Yahoo Lifestyle This Concert in Lake Ontario is the Perfect Reason Your Besties Should Take a Weekend Trip
- 1/30
1) Nantucket, Massachusetts
If you're in need of a mental reset, Nantucket is the place to go. Although the idyllic island is quiet, you won't find yourself bored. Enjoy morning runs along the beach, strolls through the historic cobblestone streets, and drives on the sandy white beaches. Nantucket has a surprisingly sprawling food and drink scene. Cisco Brewers is a fun spot to grab a drink and Millie's serves up great margaritas and fish tacos. Don't leave without grabbing a cup of coffee from Handlebar Cafe—the cute shop was featured on an episode of HGTV's Island Life.
Chris Hackett - Getty Images - 2/30
2) Napa Valley, California
Home to more than 400 wineries, a trip to Napa is as close as you can get to wine country heaven. The valley is just a two-hour drive north of San Francisco, which makes it easy to get to while still offering the feel of a distant vacay. Perfectly landscaped rolling hills and bright green vineyards will greet you upon arrival. There are several luxury hotels in Napa for those seeking a high-end experience, but the region also has home rentals at various price points. Between wine tastings, dine at some of the valley's Michelin-starred restaurants, unwind during a spa treatment or partake in some retail therapy.
S. Greg Panosian - Getty Images - 3/30
3) Nashville, Tennessee
Country music and upbeat nightlife are the main scenes in Nashville. This lively destination is popular for bachelorette parties and getaways of all types. Downtown is packed with unique art murals, funky neon signs, bustling bars and lots of character. Stop by the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum or catch a live show at the Grand Ole Opry. If you're visiting with a big group, a pedal bar crawl through the city is a must.
Henryk Sadura - Getty Images - 4/30
4) Savannah, Georgia
Craving some Southern hospitality? Head to Savannah, Georgia, to enjoy a slower and more meaningful pace of life. It's easy to walk around this historic city while taking in the beauty of the live oaks and magnolias. The antebellum mansions and brick townhouses add a sense of charm that can't be beat. Because the city is known to be one of the most haunted in the United States, there are plenty of ghost tours worth taking if you dare.
Tetra Images - Getty Images - 5/30
5) Austin, Texas
Home to some of the best barbecue in the country, Austin has become an increasingly popular destination for bachelorette parties and weekend getaways. Visitors love venturing out to Rainey Street for a fun scene and craft cocktails. Plan to spend an afternoon walking along South Congress Avenue, where there's ample shopping, restaurants and music venues. Odd Duck is a popular dinner spot and Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew is loved by locals.
Carlos Sandoval - Getty Images - 6/30
6) St. Michaels, Maryland
Maryland's Eastern Shore is an overlooked travel destination—and it shouldn't be! While visiting, you can set sail on a sunset cruise or hire a captain to take you out on a yacht. If you're looking for a place to stay, consider the Inn at Perry Cabin, which served as the main filming location for Wedding Crashers. The luxury resort is set on the waterfront, offering guests sweeping views and easy access to boating activities. While staying at the resort, practice your tennis game, play a round of golf or relax by the pool.
Ymn - Getty Images - 7/30
7) New York, New York
No matter how you get there (plane, train or ferry), a getaway to New York City certainly won't disappoint. The Big Apple truly has something to offer every type of traveler — Broadway shows, strolls through Central Park and shopping on the Upper East Side. Bemelmans Bar is a special place to indulge in a cocktail and light bites — it's located inside The Carlyle Hotel and features murals by Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the classic Madeline children’s books. Brunch in the city is also a good vibe, but nothing is better than a traditional New York bagel.
Wayfarerlife Photography - Getty Images - 8/30
8) Cape May, New Jersey
Just a few hours driving from Manhattan, Cape May is an easy place to escape the madness of city life. The seaside town is located at the southernmost tip of the Jersey Shore but the whimsical charm will make you feel like you're walking through the pages of a storybook. Stay at Beach Plum Farm for a cozy and unique experience. The 62-acre property has five cottages that you can choose to rent during your stay. Guests get their own personal golf carts to use throughout their trip and love the attention to detail provided by staff members, like having fresh doughnuts and coffee delivered to the porch each morning. Shop at the local boutiques, take a walk along the sandy beach, buy some chocolates from Louisa's, and enjoy dinner and a Cape May Mule at The Ebbitt Room.
Richard T. Nowitz - Getty Images - 9/30
9) Scottsdale, Arizona
Head to Scottsdale if you’re in the mood for a party scene. The old town area is packed with clubs and casual bars and the dining provides some of the best eats in the southwest. Toca Madera is a must-try — order guacamole for the table, which has pomegranate seeds mixed in it for a unique flavor. If you want to break a sweat without suffering through the Scottsdale heat, sign up for a FloatFit Fitness yoga class at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. The workout class is held on a paddle board raft in the hotel’s pool.
Pdpetersonphoto - Getty Images - 10/30
10) Washington, D.C.
