• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

9 Best Places for 60th Birthday | Make It a Memorable Celebration!

trip ideas for 60th birthday

  • Bucket List Trips
  • Types of Travel

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

There are birthdays and then there are birthdays . Turning 60 is one of the biggies. For some people, it’s a bit of a panic. Your 50s have come and gone and what’s next may be more of a question mark than an exclamation point. That’s all the more reason to celebrate this milestone birthday with a trip to usher in the new decade. With so many exciting cities for a day trip, choosing one won’t be a problem.

I’ll be joining the 60 club and can’t decide where to go. I’m not sure of my mood. How do I want to greet my 60s? My dilly-dallying means that I won’t actually celebrate in my birthday month, but surely by the end of this year, I will have come to my senses and gotten on with it! I’m leaning toward something cosmic and soothing to the soul, maybe a repeat Sedona trip or something similar.

But in the meantime, I recently had the pleasure of helping a brother-in-law mark his 60th in Las Vegas. A good time was had by all. You’ll see why it makes the list of places you should consider for your big 60th birthday getaway. The main ingredient for this special fete is to stick with what appeals to you. Whether you love the outdoors, adventure, or culture, or something else is your jam, indulge 100 percent right there and create unforgettable memories!

9 Best Places for 60th Birthday | Ideas for a Memorable Celebration

For a quick summary check out the story below, or you can read on to read about each amazing place in more detail:

1. Best For Party Animals

Las Vegas at night time.

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. It’s understood that everyone is going to be on their worst (or wildest!) behavior, and it’s not going to be broadcast to the world. You arrive in town with permission to clown, big time. Go ahead, let your hair down, shake off the last five decades, eat, drink, and be merry. You can’t go wrong with places to stay in Las Vegas after a night of partying (I recommend the Park MGM ). For that one special meal of the trip, reserve a table at The Mayfair Supper Club in the Bellagio or any other great restaurant that Las Vegas has to offer .

Recall a bygone era amid the elegance, live jazz, and over-the-top cuisine, like Mary’s Organic Chicken, which is fried and grilled and served with sauce remoulade, shishito hot sauce, green bean amandine, and truffle pasta. And of course, you’ll have the view of the infamous Bellagio fountains spraying rhythmically as you dine.

The perfect cure for a hangover is brunch at Catch . Go for the smashed organic avocado toast or cinnamon roll pancakes. Between the shows and the clubs, you’ll dance your way into the next decade and have a lot of secrets to keep.

Pro Tip: As much as Vegas is about the Strip , venture off it a bit. I discovered EllaEm’s Soul Food about 30 minutes away from the action. It’s grandma’s cooking and more. Eat guilt-free; work it off dancing the night away. 

Explore  hotels  and  Airbnbs  near Las Vegas

10 Fabulous Las Vegas Vacation Rentals Near The Strip

2. Best For The Outdoorsy

Durango, colorado.

Durango in Colorado.

How fast can you say Giddyap ? If that thought makes you smile, this historic Old West town is for you. Horseback riding awaits you on mountain trails. The adventure of riding across gurgling streams and surrounding ponderosa pines and wildflowers will make you feel like you’re in one of those movies you watch on a Saturday afternoon.

If you want adventure without doing the work, take a jeep tour during which you can summit a peak at 12,000 feet elevation. However, if you must prove you’ve still got it even at 60, use your time in Durango to go white water rafting on the Animas River. When you’re ready to exhale, there’s SKA Brewery and Fox Fire Farms, a vineyard and winery where you might catch an outdoor concert. Durango has a lot to offer .

Explore  hotels  and  Airbnbs  near Durango, Colorado

3. Best For Cultural Immersion Lovers

Tuscany, italy.

Tuscany, Italy.

You may have already accomplished much on your bucket list, but how about a celebration at Agriturismo Casetta, a nearly 300-year-old luxury farmhouse in Tuscany with your close family and friends? And the best part is you can enjoy cultural experiences like truffle hunting with the royal descendants of the Mona Lisa, private tours to art galleries and monuments, and access to some of Italy’s rarest wine cellars.

Imagine zipping around in a Ferrari touring vineyards and wine cellars rarely seen by the public or being in the private woods of a 400 A.D. castle with the descendants of Mona Lisa feasting on a white truffle lunch and wines from the estate’s 1,000-year-old cellars. Top it off with private gallery tours with an art historian.

Explore  hotels  and  Airbnbs  near Tuscany, Italy

Editor’s Note: Tuscany bound? Don’t miss our Tuscany Road Trip: The Perfect Itinerary Through Italy’s Stunning Countryside .

9 Incredible Tuscan Villas You Can Rent In Italy

4. Best For A Guys’ Golf Getaway

Cabo san lucas, mexico.

Cabo San Lucas in Mexico.

Designed for a foursome of golf buddies who want an extra-special place to celebrate their love of the game and the big 6-0, the Guys Golf Getaway package at Pueblo Bonito Resorts is an option worth putting on the list of possibilities.

For sure the main attraction is the unlimited golf at Quivira Golf Club, the Jack Nicklaus Signature course carved into a stunning Land’s End site at the place where the Sea of Cortes meets the Pacific Ocean. You’ll be wowed by the granite cliffs, massive windswept dunes, rolling desert foothills, and panoramic views, which was one of my favorite experiences in Cabo San Lucas .

Pueblo Bonito Pacifica is beloved for its ocean-desert-mountain ecosystem, Quivira offers more oceanfront exposure than any other course in Los Cabos.

Explore  hotels  and  Airbnbs  near Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

The 11 Best Vacation Rentals In Cabo San Lucas

5. Best For Architecture Enthusiasts And Foodies

Carmel-by-the-sea.

Carmel-by-the-Sea in California.

This is one of my favorite places on the planet. It’s proof that good things come in small packages. The one-square-mile, European-style village of Carmel-by-the-Sea is the stuff of fairytales with its architecture, which has been called a Charles Dickens-inspired wonderland. Take a historic walking tour or go it on your own. Here, it’s all about the food. Make it easy on yourself and take a food tour so you can sample the best of the best.

There are some 50 full-service restaurants in this little town. It has more restaurants per capita than any other small city in the U.S. What else makes Carmel special? You’ll love exploring the secret passageways, courtyards, and gardens. There are more than 40 of them. There’s plenty of love for vino here, too, with 17 wine tasting rooms, wine bars, and bottle shops.

Pro Tip: Take a side trip to nearby Monterey . Cannery Row is charming, and the aquarium is one of the best.

Explore  hotels  and  Airbnbs  near Carmel-By-The-Sea

6. Best For Lovers Of Slow Travel

Canyons & deserts train trip with vacations by rail.

You can’t go wrong with a nine-day tour called Canyons & Deserts that features Sedona. Sedona is my sweet spot. It’s the kind of place where you find your center, clear your head, and leave better than you arrived. This trip starts with a full day to explore Las Vegas. Next up, a trek out to Death Valley National Park, hitting all the main sites including the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin. The itinerary includes Owen’s Valley, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada, White, and Inyo Mountains.

A trip like this wouldn’t be complete without the ghost town of Randsburg, where you’ll see the remains of the Old West’s gold rush with preserved museums, antique stores, and saloons. Taking two days across Route 66, you’ll arrive at the Grand Canyon for a motorcoach tour. Then you’ll make your way to Sedona, with its red sandstone terrain, vortexes, and more.

Stop in the ghost town of Jerome for a day and board the Verde Canyon Railroad with first-class tickets along the green waters of the river under the lush canopy. With one last day of desert adventure in Sedona, a farewell dinner concludes the adventure before you head to Phoenix the next day for departure. 

Explore  hotels  and  Airbnbs  near Canyons & Deserts Train Trip With Vacations By Rail

7. Best For The Lavish Beach Bum

St. thomas, u.s. virgin islands.

St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands.

This mountainous island is a sight to behold with its white-sand beaches, green rolling hills, and flora. But St. Thomas stands out for its sophisticated and cosmopolitan vibe, too. Think fine dining, nightlife, and luxurious accommodations. There’s a reason to make your home away from home the newly renovated Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas. The views over Great Bay, locally sourced cuisine, a luxury catamaran for sunset cruises, snorkeling tours and private events, and a renovated Club Lounge with updated culinary offerings and marine-inspired decor are just part of the attraction.

For the ultimate 60th birthday bash, set sail on one of the property’s three luxury sailing catamarans. The Lady Lynsey II is an exquisite 60-foot vessel that offers island-hopping excursions, snorkeling tours, and champagne sunset sails.

Pro Tip: You’ll cheap yourself if you spend at least a day in nearby St. John with its hipster vibe, fab beaches, and great restaurants. What I fell in love with was all the historical sites, including the Catherineberg Ruins, Annaberg Sugar Plantation, and Cinnamon Bay Nature Loop Trail.

Explore  hotels  and  Airbnbs  near St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

8. Best For Wine Lovers

Sonoma, california .

Vineyard in Sonoma, California.

There’s more to California wine than Napa. I love Napa , don’t get me wrong, but escape to the Russian River Valley’s luxury boutique hotel, the Farmhouse Inn in Sonoma. Set off your celebration with the Farm, Flight & Field two-day getaway.

The fun includes a four-hour helicopter tour of the Sonoma Coast featuring stopovers at a remote vineyard and a picnic lunch in an exclusive coastal location as well as spa treatments, a seven-course meal from the inn’s Michelin-starred restaurant, an exclusive wine library, a food-paired wine tasting, and other once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Keepsakes include handmade ceramic teacups from Cristina Hobbs for use in the spa and to take home, an in-room welcome gift, wine amenity, and a Paul Hobbs Winery takeaway risotto/dashi kit with a recipe from the estate chef.

Explore  hotels  and  Airbnbs  near Sonoma, California

9. Best For Wildlife Spotters

Imagine the thrill of a 60th birthday in Iceland with wildlife encounters you have always dreamed of! For the outdoor enthusiast in you, there will never be short of reasons to visit Iceland, but the country’s rich array of wildlife is surely one of the most compelling, particularly for nature lovers celebrating a big birthday.

Picture exploring the wild, untamed beauty of Vatnajökull National Park by day to witness the majesty of puffins and arctic foxes in their natural habitats, or cruise along Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon to catch a glimpse of seals. You’ll create exceptional moments against the stunning Icelandic backdrop.

In the evenings, cozy up, savor local cuisine, and toast to six incredible decades. Blend the joy of reaching a milestone age with the awe-inspiring beauty of the Land of Ice and Fire and the wildlife encounters it offers.

Explore  hotels  and  Airbnbs  near Iceland

Final Thoughts on Celebrating Your 60th Birthday in Style

Your 60th birthday is an occasion that deserves something truly memorable. By carefully planning your trip and choosing the perfect destination tailored to your needs, you’ll create moments that will stay with you forever.

Whether you prefer your toes dipped in pristine white sand beaches, exploring vibrant cultural hubs, or embracing the wilderness, here’s to marking your special birthday with an unforgettable journey.

Ready to book your birthday trip? Have fun!

What To Consider When Booking a 60th Birthday Trip For Your Loved Ones?

Consider their interests and preferences when selecting a destination. It could be your partner’s dream destination, a place that relates to their heritage, or simply somewhere they have always wanted to go. Most importantly, make sure every detail of the trip is taken care of.

How Do You Celebrate Your Birthday on a Trip?

Planning unique activities like sightseeing, trying out different wines, or visiting museums are all good ways to celebrate your birthday on a trip. You can also plan a special activity or do something you’ve never done before. Just remember to capture the moment.

Why the 60th Birthday Is a Milestone Worth Traveling For?

Because milestone birthdays like a diamond jubilee are once-in-a-lifetime events worth traveling for. With so many amazing places to choose from, it’s easy to find a destination that appeals to your preferences and desires.

What European Classic Cities To Visit For the 60th Birthday?

You can wander the cobblestone streets of Paris, indulge culturally in Tuscany, or marvel at the architectural wonders of Prague. The timeless charm of European cities offers a magical experience for those seeking a culturally rich 60th birthday vacation.

Is Asia a Good Destination For the 60th Birthday?

Yes. Asia offers a captivating blend of ancient temples, rich traditions, and exquisite cuisine for an unforgettable 60th birthday adventure. Diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unique experiences are what makes Asia the perfect for this special occasion.

Image of Sheryl Nance-Nash

Sheryl Nance-Nash is a freelance writer specializing in travel. Her work has appeared on CNTraveler.com, TheDailyBeast, Fodors, Afar, Global Traveler Magazine, ShermansTravel, and Newsweek.com among others.

Go Far Grow Close

20 Best Places In USA To Celebrate A 60th Birthday (2024)

Last Updated on March 11, 2024 by Nicole

Your 60th birthday is a time for celebration and what better way to celebrate than to travel to an amazing destination in the United States for a wonderful 60th birthday trip. Whether you are looking for beautiful beaches, exciting cities, stunning outdoor adventures, or sensational once in a lifetime experiences, you can have it all in America. Accordingly, here are 20 of the best places to visit and best things to do in the USA to celebrate your 60th birthday.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Other Options

If you are still looking for birthday inspiration after reviewing this article, take a look at the some of these other articles!

If you want to celebrate your 60th birthday during a certain month, here are a wide variety of options that include cities, towns, beaches, national and state parks:

  • 20 Best Cities To Visit In The USA ;
  • 24 Best Places To Visit In The USA In January ;
  • 26 Best Places To Visit In The USA In March ;
  • 20 Best Places To Visit In The USA In April ;
  • 25 Best Places To Visit In The USA In May ;
  • 21 Best Places To Visit In The USA In June ;
  • 23 Best Places To Visit In The USA in September ;
  • 22 Best Places To Visit In The USA In October
  • 20 Best Places To Visit In The USA In November ; and
  • 23 Best Places To Visit In The USA For Christmas .

If you are looking for a warm winter getaway, take a look at the  50 Best Beach Destinations In The USA For A Warm Winter Getaway .

On the other hand, if you want a snowy destination to enjoy skiing, snowmobiling, ice skating and more, please see  24 Best Snowy Winter Wonderlands To Visit In The USA .

If you’d rather find cool summer breezes and lovely mild temperatures, please take a peek at  28 Best US Destinations To Escape The Sizzling Summer Heat .

Finally, if you love the simple things – delicious picnics and beautiful sunsets with those you love – take a look at these fantastic choices: 24 Best Places In USA For Most Beautiful Sunsets .

Best 60th Birthday Trips In The United States

Here are 20 of the best places in the USA to celebrate your 60th birthday. They include big and small cities, beautiful sandy beaches, and destinations that plunge you in the thrill of the outdoors.

For each destination, I feature some of the best things to do, some of which are once in a lifetime activities, perfect for your milestone birthday. From hot air balloon rides, VIP experiences at National Football League games, unique and world renowned dining experiences, horseback riding on wild beaches, wildlife encounters in the water, private cabanas on the beach, ocean adventures, wine tours and more, your mind will spin with the spectacular choices that await from these 60th birthday destinations in America.

In addition, beyond highlighting the best things to do for your 60th birthday, I also mention the best times to go or avoid. A perfectly planned trip is easily ruined if you face unexpected weather during your stay.

So, pick your favorites and make a plan. Don’t wait another year before you treat yourself to these life altering destinations and experiences.

Best City Experiences In USA For 60th Birthday Celebrations

best places in the USA to celebrate a 60th birthday

Washington, D.C .

What better place to celebrate your 60th birthday milestone than at our nation’s capital? With its vibrant culture, countless monuments and museums, and abundance of activities, Washington DC is the perfect place to celebrate. 

Monuments by Moonlight Tour

As the sunsets , Washington DC’s most famous monuments come to light under the glow of the moonlight. With your own private tour guide, you’ll learn all about this country’s history, and see the famous Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, the Washington Monument, and more.

You’ll have plenty of time to stop for photos, and the private group experience of the Monuments by Moonlight Tour means you can savor each moment and go at your own pace. 

Dinner at Minibar

Dinner at Minibar by José Andrés is one of the most phenomenal culinary experiences in DC, if not in the entire US. The night kicks off in a whimsical waiting room, watching a melting clock count down to dinner. The dinner itself consists of an intimate, pre-fixe, Japanese-inspired menu where guests can watch the chefs prepare 20+ decadent courses from the circular bar.

Best Time To Go Or Avoid

Weather in Washington DC is as expected. It is warm in the summer months reaching mid to high 80s degree Fahrenheit in June, July and August. Spring and fall are very pleasant with temperatures in the mid to high 60s and 70s. Winter is typically in the 30s and 40s degree Fahrenheit. There is some snowfall, but not a lot.

best destinations in united states for 60th birthday celebration

Phoenix, Arizona

Marked by its stunning southwestern landscape and vibrant culture, Phoenix is the best place to have both an adventurous and elegant 60th birthday holiday in America.

Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Phoenix

There is no better way to celebrate your birthday in Phoenix than by soaring high above the Sonoran Desert in a hot air balloon . You’ll lift off in the morning when the sunlight is soft and casts a golden glow over the landscape.

Once in the air, you’ll float over the Phoenix Sonoran Desert Preserve, and get amazing views of Camelback Valley. You’ll also be treated to amazing aerial views of Downtown Phoenix. 

After landing, the fun doesn’t stop. You’ll be treated to a celebratory champagne brunch.

Have Dinner At Different Pointe Of View

Different Pointe of View is the place to be for a magical 60th birthday dinner. Located at the top of Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort, this restaurant offers absolutely stunning views of Phoenix and the surrounding desert landscapes. 

The food served at Different Pointe of View is just as good as the views from this restaurant. Chef Anthony DeMuro puts an amazing spin on American cuisine, incorporating the freshest, most local ingredients into the menu and creating a divine dining experience at Phoenix’s most scenic restaurant. 

Summer in Phoenix is blistering hot. In May, June, July, August and September, you can see temperatures well over 100 °F. The rest of the year offers beautiful weather. December and January is the coolest with average highs in the 60s. The rest of the months fall in between.

There is very little rain or humidity at any time of year.

best city in America for 60th birthday party

San Jose, California

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose is both the cultural and tech capital of California. Couple that with amazing, mild weather all year long, and San Jose is one of the best places for a 60th birthday trip in the USA.

San Francisco 49ers VIP In-Field Experience

For a 49ers game-day experience you’ll never forget, you can participate in one of the 49ers Golden Opportunities . You can take on-field photos with 49ers alumni, cheer on your favorite players in the tunnel as they take the field, and even have access to the pre-game Red Zone Rally.

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is an incredible museum. This museum has over 4,000 artifacts, and boasts the largest collection of Ancient Egyptian artifacts in western North America. You can marvel at Ancient Egyptian jewelry, textiles, and even mummies.

The Museum has several amazing exhibits on display, including the Alchemy Garden, and the Tomb Tour where you can learn all about Egyptian Funeral Practices. 

Interactive Murder Mystery Dinner 

For a truly mysterious birthday dinner, you can participate in America’s largest interactive murder mystery dinner . This dinner is set in the present day, and includes a four-course meal, a crime, clues, and sleuthing to solve it all. As this murder mystery dinner is interactive, anyone in the audience might be a participant, including you . 

San Jose has ideal weather all year round. Winter months offer average highs in the 60s. Spring and Fall temperatures fall in the low to mid 70 degree Fahrenheit range. You can expect summer temperatures to be in the 80s.

best 60th birthday vacation in America

Houston, Texas

America’s fourth largest city offers an ambiance that is distinctively southern, yet simultaneously urban and chic. Houston, Texas has plenty on offer to make a 60th birthday vacation in the USA one that you’ll never forget. 

Haunted Houston Ghost Tour & Pub Walk

What better way to explore Houston’s most haunted bars and buildings than with a drink in hand? On this fun and unique ghost tour , your spooky, costumed guide will transport you back to the 1800s.

You will go to the spookiest, most haunted locations in Houston – with a few memorable pit stops at local watering holes along the way.

NASA VIP Tour of the Houston Space Center

The NASA VIP tour of the Houston Space center takes you behind the scenes. You explore where astronauts train, as well as iconic places like the Apollo Mission Control Center, Space Mission Simulation Facility, and more. 

Culturally Immersive Restaurants

Although Houston has strong southern roots, you can have an international, immersive, dining experience without leaving the city. Take a trip to Mexico by visiting Casa Nomad , for upscale Mexican tapas with an impressive tequila and mezcal collection. 

Blue Nile will transport you all the way to Africa, while you enjoy delicious Ethiopian food surrounded by traditional decor. 

Ambrosia offers exotic Asian share plates in a truly lavish setting. 

Summer in Houston is hot. From June through September, average high temperatures well be around 92°F with lots of humidity. The rest of the year offers lovely weather. December and January is the coolest with average highs in the 60s. Spring and fall are the nicest with temperatures in the 70s and 80s.

best US 60th birthday holiday

Salt Lake City, Utah

Surrounded by the majestic Wasatch Mountain Range, Salt Lake City is a vibrant, culturally rich, and naturally beautiful city. 

See the Great Salt Lake

Salt Lake City’s namesake, the Great Salt Lake is the biggest saltwater lake in the entire western hemisphere. You can experience the beautiful prehistoric lake by walking, hiking, and biking along the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. 

Explore Temple Square

Spanning a whopping 10 acres and 5 city blocks, Temple Square is home to the famous Salt Lake Temple- a massive, beautiful, Gothic-style temple.

Within Temple Square, you can also enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens, and explore the area’s history, art, and culture through various museums. 

Enjoy a Medieval Dinner at Five Alls

Take your 60th birthday celebration back to the Renaissance Era with a delicious, Medieval-themed dinner at Five Alls . The interior is reminiscent of an old castle, the wait staff dress the part, and even the five-course meal is served with pewter flatware matching the theme.

Summertime offers warm temperatures in the 80s and 90s degree Fahrenheit. There is no humidity. April, May and October offer springtime temperatures in the 60s and 70s. The rest of the winter months are cold and snowy.

Best Outdoor Experiences In United States For A 60th Birthday Getaway

City life and relaxing on the beach isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Instead, these five American outdoor destinations should entice everyone off of the couch.

