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20 Birthday Trip Ideas for Every Type of Traveler

Travel is the best birthday gift there is, and these destinations should be at the top of your list.

When it comes to celebrating another trip around the sun, the only thing better than presents and cake is a vacation — although, don't let anyone stop you from having all three. You might want to ring in your birthday on a beach in Mykonos or with a glass of Chianti in Tuscany. Or perhaps a jaunt through New York City or a relaxing soak in Reykjavík's Blue Lagoon is more your speed. However you feel like celebrating, there's a destination for you. Read on for the best birthday trip ideas from the mountains of Colorado to the winding rivers of Europe and beyond.

• Best tourist destination: Las Vegas
• Underrated hidden gem: Alexandria, Virginia
• Best for families: Charlotte, North Carolina
• Best for couples: Napa Valley, California
• Best for solo travelers: Santa Fe, New Mexico

Read on for the rest of our recommendations.

Elena Papadopolis / EyeEm / Getty Images

Las Vegas is a classic destination for celebrations of every kind. Whether you're in it to win a big birthday prize at the casinos or to splurge on world-class shows, your special day is a good excuse to run wild in Sin City. For a little balance, consider taking a breather from the madness and tacking on a road trip through the Nevada desert , stopping to check out roadside art and Gold Rush ghost towns along the way.

Alexandria, Virginia

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An underrated and affordable birthday destination, Old Town Alexandria has fascinating history and a happy marriage of Southern hospitality and Mid-Atlantic sophistication. Stay at the nautically inspired Hotel Indigo Old Town Alexandria , located mere steps from the easily walkable King Street, Old Town's main drag.

The city is charming, artsy, and packed with cute boutiques. Best of all, Washington, D.C. , is just a 25-minute ride away on the Metro, or you can simply enjoy the view of our nation's capital from across the Potomac River.

Charlotte, North Carolina

If melt-in-your-mouth BBQ and outdoor adventures are right up your alley, look no further than Charlotte for the ideal birthday trip destination. Home to the U.S. National Whitewater Center — where you can find whitewater rafting, biking, zip lines, live music, and craft brews all in one action-packed location — Charlotte is a perfect family birthday destination.

Visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame , the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art , and the NoDa Art District . Eat BBQ at Noble Smoke or satisfy every palate in the group by dining at Optimist Hall , a market with more than 20 local food vendors.

Napa Valley, California

The 21-and-over crowd can appreciate a cultured jaunt through wine country, which explains why it's a long-popular birthday destination. Between the picturesque landscapes, enchanting towns, award-winning restaurants, and world-class wine, Napa Valley is an easy choice for a romantic birthday trip with your significant other. While you're there, make sure to go for a ride on the iconic Napa Valley Wine Train .

If all you want to do on your birthday is relax and unwind, plan an indulgent spa retreat in Santa Fe . At the Ojo Spa Resort , you'll find spring-fed waters and the opportunity to soak in blissful thermal pools following a top-notch spa treatment. Healthy, nourishing farm-to-table meals are also included with your stay. It's the perfect getaway, especially for a solo birthday trip or a quiet retreat with a loved one.

Tulum, Mexico

A birthday spent in the spiritual center of Tulum is the best reset for another rotation around the sun. You'll welcome another year in one of the beautiful locales, right along Mexico's gorgeous Riviera Maya, on the Caribbean coastline replete with crystal clear waters and white-sand beaches. Known for its yoga retreats, jungle cenotes, sacred ceremonies, and Mayan ruins, Tulum is the perfect place to center your mind and reconnect with nature. The city also has plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shopping to keep you busy if you want a break from the jungles and beaches.

New York City

You can't beat the energy of New York City for marking a major milestone. The city that never sleeps keeps you young with near-infinite things to see and do. No matter how you hope to celebrate, NYC has it — from live entertainment and gorgeous green spaces to Instagram-famous foodie finds. Every season has something different to offer, too.

Book a room at the Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel to stay in the heart of all the action. You can fall asleep in the glow of neon lights, if that's your thing.

Laguna Beach, California

Pamper yourself in Laguna Beach , the ultimate Southern California destination for sunshine, surf, shopping, and spa treatments. A quirky-yet-chic beach town about an hour south of Los Angeles, Laguna is home to surf shops, art galleries, and eateries serving everything from street tacos to fine dining — it truly has something for everyone.

There's no better place to stay than in a private villa or suite at the oceanfront Montage Laguna Beach , where you can spend your time enjoying views for miles from the stunning Mosaic Pool , taking scenic strolls along immaculately manicured paths, and lounging on one of the area's most beautiful beaches. Treat yourself to a luxurious treatment at Spa Montage , whose massages incorporate California wildflowers.

If Hawaii has long been on your "someday" list, consider your birthday an excuse to finally book that trip. The greens and blues of Maui's tropical landscape offer a feast for the eyes. There's plenty to do for all ages and travel styles, plus great places to eat, and cultural experiences to enrich your worldly education. Try something new, whether that's learning to surf or sampling a spoonful of purple poi. To celebrate your birthday with a bang, make sure a traditional hula performance is on the itinerary.

Train Journey Through Italy

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If you know of a better way to celebrate a birthday than with all the pizza, pasta, gelato, and wine your heart desires, then, please, alert the presses. Otherwise, Italy is the ticket, and there are few better ways to see as much of the boot as you can than by train. Include highlights like Florence, Cinque Terre , and Tuscany (Italy's heavenly wine region) for the best scenery in your window.

Mykonos, Greece

If you really want to fete your birthday in style, there's no better place to do so than Mykonos, the ultimate party destination. Located in Greece's Cyclades islands, it captures the picturesque beaches and white churches most people associate with a Greek Island vacation. But what makes this place most appealing for birthday trips, especially for groups of friends, is its famous beach parties and thriving nightlife scene, allowing travelers to celebrate from sun-up to sun-down. Check in to The Wild Hotel by Interni for exclusive private access to the beautiful Kalafatis Beach , located below the hotel's cliffs.

Vail, Colorado

Jack Affleck / Courtesy of Vail Resorts

If you enjoy being active, Vail should top your birthday trip ideas list. You can snowboard and ski on Vail's renowned slopes in the winter — and who doesn't want to indulge in the pleasures of après ski for their birthday? — or hike among blankets of wildflowers in the spring and summer. Book a special dinner in a woodsy lodge for the full experience.

Backpack Through Thailand

Southeast Asia offers an unforgettable adventure packed with amazing views, flavorful dishes, and a welcoming culture, both from local residents and the country's large community of international expats. Thailand is a dream trip for many, and what better reason to realize your dream than your birthday? It's totally common to backpack Thailand solo, but there's plenty reason to bring a significant other or travel with a group. Though the flight will probably be more expensive than any to a domestic destination, your U.S. Dollar will go further in Thailand, making it a great place to splurge on a birthday bash.

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Imagine celebrating your birthday with sprawling views from the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower or by diving into a deep-dish pizza after zipping along the Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon in the winter. Depending on what time of year you visit Chicago , you can get out on the water or spend your days exploring museums and galleries. Swissotel Chicago provides well-situated digs located within walking distance of many attractions, including the shops of Magnificent Mile. Book a corner room for views of the Chicago River, Navy Pier, and Lake Michigan.

Kristjan Veski/Travel + Leisure

Those looking to skip the long flights often associated with international travel might consider the U.S.'s neighbor to the north. Toronto 's thriving music, food, and entertainment landscape means visitors never lack fun things to do in Canada's most populous city. Explore the culture of The 6ix by embarking on a street art crawl or spending the day at one of the city's various museums and galleries. If you have a spring or summer birthday, mark it at one of Toronto's music or film festivals. If it's in the winter, spend it at the Toronto Light Festival .

River Cruise Through Europe

London, Paris, and Rome are great places to turn another year older in Europe, but they've been done before. Instead, explore a less touristy side of the continent aboard a U by Uniworld cruise on the Rhine or the Danube. Not your grandparents' stuffy river cruise, this line is designed especially for the young and young-at-heart.

Whether you sail between Amsterdam and Brussels or explore Eastern Europe on a cruise connecting Vienna and Prague, meandering Europe's scenic rivers on a luxurious ship will make for a memorable birthday. Highlights include food inspired by the locales and tons of activities, from biking or walking tours at the port to silent discos and stargazing onboard.

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

No place does Southern charm quite like Savannah . Stroll along the cobblestone streets, shaded by canopies of live oaks aged hundreds of years, and pop into some of the many award-winning eateries, like The Grey , housed in a former Greyhound Bus station. By night, book a ghost tour for some serious spooks (there are a ton of companies to choose from), after you've treated yourself to a generous scoop of Leopold's Ice Cream , of course. The Plant Riverside District is another main attraction, packed with shops, restaurants and bars, nightlife, and a hotel, the JW Marriott Savannah — all housed within a repurposed power plant.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Adventurous travelers might consider spending a birthday visiting Machu Picchu . You can hike, bike, raft, or zip line to the ancient Incan city on one of the various local tours, or opt for a more low-key experience and take the scenic train ride from Cusco instead. Once you're acclimated, see why the famous Incan citadel, high in the Andes Mountains, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Breathtaking views and complex stone architecture make this ancient astronomical observatory a must-see.

You'll likely stay in the nearby town of Aguas Calientes, which offers lodging, shopping, its namesake thermal springs (which feel especially good after a long hike), and the Mariposario de Machu Picchu butterfly sanctuary. You can also check out Cusco (Cuzco), a charming city full of hotels, restaurants, and UNESCO World Heritage architecture.

The Palm Beaches, Florida

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The Sunshine State promises a laid-back, fun-filled visit any time of year. While there are great places to visit in Florida from the Keys to the Panhandle, the Palm Beaches are Florida's crown jewel. Packed with art and culture, outdoor activities, picturesque beaches, and all sorts of entertainment, the area has something for everyone. Opt for a chill escape in Lake Worth Beach, explore the buzzing nightlife in Delray Beach, or spend your vacation rubbing elbows with the rich and famous in Palm Beach.

Want to really up the ante? Miami is just an hour away on the luxurious Brightline train. Or you can head even further south by car and hit the Florida Keys .

Reykjavík, Iceland

If unrivaled sights and some of the best hot springs in the world are on your birthday wish list, you can't go wrong with Iceland's capital. Go for Reykjavík's famous lagoons and swimming pools, and stay for its museums, galleries, theaters, and cafes. Enjoy local game at one of the nearby restaurants, or join a whale watching tour. For a heightened experience, go horseback riding, glacier climbing, river rafting, or caving. This part of the world isn't even hard to get to from the U.S., with direct flights from NYC lasting less than six hours.

Related Articles

10 Cities In The United States To Go To For Your Birthday

Your birthday is right around the corner, and you don’t feel like being at home for it this year. You want to get away from home as far as you can and have a great time, and what better way do you know of celebrating your birthday than by taking a birthday trip? The United States has so many beautiful cities and sites that you can explore while having fun, and there are so many options to choose from. Here are the top 10 cities in the United States to think about going to for your birthday and have the most fun!

1. New York City

One of the most popular cities in the United States to celebrate your birthday is in one of America’s most beloved cities: New York . New York is one of the most upscale, sophisticated cities in the United States that come with so many things you can do for your birthday. Hit the town in Manhattan for a luxurious shopping spree. Climb the Empire State Building. Take a ride on the water while sipping a mimosa on the New York Harbor Lights Evening Cruise, and then finish the day off by going to a fancy bar with several drinks! New York City has endless options for you to choose from to have the best birthday ever. You won’t be disappointed!

2. Las Vegas

If you’re looking for a place where you really want to have the utmost fun while also having some exciting adventures and  maybe  get yourself into a little bit of trouble in the process, Las Vegas is the place to be! At the heart of Nevada, Las Vegas is known for its incredible and beautiful sites with so many places to have fun that only adults can experience. Whether you’re taking a walk on the Vegas Strip, going to their most popular casinos, or dancing the night away at their most popular nightclubs, Las Vegas will accentuate vibes that will practically call out towards you to indulge in endless fun and lots of drinking. But don’t forget, no matter what you do, what happens in Vegas, STAYS in Vegas!

3. Los Angeles

The next best place to visit for your birthday is the very foundation of the television and filming industry: Los Angeles . Take a chance to experience the amazing companies around Los Angeles that contribute to the famous and notable reputation of its notoriety. Los Angeles offers tours of some of its most acclaimed studios that create the best movies, such as Universal and Paramount Pictures. Visit the area of Los Angeles where stardom is literally right at your feet: the Hollywood Walk of Fame! And consider enjoying a much-needed shopping trip to one of Los Angeles’ well-known shopping centers, Neiman Marcus. Enjoy all of these spectacular events and attractions, and maybe even hope to have the chance of taking a selfie with your favorite celebrities!

4. New Orleans

If the nighttime area is your scene and you want a place where all of the fun is endless with dancing, singing, and drinking,  New Orleans  is your next go-to destination trip for your birthday. The City of Big Easy is known for its vibrant, crazy, and upbeat nightlife where the party never stops. Treat yourself to a few beignets in New Orleans’ most notable cafe Cafe Du Monde. Dance the night away with its crazy-fun music. Have a couple of bottles of beer to intensify the night. To really end the night of your birthday in the most incredible and fun-filled way, take part in its amazing and festive street parties and let loose! And if your birthday is around late winter, you’ll enjoy the festivities of New Orleans even more by partaking in the joyful and jubilant Mardi Gras! Spending a few days in Nola will surely live you with a great deal of pleasure and fun!

Head towards the south of the US and soak up some sun while lounging on the beach in Orlando, FL!  Orlando is known for its amazing attractions and the numerous theme parks that surround the area. Start your week of birthday fun by visiting the theme park that got it all started: Walt Disney World. Meet your favorite Disney characters and enjoy the festivities and activities of the most magical place in the world. Visit Universal Studios to enjoy the rides and attractions within the park that’s inspired by the entertainment industry. Or if you decide that you just want to enjoy a great swim in the water, then head over to some of their most renowned water parks like Aquatica and Disney’s Blizzard Beach. The warmth of the sun will accompany you during your whole trip while also experience the best fun possible in one of the world’s most beloved cities.

Orlando isn’t the only city in Florida that has loads of fun-filled activities for you to partake in for your birthday this year. Miami is another great place for you to travel to for your birthday trip for a chance to enjoy the hot and beautiful weather. Being one of Florida’s top destination vacation spots, Miami is known for its tempting sites and activities, such as their fun and trendy nightlife down in South Beach and its sports events. Take a tour of Art Deco and engage in some fun water activities like jet-skiing and parasailing! Miami can give you all of the excitement and adventure you are looking for that will spark up your birthday.

If you just want to gain some knowledge about a city’s history and cultural background, then Chicago  is the next best place for you to visit for your birthday. Chicago is known for its plethora of museums and its amazing melting pot of various foods for you to indulge yourself in. Take a tour of Chicago Museums and art and discover and learn more about antiquated Egyptian tombs, impeccable works of art, the profundities of space, and more. Take a minute to listen and embrace the streets of Chicago by listening and embracing their jazz music played frequently to captivate pedestrians. Once you’re hungry, fill your stomach up with some of Chicago’s best food, most notably their deep-dish pizza. Get to expand your knowledge and learn more about one of America’s most prominent cities while also kicking back and having a ball for your birthday.

Your Spring Break Destination According To Your Sign

Take a bite out of a peach and step into a whole new place with flare and excitement for your birthday:  Atlanta, GA!  Known as a city with so much historical and history-making backgrounds, Atlanta is a place that definitely deserves a lot of recognition. Get VIP Tours to get exclusive behind-the-scenes knowledge and learn everything you need to know about Atlanta. Entwine in the beautiful performing arts of Atlanta by going to shows at the Alliance Theater. Head over to Centennial Olympic Park to view the beautiful scenery as well as listen to live music and dance. And then kick off the night by hitting up some of their popular and entertaining nightclubs such as Gold Room Nightclub and Tongue & Groove. Enjoy all of these amazing festivities within Atlanta and make sure to live the best life on your birthday!

9. Honolulu

For your birthday, if you’re looking for a tropical getaway with naturistic features for you to embrace, then your next destination location for your birthday is Honolulu, HA.  Hawaii’s capital itself is known for its divine cuisine, nightlife, shopping,  its notorious crescent sea shore supported by palms and relaxing and luxurious hotels, with volcanic Diamond Head crater just out there in the distance. Have a coconut drink while relaxing on the beach. Enjoy a massage from the comforts of your hotel room, and then end your birthday with a few drinks at the tiki bar and then partake in a lively luau! Honolulu will fulfill your tropical fantasy and will also give you a taste of paradise, the perfect way to celebrate your birthday!

10. Charleston, SC

One last place that you might want to consider paying a visit to for your birthday this year is a place where you can enjoy extremely hot weather while also taking advantage of their fun, local activities: Charleston, SC.  Charleston is known for its astounding attractions, historical landmarks, and museums. Take some time to explore the French Quarter and learn something new with a tour guide. Hitch a ride on a horse and buggy and ride around town and see the historical sites and the roles the city played during the Civil War with an Old South Carriage Historic Tour. If you should happen to stay the weekend out there, wake up on Saturday morning and satisfy your taste buds by visiting Carmella’s for a Saturday Morning Cocktail Crawl. The history behind Charleston and its attractive tours will be sure to leave you with a lot of memories on your birthday that you will never forget.

Your birthday is the one day out of the year where you can do whatever you want, but do it somewhere where you’ll find the best amount of fun, excitement, and joy. Break the limits of fun and enjoy your special day in any one of these fun-filled, thrilling US cities!

Featured Image Source: https://www.vox.com/2014/5/18/5726652/its-way-more-common-for-two-people-to-share-a-birthday-than-you-might

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Great Places to Celebrate Milestone Birthdays (and Special Occasions)

Discover top destinations to mark major life milestones.

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Whether you want an adventurous or serene celebratory escape, there are plenty of standout spots for special occasions.

There are birthdays and then there are birthdays . Certain milestones – 21, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100 – are significant events. Such moments call for a memorable celebratory trip. And when you want to go big on your birthday, there's nothing like being somewhere that sets the tone for the occasion, and better yet, helps launch you into the next phase of life. So, without further ado, here are standout spots to mark major life milestones.

When You Turn 21…

Visit an Outside-the-Box Party Destination

Forget about traditional party spots like Miami, Las Vegas and New York City. Eight miles east of Puerto Rico, Vieques features the largest natural wildlife refuge in the Caribbean and a vibrant nightlife. And at the W Retreat & Spa, Vieques Island, you can take a  three-day DJ retreat that teaches the art of spinning tunes, perfect to play by day and mix and mingle by night. For an out of the ordinary experience, head to the property's two-level infinity WET splash pool, where tunes pulsate through the underwater sound system streaming a custom mix directly through the water. Best of all, when you're not sipping tropical cocktails around a fire pit, there's adventurous pursuits – hiking, horseback riding and nighttime tours of the Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay – to keep you busy.

Jump into Your Twenties

If you're looking for a thrilling vacation experience, it's hard to beat jumping into the Devil's Pool, a natural infinity pool at Victoria Falls, along the Zimbabwe-Zambia border in southern Africa. With guides from Tongabezi, a high-end safari lodge situated near the falls, you can catch magnificent lunar rainbow views and swim at the edge of the waterfall without worrying about your safety.

For an adventure that's exhilarating, but not as far-flung as Zambia, consider visiting Negril,  Jamaica . After getting your adrenaline pumping while cliff jumping, you can unwind at Rick's Cafe, a lively bar known for its picturesque cliffside location and its majestic   sun sets. Aside from serving some of the best cocktails in Negril, Rick's nearby cliffs offer memorable diving spots for those seeking a spine-tingling adventure.

When You Turn 30…

Trek into Your Thirties

Take a life-changing four-day hike along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu . With a luxury tour operator, you can enjoy hot showers, massages and meals prepared by a private cook. And once you've reached the end of the trail, you'll arrive at Sun Gate, which offers a magnificent view of the ruins. From there, you can check out temples and agricultural areas or impressive vantage points like Huayna Picchu, which offers a bird's-eye view of the ruins.

Reach New Heights

Though it's hard to beat visiting Machu Picchu's iconic sites, memorable experiences at Capella Marigot Bay Resort and Marina in Saint Lucia await daring travelers looking to steer away from a cookie-cutter vacation. Climb one of St. Lucia's iconic landmarks like Gros Piton, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or relax with treatment at Auriga Spa at Capella Marigot Bay, which incorporates natural ingredients from the island.

When You Turn 40…

Recharge with a Spiritual Awakening

At forty, you'll likely want to connect with your body and soul. To embark on a spiritual adventure, head to Rythmia Life Advancement Center in Costa Rica. Think of it as Club Med to get rejuvenated in a splendid beachfront setting. During your stay, you can feast on organic, locally grown food, indulge in unlimited massages and volcanic mud baths and meditate, among other activities.

You can also boost your health and wellness with a relaxing getaway to  Turks & Caicos , which is sure to put you at ease with its aquamarine waves, sugary sands and impressive coral reefs. The Residences at Grace Bay Club offer five-bedroom villas so you and your loved ones can celebrate at the spa, the beach or top culinary spots, especially local crowd-pleasers like Mr. Grouper's Restaurant and Da Conch Shack.

Dive into Your Forties

For a trip to remember, consider heading to Fiji, where you can learn to dive among spectacular coral reefs. The Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort is surrounded by palms, mountains and the calming Savusavu Bay and is often lauded for its standout dive sites. Beyond getting certified to dive in just three days, you can enjoy the world-class dining, secluded sands and the magnificent reefs of the Namena Marine Reserve.

When You Turn 50…

Go Somewhere Exotic

To celebrate this important milestone, consider exploring the island nation of Sri Lanka. Make sure you take the train through the tea plantations from Ella to Kandy and you embrace the region's lush forests and diverse species as you check out Buddhist temples, colonial architecture and Sri Lanka's flavorful gastronomy. And if you're looking to splurge, spend your first night in the Mount Lavinia Hotel Colombo, which once served as the residence for the British government, and still retains its colonial grandeur.

When You Turn 60…

Visit Italy

If you want to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime cooking vacation, it's hard to beat  Tuscany . Stay in luxurious villas and spend a week learning the art of cooking authentic Italian and Mediterranean dishes. After mastering classic cooking techniques, visit an olive mill or enjoy wine-and-cheese tastings . Plus, Tuscany affords ample time to relax, hike or sightsee in the countryside, making it an ideal escape for both laid-back and adventurous types.

When You Turn 70…

Visit Places on Your Bucket List

Let's say you've been meaning to get to Zanzibar in Tanzania. Now is the time to go. Stay at the Protea Hotel Mbweni Ruins, a historic hotel with a beautiful botanical garden right by the Indian Ocean and far enough out of Stone Town (the old part of Zanzibar City) to enjoy some peace and quiet. There are daily shuttles into Stone Town and you'll have access to all kinds of tours.

When You Turn 80…

Focus on Family  

Your eighties is a time to enjoy quality bonding time with your family. Myrtle Beach , in South Carolina, is ideal for family fun and offers affordable lodging options. There's enough action for kids, tweens, millennials and beyond. It's a culinary gem with seafood and anything else you might fancy. There's the beach, boardwalk and Brookgreen Gardens, not to mention live entertainment at The Carolina Opry, including the Time Warp show, which showcases hits of the 60s, 70s and 80s. 

When You Turn 90…

Plan a Tranquil Getaway

If you want the peaceful atmosphere of Antigua or Bermuda but don't want to trek the miles, consider Alys Beach on the Florida Panhandle. There are many vacation rentals and much to do from swimming at Caliza, the community pool, biking, taking in the 20-acre preserve and more. And if you're based on the West Coast, consider planning a trip to Palm Springs, a desert hideaway set at the foot of the rugged Santa Rosa Mountains, filled with colorful flowers, fragrant tangerine and grapefruit trees and picturesque courtyards, all framed by towering palms.

When You Turn 100…

Celebrate Cherished Travel Experiences

Pavia Rosati, founder and CEO of travel website Fathom, suggests celebrating the occasion by reconstructing a favorite travel experience. She advises recreatng memories, such as "a Mexican feast (with a piñata) to recall the high times in Acapulco, an Italian spaghetti feast to honor your Amalfi Coast honeymoon or a Brazilian feijoada so you can see if you remember those Carnival samba moves all these decades later."

Tags: Travel , Vacations , Travel Tips , Family Vacations

About En Route

Practical advice on the art of traveling smarter with tips, tricks and intel from En Route's panel of experts.

Contributors have experience in areas ranging from family travel, adventure travel, experiential travel and budget travel to hotels, cruises and travel rewards and include Amy Whitley , Claire Volkman , Holly Johnson , Marsha Dubrow , Lyn Mettler , Sery Kim , Kyle McCarthy , Erica Lamberg , Jess Moss , Sheryl Nance-Nash , Sherry Laskin , Katie Jackson , Erin Gifford , Roger Sands , Steve Larese , Gwen Pratesi , Erin Block , Dave Parfitt , Kacey Mya , Kimberly Wilson , Susan Portnoy , Donna Tabbert Long and Kitty Bean Yancey .

Edited by Liz Weiss .

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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15 Unforgettable Places to Go for Your Birthday This Year

09/13/2022 by Emily Becker Leave a Comment

Let’s face it, most of us only have a weekend to celebrate our birthdays each year. So for those who love to travel, how do you find places to go for your birthday that are apt for a quick celebration?

Whether you only have a couple of days or perhaps more time to spare, whether you hope to spend your birthday alone or with loved ones, this list is sure to give you some inspo this year:

Table of Contents

Outdoorsy Havens

We’re all about spending time outdoors here at BMTM. If you’re a fellow nature lover, chances are your ideal birthday would be somewhere in the woods, on a lake, at a waterfall, or anywhere else in nature that tickles your fancy. If you can relate, these are the best places to go for your birthday:

1. Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada

One of the greatest things about Lake Tahoe is that it’s a spectacular place to go for your birthday, no matter the season. If you visit in the summer , you can spend time on the water, hiking through the woods, or climbing Mount Tallac. You can also camp and have a birthday barbecue if that’s your jam. If you visit in the winter , you can snowshoe along the trails, or try your hand at skiing or snowboarding. Springtime is another fantastic season for visiting Lake Tahoe, with its azure waters, pristine forests, and rugged peaks.

Lake Tahoe makes a great birthday trip because it’s a fantastic destination for a group of friends, your family, your partner, or even just yourself. I mean, hey, those views are just as stunning if you’re on your own.

Another big plus is that there are many beautiful places to stay , either right on the lake or nearby.

2. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Another place to go for your birthday that is magical during every season is Joshua Tree National Park. Whether you’re down for a summertime getaway to see starry skies or a mild winter weekend to celebrate, Joshua Tree has something in store for you. It’s an excellent place to hike, but you can also go rock climbing or simply catch a sunset view. Find out what else you can do in Joshua Tree here .

