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30 Best Trips with Friends! FUN Weekend and International Places to Go

But before you decide on a destination, be sure to keep the personalities and preferences of your friends top of mind. Some friends are awesome to lay on a beach with, but not so great for trekking through the jungle or road tripping through Europe.

My top tip: Embrace the personalities and preferences of who you’re traveling with, and let it guide your destination.

After getting trip ideas below, check out my travel planning guide to help you make it epic.

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15 FUN Places to go with friends on the weekend

I highly recommend OFTEN taking fun trips with friends near where you live. Short and sweet trips are a great way to “test the waters” of traveling with friends without putting too much stress on a relationship. Especially if your travel styles are quite different.

Here are awesome places to go with friends on the weekend, including ideas across the US and Canada.

1. HOUSEBOATING near you

My very first BIG trip with friends was a houseboating weekend in beautiful British Columbia. It was perfect! 

We soaked in the hot tub and slid down the waterslide when we got too hot. Ate way too much ice cream. Met some cuties. And we even crashed. Yup, we did. There’s nothing like a little drama to pull you together! (Make sure you get insurance, ‘cause those boats are harder to steer than they look!)

Find the nearest pretty lake country near you, book a car and make it happen. It’s like camping but with a waterslide.

2. Fun LOS ANGELES weekend getaway for girls

A girls trip to LA is pretty classic. Strut your stuff like Pretty Woman on Rodeo Drive. Hit up the star-prone restaurants. And time it with the Oscars to experience the red carpet. It’s possibly THE most epic place to travel with friends on the weekend.

Or, if you’re not into the Hollywood mayhem, stay on beautiful Santa Monica Beach. Cycle The Strand bike path along the waterfront. Ride the ferris wheel on the pier. And people-watch while enjoying incredible beachfront restaurants.

Where to stay with friends in Los Angeles:

• Casa Del Mar resort and spa (Santa Monica): Right on Santa Monica Beach, with an outdoor pool, restaurants and live music on Sundays. Every room has a hydrotherapy spa tub and floor-to-ceiling windows, some with an ocean view.
• Beverly Wilshire (Beverly Hills): As close as you can get to Rodeo Drive, overlooking Rodeo Drive and the Via Rodeo fountain and steps. An epic place for a trip with friends to explore Rodeo Drive’s boutique shops and cafes.
• SIXTY Beverly Hills (Beverly Hills): Five blocks from Rodeo Drive along Wilshire Blvd, with a pretty rooftop pool and bar.

3. FLORIDA KEYS road trips with friends

A road trip from Miami to the tip of the Florida Keys is the perfect mix of beach and culture. It’s only about 3.5 hours, with plenty of time to stop along the way.

If you’re not from Miami, spend a day exploring its museums, Bayside Marketplace at the waterfront, or cultural neighborhoods like Little Havana.

Then, rent a car and head out to Key West. Along the way, stop to play with dolphins, feel the sand between your toes, and eat and drink with a view. Want more adventure? Where better to go skydiving with the girls than in Key West?!

Find all you need to plan your Florida Keys road trip with friends .

4. NEW ORLEANS weekend getaway with friends

Visiting the plantations in Louisiana would certainly make for a memorable travel experience with friends in the USA. Stay in a former plantation mansion, the elegant Nottoway Plantation that dates back to the 1850s. It’s the south’s largest antebellum mansion, located right on the Mississippi River. It features antiques and fireplaces in the rooms. Plus, an outdoor pool, hot tub, onsite dining and self-guided tours.

Plantations to visit near New Orleans, Louisiana:

• Oak Alley Plantation : Known for the stunning Oak-lined path entrance to this sugarcane plantation. Features tours of the “big house” (with a pretty wrap-around upper balcony), slave cabins, expansive garden and exhibits.
• Whitney Plantation : Famous for its ground-breaking slavery museum, with restored buildings and educational guided tours.
• Destrehan Plantation : Established in 1787, this sugar plantation was the site of one of the three trials following the 1811 Slave Revolt. Features interpretive tours, exhibits and pretty grounds.

5. Fun trips with friends to NEW YORK CITY

New York City can be anything you and your friends want it to be. 

Times Square and Fifth Avenue are perfect for high-end shopping, flashing lights and nightlife. Its museums, Broadway theater and The Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts are epic for the culturalists. Foodies will love exploring Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn. And for those who love relaxation, Central Park, Staten Island and Brooklyn waterfront promise amazing views. I’d argue that NYC is one of the BEST places to travel with friends.

On my trip with friends to NYC, we stayed in a boutique hotel in the Upper West Side . Within a block, we had a small pastry shop, grocery store and plenty of cute cafes. We could easily walk to Central Park and Riverside Park (perfect for a You’ve Got Mail walking tour). And since we were surrounded by residential streets, I got to meet so many dogs out for their walk! Plus, easy subway access to everything else.

Find your perfect place to stay in Manhattan , Brooklyn , Staten Island , Queens and the Bronx (a 3-part series).

6. SEATTLE jazz weekend trips with friends

I love Seattle, Washington. Its Pike Place Market and waterfront restaurants. Plenty of jazz clubs. And lots of excellent shopping and coffee shops, too. Seattle has beautiful waterfront parks, artsy museums, Space Needle views, and boat tours to stay busy. Time it with a concert, too!

When I visited Seattle with one of my best friends, we LOVED the comfortable beds and pillows at the Staypineapple Maxwell Hotel . You simply cannot get a better sleep! It’s colorful vibe is super fun, too, and it has an indoor pool and bikes you can use. Price includes wifi.

Now, as much as I love the Staypineapple beds, you can’t get a better location than The Edgewater . It’s right at Pier 67, with fabulous views of Elliot Bay and the Olympic Mountains. Elegant rooms have fireplaces, cozy furnishings and spa bathroom. The property features an onsite restaurant, gift shop and coffee bar. Price includes wifi and downtown shuttle.

7. Fun LAS VEGAS weekend trips with friends

I’ll admit that Las Vegas is pretty low on my list of places to visit, but I understand the appeal – especially with friends. Awesome shows. Epic shopping. Sights you just won’t see anywhere else.

If you want to embrace the chaos, Las Vegas Strip is the place to stay. If you want to come up to breathe, consider a place like Tahiti Village Resort & Spa near the airport and outlet mall.

You’ll also find some incredible house rentals on VRBO , both near The Strip or near the mountains.

8. Epic CANYON road trips with friends

A great add-on to a friends Vegas trip, especially for the outdoorsy adventurers at heart, is a 2-day canyon road trip . Hike the amazing canyons of Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Canyon North Rim and Antelope slot canyon.

You have some incredible options for places to stay, too. Under Canvas near Lake Powell has lovely tents with a cozy wood-burning stove and private balcony with canyon views. Or book the luxury Amangiri spa resort, tucked right into the rocks. It has an onsite restaurant, bar, concierge, sauna and spa. And the rooms look AMAZING.

9. AMUSEMENT PARK hopping trips with friends

Are you guys dare-devils? How fun would it be to go amusement park hopping together?!

Top on my list are Coney Island in New York City and Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California. In Canada, Montreal’s Six Flags is lots of fun.

To visit a bunch on one trip, take a road trip through California or Pennsylvania. Yup, Pennsylvania! Check out this USA Today article for 17 awesome parks.

10. BEACH resort weekend getaway with friends

You can have an amazing beach resort getaway with friends even without leaving the continental USA. One of my favorite spots is about half an hour from downtown Jacksonville, Florida, at the lovely Ponte Vedra Beach seaside community. It’s also known as San Pablo Island, and is a great mixture of relaxing beaches and bustling Jacksonville nearby.

A wonderful place for a beach weekend getaway with friends is Ponte Vedra Inn and Club . Its beach and gardens are beautiful, with warm and comfortable rooms. Enjoy four heated pools, bikes, seven restaurants and lounges, and plenty of onsite shops and boutiques. Despite all of its amenities, it feels like a charming boutique inn.

Our equivalent for relaxation in Canada is Prince Edward Island. It’s super low-key and perfect for friends who just want to chill.

Dalvay by the Sea Hotel is classic and luxurious, located on the north shore. It’s inside a national park and has an onsite restaurant, bar, tennis courts and bike rentals. Or stay in one of many lovely historic inns in Charlottetown. I highly recommend the charming Fairholm National Historic Inn .

11. Fun ARTSY places to go with friends

Here are two very different types of artsy places to go with friends.

First, East Hampton Art Bed and Breakfast on Long Island. This sprawling property is perfect for art lovers and those looking for a refreshing getaway. Relax in the outdoor pool and jacuzzi while admiring the meditation garden, waterfalls, and lotus pond.

And second, head to Memphis to meet the king! If your friends are big music buffs, you’ll enjoy exploring the Memphis Rock ‘n Soul Museum, Gibson Guitar Factory, and Orpheum Theatre. And of course, the iconic Beale Street’s shops and restaurants. 

Stay at the Peabody Memphis with an onsite dining room, spa, indoor pool and luxurious bathrobes. And don’t miss Peabody’s “March of the ducks” tradition!

12. LAKEFRONT retreat weekend trips with friends

Head to Upstate New York for a weekend trip with friends at the lake. 

Inns of Aurora is a community of five lakefront properties. They’re beautiful and cozy, with wine tastings, yoga and painting classes. Plus, a private beach, lakeside firepits, paddling and bikes. Organic, fair-trade coffee and fresh scones in the morning. Farm-to-table restaurant during the day. Book a room with a fireplace and lake views.

13. Fun weekend trips with friends in TEXAS

There are plenty of beautiful resorts in Texas perfect for weekend trips with friends. One of my favorites is the JL Bar Ranch Resort and Spa in lovely Texas Hill Country. This estate is grand, with a full-service spa, outdoor pool and two restaurants. Plus, pretty gardens to explore, complete with a fountain. Rooms offer warm decor, with gorgeous dark wood accents, furnished patios, bathrobes and slippers. Price includes wifi.

Another favorite is Commodore Perry Estate in Austin Texas. Its manicured gardens are gorgeous, as is the massive library with floor-to-ceiling bookcases and plush couches. You’ll also spend plenty of time in its elegant tea room, pool, terrace and restaurant. Book a room with a terrace for pretty views. Price includes wifi and shuttle service.

14. WINE AND SPA getaways with friends

Do you girls love sipping wine and relaxing with beautiful views? One of the best places to travel with friends in the USA is Napa Valley, California. Napa Valley is about 1.5 hours northeast of the San Francisco International Airport. You’ll find more than 375 wineries, more than 150 restaurants, and beautiful weather year-round. Napa Valley is nestled among two mountain ranges, with incredible views wherever you look.

For weekend getaways with friends at Canadian wineries, choose from gorgeous views in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario, and Annapolis Valley in Nova Scotia. All three locations have excellent wines, spas and views.

Where to stay for a wine and spa getaway with the girls:

• Auberge du Soleil Resort (Rutherford, California): This gorgeous resort is the ultimate friends weekend getaway, surrounded by a 33-acre olive grove. Relax in cabanas at the pool. Indulge at the spa and fine dining restaurant.
• Therapy Vineyards (Okanagan, BC): Suites overlook the vineyard and Okanagan Lake, with oversized windows, fireplace, patio and oversized tub. The property also has an outdoor fireplace and hot tub, and serves breakfast.
• Prince of Wales (Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario): This elegant Victorian-style luxury hotel is the perfect base for exploring nearby wineries. Features an onsite spa and indoor pool. Enjoy traditional English tea at the onsite restaurant and local wines in the cozy lounge.

15. CRAFTING retreat with the girls

There’s something about a crafting getaway that screams “treat”! How often do you dedicate time to create together?

You can find accommodations that offer things like cooking classes or join a retreat that focuses on a particular craft, like painting. For me and my friends, we’d just bring our favorite crafting supplies to a cozy cabin retreat with a hot tub and views.

15 BEST Places to travel with friends in Europe and the world

Taking international trips with friends is a sure way to create lasting memories and bonds. But the stress of international travel will put pressure on your friendship. Make sure you choose a destination that complements your relationship and how you enjoy spending time together.

In Europe, my favorite place to look for accommodations is Plum Guide . You’ll find the coolest house rentals ever, all verified and not all ridiculously expensive.

Here are awesome places to travel with friends in the world, including Europe.

16. European CASTLE getaway with friends

Take your international trip with friends around Europe chasing castles! The biggest challenge will be narrowing your castle adventure to a geographical area, like England or France.

Pick the most iconic castle or area you most want to see and plan the rest of your friends vacation from there. Here are three ideas:

• Neuschwanstein Castle (Germany): The most classic fairytale-like castle nestled in the Bavarian Alps. Take in its stunning architecture, lush surroundings, and panoramic views. Other (relatively) nearby castles to visit include the medieval and mountaintop Hohenwerfen Fortress in Austria and 
• Château de Chambord (France): A Renaissance masterpiece with elegant French architecture and vast gardens. It’ll enchant you with its grand halls and intricate details. Other notable French castles to visit include the lovely Château de Chenonceau built atop an old mill and the opulent Palace of Versailles.
• Eilean Donan Castle (Scotland): A remarkably enchanting castle among many in Scotland, with its charming bridge and moss-covered walls near the entrance to the Isle of Skye. My other favorite castles are on the opposite side of Scotland: the grand Sterling Castle and romantic cliffside Dunnottar Castle.

17. International trips with friends to AUSTRIA

Austria is a captivating blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and cultural experiences. Start your trip with friends in Vienna , the capital city. It’s a hub of art, music and architecture, with magnificent palaces, cathedrals and museums. Pick accommodations near City Center so you can walk to St. Stephen’s Cathedral for evening drinks.

Then, travel through the Danube’s Wachau Valley before heading south to Salzburg. Wachau Valley is a beautiful area of vineyards and cute villages along the river valley. I also highly recommend a stop at Stift Melk Abbey .

Roam the streets and hills surrounding the lovely city of Salzburg , the birthplace of Mozart and setting for the Sound of Music. It’s a charming old town with cobblestone streets, lovely gardens, and the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress looming above.

18. ENGLAND road trips with friends

Take a road trip with friends through the English countryside. There are SO many romantic castles, parks and gardens. Quaint villages in the Cotswolds. Rugged rolling hills in the Lake District. And haunting mysteries of Rosslyn Chapel. Experience England’s beauty on a drive from London to Edinburgh .

If you’d prefer a relaxing group tour rather than driving yourself, check out excellent tours of England from Trafalgar . Include a tour of Scotland and Ireland, too.

Find amazing places to stay on PlumGuide.com .

19. EUROPEAN CRUISE vacation with friends 

A European cruise vacation with friends would be AMAZING. You have all the benefits of world-class service, entertainment and food. Plus the gorgeous cities, islands and rugged coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. Elegant spires off the Baltic Sea. Incredible history and the Cliffs of Dover off the North Sea. And then the more intimate cruise experience of exploring the Rhine or Danube.

Choosing your perfect European cruise option will be the toughest part. River cruises are quite unique, and an incredible way to experience Europe together.

20. Road trips through ITALY with friends

I’ve been to Italy only once and long to go back. There is SO much to see in Italy and it would be absolutely amazing to experience it with my best girl friends. Given the variety of sights to see, I recommend either getting a train pass for the time you’re there or renting a car.

On a road trip through Italy, start and stop in the vibrant city of Rome. Rome is a must-visit for historical landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain. Stroll its charmings streets while indulging in pastas and gelato.

Then head up to Venice, a unique floating city built on canals. On your return to Rome, stop in Florence to see the famous Statue of David and beautiful churches. Then calm things down with a few days exploring the stunning Cinque Terre coastline and Tuscany wineries.

If you have more time, continue south of Rome to explore the historic ruins of Pompeii. It’s just south of Naples, another gorgeous coastal city. Sorrento and the Amalfi coast promise more spectacular views and memories for an epic trip with friends.

Find amazing home rentals on PlumGuide.com and hotels on Booking.com .

21. Explore ICELAND on a trip with friends

Iceland is a magical land of fire and ice, with waterfalls, the Blue Lagoon and ice caves. It’s an amazing trip with friends who love exploring nature’s wonders … and don’t mind a remote experience. There are no Starbucks in Iceland! But you will find other delicious coffee.

Visit the famous Golden Circle, which includes the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Þingvellir National Park. Take in the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and nearby Diamond Beach. Hike through the mesmerizing landscapes of Landmannalaugar or the volcanic region of Mývatn. Discover rugged fjords and black sand beaches, and then soak in the soothing Blue Lagoon geothermal spa.

If you want to explore Iceland’s famous ice caves or chase the Northern Lights, you must come in winter. Plan your friend’s trip between mid-November and mid-March.

22. Fun CARIBBEAN CRUISE trips with friends

A cruise is as easy as they come for trips with friends. Choose a destination, timing, and go!

A super easy cruise vacation for friends would be the Bahamas or Caribbean. Hop from beautiful island to beautiful island, all while enjoying luxury amenities, entertainment, and dining onboard.

A cruise is also a fantastic solution to taking trips with friends who have different interests. So long as you can agree on a cruise destination, you can go your separate ways in the afternoon and come back together at dinner.

Explore cruises on CruiseDirect.com .

23. INDIA adventure places to travel with friends

India is rich in cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and unforgettable experiences for friends traveling together. Explore the bustling streets of Delhi and vibrant markets of Jaipur. Visit the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. And take a spiritual journey in Varanasi.

But to see the best of India on your trip with friends, you need to leave the popular northern cities. Travel south to the popular Kovalam Beach and witness the breathtaking landscapes of Kerala’s backwaters.

Find incredible treehouses for your next best adventure with friends! Check out these treehouses on Booking.com , including in India, Chile, Costa Rica and more.

24. International trips with friends to THAILAND

Are you and your friends intrigued by Asian culture and finding the perfect secluded beach (like in The Beach movie)? Then I’m guessing Thailand is on your radar for international places to visit with friends. 

My main tip for visiting Thailand is to get out of Bangkok as quickly as possible. It’s busy, smoggy and not especially friendly. Instead, head north to Chiang Mai to experience the floating markets . Climb an ancient temple and brush up against an elephant. Then indulge at a beach resort at Phuket or the Phi Phi islands . Bask on white sand beach, surrounded by gorgeous limestone peaks and perfect turquoise waters.

Interested in a guided group tour? I highly recommend Intrepid small group tours for an incredibly rich, “local” experience. They have tours into Northern and Southern Thailand, including food and beach tours!

You may also like 5 Charities in SE Asia Tourists Should Visit .

25. Epic CAMBODIA trips with friends

Ancient temples, jungle and Tomb Raider. And an incredibly resilient people that carry an awful history of genocide. Cambodia is a place that will touch your soul and guarantees a friends trip you’ll never forget.

You’ll want to visit both the capital of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, home to the famous temples. In Phnom Penh, visit markets, temples and gardens. But hold onto your food, because those monkeys are gutsy! And my opinion is that tourists should pay their respects at the genocide sites . How else can we begin to appreciate what their people have been through?

In Siem Reap, explore the gorgeous temple ruins of Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm. A local guide can also take you to lesser-known temples you can climb with a jungle view all to yourself. Be sure to have a drink at The Red Piano and ask for a Tomb Raider drink. Cheers!

When I was in Siem Reap, my sister challenged me to do more than visit, so I will challenge you. Read about my experience of donating blood in Cambodia . (Yes, it was safe.)

26. JAPANESE MONASTERY places to travel with friends

I’ve only had a taste of visiting Japan on a layover in Tokyo on our way to Vietnam, but they completely charmed me with their hospitality! Japan is now on my bucket list, and specifically the zen experience of staying in Japanese monasteries.

Two iconic Japanese monastery communities to visit on a trip with friends include Kōya-san (Mount Kōya) and Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). Mount Kōya is in a mountainous region about 7 hours southwest of Tokyo. It’s home to over a hundred temples including the famous Kongōbu-ji. Stay in shukubo (temple lodgings) with traditional Japanese-style rooms, vegetarian meals, and the opportunity to participate in morning meditations.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is right in Kyoto. It’s known for its stunning golden exterior, and creates a breathtaking view as it reflects off the surrounding pond. Explore its exquisite gardens and the historic tea house inside the complex.

27. Fun AUSTRALIA beach road trips with friends

Australia is known for powdery white-sand beaches. So, rent a car and go beach-hopping on a road trip with friends!

Fly into Sydney and start your trip with friends at the iconic Bondi Beach . It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent surf and coastal walks. Take in the lively beach culture as you sample the many beachside cafes.

Then, head south for about 3 hours to Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay. It holds a Guinness World Record for having the whitest sand. Swim and snorkel at these beautiful clear waters and enjoy the laid-back coastal vibe.

Along the way, stop at the coastal Royal National Park and inland Heathcote National Park . They offer rugged hiking and other adventures that balance nicely with beach-bumming!

28. International trips with friends to BRAZIL

Have you heard of Iguazu Falls? Iguazu Falls is the world’s LARGEST waterfall, made up of a massive 270 separate falls! Check it out for yourself in the best virtual tours of waterfalls around the world . Iguazu Falls is right on the Brazil and Argentina border. 

Along with Iguazu Falls, experience Brazil’s beaches, rainforest and Rio de Janeiro. Make the epic climb up to Christ the Redeemer for epic views.

If you’re interested in a guided tour, check out Trafalgar’s tours in South America . This would be an easy way to explore the best sights on a trip with friends.

29. COSTA RICA best places to travel with friends

I SO want to experience the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve in Costa Rica. And stay in treehouse resorts. It sounds incredible.

Costa Rica is a tropical paradise known for its incredible biodiversity and natural wonders. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve offers breathtaking views, misty forests, and the chance to see rare wildlife. The nearby Arenal Volcano National Park provides thrilling hikes and hot springs for relaxing afterwards. 

For a beach experience, head to Manuel Antonio National Park. Manuel Antonio National Park is renowned for stunning beaches and lots of wildlife, perfect for relaxing and snorkeling. It’s on the Pacific Ocean and accessible by road.

With its lush rainforests, stunning coastlines, and eco-friendly practices, Costa Rica offers a memorable and sustainable travel experience for friends.

30. Fun MEXICO beach trips with friends

There’s a reason why North Americans flock to beautiful Mexico! Mexico has some of the world’s finest beaches, best preserved Mayan ruins and fascinating, colorful cultures. But with all the options, where should you travel with friends? I suggest two. 

First, Cancun is an obvious choice. It’s a world-class destination with something for everyone. Exquisite beaches, first-class hotels, a more authentic downtown area, Mayan ruins and fantastic weather year-round. For an incredible trip with Mom to Cancun, stay at the adults-only all-inclusive Le Blanc Spa Resort . 

A second, quieter choice is Playa Maroma. About 30 miles from Riviera Maya, Playa Maroma has arguably the best beaches in the world. Plus rainforests and snorkeling right off the beach. A beautiful all-inclusive resort to check out is Catalonia Playa Maroma .

You may also like:

• How to travel with friends: Trip planning
• How to find better accommodations
• Trips with Mom and Trips with Dad

Featured photo: Priscilla Du Preez from Unsplash.

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• Group Travel

18 Great Trips to Take With a Group

From Mykonos to Aspen, these are the best group vacation spots for an unforgettable trip.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

The chance to explore an exciting new destination — or revisit a favorite spot — with your pals is one of the great joys of travel. How to coordinate a group vacation depends on your group's interests, but virtually any place has the potential for a great vacation with friends. That being said, some spots are just inherently better suited for a fabulous group trip, and that can take many forms. It might mean lively nightlife, stellar restaurants with space to accommodate your entire crew, loads of activities, or wide sandy beaches for everyone to sprawl out in the sunshine.

In need of group trip ideas? Our list includes 18 of the best group vacation spots around the world, whether your ideal getaway is an action-packed city break or a relaxing island escape.

Tokyo, Japan

At once futuristic and deeply rooted in the past, Tokyo showcases glimmering skyscrapers alongside ancient pagodas, giant megamalls, and tiny artisan shops that honor centuries-old traditions. Book an omakase experience (depending on the size of the restaurant, you might have the whole place to yourself) and then hit the pint-size drinking dens in Golden Gai. And consider splurging on a traditional luxury ryokan stay with an on-site onsen in the middle of the city at Aman Tokyo .

Ibiza, Spain

Many people consider Ibiza to be the ultimate group trip destination. That's because this Balearic Islands paradise is famed for its nightlife. Of course, it's not all about bar hopping and beach clubs. Pals who prefer to relax instead of party can visit secluded coves, traipse around the chiller villages, browse the artisan shops, or just make the Six Senses Ibiza vacation HQ. Ibiza also brims with natural beauty and hosts many yoga retreats throughout the year.

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Searching for the perfect place to surf, do yoga, and chill with your pals? Santa Teresa is a laid-back beach town on Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula with beautiful beaches, great food, and a relaxed pace. It has an international dining scene with cuisine to please any palate, spirited bars right on the sand to watch the stunning sunsets, and lovely local boutiques to pick up souvenirs. ATV excursions, hiking, and zip-lining, meanwhile, offer plenty of opportunities for adventure.

Scottsdale, Arizona

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Scottsdale has become a go-to destination for group trips thanks to its wide variety of activities , restaurants, and accommodations. Love high-flying fun? Sunrise hot air balloon rides over the desert await. Craving a little R&R? Book a rejuvenating massage at one of the many destination spas . After a group dinner at FnB Restaurant , snooze at ADERO Scottsdale , the only Autograph Collection property in a certified Dark Sky Community.

Capri, Italy

An upscale coastal Italian getaway with glamorous hotels such as Capri Palace Jumeirah — plus villa rentals, fresh-caught seafood, chartered boat tours, scenic hikes, a chairlift to the highest point on the island , sun-drenched afternoons at La Fontelina , and aperitivo at the iconic Grand Hotel Quisisana — Capri is a dreamy group trip destination. Just be sure to book all your reservations well in advance as things fill up quickly during high season, especially for larger groups.

Cartagena, Colombia

Perched on Colombia's Caribbean coast, Cartagena turns on the charm and makes for a sizzling group getaway. Within its 16th-century stone walls sits a warren of cobbled corridors, preserved Spanish colonial buildings , bougainvillea-clad balconies, striking churches like Iglesia de San Pedro Claver, and bustling plazas where groups can sit and sip cocktails while watching local performers. Cartagena is also a popular beach destination and provides access to the palm-fringed shores of Isla Barú and the Islas del Rosario. Beaches, architecture, history, nightlife: when everyone in your friend circle has different wants, Cartagena makes one of the best group vacation spots.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

A charming and energetic city with a little bit of everything for everyone , Amsterdam looks like a postcard with colorful old houses, canals, flower-clad bridges, and bike paths. There are many excellent restaurants, fascinating museums, cool neighborhoods, and glorious green spaces such as the famous Vondelpark. And with everything from dance clubs and dive bars to upscale cocktail bars and underground speakeasies, Amsterdam very much deserves its reputation as a party capital of Europe.

The cosmopolitan gateway to the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is easily accessible with direct flights from most major East Coast airport hubs (which makes things much easier if you have travel buddies flying in from all over). This popular Caribbean vacation destination also wows with its beautiful beaches, incredible snorkeling, interesting cultural sights, and duty-free shopping in the capital of Charlotte Amalie.

New Orleans, Louisiana

A soulful and spirited city on the Mississippi River, New Orleans is a non-stop good time with bars and live music venues around every corner. Need a break from the more raucous side of things? Chow down on flavorful Creole cuisine, go for a ride on the historic St. Charles streetcar, and (provided you're all feeling brave) book an after-dark ghost tour. Then recharge at one of the many design-forward boutique hotels such as The Chloe , Celestine, and Hotel Saint Vincent .

Aspen, Colorado

World-class slopes, swanky lodgings like Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection , and a convivial après ski scene make Aspen the "it" destination for the jetset crowd come winter. But this legendary Colorado locale also shines during the other seasons. Wildflowers bloom in the spring, summer brings sunny conditions for trekking and cycling, and fall is prime for leaf peeping. We guarantee everyone in your crew will shout out hiking the Maroon Bells as a highlight of the trip.

Bali, Indonesia

There's a reason why everyone who visits Bali falls in love. The Island of the Gods is a magical place with an irresistible mix of nature, culture, wellness, and nightlife. Beautiful beaches, lush rice terraces, yoga, clifftop temples, fishing villages, flavorful cuisine, spa rituals, and jaw-dropping sunsets are just a few of the highlights. And a trip to this Indonesian paradise won't drain your bank account; groups can split a huge serviced Balinese villa with a pool and ocean views.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

A renowned brewery culture remains one of the biggest reasons to take a trip to Milwaukee. For groups, that translates to good times and sprawling spaces to sip microbrews. In between pints, crews can do a tour to learn about the history of the city's beer industry. A prime perch on Lake Michigan's western shore means access to all sorts of fun waterfront activities, from kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding to jet skiing and sightseeing boat cruises.

Marrakesh, Morocco

Hypnotic and at times dizzying, Marrakesh is an intoxicating mix of maze-like alleyways, vibrant souks, Moorish architecture, grand palaces, manicured gardens, and ornate mosques. Moments of peace and refreshing mint tea can be found at El Fenn's rooftop refuge above the madness of the medina. Down to splurge on a serene, next-level luxurious stay with your closest friends? The Grand Riad at Royal Mansour Marrakech has a cinema, library, hammam, gym, and two swimming pools.

Da Nang, Vietnam

Does your crew love trying local delicacies? The central Vietnam city of Da Nang is a culinary powerhouse with an array of palate-pleasing delights and is one of the best group vacation spots for foodies. The night market stalls overflow with fresh-hauled seafood, and the fragrant aroma of bún chả cá fills the air outside the cafes. Besides mouth-watering food, there are sandy beaches, the Marble Mountains, the Ba Na Hills, and the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort for a swish group stay.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

For some groups, the stress of planning a holiday overshadows the excitement of actually escaping somewhere awesome. That's when a luxury all-inclusive resort comes into play. If you'd rather hit "book" and let the rest unfold in easy, breezy vacation style, consider jetting off to Punta Cana for a few days of oceanfront bliss, great food, and fun with your buddies at the top-rated Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana on beautiful Juanillo Beach.

London, United Kingdom

Love sightseeing, shopping, and theater? London is the perfect place to indulge those passions with your pals. It's home to Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and countless other recognizable landmarks, plus posh shops such as Harrods and Dover Street Market as well as the treasure trove of vintage stores in East London. Of course, no trip would be complete without afternoon tea, taking in a show at Shakespeare's Globe, and shacking up at a five-star London legend like Claridge's .

Vancouver, Canada

Movie and television buffs will jump at the chance to visit Vancouver. Beyond serving as the filming location for countless motion pictures and shows, this dynamic British Columbia seaport dishes up diverse cuisine, live music, art galleries and museums, and outdoor adventure. Want to stay in the heart of the action? Groups will love the 1,492-square-foot Rosewood Suite at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia , which features two bedrooms and a rooftop garden terrace with a plunge pool.

Mykonos, Greece

When a group trip means devouring whole grilled octopus, poppin' bottles, and dancing on tables, it's got to be Mykonos; we're sure someone will add it to the group vacation ideas spreadsheet. Greece's unofficial party island has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and tons of bars and beach clubs where world-famous DJs spin tunes. It also boasts five-star hotels with impeccable service and amenities to help you recover from a big night out. Because everyone knows the best hangover cure is a dip in your private plunge pool followed by an in-room massage.

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17 Fun Trips to Take With Friends

Traveling with friends can be a life-changing experience. Check out this list of fun trips to take with friends and create a lifetime of memories!

From weekend getaways to New York City to long-haul adventures across Southeast Asia, traveling with friends can be an unforgettable experience. You not only learn a lot about each other but also about yourself. You also create great new memories that are sure to last a lifetime! It’s a time when you can focus on self-care and reflection and think about how lucky you are to have so many great people in your life.

