Every group of friends has that moment when someone says, “We should do a girls’ trip.” The excitement kicks in, but then comes the big question: where to go? The USA has no shortage of spots that cater perfectly to groups of women looking to mix fun, culture, food, and relaxation. Over the years, I’ve taken a handful of these trips, sometimes with a few close friends, and sometimes with ten of us crammed into a big Airbnb. I’ve also gathered plenty of ideas from other travelers.
Whether your crew wants music, cocktails, spas, hiking, or a little of everything, here are some of the best places for a girls’ trip in the USA.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
One of my favorite girls trips ever was Santa Fe. Eight of us went, all in our 30s, and it ended up being the perfect balance of culture and relaxation. The adobe architecture, art galleries, and colorful markets made the city itself a joy to explore. The food scene is also incredible, lots of Southwestern flavors, local wineries, and cozy cafes to linger in. Shopping is surprisingly good too, from handmade jewelry to unique art pieces you’ll want to take home.
Santa Fe has a slower pace than a big city, so it works really well if your group wants to catch up, eat well, and recharge while still doing some sightseeing.
Nashville, Tennessee
It’s no secret that Nashville is a top pick for girls trips, and after experiencing it, I get why. Between Broadway’s live music, rooftop bars, and endless spots for brunch, it’s basically built for groups. Even if country music isn’t your thing, the energy of the city will win you over.
Nashville also has a ton of boutique shopping and fun neighborhoods like East Nashville and The Gulch, so you can balance late nights out with casual days exploring. Just keep in mind it’s super popular for bachelorette parties, so you’ll likely run into a few other squads doing the exact same thing.
Charleston and Savannah
These two Southern gems are often mentioned together, and for good reason. They both offer walkable historic districts, great food, and a charming vibe that makes them ideal for a group weekend.
Charleston has colorful houses, great shopping, and a lively dining scene. When I visited, it seemed like every other street had a bachelorette group snapping photos in front of the pastel buildings. Savannah, on the other hand, feels a little more laid-back. The tree-lined squares, riverfront, and open-container policy downtown make it perfect for strolling with a drink in hand. Both cities strike a nice balance between nightlife and relaxing afternoons.
San Diego and Palm Springs, California
If your crew is craving sunshine, San Diego is a no-brainer. Beaches, tacos, rooftop bars, it’s all there. I especially loved the mix of activities, from kayaking at La Jolla Cove to going out in the Gaslamp Quarter at night.
For something a bit different, Palm Springs is a fantastic option, especially if you want to lounge by a pool with cocktails in hand. There are plenty of spa resorts and boutique hotels designed for group stays. If you plan your trip in early March, you can even catch the Indian Wells tennis tournament nearby, which adds a fun and unique twist to the trip.
Puerto Rico
One of the best girls’ trips I’ve ever heard about was to Puerto Rico. It feels like an island getaway, but without needing a passport if you’re American. March and springtime are perfect, warm, sunny, and outside of hurricane season.
You can split your time between Old San Juan (which has colorful streets, nightlife, and great restaurants) and the beaches. If your group is adventurous, there are day trips to El Yunque rainforest or even bioluminescent bays for kayaking at night. It’s an easy balance of fun and relaxation.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago might not be the first place that comes to mind for a girls’ trip, but it really should be. I visited for a conference once and was surprised at how much fun it was outside of work. The food scene is amazing, from deep dish pizza to Michelin-starred restaurants, and the public transit makes getting around easy.
In the summer, Chicago really shines; patio dining, rooftop bars, and lakefront walks make it one of the most vibrant cities in the country. Just be careful if you’re planning for March; it can be cold and wet.
Other Fun Options
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Sedona, Arizona: Great if your group loves nature, hiking, and stunning landscapes.
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San Francisco & Wine Country: Mix city vibes with a day trip to Napa or Sonoma for wine tasting.
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Miami, Florida: Beaches and nightlife in equal measure, though definitely budget for it.
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Las Vegas, Nevada: A classic girls’ trip pick if you’re after pool parties, shows, and late nights.
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Austin, Texas: Live music, great food trucks, and plenty of bars make it fun and casual.
Tips for Planning a Girls’ Trip in the USA
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Airbnbs work best for larger groups, it keeps costs down and gives you a common hangout spot.
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Pick the vibe first. Decide if you want nightlife, relaxation, adventure, or a mix, then choose a destination.
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Factor in the weather. Cities like Chicago or Boston are amazing in summer or fall, but not so much in March. On the other hand, Palm Springs or Miami can be perfect escapes from cold weather.
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Book early if possible. Popular girls’ trip cities like Nashville and Charleston fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
A girl’s trip is as much about the people you’re with as the destination, but picking the right spot can make all the difference. Whether you’re sipping wine in Sonoma, dancing in Nashville, or relaxing in Santa Fe, the USA is full of places that deliver unforgettable experiences.