Although the spectacular desert scenes here are enough to make anyone’s birthday special, the real reason why it makes this list is the accommodations. From swanky boutique hotels just outside the national park to cool Airbnbs just a short drive away, Joshua Tree has some great options for solo travelers, couples, and groups alike. For example, take this retro Airbnb called The Birdhouse , which sleeps up to six guests but is equally ideal for couples or families.

3. Glacier National Park, Montana

This is more of a late-spring to early-fall kind of place to go for your birthday trip, as many parts of Glacier National Park in Montana close during the winter. However, you can technically visit any time of year, as long as you’re prepared for the weather. It is truly a gem and offers some seriously wild landscapes.

This birthday destination is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who love getting off the beaten path. Montana is famous for its wide-open spaces and rugged terrain, so Glacier is an obvious choice if that kind of thing excites you.

Check out the best things to do in Glacier National Park here . You can tick many of these sites off in just a few days! Plus, read about the best hikes in Glacier National Park .

4. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Who said Texas is all about cattle ranches and endless farmland? A fabulous choice for nature lovers who want to beat the crowds and find their slice of heaven, Big Bend National Park is calling you. The scenery here is breathtaking. You’ll find overlooks with views that seem to go on forever, many that feature river-carved valleys next to towering mountains.

Big Bend is a spectacular place for stargazing, and you can camp inside the park if you’d like. The wide-open skies become dazzling at night, leaving you with a new core memory of your special day. This is easily one of the most unique places to go for your birthday.

Whether you go it alone or bring along a friend or two, Big Bend National Park has plenty to keep you busy for a weekend or longer.

Beautiful Beaches

For those of us who didn’t grow up near a beach, taking a coastal birthday trip feels like an extra special affair. After all, your day only happens once a year, so why not treat yo’self? For the babes who just want to chill on the beach for their birthday, these destinations are just for you:

5. Kauai, Hawai’i

Depending on when your birthday lands, you might want to book your trip to Kauai sooner than later, as it can get pricey if you go during high season . However, chances are you’ll forget all about how much your flight cost as soon as your toes hit the sand on Kauai’s beaches. Here you’ll find golden yellow-to-white sand and dreamy waves that look straight out of a postcard.

In case you don’t want to spend your entire birthday trip soaking up the sun on the beach, there’s plenty else to do on Kauai . From daring hikes to helicopter rides and secret tide pools, the island full of adventure.

6. San Juan, Puerto Rico

A birthday trip to Puerto Rico feels like visiting a distant country, but it’s really only a stone’s throw from the continental US. This makes it the perfect weekend birthday getaway for those of you who want to feel far from home but don’t have a whole week to spend on vacation.

San Juan’s colonial architecture and colorful buildings are enchanting enough to be the star of the show, but let’s face it: you came for the beaches. The ones near San Juan are some of the best in the US and offer quite a variety of scenes.

Head to Atlantic Beach for a party vibe, or Isla Verde for a bougie afternoon in the sun. If you want to escape the crowds, stick to Hobie Beach, which is more laid-back (unless you visit during Noche de San Juan on and around June 23rd). You can also go snorkeling with turtles near San Juan , which is an unforgettable experience perfect for a birthday celebration.

Enchanting Small Cities

For many of us who come from bustling cities, the perfect birthday trip probably involves going somewhere more quiet, chill, and relaxing. Small cities that have a special air of enchantment make a fabulous destination to celebrate your trip around the sun:

7. Mendocino, California

Mendocino’s dreamy coastline offers views over rocky cliffs that plunge into the Pacific beautifully. It’s a longtime favorite destination among poets, novelists, actors, and other creative people because of its moody and enchanting atmosphere. Mendocino is the perfect birthday destination for a girls’ trip, but you can even enjoy it solo or with your partner.

Take a hike through Headlands State Park, see the pygmy forest at Jug Handle State Natural Reserve, or simply spend the afternoon sipping wine on your terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean. However you decide to spend your time there, Mendocino has plenty of things to do to make your birthday special.

One of the best places to stay in Mendocino is Brewery Gulch Inn , which has a cozy environment that you’ll appreciate any time of year. Want to see more options? Here’s a list of the chicest boutique hotels in Mendocino.

8. Santa Fe, New Mexico

For a delightful, colorful birthday celebration, head to Santa Fe. This southwestern gem is bursting with culture and is an art lover’s paradise. For such a small city, it sure packs a punch with its abundance of neat museums, impressive gastronomical scene, and head-tilting architecture. Whether you spend your day exploring the eye-popping MeowWolf Museum or strolling down Canyon Road to check out the art galleries and cafés, you’ll find tons of interesting things to do in Santa Fe .

There are also ample opportunities to explore nature just outside of town with your birthday companion(s). You can go rafting on the Rio Grand Gorge, check out an ancient meteor strike at Santa Fe Shatter Cones, or simply get out for a hike at the Santa Fe Canyon Preserve .

Big, Bustling Cities

This is for those of you who have a “go big or go home” mindset when planning your birthday trip. Whether you’re celebrating a big milestone or any other birthday, these big cities will fill you with their infectious energy to ring in another year of your fabulous life:

9. New York City, New York

If you really want to go all-out for your birthday, what better way to do it than spending a weekend in New York? Whether you get excited about the bright lights of Broadway or want to spend your birthday with your closest friends hopping from borough to borough, NYC has endless possibilities.

It’s no secret that the city that never sleeps can be pricey to visit. For that reason, you might want to take advantage of the many free things to do in NYC . After all, if you spend less on activities, you can splurge more on your birthday dinner at that restaurant you’ve been dying to try.

10. Chicago, Illinois

Although many consider Chicago to be the “second city,” there’s nothing second place about the epic variety of things to do here. It’s more affordable than New York, and there are also tons of free things to do in Chicago .

Too many visitors spend too much time in the Loop (aka, downtown) and miss out on all the culturally rich neighborhoods throughout the city. So hop on the L train and explore neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Uptown, Pilsen, or Wicker Park on your own or with your travel buddies.

Throughout, you’ll find museums, parks, and of course, lakeside hangout spots. I recommend doing at least one food tour, like this underground donut tour or this Chinatown walking food tour . What better way to treat yourself on your birthday?

11. Miami, Florida

Particularly if your birthday is in the winter and you live somewhere cold, Miami makes for an awesome trip. Not only will you enjoy the sunny weather, but you’ll find plenty of things to do in Miami to fill your birthday weekend with unforgettable experiences.

The city is an adult playground perfect for a birthday trip with friends. Visit the magical Museum of Illusions to take photos with funky 3-D backgrounds, or eat your way through Little Havana on this food tour . Whatever you decide, Miami is the place to be completely extra on your birthday.

Quick International Getaways

You’ve been dying to go somewhere far away for your birthday but might not be sure how to fit it into your tight schedule. Or perhaps you want to go international without venturing to far from home. These places make it possible for you to have an epic birthday trip in another country:

12. Tulum, Mexico

If you want to feel worlds away from home on your birthday without having to venture too far, consider heading to Tulum. Most major cities in the US have direct flights to Cancún, and then it’s just a couple of hours’ drive or bus ride to Tulum ( find out more about the route here ).

It’s a fantastic place to visit on your own, with your partner, or with a group of friends. The beaches are stunning, the cenotes (swimming holes) are refreshing, and there are tons of unique places to stay in Tulum .

My favorite thing about the town and the rest of the Riviera Maya is that there are dozens of cenotes that are a short distance from Tulum , each with its own character, and visiting one on your birthday is pretty epic. Besides the cenotes and beaches, however, there are plenty of other spectacular things to do in Tulum that make the international trip worth it.

13. Baja California Sur, Mexico

If you’re itching to visit the other side of Mexico, consider road-tripping through Baja California Sur . The skinny peninsula is perfect for that because there’s so much to see in such a short distance. With bright blue lagoons, pristine beaches, flowing waterfalls, and rocky mountains taking over the landscape, Baja is breathtaking.

If you want to take advantage of everything this road trip has to offer, spend a week or two here. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking for some solitude on your special day.

Aruba is a small island in the Caribbean that you can easily fly into from most major cities in the US. Here you’ll find the softest white-sand beaches you’ve probably ever seen in your life, along with some stellar snorkeling and diving opportunities. It’s one of the ultimate tropical places to go for your birthday, alone or with friends.

Although there are tons of things to do in Aruba , one of the best is simply chill on the beach. I mean, after all, Aruba’s beaches are stunning. You can also check out the famous Flamingo Beach and see these pink birds up close. Pretty cool way to spend your birthday, right?

15. Quebec City, Canada

Last but not least on this list of the best places to go for your birthday is the magical wonderland that is Quebec City. This is the perfect spot for you if you’ve been dreaming of visiting France for your birthday but only have a weekend. Quebec City has much of what makes small cities in France so enchanting: Old World architecture, adorable cafés, inspiring museums, and of course, people speaking French everywhere.

Besides having a fairytale-like atmosphere overall, Quebec City’s charm doesn’t stop at the sights and sounds. This is one of Canada’s gastronomical capitals, and you’ll find some truly mouthwatering dishes here. Get familiar with Quebec City’s tastes on this historical walking food tour .

For more ideas on how to spend your birthday here, check out this Quebec City itinerary .

You don’t have to feel bad for wanting to splurge on places to go for your birthday. After all, it only comes around once a year!

Which place caught your attention the most?

*Some links in this post are affiliate links for products and services we personally use and love. Any purchase you make through them supports us at no extra cost to you. Thanks so much!

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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Kim and Kalee

Building a Life You Love

50 Birthday Trip Ideas – Where to Go on Your Birthday

We’ve found the best places to go for a milestone birthday — including the best places in the United States and also abroad! So get ready to mark some things off your bucket list with these 50 birthday trip ideas! 

After all, you don’t need another birthday gift cluttering up your house! Instead of asking for presents this year, why not head out on an exciting adventure? These fun birthday trip ideas are perfect for celebrating your big day in a big way.

No matter what age you’ll be this year, you’re sure to find the perfect destination for an amazing weekend getaway with your best group of friends!

50+ Birthday Trip Ideas

Whether you’re searching for a relaxing beach retreat or an exciting city escape, you’ll love all these birthday trip ideas!

1. Las Vegas, NV

Whether you’re a fan of live shows or playing the slots, you’re sure to have an exciting birthday trip when you head to sin city!

2. Charleston, SC

Take in the historic architecture and delicious food on a birthday trip to this interesting Southern city in South Carolina.

3. Miami, FL

Hit the beach during the day and the clubs at night when you visit Miami for your birthday.

4. New York City, NY

From amazing Broadway shows and endless shopping to interesting museums and exclusive night clubs, there is plenty to do during a birthday trip to New York City.

5. Nassau, Bahamas

A Caribbean getaway is a great idea for a birthday trip — especially if it’s on the white sand beaches of Nassau.

6. New Orleans, LA

The amazing combination of delicious food and fantastic drinks makes this Southern city a popular birthday destination.

7. Los Angeles, CA

Whether you’re a movie lover or surfer, you can find plenty to do during a trip to Los Angeles. 

We’ve always had a great time in LA. We went for my husband’s 40th birthday and included a day trip to Catalina Island. It’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen.

You can grab our 2 Day Weekend LA guide to help plan the happy birthday trip too!

8. Philadelphia, PA

With historic sites, interesting art galleries, and some of the best food in the country, you’ll have tons of fun celebrating during a trip to Philly.

9. Tulum, Mexico

Relax and unwind at a yoga retreat on the white sand beaches of this Riviera Maya location for your birthday celebration. We love a Secrets or Palace all inclusive resort in Mexico, too!

10 . Tuscany, Italy

From the sweeping landscapes to authentic Italian cuisine, a trip to Tuscany will provide you with a once in a lifetime birthday celebration.

11. Ocho Rios, Jamaica

With amazing outdoor activities to enjoy during the day and lively nightlife to fill your evenings, Ocho Rios is a great birthday trip option.

12. Florida Keyes

For a taste of the tropics without the need to leave the country, head to the Florida Keys or Key West for your next birthday trip.

13. Laguna Beach, CA

If you’re searching for a luxury trip idea for your big day, check out Laguna beach — home to amazing shopping, relaxing spas, and beautiful coastline.

14. London, England

Whether you’re hoping to take in historic castles or bustling pubs, you’ll find a place to enjoy on your birthday in London.

15. Maui, Hawaii

Enjoy an island escape for your special day with a trip to the white sand beaches of Hawaii. Grab our Maui Itinerary for some great ideas!

16. Paris, France

Enjoy classic tourist destinations, like the Eiffel Tower, or live like a Parisian for your birthday while on a trip to Paris.

17. Mykonos, Greece

You won’t find a better view than the white sand beaches and crystal blue waters of this idyllic Greek island.

18. Nashville, TN

Nashville is a popular destination for live music! Keep in mind it’s also a top Bachelorette party and 21st birthday destination.

So if you’re looking for music without the wild and crazy, you may want to keep looking for the perfect spot! With that said, there is plenty to do outside of the honky tonks in Nashville as well. We love the wine festivals hosted throughout the year!

19. Vail, CO

At this mountain escape, you can enjoy year-round outdoor activities — from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and camping in the summer.

20. Palm Springs, CA

Luxury is the name of the game in this California town — from luxurious spa resorts to high-end bars and restaurants.

21. San Diego, CA

Check out the world famous San Diego Zoo, take a ride on a thrilling coaster, or just enjoy the ocean waves at this California destination. La Jolla (pictured above) is also just a short drive!

22. Grand Canyon, AZ

Enjoy the great outdoors on a trip to the Grand Canyon for your birthday.

23. Myrtle Beach, SC

You’ll love the view from the Skywheel — an ocean front ferris wheel right on the beach — when you take a birthday vacation to Myrtle Beach.

24. Memphis, TN

The home of Elvis has plenty to offer for your birthday celebration, from live entertainment on Beal Street to delicious BBQ dinners.

25. Sanibel Island, FL

If you’re a beach lover, you can’t go wrong with Sanibel Island — known for shelling and bird watching.

26. Napa Valley, CA

Indulge in a wine tasting, enjoy the scenic views, and relax at a spa during a birthday trip to Napa Valley this year.

This has to be one of our other favorite birthday trip ideas! (Maybe for Kalee’s 40th birthday!!)

27. Walt Disney World

Celebrate your birthday at the happiest place on Earth!

28. Chicago, IL

Whether you’re shopping on the Magic Mile or enjoying the view at Navy Pier, you’re sure to have a blast celebrating your birthday in Chicago.

29. Denver, CO

From outdoor adventures during the day to bar hopping at night, you can have an amazing birthday celebration in Denver.

30. Austin, TX

With activities ranging from family-friendly fun to high-end entertainment, this popular Texas destination has something for everyone.

We always have so much fun in Austin! It’s one of our favorite birthday trip ideas because it’s also centrally located! You can access so many great places with just a short drive !

Grab our favorite Austin weekend trip ideas!

31. San Francisco, CA

With so much culture to take in, you can spend days exploring San Francisco while celebrating your birthday.

32. Outer Banks, SC

With 200 miles of barrier islands, you’re sure to find a quiet beach to relax on during a trip to the Outer Banks.

33. Caribbean Cruise

Hop aboard a cruise ship for your big day and travel to the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean to celebrate your birthday.

34. Seattle, WA

Whether you’re looking for beach views or mountain scenery, you’ll find them during a trip to this eclectic city.

35. Asheville, NC

The beautiful mountain scenery in Asheville is a great way to reconnect with nature during your birthday celebration.

36. Washington, DC

If history is your thing, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the nation’s capital for your big day.

37. Jackson Hole, WY

Surrounded by National Parks and towering forests, a trip to Jackson Hole is a great way to connect with nature for your birthday.

38. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

With some of the best nightlife in Europe, you’re sure to have a fun time partying in Amsterdam on your birthday.

39. Aspen, CO

Hit the slopes for your birthday on a trip to Aspen, where you can ski world-renowned slopes, shop high end boutiques, and enjoy meals at trendy restaurants.

40. Portland, ME

For a beach trip with a little bit of history, check out Portland, Maine, which is home to quaint seaside cottages and beautiful lighthouses. 

41. Savannah, GA

Get a taste of Southern culture for your birthday with a trip to historic Savannah.

42. Atlantic City, NJ

Check out this East Coast destination for a fun party when you can’t make it to Vegas.

43. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Known for its affordable resorts and picture-perfect beaches, Punta Cana is a budget-friendly way to enjoy a tropical escape for your big day.

44. Cape Cod, MA

This quaint beach town is a great way to relax, unwind, and enjoy a delicious lobster dinner on your birthday.

45. Route 66 Road Trip

Hit the road for your birthday with a trip down classic Route 66, which travels from Chicago, Illinois, all the way to Santa Monica, California.

46. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe blends luxury with the great outdoors! They have several nice hotels and fine dining spots you might like!

47. Puerto Rico

We have no doubt that beach lovers would love Puerto Rico with their best friends!

48. Denali National Park and Preserve, AK

If you love the outdoors and wildlife, no other birthday trip ideas are going to top Alaska’s national park!

49. Amalfi Coast

I can’t think of a better way to ring in a milestone birthday or celebrate a special occasion than an all out trip to the coast!

50. Bozeman, MT

If you’re looking for a great time, beautiful views, and everything in one area — Bozeman, MT is a great place to visit! It’s such a beautiful place, and the shops on Main Street are so unique! Grab our Bozeman Weekend Getaway Guide !

We hope this list of birthday trip ideas helps you find the perfect place to celebrate! We hope you enjoy your birthday party — wherever you celebrate it!

Celebrating? You may also like:

• 30 Unique & Funny 30th Birthday Gift Ideas
• 33 Life Lessons I Learned in my 20s
• Unforgettable 40th Birthday Gift Ideas

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Get more simple life hacks on our podcast.

Kim & Kalee

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60 Bucket List USA Trip Ideas: Best Places to Visit in the US (2024)

Here are 60 awesome USA trip ideas and the best places to visit in the US that will get you really excited about exploring America.

From USA road trips , to the best city getaways, We have traveled to all 50 states and can wholeheartedly tell you there are some incredible destinations in the United States that absolutely deserve a spot on your USA bucket list .

If you are taking a trip to the USA, you’ll find that America is filled with majestic natural landscapes.

The most beautiful states in the US have incredible waterfalls, beaches, mountains, slot canyons, and more. There are terrific cities to explore too. So let’s get started with the best places to visit in the USA.

Table of Contents

Our Favorite Resources to Plan a Trip to the USA

This post contains affiliate links. If you book or buy something through one of these links, we may earn a commission. There is no extra cost to you. You can read our full disclosure  here .

• A USA road trip is even more fun when you rent an RV or Sprinter Van. We booked a trip with Outdoorsy to try out Van Life and loved that we could choose from so many amazing options. Use code Jen50 to get $50 off your first Outdoorsy rental
• I think we’ll all seen that trip insurance can come in really handy for things you would never expect to happen. We use SafetyWing to protect ourselves..
• For more in depth trip inspiration, check out these USA Destinations or our YouTube Channel that has tons of USA Trip videos.

15 Top USA Road Trip Ideas Worthy of Your Bucket List

Whether they are close to home or far away, road trips are awesome. It lets you get up close and personal with a destination without being stuck in one place.

Road trips are great for traveling with your significant other, a family vacation, spending time with a parent, or a girlfriend’s getaway.

1. Pacific Coast Highway is the Ultimate Bucket List USA Road Trip (600 miles)

A Pacific Coast Highway road trip from San Diego to San Francisco (600 miles) will take you past the Prettiest Beaches in Southern California and the cutest California beach towns .

Be sure to stop in the entertainment capital of Los Angeles , the beachy community of Santa Barbara , and nearby Ojai .

The road turns inland for stops in Solvang , Los Olivos , and Paso Robles for a wine tasting before you head back to the coast. See the famed Hearst Castle and continue on to the redwoods of Big Sur .

The quaint communities of Carmel-by-the-Sea , Monterey , and Santa Cruz are worth stops before arriving at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge . You’ll have plenty of exploring in San Francisco before you head home.

RELATED POST: 18 BEST THINGS TO DO IN THE DANISH TOWN OF SOLVANG, CALIFORNIA

2. Northern California Wine Country (225 miles)

California wines are renowned worldwide. To get a proper taste of them, the California Wine Country road trip is the best option.

First, make your way through Napa Valley , its vineyards, historic landmarks, and the thriving luxury hotel scene. Spend a few days wine tasting and trying some of the best restaurants in the USA.

Catch a glimpse of Old Faithful Geyser in Calistoga before heading to Sonoma County and staying at a boutique hotel in the charming town of Healdsburg .

One of the best things to do in Healdsburg is shop in Healdsburg Plaza and stay overnight at the new Montage Healdsburg with gorgeous vineyard views.

Continue towards Mendocino and stop at one of many tasting rooms like Navarro Vineyards & Winery before arriving at the windswept coast.

Redwood forests and beaches abound. Head back to San Francisco driving along the stunning Northern California coast route.

READ NEXT : 10 ROMANTIC GETAWAYS IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

3. California Highway 395 and the Eastern Sierra (300+ miles)

This scenic road trip along US Route 395 will take you east of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Start your adventure in Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe has so many fun things to do. Bring an inflatable kayak to use in Secret Cove and other lakes.

Head to the Mammoth Lakes area making sure to stop at otherworldly Mono Lake along the way. If you have enough time, you can visit

Yosemite National Park through the east entrance in summer. Mammoth has summer activities like hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and kayaking.

Visit the Hot Creek Geologic Site and take a soak in a natural hot spring. Alabama Hills is next up and the perfect place to stay overnight with a sprinter van or RV.

This much-loved film location has hiking and beautiful vistas. Last but not least, drive another hour to reach Death Valley National Park .

RELATED POST: 10 HIKING ESSENTIALS TO PACK FOR A DAY HIKE

4. Southern California Deserts (285 miles)

Fly into Palm Spring Airport and start the road trip exploring the eclectic area of downtown Palm Springs and Palm Desert. Don’t miss the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for birdseye views and a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park .

A 2-hour drive will get you to the vineyards and historic downtown of Temecula . It’s a great place for a hot air balloon ride if you plan ahead.

Continue to the beautiful Anza Borrego Desert State Park known for its natural wonders and cactus-studded hills.

Finally visit the Salton Sea , the biggest lake in California that was accidentally created. Stop by the almost ghost town of artistic Bombay Beach and Salvation Mountain , a religious structure featured in the movie Into the Wild .

The Pacific Northwest Has Stunning USA Road Trips

5. Oregon Coast (340 miles)

Head straight up the Oregon coast for 350 miles of extraordinary amazing Oregon beaches . See the Natural Bridges at Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor .

Catch sunset at Face Rock State Park and stay overnight in Coos Bay to explore the area. Devil’s Punchbowl State Park has an incredible sea cave that you can see from above.

Go hiking at Cape Lookout State Park and take in the impossibly turquoise water nearby in Netarts Bay . Tour the Tillamook Factory for a fun outing.

Don’t miss the forest walk to Short Sand Beach where all the surfers hit the waves. Iconic Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach is a must-see. End your journey in Astoria on the Columbia River or continue on to the Washington coast.

6. Oregon Scenic Byways

Venture inland on one of the Oregon Scenic Byways and you’ll be completely blown away. Oregon is best in summer but fall is absolutely gorgeous.

See incredible foliage in Silver Falls State Park and fun harvest festivals in the Willamette Valley and Mt Hood/Columbia River Gorge Area. Winter skiing at Mt. Hood and Mt. Bachelor in Oregon is also amazing.

Travel through the McKenzie Pass to the gorgeous Tamolitch Blue Pool and Proxy Falls. From there, it’s a quick drive to Smith Rock State Park, a premier destination for rock climbers and hikers alike.

It’s right near the active and fun city of Bend, Oregon . In addition to Mt Bachelor, you’ll find multiple lakes, the Deschutes River, Tumalo Falls, and tons of breweries.

RELATED POST: 10 BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN BEND, OREGON

7. Olympic Peninsula in Washington (around 330 miles)

To enjoy nature and its beauty, take the Olympic Peninsula loop road trip. Start your adventure in the beautiful emerald city of Seattle .

Continue your way through the charming town of Port Townsend . Take a stroll through Sequim’s quaint streets – and its many lavender farms. 

Enjoy Olympic National Park and the stunning lakes within it. Drive to Hurricane Ridge for jaw-dropping views of the Olympic Mountains.

A must-see in the area is the Hoh Rainforest , one of Washington State’s natural wonders. Lastly, catch Neah Bay and the gorgeous Pacific Coast beaches before you end your trip.

8. Make Sure Alaska is on Your USA Bucket List – It’s Amazing!

A lot of people think of Alaska as a cruise destination but a 7 to 10 Day Alaskan Road Trip and spending time in Denali National Park is so much more exciting.

Kayak through iceberg lagoons, zipline through forests, see massive glaciers calve into the ocean, watch bears fishing for salmon, or fly around Denali, one of the tallest peaks in the world.

You may not think of Alaska as a year-round destination. While Alaska is at its prime in summer, don’t overlook the fall colors mid-September that coincide with the later end of the salmon run for those who want to fish.

Alaska is also a top spot for Northern Lights viewing between September and March.

9. A Southwest USA Road Trip Never Disappoints

There are many variations of a Southwest road trip and most involve really cool USA National Parks like Zion, Bryce, Arches, Grand Canyon, or White Sands.

Visit interesting Native American sites like Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, and Havasupai.

See slot canyons, waterfalls, and more in Sedona, Arizona , Utah, Nevada, and New Mexico. The Southwest is visually stunning and full of fun activities.

Don’t miss the chance to Hike the Wave or White Pocket in Arizona. These are a few of the amazing things to do in Kanab on the Utah – Arizona border.

Spring and Fall are ideal for a Southwest road trip because it’s the best weather. In Spring, the waterfalls and wildflowers peak and you can catch some fall foliage around Taos, New Mexico, and many parts of Utah .

10. Route 66 is a Quintessential USA Road Trip

The full Route 66 road trip is 2,137 miles, filled with natural wonders and offbeat sightseeing, between Chicago, the Grand Canyon, and Los Angeles. Do the whole route (2 weeks) or just a portion like California and Arizona.

You can also take this route on a cross-country trip and veer off course to Durango, Colorado as we did. Route 66 starts at the Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles and works its way through 7 states to Lake Michigan.

11. Florida Keys Road Trip From Miami to Key West is A Unique USA Experience (160 miles)

This road trip traverses the overseas highway, where 43 of 1,700 islands are connected by bridges, to the southernmost tip of Florida. You can drive from Fort Lauderdale or Miami to Key West in 4 hours.

Make the trip over a few days and stop at the 16 best stops from Miami to Key West .

