If you and your girlfriends are in need of a getaway, there are plenty of fantastic destinations right here in the United States. It’s much easier to take a last-minute trip in your own backyard since you don’t need to worry about visas, vaccinations or currency exchanges. I’ve created a list of the best destinations in the US for a girls’ trip, so let’s dive in.

Disclaimer: this post contains some affiliate links. When you make purchases through my links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support! 

 

New York City, NY 

I heart NY. 

The Big Apple makes for the perfect girls’ trip destination for a lively and adventurous girl gang. There are so many iconic sights to soak up and no end of things to do – it’s not called the city that never sleeps for nothing! 

If you and your girls are looking to shop, make sure to visit Bergdorf Goodman and of course, stop by Bloomingdale’s to pick up one of their famous Little Brown Bags. I also highly recommend taking afternoon tea at The Plaza and of course, catching a show on Broadway. 

Meanwhile, if your gang likes to party, don’t miss drinks at Paul’s Cocktail Lounge or the penthouse disco at Le Bain. And if you’re lucky, you might just be in town for an album release party at 1Oak. 

As for where to stay, there are no shortage of incredible hotels in New York. I’m especially partial to The Baccarat for when I want to relax and rest up, or you really can’t go wrong with the flagship St. Regis property on Fifth Avenue. For more on New York’s best luxury hotels, check out this article.

Miami, FL 

Artists from Will Smith to the Swedish House Mafia have written about how much they love partying in Miami. If you’re keen to hit swanky bars and clubs, then Miami is one of – if not THE – best US destinations for a girls’ trip. Don’t miss your chance to dance all night at Club Space, which is open 24 hours per day, or party with famous names at LIV in Miami Beach. And for an edgy latin bar, check out El Patio in the uber-hip neighborhood of Wynwood.

If you’re looking for nonstop good times and fun in the sun, I recommend staying at the W South Beach, which is right at the heart of the party. There’s a young and exciting vibe at this luxury property and it’s perfect for a girls’ trip. 

Of course, Miami isn’t just about parties. If you want to relax in the sunshine and enjoy a little pampering, then that’s totally possible, too! Yes, we Miamians enjoy a party but Miami is also a very health-conscious city, too. There are lots of wellness experiences available, so if that’s something that interests you be sure to check out my Miami wellness guide. 

Los Angeles, CA 

If you’re in the mood for sightseeing and celebrity spotting, LA could be just the place for you. If truth be told, I’m not a huge fan of downtown LA but I love the vibrant Venice Beach area. With street art everywhere and a gorgeous golden beach, this is the perfect place to escape from reality and have some fun with your girlfriends. Just sitting and people watching with a cocktail makes for a fun afternoon! Be sure to check out the rooftop bar at Hotel Erwin. 

San Francisco, CA

Many travelers have left their hearts in San Francisco. This laidback, health-conscious city is one of the best US destinations for a girls’ trip if you’re looking for a weekend of sightseeing, healthy food and outdoor activities. 

If you’re at all interested in history, you can’t miss a visit to the infamous Alcatraz island prison. It’s an eerie experience for sure, but it’s undeniably fascinating, too. 

There are plenty of great hiking options and bicycle routes around San Francisco, so if you’re proud to belong to an active and adventurous girl gang, San Fran could be the perfect city for a weekend getaway. 

Scottsdale, AZ 

Scottsdale is a year-round destination that offers visitors warm weather, excellent food and wine and gorgeous desert landscapes. There are plenty of excellent spa resorts on offer in the city and there are so many cool travel experiences to enjoy. 

Scottsdale very much feels like a city that was designed with millennials in mind. There are lots of hip cafes and Insta-friendly street art murals all over town – perfect for perfecting your grid. Lots of hotels, such as the Andaz, regularly host pool parties, so Scottsdale really is perfect for some fun in the sun with your girls!

Austin, TX 

Live music, friendly locals, excellent craft beer and big open spaces – what’s not to love about Austin, Texas? If you and your friends prefer going to gigs and chatting in bars to dancing all night in the club, then Austin is the perfect city for a fun getaway. 

I’ve been to Austin a few times and I absolutely love it. It’s got a certain charm that makes you feel welcome straight away. Arriving in town feels like being greeted by an old friend. There are so many cool and quirky spots to discover, a great local art scene and some beautiful hikes available. This is definitely one of my favorite US destinations for a girls’ trip.

As for hotels, the historic Driskill perfectly embodies that warm Texas spirit, or check out the Lake Austin Spa Resort for a tranquil wellness retreat.

For a more in-depth guide to Austin, check out this article. 

Denver, CO 

Denver is a walkable city with plenty of culture and your friends to enjoy. The city is overlooked by the majestic rocky mountains and offers urban adventures all year round. 

Denver is home to many unique neighborhoods to explore, including the River North Art District (RiNo). Here, you can follow the Denver Beer Trail, check out the Central Market or enjoy yourself at the many live music venues. Big names often come to play in Denver, so it’s worth checking out who’s in town when you’re visiting. 

