewery. Try rye created by arguably the greatest female whiskey maker in America at Catoctin Creek Distilling Company. Taste the crisp, champagne-style ciders of Corcoran Vineyards & Cidery, and the world’s first French champagne-style wine made from Norton grapes at Casanel.

Visitors rave over unique winery experiences like barrel tastings with vintners and yoga between the vines. Rent a B&B, stroll through the historic towns and savor the farm-to-table goodness of the region.

Bathe in Forests and Art in Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is the artsy city known as the “Paris of the South”, thanks to a lively restaurant and culture scene. Stroll the River Arts District to see hundreds of Asheville artists at work and buy treasures to take home. Immerse your crew in glass-blowing, jewelry making, photography, or pottery workshops.

The natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains beckons. Destress in the lush forests with beautiful waterfall backdrops. Feel alive on a refreshing rush down the 60-foot natural waterslide known as Sliding Rock. Visit the Vanderbilt’s 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate, where you can wander the vibrant gardens and sip samples at the winery.

Kristy Tolley, author of the new book, “ 100 Things to Do in Asheville Before You Die ” is an expert on the city. She recommends a Hammam session at Asheville Salt Cave and an evening Asheville Rooftop Bar Tour. “With nearly 40 breweries, visitors can choose from about 100 local beers,” she says. “Hit up S&W Market, slated to open in June. This food hall housed in a historic building will include Highland Brewing Company, Peace Love Tacos, Buxton Chicken Palace, Farm Dogs, the Times Bar, and more.”

Related: The 7 Best Wine Bags and Suitcases That Will Keep Your Wine Safe

Swimming Holes and Patios in Austin, Texas

Tunes play around every corner in Austin, Texas (nicknamed “the live music capital of the world”). Known for breakfast tacos and swimming holes, Austin also boasts countless outdoor dining options to please every palate. From string-lit patios to courtyards and food trucks, you’ll find big band brunches, world-renowned barbecue, and unique ice creams to satisfy summer sweet tooths. Take a dip in Deep Eddy, the oldest natural swimming hole in Texas, or enjoy Barton Springs, a year-round 68-degree three-acre spring-fed pool. Take pics by street murals and learn the two-step. Shop for kitschy finds during the day and then board a sunset bat cruise , where you can see the largest urban bat colony in North America swarm into the sky at dusk from the comfort of a boat cruise.

Admire Art & Architecture in Chicago, Illinois

Centrally located with convenient flights from most major cities, Chicago is a great destination for a girlfriend getaway. Known for skyscrapers and impressive art collections, Chicago is a blast in the summer.

Take an award-winning architectural boat tour with cocktail in-hand, paddle past urban views on a kayak and sunbathe on 24 free beaches, some featuring restaurants and live bands. Experience a symphony of sights and sounds doing sun salutations at the Immersive Van Gogh exhibit . Tilt out of a skyscraper over Michigan Avenue at 360 Chicago . Dine with views of Millennium Park at Cindy’s Rooftop or people-watch in the Fulton Market District.

Unwind at Waldorf Astoria, which offers premium pampering at their award-winning spa and fun sweating together in fitness classes. Relax by the heated pool or pop down the street for shopping on the Magnificent Mile.

Plunge in Pools and Shop in Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale’s heat makes it the perfect place to cool off by the pool. This summer, you’ll be able to find plenty of hot deals to match the temperature. The Saguaro Scottsdale is currently offering rooms starting at $89 and hip, retro Hotel Valley Ho is cutting rates by up to 35 percent in honor of their anniversary sale.

Shop via golf cart or scooter and see over 100 pieces of art in Old Town Scottsdale.  You’ll find cute coffee shops, six wine-tasting rooms and healthy juice joints. Take a sunset or sunrise hot air balloon ride or cycle your way around town on a pedal pub.

Related: 6 Amazing Mother-Daughter Trips to Take This Year

Live It up With Live Music in Nashville, Tennessee

The Music City is crooning for you to “come on back” and see what they’ve been creating while the world slowed down. This summer, country superstar Miranda Lambert will open Casa Rosa, the first bar and restaurant on Broadway from a female country singer.

The funky, floral Graduate Nashville opened in 2020. A girlfriend getaway wouldn’t be complete without a visit to White Limozeen, the rooftop restaurant, bar and swimming pool inspired by Dolly Parton with pink umbrellas and fuchsia-fringed day beds. When you’re ready to go out on the town, line dancing lessons and tractor tours await.

Galleries and Good Times in Door County, Wisconsin

Grab your gals for a relaxing girls trip to picturesque Door County, Wisconsin. It’s a serene setting to reconnect while wandering the five state parks, exploring the art galleries, tasting fish boils, and watching sunsets over the peninsula. Shop home décor, jewelry, wall art and more at Plum Bottom Gallery and Cappaert Contemporary Gallery . Head over to Hatch Distilling for cool cocktails, One Barrel Brewing for their expansive beer garden, or toast over drinks at Door 44 Winery . Don’t miss Glacier Ledge Restaurant for tapas-style small plates and artisan cheeses.

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30 Best Girls-Trip Destinations

By Juliet Izon

Is there any vacation that’s more exciting to look forward to than a girls trip? No significant others, no kids, just your (chosen) family. But we know finding the perfect girls-trip destination is easier said than done: Do you want the hustle and bustle of New York City? Or is the vibe more to totally unplug ( babymoon style) somewhere in sunny Florida? Are your friends wanting to stay put in America for a quick weekend getaway , or are they game for international jaunts to Mexico or the Caribbean?

We’ve helped narrow it down for you, with a comprehensive list of trip ideas that feature some of our favorite spots from around the globe (and hotels we've stayed in). Read on for where to go for the best girls trips. Now all you have to do is pick a date (and a carry-on ).

New Orleans

We probably don’t need to sell you too hard on the Big Easy: It’s been top of the list for girls trips probably since the city was founded in the 18th century. It’s a place that’s both rich in history and nightlife, which is why we love tours like Drink and Learn , where you can stroll some of New Orleans’s most famed streets with a cocktail in hand. And when you’ve had your fill of beignets, jazz, and vintage shopping on Magazine Street, you can stay at The Eliza Jane , a charming boutique hotel located ideally between the French Quarter and Arts District. The literary buffs in your crew will love that it's the former home of the The Daily Picayune and named for Eliza Jane Nicholson, the first woman publisher of any major newspaper, who worked there in the 19th century (how's that for on theme for a girls trip?). It offers the perfect respite from any Bourbon Street antics, with a lovely outdoor oasis where you can all unwind (seriously, you'll think you're in another city). With 50 stylish suites, a chic restaurant, and a bar with live music, there's more than enough space for your pals to enjoy, even if they don't want to leave the property.

Save when you book your girls trip with these Hotels.com promo codes and Expedia promo codes .

Asheville, North Carolina

Courtesy of The Radical

If you and the best friends have already conquered the Southern cities of Nashville and Austin, may we suggest a long weekend trip to this charming spot in western North Carolina? Known for its high concentration of stellar restaurants and breweries, a lively arts community, and easy access to outdoor adventures (hello, Blue Ridge Parkway), a girls trip here can be as laid-back or packed to the gills as you wish. We recommend staying in the buzzy River Arts District (RAD), at the brand-new hotel The Radical . Its rooftop is one of the best spots in the city to watch the sunset while sipping on some fantastic cocktails.

Courtesy of Almanac Barcelona

This may not be the spot to travel to if you’re looking for a 9 p.m. bedtime, but if you’re ready for late-night dinners, bar-hopping until the early-morning hours, and days spent on the beach or taking in jaw-droppingly cool architecture, then the Spanish city of Barcelona is calling your name. Book rooms for you and the gal pals at the chic Almanac Barcelona . Not only does the hotel’s year-round rooftop bar Azimuth have stunning 360-degree views of the city, but the staff can also arrange for fun group activities like guided tapas tours.

Courtesy of brand The Loren

With a flight time of less than three hours from many East Coast destinations, the sunny and chic island of Bermuda is one of our favorite picks for a quick girls trip. And since the island is north of the Caribbean, there’s no rainy season, making it an appealing pick for typical shoulder-season months. The beaches here are probably the biggest draw, and for good reason: They’re actually pink-sanded and the water is impossibly clear. Snag rooms for your party at The Loren : We love this beachfront property’s Sisley Spa and open-air meals at The Pink Beach Club.

Buenos Aires

A strong dollar against the Argentine peso makes this South American capital an especially savvy trip idea for you and your best friends. But even without the financial incentive, there are few cities in the world that offer the same jubilant mix of beautiful neighborhoods, innovative food and drink, and storied history as this one. Treat yourself and your friends to a stay at Palacio Duhau Park Hyatt Buenos Aires , a hotel housed inside a landmarked palace that’s surrounded by a gorgeous garden. And make sure to leave time to check out the on-site Ahin Wellness Spa : You’ll need it after a night of tango.

The Berkshires

Unplugging more your speed? Then we recommend a rejuvenating girls weekend getaway to the Berkshires, a bucolic and beautiful part of Western Massachusetts. While you can certainly day-trip to the area’s many charming small towns (Great Barrington, North Adams, and Stockbridge, to start), make lively Lenox your home base. Reserve rooms at the über-chic Life House Berkshires , where communal spaces include a cozy library lounge, wood-paneled cocktail bar, and gorgeous hiking trails all minutes from the lobby.

If your pals are adrenaline junkies, there may be no better place on earth to get your heart thumping than the outdoor playground that is Costa Rica. From otherworldly hikes in cloud forests to riding the waves in Tamarindo to sky-high zip-lining, this Central American country is perfect for an adventurous girls trip. But at the end of the day, you can still relax in style: Snag a reservation at the adults-only Hotel Three Sixty . The 12-villa property is ideal for large groups and we love its secluded location inside a 58-acre rainforest reserve.

Colorado’s capital is one of our favorite cities in the West because, depending on what season you visit, it’s like hanging out in an entirely new town. Come with friends in the winter, and you should obviously take advantage of the city’s proximity to the many ski mountains. But in the warmer months, you can enjoy everything from white-water rafting to cycling to rock climbing. In the evenings, relax at one of Denver’s famed breweries before tucking in for the night at the playful Curtis Hotel , which has themed rooms and unique packages . Pro tip: You’re definitely going to want to reserve the Barbie suite for you and the girls.

Dominican Republic

With direct flights from most major East Coast and many Midwestern cities, this tropical paradise wins bonus points for how easy it is to get to. And of course, once you arrive, the pristine beaches and 18 national parks will make leaving the island a tall order. We recommend staying in Punta Cana, at the easternmost tip of the country. The beaches here are especially stunning, and the airport is less than 20 minutes away. Our favorite property for a ladies-only vacation? The high-touch boutique hotel Eden Roc Cap Cana , where many suites boast their own private pool, and the delicious food is some of the best in the Caribbean.

This Scottish capital packs a punch in a small package. A girls getaway here could encompass a climb to Arthur’s Seat, the extinct volcano with beautiful views of the city, golf, and a stroll through the postcard-perfect Water of Leith Walkway. But leave your nights open for experiencing the city’s nightlife (especially the whiskey scene). Snag splurge rooms at The Balmoral , one of the city’s most famous properties, and make sure you leave time in the itinerary to check out its famed afternoon tea and the killer spa, which has both a Turkish steam room and a Finnish sauna. Plus, there's nothing cuter than Highland cows.

There’s a reason Finland has been voted the happiest country in the world for many years running: You feel healthier as soon as you land in the Helsinki airport. What makes this European city great for a bachelorette party or girls trip? Aside from the friendly Finns: the underrated yet spectacular restaurant scene that’s fit for foodies; epic boutique shopping; and where else can you hang out all afternoon sipping on Finnish Long Drink and alternating between sauna sweats and ice-cold dips in the river? Make sure to book a stay at the brand-new Hotel Maria , which opens this December. It features a tightly curated on-site boutique, spa suites with their own saunas, and craft cocktails with live piano music at Bar Maria.

Hudson Valley, New York

Just a few hours’ road trip from New York City and Boston is this stretch of bucolic farmland and picture-perfect hamlets, ideal for a weekend filled with farm-to-table eats, mountain hikes, and nights around a bonfire. One of the most popular resorts for a girls getaway in the Hudson Valley is the newish Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection . Here activities range from requisite hiking and fitness classes but also encompass much more unique offerings, like focaccia-making workshops, sound baths, and daily feeding of the on-property chickens.

Island of Hawaii

Close your eyes and picture your perfect island vacation: Is there any chance it wasn’t Hawaii? And while all of the islands offer their own unique, compelling reasons for visiting, we’ve been lately drawn most to the Big Island, known as the “island of adventure.” A trip here can include everything from swimming with manta rays, lying on black-sand beaches, and getting up close and personal with active volcanoes. Make Four Seasons Resort Hualalai your home base: Unique experiences to share with your besties include a jaw-dropping swimmable aquarium, paddling in an outrigger canoe, and traditional lomi-lomi massages at the dreamy spa.

At eightish hours from most East Coast cities, a long weekend trip to Lisbon isn’t as crazy as you might think. And once you’re on the ground, the pedestrian-friendly capital is quite easy to explore even if you’re short on time. Spend your days wandering trendy neighborhoods like Bairro Alto, Príncipe Real, and Cais do Sodré, and your nights feasting on seafood and shellfish, before toasting with the sour-cherry liqueur ginjinha. Post up at NAU Palacio do Governador , a boutique hotel with multiple heated swimming pools, charming rooms with barrel-vaulted ceilings, and a location right in the historic center of the Belem neighborhood.

This capital city needs no real introduction but remains one of our favorites for an international girls trip for its high number of direct flights, English-speaking citizens, and those adorable double-decker buses. And if you’ve got a group of gal pals with disparate interests, we promise London offers something for everyone: world-class theater in the West End, epic shopping in Shoreditch and Notting Hill, and a pub and cocktail culture that puts basically every American city to shame. We love staying at 11 Cadogan Gardens : Not only is its location in Chelsea incredibly central, but the back entrance to the hotel opens up onto Pavilion Road, one of the best stretches in the city for a fabulous brunch. And as far as hospitality is concerned, the equally ideally located Mayfair Townhouse can't be beat. The stunning hotel has one of the best concierges in town just in case one of the girls dropped the ball on your dinner reservations.

Los Angeles

When most of the continental USA dips into chilly temperatures, it’s a comfort to know that Southern California will almost always be positively balmy. But this glittering West Coast city has far more to recommend it than just its sunny clime: Some of the country’s hottest restaurants, bars, and boutique shopping are here, not to mention plenty of gorgeous urban trails. If you’re looking to relax and unplug, this is not the trip for you, but if you and your girls want to squeeze every last drop out of your vacation days, we can think of no better city. Grab reservations at W Los Angeles West Beverly Hills and make sure to reserve poolside cabanas for you and the crew before starting your night with cocktails at the buzzy Living Room Bar.

Mexico City

You could spend a year in this sprawling capital city, also known as CDMX, and still not uncover all of its charms. But that also means that even in the span of a weeklong vacation, there is a lot to pack in every day, from taking a street-food tour to watching Mexican wrestling and touring Frida Kahlo’s home. We recommend making the vibrant Condesa or Roma neighborhood your home base, which is filled with some of the city’s top boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants. We’re big fans of Colima 71 , a new boutique property in Roma Norte with rooms boasting full kitchens and private balconies.

Another excellent choice for when you need to escape freezing temperatures is the fun-filled playground that is Miami. If you’re looking for a trip heavy on the nightlife, spend your evenings in South Beach, but don’t overlook Wynwood, which lays claim to many of the city’s hottest restaurants, boutiques, and breweries. We love not only the central location of The Miami Beach Edition but its two pools with ocean views, the basement bowling alley, and beachfront restaurant Tropicale.