The north end of the Florida Keys has Biscayne National Park with crystal clear blue water and the world’s 3rd largest coral reef system with lots of outdoor activities.

The peak time to visit the Florida Keys is from November through February when the weather is perfect in the 70s-80s, but it’s also the busiest and most expensive.

Spring travel from March through May still has nice weather without the crowds Fall weather is lovely but it’s also hurricane season, so make sure you have trip insurance in case you need to cancel.

12. The East Coast is Full of Great USA Trip Ideas for Summer or Fall

A favorite East Coast road trip is from Rhode Island up to Maine. It can be a romantic fall foliage trip or a great summer trip with kids.

Hit the beaches on Block Island , mansions in Newport, charming towns of Cape Cod, the Freedom Trail in Boston, lobstering in Maine, or hiking in Acadia National Park. Check it all out on a New England Road Trip with Teens .

A Southern East Coast road trip will take you from the beaches of Florida to the historic towns of Savannah and Charleston with many historic sites and countless antique shops or markets.

Myrtle Beach is a draw for so many recreational things to do. There are so many places to explore on the Eastern seaboard.

READ NEXT: THE ULTIMATE 7 DAY NEW ENGLAND ROAD TRIP ITINERARY FOR SUMMER OR FALL

13. Mid-South Road Trips

We did a short version of this trip through Tennessee where you can see the sights and sounds of Nashville, and whiskey tasting in Lynchburg and Chattanooga.

Add on the Blue Ridge Parkway through the Great Smoky Mountains for fall foliage and a trip to the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina.

Incorporate coastal cities like Charleston and beautiful beach areas like the Outer Banks.

14. Lake Michigan Circle Tour is Amazing for Road Trippin’ the USA

This trip will take you through Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and a bit of Indiana. It’s the prettiest summer trip that’s perfect for families and you can combine it with a Midwest college tour.

Chicago is such a cool city, especially in summer. If you’ve never been to Wisconsin, get it on your list ASAP for a summer or fall trip with foliage and Badger football at Camp Randall.

Don’t miss Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Sleeping Bear Dunes at the top of Michigan for beautiful beaches and stunning landscapes.

15. The Road to Hana is Definitely a Bucket List USA Trip

The famed Road to Hana in Maui is more of a long, scenic drive than a road trip. In 59 miles, you will want to stop at every waterfall, black sand beach , or viewpoint.

Another great Hawaiian drive on the big island of Hawaii from Hilo to Honokaa is Hamakua Coast Drive. Big wave season is from the end of October through March on the North Shore of Oahu.

We’ve been dying to see the 30-50 foot waves in person. Hawaii has year-round amazing weather.

15 Best National Parks to Visit in the USA

If you plan to visit more than one National Park, save money with an America the Beautiful National Park Pass . There is nothing better than getting out in nature, and there are so many great national parks to visit in the US.

16. Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona

There’s no place like the Grand Canyon. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a first-time visitor, there’s no wrong way to experience this natural wonder.

For the truly adventurous, a hike to the bottom of the canyon is a must. The trailhead for the Bright Angel Trail is located near the visitor center, and hikers can choose between a day hike and an overnight camping trip.

There’s no better way to appreciate the scale of the canyon than by spending some time at its bottom.

For those who want to stay closer to the top, there are plenty of vantage points from which to take in the incredible views. Yavapai Point and Mather Point are two of the most popular viewpoints.

The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a see-through cantilever bridge that takes you out over the edge of Grand Canyon West.

Combine the Grand Canyon with the best places to visit in Arizona like Sedona, Page, and Monument Valley,

17. Arches National Park in Moab, Utah

Arches National Park is full of, well, arches! The most famous of these is Delicate Arch, which has been featured on everything from postcards to Utah license plates.

But there are plenty of other arches to explore in the park, including Double Arch (shown above) and Sand Dune Arch, among others.

Of course, you can also enjoy the stunning natural scenery or stargaze in one of the darkest skies in the country.

For those who want to get closer to nature, there are plenty of hikes to explore, ranging from easy nature trails to challenging multi-day treks.

Arches National Park definitely deserves a spot on your Utah Bucket List .

18. Canyonlands National Parks in Moab, Utah

A visit to Canyonlands National Park can be a series of scenic drives and mind-blowing views or filled with incredible hiking and off road adventures.

With over 400 miles of hiking trails, there is sure to be a route that appeals to everyone, from casual walkers to hardcore adventurers.

No visit to Canyonlands would be complete without a trip to one of its three major attractions: Mesa Arch, The Needles, or Dead Horse Point State Park.

You can stay in Moab to visit both Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. Without having an airport nearby, you will probably want to see other parks on your way there like Zion.

We put together a video of our Utah top 10 and a 20 Must See Places in Utah blog post with even more.

19. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the most beautiful places on earth. With its red rock formations, hoodoos, and stunning views.

From above, the Bryce Amphitheater is a USA bucket list sight. There are multiple viewpoints to watch the sunset or enjoy a picnic lunch.

But the real treat is spending one Day in Bryce Canyon National Park and hiking down into the towering hoodoos.

The Navajo Loop Trail is one of the most popular trails, winding through some of the most beautiful parts of the canyon, including Wall Street. You will be surrounded by high walls of red rock and if you’re lucky, you might even see some wildlife.

20. Zion National Park

With over four million visitors each year, Zion National Park has some of the best sights in America. The park features sandstone cliffs, canyons, rivers, and iconic views that you’ve probably seen in tons of photos.

With one day in Zion National Park , you can take a short hike on the Canyon Overlook trail and then take a scenic drive that will blow you away with its beauty.

With more time, you can take advantage of the many bucket list USA adventures in Zion. Wade through the river on the Narrows hike with 1,500-foot canyon walls towering above you.

Or get your adrenaline fill on the Angels Landing hike that takes you to the top of a 1,488-foot tall rock formation along precarious paths and steep drop-offs.

Visiting Zion is only one of the completely awesome things to do in Kanab and Southwest Utah .

21. Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park is home to an incredible amount of natural beauty, including soaring mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests.

And while there are countless ways to enjoy the park, one of the most popular activities is hiking. With more than 350 miles of trails, there’s a perfect hike for everyone.

Dream Lake and Emerald Lake are the best hiking spots for beginners. With shorter trails and lakes with beautiful reflections, these are highly popular.

A must-do hike for those that want a great workout is Sky Pond. Serious hikers head for Long’s Peak, the biggest challenge at 14,259 feet.

22. Yosemite National Park in California

Tucked away in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite National Park is one of the world’s most incredible natural landscapes immortalized in Ansel Adams photographs.

With more than 1,200 square miles to explore, there are plenty of sights worth seeing in this national treasure.

Catch sunrise lighting up soaring granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome from Tunnel View. Then head to the thundering waterfalls of Yosemite Valley and picturesque hiking trails.

In February, catch the bucket list moment when Horsetail Falls lights up from the sunset to create the “firefall.”

Our 2 Days in Yosemite Itinerary will give you all the best things to do in the park along with where to stay and how to get around.

23. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley is a place of extremes. It is the hottest, driest, and lowest point in North America. But it is also one of the most beautiful places on earth. Here are some of the best things to do in Death Valley National Park.

One of the most popular things to do in Death Valley is visit the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. These massive dunes are a great place to hike, sled, or simply take in the majestic views.

For another dose of natural beauty, head to Zabriskie Point for a sunset that you won’t soon forget. Another must-see are the Salt Flats at Badwater Basin.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply want to marvel at some of Mother Nature’s finest work, Death Valley National Park should be at the top of your list.

24. Joshua Tree National Park in California

Joshua Tree is the most low key, surprisingly wonderful national parks. It is named after the trees native to the region, and it consists of 760,000 acres.

More than 2,500 species live in this area making it one of the most biodiverse regions in North America.

We highly recommend doing a little slow travel here. You can go rock climbing, take hikes, see stars at night like you’ve never seen before or take in the vibe at a cool Airbnb.

Check out the best things to do in Joshua Tree for a weekend getaway or as part of a California road trip.

25. Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the country, including glaciers, mountains, waterfalls, hot springs and more than 200 species of animals.

On a 3 day Yellowstone itinerary , wildlife watching should be at the top of your list. Lamar Valley, full of bison, is so exciting that it creates a traffic jam in the park every day.

The park’s many geothermal areas are showstoppers including the world-famous Old Faithful geyser that erupts every 90 minutes. See the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the US, at ground level or from above on a nearby hike.

If you’re looking for an active adventure, you can go whitewater rafting on the Yellowstone River or hike through Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon.

26. Grand Teton National Park

At next-door neighbor Grand Teton National National Park, you can boat, float, fish, hike and camp with the Teton mountain range and Snake River as your backdrop.

The 42 mile scenic drive will take you past some of the most stunning scenery in the park. Make sure to stop at Mormon Row, the historic district of well-preserved late 19th century homesteads.

Next, head to Jenny Lake for a peaceful canoe or kayak ride. This is a great way to take in the incredible views of the Tetons while getting some exercise.

If you’re feeling ambitious, hike up to Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls. This trail is moderate to strenuous, but it’s definitely worth it for the stunning views of Jenny Lake and the Tetons beyond.

There’s so much to see and do in Grand Teton National Park, you could easily spend days here and never get bored.

27. Glacier National Park in Montana

Glacier National Park has over 1 million acres of wilderness and some of the most jaw dropping scenery. It’s a hiker’s paradise but you’ll also find other adventures like whitewater rafting, photographing wildlife, kayaking, fishing and more.

Don’t miss the drive up Going-to-the-Sun Road, which bisects the park from east to west.

The road climbs over 6,000 feet (1829 m) in just 52 miles (84 km), providing motorists with spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains and Glacier National Park.

Visit 3 National Parks on One Trip to Glacier National Park, Yellowstone and Grand Tetons. They’re all driving distance from each other and each one offers something unique.

28. Acadia National Park

A trip up to Maine is so worth it for a chance to see Acadia National Park. It’s home to some of the best hiking trails in New England with plenty of scenic views and easy hikes.

Or if you’re feeling adventurous, try one of their more challenging trails like South Bubble Trail or Mt. Cadillac North Ridge Trail!

If you’re not up for a hike there is still plenty to do at Acadia National Park with many different activities including camping, biking, canoeing or kayaking on Echo Lake Lake, rock climbing, and bird watching.

Don’t miss the delicious popovers at the restaurant overlooking Jordan Pond!

29. Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska

Kenai Fjords National Park is one of the most beautiful and underrated places in Alaska.

Some of the best things to do in Seward & Kenai Fjords National Park include a hike to Exit Glacier, iceberg kayaking in Bear Glacier Lagoon and a whale watching trip to see incredible marine life along with massive calving glaciers.

Alaska has 8 National parks and each features magnificent landscapes and activities. No matter which you choose, you’re guaranteed an amazing Alaskan experience!

30. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii is home to 2 of the world’s most active volcanoes.

Take the Crater Rim Drive to the Jaggar Museum overlook, hike the Kīlauea Iki Trail and through the rain forest to the Thurston Lava Tube, and have a bucket list dinner overlooking the crater at The Rim at Volcano House.

10 Cities That Deserve a Spot on Your USA Bucket List

31. New York City, New York

New York is a city of endless possibilities. It’s the world capital of finance, fashion, media, and culture. Start your New York trip with a walk in Central Park, followed by a visit to the Met.

New York’s museums are world class and the Guggenheim is another of New York’s most iconic attractions.

Don’t miss a Broadway show in Times Square and the Empire State Building, if it’s your first trip to the the Big Apple.

Hit the latest restaurants in Greenwich Village, shop in Soho, get out on the water to visit Lady Liberty and time travel at the TWA hotel . If you visit in September , you can also see all the excitement of New York Fashion Week.

32. Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is a great city with so much more to do than most visitors realize. In addition to the amazing Southern California beaches , the mountains are filled with incredible hiking trails .

Los Angeles is a great city for foodies with insanely good restaurants to see and be seen. And the scenic drives in LA are like movies in real life.

Spend your days at one of the latest museum exhibits or take your kids to a theme park. Wander around downtown LA checking out all the cool street art.

Shop for a great outfit or home decor that reflects cool California style. Just avoid the 15 biggest mistakes when visiting Los Angeles .

33. Washington DC

Washington D.C. is a city that offers something for everyone. From the history and culture of the Smithsonian museums (there are 19 of them!) to the nightlife and restaurants of Georgetown, there’s plenty to do and see in this vibrant city.

Take a walk or bike ride through the National Mall to see the monuments and memorials, including the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.

If you plan ahead and request a tour through your member of Congress, you might get lucky enough to tour the White House. Stay in a DC hotel with a rooftop pool for extra fun.

34. San Francisco, California

San Francisco is one of the most unique and best places to visit in the USA. Take a walk across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to get a view of the San Francisco Bay.

We recommend getting a view from water level too. Follow it up with a trip to Alcatraz Island, probably the only time you’ll visit a prison as a tourist attraction.

Chinatown, one of the oldest and biggest in the US, is a great place to try Dim Sum. Of course you have to ride a cable car over one of the steep city streets.

Visit Coit Tower for another great viewpoint. Spend some time in the Marina at the Palace of Fine Arts, Crissy Field and the Presidio.

35. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is a fantastic city to visit – especially in good weather. Millennium Park is home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, as well as a variety of gardens and performance venues.

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the largest art museums in the world, and a must visit. Even though it’s super touristy, it’s fun to catch a cruise at Navy Pier to tour Chicago’s incredible architecture.

If baseball is in season, you should definitely catch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field. Hit Michigan Avenue lined for the best high-end shops.

Last but not least, while you’ll probably go to the famous long standing restaurants in Chicago, don’t miss one of the cutting edge restaurants in the city.

36. Boston, Massachusettes

Boston is a city of many firsts from the country’s oldest public park, Boston Common to Harvard, America’s oldest University. Many of Boston’s historical buildings can be seen by taking a stroll on the Freedom trail including Paul Revere’s house. 

Faneuil Hall, the site of America’s first town meeting is a bustling marketplace today. Stop in Quincy market for a bite to eat and take in the vibrant energy of Boston.

Art enthusiasts will enjoy Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts, the largest in North America. Sports lovers should catch a Red Rox game at Fenway. Finally, don’t forget to get a peek of the Charles River, where you might see some collegiate crews rowing.

Plan an extra day or two when you visit because there are plenty of great day trips from Boston too.

37. New Orleans, Louisiana

With major events like Mardi Gras, the Jazz Festival, and others, New Orleans is one of the best places to vacation in the United States.

Watch street performers at Jackson Square and admire their impressive skills. Hop on a streetcar and discover all the fun and wild parts of New Orleans, including St. Charles Avenue, the Garden District, and Uptown New Orleans. 

Visit the French Quarter, packed with museums, art galleries, restaurants, and of course notorious bars. Since New Orleans is a foodie paradise, you have to try beignets from Cafe du Monde!

Other yummy favorites – the original Muffaletta from Central Grocery Deli, and hot dogs from Dat Dog. Don’t leave the Big Easy without meals at Commander’s Palace and Jacques-Imo’s.

Those who don’t mind venturing outside the city (approximately 1-hour drive) should discover some of the best southern plantation estates in the country, such as Laura Plantation, New Orleans Oak Alley Plantation, and San Francisco Plantation.

An airboat tour in the Bayou is another great day trip and one of the most memorable, super fun things we’ve done in Louisiana.

RELATED POST: THE PERFECT 3 DAY WEEKEND IN NEW ORLEANS ITINERARY

38. Miami, Florida

Dreaming of a beach getaway? Miami’s blend of different cultures creates the ultimate destination for entertainment. Loved for its spectacular beaches and vibrant art scene, the coastal metropolis has something to offer for everyone. 

Stop by South Beach – the most iconic area in Miami. Wander through its beautiful Art Deco District to enjoy a sprinkle of 1930’s nostalgia.

Spend the day soaking up rays and cool beach vibes. Whenever hunger kicks in, stop by Bayside Market has a lively atmosphere while enjoy views of the bay. 

To get your daily dose of culture, plan a visit to one of Miami’s greatest treasures – the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, which offers a little taste of Europe with its elegant furniture. 

Other great Miami beaches include Surfside for postcard-worthy vistas and Sunny Isles Beach to be in the midst of all action. There is no doubt the coastal metropolis is one of the most fun USA places to explore.

39. Charleston, South Carolina

From charming cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture to world-class restaurants and lively nightlife – Charleston is surely one of the best US destinations.

Take a ghost tour in the oldest and most haunted city in America, with over 100 recognized otherworldly beings.

A trip to the Lowcountry would be incomplete without shopping for antiques and visiting high-end boutiques on King Street, which also has fantastic restaurants and bars. 

Join the locals for seafood at Chubby Fish or rev up your taste buds with a delicious cheddar and jalapeno biscuit from Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit.

Stop by the Charleston Farmers Market, which is considered one of the best in the South. Not only will you get your hands on amazing produce, but you may even catch a live performance.

Sullivan’s Island beach should be on your itinerary too. Although it is the smallest of Charleston’s beaches, it is the most pristine.

40. Seattle, Washington

Consistently ranked among the ten best places to live in the United States, Seattle’s coffee culture, grunge music scene, and lush evergreen forests will charm you too.

Visit the top of the Space Needle – an iconic part of Seattle’s skyline with 360 degree views. While in the area, have crispy pancakes at Paju or delicious ramen at Cafe Goldinblack.

Set aside some time to explore one of the country’s most famous public markets – Pike Place Market. Then, take the commuter ferry across Puget Sound to Bainbridge Island and discover the stunning city from a new perspective.

For culture freaks, paying a visit to the Museum of Pop Culture – MoPop – is a must. One of the most beautiful libraries in America can be found at the University of Washington’s Suzzalo Library, which feels exactly like Hogwarts.

With endless opportunities to have fun, there is no doubt Seattle is one of the coolest USA places to visit.

Vanlife, RVs, Camping or Glamping for USA Adventure Trips

The type of accommodations you choose for your trip can actually be part of the adventure all on it’s own. Rent a converted Sprinter van or RV to be your home AND transportation on a USA road trip.

Stay in a luxurious Glamping tent to add extra pizazz to your vacation. Or enjoy nature and pitch a tent. It’s more rustic but super fun with your friends and family.

41. USA Glamping Trips

Accommodations range from luxurious to rustic in permanent tent structures, cabins, teepees, chuck wagons, dome tents, yurts and tree houses. We LOVE glamping!!

Glamping in Big Sur under massive redwood trees in a king bed with an electric blanket and a push button campfire is right up my alley.

It’s one of the coolest glamping destinations in California . There are a ton of options!

We’ve glamped in Sonoma near vineyards, at El Capitan near Solvang , at Autocamp in a airstream trailer and more. Glamping with kids is really fun too!

42. Tent Camping Trips in the USA

I was so nervous to do our first tent camping trip at Crater Lake National Park in Oregon but it was a blast.

We took the dogs and piled in with an amazing 4″ memory foam mattress that made our inexpensiv e awesome tent so cozy! Obviously you can only have that much gear when you’re not far from your car.

We did it again on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land to watch Speed Week on the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. That was even better because the ground was hard packed salt (basically no dirt).

If you’ve never been to Crater Lake or Bonneville Salt Flats , get them on your USA bucket list. They are both jaw droppingly cool! There are incredible places to tent camp all over the USA.

43. Backpacking Trips in the USA

Backpacking, as the name implies involves a hike to a remote area, where you carry everything you need on your back – like food, water and shelter.

Since you are carrying everything, you have to really conserve on the amount of weight. It’s also important to follow the leave no trace behind principles .

We planned our first backpacking trip to Havasupai and we can’t wait! That amazing blue water at Havasu Falls has been on our USA bucket list for years now.

In addition to Havasupai, the other beginner backpacking trips that are on our USA bucket list are the Lost Coast Trail and John Muir Trail in California, the Point of Arches Trail in Olympic National Park, Washington, and the Golden Cathedral in Escalante, Utah.

44. Rent a Converted Sprinter Van

Campervan photos on Instagram make everyone swoon. There’s something about the idea of opening up the door to an incredible view and living life completely free.

A sprinter van allows you to have a mini RV that goes anywhere and off the grid if there’s solar power.

We rented a sprinter van for a Utah road trip on Outdoorsy. Honestly it was so much more fun than we expected.

So…. we bought one and did our own sprinter van conversion that you can see in the photo above. Use JEN50 to get $50 off your first Outdoorsy rental.

If you decide to do a van or RV road trip, we made a list of 30 Campervan Gadgets and Accessories that would have greatly enhanced our experience.

45. RV for a USA Road Trip

I have a friend that goes RV camping and I’ll be honest, I thought it was 100% not for me but I’m starting to rethink my position.

There’s so much space and some of them are seriously luxurious. The obvious benefit to an RV is that it holds more people, so it’s better for a family trip than a campervan.

A good RV Resort has a cool location, full hook ups, activities available and restaurants too.

Twelvemile Beach Campground at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan sits on a gorgeous beach near lots of great things to do. Salmon River Campground in Stanley, Idaho is quite a scenic area too.

Active Trip Ideas in the USA

Having a chance to take an active trip really makes it feel like a true vacation. It can be such a departure from everyday life and a way to disconnect from all of our electronic devices.

Whether you love water sports, Yoga retreats, or exploring backcountry wilderness on foot, the USA has tons of active trips available.

46. Lake Vacations are Very Popular USA Summer Trips

Lake vacations are a great way to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Enjoy beautiful scenery, fresh air, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Some of the best lake vacations in the USA can be found in states such as California, Oregon, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Colorado.

Check out the 10 Best Southern California Lakes for a weekend gateway.

These states are home to some of America’s most picturesque lakes, which offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, hiking and skiing.

47. USA Kayak Trips

If you like kayaking, you can find some amazing USA trip ideas in this post with the Best Kayaking and Canoe Trips in the USA .

A few of our favorites include iceberg kayaking in Alaska , lake kayaking and floating down the Deschutes River in Oregon, and kayaking along the bays of the Northern California Coast.

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin features beautiful islands and cliffs, and is perfect for kayaking trips of all lengths.

True adventurers should try kayaking down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. This trip will test your skills as a kayaker, but it’s definitely worth the effort!

48. Canoe Trips

Canoe and kayak trips have a lot in common but since a canoe can carry more gear, canoe trips make great overnight adventures.

One of the best canoe trips in the US is the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Minnesota. This area is full of pristine lakes and rivers, and campgrounds to stay overnight.

Another great park for canoeing is Grand Teton National Park . The park has several beautiful rivers and lakes, and it’s also home to some of the most impressive mountain ranges in the country. Glacier National Park is another top spot.

49. Whitewater Rafting Trips

There are many great whitewater rafting trips in the USA. With a wide variety of rapids there are trips that will thrill both beginners and experienced rafters.

The Rocky Mountains in Colorado make for some of the most thrilling whitewater rafting in the country. California offers a wealth of options for whitewater rafting trips.

The American River is one of the most popular destinations and offers everything from mild Class II rapids to heart-stopping Class V rapids.

Oars is a great outfitter with so many rafting trip options on the Green river (shown above), the Colorado River , Salmon River , Rogue River , Snake River and more.

50. Winter Ski and Snowboard Trips

There are a plethora of awesome ski and snowboard destinations in the United States. The best quality snow can be found in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon and California.

Vail , Colorado is a world-class resort with stunning mountain scenery and plenty of slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

Another great destination is Aspen , which offers superb skiing on four mountains as well as luxurious accommodations and fine dining.

Utah is also a great place to ski, with five world-class resorts including Park City and Deer Valley .

The Sundance Film Festival in the end of January is one of Hollywood’s favorite USA trips in winter. Idaho’s Sun Valley and Wyoming’s Jackson Hole are also at the top of every skier’s list.

California has skiing up and down the state . Mammoth Mountain is one of the top rated family friendly resorts. Big Bea r is a favorite in Southern California where you can surf and ski in the same day

51. Biking Trips to Add to Your USA Bucket List

Biking is a great way to see the sights while getting some exercise. And there are plenty of scenic biking trails all across the United States.

Whether you do a family biking trip with an outfitter like Backroads, or a longer distance ride, it will definitely be a memorable experience.

The Green Mountains in Vermont offer the Catamount Trail , a 300-mile long trail that traverses the length of the state, making it perfect for a multi-day biking trip.

For a bit of history along your ride, pedal along the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park in Maryland . This 184.5-mile long trail follows an old canal towpath and passes through towns, forests, and along the Potomac River.

Some other must-do, incredible view rides include Pacific Coast Highway in Big Sur, the Going to the Sun Road in Glacier National Park, the Flume Trail in Lake Tahoe, the Swamp Rabbit Trail in Greenville, NC, the McKenzie River Trail in Bend, and Trail 401 in Crested Butte, Colorado.

52. USA Bucket List for Birding

If you’re a bird lover, or you’ve seen The Big Year , you know that people definitely plan travel around birding. The USA is home to an incredible diversity of birdlife.

There are plenty of hotspots where you can see some truly spectacular feathered friends like the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail with over 370 species.

The Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival is one of the best birding events in the country, attracting tens of thousands of enthusiasts every year.

Brooklyn’s Prospect Park is another great spot for birdwatching, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the park.

The Biggest Week in American Birding Festival is held each year in Ohio, and it’s one of the biggest birding events in the world. Over 300 species make their way to the Great White North all the way from South America.

Other places that should be on your birding bucket list include Point Reyes National Seashore, Tuscon, Arizona, Everglades National Park, and Cape May, New Jersey,

Bucket List USA Photography Tours

Tourists flock to the USA in droves, eager to snap photos of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Golden Gate Bridge. But there’s so much more to this country than those two things.

From the majestic mountains of Alaska to the red rocks of Arizona, the USA is a photographer’s paradise. Here are four of the best Photo Tours in the USA that should be on your bucket list.

53. Alaska Northern Lights

One of nature’s most spectacular displays, the Northern Lights are a must-see for any photographer. And what better place to see them than in Alaska, where they are at their brightest?

There are few things more breathtaking than watching the skies light up in a shifting display of colors.

Northern Lights tours typically take place during the winter months, when the nights are long and the air is clear. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to get that perfect photo, whether you’re using a DSLR camera or your phone.

Dress for temperatures that can dip below zero. But it will be worth it when you end up with some amazing photos that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

54. Alaskan Bear Photo Tour

Alaska is well-known for its large population of bears, and a bear photo tour is the perfect way to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.

One of the most unique photo tours you can do in the USA is to Arctic Alaska to get eye to eye with polar bears .

Plan on spending between 3-6 days, where you’ll take boat tour each day to capture the bears in their natural habitat while learning about their behavior and ecology.

During summer join a wildlife photographer for a brown bear photo tour in King Salmon. It’s a trip of a lifetime to be able to see the bears feeding during the salmon run and interacting in the wild.

