15 Best Birthday Trip Ideas For Every Age

Blow out the candles in an exciting Southern destination.

Parties can be more work than they’re worth, but birthday trips are always worth the time and energy. If you’re looking for the best places to go on your birthday, the South has plenty of great destinations where you can celebrate in style. Whether you want to splurge on a 21^st birthday getaway with your friends or are seeking a quiet couple’s weekend for your 50^th birthday, we’ve got ideas for travelers at every stage of their lives. For those with loved ones approaching milestone birthdays, forget the surprise party. Ditch the guest lists, streamers, and Publix grocery store cake, and give them a birthday experience they’ll remember forever. Here are the best birthday trip ideas for every age.

21st Birthday Trip Ideas

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashvegas may be known as bachelorette party central, but the city’s mix of Honky Tonks and swanky bars also makes it a great place to ring in a 21^st birthday. Treat yourself to a shopping day in the 12 South neighborhood, where you’ll find a healthy collection of boutiques like Reese Witherspoon’s Draper James alongside national retailers. Make dinner reservations at new East Nashville hotspot, Noko, or at Sean Brock’s acclaimed tasting menu-only restaurant June. Then, gear up for a big night out on Broadway. If you can snag a reservation to the Dolly Parton-inspired bar atop the Graduate Nashville hotel, there’s not a better, pinker, or more over-the-top spot to celebrate the occasion. A picture with the giant Dolly statue at White Limozeen is reason enough to go. The bar is 21+ after 7 p.m., so you’ll have a perfect opportunity to show off your newly legal license.

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Austin, Texas

There’s a palpable energy that runs through this college town that’s famous for keeping things weird. Cheers to turning 21 by sipping on a giant margarita on Joe T. Garcia’s colorful and often-crowded garden patio. If the weather is warm, spend the day swimming, lounging, and people watching on the grassy hills around Barton Springs, or rent a paddleboard and see the city from a different vantage point on Lady Bird Lake. Austin’s dining scene leaves nothing to be desired, whether you’re in the mood for authentic Tex-Mex, real-deal Texas barbecue, or want to sit down at a stylish restaurant for dinner. The city developed its reputation as a music town, so seeing a live show is a must. A visit to the Continental Club, often called the “granddaddy of live music venues” is a rite of passage befitting of your 21^st.  

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New Orleans, Louisiana

Every day is a celebration on Bourbon Street, so why not make the party that much better by bringing your big day to the Crescent City? The great thing about New Orleans is that it has range. From the grittiest of dive bars to the nicest white-tablecloth establishments, New Orleans is a city that does it all—and a place where you can experience it all. Simply strolling up and down Royal Street in the French Quarter, with its excess of shops, galleries, restaurants, and street performers, is an adventure. The birthday girl or boy can embark on tasting tour around town to sample some of the city’s many signature drinks. Frozen Irish Coffee at Erin Rose, a Hurricane at Pat O. Brien’s, and a Pimm’s Cup at Napoleon House are just a few to whet your whistle. And of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to New Orleans without eating your way through town. For a special night out, make reservations at a classic spot like Brennan’s or splashy newcomer like Lengua Madre. You can’t go wrong either way.

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30th Birthday Trip Ideas

30A

It’d be a missed opportunity to turn the big 3-0 and not celebrate at a place that literally has the number 30 in its name. Named for the Scenic Highway that runs for 24 miles along Florida’s Gulf Coast, this idyllic vacation destination is known for its unique beachside communities that each have a style of their own. From the stunning upscale architecture of Alys Beach to the charming Mayberry feel of the town square in Seaside, there’s a beach town to suit every personality. Of course, the gorgeous sugar-white sands and turquoise waters are the big draw here–and there’s plenty of room for you and your closest friends to park your chairs for a day of chatting and relaxing in the sun. When the sun starts to go down, all you’ll have to do is decide which of 30A’s excellent restaurants you want to dine at. You can’t beat the views from Bud & Alley’s first-come-first-serve upstairs deck, but on the other hand there’s no place livelier or more ready for a party than The Red Bar.