Napa Valley, California

Yes, you absolutely can take a trip to Napa just for wine tasting, but we promise there’s far more to do in this gorgeous swatch of Northern California than just visit one of the more than 400 wineries. Your food-obsessed friends, for one, will probably want to hit up at least one of the Michelin-starred restaurants in wine country (The French Laundry, anyone?), while anyone in your posse who’s a wellness guru will enjoy a day trip to Calistoga’s mineral springs or mud baths. And everyone on your girls trip will appreciate the pampering at Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection . We especially love the wellness services here, which range from cedar and steam saunas to private yoga classes and deep-tissue bodywork.

Some of the best food in the South, live music everywhere you turn, and lots and lots of whiskey: What’s not to love about the capital of Tennessee? Spend your mornings brunching at spots like Henrietta Red or the rooftop at White Limozeen, and your nights exploring why they call this town Music City. Catch songwriter shows at The Bluebird Cafe and 3rd and Lindsley, or the bigger names at Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium. We absolutely adore Bobby Hotel in downtown Nashville: Its rooftop pool and lounge is one of the best spots to start or end your night. If low-key Southern is more your speed, we also recommend a road trip to The Harpeth Hotel in nearby and charming Franklin.

New York City

The City That Never Sleeps is a good match for any girls vacation when you plan, well, staying out late. But aside from NYC’s famous bars and lounges, this is also paradise for anyone who loves boutique or vintage shopping and really (really) good meals. Make time to explore charming downtown Manhattan neighborhoods like the Lower East Side and the cobblestone streets of the West Village, and cross the river to check out top spots in Brooklyn, like Williamsburg, Greenpoint, and DUMBO. But if you want a true taste of that New York bustling energy, it’s worth swinging by Times Square for a Broadway show or booking a stay at the Hard Rock Hotel New York .

Nevis, Saint Kitts and Nevis

This island in the Lesser Antilles has had a bigger profile since Hamilton premiered (Alexander Hamilton was born here), but it’s high on our list for girls-trip destinations for a more current reason. JetBlue launched a new, direct flight from New York to the country this fall, making it that much easier to escape to the island’s clear waters and gorgeous beaches. Snag rooms for your and the gal pals at Four Seasons Resort Nevis : a dreamy hotel with nearly three miles of beachfront, four pickleball courts, and programming like rum tasting or monkey spotting tours.

Palm Springs, California

While we certainly don’t recommend a trip to the desert in the height of summer, there are few places more delicious than Palm Springs in the depths of winter. Start your day off with a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for stunning views of the city, then get your dose of vitamin D with a hike on the Andreas Canyon Trail at Indian Canyons. And since this part of California is all about midcentury modern (it's one of the more Instagrammable cities), book rooms at the retro-chic Ace Hotel and Swim Club . We love the deep bench of activities at this property, from weekly bingo and trivia nights to live jazz and dinner series. And when you need to cool off, don’t miss the boozy slushies from on-site cocktail bar the Amigo Room.

The City of Love isn’t just for your, well, lover. It’s also one of the most lively and beautiful trips you can take with your girls (and a major bucket list destination). From days spent wandering the Marais’s unparalleled shopping to nights exploring some of the world’s most innovative restaurants, a trip to Paris can bring a twinkle to anyone’s eye, including your hard-to-please foodie friend and the art history buffs among you. One of the city’s buzziest new hotels is also perfect for a girls trip: Hôtel Des Grands Voyageurs is a charming, high-design boutique property in Saint-Placide that also houses one of the Left Bank’s coolest speakeasies, Poppy.

Puerto Rico

Hungry for a tropical getaway but not all your ladies got their passports renewed in time? Trust us, we’ve been there. Luckily, one of the best destinations in the Caribbean is a US territory. And Puerto Rico, at only two and a half hours from Miami, is also one of the easiest islands to travel to if you’ve got limited time. It’s also packed with things to do, from the famed bioluminescent bay to rainforest hikes and more than 300 beaches. We recommend reserving the adults-only Condado Ocean Club in San Juan: Oceanfront bar Sandbox is the perfect spot to start your night, and we love relaxing at the infinity pool with views of the Atlantic.

Punta de Mita, Mexico

There may be no international destination more popular for girls trips than America’s dynamic neighbor to the south: Mexico. And while we could write a whole article just on places to go within that country, for this list, we’re going with our perennial favorite of Punta de Mita. Easily accessible from Puerto Vallarta, this sun-drenched peninsula is known for its silky white-sand beaches, über-chill vibes, and stellar hotel properties. We recommend the Conrad Punta de Mita : a secluded and tranquil resort with four pools, two miles of beach, and activities like whale watching and sailing.

Reykjavik, Iceland

While beach vacations or major city explorations might be the more popular options for vacations with your girls, if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, we’d love to suggest the otherworldly landscape in and around Reykjavik. Iceland’s capital is less than a six-hour flight from many major East Coast cities, and its wealth of activities are certainly not excursions that are easy to find in the US. In the winter you can try to time your visit to see the Northern Lights, while the Blue Lagoon offers blissful soaking any time of year. Post up at The Reykjavik Edition , a modern hotel steps from the city’s main shopping area of Laugavegur Street with chic rooms with floor-to-ceiling views of the bustling city.

Savannah, Georgia

There are few cities in America more beautiful, charming, and fun than Savannah. And while you could certainly spend a whole weekend just ogling the stunning mansions and wandering through the city’s verdant gardens, it’s also home to some of the South’s best restaurants, bars, and boutiques. And only 20 minutes away lies Tybee Island, a laid-back beach town that’s a perfect addition to a long-weekend trip. Our favorite property in the city is Perry Lane Hotel : We love its location in the Historic District, the unique cocktails at on-site bar The Wayward, and—pro tip—that you can throw private tea parties in the hotel’s library.

Turks and Caicos

If your friends are craving white-sand beaches, water sports, and minimal flight time, then there is really only one answer: Turks and Caicos. These islands located in the Lucayan Archipelago boast some of the world’s most beautiful stretches of sand (Grace Bay is the most famous), along with plenty of prime spots for snorkeling, kayaking, and parasailing. The British Overseas Territory is also home to some of the best resorts in the region, including The Somerset on Grace Bay . With a superb location on the beach, other perks at this hotel include gargantuan suites perfect for sharing with pals, kiteboarding lessons, and private spa experiences for you and your friends.

Washington, DC

Sure, our nation’s capital is fun for history buffs, but even if you don’t set foot on The Mall, DC is a vibrant, exciting place all on its own. And in recent years the city has seriously upped its game when it comes to food and drink. Just take a look around The Wharf and Navy Yard, two neighborhoods that have fast become meccas for innovative dining and buzzy cocktails. One of our new favorite hotels is right in the heart of it all too. Pendry Washington DC has beautiful views of the water; one of the city’s best rooftop cocktail bars, Moonraker; and, when the weather is right, a sleek outdoor pool, complete with cabanas.

By Jake Henry Smith

By Andrea Navarro

By Brie Schwartz

• Destinations

25 Best Girls Weekend Getaways

Last Updated By VI on April 18, 2024 in Weekend Getaways

Unwind with Ocean Views in Myrtle Beach

Sign up for an adventure in boulder, co, soak up the sunshine in destin, fl, san jose, ca.

• See the Complete List

Ideas by Occasion: Relax at a spa , Birthday , Family , Honeymoon Weekend , All-Inclusive

Weekend Inspiration: NC Getaways , Small Town Getaways , From Toronto , Oklahoma , From Jackson , From Louisville

Where to travel next: New England Getaways , Wisconsin , Kentucky , Illinois , NJ , Richmond , From NJ

California vacations: California Weekend Getaways , Southern California , Northern California , Lake Tahoe , From Los Angeles , From San Francisco , From San Diego

Wyoming - The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch

West Coast Vacations: Oregon , From Seattle , Washington

Hotel Covell

Weekend Trips: Southwest Weekend Getaways , Arkansas , Idaho , Montana

Girls Weekend Getaway in Seattle, Washington - Hotel Max

The South USA Vacations: Mississippi , Georgia , Alabama , Florida , From New Orleans , Louisiana

Rhode Island - Hotel Providence

Drawing inspiration from its ideal location in the heart of Providence's thriving arts and theater district, Hotel Providence combines European style with New England charm to create an elegant and luxurious abode. Well-appointed guest suites offer king or queen-sized beds, crisp imported linens, and spacious en-suite marble-floored bathrooms. Modern amenities include Keurig coffee makers, iHome MP3 player docking stations, and complimentary wireless Internet. Celebrate the love of cuisine at the Aspire Seasonal Kitchen, where fresh farm-to-table fare is created in innovative and mouthwatering ways. Providence is well known for its vibrant arts, music and theater and there is a plethora of things to see and do around the town, from museums, galleries and architecture, to boutique shopping. (401-861-8000, ( website link )). Things to Do in Providence

Charleston, South Carolina - Zero George

Ideas in New England: Vermont , Massachusetts , New Jersey , Maryland , New Hampshire , Delaware

Girls Weekend in Maine - Harraseeket Inn

Featuring classic Maine style and warm hospitality, the Harraseeket Inn is a luxurious, family-owned country inn in the small village of Freeport. Boasting two fantastic restaurants, comfortable accommodations and a range of outdoor activities, this relaxed, award-winning hotel offers a quiet country girlfriend escape. Guest rooms are beautifully decorated with rich antiques, romantic four-poster beds, spacious en-suite bathrooms with whirlpool baths, and some rooms enjoy cozy wood-burning fireplaces. Imported linens, plush terry robes, and deluxe bath products add a special touch. The inn features two outstanding restaurants - the Maine Harvest Dining Room and the Broad Arrow Tavern - both of which serve delicious, handcrafted fare and superb wines in an elegant setting. Freeport has much to offer in the way of sightseeing and exploring - enjoy world-class shopping, wonderful museums and galleries, or head outdoors for scenic whale watching cruises, hiking, mountain biking, fishing and golf. (207-865-9377, ( website link )).

Colorado - Sheraton Downtown Denver

Situated on a bustling pedestrian walkway on 16th Street, the Sheraton Downtown Denver is ideally located within walking distance of Colorado’s State Capitol and offers easy access to the city’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment. Sleek and spacious guest rooms and executive suites enjoy beautiful city or Rocky Mountain views. Modern amenities include Sweet Sleeper Beds, flat screen TVs, an elegant work desk and iPod connections. Head to the fully equipped health club with a sauna and massage facilities to relax and unwind. Enjoy Denver’s spectacular sunsets on the outdoor deck over fine wine, or sample cocktails in the elegant 16Mix. Yard House serves traditional steak and ahi accompanied by craft ales and lagers. (303-893-3333). Things to do in Denver

Girls Weekend Getaway in South Carolina - Rhett House Inn

A beautifully appointed classic Southern inn situated in the heart of Beaufort’s Historic Landmark District, Rhett House Inn is the perfect retreat from which to explore this historical region. Beaufort exudes South Carolina’s 500 year-history in its elegant homes, historic forts and majestic plantations. The Rhett House Inn is made up of three magnificent lodgings - the Thomas Smith Rhett House, built in 1820 as a wealthy summer home; The Cottage, built in 1864 as one of the first freedmen schools in the South; and Newcastle House, a luxurious semi-detached abode next to the Inn. Nineteen exquisitely appointed rooms and suites across these properties feature plush décor, modern technologies, climate control and luxury toiletries. A delicious breakfast is served on the verandah every morning. Beaufort is home to an array of excellent restaurants, bistros and eateries. (843-524-9030).

The Caldwell House

Tucked away in Salisbury Mills, in the heart of New York’s lower Hudson River Valley, Caldwell House Bed and Breakfast is an award-winning historic country inn that emanates charm. Located conveniently close to many of Salisbury Mills’ famous attractions such as the US Academy at West Point and the Brotherhood Winery, this cozy bed and breakfast is an idyllic base from which to explore the area. Beautifully appointed guestrooms feature large beds and luxurious linens, lovely en-suite bathrooms with whirlpool baths and deluxe Gilchrist and Soames bath products. Modern amenities abound, including personal iPads, iHome docking stations, ‘smart’ HDTVs and free Wi-Fi access, while some guest rooms offer fireplaces for cold winter nights. Begin the day with a delicious home-cooked breakfast in the sunny breakfast room before heading out to explore the area. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the activities available in the area, such as hiking, biking, exploring the Hudson River by cruise ship or kayak, hot air ballooning, horseback riding, and downhill skiing. Pay a visit to the country’s oldest winery – Brotherhood Winery – to taste some of the region’s finest wines (845-496-2954).

North Carolina - The Mast Farm Inn

Offering historic and rural charm, the Mast Farm Inn is a luxurious, award-winning boutique hotel set in the heart of the Valle Crucis Historical District of Watauga County in North Carolina. Surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Watauga River and lush mountain valleys, Valle Crucis has long been attracting visitors to experience its rich heritage and majestic natural beauty. The Mast Farm Inn has seven individually decorated guestrooms housed in a beautifully preserved 1880s farmhouse, with private baths and deluxe amenities, as well as eight unique cottages and cabins, with up to six bedrooms and full kitchens. All lodging options include a delicious gourmet country breakfast for two each morning. Dine at the inn’s restaurant Simplicity which is open on weekends and serves a wonderful menu of local fare, or try Over Yonder, which is a short walk from the inn and has a cozy, convivial ambiance. The incredible surrounding landscapes of Valle Crucis are perfect for outdoor activities, or for simply soaking up the tranquil beauty and harmony. (828-963-5857, ( website link )).

Georgia - Barnsley Resort

Practice catch-and-release fishing in one of the ponds, play golf, bike, or practice shooting clays. There is delicious coffee in the morning, afternoon tea, and s’mores in the lobby in the evening. Have an elegant dinner at Dining at Rice House or celebrate at the more casual Beer Garden which serves craft brews. The Woodlands Grill is decorated like a hunting lodge and offers views of the golf course. More info

Washington State - Olympic Lodge

Reflecting rustic elegance in the heart of the Olympic Mountains, the Olympic Lodge is nothing less than heavenly. Breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes, luxurious accommodation, deluxe amenities and outstanding service come together in this boutique mountain lodge to offer guests an exclusive and unrivalled retreat. Spacious guest rooms embrace the spectacular views through floor-to-ceiling windows, while handcrafted furniture and plush amenities such as pillow-top mattresses flat-screen HDTVs and complimentary high-speed wireless Internet offer creature comforts. A delicious homemade breakfast is served at the Whistling Frog, where you can soak up the beautiful views while dining in style. The resort offers an array of activities: soak in the heated outdoor pool and hot tub, work out in the fully equipped, 24-hour fitness center, play a round of golf at the Peninsula golf course, and explore Olympic National Park and its many must-see attractions. (800-600-2993).

Sonoma County is a dream vacation spot featuring miles of rocky coastline, stunning redwood forests, and over 400 wineries, as well as more than 50 regional and state parks. The county features well-known Highway 1 which offers visitors a stunning drive up the coast and is in close proximity to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Sonoma has a collection of unique spas, exceptional farm-to-table restaurants, and an eclectic array of wine tasting rooms from massive wine castles to quaint and rustic spaces. Point Reyes National Seashore, Sonoma Coast State Pak, the Armstrong Redwoods State Park, and Bodega Bay are among the top natural attractions here.

Portland, Oregon - The Heathman Hotel

The Heathman Hotel in Portland combines stylish sophistication and superior amenities with outstanding service to provide an award-winning abode in the heart of downtown Portland. Designed to give guests an exclusively boutique experience, 150 luxurious suites boast the Heathman's unique "Art of Sleep" Bed Menu, offering the choice of a TempurPedic, European Pillow-top or European Feather-top bed, high-speed wireless Internet access and Portland Roasting French press coffee machines. Enjoy high tea in the historic Tea Court Lounge where soft firelight and ornate décor provide a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The Heathman Hotel is conveniently located just steps from many of Portland’s famous attractions such as the Portland Center for the Performing Arts and the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Zoo. (503-241-4100). Things to Do in Portland

Wilmington, NC

Wilmington is a vibrant city ruled by the water. It features the scenic Riverwalk, an energetic riverfront that curves around famed Cape Fear River. The area also includes three colorful and islands that offer their own unique set of activities and attractions.