Got a history buff in your group? D.C. will offer them their fix while catering to every type of traveler's needs. Beyond the basics of checking out the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, go undercover and explore the world of espionage at the International Spy Museum or tap into your creative side at the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Outside of the various museums and landmarks, the bar scene in D.C. is sneaky fun. Try Round Robin Bar, which is referred to as the Oval Office of bars, or Off the Record, which is located in the basement of The Hay-Adams hotel.
Tetra Images - Getty Images - 11/30
11) Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs has a plethora of unique and stylish home rentals. Find one with a large pool so you and your girlfriends can lounge outside with mimosas in hand. As far as activities around town go, check out the shops in downtown, explore the city on a Jeep tour, or get sporty with a round of golf at a nearby course—there are more than 100 courses in the area.
Shaynna Rogers - Getty Images - 12/30
12) Denver, Colorado
Denver is a no-brainer if you're eager to travel somewhere that offers the perfect combination of city and nature. Hike at Red Rocks Park, attend a Rockies or Broncos game, check out art displays in the RiNo District, brunch downtown or kayak in Evergreen Lake, all within a 30-mile radius. Be sure to stop by Washington Park —which many refer to as Denver's Central Park — for a picnic. If downtown isn't really your scene, the Cherry Creek neighborhood boasts a variety of boutiques, bars and restaurants without the busy city feel.
John Coletti - Getty Images - 13/30
13) San Diego, California
Whether your group is looking for an active or relaxing vacation (or somewhere in between), San Diego has something to offer. Consider booking a sailboat excursion complete with your own captain for a day of fun in sunny California. The food and atmosphere at Kettner Exchange makes for the perfect girls-night-out vibe. Order the Dirty Verde, which is made with tequila, lime, cucumber, poblano chile liqueur and paprika oil — it's one of the best cocktails they serve.
Corianne Santana / 500px - Getty Images - 14/30
14) Palm Beach, Florida
Giving off major Lily Pulitzer vibes, Palm Beach is a classy and feminine place to spend a girls' weekend. People rave about the rooms and overall vibe of The Colony Palm Beach. The property has a retro beachy feel that makes it extra Instagrammable. Grab lunch at Honor Bar and plan a spa day or sign up for tennis lessons at The Breakers.
Crystal Bolin Photography - Getty Images - 15/30
15) Woodstock, Vermont
Flock to Woodstock, Vermont, in the fall to catch sight of some stunning foliage. Colonial character meets New England countryside in this quaint town. The Woodstock Inn & Resort, which is set against the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park, is a popular choice for travelers to call home while visiting. Perfectly manicured landscaping and authentic New England craftsmanship greets guests upon arrival. The onsite spa offers services like a Himalayan salt stone massage and an espresso mud body scrub, tempting guests to never check out. The hotel can also assist with registering you and your group for a cooking class.
RELATED: 20 Stunning Places to See Fall Foliage in New England in 2022
Comstock - Getty Images - 16/30
16) Portland, Maine
The Portland Farmers' Market is a big draw for tourists and locals alike. The market is open year-round (with a brief hiatus at the end of November) and has particularly lush, fresh produce and florals. Stop by the Portland Museum of Art for your culture fix and then visit the lighthouses around town. Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse and Portland Head Light are popular — be sure to snap a few pictures in front of them.
EJJohnsonPhotography - Getty Images - 17/30
17) Charleston, South Carolina
The charm of Charleston has made it a longtime girls' trip destination. Quaint house rentals and historic hotels provide visitors with a variety of accommodation options and the food scene offers a good mix of high-end and classic southern. If you’re looking for a vacation that will provide you with lots of shopping, great food and good hospitality, Charleston is a great pick.
Amy Trainum / EyeEm - Getty Images - 18/30
18) Watch Hill, Rhode Island
If Taylor Swift owns a house in Watch Hill then it must be a good girls' trip spot, right? Consider this one of the most picturesque destinations in the United States. Local businesses like cute coffee shops and boutiques add a special touch to this seafront town. Spend your days relaxing on the beach, biking along perfectly paved paths and reading poolside. Whether you stay at a hotel or house rental, watch rom-coms at night to complete the vibe.
Enzo Figueres - 19/30
19) Charlotte, North Carolina
This southern city is rapidly growing, and for good reason. It's another spot that offers up a good mix of city life and outdoor fun. If you find yourself downtown, share tapas at Barcelona Wine Bar or grab margaritas at Bargarita. A fun daytime activity for a big group: rent a boat and cruise the waters at Lake Norman, which is just about 45 minutes outside of Charlotte.
JillLang - Getty Images - 20/30
20) Chicago, Illinois
A trip to Chicago isn't complete without posing in front of the famous bean at Millennium Park or taking a boat tour through the Chicago River. Art and design fans will surely fall in love with the city's architecture and character. Plan a spa day at the Peninsula Chicago and then relax after your treatment at the hotel's pool. 360 Chicago is a trendy place to enjoy a craft cocktail while taking in the city's views from 1,000 feet up.