55. Channel Your Inner Ansel Adams in Yosemite

For those who love to take photos, Yosemite National Park is a veritable paradise. From the grandeur of Half Dome and El Capitan to the majesty of Yosemite Falls, there are endless opportunities for breathtaking shots.

And with a little planning, it’s easy to make the most of your time in the park. The first step is to choose the right tour. There are many different companies that offer photo tours of Yosemite, so it’s important to do your research.

Once you’ve found a tour that suits your needs, it’s time to start planning your itinerary. Depending on the time of year, you’ll want to make sure to include shots of Tunnel View, the Valley floor, Glacier Point, and Tuolumne Meadows.

56. Astrophotography in a Dark Sky Park

If you’re an amateur astronomer looking for the best place to snap some pictures of the night sky, you need a spot with no light pollution and the right atmospheric conditions.

There are a few places that tend to be ideal for astrophotography, such as Death Valley National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Mauna Kea in Hawaii, Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee and Big Bend National Park in Texas.

Utah has incredible spots like Canyonlands and honestly plenty of spots if you just pull off the road somewhere desolate.

These locations offer dark skies and minimal light pollution, making them ideal for capturing clear images of the stars and planets. So if you’re planning a trip to see the night sky in all its glory, be sure to add these parks to your list!

Equipment to Take Magnificent Photos on Vacation:

• Splurge on a full format camera and learn how to use it with your professional photo tour guide. Get a super telephoto lens for wildlife photography or a 10 stop filter that costs almost nothing and makes stunning, smooth waterfall shots.
• Get a drone , learn how to fly it and capture cool photos and videos. It was our best purchase ever!
• A GoPro offers unlimited fun potential. Strap it onto your kid’s bike helmet, put it on a surfboard, or use it for great wide angle shots. Add an underwater dome and take super cool above and below water photos.

Best Places to Visit in the USA By Season

57. Fall US Trips for Autumn Fun, Foliage and Less Crowds

The obvious choice for an Autumn trip is to New England for fall foliage from mid September to the beginning of October. but you can find incredible fall colors and harvest festivals all over the country.

Check the Farmer’s Almanac for peak foliage dates by state. Notable states with vibrant color include Virginia, North Carolina, Michigan, Colorado, and Oregon.

Another great trip idea for fall are places that are way too busy in summer like Yellowstone, Great Smoky Mountains and the Utah Mighty 5.

New York City is perfection in fall from the excitement of Fashion Week to enjoying the delightful weather in Central Park. Albuquerque hosts Balloon Fiesta in October that is a colorful sight to see.

58. Winter Trips for Sun and Snow

If you’re dreaming of a winter getaway, there’s no shortage of destinations in the USA that offer the perfect combination of snow and fun.

New York, is hands down one of the best places to visit in December . You can experience all the excitement of the city that never sleeps, with the added bonus of the festive holiday season.

Take a stroll through Central Park, go ice skating at Rockefeller Center, and wrap up warm and enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow-covered streets.

From the world famous slopes of Aspen to the majestic mountains of Colorado, there’s no shortage of great places to hit the slopes. And while you could easily spend a fortune on a luxury ski trip, there are plenty of budget-friendly options as well.

If winter sun is your jam, Hawaii is the perfect place to relax and escape the cold. San Diego has great weather year round and plenty of fun activities.

With sandy beaches and turquoise water, there’s no question why snowbirds spend the winter in Florida. And don’t forget Arizona for golf,

59. Flowers and Celebrations Make the Best USA Trip ideas for Spring

If you want to see cherry blossoms , head to Washington DC. Tulips abound in Holland, Michigan and Skagit Valley, Washington.

California poppies, Texas bluebonnets and Azizona’s desert blooms will make your heart sing. When Spring has sprung, it can make the grumpiest person happy.

Spring is also a great time for festivals. New Orleans is one big party from February to May. Austin, Texas hosts South by Southwest in March while California has Coachella in April .

Spring break in Alabama , Florida, Mississippi and Texas at the beach is also highly popular!

60. Summer is a Great Time to Take your USA Road Trips North

Summer is a great time for road trips in America and it is also a common time for people to take off from work.

As a general rule of thumb, the northern states are at their best while the southern ones are drowning in heat and/or humidity.

The states that are the best to visit in summer are Washington, Oregon, California, Colorado, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Rhode Island, Vermont, Maine, Hawaii and Alaska.

61. Staycations for the Best Places to Visit in the USA Near Home

A staycation is the cop out of vacation ideas unless you really do it right. Take the week off of work and look at your home town as a vacation destination. What do all the people do that are tourists in your area? Better yet, what are the coolest places in your area that tourists don’t know about. Pro Tips: Stay at a hotel and make an itinerary so you aren’t tempted to keep up with real life distractions.

5 Cool Things to do on a Staycation

• See museums, go to a play, or visit interesting cultural events. A staycation is the perfect time to support the arts.
• Do a day trip of an area 1-2 hours away that you’ve never been to or haven’t seen in years. Head to a lake near you and spend some time enjoying lake life.
• Eat out every night at restaurants you’re really wanted to try. Have breakfast at a cool restaurant way across town.
• Stay at the newest hotel in your area that’s the talk of the town. We live in Los Angeles so it’s really easy to feel like you’re going on vacation 30 miles away because it can take 2 hours to get there. Haha!! For us, staying in a hotel across town would open up a world of possibilities we never touch.
• Go hiking , take a long bike ride, or take advantage of an exercise class you’ve heard about. Take up a new sport you’ve wanted to try like rowing , stand up paddle boarding (SUP), surfing or a boot camp and kickstart your fitness regime.

Other Posts You Might Like:

• TRAVEL:  The Best Places to Travel in March
• ARIZONA: Visiting Sedona for Hiking and the Sedona Vortex
• CALIFORNIA: Joshua Tree Weekend Getaway Guide
• ALASKA: Alaska Summer Road Trip Itinerary

Save These Bucket List USA Trip Ideas to Read Later? Pin It!

About Jenifer

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26 comments.

Thank you jenifer for sharing the wonderful trip ideas, And the photos are amazing.

Great post! I really appreciated the depth of your insights shared. Your perspective was eye-opening and gave me a new way to think about it. Thanks for taking the time to share your expertise—looking forward to reading more from you!

Wow, your photos from Colorado are breathtaking! It’s like I’m experiencing the journey with you. Thanks for sharing your amazing travels!

Awesome list, you can also discover the charm of New Hampshire’s autumnal beauty and diverse attractions as you seek the best places to travel to in November.

Thank you Jennifer for the details of every place, I really love the photos

acevisiontreks

Thank you for sharing your USA travel ideas for adventure outdoor activities. Your post is really helpful.

Ganesh Adhikari

Thank you so much for listing the USA trip ideas. Love your post, Beautiful Pictures, and informative article for the outdoor travel guide.

Great to know all this about USA, Appreciate your great job Thanks

Ok, wow. Let’s just say that my bucket list has grown significantly after reading this! Thank you so much for sharing!

Just pinned! I will never need to think of where to go on vacations. Thank you for sharing such great places that I definitely need to visit.

So glad! Hope you have some great trips coming up!

Big Sur to San Diego is the most incredible road trip you will ever take. Or if I would say it correctly, it’s actually… San Diego up to Big Sur! I live in San Diego and I’ve personally done this before and the PCH and all the views up the coast is absolutely incredible. Totally amazing and probably one of the best ‘drives’ you will ever take. I can’t think of a better road trip you could ever possibly take, if you visit San Diego, consider taking a drive up the coast on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) up to Big Sur. This article totally nailed it.

Amazing blog, Please keep on writing blogs like this.

MP Allegaert

My bucket list has just exploded!

michele linton

I just loved this post! The photos are amazing, and now I feel inspired to get my road trip on! Thanks Jennifer!

Thanks Michele! There are so many great road trips to take in the US. Hope you get to venture out soon.

Hilda Smith

This is incredible information and I am following your vlog/videos too. Love your camper van in Utah. You two are brilliant. Not sure I would be able for that heat.

Thank you so much Hilda! We weren’t very excited about that heat either 😂

Gwen Gottlieb

So many fabulous suggestions! I just made a new bucket list! We’ve done just a few so plenty to add to the list. I think I’d be the glamping type! As long as I can bring my blow dryer!

So glad you found new things to add to your bucket list. You can definitely use your blow dryer when you go glamping 😉

Adrian Grant

So beautiful! Excited to see where the road will lead you in your new adventure 😊

I LOVE this!!!

These are really amazing and fun ideas dear!

I want to do Route 66, Pacific Northwest and the California coast road trips!

Jennifer Effortlessly Sophisticated

All 3 of those are so much fun!

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28 Best Places to Visit in October in USA (You’ll Love)

Posted on Published: August 23, 2023  - Last updated: January 5, 2024

There’s nothing quite like a fall vacation. The hustle and bustle of the summer is gone. Most tourist destinations are like sleepy ghost towns waiting for the rush of holiday travelers. So if you’ve ever wondered where’s the best places to visit in October in the USA – here’s your list.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Traveling in the fall, and more specifically, October cannot be beat. It’s the shoulder season for many destinations across the states. That means less crowds and affordable prices. And bonus – beautiful fall colors across much of the USA!

Traveling in the fall is one of the best times to take a vacation. But not every spot is equally as great. That’s why this list of the best fall vacations in the US is highlighting cool spots you’ve seen before, and even better destinations you haven’t heard of. 

And by the way…I’m continually checking places off my travel bucket list . However, I haven’t been everywhere yet (working on it!) so I enlisted some travel blogger friends for help creating this epic list. 

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Map of the best fall vacations in the US

This list is covering a lot of the country! From the west coast to the east coast and some spots in between, this map shows a visual, which can be useful when planning your fall getaway.

Best places to visit in October in USA

October is a fabulous time to travel, and these are some of the most ideal spots in these gorgeous United States to see. From popular fall foliage spots to destinations you’ve never heard of, let’s dive into the list!

1. The Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina to Virginia

Average temp:  high 62, low 41

Stretching 469 miles from the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to the entrance to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia (where it turns into the equally scenic Skyline Drive), the Blue Ridge Parkway is widely regarded as one of America’s most scenic roads.

More than 15 million people using the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) each year, making it the most visited of all the national park units in the United States. So it’s also arguably the most popular!

The BRP’s origins date back to 1935, when President Franklin Delano Roosevelt made the historic initiative part of his New Deal. It was designed to improve American infrastructure and create jobs as a means to accelerate the nation’s economic recovery after the Great Depression.

It took until 1966 to construct the majority of the road, and another 21 years to finish the picturesque stretch from the Linn Cove Viaduct to Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina. 

The result is an epic and iconic road trip that dazzles with spectacular colors in the fall, when the leaves turn to sun-speckled gems in red, orange, and golden hues. It’s by far one of the most scenic fall drives in the US!!

An autumn drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway takes you through the Jefferson, George Washington, Nantahala, and Pisgah National Forests; numerous impressive state parks (including NC’s Mount Mitchell State Park, the highest peak east of the Mississippi); and countless hiking trails, waterfalls, rivers, lakes and streams. 

There are also some 200 breathtaking BRP overlooks as well as charming mountain towns such as Banner Elk, Boone, and  Little Switzerland . 

The best of the parkway’s landmarks include Grandfather Mountain State Park, the Linville Gorge Wilderness, Looking Glass Rock, and Julian Price Memorial Park. Each offers opportunities to savor the splendor of America’s wilderness at its most pristine, preserved by FDR for future generations.

Recommended by Bret Love and Mary Gabbett of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

2. Bend, Oregon (one of the most underrated and best places to visit in October USA)

Average temp:  high 62, low 33

While Bend, Oregon is a fantastic destination year-round, the fall is a great time to visit this Central Oregon town. You’ll find far fewer crowds than in the summer months and the crisp autumn air is perfect for many outdoor adventures.

Bend is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, and October is a great time to experience Oregon’s high desert. Cooler autumn temperatures make it the perfect time of year to hit the nearby trails.

There are a variety of  hikes in Bend, Oregon  for all skill levels and in a diverse range of settings, from pine forests to snowcapped peaks to juniper and sage dotted deserts. You can also get out onto the water on a SUP or kayak or cruise through some of the famed Bend mountain biking trails.

A fun fall activity is to head to nearby Smith Rock State Park for beautiful views and a lovely riverside walk. Once you’ve had your fill, head to the ranch just outside the park that has a large pumpkin patch, food trucks and festive games for all ages.

October is the perfect time of year to hop around the different breweries around town to sample the local brews. If you’re a real craft beer enthusiast, you may want to participate in the Bend Ale Trail, which is run by the local tourism board. Collect stamps at each brewery you visit for a prize!

Recommended by Katie Diederichs of Go Wander Wild

3. Mammoth Lakes, California

Average temp:  high 60, low 30

One of the best places to visit in October in USA is  Mammoth Lakes . It’s located in Eastern California and is one of the most underrated places to visit in the USA in the fall. The beautiful colorful trees with the mountains in the background make this a wonderful place to stay in October. 

June Lake Loop is one of the best spots to experience the fall colors. There are many lakes to explore on the loop like Silver Lake, June Lake, Gull Lake, and Grant Lake.

The whole loop is filled with stunning yellow Aspen trees, and there are many spots to explore with these beautiful trees. Make sure to stop by Silver Lake Cafe for lunch and watch the stunning views of Silver Lake while you eat.

Another great spot to see fall colors is Convict Lake which is located southeast of Mammoth Lakes . The yellow Aspens are situated at the mountain base, so it is best to walk the whole loop.

You can also visit many of the lakes that are located in Mammoth Lakes Basin. They include lakes like Twin Lakes, Lake Mamie, Horseshoe Lake, Lake Mary and Lake George. It’s a magical area to explore in the early cool fall morning. 

There are so many yellow colors in Mammoth Lakes. It is probably one of the most underrated areas to experience fall foliage, and one of the best places to visit in the US in October!

Recommended by Michelle of The Wandering Queen

4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado (one of the best October vacation destinations)

Average temp:  high 46, low 29

Colorado’s Rocky Mountain is one of the most beautiful (and popular) national parks in the country.

Located about 2 hours away from Denver, this park takes time ans effort to explore with countless trails, waterfalls and even one of Colorado’s most popular “fourteeners” Longs Peak. 

Rocky Mountain National Park is pure magic during fall, when the incredible golden colors come out in full display. The best time to see them is from mid-September through early October. 

Another thing you should know about visiting RMNP during the fall is that weekends still might be busy, as more people come to take pictures and see thousands of amazing golden-hue Aspen trees. Crowds begin to dissipate in the fall, and if you want the ultimate experience, try to plan your visit for weekday. 

To see the fall colors in their full glory, take a drive along the Trail Ridge Road that is open from Memorial Day until late October. The alpine highway is a perfect way to enjoy the the fall scenery at RMNP without getting out of the car. In fact, the Trail Ridge Road is one of the top Colorado bucket list activity!

Still, try to explore some trails. Take a hike or two to enjoy the fall colors , and if you plan on doing a more challenging trail at a higher altitude, make sure to bring some layers . Temperatures begin to drop in the fall, and it’s a good idea to bring a jacket with you, especially if you plan on camping here. 

Note: through most of October, the park requires a timed entry permit. Plan your trip in advance and grab your permit here .

Recommended by Daria of The Discovery Nut

5. Door County, Wisconsin

Average temp:  high 56, low 41

Door County, Wisconsin likely isn’t the first spot to come to mind when thinking of amazing fall colors in the United States. However, the colors here are breathtaking , and there are many wonderful activities to enjoy in Door County during fall! 

The colors begin changing during the end of September, and visitors hoping to see the leaves during their peak color should plan to visit the area in mid-October. 

To see some of the best fall colors in Door County, try hiking in Peninsula State Park, Whitefish Dunes State Park, Cave Point County Park and The Ridges Sanctuary, just to name a few spots.

For those looking for a less active leaf-peeping experience, be sure to take a drive along Highway 42. You can also see the leaves from above at viewing platforms, such as the newly constructed Sturgeon Bay Maritime Museum Lighthouse Tower. 

Fall is also a great time to visit the apple orchards in Door County. Be sure to stop by Wood Orchard Market, where you can get awesome seasonal products such as their special apple cider donuts! 

With the cooler fall temperatures, cozying up to a fire during a traditional Door County fish boil is one of the best  things to do in Wisconsin  at this time of year. Fish Boils are fun to watch and delicious. Each boil master makes theirs a little differently but, you can count on all recipes using white fish and various vegetables and spices boiled in a large kettle over an open fire.

Door County is an underrated destination, and definitely one of the best places to visit in October USA!

Recommended by Lindsey of Have Clothes, Will Travel

6. San Diego, California

Average temp:  high 74, low 61

Listen, San Diego has amazing temperatures most of the year, so there’s not really a ‘bad’ time to go. However, as someone who’s traveled to San Diego many times in the fall, I can truly say that October is a fantastic time to visit this amazing city!

Less tourists visit San Diego in the fall, so there’s not as many limitations to amazing activities because of overcrowding. For instance, the San Diego Zoo is a fantastic spot to explore. It’s really enjoyable in the fall when you can see what you’re there to see, instead of waiting all the time.

An amazing activity in the San Diego area is kayaking in La Jolla Cove in October. Other top things to do include Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego and Coronado Island.

By the way, here’s an idea of how to spend a weekend in San Diego if it’s on your short list!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels 

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link .

7. Oahu, Hawaii (top of the list for warm places to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 84, low 69

The island of Oahu has beautiful weather throughout the year but fall is one of the best times to visit. At this time of year, you can expect fewer crowds around the island, plenty of days with clear blue skies and the island is still really warm so you can spend your time lying on the beach.

While it may be hotter in the summer months, the fall actually offers a more enjoyable temperature so you can get out and explore the island. 

One of the highlights of any visit to Oahu is exploring the many beaches dotted around the island. The most beautiful beach on Oahu is Lanikai Beach , which is a palm tree lined stretch of brilliant white sand and crystal-clear blue water.

As it’s on the east side of the island the water is usually quite calm so it is ideal for swimming, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. If you are feeling energetic you can kayak out to the Mokalua Islands which are just a few hundred metres from shore. 

Another great activity is to explore Kualoa Regional Park, which is where scenes from Jurassic Park were filmed. You can explore the park on foot or take a quad bike tour. The mountains here are unique with their deep ridges and tropical green coverings.

During a visit to Oahu you can also snorkel, surf, hike, visit local farms to try fresh fruit and so much more. It’s an amazing island and the weather in particular makes this a perfect fall getaway.

Recommended by Luke of Wild About BC

8. Acadia National Park, Maine (a top choice on this list of best places to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 55, low 38

Acadia is among a very small group of US national parks with two genuine ‘peak’ seasons. Summer is naturally congested in Acadia, but fall is equally as busy and because of the spectacularly beautiful Autumnal foliage lighting up the park.

But striking colors aren’t everything and the fall season is loaded with other benefits in Acadia National Park. 

Hiking conditions are cooler in September and October, which comes in particularly handy when climbing both of Acadia’s adrenaline pumping hikes – Beehive Trail and Precipice Trail.

Beehive and Precipice are the two outstanding hikes but there are a dozen other trails without ladder climbing elements. All of which summit with remarkable views over the Gulf of Maine, gorgeous lakes, tiny islands and of course mountain sides covered in vibrant orange, yellow, red and green trees.

Epic sunrises are one of Acadia’s greatest assets and from the summit of ultra-popular Cadillac Mountain, you can be among the first people in the US to see the sun rise over the eastern horizon. In fall, sunrise is over an hour later than in summer, which means a slightly less agonizing alarm time.

To see the richest and most vivid colors, simply get stuck into all of the  best things to do in Acadia National Park , including hikes, lakes and carriage roads.

Pro tip: Be sure to book Bar Harbor accommodation a long way in advance to avoid missing out and always be out in the park early, parking spaces are limited and fill quickly each day.

Without a doubt, Acadia National Park is one of the best places to visit in October in USA.

Recommended by Mark and Kristen of Where Are Those Morgans?

9. Moab, Utah

Average temp:  high 74, low 41

Moab, Utah is an adventure city in the Southwest USA. With countless national parks, state parks and recreation areas surrounding Moab, it’s truly an amazing place to vacation.

It makes this list of the best places to visit in October in the USA because the weather usually hasn’t turned too wintry yet to enjoy the outdoors. And in the summer, Moab is packed with tourism!

If you love hiking, October is the perfect time to explore Arches National Park by foot or hike Canyonlands National Park . There’s also white water rafting, canyoneering, wineries and breweries and so much more.

Visitors should still book accommodations as far out as possible to get the best pricing. And be sure to book any tours in advance since Moab is a hot spot!

Related: 30 Cool Things to Do in Moab, Utah

Best October vacation destinations

Some amazing spots have already been covered, but some of the best fall foliage in USA continues…

10. Asheville, North Carolina

Average temp:  high 68, low 46

Asheville, North Carolina is one of the best places in the US to experience fall.  The mountains are blazing with red, orange, and yellow leaves, the weather is perfect and the orchards are open. 

While it may be the busiest time of year, it’s well worth the visit, but try to time it for a weekday visit instead of the weekends.

Be sure to spend some time walking around downtown Asheville and wandering the shops of the hip West Asheville area.  Visiting the Biltmore Estate is also a must-do. 

There are so many amazing places to eat in Asheville, you’ll be able to try new, delicious food for every meal. Tupelo Honey and Gan Shan West are great options.

One of the best things to do in Asheville is driving part of the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway and the best time to  drive the Blue Ridge Parkway is fall . There are tons of hikes to waterfalls nearby like Linville Falls, Looking Glass Falls, or Moore Cove Falls. 

Visiting Asheville in the fall makes all of these things even better than they normally are because you get to see them surrounded by stunning fall foliage, and who doesn’t love that?  

Recommended by Megan of Red Around the World

11. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington (a PNW fave on this list of best places to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 47, low 33

Within the Pacific Northwest, Mount Rainier National Park boasts vibrant autumnal colors not only on the leaves of its famously grand trees, but also from the wildflowers, succulents, and other fauna carpeting the park’s rolling valleys.

If you’re looking for some of the best spots to see the fall colors, head to the Skyline Trail Mount Rainier, a 5.5 mile hike that takes you up close-and-personal with Mount Rainier and meanders through meadows aflame with autumnal foliage, from the vibrant red of scarlet paintbrush to the flaming orange of elderberries. 

Alternatively, check out Naches Peak Loop, a part of the Pacific Crest Trail that traverses colorful subalpine valleys bursting with autumnal colors while snowy Mount Rainier looms overhead.

For a lower impact way to enjoy the fall foliage, take a scenic drive through the Chinook Scenic Byway. It’s a 107 mile road that will take you through both Mount Rainier National Park and Mount Baker – Snoqualmie National Forest.

This drive provides a gorgeous tour of rushing waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and of course, panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains’ beautiful fall colors.

With stunning autumnal foliage, world-class hiking, and a variety of activities for all types of travelers, Mount Rainier in the fall is a fantastic place to explore. 

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

12. Boston, Massachusetts

Average temp:  high 62, low 47

Fall is the ultimate time to visit New England. From “leaf-peeping” in parks to crisp weather and apple-picking, it’s no wonder that visitors flock to the region from all over the world. If you’re seeking a combination of a city break and a fantastic fall destination, consider Boston.

Boston is teeming with history, green spaces, restaurants, and quaint neighborhoods to charm any visitor. Known as the “Cradle of the American Revolution,” don’t miss the Freedom Trail .

It’s a 2-mile, largely flat walking path that traces various sites of historical importance, such as the site of the Boston Massacre, the beginning of Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride, and the Battle of Bunker Hill in Charlestown.

The Trail kicks off at the beautiful Boston Common, the oldest city park in the U.S., dating back to 1634! As you walk, you will also discover other lovely fall destinations, such as the Beacon Hill neighborhood, with its cobbled streets and romantic buildings. Be sure to stop at Acorn Street, said to be the most-photographed street in the U.S .

For some Victorian splendor, visit Copley Square and the Back Bay, gazing up at its two beautiful churches and the Boston Public Library – certainly one of the city’s most picturesque places. In particular, the Library’s Bates Room, with its glowing lamps and vintage books, will give you major “back-to-school season” vibes.

Nearby, the Commonwealth Avenue Mall has gorgeous trees in blazing fall colors – one of the best places to check out fall foliage in town . There are also a variety of parks to discover if foliage is what you seek, including the Fens, the Emerald Necklace parks system and the Public Garden. 

Boston is certainly one of the best places to travel in October in USA, especially if you love history!

Recommended by Tegan and Alex of Why Not Walk Travel Guides

13. Napa Valley, California (a favorite of these fall vacation ideas)

Average temp:  high 77, low 47

It’s without question that the beautiful  Napa Valley  region in California is one of the most beautiful fall travel destinations in the USA. The normally vibrant green of the grapevines turns to shades of yellow, gold and orange in Napa Valley. And as the weather cools, the leaves start to fall, leaving a carpet of orangey gold underfoot.  

Napa Valley is actually a region featuring a collection of towns in between the vineyards and rolling hills. The area is a really easy drive from the best things to do in San Francisco , and will take around 1.5 hours. Having a car is a great idea in Napa Valley so that you are able to hop between wine tastings and towns at your leisure.  

For a spectacular view, Artesa Wines is a great choice for a wine tasting as the large-windowed cellar door sits stop a hill providing great panoramic views of the surrounding valley.  

Auburn James, just outside St Helena, is also a beautiful winery to stop in at, with a gorgeous tasting room. It is worth noting that booking in advance for your tastings is always a good idea and usually involves a small payment.  

Once you’ve finished your wine tastings, head into the township of St Helena for dinner at the Farmstead – a stellar farm to plate restaurant pairing local wines with delicious food.  

Recommended by Emma of Emma Jane Explores

14. Chicago, Illinois

Average temp:  high 62, low 50

If you’re looking for the best place to visit in October USA, look no further than Chicago!  This fun city is vibrant and full of fall foliage! Plus, there’s a ton of things to do, indoor and out.

While you could spend a week in the city, a Chicago 3 day itinerary would be just about perfect. 

A must-see is Millennium Park and the world-famous “Bean.” October is the  perfect time to witness the ever changing colors of autumn against the Chicago skyline.  The Bean is sort of like the cherry on top of that whole experience!

If you’re into museums, Chicago has so many options to choose from. The Art Institute of Chicago is located downtown within walking distance of many other main attractions. Enjoy works by Picasso, Vincent van Gogh and so many others!

You can  visit the Willis Tower Skydeck , where you can walk out on a ledge over 100 stories up (indoor, don’t worry!) and see the city below.  Another perfect activity is the Navy Pier,  where you can walk, dine and even join in on fun activities like a mirror maze or giant Ferris wheel!