From stunning mountain escapes, ocean adventures and wildlife encounters, you have the choice of several bucket list experiences. Whether you prefer the sun and tropical temperatures, or bundling up in the snow, you will find thrills and excitement in these best 60th birthday trips.

best 60 year old birthday getaway in USA

Sitka, Alaska

Boasting magnificent wildlife, snow-capped mountains, and a historic downtown area, Sitka, Alaska is an unforgettable place to go for a 60th birthday celebration in the USA. 

Boating In The Bay

Sitka has a gorgeous bay, and the best way to experience it is out on the water. What this looks like is up to you. You can choose to either kayak in the bay or set sail on a catamaran into the sound in search of humpback whales. 

Visit Sitka National Historic Park

Alaska’s oldest national park preserves the memory and site of the 1804 Battle of Sitka, where Russian Traders invaded the indigenous Tlingit people. 

After taking a boat to reach Sitka National Park, you can see the restored native Alaskan Totem Poles, and the historic St. Michael’s Cathedral, all the while taking in the scenery of the surrounding lush and untouched rainforest. 

Go to Japonski Island

During WWII, Japonski Island was the military base for the US Navy. Today, you can take a boat to the island, or ride across the bridge and explore the remnants of the bunkers. It is fascinating to learn more about the history of the war and significance of Sitka at the time.

Average highs rarely reach beyond the high 60s Fahrenheit in Sitka in summer. Spring and fall offer temperatures in the 50s F and in winter, expect cold and snow.

best 60 birthday trip in United States

South Padre Island, Texas

With sunny beaches, warm gulf waters, and an abundance of marine life, South Padre Island has the makings for a tropical beachside 60th birthday destination. 

Horseback Riding On The Beach

There is no better way to explore the untouched seashores of the barrier islands than a sunset ride along the beach . It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned rider, or have never ridden a horse before. This amazing experience caters to all levels. 

Cook Your Catch

After a day of fishing off South Padre Island, you can take your catch to any cook your catch restaurant for an amazing dining experience. Each participating restaurant will clean your fish and prepare it to your specifications for a delicious end to a wonderful day on the waters.

If you like hot tropical weather, then South Padre Island is the best place for you to celebrate your 60th birthday. It is hot and humid for most of the summer. Beautiful warm temperatures continue into spring and fall, as well as humidity on almost 50% of the days. Wintertime also offers mild temperatures averaging in the mid 60s.

Mid August through early October is prime hurricane season so double check weather forecasts if you would like go during these months.

best outdoor destination to celebrate a 60th birthday

Aspen, Colorado

Tucked away in the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is the go-to place for a luxurious, mountain getaway. In the summer, it is an adventure paradise. However, it is in winter that it really shines when Aspen becomes a certified winter wonderland for a 60th birthday trip.

Snowmobiles

The most exhilarating way to experience the wintery magic of Aspen is racing over the snow on a snowmobile . Take your pick of riding through the White River National Forest and enjoying a Klondike Lunch in a rustic cabin, or ride to Maroon Lake, where you can marvel at Aspen’s most photographed peaks. 

Fondue Dinner

You don’t have to venture all the way to the Alps for a remarkable fondue dinner. At Aspen’s own French Alpine Bistro , you can enjoy a delightful fondue dinner, with a mouthwatering combination of incredible cheeses, paired with a dipping option of your choosing. 

Winter is very cold and very snowy. Make sure you pack your warm winter jackets and snow boots. You will get mild springlike temperatures from May to September.

best water adventures in America for 60th birthday

Crystal River, Florida

Crystal River, Florida is a coastal Gulf town with vivid blue waters just waiting to be explored. It’s surrounded by natural springs, and one of the best places surrounded by nature in the United States for a 60th birthday holiday. 

Swim with Manatees

Crystal River is one of the few places that you can find native manatees. At King’s Bay Wildlife Refuge, you’re permitted to swim and snorkel with these amazing, gentle creatures.

Three Sisters Springs

Three Sisters Springs is a part of the Crystal River Wildlife Refuge, and one of the most beautiful bodies of water in Florida. 

You can take in the beauty of the springs by walking along the Three Sisters Springs Boardwalk, or you can kayak into the springs . 

Summer will offer hot tropical temperatures in the 80s and 90s with lots of rain and humidity. You can expect lovely spring temperatures in the winter months and temperatures in the 70s and 80s in spring and fall.

Mid August through early October is peak hurricane season so check weather forecasts before scheduling a trip during this time.

best 60th birthday getaway in US

San Juan Island, Washington

The San Juan Islands, located right off the coast of Washington state, are one of the natural wonders of the world. While the archipelago comprises hundreds of different islands, the one named San Juan Island is one of the best American places for a 60th getaway thanks to its stunning beauty, hotels, shops and restaurants. 

Whale Watching

The sight of Orcas, Humpbacks, and Gray whales off the shores of the San Juan Islands is enough to take your breath away. You can embark on a whale watching tour from Friday Harbor, and watch the whales in their natural habitat from the comfort of the only water boat whale jet watch in the San Juan Islands. 

Sea Kayaking in Griffin Bay

One of the best ways to experience the views and wildlife of San Juan Island is within a sea kayak. Kayaking in Griffin Bay delivers pristine views of Mt. Baker, Dinner Island, and a solid chance at spotting bald eagles, harbor seals, river otters, loons, and more. 

Antiques and Artisans

Friday Harbor is the beautiful, coastal downtown area of San Juan Island, and it boasts a lovely selection of antique and artisan shops. Funk & Junk is the place to be for eclectic, previously-loved goods. Other fun places to shop for art and antiques include Treasure Hounds and Waterworks Gallery .

For the best weather, consider booking your birthday escape in summer. Average highs are in the 70s and there is only a few days of rain each month. Spring and fall offer cool daytime weather mostly in the 50s F. In winter, there is rarely snow but lots of rain.

Best Beach Destinations in America For A 60th Birthday Holiday

If you dream of the simple life – draping yourself on lounge chairs poolside or on a beautiful beach while sipping your favorite cocktail or glass of wine – then you are all set. Additionally, there are many amazing spots in the United States where you can do fantastic water sports and explore the beauty of the ocean Here are the best beaches to go in the USA for a special 60th birthday celebration.

best beach destinations in US to celebrate 60th birthday

Channel Islands National Park, California

Channel Islands National Park is one of the best beach destinations to celebrate your 60th birthday. A trip to this National Park will leave you with spectacular ocean views, and a unique look into the untouched and undeveloped lands and waters of these California islands.

Snorkel or Scuba Dive Trip

Both Anacapa and Santa Cruz Island are teeming with marine life. You can take a closer look at the beauty beneath the surface during a chartered snorkel or scuba dive trip. After a day in the sun working up an appetite, the trip even includes a barbecue lunch and hot showers.

Fishing 

The fishing off the coasts of the Channel Islands is spectacular. You can have your pick of the ocean by taking a deep water fishing charter out to the islands. While fishing off of both Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa Island, you might catch Rockfish, Sea bass, Yellowtail, and Sheepshead.

Wildlife Spotting

Often referred to as the “Galapagos of California”, the Channel Islands are full of wildlife. During a visit to the islands, you might see whales, dolphins, harbor seals, foxes, and even sharks.

Channel Islands National Park offers beautiful weather all year round. Average highs from November to May are in the mid to high 60s degree Fahrenheit. Average highs from June through October are in the mid to high 70s.

There is very little rain and no humidity.

best places in usa have 60 year old birthday party

St. Augustine, Florida

The oldest city in the US boasts beautiful Spanish Colonial Architecture, beautiful beaches, and a fun, lively setting for your 60th birthday celebration.

Rent a Beach Cabana

Make the most of St. Augustine’s picturesque, white sand beaches by renting your own private beach cabana .

Wine Tasting Cruise

For a fabulous evening on the water, set sail on a wine tasting cruise off the shores of St. Augustine. You’ll get to sample 6 amazing wines, along with a custom charcuterie board. There’s also a great selection of craft beers on board if that’s more your speed.

America’s oldest city is bound to have some spooky sights and stories. You can learn all about them and visit some of the most haunted, historical sights in the US while partaking in St. Augustine’s “ Beyond the Grave ” tour.

The best time of year to visit is in spring and fall when average highs are in the 70s and 80s F. If you are looking for a tropical escape in the summer, St. Augustine is ideal with temperatures in the high 80s and 90s, and lots of humidity. Winters offer very pleasant temperatures in the high 60s.

Mid August through early October is prime hurricane season so if you wish to travel then, please double check weather forecasts.

best beaches in US for 60th birthday vacation

US Virgin Islands: St. Thomas

For a tropical, Caribbean island 60th birthday vacation without needing a US passport, consider St. Thomas on the US Virgin Islands. This stunning island has exciting nightlife, upscale dining, and utterly pristine beaches and coves for you to explore.

One of the most thrilling ways to explore the crystal clear waters of St. Thomas is on a jet ski . Whether you prefer to ride around freestyle or with a tour, this adrenaline-packed activity is one of the most fun ways to celebrate your 60th.

Kayak and Snorkel in the Mangrove Lagoon

Peacefully kayaking and swimming through one of the most untouched parts of St. Thomas Island is simply amazing. You’ll be treated to not only breathtaking views, but also a close-up look at this rich ecosystem and its wildlife.

The US Virgin Islands has remarkably consistent weather all year round. You can expect average highs in the 80s F with lots of humidity.

It is peak hurricane season from mid-August to the end of September so make sure you double check weather forecasts before leaving.

best US beaches to celebrate a 60 birthday

Lanai is one of the most secluded and exclusive of the Hawaiian Islands, and it’s one of the best beach destinations for a 60th birthday in the USA.

Horseback Riding  

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of riding a horse through Lanai’s lovely countryside. Along the trail, you’ll get sweeping views of Lanai City, as well as of Maui and Molokai. 

Enjoy the Remote Beaches

Lanai is full of tropical and remote beaches. The crescent shaped Hulopoe Beach has soft, white sand and sparkling sapphire waters. With a thriving coral reef, it’s also an amazing place to snorkel and get a glimpse of the local marine life.

The even more remote Polihua Beach is also worth a visit. While the currents make it inadvisable for swimming, it’s one of the most secluded and peaceful beaches on the island. Humpback whales in season and sea turtles are frequently spotted here. 

Temperatures are consistent all year round with average highs in the high 70s and low 80s F. However, expect around 17 days of tropical humidity in each month from July through October whereas there is very little humidity from December to May.

best US vacation destinations for 60th birthday

Assateague Island, Maryland

With miles of pristine beaches, wild ponies, and majestic lighthouses, Assateague Island is a truly wonderful place for your 60th birthday holiday.

Crabbing, Fishing, and Clamming

The rugged shores of Assateague Island present the perfect opportunity for crabbing, fishing, and clamming. Whether you cast into the surf or from a boat, you’re sure to have a fun-filled day on the water catching the likes of Flounder, Striped bass, and Kingfish.

See the Assateague Wild Ponies

The magic of Assateague Island lies with its roaming herd of wild ponies, and you’ll most likely find them in the marshy areas of the island.

Enjoy the Beaches

Between marveling at the wild ponies and stocking up on fresh-caught seafood, you can enjoy the serene 37-mile Assateague Island National Seashore. 

If you are looking for a beach escape, Assateague Island is not the destination to visit in winter. From November through March, it will be cold, rainy or snowy.

The best months for a beach holiday are from June through September with average highs in the low 80s F. If looking for a tropical feel, visit in July and August when there will be lots of humidity

The rest of the months in spring and fall enjoy pleasant spring temperatures with highs in the high 60s F.

Best Small Towns And Cities In USA For 60 Year Old Birthday Vacation

best US cities for 60th birthday getaway

Solvang, California

This small, sunny California town is located right off the famous Highway 1, and delivers a true taste of Denmark. With its traditional Danish architecture, restaurants, and cafes, Solvang Village is a wonderful delight for a 60th birthday trip. 

Carriage Tour

The best way to explore the quaint, European streets of Solvang is by horse-drawn carriage . Your tour guide will explain Solvang’s history, along with fun Danish folk tales. 

Wine Tasting

Solvang is conveniently located in the Santa Ynez Valley, which is home to some of California’s best vineyards and wine country. Artisan Excursion Wine tours will help you put together an itinerary, and take you to some of the best wineries in the Solvang area. 

Sample Delicious Danish Food

The best part of a trip to Solvang is getting to indulge in all the delicious Danish food. Don’t miss out on a pastry from Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery , or an authentic Danish meal from Bit O’ Denmark .

Solvang offers beautiful mild weather all year long. Expect average highs in the low 70s F from June through to October. The rest of the year, average highs are in the mid to high 60s degree Fahrenheit. There is no humidity and only some rain during the winter months.

best 60th birthday holidays in America

Asheville, NC

Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville is a vibrant, fun, and scenic city that serves as the perfect 60th birthday mountain getaway in America. 

River Arts District

With colorful galleries, unique exhibitions, and tons of tasty restaurants, the River Arts District is one of the most fun places to visit in Asheville. In addition to checking out all the beautiful art, you can take a class for a more hands-on experience. North Carolina Glass Center offers free glass blowing demonstrations, and teaches budding artisans how to blow your own glass ornaments.

Biltmore Estate

The 8,000 acre Biltmore Estate is a wonder to explore. You can taste exquisite wines at the Biltmore Estate Winery, go fly fishing for trout, explore antique shops and marvel at the amazing architecture of the estate. 

Asheville offers all four seasons. It is cold with rain or snow in winter, and you see average highs in the 60s F in Spring and Fall. In summertime, average highs are in the low 80s F with around 50% of the days with some humidity and/or rain.

best 60th birthday trips in United States

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mackinac Island is a fairy-tale personified. Cars are not allowed and the only way around the island is by bike or horse-drawn carriage. The streets are lined with gorgeous, Victorian houses, and the island is full of amazing activities to make your 60th birthday trip truly unforgettable. 

Have Tea at The Grand Hotel

For an afternoon of decadence, be sure to indulge in afternoon tea time at The Grand Hotel . The tradition of high tea has been ongoing for over 100 years. You can enjoy delicious teas, finger sandwiches, scones, and champagne, accompanied by live music. 

Helicopter Tour Over The Island

While the charming, historical sights of Mackinac Island are impressive on foot, an aerial view of Mackinac Island is hard to beat. Flying over the island on a helicopter tour will give you a whole new and amazing perspective of downtown Mackinac Island, The Grand Hotel, and the overall beauty of the island. 

Go to Fort Mackinac

The historic Fort Mackinac is the oldest building in Michigan. It’s been completely restored, and today you can enjoy educational exhibits about 19th century military medicine, tours of soldier’s barracks, and even a reenactment of a 19th century military trial. 

Mackinac Island offers cold snowy winters, cool springtime and fall weather (50F – 60F), and lovely mild summers with average highs in the mid 70s F.

best US cities for 60 year old birthday celebration

Taos, New Mexico

Located in the high desert of New Mexico, Taos is famed for its art, culture, and exciting outdoor activities. It’s one of the most beautiful and culturally rich places in the US and a fantastic 60th birthday destination. 

Take an Art Class

It’s very easy to embrace the art and culture in Taos. At Taos Art School , you can take classes photographing the Rio Grande, drawing birds and horses, and even engage in traditional Hopi Pottery. 

Taos Pueblo

Just a mile north of today’s Taos, New Mexico, lies the ancient Taos Pueblo . This beautiful, reddish-brown adobe pueblo has been inhabited for 1,000 years, and offers a unique insight into the lives of the Puebloans. 

Embarking on a llama trek into the Southern Rockies is an experience unlike any other. With the company of your own pack llama, you’ll trek into the pristine New Mexico wilderness, and explore the beautiful, unspoiled nature of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Rio Grande Gorge. 

In the summer months, you can expect average highs in the low 80s F without any humidity. Spring and fall months offer you average highs in the 50s and 60s F. Wintertime is cold with some snow.

best cities in usa to celebrate milestone birthday

Salem, Massachusetts

Salem, Massachusetts has a thrilling history, beautiful views of the Atlantic, and an encapsulating historic downtown. You certainly won’t forget celebrating your milestone birthday in the same town as the Salem Witch Trials.

Learn all about the history of Salem, including the infamous Salem Witch Trials on this Histories and Hauntings of Salem Tour . As you stroll through the cobblestones streets of Salem, you’ll be guided past the town’s most significant architecture, and 400 years worth of chilling history.

Visit Pioneer Village

Pioneer Village is an incredible, complete replica of Salem in the year 1630. Throughout the 3-acre village, you can explore perfect examples of wigwams, medicinal gardens, a blacksmith shop, and every other aspect of pioneer life from the 1630s. 

You will get all four seasons in Salem. Cold and snow in winter, followed by cool springtime weather with average temperatures in the 50s F and 60s F. Summer also offers lovely warm temperatures in the low 80s and high 70s, with some humidity in July and August.

The best places in the USA to celebrate a 60th birthday are spectacular with many fantastic things to do. Whether you prefer the fun and excitement of a city or the beauty and splendour of the outdoors, you will find some incredible destinations in the United States for your 60th birthday celebration.

Similar Posts

20 Amazing Places In USA to Celebrate A 50th Birthday (2024)

20 Amazing Places In USA to Celebrate A 50th Birthday (2024)

Last Updated on February 13, 2024 by Nicole A few years ago, I turned 50 years old. As this milestone…

15 Best Waterfalls To Visit In The USA (2024 Review)

15 Best Waterfalls To Visit In The USA (2024 Review)

Last Updated on July 10, 2023 by Nicole Visiting waterfalls makes you happier – a bold statement, but there is…

An Exciting Five Day New Orleans Itinerary

An Exciting Five Day New Orleans Itinerary

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole When you first hear the words “New Orleans”, I think the first…

10 Best New York City Attractions With Teens (2024)

10 Best New York City Attractions With Teens (2024)

Last Updated on March 11, 2024 by Nicole Going to New York City is an expensive proposition for anyone. Add…

25 Best Snowy Winter Destinations In The USA (2024)

25 Best Snowy Winter Destinations In The USA (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole When the last of the autumn leaves fall to the ground, it…

20 Best Spring Vacations In USA For Older Americans (2024)

20 Best Spring Vacations In USA For Older Americans (2024)

Last Updated on May 6, 2024 by Nicole There are amazing spring vacation destinations in the United States for older…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Privacy Overview

DOWNLOAD THE ITINERARY

  • Email Address *

Protect Your Trip »

Great Places to Celebrate Milestone Birthdays (and Special Occasions)

Discover top destinations to mark major life milestones.

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Getty Images

Whether you want an adventurous or serene celebratory escape, there are plenty of standout spots for special occasions.

There are birthdays and then there are birthdays . Certain milestones – 21, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100 – are significant events. Such moments call for a memorable celebratory trip. And when you want to go big on your birthday, there's nothing like being somewhere that sets the tone for the occasion, and better yet, helps launch you into the next phase of life. So, without further ado, here are standout spots to mark major life milestones.

When You Turn 21…

Visit an Outside-the-Box Party Destination

Forget about traditional party spots like Miami, Las Vegas and New York City. Eight miles east of Puerto Rico, Vieques features the largest natural wildlife refuge in the Caribbean and a vibrant nightlife. And at the W Retreat & Spa, Vieques Island, you can take a  three-day DJ retreat that teaches the art of spinning tunes, perfect to play by day and mix and mingle by night. For an out of the ordinary experience, head to the property's two-level infinity WET splash pool, where tunes pulsate through the underwater sound system streaming a custom mix directly through the water. Best of all, when you're not sipping tropical cocktails around a fire pit, there's adventurous pursuits – hiking, horseback riding and nighttime tours of the Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay – to keep you busy.

Jump into Your Twenties

If you're looking for a thrilling vacation experience, it's hard to beat jumping into the Devil's Pool, a natural infinity pool at Victoria Falls, along the Zimbabwe-Zambia border in southern Africa. With guides from Tongabezi, a high-end safari lodge situated near the falls, you can catch magnificent lunar rainbow views and swim at the edge of the waterfall without worrying about your safety.

For an adventure that's exhilarating, but not as far-flung as Zambia, consider visiting Negril,  Jamaica . After getting your adrenaline pumping while cliff jumping, you can unwind at Rick's Cafe, a lively bar known for its picturesque cliffside location and its majestic   sun sets. Aside from serving some of the best cocktails in Negril, Rick's nearby cliffs offer memorable diving spots for those seeking a spine-tingling adventure.

When You Turn 30…

Trek into Your Thirties

Take a life-changing four-day hike along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu . With a luxury tour operator, you can enjoy hot showers, massages and meals prepared by a private cook. And once you've reached the end of the trail, you'll arrive at Sun Gate, which offers a magnificent view of the ruins. From there, you can check out temples and agricultural areas or impressive vantage points like Huayna Picchu, which offers a bird's-eye view of the ruins.

Reach New Heights

Though it's hard to beat visiting Machu Picchu's iconic sites, memorable experiences at Capella Marigot Bay Resort and Marina in Saint Lucia await daring travelers looking to steer away from a cookie-cutter vacation. Climb one of St. Lucia's iconic landmarks like Gros Piton, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or relax with treatment at Auriga Spa at Capella Marigot Bay, which incorporates natural ingredients from the island.

When You Turn 40…

Recharge with a Spiritual Awakening

At forty, you'll likely want to connect with your body and soul. To embark on a spiritual adventure, head to Rythmia Life Advancement Center in Costa Rica. Think of it as Club Med to get rejuvenated in a splendid beachfront setting. During your stay, you can feast on organic, locally grown food, indulge in unlimited massages and volcanic mud baths and meditate, among other activities.

You can also boost your health and wellness with a relaxing getaway to  Turks & Caicos , which is sure to put you at ease with its aquamarine waves, sugary sands and impressive coral reefs. The Residences at Grace Bay Club offer five-bedroom villas so you and your loved ones can celebrate at the spa, the beach or top culinary spots, especially local crowd-pleasers like Mr. Grouper's Restaurant and Da Conch Shack.

Dive into Your Forties

For a trip to remember, consider heading to Fiji, where you can learn to dive among spectacular coral reefs. The Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort is surrounded by palms, mountains and the calming Savusavu Bay and is often lauded for its standout dive sites. Beyond getting certified to dive in just three days, you can enjoy the world-class dining, secluded sands and the magnificent reefs of the Namena Marine Reserve.

