A Trusted Friend in a Complicated World
Updated on Jul. 25, 2024
Pack your bags, grab your best gal pals, and head to one of these fun and affordable destinations for the perfect weekend away. You deserve it!
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Whether you need to recharge after a stressful year, blow off some steam, or just unwind, nothing hits the spot quite like a girls’ weekend (aka the crème de la crème of mini-vacations). Leave your kids, significant others, and responsibilities behind because a ladies-only trip is all about carefree fun. What’s more, since there are so many fabulous weekend getaways in every state, you don’t have to travel far—unless you want to, of course.
Jet off to a bucket-list seaside destination and stay at one of these awesome beach house rentals. Discover the untouched beauty of a national park. Shack up at a cozy cabin in the mountains. Zen out at a wellness retreat. Explore a little town not far from home. Seek out cosmopolitan escapades in the big city. Or embrace the whatever-you-want vibe of an all-inclusive resort. Whatever you’re interested in, we’ve got the perfect suggestion for a truly great escape.
One important note: Before you book, make sure to double-check that everything you’d like to visit will be open once you arrive—some attractions and events may still be closed or restricted due to the pandemic. Also check the CDC’s website for safety guidelines, restrictions, or other considerations while traveling, as well as specific requirements for individual hotels.
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This is the place to grab a tall glass of beer and kick up your heels—er, cowboy boots. Music City brims with bars, honky-tonks, concert halls, and venues where you can catch live performances. (We’re fans of Analog, which is located in the West End’s Hutton Hotel.) Nashville is also home to the Country Music Hall of Fame and the highly regarded Grand Ole Opry. When you get hungry, dig into some BBQ at one of the many ‘cue joints on Broadway, or savor modern fare and whiskey at The 404 Kitchen.
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Las Vegas is a pretty obvious pick for a girls’ weekend getaway, but that’s because sometimes a lady just needs to bust out that sequin dress, toss back a martini (or two), and hit the slots. If that sounds right up your alley, why not roll the dice on Sin City? You’re guaranteed to win big with world-class entertainment (what gal doesn’t want to see Usher live at The Colosseum?), delicious food, and five-star hotels. On the culinary front, your whole group is guaranteed to find something delectable on the menu at Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab. In terms of accommodations, the top-rated Wynn Las Vegas is basically a playground for grown-ups. To switch things up, check out these things to do in Las Vegas that don’t involve casinos.
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For most people, New Orleans conjures up images of beads, booze, and Bourbon Street. But it has much to offer beyond its most infamous drag and Mardi Gras. Starting with its vibrant nightlife and live-music scenes (it’s the motherland of jazz, after all), the Big Easy doesn’t mess around when it comes to cuisine—a delectable fusion of French, Spanish, and African influences. There’s no greater treat for your taste buds than digging into a bowl of shrimp gumbo, crawfish etouffee, or a fried-oyster po’ boy. And no girls’ trip to NoLa is complete without tasting the world-famous beignets at Café Du Monde.
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San Francisco is a place that’s hard to define but easy to love. The Golden City tempts travelers (and, yes, that includes girl squads) with great eateries, pedestrian-friendly streets, distinctive neighborhoods, and, of course, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The Mission is a hub of hipster bars and restaurants ranging from elevated New American to modest Mexican (the Mission-style burrito was invented here). Preserved Victorian and Edwardian homes line Pacific Heights, while Chinatown is bursting with authentic fare. Good Mong Kok Bakery and Brandy Ho’s Hunan Food are a couple of our favorite tasty spots in the area. Stay at the eclectic, literary-themed Emblem Hotel right in the heart of downtown and enjoy the funky guest rooms, nightly live jazz, and perfectly concocted cocktails. Make sure to look for the old-fashioned typewriter in the lobby!
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The City That Never Sleeps lives up to its nickname with nonstop fun for all. And we’re not just talking about partying, although that’s certainly part of it. New York, which is roaring back to life post-pandemic, boasts midnight movie screenings, late-night eats, and 24/7 bodegas (small convenience stores) to stock up on all your essentials no matter the time. Simply put: You’ll never be bored. More of an early bird than a night owl? You’re also in luck. If this is your first trip to the Big Apple (or if any of your gals haven’t been before), definitely visit the Empire State Building. Insider tip: Beat the crowds by getting there right when it opens at 8 a.m. Stay the nearby Giraffe Hotel on East 26th Street, just north of Madison Square Park, for a luxe boutique hotel experience.