Yotel New York

Boasting a completely unique take on a regular hotel stay, Yotel New York is a stylish and sophisticated boutique hotel that offers an experience akin to that of flying first class. Guest ‘cabins’ range from ‘Premium’ cabins with queen-sized double beds and ‘Corner’ cabins with dual aspect windows, to ‘First’ cabins with king-sized beds, private terraces and outdoor tubs, and luxurious ‘VIP’ two-cabin suites, which are the ultimate treat. Rooms boast en-suite bathrooms with monsoon showers, flat screen televisions, multi-power pointed workstations, and free wireless Internet. The hotel offers a unique automated check-in and check-out system for added convenience, a 24-hour concierge service, and an automated baggage storage facility, while a fully equipped gym is available for a quick workout. Head up to The Terrace to relax, dine and drink with spectacular city views. (646-449-7700). Places to Visit in New York

Dauphin Island, AL

Dauphin Island is a barrier island three miles south of Mobile Bay in the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can reach the island by using a three-mile-long bridge. This charming island is known for its uncrowded and unspoiled beaches, exquisite birding, premier fishing, and historic past. Sand Island Light, a decommissioned lighthouse located at Alabama’s southernmost tip, is also a must-see.

More Weekend Getaway Ideas: Rehoboth Beach, DE

Santa Fe, NM

Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in the nation, founded in 1610 by Spanish colonists.

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25 Best Girls' Weekend Getaways Around the World

Girls just want to have fun.

Whether you're traveling with your mom, sister, or a group of friends, nothing beats a weekend getaway with the girls. These 25 spots around the world are ideal for a weekend escape packed with fun, photogenic views, and lots of quality girl time.

Palm Beach, Florida

For an easy-to-reach domestic destination that promises endless year-round sunshine, a pastel color palette, and palm tree-dotted beaches, head to Palm Beach, Florida . Fly into Palm Beach International Airport, and within minutes, you'll cross the bridge to one of the wealthiest yet most approachable zip codes in America — a town beloved for its history and hidden gems.

The Colony Hotel , located just steps from Worth Avenue, the Rodeo Drive of the East Coast, is picture-perfect. Plus, its pink façade, complimentary beach cruisers, green banana leaf wallpaper, chauffeured beach buggy, and poolside frosé bar are practically meant for a weekend with the girls. For a more luxurious option, splurge on a stay at The Breakers , a glamorous resort dating back to the Gilded Age.

Just across the Intracoastal Waterway, West Palm Beach offers more of a downtown feel. Stay at the Hilton West Palm Beach , where yoga, brunch, and District Fit wellness weekends make for the ideal girlfriend getaway, or The Ben , a Marriott Autograph Collection hotel inspired by the pioneering spirit of old Florida. Spruzzo on the rooftop is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Want to up the ante even more? Each September brings Flavor Palm Beach , the restaurant month of the Palm Beaches, and October is Spa & Wellness Month , so plan a trip spanning both for the ultimate weekend away with your besties.

The Palm Beach region tops the list of the best places to visit in Florida , and with the Brightline , you can easily add Fort Lauderdale and Miami to your weekend plans, too.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Make it a spa weekend at Ojo Santa Fe , a lush, 70-acre mirage of sorts tucked into the desert of Santa Fe, New Mexico. For a rejuvenating trip with your girlfriends, plan to relax in the resort's outdoor soaking tubs and dine on farm-fresh meals during your all-inclusive stay. You can also look forward to accommodations in an adobe-style casita and daily wellness-centered activities such as yoga and meditation, horticulture, culinary and art classes, and even puppy play time.

If you want a more urban take on Santa Fe, stay at La Posada de Santa Fe, a Tribute Portfolio Resort & Spa , a charming property that's within walking distance to the Santa Fe School of Cooking , where you can learn to create the traditional flavors of American Southwest cuisine.

California's Pacific Coast Highway

If you've ever dreamed of driving California's scenic Pacific Coast Highway , consider doing it with your girls. This trip comes with mind-blowing views, adorable roadside cafes, and other attractions worth pulling over for (including a Super Bloom , if you time it right).

You can drive the entire West Coast from San Diego to Seattle (though with more than 20 hours of driving, you might need more than a weekend), or just pick a particularly Instagram-worthy stretch, like Los Angeles to San Francisco, which clocks in at around six hours.

Want to skip the hassle of switching off drivers, being cramped in a vehicle, and having to stop for bathrooms and snacks? Tackle the journey by train on Amtrak's Coast Starlight route. You can book seats or sleeper cars and disembark in places like Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Monterey along the way. The rails snake along a cliffside and offer views just as beautiful as the highway approach, minus the drawbacks of driving.

U.S. East Coast on Amtrak

Already trekked the West Coast? Amtrak has an East Coast equivalent to its Coast Starlight adventure: the Silver Service/Palmetto route from Miami to New York City. You can stop in charming Southern cities, historic towns, and major hubs along the way; the route hits West Palm Beach, Orlando, Savannah, Charleston, Raleigh, Richmond, Baltimore, Alexandria, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and many more before arriving in the Big Apple.

Whether you're in it for the food, the photo ops, or the educational opportunities, the Silver Service/Palmetto route is a solid choice for a fun trip with the girls.

Airbnb a Celebrity Home

There's nothing like a good theme to elevate a weekend getaway with the girls. Thanks to Airbnb, you can rent celebrity homes , like the Mexico mansion of Red Hot Chili Peppers' Chad Smith and Sonny and Cher's Hollywood-area bungalow in the trees. If you and your girls have been to every tour since the '70s, taking your super-fandom a step further by staying in Cher's bungalow only seems right.

Florida Keys

If you're dreaming of a tropical island vacation that requires no passport, consider the Florida Keys. From Key Largo to Key West, home of the southernmost point in the continental United States, this destination is packed with easygoing vibes and plenty of relaxing sea breezes.

Book a stay at Bungalows Key Largo , an all-inclusive property populated by stand-alone bungalows; Isla Bella Beach Resort , where every room on the private 24-acre property has an ocean view and oversized outdoor terrace (perfect for lounging with your girls); Playa Largo Resort & Spa , a Marriott Autograph Collection hotel where you can kayak, parasail, snorkel, paddleboard, or learn to sail; Baker's Cay Resort, a Curio Collection by Hilton property; or Little Palm Island Resort & Spa , the only private island resort in the U.S.

No matter where you go in the Keys, expect an adventurous weekend on the water: snorkeling, diving, boating, and fishing are among the water sports on offer.

On land, head to Robbie's in Islamorada to hand-feed massive tarpon. Craving fresh fish? Take it from a local: The Fish House in Key Largo is where you'll find the best fresh catch in the Keys, as it's one of the few remaining restaurants that sources solely from local commercial fishermen and filets all fish on the premises.

Cayman Islands

If you and your girls are up for an adventure, head to the Cayman Islands. Grand Cayman is a quick flight from Miami, and you can fit scuba diving, kitesurfing, sailing, and swimming with stingrays all into one weekend. Stay at Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa on Grand Cayman or Southern Cross Club on Little Cayman and get ready for a tropical take on girl time.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia, is a favorite destination for its food, history, and, of course, irresistible Southern charm. Perry Lane Hotel serves as the perfect weekend launch pad, since it's walking or biking distance to highlights like the Riverwalk, Leopold's Ice Cream , Forsyth Park, Plant Riverside District , and more. Plus, the hotel provides complimentary bicycles to guests.

Of course, you can't go to Savannah without dining at The Olde Pink House , but The Grey , a restaurant and bar in a repurposed Greyhound bus station, is another solid option. Drive to the nearby Wormsloe State Historic Site for a dose of history, have drinks at the underground Alley Cat Lounge after exploring the American Prohibition Museum , and don't forget to close out your day with a ghost tour through Savannah's haunted streets.

Nevada is chock-full of Wild West road trip routes, but the Free-Range Art Highway from Reno to Las Vegas only takes about seven hours, so it's easy to accomplish in a weekend, and you'll pass bizarre roadside art, wide-open deserts, and the ghostly remnants of Gold Rush-era boom towns.

Spend the night at the (haunted) Mizpah Hotel in Tonopah, and make sure to include spots like La Casita , the International Car Forest of the Last Church , Happy Burro (for memorable chili), Rhyolite , and the Goldwell Open Air Museum on your weekend road trip itinerary.

Rent a Tesla or another electric vehicle: This route is the first rollout of the Nevada Electric Highway and has charging stations placed at strategic locations along the way.

New York City

When it comes to putting together an action-packed weekend, you couldn't ask for a destination that offers more to do and see than New York City . Do yourselves a favor and grab a CityPass , which comes with entry to five of New York's top attractions, but also make time for activities like walking the High Line, biking through Central Park, indulging on pizza, and catching a Broadway play. Stay in the heart of the action at Renaissance New York Times Square , which offers a stellar location with views of the flashing neon signs of Times Square. For those who prefer something smaller and more customized, there are plenty of great boutique hotels in New York City as well.

Alexandria, Virginia

Just a few minutes outside of Washington, D.C. sits one of the most charming cities in America: Alexandria, Virginia. Alexandria has history dating back to 1749 and is the hometown of first U.S. president George Washington. Today, it's home to 200 independent restaurants and boutiques (read: amazing shopping and food) and provides quick access to the big-city perks of nearby D.C. while maintaining a slower-paced, small-town feel.

Stay at Hotel Indigo Old Town Alexandria , located just off the main drag of King Street, and hop on and off the free King Street Trolley to explore the historic district. Your girls will love snapping photos in front of the Spite House and Captain's Row, grabbing cocktails at The People's Drug and Captain Gregory's (a speakeasy tucked into a donut shop), and walking the waterfront with a view of D.C. across the Potomac River.

Want to let your hair down and enjoy a vacation with your girls without having to bother with planning, logistics, budgeting, and coordinating schedules? Booking a cruise is a seamless way to get your group on board and make sure everyone's happy — plus, food, drinks, and a wide range of activities are included.

Short cruises are available year-round and head to destinations ranging from the U.S. to the Caribbean, Mexico, and even Europe. Check itineraries from cruise lines like Royal Caribbean , Celebrity Cruises , and Virgin Voyages , which have a classy feel tied with a youthful verve, ideal for a fun-loving group of ladies.

Miami, Florida

No place packs a sizzle quite like Miami, Florida, and your girls will love the contrast of sunny beaches and energetic nightlife. If you want to get the most out of your trip, go in August — it's hot, yes, but it's also the only month when there's an overlap between Miami's spa , restaurant , and hotel months. You can stay in five-star hotels, indulge in luxurious spa treatments, and dine at Miami's best restaurants for an approachable price.

Charlotte, North Carolina

If your girls love a mix of outdoor adventure, amazing food, and city living, then Charlotte, North Carolina, is an ideal weekend getaway option.

Head to the U.S. National Whitewater Center , an official Olympic training site and home of the world's largest man-made whitewater river. Here, you can grab a $75 day pass for unlimited access to activities like rock climbing, bouldering, zip lining, kayaking, yoga, stand-up paddleboarding, and whitewater rafting, all spread across the 1,300-acre complex.

Queen Park Social , a restaurant, bar, and gaming center, is another fun place to play — albeit with less adventurous activities (think old-school string bowling, shuffleboard, Jenga, and arcade-style games).

Optimist Hall is another can't-miss venue in Charlotte. The building underwent $60 million in renovations to transform an old textile mill into a bustling food hall with a wide variety of vendors slinging everything from hot chicken to cold-pressed juices to some of the most delicious dumplings outside of Asia (courtesy of The Dumpling Lady ). And, of course, it's not a trip to the South without some good Carolina-style barbecue. For that, head to Noble Smoke , where melt-in-your-mouth meats are prepared in wood-fired smokers around back.

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs is a perfectly Californian getaway, providing exactly the kind of laid-back vibes you'd expect from SoCal — Coachella season or not. Whether your girls are into hot springs, vintage boutiques, spas, mid-century modern architecture, hiking, or a stylish hotel scene, Palm Springs makes it easy to please. Book a stay at Ace Hotel & Swim Club , a Palm Springs classic.

Tulum, Mexico

Whether your group is after a lively party scene or simply wants to unplug, Tulum delivers. You can check out one of the cenotes, explore Mayan ruins, indulge in an outdoor spa day, or just relax near the ocean. Plus, you'll be able to fill up on fresh fruits, juices, and tasty Mexican cuisine, complete with margaritas straight from the source. When it comes to accommodations, Papaya Playa Project and Nômade are super-photogenic favorites.

Cartagena, Colombia

Located on Colombia's Caribbean coast, Cartagena is a relatively short direct flight from many destinations in the U.S., yet you'll feel as if you've touched down in another world entirely. Expect colorful streets, amazing food, and nights spent salsa dancing, plus artisan goods to shop and beautiful beaches to explore. Wander the walled Old Town with your group and you'll quickly understand Cartagena's appeal.

London, England

If you're departing from the East Coast, spending a long weekend in London is more practical than you'd think — a nonstop flight from New York, for example, takes as little as six and a half hours. It might be a whirlwind weekend, but the chance to squeeze in a walk over the Tower Bridge, an elegant afternoon tea, the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, and hearing the tolling bells of Big Ben with your girls is more than worth it.

ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, or Curaçao)

Longing for a Caribbean getaway? Head to the Dutch-owned ABC Islands: Aruba, Bonaire, or Curaçao. Each presents a European feel splashed with the colorful vibrance of the Caribbean and accented by some of the world's most beautiful beaches. In Curaçao's capital, Willemstad, you can pose in front of stepped gable façades in a rainbow of colors, or visit the blue curaçao distillery.

In Aruba, stay at the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort for access to the hotel's 40-acre private island, home of the Instagram-famous flamingos, and take a class at Island Yoga , opened by Instagram's original yoga celebrity Rachel Brathen . It's the largest yoga studio in the Caribbean.

Lisbon, Portugal

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

With many direct flights available from the U.S., the coastal Portuguese capital of Lisbon is doable in a weekend. A flight from New York takes around six and a half hours, and you'll touch down in a world of wine, rich culture, appealing architecture, and picturesque beaches. Ride the trams, explore Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, walk Pink Street, and snack on all the pastel de nata you can handle.

Providence, Rhode Island

The capital of Rhode Island, Providence, has a lot to love, including Plant City , the world's first plant-based vegan food hall, and WaterFire , an awe-inspiring downtown celebration that involves dramatic fire and art displays along the Providence and Woonasquatucket rivers. Providence has a big-city feel with many trendy bars, restaurants, and hotels, yet is far more laid-back than your typical urban break.

Looking to get out of the city? Head to Bristol on Mount Hope Bay and stay at the historic Bradford-Dimond-Norris House , a family-run bed-and-breakfast, and dig into fresh New England seafood at The Lobster Pot .

Orlando, Florida

David Pavlina/Travel + Leisure

Sure, it's one of the busiest destinations in the country, but there's a reason for its popularity: Orlando, Florida, is packed with things to do for all ages.

You and your girls can don matching Mickey ears and hop between Disney's four parks for the weekend, or opt for adrenaline-filled thrills and Harry Potter magic at Universal's parks (or both). Stay in one of the many Disney-sanctioned properties with easy access to the parks, such as Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek , and relax at your resort in between park visits.

Dine at Disney Springs just outside the parks — Wine Bar George has girls' night written all over it — or Bigfire at CityWalk , which connects Universal Studios and Universal's Islands of Adventure, for a buzzy late night on the town.

Alternatively, head away from the parks to spots like East End Market , where both Domu and Gideon's Bakehouse cookies are a must, Mia's Italian Kitchen for bottomless brunch, Plant Street Market (on-site Crooked Can Brewing Company is a local favorite), or ritzy Winter Park for the best of central Florida without the crowds.