We know how important and meaningful traveling with friends can be. So, we’ve put together a list of fun trips to take with friends. These adventures around the world can be done with just your bestie or with a whole heap of friends!

Enjoying Precious Time With Let’s Roam

If you’re interested in fun trips to take with friends, bonding must be on the brain! Let’s Roam is dedicated to helping you enjoy every precious moment of time you have with friends and family. It doesn’t matter if you’re hanging out at home or exploring the world! With hundreds of great scavenger hunts in cities across the globe, expertly designed scratch-off adventure books full of fun activities, and virtual games that are perfect for both kids and adults, Let’s Roam gives you plenty of great ways to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary!

Great Travel Experiences to Enjoy With Friends

Below, you will find a long list of travel ideas you can do with friends. Since we know some of these places may be a bit far to travel to from North America, we’ve included some additional adventures. You can include these in your trip to make the most of your travel time! We’ve also included some useful travel tips for traveling with friends based on our own decades of travel experience. 

1. Go snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef.

Roughly the size of 70 million football fields, the Great Barrier Reef off of the eastern coast of Australia is big. Like, really, really big. It’s the world’s largest coral reef system and is home to millions of colorful fish, turtles, sharks, sea snakes, dolphins, seabirds, eels, mollusks, sponges, and, of course, coral. Thanks to this incredible biodiversity and how easily accessible it is from cities like Sydney and Melbourne, it’s high on the bucket lists of many travelers. So, why not take a trip with a great group of friends?

You can choose to visit the Great Barrier Reef on a day trip from Cairns. These boats tend to be big and crowded. It can be difficult to explore the reefs without having a lot of other people around. Alternatively, you can book a spot on one of the liveaboard diving boats that go out for a few days at a time. This is a great option if you have the time and the budget. It allows you to experience the reef with significantly fewer people, and it gives you the chance to spend the night floating above this breathtaking natural landscape.

Expert tip: While you’re underwater, you’re very likely to hear a chomping sound, like someone or something is taking a big bite of something crunchy. That’s actually the colorful parrotfish eating algae off the coral. They’re an important part of the reef’s ecosystem. It’s one of my favorite parts of snorkeling, and I love watching the fish happily chomp away on the coral. 

Additional Adventures in Australia

After you’ve snorkeled the Great Barrier Reef, you can continue your Australian adventure by heading up through northern Queensland to the Daintree Rainforest. This is the oldest rainforest in the world at a whopping 135 million years old. You can visit as a day trip from Cairns or spend the night in one of the many lodges located nearby. There are many different hiking trails within the rainforest that let you get a closer look at the unique flora and fauna there. 

2. Spend a weekend visiting the historic bars of New York City.

New York is a fascinating city, and many tourists barely even scratch the surface of what it has to offer. For many people, their first visit to the Big Apple includes highlights like Times Square and Broadway, Central Park, and the World Trade Center. However, if you want to see how New Yorkers really spend their time and learn more about the cultural fabric of the city, why not spend a weekend bar hopping through some of the city’s historic dive bars? 

The many dive bars scattered across the island of Manhattan are a treasure trove for history buffs looking to get a peek at old NYC. Some of the most popular historic bars, like McSorley’s, Rudy’s, and Jeremy’s Ale House, still have much of their original decor. If you look closely, you can often see the ornate woodwork, colorful flooring, and vaulted ceilings of yesteryears. To make it even better, the drinks are often much, much cheaper than what you would pay at some of the trendy bars of the Meatpacking District or Midtown. 

To help break up your day of drinking a bit, we suggest taking the time to see some of the many attractions located near the bars, especially ones off the beaten tourist path, such as the many tiny parks hidden amongst apartment buildings and niche museums that you had no idea even existed. 

While you’re there, don’t forget to check out one of the Let’s Roam New York scavenger hunts ! These hunts are expertly designed to help you get off the normal tourist trail and see some of the lesser-known sights. From the public art of Chelsea to the ghost of Greenwich , there’s something to fit the unique tastes of every traveler!

3. Check out the nightlife of Hong Kong.

With buildings that reach high into the sky, sparkling seas, and emerald-green hills, Hong Kong is one of the world’s most photogenic mega-cities. It’s also one of the most vibrant. While New York is often considered the city that never sleeps, Hong Kong can easily be considered the Big Apple’s sister from another mister. 

Additional Adventures in Hong Kong

If you don’t have a Chinese visa but still want to combine your trip to Hong Kong with another nearby destination, we highly recommend taking the ferry to Macau. Once a Portuguese colony, Macau is now the Las Vegas of Asia with tons of casinos, grandiose hotels, entertainment venues, and bars. You can still see vestiges of its colonial days in the downtown area as well as some of the original Chinese casinos built there. This creates a fascinating juxtaposition that you can’t find anywhere else and makes it well worth the trip.

4. Take a road trip across Patagonia.

With wide open spaces, rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming mountain towns, Patagonia is the ultimate destination for a road trip. You can begin your journey in Santiago and head south, crisscrossing the border of Chile and Argentina. Or, head straight down to Ushuaia, the end of the world, and work your way north from there. 

When you’re planning your journey, make sure to leave plenty of time for hiking. This region is home to some of the world’s most magnificent hikes, including the incomparable W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park. This five-day trek takes you high into the Andes Mountains, offering breathtaking views and breathtaking ascents along the way! 

Additional Adventures in Chile and Argentina 

The lands of Patagonia take a surprisingly long time to get to from the United States, so if you have the time, we definitely recommend staying a bit longer to see other great destinations. Check out the enigmatic Easter Island, the beautiful city of Buenos Aires, or Iguassu Falls, one of the world’s biggest waterfalls. Domestic flights are relatively inexpensive, which makes it easy to travel around. There’s so much to see that you may find yourself wishing you had many months to spend there!

5. Say hello to Lady Luck in Las Vegas.

Will luck be a lady tonight? This is something you can only find out by organizing a fun getaway to Las Vegas ! Las Vegas, Nevada, has come a long way from its days as the original Sin City. Besides what feels like an endless line of slot machines and over-the-top casinos that make you feel like you’re in some weird version of Disneyland, Las Vegas offers some of the world’s best hotels, entertainment venues, bars, and restaurants just waiting to show you a good time (and to take some of that hard-earned money off your hands!). It’s even the temporary home to some of the country’s most famous musical artists who have long-running residencies there. 

This fun combination of activities makes it the perfect spot for weekend getaways for anyone wanting to spend the day lounging by the pool with a colorful cocktail in hand, trying their luck on the slot machines, and watching their favorite musicians sing their hearts out.

6. Hit up the all-inclusive resorts of the Yucatan Peninsula.

While it’s fun to DIY your own trip, sometimes nothing beats a week at an all-inclusive resort with your best friends. Gone is the stress of having to pick a restaurant, call a taxi, or find a bar to go to. Instead, you have everything you need all under one roof! All-inclusive resorts range from intimate affairs with a handful of restaurants and idyllic poolsides to full-blown resorts with tons of restaurants, pools, and activities to choose from. These ones are usually a bit better suited for groups of friends, but to each their own, right? The beauty of going to an all-inclusive resort lies in the lack of planning you need to put into it. You can simply show up and be you!

While you can find all-inclusive resorts scattered across the Caribbean and Southeast Asia, we love going to the ones in the Yucatan simply because there is so much to do around them! Not only is the peninsula blessed with gorgeous white sand beaches and marvelous weather most of the year, but it’s also dotted with ancient Mayan ruins, fascinating sinkholes that are perfect for swimming in, and colorful colonial towns. This gives you the chance to easily learn more about the history, culture, and geography of this amazing country! 

Some of the most popular areas to stay in include Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, but you can find high-end resorts dotted all along the coastline. 

7. Swim with whale sharks in Mexico.

Mexico is famous for having good food, beautiful scenery, great weather, and friendly people. However, if you still need another reason to visit this amazing country, we have one more for you. Mexico is also one of the few places in the world where you can swim with whale sharks.

Whale sharks are the biggest fish on the planet, measuring more than 40 feet in length and weighing as much as 47,000 pounds. Their mouths alone can stretch up to five feet wide with 300 tiny teeth. Although they’re considered sharks, they’re not dangerous to humans. In fact, these gentle giants eat only plankton. Swimming with whale sharks is an incredible experience. Although you get just a few minutes in the water with them due to strict conservation rules, it feels like a lifetime as you watch their muscular bodies glide gracefully below you.

The best place to join a whale shark tour is in Isla de Mujeres, just a short boat ride from Cancun. This tourist-friendly island has a downtown area lined with budget-friendly accommodation options, souvenir shops, and restaurants. It’s a nice, laid-back spot to spend a few days before or after your trip, and it gives you a little taste of Mexico without having to deal with all the craziness of Cancun. 

8. Explore the Tuscan wine country in Italy.

While Napa Valley is considered one of the best wine regions in the US, why not think a bit bigger when it comes to having an awesome and memorable vacation with your besties? Just imagine yourselves sitting with a glass of Chianti, overlooking rolling hills lined with vineyards and dotted with historic farmhouses. Taking a wine tour of Tuscany is a great way to try a whole new range of mouthwatering wines that you normally wouldn’t have access to and learn more about Italian culture and heritage. 

The wine region of Tuscany in Italy is relatively easy to get to from major tourist hotspots like Florence, Rome, and Milan. Otherwise, you can base yourself in one of the smaller cities or towns nearby, like Sienna, San Gimignano, and Pisa. Here, you will find a wide range of accommodation options, including boutique hotels, charming B&Bs, and vacation rentals. There are also tons of different wine tours that you can choose from. Otherwise, you can create your own DIY wine tour and make your way to the wineries by train, car, or bike. Or go on foot for tours of the wineries and wine tastings. 

Additional Adventures in Italy

After you’ve tasted the nectar of the gods in Tuscany, why not visit the ancient delights of Rome or Pompeii? Check out the Renaissance masterpieces in Florence or pretend like you’re holding up a certain tower in Pisa. The comprehensive and budget-friendly train network makes it easy to get around!

9. Take the train across Canada.

All aboard! Epic train rides like the Orient Express may seem like a thing of the past, but in fact, they’re thriving in many parts of the world! The Blue Train in South Africa and The Ghan in Australia are still Mesmerizing riders today. But if you want to try something a little closer to home, you may want to consider riding the long-distance rails of Canada!

Train rides in Canada can range from multi-day adventures to shorter hops between destinations. Some of the most popular routes include Halifax to Montreal and the much longer Rocky Mountaineer that goes from Vancouver all the way to Banff. This luxurious rail journey takes you along the Canadian Pacific Railway in custom-designed trains complete with panoramic glass roofs. The daytime views along the way are breathtaking. At night, you can stop in towns like Whistler, Jasper, Lake Louise, and Quesnel.

10. Visit the honky tonks of Nashville.

Nashville has been THE place to go in the US for live music for decades. From the stages of the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium to the bustling honky tonks of the Broadway Historic District, it’s easy to see why it earned the nickname “Music City.” If you and your friends love spending a night out on the town shaking your groove thing, Nashville has plenty of fun in store for you! 

One of the best ways to get the night rolling is with our Nashville Bar Crawl Scavenger Hunt ! This hunt will take you to some of the best bars and watering holes in Nashville, giving you plenty of chances to make new memories as you complete one quirky challenge after another!

During the day, you can either explore the many different museums on offer in Music City or head out for a day trip to Mammoth Cave National Park or to the Jack Daniel Distillery, both of which are about an hour and a half drive away. You can also combine it with a mini road trip to Memphis!

11. Go for a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia.

Famous for its fairy chimneys, Cappadocia looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. And there’s no better way to view these than from up above! There’s something quite magical about going on a hot air balloon ride. From feeling the heat of the fire to seeing the earth slowly melt away below you, hot air balloons have a special something that many other air activities don’t. It’s an even more memorable experience when you’re flying over something amazing!

Flights depart nearly every morning, weather permitting, and you only normally need to book a few days in advance. Make sure to wear plenty of warm clothes, as it can get pretty chilly up there, and have your cameras ready!

Additional Adventures in Turkey

Before or after visiting Cappadocia, make sure to spend some time exploring Istanbul. Straddling both Europe and Asia, this city truly is where east meets west. It’s a fascinating blend of cultures from all over the world. From there, you can head down to Izmir and begin a southwest Turkey road trip down toward Ephesus, one of the many ancient wonders left behind by the Romans. 

12. Island hop in the Aegean Sea.

Most of us have probably seen photos of the Greek Isles. The white-washed houses with their blue roofs surrounded by the sparkling Aegean Sea are the stuff that dreams are made of. This image has graced everything from mouse pads to coffee mugs. While islands like Santorini, Patmos, Mykonos, and Rhodes are incredibly beautiful, one of the best things about visiting them is just how accessible they are!

Although there are many cruises that roam the waters between the Greek islands, you can visit many of the islands simply by hopping onto one of the many ferries leaving Athens, Greece. While this does require a bit more planning than simply booking a cruise, this gives you the chance to spend as much time as you want on each of the islands. You can see what they’re like when the cruises leave. 

Additional Adventures in Greece

Once you’ve finished island-hopping, you may want to consider spending a few days exploring the ancient ruins of Athens or traveling up to see the sky-high monasteries of Meteora.

13. Unlock your inner mermaid at Miami Beach.

The beautiful shoreline and sunny weather of Florida have been attracting northerners for centuries, and Miami has long been at the top of the list of must-see destinations. From the white sand beach to the curvy Art Deco architecture, Miami Beach feels like a completely different city than the rest of Miami. By day, you can be lounging around in the sun or wandering up the cute residential streets. By night, you can go to some of the hottest clubs in the entire country. 

If you plan on spending the full day at the beach, there are places where you can grab beach chairs and umbrella rentals that allow you to get extra comfy, and don’t forget to bring plenty of sunscreen with you! Nothing ruins a great vacation faster than a painful sunburn. 

Travel tip: While you’re in Miami, don’t forget to visit Wyndood Walls. This collection of street art and murals spread across warehouses and shop exteriors resembles a long line of outdoor art galleries. The neighborhood is also home to a few microbreweries and pop-up restaurants, making it a great place for foodies and craft beer lovers who are in serious need of a break from the beach. 

14. Get weird in Austin, Texas. 

Located in the great state of Texas, Austin is unapologetically weird. Home to both the University of Texas’s main campus and the Texas State Capitol, the city has an interesting mix of government buildings and a fun, youthful energy. As you would expect from a city this diverse, there is a wide range of restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions to choose from. You can even do your very own pub crawl while you’re there! 

Austin isn’t just all culture-vulturing, though. There are plenty of unique activities to do here. During your stay, you can cool down at Barton Springs, a natural pool full of fresh water, watch millions of bats take flight at the Congress Avenue Bridge, take a stroll around Lady Bird Lake, or pick up your very own pair of authentic cowboy boots at Allen’s Boots, an Austin institution!

15. Enjoy a week of outdoor adventures in Iceland.

Iceland was once a bit of a hidden gem for outdoor adventure and other-worldly natural attractions. However, with the rise of low-cost airlines and a massive drop in their currency, Iceland became much more accessible as a vacation destination. Suddenly, it exploded onto seemingly every must-see list. While the excitement surrounding Iceland as a destination has abated a bit, this doesn’t mean that it is any less stunning than it was a few years ago. It simply means that you are likely to have many of the biggest sites all to yourself! 

Most people start their trip in the capital city of Reykjavik before venturing out for an epic road trip on Iceland’s famous Ring Road. Stretching 825 miles, this road takes you by some of the biggest natural attractions in the country, including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Dyrhólaey cliffs, and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. While the entire road can be driven in 24 hours, it is best to slow down and take your time so that you can truly enjoy all of the many waterfalls, glaciers, gorges, and hiking trails you see along the way. 

Before you leave, make sure to take some time to relax at the Blue Lagoon, which is conveniently located close to the airport. This will give you some time to reflect on your remarkable journey and all of the magnificent things you saw and did!

16. Get your jazz on in New Orleans.

Throughout the course of history, the city of New Orleans changed hands repeatedly. This wave of cultures left an undeniable mark on the city in terms of architecture, culture, cuisine, and, of course, music. New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, so what better place could there be to spend a few evenings at a smoky jazz club listening to these lively melodies? Some of the most popular places to listen to jazz music include the historic Preservation Hall and the intimate The Spotted Cat, so one of these should be your first port of call regardless of whether you are a jazz aficionado or a new fan!

While New Orleans is famous for its nightlife, there is plenty to do during the day as well! You can explore the streets of the French Quarter, explore the wide boulevards lined with stately homes in the Garden District, or visit world-class museums, such as the National WWII Museum or the New Orleans Museum of Art.

Travel tip: If you plan on traveling to New Orleans during Mardi Gras, make sure to book your accommodation well in advance as places tend to sell out very quickly!

17. Explore the natural wonders of Costa Rica.

Thanks to the country’s focus on providing excellent ecotourism experiences, the country of Costa Rica has been a fantastic vacation destination for decades. With beautiful beaches, tranquil cloud forests, smoking volcanoes, and gushing waterfalls, Costa Rica provides the perfect backdrop for tons of great outdoor activities. During your trip, you can put some miles in on the hiking trails, go ziplining above the treeline, or spend your days relaxing on the beach, enjoying the sea breezes coming off the Caribbean.

Travel tip: Prices for hotels and activities have gone up substantially in Costa Rica over the past few decades, making it one of the most expensive travel destinations in Latin America. Make sure to double-check the prices of things before you book your hotels and flights to ensure you will be able to have the vacation you’re dreaming of without having to empty your bank account too much!

So, Ready to Roam?

We hope this list of fun trips to take with friends has given you plenty of inspiration! As always, we would love to hear your feedback, so please let us know if there are any great adventures you think should be added to this list!

If you would like to learn more about any of these destinations, make sure to check out the Let’s Roam Explorer blog , where you can find hundreds of travel guides, to-do lists, and blog posts about both domestic and international travel. You can also download the Let’s Roam app to find scavenger hunts near you as well as user-generated info on destinations around the world. 

Frequently Asked Questions

If you want to have a nice time, what about a weekend in New York or Las Vegas ? If you want to go further afield, Australia , Argentina , and Italy are great options for something unique and memorable!

To make a friends’ trip a bit more fun for everyone, why not try a fun-filled destination scavenger hunt ? With hundreds of hunts to choose from, there is sure to be one perfect for your group!

Mexico , Australia , and Costa Rica all have beautiful beaches and are easy to travel to with friends. Download the Let’s Roam app to see how the locals spend their time in these great spots!

If you want to ensure that you have a great trip with friends , try to schedule a mixture of unique activities like scavenger hunts with plenty of free time for people to explore on their own!

New York , Las Vegas , and Miami all have something unique to offer, making them great destinations for getaways with friends ! Get the Let’s Roam app to access travel tips for these locations and more!

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Lifestyle , Travel · April 4, 2023

35 Best Places to Travel with Friends

As a 30-something year old girl who spent a majority of her adult life single, I think I’m the PERFECT person to advise you on the best places to travel with friends! Over the past 18 years I’ve taken a LOT of trips with friends to some amazing places (and some not so amazing). So today I’m sharing 30+ of the best places to go on a friends trip!

And I know I mentioned that I did a lot of traveling with friends (and family). I didn’t have a significant other to travel with for a period of time. However, even if you’re in a relationship (or have children) I think it’s still really important to take the time to travel and have new experiences with your friends! The moments and memories you share while traveling are great foundations to an even closer friendship!

There are a TON of places in both the United States and abroad that are perfect for friends’ vacations.So, I hope after reading this round up of travel destinations you give your friends a call and start planning your next trip!

Whether you’re looking for a world class resort for a truly relaxing experience, beautiful beaches in a tropical locale, a bustling city with great nightlife or something in between be prepared to start a friend travel bucket list after checking out this list!

San Diego, California, USA

San Diego is a city on the Pacific coast of Southern California just north of the Mexico-United States border! It’s known for it’s extensive beaches, laid back attitude and near perfect year-round weather. I can put it on the top of my best places to travel with friends list.

There are so many unique neighborhoods in the city of San Diego and cities in San Diego County to explore that there’s no chance you’ll run out of things to do no matter how long your trip is! From Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo to Coronado Island to the seals and sea lions in La Jolla to the amazing restaurant scene in Little Italy to the massive local craft brewing industry and everything in between San Diego has so much to offer!

I recommend spending 4 days in San Diego to truly get a taste of everything this SoCal city has to offer. However, you could easily spend more than that especially during the warmer months so you can take advantage of the beaches in Coronado, La Jolla, Mission Beach or Pacific Beach!

San Diego is truly the perfect place to visit no matter what time of year! Read my entire 4 Day San Diego Itinerary to help plan your trip!

Vero Beach, Florida, USA

Vero Beach is my favorite sleepy beach town in Florida. Actually it’s probably my favorite beach town in Florida PERIOD. This hidden gem is the perfect place to spend a relaxing few days with friends.

It’s located along Florida’s Atlantic Coast just about 60 miles north of Palm Beach. Vero is definitely one of the lesser commercialized places in Florida, but no doubt one of the most beautiful. If a laid back trip spent on uncrowded, beautiful beaches is what you’re looking for this is the place for you.

I suggest staying at one of the resorts on the water like Costa d’Este Beach Resort or Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel . I recommend this for the best trip because you won’t need to rent a car. Everything you need for great trip is walking distance from your hotel! Check out my Best Things to Do in Vero Beach guide to help you plan your trip.

4 days is the optimal amount of time to spend here. However, if you’re flying directly into Vero Beach Airport then you can get away with a long weekend. Breeze Airways is now flying there from many destinations around the US including Westchester Airport.

Savannah, Georgia, USA

Savannah, GA is a charming, coastal Southern city. It is known for its manicured parks, cobblestone squares and parks. Savannah, GA is a Spanish moss-covered trees and antebellum architecture! It’s one of the top ranked travel destinations in the country. Also, definitely deserves a top spot on my list of best places to travel with friends.

You’re most likely to spend a majority of your trip walking around the historic district because the best way to see all that Savannah has to offer is definitely on foot! Also Savannah has an Open Container Policy so you can grab a drink at one of it’s many bars or rooftops and get lost in the streets of this charming, historic city!

3 days is the perfect amount of time to explore Savannah, but you could easily spend a few days in the city and then hop over to Hilton Head Island or Tybee Island to extend your trip!

The best time of year to visit would definitely be Fall, Winter or Spring because it tends to get VERY hot and humid there in the Summer and I don’t think you’d fully be able to take advantage of it during that of year! I visited the last weekend of February and the temperature was perfect for walking around with a light jacket on.

Read my 3 Day Savannah Itinerary to help you plan your trip! It includes the best hotels, places to eat and things to do!

Charleston, South Carolina, USA

Charleston is the one city that I could visit over and over again. i never get sick of it. Also, when anyone asks me for a recommendation for where to take a vacation whether it be with friends, family or a significant other the first place I always suggest is Charleston!

It has colorful homes, the amazing food, the people, and the rich history. Also, so much more make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country and I don’t see that changing anytime soon! There are SO many activities and attractions that the Holy City has to offer. It includes historic walking tours, the iconic Rainbow Row and Pineapple Fountain, and shopping on King Street. Also, don’t even get me started on all the amazing restaurants and bars!

I’ve taken a 3 day trip to Charleston. You can absolutely see a lot during that time, but I just love this city so much that I suggest 4+ days to visit!

Like Savannah I suggest visiting in the Fall, Winter or Spring. It’s like most Southeast cities, Charleston tends to get VERY hot, humid and buggy in the Summer which makes it difficult to walk around! I’ve been there in March, September and October and had a great time during all 3 months! I’ve heard that Charleston during the holidays is magical because of how all the historic homes decorate so I’ve added visiting during that time of year to my travel bucket list!

Check out my 10 Things You Must Do in Charleston & First Timer’s Guide to Charleston to help plan your trip!

Salem, Massachusetts, USA

Salem is a historic city on the coast of Massachusetts just above Boston made famous for it’s 1692 witch trials where over 200 people were accused of being witches, 19 of which were executed.

If your group of friends are into spooky stuff and all things Halloween like mine are, then definitely add Salem to your bucketlist of best places to travel with friends! While you’re there make sure to stop by the House of the Seven Gables, Salem Witch Museum, the Witch House, Salem Witch Trials Memorial and more! Stay at the Hawthorne Hotel , it’s rumored to be haunted, for the ultimate Salem experience.

If you’re a Hocus Pocus fan you can visit all the iconic filming locations around town like Salem Common, the Ropes Mansion (Alison’s house in the movie), Pioneer Village, Max and Dani’s house and Old Town Hall.

Salem is a great place to visit during anytime of the year, but obviously the best time to go is the Fall – September through November! There is no better time to visit New England than in the Fall when the leaves are changing because it’s truly magical! And obviously the Witch City really comes to life specifically in October and the Halloween season with a packed calendar of events like Salem Haunted Happenings.

You can easily cover all of Salem in a weekend and don’t really need to spend more time than that there. Also worth noting, if you want to visit during October make sure to book your hotel well in advance (I’m talking months) because things book up quickly. My friends and I visited at the end of September to avoid the craziness of Halloween month there and we still had the best time!

Check out my 2 Days in Salem Itinerary to help plan your trip!

Boston, Massachusetts, USA

I’m going to go out on a limb and say that even though I’m a ride or die New Yorker, Boston may be my favorite Northeast city and absolutely deserves a spot on my best places to travel with friends list.

Just in case you’re not familiar Boston is located in Massachusetts and is the largest city in the New England region of the country. It’s just south of Salem like I mentioned above and if your group of friends is up for a multi-stop trip Boston & Salem are 2 great cities to pair together!

There are SO many things to do in this historic city that you could easily spend a week there, but you can also explore a fair amount in a weekend or long weekend! What I like most about Boston is that the city itself isn’t overwhelmingly large so you can cover a lot of ground and see a tons of neighborhoods is a day or two if that’s all you have to explore.

Boston is known for it’s rich American history, beautiful neighborhoods, fresh seafood and much more which makes it’s the perfect place for a friends’ trip! Check out my 2 Days in Boston Travel Guide to see just how much you can actually fit into just 48 hours there!

North Fork, Long Island, New York, USA

I’ve lived in New York my entire life and I’m ashamed to admit that it took me until I was in my 30s to visit the North Fork of Long Island for the first time and after doing so I’ll never go back to the Hamptons/Montauk again! I was never really a Hamptons girl, I think it’s so overrated, overpacked and overall just not enjoyable, so when I visited the North Fork and saw how relaxed and amazing it is there I immediately fell in love.

If you’re not familiar with the area, the North Fork is a 30-mile long peninsula in the northeast part of Long Island, New York about 75 miles east of Manhattan! It’s known for it’s vineyards, family farms and quant towns like Greenport, Orient, Peconic and more!

48 hours is a great amount of time to spend there, but I think 3 days may be even better! The best time of year to plan a trip to the North Fork is definitely the Summer or Fall so you can take advantage of outdoor wine tastings at some of the many vineyards, the calm beaches and pick your own flower and fruit farms.

Check out my North Fork Guide to help plan your trip!

Chicago, Illinois, USA

Chicago is a city in Illinois located on Lake Michigan and the third most populated city in the United States after New York City and Los Angeles!

A friend of mine lives in Chicago so I recently took a girls trip there and we had so much fun it quickly got added to my list of best places to travel with friends! We went to the top of the Skydeck at Willis Tower, visited Millennium Park and “the Bean”, ate deep dish pizza and Chicago Dogs, took an Architecture Tour on the Chicago River, visited Wrigley Field and took a dip in Lake Michigan plus much more! And we did all of that in just 3 days!

I highly recommend visiting Chicago during the warmer months to be able to take advantage of everything the city has to offer, but even in the Summer I suggest packing layers just in case it gets chilly!! They tend to get a LOT of snow there in the Winter and the temperatures are low from November to May so keep that in mind when planning your trip!

Check out my First Time in Chicago post to plan your trip!

The Sagamore Resort, Lake George, New York, USA

The Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing, NY on Lake George is quite possibly one of my favorite places to visit in the entire country! It’s a resort I spend many summers visiting with my family and a few years ago I got to visit there with friends and I can confirm it’s the perfect place to escape for a girls trip!

The Sagamore is on the pricier side so keep that in mind when booking, but if you live in the Northeast and want a true resort experience where you don’t have to leave the property and can truly relax this is the place for you! There’s an indoor and outdoor pool, spa, salon, tennis courts, multiple restaurants…even an 18 hole golf course, there is something for everyone!

I don’t think many people realize how beautiful Lake George truly is and the private island the historic hotel is located on is stunning! Check out my full blog post on The Sagamore Resort for even more reasons why I love it there!

Newport, Rhode Island, USA

Newport, RI is the perfect place for a quick getaway if you live in the Northeast and definitely one of the best places to travel with friends for a weekend!

The entire city is walkable and 2 days is the perfect amount of time to explore the entire coastal community! If you need help planning your trip check out my 48 Hours in Newport Itinerary!

Don’t miss Thames Street, Bowen’s Wharf, The Red Parrot Restaurant, The Mooring (one of my favorite restaurants of all time!), the Cliff Walk, Ocean Drive and much more! Make sure to leave time for a Mansion Tour! I suggest The Breakers, the Vanderbilt family’s opulent “Summer cottage” from the Gilded Age!

Newport is great to visit in the Spring, Summer or Fall! If you’re there when it’s warm you can add a beach day, Newport Vineyards tour and sunset on the lawn of Castle Hill Inn to your trip! It is a coastal town so while Winter is beautiful there, if you’re planning a cold weather getaway there make sure to bundle up!

Stowe, Vermont, USA

The optimal time in my opinion to visit Stowe (or really any part of Vermont) is during peak fall foliage (usually end of September/beginning of October, but it changes every year so make sure to check that year’s fall foliage map), BUT if you’re a skier than you may want to plan your trip in the Winter!

Plan to spend a majority of your trip outside other then when you’re eating so pack accordingly! Add the Stowe Recreation Path, Waterbury Center State Park, Thompson Park to your itinerary and obviously you MUST go to Stowe Mountain Resort and take the Gondola Skyride up the mountain if it’s open!

I highly recommend eating and drinking at Edison Hill Restaurant, Butlers Pantry, Idletyme Brewing, Hen of the Wood, Cork, Doc Ponds to name just a few. And of course make time to tour the Ben & Jerry’s factory!

For more Vermont recommendations check out my travel guide (it also includes recommendations for Burlington and Woodstock, VT).

Florida Keys, Florida, USA

If you and your friends are into road trips then I can’t recommend taking a road trip through the Florida Keys enough!!! Spend 5 days traveling through Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key and finally Key West! These tropical islands as known for fishing, boating, snorkeling, scuba diving and of course partying!

I suggest flying into Miami and renting a car then driving south to Key Largo and staying there for a couple days. Hit up Florida Keys Brewing, Marker 88, Key Largo Conch House and John Pennenkamp Coral Reef State Park.

Then head down to Islamorada and go to Robbie’s to eat at Hungry Tarpon and sign up for a tarpon feeding! On your drive to Key West make sure to stop by Isla Bella Beach Resort in Marathon, and if you have time spend a night there!

Then once you get to Key West, the southernmost city of the Keys and southernmost point in the continental US, make sure to check out all the bars on Duval Street, Mallory Square’s nightly Sunset Celebration and Ernest Hemingway’s Home!

You can take advantage of the Florida Keys any time of year, just make sure to be careful during Hurricane season! Check out my Ultimate Road Trip – 5 Days in the Florida Keys Guide to plan your trip!

Baha Mar Resort, Nassau, Bahamas

If you’re looking for luxe, look no further than Baha Mar Resort in the Bahamas for your next friends trip! It’s located on Cable Beach in Nassau and was truly the nicest Caribbean resort I’ve ever been to!