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Chi-town is an amazing place to escape with your pals in the warmer months. Take advantage of the nice weather in the spring and summer with a stroll around the Chicago Riverwalk, the pedestrian waterfront that spans from Lake Shore Drive to Franklin Street. Next up, a glass of vino with waterfront views at City Winery Chicago on the Riverwalk, followed by a view you just can’t beat at Skydeck Chicago. At some point during your girls’ weekend, you’ll also want to reserve a spot on the Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise, a 90-minute boat tour of the city’s most spectacular buildings. It sells out fast, so be sure to book tickets well in advance.
While Chicago has a number of fabulous hotel options if you want to splurge a little after this crazy year, stay at the Ritz-Carlton. It’s downtown near Lake Michigan, one of the prettiest lakes in the country, and, well, it’s the Ritz! Need we say more? Oh, and don’t forget to book a spa treatment while you’re there!
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At first glance, our nation’s capital may seem more of a place for politics than a place to pal around, but that’s not necessarily the case. You just have to look past the museums and monuments. The newly built District Wharf along the Potomac River offers everything you need for a great girls’ weekend away. There’s plenty of shopping, dining, and activities—from ice skating and curling in the winter to free concerts, outdoor movies, and waterfront yoga in the summer—to keep everyone in your group thoroughly entertained. The waterfront views are nothing to scoff at either. The InterContintental at The Wharf is a sleek modern hotel right at the edge of the Potomac and right in the middle of it all. Book a balcony room for some Instagram-worthy cocktail or coffee pics with your BFFs. If you’re looking for an epic adventure, make D.C. just one part of an Atlantic Coast road trip with your buds.
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Want to catch some rays and party till dawn? Miami Beach is the place for you! From massive mega-clubs and underground EDM dens to old-school speakeasies and swanky lounges, it’s second to none in the nightlife department. Besides after-dark exploits, The Magic City has plenty of luxurious lodgings, such as 1 Hotel South Beach and the Kimpton Hotel Palomar South Beach, as well as trendy restaurants helmed by acclaimed chefs. Of course, you can’t talk about South Beach without mentioning the beach—a golden stretch of powder-soft sand with colorful lifeguard stands that’s backed by palm trees and a promenade that runs from Indian Beach Park to 23rd Street. While you’re in the area, you may also want to check out the best Florida beaches that locals want to keep a secret.
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Savannah is renowned for its antebellum architecture, genial hospitality, and ghostly lore. It’s also the sort of place that beckons travelers to slow down and soak in the charm. You could easily (and, dare we say, happily) spend a few days simply strolling around the historic district, which flaunts cobblestone squares, manicured parks, and ancient oak trees draped with Spanish moss. And then there are the spooky sites like Sorrel-Weed House (don’t forget to book tickets for this popular, hair-raising attraction ahead of time) and Bonaventure Cemetery. You can even stay at the purportedly haunted Foley House Inn, which also happens to be a lovely, quaint B&B. More into sweet than scary? Stop by one of the candy shops on River Street for homemade saltwater taffy.
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Whether it’s partying or gourmet adventure that you’re after, Austin is one of the best girls’ weekend getaways. The “Blueberry in the Red State” is known for its legendary live music, vibrant culture, and open-minded attitude. Another highlight is Rainey Street, a row of historic, bungalow-style homes turned bars. Between the food trucks, brunch spots, and BBQ joints, we promise you won’t go hungry. And what would a trip to Texas’ capital be without a stroll down Congress Avenue? Another perk: You don’t have to blow your budget to have fun in Austin. To that end, the cool retro-modern Lone Star Court is one of the best value hotels in the country. Gather around the fire pit to reminisce, and take a dip in the swimming-hole-style pool.
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For a low-key girls’ trip with plenty of seaside fun, set your sights on San Diego. Its picture-perfect weather and laid-back vibe make it a no-brainer. Not to mention, this coastal gem offers ample opportunities for gorgeous group photos. During the day, bask in the California sun or channel your inner Alana Blanchard with a surf lesson. At night, indulge in some authentic Cali-Baja cooking at Galaxy Cantina & Grill. Can’t decide where to stay? Soak in all the old Hollywood glamour at La Valencia, a picturesque 1920s-era hotel that once called Cary Grant a regular guest.