When You Turn 50…

Go Somewhere Exotic

To celebrate this important milestone, consider exploring the island nation of Sri Lanka. Make sure you take the train through the tea plantations from Ella to Kandy and you embrace the region's lush forests and diverse species as you check out Buddhist temples, colonial architecture and Sri Lanka's flavorful gastronomy. And if you're looking to splurge, spend your first night in the Mount Lavinia Hotel Colombo, which once served as the residence for the British government, and still retains its colonial grandeur.

When You Turn 60…

Visit Italy

If you want to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime cooking vacation, it's hard to beat  Tuscany . Stay in luxurious villas and spend a week learning the art of cooking authentic Italian and Mediterranean dishes. After mastering classic cooking techniques, visit an olive mill or enjoy wine-and-cheese tastings . Plus, Tuscany affords ample time to relax, hike or sightsee in the countryside, making it an ideal escape for both laid-back and adventurous types.

When You Turn 70…

Visit Places on Your Bucket List

Let's say you've been meaning to get to Zanzibar in Tanzania. Now is the time to go. Stay at the Protea Hotel Mbweni Ruins, a historic hotel with a beautiful botanical garden right by the Indian Ocean and far enough out of Stone Town (the old part of Zanzibar City) to enjoy some peace and quiet. There are daily shuttles into Stone Town and you'll have access to all kinds of tours.

When You Turn 80…

Focus on Family  

Your eighties is a time to enjoy quality bonding time with your family. Myrtle Beach , in South Carolina, is ideal for family fun and offers affordable lodging options. There's enough action for kids, tweens, millennials and beyond. It's a culinary gem with seafood and anything else you might fancy. There's the beach, boardwalk and Brookgreen Gardens, not to mention live entertainment at The Carolina Opry, including the Time Warp show, which showcases hits of the 60s, 70s and 80s. 

When You Turn 90…

Plan a Tranquil Getaway

If you want the peaceful atmosphere of Antigua or Bermuda but don't want to trek the miles, consider Alys Beach on the Florida Panhandle. There are many vacation rentals and much to do from swimming at Caliza, the community pool, biking, taking in the 20-acre preserve and more. And if you're based on the West Coast, consider planning a trip to Palm Springs, a desert hideaway set at the foot of the rugged Santa Rosa Mountains, filled with colorful flowers, fragrant tangerine and grapefruit trees and picturesque courtyards, all framed by towering palms.

When You Turn 100…

Celebrate Cherished Travel Experiences

Pavia Rosati, founder and CEO of travel website Fathom, suggests celebrating the occasion by reconstructing a favorite travel experience. She advises recreatng memories, such as "a Mexican feast (with a piñata) to recall the high times in Acapulco, an Italian spaghetti feast to honor your Amalfi Coast honeymoon or a Brazilian feijoada so you can see if you remember those Carnival samba moves all these decades later."

Tags: Travel , Vacations , Travel Tips , Family Vacations

About En Route

Practical advice on the art of traveling smarter with tips, tricks and intel from En Route's panel of experts.

Contributors have experience in areas ranging from family travel, adventure travel, experiential travel and budget travel to hotels, cruises and travel rewards and include Amy Whitley , Claire Volkman , Holly Johnson , Marsha Dubrow , Lyn Mettler , Sery Kim , Kyle McCarthy , Erica Lamberg , Jess Moss , Sheryl Nance-Nash , Sherry Laskin , Katie Jackson , Erin Gifford , Roger Sands , Steve Larese , Gwen Pratesi , Erin Block , Dave Parfitt , Kacey Mya , Kimberly Wilson , Susan Portnoy , Donna Tabbert Long and Kitty Bean Yancey .

Edited by Liz Weiss .

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best places to celebrate juneteenth.

Suzanne Mason June 6, 2024

trip ideas for 60th birthday

The Best Salem Tours

Lyn Mettler June 6, 2024

trip ideas for 60th birthday

The Best Key Largo Snorkeling Tours

Gwen Pratesi June 6, 2024

trip ideas for 60th birthday

The Best London Tours

Kim Foley MacKinnon June 5, 2024

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Celebrity Ascent Review

Megan duBois June 5, 2024

trip ideas for 60th birthday

The Best Graceland Tours

Gwen Pratesi June 5, 2024

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Top Things to Do in Orange County, CA

Brittany Chrusciel and Sharael Kolberg June 4, 2024

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Fun Things to Do in Arkansas

Ben Luthi and Justine Harrington June 3, 2024

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Top Things to Do in Florida

Gwen Pratesi May 31, 2024

trip ideas for 60th birthday

The Best Travel Neck Pillows

Timothy J. Forster and Amanda Norcross May 30, 2024

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Top Destinations

  • Food + Drink

Explore the best of the world. Access insider tips and hotel recommendations from our travel tastemakers

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

Tuscany, Italy

  • 1 Twenty-One

10 Destinations Perfect for Celebrating Milestone Birthdays

Surprise parties get old after a while, but you know what doesn’t? A trip to a brand-new (to you) destination. Whether you’re a newly minted 21 or celebrating the big 5-0, we’ve got options—both domestic and international—for ringing in your milestone birthday just right. Here, 10 birthday trip ideas that’ll get you excited for the next decade, from the rugged wilderness of Alaska’s Denali National Park to the white-hot clubs of Argentina’s Buenos Aires.

A Brooklyn-based writer and editor, Chelsea's work has appeared in Matador Network, The Huffington Post, the TripAdvisor blog, and more. When not planning her next trip, you'll usually find her drinking way too much iced coffee (always iced—she’s from New England) or bingeing a Netflix original series.

See recent posts by Chelsea Stuart

Native Hostel, Austin Texas

Images Courtesy of Native Hostel/Charles Reagan

BBQ fans start lining up at 8 am in front of the entrance to Franklin BBQ, each and every day. Franklin BBQ was recently ranked as the #1 BBQ in all of Texas.

Keep it local: Austin, TX

Vegas is cool, but if you want to ring in a twenty-first birthday you’re more likely to remember, head to ATX instead. In Austin, you can throw back a stiff drink just as easily as in Sin City, but you’ll also find top-notch breakfast tacos, hole-in-the-wall music venues, and sceney boutique hotels. As we’re sure you’ve picked up on, we love a good luxury stay, but having been less-than-financially-stable twenty-somethings ourselves, we can also appreciate a chic budget sleep when we see one. Grab your squad and head for Native Hostel , a bohemian-hip stay that’s far more sophisticated than the term “hostel” implies. In communal spaces, it’s all plush velvet couches, black marble, and polished concrete, while dorm-style rooms offer custom-built bunk beds—with velvet privacy curtains—for up to six people. When it comes time to whip out your ID for a drink or two, head to  Jackalope on Dirty Sixth. The infamous dive bar—on Austin’s even more infamous street—doles out cheap Lone Stars, crafty cocktails, and all matters of burger (bacon, brie, mushroom, you name it).

Go abroad: Buenos Aires, Argentina

Ibiza, Cancun, and Berlin may top the list of the world’s most well-known party destinations, but for a twenty-first birthday bash that balances clubs and culture, you’re better off in Buenos Aires. The sultry Argentine capital has a little bit of everything: stately European architecture, legendary Latin nightlife, and — not to be outshined — the best parrillas (steakhouses) you’ll ever step foot in. A real night out in Buenos Aires doesn’t commence until roughly 2am, so you’ll have plenty of time to fit in a multi-course meal at La Cabrera , a cult steakhouse from Argentine chef Gastón Riveira’s. Here, plates overflow not only with bone-in wagyu, chorizo, pancetta, and 22 other prime cuts of meat, but also as many sides as your table can physically fit. Post-dinner—and, if you’re smart, nap—it’s time to head off to your boliche (club) of choice. We’re partial to  Palacio Alsina : a three-story converted palace awash in LED lights and screens that pulsate along to electronic beats as an eager crowd of 1,500 dances the night away.

RELATED:   30 Things to Do in Buenos Aires

People enjoying beautiful sunny afternoon near lake Ontario in Toronto

Images Courtesy of Holiday House/Zeke Ruelas

Joshua Tree National Park

Keep it local: Palm Springs, CA

Your twenties may be in the rearview, but we’d argue that’s what’s most worth celebrating come your big 3-0. If you’ve tucked enough party-centric trips under your belt in the last decade, it’s time to head out west for the rejuvenating hot springs, midcentury-modern houses, and Jack Nicklaus links that so define the desert city of Palm Springs. A Coachella Valley getaway done right means checking into a stylish resort—like  Holiday House —and logging out of your work email for a weekend of wellness. The 28-room boutique embraces a whimsical mix-and-match theme with Smeg refrigerators, rattan bar carts, in-your-face wallpaper, and artwork by greats like David Hockney and Roy Lichtenstein, and these are some of the tamer design elements. Though a vacation here calls for a hearty dose of R&R, you can’t miss out on a trip to nearby Joshua Tree National Park , either. Explore the surreal, sun-bleached wilderness via trails that cross both the Mojave and Colorado deserts before heading back to your hotel for a dip in the palm tree-bound pool.

Go abroad: Toronto, ON

The vibrant, multicultural metropolis of Toronto knows how to host a birthday bash. With some of the world’s most drooled-over restaurants, design-centric boutique hotels, and a glitzy skyline that rivals NYC’s, the dynamic city offers nothing if not options. First thing’s first: Check in at  The Drake Hotel , in Toronto’s West Queen West neighborhood. The hip, culture-driven hotel is kitted out with eye-popping artwork, charcoal hardwood flooring, custom millwork, and retro touches. Grab a bite at one of The Drake’s onsite eateries, but also be sure to clear a spot on your itinerary for  The Distillery District , a stretch of Victorian-era industrial buildings which have been converted into 80+ galleries, restaurants, and shops. There, you’ll find everything from Canadian brewpubs and Izakaya-style noodle bars to vintage purveyors and Italian menswear shops, so you can grab a drink and buy yourself the birthday present you actually want.

RELATED:   30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Keep it local: Nantucket, MA

If your idea of an island getaway features a crisp Atlantic breeze as opposed to a sun-soaked Caribbean beach, your 40th is best spent in Nantucket. The romantic New England retreat is awash in cobblestone lanes, cedar-shingled homes, and historical lighthouses. Grab your beau and bed down at the romantic  Union Street Inn . Here, 12 guest rooms are done up in soft pastel palettes, plush Frette and Matouk linens, and traditional Nantucket touches (think: nautical stripes, sea- and sand-inspired artwork, and homey wood-burning fireplaces). Deciding on where to eat is never an easy affair, but one of the island’s best meals awaits at The Club Car . The California-inspired restaurant and piano bar may be a Nantucket mainstay, but it reopened to much fanfare just last year. Now, a light-filled dining room dripping with greenery and baby blue banquette seating serves up farm-centric dishes of shared veggie plates, sustainable meats, and local seafoods, including baked medjool dates, pickled eggplant stracciatella with local honey, whole black bass, and za'atar roasted half chickens. Bring your friends and plan for lots of leftovers—perfect a next-day beach picnic.

Go abroad: Bordeaux, France

If your oenophilic interests have already taken you to Napa, Sonoma, and Oregon’s Willamette Valley, it’s time to pack your bags for Bordeaux—France’s premier wine region. Head for the village of Bommes, in southern Gironde, where you’ll find  Lalique Hôtel & Restaurant , a brand new (it debuted in June 2018) prestige property set within Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey, a 400-year-old vineyard estate. The influence of Lalique—one of France’s most iconic lifestyle brands—as well as the land’s beloved vineyards present themselves clearly in the hotel’s every design. Bed frames, tables, mirrors and more are accented with the brand’s signature crystal, while towels and bathroom faucets are embroidered and etched with grapes. At the onsite restaurant—which overlooks the vineyards and is adorned with even more crystal inlay—an experimental seven-course menu comes courtesy of chef Jérôme Schilling, previously of the two-Michelin-starred restaurant at sister property Villa René Lalique . While plates of Dungeness crab with avocado cream and braised duck breast with semolina cake are reason enough to hole up in the restaurant night after night, guests of the hotel spend ample time touring and tasting the estate’s Premier Grands Crus and exploring other nearby vineyards also producing Sauternes, a sweet French wine.

RELATED:   8 Gorgeous Wine Regions to Visit in France That Aren’t Bordeaux

Enchantment Resort, Sedona

Keep it local: Sedona, AZ

Keep pending midlife crises at bay with a trip to one of the United States’ most spiritual wellness meccas: Sedona. The desert town—bestowed with steep canyons, scenic forests, and backcountry trails—may be an outdoorsman’s dream, but it’s also known for its wealth of destination spas. Carved into 70 red rock acres in Arizona’s secluded Boynton Canyon,  Enchantment Resort is Southwestern tranquility personified. Casita guest rooms and suites are plush but rustic, with wood beamed ceilings, beehive fireplaces, wool Pendleton blankets, and sun-drenched skylights. Settle into your cozy guest room, but when you’re ready for spa treatments, it’s off to the hotel’s sister property, the Mii Amo Spa , where Native American traditions inspire one-of-a-kind therapies and mindfulness exercises. Here, 60-, 90-, and 120-minute treatments include traditional deep tissue massages and exfoliating body wraps, as well as more exclusive practices like new moon manifestation (where you write down your intentions for the coming months) and aura readings, which help foster deeper personal connections with yourself and your loved ones.

Go abroad: Bruges, Belgium

If you’ve already checked European hot spots like Paris, London, and Barcelona off your list, it’s time to head for the canal- and cobblestone-lined streets of Bruges for a birthday you won’t soon forget. The well-preserved medieval town is chock full of 13th- and 14th-century buildings, including soaring church spires, landmark belfies, and Flemish art museums. To get a true taste of town, head to The Markt , Bruges’ circa-958 main square that attracts millions each year to see the Belfry Tower and Cloth Hall; shop fresh produce at the weekly market; and dine in converted guild house restaurants. Keeping with Bruges’ quaint character, a B&B stay is in order. We love the Bonifacius Guesthouse —a canal-side 16th-century home that overlooks the Church of Our Lady, The Gruuthuse Palace, and the fairytale Bonifacius bridge. Here, guests are treated to luxury hotel amenities, with antique objects d’art, jacuzzi tubs, log fireplaces, and Hermès bath products just a few of each guest rooms’ features. Another perk? There’s a Michelin-starred restaurant, Den Gouden Harynck , right next door.

RELATED:   9 Fairytale Towns in Europe We Love

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Keep it local: Anchorage, AK

If you’ve yet to set eyes on Alaska’s rugged wilderness, then now’s the time. While the US’s lower 48 offers all matter of natural beauty, there’s just something about the northern territory’s glaciers, hot springs, volcanoes, and tidal islands that other states can’t touch. While a trip here can seem like a lot to plan, if you leave your itinerary to a cruise line, it couldn’t be easier. Holland America crowds tend to veer more toward retirees, so you won’t have to worry about party-hardy millennials when you’re blowing out the candles on your 60th birthday cake. The brand’s 11-deck Nieuw Amsterdam ship offers 12 different itineraries that range in length from 7 to 16 days and take travelers everywhere from cities like Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau to iconic World Heritage Sites like the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay, and Denali National Park. When you’re not exploring a port of call, the ship keeps things cushy and entertaining with sophisticated dining, live music, and spacious staterooms.

Go abroad: Tuscany, Italy  

Anyone with an Italian grandmother will tell you that their Nonna is hands down the best cook in the world. Whether you’ve got grandkids or not, it’s your turn to pick up the tricks of the trade on a trip to Tuscany. At  Tuscookany villa Torre del Tartufo , in the rolling, truffle-dotted hills of Arezzo, guests can settle into a private suite in a circa-1700 villa for a week of hands-on cooking lessons. Instructed by Torre del Tartufo’s resident chef, guests learn the basic techniques behind preparing a four-course Italian meal, including how to roll your own pasta, whip up an Italian meringue, and prepare antipastos like bruschetta and crostini. When you’re not in class, you can tag along on olive-oil or cheese tastings, excursions to nearby wineries, or take a day trip to Florence or Siena, both just an hour away. Of course, guests will have plenty to do on site as the villa also offers a solar heated swimming pool, sauna, wine-barrel-turned-hot-tub, and multiple eateries.

RELATED: The 25 Best Hotels in Italy

Older Women’s Dressy Outfit for a Vacation in Your 60’s

Shop the look.

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Casino Linear Herringbone Earrings

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Pleated Bender Midi Bag

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Older Men’s Dressy Outfit for a Vacation in Your 60’s

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Riviera Short Sleeve Shirt

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Stretch Washed Chinos

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Bold Bracelet Watch

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Women’s Outfit to Wear on a Chill Vacation in Your 40’s

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Button-Up Shirt

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Slim Step Hem Ankle Pants

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Wes Necklace

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Leather & Canvas Satchel

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Wedge Sandals

Men’s romantic getaway from nyc outfit.

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Slim Fit Sport Shirt

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Twill Shorts

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Leather Strap Watch

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Leather Card Case

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Older Women’s Swim Outfit

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Cover-up Maxi Dress

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Waterproof Mascara

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Reversible One-Piece Swimsuit

Men’s swimsuit to wear on a beach in december.

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Beverly Hills Tank

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Cannonball 7" Swim Trunks

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Reverse Weave® Belt Bag

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Women’s Outfit for International Beaches in the Fall

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Belted Denim Shorts

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Square Sunglasses

trip ideas for 60th birthday

14k Diamond & Enamel Evil Eye Chain Bracelet

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Conversation Piece Slide

Men’s shirtless swimwear for july.

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Facial Sunscreen

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Swim Trunks

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Waterproof Watch

trip ideas for 60th birthday

  • 24 Beautiful Places in the World to Add to Your Bucket List
  • The Best Carryall Bags for Travel
  • Save BIG with our incredible new hotel deals going on right now >>>

All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Jetsetter may earn an affiliate commission.

Become a Jetsetter.

Use our insider connections to know where to go and what to do.

Thanks for Signing Up!

Related Tags

Explore more.

Exterior Lodge Outdoors tree building house log cabin home cottage siding Resort hut porch farmhouse

Pearson’s Pond Luxury Inn

Budget Hotels Romance Trip Ideas sky canyon Town valley Coast Sea vacation tourism cityscape aerial photography Beach

30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

outdoor sky snow person mountain mountainous landforms ridge skiing man Nature mountaineering mountain range wilderness Winter mountaineer cloud Adventure arête summit hiking geological phenomenon backpacking glacial landform slope hill fell alps freezing tourism adventurer travel recreation mountain guide tree massif ice meteorological phenomenon elevation highland

Incredible Experiences Around the World You Can Only Have During Winter Months

skyscraper tower block structure building landmark Architecture City Downtown headquarters

Hotel Captain Cook

  • 60th birthday
  • Dave Lozano
  • August 16, 2023

Unforgettable 60th Birthday Trip Ideas for Your Special Milestone: Turn 60 in Style

Last updated on June 4th, 2024 at 01:00 pm

Searching for the best 60th birthday trip ideas? Imagine celebrating your sixtieth birthday with a wonderful journey to your dream destination. Whether you prefer your toes dipped in a white sand beach, exploring vibrant cultural hubs, or embracing the wilderness, there’s a perfect place for everyone to mark this milestone. Whatever type of vacation ideas are on your mind , we’ve got the best vacations for 60-year olds to help you commemorate the big six-zero. Gear up to embark on an adventure that will create lasting memories of a lifetime with these trip ideas to enjoy your sixtieth birthday. .

Short Summary

Commemorate your milestone with a trip to the perfect destination for you , whether it’s adventure, relaxation, or exploration.

Explore beach and tropical destinations for sun and serenity, cultural hubs in Europe & Asia for history & art, mountain getaways, and jungle retreats, all tailored to your interests!

  • Plan ahead by budgeting wisely and preparing essential documents for a smooth and stress-free trip.

Celebrating Six Decades: Setting the Scene

Turning 60 is undeniably a major milestone in life, marking the end of six decades and the beginning of new adventures. It’s a time to reflect on past experiences and look forward to the future.

Choosing the perfect destination and setting travel intentions can make this celebration even more memorable, whether it’s seeking adventure, relaxation, or exploration.

Why 60 is a Milestone Worth Traveling For

Milestone birthdays are an opportunity to focus on oneself and indulge in exciting experiences, making it a once-in-a-lifetime event worth traveling for. With so many fantastic destinations to choose from, it’s easy to find a location that caters to your preferences and desires. Some options include:

  • Exploring the historic sites of European cities
  • Relaxing on the white sand beaches of a tropical island
  • Embarking on an adventure in a safari destination
  • Discovering the natural wonders of national parks
  • Immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of bustling cities

There’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Consider embarking on a thrilling adventure, such as the Canyons & Deserts Train Trip. The trip starts taking you through Las Vegas, Death Valley National Park, the Grand Canyon, and Arches National Park or visit Pura and explore Machu Picchu. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, immerse yourself in the beautiful landscapes of the Canadian Maritimes, savoring delicious local seafood and keeping an eye out for whales.

Setting Your Travel Intentions: Adventure, Relaxation, or Exploration?

When searching for places to celebrate 60th milestone birthdays, it’s essential to set your travel intentions according to your preferences. Are you an adventurous spirit seeking new thrills, or do you prefer a relaxing getaway to unwind and rejuvenate? Perhaps exploring new cultures and landscapes is what truly excites you.

No matter your choice, for the best times with your group, there’s a perfect destination waiting to be discovered that is perfect for your milestone birthday vacation .

Beach Destinations: Sun, Sand, and Serenity

Dreaming of a tranquil beach escape for your birthday vacation? Imagine yourself lounging on pristine white sand beaches, surrounded by crystal clear waters, and soaking up the warm sun on beautiful beaches.

From tropical islands to secluded beachfront havens, there’s a perfect coastal destination to commemorate this special landmark in style.