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Miami, Florida

Miami's energy is electric, which makes it the ideal place to ring in a milestone birthday. We guarantee that not a single second of your birthday trip will be boring if you spend it in this colorful, multicultural city. Start your day by getting the perfect 30^th birthday Instagram picture in front of a bright and bold mural at Wynwood Walls, the city’s original outdoor street art museum. For lunch, sit down at trendy KoKo for authentic Mexican cuisine in a beautifully designed space, or spend time in the vintage dining room at Versailles Restaurant, known for its Cuba sandwiches. Feed off the city’s unmatched energy by spending the day at a beach club on South Beach, where you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to a tropical island in the Caribbean. Not in the mood for a crowd? Charter a private boat to take you and your pals for a cruise.

Texas Hill Country

A trip to Napa’s wine country is a classic birthday trip that’s especially popular for those in the 30s and 40s crowds. If flying across the country to California feels a bit out of reach (or maybe like a little too much), the high concentration of excellent wineries in the Texas Hill Country are a compelling alternative. Book a couple nights in one of the Hill Country’s many plush resorts (Camp Lucy and Miraval Austin are both great options), then spend your days sipping wine in the company of some truly stunning scenery. Let Texas’s rolling hills, green countryside, and famous wildflowers create the perfect backdrop to an unforgettable birthday trip.

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40th Birthday Trip Ideas

St. Augustine, Florida

Compelling history meets unbeatable Florida sunshine in this small town that was voted as our readers’ favorite in 2023. There’s no better place to reflect on the passing of time, as one often does on landmark birthdays, than in one of the country’s oldest destinations. And St. Augustine proves that good things come with time. Take a tour of the sizable but entirely walkable downtown to see striking Spanish Renaissance architecture represented on Flagler College’s stunning campus and at the Lightner Museum. Stop to refuel at Boat Drinks, a colorful tiki-inspired bar and eatery centrally located on George Street. The great thing about St. Augustine is that is essentially two destinations in one. When your dogs are barking and you’re ready to trade city strolling for sun-kissed skin and an ocean breeze, head to Anastasia State Park, a 1,600-acre nature preserve with deserted beaches that’s less than 10 minutes from downtown.

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Charleston, South Carolina

There’s no denying our love for this classic Southern destination. After all, our readers vote Charleston as their favorite city year after year. If you haven’t been yet, use your 40^th birthday as an excuse to check this bucket list destination of your list. And if you have had the pleasure of visiting before, a birthday is an equally good reason to plan a return trip. To do Charleston right for your 40^th, book a stay at a grand hotel like The Mills House or Hotel Bennett, both of which are located in walking distance of favorite attractions like King Street (for unbeatable shopping) and Rainbow Row. Then, plan a dream trip based on your interests. History buffs should check out the brand-new International African American History Museum. Art lovers will want to pop into local galleries and visit the Gibbes Museum of Art. And everyone will agree to dedicating several days to making a dent in the incredible dining scene

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Highlands, North Carolina

If a quiet weekend away sounds like just the way to jumpstart a new decade of life, consider Highlands. The charming mountain town nestled within the Nantahala National Forest, which means gorgeous vistas and opportunities to explore and enjoy the great outdoors abound. However, that’s far from the only thing Highlands has going for it. Treat yourself to a stay at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, a far cry from a rustic cabin in the woods. The luxury resort is the pinnacle of mountainside elegance. Find excellent farm-to-table cuisine at the resort’s many restaurants like Madison’s and Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar, and definitely book an appointment at the European-inspired spa. The last thing you should have on your birthday is a worry, and Old Edwards, it’s hardly possible.