With typically mild weather conditions in Chicago, it’s one of the best US cities to visit in October! Daytime averages in the 60s and nightly about 50 degrees, layers will be your friend!

Pro tip : stay near downtown or within a short metro ride to the city center. It’s a relatively walkable city so be prepared with your cute walking shoes !

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

15. Kauai, Hawaii (another favorite on this list of best places to visit in the US in October)

Average temp:  high 76, low 60

It sounds cliché, but Hawaii is such a gorgeous destination that it’s always worth the visit! However, as someone who has been to this beautiful island chain many times, visiting in the fall is one of my very favorite times to go.

Kauai is one of the best places to visit in October in the USA because it’s the shoulder season so it’s more affordable. Hiking trails and parking lots are generally less full, making it a great time to vacation on this island.

Highlights in Kauai in October

• See the Waimea Canyon and NaPali Coast. It’s absolutely stunning! 
• Helicopter tour of the island . Since 80% of it isn’t drivable, this is the best way to see this gorgeous place.
• Hike the first 2 miles of the Kalalau Trail . You’ll have to get advanced reservations to enter the park, but it’s a breathtaking experience!
• Hike the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail in southern Kauai near Poipu. This is and easy walk and offers ocean views nearly the entire way.
• Snorkel on Anini Beach. It’s one of the most calm spots on the island and a great spot to see sea turtles! (Just be sure to respect Hawaiian culture, keeping your distance from sea turtles and not walk on the coral.)

For the best places to eat in Kauai, it’s easier to get reservations for restaurants (which is recommended for Kauai since it’s a smaller island) in October.

Hands down, Hawaii is one of the very best states to visit in October, and Kauai is phenomenal!

16. Lutsen, Minnesota (an underrated and absolute best fall vacations in the US)

Average temp:  high 52, low 34

A fabulous, unknown place to many for enjoying fall leaf color and waterfalls can be found on the North Shore along Lake Superior in Minnesota. The North Shore is a special place and is only 2 hours north of Minneapolis-St Paul airport.

Duluth is where the journey begins, but for the full experience continue northward two more hours to Lutsen, Minnesota.  It’s truly one of the best places to visit in October in USA!

Let’s go! Start the adventure in Canal Park in Duluth, MN with the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge in the backdrop, while you explore the lighthouse pier and the newly renovated Lakewalk. Your drive will continue with must-see stops at Gooseberry Falls, Splitrock Lighthouse and Temperance River State Park.

Great accommodations can be found in Lutsen or Grand Marais, which are centralized for hiking and lots of activities in the area. An aerial gondola ride over the Poplar River and up the Moose Mountain is an experience not to miss to see the best fall leaf colors !

The window for peak fall color on the north shore varies anywhere from mid-September to early-October. However, the fall colors continue to be stunning in different types of forests at times beyond that window.

If you haven’t yet experienced the North Shore of Minnesota in the fall it’s one to add to your list! There are so many things to do and places to stay, it’s easy to find hotels on the North Shore MN as well.

Recommended by Michelle of Almost There Adventures

17. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Average temp:  high 58, low 46

Welcome to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the town National Geographic Travel has crowned “America’s Greatest Small Town.”

Portsmouth is the crown jewel of New Hampshire’s Seacoast and is perfectly situated within an hour from the White Mountains and an hour from Boston. Its location makes it the perfect New England destination for leaf peeping .

Downtown historical Portsmouth is very unique as it has colonial homes dating back to the 17th century. The most famous historical portion of the city is located in the south end. Strawbery Banke, an outdoor history museum, is New Hampshire’s oldest neighborhood to be settled by Europeans.

When visiting Portsmouth, be sure to check out all the small businesses downtown in an area of the city known as Market Square.

Portsmouth has more restaurants per capita than any other small town in the United States and is also home to dozens of charming boutiques. These boutiques come to life during the autumn with their seasonal decor and gift offerings.

Be sure to swing by Cup of Joe cafe for a cozy cup of salted caramel hot chocolate or their signature pumpkin spice latte. Lastly, the best thing about Portsmouth, NH is it’s a very walkable town, meaning no car is needed to explore this charming downtown this upcoming autumn season !

Recommended by Nicole of The Abroad Blog

18. Eastern Sierra, California

Average temp:  high 62, low 38 (varies)

The Eastern Sierra of California is a fabulous fall getaway destination in the USA. Fall color here is considered second only to New England , so you know you are in for a visual treat if you visit when the colors are at their peak!

From Lake Tahoe in the north to Bishop and Lone Pine in the south, the region is ablaze with foliage colors in the fall. You’ll be mesmerized by the show of yellow, oranges, and reds put on by aspens, willows and cottonwoods. 

Taking a  Highway 395 road trip  is a great way to enjoy fall in the Eastern Sierra. If you prefer to have a base, Mammoth Lakes and Bishop are the largest towns in the area, and make for good bases from which to explore the beauty of the fall foliage all around you.

Doing scenic drives to enjoy the colors is the top thing to do in the fall. There are numerous paved and dirt roads you can drive. Both Inyo and Mono Counties offer the most beautiful drives. If you plan to drive the dirt roads, bring an appropriate vehicle.

The region is also known for its numerous spectacular lakes, so get out onto the water to enjoy the colors on the banks. Boating or kayaking is offered at many lakes. You can also go hiking, to view the colors up close: there are many legendary Eastern Sierra hikes from which to choose.

The Eastern Sierras are certainly one of the beset October vacations USA for lakes, mountains and hiking.

Recommended by Dhara of Roadtripping California

19. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia (another underrated destination on this list of beset places to travel in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 58, low 39

You’ll hit gold if you visit Shenandoah National Park during the autumn . . . plus orange, red and burgundy.

Shenandoah’s trees shed their green attire. Autumn’s palette paints the forest rusty orange, reddish yellow, and burgundy. Woodland creatures abound, including black bears, deer, wild turkeys and bats.

Located less than two hours from Washington DC, Shenandoah National Park attracts hikers and drivers. It’s also a favorite for singles and families to spend a weekend. But book your reservations early for either the park campgrounds or the Skyland Resorts and Big Meadows hotels, as they routinely sell out for the weekend.

The best time to visit is Monday through Thursday as the 105-mile Skyline Drive can turn into a traffic jam in October at peak foliage times. Skyline Drive weaves its way across western Virginia. Speed limit is 35 mph.

Your best bet is to enter the enter at the Front Royal Entrance, stop at the Dickey Ridge Visitors Center to get a panoramic family portrait and then head down the road. Stop at a convenient parking lot so you can hike through forests, scale rocky ledges, explore Appalachian Trail stops and watch waterfalls.

Or you can spend 3 hours traveling the entire length of the park on Skyline Drive. It ends at Rockfish Gap Entrance Station, which is also the northern entrance to the  Blue Ridge Parkway .  Shenandoah National Park features 200,000 acres of protected land. Stony Man and Hawksbill peaks exceed 4,000 feet.

This beautiful fall destination is the perfect getaway for families, couples, solos or even a friends’ trip!

Recommended by By Terri of Female Solo Trek

Fall vacation ideas

From big cities to wide open spaces, there’s still plenty more places to see on this mega list of the best place to visit in October in the US!

20. Austin, Texas

Average temp:  high 82, low 60

What a perfect city for a fall getaway! As someone who’s visited Austin a few times, I can honestly say October was my favorite! The weather is way better (i.e. way less hot) than during peak travel season.

Visiting Austin in the fall is the perfect time for outdoor adventures. There’s so much hiking in Austin, plus fall festivals, outdoor drive-in movies, pumpkin patches and more.

If you love being on the water, Lady Bird Lake is a great spot for kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. For easy hiking in Austin , consider McKinney Falls State Park, Barton Creek Greenbelt or the popular Mount Bonnell.

Of course there’s live music all over Austin, and let’s not forget the mural hunting, either. Whether you’re going for Insta-worthy shots or just happen to walk by them on your way to get epic cone at Amy’s Ice Cream, you’re bound to find some fun artwork in the downtown area.

October is the perfect time of year to spend a weekend in Austin .

21. Newport, Rhode Island

Average temp:  high 62, low 53

One of the best fall vacations in the US is definitely Newport, Rhode Island. The area has peak fall foliage throughout October.

It’s a small town located on Aquidneck Island and is surrounded by beautiful beaches and sea cliffs. During the fall, you can walk around and enjoy outdoor activities without the crowds.

The majority of people drive to Newport from somewhere on the east coast. If you’re visiting from further away, you can fly into Providence, Rhode Island, only 45 minutes away. 

One of the best  things to do in Newport  is see the history of the area on the Cliff Walk. You can walk 3.5 miles past the Breakers, one of the Newport mansions, around sea cliffs, and past a few beaches.

Newport’s mansions are renowned for their architecture and history. Some of the mansions were constructed in the early 19th century. Walk around the Wharves (Bannister’s and Bowen’s) in the evening for a variety of food and shopping. 

Newport has lots of delicious places to eat. For breakfast, head to Cru Cafe near the Audobain Museum – a great way to start the day is with their blueberry stuffed French toast!

Your New England vacation wouldn’t be complete without some seafood. At the Lobster Shack, you can find fresh seafood. You can stay at the Marriott Newport if you want to stay in the heart of Newport. The hotel is within walking distance of the wharves. 

Recommended by Pamela of The Directionally Challenged Traveler

22. Aspen, Colorado (a top choice for best places to visit in October in the US)

Average temp:  high 58, low 31

Perhaps one of the most beautiful fall foliage settings is in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. The town of Aspen is perfect for a fall getaway because it’s surrounded by mountains and gorgeous aspen trees. I’m convinced it’s the among the best places to visit in October in USA.

Unlike some other destinations on this list which get vibrant reds and oranges during the fall, aspen trees turn a gorgeous yellow color. And when you get a mountainside full of them, it’s like eye candy!

A gorgeous day trip from Aspen is Maroon Bells Park. The feature is the mountain peak of Maroon Bells, which are surrounded by a lake and gorgeous aspen trees in the fall.

You could spend the day hiking the trails near the Maroon Bells if you love hiking and exploring the outdoors on foot. Note: you’ll want to plan ahead for this one, as reservations are now required to visit. Get your Maroon Bells reservations here .

Other things to do in Aspen include the Silver Queen Gondola, drive Independence Pass, visit the Ashcroft Ghost Town, and of course, shopping and dining in Aspen.

So whether you’re making the fall foliage in Aspen the focus of your trip or you’re combining it with an epic Colorado road trip , Aspen will surely be a highlight for a fall vacation!

23. New York City, New York

Average temp:  high 64, low 50

New York City is amongst the best places to spend fall in the United States. The city is known for its beautiful fall colors and even a bit of Indian summer if you’re lucky.

New York can get very hot during the summer so the fall is the perfect time to enjoy the city without the heat. Fall is a lot more comfortable for sightseeing and you’ll love the views of the city. 

If you’re traveling with older kids, this New York weekend itinerary with teens is the perfect mix of activities.

Head to the Highline Park which is a former elevated railroad track that has been converted into a walkway. It’s the perfect way to see the city without having to deal with the traffic and busy streets! 

For an even better view of the city, you need to go all the way to the top of the One World Trade Center . This modern skyscraper is a must-see and truly the best place to take pictures of the city.

Afterward, head to the river for an evening cruise. There are tourist boats that will take you around the Hudson and East River.

However, for a more affordable option just take the ferry to Jersey or Staten Island. The ride won’t be as long but tickets only cost a few dollars and you’ll get to avoid the tourist crowds.

A trip to New York City is one of the best October vacations USA and one you’ll remember for a lifetime!

Recommended by Victoria of Guide Your Travel

24. Zion National Park, Utah (another favorite on this list of best places to travel in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 66, low 39

Zion National Park is simply stunning any time of year. However, it’s especially amazing to visit this national park in the fall.  With dwindled crowds and less intense weather to worry about, Zion is a great idea for a fall vacatio n!

If you want to hike the infamous Angels Landing, advanced planning is required, as the permit application process is during the summer. But, if you happen to get a permit for the hike, October is a phenomenal time to do it!

Of course, there are many things to do in Zion without hiking this challenging trail.  The much easier and yet equally rewarding Canyon Overlook Trail is a fun one, and can be completed for most fitness levels . At just a mile, this trail offers absolutely incredible views of the park!

A place for all ages, this park is magnificent for those young and old. An itinerary for Zion with kids includes other simple hikes like the Riverside Walk. Go further into the canyon by hiking The Narrows!

If you’re looking for a scenic drive in October, the Zion Mt. Carmel Highway Scenic Drive is incredible.  You won’t get the traditional vivid colors like some of the other destinations on this list of the best places to visit in October in US, but instead you’ll get amazing desert landscape and massive canyon views. So fun!

Be sure to pack plenty of water, layers for varying weather, hiking snacks and hiking gear like grippy hiking shoes , trekking poles and a hiking backpack .

Zion is absolutely one of the best places to go in October in USA, and a spot you’ll love!

Recommended by Nikki of Inspired Routes

25. Las Vegas, Nevada

Average temp:  high 83, low 46

Las Vegas is the perfect destination to visit all year round but fall is a great time to visit. Temperatures begin to cool after the summer and so do the crowds. Plus, visiting mid-week will get you cheaper hotel rates, too. 

Because temperatures are cooler, it means you can take advantage of some of the best outdoor attractions in the city, perfect for those visiting  Las Vegas for the first time .

Enjoy a Gondola ride at The Venetian, watch the Bellagio fountains or watch the volcano erupt outside The Mirage.

Rent a car or join a tour to visit the nearby national parks; Grand Canyon is the most popular day trip option from Las Vegas but October is a fantastic time to visit Death Valley, Red Rock Canyon and Bryce Canyon.

Alternatively, head to the unusual Magic Mountains or explore ‘The Neon Museum’ , a gallery of old signage from Vegas hotels of the past. 

In the Bellagio hotel, you’ll find the gorgeous Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. This is one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas and a great indoor activity to enjoy.

Each season, the gardens get transformed and the fall display is the most breathtaking. Expect oversized pumpkins, woodland creatures and tall, entertaining trees. 

For more natural fall colours, head to one of the nearby parks ; Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs, Paseo Verde Park and Gilcrease Orchard are top choices for this time of the year. 

We recommend staying at The Cosmopolitan; it’s an elegant, stunning hotel and rates are normally super high but drop during the Autumn time.

Recommended by Katie of Creative Travel Guide

26. Washington DC (Rock Creek Park)

Average temp:  high 69, low 46

Washingtonians and visitors don’t even have to hop in a car to enjoy peak fall foliage in a forest. Rock Creek Park is situated in the nation’s capital.

It’s the nation’s third oldest national park. Rock Creek Park was authorized in 1890.

Come October, the oaks, American beech and tulip trees suddenly change into the colors of the sunset—golden, orange and red. The 1,754-acre park features hikes for the hardcore as well as weekend adventurer.

If time permits, hike the two primary trails – Western Ridge Trail and Valley Trail. They run side by side. Imagine walking along a ladder laid on the ground.

Half-day hikes include Boulder Bridge, Milkhouse Ford, Rapids Bridge and Chestnut Oak/Mountain Laurels.

Or, devote a fall weekend to exploring Rock Creek Park . Tramp around the Civil War fortifications, watch interpreters at the Peirce Mill and Barn and visit the horses.

Bring a carrot or pull on your boots to ride a horse at the Rock Creek Park Horse Center, which is the only public riding facility in Washington DC.

Families will definitely want to visit the Nature Center and Planetarium. There are picnic areas scattered across Rock Creek Park, so fill a basket with ciders, sandwiches and apples.

Recommended by Terri of Female Solo Trek

27. Siesta Key, Florida (another favorite warm place to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 85, low 67

A Florida beach may not come to the top of mind when thinking about the best October vacation destinations. However, it’s the perfect time to go! And what better way to end this list than one of the top-ranked beaches in the USA!

Siesta Key, Florida is home to turquoise water and some of the finest white powder sand you’ll ever step foot on. While you won’t see much fall foliage here, you’ll see wide open beaches and affordable prices, compared to the peak summer season and those looking for a winter escape.

Fall is the ideal time to visit Siesta Key. The weather is very comfortable and the water is still warm enough to enjoy.

From excellent restaurants, shopping, kayaking and beaching, there’s seriously so many things to do in Siesta Key. Whether you’re looking for a fall getaway as a couple, family, solo or friends trip, you’ll love spending time in Siesta Key!

While a bit unconventional in terms of fall colors, this is still one of the best places to visit in October in the USA.

28. New Orleans, Louisiana

Average temp:  high 81, low 62

New Orleans is one of the top warm places to visit in October in USA. It’s a fantastic walking city so it’s an ideal location to visit in the fall when the summer weather has cooled a bit and the crowds have left.

New Orleans is a very family friendly city , even in the French Quarter, or a great destination for a romantic getaway or a fun girls’ or boy’s weekend. 

A trip to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without exploring the French Quarter. Here you can aimlessly walk along cobblestone streets, poking your head into cute shops, or eating your way through delicious food.

One of the must-try treats is a beignet, a cross between a french pastry and a doughnut. They are easily found in the French Quarter. 

If you’re curious about the history of this area, take one of the many walking tours that will ultimately take you to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. Here you will learn all about the ghosts, the after-life and even voodoo, themes found all over New Orleans.

A fantastic experience is visiting the National WWII Museum, a short walk from the French Quarter.

This is an exceptional interactive museum that focuses on the United States’ role in Asia and Europe during WWII. It’s a thrilling experience that will grab the attention of anyone even those that aren’t normally interested in history or wars. 

There are countless exciting activities to do within a short drive of New Orleans. You can visit a plantation, like Oak Alley Plantation, and learn about slavery and a difficult part of US history. The drive there is beautiful and exploring the grounds is a lovely thing to do in the fall.

In addition, you can take a swamp tour which is a lot of fun. You hop on a bayou boat and explore some of the many surrounding swamps filled with crocodiles and other wild creatures.

October is the perfect time of year to visit New Orleans due to the cooling weather and reasonable crowds.

Recommended by Nicole of Go Far Grow Close

Best places to visit in October in the USA

Whew! What a list. I hope you’ve found enough inspiration for your fall getaway – or 2! With so many amazing spots in the USA to choose from, I’m sure you can’t go wrong!

Let’s recap those destinations again, in a much more condensed list…

Best fall vacations in US

• Blue Ridge Parkway, NC to VA
• Bend, Oregon
• Mammoth Lakes, California
• Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
• Door County, Wisconsin
• San Diego, California
• Oahu, Hawaii
• Acadia National Park, Maine
• Asheville, North Carolina
• Mount Rainier National Park, Washington 
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Napa Valley, California
• Chicago, Illinois
• Kauai, Hawaii
• Lutsen, Minnesota
• Portsmouth, New Hampshire
• Eastern Sierra, California
• Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
• Austin, Texas
• Newport, Rhode Island
• Aspen, Colorado
• New York City, New York
• Zion National Park, Utah
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Washington DC (Rock Creek Park)
• Siesta Key, Florida
• New Orleans, Louisiana

So, have you decided? Comment below with your fall vacation plans!

By the way, if you’re planning to rent a car for your fall getaway, check out the discounted rates on Discover Cars . I routinely save 10% – 30% on rentals. They search top car carriers to find the best deal, at no extra price to you! Here’s that link again to search rental cars .

Related content: 28 Underrated Destinations in the USA 32 Best Places to Visit in September in USA (Unique and Cool Ideas You’ll Love) 30 Incredible Warm Winter Vacation Spots in the USA 35 Swoon-worthy Beach Vacations 26 Best Beaches on the Gulf Coast 100 Romantic Vacations in the United States

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Sunday 27th of August 2023

I have actually visited quite a few of these in the autumn (I am from the UK!) I am pleased to say. There are still a few more to tick off though. Fall is my favourite season for visiting the US. I would especially love to see Aspen in the fall. I have only ever seen it in the winter. You have whetted my appetite for another fall road trip!

Monday 28th of August 2023

Oh yay Jane! I'm so glad to hear you've visited so many spots in the US during the fall season. Such a spectacular time to travel! Hope you get to cross a few more off your list soon :)

I've been to Kauai in October and you are correct, it's a great time to go! Warm, sunny and not too crowded either.

haha yes! Although there may not be a bad time to go to Kauai....🤣

Saturday 26th of August 2023

Love this entire listicle! All these places must be stunning during autumn and I'd love to visit some day. Thanks for sharing this!

You're so welcome Kelly. Glad you enjoyed the list!

This list is amazing. I completely agree with Bend, OR as one of the best underrated places to visit! I really want to get out to the northeast at some point to see the fall colors, they look incredible. Thanks for the inspiration.

Oh yay Sophie, so glad you found some inspiration here. The PNW is so stunning in the fall and worth the trip 🧡

Sunday 24th of October 2021

Such an exhaustive list Nikki! I am really glad that I stumbled upon your blog today. Hope to tick some of this list in the next few years though. Kudos on this article and stay safe! :)

Thursday 28th of October 2021

Thanks so much Darryl! It was fun putting an extensive list together. I hope you get to see many of the places on this list!

15 Unforgettable 40th Birthday Destinations in the USA

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Welcome to our travel guide designed especially for those planning an unforgettable 40th birthday celebration in the USA . Turning 40 is a milestone that deserves to be celebrated in style, and what better way than with an exciting trip? Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, a food lover, or someone who simply enjoys relaxing amidst nature’s beauty, the United States offers a vast range of destinations to ensure your 40th is everything you’ve dreamed of and more.

In this blog post, we will explore 15 unique destinations across the country, highlighting their best features and top attractions. Each destination has been carefully selected to provide a blend of adventure , culture , scenic beauty , and gastronomy . From the iconic skyline of New York City to the stunning natural beauty of Maui , and from the lively atmosphere of Las Vegas to the historic charm of Charleston , there’s something for everyone on this diverse list.

So, if you’re about to celebrate this important milestone, read on and get inspired. Here’s to an unforgettable 40th birthday adventure!

Table of contents:

San Diego, California

San Diego , California is renowned for its mild year-round climate , spectacular coastline , pristine beaches , and world-class attractions , making it a perfect place to celebrate a milestone birthday. The city’s relaxed vibe, coupled with its rich cultural history and bustling food scene, promises an unforgettable experience.

One must-visit is the San Diego Zoo , located in Balboa Park. As one of the largest and most famous zoos in the world, it offers a unique opportunity to see a multitude of species in meticulously recreated habitats. Animal lovers will find themselves engrossed in the diverse array of wildlife.

Another top attraction is the city’s Gaslamp Quarter . Known for its Victorian-era buildings and rich history, the district now teems with vibrant nightlife, trendy boutiques, and an exciting culinary scene. The Quarter’s lively atmosphere is perfect for a celebratory night out, embodying the essence of the city’s charm and modern sophistication. Whether you’re exploring the wonders of the natural world or soaking in the city’s vibrant nightlife, San Diego ensures a memorable 40th birthday celebration.

Maui, Hawaii

Nestled in the Hawaiian archipelago, Maui is famed for its world-class beaches , stunning natural beauty , and adventurous outdoor activities . Its sublime landscape and relaxed atmosphere make it an idyllic destination for a 40th birthday getaway, promising a blend of relaxation and adventure.

One of the must-see attractions is the Road to Hana . This iconic coastal drive weaves through lush rainforests , cascading waterfalls, and panoramic sea views, culminating in the tranquil town of Hana. It offers an unforgettable journey through Maui’s breathtaking natural beauty.

The island is also renowned for its whale-watching opportunities. Between December and April, thousands of humpback whales migrate to Maui’s warm waters. Tour operators provide exhilarating whale-watching tours, allowing you to witness these majestic creatures up close.

From the mesmerizing journey along the Road to Hana to the awe-inspiring experience of whale watching, a 40th birthday in Maui guarantees an unforgettable celebration amidst the paradise that is Hawaii.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada , often simply referred to as Vegas , is world-famous for its exciting nightlife , extravagant casinos , top-notch dining experiences , and captivating shows . The city’s energetic atmosphere and endless entertainment options make it an exhilarating destination for a 40th birthday celebration.

A must-visit spot in Vegas is the iconic Las Vegas Strip . Known for its concentration of resort hotels and casinos, the Strip is a spectacle of lights and architectural wonders. Here you can explore a range of casinos and enjoy world-class entertainment, from musical performances to circus-style shows.

Don’t miss out on a visit to Fremont Street , another Vegas landmark. It’s known for its impressive LED canopy and exciting street performances. The vibrant atmosphere, along with the casinos and numerous dining options, encapsulates the spirit of Vegas.

Celebrating your 40th in Las Vegas promises a unique blend of thrill and luxury, ensuring an unforgettable milestone event.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia , often called Philly , is steeped in rich history and known for its iconic American landmarks , vibrant arts scene , and delectable culinary offerings . Its unique blend of historical significance and contemporary culture makes it an exciting location for a 40th birthday celebration.

The city’s must-visit attraction is the Liberty Bell Center in the Historic District, where you can see the iconic Liberty Bell , one of America’s most significant symbols of freedom and justice. This district also includes Independence Hall , where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were signed.

Philadelphia’s vibrant food scene should not be overlooked. A culinary adventure here would be incomplete without trying the city’s famous Philly cheesesteak . Numerous eateries around the city offer their take on this delicious sandwich, making it a fun (and tasty) exploration.

With its historical landmarks and flavorful food scene, Philadelphia offers a richly layered and enjoyable experience, perfect for a memorable 40th birthday celebration.

Denver, Colorado

Located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Denver, Colorado , is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty , vibrant arts scene , and thriving craft beer culture . These elements together make Denver an inviting place to celebrate a 40th birthday, offering a balance between urban sophistication and outdoor adventure.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a must-see destination in Denver. This unique, naturally formed amphitheater set between 400-foot red sandstone rocks offers an unmatched setting for concerts but also invites visitors for hiking and panoramic views of Denver’s landscape.

Denver’s well-established brewery scene is another reason to celebrate here. With more than 100 breweries in the city, Denver is often called the “Napa Valley of Beer.” Embarking on a brewery tour is a fun way to sample a variety of craft beers and get a taste of the city’s beer culture.

From the breathtaking views at Red Rocks to the robust flavors of locally brewed beer, a 40th birthday in Denver offers both natural splendor and urban excitement.

New York City, New York

New York City is globally recognized for its iconic landmarks , unmatched cultural scene , and incredible diversity . These elements, along with the city’s relentless energy, make it an extraordinary place to celebrate a 40th birthday, offering endless opportunities for exploration and entertainment for the whole family .

Times Square is a must-see, known worldwide for its massive digital billboards, bustling crowds, and as the ‘Crossroads of the World.’ It’s the pulse of the city, brimming with energy at any hour.

Another NYC hallmark is Central Park , a verdant oasis in the heart of Manhattan. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll, go boating, or simply enjoy a picnic while soaking in the surroundings. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a free concert or theater performance.

