Consider this your sign to start planning your next girls’ trip. Take some time to reconnect with friends, new and old, take a break from your everyday responsibilities, and make lasting memories. Whether you want to stay in the U.S. or adventure abroad, here are some places to inspire your next getaway.
Domestic
1. Asheville, North Carolina
Located in western North Carolina and a little over two hours from Charlotte, Asheville is a hub of adventure. Use Asheville Hike Finder to discover the perfect hike in the Pisgah or Nantahala National Forests, and then relax at the Omni Grove Park Inn spa. Spend a few hours at the Biltmore Estate touring the historic home and gardens, then enjoy a wine tasting with breathtaking views of the mountains. In the summer, the French Broad offers a variety of water activities, from SUP and tubing to whitewater rafting.
Dine at Asheville classics like Posana, Limones, or Cúrate (reservations required for all). For a casual atmosphere outdoors with bar bites, check out Wicked Weed Brewing. Want to go all in on the foodie scene? Book a local food tour or check out the Western North Carolina (WNC) cheese trail; yes, you read the cheese trail correctly. Though Hurricane Helene recently struck, and they are still rebuilding in some areas, most things have reopened, and they are encouraging visitors to come.
2. Sedona, Arizona
Near Flagstaff, Sedona is known for its spiritual and wellness retreats and stunning red sandstone formations. If getting in touch with your inner “woo” is not your style, there are still plenty of things to do. Hike trails such as Devil’s Bridge, pick up a piece of local art at one of the many galleries in town, or rent a UTV and hit the desert. Watch the sunset over a fabulous dinner at the Hudson.
3. Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley is a classic girls’ trip location for a reason. Hire a driver to go wine tasting at boutique wineries such as Judd’s Hill, Robert Biale Vineyards, or Hill Family Estate. For the foodies in your group, book a table (well in advance) at the famous French Laundry or dine at local favorites such as Brix or Mustard’s Grill. Book a hot air balloon ride at sunrise for a unique bird’s eye view of Napa. If you haven’t had your fill of wine, reserve a seat on the Napa Wine Train or spend the afternoon visiting Castello di Amorosa and opt for the chocolate and wine pairing. After a few days on a liquid diet, get outdoors and stretch your legs on the Redwood Trail at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.
4. Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor is a fantastic summer-to-fall destination for an outdoor getaway. Milder summer temperatures make hiking in nearby Acadia National Park feel luxurious. Don’t forget to snag your lifetime free National Park Pass with a current military ID at any National Park recreation site office. There is so much to see along the Acadia National Park Loop Road. Rent kayaks at Jordan Pond House, hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain at sunrise or sunset, picnic by any of the lakes or ponds, or bike the entire loop, stopping to take in the stunning scenery along your route.
Back in Bar Harbor, visit Sherman’s Maine Coast Bookshop, grab breakfast at 2 Cats Bar Harbor, and enjoy an ice cream cone while watching the sunset from Agamont Park. And this is Maine; don’t forget the lobster! You can sign up for a two-hour boat tour with Lulu Lobster Boat Tours and get an inside look at the lobster trade. Though Bar Harbor can be a bit of a trek, it’s worth the effort!
5. Charleston, South Carolina
Pack your seersucker and pearls and navigate down south to Charleston. Charleston is packed with fantastic restaurants serving up Lowcountry cuisine; choosing which one is the hardest part. Poogan’s Porch is a Charleston icon and is especially great for brunch. Join a horse-drawn carriage haunted ghost tour, soak up the sun at nearby Folly Beach, or dive into history and architecture on a walking tour downtown. Get your shopping fix along King Street and stop at the Charleston City Market to support local artisans.
International
6. Vietnam
Vietnam is a country that will surprise you in all the best ways. Start in Hanoi to experience Train Street, the Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, egg coffee, and the bustling Old Quarter. From Hanoi, Ninh Binh is a 90-minute drive, and you will be transported into what is highly regarded as the “Halong Bay” on land. Enjoy a quiet boat tour along Tam Coc or Trang An, with stunning views of towering limestone formations. Wake up early for a panoramic hike to Mua Lua Cave.
If the beaches are calling, base in Da Nang at one of the many waterfront resorts. Take a day trip to Hôi An, a UNESCO World Heritage town with picturesque architecture, colorful lanterns, and delicious cuisine. Hôi An comes alive at night with an opulence of bright colors; make a wish and release a glowing lantern into the water, explore the night markets, and sing along to live music at one of the waterfront restaurants. Don’t forget to apply for your visa at least two weeks before your travels.
7. Scotland
Unforgettable scenery, kilts, castles, and highland cows are awaiting you. Oh, and whisky, of course, for those who imbibe. Start in Edinburgh by exploring the Royal Mile, climbing Arthur’s Seat, and touring Edinburgh Castle. Rent a car and make a road trip to the Isle of Skye, with optional stops at Luss, Oban, Glencoe, and Eilean Donan Castle. On the Isle of Skye, hike to the Old Man of Storr, explore the picturesque Portree, dip your face in the Fairy Pools, visit the Neist Point Lighthouse, and explore Dunvegan Castle. Any sighting of highland cows on the side of the road is a mandatory stop for photos.
8. Japan
Start in Tokyo, exploring sights like Shinjuku, Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Skytree, Senso-ji, Tsukiji Market, and Team Labs. If timing permits, catch a Sumo wrestling match or join a sushi-making or kintsugi class. After two days in Tokyo, take the bullet train to Kyoto. Visit Kitano Tenmagu Shrine, Kinka-ju-ji, Nijo Castle, and the stunning tori gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine. Spend a day in the Arashiyama District and visit the bamboo grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, the monkey park, and Nishiki Market. With plenty of walking tour options in Kyoto, the nighttime Geisha walking tour is one of the most unique.
9. Morocco
Spend a week in Africa’s northernmost country. Haggle for the perfect souvenir in the Marrakech markets, explore Jardin Majorelle, and dine on the best chicken tagine at La Pergola while listening to jazz performers from La Maison Arabe, located downstairs. Rent a car and take a road trip to the Sahara Desert and spend one or two nights glamping under the stars. Enjoy a camel ride at sunrise, cruise along the dunes in ATVs, or take in the desert’s beauty at sunset. If time allows, visit the famous blue city, Chefchaouen, and get lost wondering about the stunning blue-painted old town. For an authentic (and unforgettable) local experience, book a hammam bath.