25 Affordable Girls' Trip Ideas That Will Convince You to Finally Plan That Getaway
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Nothing brings girlfriends closer together than travel. And after several months (maybe even years) of being unable to travel, many people are itching to get away and explore a different zip code for a change. Doing it with your friends on a dedicated girls' trip without kids, spouses, and bosses looking over your shoulder is the perfect way to unwind, reconnect, mellow out or even get excited about life again.
Once you know who is in for the girls trip of a lifetime, the hardest part is deciding where to go. Whether it’s a weekend road trip, an adventurous outing, exploring a locale off the beaten path or a budget stay at an underrated hideaway your circle of friends won’t have any shortage of girls' trip ideas.
We’ve rounded up some of the best domestic and international girls' trip ideas. Think about whether your group of friends is craving some exciting beach time, a quaint and sophisticated stay at a small town in bed and breakfast, a digital detox, or somewhere known for its robust nightlife.
No matter where you go, you’ll be guaranteed a good time as long as you stay safe, remain mindful of current covid protocols, be willing to go with the flow as necessary and immerse yourself in the experience while building memories.
Remember the old days, when getting the girls together for a getaway was as easy as piling in the car with a few bathing suits, some snacks, and a sense of adventure? These days, it's not so easy: Often, female friendships require intricate coordination with spouses, kids, jobs — and all the trappings of serious adulting. (Womp, womp.)
But travel is the ultimate bonding experience for best friends and an amazing way to recharge and refocus. So it's a goal well worth prioritizing, despite the challenges involved with logistics and coordination. These girls' trip ideas include something for every group — whether you're all about adventure, relaxation, city sightseeing, or wandering off the grid. Our picks include both far-flung destinations, and plenty of domestic travel options that require no passport (or jet lag) at all. And these girls trip ideas include options for every group's budget, from wallet-friendly road trips to bucket-list international travels.
No matter where you go, you're sure to have a life-affirming, laughter-inspiring, friendship-rejuvenating good time. So get to booking and make it happen — no excuses!
Ready to get packing? Don't forget to check out our picks for the best luggage on Amazon, and best travel dresses to pack for every destination.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas has long been a hot spot for bachelorette parties and wild girls' nights out on the town and for good reason. The Strip is only a few minutes from the airport and home to upscale hotels, the must-see dancing Fountains of Bellagio, mainstream restaurants, and no shortage of shows. Get the girls together for a baller group stay at Sky Suites at Aria, with its own food and drinks lounge and airport transportation included.
Rome, Italy
Focus on the “eat” of an eat, pray, love-style getaway with a girls trip to the Eternal City. Visit the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Sistine Chapel, and more — all with ample stops for pizza, pasta, gelato, and vino, of course. Stay at the Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese with its Settimo restaurant and lounge bar on the roof terrace, overlooking all the splendor of the city.
Maui, Hawaii
The beaches and turquoise waters make for a dreamy and relaxing getaway, and the lively dining, pool, and shopping scenes combine for the ultimate girls trip. Stay at the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea to live out The White Lotus experience IRL. And make a plan for the new experience, A Wayfinder's Journey, led by the distinguished female Hawaiian navigator Kala Baybayan Tanaka aboard a private catamaran.
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Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs and its environs all around the Southern California desert region make for a girls trip packed with fun under the sun and swaying palms. (Definitely pack that SPF!) The Thompson Palm Springs hotel is readying for a chic opening. Or in Indian Wells, get your splash on in the lazy river with two enormous water slides at the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells. (Don’t forget to snap your social media selfies in front of the “Desert Vibes Only” neon wall!)
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New York City, New York
There's a lot to see in NYC. Luckily, you can see almost all of it from the observation deck at The Edge. And if you and your girls are looking for a real thrill, you can even sign up to scale the building. It's the perfect bonding moment for any group dedicated to new challenges and conquering fears. Then, spend the rest of the trip exploring the various shows, restaurants, and boat tours available.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The iconic Rocky Steps, photos at the Liberty Bell, and drinks at the bar in the Four Seasons Hotel are all great stops for a girls' trip in Philly.
Fiji
For a bucket list trip, Fiji is more accessible than you think: It’s the same distance from the U.S. West Coast as London via nonstop flight. Stay at Vomo Island Fiji for spa, scuba, snorkeling, and incredible South Pacific cuisine.
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Baltimore, Maryland
When it comes to sightseeing, you can't go wrong with a stop at the Baltimore Inner Harbor, home to the Maryland Science Center, the National Aquarium, Top of the World Observation Level, and amazing seafood dining.