There are 3 hotels on the property – the Rosewood, SLS and the Grand Hyatt (where I stayed), along with a casino, stores, lounges, bars, restaurants, a spa, gold course, racquet club, nature sanctuary, white sand beach, 10 pools…the list goes on and on! If that didn’t convince you THIS definitely will!

Baha Mar is one of the best places to travel with friends – especially groups of any size because of the vast amount of bars and restaurants on the property so you won’t have trouble getting reservations for a group. There are also SO many pools and a large beach so finding multiple lounge chairs together was fairly easy!

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

New Orleans is a city on the Mississippi River known for its round the clock nightlife, vibrant jazz music scene and melting pot cuisine!

There are countless types of tours available in NOLA including bike tours, cemetery tours, ghost tours, food tours, plantation tours, riverboat tours and everything in between, so no matter what interests your friends have you’ll find the perfect activity for your group!

New Orleans is know for it’s food so don’t miss out on NOLA delicacies like fried alligator, po boys, shrimp creole, bananas foster, muffuletta sandwiches and of course BEIGNETS! For all my recommendations on exactly where to eat and what to do check out my 48 hours in New Orleans post!

New Orleans can get EXTREMELY hot in the Summer so be prepared if that’s when you’re visiting (I went in July and it was steamy!), so I recommend planning a trip in the Fall, Winter or Spring! Obviously if I go again I would go for their annual Mardi Gras celebration!

Kauai, Hawaii, USA

Kauai is Hawaii’s fourth largest island and in my opinion the most laid back and chill of the Hawaiian Islands! It’s called the Garden Isle thanks to the tropical rainforest covering a majority of it and is known for its natural beauty including gorgeous mountains and waterfalls, white sand beaches, dramatic cliffs and much more!

You definitely need to rent a car (I suggest a Jeep Wrangler obviously) to get around the island of Kauai so I suggest traveling here with a max of 5 people. For a full list of recommendations check out my Kauai Travel Guide !

Traveling to Hawaii can be expensive so I suggest visiting during off-peak months (September to December and April and June are great times to go) to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices!

Maui, Hawaii, USA

Maui is the second largest Hawaiian Island and home to Haleakala, a massive shield volcano that forms more than 75% of the island. Also, Maui is my pick of Hawaiian islands to visit if you’re looking for a luxe Hawaiian adventure! It’s one of the most sought after destinations on the planet for a reason and it’s a trip I will talk about and recommend for the rest of my life!

I highly suggest treating yourselves and staying in a resort in Wailea (you won’t regret it), driving the Road to Hana, visiting the waterfalls of O’he’o Gulch, exploring the town of Paia and much more!

Check out my Maui blog post with 5 reasons to visit Maui, which includes the best restaurants, Road to Hana tips and more! Then check out my pick for the best hotel in Maui !

Orlando, Florida, USA

Orlando is a city in central Florida and is the theme park capital of the world. It’s home to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Seaworld Orlando and LEGOLAND Florida Resort currently and there are new projects to come!

You may consider Orlando a place for families or kids (and it can be), but don’t dismiss it if you’re traveling with friends especially if you’re looking for a fun filled trip! This goes without saying, but a trip to Orlando will obviously be an exhausting one, but it’s definitely one you’ll never forget! Check out my How to do Universal and Disney in Three Days post to help plan your trip!

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Disneyworld and Universal Studios is SO much more fun as an adult!

Seville, Spain, Europe

Seville is the capital and largest city of the Spanish autonomous community of Andalusia and my absolute favorite place I’ve ever visited in Europe ! Its a smaller city, but is filled with so much history and has so many things to do!

From stunning palatial houses and Roman ruins to Royal Palaces and breathtaking cathedrals and churches, if you want to experience authentic Spain, Seville is the place to visit! It is one of the most beautiful cities to see in Europe and the perfect place if you’re looking to immerse yourself on Spanish culture on a slower paced trip!

Google says that the best time to visit Seville is April, May, June, September and October, BUT I went in February and we had PERFECT weather in the high 70s and 80s! Worth noting – I felt extremely safe everywhere in Seville during the day and night!

Barcelona, Spain, Europe

Barcelona is a city on the coast of northeast Spain in the autonomous community of Catalonia. It is a major tourist destination thanks in part to it being home to the architectural works of Gaudi such as the Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Casa Mila and Casa Batllo!

Also, Barcelona is home to one of the best beaches in the world and it’s mild and warm climate make it easy for locals and tourists alike to take advantage of it!

Barcelona’s neighborhoods are compact and easy to walk around and it’s public transportation is simple to understand! My friends and I took the Metro a few times when we visited and we had no problem buying tickets and getting to and from where we needed to go!

Madrid, Spain, Europe

Madrid is the capital and most populated city in Spain! It’s best known for it’s historic buildings, food markets, museums, bustling nightlife and more!

Madrid is a huge city, but still very walkable! Make sure to add all these attractions to your itinerary if you’re visiting: Gran Via, Plaza Mayor, Royal Palace, El Retiro Park and Puerta de Alcala.

On my trip to Spain a few years ago, my friends and I visited Madrid, Seville and Barcelona over 10 days and I can confirm that doing all cities in one trip is doable!

Nashville, Tennessee, USA

Nashville is the capital of Tennessee and most known for the legendary country music venues it’s home to! Between the Grand Old Opry House, Country Music Hall of Fame, Ryman Auditorium, Johnny Cash Museum and more, it’s no surprise Nashville is dubbed “Music City”.

Broadway in Downtown Nashville is filled with multi story lounges, bars and restaurants with live music on every floor! You don’t need to venture far off to find live music you like. Other fun neighborhoods in Nashville to explore include East Nashville, The Gulch, Music Row and 12 South.

Nashville is also home to 16 colleges and universities including Vanderbilt University, Belmont University and Tennessee State University!

Austin, Texas, USA

From one music loving city to the next, Austin, TX, is considered the live music capital of the world and has no shortage of amazing activities to do with friends which makes it the perfect addition for my best places to travel with friends post!

Austin is known for its eclectic live music scene, but also it’s many parks and lakes! Whether your friends are looking to stand up paddle board, listen to live music, try eclectic restaurants, go vintage shopping or do a little bit of everything Austin is the place for you!

Fall and Spring are the best seasons to visit Austin to experience the best weather! It’s also when most of the festivals that Austin hosts take place! It’s best to avoid the long hot summers unless you plan on spending your entire trip on the water!

Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

I couldn’t make a best places to travel with friends list and not include Sin City!! Las Vegas is an internationally renowned resort city know for gambling, fine dining, entertainment and nightlife!

You can usually get inexpensive flights to and hotels in Vegas, especially if you bundle them together in a package so for this reason alone I’ve been a handful of times with friends!

Even if you’re not a huge partier or gambler, neither of which I am, I still have an awesome time exploring all the hotels on the Strip, eating at the best restaurants, seeing shows and just walking around (with a drink in hand of course!)

If you’re looking for things to do just outside of Vegas I highly suggest taking a trip to the Grand Canyon! The National Park is located just 130 miles from the Las Vegas Strip and day trips there are very popular. I suggest doing it on a organized tour that includes bus transportation, a guide and stops like the Hoover Dam along the way.

Orange County, California, USA

Orange County is a region in Southern California halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego! It’s home to Laguna Beach, Anaheim, Newport Beach, Irvine, Corona del Mar, Dana Point, Huntington Beach and many other iconic California destinations.

You can easily spend a week in “The OC” with friends driving up and down the coast exploring and seeing what each of it’s distinct cities has to offer! I actually took this trip with friends and did just that a few years ago and I can’t recommend it enough and am dying to go back so basically by putting it on my best places to travel with friends list I’m manifesting another trip!

I highly recommend visiting Dana Point, Treasure Island and Thousand Steps Beach in Laguna Beach, San Clemente, Lido Marina Village and Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa and much more! And if you love amusement parks don’t miss Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm.

Napa Valley, California, USA

Just north of San Francisco, Napa Valley is home to HUNDREDS of vineyards and the perfect place for the ultimate girls trip!

Look into the Napa Valley Wine Train! It’s a vintage locomotive and traveling restaurant that runs through the Napa Valley wine region. It takes you on a 36 mile round trip adventure stopping at celebrated wineries along the way while you enjoy a four course meal onboard with the most beautiful landscape outside your window!

I’m going to assume if Napa is on your radar then you want to visit to go wine tasting, but there are many other things to do in the area like hot air balloon rides, hiking, shopping, bike tours and more!

London, England, United Kingdom

London is the capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom and a great place to visit on your first time to Europe if you’re visiting from America because there isn’t a language barrier!

The best time to visit London without it being too expensive is from March through May, but Summer is a great season to visit just expect it to be a little more expensive and more crowded! I actually visited over New Years one year and it was an awesome time so don’t let Winter in London scare you!

London is huge, with so many places to see and things to do so you could easily spend more than a week there, but you can still have a great trip if you only have a few days to spend there! I highly recommend visiting Big Ben, Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey (highly suggest doing an audio tour here it was one of my favorite parts of London) and the London Eye especially if it’s your first time, but there’s LOADS of other things to see and do depending on what type of trips you and your friends are looking for!

Paris, France, Europe

France’s capital, Paris, may be the “city of love”, but it’s also the ultimate city for a girls’ trip and easily nabbed a spot on my best places to travel with friends list! Grab your girlfriends and be prepared to indulge in baguettes, cheese, croissants, macarons and champagne and truly live your best life!

In between eating and drinking make sure to carve time in your Parisian itinerary to see the Eiffel Tower, the Lourve, Arc de Tiomphe, Notre-Dame and Sacre-Coeur de Montmarte just to name a few! And bring some extra money to go shopping!

If you have more than a few days in Paris I highly recommend taking the train to the Palace of Versailles!

Folly Beach, South Carolina, USA

Looking for the most laid back vacation spot? Then Folly Beach is for you! It’s a city on Folly Island in South Carolina just south of Charleston, but could not be more different than it’s neighbor to the north! It’s home to a beautiful beach, surf and souvenir shops and some great restaurants!

I highly recommend staying in an vacation rental within a few blocks of the beach and Center St. and spend a few days at the beach, eating and drinking at the local restaurants and bars and just enjoying each other’s company! Don’t miss Taco Boy, Snapper Jacks, Chico Feo, The Pineapple Hut, Lowlife Bar and Lost Dog Cafe!

You will truly come back from this vacation relaxed and recharged!

Costa Rica is a country in Central America know for its beaches, volcanoes, mountains, rainforests and jungle! If adventure is what you’re looking for Costa Rica is definitely the place to go!

If you’re headed to Costa Rica with friends make sure you add zip lining to your itinerary! Its the best way to see the country’s rainforest, wildlife, mountains and waterbodies in one adventure! Zip lining is offered throughout the country and depending on where you are you will get a completely different experience so don’t be afraid to do it in more than one area!

The best time to visit Costa Rica is from December to April because it’s when the weather is the driest!

Palm Springs, California, USA

Palm Springs is a city in the desert of southern California and known for it’s sunny climate, hot springs, stylish hotels and more! It’s shopping district along Palm Canyon Drive is home to vintage boutiques, interior design shops and restaurants.

It’s no surprise that Palm Springs is always on the list of best destinations to have a bachelorette party (which made it a shoe in for my best places to travel with friends list)! Between the perfect weather, fun shops and restaurants and outdoor activities there’s always something to do there with friends!

Palm Springs is truly a year round destination, but the best time to visit Palm Springs with friends is definitely from February, March, April October and November! During those months the average temperature during the day hovers in the 70s and 80s! The temperature during the summer months can reach over 100 degrees, but if your plan is to spend a majority of your trip in the pool then go for it!

Seattle, Washington, USA

Seattle is a city on the Puget Sound in the Pacific Northwest! Thanks to it’s ecological diversity and access to mountains, ocean, evergreen forests, city and islands it easily made it’s way on my list of best places to visit with friends!

Seattle is known for being the coffee capital. Also, the origin of grunge music and is home to famous landmarks like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market.

Seattle is also known for its rain! The rainy season in Seattle extends from October to March. So,, the best time to visit is definitely from mid-May to early October. However, if you want the true Seattle experience plan your trip during the Winter or Spring and don’t forget to pack your raincoat!

Bermuda is a British island territory located in the North Atlantic Ocean. It is known for it’s pink sand beaches, warm turquoise waters, rich cultural history, gorgeous reefs and more! Despite being only 21 square miles large, Bermuda is the perfect vacation spot. This is the case especially you live on the East Coast. it’s only an hour and a half flight from New York)!

While you’re there make sure to visit the Crystal and Fantasy Caves, St. David’s Lighthouse, Jobson’s Cove, Elbow Beach, Royal Naval Dockyard and more!

Many people assume Bermuda is in the Caribbean, but that’s actually not true! It’s actually location in the middle of the Atlantic (in line with Charleston, South Carolina to put it in perspective) and because of it’s location the best months to visit Bermuda are from May to October!

New York City, New York, USA

Being a lifetime New York resident I was actually hesitant on including NYC on this list. However, in the end I have to remember that not everyone is lucky enough to have grown up just a few miles outside the “greatest city in the world.” So, I had to include it on this list of best places to travel with friends!

New York City is the largest city in New York State (by far) and among the world’s major commercial, financial and cultural centers! It’s home many of America’s most famous landmark. It includes the Empire State Building, World Trade Center, Central Park, Times Square, Statue of Liberty and many, many more! It’s the city that never sleeps. There is no doubt that you and your friends would have the best time when you’re visiting no matter what your interests are!

Ogunquit, Maine, USA

I stopped in Ogunquit. It is a town on Maine’s southern coast during a New England road trip a few summers ago and loved it and vowed to go back! Ogunquit is a four square mile town defined by it’s sandy beaches, cliff walk with coastal views. It also has a lighthouse, vibrant art and theater scene and more!

If you’re looking for a place for a relaxing Summer vacation with friends Ogunquit is it! It’s easily one of the best vacation spots on the Maine Coast. Also, it is absolutely one of the best places with travel with friends.

Montreal, Canada

Montreal, Canada is one city I’ve never been to. However, it’s been on my list of places to visit for a long time. So, naturally it made it on my best places to travel with friends list! It’s the second most populated city in Canada (behind Toronto) and the largest city in Quebec. Montreal is culturally different than other cities in Canada. It’s sole official language is French and actually the second largest French speaking city in the world behind Paris!

Montreal is a great place to visit with friends because it’s easy to get around on foot so you can really explore! While you’re there make sure to visit Old Montreal, Notre-Dame Basilica, St. Joseph’s Oratory, Mont Royal and more.

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June 18, 2024 at 2:54 pm

I would love your itinerary or any info you want to share on the 10 day Spain trip and your Costa Rica trip! These are on my bucket list.

June 18, 2024 at 5:02 pm

You can find my entire Spain Itinerary on the Spain IG Story highlight on my Instagram profile =) I still haven’t been to Costa Rica

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Best Places To Travel With Friends

There’s nothing like grabbing a few special people and planning a great friend vacation. Finding the best vacation spots depends on what you are interested in.

Are your friends artsy or do they love to soak up the sun? Does there have to be an itinerary, or is “winging it” more your style? Is an international trip more your speed, or does a quick trip in the States make more sense? Planning a longer trip can be fun, but there’s something exciting about those spur-of-the-moment trips too!

We’ve compiled some of the best places to travel with friends, including the best beach vacations for a group of friends (sand and sun, anyone?). Since things are starting to open back up, it’s time to begin thinking about the best places to travel in 2023 to get the best dates and rates.

There are tons of things to do and see, and you may have a few special occasions in the works that call for a quick celebration trip. The key is getting those places on your radar to start filling in the blanks.

Life is meant to be lived fully among the people you love. Now grab your bucket list, because we’ve listed some of the best places to go on vacation with friends and all the destinations that will fill your memory books for years to come.

Best Places To Travel With Friends in the U.S.

If an international trip isn’t in the cards right now, there are tons of places to travel right here in the U.S. We’ve pinpointed the top three. Take a look:

Las Vegas, Nevada  – You’ve heard it before, and it’s true. Las Vegas is one of the best places to travel with friends in the U.S. and one of the best places to travel in your 20s in the U.S. It’s fairly inexpensive compared to other cities, and there’s a lot to do. Grab a show, check out the casino and get free drinks, walk the strip, go ziplining, and more. For a change of scenery, pick up a rental car and head out to  Hoover Dam , the  Grand Canyon ,  Red Rock Canyon , or the  Valley of Fire State Park .

Hawaii  – Hawaii is one of the best beach vacations for a group of friends in the USA. Think lush green trees and a photo op every few minutes. Island hop and enjoy the white, red, or black sand beaches, go see some movie locations, get the freshest pineapple in the world, and learn why Hawaii is a big deal. Whether a resort is on your radar or you want a more authentic experience, there is something for everyone, which makes it one of the best places to go on vacation with friends in the U.S.

New Orleans  – The Big Easy is a top destination and the perfect place to hang out with friends. From Bourbon Street to Mardi Gras in February, it’s full of restaurants and bars, is right on the water, and is an experience you should enjoy with friends.

Napa Valley  – If you’re looking for something “cultured” to do with your friends, head on over to Napa and experience wine in its true habitat. Tour the vineyards, do a wine tasting, and eat at some of the valley’s great restaurants. San Francisco is right around the corner, so you could possibly make it two trips in one!

Best Places To Travel With Friends Outside the U.S.

What’s better than traveling with friends? Some of the best places to travel with friends outside the U.S. are within reach and not that expensive. In fact, some of these destinations fall within the top 10 places to visit in the world:

Paris, France  – This is one of the best places to travel with friends in Europe, because who doesn’t want to experience a European vacation, right? The French capital has some of the most historical landmarks on the planet. Shop on the Champs-Elysees, lounge on the lawn at the  Eiffel Tower , visit the  Louvre Museum , and more.

Iceland  – If you’re looking for adventure and a breathtaking backdrop, add Iceland to your list. From the glaciers to the black sand beaches, there’s something to do and see every step of the way. The best part? You can visit Iceland any time of year and experience something different.

Barcelona, Spain  – Barcelona is another one on the list of the best places to travel in the world. With world-class food and charm, amazing architecture, historic landmarks, and a bustling nightlife, this destination is reasonable and fun.

Costa Rica  – Costa Rica is an untapped playground for friends featuring lush greenery, tropical beaches, rainforests, and more. Visit the volcanoes, go hiking, relax on the beautiful beaches, and zip line through the forest.

Italy  – When you’re considering trips outside of the U.S., Italy is a must-see as you’re traveling through Europe. Explore Rome, go sailing on Lake Como, take gorgeous pics on the Amalfi Coast, and enjoy all the food you can possibly eat. The architecture, ambiance, and friends are all you need.

Best Places To Travel With Friends Under 21

If you’re under 21 and looking for adventure, there are many destinations on the map that provide great entertainment and things to do:

Disney World  –  Disney World  in beautiful Orlando, Florida is one of the best places to travel with friends under 21. You get to relive your childhood right before you cross over into full adulthood. There are tons of theme parks in the area and other attractions, which makes it a great destination for a group of friends.

New York City  – The city that never sleeps is also one of the best places to travel under 21 that still allows you to have a great time. Visit the  Statue of Liberty , check out shows on Broadway, enjoy the food and lights in Times Square, and stroll through Central Park. There’s ALWAYS something to do in New York, no matter what time of year you go.

Best Cheap Places To Go on Vacation With Friends 

Ready to load up your friends and just go? That sounds great, but if your funds are limited, you need to find some cheap places to travel with your best friend. Here are a few suggestions:

Cancun, Mexico  – Cancun is high on the list of the best places to go on vacation with friends that’s cheap. Think about beautiful beaches and all the water sports you can handle, including snorkeling, sailing, swimming, boating, paddle boating, and more. The great part about Cancun is the resorts, which include everything you can imagine that gives you more for your money.

Dominican Republic  – The DR is one of the best places to travel in your 20s on a budget. You get to enjoy a beautiful Caribbean island, go hiking in the mountains, enjoy an all-inclusive resort, and imagine living life like that every day.

Atlantic City, New Jersey  – Atlantic City is known for being a great alternative to Las Vegas—and it has beaches, too! There are plenty of things to do in the city and when you’re tired out, lounge on the beach with a cocktail in hand.

Atlanta, Georgia  – Atlanta is one of those diamonds in the rough you might not think of as an ideal place for a quick trip, but there’s so much to do. Go to a concert, hike Stone Mountain, visit the  World of Coca-Cola , and more. There’s a lot of history in Atlanta that should be explored.

Best Places To Travel During COVID

Even in the midst of COVID-19, there are plenty of places you can travel with your friends. Many places have some kind of restrictions in place—especially countries with international travel restrictions—but by having your own precautions in place, you can still travel and have a good time.

Because COVID cases are constantly changing, the safest places to travel during COVID are frequently changing, too. A good rule of thumb is to check the country or state you are considering frequently leading up to your trip departure date.  This travel restrictions tool may help you in your research. Here are some of the best places to travel in the U.S. during COVID and abroad during COVID:

Colorado  – If you’re into nature, hiking, and camping, Colorado is a great destination due to its vast landscape that allows you to largely avoid other people. With a ton of monuments and historical locations, national parks, and trails, there is always something to do. Rocky Mountain and Mesa Verde are great places to explore, and if you’re up for the cold, they’re also beautiful locations for a winter visit.

Miami  – Ready to hit the beach year-round? Miami is your destination. While there are restrictions in place, it’s one of the cheap places to travel during COVID where you can get your money’s worth.

Antigua and Barbuda  – This beautiful country is a good place to visit if you’re in the mood for beaches and sand. An amazing friends’ trip destination, it has restrictions in place but has done a good job of keeping infection numbers down.

Be Sure to Explore These Related Resources:

• The Ultimate European Travel Guide
• Tips for Traveling without Knowing the Language
• Best Travel Destinations for Any Kind of Traveler
• Should I Get Travel Health Insurance for My Trip Abroad
• Group Travel Medical Insurance

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WorldTrips' Atlas Journey, Atlas Cruiser, and Atlas On-The-Go trip protection insurance products are underwritten by Tokio Marine HCC's U.S. Specialty Insurance Company (USSIC). USSIC is a Texas-domiciled insurance company operating on an admitted basis throughout the United States. Coverage is available to U.S. residents of the U.S. states and District of Columbia only. This plan provides insurance coverage that only applies during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home, and automobile insurance policies. Coverage may not be available in all states.

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65 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in St. Petersburg, Florida

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Nicknamed “The Sunshine City” for its year-round fine weather, St. Petersburg could be one of the best family-friendly places to vacation on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Endowed with gleaming white sands and tranquil clear waters, St Pete Beach is often voted one of the nicest in the country — the perfect place for sunbathing or paddleboarding. Its secluded barrier isles are an ideal place to get away from it all and a trip to its many lush parks and preserves are just some of the best things to do in St. Petersburg .

Explore up to 150 species of palm and cycads, as well as the nearly 500 different plants at Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum. Then, head to St. Pete Pier for the best green space near the sea!

The city has a thriving downtown district with a distinctly bohemian culture and many arts and cultural places to visit, including some of the country’s top museums and galleries.

The nearby cities of Tampa and Clearwater, with their world-famous theme parks and attractions, are always just a stone’s throw away. But what to do first?

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• St Petersburg tours

1 – Be astounded at The Dalí (Salvador Dalí Museum)

One of the 20th Century’s most genre-defying and vital artists, Salvador Dali’s work was as technically brilliant as it was unique. The Spanish-born artist revolutionized the art world with his surrealistic images and flamboyant personal flair.

The Dali Museum is a collection of thousands of items related to the great artist’s career.  Combining a spectacular purpose-built museum with exhibition areas, gardens, a cafe and a center for the avant-garde, this waterfront gallery is one of the most fun places to visit in St. Petersburg.

The James Family Wing holds the museum’s permanent collection of Dalí works, including 96 paintings created by the artist from 1918 to 1970 as well as holograms, sculptures and a lobster telephone.

2 – Cruise the historic city on a segway tour

Why take a bus tour when you can segway? Cruise the city streets on two wheels with these fun segway tours of historic St. Petersburg. Hit all the best sites, including the Victorian-style homes of the Old Northeast, the Tampa Bay area, and the St. Petersburg Museum of History.

Pick up some history on the area’s most famous residents, including the Native American princess Pocahontas, and see historic sites, including the departure point of the world’s first commercial flight, the St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat.

Though they may look tricky to maneuver, segways are suitable for everyone and you’ll get the hang of it in no time. Make the most of your time in St. Petersburg, Florida and explore the city on a fun and lively segway tour.

• segway tours in St. Petersburg

3 – Stroll along the St. Pete Pier

The new recreation center of the city, St. Pete Pier has a lot to discover, from shopping, dining and entertainment to sports and parks you’ll find it all here. Dine in style on the rooftop of Pier Teaki or grab a snack at the Driftwood Cafe.

Cool off from the summer heat at the Splash Pad or stroll around the Benoist Centennial Plaza before relaxing on the Bayfront Health Tilted Lawn, there’s something here for the whole family.

Take in the sea views and that fresh sea air as you check out some of the piers artworks, including the Morning Stars Mosaic, the water-inspired sculpture Olnetopia and the stunning net sculpture Bending Arc.

The pier is sure to be your new favorite place to go in St. Petersburg.

4 – Catch a Rays game at Tropicana Field

Home to the Major League Baseball team, The Tampa Bay Rays, Tropicana Field is a must-visit for sports fans while in St. Petersburg. Commonly referred to as “The Trop” by locals, the stadium is the only indoor venue in Major League Baseball capable of hosting events all year long.

• Tropicana Field tickets

As well as baseball games it has also hosted college basketball, football, and pro hockey tournaments. Some of the world’s biggest stars have also performed here including David Bowie, Janet Jackson and the rock group, Kiss.

Check out a Tampa Bay Rays game or see the website to find out what’s happening at The Trop during your time in St. Petersburg.

• Tampa Bay Rays tickets

5 – Find inspiration at the Museum of Fine Arts

For the avid art enthusiast, there’s one place to visit in the city that will appeal above all else – the Museum of Fine Arts . The permanent collection covers almost 5,000 years of human history and creativity and is represented in thousands of objects in various media.

Visitors can see ceramics and porcelains from all over the globe and the museum features a large collection of decorative arts as well as folk art, artworks from indigenous cultures and ceremonial pieces.

You will also find more traditional works such as paintings, sculptures and prints. It has a rotating program of temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collection and hosts a monthly series of lectures, talks and even cinema screenings. Art lovers won’t want to miss this one.

6 – Hike at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

If you would like to make the most of your time in St. Petersburg and explore the very best of the city’s natural landscape, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is a great place to start. It is home to the Lake Maggiore Environmental Education Centre which teaches visitors about the many natural marvels of the preserve.

Looking for a peaceful place to camp? The Terry Tomalin Campground offers primitive camping inside the nature preserve as well as organized nature camps and bike tours. This is especially great for young campers who can learn all about the fascinating web of nature and how it functions inside the preserve.

During your visit to Boyd Hill, why not join one of many nature programs. Take a night hike through the park or catch a speaking presentation on the natural history of the area. As well as its wild and unspoiled beauty, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve really has a full season of activities to enjoy.

7 – Soar over Tampa Bay on a helicopter tour

Okay, what could be better than a helicopter tour over St. Petersburg city and Tampa Bay? Enjoy the invigorating thrill of hovering high above the city on one of these unique helicopter cruises.

Take to the skies in an air-conditioned chopper and see the sites in a truly unique way. Glimpse famous landmarks such as St. Pete’s Pier, John’s Pass and Treasure Island as only a few people get to.

You will cruise over the sparkling waters of Tampa Bay and the luxury beachfront resort, Don CeSar. When soaring high above the barrier islands, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and other wildlife in the waters below. This is sure to be an experience you will never forget.

• helicopter tours in St. Petersburg

8 – Climb the Weedon Island Preserve observation tower

The huge 3,000-acre Weedon Island Preserve is a must-visit for nature lovers in St. Petersburg. Here you can explore the diverse wetland and upland ecosystems that make up important habitats for local plants and wildlife.

The park has a lot of great routes to hike and almost two miles of boardwalk trails, making it accessible to most people. Visitors can check out the preserve’s education center and even borrow a backpack full of useful trail maps and field guides.

You can follow the boardwalk trail through mangrove forests and tidal streams to the park’s observation tower, which on a clear day provides fantastic views of the preserve as well as Tampa Bay and the city’s of St.Petersburg and Tampa. Why not discover this serene slice of Florida countryside for yourself?

9 – Explore the Chihuly Collection at Morean Arts Center

The Morean Arts Center is a fun and engaging contemporary art space on St. Petersburg’s Central Avenue. It is open daily and puts on a series of art and creative classes, events and parties and also has an artist in residence program.

It houses the first permanent collection of works by American artist, Dale Chihuly in a purpose-built facility. Chihuly is known for his abstract and colorful glass constructions and has pioneered the production methods of elaborate glass artworks during his career. On entering, visitors to the gallery are met with a 20-foot sculpture created specifically for the site.

Admission is free, so why not take a class or explore the artworks during your time in the city. It could just be one of the best cultural things to do in St. Petersburg.

10 – Play and learn at Great Explorations Children’s Museum

If you’re looking for fun and educational things to do with kids in St. Petersburg, stimulate their curiosity at the Great Explorations Children’s Museum . Here they can meet the Explorasaurus and play and discover through interactive games and exhibits.

Try the augmented reality sandbox, where a regular sandbox becomes an entire world with gushing rivers and rocky mountains. Explore the creativity in all of us by imagining what simple tools like a pencil and paper can create.

Great Explorations puts on regular workshops with a focus on environmental topics as well as readings and discussions with authors. It also has a store that sells educational toys, of which 100% of the proceeds go back into the museum. Younger kids are sure to love this!

11 – Spot wildlife at Sawgrass Lake Park

Home to one of the largest Maple swamps on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sawgrass Lake Park is a haven for local and migratory wildlife. The park is home to many species of birds, including egrets, ibis, herons, and a few reptiles too, such as native turtles and alligators.

It is a popular stop for migrating birds in the spring and fall seasons and, as such, the park attracts a large number of bird spotters who are eager to catch a glimpse of rare wildlife.  It is also an ideal place to see plants and colorful butterflies in their natural habitats.

Why not bring some snacks and make use of the picnic shelter and barbecue facilities after taking a stroll along the boardwalk nature trail and enjoying the sights. Sawgrass Lake Park surely has something for everyone.

12 – Visit the Florida Holocaust Museum

Dedicated to remembering the millions of murdered men, women and children, Florida’s Holocaust Museum is one of the largest of its type in the country. It houses both permanent and temporary exhibitions and is a vital resource for learning about the horrors of the holocaust and the levels of persecution European Jewish people faced.

The museum was founded in 1992 by Walter P. Loebenberg, a local businessman and philanthropist. Loebenberg himself escaped Nazi Germany for Florida and then joined the United States Armed Forces to serve in World War II.

The poignant exhibitions include one of the few surviving boxcars which were used by the Nazis to transport Jews and political prisoners to the death camps of Auschwitz and Treblinka. It also keeps an archive of video interviews with holocaust survivors as an integral memento for future generations.

13 – Beat the clock in an escape room

One of the most fun things to do in St. Petersburg, for those who like thrills, puzzles and games in equal measure, is to try an escape room challenge! Gather together your team of friends and family and test your powers of deduction and problem-solving in one of these themed games.

Think outside the box as you solve problems and gather clues in these immersive adventure games. You’ll have to work together to make sure you crack all the puzzles in time and escape the room.

Outerlife Studios is one of the city’s premier escape rooms and allows visitors to choose from themed experiences and settings, including a superhero’s headquarters, a locked apartment with a ticking time bomb or a building set to burn. Will you complete the challenge in time?

