Now that the kids are headed back to school, it's time to start planning your next great getaway with your favorite gal pals. Girls’ trips are good for the soul. Coming into midlife, I know one thing for sure: Girls’ trips are good for your mental health and happiness and enrich your life. VeryWell Minds states friends do a lot more than give you a shoulder to cry on; they also have a positive impact on your health. Some research even says friendships are just as important to your well-being as eating right and exercising.
That’s why each year my closest friends and I plan an excursion away together. It is something we look forward to all year and spend a ton of time discussing and planning. It’s a celebration for us. A trip with the girls can be as glamorous or low-key as you like. Over the years, we've found that the stage of life we were in always led us to design the perfect kind of trip for that year.
My list of suggestions comes from years and years of girls’ trips, and this list is of my absolute favorites. I've included places to relax, explore, hike, regroup and reflect, hang or shop. Remember, at the end of the day it's about spending time with the women who lift you up and you can celebrate life to the fullest with. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your partners in crime and get your travel on!
Lake Tahoe, Nevada
We live in the Valley for a reason, so it’s no secret that getting out of town and heading to Lake Tahoe in the summer still allows you to do all your favorite activities in another beautiful part of the country. We rent a house by the lake so we can cook and get our chat on in the comfort of the same home.
Sunbathe on the beach, rent a boat for some water skiing, or check out one of the fishing charters to help you reel in one of the big fish. Rent a kayak and explore the waters or get in a great workout on a standup paddle board.
When you’re not enjoying the water, soak in the views from the top of a mountain. Hiking and mountain biking are both extremely popular activities in Lake Tahoe, and there are trails for ladies who work out at every level.
Fredericksburg, Texas
Fredericksburg was named as one of "13 Perfect Fall Girlfriend Getaways to Start Planning Immediately" by Southern Living. If you and your gal pals love wine, this place is a must. Spend the day exploring Texas Wine Country. With more than 50 wineries and tasting rooms, you are sure to find your favorite.
I can’t say enough about the downtown area and the plethora of photo opportunities. The place feels like a little fairytale town. Shop ‘til you drop! Block after beautiful block you will find fun, trendy boutiques, shops, and galleries offering a wide variety of unique treasures.
Jackson, Wyoming
Love is an understatement when I talk about Jackson. The local scene was out of this world and we ladies didn’t have to buy any new outfits to fit in here like we lived here. We heard of a great in-town hotel called the Anvil Hotel. The converted motel is full of modern interpretations of cowboy culture and the wild west, from custom brass beds to moccasin-style slippers tucked next to each bedside table, and a lobby area with afternoon cocktails and meet and greets with other guests was super fun. A must stop is the Persephone Bakery. We went every day if that says anything at all. I almost asked my husband to just send the kids and my things because I wasn’t coming home.
Asheville, North Carolina
First, my friends and I read WILD. Enough said. The main character’s journey through the Appalachian Mountains intrigued us with wanting to learn more about this mountain range in comparison to living in our beloved Rocky Mountains. This town was vibrant with some of the best BBQ at Buxton Hall, art district, and American Literature history. Don’t miss downtown for a day, The Biltmore Estates, and, if you have time, squeeze a day trip over to Weaverville and of course do a nice hike on the Appalachian Mountains.
Sedona, Arizona
One year all of us were focused on our spiritual journeys as well as one of my friend’s family member’s tragic death; she needed to be surrounded by her friends in a peaceful and healing place. Sedona is widely known as one of the most spiritual places. As Visit Sedona explains, Sedona has developed a worldwide reputation as a place of enlightenment. This is home to a large community that promotes a variety of alternative healing and spiritual practices. There are wellness shops and boutiques scattered throughout the town. In addition, many of Sedona’s spas offer Native American-inspired treatments using indigenous materials like red rock clay and local plants. Anyone on a journey of self-discovery can find out more from expert practitioners through the Sedona Metaphysical Spiritual Association at sedonaspiritual.com.
Akumal Riviera Maya, Mexico
We have our favorite resort, and yes, it’s Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya. But truthfully, I’ve heard amazing things about other resorts in the area. We loved the all-inclusive vibe and we never fell short of activities to do—from excursions to Cenotes and snorkeling to tequila tastings and glorious spa treatments. Every night they had some adult-themed activity and we really enjoyed that it was an 18-and-up resort. It was beautiful anywhere on the property and felt like the ultimate escape a quick flight from the states.
Nashville, Tennessee
Fun? You don’t need to look for fun here. It finds you! My friends and I found an adorable Airbnb and wouldn’t do it any other way. We were celebrating a few of our big birthdays and this was the town to do it in. There are endless brunch spots, cafes, bars, and so many great areas to shop around and explore. We loved Biscuit Love and I felt like I brought home a few extra pounds to prove it. Don’t miss Music Row. Nashville has such deep musical roots. So much so that entire blocks of record label offices, radio stations, and recording studios have been named Music Row. The nightlife is never ending, with live music at every turn and people ready to help you celebrate whatever occasion you are there for.