Tropical Islands: Paradise Found

Experience the allure of tropical island paradises, where swaying palm trees, walking distance to a beach with azure waters, can visit a national park with unique wildlife, and vibrant live music create an enchanting atmosphere. Destinations like Mykonos, Greece, Manuel Antonio Costa Rica, and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands offer a blend of relaxation and exciting cultural experiences, ensuring a memorable sixtieth birthday jubilation.

From the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean or the white sands with abundant wildlife in Costa Rica, to the ancient ruins of Greece, there are plenty of magnificent tropical locations to choose from. 

Secluded Beaches: For Those Seeking Tranquility

For those craving serenity and seclusion, there’s no better way to enjoy your birthday than by retreating to peaceful, secluded shorelines where sea turtles can be spotted. Unwind and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, while enjoying the natural beauty of your surroundings.

Destinations like South Padre Island and Key West offer incredible beaches and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for marking this special occasion.

Explore Waterfalls, Rainforests, and Beautiful Beaches in Costa Rica

Ever thought of visiting one of the hottest vacation spots like Costa Rica for your landmark birthday? Bring your whole family and stay in a beachfront villa with spectacular ocean views . 

This beautiful country in Central America attracts millions of annual tourists, and for good reason, it is a haven for wildlife lovers, with famous national parks lining the coast. Another main attraction is their abundance of tropical animals with vibrant colors such as toucans, macaws, sloths, monkeys, and many more. Dive into the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean for snorkeling and surfing, or experience the scenery through zip lining through the jungle, go hiking in the rainforest, go horseback riding, or take white water rafting tours. Such a beautiful country, where an immersive experience awaits in this amazing place.

With many luxury hotels and resorts, and also a foodies paradise with many 5-star restaurants, and countless activities, it’s one of the best places to celebrate birthdays! Costa Rica is known for its delectable cuisine, most villas will have chefs who will prepare mouthwatering meals featuring fresh seafood and local flavors. After a satisfying dinner, savor breakfast with incredible ocean views each morning.

Your trip starts with indulging in relaxation bliss with spa treatments right at your beachfront villa, where the sound of the ocean sets the perfect ambiance. As the sun sets, take a moonlit stroll along the coast or embark on a night tour to enjoy the enchanting nocturnal world of Costa Rica’s wildlife. During the day, you can enjoy sightseeing excursions to explore the charming towns and scenic landscapes that dot the coast. At night, enjoy great restaurants and vibrant nightlife in most towns.

There are many beach towns such as the popular Manuel Antonio and Tamarindo , where the spectacular scenery is simply breathtaking, and you can even book exciting tours and excursions to explore further. Whether you choose to relax by the sea, embark on a hike, or sip Costa Rican coffee while watching the waves, your landmark birthday celebration at this villa accommodation will be one you’ll always remember.

Cultural Hubs: Dive Deep into History and Art

If you’re a fan of the past, art, and culture, then a B-day trip to European and Asian cultural hubs is the perfect way to satisfy your wanderlust. Immerse yourself in the rich history and artistic treasures of these destinations, creating unforgettable memories as you explore ancient ruins, world-renowned museums, vibrant local traditions, and cultural attractions, including visits to art galleries.

Discover the beauty of the Mediterranean, the grandeur of the Alps, and the charm of the Mediterranean.

European Classics: Cities Rich in Culture

The timeless charm of European cities provides a magical experience for those seeking a culturally rich birthday vacation. Here are some options to consider.

  • Wander the cobblestone streets of Paris
  • Marvel at the architectural wonders of Prague
  • Be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of the Greek Isles
  • Take part in truffle hunting with the royal descendants of the Mona Lisa in Tuscany, Italy
  • Embark on a train journey through the Italian countryside

Further north, explore the vibrant society of Scandinavian countries, where breathtaking fjords, historic cities, and unique experiences await in exciting cities. Discover the beauty of Norway’s Ice Castle, or immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions of Denmark, Sweden, and Finland.

Asian Wonders: Temples, Traditions, and Tantalizing Foods

Asia offers a captivating blend of ancient temples, rich traditions, and tantalizing cuisine for the ideal way to welcome the next decade. Explore the awe-inspiring temples of Thailand, lose yourself in the bustling streets of Tokyo, or savor the flavors of Beijing’s culinary scene.

With diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unique experiences, Asia is the perfect destination for a birthday journey.

Nature Retreats: Celebrating Amidst the Wilderness

For those with an affinity for the great outdoors, nature retreats offer a unique way to celebrate your sixtieth birthday. From the tranquility of mountain getaways to the excitement of jungle retreats, these destinations provide the perfect opportunity to escape the ordinary and embrace the wild side of sixty.

Whether it’s a weekend away with friends, a solo adventure, or a day trip, a nature retreat is the perfect solution.

Mountain Getaways: Peaks of Peace and Beauty

Find peace and tranquility in breathtaking mountain destinations, where stunning vistas and serene surroundings create the perfect backdrop for a birthday escape. Explore the majestic beauty of Mt. Rainier, The Canadian Rockies, or the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, and be inspired by the grandeur of nature as you mark this special day.

Take in the breathtaking views, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and create memories that will last.

Jungle Retreats: Embracing the Wild Side of Sixty

Embark on an adventurous journey into the heart of the jungle. Uncover the mysteries of Tulum’s Mayan ruins, explore the lush wilderness of Costa Rica’s rainforests, or immerse yourself in the exotic beauty of Thailand’s jungle river camps.

Whether you prefer the thrill of wildlife encounters or the serenity of a secluded retreat, a jungle adventure offers a unique and memorable way to celebrate your sixtieth year.

Luxurious Escapes: Celebrate in Style

For those who desire a lavish and indulgent 5-star escape that offers the ultimate in elegance and style. Whether it’s a stay at premier all inclusive resorts or setting sail on a magnificent cruise, these experiences provide the perfect way to mark a birthday in style.

From a private villa in the Caribbean to a romantic getaway in the Mediterranean, there are many options.

Five-star Resorts: Indulgence and Elegance

Experience the epitome of luxury and elegance at five-star resorts , where world-class amenities, refined decor, impeccable service, and fine dining will be a stay you’ll cherish forever. Indulge in the opulence of the Farmhouse Inn in Sonoma, the beauty of Maca Bana in Grenada, or the sophistication of the Ritz-Carlton in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.

Each of these resorts offers a unique and luxurious experience, with amenities ranging from private beaches and infinity pools.

Cruise Adventures: Sailing into the Sixties

Set sail on a luxury cruise to mark your big day in style. With a wealth of destinations and activities to choose from, a cruise offers a unique and an ideal way to celebrate your birthday month.

Cruises are a great way to enjoy the charm of the Panama Canal, the enchanting beauty of the Mediterranean, porting at many vibrant cities, or the rugged wilderness of Alaska on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Unique Experiences: For Those Who've Seen It All

For those who have seen it all, unique experiences provide a fresh and exciting way to commemorate your big day. Some ideas include:

  • Glamping under the stars
  • Dancing the night away at cultural festivals
  • Taking a hot air balloon ride
  • Going on a safari adventure
  • Trying out a new extreme sport

There’s always something new and thrilling to discover.

Whether it’s a hot air balloon ride over the countryside, a weekend of wine tasting, or horseback riding through scenic trails, there’s always something exciting to experience.

Glamping Under the Stars: Luxury Meets Wilderness

Experience the perfect blend of luxury and wilderness with glamping, where the comforts of home meet the beauty of nature. Unwind in style at Asheville Glamping in North Carolina, Autocamp Yosemite in California, or the Resort at Paws Up in Montana, all located near rejuvenating hot springs will create the ideal backdrop to celebrate your 60th birthday.

From the majestic mountains of the West to the rolling hills of the East, glamping offers a unique experience.

Cultural Festivals: Dance, Dine, and Revel with Locals

Immerse yourself in local society by attending vibrant festivals and celebrations for a unique and memorable birthday experience. Some options include:

  • Dancing the night away at Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival
  • Trinidad and Tobago Carnival – Known as the “Greatest Show on Earth,” it is celebrated before Lent and features vibrant parades, calypso, and soca music
  • Indulging in the true taste of New Orleans at the city’s annual Jazz and Heritage Festival
  • Joining the lively activities of Spain’s La Tomatina

Make your milestone birthday one for the record books with the perfect birthday present.

Tips for Planning Your Sixtieth Birthday Holiday

Planning your big six-zero birthday vacation requires thoughtful consideration of your budget, travel preparations, and destination preferences. With the right planning, you can ensure a memorable and stress-free jubilee that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come.

Start by setting a budget for your trip. Consider the cost of airfare, lodging, and meals.

Budgeting for the Big Journey

To ensure a memorable and stress-free getaway, it’s essential to plan your finances accordingly. Here are some steps to follow.

  • Start by setting a budget.
  • Research the cost of flights, accommodation, and activities.
  • Look for discounts and deals to help you save.
  • Factor in the cost of meals, transportation, and any other expenses you might incur.

By following these steps, you can plan your finances effectively and have one of the most incredible birthdays ever.

Planning ahead will help you stay within your budget and make the most of your trip.

Decade Celebrations: How Travelers Toast to 30, 40, 50, and 70!

30th Birthday Trips :

Ah, the big 3-0. Most folks love to dive headfirst into this new decade with a thrilling outdoor adventure. Many find themselves rock climbing the rugged terrains of California or, for an outdoor adventure celebration, hiking in a national park through a tropical rainforest with wildlife encounters. For 30th birthday getaway ideas at this age, travelers are full of energy and discovering all new places to travel.

40th Birthday Getaway :

When the 40s come knocking, it’s all about self-care and rejuvenation. 40th birthday ideas, a lot of celebrants swear by the soothing hot springs – imagine a scenic drive to a tucked-away spring, soaking in nature’s heated pool. Evenings are often reserved for wine country, savoring world-class vintages in an onsite restaurant and swaying to the rhythms of live jazz, making the night remarkable.

Of course, spa treatments are a must the next day – the cherry on top of a pampering birthday getaway. It could be a 40th couples only or by this time in your life, kids are in the picture so 40th birthday travel ideas with family might be more about a destination with child-friendly activities, blending relaxation for the adults with excitement for the little ones.

50th Birthday Vacation :

The grand 50! This century mark has many packing their bags for culture-orientated destinations such as Cape Town, immersing in its rich history and great restaurants. Day trips here usually feature wildlife encounters; perhaps a whale-watching expedition on the vast Pacific or an exciting game drive spotting nature in action. And as dusk envelops the city, many choose to dine in an elevated spot, the city lights sparkling below, encircled by friends and family, reminiscing half a century of memories. Whether it’s 50th getaway for couples or 50th birthday trip ideas for him, this vacation will stand the test of time.

Don’t forget about 50th birthday travel ideas for her; from the tranquil vineyards of Tuscany, luxury spa retreats in Bali, to a luxury villa amongst wildlife in Costa Rica , ensuring a celebration that she’ll remember forever.

70th B-Day Celebration:

The monumental 70! This landmark birthday calls for a celebration in destinations brimming with life and experiences, such as the iconic San Francisco or Las Vegas. As the evening approaches, indulge in fine dining at renowned restaurants, savoring flavors that delight the palate on a memorable food tour. For an extra special touch, consider a picturesque food tour through these cities, exploring hidden culinary gems.

Whether you’re searching for 70th birthday trip ideas for dad or mom, both San Francisco and Las Vegas boast vibrant nightlife that beckons with live jazz, these quick getaways set the stage for a memorable night. Or maybe your bucket list includes visiting beautiful Costa Rica and taking a day trip to a national park with incredible wildlife, perfect for those celebrating seven decades of life’s journey.

It’s all about creating moments that will be cherished for years to come, surrounded by loved ones, in a place that captures the heart and soul.

Essential Travel Preparations for the Mature Adventurer

As a mature traveler, it’s crucial to take certain preparations into account when planning your vacation. Ensure you have all necessary documents, such as passports and visas, and research the local laws and customs of your destination.

Pack appropriate clothing and essential items, like medications, and consider travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Concluding Thoughts: 60 Year Old Birthday Ideas

Your 6-0 birthday is a significant milestone that deserves a memorable celebration. By carefully planning your trip and choosing the perfect destination tailored to your preferences, you’re sure to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

So here’s to marking this major milestone with an unforgettable journey, surrounded by the beauty of the world and the company of loved ones.

Over 60? Don’t fret, use this guide for 65th birthday trip ideas or 70th milestone birthday travel ideas . 

Your sixtieth milestone birthday is a momentous occasion, and it’s a great time to explore the best family vacation destinations. For milestone birthdays, if you truly want to bring in the next decade in style, whether it’s a week or your entire birthday month, it can be celebrated in a variety of ways, from relaxing beach getaways to cultural explorations and luxurious escapes. By setting clear travel intentions and planning ahead, you can ensure a memorable and stress-free celebration. So embrace this milestone and embark on a journey filled with great times and treasured memories.

Sixtieth Birthday Trips Frequently Asked Questions

Celebrate your birthday with unique, one-of-a-kind party ideas that will create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests! From renting a private villa to having your entire group vacation at a luxury resort, there are plenty of ways to celebrate your milestone in grand fashion.

Consider hosting a themed party, such as a ‘70s-style disco or a ‘80s-style birthday party.

That really depends on your interest as an older adult. For example, you may feel the need to party and head to Las Vegas for a wild night of fun and adventure. Whether you’re looking to hit the casinos or catch a show, Vegas is the perfect spot to celebrate.

For many older adults, an Alaska cruise might seem enticing, or a trip to the warm climate of the Philippines might be calling you. The best place is what you consider that place to be.

For a Caribbean getaway without needing a passport, St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands is an ideal destination for your milestone getaway. Enjoy its exciting nightlife, upscale dining and stunning beaches for the perfect island beach vacation. And of course Puerto Rica should be at the top of your list as well.

Other Caribbean getaways you might want to consider are the tropical islands of Antigua, Jamaica, The Bahamas, St. Lucia, Turks and Caicos, Dominica, Aruba, and Barbados.

Plan unique activities like sight-seeing, trying out different wines, or visiting museums. You can also plan a special activity, do something you’ve never done before, celebrate like the locals, have a celebratory meal, use decorations and gifts, and capture the moment.

You’ve already decided that your big day is worth celebrating. Now, take some time to think about your ideal birthday getaway, considering what type of experience you’d like – whether it’s an adventure, a relaxing getaway, or an exploration.

With that in mind, you can start narrowing down choices for your special trip. Once you’ve done that, search for destinations that exceed in those experiences you wish to enjoy.

Table of Contents

See Our Blog Posts

What Are the Best Beach Towns in Costa Rica? Our Town Guide to The Most Amazing Beaches

Last updated on June 6th, 2024 at 02:44 am Are you planning on joining the many visitors to this beautiful country in Central America? Choosing

The Enchanting World of Costa Rica Monkeys & the Best Places to See Them

Venture into the lush jungles and pristine national parks of Costa Rica to witness the captivating world of its native monkeys. From the raucous howls of the Howler Monkeys to the playful antics of the White-faced Capuchins, this guide reveals the ultimate destinations for monkey enthusiasts. Whether you’re an avid wildlife photographer, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique adventure, our blog about the enchanting world of Costa Rica monkeys & the best places to see them offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of Costa Rica’s monkey habitats.

Manuel Antonio vs Tamarindo: Comparing These Two Amazing Costa Rican Beach Destinations

Discover the contrasting allure of Manuel Antonio and Tamarindo, Costa Rica’s renowned beach destinations. Manuel Antonio offers tranquil, family-friendly vibes with lush natural beauty, while Tamarindo is the hub of lively nightlife and a surfer’s paradise. Both destinations cater to different tastes but equally enchant visitors with their unique blend of stunning landscapes and beauty of Costa Rica.

Keep In Touch

Helen on her Holidays

Birthday trip ideas: 53 inspiring places to celebrate your birthday

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Birthday trips are a wonderful way to celebrate a milestone birthday. Whether you want to party in Vegas with friends, tick off that bucket list destination with your partner or maybe take on a new challenge on a solo trip, the possibilities for birthday trips are endless – it’s your special day so everything can be just as you want it.

In this post I’ve put together over 50 brilliant birthday trip ideas for milestone birthdays. Because I can only have one birthday a year, I’ve enlisted the help of some of my favourite travel bloggers to tell me about their most memorable birthday travels.

Read on for fun, inspirational and adventurous ideas for places to travel on your birthday that’ll make travelling on your special day the perfect celebration.

21st birthday trip ideas

30th birthday trip ideas, 40th birthday trip ideas, 50th birthday trip ideas, 60th birthday vacation ideas, a 21st birthday trip to las vegas.

By Serena from Serena’s Lenses

Serena spent her 21st and 28th birthday in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is one of the best places to celebrate a birthday, whether it be your 21st birthday or 51st birthday. Known as the sin city, Las Vegas has something for everyone, whether you want to be nice or naughty.

Located in the desert of Nevada and only a 4-hour drive from Los Angeles, Las Vegas is the ultimate birthday trip destination because it offers endless choices of entertainment. I personally have travelled to Las Vegas several different times for different birthdays.

For my 21st birthday, my group of friends and I went “all out” in Las Vegas and we flew in Friday night from the Bay Area. Since we had more guys than girls in the group, we decided to visit Sapphire, one of the largest strip clubs in Las Vegas just to see what it’s like. The night ended embarrassingly when I threw up in front of a stripper and got escorted out, but hey at least we left in a limo!

The next night was more “tame” and we all went to the famous night club Xs, located between the Wynn and Encore.

For my 28th birthday I went to Las Vegas again with my parents and this time the celebration was much more relaxing, involving only Cirque du Soleil shows, shopping and eating on the Strip, some gambling in the casinos and a side trip to the Grand Canyon.

More travel inspiration

  • 40 countries before age 40: how I did it and tips
  • Visiting all the European Union capital cities
  • Things to do in Ischia, Italy’s stunning island of thermal spas

Surprise 21st birthday trip to Amsterdam

By Gemma from Highlands2Hammocks

Gemma and her other half outside their caravan in Amsterdam on her 21st birthday

Where could be a better place to celebrate your 21st birthday than in a cosy caravan in the north of Scotland with your other half? That’s what my special day would involve with my other half, however, he had something much better in mind.

The day before my 21st birthday I woke up to find that we would instead be jetting off to Amsterdam , where we would be spending the weekend in a converted caravan by a lake.

The Netherlands is a country that had always been on my bucket list, so  I was certain it would be the best place to spend my birthday. We were staying at Lucky Lake Hostel, a hostel of vintage caravans converted into dorms or private rooms.

The adjacent lake provided the perfect spot for a peaceful, morning stroll and there was even free breakfast of pancakes and eggs, served (of course) from a converted double-decker bus in the middle of the park. We were in cloud nine as we gorged on Dutch pancakes for breakfast and lay in our hammocks as the sun set.

Amsterdam is a city full of activities and history and the Lucky Lake hostel was a just brief train ride away from the city centre. We explored the town, dodging bicycles and soaked up the atmosphere in Dam Square for a blissful 3 days, swearing to return one day and do it all again.

21st birthday getaway partying in Ibiza

By Marta from Backpackers.wro

Marta celebrated her 21st birthday in Ibiza, a fantastic beach and party island in Spain

Ibiza is a Spanish island located in the Mediterranean Sea. Ibiza is known for the best clubs and parties, and during the summer it is full of young people from all over the world.

If you plan to visit Ibiza, don’t miss the Old Town and Castle, as well as Hippie Market, when you can buy some handmade souvenirs and clothes. My favourite place on the island is the Cafe del Mar. I love watching this the most beautiful sunset in this part of the world.

I had a fantastic opportunity to spend my 21st birthday in Ibiza. I celebrate my birthday in August, and that time I was in Ibiza, working in one of the chiringuitos (beach bar) during the summer season. As always, I finished work at 10pm, and honestly, I was not planning any birthday party.

Surprisingly, my friends took me to one of the biggest discos on the island – Amnesia for their famous Foam Party. We were partying until 6am when foam flew from the disco ceiling. It was a really refreshing experience! Finally, I was at home a few minutes before 8am, and at 9am, I had to be back at work again!

Celebrating a 21st birthday with friends in Savannah

By Sydney from A World In Reach

Charming Savannah makes a surprisingly fun 21st birthday getaway

There are few places better to celebrate a 21st birthday than Savannah, Georgia. This charming city is full of fun things to do, delicious food, and exciting nightlife. It’s also a short drive away from the beach!

When I tagged along to celebrate my friend’s 21st birthday in Savannah, we spent our days drinking delicious frozen daiquiris from Wet Willie’s while exploring Savannah ’s beautiful historic district (Savannah allows for drinking in the street as long as you’re in the historic district and if the drink is in a plastic container). Many restaurants in Savannah will even ask if you’d like a to-go cup for your alcoholic drink! A nice, refreshing cocktail is a great way to stay cool in the Savannah heat.

What’s a 21st birthday without hitting up some fun bars and clubs? If you’re looking for a nightclub for drinking and dancing, check out Club 51 Degrees, a huge nightclub where you can dance the night away. For a more relaxed vibe, check out the Alley Cat Lounge, a basement bar with great cocktails and a great atmosphere – this bar was my personal favourite!

While visiting Savannah, you won’t want to miss out on all of the delicious, Southern food that the city has to offer. Make reservations at the Olde Pink House for a special birthday dinner, and don’t forget to get ice cream from Leopold’s for dessert! If you’re ready to take a beach break, spend a day in nearby Tybee Island. This fun beach town is just a half-hour away from downtown Savannah!

21st birthday in Nepal

By Hanna from SolarPoweredBlonde

Still one of my favourite and most memorable birthdays was my 21st birthday in Nepal. I travelled here on a university placement in a hospital as a nursing student. I was staying in Pokhara with three other friends. We had no idea about the nightlife in Pokhara. There was an 11pm curfew whereby everyone was meant to be home and the street lights were off, as well as all bars closed. We had no idea that after the curfew, many bars do actually stay open for a while longer, behind closed doors!

After partying the whole night at the bar, we eventually decided to leave, after the curfew. We walked the 15 minutes back to our hotel in the dark with only our phone torches. We were followed by a few dogs who diligently made sure we made it home safely. Unfortunately we were met with another pack of dogs, and had to run away from a dog brawl.