• escape rooms in St. Petersburg

14 – Relax under the trees at North Straub Park

If the Florida sun is proving too much for you, why not take a stroll down to North Straub Park. Located on the bayfront between St. Pete’s Pier and 5th ave NE, the park has plenty of shady trees to lounge under, including some big old banyan trees with an unusual-looking aerial root system.

The park has plenty of shaded walkways so it’s the ideal place to go for a refreshing stroll in the cool ocean breeze. It also offers stunning views of the north shore and Tampa Bay and you can take a seat right on the waterfront to check out the yachts in the harbor.

Your four-legged friend needn’t miss out either as North Straub Park has a dedicated dog park and keep your eyes and ears open for year-round events and live music occurring on its permanent stage area.

15 – See gopher tortoises at Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge

Stuck out on its own in the mouth of Tampa Bay, Egmont Key has been an important ecological preserve since 1974. The island’s strategic position means it has played a major role in many domestic wars and includes the remains of Fort Dade as well as a 100-year-old lighthouse.

It is now an important nesting site for sea turtles, tortoises and hundreds of thousands of sea birds. A visitor favorite on the island is its large colony of gopher tortoises who definitely aren’t shy of people and can be seen trudging around the pathways and roads of Egmont Key State Park. Brown Pelicans are also a common sight in the area with over 600 of the birds calling the island home.

Egmont Key will be one of the most interesting things to do for nature and history lovers in St. Petersburg. Visitors can check out the historic Fort Dade and its large coastal gun battery, Battery McIntosh and the remains of Battery Burchsted, which now floats just off the island.

16 – Get your tickets to the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg

Taking place every March is the event of the year for car lovers in Florida – the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg !

Head down for a racing good time, witnessing the premier racing series of North America, as you learn about the seasoned drivers, and see some of the new talents on the race car scene. Experience one of the most beloved sports in the U.S.!

Do some celebrity spotting while you’re in attendance, and check out the other tons of fun available at the event. Listen to the live entertainment, participate in interactive and race car-themed games, and so much more!

Chill out a bit after the fun at the Speed Zone, or better yet, get to the Beer Gardens for a proper refreshment. Don’t leave without getting your driver’s autograph!

• Grand Prix of St. Petersburg tickets

17 – Go fishing at Skyway Fishing Pier State Park

St.Petersburg is home to a very unique and cool fishing spot in the shadow of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge which spans Tampa Bay. When the Sunshine Skyway was built in the mid-1980s, the old bay bridge was left in place and quickly became popular with local anglers.

It is now considered the world’s longest fishing pier and gives fishermen unrestricted access to the deeper bay waters. What’s better still is that you can drive your car right up to your favorite fishing spot, pretty neat!

You can catch a wide selection of fish here. Common varieties caught at the pier include grouper, Spanish mackerel, red snapper and black sea bass and the bridge is even lit up after dark so you can fish late into the evening.

18 – Check out The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art

Yeehaw! The James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art is enough to make even the most skeptical of souls feel patriotic. Its collection features contemporary works, mostly created since the 1980s and includes, paintings, sculptures, jewelry and more.

Many of the themes include historical subjects and recently the museum has focused on a selection of works by living Native American artists. It has separate exhibition spaces devoted to the early west, native life, western frontier and wildlife among others.

The collection of jewelry produced by Native American artists is particularly stunning as well as the diverse and dynamic sculptures depicting powerful images of the old west. Definitely check this museum out during your time in St. Petersburg and renew your appreciation for the good ol’ US of A.

19 – Go kayaking at St. Pete Beach

Consistently voted one of the best beaches in the United States, St Pete’s Beach really has it all. Pure and soft white sands, turquoise water and a relaxed and laid-back vibe, what more could you need?

St Pete’s Beach is a great place for families to relax with the calm gentle gulf waters which are perfect for bathing, and action is just a step away. With fun sports to try right here on the beach such as snorkeling, kayaking and standup paddleboarding there’s enough to amuse those who just can’t sit still.

The beach is located just 10 minutes from downtown St. Petersburg, so you’re never far from the lively city center. Hit the beachfront bars and restaurants to try out the best fresh seafood dishes or stroll along the waterfront at sunset to experience the best of this low-key beach town.

• kayaking in St. Petersburg

20 – Take a boat out from Demens Landing Park

Another of the city’s fantastic waterfront green spaces, Demens Landing Park occupies the space which was formerly the city’s first railway pier. It is named after its creator, Peter Demens.

Laying directly on the waterfront between the Central and South Yacht Basins and in close distance to the AI Lang Stadium and Saturday Morning Market, this park is in the most bustling part of the city’s harbor. It has plenty of benches to sit and relax on as well as large green spaces if you want to throw a frisbee around.

If you plan to venture out onto the water while in the city, the park is a good launch point and has a boat ramp that is available for use. There are also picnic benches and public restrooms. This centrally located park is a great place to visit and soak up the atmosphere.

21 – Explore the Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum

It’s hard to believe that the lush 2-acre tropical gardens of Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum were a mini-golf course not so long ago. This beautiful collection of exotic palms is well worth a visit during your time in the city.

The transformation began in 1976 after a donation of 60 palms of ten different species was gifted by longtime palm admirer, Miss Gizelle Kopsick. The Arboretum was dedicated to Miss Kopsick one year later to celebrate her 100th Birthday.

Over nearly 50 years, the collection has grown to include 150 species of palm and cycads and 500 individual plants. The arboretum is wheelchair accessible and as part of St. Petersburg’s city parks, is free admission.

You’ll never have to go far to find amazing history here, and the Jungle Prada Site is a particularly compelling spot.

After all, it was here that some of Florida’s earliest residents made their homes!

22 – Learn some unique stories on the Jungle Prada Site history tour

The Tocobaga tribe was a major influence in the region for centuries, and some of their ceremonial mounds are still intact today.

You’ll get to see these remarkable constructions up close, and spend some quality time exploring the remnants of their daily lives, as well as the impact of Spanish colonization in the 1500s.

You’ll even be able to look at many of the items used by those long-gone locals!

• Parasailing in St. Petersburg

23 – See amazing Contemporary glass art at Imagine Museum

The newly opened Imagine Museum is one of the first institutions dedicated solely to contemporary glass art in the US. Its collection includes over 1,500 pieces from all over the world as well as a core collection of 500 American studio glass artworks.

This inspiring museum is sure to uplift everyone who visits as it stretches our concept of the applications of glass as a material. The unique pieces collected here display the ingenuity of the individual artists and the wide range of techniques applied in the modern studio glass scene.

The museum displays both permanent and temporary exhibitions and visitors can opt to join a tour of the gallery to gain a deeper insight into the artworks on display. This is a must-see for art lovers but the pieces on display have a diverse appeal that will be fascinating and beautiful to most people.

Definitely check this out.

• Imagine Museum tickets

24 – Cycle the Pinellas Trail

Whatever your preferred way to explore outdoors, be it jogging, walking, cycling or skating — you are bound to enjoy the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail. The trail starts in St. Petersburg and runs all the way to Tarpon Springs, covering a distance of 50 miles.

The trail runs through a number of towns on the way including South Pasadena, Palm Harbor and Clearwater. This unique and level passageway used to be the route of the Atlantic Coast Line and Seaboard Air Line Railroads which were abandoned in the 1980s.

Why not take a bike tour of the city to learn a little more about its history and the best places to cycle and walk. The Pinellas Trail has some super-scenic stops to visit along the way including Honeymoon Island near Dunedin and Wall Springs Park in Palm Harbor.

• bike tours in St. Petersburg

25 – Sunbathe at Fort De Soto Park

Pinellas County’s largest public park, Fort De Soto Park covers over 1,100 acres and has a huge amount of things to see and do.

The park is spread out over five islands sitting in the mouth of Tampa Bay and features coastal areas, wetlands, forests and meadows, as well as one of the region’s finest beaches. You’ll find plenty here to explore.

Wildlife lovers can spend the day spotting the wide variety of creatures that live in the area. Since the 1960s, 328 species of bird have been documented in the park. Visitors can hike over six miles of trails that stretch between both coasts and past the historic fort.

The park also has over seven miles of waterfront, almost half of which is blanketed with white sandy beaches, two fishing piers and a canoe trail. With two large swim centers, picnic areas and campgrounds, as well as the Quartermaster Museum, you’ll definitely fall in love with Fort De Soto Park.

26 – Spot manatees at Coffee Pot Bayou

The scenic waterfront road, Coffee Pot Boulevard, which skirts by Coffee Pot Bayou has picturesque views of Snell Isle and could be one of the most enchanting spots in St. Petersburg for a stroll.

The Bayou is a great year-round place to spot manatees but especially in the cooler months of the year when the water remains warmer than the surrounding Gulf of Mexico.

The area has charming old waterfront homes with European and Spanish designs and cool tree-lined avenues to explore. The walk over Snell Isle Bridge offers nice views of the historical Renaissance Vinoy Resort and the upmarket neighborhood of Snell Isle.

27 – Pet an alligator at Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center

Ever wanted to get up close to an alligator? Well now’s your chance! The Alligator and Wildlife Discovery Center allows visitors to do just that, you can even kiss one if you really want to?!

The center offers shelter and rehabilitation to surrendered gators that were bought as pets and outgrew their homes. Visitors get the unique opportunity to see alligators up close and pet and hold them under careful supervision.

Though the primary draw of the Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center is going to be alligators, there are also plenty of other creatures to get up close to. The center is home to a bunch of unusual and interesting residents including fish, snakes, skunks, lizards, pigs and more.

Don’t forget to show them some love!

28 – Treat yourself to a Yacht dinner cruise

Time to treat yourself like a rock star – with the perfect watercraft to match! Yachts are the perfect way to enjoy this beautiful region, taking you on a luxurious trip around the Gulf.

Live music will add a little extra pizzazz to the trip, as you gaze out at all of the breathtaking views around you. And it’s an especially lovely option in the evenings, when the vivid sunset forms a backdrop like no other.

As an added bonus, there are optional dining packages that offer up some of the finest meals in town for you to savor – and the perfect nautical venue!

• Dinners in St. Petersburg

29 –  Bike around Maximo Park

Located on Boca Ciega Bay, Maximo Park is both a beautiful waterfront park and also an important archeological site in the city. For thousands of years, the park was home to indigenous American people who fished and lived on these shores. There is information throughout the park about the tribes that once settled here.

Why not take some time to rest under the shady trees and play a game of Tocobaga Disc golf on the specially built 18-hole course. Explore the boardwalk trails and climb the 50-foot observation tower to glimpse some amazing panoramic views of the park.

For the keen fisherman, the park has seven boat ramps giving access to the bay water as well as shoreline fishing areas for those who prefer it. There is also a large selection of picnic shelters available and two playgrounds which is sure to keep the kids entertained.

Maximo Park has something for everyone.

30 – Climb aboard a family-friendly pirate ship

Hoist the sails, don the eyepatch, and get ready for an adventure above the towering Royal Conquest pirate ship! Setting sail from Madeira Beach on Gulf Boulevard (just a short drive north of Treasure Island and St Pete Beach), this stunning vessel promises an amazing day out on the Gulf of Mexico waters for kids and adults alike.

The youngsters can compete in limbo contests, work up a sweat during a little dance party, or cool off in a squirt gun battle — the crew runs interactive activities throughout the 90-minute journey, sure to keep the little ones occupied.

As for the big kids (read: adults), things get even more exciting with the free onboard beer and wine. With several departure times throughout the day (11 am, 1.30 pm, 4.30 pm and 7 pm), you can squeeze it in regardless of your schedule! But ask any former swashbuckling traveler and they’ll attest: the sunset ride is hard to beat.

• pirate ship cruises in St. Petersburg

31 – Camp at Shell Key Preserve

Part of the reason people return to St. Petersburg year after year is for the abundance of unspoiled natural environments it offers, Shell Key Preserve is one such place. An important habitat for nesting birds, Shell Key Preserve includes one of Florida’s biggest areas of undeveloped barrier Islands.

The center of the reserve is a protected area, so not accessible to visitors, but the outer edges have overnight camping facilities which offer the perfect place to really get away from it all. Sleep out under the stars to the sound of the sea lapping the shore and the gentle cry of birds. Paradise!

The Preserve is a great place for wildlife spotting and is a nesting site for sea turtles. Besides turtles, visitors may be lucky enough to spot starfish and fiddler crabs as well as egrets, spoonbills and plovers. Shell Key Preserve is accessible only by boat so plan ahead. Its beautiful beaches are waiting.

32 – Ride the Iron Gwazi at Bush Gardens Tampa

Busch Gardens hardly needs any introduction. This Tampa Theme Park and Zoo has been entertaining visitors for over 60 years with its thrilling white-knuckle rides and attractions. Its newest ride, Iron Gwazi, is the tallest hybrid roller coaster in North America as well as the fastest and steepest in the world.

If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can choose from 25+  nausea-inducing roller coasters that will spin you every which way around. For those that like the more sedate life, take a safari ride and view some of the park’s 200 species of animals, including rhinos, elephants and gorillas.

After a busy day of thrills and spills why not take in some live family entertainment. Busch Gardens has jaw-dropping ice skating extravaganzas, storytime shows for kids, and live music by No.1 tribute bands. A day at Busch Gardens is one of the most action-packed things to do in St. Petersburg and is something the whole family will love.

• Bush Gardens tickets

33 – Pay your respects at War Veterans Memorial Park

The sight of a Walker Bulldog tank may not be the most reassuring thing to see in a park but War Veterans Memorial Park is dedicated to honoring the memory of its Military Veterans.

The park has five dedications, one for each branch of the United States Armed Forces. It also has a battlefield cross monument dedicated to the 18 local members of the armed forces who died in the Gulf War.

The park has some nature trails to explore as well as a playground for the kids and even a boat ramp. Check it out while you’re in the area.

Fun fact! The Bulldog tank you see on entering the park is actually a four-man tank from the Korean War era and was built by Cadillac!

34 – Explore the colorful world of Fairgrounds St. Pete

Those expecting Ferris wheels and funhouses won’t be disappointed for long. Fairgrounds St. Pete is an immersive and explorable art and technology exhibition that is a collaboration of 60 artists. It’s a very unique attraction and you won’t find anything like this elsewhere in the state of Florida.

The perfect place to escape reality, even if just for a while, this playful self-contained world has exhibits based on the weird and wonderful stories and history of the region. It allows you to choose your own interaction and offers visitors multiple ways to engage.

This colorful and abstract world will draw you into its narrative, divulging small chunks of information piece by piece until you are hooked. You may find yourself returning to Fairgrounds St. Pete again and again.

35 – Unwind (with a drink in hand) on a tiki boat!

Bringing the laid-back vibe of the tropics to Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tiki Boat tours are all about the open-air party lifestyle.

Each tour runs for between 90 minutes and two hours and is fully equipped with a sound system, coolers and a licensed captain — so all you need to do is BYO food, drinks, and party hats (even if they’re metaphorical), and you’ll be all set.

Whether it’s a birthday, bachelor party, or even something as simple as a family outing on the water, these quirky vessels promise a great couple hours on the later (especially if you set sail in the late afternoon, in time to catch a sunset).

• tiki boat cruises in St. Petersburg

36 – Crack up with the stand-up talent at Spitfire Comedy House

From sketch, stand-up, and improv, enjoy the different comedic stylings of St. Petersburg’s local comedians as well as national ones at the Spitfire Comedy House !

The shows are typically held Friday-Saturday nights, with some shows taking place on Thursdays and Sundays as well, making it the perfect activity to do in St. Petersburg!

Enjoy a variety of shows, from a 40s-style murder mystery improv musical to a freeform comedy showcase, and interactive comedy shows where the audience participates!

If you’re feeling up for it afterward, you can ask about the improv comedy classes that the club offers to build up your own comedy chops!

With a seating capacity of up to 40 people, enjoy the shows in a small group setting. Children can attend, but it is held at the discretion of parents.

37 – Discover handmade beauty at the Museum of the American Arts & Crafts Movement

If you need the inspiration to take up a craft, this is where you’ll find it. Step into a showcase of some of America’s best arts, pottery, textiles and more at the Museum of the American Arts and Crafts Movement .

This unique museum is dedicated to the movement that spread across America in the late 1800s and early 1900s, as more people turned to creating their own crafted pieces in retaliation against the mass-produced items of the industrial era.

It features over 2,000 items in a stunning gallery that includes a restaurant, cafe and a children’s gallery that will entertain the kids. Admire the furniture, lighting, photography, tiles and jewelry that Americans created and expressed themselves through.

Located in downtown St. Petersburg, the Museum of the American Arts and Crafts Movement will take you on a journey through the beauty of everything handmade.

38 – Start your weekend with a bang at St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market

One of the most fun things to do in St. Petersburg on a weekend is to drop by the Saturday Morning Market . Start your day the right way with freshly cooked food, locally farmed groceries and live music.

With over 120 vendors on site selling everything from fresh vegetables, meats and cheeses, teas and coffees and even artisan vegan popsicles, you know you’ll find something here you’re gonna love. The market also has stalls selling freshly cooked international dishes so you better bring your appetite.

Pick up some jewelry from one of the artisan craft stalls or choose some locally produced chocolates as a souvenir of your time in St. Petersburg. A trip to the Saturday Morning Market is a must-do thing while in the city and you can find it opposite Pioneer Park and a stone’s throw from Demen’s Landing.

39 – Spot dolphins at play on a boat tour

The calm waters of Florida’s Gulf Coast offer some of the country’s best conditions for boating. The gentle currents and clear green waters, which are lit up by year-round sparkling sunshine, may make you feel like you’ve found paradise on Earth.

One of the most fun things to do in St. Petersburg is to take a boat tour of the surrounding coastline. There are so many different tours to try that there is bound to be something to suit your tastes. Are you an adventurous speedboat kind of traveler, or a laid-back tiki bar boat kind of person?

Maybe you want to explore under your own steam on a kayak or go out to the deeper waters to spot dolphins playing in the surf? There are so many options you are really spoiled for choice.

Simply choose your departure point, whether from St. Petersburg, Tampa or nearby Clearwater and then enjoy the cruise. This is what St. Pete’s vacays are all about!

• dolphin watching in St. Petersburg

40 – Watch the sunset at Albert Whitted Park

With its privileged position at the southern end of St. Petersburg’s downtown seafront district, Albert Whitted Park has uninterrupted views of those spectacular Florida sunsets. The park is located near the airport and has an airplane-themed children’s playground.

It gained its name from the man who brought commercial aviation to the city in the early 1900s. With beautiful views of the yacht marina as well as some of the city’s most attractive buildings, including The Dalí Museum and Mahaffey Theater, this quiet park is a great place to just kick back and relax.

On busier days it’s a good place to watch the city’s Firestone Grand Prix or catch sight of old-fashioned biplanes taking off and landing at the nearby waterfront airport.

41 – Set sail on a magical sunset cruise

Relaxing, beautiful, and oh-so-very romantic, a St. Pete’s sunset cruise sells itself as the perfect way to end a long day of Florida sightseeing.

Hop aboard a luxurious yacht and take in some of the most incredible views St. Petersburg has to offer — from its striking buildings and sandy shorelines, to the colorfully illuminated Skyway Bridge.

With several companies offering these trips — whether it’s with a group of fellow travelers on a 45-foot modern catamaran or a private charter in an intimate sailboat — you can choose an evening cruise that suits your schedule (and budget).

And for something extra special, there are companies who make a point of venturing into high-traffic dolphin areas!

• sunset cruises in St. Petersburg

42 – See the baseball collection at the St. Petersburg Museum of History

It may seem like a dubious title but St. Petersburg’s Museum of History is home to the world’s largest collection of autographed baseballs. It has 4,999 signed baseballs in its collection, including balls autographed by four US Presidents and even Fidel Castro.

Why not 5,000 you ask? The plan is for Hollywood legend, Tom Hanks, to sign the 5,000th baseball when pandemic measures allow it. More than just a baseball collection though, the museum uses these autographed trophies to tell key moments in the country’s history and tell the story of modern American achievements.

There is even a baseball signed by the first man on the moon, Neil Armstrong, how is that for iconic! The museum also has an archive of thousands of photos and over 30,000 artifacts in its collection. Take a look around this fascinating museum during your time in the city.

43 – Float between sky and sea on a parasailing trip

If you happen to be strolling around Madeira Beach, you might spot something unusual: floating humans! But don’t worry, this is no apparition; it’s just some folks enjoying a bit of parasailing… and trust us, you’ll soon want to join them!

After all, it isn’t every day that you can get strapped to a giant parachute and hover above the surface of the sea!

Go by yourself or a couple of travel buddies, and embark on an unforgettable journey that lets you briefly experience a true bird’s eye view of your surroundings.

With an expert captain driving the boat and the wind as your co-pilot, you can enjoy your bit of sky time!

44 – Drive the Sunshine Skyway Bridge

While in St. Petersburg you have to take a cruise over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge to see the exceptional views of Tampa Bay and the nearby cities.

Constructed in the late-1980s to cross Tampa Bay, after the old bridge was badly damaged and collapsed, the current Sunshine Skyway Bridge spans from St. Petersburg South to the north of Terra Ceia. The bridge extends for over 4 miles and at places is towers 190 feet above the water to give the necessary clearance for boats traveling beneath it.

This iconic sight on the Tampa Bay skyline is the second bridge on the site to be named the Sunshine Skyway, the first one was built in the 1960s. Why not take an aerial tour of the bay to and get see the bridge from above? Join a helicopter or light aircraft tour for a unique tour you’ll never forget.

Tip: Be sure to stop by in the evening to enjoy the spectacular Skyway light show !

45 – Be amazed by glass art at Duncan McClellan Gallery

St. Petersburg is the place to be for glass art. The Duncan McClellan Gallery is another of the city’s major exhibitions of studio glass and it resides in the most unlikely of places.

Based in a former fish and tomato packing facility, its 7,800 square feet of exhibition space displays work by some of the leading internationally known glass artists. Be sure to stop by the hot shop to watch some artisans creating their latest masterpieces!

An intrinsic part of the St. Pete art community, the Gallery is located in the center of the city’s Warehouse Art District. It houses work by dozens of artists and hosts regular exhibitions of contemporary glass art.

46 – Soak up the Florida sun on a boat tour

Enjoy the sunset views from the Gulf of Mexico, as you board the St. Petersburg, Florida: Sunset and Skyway Lights Boat Tour. See as the golden sun sets behind the water, and the lights of the Skyway Bridge begin as you enjoy fresh fruit and refreshments.

The S. Saint Petersburg Pier to Egmont Key Cruise is a 60-minute ferry ride to the stunning Egmont Key. Enjoy views of the turquoise waters, and nature around. Once at Egmont Key, you’ll enjoy 2 hours on its shores to explore the historic lighthouse, nature, and wildlife.

And of course, no Floridian trip would be complete without a few dolphin-watching cruises, where you can keep an eye out for energetic pods at play!

• boat tours in St. Petersburg

47 – Take a run in Vinoy Park

In a perfect position looking out over Tampa Bay, Vinoy Park is one of the city’s most visited attractions. It hosts some of the city’s major outdoor shows like the Tampa Bay Blues and Reggae Rise Up music festivals, The Festivals of Speed Car Show and food fests throughout the year.

featuring lengthy trails throughout, it’s an ideal place to walk or cycle and if you’re looking for somewhere to take your morning run, this place can’t be beaten. The cool breezes blowing in off the bay and sea views are sure to give you all the inspiration you need to get outside and run.

48 – Cruise the bay on a jet boat

A surefire way to see bottlenose dolphins in Tampa Bay is to take a ride on the Dolphin Racer speedboat . Cruise the beaches and waterways of the Gulf Coast on these thrilling and fun adventure rides.

The local population of bottlenose dolphins are a curious bunch and are drawn to the Dolphin Racer as it powers through the bay. They love to play and surf in the boats wake and jump alongside to catch a glimpse of the people onboard.

The trips last for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours and features narration from the team members. The crew is so confident that you will spot dolphins that they even offer a free ride to those who don’t. What are you waiting for?

• Speed boat in St Petersburg

49 – Explore the lush and tranquil Sunken Gardens

A tropical paradise in the middle of the city, The Sunken Gardens has been wowing visitors to the area for 100 years. It contains some of the best established tropical plants in the region and its collection includes 50,000 specimens including plants, flowers and grasses.

This tropical wonderland was created as a hobby garden by a local plumber in the early 1900s on a six-acre piece of land that formerly held a lake. The rich and fertile soil of the lake bed made the perfect environment for The Sunken Gardens botanical collection.

Visitors can explore its landscaped miniature waterfalls and flowing ponds and see the gardens flock of pink Florida flamingos. Visiting this secret garden in the midst of the busy city might be one of the most invigorating things to do in St. Petersburg and is sure to be a big hit with nature lovers.

50 – Shop, eat and relax at John’s Pass presented by Nathan Shirk Realty

If you’re looking for a one-stop destination for shopping, dining and entertainment in St. Petersburg, John’s Pass will likely fit the bill. With stores selling everything from clothing, apparel and jewelry to sweets, collectibles and Cuban cigars, there’s a lot to see here.

Take a family tour with lunch on the triple decked ship, Calypso Breeze , or board a tiki bar boat for a relaxing booze cruise around the bay. Try your hand at fishing or visit Splash Harbor Water Park for a wild afternoon on the slides.

Afterward, hit up one of the cafes or restaurants to grab a bite to eat and an invigorating coffee or cold beer. The choices are huge and you’re sure to find great fresh seafood, tasty grill and barbecue dishes and all your fast food favorites.

51 – See a live show at Duke Energy Center for the Arts – Mahaffey Theater

On the downtown waterfront within a stone’s throw of The Dalí and the Museum of Fine Arts is one of the city’s largest and finest performing arts venues. The Mahaffey Theater opened its doors in 1965 and has been the place to go in St. Pete for live performances of all types.

Now known as The Duke Energy Center for the Arts, Mahaffey Theater hosts, on any given week, orchestral concerts, Broadway musicals and plays, stand-up comedy shows and touring live bands. Its position at the heart of the city’s waterfront makes it a beautiful venue to visit at any time of the year.

• The Duke Energy Center for the Arts tickets

52 – Revel at the bungalows and landscapes at Historic Kenwood

Step back over 100 years just a few minutes from Downtown St. Petersburg. Historic Kenwood is a charming neighborhood with bungalows built in the 1920s when real estate in Florida first flourished.

Stroll along brick sidewalks and imagine the old times, as you admire their well-kept landscapes and rows of trees lining the streets. You can time your visit during the Bungalow Fest in November when the homeowners open their doors and give tours to visitors.

See amazing gardens and get some inspiration, while checking out independent locally-owned coffee shops, restaurants, bars and boutique stores. This eclectic place has something for everyone — even for your furry friend like The Dog Bar . If you want to fully experience the vibe of Historic Kenwood, you can stay for a night or more at the art deco Avalon Hotel less than a two-minute drive from the neighborhood.

Hollander Hotel is also highly recommended and has over 20 craft beers and delicious cuisine to indulge yourself in at the Tap Room and Grill. Courtyard St. Petersburg Downtown is a historic hotel with modern amenities that is sure to tick all the boxes.

53 – Pick your aperitivo at Mazzaro’s Italian Market

Mazzaro’s started out as a coffee roasting business nearly 30 years ago and soon became the locals’ go-to place for anything Italian — stopping by here is one of the essential things to do in St. Petersburg and you won’t leave empty-handed for sure.

This Italian deli has got everything you need to satisfy your Mediterranean cravings such as coffee, wine, cured meats, cheeses, handmade pasta, pizza, bread, pastries, gelato and many more!

Mazzaro’s cellars include the largest selection of Italian wines in Florida. Not sure which wine to bring home? Join one of the free wine tasting sessions every Friday and Saturday lunchtime and get top recommendations from the staff.

54 – Scour the city on a scavenger hunt

Looking for a fun way to explore the city? Why not try a scavenger hunt to discover the best of St. Petersburg’s highlights. Gather together your team and hit the streets for a unique self-guided game experience.

This activity takes the tourist experience to the next level, turning the whole town into a treasure map of knowledge.

Simply download the app and follow clues and directions to locations around the city. Here you will have to use your eyes and intuition to answer trivia questions and solve puzzles. Uncover the history of the city, explore at your own pace and enjoy working together in these light-hearted and informative challenges.

• scavenger games in St. Petersburg

55 – Shop retro at ARTpool Gallery – Vintage Clothing Boutique & Vinyl Record Store

If you love to shop for vintage, retro and kitsch items, you’re gonna love ARTpool . This independent gallery, clothing boutique and record store is one of the most fun places to visit in the city to pick up those pre-loved gems from a bygone era.

The gallery portion is not restricted to paintings and prints but reflects the eclectic tastes of its owners. In fact, you may find something here that is so unique it defies explanation. The vinyl record store is a great complement to the vintage clothing on offer and will appeal to the crate diggers and record enthusiasts.

ARTpool hosts regular creative get-togethers and a monthly independent craft market. Beware though, you may come out with something fun and frivolous which you didn’t expect.

56 – Take in a show at Jannus Live

Music enthusiasts, rejoice!

This beloved venue, which opened in 1984, hosts an endless array of concerts, from the large to the up-and-coming and everything in between.

And in true Floridian fashion, it’s all outdoors, letting you breathe in that nice, warm air as you jam out to new and old favorites.

2,000 people can celebrate together here on any given night, but be aware that it is standing room only.

Heck, you might even catch a new DJ or other performer!

• Jannus Live tickets

57 – See rescued otters at St. Petersburg’s aquariums

If you toured the bays and beaches of the region and want to see its most spectacular sea creatures up close, St. Pete has some excellent aquariums to visit.

See rescued native sea creatures at Clearwater Marine Aquarium , including dolphins, sharks, sea turtles and pelicans. Many of the creatures here were in some way injured and cannot be returned to the wild but are well looked after in purpose-built habitats. The aquarium also has freshwater creatures such as its adorable river otters, Walle and Boomer.

The area’s other large facility, The Florida Aquarium , has some fascinating exhibits with native and exotic wildlife habitats. Visit the jungles of Madagascar to see lemurs and tomato frogs, then go deep beneath the sea to witness the elegant dance of the moon jellyfish.

58 – Tour the best craft breweries

After a long day of exploring and beachcombing, you might just be in the mood to check out some of the city’s best craft brews — and where better to go than straight to the source.

3 Daughters Brewery is a great place to start. Sample some of its fruity IPA’s flavored with Florida oranges, mango and watermelon. It also does some more traditional blonde ales, red ales and porters and has a bar with over 40 brews on tap.

For a selection of great beers and whiskies paired with hearty barbecue dishes, URBAN Brew and BBQ is the place to go. This Central Avenue restaurant is family and dog friendly and has a laid-back and relaxed ambiance. This is a great place for bourbon and whisky lovers with a large selection to choose from.

The Cider Press Cafe has a good choice of local and international beers, wines and ciders and also serves up a wide selection of light lunches and snacks. It is a good centrally located place to pick up beers and wines to go.

59 – Experience exciting flavors at the locals’ favorite restaurants

Satisfying your taste buds is part of the deal when you’re in town. Make sure to try some of the best restaurants and their unique and modern take on the traditional cuisine highlighting local ingredients —  including, of course, the best fresh seafood.

Head to Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille – Jungle Terrace to enjoy an incredible assortment of seafood and traditional Caribbean cuisine – plus some excellent beverages, of course!

Craving for a home-cooked meal? Famous for its fried chicken, PoFolks Restaurant is known for homestyle Southern cooking whether you want vegetables, catfish or barbecue grilled dishes. Give in to your cravings for fish, steak or chicken in its “all you can eat” on Fridays and weekends.

