9 Best Girls Trip Destinations in the U.S. for the Ultimate Budget-Friendly Adventure
Are you and your best friends dreaming of a getaway?
In my experience it can be hard to find a place that suits everyone. Some people crave a city vibe, while others want to get out and explore nature, however everyone's biggest concern always seems to be the cost.
I've made a list of 9 of my favorite girls trip destinations in the United States along with some inspiration for activities that will excite everyone in the friend group.
I hope this list inspires your creativity and results in the ultimate girls trip that (finally) makes it out of the group chat!
1. Palm Springs, California
Airport Accessibility
Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) welcomes travelers just 15 minutes from downtown, if flights are looking too expensive, LAX and Orange County Airports are also within a reasonable driving distance.
Cost Relative to Other Locations
Palm Springs offers a range of prices. While it is often thought of a luxury destination and the resorts can be costly, you can easily find budget-friendly options, especially in off-peak seasons.
Best Season to Visit
The ideal time to visit is between October and April, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F, perfect for all types of activities.
Activities
City Activities: There is so much to do, especially because this location thrives on tourism. Stroll along Palm Canyon Drive with its chic shops and eateries. The Palm Springs Art Museum features unique exhibitions and luxurious spa resorts offer affordable day passes for relaxation. If this is out of the budget, a long day relaxing at the pool is also a great option.
Outdoorsy Activities: Joshua Tree National Park, just an hour away, boasts stunning rock formations and flora, that are unique to this desert location. If you aren't looking to drive, hike (or ride) the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for panoramic views. If you are looking for more relaxing outdoor activities hit one of the many golf courses and play a few holes, and don’t forget to relax by one of the many inviting pools.
With so many activities you are bound to come away with new memories with your besties and a tan too!
2. New York City, New York
Airport Accessibility
With three major airports—JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark—you'll find it simple to get to NYC, and chances are if you are all coming from different locations, everyone should be able to get there with relative ease.
Cost Relative to Other Locations
While NYC can be more expensive, excellent budget options exist, opting for an airbnb and using public transit can help you save your money for some of the more costly activities.
Best Season to Visit
Visiting in spring (March to June) or fall (September to November) provides moderate temperatures and beautiful scenery to enjoy the city, and often with hotel rates are lower than in peak summer. That being said, you can visit New York anytime of the year and find plenty to enjoy.
Activities
City Activities: Visit some of the iconic sites like Times Square, the empire state building or the Statue of Liberty. If you enjoy shows, look into Saturday Night Live, Jimmy Fallon and Broadway shows, all of which can be wallet-friendly if you book tickets in advance. New York City is always bustling, and there are plenty of activities that pop up every weekend. Do a quick google search or check socials to catch a fun weekend event.
Outdoorsy Activities: Enjoy a scenic walk on the Brooklyn Bridge or rent bikes to explore Central Park, a vast oasis in the city's heart. You can also book a cruise in New York Harbor, or catch the (free) ferries to Long Island or Ellis Island (not free). If you are interested in exploring, walk the streets of little Italy or chinatown and try some of the authentic cuisines!
There are too many things to do they won't all fit here, but a trip to the magical concrete jungle will make your friend groups dreams come true.
3. Las Vegas, Nevada
Airport Accessibility
McCarran International Airport (LAS) is located just minutes away from the Las Vegas Strip.
Cost Relative to Other Locations
Las Vegas has options for all budgets, but dining gambling, and entertainment can add up quickly if you're not cautious.
Best Season to Visit
Visit Las Vegas in spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) for ideal weather, with average temperatures between 70°F to 90°F.
Activities
City Activities: Have brunch with your ladies at Mon Ami Gabi or The Buffet at Wynn while enjoying scenic views. Checkout the entertainment on the strip with performances like Cirque du Soleil, magic shows, or concerts. Treat yourself to a day of relaxation at luxury spas or poolside with a good book or podcast.
Outdoorsy Activities: A visit to Red Rock Canyon is a perfect day trip for hiking, with trails offering stunning views just 30 minutes from the Strip. Visit the Las Vegas Strip and checkout the iconic landmarks and attractions that line it. Consider booking a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon, though it is 4 hours away, a helicopter ride can make it a quick and scenic afternoon trip!
No matter what you choose to do in Vegas, you will have memories that may (or may not) need to stay in Vegas.
4. Park City, Utah
Airport Accessibility
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is your gateway, located just 35 minutes from Park City.
Cost Relative to Other Locations
Park City can range from moderate to high, especially for winter skiing. However, summer rates often decrease substantially.
Best Season to Visit
Winter is perfect for snow sports, while summer involves hiking and festivals like the Sundance Film Festival. In fact, summer activities can be up to 40% cheaper than during the winter months.