Then, as we fell over the barriers to our hotel one by one, after a few too many birthday drinks, we were back in our hotel. I decided this wasn’t enough and I didn’t want my birthday celebrations to end! We ended up having a silent disco on the roof of the hotel amongst the washing!

Unfortunately for us, Nepalese hotels were not built for people dancing and jumping on the roof. Soon after the security guard came up to tell us that the hotel was shaking and could we please stop! We stopped and finally went to bed, but it will always be a memorable night.

Partying and sightseeing in Hong Kong for a 21st birthday

By Inna from the Executive Thrillseeker

Inna celebrated her 21st birthday in Hong Kong

I chose to celebrate my 21st by taking a birthday trip to one of the most dynamic and cosmopolitan cities in the world, Hong Kong. This city has a variety of entertainment for every taste. What attracted me most and made me choose it as my birthday destination is its vibrant nightlife and a great number of high-end clubs.

Along with that, at the time of my visit, Hong Kong was considered to be extremely safe. The city never sleeps and all the streets are illuminated at night, which made me feel quite comfortable and safe.

I spent a total of one week in Hong Kong, and for my special day, my friends and I went to an area called Lan Kwai Fong that is full of bars, karaoke, and clubs. We checked out a couple of places but the most memorable one was the club Dragon-i. This place truly is a playground for the rich and beautiful but the great thing is that it’s not overly exclusive, meaning that even normal people like us managed to get in with no problem.

So, my actual 21st birthday was spent partying, yet I also managed to explore some other highlights of Hong Kong. I climbed the Victoria Peak to admire gorgeous views of the city and spent a day on the beach. I also treated myself to an almost luxury shopping experience which I normally don’t do but since it was my birthday I made an exception.

Hong Kong is full of activities and I feel like I haven’t explored even half of them, so I’m looking forward to going back!

Celebrating a 21st birthday with penguins in South Africa

By Riana from Teaspoon of Adventure

Riana celebrated her 21st birthday in South Africa

One of my most memorable birthdays was turning 21 in Africa. I spent that summer interning with a psychology group at a children’s orphanage in Swaziland, in southern Africa.

On my actual birthday, my colleagues took me out for lunch and we celebrated with brownies that evening with my homestay family. But at the end of the week, we decided to kick the celebrations up a notch by heading to Cape Town, South Africa!

After a stressful last few weeks at our internship, my colleague (and travel buddy) and I were so excited to kick back and enjoy Cape Town. We loved walking along the waterfront and exploring the craft markets while eating delicious fresh seafood.

As a special treat, we headed up to Simon’s Town for a night to see the penguins! Boulder Beach in Simon’s Town is famous for its colony of resident African penguins – and they were the cutest! If you had told me I would be celebrating my 21st birthday with penguins on a beach in Africa I never would have believed you.

We rounded out the trip with a visit to Cape of Good Hope, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, and with views of Table Mountain. I would highly recommend celebrating a birthday in Cape Town! It’s a beautiful place with lots to see and do, and a great part of the world to discover.

City break in Barcelona for my 30th birthday

Barcelona was the perfect place to celebrate my 30th birthday

My first real birthday trip was a city break in Barcelona for my 30th birthday. I knew I wanted to celebrate my birthday somewhere special and I’d seen loads of amazing pictures of the beautiful Gaudi buildings.

I travelled to Barcelona with my partner a couple of days before my birthday and we visited all the big Barcelona sights; the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, the Olympic Stadium and Las Ramblas.

I spent my actual 30th birthday in the stunning surroundings of Park Güell. I got my camera stolen from my bag while we were there, but it didn’t matter,  I was just happy to be in such an amazing place to celebrate my 30th.

Barcelona is a brilliant place to travel to on your birthday because you can have whatever kind of birthday you want there. Want to celebrate over food and wine with friends? Spend your birthday on the beach? Take in some culture? Go to a funfair? See world-class football? For all of these and more, Barcelona has you covered.

A 30th birthday trip to Santorini

By Lindsey from Seven Day Weekender

A catamaran cruise in Santorini was the perfect way for Lindsey to spend her birthday

Greece had been on my bucket list for a very long time – ever since I was in grade school and learned about Ancient Greek history, further amplified by the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens when I was in high school. I made this dream a reality on my 30th birthday, travelling to Athens, Mykonos and Santorini.

Greece is the perfect place for a big birthday trip because it’s nice for the majority of the year, the types of activities are endless and the food is out-of-this-world.

Although the entire 10-day trip for my 30th birthday was amazing, my favourite part of the trip, and the thing I think should be on everyone’s birthday list, was the ½ day catamaran tour my friend and I took in the caldera of Santorini.

This was the one thing my friend and I splurged on and I would do it again in a heartbeat! It was the most perfect way to see the island – and in my opinion is the only way to see Santorini, from the water, the way Poseidon intended.

We chose to go on an afternoon tour in order to maximize the heat of the day for swimming, lounging and eating. The views were unreal, and it was also the first time I had properly snorkelled. There were so many little fish swimming around me, and the water was also (and still has been to this day) some of the clearest I have ever seen!

It was an afternoon I will never forget, and when people ask me what my most favourite thing was while I was in Greece this will always come out on top.

A bucket list Key West road trip to celebrate my 30th birthday

By Kylie from Between England and Iowa

Kylie celebrating her 30th birthday with a road trip through the Florida Keys

For my 30th birthday I ticked off a road trip that had been on my bucket list for quite a while! I drove from Miami, Florida to Key West through the Florida Keys with my husband. The journey itself is quite a short one, it’s around 160 miles which takes roughly 3 hours without any stops. The route is via what is known as the Overseas Highway, as it travels through 29 islands which are connected by 42 bridges!

My birthday is in December so travelling to the far south of Florida (and the most southern point of continental USA!) was very much welcomed treat and a bit of respite from the usual cold winter!

Key West is a great place to spend a birthday. Even though it’s part of the USA, it has a very Caribbean vibe to it. I got to hand feed nurse sharks at my hotel and they even gave me a free room upgrade to a beach front room as it was my birthday.

Not only did we go on a snorkelling trip and spent some time at the beach and chilling in hammocks, but Duval Street is the main place to go for evening entertainment. It is packed full with bars, restaurants and live music entertainment.

As it was my 30th birthday trip I took great pleasure in trying the different cocktails, of course I had to celebrate with pina coladas and rum punches! Each evening there is a sunset celebration at Mallory Square which is fun too.

Visiting Nusa Penida in Indonesia for my husband’s 30th birthday getaway

By Penny from GlobeTrove

Penny and her husband Shawn spent his 30th birthday on Nusa Penida in Indonesia

When my husband Shawn turned 30, I wanted to make his birthday extra special and what better way to do it than to take a birthday trip.

While I was narrowing down on our choices, I finally settled on Indonesia because he loved it there the previous time we visited. The highlight of our trip was spending time on Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan. The numerous  things to do on Nusa Penida  made it our personal favourite.

While Nusa Lembongan was a chill place to kick back and relax, the views on Nusa Penida were stunning. Even our accommodation had a brilliant view of Mount Agung and we loved watching the sun rise over the horizon every morning.

Most people choose to head here as part of a day trip but trust me, staying on the island is an otherworldly experience. It is serene, peaceful, beautiful and the food is excellent. The only thing about the food is that it caters to the western palate more. Once you make peace with that (if you have to!), all is well.

A big bonus is that we could choose to mix up peaceful days with active ones. It suited Shawn and me well. In fact… it was perfect!

A spiritual 30th birthday trip in the mountains of Colombia

By Daniel from Layer Culture

Daniel visited Minca, the sustainable capital of Colombia for his 30th birthday

Over the years I have got into the habit of travelling for my birthday. What I usually do, around 3 months before, is to start to make a list of places I’d like to see. Because I love to travel to Latin America, the places I choose for my birthday trips are usually within the continent. I travel on my birthday to be able to reflect on life and see how far I’ve come since the previous year.

For my big 30, I was lucky to have chosen a place in Colombia called Minca. For me, it was the perfect place to spend my 30th birthday, because I love to be surrounded by nature and feel at peace with myself. It is said that Minca is the sustainable capital of Colombia. So what I did was look out for Eco-lodges and yoga retreats to be able to maximise my spirituality during the stay.

Not only do I love Colombian culture but I like to learn more about myself from being in new environments and meeting new people. I felt that the Nuevo Mundo Eco Lodge, where I stayed, was at the perfect place for this type of introspection. Arriving in Minca, a small mountain village, I walked up to the lodge which took about 1 hour. It was all worth it to get the amazing view of the mountains at sunset.

Celebrating on a 30th birthday trip with friends in Andalusia

By Corina from Another Milestone

Corina celebrated her friend's 30th birthday with her in Andalusia

Your 30th birthday is an important milestone in everyone’s life, so when my friend said she wanted to celebrate her birthday in Andalusia, Spain, we agreed to join her. We had a road trip in Andalusia, Spain, and she decided to celebrate her 30 th birthday in Cordoba.

Cordoba is a magical city and a great place to spend a day you will remember a lifetime. My friend was thrilled to walk the narrow white streets of the city until we found Calle de las Flores, to get lost in some patios full of red carnations in blue flowerpots, to enjoy a coffee in the Plaza de la Corredera and to explore la Juderia, the Jewish neighbourhood in Cordoba.

In the afternoon we visited Cordoba’s landmark La Mezquita, the Mosque-Cathedral with charming architecture. She said she had a great birthday, but that was not all. In the evening we prepared her a surprise and bought tickets for the light and sound show in the Alcazar de los Reyes palace.

The beautiful music, the fountains dancing and the story told using only sounds and lights touched her. She was impressed by the show and thanked us for the surprise.

We finished celebrating her 30th birthday with some tasty sangria in a local bar and she told us she had a perfect birthday.

Going on a cruise vacation for my 30th birthday

By Andrea at One Savvy Wanderer

Amazing sunset on a 30th birthday cruise

I knew I had to do something special for my approaching 30th birthday. I just had my first baby 6 months prior and I was looking to get away just my husband and I to celebrate. As a new mom, I was looking forward to a relaxing vacation but also wanted the ability to let loose a little bit since we wouldn’t have any responsibilities. Taking a Caribbean cruise was the perfect trip that checked all the boxes for my 30th birthday celebration.

Being the budget-savvy traveller that I am, we were able to get cheap airfare using some of my favourite  airfare hacks  and we booked our cruise through Carnival because I’ve found that they are the most affordable cruise line.

When we got off the boat in San Juan, Puerto Rico, we took a taxi to the Isla Verde beach and found ourselves on the private beach of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. Since we were not guests of the hotel, we probably shouldn’t have enjoyed the beach loungers, umbrellas and bar service, but they never asked if we were hotel guests so we made ourselves right at home for the day!

Since it was my actual birthday on the day we were in San Juan, we stopped at the Senor Frogs that is right by the port to take a quick celebratory birthday shot!

Overall, the Caribbean cruise was a fantastic way to celebrate my 30th birthday and I can’t wait for another reason to go back!

Celebrating with a 30th birthday trip to Peru

By Gigi from Beach Addicted

Gigi celebrated her 30th birthday at Huacachina oasis in Peru

I am not sure about you, but I have always wanted to celebrate my birthday somewhere unusual and especially in a different country or even better on a different continent.

I was so excited to finally celebrate my 30th birthday in beautiful Peru. We choose Huacachina oasis near Ica, as I have never seen an oasis in my whole life. And to my surprise and expectations, my day was absolutely wonderful. In the morning we had an amazing breakfast, I opened my presents and we went for a walk to dunes. We were so impressed with a little oasis we have found.

After taking many pictures, of course, we walked all the way to the top for the outstanding view on Huacachina. We spent a few hours sitting in the sand, talking and planning our upcoming trip.

We went back to our hotel and had a few cocktails at the pool.

After, we just waited for the beautiful sunset and pinky sky. It was a very unusual and extraordinary birthday which I will never forget. Also Huacachina oasis belongs to one of the most beautiful places we have seen during our 4 weeks in Peru .

Turning 30 on a birthday trip to Cape Town’s best wineries

By Cal from Once in a Lifetime Journey

A wine tasting trip in South Africa was the perfect way to celebrate Cal's 30th birthday

For my 30th birthday trip, my wife organised a bespoke weekend wine getaway of some of my favourite wineries near Cape Town and some surprises. While tourists usually head straight to Groot Constantia, the oldest winery in the Southern Hemisphere, I had been too many times to count, so we started in Stellenbosch.

This home to the local South African varietal Pinotage, a blend of Pinot Noir and Hermitage (or Cinsault). Kanonkop is the most awarded winery in the Cape and makes a delicious Pinotage.

Some wineries I love for the wine, others for the views, a few for the food and most for the general relaxed vibe. Uva Mira and Tokara have my favourite views in the area. Spier, Boschendal and Babylonstoren are all like little villages with their own working farms, hotels, spas and fine-dining restaurants.

Franschhoek is the French enclave of the Cape, which is a unique part of the otherwise Dutch heritage and architecture. La Motte was where we went, with a brilliant meal at Pierneef a La Motte.

We ended our weekend at the Hemel-en-Aarde wine valley in the Overberg which is famous for its land-based whale watching. The area, translated to Heaven and Earth, produces Burgundy-style cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay and my goodness does it deliver. We powered through several wineries in the area and standouts were Bouchard Finlayson, Hamilton Russell, and the gastronomic Creation Wines.

There was no better way to spend my birthday weekend lapping up the sun and ocean breezes while sipping some of the most amazing wines in the world.

History and beaches on a 30th birthday trip to Egypt

By Monica from Ahlan Monica

Monica celebrated her 30th birthday on a trip to Egypt

Milestone birthdays like your 30th, are the perfect occasion for a once in a lifetime trip, and what better place than the cradle of civilization – Egypt! In recent times, the country has had its stability returning, and so are the tourists, which is why now is the ideal time to travel and a birthday is a perfect excuse to do so! Imagine experiencing Ancient Egyptian temples and even the Pyramids, (almost) all to yourself.

There really are SO many incredible places to visit in Egypt and unique experiences to have (even beyond the great pyramids!). I’ve been fortunate to travel to Egypt many times, including for my 30th birthday just this year!

When you first arrive in Egypt, in many ways it can feel like you’ve been transported to another world. Cairo is a great jumping-off point to any visit to Egypt. You’ll get to sharpen your bargaining skills at the local markets and get a feel for the local culture by visiting some of the many beautiful mosques.

Then travel through upper Egypt as the Ancient Egyptians used to – by sailing the Nile. Take a cruise down to visit Aswan and Luxor and all the incredible sites in between, many of which you’ll only have seen in movies or in your dreams!

Egypt also may not always be the first country that comes to mind when you think of a beach vacation, but they truly have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

If you’re looking to relax, definitely spending some time at a seaside resort is a must, with the option of either the Red Sea or Mediterranean (or why not both!). Immerse yourself in Egypt, a country full of rich cultures and history and who can forget, delicious food too

Halloween festival fun in Key West for a 30th birthday

By Derek from Robe Trotting

Derek took a trip to Key West for his 30th birthday

I celebrated my 30th birthday by travelling to Key West for their amazing Halloween-week party, Fantasy Fest.

Fantasy Fest is an annual celebration held the last week of October. The party peaks on the last Saturday of October with an over-the-top parade down Duval Street. Fantasy Fest has been compared to Mardi Gras or Carnival and from my experience that comparison is accurate. There is a lot of drinking and partying all week. The parade features costumed partiers tossing beaded necklaces to the crowd and the most popular costume is bodypaint.

The party mood in the city is contagious! We spent most of the day hopping from bar to bar on Duval Street. Key West’s nightlife made it the perfect place to celebrate my 30th birthday. Key West has all the charm of a Caribbean port city with the party vibes of New Orleans.

My birthday trip there was great because we were able to jump in and out of the party-scene by walking a few blocks off of Duval Street. We were able to enjoy a nice dinner and then stumble over to the bars quite easily. The weather is beautiful all year long and the locals and visitors are super-friendly and up for a good time.

30th birthday trip to the theatre in London’s West End

By Valerie from ValeriesAdventureTime 

Valerie celebrated her 30th birthday with a trip to see the Lion King in London

I wanted to see the Lion King Musical for as long as I can remember. The Lion King is and always has been my favourite Disney movie. I am not actually sure why it took me so long to see the musical but it turned out to be the perfect event for my 30th birthday this year. My boyfriend got the tickets for us and he bought the champagne package seats, which were incredible!

As the name says, we not only had a fantastic view and access to the ambassador lounge, we also got a glass of champagne and some ice cream during the interval. The musical itself… I mean… I am still speechless. Literally! I had to really pull myself together to not cry all the way through. It was breathtaking and I can only recommend it to literally anyone!

Besides the musical, I thought London was a great choice to celebrate my birthday. We did some sightseeing, went on the London Eye and visited the Dungeon which was loads of fun. On the day of the musical, we also had a slot booked to visit the Sky Garden. It is free to enter but you need to book your visit in advance. The view from up there is incredible and we booked our time so that we were able to watch the sunset over London.

From there we walked to Chinatown and had some delicious Chinese food before heading to the theatre. All in all, I’ve had a fabulous time in London and I thought it was the perfect way to celebrate my 30th birthday.

Going to New Orleans for a 30th birthday getaway

By  Theresa from Fueled By Wanderlust

Theresa took a trip to New Orleans to celebrate her 30th birthday

For my 30th birthday, my husband and I met my two siblings and their significant others for a weekend in New Orleans . These few days were filled with excitement and warm memories, but especially with lots of delicious food.

We opted to stay somewhere a little different, and booked the La Belle Esplanade bed and breakfast in the Tremé neighbourhood, just north of the French Quarter.  La Belle Esplanade was very New Orleans, with bright, vibrant colours and Mardi Gras beads livening up this beautiful historic building. 

The next few days were spent eating all that we could.  My husband and I had the first night to ourselves, and dined at Gabriel Restaurant, where we devoured items off their traditional creole menu.  The next day we did a food tour of the French Quarter, which took us through all the NOLA staples, like po-boys and gumbo. 

We capped these days off with fun nights on Frenchman and Bourbon Street.  After doing a lot of bar-hopping, Three Muses on Frenchman street ended up being my favourite spot for its low-key atmosphere and great music.  It was the perfect place to top off two and a half fun-filled days of celebrations before entering my 30’s.

Taking my partner to Iceland for his 40th birthday

We walked on a glacier in Iceland for my partner's 40th birthday. Spot the other tour group!

For my partner’s 40th birthday trip, we went to Iceland – a real dream destination for both of us. His birthday is in February, so Iceland was at its snowy, icy best. We didn’t manage to see the Northern Lights, but we did do the Golden Circle tour, and we went to the Blue Lagoon.

The day he turned 40, we took an amazing day trip to southern Iceland . The highlight of the day was getting to walk on the Sólheimajökull glacier. It was the first time either of us had seen a glacier and we were both in awe at how enormous it was, and how blue!

Iceland is definitely expensive, so isn’t the best place to go for a birthday getaway if you want to celebrate with lots of food and drink. For incredible experiences though, it’s a fabulous place to visit for your birthday. My partner’s 40th birthday holiday is one we’ll never forget.

Visiting the Norwegian fjords to celebrate my 40th

Sailing on the Nærøyfjord, Norway, on my 40th birthday

My partner’s a few years older than me, and after we went to Iceland for his 40th, I knew I wanted to go somewhere special for my birthday too. For a while we’d planned to go back to Iceland and drive the Ring Road, and even started a savings account to make it happen, but that money ended up going towards a house deposit.

With our house purchase about to go through, we didn’t have a lot of spare money, but I still wanted to do something memorable for my 40th birthday. I kept researching different places to go and even asked for ideas for a birthday trip on the listener questions segment of the Women Who Travel podcast .

Eventually, I came across Norway In A Nutshell , a loose, self-guided “tour” which offers various itineraries between Bergen and Oslo . Since Norway’s another really expensive country we cut costs by going for as short a time as possible, packing in as much as possible.

We only spent a day and a half in Bergen, then on my actual 40th birthday we travelled by train, boat and bus from Bergen to Oslo on a 15-hour journey that took in a UNESCO World Heritage-listed fjord, a road with 13 hairpin bends, countless waterfalls and one of the world’s great railway journeys .

We arrived in Oslo at nearly 11pm and flew back home the following day: maximum Norway in the minimum time, and a brilliant idea for a 40th birthday trip.

Getting away on a 40th birthday trip to Israel

By Bella from Passport & Pixels

The Dead Sea. A light greeny-blue ocean is edged with salt formations, with sandy-coloured mountains in the background.

I was terrified about turning 40. I’m single and child-free, and my 40th birthday felt like the end of my youth. I didn’t feel like celebrating at all, I didn’t want a party, I just wanted to get as far away from real life as possible and pretend it wasn’t happening. So I persuaded a friend to come with me to Israel for a week, and it was the best decision I could have made.

We based ourselves in Jerusalem, and spent two days exploring the city before heading out on day trips to see the rest of the country. I loved Jerusalem: the way the limestone walls glow in the sunlight, the way history and spirituality ooze from every pore, the way the people are so friendly and welcoming – if you’re feeling a little lost in life it really is a wonderful place to be.

On the day of my 40th birthday we took a trip to Masada and the Dead Sea. Masada is an ancient fortification that sits on top of a plateau and was the site of a famous siege in the first century; the history is fascinating and the views over the Dead Sea are spectacular.

Later in the day we descended back down to the Dead Sea itself and spent an hour or so messing about in the salty water.

Finally in the evening, it was back to Jerusalem in time for a delicious meal with celebratory cocktails. The day was so busy I barely even had time to remember it was my birthday – which was exactly how I wanted it!

Celebrating my 40th birthday on safari in Tanzania

By Alex Kallimanis of Wanderlust Marriage Travel 

Alex took a safari in Tanzania for his 40th birthday

For my 40th birthday, I felt it should be something BIG. Fortuitously, I won a plane ticket at a Travel Massive event to anywhere in Africa that Turkish Airlines flies. Ultimately, I chose Tanzania because it’s one of the best countries for safari. It’s also home to Africa’s tallest mountain – iconic Mount Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar (aka Spice Island).