For classic Mexican dishes and cocktails, Red Mesa Cantina has fantastic traditional dishes and a wide selection of tequila. Taste the Shrimp Los Cabos served with avocado, cilantro, sweet tomato cocktail sauce and fresh tortilla chips. Dine next to the fountain in its outdoor courtyard and enjoy the delightful flavors this family-owned restaurant has to offer.

A local favorite, Bodega on Central is a “hole in the wall” known for its Cuban sandwiches and freshly squeezed fruit juices. Locals also recommend its delicious platters which you can diversify according to your preference (including vegan and vegetarian options). Check out the “Frita of the Month”, a Cuban-style hefty burger with exciting toppings.

60 – Take a trolley pub crawl

If you want to sample the St. Pete nightlife, you should definitely try a pub crawl of the city’s best pubs and bars. You could walk, or you could hop on to one of the city’s fun and rowdy trolley tours.

Join other party-goers to pedal your way around the city, stopping at the best drinking holes on the way. Pick up a little history from your trolley captain and best of all, don’t worry about driving.

It’s a wonderful way to make new friends, and get a taste of how and where the locals like to party!

• pub crawls in St. Petersburg

61 – Huck some blades at Hatchet Hangout

Raise your blade and keep your eye on the target – ax throwing is serious business at Hatchet Hangout !

Ok, technically it’s entertaining business; after all, the most important part of this activity is having as much fun as possible with your family and friends.

But let’s face it, the element of competition is equally important, as you duke it out to see who can hit the most bullseyes.

And while the prospect of flinging blades around might seem daunting, this low-key venue is focused on safety as much as fun, with friendly staff standing by to show you the best techniques.

After that, you just have to channel your inner lumberjack and perfect your aim!

62 – Have a drink in the best rooftop bars

Where better to while away those sunny Florida evenings than in the city’s best rooftop bars. Enjoy the sunset over a cold beer or cocktail and start your evening the right way.

360 Rooftop Lounge , located atop Hotel Zamora, is a popular choice for beverages thanks to its namesake views, with the Gulf of Mexico perfectly laid out in front of you.

Some of the city’s other great rooftop bars include Pier Teaki , at the end of the 2nd Ave NE Pier, Level 11 over at St. Pete Beach and The Cambria Hotel at Madeira Beach. Wherever you choose to go, you’ll be greeted with beautiful sea views to make an evening worth remembering.

63 – Play an infinite number of games at Laser Ops

Space battles, archery, and Pac-Man… oh my!

Laser Ops is an electronic wonderland that is the place to go for endless hours of fun, with electronic games and immersive activities that span the breadth and depth of arcade history.

Along with classic games and some incredible VR experiences, you can dive into some wonderfully nerdy sporting endeavors.

Take a crack at post-apocalyptic combat with laser tag, where you’ll weave your way through 8,000 square feet of wasteland and try to outwit your rivals.

Or set your sights on some very different targets with a round of Archery Tag, where you’ll channel your inner Robin Hood and fire arrows at each other – foam ones, of course.

And don’t miss the rowdy fun of Bazooka Ball, a hybrid option where you fire orbs from air cannons – or run around trying to avoid them!

64 – Enjoy all the fun for hours at the Historic Manhattan Casino

Step in for a fun time at the Historic Manhattan Casino, located in the lively Grand Central District. Historically known as a meeting space since the mid-20s, the casino has been renovated to reflect modern times while maintaining its community and history intact.

Check out the many things to do inside, from eating your heart out at the food hall to enjoying the soirees that take place here.

Check out the packed calendar, where you can attend everything from film screenings and watch parties, to the dozens of opportunities to join fun mixer events, comedy shows, private concerts, fashion shows, and so much more!

Locals recommend visiting for Sunday brunch as well, or the Jazz concerts on Saturday.

65 – Have a laugh at the Bonkerz Comedy Club

Making St. Petersburg and the country laugh since 1984, the Bonkerz Comedy Club has won the hearts of many, including a few celebrities, as one of their favorite comedy clubs, originally started in St. Petersburg.

The Bonkerz Comedy Club is one of the main comedy venues in Florida, so if you’re looking for a good show, you’ll find it here! The club hosts many celebrity comedians, as well as locals, from pop culture comedy to crude comedy, and relatable comedy – it’s all here!

Shows are typically held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month, so be sure to plan ahead!

Pro tip: Buy your ticket ahead of time to receive a $2 discount! Also, seats are first come first serve, so make sure to arrive 1 hour before the show starts!

Where to stay in St. Petersburg?

Check out the comfortable digs inside Crystal Bay Historic Hotel , featuring a 24-hour front desk, shuttle services for guests, and beautiful views out to the terrace and gardens. Breakfast is served daily, which includes vegetarian and vegan options. This hotel is only 3.4 miles away from John’s Pass.

The Holiday Inn Express St. Petersburg North doesn’t disappoint with its highly rated clean rooms, filling breakfast options, and secure free parking. At just a short distance away is the Tropical Sunken Gardens, the Tropicana Field Baseball stadium, as well as a few other notable sights.

Welcoming guest with rows of palm trees, large pools, and beautiful and clean rooms is the Hilton St. Petersburg Carillon Park . Soak up the Floridan way of life at this hotel, and focus on working on your sun tan in the lounge chairs by the pool, or working up a sweat in the state-of-the-art gym.

• best hotels in St. Petersburg

Where to go next?

If you’re in search of exploring other incredible cities and things to do in Florida , then look no further! Go people-watching at the famous Pier 60 in Clearwater as the sunset rolls in, or better yet, set sail on a Pirate Cruise full of non-stop fun activities!

Get nerdy at the Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa , and afterward devour the goodies inside Ybor City for a taste of Tampa. Hit the mangroves on a kayak in Sarasota , or for the art lovers, head to the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art for stunning works of art.

Take on all the water parks in Kissimmee , from Island H20 Live to Aquatica Orlando, and then wander back in time through Old Town Kissimmee for night fun! Create the perfect picnic to enjoy at Bok Tower Gardens in Orlando , or learn more about some of the local marine life in Crystal River.

Final thoughts

We hope you enjoyed our list of fun things to do in St. Petersburg! Which one was your favorite? Is it the mouthwatering restaurants, or the historic homes of Kenwood? Or perhaps it’s the stunning beaches like Fort De Soto Park?

Whichever it is, let us know! We hope your future travels take you to this Floridian slice of paradise.

Happy travels!

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14 places to travel with your best friend

Updated On 6th May, 2024

Friends that travel together, stay together! Your bestie is the one person you can always rely on. The one that’s there to help you forget about all the hard days at work, the  difficult breakups  and to just generally embrace the good vibes with! They are also the perfect person to build a best friend bucket list with and tick off as many places to travel with your best friend as possible.

Jobs, colleagues, flings, hard times… they all come and go. But your best friend(s) will stick with you through it all. When you’ve got yourself a BFF, cherish them, appreciate them, and make the most of every second with them!  Life is short .

Get your pen and paper out and start your best friend bucket list for 2021.

Your best friend is the  perfect  adventure buddy. They know you inside out, perhaps even better than you know yourself. Creating a best friend travel bucket list together is such a fun task to do and then there’s going out and ticking the adventures off!  Check out my guide to planning your next adventure here.

The memories you make as you work your way through your best friend bucket list are priceless. There are so many places to travel with your best friend that the adventures will last a lifetime. They are the memories you’ll be laughing about for years and years to come, especially if you  turn them into a scrapbook . Travelling and sharing memories is one of the best ways to  show your BFF that you love them .

If you’re looking for places to travel with your best friend, places to visit with your best friend or ideas for your best friend travel bucket list, this is the blog post for you. Go on, share this with your best friend, get your notepads out and get planning!

Check out my best friend bucket list here.

14 places to travel with your best friend…

1. australia.

Travelling or backpacking through Australia is high up on many people’s best friends bucket lists ! It’s not hard to see why Australia is one of the best places to travel with your best friend.

Maybe it’s the tropical climates, the wildlife, the laid-back beachy lifestyle, the epic road trips or the backpacker goals lifestyle that has you dreaming of a trip down under, or maybe it’s a combination of them all?

Whether you want to try a city break in Sydney , backpacking down the East Coast , a trip to the outback , or a laid back weekend in Byron Bay, there are so many best things to do in Australia that it can be hard to choose what to do first! Not to mention the bucket list trips to the Whitsundays , Fraser Island or the Great Barrier Reef! Wherever in Australia you decide to visit with your best friend, you’re sure to have an awesome time. 

Check out the best things to do in Australia here. 

Australia Google Map Legend

Get lifetime access to my endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all my pins are at the touch of your fingertips.

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA ON MY BLOG HERE

2. Portugal

Portugal is somewhere I recently spent a fair amount of time in, exploring with my van and my girlfriends, and we absolutely loved it! Portugal is 100% a stop off you should make on your European road trip or adventure. 

Portugal is a great place to travel with your best friend because there  are many  awesome things to do in Portugal. Whether it’s for surfing in Nazare or Lagos , exploring the stunning city of Lisbon or relaxing on the Algarve, Portugal is definitely somewhere to add to your best friend bucket list. 

Whether you’re an avid surfer, walker, camper or beach bummer – Portugal is going to cater for you and your best friend… and some.

Portugal Google Map Legend

EXPLORE PORTUGAL ON MY BLOG HERE

Travellers tend to give England a hard time for its rainfall but where there’s rain, there are lush greens. If you are your BFF love hiking, then a staycation in England is a great place for your best friend bucket list. The beautiful English countryside, such as that in Yorkshire ,  the Lake District ,  Devon  and the  South Downs  will be, without a doubt, one of the highlights of your English adventure and trust me, you’ll be missing the cosy English pub scene within days of departure. The most beautiful places in England are going to blow your mind.

From the bustling cities such as  London  and  Leeds , beachside towns in  Cornwall  and  Dorset , to the many Areas of Outstanding Beauty and  national parks , England really holds its own when it comes to choosing places to travel with your best friend. 

• 15 UK National Parks: which one should I visit?
• The best places to visit in England
• My favourite things to do in England
• Unique things to do in England

From taking on one of the incredible  French via ferratas , wine tasting in one of the French wine regions and hiking in the  French Alps  all the way to  Skiing in Val D’Isere , a  city break in Paris  and a  Christmas Market road trip , you aren’t short of things to do in France that you can add to your best friend bucket list.

I’ve done many road trips with my best friend through France over the years and your trip to France can include so many incredible types of adventure. You can also try surfing down in Hossegor / Biarritz, climbing in Chamonix and visiting the champagne region ! Gosh, France is amazing!

If you’re based in the UK, getting the ferry over to France is such an easy option, make France one of many great places to travel with your best friend. The crossing takes around an hour and it means you don’t have to worry about going to the airport / hiring a car when you get there. See my experience and tips for the ferry crossing here.

See all the best things to do in France here. 

5. Indonesia

A country that I’ve fallen in love with time and time again, Indonesia really is a great place to travel with your best friend. I’d say it’s one of the cheapest places to travel in Asia, or even in the world, making it perfect for anyone who is travelling on a budget. From exploring the famous island of Bali (for example the surf break in Uluwatu , or the monkey forest in Ubud ) to swimming with manta rays on Nusa Lembongan , and discovering the smaller, less travel islands that are equally as beautiful, Indonesia provides plenty of opportunity for adventures for your best friend bucket list.

Check out all the best things to do in Bali here. 

Beautiful Italy is one of the best places to travel with your best friend. Seeing the colosseum in Rome should be on everyone’s best friend bucket list, as well as taking a gondola in Venice, seeing the Duomo in Milan, eating all the pasta in Puglia, visitng Pompeii, going on a Calabrian road trip and exploring some of the best things to do in Sicily , such as exploring the multicultural capital of Palermo . Hop on a plane with your BFF for a well-deserved dose of sunshine, gelato and good wine!

See all the best things to do in Sicily here. 

EXPLORE ITALY ON MY BLOG HERE

There are million reasons to visit Greece, and it’s one of the best places to travel with your best friend. From swimming in the turquoise waters to exploring underground lakes, exploring the history in Athens or Crete, sailing around the Ionian Islands or going on a road trip across the Greek mainland, it’s one of the best places to put on your best friend bucket list. 

Check out the best things to do in Greece here. 

EXPLORE GREECE ON MY BLOG HERE

8. Thailand

Thailand is such a popular destination for first time backpackers due to its low cost of living, and high delivery of adventure and freedom (partying) – the best of both worlds and ideal for an adventure with your best friend. From buy one get one free buckets and partying with international backpackers in some of the most gorgeous locations in the world such as Bangkok, to volunteering in elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai, PADI diving certificates and island hopping – it’s not hard to see why it’s popular. Why not add Thailand to your best friend bucket list and share all the fun with your BFF?

• Check out my top tips for travelling in Thailand in this post. 
• See all my tips for travelling in Southeast Asia in this post. 

With 50 provinces, 17 regions, and at least 5 languages, Spain is a super diverse country, so it’s one of the best places to travel with your best friend if you’re looking for some variety in your adventure! From hiking and skiing in the Pyreenes to surfing on the coast, spending a party weekend in Marbella to going on a road trip in Mallorca and catching some of the most beautiful sunsets in Formentor , or enjoing the winter sun in Gran Canaria or a city break in Barcelona , Spain has something to offer every set of BFFs! Don’t forget the amazing cuisine, stunning architecture and the fact that Spain hosts some of the best music festivals in the world – add Spain to your best friend bucket list now! 

10. Costa Rica

Get yourselves ready to be immersed in the abundant, rich quality of nature that is on offer in  Costa Rica . From what I’ve seen, Costa Rica is truly a playground of nature, consisting of 27 National Parks dotted across the country. Can you imagine? It’s an awesome place to travel with your best friend!

If you’re not kicking back and relaxing on the Caribbean Coast in Santa Teresa , you could be trying your hand at riding the waves along the Pacific Coast. And then after that, you’ll most likely be spending a few nights in the treetops at one of the eco-resorts before diving into the jungle or climbing  Costa Rica’ s highest mountain. You get the picture… it’s adventure central, great for your best friend bucket list!

Check out all the best things to do in Costa Rica in this blog post. 

Costa Rica Google Map Legend

EXPLORE COSTA RICA ON MY BLOG HERE

11. New Zealand

New Zealand is one of the most popular places to visit in the world, especially for backpackers, and who wouldn’t want to go backpacking with their best friend?!

There are so many awesome things to do in New Zealand, that even though I’ve been twice now, I can’t wait to get on a plane and explore some more. Maybe it’s the breathtaking scenery, the friendly local people, the entralling history and culture, the epic road trips, the amazing food and wine, or the backpacker lifestyle that has you dreaming of a trip to New Zealand, or maybe it’s a combination of them all?

There are so many cool things to do in New Zealand, making it a great destination for your best friend bucket list. There’s skydiving in Taupo , bungy jumping in Queenstown , taking on the Tongariro crossing , seeing the dolphins , exploring Auckland , and more! 

See all the best things to do in New Zealand here. 

12. Croatia

From  sunset kayaking around Dubrovnik castle  to hiring a boat and  travelling around some of the islands , all the way to dancing the night away during the  Yacht Week  or Underground Market in the cellar of  Diocletian Palace in Split , you aren’t short of things to do in Croatia – it’s definitely one for your best friend bucket list.

I’ve been to Croatia a few times over the years, including with the  Yacht Week  and with the  Global Travellers family , and Croatia really is full of adventure. Whether you want a city break in  Split  or  Dubrovnik , to go  Croatia island hopping  along the Dalmatian Coast, to go hiking in the Plitvice Lakes National Park or go swimming under the  Krka waterfall,  Croatia really has adventure to offer everyone, making in the perfect place to travel with your best friend.

Check out all the best things to do in Croatia here. 

EXPLORE CROATIA ON MY BLOG HERE

A luxury safari in Kenya . Talk about once in a lifetime opportunities… definitely one for your best friend bucket list! 

How does an adventure to uncover the big five sound? In the wild? In Africa? In your own private jeep? What dreams are truly made of, right? What’s more, after you’ve seen all the animals on safari you can head to Watamu for some beach time and fully chill out on the coast… pure bliss!

• See my guide to planning your Kenya safari here
• See my guide to Watamu on the Kenyan coastline here

EXPLORE KENYA ON MY BLOG HERE

14. The Philippines

The Philippines is a destination that  changed my approach to travel , and I can’t wait to return there one day. From the stunning beaches to the deep blue lagoons, you can really have a ‘luxury’ holiday on a backpacker budget in the Philippines! The Philippines is also one of the best places to do adrenaline-rushing activities such as canyoneering, skydiving, paragliding, and swimming with whale sharks – adventures that are perfect for your best friend travel bucket list! Check out my experience of canyoneering here.

Have you travelled with your best friend?

Where are your favourite places to travel with your best friend? Anything you’d add to this best friend bucket list?

Love as always and happy adventuring,

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

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IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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Top 15 Amazing Places to Travel with Friends: Unforgettable Group Destinations

• August 26, 2024

Traveling with friends can transform a simple getaway into an unforgettable adventure. Whether it’s the joy of shared experiences or the comfort of having someone familiar by your side, vacations with friends often lead to the best stories and deepest bonds.

The most astounding trips are those that balance the thrill of new discoveries with the unique personalities and interests of each traveler. From vibrant city tours to serene beach retreats, every destination offers its own brand of excitement and relaxation, allowing groups to customize their journey.

Choosing the right place to travel with friends is essential for crafting that perfect trip. Adventure seekers might find themselves drawn to places where the landscape is as untamed as their spirit, incorporating activities like hiking, kayaking, or exploring geological wonders. For those who enjoy the finer things in life, cultural hotspots can provide an enriching experience steeped in history, art, and local traditions.

Culinary enthusiasts might prefer destinations famous for their food scenes, offering a smorgasbord of flavors to tantalize the taste buds. Our perfectly curated list covers all the bucket list destinations you’ll want to see with your best friends.

Best Places to Visit With Friends

1. san francisco, usa, 2. munich, germany, 3. ko tao, thailand, 4. marbella, spain, 5. cartagena, colombia, 6. rome, italy, 7. tokyo, japan, 8. the dominican republic, 9. hawaii, usa, 10. yosemite national park, usa, 11. barcelona, spain, 12. sydney to gold coast, australia, 13. iceland, 14. amsterdam, netherlands, 15. cairo, egypt, gourmet destinations, street food adventures, live shows and concerts, festival and party hotspots, budget-friendly places to travel with friends, where are the best budget-friendly vacation spots for friends, which destinations in europe are ideal for a trip with friends, what are the top vacation spots in the world for groups of friends, what are some ideal travel locations in the usa for a friends’ getaway, which cities are the most enjoyable for a friends’ trip experience, what unique travel destinations should be considered for an unforgettable trip with friends.

Whether you’re looking to dive into new cultures, indulge in exotic cuisines, or just soak up the sun together, there’s a place on this list for you. We’ve rounded up the top 15 amazing places to travel with friends, each offering its own unique blend of excitement, adventure, and shared experiences. 

Check out these other top sought travel destinations:

• Must-Visit Summer Holiday Destinations in USA
• Best Honeymoon Destinations For a Romantic Getaway
• Best Family Travel Destinations Worldwide

If you want a mix of adventure, culture, nightlife, music life and art , San Francisco is the perfect destination. Imagine biking across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, then cruising to Alcatraz for a dose of history. The city’s vibrant neighborhoods, like the artsy Mission District or bustling Chinatown, offer endless exploration. Explore the city’s famous cuisines—from authentic dim sum to innovative farm-to-table fare. 

Don’t miss the group fun in Dolores Park, perfect for a relaxed afternoon. As night falls, the party life kicks off in areas like SoMa, where you can hop from clubs to live music venues. San Francisco’s charm lies in its dynamic blend of experiences that cater to any group’s interests, making it a must-visit. 

The Bavarian capital strikes a perfect balance between rich tradition and vibrant modernity, making it an excellent destination for friends. Start your journey at the famous Marienplatz, where the glockenspiel chimes and animated figures come to life. Next, venture to the English Garden, one of the world’s largest urban parks, for leisurely bike rides or a paddle boat trip on its serene lakes. 

Munich is synonymous with beer, so visit a traditional beer garden or the legendary Hofbräuhaus to experience Bavarian hospitality and cheer. Don’t miss the city’s bustling festivals, especially Oktoberfest, where friends can don lederhosen, enjoy colossal pretzels, and clink steins amidst the lively tents.

Ko Tao, Thailand, is a paradise for friends who crave a blend of relaxation and adventure in a stunning natural setting. This small island is famed for its world-class scuba diving, with vibrant coral reefs and a rich marine life that includes whale sharks and rays. Hiking enthusiasts will love the challenging trails that lead to some of the island’s highest points, like the Two View Rock, offering panoramic views of the island’s lush landscape and azure seas.

For a more relaxed pace, spend a day sunbathing on secluded beaches like Shark Bay or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Ao Leuk. Ko Tao also offers yoga retreats and wellness centers, ideal for rejuvenating both body and mind. Each day can end with a serene sunset, best enjoyed from the island’s western beaches. 

Besides being one of the best nightlife destinations in Europe, Marbella, Spain offers the perfect blend of sun, sea, and vibrant culture. Bask on golden beaches or dive into watersports along the shimmering Costa del Sol.

Make sure you stroll the quaint streets of the Old Town, where art galleries and tapas bars offer a taste of Spanish charm. For a thrill, hike or mountain bike in the nearby Sierra Blanca mountains, then unwind at a beachfront café, watching the sunset. 

Marbella also boasts glamorous nightlife, from chic rooftop bars to lively clubs. Don’t forget the luxurious golf courses, ideal for a leisurely day with friends. Marbella promises unforgettable moments for every friend group chilling and soaking in the Mediterranean vibes

Cartagena, Colombia, is a captivating and budget-friendly destination where colonial charm meets Caribbean flair. Walk through the colorful streets of the walled Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where vibrant buildings and historic plazas tell tales of pirates and Spanish gold. The stunning beaches of the Rosario Islands, just a short boat ride away, are perfect for snorkeling and sunbathing.

Indulge in local culinary delights, such as fresh ceviche and arepas, at bustling street markets. The city comes alive in the evenings with lively salsa bars where you can dance the night away. Cartagena’s blend of history, culture, and beachside relaxation makes it a top choice for groups seeking a diverse and memorable travel experience. 

Walk through history as you explore ancient landmarks like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon, each telling a story of Rome’s glorious past. Wander through the bustling piazzas such as Piazza Navona and throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to this magical city. This timeless city comes alive at night, with trattorias and wine bars spilling out onto piazzas filled with locals and tourists alike. 

Art lovers will revel in the Renaissance art at the Vatican Museums, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. Food enthusiasts will relish authentic Italian cuisine—from pizza to pasta to gelato—at the many trattorias scattered throughout the city.

Exploring Tokyo is an exhilarating experience, merging the futuristic with the traditional. From neon-lit skyscrapers to ancient temples, the city is a hub for innovation in both tech and fashion. Incredible sushi and shopping districts like Shibuya and Ginza make Tokyo an unforgettable stop.

Tokyo, Japan, is an electrifying destination for friends looking to immerse themselves in a unique blend of traditional culture and cutting-edge modernity. Dive into the neon-lit streets of Shibuya or Shinjuku, where towering skyscrapers, bustling shopping districts, and vibrant nightlife offer endless entertainment. Explore historic sites like the serene Meiji Shrine or the imperial splendor of the Imperial Palace.

For the foodies, Tokyo is a culinary paradise, offering everything from sushi served by master chefs to quirky themed cafes that provide a uniquely Tokyo experience. Adventure-seeking groups can take day trips to nearby mountains or hot springs, all accessible via Japan’s top-tier train system.

The Dominican Republic is a vibrant and diverse destination perfect for a group of friends seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure in a tropical setting.

From the stunning stretches of white sandy beaches like Punta Cana to the lush highlands of Jarabacoa, the country offers a natural playground for all kinds of outdoor activities. You can enjoy world-class water sports, including snorkeling and scuba diving among colorful coral reefs, windsurfing, and kiteboarding.

For those interested in culture and history, the capital, Santo Domingo, boasts the oldest European settlement in the Americas, with well-preserved colonial architecture and engaging museums. Adventure-seekers can explore the many natural wonders, such as hiking to the summit of Pico Duarte or exploring the depths of the impressive caves at Los Tres Ojos.

The Dominican Republic also offers an exciting nightlife scene, with lively music and dance, particularly the local merengue and bachata, ensuring that the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down.

Hawaii is a tropical paradise that never fails to impress with its blend of adventure, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty. Each island offers its own unique experiences: Oahu’s iconic Waikiki Beach for surf lessons and beachside cocktails, Maui’s Road to Hana for breathtaking scenic drives, Kauai’s Waimea Canyon for hiking amidst dramatic landscapes, and the Big Island’s Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for up-close views of active lava flows.

Beyond the beaches, Hawaii’s rich Polynesian culture shines through in its traditional luaus, hula dancing, and ukulele concerts—perfect for group participation and enjoyment. The islands also boast incredible culinary delights, from fresh poke bowls to luau feasts, that cater to all tastes.

Yosemite National Park is a stunning destination that promises awe-inspiring natural wonders perfect for friends who love the outdoors. Explore the majestic beauty of Yosemite Valley, home to famous landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome. These granite cliffs offer challenging rock climbs and breathtaking views, ideal for adventurous groups.

Hiking enthusiasts will relish the diverse trails that range from the easy, scenic paths around Mirror Lake to the more strenuous hikes up to Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America. For a truly unforgettable experience, trek to Glacier Point for a panoramic view of the entire valley, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Apart from hiking, Yosemite also offers opportunities for rafting along the Merced River, bird watching, and stargazing at night, free from city lights. The park’s vast wilderness, dramatic landscapes, and the tranquil beauty of its ancient sequoia groves make it a perfect place for friends to connect with nature and each other.

Barcelona is a vibrant city that blends artistic flair with Catalan culture. Nightlife here is nothing short of legendary. Start your adventure by marveling at the architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudí, including the iconic Sagrada Familia and the whimsical Park Güell, offering stunning views of the city. Stroll along Las Ramblas, a bustling boulevard where you can soak up the lively atmosphere and catch street performances.

Explore the historic Gothic Quarter, with its narrow alleys and hidden squares that are perfect for leisurely exploration and discovering cozy tapas bars where you can sample local delicacies like patatas bravas and jamón ibérico. For art enthusiasts, the Picasso Museum and the Joan Miró Foundation offer insights into some of Spain’s most famous artists.

End your days on the beach at Barceloneta, enjoying the Mediterranean sunsets. Shopping avenues like Las Ramblas are always brimming with energy. 

Traveling from Sydney to the Gold Coast offers an unforgettable journey for friends, blending urban excitement with striking natural beauty. Start in Sydney, where you can climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for a thrilling view of the city and sail past the iconic Opera House on a harbor cruise. Enjoy the vibrant food scene, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife that Sydney has to offer.

As you head north towards the Gold Coast, consider stopping at the coastal city of Newcastle for a surf lesson or a walk along the scenic Bathers Way. Further along, the lush hinterlands of Byron Bay invite you for a hike to the Cape Byron Lighthouse, where you might spot migrating whales.

Upon reaching the Gold Coast, the fun shifts to golden beaches and theme parks like Warner Bros. Movie World and Dreamworld, perfect for adrenaline-packed days. The region is also famous for its surfing spots and laid-back nightlife. This route provides a mix of city attractions, serene landscapes, and beachside fun, making it an ideal road trip for friends seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Iceland is a fantastic destination with a unique blend of adventure, mystery, and natural beauty. Begin your exploration in Reykjavik, where you can soak up the vibrant culture, taste unique Icelandic cuisine like hakarl and skyr, and experience the lively nightlife. 

Venture beyond the city to discover Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes. Drive the Golden Circle, where you’ll encounter the thundering Gullfoss waterfall, the geothermal wonders of Geysir, and the historic Þingvellir National Park. Adventure seekers can hike glaciers, dive between continents at Silfra, or trek through the rugged terrain of the Icelandic highlands.

Don’t miss the chance to relax in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon or chase the Northern Lights during the winter months. Iceland’s dramatic scenery—from volcanic fields to ice caves—makes it a perfect destination for friends who crave both relaxation and adventure in a landscape unlike any other on Earth.

Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a city that perfectly mixes historical charm with a lively, modern vibe, making it an ideal destination for a trip with friends. Start your exploration by biking along Amsterdam’s iconic canals, lined with narrow, gabled houses that evoke the city’s rich maritime history. Visit the Anne Frank House to delve into poignant World War II history, or explore world-renowned art at the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.

For a unique experience, stroll through the vibrant Jordaan district, where trendy boutiques, cozy cafes, and art galleries abound. Don’t miss the lively Albert Cuyp Market to sample local treats like stroopwafels and fresh herring. As the sun sets, the city transforms, with its many bars, clubs, and the famous Red Light District offering myriad nighttime entertainments.

Amsterdam’s blend of culture, history, and fun, along with its open-minded spirit, makes it a wonderfully inviting city for friends to explore and create lasting memories.

Cairo, Egypt, stands as a captivating destination where ancient history and bustling modern life blend seamlessly, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for friends to explore together. Begin your adventure by visiting the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, iconic symbols of Egypt’s ancient civilization. Just a short drive away, you can enter the Egyptian Museum to marvel at the treasures of Tutankhamun and countless artifacts spanning millennia.

Venture into the heart of Cairo to experience its vibrant markets. The Khan El-Khalili bazaar is a must-visit, where you can haggle over spices, perfumes, and handcrafted items. For a taste of local life, enjoy a traditional meal of koshari or falafel at a bustling street cafe, followed by a relaxing felucca ride on the Nile at sunset.

Food and Culinary Experiences

When I travel with friends, discovering new culinary delights is always a highlight. Whether we’re indulging in gourmet destinations or sampling the local street food, the joy of eating together creates lasting memories.

For those who love fine dining, Napa Valley is a mecca for food enthusiasts. With a plethora of Michelin-starred restaurants and wine tasting opportunities, it’s an ideal spot for friends to indulge in gourmet meals paired with world-class wines. In Austin , the food scene is vibrant with an array of upscale restaurants where barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine are given a gourmet twist—perfect for a group seeking a taste of Texas with a refined edge.

On the more casual side, the street food scene in cities like Nashville, Tennessee , offers a down-to-earth eating experience with a side of Southern charm. With friends, I find that hunting for the best hot chicken or partaking in the local craft beer scene is a casual yet authentic way to connect with the region’s food culture. Similarly, it’s hard to beat the bustling ambiance and flavorful bites of street food markets.

Music and Entertainment

Exploring new cities with friends is the perfect opportunity to dive into the local music and entertainment scene. I’ll guide you through venues known for their live shows and introduce you to the best spots for festivals and parties.

For live music enthusiasts, Broadway in New York City is synonymous with world-class entertainment. The bright lights and grand venues host some of the most spectacular live performances you and your friends will ever see. 

If country music is more your style, then a trip to Nashville, Tennessee is a must. Home to the famous Grand Ole Opry , it’s a place where you can catch live country music performances every week. And for those who love a bit of jazz, the vibrant jazz clubs dotted throughout New Orleans, Louisiana , offer an authentic experience of this timeless genre.

• New York City : Broadway shows
• Nashville : Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame
• New Orleans : Jazz clubs

When it comes to party hotspots, few places can match the energy of Las Vegas . With its bustling nightlife, you’re guaranteed to find a party any night of the week. Renowned for its casinos and live shows, it’s also a prime spot for top-tier concerts. Additionally, if you time your visit right, you can join in on the thrilling music festivals that Las Vegas hosts throughout the year.