From the vibrant energy of Times Square to the serene beauty of Central Park, a 40th birthday celebration in New York City promises an unforgettable experience filled with diverse attractions and activities.

Key West, Florida

Key West , Florida, is famed for its stunning beaches , vibrant nightlife , and historic sites, and is a premier destination for watersports. The combination of relaxation and adventure makes it a fantastic locale for a 40th birthday celebration.

A major highlight of Key West is the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum . Here, you can explore the residence of the Nobel Prize-winning author, surrounded by the descendants of his famous six-toed cats. It provides a unique insight into Hemingway’s life and work.

A trip to Key West wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its underwater wonders . The island is a paradise for divers and snorkelers, with the Florida Reef , the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S., just a few miles off shore.

With its engaging history and vibrant marine life, Key West provides a balance of culture and adventure, ensuring a memorable 40th birthday celebration amidst its tropical charm.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia is well-known for its historic architecture , hauntingly beautiful Spanish moss-covered trees , and rich Southern history . Its charming blend of past and present, along with its friendly atmosphere, make it a wonderful choice for a memorable 40th birthday celebration.

A must-visit is Savannah’s Historic District , the heart of the city. Here you can wander through 22 park-like squares, admire the historic homes, and visit landmarks like the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and Forsyth Park . The district’s antique charm paints a picture of the city’s storied past.

Another Savannah highlight is the city’s vibrant food scene , which combines traditional Southern cooking with modern culinary creativity. From upscale restaurants to down-home diners, the city offers plenty of opportunities to savor true Southern cuisine.

With its stunning historic district and delectable Southern fare, Savannah provides a unique setting for a relaxed yet culturally rich 40th birthday celebration.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu , the capital city of Hawaii, is celebrated for its tropical climate , world-class beaches , Polynesian culture , and outstanding natural beauty . These attributes make it a perfect destination for a 40th birthday, providing a harmonious blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration.

The city’s premier beach, Waikiki , is a must-visit. Known for its beautiful sandy shores and crystal-clear water, it’s a paradise for surfers and sunbathers alike. Waikiki is also packed with high-end shopping, dining, and entertainment venues.

Another top attraction in Honolulu is the Pearl Harbor National Memorial . This historic site includes the USS Arizona Memorial, which honors the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor. It provides a profound and moving look into a pivotal moment in American history.

From the sun-soaked beaches of Waikiki to the poignant history of Pearl Harbor, Honolulu offers an array of experiences that can make a 40th birthday both joyous and memorable.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Known for its vibrant live-music scene , unique Creole and Cajun cuisine , and festive spirit, New Orleans, Louisiana is a city that brims with life and culture. Its energetic atmosphere and rich traditions make it an exciting place for a 40th birthday celebration.

One of the city’s top attractions is the historic French Quarter , the oldest neighborhood in the city. Known for its lively ambiance, the French Quarter is home to Bourbon Street , famous for its bars and clubs, and the iconic Jackson Square with the majestic St. Louis Cathedral.

New Orleans is also renowned for its music, particularly jazz . A visit to the city would be incomplete without spending an evening in a local jazz club. Preservation Hall is a historic venue that hosts intimate, acoustic New Orleans Jazz concerts over 350 nights a year.

From the spirited streets of the French Quarter to the soulful notes of a jazz performance, New Orleans promises a 40th birthday filled with rich experiences and unforgettable memories.

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen, Colorado , is renowned for its luxurious ski resorts , breathtaking natural beauty , and top-tier dining and shopping options. Its combination of outdoor adventure and high-end amenities make it an extraordinary place to celebrate a 40th birthday.

One of the top attractions in Aspen is its world-class skiing . With four major ski areas including Aspen Mountain and Snowmass , the city offers a range of slopes suitable for beginners to experts. These mountains also provide opportunities for snowboarding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

Aspen is also home to the Maroon Bells , two of the most photographed peaks in North America. Accessible by shuttle, these twin peaks are surrounded by national forest lands offering numerous hiking trails and photo opportunities.

From the thrill of skiing down Aspen’s famous slopes to the awe-inspiring beauty of the Maroon Bells, a 40th birthday celebration in Aspen promises a blend of exhilarating adventure and breathtaking natural beauty.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina , is esteemed for its rich history , well-preserved architecture , and legendary Southern hospitality . Its unique charm, coupled with its exceptional dining scene, makes it an ideal spot for a 40th birthday celebration filled with culture and warmth.

An absolute must-visit in Charleston is the city’s Historic District . You can take a stroll down the cobblestone streets, admire the antebellum houses, or ride a horse-drawn carriage to truly soak in the city’s historical ambiance. This area includes landmarks like the Battery and the French Quarter .

Another hallmark of Charleston is its cuisine , particularly its renowned Lowcountry food . Numerous restaurants serve dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and other traditional Southern fare, offering a culinary exploration of the city’s rich food culture.

With its immersive history and inviting culinary scene, Charleston ensures a 40th birthday celebration that’s as enriching as it is enjoyable.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago, Illinois , is acclaimed for its bold architecture , dynamic food scene , and vibrant arts and culture . This mix of urban energy and Midwestern hospitality makes it an exciting locale for a 40th birthday celebration.

A standout attraction in Chicago is its iconic skyline , best appreciated from the water. Embarking on a Chicago River architecture cruise offers a unique perspective of the city’s historic and modern architectural marvels, with informative commentary about the city’s architectural history.

Another must-visit spot is Millennium Park , home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as “The Bean.” This park, along with the adjacent Art Institute of Chicago , offers a mix of outdoor art, music, and cultural exhibits.

From the inspiring views on a river cruise to the cultural richness found in Millennium Park, a 40th birthday celebration in Chicago promises a dynamic blend of architectural wonder, artistic inspiration, and culinary delight.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, Arizona , is celebrated for its striking red rock formations , vibrant art scene , and reputation as a site of spiritual renewal . Its awe-inspiring natural beauty and tranquil ambiance make it a wonderful destination for a contemplative and refreshing 40th birthday celebration.

One must-see attraction in Sedona is the Chapel of the Holy Cross , a unique architectural marvel built into the buttes and offering panoramic views of the red rocks. It’s a serene spot that’s perfect for reflection.

Another popular activity is exploring the vortex sites around Sedona. These are special spots where the earth’s energy is purported to be particularly strong, and they’re often associated with healing and meditation. The most popular vortexes are at Bell Rock , Airport Mesa , Cathedral Rock , and Boynton Canyon .

With its stunning natural beauty and serene energy, a 40th birthday celebration in Sedona promises a unique opportunity for relaxation, reflection, and rejuvenation amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Park City, Utah

Park City, Utah , is renowned for its world-class ski resorts , charming historic Main Street , and lively film culture . These features, coupled with a beautiful mountain setting, make it a thrilling location for a 40th birthday celebration.

One of the top attractions in Park City is its skiing and snowboarding opportunities. With two major resorts – Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort – the city offers a wide range of slopes catering to all levels of experience, from beginners to advanced winter sports enthusiasts.

When not hitting the slopes, visitors can take a stroll down Historic Main Street , lined with well-preserved buildings from the silver mining town era, now home to restaurants, bars, galleries, and shops. This area is particularly lively during the Sundance Film Festival , a world-renowned independent film festival held annually in Park City.

Whether it’s the thrill of skiing or the charm of its historic downtown, Park City offers a diverse and exciting array of experiences, perfect for a memorable 40th birthday celebration.

Travel tips and tricks:

• Save big on flights with Skyscanner.com – This incredible tool lets you find the most affordable airfare to your dream destination. You’ll love their “Whole Month” feature, which displays the best prices for the entire month. If you’re flexible with travel dates, this is a game-changer for scoring the cheapest tickets.
• Stay in the heart of the action – I always find the perfect accommodation on Booking.com . Their map view lets me filter hotels by my budget and select ones that are right in the center of it all. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this easy way to book your ideal stay!
• Go beyond the resort – I’m all about making the most of my trips, and GetYourGuide.com has been a lifesaver for booking unforgettable tours and day trips. It’s the most hassle-free way to dive into the local culture and explore the hidden gems in every new place.
• Hit the road with DiscoverCars.com – There’s no better way to explore your destination than by car! Renting a vehicle has never been easier, and with their competitive prices, you’ll have the freedom to create your own adventures.

I highly recommend trying these tools for yourself – not only will you save money, but you’ll also create memories that last a lifetime. Happy travels!

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14 Best Places to Celebrate a 30th Birthday in the USA

A fun trip with the girls is undoubtedly one of the best birthday celebrations, especially a milestone birthday like the big 3 0! From wine tasting in Napa Valley to enjoying the beautiful beaches the Florida Keys boasts, the United States has the best places to celebrate a 30 th birthday !

Ever since I turned 26, I have been ringing in another year around the sun all over the world. I celebrated my 26 th in Sicily, 27 th on a France trip, 28 th in Peru, 29 th on a Southwest road trip, 30 th on a California road trip and 31 st on a Riviera trip. I understand that not everyone can travel internationally to celebrate their special day, so there are plenty of destinations in the USA that are fun for all to enjoy!

In this article, discover the best places to celebrate a 30 th birthday in the United States ! Of course, these destinations are perfect for celebrating any year, whether it’s a 21 st or 50 th birthday. Happy birthday and I hope you all have a wonderful celebration!

**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like.

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Best Places to Celebrate a 30 th Birthday in the USA

Discover where you should travel to in the United States for your special day! The destinations below offer something for everyone to enjoy.

30 th Birthday Trip Ideas for Her:

Scottsdale, arizona:.

One of the top places to go for your 30 th birthday is Scottdale! Located outside of Phoenix, Scottsdale, Arizona is the perfect girl’s weekend getaway and it’s filled with world-renowned golf courses, 5-star luxury hotels and restaurants, boutiques and excellent hiking trails!

The leading place to stay with your best friends is Omni Scottsdale Resort at Montelucia ! The accommodation style at the Omni Scottsdale is Andalusian, so you’ll feel like you’re waking up at the Alhambra in Spain. The resort has an award-winning spa, pool and great restaurants. Let’s not forget the breathtaking views all around!

Scottsdale has many great restaurants and the best ones to visit are Farm & Craft for lunch, The Mission for delicious Latin food, Hash Kitchen for a fun brunch and SumoMaya for Mexican-Asian fare.

Scottsdale’s many activities make it one of the best places to celebrate a 30 th birthday. Since Scottsdale is in the Sonoran Desert, it boasts admirable giant cacti. You must learn about Scottsdale’s nature and biodiversity by visiting Desert Botanical Garden and the Gateway Trail .

When it comes to hiking, you must enjoy the trails on Camelback Mountain . The two most popular trails are Echo Canyon Trail and the Cholla Trail. What is also great about Scottsdale’s location is that it’s only a two-hour drive from the amazing Saguaro National Park, filled with giant cacti!

Additionally, you must also wander through and enjoy everything Old Town Scottsdale has to offer! This fun Western town has great shopping, wine-tasting rooms, fun bars and more. It’s the perfect place to make memories!

Nashville, Tennessee:

Another one of the top 30 th birthday destinations to go to with your closest friends is Nashville, Tennessee ! The Music City is the number one bachelorette destination, making it a great milestone birthday trip.

The best place to stay in Nashville during a 30 th birthday trip is the Kimpton Aertson Hotel , which has modern rooms, a rooftop pool, a great restaurant and a prime location. The top places to eat in Nashville are Hattie B’s for the staple hot chicken, The Hampton Social for a fun brunch, Biscuit Love for heartwarming biscuits and Velvet Taco for incredible tacos!

What makes Nashville, Tennessee, one of the best places to celebrate a 30 th birthday in the United States is its bar and live music scene! The main party area in Nashville is downtown on a street called Broadway. You are guaranteed a good time at places like The Stage on Broadway , Tootsies , Tin Roof and more.

The best 30 th birthday party ideas in Nashville are to do a fun BYOB tractor tour , join the Governor’s Pool Party at White Limozeen , make memories on a pontoon at Percy Priest Reservoir, go bowling at Pinewood Social and chase Nashville’s famous murals!

Kiawah Island, South Carolina:

One of the best and most laid-back 30 th birthday trips is to Kiawah Island in South Carolina’s Lowcountry! Kiawah Island is located less than an hour outside Charleston and boasts PGA Championship golf courses, oceanfront beaches and beach clubs, pristine marshlands, luxury hotels and resorts and excellent restaurants.

Two of the best places to stay on Kiawah Island are The Sanctuary and Andell Inn . The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a 5-star luxury resort on the beach. Andell Inn is a luxury boutique hotel (by Marriott ) situated in the heart of Freshfields Village !

The best restaurants on Kiawah Island are Jasmine Porch at The Sanctuary , Hege’s Restaurant and FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen for dinner; Café Eugenia and Cantina 76 for lunch, and Java Java for breakfast.

If you stay at The Sanctuary and want to enjoy all the luxury amenities on Kiawah Island, a beach day at Kiawah Island Beach Club or a relaxing pool day at The Marsh House is a must! The beach club has lounge chairs, two pools, a hot tub, a restaurant and a bar to enjoy. The Marsh House is located at a secluded and scenic oasis where you can enjoy an infinity pool that overlooks the marshlands and grab food and drinks with your best friends since there’s a grill, lounge, fireplace and bar.

Other fun 30 th birthday party ideas are to have a spa day at Urban Nirvana ; rent bikes from Seacoast Sports and Outfitters and ride around Kiawah Island; cool off to frosé at The Co-op and make your own candle at Palmetto Scent Studio .

As mentioned above, Kiawah Island is also close to Charleston and local beaches like Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms, which also makes for fantastic birthday vacations .

New York City:

It’s no secret that New York City is one of the ultimate best places to celebrate a 30 th birthday! From incredible restaurants, outdoor venues, Broadway shows, and stunning parks, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy with your best friends.

The best places to stay in New York City are W New York Times Square and 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge . Some of the best restaurants in NYC are Boqueria for Spanish food, Osteria 57 for Italian cuisine and Nom Wah Tea Parlor for dim sum.

You must do a Brooklyn food tour during a 30th birthday trip to New York City. Brooklyn is known to have some of the best food in the United States and getting a taste of all its staples will leave you satisfied with a full tummy!

Other wonderful things to do for a 30 th birthday celebration in NYC is enjoying a picnic in Central Park, a fun escape room , high tea at The Plaza Hotel , views from the top of the Empire State Building and a Yankee Game ! Don’t forget to visit one of the many rooftop bars in New York City, like 230 Fifth , Magic Hour Rooftop , Eataly’s Birreria and more.

30 th Birthday Trip Ideas California:

Napa valley, california:.

One of the best 30 th birthday trips is to the California Wine Country , which is where I celebrated my third decade! Napa Valley holds some of the world’s most prestigious wines and one of the best things to do during a birthday getaway is to visit them and enjoy the best wine tasting experiences!

An amazing place to stay in Napa Valley is at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences and the top restaurants you must eat at are La Toque , Mustards Grill , The Charter Oak and The Model Bakery .

Domaine Carneros specializes in sparkling wines and is in a French-inspired château with formal gardens on the property. The winery is known for its blanc noir, a sparkling white wine; brut rosé, a sparkling rosé; Pinot noir and the estate Pinot noir. Domaine Carneros also has great charcuterie boards.

Another wonderful winery to visit in Napa Valley for your special day is Castello di Amarosa in Calistoga. Castello di Amarosa is a winery and vineyard in a 13 th – Century Tuscan castle. This lovely spot lets you taste different red, white, rosé and dessert wines. You can also do a chocolate and wine pairing!

There is no better way to ring in a new decade than doing a hot air balloon ride in Napa Valley ! Being up in the sky and seeing all the breathtaking vineyards, mountains and scenery is magical and your best friends will love it too.

Palm Springs, California:

Another one of California’s best places to celebrate a 30th birthday is in Palm Springs! Situated in the Sonoran Desert, Palm Springs, California is a trendy desert city known for its retro-style vibes, stylish hotels, spas, excellent restaurants and more!

The best place to stay in Palm Springs is the Kimpton Rowan Hotel , which has a rooftop bar and lounge, restaurant, rooms with scenic views and more. One of the top Mexican restaurants to enjoy during a girl’s trip to Palm Springs is Tac/Quila , a modern Mexican hotspot.

What makes Palm Springs one of the best 30 th birthday vacation ideas are its fun activities, landmarks and close proximity to different National Parks and road trip stops! A beautiful spot to visit in Palm Springs that offers excellent hiking trails and nature spots is Indian Canyons . Additionally, Palm Springs is also near Joshua Tree National Park !

Another great thing to do in Palm Springs, California, during a 30 th birthday trip, is to see the iconic Palm Springs Windmills featured in Mission Impossible III . A great time to visit this spot is during sunset for great photo opportunities!

You must also wander through the Moorten Botanical Garden to learn about the different types of desert plants; see the beautiful Marilyn Monroe statue and enjoy a spa day!

San Francisco, California:

San Francisco, California is another one of the best 30 th birthday trip ideas ! The Golden City is a great place to celebrate your special birthday, from its eclectic food scene to the city’s iconic landmarks.

The best place to stay in San Francisco is StayPineapple in Union Square and the top restaurants to eat at are Sweet Maple for breakfast, Boudin Bakery Café for delicious seafood chowders, Dragon Beaux for incredible dim sum and Home Coffee Roasters for fresh morning brews. (What’s great about Home Coffee Roasters is that they have a special birthday cake latte!)

Not only will you have the best time having fun with your closest friends on a San Francisco rooftop or outdoor bar, but plenty of fun outdoor activities will leave you with lasting memories!

A great spot to enjoy a picnic with wine and board games is in Alamo Square, across from the Painted Ladies. These colorful Queen Anne-styled Victorian houses feature a stunning backdrop of San Francisco’s downtown skyscrapers.

Another great way to make memories with your best friends during your 30 th birthday trip is to visit one of the many beaches that offer incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge ! The best ones are Marshall’s Beach, Baker Beach, Fort Point, Hawk Hill and Lands End.

Other awesome things to do in San Francisco, California are to visit Alcatraz Island , see the Palace of Fine Arts , walk around the Fisherman’s Wharf and drive down the crooked Lombard Street!

San Francisco is also close to Napa Valley and Sonoma County for incredible wine tasting!

San Diego, California:

San Diego, California is another hot spot for birthday getaway ideas ! Not only does San Diego have some of the best beaches in California, incredible craft brews, and excellent fine dining for your big day, it’s one of my favorite spots for adventure!

One of the best hotels to stay at in San Diego is the Hotel del Coronado , which is located on Coronado Beach. The top restaurants to enjoy are RoVino in Little Italy, Catania in La Jolla, City Tacos in North Park, Brockton Villa Restaurant in La Jolla and Moniker General in Point Loma.

Some of the best adventures San Diego offers for your 30 th birthday trip are seeing the seals at La Jolla Cove, doing a laid-back hike in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and exploring Cabrillo National Monument. If you want a fun day trip from San Diego, visit Anza Borrego Desert State Park ! Don’t forget to be back in time to watch the sunset at Sunset Cliffs.

Regarding relaxation, the best beaches in San Diego to visit with your best friends are Coronado Beach, Mission Beach, Pacific Beach and Ocean Beach. What is also great about these beaches is that they have fire pits where you can enjoy a campfire at night. Just grab some beers, a blanket, and Bluetooth Speakers and you’re in for a fun time!

What is also great about celebrating your special day in San Diego is that it’s near Temecula Valley Wine Country!

30 th Birthday Vacations: Best Places to Celebrate!

Key west, florida:.

The Florida Keys is among the best places to celebrate a 30 th birthday. There are a lot of great restaurants, fun things to do and incredible sites to see when visiting this part of Florida!

From bed and breakfasts to all-inclusive resorts, there are many different accommodations in the Florida Keys. Still, my two favorite resorts are Oceans Edge Resort and Isla Bella Beach Resort . Oceans Edge Resort is located on the marina in Key West and Isla Bella is situated on the coast in Marathon. Both hotels have numerous pools to enjoy, along with great restaurants.

Although there are a lot of great places to visit in the Florida Keys, Key West boasts the best 30 th birthday vacation ideas. One of the best places to make memories with your closest friends is on Duval Street, which has over 200 fun bars and restaurants.

Speaking of restaurants, the top places to eat in Key West are Café Sole for dinner, Banana Café for breakfast and Latitudes on Sunset Key for lunch. The top staples to enjoy in Key West are hogfish, key lime pie (and key Iime cocktails), plus additional fresh seafood!

Other fun things to do in Key West are to do a sunset sail and see the beauty of the different islands that surround the mainland; make a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park; explore Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park; admire all the historic buildings and tour the Ernest Hemingway Home .

Lake Tahoe (Nevada/California):

If you love the mountains, bright blue lakes and outdoor activities, Lake Tahoe is ideal for your 30 th birthday celebration!

Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful freshwater lakes in the United States. It’s also the largest Alpine lake in North America that is situated in both California and Nevada. It offers 72 miles of shoreline, lakeside beaches, fun water sports, outdoor adventures and the best ski resorts. No matter when your birthday month is, you are sure to have a great time, year-round, at Lake Tahoe!

The best place to stay at Lake Tahoe is at Granlibakken and excellent restaurants to eat at are Driftwood Café , Fire Sign Café and Riva Grill . You must also visit the nearby town of Truckee, a charming Western town filled with more great restaurants, without the crowds.

Since Lake Tahoe is one of the best places to celebrate a 30 th birthday for adventure lovers, you must do one of the many hikes in the area! Some of the most popular hikes are the Eagle Falls Hike to Eagle Lake , the Rubicon Trail in D.L. Bliss State Park and the Emerald Pools in Tahoe National Forest. All these hiking spots are on the California side of the lake.

A 30 th birthday vacation is incomplete without spending time on the actual lake! Sand Harbor on the Nevada side is one of the best places to appreciate the lake. You can swim, rent a clear kayak, paddle board, go on a boat ride, parasail and more!

Park City, Utah:

If you have a winter birthday and love winter sports, look no further than a birthday trip to Park City, Utah ! In fact, Park City is one of the ultimate 30 th birthday destinations in January . That’s when I visited and it was a good time with a thriving ambiance!

The best place to stay at the USA’s largest ski resort is YotelPad Park City and the top places to eat at are Riverhorse on Main , Five5eeds , Chimayo and The Bridge Café and Grill .

Park City is one of the best places to celebrate a 30 th birthday during winter because of all the fun après-ski parties. Two of the best après-ski spots to celebrate your big day are The Après Lounge at the Montage Deer Valley and The Vintage Room at the St. Regis Deer Valley .

In addition to enjoying a day on Park City’s slopes, you must also visit the magical Ice Castles in Midway, have lunch at one of the Alpenglobes at Stein Eriksen Lodge , attend the Sundance Film Festival and enjoy everything the downtown area has to offer, including its fun saloons and bars!

Weekend City Trips for a 30 th Birthday:

Las vegas, nevada:.

If you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate your birthday with fun night spots, A-list dining options, great shows, incredible hotels and more, there is no better place to ring in a new decade than in Sin City!

The best place to stay in Las Vegas, Nevada is The Venetian , which is located on Las Vegas Boulevard (The Strip). What is remarkable about staying at this hotel is that the property makes you feel like you’re in Venice, Italy. You can even take a gondola ride like you would in Italy! Overall, there are six nightlife spots, 26 restaurants, four large pools with cabanas, two large casinos and more at The Venetian .

A 30 th birthday trip itinerary to Las Vegas must include attending one of the many pool parties. Vegas is situated in the Mojave Desert, so it gets hot! With that said, visiting one of the many hotels with a pool party is the way to go during your weekend girl’s trip. The best pool parties to attend are Encore Beach Club at The Wynn , Garden of the Gods Pool at Caesars Palace , Park MGM ’s pool and The Golden Nugget ’s pool.

Other fun things to do in Las Vegas during a 30 th birthday weekend getaway, in addition to clubbing, gambling and eating out, are to see a Cirque du Soleil show, visit The Neon Museum , see the Seven Magic Mountains and adventure through Red Rock Canyon or Valley of Fire State Park !

Boston, Massachusetts:

One of the best weekend trips for a birthday is to Boston, Massachusetts . I especially recommend this city for those who love the fall or have an autumn birthday. There’s so much to do in Boston, from shopping to savoring the most mouthwatering seafood dishes. If you visit Boston in October, you will be in for a real treat with its bright foliage that takes over the city’s streets, parks and public spaces.

The best hotel to stay at in Boston is The Liberty Hotel , which is in the charming Beacon Hill area of the city. Before it became a luxury hotel, the Charles Street Jail housed some of Beantown’s most notorious criminals. The old jail became a luxury hotel in the early 2000s and is one of the best places to stay and grab dinner and drinks.

Since Boston is also known for its great food scene, you must visit Pauli’s for a scrumptious lobster roll, State Street Provisions for great American fare, Mike’s Pastry for Italian pastries and Dolce Vita Ristorante for excellent Italian cuisine.

Boston has a great bar scene, from breweries to speakeasies! Some of the best places to grab a beer or cocktail in Boston are the Cheers bar from the 1982 sitcom – Cheers , Clink. and The Liberty Bar , Drink – a speakeasy bar in Fort Point, Harpoon Brewery and Cambridge Brewing Company .

Other great things to do in Boston, Massachusetts are to enjoy the beautiful views from the Boston Harbor, shop around Newbury Street, enjoy the fall foliage in the Boston Public Garden and Boston Common, watch a sporting game at either Gillette Stadium or Fenway Park and get lost in the stunning Beacon Hill area.

Chicago, Illinois:

Another one of the best U.S. cities to celebrate a milestone birthday is Chicago, Illinois . If you have a summer birthday, Chicago is one of the best places to celebrate your 30 th !

Known as the Windy City, Chicago has 24 beaches and numerous rooftop bars along Lake Michigan, a stunning Riverwalk to enjoy on a beautiful day, thriving music festivals and a vibrant culinary scene.

The best place to stay in Chicago is at the InterContinental Magnificent Mile . The top restaurants you must eat at are Bar Mar by José Andrés for Spanish tapas, Ēma for Mediterranean plates, Pequods for Chicago deep-dish pizza and Le Colonial for French Vietnamese cuisine. If you’re looking for a great spot to grab coffee and breakfast, you must check out Sawada Coffee , Goddess and the Baker as well as BomboBar !

One of the best things to do during a 30 th birthday getaway to Chicago, Illinois is to visit North Avenue Beach, where you can sit at one of the many outdoor bars and partake in outdoor activities like jet skiing and kayaking. Kayaking along the Chicago River is another excellent way to experience The Windy City’s waters.

Other great things to do in Chicago are visiting Navy Pier for drinks, carnival rides and fireworks; seeing a Chicago Cubs game at Wrigley Field ; attending Lollapalooza and admiring the city’s famous landmarks like “The Bean.”