We took a 3 day  safari in Tanzania  – which included the National Parks of Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire. While Serengeti National Park is regarded as the best park to view the big five animals, we were still able to view four of the big five (we missed seeing leopards).

The National Parks of Tanzania are dramatically beautiful. The treasure trove of animals mingling in a vast plain like Ngorongoro resembles the Noah’s Ark fable. The resorts we stayed at like Maramboi Tented Camp were also beautiful.

When we arrived at the camp 3 giraffes crossed our path, with the sun setting behind them. You can hang out for drinks and enjoy breakfast as zebras and wildebeest graze around the property – which includes a pool deck.

Another fantastic spot is the Masai Lodge, nestled between Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru. The wonderful people and vibrant culture of Tanzania also contributed to an epic 40th birthday!

An incredible 40th birthday trip to Machu Picchu

By Fiona from Passport and Piano

Fiona took a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Machu Picchu for her 40th birthday

Every birthday is an event which should be celebrated, but certain milestones should be marked uniquely. For my 40th birthday, I wanted to travel somewhere that would provide unforgettable memories, and my trip around South America certainly did.

My actual 40th birthday was spent at Machu Picchu. We travelled the night before from Ollantaytambo where the Inca ruins had already been impressive, for an early start in Aguas Calientes.

In fact, I think my 40th birthday was the most extended celebration ever. We caught the bus to Machu Picchu at 5am, and by 9.30am, I was standing at the top of Huayna Picchu with one of the most amazing views I’ve ever had the privilege of seeing.

For the most part, it’s a pleasant climb which although steep the path is easy. However, your nerves are challenged in the last section as you climb some very steep steps with no handrail. It’s also busy, and with people trying to come down as well as up, there were moments when I thought if I fall now at least, I will have seen one of the greatest wonders of the world.

The rest of the day was spent exploring the incredible ruins before returning to Ollantaytambo on the train. The remains of the village and the sculpted terraces which the Incas made for irrigation and agriculture are a fantastic feat of engineering.

Overall the location is remarkable and every bit as beautiful as the postcard images you see. It was both an enjoyable and memorable birthday – the perfect 40th birthday trip.

Seeing a favourite band in Mexico for your 40th birthday

By Julie from More Than Main Street

Travel blogger Julie from More Than Main Street celebrating her 40th birthday in Mexico

Imagine soaking up the sun, your toes in the perfect white sand, laying by crystal clear water in Mexico. Now imagine all that but add in your favourite band for three nights in a row for your 40th birthday. It’s a pretty incredible way to celebrate a milestone birthday, if I don’t say so myself!

The Barcelo Maya Caribe and Beach Resort in Riviera Maya , Mexico hosts several different bands each year with a stage set up literally on the beach! This all-inclusive resort along with CID put together an experience of a lifetime. (CID is the company that organises all the details associated with the concert).

My husband and I have always loved Dave Matthews. One of the things that bonded us at the beginning of our relationship was live music. So, when my husband said let’s go to Mexico to see Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds for your 40 th birthday, I was beyond excited!

It was a dream vacation. We are usually very active travellers but this vacation we chose to lounge by the pool or beach with a drink in hand and just relax. Time at the spa, free water activities all followed by three incredible nights of music made it a birthday I’ll never forget!

A festive 40th birthday trip to Edinburgh

By Gillian from Scotland Bucket List

Gillian was happy to be a December baby when it let her spend her birthday in a very Christmassy Edinburgh

I usually dislike having my birthday in December – Christmas is around the corner (everyone loves a joint Christmas and birthday present, right?!), inflated prices on all the festive menus and people are generally skint as they’re either spending their pennies on Christmas work dos or having to save up for presents. Nonetheless, I have to say that when my 40th birthday came round, I couldn’t have been happier to be a December baby…

We moved from Scotland to France in 2012, however, despite the move, Edinburgh had always remained as a very special place in my heart. It’s also an amazing destination to head to during the month of December – think Christmas markets, winter festival, ice rinks, pantomimes and plenty of mulled wine! There’s so much going on as the whole city comes to life during the festive period. So, hubby went on a secret mission to get me to the Scottish capital to mark the beginning of my new decade…

The celebration started with a surprise birthday party with friends and family in a lovely restaurant in Edinburgh’s New Town, however, the festivities didn’t stop there. We indulged in many mulled wines at the Scottish Christmas Market, went to the Panto, had a spin on the ice at St Andrews Square and fell under the spell of the magical illuminations at the Botanical Gardens. It was a truly memorable 40th birthday trip and we’d definitely recommend visiting Edinburgh at Christmas-time !

Celebrating turning 40 on the Amalfi Coast

By Katy from Untold Morsels

Katy spent her 40th birthday on the beautiful Amalfi Coast

If there was ever a destination that cried out “pick me!” for milestone birthday celebrations it is Italy’s Amalfi Coast . And that’s exactly where I chose to celebrate my 40th birthday.

The spectacular cliffs, sparkling blue waters and picturesque towns that seem to tumble into the sea were the perfect backdrop to my entrance into a new decade. Basing ourselves in Amalfi and Sant’Agata we explored the dramatic coastline town by town, trying local delicacies and basking in the rays of the southern Italian sun.

Birthdays are best celebrated with drinks and dinner and amazing views and fortunately they are in abundance on the Amalfi Coast. Our very special lunch at Villa Cimbione in Ravello and stroll along the Terrazzo dell’lnfinito (Terrace of Infinity) was matched only by sunset aperitivo hour at the too perfect for words bar at Le Sireneuse in Positano.

But despite these luxurious treats, the highlights for me were splashing in the sea at retro beach hamlet Nerano, the jaw-dropping views from the Furore fiord and out day spent cruising to and around the magical island of Capri. These were truly some of the best days of my life and the perfect way to enter my 40s. In fact, I can’t wait to do it all again for my 50th birthday.

A 40th birthday trip to Phu Quoc, Vietnam

By Nicole from The Passport Kids

Nicole recommends Phu Quoc island in Vietnam as the perfect place to spend a 40th birthday

If you are looking for a place to celebrate the big 4-0, I would highly recommend the beautiful island of Phu Quoc in Vietnam . This paradise island is a great destination to relax, soak up the sun and enjoy some of the best beaches in Vietnam.

There are so many things to do on the island if you want to go explore and adventure including the Phu Quoc National Park or the Suoi Tranh Waterfall are great outdoor fun things to do during the day. We spent most of the days beachside and poolside enjoying the relaxing atmosphere of this island and resort life. The sunsets are amazing on the island and we loved the romantic walks on the beach while the sun went down.

We found this island to be tranquil, quiet and peaceful as compared to other spots in Vietnam so it offered a great break from the hustle and bustle of busy Vietnam. Plus, it was extremely affordability to enjoy some of the luxuries to celebrate a big 40th birthday.

Phu Quoc is the perfect place to enjoy a 40th birthday vacation if you are looking for beach life and luxury at a great price. The island of Phu Quoc is a quick flight away from the capital of Ho Chi Minh City so it’s somewhat easily accessible worldwide.

50th birthday in Madeira

Looking out from the Balcões viewport at the end of the short levada walk from Ribeira Frio

If you have a birthday in February, and you want to get a bit of sunshine, then Madeira is a brilliant choice. Madeira is 1000 miles south west of Portugal and has a very pleasant climate all year round, ideal for exploring its beautiful mountains and ancient forests.

We spent my partner’s 50th birthday in Madeira’s capital, Funchal, enjoying Madeira wine tasting at a historic wine lodge, visiting the botanic gardens and taking a traditional wicker sled ride through the streets. We stayed at an all-inclusive hotel which was really relaxing but still felt special.

For his actual birthday we did a hike from one of Madeira’s most epic viewpoints at Eira do Serrado down to the Valley of the Nuns . The next day we walked along one of Madeira’s irrigation channels (called levadas) to the Balcões de Ribeiro Frio viewing platform.

Madeira is such a beautiful island and absolutely perfect for a relaxing but active 50th birthday trip.

Tango in Argentina to celebrate a 50th birthday

By James Ian from Travel Collecting

James Ian had always wanted to see tango in Argentina, and made his dream come true for his 50th birthday

I wanted to go somewhere fun for my 50th birthday, but it’s in November, which is a terrible month for a vacation in the northern hemisphere, because the fall colour is done, the snow hasn’t really started in most places, it’s cold and grey… So I decided to head south. To Patagonia. But first stop, Buenos Aires. I’d always wanted to see  tango in Argentina , so the night of my birthday we saw a tango show, which was amazing.

But a birthday should never be limited to just one day, so my 50th birthday  weekend  also included an incredible steak dinner at one of Buenos Aires’ famous parillas / steak houses. I didn’t do this the same night as the tango so that we didn’t rush dinner. It was seriously the best steak I’ve ever had.

The weekend was spent shopping at the Sunday San Telmo antiques and crafts fairs (it WAS my birthday, how could I not get what I wanted?!); having breakfast of churros and hot chocolate at the iconic Tortoni Cafe; and some sightseeing in between. It was the perfect 50th birthday trip.

Celebrating turning 50 on a five-day Grand Canyon expedition

A trip through the Grand Canyon made the perfect 50th birthday trip

For my husband’s 50th birthday, he wanted to do something special, but didn’t want to have a big party. So he decided to do something as far from that as possible. Which is why we found ourselves sitting in a tiny wooden boat, bailing water like crazy as we rocked and tipped and rolled and dipped with water pouring into the boat from the churning rapids all around us, surrounded by the towering walls of the Grand Canyon.

The 5-day trip through the Grand Canyon starts at the beginning of the canyon and the walls slowly rise higher and higher as the river gets deeper and the canyon gets bigger. Soon, layers of rock that had been right beside were high above us.

Each night is spent camping on a sandy beach. In between rapids, there are opportunities to hike into side canyons, explore a mining tunnel, and climb up to an ancient granary. There is no other way to experience these things other than to ride the Colorado River rapids. It ends with a hike up the Bright Angel Trail to the south rim.

The best part? The guides baked a chocolate cake in a Dutch oven on an open fire for him on his birthday. So, he got his 50th birthday party after all!

50th birthday cruise to the Western Caribbean

By Bridget from The Flashpacker

Swimming with stingrays on a Western Caribbean cruise to celebrate Bridget's 50th birthday

50th birthdays need to be celebrated in style. And what better way to mark this important milestone than by taking a cruise around the Western Caribbean ?

I’ll level with you. An independent traveller in spirit, I had resisted exploring our world from the comfort of a floating hotel. But I soon came to realise that there’s a lot to be said for having the ability to visit multiple destinations over a short period of time. What’s more, there’s no need for frequent packing and unpacking.

What sets Western Caribbean cruises apart from others in this region is that their ports of call have more of a cultural and historical focus and concentrate less on beaches and shopping.

Stopping at Grand Cayman, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Belize and Mexico, this cruise gave me the opportunity to dip my toes into the balmy waters of Central America with very little effort.

Awesome experiences like swimming with stingrays in Grand Cayman and transiting the modern engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal. The gorgeous colonial city of Cartagena in Colombia was unforgettable as was sailing along the Tortuguero Canals in Costa Rica.

Celebrating my 50th birthday on a cruise was a turning point for me, sailing on a further four cruises, with more in the travel pipeline.

A Greek getaway to Paros for a couple turning 50

By Sandra from Greece Travel Secrets

Sandra and her husband took a trip to Paros, Greece, to celebrate their 50th birthdays

A couple of years ago my husband and I both turned 50 (6 months apart) and really wanted to have a truly memorable trip to celebrate this milestone.

Although we live in Australia he is Greek and we try and travel to Greece most years. The year prior we had visited a few new destinations in Greece to scope out a good spot for a celebration and Paros soon revealed itself as the winning destination.

We sent out an expression of interest email to a bunch of family and friends and were not really surprised when strong interest came back from over 50 people. I mean who needs an excuse to visit the Greek Islands, right!?

Paros ticked all our boxes for a number of reasons. It’s quite accessible with a domestic airport and regular ferries and is relatively close to Athens and islands like Santorini that we knew a lot of people would be interested in, especially first-timers.

It doesn’t, however have an international airport or a cruise port so it’s not as crowded nor as expensive as most islands that do. It’s the perfect size and has a wide variety of things to see and do that would suit the diversity in our group, from teenagers and people with young kids to Baby Boomers.

After further research, I decided on the town of Naoussa and a hotel which, it turned out, is run by Greek Australians! I also chose a special restaurant for a dinner and they were even able to organise a live band for us.

In the end, there were 38 of us who spent 5 days in Naoussa, with much love and laughter over that time. We went on a fabulous sailing trip around the Small Cyclades islands, had numerous fabulous meals and plenty of cold drinks in the pool and at the beach.

The birthday party itself was one we will never forget with dancing until the sun came up. It truly was an incredible stay on this amazing island.

A 50th birthday vacation in Aruba

By Annick Lenoir-Peek from The Common Traveler

Annick and her boyfriend celebrated his 50th birthday in Aruba

As fans of travelling, we celebrated my boyfriend’s 50th birthday with a one-week trip to the beautiful Caribbean island of Aruba . All but one night of our stay was at an environmentally friendly resort located on the widest part of one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. We could open our patio screen door and walk out onto a white sand beach with deep blue waters.

Relaxing under palapas on the beach, our only concern was deciding when it was time to put up our little flag that indicated we wanted to order food or a drink from the bar. We enjoyed sunrise and sunset yoga on the beach. We divided up our time between relaxing on our slice of paradise and exploring the island’s natural beauty, including on an ATV.

On his actual birthday, we stayed at the Renaissance Marina Hotel in Oranjestad which allowed us access to their private island – renowned for its famed Flamingo Beach. A knock on the door shortly before dinner surprised my boyfriend – a waiter entered with a bottle of bubbly and a small chocolate cake! The waiter even sang Happy Birthday!

In the lobby bar, upon hearing that it was his birthday, the bartender gave him another dessert with a sparkler on it.

Aruba’s natural beauty mixed with refinements like duty-free shopping and casinos meant that his 50th birthday vacation was the perfect mix for us – a little relaxation, exploration, and celebration.

Animal encounters in Kenya for a 50th birthday

By Bret Love & Mary Gabbett of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

Bret celebrating his 50th birthday in Kenya

Last summer, to celebrate my 50th birthday, I took my wife/business partner and my teenage daughter on an incredible 3-week tour of Kenya’s finest national parks and wildlife conservancies. As someone who’d dreamed of exploring the East African country since I first saw films like Born Free as a boy, it was everything I’d imagined and then some.

In terms of wildlife, Kenya boasts approximately 390 species of mammals (including 20 primates, 37 carnivores, and 43 ungulates), 1100 species of birds, 280 reptile species, and 115 amphibians. So for diehard animal lovers/wildlife photographers like us, the trip offered unimaginable sightings (including watching a mama Cheetah and her two cubs take down a Gazelle).

The most popular of Kenya’s national parks include Nairobi National Park, one of the few places in the world where you can go on safari in a major metropolitan area. There’s also the less-frequented Meru National Park and Lewa Conservancy, and the world-renowned Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

I’ll never forget our after-hours encounter with baby Elephants at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Orphanage (after we symbolically adopted two of them), going behind the scenes at Jane Goodall’s Sweetwater Chimpanzee Sanctuary, and hanging out with the world’s last two Northern White Rhinos at Ol Pejeta.

Another highlight of our trip was the Masai Mara National Reserve, which needs no introduction as the northern stop of the Great Migration route. But the 583-square-mile reserve is just one part of the Greater Mara Ecosystem. This includes neighbouring, Maasai-owned private wildlife conservancies and conservation areas.

The Greater Mara area is home to about 25% of Kenya’s wildlife, including an exceptional population of Big Cats (Cheetahs, East African Lions, and Leopards) as well as their prey.

Exploring this area with my family at the end of our journey was truly the adventure of a lifetime, and a worthy way to celebrate my own half-century on this planet!

A dream trip to Ireland for a 50th

By Roxanna from Gypsy With a Day Job

Roxanna and her son visited the cliffs of Moher as part of her 50th birthday trip to Ireland

I wanted to visit Ireland when I was 10 years old. My father’s Irish ancestry and the charm of leprechauns and 4 leaf clovers, intrigued me. A few years later the Irish Tourism commercials were visually stunning and evocative. I was hooked. I had a deep yearning to visit the island, and the impression that I would feel home when I got there.

Then a lot of life happened. I was a young mother of 4 sons, a career woman, and eventually a grandmother. At 49 I realized that if I did not visit soon, it might never happen. So I planned a tour of Ireland for my 50th birthday.

My youngest son and I arrived in Ireland 6 days before my birthday for a 12-day journey. We visited Dublin and Belfast, hit major attractions, including the Cliffs of Moher, Giant’s Causeway, the Ring of Kerry, and the Rock of Cashel. We mingled in small towns, Doolin, Dingle, Portmagee, and Kildare. Everywhere was green and gorgeous as I had imagined.

The big day was spent in the tiny seaside town of Portmagee, with a drive along the coast, having a delicious dinner, and drinks at a local pub. I did feel as if I had finally made it home. It was the perfect 50th birthday trip!

Visiting Ljubljana for a 60th birthday

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Ljubljana is a beautiful and compact city, ideal for a relaxing birthday city break

If you are looking for a European getaway for a milestone birthday trip, consider Ljubljana! We celebrated my husband’s 60th in this charming European capital, and it was an amazing day for him (and me!).

Ljubljana is a very picturesque and compact city. While there are lots of things to do in Ljubljana , it is also the perfect place if you want a do-nothing-but-wander-or-relax kind of day. And the food is amazing!

We started our day by taking the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle, which sits on a hill overlooking the city. After enjoying the panoramic views from the viewing tower, we explored the complex. The chapel is lovely, and the old prison fascinating.

Back down in the city, we browsed the open markets, and bought some fresh fruit to snack on as we explored. The Ljubljanica River runs through the historic centre, and we walked along the river, pausing to admire and walk across the many historic bridges over the river. After lunch, we cruised the river as well!

Then it was time for a walking tour, to learn more about Ljubljana’s history and the architecture of Jože Plečnik, whose work you can see everywhere in the city. We also stopped to take photos of Ljubljana’s famous “pink church.”

We finished off the day with a fabulous dinner at Julija, one of Ljubljana’s well-known restaurants, followed by gelato at Cacao, one of Ljubljana’s top gelaterias. It was the perfect sweet ending to a wonderful day!

More fun places to go for your birthday

A birthday hike in patagonia.

By Philip from Zen Travellers

Philip spent his 31st birthday hiking the O Circuit in Patagonia

One of the best places that I’ve spent my birthday was in Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia. It was my 31st birthday and we were 6 months into our 14 month trip around the world at the time.

We had planned to hike the length of the 130km O Circuit in Patagonia and we were 5 nights into the trek and nearing the end. The night of my birthday we were in the beautiful Paine Grande campground. And the timing worked out well, because Paine Grande campground is one of the more popular campgrounds on the trek it had more services than your traditional campground, meaning that we were able to purchase a bottle of Chilean red wine to celebrate properly!

My wife also purchased a WiFi package from the campground and arranged a surprise video call with some friends from back home which was an unexpected treat.

We watched the sun set over the rugged Patagonian mountains while enjoying our bottle of wine, appreciating how lucky we’ve been to be able to travel extensively and explore a lot of the world. It was a truly memorable birthday, in a beautiful part of the world, and not one that I’ll soon forget.

Celebrating my 35th birthday on Easter Island

By Rhonda from Travel Yes Please

Birthday trip to Rapa Nui

The most incredible place that I’ve celebrated my birthday was Easter Island  (Rapa Nui), a remote volcanic island in Polynesia. It was a bucket-list destination for me, so to be celebrating my 35th birthday there made it all the more memorable.

My husband and I spent the day driving around, stopping at some of the island’s most beautiful and fascinating archaeological sites. We explored Rano Raraku, the quarry where Easter Island’s famous moai statues were carved from the bedrock before being moved to different locations around the island. Next, we marvelled at the 15 moai atop of Ahu Tongariki, the largest ceremonial structure in Polynesia.

For my birthday lunch, we ate at a small restaurant at Anakena Beach, the main beach on Easter Island. As I looked around at the swaying palm trees and platform of moai nearby, I almost couldn’t believe that I was in such an incredible place, nevermind getting to celebrate my birthday here.

The rest of my birthday on Easter Island was spent relaxing at Anakena Beach and searching out the smaller, more secluded Ovahe Beach. It was a perfect day full of my favourite things- ancient sites, beautiful views, and exploration. I honestly couldn’t think of a more intriguing place to spend a birthday!

A 1st birthday in Morocco

By Jenny from TraveLynn Family

Ezra celebrated his first birthday on a trip to Morocco

Travelling is something that has always been important to me and my husband, and as soon as the kids came along, we knew that nothing would change and we would keep on travelling. For one reason or another, we always seem to be overseas for our kids’ birthdays. What better way to celebrate?

Perhaps the best of these birthday trip was when our youngest turned one. As any parent will tell you, this is quite a milestone and had to be celebrated. We decided to visit Essaouira in Morocco.

Essaouira is a bustling port city, with a beautiful windswept beach on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. There is so much to keep the kids entertained; sandy beach with safe, shallow waters, camels to meet and ride, the medina, souqs, fishing port and ramparts to explore. It’s a perfect destination if you’re looking to visit Morocco with kids .

For Ezra’s first birthday, we rented a gorgeous Airbnb in the medina. We took balloons, banners and bubbles with us from the UK, and we found a little patisserie in the medina who made a personalised birthday cake for him. If memory serves me right, it was only £5. We also celebrated with a camel ride on the beach that day and a paddle in the Atlantic Ocean.

He won’t remember it. But for us parents it marked a special occasion with fantastic memories, and I hope that when he looks back on the photos in years to come, he’ll think it was a pretty cool way to celebrate his first birthday. He has since then celebrated his second birthday in India, his third in Zambia, and his fourth in France.