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Portland has a quirky-cool appeal that sets it apart from any other city in the country. From food trucks and to farm-to-table restaurants, there’s way too much deliciousness to savor it all in one weekend. (Not the worst problem to have, though!) With coffeehouses, microbreweries, and bars pouring local Willamette Valley wine, Stumptown is basically Eden for beverages, too. This hipster haven also impresses with its bicycle paths and manicured green spaces. Washington Park—which includes noteworthy sites such as the formal Japanese Garden and the Oregon Zoo—definitely deserves a spot on your itinerary. Stay at Hotel Lucia on Southwest Broadway and you’ll be within walking distance to a number of popular landmarks and top-notch restaurants.
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Scottsdale is emerging as the next bachelorette hot spot—and it’s easy to see why. This desert paradise has something for everyone. Outdoorsy types can hike the myriad trails at Camelback Mountain. Craving some R&R? Treat your pals to a pampering massage or facial at one of the area’s premier spas. And the accommodations are equally varied; they run the gamut from sprawling golf resorts to modern hotels like the W Scottsdale, with its 23 acres of desert gardens and mid-century style. Food-loving friends may want to plan their trip around the Arizona Taco Festival in October. Yum!
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It’s no surprise that travelers are flocking to Charleston. This coastal city epitomizes Southern charm with its historic landmarks, cobblestone streets, friendly locals, and flourishing food scene. From the majestic church steeples to the 19th-century mansions, there’s no shortage of Instagram-worthy sites. Don’t miss the chance to fill your feed with pics of Rainbow Row’s candy-colored facades—it’s one of the most colorful streets in the world. The best way to see all the top spots in Charleston? A guided walking tour. In the evening, kick back with a cool (stiff) drink at The Rooftop at Vendue on King Street before catching some zzzs at the lovely and luxurious French Quarter Inn.
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Before Las Vegas was even a germ of an idea, everyone from Frank Sinatra to Sammy Davis Jr. used to bring their business to Atlantic City. This Jersey Shore destination may have lost a bit of sparkle along the way, but concerts headlined by big-name artists, top-rated restaurants and luxury hotels such as the Borgata—which boasts more than 3,000 slot machines and BetMGM Sportsbook & Bar at the MGM Tower—are bringing back the crowds in a big way. Simply put: It’s a safe bet to go all-in on Atlantic City for your next girls’ weekend getaway.
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Don’t get us wrong, we love a big city. But there’s something about the charm of a small town that really does it for us, too. Woodstock is a great example of that. This hippie haven in the Catskills shines as a bastion of peace, love, art, culture, and stunning scenery. Lots of creative types live here, so you’ll enjoy art galleries, museums, spiritual centers, and shops selling handmade wares. Add to that super cool lodgings, from rustic cabin rentals to the hip Hotel Dylan, and it’s pretty darn perfect. If your friends are into hiking, Overlook Mountain is a must.
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Does your squad have a bunch of frequent-flier miles saved up? Put them to good use by booking tickets to Oahu. Even before the wheels touch down, the third-largest of the Hawaiian islands wows with its splendid views. What we love most about Oahu is that it’s such a unique blend of tropical and urban. The state capital, Honolulu, offers all the excitement you’d expect in a vibrant metropolis, while Waikiki has cinematic beaches, legendary waves, and lively nightlife. If you’re looking to be in the middle of it all, try the Prince Waikiki. For other island options, check out the best all-inclusive resorts in Hawaii.
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With its mix of beautiful beaches, period homes, and fresh seafood, Kennebunkport oozes coastal New England charm. Summer girls’ weekends in this magical Maine town mean boat days, lobster rolls, and stunning sunsets. Scarf down clam strips at a harborside shack, or relish an elevated farm-to-fork dining experience that honors seasonal ingredients at Earth at Hidden Pond. Love shopping? You’re in luck. There are tons of cute boutiques, and fans of a good bargain should beeline it to the outlet stores in nearby Kittery. Kennebunkport also has an impressive spate of quaint inns, notably the Yachtsman Hotel & Marina Club, which is just a short walk from both the beaches and, well, everything else. If you’re heading to this area in the fall, make sure to check out the best places to see New England’s fall foliage.