Activities
City Activities: Discover Historic Main Street’s shops and dining options, or check out local art galleries. Cosy up in a cabin with games, books, and movies.
Outdoorsy Activities: Ski downhill at Park City Mountain Resort in the winter, or checkout one of the several other resorts nearby including Sundance and Alta. In the summer explore scenic hiking trails all over the mountains and opt for an evening ski lift ride that will offer breathtaking views.
While this is definitely a destination for Ski bunnies, anyone can find lots to love in Park City.
5. Outer Banks, North Carolina
Airport Accessibility
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is about 2-3 hours away from the Outer Banks.
This is not our most accessible destination, but the views are worth it. This might also be a great option for a group of girlies who are already located in the eastern United States.
Cost Relative to Other Locations
Outer Banks is relatively affordable once you get there, especially if you use vacation rentals for a whole group.
Best Season to Visit
Late spring and early fall (May to June and September to October) are recommended for pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Although this location is pleasant during all seasons of the year.
Activities
City Activities: Browse local shops in Duck and Manteo, checkout the local eateries or visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial, which has a nominal entry fee of $10.
Outdoorsy Activities: Enjoy windsurfing or kayaking lessons, or just lounge on beach and enjoy the rhythmic ocean sights and sounds.
Even if you spend your whole vacation on the Sand Dunes of one of Outer Banks many undeveloped beaches, you will be so glad your friends gave this location a shot.
6. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Airport Accessibility
McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is the nearest airport, about 45 minutes from Gatlinburg.
Cost Relative to Other Locations
Gatlinburg is a budget-friendly destination, often offering lodging for about $100 a night in off-season months.
Best Season to Visit
Fall is particularly stunning here, especially in October when the foliage explodes in color.
Activities
City Activities: Discover quirky shops, sample moonshine in local distilleries, or visit Ripley’s Aquarium.
Outdoorsy Activities: Hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where more than 800 miles of trails await, or enjoy thrilling zip-lining experiences.
Tennessee in the fall will leave you wishing that you could stay on this girl's trip permanently.
7. Leavenworth, Washington
Airport Accessibility
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is two hours away from Leavenworth.
This is another hard to reach destination, but the drive through the mountain pass to reach this tiny german mountain town makes two hours seem like nothing.
Cost Relative to Other Locations
Leavenworth is a tourist town and while its prices are okay considering this, they definitely spike during peak tourist seasons like Oktoberfest, so just be aware when peak season is.
Best Season to Visit
Spring (April to June) is wonderful for flower lovers, while fall (September to October) is popular for Oktoberfest festivities. Christmas is also a very popular time, as the Bavarian town goes all out on decorations and creates a very festive atmosphere.
Activities
City Activities: Explore the Bavarian-themed village with its unique shops like the nutcracker museum, and enjoy German cuisine at local restaurants.
Outdoorsy Activities: There are numerous hiking opportunities nearby, as well as river activities like whitewater rafting.
You will be shocked by this little oasis located in the heart of Washington State.
8. New Orleans, Louisiana
Airport Accessibility
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is conveniently located about 20 minutes from downtown.
Cost Relative to Other Locations
New Orleans can be very budget-friendly, especially for food and drinks.
Best Season to Visit
Spring (February to May) is an excellent time for festivals and pleasant weather, often with temperatures around 70°F.
Activities
City Activities: The French Quarter boasts rich history, and checkout Frenchmen Street which is bursting with jazz vibes. Try local foods like gumbo that are easily found in eateries around the city.
Outdoorsy Activities: Take a steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River, which costs around $30, or try to spot an alligator while exploring the swamps with guided tours.
9. Bar Harbor, Maine
Airport Accessibility
Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB) is the closest, or you can fly into Bangor International Airport (BGR), about an hour away.
Cost Relative to Other Locations
While accommodations can be pricier in peak season, meals remain very reasonable, your greatest cost will be flights, since the airports are both smaller.
Best Season to Visit
Summer (June to September) offers warm weather to enjoy Acadia National Park.
Activities
City Activities: This is a location more suited to people who enjoy the outdoors however there is a lot to enjoy in this little tourist town. Check out charming boutiques, cafes and art galleries or take a sunrise tour at Cadillac Mountain.
Outdoorsy Activities: Hike the stunning trails in Acadia National Park, enjoy whale watching, or cycle along scenic coastal paths.
Final Thoughts
These 9 fantastic destinations for a girls getaway cater to a range of interests, from urban exploration to outdoor excitement.
No matter your personal preference I am confident that you and your girls could enjoy any one of the awesome spots.
So get your friends on board, plan the ultimate girls trip, and get ready for an unforgettable escape!
Happy travels!
The American Gypsy
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