Special 2nd birthday in North Sulawesi

By Lisa from FlipFlopGlobetrotters

Lisa's son celebrated his second birthday in Indonesia

When our son was 17 months old we decided to take a sabbatical for a year and travel around South East Asia. By the time our son’s second birthday came around we found ourselves in North Sulawesi, Indonesia at a great Dutch Airbnb called Sendowan Baru, in Amurang. They were happy to help us celebrate his birthday.

When travelling long term , birthdays always tend to be fairly improvised. We were lucky we found a number 2 shaped candle in the local supermarket which, paired with a piece of chocolate cake, made a perfect birthday cake. I fashioned a birthday crown out of some card stock and we even had some Duplo (which we had carried in our luggage since we first left) for his present.

All in all, he had a really fun birthday and we had a great day too. We sang for him, he had cake and then we went swimming in Sendowan Baru’s lovely pool. Our hosts even got him a marvellous soft football as a birthday present. It was a big hit and we carried it around with us the entire time we travelled, always remembering this special birthday.

Birthday trip to a surfing and yoga retreat in Costa Rica

By Katie from Just Chasing Sunsets

Katie from Just Chasing Sunsets and the surfboard she broke on her 29th birthday

For my 29th birthday, I took myself to a surf and yoga retreat in a small town in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. 10 days of surfing in beautiful water in the mornings and afternoon yoga in the jungle. In between, I napped in hammocks, snorkelled in the ocean, and took naps on the quiet and pristine beach.

The day before I left, which also happened to be my birthday, my surf instructor took me out to the big waves. I’d surfed many times before and trusted my instructor, so I agreed to go for it. It was a battle to get past the breaking waves and it seemed that just as we did, my instructor set me up to catch the next wave.

I wasn’t ready for it. I didn’t feel confident. There was someone paddling in front of me I thought I might hit. But I pushed all of these doubts aside and started to paddle. I couldn’t commit to the pop-up and fell off the surfboard…hard. When I finally came up for air, my instructor was beside me telling me I broke my board in half!

Wait, what? How? It’s still attached to my ankle.

While that was true, I glanced at the shore and saw the other half on the beach. OMG.

I wasn’t about to let that be the end of my trip and the start of my 29th year. So I tried again with a new board. This time, I felt sure and confident. As I began to paddle, I locked eyes with the surfer in front of me and he nodded. I paddled my heart out, popped up, and rode that wave all the way to the beach.

Celebrating a special birthday in the wineries of Napa Valley

By Tatiana from Family Road Trip Guru

Tatiana celebrated a friend's special birthday in Napa Valley, California

When my best friend had a special birthday anniversary last year we decided to celebrate it in Napa Valley, California. We started the celebration with a glass of bubbly.

For a special celebration there is nothing better than a tasting at a fabulous Domaine Carneros. For a moderately priced option you can choose either Mumm Napa or Domaine Chandon, either of the experiences will be great, there is no bad champagne is Napa. After that we visited some of the iconic wineries in the valley: Robert Mondavi, Beringer and Inglenook.

But Napa Valley is not just about wine. It is home of the Culinary Institute of America; many celebrity chefs are former graduates of CIA. We had a fantastic educational tour of the beautiful grounds and exceptional facilities at CIA accompanied by lunch. Somehow even a simple sandwich at CIA tastes phenomenal and their desserts are to die for. We ended the day with a dinner at one of the stellar restaurants in Napa, Bistro Jeanty – it did not disappoint.

A birthday trip to Scottish whisky distilleries

By Kavita from Kavey Eats

Kavita took her husband to Islay for his birthday to visit his favourite Scotch Whisky distilleries

My husband is a huge fan of Islay whisky, known for its heavily peated style and made on the island of Islay , off the West Coast of Scotland.

For his birthday in 2006, I conspired with the friends who’d first introduced him to Islay’s whisky, by organising a long weekend there for his birthday. It was only after flights were booked that I discovered it was coincidentally when the island holds its annual festival of whisky and music, Feis Ile. This serendipity meant that we visited the distilleries during their hugely entertaining celebratory open days, each one taking it in turns to put on a real party of music, whisky tasting events and fun. Food and drink were available and much merriment was had by all.

So much fun did we have on that first birthday trip that I’ve since organised 3 more visits to Islay during its festival week, which still coincides with my husband’s birthday, taking more friends along with us to discover the island’s charms.

Islay is a wonderful place to visit even if you don’t love whisky, with some truly stunning natural scenery and beautiful historic sites such as Kilnave Chapel, the Kildarton Cross and the ancient seat of the Lordship of the Isles, on the shores of Loch Finlaggan. There are some lovely pubs and restaurants, and we also love cooking in the kitchens of our self-catering holiday homes.

Celebrating a birthday floating in the Dead Sea, Jordan

By Ashlea from Dashing Around The World

Ashlea spent her 28th birthday floating in the Dead Sea at a resort in Jordan

When travelling long-term like we are, finding a special place to spend your birthday can be difficult, simply because you are visiting so many amazing places fairly regularly! Just last month I spend my 28th birthday floating in the Dead Sea in Jordan, and it was incredible! Visiting the Dead Sea was always something I’d wanted to do, but it was actually so much better than I imagined.

We spent two wonderful and relaxing days at a resort on the Dead Sea, amazed at the simplicity of floating (and being totally unable to sink) in the uber-salty water, slathering ourselves in the magical Dead Sea mud (that retails for over $30 a tube), tanning beside the 4 different resort pools, and pampering myself to a massage and facial at the spa.

Being Ramadan at the time, it was the perfect choice to stay at a resort with multiple restaurants and bars, as food and alcohol can be difficult to come by during the day (and in many countries its ‘technically’ illegal to sell alcohol during Ramadan)… and I definitely wanted a glass of wine on my birthday! (side note – Jordan makes surprisingly decent wine).

If you’re looking for a fun, relaxing and unique place to spend a birthday, you can’t look past pampering yourself at a resort on the Dead Sea (plus you’ll get your own ‘look – no hands’ photo!).

A family birthday celebration on the beach in Sardinia

By Claudia from My Adventures Across The World

Claudia loves to spend her birthdays on the beach celebrating with family in her native Sardinia

I was born and raised in Cagliari, Sardinia. This island at the heart of the Mediterranean is one of the best places to spend the summer holidays, and people often pay a fortune to visit. My birthday is in July, right in the middle of the summer, and to me there’s nothing better than spending it right where I feel I belong.

A typical birthday for me involves spending a full day at the beach with family and friends, relaxing in the sun, swimming in the clear waters, chatting and just chilling. We usually go to Costa Rei , where I have been spending my summers since I can remember. It’s a beautiful, long sandy beach with very clear waters and a lot of services, that make it easy to enjoy for anybody.

Italians have a strong bond with food and to us there is nothing better than celebrating with a good meal. So, at the end of the day we all get ready and go out to have a fabulous dinner. I get to pick where I want to go and what I want to eat. Sometimes it’ll be a barbecue at home; but I usually opt for pizza as it is one of the foods I like the most.

Celebrating a birthday on the beach in Tulum, Mexico

By Hannah & Adam Lukaszewicz from GettingStamped

Hannah and Adam spent their birthdays in Tulum while living in Mexico

When we lived in Playa del Carmen, Mexico for a year, we celebrated our birthdays by heading down to one of our favourite weekend getaway spots – Tulum ! We usually love a little bit of relaxation and adventure, but for our birthdays, we decided to focus on all the relaxation, food and yummy drinks.

Our first stop was the beach of course. We picked the idyllic Playa Paraiso beach and relaxed on the sand for a bit, gazing at the glimmering turquoise waters. After a few hours of beach bumming, we headed back into town for some food and drinks.

We decided on El Asadero for food. Located in the centre of Tulum, El Asadero is one of the best restaurants in Tulum, hands down! We ate delicious Mexican BBQ – Arrachera steak was our favourite dish.

After a delicious meal, it was time for drinks. Tulum has the coolest treehouse bar, Mateo’s. Located right on the beachfront, this restaurant and bar has a great, friendly atmosphere and boasts some of the best sunsets you’ll ever see! We headed to the treehouse terrace with a drink in hand, watching the sunset over the jungle. It was the perfect end to the birthday!

Off the beaten track birthday on a Thai island

By Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan

Sunset on Ko Chang Island, Thailand, on the Andaman Coast

My husband and I celebrated my 32nd birthday on the small Thai island of Ko Chang as part of a longer trip through Southeast Asia. We were actually a little burnt out on travel at this point, having had some disappointing travel experiences in the days leading up to my birthday. The worst of these was the now-infamous “tiger temple”, which we had thought was an animal sanctuary but which turned out to be a very exploitative animal attraction.

Eager to get away from the tourist traps and the crowds in general, we searched for off-the-beaten-track destinations in Thailand and settled on Ko Chang, a small island on the Andaman Coast near the Burmese border. Don’t confuse it with the much larger Ko Chang on the Gulf Coast!

This is not the place to go for a wild birthday party, but if you’re looking to get away from it all and recharge your batteries, Ko Chang just might be perfect. I use the word “recharge” metaphorically, of course. The electricity supply here is a bit erratic, so don’t count on being able to charge actual electronic devices.

With no roads on the island and just a few low-key bungalow complexes, infrastructure here is pretty minimal. The main activities are swimming in the ocean, eating local Thai food washed down with fruity cocktails, and watching the sunset.

A birthday helicopter ride in New York

By Nick from The Danish Nomads

Nick went on a helicopter flight over New York City for his 26th birthday

On my 26th birthday, I woke up to an epic view on the 38th floor of a skyscraper in New York City. It was a lovely spring morning in mid-May, and I must have behaved myself that year because the weather was outstanding. The sky was blue and crystal-clear, and today that fact was a bit extra important. It wasn’t just because I wanted good weather on my birthday, but because today, we were going up in an open-door helicopter to see the city from the air.

Before the clock hit noon, we were airborne. The flight was every bit as awesome as I had hoped for, and this ultimate bucket-list experience stayed with us for the rest of the day. It was as if a smile had been drawn on our faces.

For lunch, we had a few of those outstanding pizza slices NYC is famous for, before starting the proper celebrations with our first drink of the day. Because we couldn’t get enough of heights, we opted for a roof-top bar in the Lower East Side, and some more of those impressive skyline views you won’t find anywhere else in the world. We stayed there all afternoon before heading out for an exquisite Italian dinner in the Village.

It’s safe to say that New York had some of the best food we’ve ever had on our travels. As you probably know, eating good food can make you really tired… But luckily we laughed that right off in one of SoHo’s many comedy clubs, before heading out for an unforgettable night in the city that never sleeps!

Celebrating my 35th birthday in Turkey

By Jessica from One Girl, Whole World

As part of Jessica's epic birthday trip around Turkey, she spent two days sailing around the Turquoise Coast

For my 35th birthday I wanted to do a truly epic adventure, so decided to spend a week exploring different areas of Turkey – with a little bit of luxury added in. I had previously visited Istanbul a couple times and loved it, but was dying to explore more of the country.

I started my birthday trip in Cappadocia, staying at the beautiful Mithra Cave Hotel. While the weather didn’t cooperate for taking a hot air balloon flight, I experienced a magical sunrise and got to spend a day visiting many of the amazing unique landscape areas, including the so-called “fairy chimneys” and caves.

The next step was a couple of days in a boutique hotel in Fethiye, on the stunning Turquoise Coast. In addition to some rest and relaxation, nearby Oludeniz is one of the best paragliding experiences in the world—the experience of floating serenely over the famous Blue Lagoon was amazing!

I then got to spend two days sailing around the nearby Gocek Islands, seeing all kinds of beautiful hidden beaches, stunning ocean sunrises, and eating delicious home-cooked Turkish meals. I spent the morning of my 35th birthday sipping hot black tea and watching a rich pink and purple sunrise from the boat.

I capped off my trip with less than 24 hours in Istanbul, exploring the coffee scene in the Beyoglu area and having dinner at Mikla, one of the top 100 restaurants in the world!

Celebrating a 25th birthday in Manali, India

By Shalini from Eager2Travel

Shalini spent her 25th birthday in Manali, India

My birthday falls in the month of June and it’s a pretty hot time in India. So while planning a trip in the hottest month of the year, you choose a cool place and that’s how I ended up celebrating my 25th birthday in Manali.

Manali is the queen of the hill stations in North India. It is located in Himachal Pradesh. Bhuntar is the nearest airport. For me, though it was a long-awaited road trip from Delhi. We were four gals and it took us around 17 hours to reach. The roads were narrow and bit difficult to drive through but it was an adventure for us.

We had booked a nice villa away from the crowd of tourists, overlooking the valley filled with beautiful flowers and far away were the snow-peaked mountains.

We had a nice warm bath in the tubs and then we set to explore Manali on foot. We had warm momos and hot thupka. We took a lot of pictures almost everywhere. Then we set out to Solang Valley which is the adventure-lovers paradise. We did skiing, paragliding, zip-lining and snow biking.

In the evening it was my time to be the queen of the day, so I decided to go to The Lazy Dog Cafe. There was a band playing and the ambience and the food was mouth-watering. We had food, wine and we danced our feet off. The next day we went to Manikaran to see the famous hot water shrines and to camp out in the wilds of Kasol.

A birthday month in Madrid learning Spanish

By Or from My Path in the World

Or spent her birthday month in Madrid learning Spanish

As someone who has learned Spanish all on her own yet has a big Spain obsession, I wanted to travel to Spain to improve my Spanish level. I took advantage of my 24th birthday coming up, booked a one-month trip to Madrid, and signed up to four weeks of studying at a local language school called Enforex. I specifically wanted to study in Madrid since it such a diverse city with plenty of things to do and see, and a city that makes me feel at home.

As for Enforex, they have so many different programs for all levels, they offer tours and accommodation (only if you want), and they have the best teachers. The lessons were interactive and super interesting, and I was honestly excited to go to school every single day. Along the way, I also met people from around the world, which was another highlight for me. Getting to know other cultures and have these people become your friends is priceless.

On my actual birthday, right after four great lessons in the afternoon, I went out with my classmates to have dinner and watch a movie at a local cinema. It might sound like an ordinary birthday, but when you’re in another country and going out with people from countries like Japan, Turkey, and France who are now your friends, it’s an entirely different experience.

Total relaxation in Budapest to celebrate a 35th birthday

By Carine & Derek from We Did It Our Way

Carine and Derek spent Carine's 35th birthday in Budapest as part of an epic birthday trip around Europe

Birthdays are a big deal for us no matter how old we’re turning. And we always celebrate birthdays in a big way! We’re not just talking about a one-day celebration, we mean a whole week of festivities! Because we like to celebrate the smallest things. Because life is about the little details, the little moments really add up in the end, so it’s important to appreciate them all.

To celebrate Carine’s big 35, we actually toured Europe; 15 cities in 12 countries, and all in 30 days. That in itself is an awesome gift, but to make the week even more special, Carine got to choose the fun and special activities we did. She also got to pick all the restaurants and meals. It was her birthday week, so she was the boss!

And beyond that, she got to do whatever she wanted on her actual birthday. We were in Budapest , and she wanted to get a day of total relaxation. After all, travelling is hard sometimes, especially with our whirlwind European tour!

What better place to relax than the famous thermal baths in Budapest, the Szechenyi Baths. We went right at the opening and got to enjoy the baths all to ourselves. It was total bliss! We got to hop around all morning pretending we were Goldilocks looking for that perfect bath – not too hot and not too cold.

What better way to celebrate than to spend your time floating around, in total peace and tranquillity. And not just anywhere, but in Budapest, at the Szechenyi Baths, the largest medicinal baths in Europe!

A 7th birthday in Guatemala

By Katja from Globetotting

Katja's daughter had her 7th birthday on Lake Atitlán

When my daughter, my middle child, turned seven we were travelling in Guatemala. We had started our trip in Antigua, a beautiful colonial town and the former capital under Spanish rule. After several days here wandering the cobbled streets and learning how to make chocolate, we headed for Lake Atitlán in the Guatemala Highlands.

It was while we were here, staying on the banks of the deepest lake in Central America, that my daughter had her birthday. Admittedly, this might not have been the ideal location for her to celebrate her birthday given that she doesn’t particularly like volcanoes and is not terribly fond of boats. In the end, however, it turned out to be a wonderful place to celebrate being one year older.

For starters, Lake Atitlán is breathtakingly beautiful. Aldous Huxley once called it “the most beautiful lake in the world”, and it’s hard not to agree. It was formed some 85,000 years ago after a massive volcanic explosion and is today surrounded by steep hills, dramatic volcanoes and characterful Mayan villages. The best way to explore the lake is by boat. Daily, a steady stream of lanchas and wooden fishing boats criss-cross the blue waters of the lake connecting the dozens of villages that line its shores.

On my daughter’s birthday we chose a private tour and spent the day hopping from one village to the next with our excellent guide, Alex. We learned about traditional weaving techniques at the village of San Juan La Laguna, enjoyed a cooking class at San Pedro La Laguna and bartered for souvenirs at Santiago Atitlán. There may not have been any balloons but Tess did receive a traditional birthday crown and still talks today about her birthday on the lake.

Related posts

If you enjoyed these birthday trip ideas, you might find these other posts about dream trips and travel challenges interesting:

  • 40 countries before my 40th birthday: how I managed it and my favourite destinations
  • EU tour: visiting all the European Union capital cities before Brexit
  • Why you need to book your trip to Vilnius, a CNN top destination for 2023 immediately
  • 18 beautiful gardens to visit in Italy
  • Visiting San Marino: tips for your trip to one of the world’s smallest (and most magical) countries

Which of these places to celebrate a birthday would you choose?

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Save for later or share with a friend

12 thoughts on “Birthday trip ideas: 53 inspiring places to celebrate your birthday”

Some great ideas here, Vegas is ALWAYS a good idea for a Birthday!

Keeley http://www.phatcupcake.com

Great places to go to celebrate any birthday! Lovely post and some more places to add to my bucket list.

Great ideas! I celebrated turning 50 with a trip to Egypt! My husband got a week skiing in Utah for his 50th. And I took my mom on a cross country trip by train for her 70th!

What a great list of birthday ideas. I would love to spend my birthday (or any day) on Easter Island, or that boat you featured for Santorini. I think I tend to be home for my birthday, although I have spent two of the last 6 in Australia, one in Caines, the other in Sydney.

Such a great concept for a post! I always say the best birthday gift is to go somewhere new! Will def refer back to this post on future bdays 🙂

This is such a fun list! I love going on a trip for my birthday. I’m lucky enough it usually falls around my spring break! My husbands 30th is coming up and we have Japan planned but I like the idea of a cruise or Andalucia.

We went to Costa Rica for my husband’s 30th! Travel is a great way to celebrate!

I love celebrating birthdays with adventures. My husband is turning 40 in a few weeks, and unfortunately, I’ll still be out of commission, but I’m hoping I can make it up to him either on our anniversary in September or later this year with a holiday trip! I wouldn’t mind celebrating my own birthday in Santorini. 😉

These are all such wonderful birthday celebration ideas! I think I need to plan my next birthday trip now. So many places to choose from, but would love to head to Patagonia and Easter Island!

What a fun list of birthday trips! I especially appreciate how you divided them by age. Thanks for all the great suggestions.

Some amazing ideas here! I went to New York for my 30th birthday and had an amazing time. I’d love to go on safari for my 40th, just 4 years to save!

What an amazing collection of experiences, all great ideas of how celebrate milestones!

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Photo of author

About Helen

8 things to do in Nicosia, the world’s last divided capital city

The best places to stay to visit pompeii.

  • Search Please fill out this field.
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Newsletters
  • Sweepstakes

20 Birthday Trip Ideas for Every Type of Traveler

Travel is the best gift — here are 20 birthday trip ideas to help you celebrate.

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Happy birthday to you! When it comes to celebrating another trip around the sun, the only thing better than presents and cake is traveling (but don't let anyone stop you from having all three). Read on for the best birthday trip ideas from sea to shining sea — and beyond.

1. Tulum, Mexico

Gather a group of friends and enter a new year of life with a clear mind after spending your birthday in the spiritual center of Tulum . Located along Mexico's gorgeous Riviera Maya, the Caribbean coastline, replete with crystal clear waters and white sand beaches, means you'll welcome another year on Earth in one of its most beautiful locales. Known for its yoga retreats, jungle cenotes, sacred ceremonies, and Mayan ruins, Tulum is the perfect place to center your mind and reconnect with nature. The city also has plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shopping to keep you busy when you want to leave the peace of the jungles and beaches behind.

2. New York, New York

You can't beat the energy of New York City for marking a major milestone, especially growing older. Plus, the city that never sleeps is guaranteed to keep you young because there's always something new to see and do. No matter how you hope to celebrate, New York City has it — from live entertainment and gorgeous green spaces to Instagram-famous foodie finds. Every season has something different to offer, so the Big Apple makes for a festive birthday trip idea no matter your birthday month.

Book a room at the Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel for a stay in the heart of all the action, where you can fall asleep among the glow of neon lights — and enjoy a birthday fit for a movie scene.

3. Laguna Beach, California

For a truly pampered birthday trip idea, head to Laguna Beach , where you'll find the ultimate Southern California escape, complete with sunshine, surf, shopping, and spa treatments. A quirky yet chic beach town about an hour south of Los Angeles , Laguna is home to surf shops, art galleries, and eateries featuring everything from to-go tacos to fine dining — it truly has something for everyone.

There's no better place to stay than the oceanfront Montage Laguna Beach , where your party can share a private villa or book spacious adjoining suites, enjoy views for miles from the stunning Mosaic Pool , take a scenic stroll along immaculately manicured paths, or hit one of the area's most beautiful stretches of white-sand beach. Enjoy luxurious treatments at Spa Montage , from massages using California wildflowers to romantic couples' experiences.

4. Maui, Hawaii

If Hawaii has long been on your "someday" list, let your birthday provide the excuse you've been waiting for to finally book that flight and just go for it. Regardless of your age, Hawaii has lots to do, great places to eat, and cultural experiences to enrich your global education, while the greens and blues of Maui's tropical landscape offer a feast for the eyes. Try something new on your visit, whether that's learning to surf or sampling a spoonful of purple poi. To really celebrate your birthday with a bang, make sure a traditional hula performance is on the itinerary.