The West Orange Trail is another perfect Orlando activity if you're tired of tourists and theme park lines. You can rent a bicycle from Bikes and Blades and explore a peaceful, lesser-known side of the area, complete with oak canopies and lakeside views.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is a great pick for a city break, even during its famously frigid winters. In the colder months, you can go ice skating, treat yourself to over-the-top hot chocolate creations, sip wine in riverside "igloos," and warm up over a shared deep-dish pizza. Summers in Chicago are even more glorious — it's the perfect time to hit up the city's festivals, beaches, and rooftop bars.

No matter the season, stay at the historic Palmer House , home of one of the most stunning Art Deco lobbies in the world; book tickets for a play; and stop by Goddess and the Baker for a slice of rainbow cake and a gold glitter latte.

Located around 80 miles off the coast of Florida, the Bahamas is a surprisingly easy-to-reach island destination. Whether you head to Nassau or one of the Out Islands, you're in for a weekend of relaxing, sipping cocktails, filling up on fresh conch ceviche, and just enjoying everything that makes a tropical vacation so dreamy.

Stay at any of the three resort properties at Baha Mar or opt for a room at Atlantis , the ultimate in Bahamian indulgence — The Cove has an adults-only pool and a more upscale vibe. Book your group a wine-blending class at colorful Bahama Barrels by Graycliff and you'll each get to blend your very own bottle of vino to take home as a souvenir. And, of course, work in plenty of beach and pool time.

Montréal, Canada

For a city break with cute alleys, cafés, and cobblestone streets, head to Montréal in Canada's French-speaking region of Québec. You and your girls can fill up on poutine (and enjoy the rest of the city's thriving food scene), hike Mount Royal, wander historic Old Montréal, ride the La Grande Roue de Montréal Ferris wheel, visit the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal, and enjoy a breath of fresh air at the Montréal Botanical Garden. Book a hotel in the Old Town for both charm and a convenient location near Montréal's many highlights.

17 Unique and Affordable Girls’ Weekend Getaways in the U.S.

When you think of girls’ weekend getaways, what comes to mind? Sun, shopping, spa, wine? Sure, me too. Those are always fun things to do with friends. But your next girls’ trip doesn’t need to be to popular but pricey hot spots like Charleston, Nashville, Napa , Santa Fe, Las Vegas, or Key West . It is time to think a little out of the box.

Since the purpose of a girlfriend getaway is the time you spend together, there are so many fun spots to have a girls’ getaway that don’t have to cost an arm-and-a-leg. These are some trip ideas that will also let you try something new, learn something, or have a unique bonding experience in destinations that may never have dawned on you as being perfect for a girls’ trip.

Unique Destinations for Girls’ Weekend Getaways

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Living in New England, Maine has become my go-to girls’ weekend getaway destination, especially for my friends that love the outdoors and adventure as much as I do! My friend Kim and I have spent a girl’s trip relaxing at a cabin in Moosehead Lake . Our days were filled with hiking, moose safaris, naps, and laughter while our evenings were spent reading, talking, cooking, and drinking wine together.

My friend Tracy and I took a trip from Portland, Maine to the Inn at Diamond Cove . After enjoying lobster and shopping in Portland, we took the ferry to Great Diamond Island for a relaxing and car-free stay. We spent our days exploring the island, searching for sea glass, and relaxing on private beaches and our evenings enjoying fine dining and beautiful sunsets.

This past summer, my friend Michelle and I had a unique adventure on the Schooner Heritage , a Maine Windjammer that cruises out of Rockland, Maine. We made friends with fellow passengers, helped the crew raise and lower the sails, and enjoyed the scenic views of the Maine coast — topped off with an authentic Maine lobster bake on a deserted beach.

Whether you prefer mountains and lakes or Maine’s rocky coast, there is a unique girls’ trip location waiting for you in Maine.

2. Fort Wayne, Indiana

Fort Wayne has two big claims to fame — Vera Bradley and the Genealogy Center, which is the nation’s second-largest genealogy collection, and a great place to research family history. Yes, the Vera Bradley Annual Outlet Sale is a great time to visit and shop on a girl’s trip, but there is plenty more to enjoy in Fort Wayne for a weekend getaway.

Start off by renting kayaks, bikes, or paddle boards from Fort Wayne Outfitters and explore the riverfront in Promenade Park. Afterward, check out The Landing neighborhood, which used to be where canal boats docked to unload goods. In this new food and entertainment district, you can fill up at The Landing Beer Company or enjoy farm-to-fork dining at Tolon. Fort Wayne is also home to one of the largest Burmese populations outside of Thailand so you may want to sample authentic Burmese dishes at restaurants like Mahnin.

Your gal pals will also love searching out some of the murals that are part of Fort Wayne’s growing public art scene, shopping at great downtown boutiques, and sampling the goods at DeBrand Fine Chocolates.

Where to stay: Fort Wayne’s new boutique hotel — The Bradley , which was created in partnership between Vera Bradley co-founder, Barbara Bradley Baekgaard, and Provenance Hotels.

3. Glacier Country, Montana

If you are looking for an outdoor adventure combined with cute towns, local breweries and distilleries, and one-of-a-kind adventures, head to Glacier Country in Western Montana. My friend Keryn and I recently came back from a Montana girlfriend getaway and we had the best time just reconnecting and enjoying nature.

From the epic views of Glacier National Park to the lesser-trod gems like the Kootenai Falls and Suspension Bridge or Ross Creek Cedars, you won’t run out of room or fun ways to get outdoors. A highlight of our trip was getting to try llama trekking and I’m convinced this is the best way to hike!

Where to stay: For a short stay, fly in and out of Missoula and stay at the Residence Inn Missoula downtown where you can walk to cute boutiques, restaurants, day spas, and cocktail bars. For a small-town setting, book a cabin at Bridge Street Cottages in Big Fork, Montana.

4. Franklin, Tennessee

Just a half-hour south of Nashville lies the cutest little downtown with a great American Main Street that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There is a reason the town has appeared in so many Hallmark movies! In downtown Franklin, you will find unique shops, restaurants, antique stores, entertainment, and the arts. It is also a great spot to explore Civil War history or take some tasting tours at local distilleries on a day trip along the Masters & Makers Trail.

If you want to stay active, try paddle boarding on the Harpeth River, bike out to Leiper’s Fork, or challenge yourself at the SOAR Adventure Park.  Nearby you can also explore sections of the Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile “All American” national scenic byway, which follows the course of the ancient trace traveled for centuries by tradesmen and Native Americans from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee.

A photo with your friends in front of the double arch bridge is the perfect memento for your trip. Be sure to check out the Visit Franklin website to see if you can coordinate your visit with any of the area’s fun festivals or events.

Where to stay: The Harpeth Franklin Downtown , a Curio Collection by Hilton property, which is just steps away from Main Street.

5. El Paso, Texas

El Paso, Texas is one of those unexpected spots for a girls’ getaway. I visited with my friend Kim a few years ago and it was great because she was coming from the West Coast and I was from the East Coast, so we got to meet somewhat in the middle and experience something new. It was a fun mix of adventure, eating, drinking, and shopping in the American Southwest.

You can’t miss browsing at some of the boot factory outlets around town. We even had a chance to watch some of the master bookmakers in action at the Lucchese factory before I snagged a new pair of snazzy boots.

We also explored downtown and had fun with our Instagram poses in front of the many murals. I developed a fondness for all things green chili, while we slugged down margaritas the size of our heads and steaks the size of a platter. Don’t worry, we worked some of it off hiking in Franklin Mountain State Park (even did a little spelunking!) and off-roading at Red Sands, where I learned I’m terrible at driving an ATV. To chill out, we popped into nearby New Mexico for some wine tasting at local wineries.

Where to stay : Hotel Indigo was perfect for a girl’s trip with a rooftop pool and bar and lots of local flair.

6. Buffalo, New York

If you love a destination with a great urban transformation story, it is time to check out Buffalo, New York. In recent years, Buffalo has redeveloped its waterfront and revitalized neighborhoods with over $1 billion in new investment. History lovers can explore the robust history of this region, from its original Senecan inhabitants to its time as the Gateway to the West on the Eerie Canal, to its critical role in the Underground Railroad. Once home to many wealthy industrialists, the city has a number of Frank Lloyd Wright homes and restored architecture.

What may really surprise you is the city’s rising prominence as a foodie destination. Famous for the spicy wings first introduced at the Anchor Bar, there are many other “ must eat” foods in Buffalo, from sponge candy to beef on weck sandwiches. Follow the many food trails, experience the international flavors brought to the city by immigrants from Southeast Asia and Africa, and check out some of the city’s burgeoning craft beer purveyors. Read about my recent girls’ trip to Buffalo !

Where to stay: Hotel at the Lafayette is a boutique hotel built in 1904. This landmark French Renaissance-style hotel was designed by Louise Blanchard Bethune, the first American female architect, making it perfect for a girls’ weekend.

7. Oceanside, California

If you are looking for a SoCal beach getaway, skip the tourist spots and head to Oceanside. Located between LA and San Diego, you can even access Oceanside on the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner train for a car-free trip. This beach town has a laid-back vibe with gorgeous beaches, a historic wooden pier, a quaint New England-style harbor, and charming bungalow neighborhoods.

You can explore surf culture at the California Surf Museum, or take a surf lesson and catch some waves yourselves. O’side (as locals affectionately call it), is a perfect spot for outdoor adventures from paddle boarding and biking to bucket list activities like sky diving and helicopter tours. Movie fans will get a kick out of seeing the Top Gun house, while shopping aficionados will enjoy strolling through The Rising Co., a fun makers space/co-op with several noteworthy local artisans such as Rais Case, which makes handmade leather goods. Read about my recent Southern California girls’ trip to Oceanside!

Where to stay: Mission Pacific Hotel has a rooftop pool and a fun bohemian style, and ocean views, and is a fun alternative located in the heart of downtown is The Fin Hotel , part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton. This 26-room boutique hotel is in a historic building with many of the original architectural and design details, but modernized rooms.

8. Outer Banks, North Carolina

The beach house rentals available in the Outer Banks make it a perfect laid-back, girls’ trip destination for a large friend group. This was actually where I used to go with my college girlfriends back in my 20s, but it is still a perfect pick decades later. In addition to enjoying the beach and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, you can get your thrills by trying out hang gliding off the 90-foot sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge.

Seafood fans can explore the newly-launched North Carolina Oyster Trail, and then stop at a few of the local breweries. A visit to Roanoke will take you back to America’s earliest colonial history, and a climb to the top of America’s tallest brick lighthouse in Cape Hatteras will make a perfect photo opp to remember your trip.

Where to stay : Browse the vacation rental homes on vrbo .

9. Cincinnati, Ohio

The Queen City rises to the top of the list when considering the perfect midwest destination for a girlfriend getaway.  Situated along the scenic Ohio River, Cincinnati surprises visitors with an array of entertainment, an eclectic food scene, and plenty of lively happenings. 

The first stop on any girlfriend getaway is Cincinnati’s historic neighborhood, Over-The-Rhine (OTR). This neighborhood has seen a massive transformation over the past decade, shaping it into today’s incredible destination. OTR is full of boutique shops, cocktail bars, craft breweries, and some of the city’s best food. Don’t miss favorites such as the Eagle’s fried chicken, a classic donut from Holtman’s, or gourmet tacos from Bakersfield. 

Downtown, you will find the Aronoff Center for the Arts for those looking to catch a Broadway performance. Before you the show you can try to snag dinner reservations at nearby Sotto or Nada. 

A girlfriend getaway is never complete without a mimosa or bloody mary! Cincinnati’s brunch scene is booming, offering creative dishes, and fresh local ingredients in an upbeat atmosphere.  Splurge on an exquisite brunch buffet at the Orchids of Palm Court or dine at a must-visit spot like Taste of Belgium. While the Taste of Belgium is known for its decant waffles, they also serve various traditional Belgium recipes with a twist. 

Step into one of Cincinnati’s gorgeous museums and exhibits like the Cincinnati Art Museum in Eden Park, Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, and the Cincinnati Contemporary Arts Center.   Enhance your art experience by touring the city with a self-guided walking tour of the downtown Artworks Murals. While there are over 130 murals throughout the city’s regions, many popular ones are found downtown and  OTR. Cap off any visit to Cincinnati with a stroll along the lovely riverwalk at Smale Riverfront Park while enjoying a scoop of Graeter’s Ice Cream. 

Where to stay: 21c Museum Hotel is located in the heart of the Queen City and this unique modern hotel offers a luxurious spa, a beautiful rooftop bar, and a contemporary art museum. 

10. Providence, Rhode Island

The “Creative Capital” of the country’s smallest state is a great New England girls’ weekend destination . Perfect for foodies, you can spend your whole weekend seeking out the city’s best restaurants, breweries, food trucks, and pop-ups. Or, make it easy and take a food tour with Rhode Island Reds.

Get your exercise by biking the East Bay Bike Path, kayaking through downtown with Providence Kayaks, or climbing College Hill and finishing with a walk across the Pedestrian Bridge. The best boutique shopping is found on Westminster Street or in Wayland Square. For relaxation, book a treatment at the Bodhi hydrotherapy spa.

Where to stay: Hotel Providence is an ideal boutique hotel option in the heart of downtown, or pick the Dean Hotel for something funky. The new aLoft Providence also has a great location and a fun roof-top bar.

11. Door County, Wisconsin

If you want a unique destination for a girlfriend getaway, Kirsten from Kids are a Trip suggests heading to Door County, Wisconsin where you will find shopping, delicious food, and a wine trail, as well as countless outdoor adventures. Door County sits at the tip of a peninsula north of Green Bay. Surrounded by water on three sides, the peninsula is a dream getaway with breathtaking scenery, a thriving artist community, and endless opportunities for fun.

Door County is a popular Midwest summer and fall destination. The popular Door County Wine trail, which includes stops at eight local wineries, is a perfect part of a girls’ trip. There are cute local shops all over the peninsula, but take extra time to walk and explore downtown Fish Creek. It’s situated right on the water and there are some lovely restaurants. The historic White Gull Inn has a delicious French toast with cherry cream cheese filling that everyone should try once in their life. 

Be sure to leave time to explore Door County’s five state parks where visitors can try everything from kayaking to exploring the island’s lighthouses (there are 11 of them). Your group should also make plans to attend a local fish boil. Door County was settled by Scandinavian immigrants and a fish boil was part of their culture. Many local restaurants prepare the fish according to traditional methods and tell stories along with the meal. It’s definitely a fun night out.

Door County also has a lavender farm (Washington Island), you-pick orchards (cherries and apples depending on the season), and seasonal festivals. There is truly something for everyone in Door County.

Where to stay: There are vacation rentals all over Door County, but consider choosing a place that is within walking distance of shops and amenities. Ephraim and Fish Creek are good choices. For a hotel stay consider Ashbrooke Hotel in Egg Harbor, Edgewater Resort in Ephraim, or White Gull Inn in Fish Creek. 

12. Excelsior Springs, Missouri

Back in its heyday in the late 1800s, Excelsior Springs drew hundreds of tourists and families hoping to drink or soak in the supposedly healing mineral waters from the dozens of springs and wells on the hillsides. The springs are long closed, but now the Missouri town near Kansas City is a relaxing destination for girlfriends who want a little pampering. Kim from Oh My! Omaha recommends the fabulous spa and accommodations at The Elms Hotel & Spa , a historic hotel. 

The hotel’s lavish outdoor pool is an attraction in the summer, but the indoor spa is a year-round treat. The hotel’s spa is well known for The Grotto, think modern Roman bath with a steam sauna, cold plunge shower, steam shower, and an exfoliation bar. Within walking distance to the hotel, you can stop at a lively brewery called Dubious Claims and hit the shops, including the Willow Springs Mercantile, which features goods made by Missouri artisans.

If wine’s more of your crew’s style, visit the nearby wineries, like VanTill Family Farm & Winery or Fence Stile Winery, which offers private wine cave tours paired with candlelit wine tasting.