Discover the best international spots worth celebrating your 30th at:

Central America: Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica

South America: Cartagena, Colombia

Caribbean Island: Staniel Cay, Bahamas

I hope you all enjoyed learning about the best 30 th birthday vacation ideas in the United States. If you have any questions, please email me at [email protected].

*Anything could happen during your travels. Always make sure you are insured in case there are unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage/theft, natural disasters, personal liabilities and more.  Click here  to get insured for your next trip.

Below are the top travel companies I use for convenience and cost:

• RentalCars.com
• Go Airport Shuttle
• Hostelworld
• GetYourGuide

Shop my 30th Birthday Look:

Click here  to shop my  Poshmark  closet!

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Awesome ideas for milestone birthday trips~ I have been to some of the places you mention in your blog, and these places are all amazing ~ wine country is my favorite and taking the hot air balloon around Napa Valley. I also love Arizona and San Diego! Great choices and awesome recommendations ~ another fabulous blog with beautiful photos ~ great job! Love you, mom 👩🏻 xoxo ❤️

Thank you mom! Loved celebrating my 30th in California Wine Country!

Thanks for giving a informational blog. If anyone wants their birthdays celebrate with their close friends and family in Carle place NY! I have a lipstick shop thats it organise all small events aslike birthday, bachelorate, corporate, Kitti party, Bridal shower, etc with making own custom lipstick with fun, karaoke. I have a private guest room where you celebrate your party with privacy.

This is great to know. Thank you for sharing! 🙂

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20 Amazing Places In USA to Celebrate A 50th Birthday (2024)

Last Updated on February 13, 2024 by Nicole

A few years ago, I turned 50 years old. As this milestone birthday event slowly approached, I thought about what I wanted to do. I was in good health, loved and was loved by others, and still ready to take on the world. However, I knew that I needed to go to my dream destination, and see and do things that I had always placed on my “one day I am going to do… that !” list. And I did. My whole family went to India and we went on a tiger safari. I even bumped into a Bengal tiger one night in the darkness at my lodge and somehow survived. It was the trip that I had always hoped and dreamed to have (well, minus the almost being eaten by a tiger part).

Of course, you don’t have to go to India to cross off bucket list experiences. In fact, spending excruciatingly long hours on a plane might be the last thing that you want to do. Luckily, there are endless possibilities in the United States for a special 50th birthday trip. Here are 20 of the best places to visit and best things to do in the USA to celebrate a 50th birthday.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Other Options

If you are still looking for birthday inspiration after reviewing this article, take a look at the some of these other articles!

If you want to celebrate your 50th birthday during a certain month, here are a wide variety of options that include cities, towns, beaches, national and state parks:

• 20 Best Cities To Visit In The USA ;
• 24 Best Places To Visit In The USA In January ;
• 26 Best Places To Visit In The USA In February ;
• 26 Best Places To Visit In The USA In March ;
• 20 Best Places To Visit In The USA In April ;
• 25 Best Places To Visit In The USA In May ;
• 21 Best Places To Visit In The USA In June ;
• 23 Best Places To Visit In The USA in September ;
• 22 Best Places To Visit In The USA In October
• 20 Best Places To Visit In The USA In November ; and
• 23 Best Places To Visit In The USA For Christmas .

If you are looking for a warm winter getaway, take a look at the  50 Best Beach Destinations In The USA For A Warm Winter Getaway .

On the other hand, if you want a snowy destination to enjoy skiing, snowmobiling, ice skating and more, please see  24 Best Snowy Winter Wonderlands To Visit In The USA .

If you’d rather find cool summer breezes and lovely mild temperatures, please take a peek at  28 Best US Destinations To Escape The Sizzling Summer Heat .

Finally, if you love the simple things – delicious picnics and beautiful sunsets with those you love – take a look at these fantastic choices: 24 Best Places In USA For Most Beautiful Sunsets .

Best 50th Birthday Trips In The United States

Here are 20 of the best places in the USA to celebrate your 50th birthday. They include big and small cities, beautiful beaches, and destinations that immerse you in the thrill of the outdoors, like state and national parks and beyond.

For each destination, I feature some of the best things to do, like watching beautiful sunsets , lounging on gorgeous beaches, going on heart pumping adventures, enjoying amazing shows and sporting events, eating at world renowned restaurants, and of course, discovering the perfect cocktail at the coolest bar while dancing the night away or your new favorite wine on a wine tasting tour.

One thing for sure, if you are looking for bucket list or once in a life time experiences, you will have countless choices from these 50th birthday getaways in America.

In addition, beyond highlighting the best things to do for your 50th birthday, I also mention the best times to go or avoid. A perfectly planned trip could be ruined if you go during weather that you weren’t expecting or a special event that makes the location unbearably busy.

So, start a list. Invite your closest group of friends, soul mates, or loved ones. Figure out your dream destination and things that you have always wanted to do. Make sure by the time the clock strikes midnight at the end of your fiftieth year, you have gone on a trip of a lifetime and have experienced the best of what the United States offers.

Best US Cities To Visit To Celebrate A 50th Birthday

New York City , New York

Between the endless high rises and infinite forms of entertainment, a 50th birthday in New York City is a truly unforgettable experience.

Explore The High Line

Take a tour along the famous High Line , taking in the breathtaking views and all the public art exhibitions is one of the best ways to get a feel for the city and its vibrant culture.

Indulge in all the delicious street food offered at the kiosks located along the way. Pop into The Shops And Restaurants at Hudsons Yards for some exceptional shopping at luxury shops and boutiques both familiar and unique to New York City.

Go Up The Edge And Do The Climb

Gaze over all of New York City from The Edge , the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. At over 100 stories high, hang on as you step out onto the glass bottom patio while your breath is taken away.

Grab a glass of champagne and toast your past and your future with those you love most in the world.

For those adrenaline junkies, do the City Climb , the World’s highest building ascent. Climbers scale the outside of the skyscraper more than 1,200 feet above the ground, then lean out over The Edge.

Afterwards, head even higher to the Peak , an exquisite modern American restaurant that soars above New York City.

Be In A Play

Sleep No More is an eerie and surreal retelling of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Wander over several floors, halls and rooms of a macabre 1940’s hotel while following different actors who tell the story from their own perspective. It is a dark, immersive and mind bending experience that is unlike anything that you will have ever done before.

Best Time To Go Or Avoid

New York City is the ultimate bucket list destination for many people from all over the world. For your birthday trip, avoid New York City during any major statutory or school holiday, and in summer, or be prepared to face crowds and high prices.

The best time to go is in spring and fall for lovely weather with fewer crowds. For the best savings, go in winter.

Best Place To Stay

Stay at  The Marlton , a charming and historic boutique hotel near Washington Square Park. They have a massive lobby and lounge area where you can sink into the couches and catch up about the day’s events or warm yourself by the roaring fire in cooler weather. Order a cocktail or espresso and unwind before heading out on your next adventure.

Choosing a hotel in New York City can be an overwhelming process. To get a more authentic New York City experience, avoid hotels in mid town Manhattan and choose a hotel in neighbourhoods like Chelsea, West Village or Flat Iron.

Another New York City tip – When choosing bars and restaurants, try to avoid ones in or near touristy areas where you will pay more. The best food and drinks are located where the locals live and work.

For more hotel, food, transportation and cost saving tips, check out 50 Best New York City Travel Tips For First Time Visitors .

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is home to steep hills, exotic foods, and a rich atmosphere that makes for the perfect 50th birthday getaway in the USA.

Stroll Across The Golden Gate Bridge

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of salty fresh air on your face while appreciating the stunning city skyline from the top of San Francisco’s most iconic landmark.

For those looking to justify their next decadent meal, another great way to experience the Golden Gate Bridge is to bike across it. You can take a bike tour across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito for lunch or rent your own bikes from Blazing Saddles . They even have electric assist bikes if you’re thinking of also exploring the beautiful hilly neighborhoods of San Francisco.

Dinner and Dance Cruise

With celebratory cocktails on deck as you watch the sunset, and a delicious dinner with live music and dancing to follow, a  dinner and dance cruise  would put a special twist to the end of your day.

Go To Michelin-Star Restaurants

What better occasion than your 50th birthday for an excuse to dine at one of the best restaurants in the world? San Francisco has a whopping 28 different Michelin Star restaurants, from the incredible Italian  Acquerello , to the beloved Mexican  Californios .

In San Francisco, the warmest and best weather is in September, October and November, although temperatures stay pleasantly mild all year round. There are some rainy days from November through to March, with very little the rest of the year.

The city’s skyline is majestic – just like turning 50 years old. The best way to take in the views and celebrate this special birthday is from a room at the  Four Season Hotel at the Embarcadero .

Miami, Florida

With its awesome shows, exciting Cuban culture, and beautiful sunny weather all year long, Miami is a fabulous destination for a 50th birthday vacation.

Dancing And Nightlife

If you love to dance, Miami is the place to be. Salsa dancing in Little Havana is a blast, and gives you a true taste of Miami’s Cuban influence.  Ball & Chain  has live music, salsa lessons, and drinks, and food.

You can also book a complete salsa experience and meet lots of new people.

Rent A Cabana At Fontainebleau

For the ultimate poolside luxury experience, rent a cabana at the iconic  Fontainebleau . The cabanas offer unparalleled comfort, and the attentive staff will serve you with delicious drinks and food all day long.

Visit the Coral Castle

The  Coral Castle  is a garden of beautiful sculptures made from coral rock, sculpted by Ed Leedskaldin in 1920, without the aid of any modern building equipment. Some of the most unique sculptures in the garden include functioning rocking chairs, and the world’s only sundial with seasons- all made from stone.

Both tourists and scientists alike are drawn to the Coral Castle not just for its beauty, but also for the mystery of its construction. While Leedskaldin was alive, he claimed to have built the 1,100 ton Coral Castle using the same secrets the Egyptians used to build the ancient pyramids. Can you crack the code?

If you like the heat, then Miami is the place to be. The coolest winter months still sees average temperatures between 63 °F and 77 °F with temperatures only climbing throughout the rest of the year. However, you will have lots of rain from June through September and lots of humidity from May through October.

Loews Miami Beach Hotel  is a great hotel for couples, families or friends. It’s location is amazing! Its very close to the Collins Avenue shopping area, the Miami Beach Boardwalk and Ocean Drive.”

Denver, Colorado

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, The Mile High City offers not just incredible mountain views, but also plenty of exciting activities for a special 50th birthday trip in America.

Red Rocks Amphitheater

There’s nothing quite like seeing a performance in the  Red Rocks Amphitheatre , surrounded by gorgeous red rocks in the fresh Rocky Mountain air. Even if you don’t go for a show, it’s still fun to tour the historic amphitheater , climb around the steps, and take in the views.

Craft Beer Scene

Denver is one of the most famous “Beer Cities” in the US, and it really lives up to the name.  Denver Chophouse & Brewery  has some of the best hoppy ales out there, and it’s hard to beat  Wynkoop – Colorado’s first ever brewpub. Alternatively, take a craft beer tour led by a local.

Go See a Sporting Event

Denver is home to five major professional sports teams – Denver Broncos football team, Denver Nuggets basketball team, Colorado Avalanches hockey team, Colorado Rapids soccer team, and the Colorado Rockies baseball team.

Denver sports fans are fierce, and watching one of the city’s professional sports teams battle it out against your hometown favorite while surrounded by passionate, screaming fans would be truly exhilarating.

Winters are cold with snow and the summers are hot with some rain. Make your ideal itinerary and then, figure out which weather best suits it. You will more likely get better hotel deals in winter.

If you are staying in downtown Denver, the Curtis Hotel is a uniquely themed boutique hotel.  It has a different theme for each of its 13 guest room floors. The lobby is also themed and very entertaining.  It is a great location for walking around the 16 th  Street Mall and downtown Denver.”

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina is a fun and beautiful city with distinct southern charm, and amazing architecture. It is one of the best cities to visit in the United States for a 50 year old birthday party.

Take A Ghost Tour

Charleston has a fascinating yet complicated history. Learn about its colonial past on a  ghost tour  and discover the most frightening yet cool places this city has to offer.

Explore the Historic Downtown Charleston by Horse Drawn Carriage

Transport back in time and tour downtown Charleston with a  Horse Drawn Carriage tour . Bring your favorite bottle of champagne – don’t forget some glasses – and your own style to this romantic and special experience.

Visit Middleton Place

Middleton Place is a 110 acre historical plantation located right along the Ashley River that is a National Historic Landmark. The plantation is home to the largest manicured gardens in the United States, along with a museum, stable yard, nursery, restaurant, and even an inn.

Middleton Place is beautiful, and it’s one of the most unique places to spend the day in Charleston. While touring the grounds , you’ll learn about the complicated history of the plantation, and hear the unique and heartbreaking stories of the American people who lived there.

Charleston offers pleasant temperatures in winter with average highs in the low 60s F. As it gets closer to summer, it slowly heats up. Summer sees average temperatures in the high 80s F but with lots of humidity from May through September and rain from June through August.

For a stay to remember consider the  John Rutledge House Inn , the former home of John Rutledge. The building has been designated a National Historic Landmark, with period features throughout and some truly charming touches to the rooms. Canopy beds, marble fireplaces, and whirlpool tubs make this hotel a special place to enjoy your special birthday trip.

Best Beaches In The United States For A 50th Birthday Trip

If you dream of lounging on beautiful beaches, or sitting poolside feeling the rays of the sun while you sip your favorite cocktail, then you are in luck. There are lots of stunning places to go in the USA for a special 50th birthday escape.

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

The pristine island of Martha’s Vineyards offers up endless beach days, relaxation, and opportunities for exploration, all the while surrounded by an air of luxury in the place where both famous politicians and movie stars love to vacation. It is an ideal summer beach holiday destination and the perfect place for a relaxed 50th birthday getaway.

Lovely New England Beaches

The best part of Martha’s Vineyard is the abundance of gorgeous beaches. Aquinnah Beach is perfect for fishing and lounging, while Lambert’s Cove Beach has the best sunset views on the island.

For the ultimate taste of luxury on your 50th birthday, you can embark on a  sailing adventure  around the island of Martha’s Vineyard. Sit back and sip a glass of wine while your captain guides your boat across the ocean. You will never want to travel on land again.

Incredible Seafood Restaurants

Positioned right off the coast of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard is in the perfect island location for fresh seafood. With stellar ocean views and the best lobster rolls on the island,  Lookout Tavern  is one of the best places to enjoy the delicious seafood of the region.

For amazing cocktails and a delicious raw seafood bar, check out 19 Raw Oyster Bar .

If you want to enjoy the beaches, you should go between May and October, although it won’t be until the summer months before it will be warm enough for sunbathing and a dip in the ocean. After that, the temperatures turn wintery cold.

Nobnocket Boutique Inn is a fabulous bed and breakfast in Vineyard Haven, a design piece in the middle of the island’s most local town. While the rooms are fabulously comfortable, the creative breakfasts are what you’ll remember forever.

Kauai , Hawaii

For somewhere extra special in the USA for your 50th birthday celebrations, head to Kauai. It is one of the most rugged, lush, and naturally beautiful islands in Hawaii.

Take A Helicopter Tour

The best possible view you can get of Kauai is from the air. On a helicopter tour , you’ll pass over the gaping Waimea Canyon, nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, as well as waterfalls, dense tropical forests, and dramatic cliff sides. The views and overall experience are surreal. It is filled with unforgettable moments to mark this special milestone birthday.

Kayak and Snorkel Hanalei Bay

Hanalei Bay is a serene, gorgeous bay with crystal clear waters and surrounded by lush mountains. Kayaking down the Hanalei River into the bay is a blast, and one of the best ways to enjoy this area.

Thanks to the calm and clear waters, Hanalei Bay is also perfect for snorkeling and kayaking . You can spot Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and tons of unique looking fish. It’s also a really great opportunity to learn all about the bay’s delicate and diverse ecosystem.

If you are looking for a tropical birthday vacation in the USA, then Kauai is the ultimate destination. Temperatures are beautiful and hot all year round. It rains throughout the year, normally for only part of the day. The rainiest time is in the winter months whereas you will find the most humidity in Kauai in the summer months.

The  best hotels in Kauai are:

• Hotel Hanalei Bay or Hanalei Colony Resort (North Shore)
• Sheraton Kauai or the Grand Hyatt (South Shore); and
• Sheraton Kauai Coconut Berach (East Side).

La Jolla, California

La Jolla is a small beach town in the San Diego area, with some of the most gorgeous coastal features and amazing weather that California has to offer. It is one of the best places in the USA to celebrate a 50th birthday.

Relax At La Jolla Cove

No trip to La Jolla is complete without a visit to the beautiful La Jolla Cove. The picturesque cove is sheltered by La Jolla Point, which provides calm and clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Even if you’re not feeling up for a swim, the beach itself is perfect for laying out and soaking up the sunshine.

Explore At La Jolla Shores

From La Jolla Shores Beach, explore  San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park , a protected ocean area full of marine life, including leopard sharks, rays, and more.

You can swim, snorkel, scuba dive, stand-up paddle board, or kayaking around the park. Certain areas permit fishing (with a fishing license). Bring your GoPro to capture those amazing adventure photos. Kayak tours and snorkeling tours  also depart from La Jolla Shores.

Jump Off A Cliff

If you are looking to shake up your relaxing days at the beach, paraglide or hang glide off the cliffs at Torrey Pines Gliderport . They offer tandem rides for those without experience who want to try and instructors to teach those who want to fly solo.

It’s beautiful on the cliffs with panoramic views and worth a visit even if you do not wish to fly. You can also catch some pretty spectacular sunsets from here.

Upscale Dining In Downtown La Jolla

For an amazing birthday dinner surrounded by twinkling lights and 100 year old olive trees, check out  Herringbone , one of La Jolla’s best seafood restaurants. 

Eddie V’s Prime Seafood  is another La Jolla favorite, with an elegant atmosphere and an emphasis on freshly caught seafood. Plus, their ocean view is to die for!

San Diego offers beautiful warm yet mild temperatures all year round. The summer months see consistent highs in the 70s, whereas the winter months may have a few cooler days. There is very little rain or humidity any time of year.

The  Grande Colonial  is an excellent boutique hotel in La Jolla village. It’s conveniently located in the center of town and just a block from the shore. The bonus—its restaurant Nine Ten offers delicious upscale California fare.

Clearwater Beach, Florid a

Clearwater Beach is one of the most pristine beaches on the Gulf Coast, with miles of white sand and warm blue waters. With its incredible beaches and energetic atmosphere, Clearwater Beach is a very fun place in the United States for 50 year old birthday celebrations.

Soaring a few hundred feet above the bright blue waters of Clearwater beach while parasailing is one of the most fun and exhilarating ways to spend your birthday in Clearwater Beach.

Hop On A Pirate Cruise

Channel your inner Jack Sparrow and embark on  Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise . Captain Memo’s ship and spirited crew will sail off toward the horizon in search of dolphins. The atmosphere is fun and lively, and the crew does a great job keeping you and your group plied with beers.

Whether you’re looking to sip cocktails in a trendy tiki bar or dance the night away, Clearwater has some fantastic beach bars. 

Shephard’s Tiki Bar and Grill is one of the most lively bars in the area, with live music day and night and a venue overlooking the ocean. 

Surfside Tap House  is another great beachfront location with live music and delicious beers from local breweries all over the area.

This tropical destination in the USA offers year round beautiful weather. Average highs in winter are in low 70s°F, creeping up to low 90s °F in summer. There is lots of rain in July and August with high humidity from May through October.

Sea Jay Motel & Marina  is a colorful, well-kept, and comfortable place to stay when visiting Clearwater that won’t break the bank.” 

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Carmel-by-the-Sea is an enchanting California coastal village on the Monterey Peninsula full of gorgeous architecture and winding, cobblestone streets, perfect for lazy days by the ocean.

Carmel Beach is located in town and offers a beautiful white sandy beach with a scenic path along the breathtaking bluffs. It’s popular with surfers and sunbathers. For those who could never celebrate a milestone event without their fur baby, the beach is also dog friendly.

Carmel is rated “One of America’s Top Beach Towns” in America. It is the perfect haven for a 50th birthday vacation with family and friends.

The beautiful, rugged cliffs of the Monterey Coastline sets the stage for the perfect skydiving experience. With  Skydive Monterey Bay , you’ll reach your jumping point in the Super King Air 200, the world’s biggest and fastest skydive plane. Then, you’ll begin the most thrilling 90 seconds of pure free fall, with one of the most incredible views in the world.

Fairytale Cottages

The best thing to see in Carmel is the collection of pretty houses designed by Hugh Comstock. As you walk down the cobblestone streets, delight in the atmosphere. You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of a fairytale. You can also learn about their history with a self guided audio tour .

Wine Tasting

Carmel-by-the-Sea is mere steps from some of California’s best wine country. Within one square mile of downtown Carmel, you can do the “Wine Walk” and visit 11 different tasting rooms.  Manzoni Cellars  and  Caraccioli Cellars  are two of the best to check out.

Alternatively, you can also do a half day wine tasting tour in the Carmel Valley.

Carmel-by-the-Sea offers beautiful spring like weather all year round. Average highs rarely go into the 70s. The evenings are cool and will require a jacket. There are some rainy days in winter, but hardly the rest of the year.

La Playa Carmel is a 75-room historic luxury boutique hotel, newly restored while updating it to modern-day standards. Located two blocks from the beach and village shops, art galleries and restaurants, the hotel is situated in the heart of Carmel. It is a wonderful spot for a home base while exploring Carmel and the surrounding areas.

Best Outdoor Adventure Destinations For A 50th Birthday Holiday

City life and relaxing on the beach not your style? These five American outdoor destinations should do the trick. From stunning mountains, rainforests, red rock canyons, and underwater national parks, you have the choice of fantastic adventure holidays. Whether you prefer the sun warming your face, or to be knee deep in snow, you will find peace or heart stopping excitement in these best 50th birthday vacations.

Denali National Park , Alaska

Denali National Park is one of the wildest, most beautiful, and untouched areas of land in the entire United States. It is the perfect 50th birthday holiday destination for those who love the outdoors.

Dog Sledding

This amazing  dog sledding experience  will lead you deep into the heart of the Denali wilderness by a team of expertly trained Alaskan sled dogs, while taking in the sights of the last frontier.

White Water Rafting

An exhilarating way to celebrate your 50th birthday is to go white water rafting down the roaring, Class IV rapids of Denali’s rivers. If that sounds like too much, you can also raft down the calmer, albeit equally beautiful, Nenana River.

See the Northern Lights

Seeing the vivid, outlandish hues of the Aurora Borealis is an experience unlike anything else in this world. Denali National Park is one of the best places in the US to see the Northern Lights. Book a private tour to try and capture this magical experience.

If you want to experience Alaska as a snowy winter wonderland, then head to Denali in winter. Average temperatures will range between 9°F to 25°F with 6-7 hours of daylight.

Summer sees temperatures rise to the mid 60s with over 17 hours of daylight in June and July. The snow has melted except from high mountain peaks.

Visitors can stay in one of the various accommodation options close to the entrance, before venturing deep into the National Park on one of the organized daily tours.

A fabulous spot is Mckinley Chalet Resort . They will give you a wake up call in the middle of the night for the Northern Lights. The hotel is conveniently located to everything and very welcoming.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park , Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to dense, lush forests, pristine lakes, and magnificent mountains. It’s a peaceful yet breathtaking place to turn 50 years old.

Enjoy Fontana Lake

Fontana Lake is the largest lake in North Carolina, and the perfect place to spend the day. You can rent paddle boards or canoes for a leisurely paddle around the lake, exploring all of its inlets and beaches.

It’s equally fun to  rent a motor boat  and spend the day riding around on the gorgeous emerald waters, taking in the scenery with your friends and family.

Go Spelunking in Tuckaleechee Caverns

Underneath the misty mountains of the Great Smoky Mountains lies 10,000 different cave systems. A journey into the Tuckaleechee Caverns takes you past magical seismic formations, along with the majestic 210-foot underground Silver Falls.

Scenic Drives

One of the best ways to take in the beauty of this National Park is by completing one of its scenic drives either by booking a tour or doing a self guided driving audio tour .

The Newfound Gap is an amazing, 30-mile road that winds past some of the most amazing outlooks in the park.

The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is also great because it takes you past historic cabins, old-growth forests, and rushing mountain streams.

It is hot in summer and cold in winter. If you want to experience all four seasons, and all that nature offers, then this is the Park to go. However, it is the most visited National Park in the USA. Accordingly, if you want a more peaceful 50th birthday holiday, try not to visit during summer or school holidays.

You’ll want to stay in the nearby small town of Gatlinburg. It’s a great town with a busy main street, perfect for shopping, restaurants and plenty of other things to do. For accommodation, check out Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg or the Bearskin Lodge on the River.

Dry Tortugas National Park , Florida

Dry Tortugas National Park is the perfect place to soak up the year-round sunshine, see tons of marine life, and celebrate your 50th surrounded by beautiful beaches and nature.

Snorkel the 3rd Largest Reef System in the World

If you want to see a large variety of tropical reef fish and colorful coral reefs, you’re in luck, because Dry Tortugas National Park is home to the Florida Keys Reef Tract, the 3rd largest reef system in the whole world. You can snorkel right off the shores, and tons of vibrant fish and sea animals will swim right by you.

Charter a Fishing Boat

The ocean at Dry Tortugas is teeming with marine life, making for some of the best sport fishing in all of Florida.  Delph Fishing  departs from Key West, and has all of the permits required to take you and your party fishing. You’ll have your pick of the sea, and it’s not uncommon to discover completely untouched waters. 

Tour Fort Jefferson

Surrounded by sparkling turquoise waters,  Fort Jefferson  is a sight to behold. It has a unique history, and a tour of the fort teaches you all about this abandoned military fort while offering spectacular views of the island.

If you are looking for a hot tropical destination, then Dry Tortugas is an excellent option. Throughout the year, average highs reach 89 °F and average lows reach 66 °F with predominantly summer like weather all year round.

It is best to avoid Dr Tortugas from mid August to the beginning of October during hurricane season.

For a great hotel option, check out the  Marquesa Hotel . It is a highly rated 4-star hotel that is close to many of the fun activities and nightlife.

Moab is full of stunning red rock formations as far as the eye can see, and has endless opportunities for an adventurous 50th birthday celebration.

Canyoneering

Canyoneering in Moab is the best way to get off the beaten path, and explore some of the most magnificent geological features in the region. On a  canyoneering tour , you’ll learn how to safely rappel into deep, water-carved slot canyons and explore the underground world of Moab.

There’s nothing quite like white water rafting down the rapids of the Colorado River, surrounded by red rock country and the roar of the rapids.

In June, July and August, temperatures can reach over 100 °F. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather best suited for outdoor adventures. Winter time is cold with snow.