Meanwhile, the Highlands neighborhood contains some great boutiques or visit the Cherry Creek Shopping Centre to peruse the big names such as Levi’s, Nordstrom and Abercrombie. 

Definitely don’t miss the Art District on Santa Fe, which is home to more than 100 galleries and studios. On the first Friday of each month, galleries are open late and art walks are held throughout the district. 

There’s a Four Seasons in Denver and naturally, it’s one of the city’s best hotels. The property is located at the very heart of the action and many of the city’s main attractions are easily accessible on foot from here. It’s also home to the Edge Restaurant and Bar, one of the city’s top steakhouses. 

Chicago, IL 

I used to live in Chicago and it remains one of my favorite cities ever. It’s cool and cultured with friendly people and lots going on. 

Make sure you visit the Millenium Park so that you and your girlfriends can snap plenty of photos with the famous Chicago bean sculpture and definitely check out the fun Navy Pier area, too. I’d also recommend a trip to the Chicago Skydeck for stunning views of the city.

For cocktails, head to Secret Sounds, which was actually named the best cocktail bar in America in 2018. Meanwhile, head to The Aviary for artistic cocktails that almost feel like a science experiment – think popsicles melting into your drink and lots of dry ice special effects. 

Las Vegas, NV 

Well, of course I had to list Vegas as one of the best US destinations for a girls’ trip! 

If you and your girlfriends are ready to party and blow off some steam, then Las Vegas won’t let you down. From bottomless brunches to exclusive parties and world famous DJs, a trip to Sin City is an unforgettable experience. 

I definitely recommend the Wicked Spoon brunch at the Cosmopolitan hotel and you’ve got to check out the upmarket shops as Caesar’s Palace, too. And don’t forget to catch a show whilst you’re in town; Cirque du Soleil is always a hit. Viva Las Vegas, baby! 

In terms of hotels, you truly are spoilt for choice in Vegas, but I’m particularly partial to the Wynn. If you want to stay in one of the city’s wacky themed hotels, Caesars Palace and the Venetian are both excellent choices for luxury travellers.

As for where to stay, take a look at my guide to the best hotels in Las Vegas.

New Orleans 

New Orleans is another excellent destination for a girl gang looking to party. This vibrant city not only boasts amazing bars, clubs and casinos but is also steeped in fascinating folklore. Oh, and fully expect to gain 10lbs from all the amazing Creole food on offer in New Orleans.

Be sure to explore the buzzing French Quarter and check out the all-night music clubs in Marigny, such as the Spotted Cat and the Blue Nile. Be sure to check out colorful Magazine street, too, for lots of excellent bars, restaurants, boutiques and spas. 

As for where to stay, you can’t go wrong with Maison de la Luz, a boutique hotel that perfectly encapsulates the spirit and heritage of New Orleans. Alternatively, Soniat House provides uber-luxurious digs that will delight even the most discerning guests.

Charleston, SC 

Charleston’s buzzing atmosphere, rich history and colorful buildings make it one of the most fun US destinations for a girls’ trip. Classic Southern charm simply oozes from this city. Whether you and your girlfriends want to hang out at the beach, shop ‘til you drop or sip cocktails at the chic Citrus Club, there’s plenty of fun to be had in Charleston. 

Napa Valley, CA 

This world-class wine region is the perfect destination for a girls’ trip. It’s famed for its lush green mountains, excellent distilleries and balmy year-round weather. What could be better than relaxing and bonding over top quality wine with your friends?

I highly recommend a stay at the stunning Carneros Resort and Spa, which offers elegant villas surrounding by rolling vineyards. Alternatively, stay at Bardenosso for a more wellness-focused wine weekend. 

Palm Springs, CA 

Another California classic. Palm Springs used to be the preferred hangout of Hollywood stars, but these days it’s more of a desert getaway for those who want to escape LA for a little while. It’s definitely one of the best US destinations for a girls’ trip.

Although Palm Springs is a popular retirement destination, there’s still plenty for a young group of girlfriends to enjoy. Many hotels host lively pool parties, and there are many fun cocktail bars to check out such as Dead or Alive or the Bootlegger Tiki bar. 

For hotels, the Korakia Pensione hotel is full of character and charm or L’Horizon Resort and Spa is perfect for some laidback pampering. 

San Juan, PR

San Juan is an explosion of culture with beautiful beaches and thriving nightlife to boot. There’s an undeniable charm to the cobbled streets of San Juan and its brightly colored colonial houses. Meanwhile, fans of Latin food will fall in love with San Juan and its fresh, flavorsome food. 

If you have time, there are plenty of amazing day trips from San Juan, too. Meanwhile, adventurous travelers should visit El Monstruo to whiz along the world’s longest zipline or go kayaking in the Laguna Grande bay after dark to catch a glimpse of the stunning bioluminescent plankton. 

For more on USA travel, take a look at my guide to New York City or the country’s best spa hotels that you can visit right now.