13. Tempe, Arizona

If you crave some desert sunshine and a great winter escape, head to Tempe, Arizona for a girls’ trip . This small city just outside of Phoenix is home to Arizona State University, so it has the energy of a college town with the amenities of a city. Hike up to “A” Mountain for a spectacular sunrise or sunset, kayak on Tempe Town Lake, e-bike through the city, and visit the Desert Botanical Gardens.

Make sure to enjoy some great tacos, take pictures by murals, and plan an adventure like hot air ballooning or horseback riding through the desert.

Where to stay: Tempe Mission Palms Hotel and Conference Center is a perfect spot for hiking A mountain or taking the light rail from the airport and it even has a rooftop pool (although only on the second floor.)  If you are looking for something on the trendier side, you will want to stay at either The Westin Tempe , with the tallest rooftop lounge and bar in the East Valley, or the Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown , which offers a rooftop pool for guests.

14. Finger Lakes, New York

If your girlfriend group includes a few wine aficionados, skip Napa and head to the Finger Lakes Region in New York. Whether you stay in Ithaca or Watkins Glen on Seneca Lake , you have your choice of wine trails, state parks, and waterfalls.

Make sure you include a sunset cruise on the lake and a visit to a local farm to taste freshly-made cheeses, ice cream, or fresh produce. You can even visit an alpaca farm and take the animals for a stroll.

Where to stay: W atkins Glen Harbor Hotel is located right on Seneca Lake and offers beautiful views, yet is a short walk into downtown or Watkins Glen State Park.

15. Manchester, Vermont

If you want to explore country roads, charming towns, and beautiful scenery, a Vermont girls’ trip is just the thing. Stay in artsy Brattleboro, historic Bennington, shopping-central Manchester, or charming Woodstock. You will find ample hiking to help work off all the cheese, beer, and maple syrup you will sample along the way.

Where to stay: Kimpton Taconic Hotel in Manchester is within walking distance to the town’s many restaurants and shops, including my favorite the Northshire Bookstore. You will also find plenty of designer outlet shopping nearby.

16. Orange Beach, Alabama

During spring break and the summer, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are brimming with families. However, if you can go in the shoulder season, you can still enjoy the soft, white-sand beaches without the crowds (you just may not get much of a suntan.)

Off the water, you can fill your days indulging in the region’s tasty cuisine, visit a spa, or even make your own bath products. From dolphin watching to sunset catamarans, and paddle boards to kayaks, there are so many ways to enjoy Orange Beach. A girl’s trip wouldn’t be complete without an evening at the famous Flor-a-Bama bar.

Where to stay: Rent a condo overlooking the Gulf at Turquoise Place , complete with indoor pools and a lazy river.

17. St. Augustine, Florida

For anyone seeking the fountain of youth (and aren’t well all?), head to St. Augustine, Florida for a girlfriend getaway . Located on Florida’s northeastern “Historic Coast”, is the oldest continuously-inhabited city in the United States so it is a great destination for history buffs, but the beach is also nearby.

Have fun exploring the charming downtown on a ghost tour, food tour, or trolley tour. You can also tour local distilleries or try local craft breweries to wash down all that yummy local food.

Where to stay: Stay downtown at the historic St. Francis Inn Bed and Breakfast to easily walk to all the local downtown attractions.

Looking for more ideas?

• 16 Awesome movie locations to visit on your next girls’ trip
• How to plan a girls’ trip cruise
• Experience the thrill of an Iceland girls’ road trip

Tamara is an over 50, award-winning travel writer, and recent empty nester based in Rhode Island. After years of writing about family travel on We3Travel and inspiring wanderlust as co-host of the Vacation Mavens family travel podcast, she started Your Time to Fly as a place to share ideas for girlfriend getaways, romantic escapes, and solo female travel for midlife women.

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Because life's too short to stay home …, 50 great girlfriend getaways, looking for ideas here are fun trips for every season..

© Sue Ann Schwanke

When women want to find the perfect travel companions, they know where to look: each other.

On the road, women can be more adventurous and spontaneous than they are at home. They also tend to laugh a lot more.

I've traveled with friends, sisters and nieces more than 50 times in the last 20 years. We like to do all kinds of things: Amish tours, eagle-watching, horseback-riding, tennis camp and tubing at indoor water parks and on rivers.

We're too frugal to go to destination spas, but once we fashioned a do-it-yourself spa weekend. We like to shop as much as anyone, as long as we also get to hike, bike or ski.

I've learned that the most important thing is finding a cozy place to talk and sip wine. My friends still talk fondly about the 1943 Finnish log cabin on Minnesota's North Shore-which I made them leave one night to see a play about a woman dying of cancer.

It was a good play, but I still feel a little guilty. Fortunately, friends always forgive you.

Almost any trip makes a good girlfriend getaway. If you're looking for ideas, here's my own Fab Fifty. Nearly all of them work for trips with men, too.

For planning tips, see Where the girls are .

For best trips by month, see 12 months of girlfriend getaways .

For trips in hunting season, see November girlfriend getaways .

For budget getaways, see Cheap trips .

Here are late-fall ideas.

Shipwreck tour of Minnesota's North Shore . Four of us headed to Lake Superior on a tour of shipwreck sites narrated by me (with the help of a book) and a stay at the Finn House, a 1943 log cottage on a point near Lutsen.

Spa getaway to Duluth . A November stay at Fitger's included a half-day of treatments at a day spa in the historic brewery complex, where there's shopping, live music, a brewpub and a theater under the same roof.

© Beth Gauper

Amish tours in southeast Minnesota . We've done this twice, once in fall and once to do some Christmas shopping in early December. It's always fascinating.

Shopping at the Mall of America . This mammoth shopping center is irresistible to hard-core shoppers, and there's no tax on clothing or shoes. It's at its best on a sunny day midweek.

Here are winter ideas.

Christmas in Minneapolis . A girlfriend and I had a luxurious but budget-conscious holiday weekend, with two-for-one ballet tickets, happy hour, nightclub-hopping, a parade and a deal at a chic hotel.

Winter in Lanesboro . I took my sister, visiting from Florida, to this bluff-country burg in December to see a play, tour B&Bs, shop at the arts center and walk the Root River State Trail. Lodging rates drop when the bicycling season ends, and when there's snow, you can ski the trail.

Eagle-watching in Wabasha . We've traveled to this Mississippi River bald-eagle hot spot twice, once in an unseasonably warm December, when we hiked in the forest above town and stayed at a B&B, and once on a chilly January weekend.

January shopping in Stillwater . Tourists crowd into this St. Croix River Valley town in summer and fall, but winter is the time to find great deals in clothing stores and antiques shops.

Skiing in Itasca State Park . The cozy, inexpensive hostel on Lake Itasca is perfect for singles, and I've stayed there twice, once with a friend and her young daughter and once with my sister, nieces and daughter, both times skiing the trails of this scenic northern Minnesota park. BUDGET .

Naniboujou Lodge on Minnesota's North Shore . You'll find serenity and good food at this 1929 classic lodge right on Lake Superior, with snowshoeing/hiking across the highway at Judge C.R. Magney State Park. There's no nightlife, though Grand Marais is 10 miles down the road.

Skiing in Afton State Park . At this village on the St. Croix River, just east of the Twin Cities, we skied downhill at Afton Alps and cross-country at Afton State Park , which has camper cabins. BUDGET .

Cross-country skiing in Duluth . We rented a cottage on Park Point, shopped at Dewitt-Seitz Marketplace and skied the lighted trails of Lester Park on the east side of town and the hillier trails of Magney-Snively Park in West Duluth.

Skiing on the Gunflint Trail . At the end of March, we found ski heaven on the beautifully groomed trails around Bearskin and Golden Eagle lodges.

Skiing in Winona . We followed an early March blizzard down to this Mississippi River town, taking a guided moonlight snowshoe trek at nearby Whitewater State Park and skiing at scenic St. Mary's University.

Here are summer ideas.

Swimming holes on the North Shore . One July, my sister, nieces and daughter rented the Illgen Falls cabin on the Baptism River in Tettegouche State Park. The waterfall outside our door was refreshing, but we also got to cool off in a swimming hole just upstream.

Tubing in Lanesboro . Early one June, my niece and I spent an unusually warm weekend tubing on the Root River and bicycling and in-line skating on the state trail.

Tennis camp in St. Peter . A girlfriend and I spent a weekend playing non-stop at the renowned Tennis & Life program at Gustavus Adolphus College in this Minnesota River town.

Tubing the Rum River . One August, a girlfriend and I escaped 95-degree heat floating near Isanti, an hour north of the Twin Cities.

Here are fall ideas.

Brainerd Lakes outdoors . In the old mining town of Crosby, Minn., two friends and I rode on the Cuyuna Lakes State Trail. In nearby Pine River, we hiked and went horseback-riding.

Shopping in Red Wing . An antiques-loving friend and I hit the shops, stayed at the St. James Hotel and saw a show at the Sheldon Theatre.

Antiquing in Lindstrom . An antiques-savvy girlfriend and I got on a motorcoach with other women and went on a field trip to towns in this Swedish area.

Shopping and a concert in Northfield . I've taken fall trips to this college town south of the Twin Cities twice with girlfriends and twice with my husband. It's a good place to find interesting stocking stuffers and go to a free concert at St. Olaf College.

A class at Wolf Ridge Environment Learning Center on the North Shore . A friend and I took a class on "Zen and the Art of Photography," with late-fall colors as a bonus.

These non-profit centers offer many low-cost weekends; see Minnesota's environmental learning centers .

A cabin on the North Shore . A trip on the last weekend of October-between the super-packed Minnesota school break and the start of the Minnesota firearms deer season-probably is our favorite trip.

We've taken three of them. We rent a cozy cabin on Lake Superior, hike trails up and down the shore, play games and drink wine. One year, we also toured the Ship of Ghouls in Duluth's harbor.

Holiday shopping in Madison . We made a November foray to State Street, Monroe Street and to the Winter Art Festival at Monona Terrace, with an evening concert.

Wisconsin Dells in November . I took my twenty-something niece and teen daughter to try out a new indoor water park and take advantage of discounts, which are best in November and December.

Skiing and museum-hopping around Superior . We skied by candlelight in Brule River State Forest and by daylight at Superior Municipal Forest and heard colorful stories about local celebrities at the Bong World War II Heritage Center and Fairlawn Mansion.

Ski class in Eagle River . We took our first stab at skate-skiing at Trees for Tomorrow environmental-learning center and skied nearby trails.

Snowshoeing and skiing along Wisconsin's Wolf River . A girlfriend and I went on a "snowshoe and massage weekend" at Bearpaw Outdoor Adventure Resort in Nicolet National Forest, where the snow nearly always is plentiful.

Skiing around Spring Green . We stayed at the Frank Lloyd Wright-style House on the Rock Resort, shopped in the many galleries and skied at nearby Governor Dodge State Park.

Spring Green also is a good destination in summer and fall, especially if you like to shop and it's your birthday. For more, see Wisconsin's birthday town .

Skiing in Cable . A girlfriend and I stayed at the old Telemark Resort and skied, tubed, took a sleigh ride and sat in the hot tub.

Skiing around Wausau . We skied cross-country and went to the local art museum; there's also the fine Granite Peak downhill slope, snowshoeing in a state park and tubing in a county park.

St. Patrick's Day skiing at Whitecap Mountains near Hurley . We worked on our tans on this scenic slope in northeast Wisconsin and across the Michigan border at Big Powderhorn.

Here are spring ideas.

A bluffside cottage in Fountain City . I took my daughter and one of her girlfriends to stay at the Hawks View Cottages in this Mississippi River town and see the Prairie Moon Sculpture Garden and Rock in the House.

Indoor water parks of the Wisconsin Dells . This is a popular spring-break trip, and I took one with a friend and our daughters and once with a surfer friend who wanted to try out the Kalahari's FlowRider.

On the trail of famous Wisconsin naturalists near Baraboo . One May, we toured Aldo Leopold's famous shack, visited the International Crane Foundation and John Muir's childhood home and walked in Parfrey's Glen, Wisconsin's first natural area.

Beer in La Crosse . A sister and I toured the brewery, went to a musical and watched eagles from Grandad Bluff. There's more to do in summer and fall.

Bird-watching along the Chippewa River . One May, a bird-watching friend and I rented a cabin on the Chippewa River near Durand and got onto a mini-train car to go birding in the Tiffany Bottoms area of the river.

Variety in Door County . This is the perfect destination for women who like a lot of choice. You can go the indulgence route-shopping, taking cruises and cooking classes, visiting wineries and spas-or ride bikes, swim at beaches and hike in parks and nature sanctuaries.

I like to go in early June or late August, when the weather is good, it's not crowded and you can good deals on lodgings.

Tubes and beer in Chippewa Falls . One warm day, a girlfriend and I traveled to Chippewa Falls, Wis., to tour the Leinenkugel's brewery and take a leisurely tube float down the Chippewa River.

Exploring the Wisconsin River . A girlfriend and her sister showed me their favorite spots to paddle, hike and shop around the twin towns of Prairie du Sac and Sauk City.

Brewery and pub tour of southern Wisconsin . A fellow beer lover and I made a pilgrimage from Capital Brewery in Madison to Mount Horeb, Mineral Point, New Glarus and Janesville.

Walking in Lake Geneva . You can walk the 20-mile lakeshore path past Gilded Age mansions or you can walk the shop-lined streets of downtown-your choice.

Locals say September is the best month, when the summer crowds are gone but the fall-color rush hasn't started. May and early June also are good times to go.

Black Hawk's trail and the Mississippi River . A girlfriend and I spent a September weekend in Wisconsin's Vernon County following the flight of Black Hawk in 1832, making stops at scenic river overlooks and attending Pickwick Mill Day in the bluffs south of Winona.

Vineyard tour of the Wisconsin River Valley . Five of us made a harvest-time trip up the Wisconsin River, from Spurgeon Vineyards near Muscoda to Botham near Barneveld and Wollersheim in Prairie du Sac, with stops to hike and enjoy the fall colors.

Shopping in southwest Wisconsin . Six of us made a pre-Christmas foray, stopping at the Company Store outlet in La Crosse, five stores that sell cut-rate Land's End catalog returns, the galleries of Mineral Point and a shoe emporium.

Cornish Fest in Mineral Point . Four of us took a trip to our favorite shopping town, this time for the late-September Cornish Fest and a stay at the lovely Maple Wood Lodge. While we were there, we took a swing through cheese country, visiting New Glarus and Monroe .

Ethnic neighborhoods of Chicago . One Memorial Day, a girlfriend and I watched the parade downtown, then toured the East Indian, Swedish and Chinese neighborhoods, stuffing ourselves with samosas, almond pastries and dim sum.

Chicago has something for everyone in every season-foodies, museum lovers, baseball fans, bicyclists and, of course, shoppers. For more, see Chicago as you like it .

Getaway to Galena . Strangely, I've been to this classic chick town only alone, with my preteen son and with my husband. Needless to say, women love its shops and inns.

Bicycling between St. Charles, Geneva and Batavia . This is the perfect trip if you have a group that likes a leisurely bike ride as well as shopping: On the 40-mile Fox River Trail, you can ride from shop to shop (and from bakery to gelateria).

More good getaways

Any art fair makes a good destination in summer: For more, see Art al fresco .

Roller derbies are a blast, since they're all about women having fun together and being goofy. There are teams in most cities; check for the ones nearest you.

Many community-education programs offer inexpensive motorcoach trips targeted at women, often visits to antiques or resale shops.

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14 Top Girlfriend Getaways

Gather up those college roommates or far-flung female family members for a long-overdue girlfriend getaway of pampering and togetherness. From renting a farmhouse in Tuscany to taking cooking classes on Florida's Amelia Island to camping out in the middle of crowded New York City, each of these trips is ideal for bonding, relaxing, and learning something new. 