• Las Vegas : Nightlife, major concerts, music festivals

In these cities, I know from firsthand experience that the blend of live shows, concerts, and vibrant party scenes offers an unforgettable journey. Each destination provides a unique slice of the world’s music and entertainment offerings, making them ideal spots to travel with friends who have a passion for music and a good time.

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing fun or excitement. It’s all about making smart choices that maximize the experience while minimizing costs. When organizing a trip with friends, I look for destinations that offer both affordability and adventure. Here are some ideas for budget-friendly trips that are perfect for groups.

Road Trips : Hitting the road is a classic and economical way to see the sights with my friends. By splitting fuel costs and packing our own snacks, we can explore a country’s diverse landscapes. Camping along the way is not only affordable, but it also adds a sense of adventure to our journey.

• Colombia : Cartagena, Colombia, is a stunning colonial city with budget-friendly accommodations and food. Here, we can soak up history and culture with friends without breaking the bank.

Hostel Stays: Opting for hostels over hotels is a go-to move for economical lodging. Not only is it lighter on the wallet, but it also provides a social environment perfect for meeting fellow travelers.

I prefer these options because they allow for an immersive experience without the high costs. By focusing on shared experiences and embracing the local way of life, my friends and I can create lasting memories without overspending.

Frequently Asked Questions

When planning a trip with friends, knowing where to go without breaking the bank or how to pick the perfect destination can make all the difference. Here are some pointed answers to the top questions you might have.

For those looking to save without sacrificing fun, Buenos Aires, Argentina offers an affordable taste of the good life. Other economical options include destinations in Southeast Asia like Thailand or Vietnam, where the cost of living is relatively low.

Europe has a myriad of destinations perfect for friends traveling together. Cities like Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Marbella offer a rich mix of culture, nightlife, and history. For a balance of adventure and chill, Iceland’s stunning landscapes are unmatched.

Globetrotting friends often look for destinations that mix adventure with relaxation. Raja Ampat in Indonesia, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia for snorkeling, and the hiking trails of the Himalayas are top picks for unforgettable experiences.

The USA boasts a variety of destinations suitable for a friends’ getaway. Hotspots include the vibrant city scenes of New York or San Francisco, the picturesque landscapes of the Yosemite National Park, and the entertainment-filled streets of Las Vegas.

When it comes to cities, look for places with diverse activities that cater to various interests. Tokyo, New York, and Miami are excellent options, offering everything from shopping and dining to culture and nightlife.

For a trip that stands out, seek destinations that offer one-of-a-kind experiences. This could mean witnessing the Northern Lights in Scandinavia, exploring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, or embarking on a wildlife safari in Africa.

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20 Fun Places To Go With Friends, Family, or As A Couple

Vacations are the perfect opportunity to explore new places, and there is no shortage of fun destinations to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, historical culture, or just a relaxing spot, there is sure to be something perfect for you. 

For those looking for an outdoor adventure, national parks provide natural beauty with trails and wildlife to observe. If a cultural experience is what you’re after, take a journey abroad to visit famous landmarks and museums while soaking up the unique atmosphere of each city. For a quieter break, there’s nothing like a beach vacation complete with sunning, swimming, and picturesque views. And finally, if you’d rather just relax in luxury, many resorts offer pampering treatments, exquisite cuisine, and many other activities that guarantee an enjoyable getaway. 

Whether your style is active or leisurely, long-haul or short hop – these fun places to go on vacation have something for everyone to enjoy!

FRIENDS: New Orleans, Louisiana (Music and Food)

Taking a vacation to New Orleans with friends is always an exciting experience. The city is known for its fun, live music, delicious cuisine, and architecture. There’s no shortage of fun places to explore – the French Market, St. Charles Avenue, the Mississippi Riverfront, and so much more! 

Whether you’re taking an airboat ride through the swamps or a walking ghost tour through the city’s heart, the fun places to go in New Orleans are countless. You can rest easy knowing that you’ll never be bored; sampling spices in Jackson Square and sipping an infamous Hurricane cocktail are just a few of the enjoyable things to do with friends in New Orleans.

FRIENDS: Napa Valley, California (Relaxation and Luxury)

Vacationing in Napa Valley with friends is an excellent way to have fun and create lasting memories. From orchard tours, biking through the vineyards, exploring local wineries, and tasting signature Napa Valley cheese, there is something for all to enjoy. 

With its world-renowned restaurants offering everything from traditional California cuisine to Michelin-starred gastronomy, Napa Valley truly has it all when it comes to fun places to go with friends. Spend your days hot air ballooning above the gorgeous vineyards or hit the trails for a fantastic hike – no matter what activities you choose, your trip together will be filled with incredible experiences!

FRIENDS: Ibiza, Spain (Nightlife and Beaches)

Going on vacation to Ibiza is sure to be a lively time. There are many fun places to go and things to do, such as exploring the picturesque coastal towns, visiting historical sites, or experiencing mouth-watering cuisine. If adventure is what you’re looking for, you won’t be disappointed as there are a number of activities, from watersports to cliff diving.

Relish in spending quality time with your friends at some of the more laid-back beaches like Cala Xarraca, or kick it up a notch at nearby nightclubs where all-night EDM dance parties are sure to be happening. Ibiza provides the fun and excitement necessary for an unforgettable vacation with your friends.

FRIENDS: Bali, Indonesia (Culture and Nature)

A vacation in exotic Bali with your closest friends can be an adventure of a lifetime. From exploring vibrant cultural sites and archaeological wonders to learning about local customs and traditions, there’s something magical about this Indonesian island. Whether snorkeling among tropical coral reefs or getting acquainted with the locals, who are always friendly and welcoming, fun places to go and things to do are abundant. And, of course, no trip is complete without sampling the delicious local fare – all guaranteed to ensure your group will have a fantastic time!

FRIENDS: Queensland, Australia (Outdoor Adventure)

Vacationing in Queensland with friends can be an incredible experience. It offers fun places to go and diverse things to do, no matter your interests. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a thrill-seeker looking for an adrenaline rush, there’s something that everyone will enjoy. 

From exploring the Great Barrier Reef at Heron Island to discovering hidden gems on the Gold Coast, you could spend a lifetime exploring this beautiful location and never run out of fun places to go with friends. Take a dip in freshwater waterholes, get daredevil on some of Australia’s highest rollercoasters, or even ride horses along miles of untouched coastlines.

COUPLES: Finger Lakes, New York (Relaxing Countryside)

Visiting the Finger Lakes region of New York is a fun and exciting adventure for couples. Here, you can enjoy endless fun and thrilling activities, from wine tasting to sailing and exploring nature trails. 

Whether looking for a relaxing getaway or a fun vacation with your significant other, you can find many things to do together. This scenic region includes taking walks through vineyards, visiting luxurious spas and wineries, or even experiencing fun outdoor attractions like kayaking on one of the many gorgeous lakes. With so much to explore in the Finger Lakes, it makes for the perfect couples’ vacation!

COUPLES: Maldives (Romance and Luxury)

A vacation to the Maldives is a fun place to go for couples looking for fun and adventure. Many resorts offer secluded villas with direct access to the beach for couples looking for a bit of privacy and romance. 

There are fun places to dine and shop, adventurous activities like diving with manta rays, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, or simply soaking up some sun on a beach; there are many fantastic things to do together. Enjoy fresh seafood dinners on the beach at sunset, followed by magical night cruises around the island. There’s no doubt you will create unforgettable memories on your romantic getaway !

COUPLES: Mykonos, Greece (Nightlife and Beaches)

Mykonos, Greece is the perfect destination for a fun-filled couple’s getaway. The island, located in the Aegean Sea, boasts breathtaking views, serene waters, and charming villages to explore. There are plenty of fun places to go, like Lamda Beach and Ftelia Beach, and interesting sites, such as the Windmills of Mykonos, Little Venice, and Thodorou Island. 

With its unique combination of sun-drenched sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife, you will never run out of fun things to do together. Couples can spend the day immersed in the sunshine and fun activities such as jetskiing, snorkeling and kayaking in crystal clear waters, or going on boat tours around the island. You can enjoy delicious local cuisine in the evening or take a romantic stroll under the stars.

COUPLES: Patagonia (Outdoor Adventure)

Visiting Patagonia can be an incredible and fun experience for a couple. From exploring the mystical and breathtaking blue Laguna Torre glacier to the spectacular Perito Moreno glacier, discovering some of the most beautiful places on earth is easy in Patagonia. 

If you’re interested in more of an adrenaline rush during your trip, a fun activity could be white water rafting in the Desaguadero River or Parana River. There’s no shortage of fun places to go and things to do while being in one of the most sought-after vacation destinations. Visiting Patagonia is an incredible adventure that couples will never forget!

COUPLES: Singapore (Food and Urban Lifestyle)

Bringing elements of fun and enjoyment, a vacation to Singapore offers an abundance of fun places to go and things to do for couples. Take a relaxing tour of the enchanting Botanic Gardens, explore the streets bustling with culture in Little India or take a fun-filled ride on the Sentosa Luge. 

You can find some excellent eateries around Chinatown, Kampong Glam, and Maxwell Road Food Centre for culinary delights . Of course, no vacation is complete without a beautiful night sky; head to Marina Bay Sands for stunning views of Singapore’s skyline! Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure in the city, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy in Singapore.

FAMILY: Destin, Florida (Watersports and Beaches)

A family vacation in Destin, Florida will be fun for the whole family! There are plenty of fun places to explore and activities for everyone to participate in. From beautiful beaches with white sand and clear, emerald waters to fun amusement parks, go-kart tracks, and miniature golf courses, there’s something fun for all ages. 

If the beach isn’t your thing, head to Big Kahuna’s waterpark or spend the day fishing or participating in various water sports like snorkeling, paddle boarding, surfing, sailing, scuba diving, and more. There are also tons of delicious restaurants serving up fresh seafood with gorgeous water views.

FAMILY: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (Culture and Beaches)

Going on a family vacation to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic is always an adventure! Not only are there fun places to go, but there are also so many fun things to do. Enjoy an exciting day of zip-lining across the jungle canopy, or relax with a stroll along the Caribbean beaches . Experience local culture and cuisine at one of the authentic restaurants or find fun underwater adventures while snorkeling in the crystal waters. The possibilities are endless when you visit this vibrant paradise! 

FAMILY: Playa del Carmen, Mexico (History and Beaches)

Playa del Carmen, Mexico, is an excellent destination for a fun-filled family vacation. From exploring the nearby cenote caves to swimming with sea turtles at Akumal Beach, the fun places to go and things to do are endless! Shopping in Playa’s colorful Fifth Avenue is a must for unique Mexican souvenirs. 

After a day of fun activities, families can enjoy a delicious meal in one of Playa’s many restaurants. From tacos and ceviche to fine dining options, there is no shortage of delightful cuisine. With so much fun to be had, a family vacation to Playa del Carmen guarantees excellent memories that will last long after you return home.

FAMILY: Ambergris Caye, Belize (Exploration and Beaches)

Embark on a kayaking tour around the island, explore its diverse mangrove forests, and even spot some of the local wildlife. For families looking for a fun experience, discover on bike or foot the idyllic views of the Caribbean Sea around Ambergris Caye, or try some paddle boarding and jet skiing. 

There are plenty of fun places to go, like Ho Chan Marine Reserve, one of the world’s top dive spots, which provides pristine coral reefs with crystal clear waters full of colorful fishes. No matter how your family spends their vacation in the beautiful island nation of Belize, we’re sure everyone will have a fantastic time.

FAMILY: European Disney Cruise (Entertainment)

Taking a family cruise along the European coastline is a fantastic way to explore the different colorful cultures while experiencing things you wouldn’t be able to do anywhere else. On a Disney Cruise, families can enjoy several things that make it unique. 

Enjoy experiences like exciting Key To The World events and Broadway-style live shows as you wander through fabulous cities like Rome and Barcelona. Visit incredible landmarks and delight in delicious regional cuisines provided at fine dining restaurants on board the ship. Have fun in one of the aquatic activity pools! With daily onboard activities plus things to do both on and offshore, your family won’t run out of things to do!

BUDGET: Las Vegas, Nevada (Entertainment and Nightlife)

Las Vegas is an excellent city for budget-savvy vacationers! While it may be known for its high-end restaurants and entertainment venues, there are also plenty of fun things to do without breaking the bank. 

Start with a walk down the Las Vegas Strip at night to see some of the area’s most spectacular lighting displays. See the world-famous shooting fountains at the Bellagio. Browse some of the low-cost shops along Fremont Street for souvenirs. If you’re looking for something fun outdoors and off the strip , head to Valley of Fire State Park or the Seven Magic Mountains. There’s something fun to do in Las Vegas, no matter how big or small your budget is!

BUDGET: Cancun, Mexico (Beaches and Outdoors)

Visiting Cancun on a budget means you can’t have fun! There are plenty of fun places to go and things that don’t cost an arm and a leg. Relax on the beach, visit the Mayan Museum, or take a walking tour of downtown. Visit local markets to find interesting souvenirs and explore Playa Tortugas for amazing views of the Caribbean Sea. 

There are various fun places to explore, from the beautiful Punta Nizuc beach to the buzzing downtown area filled with vibrant culture. Take leisurely walks along the beach or enjoy music and entertainment in various park areas throughout the city. 

BUDGET: Uyuni, Bolivia (Natural Wonders)

Vacationing in Uyuni, Bolivia, on a budget can be fun and rewarding. Uyuni is a small town with a wealth of opportunities for fun, free activities – perfect for anyone looking to get the most bang for their buck! For example, you can tour Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat. 

Exploring Colchani village and its rows of blazing rainbow-colored lagoons topped off with flamingos singing in the background is an experience not easily forgotten. And be sure to visit Tunupa Volcano – it may cost a bit, but it will be well worth it as you stand atop old lava flows and get stunning views extending far into the mountains. 

The fun doesn’t end there; you can participate in local festivals or savor delicious Bolivian cuisine made with regional flavors like quinoa and choclo corn.

BUDGET: Luang Prabang, Laos (Culture and Exploration)

Visiting Luang Prabang, Laos, on a budget can still be an unforgettable experience. Explore the ancient capital’s architectural history by taking a stroll through the old city, where you can observe famous buildings such as the Royal Palace and Wat Xieng Thong Temple. Sample local cuisine at the many food stalls abundant throughout the town and enjoy nightlife at the city’s numerous bars and restaurants. 

Have an adventure with low-cost activities such as kayaking on the Mekong River or exploring nearby waterfalls and caves. And, of course, no vacation is complete without shopping! Visit boutique shops, markets, and traditional stores to purchase souvenirs and handmade items to take home with you. 

BUDGET: Berat, Albania (Food and History)

For budget-savvy travelers looking to explore Albania’s unique culture and spectacular views, look no further than Berat! Berat is renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes, three Ottoman-era citadels, and 15th-century Ottoman bridges in the country’s south-central region. You can explore any number of exciting activities on your trip, such as discovering the castle’s countless artifacts and art galleries or going for a hike along the nearby Osumi River. 

For a small town with plenty of character and charm, Berat is home to numerous inexpensive restaurants offering delicious indigenous cuisine. Additionally, you can stay outside the city and find even better deals on lodging than within it. 

Fun Places To Go on Vacation

When choosing a fun place to go on vacation, there are seemingly endless possibilities. Research options such as beachside island escapes, cosmopolitan cities with vibrant nightlife, mountain getaways full of outdoor activities and breathtaking views, or bustling amusement parks. On top of the many potential destinations, there is an array of prices and accommodations. Have fun finding the perfect location to fit your desires and budget!

This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex .

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexandrea Sumuel Groves is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

How to travel with friends – without falling out

Sep 3, 2019 • 6 min read

Travelling together offers friends the chance to enjoy quality time awash with in-jokes, proper catch-ups and unforgettable experiences. Sound like bliss? It can be. But beware: even the best of friendships can be tested on the road.

Whether you’re about to embark on your first adventure with your mates in tow or are looking to improve on past experiences, here are writer Emma Sparks' 10 tips for having a harmonious trip with friends.

Beginners: start on the right foot

1. choose the right people to go with.

Pick any old pal with a passport at your peril. Just because you share a love of Nicolas Cage movies and Chinese food doesn’t mean you’re compatible travel buddies. Think twice before travelling with someone you only ever see in one context; your coffee-and-cake companion, yoga chum or work bestie might be a dream to hang out with at home, but a nightmare when it comes to exploring somewhere new. Opt for someone you’re confident you could tolerate for three days straight and you should have a reasonably hiccup-free trip – but there are no guarantees.

You might also like this:  All abroad: how to plan a group trip

2. Set expectations

Is this trip about winding down and going with the flow, or ticking off a list of sights the length of your arm? Will it be action-packed and outdoorsy, or heavy on the hangovers? It’s easy to make assumptions about your friends’ vision for a trip based on their usual behaviour, but travel can bring with it a different set of priorities and reveal a totally different side of people. Night owl travelling with early birds or vice versa? Proceed with caution – or agree to adjust your body clocks accordingly. Verbalise your needs: a simple conversation about what each of you wants to get out of the holiday – and what you don’t want to do – should do the trick.

3. Discuss your budget

You probably have an idea of how flash or frugal your friends are, but it’s worth chatting about what you intend to spend on food and activities before you go. In situ, manage money sensitively – some people are happy to split the bill every time, while others will find subsidising your dessert addiction stressful. Keep a tally in a group budgeting app like Splitwise if you like, but don’t sweat the small stuff – no-one likes a penny-pincher.

You might also like this:  What I learned from backpacking in my 20s and 30s

4. Prepare for close quarters

If you’re sharing accommodation, prepare to learn a lot more about your mates. Sleeping habits, bathroom routines and kitchen cleanliness (or lack thereof) can all cause friction between friends. Years of sharing rooms with incessant snorers, shower hoggers and the occasional gleeful farter have taught me that the best way to overcome small irritations is to make light of them – no doubt you have your own shortcomings too – and always pack earplugs...

‘When we travel as a three, Emily always gets a room to herself as she’s the loudest snorer. Emma puts up with my mild snores and I ignore the fact she leaves hair in the plughole’ – Mary, Emma’s travel buddy on many long weekends in Europe .

Intermediate: avoid common pitfalls

5. hanger and fatigue.

The needs of travelling adults often mirror those of a two year old’s. If someone’s acting moody, chances are they’re hungry or overtired. Punctuate sightseeing with plenty of pit stops and snacks, or work siestas into your holiday routine to keep the peace.

‘I like my sleep and I’m prone to energy dips if I don’t eat at regular intervals. Before a long hike through the Latvian wilderness, Emma made sure to buy some carb-heavy snacks and sugary sweets, which saved the day’  – Helen, Emma’s travel buddy in Australia , Latvia and Estonia .

6. Too much time together

Find yourself lingering in the loo, or volunteering to pop to the shops for the milk and a few precious minutes by yourself? Don’t feel bad about taking some time away from each other. Introverts in particular often need plenty of alone time to avoid burnout – but splitting up for a few hours here and there can refresh and revive everyone. 

7. Lack of flexibility

Travelling with friends is a masterclass in the art of the compromise. When Friend A is laser-focused on finding a tabbacheria for their strictly-on-holiday smokes, Friend B wants nothing more than an Aperol spritz and a sit down, and you want to get to the top local landmark before it closes, something has to give. If it isn’t essential to you, let it go – but don’t let dominant or demanding personalities get their way every time. If you’re lucky, everyone’s wants and needs can be met with some tactical shuffling of schedules. 

‘Emma has dragged us up church spires and medieval towers in Florence , Porto , Seville and more – we expect it now, just as she expects to skip a few sights so we can sample local tipples in the sun’ – Emily, Emma’s travel buddy on many long weekends in Europe.

8. Overenthusiasm

The weeks and months ahead of a trip can be saturated with hope and high expectations, excited text messages and squeals of anticipation. So much so that by the time you board the plane, you’re already exhausted. Then, in the face of adversity – a disappointing Airbnb, bad weather or mosquito invasions – one friend may appoint themselves as a hype man, ignoring glaring issues and refusing to let anyone whinge. While positivity is a lifesaver on group trips, you can still keep it real. It’s OK if things aren’t perfect, so don’t put pressure on yourself or each other to have the best time ever – go with the flow and it will happen naturally.

Advanced: be your best self

9. forgive (and apologise) quickly.

An intense dose of togetherness coupled with new, sometimes challenging experiences means minor niggles are almost inevitable. Left to fester, resentment and pettiness can thrive. Unresolved tension is a sure-fire way to spoil a trip, so be honest about the way you’re feeling. If anyone gets snappy, forgive and forget immediately – and always apologise if you’re the grump of the group.

You might also like this:   How travel helps me cope with grief

10. Be considerate and self aware

When it comes to maintaining a good group dynamic, basic courtesies go a long way – and taking extra care of each other (without fussing) will give you the warm and fuzzies. Make sure you’ve got the fundamentals covered, such as doing your fair share of washing up and collecting the morning croissants, then go the extra mile by keeping tabs on hydration levels and sunscreen top ups, or volunteering to drive.

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Best Places to Travel With Friends | 3 Terrific Trip Ideas

Wondering about the best places to travel with friends? You’re in the right place! Travel expert Tyla Oliver brings us this fun guest post with the top three destinations for traveling with friends, along with tips and tricks for ensuring it goes smoothly!

From early morning hikes to late-night partying overseas and paddleboarding in the Canadian Rockies , trips with friends are adventures like no other.

With your passport, carefully selected travel gear , and a close-knit friend group at your side, you’ll be able to craft lifelong memories with some of your closest compadres.

While exploring some of the best places to travel with friends might seem like a daunting experience, you’ll be well-equipped for your trip with some destination inspiration and travel hacks.

From an adrenaline-infused Emerald Cave kayaking tour to simply sleeping the day away with a hangover, a best friends’ trip is a kaleidoscope of different adventures.

Unsure how to unearth the hidden gems of the ultimate places to travel with friends? Take a look at the best places to go with your friends to ensure you have an unforgettable trip!

This post contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission — at no cost to you — if you click or make a purchase through any of them. For more information, read my  disclosure statement . I appreciate you!

Jump ahead to:

Amsterdam – The All-Rounder Choice

Las vegas – the party & adventure choice, sri lanka – the tropical & chill choice, tips & tricks for travel with friends, final thoughts on places to travel with friends, best vacation for friends | cities & countries to visit.

Whether you’re craving a quaint setting or a vibrant city filled with life and color, you’ll have a blast discovering the nooks and crannies of urban spaces with your friends.

Take a look at a few exceptional destination options to get the ball rolling for the perfect pal-cation trips for best friends.

Photo credit: Liene Ratniece on Pexels

The taste of delicious street food, charming waters of the canals, and sweet smells from a flower market — Amsterdam is a tapestry of sensations waiting to be explored.

From the iconic cultural museums to the ever-famous cannabis-infused sweet treats at coffee shops , the capital of the Netherlands is a fantastic find like no other.

While accommodation is quite expensive in this magical city, you and your friends will find plenty of traveler hostel stays to enjoy a budget-friendly trip . 

What could be better than having a nostalgic sleepover experience (many times, even equipped with bunk beds!) to swap travel war stories after a long day of traveling?

Plus, there are many awesome FREE things to do in Amsterdam !

Top Group Excursion: A pillar of the hop-filled history of an uber-famous brewery , the Heineken Experience is sure to be a crowd favorite with your travel crew. From a sneak peek into the beer brewing process to a frothy taster at the end of the tour, this excursion is a treat to experience.

Local tip (pun intended!): Tipping in Amsterdam is somewhat different from what you may be accustomed to. For example, you generally don’t tip for every drink or round ordered at a bar. Instead, you tip a few euros at the end of the evening.  

As they say, what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. Except for the memories, of course! With a nickname like Sin City, you’ll be able to experience a vast tapestry of interesting and exciting activities with your travel buddies.

Whether it’s the loud jingles of a winning slot machine or a killer tune from a famous singer at a Las Vegas show, you’ll soon be transfixed by the melodies of this city.

If you’re looking for a hot deal (in terms of both very warm weather and low hotel prices), June to August is a great time to pack your bags and head for the Mojave Desert.

And if you’re specifically looking for one of the best places to travel with friends on a budget, here it is! Not only can you do Sin City cheap, but you can get there without spending much, either, especially if your group takes a bus to Las Vegas .

As a bonus, Vegas is less than three hours from Zion National Park , the Grand Canyon’s West Rim, Death Valley, and Joshua Tree! Closer to town, you also have the option of touring Hoover Dam or heading out to Valley of Fire State Park . 

Top Group Excursion: A breath of fresh air from neon and late nights, Red Rock Canyon near Vegas is a trip worth taking. This excursion is a fun trip to take with friends, with hikes filled with sandstone rock formations and hidden waterfalls . Remember, bring lots of water, even in winter!

Photo credit: olga-filo on Pixabay

Are you looking for the lush tropics of Hawaii and Thailand without the sea of tourists and soaring accommodation prices ? Sri Lanka is a beach paradise destination sure to be high on any best place to travel with friends list.

This dazzling Asian country is known for producing an abundance of different sights and activities to tickle any traveler’s fancy. From the fragrant aromas of Ceylon tea plantations to the gentle giants of elephant sanctuaries, Sri Lanka provides a layered trip filled with treasured experiences.

Make your way to the hippie haven of Hikkaduwa on the West Coast to experience the life of sea, sand, and sunshine. From November to April, surfers rejoice due to the epic surf breaks found during this time.

Top Group Excursion: A must-visit destination rather than an excursion, a few days in the town of Tangalle in the South is the ultimate stay for the beach bum lifestyle .

With stunning secluded beaches and quaint restaurants, this town is perfect for a lazy vacation with best friends— but there are also tons of fun things to do in Tangalle .

Photo credit: zwaan6 on Pixabay

While it might be tempting to set sail with your friends overseas, a vacation with your close clan sometimes makes or breaks a holiday — and a friendship. To ensure you keep the peace between pals, take a look at a few essential pre-planning guidelines.

• Plan in advance – While planning travel isn’t always easy, the stakes are much higher when you add friends to the mix. By crafting a group vacation plan in advance, you’ll ensure many key travel components are handled, such as the destination and accommodation.
• Use an app to help – These days, we have endless tools and resources to help plan travel. Especially when it comes to friend trips, group travel planning apps like Tab or TripSplitter can be a tremendous help. 
• Determine your budget – Whether you’re looking to swim in the lap of luxury travel or ballin’ on a budget, you need to be on the same page with your fellow travelers. From there, decide if you’ll pool finances or pay separately. This is another way travel apps can help!
• Travel with the right people – A breezy break can quickly turn into a storm of awkward tension if you’re not traveling with close friends. While this definitely isn’t always the case, you’re more likely to know what’s in store if you’ve known your travel group for a long time. Have an open communication policy throughout your trip to ensure no underlying negativity.

Photo credit: esudroff on Pixabay

From bustling beaches to sanctuaries of solitude, the best places to travel with friends are beautiful opportunities to explore exotic locations and solidify friendships.

Whether you choose boozy Las Vegas or the tranquil tides of Sri Lanka, the destination won’t matter, but rather the people you embark on new journeys with.

So there you have it, three of the best places to travel with friends. Do you have any recommendations we missed? Comment below or connect with us on social media to let us know!

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Taryn is happiest when she's outside and always up for an adventure — especially if it involves a hike, sunset, road trip, or limited cell service.

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19 Best & Fun Things to do in St Petersburg Florida

By: Author Florida Vacation Expert

Posted on Published: July 7, 2022  - Last updated: July 13, 2022

Categories Gulf Coast

Home » Gulf Coast » 19 Best & Fun Things to do in St Petersburg Florida

Looking for the best things to do in St Petersburg Florida?

Of all the cities to visit in the state of Florida, St. Petersburg should be at the top of your list. Nicknamed, “The Sunshine City”, St. Pete averages about 360 days of sunshine per year, and holds the Guinness World Record for most consecutive days of sunshine, logging 768 days starting in 1967 and has yet to be beat.

St. Pete is located on a peninsula of a peninsula, allowing for this fun-filled city to be surrounded by beaches, natural wildlife, and located a close by for a day trip to other major fun-filled cities. Whether you spend your entire trip at the beach or embark on an adventure to uncover all the fun of the city, you are sure to have a great time.

There is really something for everyone to do down in St. Pete. Here are 19 things you can add to your itinerary for an adventurous vacation in St. Pete.

19 Best Things to do in St. Petersburg Florida

1. visit the beaches.

St. Pete is known for its award-winning beaches. The titular St. Pete beach was ranked consistently by TripAdvisor for being one of America’s Top 25 beaches for over 10 years, but St. Pete’s presence on their ranking doesn’t stop there.

The entire western coastline of Florida’s peninsula is lined with beautiful award-winning beaches. When visiting, set aside at least one day to spend at St. Pete beach, Clearwater , Madeira, or Pass-a-Grille! These are just a few though. There are MANY more beaches to explore in this area!

Don’t worry if you don’t have your beach supplies with you on your trip. There are many stores lining the beach where you can grab not only beach souvenirs but also last-minute beach supplies. Don’t worry about packing light, because these beach front shops are a one-stop-shop for everything you could need for a beach day, from last-minute sunscreen to bathing suits for the entire family.

St Pete Beach/ Flickr

2. John’s Pass

ARRGH you interested in strolling through a historical weather event? John’s Pass was created by a hurricane in 1848 and passed through by a pirate, John Levique.

While there isn’t much pillaging to do nowadays, John’s Pass now operates as one of Pinellas County’s top tourist destinations. Whether you choose to stay in this area for the duration of your trip or stop by for a jet ski rental or a dolphin sighting tour, you are sure to have a whirlpool of fun.

After you spend your morning on the nearby beaches, head down to John’s Pass for dinner after a dolphin sighting tour. Grab an ice cream cone and stroll along the boardwalk checking out the shops and picking up some souvenirs to take home.

John’s Pass/ Flickr

3. Visit Downtown St. Pete

Downtown St. Pete, or DTSP, is THE place to hang out. The vibes are there, the people are there, and there are tons of events that take place during the day before the night comes alive. DTSP is the place to be, whether you go as a family, a group of friends, or on a date night.

Several other entries on this list are even located Downtown! Have dinner at Cassis and then grab a gelato next door or down the sidewalk at Paciugo’s. Not into ice cream?

Get yourself an ice cream scoop at Kilwin’s to keep cool as you stroll along North Straub Park to get to the pier. If you’re in town during the summer, you can also attend St. Pete Pride, the largest LGBTQ+ pride celebration in Florida!

TIP: Figure out your parking arrangements before you arrive. Spaces fill up, cars line up, and it’s best to park in a city garage and walk than to park in a private garage for a pretty penny and a headache.

Does your trip fall on the beginning of the month? If so, check out First Friday St. Pete , a lively block party that brings the entire city downtown on the First Friday of the month.

See more: Best Bars in St Pete Restaurants in St. Petersburg

Downtown St. Pete/ Flickr

4. Visit the new Pier

The old pier was once internationally recognized for its iconic inverted pyramid design. Due to aging infrastructure, that pier was torn down and a new, modernized pier stands in its place.

The new pier opened in 2020 and welcomes more space for people and events. Once you get to the pier, take plenty of pictures and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of this lively footpath. Or head straight to the pier and spend hours dining, drinking, exploring, watching live music, and enjoying the park and picnic area.

Whether you decide to bring along a fishing rod or not, you might see native Floridian marine life, like dolphins, stingrays, and horseshoe crabs!

The New Pier/ Flickr

5. Downtown Nightlife

There are several places to head to have a drink, dance, and listen to live music in the company of friends and fun locals.

There are many places lined up for you to have a bar-hopping night. After having a delicious dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, walk off the calories and burn more as you dance the night away with good music and even better company.

Or if you’re tired of walking, try a mobile bar riding through the streets of downtown or a bar on the water set behind the new Pier. Have you been to a speakeasy? Keep exploring and you might find a handful hidden in plain sight. One of the best things to do in St Pete.