Dubai
Downtown Dubai isn't just home to the world's tallest man-made structure, the Burj Khalifa. It's home to a guaranteed glamorous girls' trip experience, with modern architecture, luxury shopping, and pristine beaches. It's also home to plenty of Real Housewives lore, if your group loves Bravo. And it's where Beyoncé famously performed at the opening of the new Atlantis The Royal.
Ocean City, Maryland
If your friend circle consists of mom friends who are sick of cleaning up after other people, they'll enjoy the beaches of Ocean City. The locale is ranked amongst the cleanest in America. For oceanfront and in-ocean dining, Seacrets is a local favorite.
Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts
Lighthouses, The African American Heritage Trail, and access to seafood make this charming location a top pick for a trip with the girls.
Newport, Rhode Island
Those who dream about living the mansion life will love a trip to Newport to expand on that fantasy. The town is famous for the mansions along Bellevue Avenue. Book a stay at Gurney's Resort for some R&R and Instagram-worthy photos lounging by the pool.
Savannah, Georgia
Friend groups dreaming of living like a Southern belle won't be disappointed with a trip to Savannah. People come for the Southern charm and stay for the horse-drawn carriages, bed and breakfasts, and river boat cruises.
Charleston, South Carolina
Cobblestone streets, boardwalks, and The Pineapple Fountain are amongst the landmarks great for tourists and girlfriends looking for some fun photo spots.
New Orleans, Louisiana
When a hit movie called Girls Trip takes place in this travel hot spot, it only makes sense you follow suit with a girls' trip of your own. Besides being home to the Essence Festival, New Orleans is known for the sounds of soul and the infusion of French cuisine. In short, there will never be a dull moment on a trip here.
Catalina Island, California
Just off the coast of California, this getaway is well known by natives of the state and the perfect place to head to for anyone who prefers to escape the crowds of Los Angeles (...for island crowds, when summertime demand swells the lively beaches and restaurants here). The 22-mile island is easily traveled by foot or golf cart. It's home to diving, paddling, a casino, several spas, and plenty of reasons to relax and disconnect.
Houston, Texas
Houston may be well known for its space center and museums, but it's also the perfect spot for hitting the trails. The Buffalo Bayou has several hundred acres of park land. Rent a canoe, see the hidden art, and paddle through downtown Houston as you admire the natural beauty. If you and your girls are kids at heart, take the hour and a half drive down to adults-only waterpark The Cove at BearX. Or, enjoy a wine tasting at Pur Noire Urban Wineries or Sable Gate Winery.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is home to rooftop bars, rich history, and a captivating architecture boat tour that's sure to impress. The best part is, its central location makes finding direct flights a breeze for the most part. For friends looking for a high-class experience, a stay at the Sofitel Chicago and shopping along the Magnificent Mile can provide a healthy dose of luxury.
Pigeon Point, Tobago
For the crew who's had enough of the typical Caribbean tourist attractions, Tobago is a hidden gem not to be missed. It's located north of the main island of Trinidad and home to Buccoo Reef and lush rainforests perfect for bird watching. Not to be missed is the Nylon Pool — a naturally made pool surrounded by white sand in the middle of the ocean safe enough for visitors to swim in and enjoy. Spend the night at the secluded Bacolet Beach Club after indulging in some curry chicken and roti.
Nassau, Bahamas
The Bahamas is a no-brainer decision for friends living on the East Coast. The ease in finding short direct flights makes planning a stress-free experience — something all busy friends can appreciate. Once there, head to the Junkanoo Museum to for learn more about Bahamian culture.
Barcelona, Spain
A girls' night in your hometown at a favorite restaurant surrounded by tapas and drinks isn't an uncommon experience, so why not experience them where it all started? Book the Original Tapas Crawl Adventure to find out more about (and taste!) the local food and drinks.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Dining at juice bars, surf lessons, and experiencing the butterfly conservatory are among the popular activities for girlfriends to engage during a getaway to magical Costa Rica.
Niagara Falls, Canada
Niagara Falls has no shortage of splash zones and adventures. Zip lining, Maid of the Mist boat tours, and a trip to the observation deck leave little room for boredom. Raise a glass to the memories made over a glass of the popular Canadian varietal, ice wine.
Charlestown, Nevis
Anyone who found themselves addicted to the musical Hamilton during the pandemic when it aired on Disney+ (and who didn't?) is in for a surprise during a girls' trip to the island of Nevis. Lovers of the show will appreciate the opportunity to visit the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, known as The Hamilton House. Then, relish in the rich history that led to the captivating show during an amazing West Indian dinner at Bananas restaurant.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
If staying at an all-inclusive resort is a must for your girlfriend getaway, look no further than Mexico. Dreams Resort, Excellence, and Grand Palladium are some of the top choices for all-inclusive stays in the area.
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