Scottsdale, Arizona , has long been synonymous with spa resorts. In fact, Scottsdale is believed to have more spas per capita than any other place in the United States. Unwind at the Willow Stream Spa at   the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess , where the open-air rooftop pool (pictured) is a huge draw. Even if you're not a guest at the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa , you can hang out and use its facilities all day just by booking a treatment. And in nearby Paradise Valley, the  Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort  invites contemplative interludes in the meditation garden or by the reflecting pond.

Massages and skin treatments always go over well on girlfriend getaways—but with so many spas around, how can you sort out the good from the so-so? And how can you find the best deals? Search  Spafinder for information on treatments and rates at facilities around the country, or just for ideas for destinations you might not have thought about before. Some of our faves: Tucson's  Miraval Arizona   (Oprah likes this one, too), Carrillon Miami Wellness Resort   (pictured), and  The Peninsula Chicago .

Wine lovers already know about California's Napa and Sonoma. For a different type of wine vacation, head up to Oregon's Willamette Valley   (pictured)   for award-winning vintages or to the  Columbia Gorge region straddling the Washington border for tastings and tours among waterfall-laden scenery. A stay at the Allison Inn & Spa   puts you close to Willamette's 200 vineyards, whereas the historic Columbia Gorge Hotel & Spa   is an hour's drive from Mt. Hood and what oenophiles call "a world of wines in 40 miles." Visit Travel Oregon for suggested routes and planning tips for both the Willamette Valley and Columbia Gorge regions.

It's hard to go wrong with a trip that starts with champagne and pastries. In April, May, August, and October, the Ritz-Carlton on Florida's  Amelia Island  puts on a Salt Cooking School .  Each of these one-day events centers on a certain theme, such as Latin street food or dinner party hors d'oeuvres. Guests arrive at 9am and are treated to breakfast as chefs outline the menu for the day. Everybody leaves with an apron, recipe book, and significantly improved cooking skills. 

Additionally, the hotel offers a weekend-long vacation once a year called the  Salt and Savor Culinary Weekend .  This event, while pricey, is an incredible opportunity to experience two days of hands-on cooking instruction from the chefs of the Ritz-Carlon themselves. The package also includes a daily breakfast, valet parking, more aprons, and take-home recipes.

If you and your friends are serious about food, DISH runs a culinary boot camp  to get cooking skills up to speed. Admittedly, the program is more of a skills-related immersion experience than a by-the-books vacation, but intensive learning can be rewarding—and just think of the incredible dinner parties you'll throw afterwards. Boot camps are offered year-round for two, three, four, or five days at locations in New York, Texas, and California.

For extra-special occasions, Italy is the ultimate destination for a friends' trip. There's no better place to indulge in food and wine while also learning a little bit about art and history. Consider renting a Tuscan farmhouse to immerse yourself in the medieval past; in addition to searching Airbnb and its major competitors for options, don't forget about smaller outfits such as  Papavero Villa Rentals . You'll explore historic cities filled with Gothic architecture and world-renowned artistic treasures, then return to the surrounding countryside to savor wines—and views. No one in the group will ever forget it. 

For those who find New York City  overwhelming at times, Governors Island , a long-abandoned military base in the middle of the Hudson River, is a breath of fresh air. All it takes is a short ferry ride from Lower Manhattan or Brooklyn Bridge Park to be transported to a natural wonder right in the city. Rent a bike from  Blazing Saddles   or a surrey that can accommodate you and up to three friends, and explore the island's parks, art installations, old military buildings, and food vendors, all while taking in prime views of the skyline.

At night, head over to   Collective Governors Island ,  a luxury campsite where tents are tricked out with upscale amenities including Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and, in some cases, private bathrooms with rain-style spa showers and private decks with reclining chairs. You can have dinner at the onsite restaurant   or barbecue your own eats at a personal grill before grabbing a spot around the communal campfire to make s'mores with your friends and fellow glampers.

Groups that have noble aspirations—and sizable budgets—can reserve a Duchess Room at  Dukes hotel in London . A staff member escorts you to the door and handles all room service and housekeeping inquiries. Small touches—fresh flowers, a fruit bowl, bedroom slippers—can make all the difference after a long flight. The five-star boutique hotel, less than a 15-minute walk from  Buckingham Palace , offers high tea in the afternoon. The 90-room hotel is also close to gourmet food emporium Fortnum & Mason  (a favorite of the royals), along with classic luxury brands such as Chanel and YSL on Old Bond Street.

There's no shortage of all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico. If you've had your fill of those, look further north in the Atlantic and give Bermuda a try.  The Reefs Resort & Club   offers ocean views from every guest room—and from the bathrooms. At this luxury hotel, lounging on the private pink-sand beach is practically required. Exuding warm hospitality, the Reefs serves afternoon tea daily and has resources to help you explore the island. Girlfriend getaway–themed packages may include spa credits or a special three-course dinner at one of three onsite restaurants.

Airfare to Hawaii seems to get cheaper all the time , so there's really no excuse not to fly out at this point. Hit the waves on  Oahu  and spend the night at Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort   to enjoy   lovely views, beaches, and genuine Hawaiian decor. The spacious rooms reflect the rich history of the islands with their outrigger theme. Many neighborhing hotels also sell solid surf packages for short stays. Make sure to take full advantage of the sunset views—and to snag a few delicious drinks—at  Duke's Waikiki .

Pictured: Haleiwa, Oahu

There is no doubt that the  Prana del Mar  in  Cabo San Lucas  helps guests unplug. Cell phone coverage and Wi-Fi service are spotty, and the eco-friendly retreat generates its own electricity. All of that makes this a good choice for groups seeking a digital detox in order to connect with one another and work on mindfulness and wellness. There are onsite yoga and Pilates classes, plus more active diversions such as hiking, surfing, and horseback riding. You can even sneak out of the enclosure and explore Baja on your own, or—perhaps more in the spirit of things—just stay put and enjoy the beautiful vistas on campus. Weekly rates include seven nights' lodging, airport transfers, three meals a day, and daily yoga classes. 

Go west to  Whitefish , Montana , for Cowgirl Up! , a six-night, women-only retreat in the spring and summer. It's an all-inclusive western fantasy filled with trail rides, horse clinics, good food, and end-of-day massages. Not to mention the lessons—by the time you cowgirl down, you'll not only have become proficient in horseback riding but also in line dancing, barrel racing, skeet shooting, and fly fishing. The retreat is hosted three times per year by the  Bar W Guest Ranch .   In a similar vein, be sure to check out  Call of the Wild , which specializes in women's outdoor vacations all over the American West, from Yellowstone to Death Valley.

There are scores of companies that lead women-only trips around the world. Extremely popular with multigenerational groups, these companies can help you plan big adventures.  Adventure Women has been in the game since 1982. Past itineraries have included hiking in the Swiss Alps (pictured), exploring the treasures of Turkey, and cruising through the Galápagos Islands with stops to see one-of-a-kind wildlife. 

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7 Best Girlfriend Getaways For Women Over 40

Book a weekend getaway (or full week!) with your besties at one of these amazing spots across the U.S.

What is it that makes a girlfriend getaway so special?

It’s not just the vacation aspect, although of course that is lovely. A girlfriend getaway offers a chance to reconnect with your best friends—and also with a version of yourself that may get lost sometimes in the day-to-day shuffle.

“Life takes over,” points out Jennifer Klein, of Warren, NJ, who’s been vacationing with her girlfriends since they met in college. “Unless I hang out with my girlfriends, I’m a mom or a wife or someone at work. I’m not Jen anymore.” For Klein, trips allow her to catch up with friends and also feel a connection with her younger self. And no phone call or FaceTime chat can duplicate the in-person experience of walks, meals, adventures, and late-night gossip sessions.

“I try to approach these trips with very few expectations and without a list of things to do,” says Klein. Still, the more you plan beforehand, says Heather Cross of Vacations By Heather , the more relaxed you’ll be during the trip. That means pinning down logistics, including where to go and when, and a budget that works for everyone. Cross recommends having at least one planned activity per day—even if it’s something noncommittal or low-key, like a hike, a picnic on the beach, or a meal destination. “It’s hard to make decisions on the fly as a group. Having something specific planned takes some of the indecisiveness out of the day,” Cross says.

MORE: 7 Types Of Friends Every Woman Needs In Her Life

Also important? Remembering that not everyone's idea of a great vacation is the same. “People should know what they want to get out of their trip,” says Cross, whether it's relaxation or non-stop activities.

Here are seven ideas for girlfriend getaways that cater to all sorts of people, including spa lovers, concert-goers, skiers, culture vultures, and everything in between.

For Spa Lovers: Sedona, AZ

In Sedona, you and your girlfriends can do a lot of things, including go on a  Pink Jeep Tours  off-road adventure to see awe-inspiring rock formations. You can also shop at  Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village , ride horses with  Cowboy Way Adventures , hike  Red Rock State Park , visit art galleries, or  take a winery tour . Or, opt for one of Sedona’s spas—the city is known for them. Stay at the  Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock  and visit the on-site spa, where you can choose between traditional spa treatments or energy-focused healing sessions. And don’t miss getting a meal at  Elote Cafe , which offers views and traditional Mexican and Southwestern foods. (Psst!  Here's what it's like to go on a happiness retreat .)

Feel like you're back in the spa with this moisturizing avocado face mask:

For Ski Bunnies: Park City, UT

Did you and your girlfriends meet during a ski trip, or grow up hitting the slopes together? Then Park City might be the destination for you. Park City originated as a mining town, but now it’s known as the home of the Sundance Film Festival and a winter-sport destination. Along with skiing and snowboarding, Park City also has  snow tubing . For people who aren’t as into winter sports—or if you just need a break from the cold—the resort town offers spas (try  Serenity Spa by Westgate  for the ultimate relaxing massage). There's also a charming  historic district  with plenty of cute shops. Stay in  Marriott’s Summit Watch , conveniently located next to the Park City Mountain Resort’s Town Ski Lift or at  The Chateaux Deer Valley , which offers condos with fireplaces and kitchenettes, as well as a free ski shuttle to the slopes.

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For Wine Connoisseurs: Willamette Valley, OR (or any wine region near you)

A winery trip on a girlfriend getaway is almost a cliché. But that’s for good reason, says Cross. “Sitting around and drinking wine is pretty much the epitome of quality time.” And you don’t have to go to the very best winery in the country to have a good experience, she points out. The best winery for your trip might depend on your location—there are noteworthy regions in California, New York, and Virginia, for instance. One great option for west-coasters: Willamette Valley, OR, which is known mainly for its Pinot Noir, as well Chardonnay and Riesling. Stay in downtown Portland—a room at  The Nines  is $199/night.  A Great Oregon Wine Tour  offers pick-up and drop-off from downtown hotels, and will drive you around to 3-5 vineyards, where you can sample wines, learn about the valley’s history, and grab some bottles as souvenirs. (If you're just inviting friends over for a glass of wine at home, try these  9 best-tasting wines on Amazon under $20, according to sommeliers .)

For City Girls: Chicago, IL

Chicago’s central location makes the city a good option if your girlfriends are spread from coast to coast. Skip renting a car. Instead, stay in the  Wyndham Grand Chicago Riverfront , conveniently located near the loop, theater district, and Chicago’s  Magnificent Mile , where you can catch views of Lake Michigan and browse the shops. Soak up culture at  The Art Institute of Chicago , which is less than a mile from the hotel, or book a tour with  Chicago River Architecture Cruise , where you can photograph the city’s famous skyline and learn about Chicago’s architecture. Oh, and the city's foodie-paradise. Try deep-dish pizza at  Gino’s East  and handcrafted donuts at  Glazed and Infused . Visit  Lula Cafe , a pioneering farm-to-table restaurant;  Band of Bohemia , the first Michelin-rated brewpub; or, if you can score reservations, book a table at  Alinea , one of the best restaurants in America, offering both a meal and an experience.

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For Beach Lovers: Santa Barbara, CA

“My clients love Santa Barbara,” says Cross. “It’s a cool spot because there’s a combination of beach, wine, and culture.” Get the full resort experience at the ocean-side  Fess Parker Santa Barbara Hotel , with views of the mountains or the ocean. From this homebase, you and your friends can explore Santa Ynez Valley wine country—start with a visit to  Rusack Vineyards , in Solvang, CA. Bring a picnic lunch (or purchase food at the winery) to accompany your tasting. Want something a bit more active? Head to  Santa Barbara Bikes To-Go , offering a variety of bikes along with route suggestions. Or, go for a walk as a group in downtown Santa Barbara, where you can explore galleries and shops.

For Concert-Goers: Nashville, TN

Known as “Music City,” Nashville is an approachable yet sophisticated destination for your girlfriend getaway. Stay in the centrally located  Capitol Hotel Downtown  ($137/night)—from there, you’re just a short walk to Nashville’s Honky Tonk Highway, a stretch of music venues on Broadway where you can catch live music all day and into the early morning hours (recommended spots:  The Stage on Broadway  and  Whiskey Bent Saloon ). Schedule a tour of the  Grand Ole Opry  or visit the  Country Music Hall of Fame . Give your ears a break, and catch a view of the city from the water while kayaking— River Queen Voyages  offers kayak rentals, drop-off and pick-up, and beginner- and intermediate-friendly routes. And definitely get a hot chicken sandwich at Nashville’s famous  Hattie B , followed by a hundred-layer donut from  Five Daughters Bakery  or a cocktail from the  Patterson House . (Psst!  Here's how 8 nutritionists get their diets back on track after a vacation .)

For Pool Loungers: Las Vegas, NV

Like Chicago, Las Vegas is a good destination if your girlfriends are coming from all over the country, says Cross. It’s a classic group destination for good reason: The city offers up something for everyone—big shows, gambling, shopping, and budget-friendly  flights . Shop—or window-shop—at the  Forums Shops at Caesars Palace , home to 150+ designer stores in a faux-Italian space complete with statues and a cloud-frescoed ceiling. Or, marvel at the Hoover Dam.  The Hoover Dam Company  offers a bus tour for $44.95 per person, or splurge on a helicopter ride above both the Hoover Dam and Grand Canyon for $379.99 per person. And keep in mind, your experience doesn’t have to be go-go-go. "Vegas has a good pool scene—and the spas are great, too,” says Cross. Stay at the  Mirage Resort & Casino , located on the strip, for poolside cocktails and on-premise spa treatments.

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6 Fabulous Girls Weekend Getaway Ideas

T here’s nothing more fun than a girls trip with your best travel friends. From bachelorette parties to reconnecting with long-time friends, a girls weekend always includes plenty of laughter. And we all know that’s good for the soul! If you’re looking for unique weekend getaway ideas, you’re in luck.

From the bright lights of Broadway to brunch with unlimited mimosas to the laid-back vibe of the Pacific Northwest, these trip ideas include a mix of bucket list experiences, art museums, wine tasting, nightlife and national parks  for outdoor enthusiasts. Get your gal pals together and start planning!

Escape to the Desert in Palm Springs, California

With mid-century architecture, eclectic art museums, delicious food and poolside retreats, Palm Springs, California makes an ideal year-round girls weekend getaway.

For the adrenaline-seeking gal pals in your group, consider booking a four-wheeling adventure in the desert with Adventure Hummer. This self-guided adventure includes a virtual guide and a GPS to keep you from getting lost in the desert. The audio guides reach beyond directions giving you information about what you’re seeing along the way revealing unique attractions and the area’s history.

A short road trip outside of Palm Springs brings you to Joshua Tree National Park . Among the park highlights, Hidden Valley’s boulder fields, iconic Joshua trees and occasional wildlife sightings provide an excellent overview of the treasure in the park.

Nestled amid stunning mountain vistas, The Willows Historic Palm Springs Inn  provides an ideal place to stay during your girls weekend getaway. Situated near the Palm Springs Art Museum, this Mediterranean villa has everything you need for the perfect girls weekend. Spend the afternoon sunning poolside while sipping margaritas!