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Taos probably isn’t the first place you’d think of for a girls’ getaway, but that doesn’t make it any less of a fantastic option. In fact, we’d go as far as to say the exact opposite is true. You could argue that the under-the-radar nature of this town in northern New Mexico’s high desert is part of the appeal. It’s not like Taos is a secret, but it’s generally not the place you’ll find booze-fueled bachelorette parties, if you catch our drift. It also has a thriving arts community, historic adobe buildings, and New Age wellness-focused activities such as tarot card readings. The low-key El Pueblo Lodge is a short walk to shops, galleries, and restaurants, and a short drive to Taos Mountain Casino and Taos Ski Valley.
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Love cold-weather pursuits? Park City is the perfect escape for those keen on hitting the slopes. Not big on skiing? Not a problem. Go for a gondola ride and marvel at the gorgeous views. (Don’t forget to snap a few photos of everyone on the top of the mountain.) If your group is more food-and-beverage-oriented, the après-ski festivities are probably the biggest draw…though we’d guess it’s a tie between that and the gourmet dining scene. For an indulgent diversion, book a pampering massage at the Waldorf Astoria Park City, and then chill out at the adorable (and luxe) Washington School House Hotel, which was built way back in 1889 as—you guessed it—an actual school!
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Napa’s slightly lesser-known little sis, Sonoma, has all the eye-catching scenery, superb vino, and wonderful restaurants, but with fewer crowds and a more low-key atmosphere. All that adds up to a perfect girls’ weekend. On the agenda? Some of the best wineries in the country, of course! Start with a private pinot noir tasting at the Donum Estate. Don’t leave without strolling the manicured grounds and admiring the incredible collection of contemporary art. Then mosey over to Bricoleur Vineyards to sip sustainable wine in a gorgeous setting overlooking vineyards. (FYI both must-visit Sonoma wineries are by appointment only.) Spoil yourselves with a stay at the luxurious Montage Healdsburg, which is located on 258 acres of rolling vineyards and oak tree groves and boasts an 11,500-square-foot spa and a zero-edge resort pool. It doesn’t get much more heavenly than that if you ask us.
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It shouldn’t take much to sell you on a girls’ trip to Denver. You get all the thrills of a big city—excellent restaurants, chic bars, live music, museums, five-star accommodations (we’re swooning over the new Clayton Members Club & Hotel, a stunning boutique hotel with just 63 rooms), and great shopping—plus access to outdoor adventure and rich history. Colorado’s capital dates all the way back to the Old West era. Beautiful 19th-century buildings adorn Larimer Square. On the flipside is the ultra-modern Denver Art Museum. Plus, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, as well as many of Colorado’s best ski resorts, sit just outside the Mile High City.
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It’s ridiculously easy to fall in love with Newport. We dare you to not get swept away in the magic of its picturesque harbor, waterfront restaurants, and beaches. The Seafaring Capital of Rhode Island also has heaps of history. You can tour many of the lavish Gilded Age mansions along Bellevue Avenue and visit the Newport Car Museum to peep classic automobiles. From vibrant nightlife to newly opened accommodations, such as Newport Harbor Island Resort and the Brenton Hotel, there’s plenty of modern stuff to do, too. And a sunset sail with your girls is basically a photoshoot waiting to happen.
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An idyllic place where bikes and buggies are the preferred way to get around, Mackinac Island is a magical girls’ getaway in the summer months. When the weather warms up, thousands of visitors descend upon this Michigan gem to enjoy the outdoor recreation—including swimming, tennis, golf, and boating, to name a few. The dining options don’t disappoint either. For an unforgettable evening, start with sunset drinks overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, followed by dinner at 1852 Grill Room. The Grand Hotel, which has welcomed guests since 1887, consistently receives rave reviews from groups of gal pals.
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If you’re based in the Northeast, Boston is a super easy trip. It’s a cinch to turn a weekend in Beantown into an epic girls’ getaway. Kick things off with a walking tour of the Freedom Trail; you and your pals don’t need a penchant for the past to have a good time. Then, follow the historic hoofing with an Instagrammable brunch. It’s fun to play dress-up (yes, even as an adult), so don your finest frock for afternoon tea at the Courtyard Tea Room in the Boston Public Library…or for something a bit stronger, head to Drink in the Seaport District. This is one of the East Coast vacations you definitely need to take at least once. Now, check out the most affordable Airbnbs in each state and save some money on your getaway.
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