Shobeir Ansari - Getty Images - 21/30
21) Boston, Massachusetts
Luxury and history collide in the city of Boston. Walk the historic neighborhood of Beacon Hill, one of the most photographed areas in the city. Round up your girlfriends and shop around the cute local boutiques on Newbury Street, then grab a latte from one of the trendy cafes in the area. You can find some delicious cannolis in Boston's Little Italy, which locals refer to as North End—Mike's Pastry is a go-to.
Christine Nanji - Getty Images - 22/30
22) Lexington, Kentucky
Head to the horse capital of the world and you'll find yourself immersed in country beauty with the added benefit of Southern hospitality. For unique accommodations, stay just outside of Lexington at The Kentucky Castle, a 100-acre farm that has just 15 rooms. One must-do activity during your stay: Split the cost of a rental car with the rest of the gals in your group and take a drive through the rolling hills and whimsical country side.
Kirkikis - Getty Images - 23/30
23) Seattle, Washington
More than just a rainy town, Seattle provides visitors with a home base for both city and island adventures. You heard that right—Bainbridge island, just a 45-minute ferry ride from the city, is a fun place to wine taste and explore while in Seattle. Plan to spend a day on the island and be camera-ready for the views of Seattle on your ferry ride back. Don't forget to check out Pike Place Market before you leave — it's a great place to find souvenirs.
Jon Hicks - Getty Images - 24/30
24) Montauk, New York
There's a reason New Yorkers love to flee to the Hamptons — it's the perfect place to unwind during a long weekend. The seashell-lined beaches are just as inviting as the bar scene. People rave about Gurney's Montauk, but even if you don't book a room there, make sure you swing by their Beach Club. It's a 2,000-foot long private beach that non-resort guests can also enjoy — rent a day bed or lounge sofa, or hang out by the bar.
Odi Lippel / EyeEm - Getty Images - 25/30
25) New Orleans, Louisiana
Get your fix of spooky vibes by hitting the streets of New Orleans. The city has been named one of the most haunted spots in the United States so make time to go on a ghost tour if you visit. Less chilling activities include exploring Bourbon Street (order a New-Orleans style hurricane cocktail) and scoping out The French Quarter to learn about the neighborhood's rich history. Foodies shouldn't miss out on the beignets or chicory coffee — Cafe Du Monde is a local favorite for both.
Jeremy Woodhouse - Getty Images - 26/30
26) Malibu, California
Luxury meets the beach on a Malibu girls' trip. Rent an oceanfront property or stay at The Surfrider Hotel, which has decor to die for. Hike the Topanga Lookout Trail for a good workout and beautiful, scenic views of Malibu. After getting your heart rate up, head to Malibu Pier and get your fix of retail therapy at the local boutiques and tourist shops. Make a reservation for brunch at Malibu Farm Cafe and grab dinner at Nobu (both restaurants overlook the ocean). End your getaway with a sunset stroll along Carbon Beach—you'll spot some of the most prime real estate on the West Coast during your walk, giving off major Selling Sunset vibes.
Raphael Fasching / EyeEm - Getty Images - 27/30
27) Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
A girls' weekend getaway doesn't have to keep you in the states. Cabo San Lucas is an easy destination to get to from California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. Post up at one of the beach clubs, like the Chileno Bay Golf & Beach Club or One & Only Palmilla—both have extensive accommodations and activities so that you don't have to leave the property. During your stay, take a group surfing lesson or go horseback riding on the beach, then end your evenings with Baja-inspired cuisine. Visitors rave about the whimsical atmosphere and farm-t0-table meals served at Flora Farms.
Christopher Kimmel - Getty Images - 28/30
28) Toronto, Canada
Catch a concert at Budweiser Stage while visiting this huge city. The venue is set on Lake Ontario and makes for a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience — artists like Dierks Bentley, Coldplay and the Goo Goo Dolls have performed on the stage. Coffee lovers shouldn’t leave Toronto without making a trip to the Nespresso Boutique—the flagship store in the Yorkville neighborhood. The 14,000-square- foot cafe and retail space offers dine-in food and beverage options. Foodies should definitely order poutine while in Toronto. The snack consists of Yukon fries drizzled with gravy and is beloved by locals and visitors.
Rudy Sulgan - Getty Images - 29/30
29) Park City, Utah
Park City is the ideal spot for adventurous travelers, whether you visit during the winter season or not. During snowy months, cruise down a slope on a snowboard or skis all while taking in stunning mountain views. Summer offers a different type of thrill for adrenaline junkies, including mountain biking and zip lining.
Cavan Images - Getty Images - 30/30
30) Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas isn't just for wild partiers (although, it's a great place for it if that's your thing). Kick your feet up and relax by a pool at one of the hotels along the iconic Las Vegas Strip, get tickets to a magic show or explore the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay. There are also several hiking trails just outside of the city.
Matteo Colombo - Getty Images