Celebrate the Art Scene, Food and Nature in Portland

Exuding the laid-back vibe of the Pacific Northwest, Portland lures foodies, art lovers, and adventurers in equal measure. A must-see for art enthusiasts, the Portland Art Museum claims the title as the oldest museum on the West Coast. For garden lovers, a stop at the International Rose Test Garden is a must.

While the food scene features plenty of delicious food in traditional restaurants, there’s nothing quite like the Portland food cart scene. With more than 500 food carts to choose from, Portland is a foodie’s dream. In particular, the city’s Southeast quadrant presents an international array of mouthwatering options including Viking Soul Food – a mix of Norwegian fare with a touch of Jamaican soul. Craft beer lovers will enjoy checking out Portland’s breweries .

Need to work off some calories? Embark on an outdoor adventure with your gal pals. Home to beautiful waterfalls and awe-inspiring vistas, the Columbia River Gorge provides the ideal day trip for hiking and mountain biking. Not to be missed, water plunges 620 feet from the dramatic two-tiered Multnomah Falls making it the tallest waterfall in Oregon.

Explore Austin and the Texas Hill Country

Situated in Central Texas with its own version of the Colorado River running through it, Austin delivers an experience unlike any other in the Lone Star state. From the opulent star-studded state capitol to an abundance of colorful murals to the live music spilling out of the bars on Sixth Street, Austin serves up fun – and a touch of weirdness – at every turn.

Austin’s 300+ days of sunshine enhance the city’s plentiful outdoor activities. Stroll or bike along the Butler Hike and Bike Trail, kayak or stand-up paddleboard in Lady Bird Lake or dip your toes into the Barton Springs Pool – a local favorite.

Enjoy a taste of Tex-Mex at Velvet Tacos where unique creations like the Chicken & Waffle Tacos and Grilled Salmon Tacos join the taco party. Don’t miss the Texas BBQ at Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood  – a favorite of the Texas Hill Country.

Looking for nightlife? Take a stroll down Sixth Street and you’re bound to find your style of live music. Pop into Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar with all the bachelorette parties and sing along. For a quieter grown-up scene, start with a cocktail at Stephen F’s Bar & Terrace  overlooking Congress Avenue with idyllic views of the historic Paramount Theater and the shimmering Texas State Capitol.

For a fun day trip, head to the hills to explore Texas Hill country where you’ll find small towns filled with unique boutique shops, wine tasting, scenic drives, and Saturday night dance halls. With over 100 wineries in the region, tasting rooms beckon wine lovers. Fredericksburg serves as the epicenter of the Texas Wine Country with more than 50 wineries, vineyards and wine-tasting rooms located in town and nearby making it an ideal addition to any girlfriend getaway.

Toast the Fruit of the Vine in California Wine Country

Looking for weekend getaway ideas for your wine-loving gal pals? It’s hard to beat the California Wine Country. From Sonoma Wine Country to the wineries and small towns dotting the Napa Valley, opportunities abound for toasting your best friends.

Check off a bucket list adventure while enjoying the sunrise in a hot-air balloon ride over Napa Valley . Take in the endless beauty of Napa Valley as you soar above the vineyards below. Foodies and aspiring chefs will enjoy bringing home a taste of Napa with a private group cooking class.

Known for its mineral-rich waters, the small town of Calistoga features several spas and resorts. Choose from casual to chic and indulge in a bit of pampering with mud baths, geothermal hot spring pools and massages.

Experience the Bright Lights of Broadway and More in New York

If brunch  with unlimited mimosas, Broadway shows and a plethora of nightlife possibilities sit at the top of the bucket list for you and your girlfriends, then a girls weekend in New York is the way to go.

If you want to squeeze in a little sightseeing, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Empire State Building, showcases views of the city’s skyline from its 82nd-floor observatory and even more incredible views from the 102nd floor. Observatory packages can now be purchased in tandem with the Empire State Building’s art deco-styled restaurant, STATE Grill and Bar. The package provides a skip-the-line VIP pass for the observatories. And, the pass is paired with a two-course lunch or three-course dinner on the ground floor. Packages are available at the Empire State Building Observatory and online via esbnyc.com .

Take the Metro-North commuter rail or rent a car for day trips from New York City to the Hudson Valley and you’ll discover an abundance of small towns packed with history, delightful art scenes, delicious food and nearby hikes to discover waterfalls and more.

Plan a Girlfriend Getaway to Florida’s Historic Coast

While Florida features an abundance of beaches to explore, why not combine beach time with a bit of history, architecture and a dynamic food scene? Florida’s Historic Coast delivers all of that and more, making it an ideal location for a girls trip. Florida’s earliest history unfolds in St. Augustine. Explore the Castillo de San Marcos – the oldest masonry fort in the continental US. Or, take a trolley tour to view the city’s magnificent architecture.

The waters surrounding Florida’s Historic Coast are teeming with seafood that you’ll find on menus at local restaurants. For a fun waterside dining experience head to The Conch House Restaurant on Anastasia Island. From shrimp and grits to market-priced fresh catch fish, The Conch House Restaurant  at the Conch House Marina Resort features a delicious variety of entrees. The restaurant also hosts live music Thursday through Saturday.

For a unique culinary experience check out the Ancient City Cooking Experience . With a mission to create awareness of the year-round seasonally fresh foods, unique cooking styles and talented culinary experts in the region, Ancient City Cooking Experience serves up an educational, fun and delicious outing ideal for a girlfriend getaway.

St. Augustine also boasts four miles of protected beaches and year-round mild weather adding to its ranking as one of the best girlfriend getaways.

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• Fall Travel Ideas

20 Perfect Fall Girlfriend Getaways You'll Want To Plan Immediately

With a new season comes new reasons to get together with your best girlfriends. Plan a getaway at some of the best Southern fall destinations.

After a notable obsession with yellow houses, historic homes, and glossy magazines as a child that lead to a degree in American Studies from Sewanee: University of the South followed by a jaunt through the Washington, DC art world, Zoë found her way as the Senior Home and Garden Editor with Southern Living. There she crisscrossed the region to produce inspiring interiors, entertaining, and holiday stories while also overseeing the Idea House franchise. After seeing more porches and Christmas trees than any other reasonable person can claim, she ventured out to pave new roads freelancing for various magazines and helping people bring magazine tearsheets to life inside private homes via interior decorating.

Once the bustle of summer has come and gone, seasonal sadness can sometimes accompany our excitement for all things fall. The coming of a new season is just one of many reasons to get together with your best girlfriends and plan a fabulous getaway full of quality time. When it comes to perfect girls' weekends, the possibilities are endless . You can visit an exciting city, relax at a beautiful beach (without the sweltering heat), or explore a cozy mountain town.

You're bound to have a great time with your gal pals no matter the place—but a little planning never hurts! Some iconic destinations make great picks, but lesser-known places can be just as fun. We're here to get you started with locations , restaurants, and ideas for a stellar trip with your ladies.

Savannah, Georgia

This city is rich with historic character, as it's one of the oldest cities in Georgia. Savannah 's Southern charm, cobblestone streets, and river views make it a great getaway for girlfriends who want to see and do it all—from photo-op squares to trendy restaurants. It gets muggy here in the summertime, so fall is a much nicer time to visit if you're planning on exploring historic downtown. Stay at Perry Lane Hotel , a boutique property in the historic district that somehow manages to be sleek and modern. Don't miss the rooftop bar, Peregrin . Take your ladies to The Grey for spectacularly unique farm-to-table Southern cooking, and finish the weekend with brunch and a Mint Julep at The Collins Quarter .

Florida's 30A

All within short drives or bike rides from each other, this Panhandle spot has terrific restaurants and shops at every neighboring beach for you and your friends. On 30A , you can go for the Seaside Seeing Red Wine Festival or a less crowded weekend in Grayton Beach, the saltier sister town just down the road. For a Latin-inspired lunch with a view, go to Chiringo in Grayton . Bud & Alley's in Seaside also offers gorgeous scenery and amazing crabs. The best option is to rent a condo or house in these two spots, but you can stay at the WaterColor Inn in Santa Rosa Beach or The Pearl Hotel for a convenient booking that's still close.

Asheville, North Carolina

From Biltmore to breweries , this funky town has much to offer you and your friends. You can stay at the award-winning Inn on Biltmore Estate , which always has exciting installations or garden attractions that make great afternoon strolls for the group. Another great option is the Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville , a luxury boutique hotel. Stop by Highland Brewing , the original craft brewery of "Beer City," as Asheville is nicknamed. Eat at at Buxton Hall Bar-B-Cue for the pulled pork and keepsake t-shirts. You'll also find a Bourbon & Cheerwine Slushie and Banana Pudding Pie with house-made vanilla bean pudding on the menu. For a breakfast staple, try Biscuit Head , which features biscuits topped with your choice of gravies. Yes, five. Need some exercise after all that food? All around the town, you'll find hikes that boast breathtaking mountain views.

Fairhope, Alabama

We recommend staying in nearby Point Clear at the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa , a pre-Civil War resort dripping with Southern charm. Among the amenities and activities are resort-style pools, tennis courts, afternoon tea, and a daily ceremonial cannon firing. During the day, venture over to Fairhope , just a few minutes away, for shopping in the quaint village. This getaway is ideal for a group of girlfriends looking for a relaxing trip with some leisurely shopping, great sunset views of the Bay, and pampering spa treatments. In the fall, it is much less crowded. Fairhope is a biking town with trails that wind along the coast and through beautiful historic neighborhoods. Bring your own, rent them in town, or get them at no extra charge from the hotel if you're staying at the Grand.

Fredericksburg, Texas

Fredericksburg might be not hidden necessarily, but it's still a gem. The thriving village of German heritage has more than 150 shops and galleries (many in fine old stone buildings along Main Street) and well-preserved German landmarks. Many inns and bed-and-breakfasts are within walking distance of restaurants, live music, and biergartens. There are also the area's wineries, several of which grow from the idyllic pastures alongside U.S. 290. After a day touring the wine road , enjoy the flavors of kolaches (yeast buns filled with fruit or sausage) at Hill Country Donuts and Kolaches , and turn your head at the occasional Willkommen (the Bavarian greeting) back in town.

Oxford, Mississippi

Whether you select a weekend in Oxford with or without a home football game is entirely up to you, though your choice most likely will rest on whether someone in the group is an Ole Miss fan. There will be a wider variety of things to do (and much smaller crowds) if you choose a weekend with no home game, and you'll get to fully enjoy the Square and all of the shopping, dining, and exploring you want with your favorite girlfriends. We suggest staying at The Graduate and hitting up shops like Cicada and Square Books while you're out and about. Southern establishments like Big Bad Breakfast and City Grocery will leave you full, but you'll still wish for more.

Key West, Florida

Key West is one of those places that can make you feel like you're far, far away—if only for a few days. Located at the southernmost tip of Florida, the island has low-key beaches where anything goes. The fresh air and "Conch Republic" attitude are enough to make your trip with your gal pals a true getaway. Stay right in the thick of things, just off Mallory Square or on one of the charming side streets in a rental. That Key West breeze will send you into an utter calm during the fall, even with your crazy girlfriends. Dine at Blue Heaven for sandy floors and plenty of clucking chicken pals walking around the premise.

Highlands, North Carolina

If you and your crew are more interested in a calm, cozy getaway this fall, Highlands is a great option. With hiking, scenic views, and plenty of modern amenities, this mountain town offers the perfect spot for some rest and relaxation. After stocking up with some wine and the fixings for a cheese plate, you're ready for quality time with your girlfriends. Stay at Old Edwards Inn and Spa for some arts, fitness, and spa treatments. This mountain refuge, located in the heart of downtown, delights with crackling fireplaces, inviting porches, and dining options galore. Begin your day at Mountain Fresh Grocery & Wine Market , where a homemade breakfast sandwich will fuel the day's adventure.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is one of those Southern cities you have to visit— Southern Living readers didn't name it "The South's Best City" time and time again for nothing. It's full of great food, beautiful historic homes, and a lively atmosphere perfect for a girlfriend trip. Planning your journey in the fall ensures that you won't be stuck in summer's steamy heat as you're strolling down King Street and gawking over the gorgeous homes. Stay at Charleston Place or The Dewberry , a midcentury wonder in historic downtown, for impeccable service. There are almost too many places for delicious food and drinks to choose just one. You can't go wrong at the iconic Husk Restaurant for truly standout Southern dishes or My Three Sons for authentic soul food where the mac 'n cheese is renowned.

Dahlonega, Georgia

Head to the North Georgia mountains to enjoy some quality time with friends. Take a hike in Chattahoochee National Forest and see Brasstown Bald, Georgia's highest peak. Check out the area's orchards, including B.J. Reece Orchards in Ellijay and Mercier Orchards in Blairsville, and go apple picking. Or hop around the small towns of North Georgia and check out boutiques and cafes in charming downtown squares. There are also lots of wineries in the area, so you can join a wine tour or put together a personalized wine trail for you and your friends. Don't miss Montaluce Winery and Restaurant or Wolf Mountain Vineyards north of in Dahlonega .

Austin, Texas

Austin is known as an arts and culture hub in Texas, and it's full of innovative businesses , up-and-coming restaurants , and a thriving music scene. It is a more urban getaway for you and your girlfriends and completely worth it for the experience. It's one of those towns where you can hit the ground running if you have some pals up for anything. It will still be warm when you're visiting in the fall (this is Texas, after all), so be ready. We recommend staying near South Congress , which will provide plenty of coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants to appease the crowd. You can also spring to stay at the newly renovated historic property, Commodore Perry Estate , which is stunning. Don't miss the food at either Perla's , Olamaie , or the iconic Matt's El Rancho (get the famous Bob Armstrong Dip!) while you're there.

Virginia's Shenandoah Valley

There are lots of charming small towns and bed-and-breakfasts in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley . Choose a home base along Virginia's stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway . Hot Springs is a great one; it's also home of The Omni Homestead Resort, where you can take in the scenery and enjoy some spa treatments too. (Don't skip a visit to the Lobby Bar for cocktails.) Grab your group and go for a drive along Skyline Drive , where there are lots of overlooks perfect for photo ops, or lace up your hiking boots and find a trailhead to embark on with your besties in the mountains. After a day of exploring, head to Devils Backbone Brewing Company for a brew . Along the way, there are also Roanoke, Lexington, and plenty of other places to explore.

Charlottesville, Virginia

Head to Charlottesville for a bonafide girls' wine weekend. Charlottesville has made its name a respected wine producer and a significant stop on the Monticello Wine Trail , which features many different wineries offering tastings and tours. Thomas Jefferson's vision of grape growing and winemaking inspired the wineries on the Monticello Wine Trail so that counts as learning a little history, too—right? Grab your girls and enjoy a weekend of wine and good conversation. In this college town , you'll find students, tourists, and locals mingling at hidden-gem restaurants or drinking pints of Bold Rock cider as they watch the sunset over the Blue Ridge Mountains .

Bay St. Louis, Mississippi

It's no secret that the farther west you travel along the Mississippi coast, the stronger you'll hear the call of New Orleans. Once you hit the waterfront in Old Town Bay St. Louis, you might as well be in the French Quarter. Many locals here have New Orleans roots, and this little 'burg is all about letting those good times roll. It's artsy, funky, and quirky yet still peaceful and relaxing. It's an unhurried, come-on-in attitude of a small Southern town : NOLA, meet Mayberry. You'll find Old Town Bay St. Louis, a walkable area full of local shops and eateries just off of Beach Boulevard. Spend an afternoon strolling through Old Town, browsing the beach boutiques and art galleries. Don't miss The French Potager , an antique store and flower shop, and the seafood at Thorny Oyster .

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is known as a girls' weekend staple, so take your group if you haven't been there together before. There's much more to this city than Broadway, and we recommend trying the more laid-back spots before venturing to the Vegas-esque strip. A dining spot with an outside area, Pinewood Social is outfitted with group games to help entertain you during your wait. The restaurant also boasts a large refurbished industrial-style dining room and a cool (adult) bowling alley. Get the Short Rib Mac-n-Cheese for everyone to share. Head to L.A. Jackson , a rooftop bar and restaurant at Thompson Nashville hotel, for after-dinner drinks and a great view of the city at night. Want a spot on Broadway? Try Acme Feed & Seed for a local's favorite atmosphere.