Downtown Nightlife/ Flickr

6. Support local businesses

Local business is booming in St. Pete and there are many places waiting to cater to your appetite. Right in the heart of St. Pete are Mazzaro’s Italian Market , an Italian deli and specialty grocer. What are your interests?  Food, fashion, or books?

There is a delicious restaurant that beats the bigger names. Afterward, go window shopping down Central Ave and find yourself hand-picked or hand-crafted products, with great local businesses lined up one after another.

Mazzaro’s Italian Market/ Flickr

7. See the Murals

Bring your walking shoes downtown with you because in addition to all the walking you’ll do exploring DTSP, Central Ave is also home to beautiful murals lining up and down the street.

Stroll on by to count the murals on your own, or refer to a map of St. Pete murals so you don’t miss a piece of art.

Whether you take pictures on your phone to send home or hire a local photographer to take unique portraits of you and for family, these murals also serve as great backdrop to beautiful and unique pictures that help you appreciate the beauty and art of our city.

See the Murals/ Flickr

8. Visit Museums

Daytime is a great time to explore the many museums have to offer. If you’re still feeling inspired after seeing the murals up and down Central Ave, take a visit to see the surrealist artwork by Salvador Dali at the Dali Museum.

Still inspired? A little way down is the Museum of Fine Arts. Still feeling artsy? Consider a visit to some of the many art museums located downtown, or experience Fairgrounds St. Pete, an art experience taking over St. Pete social media by storm.

If you’re in the company of a little one, visit the Great Explorations Children Museum. Attached to this museum is Sunken Gardens, a garden filled with lush exotic plants right in the backyard of Downtown St. Pete. For further educational experiences, consider the St. Petersburg Museum of History or the Florida Holocaust Museum.

There is much knowledge to be gained in St. Pete, with most museums located centrally in Downtown St. Pete. For more learning, there is even the Discovery Center and Wet Classroom at the new Pier or classes and tours to take at local wildlife preserves.

Dali Museum/ Flickr

9. Visit Nature Preserves

If you enjoyed Sunken Gardens and would like to see the other natural offerings of Saint Pete, then you should visit the several nature preserves all located on the peninsula.

Strap on your good walking shoes, fill a water bottle, and bring your binoculars or a camera to get in touch with your natural side at one of St. Pete’s several nature preserves. Whether you go to enjoy a quiet nature walk or bring a field book to identify local organisms, you are in for a self-guided adventure amongst the flora and fauna of sunny St. Pete.

See the birds at Boyd-Hill and Weedon Island, spot an alligator at Sawgrass Lake Park, or spend some time hiking and viewing mangroves at Fort DeSoto National Park. Some of these parks offer camping and picnic areas, so do your research and plan accordingly.

TIP: Plan accordingly during the hot summer months! The heat, humidity, and mosquitos can be BRUTAL.

Sawgrass Lake Park (Nature Preserves)/ Flickr

10. Go to a sports game

Tampa Bay , also known as Champa Bay, is known for having championship-winning sports teams. Depending on the season you visit, you can catch a Rays baseball game or a Rowdies soccer game right in the heart of downtown.

If you’re interested in seeing other local teams about an hour away in Tampa, catch a Tampa Bay Buccaneers football game or a Tampa Bay Lightning Hockey game. Want to skip the arena crowds? Find a local sports bar and dawn a team’s colors to root for them as they score against other national teams. The sports don’t end there.

Also in Tampa is the New York Yankees’ spring training, local teams, and college sports teams like the University of South Florida!

Rowdies Soccer Game/ Flickr

11. Saturday Morning Market

This next entry marries a few aspects of some previous ones. What do you get when you combine the lively Downtown atmosphere, the St. Pete sunshine, and local business altogether? You get the Saturday morning market!

Begin your Saturday morning by viewing the fresh produce, foods, and handmade crafts in our downtown area. Put on a shady hat and sunglasses and have a cool local drink as you listen to the live music or view unique pieces on display from local artists.

Have a snack or do your weekly shopping, you are sure not to leave the Saturday Morning Market empty-handed.  

Saturday Morning Market/ Flickr

12. See the Sunshine Skyway Bridge

The Sunshine Skyway bridge is an internationally recognized bridge known for its tall golden support beams. It is also the bridge that connects the south of St. Pete with Sarasota.

To see this bridge in person and admire its architectural glory, you can do a couple of activities that place the bridge as a backdrop. To get up close and personal by actually crossing the bridge, consider a day trip to Sarasota, where you can visit the beautiful Ringling Museum or enjoy a shopping trip at The Mall at University Town Center.

If you’re in the mood to stay on the St. Pete side, spend a day at Fort DeSoto Park and visit the beach there. View the famous mangroves of the bay area with the beautiful bridge in the background. Get even closer by grabbing lunch from Publix and having a picnic at the Sunshine Skyway Memorial Park.

As a final option to get personal with the famous bridge, grab your fishing rod and visit the Sunshine Skyway Fishing Pier, the world’s longest pier, and catch your dinner while enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells of fishing in the sunniest city in Florida.

Sunshine Skyway Bridge/ Flickr

13. Get outdoors

If you’re not tired of all the fishing and nature walking you could do, consider a unique camping experience in the tropical climate of Florida.

St. Pete isn’t really known for its camping activities, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get in touch with your natural side and sleep amongst the flora and fauna in the few locations with beachfront camping opportunities. Fort DeSoto Park has many outdoor offerings from exploring the aged architecture of the old fort, enjoying the beaches lined by mangroves, and the many walking paths that weave through the park. The park also offers campsites based on the amenities you seek.

Fort DeSoto can be a popular camping destination for tent and RV campers, so if you’re looking for another option, consider KOA Madeira/Clearwater.

Fort DeSoto Park/ Flickr

14. Go Shopping

Is your wallet still intact? Can you handle more shopping? If so, St. Pete is in the heart of several great shopping destinations.

The most local option is Tyrone Square Mall, but if you’re in the mood to shop for more luxury brands, consider an international plaza in Tampa or The Mall at University Square in Sarasota. These are just a few options with many shops and luxury brands.

St. Pete and its neighboring cities all offer great shopping destinations, so consider visiting a mall (or two!), having a meal at the food court, and shopping till you drop!

The Mall at University Square in Sarasota/ Flickr

15. Visit a natural spring

These next few entries are great day-trip options, but it’s worth the drive to see some of the great attractions located outside of the city that give you a taste of just how much activity the beautiful state of Florida has to offer you.

or the coolest, bluest water not found on a beach, considering visiting a natural spring and having a dip. Not in the mood to swim?

Some parks also offer tubing and boating allowing you to soak in the sun without the sand. The closest three springs you can visit from St. Pete are Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, and Lithia Springs Park. On a hot Florida day, these springs are sure to cool you off.

Weeki Wachee Springs/ Flickr

16. Visit exciting attractions

Perhaps all the art, walking, and nature I’ve been suggesting are not up to your speed. You must be a thrill seeker, seeking something invigorating that pumps adrenaline through your veins.

For a fun night out, consider visiting Celebration Station in Clearwater where you can play a round of mini golf, hit baseballs in the batting cages, and race your opponents on a go-kart track. Is a fun day of light competition not thrilling enough for you?

Then visit Busch Gardens Tampa, an amusement park with the tallest and fastest attractions in Florida set in a park that also cares for exotic animals and educates about conservation. If you’re seeking even more thrills, consider a day trip to Busch Gardens’ sister park, Sea World about two hours away in Orlando, or hit up the other major amusement parks also located in Orlando .

Busch Gardens Tampa/ Flickr

17. Visit Local Aquariums

Another option that’s great for families is visiting local aquariums that are each located just outside of St. Pete. You can visit the Clearwater Aquarium, which was once the home of Winter the Dolphin, a dolphin famous for losing her tail in a boating accident and becoming the first aquatic animal to dawn a prosthetic tail leading to her long life after the accident (RIP Winter, you will be missed!).

Or you can travel east into Tampa and visit the accredited Florida Aquarium , which showcases many exhibits and habitats and prides itself on being the largest aquarium in Florida.

Sea Life Orlando Aquarium/ Flickr

18. Go to a brewery

Maybe rollercoasters and competition are not up to your speed but you’re looking for some responsible adult fun. Then you should visit the local breweries in St. Pete, which include some of the best brewing companies in all of Florida.

Tour a brewery, have a flight or enjoy live music and activities hosted by each brewery. As a bonus for when you’re hungry, check which nights your chosen brewery hosts a local food truck. As a bonus, St. Pete is also home to a local winery, so consider touring, trying, and buying at the Florida Orange Groves Winery!

Green Bench Brewing/ Flickr

19. Visit Neighboring Cities

Finally, consider spending a day trip in a nearby city. First, there’s Tampa, which is less than an hour away from St. Pete by car. You can visit downtown Tampa and catch a concert or hockey game at Amalie Arena or shop till you drop at International Plaza.

Visit the animals at Zoo Tampa or brace all the roller coasters at Busch Gardens. Want to have some more fun? The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is also there. If you’re in town during the right season, you should visit the Florida State Fair. Yep, that’s right.

The Florida State Fair takes place on the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa, less than an hour away from St. Pete (and very close to the Hard Rock!). With all these options, it’s hard to choose which attractions to consider for your itinerary. Don’t fret, you can do most of these attractions and more by purchasing a Tampa CityPASS , which includes admission to 5 attractions within the Tampa Bay Area.

Roller Coasters at Busch Gardens/ Flickr

Tip – Get a CityPass

Tampa Bay isn’t the only nearby city that offers a CityPASS . Consider spending a day in Orlando, too, and purchasing theme park tickets at a reduced price with CityPASS. Naturally, anyone visiting Florida within a driving distance of the major tourist destination of the country may plan to spend a day at an Orlando theme park.

Major theme parks and water parks of the city aside, Orlando is also filled with tons of other great attractions. Consider visiting the Orlando Eye at Icon Park, the World’s Largest McDonald’s, Disney Springs, Universal’s CityWalk, and many more! Don’t forget about the tons of shopping malls and gift shops, like the World of Coca-Cola, M&M, and American Girl Orlando. There’s also the Medieval Times Dinner Show.

We hope that this list provides you with great ideas and activities for your trip to sunny St. Pete! Whether you spend a day at the beach or engage with the local culture downtown, St. Pete has many offerings for you to enjoy at any time of the day, any time of the year. There are so many things to eat, see, and do, so rest well and be ready to have a jam-packed, fun-filled vacation in this city!

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10 Bucket-List Trips for Best Friends of Any Age

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The bond between best friends is like nothing else. So it makes sense that you and your PIC would be on the same page for vacation, too. A BFF who’s always down to pack a bag and jet off somewhere awesome? Well, that’s the best kind of bestie. Whether you’re more into a chill seaside getaway or up-all-night antics weekend rampages.

Ready to plan your next escape or need some inspo for a future trip? Bookmark these bucket-list destinations—from party islands and game reserves to wine country towns and culture-rich cities—that are perfect for dynamic duos. 

10 Trips for Dynamic Duos at a Glance

• Best for Wine Tasting : Bordeaux, France
• Best for Free Spirits: Careyes, Mexico
• Best for Foodies: Osaka, Japan
• Best for Partiers: Mykonos, Greece
• Best for Wildlife Viewing : South Africa
• Best for the Ultimate Beach Bums: Maldives
• Best for Spa Lovers: Scottsdale, Arizona
• Best Adventure: Trans Bhutan Trail
• Best City Break: New York City, New York
• Best Desert Oasis: Joshua Tree National Park, California

10 No-Passport-Required Destinations That Feel Like You’re Abroad

Best for Wine Tasting

1. bordeaux, france.

• Where to stay: Historic Duplex (from $132/night), Charming House (from $168/night)  Hotel Singulier Bordeaux (from $215/night); Luxury Chateaux with Staff (from $1,651)

Nestled on the Garonne River in southwestern France, Bordeaux is arguably the most famous wine capital in the world. What’s not up for debate? That incomparable quality of the vin produced in this legendary French viticulture region. To the surprise of absolutely no one, tourist pursuits mainly center around swirling and sipping. Pals who favor bold reds, in particular, will find a plentiful supply of vineyards to visit. Accommodations range from stylish five-star hotels in the city to grand châteaux set on enchanting vine-covered estates in the country. Did we mention the many Michelin-starred restaurants, including Racines by Daniel Gallacher and Le Pavillon des Boulevards ? 

Best for Free Spirits

2. careyes, mexico.

• Where to stay: Casitas de las Flores (from $250/night), El Careyes Club & Residences (from $350/night), Bungalows in Playa Rosa (from $600/night)

An enclave for artists and free spirits since the ‘60s, the vibrant bohemian community of Careyes on the Pacific coast of Mexico is a magnet for those who share a passion for music, wellness and high-vibration pursuits. Colorful villas with bougainvillea-draped balconies face the and sea. Talented practitioners host sound healing sessions in La Copa del Sol. How special would it be to do a mud bath ceremony with your bestie on the gorgeous beach? There’s also visiting yoga instructor program, an art gallery tied to the Careyes Foundation and an art festival that many liken to a more intimate Burning Man called Ondalinda . 

Best for Foodies

3. osaka, japan.

• Where to stay: Hotel the Flag Shinsaibashi (from $54/night), Osaka Apartment (from $122/night,) InterContinental Osaka (from $302/night)

Yes, it’s a long-haul flight from the U.S., but this article is about bucket-list trips and what’s more unforgettable and delicious than eating your way through the city known as the Kitchen of Japan ? A shining star in the culinary world within the country and globally, Osaka boasts an endless array of palate-pleasing dining options—from upscale Michelin three-starred restaurants and famous omakase joints to unagi counters and stalls that sling traditional Japanese street food like takoyaki. Booking one of the club rooms at the InterContinental Osaka provides access to the swish lounge with complimentary breakfast, snacks and top-shelf booze.

Best for Partiers

4. mykonos, greece.

• Where to stay: Amazing Mykonos Studio (from $179/night), Rocabella Mykonos Hotel (from $305/night), Charming Flower-Covered House (from $229/night), Sea View Villa (from $349/night)

The sun-splashed Greek island of Mykonos has become a hotspot for jet setters looking to let loose all day and night. Renowned for its revelrous atmosphere, the liveliest of the Cycles group brims with beach clubs, restaurants that turn into full-blown parties after the plates are cleared and huge clubs that blast tunes until the wee hours of the morning. In between dancing on tables, catching rays with a glass of crisp rosé in hand and toasting to the greatest trip ever, pairs of pals can splash in the sparkling Aegean Sea and sleep it off at one of the many stylish hotels around town. 

Best for Wildlife Viewing

5. south africa.

• Where to Stay: Kapama River Lodge (from $450/night), Arathusa Safari Lodge (from $450/night), Hamiltons Tented Camp (from $1,400/night)

Doing a once-in-a-lifetime safari in South Africa is one of the most epic vacations on the planet. Who better to bring along on this over-the-top amazing journey than your bestie? The largest and most popular safari destination in the country, the Greater Kruger National Park attracts animal-lovers with the promise of seeing Big Five game (lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants and buffalo), plus giraffes, hippos, zebra, hundreds of different species of birds and reptiles and many other wild, beautiful creatures. The stylish safari lodges—basically glamping setups with a major emphasis on the glam—are the ideal spot to unwind.

Best for the Ultimate Beach Bums

6. maldives.

• Where to stay: Baros Maldives (from $405/night), Hurawalhi Island Resort (from $647/night), Six Senses Laamu (from $1,035/night)

Yes, the Maldives tops of the list of the ultimate luxury honeymoon destinations, but you definitely don’t need to have a romantic partner to visit this dreamy Indian Ocean island nation. Your bestie who’s been there through all the ups and downs def feels like the right person to take on a heavenly beach holiday to a place that’s truly a tropical paradise. Start the day with a cup of coffee on the private deck of your overwater bungalow above the waves, sip cocktails by the pool, stroll the powdery white sand beaches and snorkel in the crystal-clear turquoise tides.

Best for Spa Lovers

7. scottsdale, arizona.

Where to stay: Modern Home with Pool (from $300/night), The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale (from $390/night), Canyon Rock Resort (from $1,326/night)

With more spas per capita than any other city in the United States, Scottsdale is a no-brainer for a weekend of massages, facials, mud wraps and giggling in the sauna with your BFF. It has a wealth of wellness experiences beyond just pure pampering. Why not try a sound bath or desert meditation? There are also some really great restaurants. Of course, we wouldn’t fault you for going the room service route. Getting cozy in fluffy robes, sipping bubbly and watching the sunset from the comfort of your room at a ritzy resort just sounds utterly blissful. 

Best Adventure

8. trans bhutan trail.

• Where to stay: Go Ahead Tours Trans Bhutan Trail (from $6,349/13-day itinerary + hotels + meals)

Want to get away…like really get away with your bestie? Bhutan is far, remote and logistically requires quite a bit of effort to visit. (Sidenote: you’re better off planning the whole thing through a tour operator that specializes in tailor-made trips like this 13-day adventure through the country from Go Ahead Tours. All of these factors have helped shield the Buddhist kingdom on the eastern edge of the Himalayas from the plight of over-tourism and preserved its unique culture. It’s a special, peaceful place where spiritual awakening and off-the-grid adventure coexist. On the itinerary? Hike through serene hillsides (this trip includes seven hikes), forested valleys and tackle dramatic mountain peaks and journey to historic monasteries and fortresses. When you're done, you'll have better understanding for why Bhutan is considered the happiest place on earth.

Best City Break

9. new york city, new york.

• Where to stay: The Moore Hotel (from $265/night), The James New York - NoMad (from $329/night), Walker Hotel Tribeca (from $395/night)

The Big Apple is always a convincing choice for best friends keen to experience all the excitement of the greatest city on earth (not that we’re biased or anything). Score tickets to a Broadway show. See fascinating exhibitions at world-class museums. Hungry? You’ve come to the right place. Snag a table at some of the hottest new restaurants or return to long-time classics. Go for a stroll through Central Park or meander along the Hudson River Waterfront Greenway. For a stylish stay in the middle of everything, check into The James New York - NoMad . Grab a drink at the speakeasy cocktail lounge and pick up some sleep-promoting products from the “insomnia cart.”

Best Desert Oasis

10. joshua tree national park, california.

• Where to Stay: Rock Box (from $338/night), AutoCamp Joshua Tree (from $245/night), Ocotillo Bush (from $331/night), The Cactus Nest (from $403/night)

Searching for a trip that’s guaranteed to reinvigorate your soul and strength those bestie bonds even further? The perfect mix of adventure and relaxation surrounded by the jaw-dropping beauty of the desert, Joshua Tree National Park feels like its own world. There are so many ways to experience the otherworldly landscape. Duos can hit the trails (just don’t forget hiking boots and water), do a rugged 4x4 off-road tour or even join a half-day group rock climbing expedition. It’s also an unparalleled destination for stargazing. Roll out a blanket and peer up at the wonder of the cosmos above.

15 Bucket-List Mother-Daughter Trips That Will Make You Two Even Closer

Freelance PureWow Editor

6 Fun Trips to Take With Your Best Friend

Party islands, desert towns, and everything in between: Try one of these hand-picked destinations for your next girls’ getaway.

Editor's note: As we continue to practice  social distancing , we encourage our readers to check the  Centers for Disease Control website  for up-to-date information on how to safely travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The beauty of vacationing with your best friend is that you’re effortlessly on the same wavelength; after all, so much of what makes for an easy trip is that baseline of compatibility. And now that more arms are getting shots and travel restrictions are beginning to ease, it’s a perfect time for the two of you to start plotting your next escape.

Where to? We’ve rounded up six spots around the country that offer culture, adventure, and spectacular sites or scenery—basically, a foolproof formula for any twosome. (Bonus: If you sign up for the brand-new  United Quest  card from Chase, you can earn up to 100,000 bonus miles. Plus, get a $125 annual United purchase credit and two free checked bags for each of you, saving up to $280 right out of the gate.)

Palm Springs, California

Why go:  Everywhere you turn in this desert town, there’s something interesting to look at. Charming boutiques and galleries, pastel mid-century modern architecture, palm trees swaying in the breeze—it’s no wonder aesthetes flock to the Coachella Valley for celebrated art and design festivals like  Modernism Week  and  Desert X . And with  Joshua Tree National Park  less than an hour away, you can balance the urban cool with some off-grid adventure.

Where to stay:  Les Cactus , which opened in February, may be a newcomer to Palm Springs, but the Airbnb-hotel hybrid is a total throwback—a revamped 1930s property renamed for a 1960s song by French rocker Jacques Dutronc. There are 27 airy, bungalow-style guest rooms, a hammock garden, an outdoor fire pit, and a cool pink exterior, all of which scream California eclectic.

What to do:  Hit the  Palm Springs Art Museum  to admire works by Louise Bourgeois and Anish Kapoor, and book a  day spa package  at the newly opened  Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort  in Desert Hot Springs, where the geothermal mineral springs are naturally heated to 174 degrees and there’s a Himalayan salt room for relaxing and detoxifying.

Later on, enjoy Hemingway daiquiris at the Cecil Beaton-inspired  Bar Cecil , which opens in mid-April. Sacred  Tahquitz Canyon  has 60 miles of trails; one of the two-mile loops rewards hikers with ancient rock art and a 60-foot seasonal waterfall at its summit. And in 2022, be on the lookout for the opening of  Agua Caliente Cultural Museum  from the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. When the 5.8-acre center debuts, it’ll be the largest Native American museum west of the Mississippi.

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Austin, Texas

The Carpenter Hotel

Why go:  For pals who have cemented their sisterhood through food—tracking the latest restaurant openings, veering off the beaten path to hunt down delicious street eats—Austin is the buffet that just won’t quit. There’s famous  Franklin Barbecue , of course, but also stellar breakfast tacos at  Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ , matzo ball caldo at  June’s All Day , brisket bentos at Texan izakaya  Kemuri Tatsu-ya , and the sunny wine patio at  LºLº , where the only thing more hip than the bottles are the (masked) servers.

center']For pals who have cemented their friendship through food, Austin is the buffet that just won't quit.

Where to stay:  Even ATX hotels pride themselves on next-level fare.  Carpenter Hotel , a stylish haunt in an old union hall, serves fresh-baked kolaches (pastry) in its café and innovative dishes like Tex Mez, a white bean hummus with pecan baba ganoush, golden beets, and feta, at its restaurant,  Carpenters Hall . The 93-room inn, founded by alums of the  Ace Hotel , hosts creative activities like sound bath meditations and textile marbling—though you and your better half may prefer to just decompress by the pool, Oaxacan Old Fashioneds in hand.

What to do:  Dance up a storm at the tropical-themed  Coconut Club ; go for a splash at  Barton Springs , a spring-fed emerald swimming pool in Zilker Park; catch a drive-in movie at  The Blue Starlite ; or browse the wild collection of rare motorcycles, souped-up hot rods, and movie cars (including one of three original Ghostbusters Ectomobiles!) at the  Austin Rock & Roll Car Museum .

For a cool souvenir, book a portrait session with  Lumiere Tintype , a photo studio pitched in the backyard of  Justine’s Brasserie . Photographer Adrian Whipp is a master of the wet plate collodion process and will capture your grinning mugs in a tintype as timeless as your friendship.

Punta de Mita, Mexico

Punta de Mita

Why go:  Friends who need a good re-centering after the challenges of the past year needn’t look any farther than the Riviera Nayarit. Punta de Mita, in particular, is just 45 minutes from the airport in Puerto Vallarta but feels a world apart with its hidden beaches, consistent surf breaks, and varied wildlife.

Where to stay:  For sunny-good vibes,  W Punta de Mita  is the perfect pick. Its infinity pool has a see-through wall and the “wet deck,” a ‘grammable million-tile mosaic walkway inspired by the artistry of Mexico’s indigenous Huichol people. The spa has five private treatment rooms, plus a therapy pool equipped with hydro jets and a pressure shower. Yoga classes take place in the high season, with private Pilates and meditation sessions available upon request. The guest rooms are spirit-lifting too, splashed in bright colors like turquoise and magenta, some with deep soaking tubs and headboards made of punched tin. Best of all, you don’t have to walk far to sample some of the peninsula’s freshest fish. W’s  Chevycheria , a 1950s Chevrolet truck turned thatched-roof cevicheria and beach bar, specializes in regional varieties. Try the spicy Yucatán version with shrimp, scallops, and octopus.

Just 45 minutes from the airport in Puerta Vallarta, Punta de Mita feels a world apart.

What to do:  Learn how to catch a wave with bilingual instructors from the esteemed  Tranquilo Surf Adventures & Surf School . Their semi-private lessons, with two students per teacher, are ideal for friends. (If you two already know what you’re doing and just want to rent boards or SUPs by the hour,  Mita Surf Club  can help.) Hop a private yacht to  Islas Marietas , a national marine park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its humpback whales and blue-footed boobies.  Punta Mita Expeditions  will take care of all the details, leaving you to enjoy the snorkeling or diving.

Another day, shop the funky galleries and bohemian boutiques in nearby Sayulita, or hike up Monkey Mountain, a 4.6-mile trail near Bahía de Banderas. It’s rocky and steep with an elevation gain of more than a thousand feet—but the sweeping views of the sparkling Pacific are worth it.

Mykonos, Greece

Why go:  After a year of Zoom meetings and puttering around in sweatpants, doesn’t it sound fun to dress up real nice and, like, hang out with strangers? Greece’s most glamorous party island siren-calls with beautiful beaches by day and glittery nightlife from dusk till dawn. Notably, it’s just a 40-minute flight or 2.5-hour high-speed ferry ride from Athens, so you can first cram in a little culture (Acropolis, Parthenon, etc.).

Mykonos siren-calls with beautiful beaches by day and glittery nightlife from dusk till dawn.

Where to stay:  This sun-drenched Greek isle has no shortage of dreamy hotel suites, but many are aimed at honeymooners.  Paradise View  is unique because its light-flooded rooms, done up in dazzling white with pops of Aegean blue, include double beds with rainshower baths and terraces overlooking the sea. The helpful front desk staff can assist with bike and car rentals, and while it’s just a five-minute stroll down to buzzy Paradise Beach, you might just find yourself spending most of your time lounging by the hotel's jewel box pool.

What to do:  Tempting as it is to stake out a sunny strip of sand at tranquil  Kapari Beach  or spend every day lounging by your suite’s private plunge pool, this is an island that rewards doers. Ask the Paradise View concierge about chartering a catamaran for a sunset cruise on the brilliant blue Aegean Sea or set off on foot to tour the très chic boutiques and ancestral chapels in labyrinthine Chora. Panagia Paraportiani, a whitewashed church dating back to the Byzantine era, is not to be missed.

When hunger strikes, make the schlep to  Kiki’s Taverna  near buzzy  Agios Sostis Beach . There’s no sign, no phone, not even electricity, but the rustic cooking and utter simplicity of high-quality local ingredients makes it a fan favorite. As the sun sinks on the horizon, bound over to Paradise Beach to see what’s hopping. Some of Mykonos’ most storied EDM clubs ( Cavo Paradiso ,  Paradise Beach Club ) haven’t fully reopened yet, but when they do, look out. Ibiza who?

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Shiprock Santa Fe

Why go:  With its groovy mix of Native American arts and culture, to-die-for shopping, and striking high-desert vistas, the City Different really delivers. The downtown is walkable, but you’ll need to rent a car if you want to explore the landscapes that gobsmacked Georgia O’Keeffe.

Where to stay:  Plopped on an original stretch of Route 66,  El Rey Court  is a 1930s roadside motel filtered through a modern New Mexican lens. The five-acre campus, rehabbed by the co-owners of the cult-favorite olive oil and skincare brand Wonder Valley, features 86 trendily decorated rooms (some with kitchenettes and fireplaces) and an outdoor heated swimming pool. Conveniently, it’s just a two-minute walk to the best Chimayo-smothered breakfast burrito of your life, courtesy of 1948 diner  The Pantry .

What to do:  Scoop up bundles of dried lavender and jars of green chile sauce at the colorful  Santa Fe Farmers Market , then swing over to the edgy contemporary art museum  SITE Santa Fe . A trippy, choose-your-own-adventure installation awaits at the  House of Eternal Return , created by esoteric art collective Meow Wolf and Games of Thrones author George R.R. Martin.

After ogling the stunning—and stunningly expensive—Native American rugs, jewelry, and ceramics at  Shiprock Santa Fe , shop for artisan-painted molcajete bowls from Michoacán at  Heritage By Hand  or rummage through racks of threadbare rock tees and retro aviators at  Santa Fe Vintage , a by-appointment-only showroom on the outskirts of town. For a sweet memento, grab some small-batch bonbons from  Kakawa Chocolate House , made with New Mexican ingredients like red chili and piñon, or a box of Southwesternized French macarons from  Chainé  in a fun flavor like churro (cinnamon meringue buttercream and dulce de leche).

Nashville, Tennessee

Graduate Nashville

Why go:  Maybe the reason they call it Music City is because everyone who visits Nashville sings its praises. Whether you’re challenging your bestie to a Hot Ones-style hot chicken binge (heaven help your fire-breathing hearts if you order the “Shut the Cluck Up!!!” at  Hattie B’s ) or you’re going to see the next big country music star at the  Grand Ole Opry , it’s impossible not to have a grand ole time in the Tennessean capital.

Where to stay:  From the genius duo behind  Urban Cowboy  in Brooklyn comes  Urban Cowboy East Nashville , set in a rambling Victorian mansion. Eight suites, each with their own personalities, sport 14-foot ceilings, copper-leafed bathtubs, hip Pendleton bedding, and eye-popping Printsburgh wallpaper. There’s even a music parlor, should the two of you feel the urge to burst into song on the upright piano.

What to do:  After taking in the rhinestone getups and Elvis Presley’s 1960 “Solid Gold” Cadillac at the  Country Music Hall of Fame , bounce over to the new  National Museum of African American Music , the only such museum devoted to preserving and celebrating the countless genres of music created and influenced by Black Americans. Nightfall begs adventurous types to cut a rug at the honky tonks of South Broadway ( Tootsies Orchid Lounge  and  Robert’s Western World  are always a good time).

Come morning, you can start the day with a little indulgence: by chomping into an East Nasty buttermilk biscuit sandwich with fried chicken thigh at  Biscuit Love  or sipping frozen Aperol Spritzes under fringed magenta umbrellas at  White Limozeen , the rooftop pool bar at  Graduate Nashville . For a one-of-a-kind vacation keepsake, make a field trip to the novelty record booth at Jack White’s  Third Man Records . There you can record an acapella duet on a refurbished Voice-o-Graph machine, cutting a two-minute vinyl single that immortalizes your bad singing for generations to come.

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10 Best Sites To Find Travel Friends

• February 10, 2022
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Traveling the world is something that many of us want to do at some point in our lives.

We all want to get away from the daily grind, but the thought of traveling solo can be daunting for some.

That’s why it’s great to have travel friends who love to explore new places as much as you do!

But if your friends aren’t up for an adventure, you might find yourself with no one to go on vacation with.

Don’t worry!

This isn’t the end of the world, and there are plenty of ways to find travel friends who want to check out a new city, country, or continent.

Today we’ll look at some tips for finding friends who you can share your love for traveling.

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Table of Contents

Why do you Need Travel Friends?

Having friends who love to go on adventures is a huge benefit.

First of all, it’s easier to feel comfortable exploring a new city or country with someone you know and trust at your side.

Another great benefit of having travel friends is that you’re able to split costs.

You don’t have to worry too much about paying for transportation or your accommodations because you can split the costs with your friends, saving yourself some money.

Having a buddy also makes it easier to explore a new place.

For example, if you’re in Rome and want to go on a day trip to the nearby city of Pompeii, having at least one friend who wants to come makes it easier for you to find transportation and pay for entrance fees.