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50th Birthday Trip Ideas

Savannah, Georgia

This beloved Southern city is as timeless as you, and that’s saying a lot. As the state of Georgia’s oldest city, Savannah has had a long and colorful history, but one thing that’s remained stayed consistent throughout the years is the city’s undeniable charm. Walk the cobblestoned River Street, where you can get great views of the Savannah River while popping into some the destination’s most iconic spots like River Street Sweets, which coincidentally celebrated its 50^th birthday in 2023, and Wet Willie’s, where frozen daiquiris await. If your sweetie (good bless ‘em) has suffered a fair share of missing the mark when it comes to picking out gifts, buy your own birthday gift at the 5,200-square-foot dream store known as The Paris Market and Brocante.

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The Greenbrier

Located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, The Greenbrier has more than earned its moniker as America’s Resort over the past 200 years. The National Historic Landmark, which encompasses 11,000 sprawling acres that contain not only the main resort, but also estate homes, cottages, four world-class golf courses, 19 dining options, and a shopping village where you can find everything from handmade jewelry to designer clothing. If you’re feeling lucky (and who wouldn’t be on their birthday), you can take a spin on the slots or sit down at a blackjack table in the Casino Club. If your birthday happens to fall around Christmas or Easter, you’re in for a real treat as the resort dresses up extra special for both occasions.

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Marco Island, Florida

This laidback island on Florida’s Paradise Coast is so picturesque you might mistake your visit for a dream. Marco Island, along with its sister island Sanibel, is known for its unspoiled beaches, abundant wildlife, and a healthy collection of oceanfront resorts where you can set up home base for the weekend. Part of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands, a string of isles that pops up at the meeting point of the Everglades and the Gulf of Mexico, there’s no better place to commemorate half a century of living. When you’re not searching for shells on favorite Tigertail Beach, head into the town’s historic district to explore shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in brightly colored coastal shanties. For an unforgettable birthday meal, snag a table on the patio at Snook Inn or at the beachfront Kane Tiki Bar & Grill.

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60th Birthday Trip Ideas

Alexandria, Virginia

Old-school charm is the name of the game at this waterfront town that’s known for its colonial era contributions. For a blast from the past, visit Gadsby’s Tavern, a fine dining restaurant that’s been open since 1770 and was a favorite spot for all five of the U.S.’s first presidents. Find modern-day stars up and down King Street, a mile-long thoroughfare that’s home to unique local boutiques, farm-to-table restaurants, cafes, and art galleries. Spend time soaking in sparkling Potomac riverfront and check into one of the city’s many charming boutique hotels. If you’re a spring baby, you may even be able to make your visit coincide with the area’s famously beautiful cherry blossom season.

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Ocean Springs, Mississippi

The lovely thing about this coastal Mississippi town is its just quiet enough, without ever teetering toward boring. This means you can have a relaxing day on the beach without having to worry about staking out your sliver of sand, but when night falls, you won’t be stuck inside with nothing to do. The hotels and stays in Ocean Spring are decidedly stylish. Treat yourself to a floating cabin at The Beatnik, a posh room in downtown’s The Hemingway boutique hotel, or a spacious suite at longtime favorite inn The Roost. Artsy folk will love visiting the Walter Anderson Museum, the Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Arts Center, and the many galleries and workshops of local artists that span downtown. The best place to have your birthday dinner is Vestige, owned by James Beard-nominated chef Alex Perry. There you’ll have the opportunity to savor a creative five-course tasting menu that you’re guaranteed to think about for many birthdays to come.

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Blackberry Farm

A birthday as momentous as your 60^th calls for an equally significant celebration trip. And there’s no place that screams special occasion like Blackberry Farm. Located in Walland, Tennessee, Blackberry Farm is the gold standard when it comes to not only Southern resorts but luxury resorts everywhere. Its stunning 4,200 acres in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains offers a host of activities from fly fishing in nearby Hesse Creek to horseback riding to paddle sports to cycling. If you’re hoping for a more relaxing trip, the award-winning Wellhouse Spa is the place to be pampered. The farm is perhaps most well-known for its outstanding food and beverage program that brings together the immense talents of first-rate butchers, foragers, cheesemakers, chefs, master gardeners, bakers, and sommeliers. This is the kind of trip you plan for years, then relive in your head for years after you’ve returned home.

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Read the original article on Southern Living.