You Deserve a Girls' Trip, and These 35 Destinations Deserve Your Attention
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Not many girls’ trips make it out of the group chat. But boy, oh, boy, is it ever fun when they do. Sometimes you just need to ditch all your responsibilities and get away with the ladies that mean the most to ya. And, you know, maybe drink a few glasses of wine in the process.
If you and your gals have been meaning to plan your next getaway, you're in luck: I rounded up and ranked 35 flawless vacation spots in the U.S. that would make for the ultimate girls' trip (that's right, no passport required!). And I fully guarantee there's a place on here within driving distance of your house, so you can skip pricey flights and make a road trip out of it (don't forget the snacks, obv).
From enchanting sunsets in Santa Fe that look straight out of a Georgia O'Keefe painting to swanky spots to sip bubbly in Napa, there's something for every girl group on this list—and that's a promise. Read on for the best of the best, and start planning those 'fits.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is most famous for being a ski town, but trust me: the après ski vibes are just as fun. We're talking snow tubing, an alpine rollercoaster, and snowmobile tours all in close proximity. Whatever you do, make sure the girls take a sleigh ride (I repeat: a literal sleigh ride) to Pine Creek Cookhouse for a hearty dinner. P.S. Bonus points if you spend a portion of the trip watching The Real Housewives of Beverley Hills' iconic Aspen trip.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
You'll want to pick a warmer month for a visit to this historic lakeside city, because the water is the place to be (preferably via sailboat, if you ask me). The car-free streets make everything feel more quaint, as do the cute boutiques and world-famous fudge shops. Book a stay at the Victorian-era Grand Hotel if you can swing it, but still head over there for afternoon tea even if you can't. The old-world charm will make you and your crew feel like you jumped into your favorite historical fiction romance novel.
Solvang, California
What we have here is pretty much a charming Danish village smack dab in the middle of California. Like...there is a straight-up windmill. There's also yummy Danish food (aebleskivers, anyone?) all year long, Christmas shops just because, clogs around every corner, and—most importantly—tons of wine rooms and vineyards. Rusack Vineyards is extremely gorgeous, if you're lookin' for recommendations.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Home to incredible restaurants, art galleries, spas (Ten Thousand Waves and Sunrise Springs are musts), and one of THE most charming downtowns on this list, Santa Fe truly earns New Mexico its "Land of Enchantment" nickname. The best time to visit is probably late fall, when the tourist season has died down a bit and temperatures are dropping.
Portland, Maine
Looking for a summer spot? This. Is. It. You can stroll around the cobblestone streets of the Old Port waterfront and explore a gazillion quirky shops and cafés before experiencing the gorgeous coastline via a lobster cruise. You should also probably visit a brewery (there are...a ton), and eat approximately one million lobster rolls. Docent's Collection is the place to book if you want to stay in the heart of downtown with your group (they offer everything from studio lofts to three-bedroom apartments!), with amenities like full-sized kitchens, local art, and spacious living rooms for lounging with the ladies at the end of a long day of adventuring.
Telluride, Colorado
I mean...this town is heaven on Earth. Not going to lie, Telluride is extremely teeny and you kinda have to be into the outdoors to truly take advantage of everything it has to offer (soooo many gorgeous hiking trails, for example), but you'll feel like you've stepped back in time if you do. Like, there's literally a saloon in town. And you should go there.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Welcome to Wyoming's famously fabulous Jackson Hole Valley, home to multiple gorgeous ski resorts—including the Kardashians' fave, Caldera House. Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park are close by, so you can visit those before you try your hand at horseback riding, hiking, and rafting. You'll need a drink after, and I beg you to go to Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, where the seats are literally saddles.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
I feel really confident that you won't regret a trip to Nantucket, especially if your squad is drawn to all things cute and cozy. There are beaches, cobblestone streets, beautiful boutiques, delicious seafood, a famous lighthouse for all those group photos, and awe-inspiring ice cream from The Juice Bar (heads up: it's cash only and solely open during spring and summer!).
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is big enough that you won't run out of things to do during a long weekend, but small enough to feel extremely doable for a quick girls' trip. On top of being beautiful (hello to this photo of the fall foliage), it also has a burgeoning restaurant scene. I recommend staying downtown to save on Ubers and all the hassle—the swankiest hotel there is definitely The Inn on Biltmore Estate, which, as the name implies, is on the grounds of George Vanderbilt's historic country home. You will feel fancy!
Palm Springs, California
If your interests include a) ogling chic aesthetics, b) lounging in a pool all day, and c) visiting the ghosts of Coachellas past, then Palm Springs is the obvious choice for you. Most of the hotels are Accidentally Wes Anderson-core (especially The Saguaro), and Palm Canyon Drive—the town's main street—has a ton of fun stores and restaurants. If you're feeling adventurous but also kinda lazy, check out Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for jaw-dropping views without the hike.