Charleston, West Virginia

If fall foliage is what you're after, you can't do much better than a visit to Charleston, West Virginia , which will put your and your buds in the middle of a landscape transforming into a vibrant autumn palette. Nature trails, performance venues, and lots of boutique shopping means that there's sure to be something to do for everyone in your group. Don't miss Elk City Records in the Elk City Historic District for vinyl (make sure to check their hours based on recent renovations), and stop into Appalachian Tea or Mea Cuppa Coffee Lounge for a sip afterwards. Cross the Elk River to explore downtown proper with its shops and breweries.

Bentonville, Arkansas

A trip to Bentonville is the best of all worlds. In addition to cultural draws like the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and their new downtown space The Momentary , you can take in the splendor of the colors changing across the forests of the Ozark Mountains. You can rent bikes to go mountain biking or find a trailhead to set out on a hike that will help you get even closer to the turning leaves (and the photo ops). Check out the locally-owned shops and restaurants downtown, and when you're finished, turn in for the night at the 21C Museum Hotel .

Frostburg, Maryland

Frostburg is perfect for those looking for a quiet mountain escape. Tucked amid an expanse of rolling green hills, you'll find a quaint historic downtown with plenty of dining options. Wander back in time as you explore the town's history museums, then hop on the 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage as it cuts through town for a gorgeous view of the changing seasons. Finally, rest up at the (also historic) Hotel Gunter .

Louisville, Kentucky

While there are plenty of urban charms to Louisville , the quiet moments speak most deeply to travelers in fall. Places like Cherokee Park (pictured) invite visitors to experience the changing leaves for themselves, while trips to downtown distilleries (like the appointent-only Prohibition Craft Spirits ) or short drives out to the region's other famed distilleries (like Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort) are great for groups. Find a distillery for a whiskey tasting and you'll learn that Kentucky Bourbon is famous for a reason. At this town along the Ohio River, there's never a shortage of things to do in fall.

Franklin, Tennessee

Vibrant fall foliage, charming small businesses, beautifully restored Victorian-era buildings—what more could you want for a fall getaway? You'll find it hard not to be charmed by fall in Franklin . Enjoy breakfast or lunch at local favorite Merridee's , then explore shopping outpost White's Mercantile . Immerse yourself in fall colors on the hiking trails in Timberland Park, or take the beautiful Natchez Trace Parkway to enjoy the scenery with fewer steps. When you're done for the day, retire at the Harpeth just a block from town square and indulge in one or two of the bar's 35 types of whiskey.

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Tips for an Unforgettable Girls or Guys Weekend.

By Amanda Mesa | Published on April 21, 2024

Those closest to me know that I love to plan vacations — not just for myself but for others, too. My friends and family joke that I should have been a travel agent because I'm always looking for girls and guys weekend trip ideas to share with them and add to my ever-growing travel wishlist. Over the years, I've scoured hundreds of travel blogs, magazines and trip-planning resources. I usually focus on girls and guys weekend trip ideas that pack plenty of fun into a short period of time because I know firsthand how difficult it can be for my friends to juggle time off with a busy work schedule.

Chief among my list of vacation hacks? Booking a cruise is sure to minimize stress, simplify planning and keep your costs down. Whether I'm figuring out a girls weekend getaway for me and my besties, looking for guys trip ideas for my husband or brother, or trying to put together a coed escape for a group of friends or couples, cruises are usually my first choice. And I always start with the three Cs — convenience, cost and comfort. Read on for more tips and advice.

Prioritize Convenience

T he biggest cruise lines have departure ports in most major coastal cities across the U.S., from Boston and New York to Miami , Galveston, Seattle and Los Angeles. That means their ships are easy to get to from pretty much anywhere in the country via plane or car. Many of my friends live in Florida, home to at least five different cruise ports, so planning getaways together from the Sunshine State is a breeze no matter what time of year we choose to get together. Additionally, I can usually find plenty of nonstop flights to just about any major port across the country from my hometown of Chicago.

Another great thing about cruises is that all of the major cruise lines offer plenty of short three- and four-night itineraries. This comes in handy if you or anyone in your group can only spare a few days for a getaway.

Before you start planning anything, figure out what "convenience" means to you and your friends — is it an awesome deal, a nearby departure port, an itinerary that doesn't involve too many days off or all three elements combined? Once you've established that, you can narrow down sailings based on that criteria.

Keep Costs Down

Because my friends all have different budgets, finding a vacation everyone can afford is one of my top priorities when looking for guys or girls trip ideas. Having planned many group vacations over the years, I've learned that the value in cruising is hard to beat. Very few other travel options include all of your dining, most onboard activities and plenty of nightly entertainment in the cost of your room.

Even if my friends and I decide to go a bit further afield to catch a ship — say Vancouver or even Barcelona — it's easier to find ways to save on airfare when we choose to cruise because some cruise lines offer programs that bundle flights with your fare. Some will even guarantee the lowest price on your choice of airline, or they'll give you the difference as an onboard credit. Major cruise lines and luxury brands also tend to have specialists available 24/7 to help if you experience unexpected flight delays or cancellations. As a frequent traveler, I've had to deal with my fair share of trip interruptions, so having a dedicated team to handle hiccups and ensure I make it onto my cruise ship is a huge stress reliever.

Choose The Right Ship

The biggest cruise lines in the world boast expansive fleets with many different ships to choose from. You'll likely find smaller and mid-sized ships that cater more to adults, as well as large ships that are loaded with attractions for all ages. These ships usually cover a wide range of price points, too. For example, sailings on older ships typically cost less than on the newest ships in the fleet.

Deciding which ship you and your crew will be most comfortable on depends on a variety of factors, including how many people you're traveling with, how many connecting rooms you'll need, whether this is an adults-only getaway and how much time you plan to spend on the ship versus on land. For example, if you're eyeing itineraries with lots of sea days, you'll want to consider a ship that offers plenty to do onboard. If you and your friends are foodies, research the dining scenes on different ships beforehand to see which ones appeal most to you. Looking to spend the least amount of money? Look into older ships: Many of them sail to the same popular destinations as their larger, more expensive sisters. Personally, I prefer the more intimate vibe of a smaller ship when I'm traveling with a group of girlfriends and the energy of a bigger ship when there are kids in tow.

Consider Everyone's Preferences

There's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all vacation — and my friends and family all have wildly different ideas of what the perfect getaway entails. The one love we all have in common is spending time together. So when I'm brainstorming girls or guys trip ideas, I try to look for itineraries that offer a wide variety of activities, experiences, entertainment and dining options. I've found that weekend cruises to the Caribbean  or the resort towns along the West Coast  and Mexico are options that cater to a diverse array of personalities. Each offers plenty of sun and opportunities to relax beachside or chase thrills inland.

On the other hand, if everyone in your group enjoys more rugged outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking, consider a cruise to Alaska . Granted, these itineraries are usually around a week long, but if your party can swing the additional days off, you'll be in for an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind adventure. If fall foliage and charming seaside towns are more your speed, consider a sailing along the northeast coast. These beautiful cruises tend to be a bit shorter in length and often depart from easy-to-access cities like Boston. The options are endless — and most offer a good mix of experiences to choose from.

You should always talk to the people in your group about how much time everyone can spare before you start looking for sailings. This is crucial when planning girls or guys weekend cruises as coordinating time off can be a difficult, time-consuming process. Understanding how much time everyone can dedicate to a vacation before starting the planning process can prevent a lot of stress and potential disappointment.

Knowing what time constraints you're working with across your group can also help you narrow your options. Most major cruise lines offer filters on their booking sites that let you browse sailings based on duration, ship, departure port or destination, so you don't have to spend hours scrolling through itineraries. If you're booking your getaway with a travel agent or the cruise line's reservations hotline, you'll get better options faster if you're able to provide specific criteria, including your preferred length of sailing or departure port. It's also worth keeping in mind that shorter cruises have fewer ports of call, so selecting a cruise ship with lots of activities onboard can help you squeeze more fun into your getaway.

You'll also want to consider the time of year that you and your friends can travel, as this can also impact your choice of itinerary. Some people have more leeway to travel during certain times of the year (especially if they're trying to work around their kids' school schedules). Also, some popular vacation destinations deliver vastly different price points and experiences depending on when you go.

I always try to time my getaways during a destination's shoulder season to take advantage of better deals and fewer tourists. All it takes is a little bit of research into your destination or region of choice. Though you might have fewer dates or ships to choose from, being flexible can result in huge cost savings and a better overall experience during your vacation.

Book Extras In Advance

Working together as a group to decide on how you're traveling together can help make the trip smooth once you arrive.

For example, when I'm traveling with a group of adults, I always purchase a beverage package because it helps to save money and simplify the planning process. Royal Caribbean's® deluxe beverage package , for example, covers unlimited alcoholic beverages during your entire sailing for one flat price. And if you're traveling with foodies, consider buying a specialty dining package — either for three nights or every night of a longer sailing. These value-boosting bundles allow you and your friends to taste your way across the ship's specialty restaurants at a deep discount. You can dine at, say, a Tuscan spot one night, sushi the next night and then a steakhouse on the following night ... and you can make your dinner reservations before you even board the ship in the cruise line's app . Another activity to book in advance: Tickets to evening performances, such as Broadway at Sea℠, comedy shows and aerial acrobatics performances in the AquaTheater are available 30 days in advance in the app.

On girls weekend getaways with my besties, I also like to plan in advance for a spa day onboard whatever cruise ship we're sailing. I highly suggest booking spa treatments before sailing via the cruise line's app or website, as it's usually cheaper than purchasing them onboard the ship. The most popular times are sea days, and you'll need to plan ahead to get those appointments — even spa day passes (which provide access to the steam rooms and saunas as well as other treats like heated, tiled lounge chairs) can sell out in advance. Consider also booking manicures and pedicures for your group for the first day, and blowouts in the salon for formal night. Another nice girls or guys weekend trip ideas: working out together. Onboard, you'll find group fitness classes, such as yoga and pilates, and you can also book a group session with a trainer.

If our sailing involves stops at destinations we've never visited before, my friends and I also purchase shore excursions in advance so that we can get to know each port with an expert guide, and factor in the expense to our planning. Every destination usually includes a wide range of excursions to choose from at different activity levels and price points, from cooking classes to catamaran sailings to zip line adventures and city tours. Your group can work together to figure out which options are best for the whole gang, and book them before they sell out.

Written By AMANDA MESA

Amanda has written for Royal Caribbean since 2017. She also covers travel, lifestyle, food and beverage for Indulge Magazine, the Miami Herald and PureWow. She's traveled extensively around the world, enjoys building unforgettable itineraries and loves introducing readers to lesser-known destinations.

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Their Sunday Ritual Kept Them Connected

Asiah James and Gerald Cannon II initially went with the flow, but after years of balancing professional ambitions and quality time together, decided to join forces forever.

By Nia Decaille

Asiah Janai James was feeling spontaneous in August 2014 when she invited her co-worker, Gerald Leon Cannon II, to meet up with her at the Afropunk Festival in the Fort Greene neighborhood of Brooklyn.

Ms. James had been in a series of serious relationships, but when Mr. Cannon called, she was learning to “go with the flow,” she said. She wanted to prioritize building a connection with someone she thought was “cool” over trying to define the relationship early on.

She thought Mr. Cannon was cool. The two had first been introduced that May by a mutual friend and colleague at Top Shop in Manhattan’s SoHo neighborhood. Ms. James worked in personal shopping; Mr. Cannon was a stock associate.

Ms. James was attending the music festival with her roommates, and Mr. Cannon happened to be in the area with his best friend for the social scene. Weaving through the massive crowd outside Commodore Barry Park, where the festival took place, they eventually found each other in the fray.

As their group headed back to Harlem, where they all lived, Mr. Cannon and Ms. James drifted into conversation. Neither consider it a first date, but a good “icebreaker to get to know each other outside of work,” Mr. Cannon said.

[Click here to binge read this week’s featured couples.]

They continued to hang out: a stroll along the Harlem River; an impromptu visit to the now-closed Dallas BBQ on St. Marks in the East Village; and a Sunday service at Mr. Cannon’s church, Harlem Church of Christ.

With these “many little moments,” Ms. James said, their easy dynamic “just started to make sense.” Mr. Cannon, who is a multidisciplinary artist, gifted her several small pieces of his work — notably a painting of her and another in her favorite color, purple.

Two months later, in October, they had their first official date at Smalls, a jazz club in the West Village, to see Mr. Cannon’s father, Gerald Cannon Sr., a jazz musician, play.

Mr. Cannon, 37, said he knew early on that Ms. James, 30, “was someone I could see myself with.” On Nov. 7, which they consider their anniversary, he sent Ms. James a text asking her to be his girlfriend after leaving her apartment. She didn’t answer.

“I let him sweat a little,” said Ms. James, who wanted him to ask in person. “I felt a little weird about it,” said Mr. Cannon with a laugh. He was nervous but was confident in their connection. They became official — in person — later that day.

In 2017, they moved in together on the Lower East Side. Each Sunday, they took long walks or bike rides, explored art galleries, or tried a new restaurant, a tradition they would maintain in the years following.

In 2016, Ms. James’s workload increased as a newly hired advertising sales associate at Condé Nast. By 2018, she was promoted to marketing manager. Mr. Cannon continued to focus on his art while working in retail. Over the next few years, the couple said their professional ambitions created some distance. “We weren’t the same as we were the previous years,” Mr. Cannon said, so they relied “on those Sundays to stay connected.”

Ms. James, who grew up in Washington, D.C., is the corporate strategy and strategic partnerships director at Condé Nast. She has a bachelor’s degree in advertising and marketing communications from the Fashion Institute of Technology. Mr. Cannon, who is from Racine, Wis., moved to New York in 2009 to pursue art.

When the pandemic halted work at his retail job, Mr. Cannon began exploring more opportunities in the art world. At night, he turned the living room in their cramped apartment into his art studio. That work became part of a group exhibition called “ A Gathering ,” held in April 2021 at the now-closed Housing gallery on the Lower East Side.

The couple moved to Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, in 2020, and started talking seriously about the “logistics of marriage,” Ms. James said.

Mr. Cannon proposed on Nov. 4, 2022, on a trip to see Ms. James’s family in Washington. After a daylong visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, Ms. James began to doze off in their hotel room. As she woke up, Mr. Cannon knelt by the side of the bed and slipped a ring on her finger, asking, “Do you love me? Do you feel protected by me?”

The couple were legally married on Feb. 14 at the New York City Clerk’s office by Madeline Plasencia, a city clerk. On April 14, they exchanged vows during a ceremony at General Prim 30, a venue in Mexico City, before 160 guests, led by Shay Myrick, a friend of the couple. During the ceremony, they jumped the broom, followed by a few of their friends and family who, overcome with excitement, joined in spontaneously.

Weddings Trends and Ideas

‘Edible Haute Couture’: Bastien Blanc-Tailleur, a luxury cake designer based in Paris, creates opulent confections for high-profile clients , including European royalty and American socialites.

Reinventing a Mexican Tradition: Mariachi, a soundtrack for celebration in Mexico, offers a way for couples to honor their heritage  at their weddings.

Something Thrifted: Focused on recycled clothing , some brides are finding their wedding attire on vintage sites and at resale stores.

Brand Your Love Story: Some couples are going above and beyond to personalize their weddings, with bespoke party favors and custom experiences for guests .

Going to Great Lengths : Mega wedding cakes are momentous for reasons beyond their size — they are part of an emerging trend of extremely long cakes .

Popping the Question: Here are some of the sweetest, funniest and most heartwarming ways that c ouples who wed in 2023 asked, “Will you marry me? ”