Depending on your budget, there are plenty of great places to stay in Moab . For those with a higher budget, take a look at the Wingate by Wyndham Moab. There are also more budget friendly options, such as The Lazy Lizard Hostel and Moab Under Canvas.

El Yunque Rainforest, Puerto Rico

El Yunque Rainforest is the only tropical rainforest in the US national forest system, and a very unique place for a 50th birthday getaway.

One of the best ways to see the rainforest is from above, and it doesn’t get much better than whizzing through the canopy layer of the tropical El Yunque Rainforest  on a zipline . You won’t just go on one zipline either- this aerial jungle tour doesn’t hold back, with a collection of eight different ziplines!

El Yunque Rainforest is home to three different incredible waterfalls. The 85-foot La Coca Falls are the most impressive of the three, but La Mina Falls has the best pool for swimming at the base.

Take a hiking and waterfall tour or get in touch with your inner child and discover waterslides and natural pools .

This tropical paradise offers hot and humid weather all year round. If interested in going in August and September, remember to check the status of hurricanes. Otherwise, pack up your bathing suit and your courage and away you go!

The best place to stay is in San Juan. There are many hotel options, restaurants, and nightlife. You can choose to be in the historical section of the old town, or on the outskirts on the beach at the luxury hotels. Conveniently, many tours operate and depart from San Juan, including tours to El Yunque. 

Splurge on a stay at the landmark  Hotel El Convento , which is housed in a former Carmelite convent. It is located just across the street from Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista.

Best Small Cities And Other Areas In USA For A 50th Birthday Getaway

Telluride, Colorado

For a memorable birthday in the Colorado Rockies, spend your 50th birthday in the historic mining town Telluride.

Black Bear Pass Off-roading Adventure

Dubbed the “Switzerland of America”, Black Bear Pass is one of the most scenic yet terrifying drives in the US. The best way to experience the views and thrills of the pass is with a seasoned expert.  Jeep Tour  company will take you on a wild adventure as you traverse the incredible Rocky Mountain terrain, switchbacks, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Snowmobile in the San Juan Mountains

Ripping through the snowy San Juan Mountains on a  snowmobile tour  is one of the most fun and exciting things to do in Telluride in the winter. You’ll not only get incredible views of the surrounding forests, but also of beautiful meadows and Wilson Peak.

The winters are cold and snowy whereas the summers offer warm spring weather with average daytime temperatures in the low 70s Fahrenheit.

Consider Madeline Hotel and Residences which offers contemporary elegance with a welcoming year-round mountain environment. If you are looking to spoil yourself, this is the place to be.

Sedona, Arizona

Between the luxury spas and gorgeous red rock landscape, Sedona is one of the best places in the USA to celebrate a 50th birthday.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

For a truly magical 50th birthday, gently float through the air in a  hot air balloon tour , high above the red rock canyons and formations of Sedona. The panoramic views from above provide a great opportunity for wildlife spotting, along with a whole new perspective of the surrounding landscape.

Visit a Luxury Spa

The Wilde Resort and Spa  has gorgeous, desert-inspired suites and gardens, along with pools, firepits, and hot tubs for guests to enjoy.  The Amara Resort & Spa  has an amazing pool with a view, and a great variety of massages and facial treatments.

Sedona offers beautiful mild weather most of the year. The best time to go is in spring and fall when temperatures fall in the 70s and low 80s. The winter months offer average highs in the 50s. Summer can be quite hot in the semi-desert sun.

Check out the  Enchantment Resort  which will offer you breathtaking views as well as plush luxury amidst the area’s most iconic hiking spots like Boyton Canyon.

Bozeman, Montana

Located in the Rocky Mountains of southern Montana, the “Queen City of the Rockies” is famous for its outdoor activities like fishing, rock climbing, mountain biking, snow sports, and hiking. It is a fantastic 50th birthday holiday destination in the United States.

Fly Fishing

The rivers and streams in Bozeman are chock full of trout, making for excellent fishing. The Gallatin River is one of the closest popular spots for fly fishing, and the Bozeman is less than an hour away from other great spots like the Hyalite Reservoir and the Madison River.

If you want to fish some of the best streams, lakes, and rivers in the area, you might consider booking a  fly fishing guided tour  where local experts can take you to the best undiscovered spots.

Explore Downtown Bozeman

Bozeman isn’t just great for outdoor enthusiasts. The downtown area of Bozeman is littered with restaurants, breweries, art galleries, and boutiques. 

Open Range  is one of the best restaurants for a quintessential, Montana steak dinner, and  Ale Works  has a more casual atmosphere with one of the best craft beer selections in the area.

Bozeman, Montana offers visitors all four seasons. July and August are stunning with average highs at 82 °F. Winters are cold and snowy with average highs at 32 °F. Spring and fall remain cold except June and September.

A newly-renovated retro motel, the RSVP Hotel , is one of the town’s hippest places to stay. It’s located right downtown, just 15 minutes from Bozeman-Yellowstone International Airport.”

Hood River, Oregon

Hood River is a breathtaking place to celebrate your 50th birthday, whether you’re looking to enjoy the great outdoors, or relax and enjoy this cool town at the base of majestic Mount Hood.

Kitesurfing Lesson

Nothing gets the blood pumping like racing across the river being propelled by a kite. Hood River is one of the best places in the US to  learn to kitesurf .

After an invigorating day out on the water, trying some of the region’s best craft beers hits perfectly.  Full Sail  is a fun, sailing-inspired brewery with a huge IPA selection.  Double Mountain Brewery  offers tasty ciders and delicious, unfiltered brews in their lively taproom.

For a pristine course with spectacular views of Mount Hood, don’t miss  Indian Creek Golf Course , one of the best golf courses in the Pacific Northwest.

If you want to choose a destination that enjoys all four seasons, then Hood River is the place to go. Summers are stunning with average temperatures in the mid 80s Fahrenheit. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures with average highs in the 60s and 70s. Winter time is cold with either rain or snow.

Westcliff Lodge is a nice hotel in Hood River, overlooking the Columbia River Gorge.

Ojai, California

Tucked away in the foothills of Los Padres National Forest, Ojai is one of southern California’s little-known treasures- and it’s one of the best places in the USA to celebrate a 50th birthday.

While Ojai might not be as famous as other California wine regions further north, this rustic town has its fair share of incredible wineries. 

Topa Mountain Winery  has wonderful views of the Topa Mountain range, and a lovely outdoor tasting patio. The  Ojai Vineyard Tasting room , located right in downtown Ojai, is another popular tasting room.

Alternatively, have your very own private picnic with wine tasting hosted by a sommelier.

Horseback Riding

Ojai was originally settled as a cattle ranch in the 1800s, and this small village still has a booming ranch culture. Going for a  trail ride  through the pristine trails of the Ventura River Valley is an amazing way to connect with nature, and feel grounded from the connection you’ll develop with your horse.

The weather in Ojai is beautiful all year round. Winter, spring and fall offer mild temperatures in the 60s and 70s with cool nights. Summer is stunning with average highs in the mid to high 80s Fahrenheit.

Ojai Valley Inn is a beautiful luxury hotel with a spa and golf course. It offers a tranquil setting with exceptional service helping to make a special 50th birthday trip.

The United States is a fantastic place to go for your 50th birthday. Whether you want to lounge on beautiful beaches, find exhilarating adventures, or explore exciting cities, you will find the best things to do in a stunning destination.

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10 Trips in the United States Everyone Should Add to Their Bucket List

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When someone says “bucket list trips,” it’s all too easy to imagine the journeys you’d like to take in the future, in some faraway someday to celebrate a momentous occasion or mark a sort of final hurrah. That’s all well and good, but as they say: There’s no time like the present. All across the vast United States lie innumerable opportunities to fulfill a childhood—or adulthood—dream, to experience the country in all its splendor, whether rural or urban, culinary or cultural, educational or just plain ol’ fun. At Condé Nast Traveler , we spend our days learning and writing about the best experience all 50 states have to offer—this is our ultimate wish list.

Here are 10 bucket list trips that Condé Nast Traveler editors want to take (or have taken) in their lifetime, from a bluegrass trail in Virginia and an excursion, to large-scale land art in Utah , to an expedition cruise in Alaska . Get inspired below and make sure you go prepared, whether you’re going solo or with your partner, on a road trip or backpacking .

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the largest hot air balloon festival in the world.

Hot air ballooning in New Mexico

You don’t have to go all the way to Cappadocia, Turkey , to see magnificent hot air balloons in the sky. In fact, the largest hot air balloon festival in the world happens in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I have wanted to explore New Mexico’s largest city and take to the sky for quite a while, especially after experiencing paragliding for the first time. Going on now for 52 years and lasting over nine days, just 20 minutes from downtown, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is full of light shows, fireworks, live music, cultural dances, and floating balloons that fill the sky night and day. After being up in the air, a road trip to White Sands National Park would be the perfect way to end the trip—and check another national park off the list. — Kayla Brock , associate social media manager

Following a bluegrass trail in Virginia

I have always wanted to drive The Crooked Road through Virginia, which connects bluegrass and Appalachian music venues in Southwest Virginia—over 10 bigger venues, and about 50 smaller ones. I’d love to drive through the rolling hills, pulling over to places like the Floyd Country Store for a little dose of twang, and definitely for some whole-hog Virginia barbecue along the way. This year, 2024, marks the 20th anniversary of the trail, so I’m hoping to drive through during the fall when the festivities are in full swing. — Megan Spurrell , associate director of articles

Visiting Point Dume in Malibu, California

If you want to feel like you’re on the edge of the world, while overlooking clear ocean water and a view that will leave your mouth gaped open, this long bluff that juts out into the Pacific Ocean is the place. Point Dume is European-feeling in the way its rugged cliff formations meet the beach, but it offers an uniquely beautiful experience to those accustomed to less dramatic coastal views in the US. Well known for surfing, scuba diving, and whale watching during the December to mid-April migration period, Point Dume is only a short 45 minute drive from most central Los Angeles cities like Santa Monica—and the mesmerizing drive up the famous Pacific Coast Highway is probably its own bucket-list item too. — Emily Adler , associate social media manager

A horseback riding trip through Wyoming through Teton Canyon to the edge of Yellowstone National Park promises breathtaking views of the American landscape.

Horseback riding in Wyoming

Every year since I moved to the United States—now 11 years ago—I have made mental plans to go horseback riding through Wyoming . Specifically through Teton Canyon and all the way up to the edge of Yellowstone National Park . Every year, I have failed to make it happen. But the dream remains intact: to clip-clop my way through the wilderness, ride through pebbled creeks, into forests, up the mountains, and across meadows filled with a spread of wildflowers that would make Klimt gasp, stopping only to set up camp, refuel, and swap stories by campfires. Throw in a few herds of roaming bison and that fantasy would be complete. — Arati Menon , global digital director

Taking an airboat ride through the Florida Everglades

Florida’s two biggest tourist draws are arguably Orlando , with its endless sprawl of theme parks, and Miami . If you’re visiting the latter, tack on a trip to Everglades National Park (it’s also a good add-on if you’re headed to the Keys). Growing up in south Florida, it was a place where we often brought out-of-town visitors, and visited on school field trips. Described as the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States by the National Park Service, the Everglades is home to alligators, flamingos, egrets, manatees, and the Florida panther. You’re all but guaranteed to see some alligators on an airboat ride through the marshy wetlands—and if you go to the Everglades Alligator Farm , you can even hold a small one (or at least see some up close and out of the water). There are expansive biking and walking trails throughout the park, too. I haven’t been anywhere else quite like it in the US; it feels worlds away from Florida’s urban areas. — Madison Flager , senior commerce editor

A winter expedition cruise in Alaska

Having become, as a result of my work, an unexpected cruiser over the course of the last year or so, I’m quite keen to get on a boat and go someplace where the cruise actually heightens one’s experience of and access to a destination. The first that comes to mind, of course, is the Galapagos. But stateside, from what I’ve gathered, cruising gets you the furthest in Alaska during winter, when the conditions are brutal and the seaside cities that dot the coast feel especially far to move between—not to mention the glaciers and other gems of natural majesty. — Charlie Hobbs , associate editor

Seeing Robert Smithson’s Spiral Jetty in Utah

For years I’ve wanted to put my road-tripping prowess to the test by driving out to the Spiral Jetty . The jetty is a 1,500-foot earthwork coil of basalt rock and mud that sprawls into the mirror-like expanse of the Great Salt Lake . Robert Smithson sculpted the piece in 1970, though it was submerged under the lake for over 30 years until it surfaced again due to drought in 2004. The journey there is a scenic montage through rural Utah benchmarked by cattle guards and artifacts from long-abandoned oil-drilling ventures. I can’t imagine a better place to stretch my legs and perch after a long drive than the jetty’s rugged banks with the lake’s surreal magenta waters surrounding me. — Kat Chen , editorial assistant

A trip along the bayous of Louisiana can yield recommendations from locals on everything Cajun, from swamp shacks to and shrimp boats.

Treading along a Louisiana bayou

I have been possessed with this great magnetism to Louisiana ’s bayous ever since I read Joan Didion ’s South and West around five years ago. She deems the swamp terrains complex and invigorating, recalling drinks with the locals of Covington, Louisiana, who touch on their colorful and wild lifestyle, parties, and food . As a born-and-bred New Yorker, I’ve never experienced anything like this before. For a rich contrast—and perhaps for comfort—I would ideally stay in New Orleans for the first few nights. But the majority of my trip would be set along the Bayou Lafourche , along coastal marshes and moss-draped trees. I’d welcome the hot humid air like a hug and look to locals for recommendations on Cajun culture, swamp shacks, and shrimp boats. — Jessica Chapel , editorial assistant

Camping in Acadia National Park

For my first trip to Maine a few years ago, I drove up the East Coast with one of my best friends from college and went camping in Acadia National Park . We spent the long weekend hiking through the park’s trails with stunning views of the water and mountains, picnicking at a lighthouse, swimming in the clear ocean waves (it’s as cold as they say), and of course, eating many variations of lobster in Bar Harbor. On the drive up, we stopped in Camden, Maine, and spent the night at a friend’s farm, and on the way back I visited family in Cape Cod. I’d recommend combining Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Maine for a quintessential New England road trip. Just be sure to reserve your Acadia camping spot (reservations open up two months in advance and book up relatively quickly). Go in the summer for the best weather, or during the autumn months to catch the foliage. — Hannah Towey , associate editor

Criss-crossing the United States for its wine regions

When it comes to travel, I cannot help but eternally cast my gaze to non-US elsewheres. My bucket-list trips include learning to tango in Buenos Aires , going on safari in Botswana (and staying at ever-gorgeous Xigera ), and riding the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (a dream that, to my unbelievable privilege, recently became a reality ). But when I think about it really hard, I’d give my left arm to go on a harvest-season-long trip hopping around the United States and tasting its myriad wines: from the vineyards of the classic Napa Valley , to the under-sung Willamette Valley in Oregon, to the rising scene in Idaho’s wine country. Ever since I became an oenophile, I’ve never given California Chardonnays a second thought (I blame Bravo television shows), so I’d be glad to receive a re-education, as well as an introduction to the finest vintages of the Finger Lakes and Texas Hill Country . I’d need a private jet to efficiently travel between all of them before the season turns, so I guess I could give up my right arm, too. All I need for a wine tasting is, I guess, my mouth. — Matt Ortile , associate editor

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Top 21 Places To Go For Your 21st Birthday (Or Any Birthday Really)

Here we are. 21 life-changing places to go for your 21st birthday.

I’m turning 21 in under a week. No matter how many times I type that sentence or reword it, the idea sounds utterly crazy. I mean, I still feel like the travel-hungry teenage girl who started this blog four years ago.

Never in a million years did I think that small town guides, a very awkward sense of humor, and mini side rambles (actually, a lot of side rambles) would blow up into this. Passport To Eden .

My life’s changed a lot in the past twenty years. It’s taken crazy twists and turns and despite all the weird bits, I wouldn’t take back a single moment of it.

Over the past year, I’ve traveled to fifty-something cities (I lose count), met some amazing people ( hello ), and created content that’s made me incredibly fulfilled and happy.

And I want to celebrate this new milestone in classic Passport To Eden style – taking a not-so spontaneous (but spontaneous looking) trip that rings in the moment. Cheers to 21. *clinks currently empty champagne glass*

P.S. If you’re reading this because you’re planning a trip for your 21st birthday, happy early birthday! I hope you have a blast.

Table of Contents

Louisville, Kentucky

In terms of places to go for your 21st birthday, Louisville, Kentucky might not seem like an obvious first option. But it’s home to a cluster of stops along the iconic Bourbon Trail .

Bourbon is an all-American drink. It’s a gentle whiskey, a bit sweet (from corn) and smoky (from aging in charred white oak barrels). You’ll find one of the South’s most famous distilleries (Old Forester Distillery) right on historic Whiskey Row, along Main Street Louisville. The former home of Lousiville’s booming bourbon trade, Whiskey Row today is a stretch of local shops and businesses.

If you’re not into the drink scene, there’s still plenty to do. Take a celebratory ride on the Belle of Louisville or pay a visit to the Louisville Slugger Museum . Grab a breakfast pick-me-up at one of the city’s aesthetic-on-point cafes and dine at Le Moo, a glitzy fan-favorite New American restaurant.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas and party are one and the same. Sin City is a colorful hodgepodge known for its lux resorts and showy attractions .

Most budget airlines fly to Vegas so it’s easy to snap up a cheap flight there if you book in advance. Walk along The Strip or catch a live show (whether that’s a small-troupe improv performance or a full-blown Broadway musical). Then, find your slice of Europe via the Eiffel Tower experience or a gondola ride at the one and only Venetian.

If you’re looking for a whirlwind birthday weekend, this is the place!

Napa Valley, California

For a more subdued trip, Napa Valley is a bucolic destination known for its hilly vineyards and soft green landscape .

For a classy girls’ getaway, take a private wine tour by foot, train , hot air balloon , or helicopter (depending on your budget). Wine tours are a big sell in Napa Valley and Sonoma.

Napa’s wine is world-class . Pair that with countryside views and you’re looking at a cozy one-of-a-kind luxury escape.

Memphis, Tennessee

Beale Street is a character. It’s family-friendly during the daytime (and during the early parts of the night).

But on Fridays and Saturdays, past 11 PM, Beale Street opens its eyes to a 21-and-up-only-can-enter crowd . A mix of live music, low lit dance halls, and open till 3 AM dives carve up this street’s lit-up landscape.

Beale Street is the beat of nightlife in Memphis .

P.S. If your birthday is in August and you’re planning a Memphis trip, look out for the Peabody Hotel’s rooftop parties. They’re held every Thursday.

P.P.S. If your birthday isn’t in August, visit the Peabody Hotel for the ducks . They’re the cutest.

Portland, Oregon

Portland has a little bit of everything – cocktail lounges, bourbon spots, wineries, beer-on-tap. You name it. Portland has it.

So if you’re looking for places to go for your 21st birthday that are a little laid back, but completely wacky and unique, add Portland to the top of your list.

I love the creativity behind all of Portland’s boutique spots . Angel Face is a soft-paletted swanky cocktail bar without an actual cocktail menu. Take your pick of spirits and wait for the bartender to work some only-in-Portland magic.

And if you’re a fan of speakeasies, Portland has a deck of prohibition-era inspired boozy getaways , from Multnomah Whiskey Library to Secret Society Lounge.

New York City, New York

NYC is full of vibrant, humming, constantly-on-the-move energy – the kind of energy that’s absolutely contagious.

So if it’s your first time visiting, go full-tourist mode . There’s no shame in that.

For a spicy and sophisticated birthday getaway, try taking a Museum Hacks tour . Museum Hacks is all about slightly saucy, down-and-dirty, drunk history come alive. It’s a downright funny romp through time. Museum admission is included with the tour price so if you’re looking for an unforgettable way to experience MOMA, this is it ( trust me, it’s worth it ).

Austin, Texas

Austin is a favorite city for many. Texas’ live music capital is all about outdoor tunes . It’s known for that….and funky wall art, amazing BBQ (the good Texas kind) , cheap-but-mouthwatering tacos, and close-to-the-big-city outdoor escapes.

Austin is everything hip and happening wrapped in millennial-approved packaging.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is home to big breweries and microbreweries alike. But if you’re visiting NOLA for your birthday, you have to visit for the food.

New Orleans’ iconic Creole cooking draws European, Caribbean, Native American, and West African influences. It’s a style that’s complex and hard to master. But it’s absolutely delicious.

Take a cooking class with New Orleans School of Cooking . Wander through French Quarter and the Garden District. Finish up your day with a swamp tour, pub crawl, or ghost tour (there are plenty of options to pick from).

Denver, Colorado

The Mile High City is one of the best places to go for your 21st birthday. With slick museums and taprooms galore , you’ll be drunk on entertainment during your visit to Denver.

Denver is all about the breweries. Craft beer is this city’s game and it’s good at it . And if you’re looking for spectacular city views to cherry top your big night, try ViewHouse Eatery, the perfect mix of style and substance in one chic spot.

Jackson, Mississippi

Jackson is one of the most underrated places to go for your 21st birthday . It’s a unique city that’s quintessentially Southern.

It’s a city for literary lovers and art fanatics. Y’all, Jackson has some of the best museums in the United States . But it also has a great nightlife scene.

Fondren is buzzing at night . Think Latin style tapas from Babalu and drinks from The Apothecary, a hidden speakeasy inside Brent’s Drugs.

Also, soul food. Soul food is the real deal.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

If quiet nights in a cozy cabin, a copy of a good book, and a big cup of tea (or a shot of moonshine) sound like the perfect birthday combo ( yes. yes. yes. ), then consider Gatlinburg, Tennessee as one of the top places to go for your 21st birthday.

Gatlinburg is all woodsy outdoorsy charm . With a kitschy but cute ( shop till you drop ) village area and scenic lookout points, this intimate Great Smoky Mountains spot is the perfect weekend escape.

Miami, Florida

Another popular party city , Miami is on most travelers 21st birthday radars. It’s a laid-back, high-energy getaway.

In fact, between soaking up the sun on the beach and (yet another) mojito, it might be hard to find time to saunter through the city. But Miami is too bright and colorful to miss . From Wynwood Walls to art museums by the dozen, Miami is a vibrant must-see destination.

Chicago, Illinois

From ogling city views to grabbing a picnic in the park to chowing down on deep-dish pizza, there’s no end to a traditional Chicago birthday bucket list.

If you’re looking for cheap booze or upscale cocktail lounges, Chicago has it all. The top-notch museums, art deco skyscrapers, and ethnic-influenced food make it the place to be.

So if the wind is blowing you in the direction of the Windy City, follow your gut and go.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is one of the oldest cities in the United States, but don’t let that dissuade you from considering this location as one of the places to go for your 21st birthday.

Within cobbled streets and brick buildings are hip modern locales , like 1369 Coffee and Trident Booksellers . Celebrate the day with a quiet stroll around town and a birthday cone from Honeycomb Creamery, a Boston favorite artisan-focused ice cream shop.

Walla Walla, Washington

Walla Walla is the wine hub of Washington state . It’s an under-the-radar spot with a huge heart.

Walla Walla is rustic, charming, and absolutely stunning. The grass is unbelievably green – a sharp hue, like the color of antifreeze.

And it looks like something straight out of a romantic comedy . So if you’re searching for a quiet and dreamy place to go for your 21st birthday, look no further than Walla Walla.

Los Angeles, California

Out of all the places to go for your 21st birthday, Los Angeles will leave you both starstruck and feeling like a star .

Grab an afternoon tea from Alfred Tea Room then splurge on a night at the Beverly Hills Hotel . Keep with the pretty in pink theme with a trip to The Friend, a cutesy tongue-in-cheek bar in Silver Lake.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona might be the unofficial spa capital of the USA . There’s something about the rugged red desert ambiance that makes Sedona instantly cooling.

Sedona’s spa resorts are usually upscale and all-inclusive (though you could opt for a day pass). Some offer wellness programs in an artsy surrounding.

If you’re planning a girls’ trip, try hopping on a Pink Jeep Tour , a popular local excursion that winds through Sedona’s stunning outdoor scenery.

Asheville, North Carolina

Fans of Downtown Abbey will love a birthday trip to the Biltmore Estate.

Biltmore is the largest home in America . With over 250 rooms and 65 fireplaces, Biltmore is a one-of-a-kind mansion nestled in North Carolina. The estate once belonged to George W. Vanderbilt. And it has a long-standing history.

Vanderbilt’s daughter Cornelia celebrated her 21st birthday here in 1921. In typical Roaring 20s fashion, the festivities included a masquerade party and later a garden party.

If your birthday is in 2022, ring in the new 20s (and your 20s) here.

Something old, something new – right?

Atlanta, Georgia

A hub of dimly lit creative speakeasies, Atlanta, Georgia knows plenty a moody nighttime bar .

But before your post-sunset beer crawl, record your story at StoryCorps . StoryCorps is an organization focused on keeping raw, human stories alive. StoryCorps believes that every voice counts so anyone can come in and record a forty-minute conversation. It’s a great way to ring in your birthday.

Follow up your recording with a show at Fox Theatre , a Moorish-style venue that’s all glitz and glam. And if you have some extra time, check out a few big-ticket Atlanta attractions as well.

Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. has some swanky rooftop bars . Top Of The Gate at the oh-so-posh Watergate Hotel offers oooh-and-ahhh worthy scenic views of the nation’s capital. In one spot, you can drink in The Kennedy Center, Potomac River, and Washington Monument all in one night.

Other popular haunts include City Winery, Officina, and Wild Days.

D.C. has an incredible number of rooftop bars so you’re sure to find one you’ll love.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico might be a U.S. territory but it seems like a world away. Colorful rows of houses, America’s only tropical rainforest (El Yunque), and mofongo ( can we just take a moment to appreciate mofongo? ) make it a charming destination.

San Juan is the largest city in Puerto Rico. It’s a buzzing destination, full of nightlife venues. History lovers will fall for Old San Juan, a cobblestoned walking district with a unique old-world island flavor.

If you’re looking for places to go for your 21st birthday that offer a bit of heat, San Juan might just win the prize.

Which of the destinations in this list of places to go for your 21st birthday should I visit? Which places have you visited or are planning to visit? Let me know in the comments below!

Editor-In-Chief

Anshula grew up with a love of stories and places. Thirty-five states and 100 bookstores later, she's made her hobbit home in Middle Tennessee. Her Tookish side still takes over and leaves her chasing window seats, literary destinations, adventure books, sunrise coffee, and indie bookshops. She's appeared as a travel source on HuffPost, Reader's Digest, and MSN.

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Happy early birthday! I wish this list was there when I was 21.

Great list of places to go for your 21st birthday. Can’t wait to see where you go.

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