New Orleans, Louisiana
There's a reason why so many people have their bachelorette parties in NOLA. There's a bar or restaurant around every corner, tons of live music, and it's just a joyful place to be (cheesy, but true). Definitely spend time in the French Quarter, then get a drink at Hotel Monteleone, where literary greats like William Faulkner and Truman Capote used to hang. Oh, and Café Du Monde is a must, no matter how touristy.
Sun Valley, Idaho
Not sure if you've noticed, but celebrities literally won't stop vacationing in Idaho. And there's a reason why! It's gorgeous, packed with lakes and rivers, and has fresh air for daysss. Jimmy Kimmel co-owns a resort there called South Fork Lodge, which is the place to stay and provides pretty much everything you need to enjoy the ✨Idaho Life✨.
Charleston, South Carolina
It goes without saying that a visit to Sewing Down South is a must for all Southern Charm fans, but you'll also want to hit up Folly Beach for a day on the sand. Wanna go out? Try Citrus Club at Dewberry Hotel (the viewsssss), Uptown Social, and Little Palm (pool + bar = magic) for all the chic Southern vibes. If you don't know where to stay, consider renting the Boho Rosa House—it's pink, huge, and very photogenic.
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Willamette Valley is Oregon's not-so-hidden treasure—home to a gazillion gorgeous vineyards to tour/day drink at. There are a bunch of sweet neighborhoods to explore—including Cottage Grove and its delightful covered bridge—but when it comes to finding a place to stay, look no further than Black Walnut Inn & Vineyard for a Tuscan vibe.
Austin, Texas
I just have one thing to say to you: honky-tonk. Austin has poppin' nightlife, which means this is a great opportunity to buy the cowboy boots you've been wondering if you can pull off and force your friends to learn how to line dance. During the day, Austin is a great city to explore on foot (warning: your friends will want to take touristy pics in front of murals, and that's okay). Just do yourself a favor and hit up Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden for brunch and live music.
Asbury Park, New Jersey
Asbury Park is super retro and steeped in beachside Americana. I mean, the arcade! It's iconic! The beach is great, the boardwalk is better, and I'm obsessed with the vibes at the Asbury Ocean Club. Can't promise you'll see the Jersey Shore crew, but the cast of characters around town will surely suffice.
Sedona, Arizona
Are your friends in their wellness eras? If you said yes, Sedona is waiting for y'all! There are spas and crystal shops everywhere you look (L'Auberge's spa has creek-side massages), and you can book a "water to wine kayaking adventure"if you want something a little more exciting (and boozy). No further info required, amirite?
Ojai, California
Ojai is a small but stunning city north of Los Angeles, filled with art galleries and delicious restaurants (you'll go to The Dutchess if you're smart). Overall, it's a great place to just relax, meander, and lounge. Staying at the historic Ojai Valley Inn is very much a part of the experience, and 10/10 worth the splurge.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor is a gorgeous town on Maine's Mount Desert Island, but it also has the added bonus of being right next to Acadia National Park and its rocky beaches (make sure to hit up Jordan Pond House for yummy popovers). There are tons of charming boutique hotels and inns to choose from, but it's hard to beat the Bar Harbor Inn—a beautiful oceanfront lodge with spa services and a lovely pool.
New York, New York
New York is obviously incredible, but my advice? Don't try to pack too much into a short trip. Also, stick to less touristy areas. You should definitely book a Broadway show and go to the Met, but otherwise, spend your time walking around and exploring the city by foot. (If you're into the cobblestone street vibe, Soho, Seaport, and Dumbo—pictured here—are great for strolling.) A Carbone reservation is always a good idea if you can get it, and for old-school NYC energy, head up to Bemelmans at The Carlyle Hotel.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
There's a reason celebs won't stop buying homes on this stretch of coastline: It is stunning. Carmel is a sleepy but swanky small town, and it also happens to be pretty $$$, so this is definitely for groups looking for a fancy-schmancy trip. L'Auberge Carmel (originally built in 1929) is the spot to stay, La Bicyclette is the spot for French toast, and the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium is the spot for a wholesome day out.
Woodstock, Vermont
For fab fall foliage and cozy downtown vibes, Woodstock is it. Though a bit of a splurge, Woodstock Inn & Resort is as cute as hotels come—and the leaf-peeping opportunities are absolutely endless if you go during peak season. (Please do not quote me because I sadly don't have an in with Mother Nature, but late September through mid-October should do it.) By the way, Middle Covered Bridge (isn't she pretty?) is ready to be featured in all your girls' trip group shots.
Vail, Colorado
Another Colorado ski town/Real Housewives franchise favorite, Vail is as cozy and charming as it is luxe and swanky. I recommend The Lodge at Vail for a ski-in/ski-out resort with spa services for post-skiing R&R. And for après skiing, check out Pepi's Bar and The Red Lion!