And don’t forget about fun!

Traveling is more fun when you have someone to share your experiences with.

Disadvantages of Having Travel Buddies

There are plenty of benefits to having travel friends, but there are also some challenges you might face.

The biggest challenge is not getting along with your travel companion.

It’s important to choose your friends carefully and make sure you and your potential travel pals share similar interests in terms of exploring new places and activities in general.

Another challenge is that you might run into problems finding people who want to go on an adventure at the same time as you.

It’s easy enough to find friends who are free during the month of September.

But it might be harder to find someone who can afford to travel in December when the holidays are approaching.

Of course, it’s also beneficial to have time alone when you’re traveling.  

That way you can enjoy your surroundings without having to worry about what your friends are doing or saying.

10 Best Sites to find Travel Friends

Now that you know why it’s so beneficial to have travel friends, let’s look at some of the best websites you can use to find people who are interested in joining your next adventure.

Below are 10 sites where you can find reliable and like-minded travel buddies for your next trip:

Meetup is one of the best ways to find a travel partner.

You can find meetups based on your interests, whether you like exploring new cultures or visiting local breweries.  

Not only does Meetup make it easy to meet like-minded people who share your interest in traveling.

But you’ll also be able to meet people in your city who love to go on adventures.

To check out what Meetups are happening in your area, click here .

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a website that connects travelers and locals.

You’ll find hosts all over the world eager to welcome you into their home and show you around their city or country.

Another great thing about Couchsurfing is that not only will you get to meet your potential travel buddies, but once you’re in their city, you can ask for tips on the best places to go.

Click here to check out Couchsurfing and create a profile.

Airbnb is another website where hosts are eager to welcome travelers into their homes or apartment.

Since there are hosts all over the world on this site, you’ll have a lot of potential destinations.

And you can make friends with your hosts and even see if they would show you around the area.

Another great option on the app is Airbnb Experiences.

Airbnb offers a variety of activities you can sign up for, from surfing lessons to cooking classes.

This is another great way to explore a new place by making travel friends and doing something fun together.

To find your new travel buddies on Airbnb, click here .

Girls Love Travel

Girls Love Travel is a Facebook group that was created to help female travelers connect with each other.

It has over 1 million members from all around the world, making it one of the easiest ways to find a new travel partner.

If you are looking for travel friends, this is one of the best and safest places to find them.

And the founder also hosts new travel destination getaways that you can join.

Click here to join the Girls Love Travel community!

Workaway is another great website to find a travel partner but also earn some money when exploring a new place.

It’s a site where you can find different work opportunities with hosts all over the world.

They even have a dedicated section on their site where you can find a travel buddy to join you on your journey.

To find a travel buddy and new destinations on Workaway, click here .

Reddit is a great discussion forum where you can find topics that might interest you.

You can join different subreddits and find travel buddies through them.

One message board where you can post queries to find the perfect partner for travel is the Travel Partners subreddit.

Here you can find people who share your interests and are looking for travel friends.

International Greeter Association

If you want to visit a new city all by yourself but would love some local guidance, there is no better way than to join the International Greeter Association.

They have volunteer locals who greet visitors and give them insider information on the best places to go in their area.

So whether you are interested in exploring New York or Melbourne, you’ll find a local that will welcome you.

Click here to join the International Greeter Association.

Intrepid has been leading small group adventure tours for over 30 years.

They have a dedicated section on their website where you can apply to join a tour with them and other travelers.

If you want to explore a new destination with an experienced leader, this is one of the best ways to do it.

Click here to search for Intrepid Group tours across the world.

Go GAFFL is a website that was created to connect people who want to travel together.

You can find your ideal travel partner by specifying what type of traveler you are and where you want to go.

This way, you’ll know within seconds whether or not there’s someone out there who shares the same interests as you.

Click here to find the perfect travel buddy on Go GAFFL.

Fairy Trail Dating

If you’ve always dreamed of meeting your other half while traveling, Fairy Trail Dating is the website for you.

It’s a site where solo travelers can find their perfect travel companion.

With over 30,000 members worldwide, you’ll have no problem finding your ideal travel buddies.

Click here to join Fairy Trail Dating now!

So there you have it, the 10 best websites where you can meet travel a partner who can join you on your next trip.

Other Ways to find Travel Friends Online

There are tons of other ways to make new friends and experience a destination from a local’s perspective.

Here are just a few of them:

Ask friends and family to recommend a good travel buddy.

One of the easiest ways to find new travel buddies is by asking the people who know you best.

If you have friends or family that love to travel, just ask for their advice and recommendations on where they’ve found the best travel companions.

Or if they know someone who would be interested in joining you, chances are that they’ll be able to connect you both.

Join Facebook groups.

There are tons of Facebook groups dedicated to people who share your interests.

Whether it’s cooking or traveling, there is sure to be a group for you.

Just search for a topic that interests you on Facebook and join a group of like-minded people.

You can then post a query about your travel plans and see if anyone can join you on your adventure.

But make sure not to share any personal information until you get to know people better.

Go on an organized tour.

If you are not the type of person to travel alone, there are plenty of tour operators where you can join with other travelers.

This way, you’ll always have companions on your journey and there won’t be any risk of getting lost along the way.

Tips for Finding the Best Travel Friends

Now that you know where to look for the best travel buddies, here are some of the basics you should consider when trying to find companions for your next adventure.

Make sure you’re compatible.

Just because someone is your travel friend, that doesn’t mean you should trust them blindly.

Make sure they share the same interests as you and if possible, find out how well you work together before heading out on a long trip.

Trust your gut instinct.

If something seems off or weird, it probably isn’t the best idea to stick around with that person.

Make sure they are genuine and you won’t have any problems on your trip together.

Be clear about what you want.

Don’t go into a traveling friendship with unrealistic expectations.

So make sure to set guidelines on how often you’re willing to travel together and agree on what the expectations are.

Share responsibilities.

It’s always a good idea to share the cost of your trip so that everything is fair and there won’t be any issues later down the road.

So before embarking on your adventure, make sure you agree on how much you’ll be spending and on what.

Because it is better to be safe than sorry, so make sure there are no financial misunderstandings that may arise later on.

Be flexible and have fun!

Even if you don’t click with someone as a travel friend, make sure you still enjoy your time together.

Don’t take everything too seriously and keep an open mind when traveling with other people.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to find travel buddies that will share the same interests as you with little to no problems along the way.

Now that you know where and how to look for travel partners, it’s time to get out there and explore!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re traveling alone or in a group, there are plenty of people out there who can make your trip even better.  

All you have to do is find them!

Even if you consider yourself an introvert and having friends while traveling isn’t that important to you, it’s still nice to share an adventure with someone who understands the ins and outs of the country you’re visiting.

Because there’s always something to learn from other people, whether it’s where to eat or what not to do.

So go out there and make your next adventure even better by finding travel friends who can join you on your journey!

And try one or more of the websites listed above.

Who knows, you might make a new friend for life!

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11 Great Girls Trip Destinations, From Antigua to Montauk

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There's nothing better than some uninterrupted girl time, whether it's going out to dinner or just hanging out on the couch binging TV shows . On some occasions, though—and especially for long-distance best friends—a trip might make the most sense to finally get some quality catch-up time.

The best girls trips always strike a balance between relaxing and rousing. You should never come back home feeling the same as you left (especially if that feeling was tired, overwhelmed, or deflated). But between settling on a destination and coming up with an itinerary, there can be a lot of pressure put on the friendship and high expectations to plan the perfect getaway. To make the next getaway a bit easier on your group, we've tapped travel writers and specialists to dish the details on their favorite girls trip destinations they've gone to, plus where to stay and what to do while visiting. From national park stays to resort getaways, here are 11 tried-and-true girls trip ideas to pull inspiration from for your next trip.

Montauk, New York

Every June, a group of 10 of us clear our calendars, pack our bags, and head out east for a four-day weekend in Montauk . If you live in or near New York City , it’s about a four-hour drive with traffic, or a few hours on a Jitney, making it an ideal summer destination to visit if you only have a few days to get away. There’s lots to do—from restaurants to beaches to shopping to bars—so you won’t run out of places to be and things to see. Book a stay at one of Duryea’s sunset cottages, then head to lunch right by the water at their restaurant (make sure to split the iconic Lobster Cobb Salad). For the chance of a celeb or influencer sighting, head to Surf Lodge , a popular outdoor bar with good music and even better sunset views. My girlfriends and I spend most of the weekend lounging on the beach, chatting nonstop, already planning our next trip back. — Meaghan Kenny , commerce editor

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

For my mother’s 70th birthday, we chose to stay at the Sea Pines Resort in South Carolina at one of the premier villas. We traveled with a large multi-generational group, millennials to baby boomers. The house was immaculately outfitted with a massive kitchen and lovely pool, and we were close enough to the beach that a group of us walked every morning for sunrise yoga. Breakfasts were a grazing affair, all of us getting up on our own schedule and pulling together whatever we felt like eating. One afternoon we took a private boat out to Daufuskie Island for a golf cart tour of this incredibly preserved piece of history. We spent a day on the beach, and one in Savannah . To keep everyone busy, we had a chef come in one night for a cooking lesson and he then prepared dinner for us all in the villa kitchen. We also brought in a local artist to lead us in a guided “paint and sip” experience. It truly was so special to have this time together and it helped me plan so many trips for clients looking for a similar “girls getaway” experience. — Rebecca Alesia , travel specialist for Condé Nast Traveler

Cartagena, Colombia

I recently traveled to Cartagena, Colombia, for a birthday trip with two friends. The South American city had been on my travel wish list for a while and did not disappoint. The city is filled with clothing boutiques, restaurants, and a very, very lively nightlife, so it’s impossible to be bored.

We stayed at a gorgeous Marriott Bonvoy Home and Villas property , with a staff that was not only available to answer any questions at anytime, but truly became like family by the time we left. The property is also a must-stay as it offers the rare opportunity to swim in a rooftop pool with views of the city, iconic churches, and buildings in the distance.

I highly recommend booking any curated experience with Jacada Travel , especially the private salsa lesson, which includes a history of Afro-Colombian culture and other dance movements from the region like champeta. They also offer private yacht excursions to the nearby turquoise waters of Rosario Islands, perfect for some beach time and cocktails with friends. Some of the best dishes that we enjoyed in Cartagena were by the staff at our villa, including traditional Colombian rice and tender roasted chicken. If you do decide to explore one of the city's restaurants, I highly recommend Norma Ristorante for its live music and amazing pasta dishes and grilled seafood. For drinks, don’t miss a lesson on Colombian rums paired with chocolates at El Arsenal: The Rum Box. Request a lesson with Koko, she's the best host. — Kristin Braswell , contributor and travel specialist for Condé Nast Traveler

Scottsdale, Arizona

I went to Scottsdale on a girl's trip in 2021, and the city will forever hold a special place in my heart. It was such a memorable destination, with enough to appeal to each of our interests. As design lovers, we got to soak in Frank Lloyd Wright's talent at Taliesin West and the midcentury-modern vibes of our hotel, Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows . Our favorite restaurant was a hidden gem inside the Fairmont Princess , La Hacienda . The highlight of our trip was definitely the spa at Well & Being Spa —it was a stunning little getaway with the best views. — Iona Brannon , contributor

Puglia, Italy

What could be better than a girls trip to Italy during the fall ? The crowds have dissipated, the rates have dropped and the weather is tepid and beautiful, especially in southern Italy. Puglia offers up coastal Italian eye candy of whitewashed villages, classic winding cobblestone streets, and turquoise Mediterranean waters. The interior has fertile rolling countryside with olive groves and vineyards. There’s an abundance of interesting cities to see and all are easily connected by train for day trips. We staged the headquarters of our girls trip at Naturalis Bio Resort & Spa, a small luxury hotel located in Salento, about a 25-minute drive from Lecce. It has a warm, earthy and nurturing vibe, ideal for a spa and wellness girls getaway. Our room had a spectacular extra-large sunken hot tub with a window overhead to see the sky above. Perfect to pair with a bottle of wine and added bubbles. The hospitality and service are warm and welcoming, and the food is artful, fresh, and delicious. A trip to the spa a must. I recommend a fun day trip into the port city of Otranto for boutique shopping, fresh seafood dining, and taking in the aquamarine waters of the Adriatic. — Jessica Avery , travel specialist for Condé Nast Traveler

While there’s nothing better than soaking up some good Miami sunshine or letting loose at the 305’s liveliest clubs, don’t be surprised if you leave this place in a serious food coma. Whether you’re in the mood for Caribbean, Cuban, or Ethiopian, Miami’s multicultural food scene is one of its highlights. My last escapade here with friends was on the heels of Caribbean Heritage Month, celebrated every June. There’s so much to do in Miami that when planning your itinerary, your besties might be torn on how to narrow it down. What activities and excursions can’t you do? Of course, Miami has a plethora of beaches where you can lay out or catch some waves, from Hobie Beach to the historic Virginia Key Beach Park. If you’re in the mood for a little retail therapy, you can hit up one of its many boutiques and shopping centers, like the Miami Design District. There’s practically a club on every block where you and your friends can dance the night away, so you can take your pick based on where you’re feeling the vibe. You can also get your creative wheels turning by checking out Miami’s art scene. Art Basel is one of the city's most popular annual exhibits, among several others. In terms of where to stay, Florida’s pink hotels can make you feel like you’re staying in one big Barbie house, so The Goodtime Hotel in Miami is my highest recommendation if you want to stick to the theme of your trip. — Johnaé De Felicis , contributor

I’ve been going to Antigua for over seven years now for all types of trips, but I really love it for a relaxing getaway with my girls. Antigua is the land of 360 degree beaches, so no matter where you are on the island, there’s a beach close by that is beautiful with clean sand and clear water. This makes Antigua an automatic go-to for me and my girls because whether we want to have a relaxing beach day, throw a beach fete, or hit a beachside workout, there are numerous options to do so throughout the island. Antigua has beautiful resorts, villas, and hotels. My go-to is Hodges Bay , which has a private island property reachable by a quick water taxi. For a more resort-central stay, Curtain Bluff has top of the line spa and restaurants to enjoy. Antigua also pairs the best restaurants with amazing views—my favorite is Sheer Rocks, which is perched on a beachside cliff. For the best seafood and authentic island vibes, Papa Zouk is the place to go. Out of all the islands I’ve traveled to, Antigua has the best and safest fetes and clubs; check out Vyce for a great night. — Sidnee Michelle Douyon , senior digital editor and host for Black Enterprise

Puerto Rico

To celebrate some big accomplishments in our friend group—from one friend completing her MD program to another finishing her band’s first tour—we gathered our now nationally-dispersed college crew for an adult spring break trip to Puerto Rico . Our itinerary struck the perfect balance of wild outdoor adventure, beachy relaxation, and giggly fun, with plenty of flexibility to tailor the experience toward any of these trip styles based on personal preferences. We loved how accessible it was to fly to San Juan from the US (not to mention how easy it was to get around by car or Uber when we got there), and that we didn't even need to pack our passports . Upon arriving from our respective cities, the six of us piled into a rental car and explored everything from the historic charm and boutique shops of Old San Juan to the tropical rainforest swimming holes and natural water slides (yes, we slid down actual waterfalls) of El Yunque National Forest . Highlights included night kayaking to see the sparkling bioluminescence, snorkeling with sea turtles at Escambrón Marine Park in San Juan, and sipping unique wine-based cocktails at one of the world's best bars: La Factoría . Airbnb and hotel hopping was the structure for our week-long stay, but my favorite was the idyllic Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve . Though these trips always seem to get harder and harder to plan as we get older, the pricelessness of a full heart, a recharged soul, and a little bit of a lost voice from laughing hard with the ladies is beyond worth it. — Alexandra Toto , contributor

Loudoun County, Virginia

One of my favorite places for a girls trip is Virginia's wine country in Loudoun County. The acres and acres of vineyards lining the roads make for beautiful scenery while driving, and the food and drink scene is exceptional. One of my favorite wineries in the area is Greenhill Vineyards , which offers incredible views, wine tastings, and scrumptious bites to go with your glass of vino. Fun fact: The winery's sparkling wine was featured in gift bags at the 2016 Academy Awards. There are plenty of places to stay in Loudoun County, but I love Goodstone Inn (shown at right) where guests stay in boutique cottages that are nestled across 265 pristine acres on the hillside. Each cottage or house can accommodate two to eight people, so depending on the size of your squad, you'll all be able to stay in one private villa-style home complete with kitchens and private bathrooms. — Megan duBois, contributor

Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop

One of my all-time favorite girls trips that can be dressed up or dressed down to be as outdoorsy (or not) as you wish is the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop. We fly into Denver and rent a car, or road trip over to the Centennial State and hop onto the open road to start the adventure. Popping over to Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is easy, it sits on the banks of a burbling creek, and offers loads of adorable cabins, plus there are multiple, cheaper campgrounds nearby. For the more splurge-worthy trips, The Four Seasons in Vail just did a huge spa uplift and refreshed the treatments menu, and since it’s so centrally located, it’s an easy year-round stay in the mountains between Glenwood Springs and Steamboat Springs. No matter what your lodging style is, you’ll fall in love with the hot springs views (and lack of crowds) at Avalanche Ranch , as I did when I first visited in 2018. Book a month or two early, as they often sell out. Of course, the can't-miss feature of this trip is the hot springs, but one of my favorite off-highway stops is Brown Dog Pizza in Telluride, which sits on the main thoroughfare and boasts epic mountain views. Plus, if you’re going on a winter girls trip, nearly all of these locales offer incredible skiing access. — Emily Pennington , contributor

Philadelphia

I've spent New Years in Philadelphia a few times, as well as girls trips to this city in other times of the year. My girls and I have gone to some of the museums around town after cocktails and recreated a number of the paintings. Plus, there are truly great restaurants, interactive sensory exhibits, and a few speakeasies that we frequent when in the area. My recommendation on where to stay: W Philadelphia . It's been around for a while but there's been a change in managerial staff and exciting changes to the restaurant's menu; plus, the hotel itself has some of the best views in the city outside of the Sky Lounge. If you book ahead, try and get a corner room. — Shayna Conde , travel journalist

• What is a greeter?
• Find a greeter
• How to become a Greeter?
• Core values
• St.Petersburg Landmarks

SPB Greeters is a part of a Global Greeter Network . Its members perform guided tours with foreign tourists across their city showing them the real and living side of it. And these are absolutely free tours in Saint Petersburg as if we were touring our good friends in Russia!  

For a tourist this is:  

 A free tour in Saint Petersburg and a friendly walk across the city ’ s landmarks – let ’ s not call it an “excursion” since we are not paid guides in Saint Petersburg Russia

•  Stories about the life and history of Saint Petersburg told by a local
•  New friends in your trip

For a Greeter this is:  

 Practice of foreign language

 New friends from all across the globe

 Opportunity to show off your knowledge of Saint Petersburg , its jokes, anecdotes, stories, scary or funny, some places off the beaten track and breathtaking viewpoints for photographs!

© 2005-2024 Saint Petersburg Greeters

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Orlando Beyond the Theme Parks

If, like me, you have visited Orlando ’s many awesome theme parks more times than you would care to admit, there comes a time when the question “What else is there to do?” will be asked by someone in the family. For me, that question arose around the time the kids seemed happier lounging around the resort pool than they were lining up for hours for a spin on the latest Star Wars attraction.

Scrambling for ideas on how to keep them entertained, I turned to Google Maps, something I had used numerous times before to plan driving routes to the best theme parks in Orlando, Florida . What I found from that virtual online tour (and some quick online research) is that there is no end of great things to do beyond the amusement parks in Orlando.

From the fun vibes of Celebration, a master-planned community near the parks with a distinct Disneyesque vibe, to strolling through the laid-back neighborhoods of Winter Park and a fantastic farmer’s market, here are a few tried and tested alternative things to do in one of the United States most visited cities .

Cause for Celebration

Our very first non-theme park outing in Orlando was to the master-planned community of Celebration. Established in 1996 and designed by Disney architects, Celebration is only a 10-mile drive from the Magic Kingdom and is relatively easy to get to from the resorts that serve the parks. Covering nearly 5,000 acres of prime real estate, we found ourselves wandering one of the prettiest main streets in Florida . Though relatively short, this shop- and palm tree-lined street ends at Lake Rianhard and is picture-perfect.

Do as we did (and still do) and pick up a coffee and sweet treat from Fortuna Bakery, grab a seat at the waterfront, and see if you can spot any of the baby alligators that sometimes sneak into Celebration (the big ones, fortunately, are always moved). Still, a regular stop whenever we are in Orlando (with or without the kids) is Celebration’s superb network of walking trails. A mix of traditional boardwalk-style and concrete pathways, you can head out from Main Street in any number of directions.

We trekked around Lake Rianhard to the smaller Lake Evalyn along the perimeter of the community. The whole way, it was a lush, jungle-like vibe until we headed off into the charming, quiet neighborhoods with their luxury homes, eventually looping back to Main Street.

Celebration Tips and Tactics : While Celebration is pretty busy on weekends and special occasions like Christmas and Halloween , it is delightfully quiet if you are able to go for a mid-week morning stroll. Parking is plentiful (on-street parking is free), and you can stop into the Market Street Diner or Downtown Diner for a late breakfast. We have even stayed at the downtown Celebration Hotel, which is a lovely option outside of the hustle and bustle. It is minutes from the theme parks and quiet enough to make you feel like you are a million miles away.

Pay a Visit to Disney Springs

Formerly known as Downtown Disney, the revitalized Disney Springs is a wonderful dose of Disney without having to visit the theme parks. This 120-acre shopping, dining, and entertainment complex has become one of the top free attractions in Orlando… at least until you start spending. Parking is free and handled with typical Disney efficiency, with parking zones clearly marked and with easy access to all the fun. Once parked, we dive right in and get any shopping we need out of the way first. And even if we are not in the mood to splurge, we will always wander through must-visits like The LEGO Store, still a favorite for my now grown-up lads; The World of Disney for everything Mickey and Minnie , and a must-do for little princesses; and The Art of Disney for its souvenirs and prints.

We have also attended the superb Cirque du Soleil theater, a must-do for its exciting “human” circus entertainment, as well as enjoyed free live music at the Waterside Stage, a great amphitheater with talented performers strutting their stuff. The highlight of our visits, however, is having dinner at one of the many restaurants in Disney Springs. It has become a tradition for my family to enjoy an evening meal at Raglan Road Irish Pub. Not only are the food and drink offerings excellent (they serve great Irish beers and whiskies , and we always pick up a couple of loaves of Irish Soda Bread to take home with us), but there is always live music and traditional dancing in this Dublin -themed pub, too.

Another great place to eat in Disney Springs is The BOATHOUSE. Designed to look like a classic Lake Tahoe boathouse, you can even book a table in a vintage wooden boat and afterward take a lake ride in one of those amazing old Amphicars from the 1960s. Our other favorites for a sit-down meal include Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' for authentic Southern cooking and the Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill. Prefer a quick meal? You can’t do much better than grabbing something from Wetzel’s Pretzels, Sunshine Churros, the Earl of Sandwich, or Cooke's of Dublin (they do great fish and chips).

Disney Springs Tips and Tactics: A must-visit whenever we are in Orlando, the best time to visit Disney Springs is in the evening when most families with youngsters are all tucked up in bed. The stores, attractions, and restaurants all stay open late, so the crowds are a little thinner and generally less cranky. If you are planning a sit-down meal, be sure to book ahead, as it can be next to impossible to get a spot as a walk-in. Also, if you are staying at one of the many Disney resorts and hotels nearby, Disney Springs is accessible using the company’s buses, which are free to ride for guests.

Explore Winter Park

Located just seven miles north of downtown Orlando, Winter Park is one of the city’s most pleasant districts for a stroll. Our first visit a few years ago was an eye-opener as it truly seemed that this small community was a world apart from the tourist-centric, in-your-face theme park experiences we had enjoyed up to then. Park Avenue is the place to start exploring. One of the ritziest main streets in Florida , Park Avenue is lined with chic boutiques, classy art galleries, and numerous high-end restaurants.

The best of these, like Boca (American cuisine), Prato (Italian), and Blu on the Avenue (seafood), all have patio seating overlooking this leafy street and are perfect places from which to watch the world drift by. If, as you explore, you spot one of several nearly hidden alleys splitting off from Park Avenue, be bold and enter. I did during my last trip and discovered the excellent Atlantic Beer & Oyster Bar for great grub. Delicious, relaxed, and great value.

After all that food and shopping (check out The Ancient Olive Gourmet for its olive oils and Ten Thousand Villages for fair-trade crafts), cross Park Avenue for a stroll through Central Park. When the kids were smaller, we always enjoyed watching the commuter trains come and go from Winter Park Station… and it is still fun to do.

Other fun things I would recommend you do in Winter Garden include paying a visit to Mead Botanical Garden, a delightful spot with plenty of walking trails, a butterfly garden, and a picturesque boardwalk; taking a fun boat tour of the Winter Park Chain of Lakes for a unique perspective of the area's historic homes and gardens; and, for a little art fix, visit the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art with its impressive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including stunning leaded-glass windows and lamps.

Winter Park Tips and Tactics : Given its location on the opposite side of town to the theme parks (they are actually located in Kissimmee , south of Orlando city center), you will have to take the I-4 highway to Winter Park. This major cross-state highway connects the east coast of Florida to Tampa , so can get pretty busy, especially around rush hour, so late morning or early afternoons are great times to visit. And forget street parking. It is always tight, but there is plenty of multi-story parking available.

Lake Eola Park and Orlando Farmers’ Market

Discovering the Orlando Farmers’ Market in Lake Eola Park was definitely a highlight of our early forays away from the theme parks. Located in downtown Orlando and held every Sunday throughout the year, it is now a ritual of ours to visit this fun, busy market as early on in a visit as we can. Why? Well, not only do we stock up on fresh produce (most resorts in the area offer units with kitchens, which is always a plus) from vendors, including Wild Ocean Seafood Market, but we also stock up on prepared foods, too, including La Empanada for its delicious savory and sweet empanadas, some of which, don’t make it out of the park.

A walk around Lake Eola itself is a must-do. A focal point for locals, it is a great spot for an impromptu picnic feasting on those tasty delicacies purchased at the farmers’ market. While we haven’t been out on the lake’s fun swan boats yet, it is definitely tempting to hop aboard one.

Eola Park Tips and Tactics : The Orlando Farmers’ Market does get busy, especially around lunchtime. Street parking is next to impossible unless you arrive early (it opens at 10 am), but many local businesses open their lots up for reasonably priced parking (expect to pay around $10, but it is worth it). And bring a cooler to keep your purchases fresh.

Reflecting on our various explorations in and around Orlando, I can say with the utmost confidence that whatever anyone else tells you, yes, there is plenty of fun to be had apart from Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. Whether it is strolling through the streets of Celebration, indulging in a delicious food and drink experience at Disney Springs, or exploring Winter Park and Lake Eola, there is something here for everyone curious enough to venture beyond Orlando’s big theme parks.

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As a new remote worker, I spent 3 years searching for the ‘perfect’ city — and finally found it

It was the end of another summer, and I was exactly where I'd been three years before. I’d spent those years searching for our next home, sifting the pros and cons of some 40 cities in the process while real estate prices around the country skyrocketed. I was out of ideas. What once seemed like a blessing — being able to choose where I wanted to live — now felt like a burden. And yet I couldn’t give up.

Like plenty of adults, where I lived was always tied to where I worked. Our first apartment after college was in the city where my husband happened to land a job. The next city? Another job. Those were the rules. 

Then we both started working remote five years ago, and the rules changed. It was like the world opened up. For the first time, we could live wherever we wanted (at least, in the U.S. since we both work for U.S. employers). Any city, ours for the choosing … but which one?

And so began a multi-year search for where to live — an agonizing, arduous yet blithely optimistic quest for not just any city, but the perfect city.

I can’t be the only person obsessed with this. Searches for “ best city in the U.S. ” have tripled in the past five years, correlating with the rise in people working from home . Then there’s the bevy of annual “top places to live” lists that roam the internet. Livability , Money , Niche and Rocket Homes each recommend the best cities to settle down in, all with comforting data-backed analyses that I didn’t look too deep into, opting instead for browsing the listicles with their dazzling array of choices. Covington, Kentucky. Boulder, Colorado. Madison, Wisconsin. There are even curated lists for families (ask Fortune ) and young professionals ( Forbes has the scoop). I scoured them all with type A enthusiasm, certain the answer to my geographic dilemma was behind the next click.

After all, I didn’t want much. Just affordability, diversity, good weather, low crime, plenty of parks and bike trails, a strong job market, cultural opportunities and easy access to other cities and countries. Totally reasonable.

But for three years, I couldn’t find anything better than where I was. At the time we were based in Tampa, a metro area that pops up all over those “best city” lists. When people asked me why I wanted to move, I struggled to put it into words. But I felt it every time I looked out my living room window at those shadeless palm trees — like living in a postcard of last year’s summer vacation.

I can easily tell you all the reasons Tampa is an amazing place to live. It has a vibrant food and arts scene, no snow, no state income tax, and Disney World and award-winning beaches practically in your backyard. It should have been perfect, but it was never home. Like when you’re dating someone who’s smart and funny and nice and everything but, somehow, not for you.

Each year, I said this would be the year we moved. Each year, I renewed our lease, doubling down on my hunt for perfection. I looked at cities in Washington with great hiking nearby, but they were out of budget. I considered various cities in Indiana and Ohio for their low cost of living but ultimately discarded the entire Midwest (my apologies to all Midwesterners) as too remote for our tastes. We drove up to Tennessee (twice) and Georgia, flew to Oklahoma City, and visited every major city in Florida with a population over 100,000. Nothing fit. I briefly contemplated getting a life coach to talk us through it until the $6,000 price tag quoted on a Zoom call nearly knocked me off my kitchen table chair.

Then, on a whim last November, we took a weekend trip to Raleigh, North Carolina. I had decided to write a story on things to see and do in town. Fall color was at its peak — reds and golds I seldom saw, brightening the parks and greenways. We explored, ate locally sourced food and went for walks in the faint autumn crispness, just brisk enough to flirt with the idea of a sweater. Somehow, I knew I’d found it. Home. We moved to Raleigh this spring.

And we love it. Raleigh is the Goldilocks of American cities, a term I heard from one local that sums it up to a tee. Not too big or too small. Not too hot or cold. In between the mountains and the ocean. Progressive and diverse, yet surrounded by small towns and farmland. Of course, the city isn’t without downsides: soaring summer humidity, higher taxes than Florida, and honestly, I’d prefer those mountain waterfalls a couple hours closer. But all things taken together, like in the fairy tale, it’s just right.

I’d like to say it was careful analysis that got us here. Sure, I checked the stats: home prices, average temps, crime rate and the number of international destinations with direct flights from the Raleigh-Durham airport (nine, if you’re curious). And it’s true Raleigh comes in sixth in the recently released Best Places to Live list from U.S. News & World Report — third last year when I was still searching.

But it’s not about that. What I was looking for wasn’t ever going to rank in a spreadsheet. It’s more elusive yet, paradoxically, more tangible. It’s the summer sunflower fields and the university that makes its own ice cream and the grazing horses I pass on my drive in, even though we’re only 15 minutes from downtown. It’s leaving behind those relentless palm trees, trading up for the sprawling shady oaks that give the capital its understated nickname, City of Oaks.

Perhaps it’s not perfect. But it’s perfect for us, for right now, and that’s enough.

Cheryl Rodewig is an award-winning journalist and marketer. When she’s not planning her next trip, she’s helping brands tell their stories. Her words have appeared in AARP, USA Today, The Guardian, Fodor’s, Thrillist and all over cherylrodewig.com . She loves it when people reach out on X and Instagram . 

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