Santa Barbara, California
There's a reason everyone is moving to this sunny city. Grab your girls and get tapas at Loquita near the beach and lunch at Honor Bar in Montecito (while keeping an eye out for Harry and Meghan, naturally), before heading to State Street for nightlife. Try Mar Monte Hotel for a slightly more budget-friendly option than the Rosewood Miramar (you know, where Kourtney and Travis got engaged?).
Montauk, NY
If the thought of trying to navigate a girls' trip in NYC gives you hives, consider Montauk, my friend. Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa is never not fun (even in the off-season), and chances are you WILL run into a celeb and be able to fulfill your lifelong dream of submitting to Deux Moi. Hungry? Try Lunch for lobster rolls, John's Pancake House for breakfast, and Montauk Brewing Company for obvious reasons.
Pagosa Springs, Colorado
The healing hot springs in the town of Pagosa Springs are incredible (plus so relaxing)—and there's nowhere better to stay than The Springs Resort to experience them. While you're there, you can also book a hot air balloon ride (very Bachelor Nation-coded) or an old locomotive train ride, but whatever you do, check out Pagosa Baking Company for treats. A true gem.
Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky is another great option if your group is into skiing, but it's also a good spot for that one friend who never learned and still wants to be included. It's a cute and walkable town with delish restaurants and cozy bars, so you'll never be short on places to chill. I recommend staying at the Wilson Hotel (it has spectacular views, a pool, and is right in the town center) before enjoying live music and barbecue at Lone Mountain Ranch on Sundays.
Las Vegas, Nevada
I mean, do I really have to explain why Vegas is a classic girls' trip location? The A-lister residencies, the celeb restaurants, the casinos, the funky antique shops! It's camp in the very best way, and you and your crew can get wild and dance for days. Thinking about planning a bachelorette there? Here's our official guide, with tips on where to stay, play, and eat while you celebrate the bride.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
Despite what you might assume after watching a certain Netflix show, the Outer Banks don't always consist of treasure hunts and bands of teenagers trying to kill each other. Instead, this stretch of islands is home to sandy beaches, warm ocean water, and bands of wild horses. Trust me, you want to book an Airbnb and spend the weekend pretending you own a beach house. (Side note: Make sure to hit up Ducks Donuts.)
Nashville, Tennessee
I mean, Nashville has a Honky Tonk Highway—what more do you need? The W is a great hotel option, especially if your girls love something scene-y, and you should make sure to head to Shotgun Willie's (named after Willie Nelson, obviously) for some down-home barbecue. And if you want to walk in Taylor Swift's shoes (duh), go see live music at The Bluebird Cafe.
Napa Valley, California
I mean, listen: If you have the budget and love day drinking, not going to Napa Valley for your girls' trip would be a mistake. Stay at the Meadowood, book a car service (or the Wine Train) so there's no need for a designated driver, and hit up one of the hundreds of vineyards. My personal favorite? Chandon (yes, the brand behind the bubbly you know and love), where you'll find elite winery vibes with chic garden cabanas that can host your whole group. Good food is plentiful throughout the valley, but a fave is Goose & Gander because of the cool speakeasy inside the restaurant.
Park City, Utah
Also known as the home of the Sundance Film Festival, Park City is one of those places where pretty much anywhere you wander will be an A+ experience. This city knows how to wine and dine tourists, and some must-sees for the agenda include the Ice Castles (do it for the photo opp), the Umbrella Bar for an après-ski sitch, and the ski-in High West Distillery & Saloon. Oh, and I'm gonna go ahead and keep it iconic by recommending Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley for your accommodations.
St. Michaels, Maryland
People don't talk about St. Michaels enough, but it's one of the cutest coastal towns in the U.S., in my humble opinion. You'll recognize the Inn at Perry Cabin from Wedding Crashers—which also happens to be a great spot to stay (we love a waterfront view!). You should also check out Lyon Rum Distillery and Ava's Pizzeria to satisfy your inner foodie, and Hooper Strait Lighthouse for your inner history buff!
Lake Tahoe, California
Here's another option for the outdoorsy among us, and it's lovely pretty much every season (though the swimming, kayaking, and hiking in the spring and summer are hard to beat). Tour the lake on a wine-tasting boat cruise, check out South Lake Brewing Company, and stay at the swanky Ritz-Carlton, a picture-perfect lodge in the mountains.
Newport, Rhode Island
The most important thing to do in Newport? The Cliff Walk. It's a stunning walk along—you guessed it—a cliff, with the ocean on one side of you and some casual Gilded Age mansions on the other (which yep, you can stop in and tour). This isn't exactly a big nightlife town, so consider it a great opportunity to eat huge amounts at dinner and go back to your hotel room (The Chanler, if you're feeling fancy and love a converted mansion) to sleep it off.
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