5. Train Journey Through Italy

Michele Rossetti / Getty Images

If you know of a better way to celebrate a birthday than all the pizza, pasta, gelato, and wine your heart desires, then please alert the presses. Otherwise, head straight to Italy for a travel birthday bonanza — there are few better ways to explore the dreamscape that is Italia than to see as much of the boot as you can by train. Include highlights like Florence , the Cinque Terre , and Tuscany (Italy's heavenly wine region) for the kind of trip that might make you pick up scrapbooking again.

6. Charlotte, North Carolina

If melt-in-your-mouth BBQ and outdoor adventures are right up your alley, look no further than Charlotte for the ideal birthday trip destination. Home to the U.S. National Whitewater Center — where you can find whitewater rafting, biking, zip lines, live music, and craft brews all in one action-packed location — and the fragrant pits of drool-worthy Noble Smoke , Charlotte promises great eats and a great time.

Looking for more? Charlotte is also home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame , the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art , and the NoDa Art District . If you're traveling with a group, head to Optimist Hall , where everyone can enjoy a meal of their choosing from local food vendors.

7. Santa Fe, New Mexico

If all you want to do on your birthday is relax and unwind, plan an indulgent spa retreat to the American Southwest and put Santa Fe at the top of your list. At the Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort , you'll find spring-fed waters and the opportunity to soak in blissful thermal pools following a top-notch spa treatment; healthy, nourishing farm-to-table meals are also included with your stay. It's the perfect getaway, especially for a solo birthday trip or a quiet retreat with a loved one.

8. Mykonos, Greece

If you really want to fete your birthday in style, there's no better place to do so than the party destination of Mykonos. Located in Greece's Cyclades islands, Mykonos captures the picturesque beaches and white churches most people associate with a Greek Island vacation . But, what makes this place most appealing for birthday trips, especially for groups of friends, is its famous beach parties and thriving nightlife scene, allowing travelers to celebrate from sun-up to sun-down. Check in to The Wild Hotel by Interni for exclusive private access to the beautiful Kalafatis Beach , located below the hotel's cliffs.

9. Vail, Colorado

Jack Affleck / Courtesy of Vail Resorts

If you enjoy being active, Vail should top your birthday trip ideas list. You can snowboard and ski in the winter on Vail's renowned slopes — and who doesn't want to indulge in the pleasures of après ski for their birthday? — or hike among blankets of wildflowers in the spring and summer. Book a birthday dinner in a woodsy lodge for the full experience.

10. Backpack Through Thailand

Fly the distance to Southeast Asia for an unforgettable adventure packed with amazing views, flavorful dishes, and a welcoming culture, both from local residents and the country's large community of international ex-pats. Thailand is a popular dream trip destination for many, so what better reason to plan a trip than for your birthday?

Whether you go solo, with a friend or partner, or with a group of friends, Thailand is sure to please — the reason for its popularity among travelers is immediately obvious upon touchdown. Plus, Americans can stretch their dollars further here than many other places in the world, making it a great place to splurge on an all-out birthday bash.

11. Las Vegas, Nevada

Elena Papadopolis / EyeEm / Getty Images

Las Vegas is a classic destination for celebrations of every kind, and birthdays are no exception. Whether you're in it to win big at the casinos or splurge on world-class shows, birthdays present a much-needed excuse to run wild in Sin City. For a little balance, consider adding on a road trip through Nevada's deserts , stopping to check out roadside art and Gold Rush ghost towns along the way.

12. Chicago, Illinois

James Andrews / Getty Images

With lots to do, see, and eat in Chicago — and sprawling views from spots like Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower — it's a great place to ring in another year. Get out on the water or spend your days exploring museums and galleries, depending on what suits your fancy. And no worries if your birthday's in the winter: after ice skating along the Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon, you can warm up with a piping-hot deep-dish pizza, a Chicago classic.

Swissotel Chicago provides well-situated digs located within walking distance of many attractions, including the shops of Magnificent Mile. Book a corner room for views of the Chicago River, Navy Pier, and Lake Michigan.

13. Toronto, Canada

Kristjan Veski/Travel + Leisure

Those looking to skip the long flights often associated with international travel should consider our neighbor to the north for their next birthday destination. Toronto 's thriving music, food, and entertainment landscape means visitors never lack fun things to do in Canada's largest city. Explore the culture of the 6ix by taking a street art crawl or spending the day at one of the city's various museums and galleries. If you're a spring or summer baby, turn another year older at a Toronto music or film festival. And, of course, there's plenty of fall foliage and winter fun to enjoy in the colder months, when you can spend your birthday at the Toronto Light Festival or do a nearby winter getaway .

14. River Cruise Through Europe on U by Uniworld

London, Paris, Rome — sure, these are great places to turn another year older in Europe, but they've been done before. Instead, visit a lesser-known side of the continent by boarding a U by Uniworld cruise and rolling down the Rhine or floating down the Danube. Not your Grandma's stuffy river cruise, this line provides a fresh take on a method of traveling that's totally under-appreciated by everyone under 60 — built especially for the young and young-at-heart.

Whether you sail between Amsterdam and Brussels or explore Eastern Europe on a cruise connecting Vienna and Prague, you'll never forget a birthday spent meandering Europe's scenic rivers on a luxurious cruise with locally-inspired food, fun-loving fellow passengers, and tons of activities, from biking or walking tours at the port to silent discos and stargazing onboard.

15. Savannah, Georgia

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

No place does southern charm quite like Savannah . Stroll along the cobblestone streets, shaded by canopies of live oaks aged hundreds of years, and pop into the many award-winning eateries, like The Grey , housed in a former Greyhound Bus station. By night, book a ghost tour for some serious spooks (there are a ton of companies to choose from), after you've treated yourself to a generous scoop of Leopold's Ice Cream , of course. The Plant Riverside District is another main attraction, packed with shops, galleries, entertainment, restaurants and bars, nightlife, and a hotel, the JW Marriott Savannah — all housed within a repurposed power plant, now a one-stop-shop for merrymaking.

16. Napa Valley, California

(Almost) any age can appreciate a cultured jaunt through wine country, which explains why it's a long-popular birthday destination. Between the picturesque landscapes, enchanting towns, award-winning restaurants, and world-class wine, Napa Valley is an easy choice for a birthday to remember — and a real crowd-pleaser of a birthday trip idea if you're hoping to convince a group to join you.

17. Machu Picchu, Peru

More adventurous travelers might consider spending a birthday visiting Machu Picchu . Hike, bike, raft, or zip line to the ancient Incan city on one of the various local tours that take thousands of people to Machu Picchu each year. If you're a more low-key traveler but still want the experience without doing the whole three-day Inca Trail hike, take a scenic train ride from Cusco instead. Once you're acclimated, see why the famous Incan citadel, high in the Andes Mountains, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Breathtaking views and complex stone architecture make this ancient astronomical observatory a must-see.

Before and after traveling to Machu Picchu, you'll most likely stay in the nearby town of Aguas Calientes, which offers plenty of lodging, eateries, shopping, its namesake thermal springs (which feel especially good after a long hike), and the Mariposario de Machupicchu butterfly sanctuary. You can also check out Cusco (Cuzco), a charming city full of hotels, restaurants, and UNESCO World Heritage architecture.

18. The Palm Beaches, Florida

Avalon / Getty Images

The Sunshine State promises a laid-back, fun-filled visit any time of year. While there are great places to visit in Florida from the Keys to the Panhandle, the Palm Beaches are Florida's crown jewel. Packed with art and culture , outdoor activities, world-class shopping, picturesque beaches, and every sort of entertainment, the area has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a chill escape in Lake Worth Beach , buzzing nightlife in Delray Beach , or a glamorous vacation spent rubbing elbows with the rich and famous in Palm Beach .

Want to really up the ante? Miami is just a one-hour ride away on the luxurious Brightline train. Head even further south by car and you'll hit the Florida Keys , where anything goes — especially on birthdays.

19. Alexandria, Virginia

Getty Images / Lonely Planet Images

To enjoy your birthday to the fullest, head to underrated and affordable Old Town Alexandria , where you'll find both fascinating history and mouthwatering eats, as well as a happy marriage of Southern hospitality and mid-Atlantic sophistication. Stay at the Hotel Indigo Old Town Alexandria , located mere steps from easily walkable King Street, Old Town's main drag, complete with a clean, nautical vibe.

The city is charming, artsy, and packed with irresistible boutiques to shop in; best of all, Washington, D.C. , is just a 25-minute ride away on the Metro (and it'll only set you back about $5) — or you can simply enjoy the view of our nation's capital from across the Potomac River.

20. Reykjavík, Iceland

If unrivaled sights and some of the best hot springs in the world are on your birthday trip ideas list, you can't go wrong with Iceland's capital. Go for the city's famous lagoons and swimming pools , stay for Reykjavík's museums, galleries, theaters, and cafés. Enjoy local game at one of the nearby restaurants or go whale watching and sightseeing in Iceland's natural wonder. For the full experience, try horseback riding, glacier climbing, river rafting, and caving, among other popular activities.

Related Articles

19 Vibrant 60th Birthday Destinations in the USA

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links . This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

Sharing is caring!

Reaching your 60th birthday is a milestone worthy of celebration. It’s a time to reflect on your past accomplishments, cherish your current blessings, and look forward to exciting new experiences.

And what better way to mark this special occasion than by exploring some of the vibrant and diverse destinations that the USA has to offer?

From coast to coast, the United States is home to countless cities, national parks, and cultural hotspots that are perfect for a memorable 60th birthday getaway .

In this blog post, we’ll highlight 19 of the most vibrant and exciting 60th birthday destinations in the USA, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a city slicker, you’re sure to find a destination that will make your 60th birthday celebration unforgettable.

Table of contents:

Key West, Florida

Key West, Florida

Located at the southernmost point of the United States, Key West is a tropical paradise with a unique blend of Caribbean and American cultures. This small island city is famous for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and laid-back atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for a 60th birthday celebration.

Visitors to Key West can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and sailing, or simply relax on the beach with a good book and soak up the sun. The island is also home to several historic landmarks, such as the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, which showcases the author’s life and work, and the Key West Lighthouse, which offers stunning views of the island.

In addition to its natural beauty and history, Key West is also known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. Visitors can enjoy live music and performances at venues like the Key West Theater and the Sunset Pier, or sample local cuisine and cocktails at the island’s many restaurants and bars.

For those celebrating their 60th birthday in Key West, a sunset sail or a seafood feast at one of the island’s waterfront restaurants is a must-do. Another great option is to take a leisurely bike ride through the island’s charming streets and take in the unique architecture and colorful buildings.

Celebrate your 60th birthday in sunny Key West at The Palms Hotel ! Enjoy a cozy stay with a heated pool, daily continental breakfast, and free WiFi. Just a short stroll from Duval Street, explore the vibrant local scene and iconic Southernmost Point.

New York, New York

New York

Known as “The City That Never Sleeps,” New York is a vibrant, bustling metropolis that is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and cultural attractions. From the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan to the trendy boutiques of SoHo, there’s always something to see and do in this exciting destination.

Visitors to the city can explore famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Central Park, or enjoy the local culture by taking in a Broadway show or visiting one of the city’s many museums or art galleries. The city is also famous for its food, with a seemingly endless array of restaurants and food vendors offering everything from classic New York-style pizza to international cuisine from around the world.

If you’re looking to celebrate your 60th birthday in New York, there are plenty of activities to do. One option is to take a stroll around the city’s many parks and public spaces, such as the High Line or Washington Square Park, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city.

Another great way to celebrate your birthday in New York is to indulge in some of the city’s famous cuisine, whether that means trying a slice of pizza from one of the city’s iconic pizzerias or indulging in a fancy dinner at a popular restaurant like Katz’s Delicatessen or Lombardi’s Pizza .

These activities will allow you to enjoy the essence of New York while having a memorable 60th birthday celebration.

Make your 60th birthday in NYC unforgettable at the Hampton Inn Manhattan ! Nestled near the Empire State Building, enjoy free hot breakfast, high-speed internet, and a fitness center. Stroll to nearby attractions like Madison Square Garden, Times Square, and Rockefeller Center. Perfect for couples, you’ll love the prime location!

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio is a vibrant and historic city located in south-central Texas . Known for its rich culture and storied past, San Antonio offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities that make it a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

Visitors to San Antonio can explore famous landmarks such as The Alamo, the River Walk, and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, all of which offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Of course, no trip to San Antonio would be complete without indulging in some of the city’s famous cuisine. From Tex-Mex classics like fajitas and tacos to traditional barbecue and locally brewed beer, there’s no shortage of delicious food to try in this city.

If you’re looking to celebrate your 60th birthday in San Antonio, there are plenty of activities to make your trip memorable. One option is to take a leisurely stroll along the River Walk and take in the sights and sounds of this unique urban oasis. Another great way to celebrate your birthday is to explore the city’s historic districts, such as the King William District or the La Villita Historic Arts Village , where you can immerse yourself in San Antonio’s rich cultural heritage.

Make your 60th birthday special in the heart of San Antonio at the Hyatt Regency Riverwalk ! Steps from The Alamo and Rivercenter Mall, enjoy stunning city views from the rooftop pool. Indulge in Texas-style cuisine, unwind in comfortable rooms with free WiFi, and explore nearby attractions with ease. Experience San Antonio’s charm and hospitality!

San Diego, Southern California

San Diego, California

Located on the southern coast of California, San Diego is a beautiful and sunny city that boasts a rich blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With its stunning beaches, world-class attractions, and diverse neighborhoods, San Diego is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world.

One of the most popular attractions in San Diego is Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre urban park that is home to a variety of museums, gardens, and other cultural attractions. The park is also home to the San Diego Zoo, one of the largest and most famous zoos in the world.

In addition to its cultural attractions, San Diego is also known for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in sunbathing or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shore, there’s no shortage of beautiful beaches to choose from.

One option to celebrate your 60th birthday in San Diego is to take a harbor cruise and explore the city’s scenic coastline from the water. Another great way to celebrate your birthday is to take a scenic drive up to Mount Soledad, where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.

Celebrate your 60th birthday in vibrant San Diego at the Hampton Inn Downtown ! Conveniently located off I-5, explore nearby attractions like the Convention Center, Gaslamp Quarter, and Little Italy. Enjoy a free continental breakfast, a rooftop pool with stunning bay views, and a modern fitness center – the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure!

Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu, Hawaii

Located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, Honolulu is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers a unique blend of tropical paradise and urban sophistication. The city is known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and rich cultural heritage, making it a perfect destination for a 60th birthday celebration.

Visitors to Honolulu can enjoy a wide range of activities, from swimming at Waikiki Beach to hiking the Diamond Head Crater Trail for breathtaking views of the city and the ocean. The city is also home to several historic landmarks, such as the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, which commemorates the attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II, and the Iolani Palace, which was once the royal residence of the Kingdom of Hawaii.

Honolulu is also famous for its food and nightlife scene, with an abundance of restaurants and bars serving up delicious local cuisine and tropical drinks. Visitors can sample fresh poke, shave ice, and other Hawaiian delicacies, or enjoy a sunset cocktail at one of the city’s many rooftop bars.

For those celebrating their 60th birthday in Honolulu, a sunset cruise or a luau feast with hula dancing and traditional Hawaiian music are must-dos. Another great option is to take a scenic drive along the coastline of Oahu and explore some of the island’s hidden gems and beautiful vistas.

Embrace island life on your 60th birthday at Waikiki Resort Hotel , just steps from Waikiki Beach! Relax in rooms with private balconies, indulge in authentic Korean and American cuisine, and unwind by the outdoor pool. Discover nearby attractions like the Honolulu Zoo and Diamond Head, making your Hawaiian getaway truly unforgettable!

Disney World, Florida

Disney World, Florida

Walt Disney World, located in Orlando, Florida, is a magical destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. Known as “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” Disney World is a theme park that offers a variety of attractions, entertainment, and experiences for all ages.

Disney World is home to several themed lands, including Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, and Frontierland, each with its own unique attractions and shows. Visitors can enjoy classic rides like Pirates of the Caribbean and Space Mountain or explore new attractions like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

In addition to the rides, Disney World is also known for its live entertainment, including parades, fireworks shows, and character meet-and-greets. Visitors can also enjoy dining experiences that range from quick-service restaurants to fine dining experiences.

For those celebrating their 60th birthday, there are plenty of activities to enjoy at Disney World. One option is to book a character dining experience , where you can enjoy a meal with some of your favorite Disney characters. Another option is to take a backstage tour of the park and learn about the history and behind-the-scenes operations of Disney World.

Experience magical moments on your 60th birthday at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel ! Revel in exclusive perks like water taxi service, early park entry, and Lightning Lane selections. With five pools, a spa, and 17 dining options, immerse yourself in endless fun and relaxation while creating unforgettable memories in the heart of Disney!

Napa Valley, California

Napa Valley, California

Napa Valley is a picturesque destination located in Northern California, famous for its world-class wineries, vineyards, and culinary experiences. With stunning natural scenery, charming towns, and a relaxed vibe, it’s no wonder why Napa Valley is considered one of the top destinations for wine enthusiasts and foodies.

Visitors to Napa Valley can explore the region’s many wineries, each offering a unique selection of wines and experiences. From family-run vineyards to large-scale operations, there’s something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy tours of the wineries, wine tastings, and even participate in grape stomping events during the harvest season.

Aside from the wineries, Napa Valley is also known for its dining scene. Visitors can indulge in farm-to-table cuisine, local specialties, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Many of the wineries also offer food and wine pairing experiences that allow visitors to savor the flavors of the region.

For those celebrating their 60th birthday, Napa Valley offers several activities to enjoy. One option is to take a hot air balloon ride over the valley and take in the stunning scenery from above. Another option is to book a spa treatment at one of the many luxurious spas in the area, which offer everything from massages to facials.

Celebrate your 60th birthday amid Napa Valley’s beauty at the luxurious Silverado Resort and Spa ! Surrounded by wineries, enjoy 10 pools, tennis courts, championship golf courses, and a rejuvenating spa. Delight in elegant rooms with modern amenities and explore nearby attractions for an unforgettable wine-country getaway you’ll cherish!

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, Arizona

Nestled in the heart of Arizona’s Red Rock Country, Sedona is a breathtaking destination that boasts stunning natural beauty, a rich cultural heritage, and a vibrant spiritual community. The city’s striking red rock formations and scenic landscapes make it a perfect destination for a 60th birthday celebration.

Visitors to Sedona can explore the nearby located hiking trails, such as the Cathedral Rock Trail and the Devil’s Bridge Trail , which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding red rocks and canyons.

Sedona is also known for its spiritual energy and healing properties, with many visitors seeking out the city’s vortex sites and taking part in meditation and yoga practices. The city is also home to several spas and wellness centers, where visitors can indulge in a range of treatments and therapies.

For those celebrating their 60th birthday in Sedona, a hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes is a must-do. Another great option is to take a jeep tour of the surrounding canyons and red rock formations. Visitors can also enjoy a relaxing day at one of the city’s many spas, followed by a gourmet dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants, such as the Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill or the Cucina Rustica.

Experience the magic of Red Rock Country on your 60th birthday at Arabella Hotel Sedona ! Unwind in cozy rooms with free WiFi, enjoy a complimentary breakfast, and explore nearby attractions like Tlaquepaque Village. With a seasonal pool, year-round hot tub, and on-site hiking trail, embrace the beauty and serenity of Sedona’s captivating landscape.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans

New Orleans, Louisiana, is a city steeped in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its vibrant music scene, delicious cuisine, and unique architecture, New Orleans is a one-of-a-kind destination that offers visitors a truly immersive experience.

One of the most popular attractions in New Orleans is the French Quarter, a historic neighborhood that is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and the colorful and lively Bourbon Street. Visitors can also explore the city’s rich history by visiting museums such as the National World War II Museum, or take a stroll through the Garden District and marvel at the ornate mansions and beautiful gardens.

Of course, no trip to New Orleans would be complete without indulging in the city’s famous cuisine. From classic Creole dishes like gumbo and jambalaya to fresh Gulf seafood and beignets from the world-famous Cafe Du Monde, there’s no shortage of delicious food to try in this city.

If you’re looking to celebrate your 60th birthday in New Orleans, there are plenty of activities to make your trip memorable. One option is to take a jazz tour and explore the city’s rich music scene, visiting famous venues like Preservation Hall and the Spotted Cat Music Club. Another great way to celebrate your birthday is to take a leisurely stroll through City Park, where you can enjoy beautiful gardens, art installations, and even a picturesque lagoon.

Celebrate your 60th birthday in the heart of New Orleans at Le Méridien ! Enjoy the rooftop pool, savor Cajun-Creole cuisine, and unwind in stylish rooms. Just steps from Harrah’s Casino, Woldenberg Park, and the Mississippi River, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and lively spirit of the Big Easy for a memorable birthday experience!

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada, is a city that needs no introduction. Known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas is a glittering oasis in the middle of the desert that offers visitors a wide range of activities and attractions to fulfill your wildest 60th birthday vacation ideas.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Las Vegas is the Strip, a 4-mile stretch of road that is home to some of the world’s most famous hotels and casinos, including the Bellagio , the Venetian , and the MGM Grand . Visitors can also take in a variety of shows, from Cirque du Soleil performances to headlining concerts from world-renowned artists.

In addition to its famous nightlife, Las Vegas also offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking in nearby Red Rock Canyon or taking a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon . And of course, no trip to Las Vegas would be complete without trying your luck at one of the city’s many casinos or indulging in its famous buffets and restaurants.

Make your 60th birthday a dazzling affair at Treasure Island – TI Las Vegas ! Situated on the Strip, this hotel offers exciting casino action, delectable dining options, and the immersive Marvel’s Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. Unwind in stylish rooms with striking views, and soak up the energetic atmosphere of Las Vegas for a birthday celebration to remember!

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia

Nestled on the coast of Georgia, Savannah is a charming and historic destination that exudes Southern charm and hospitality. With its charming streets lined with live oaks and Spanish moss, stunning historic architecture, and vibrant culinary and arts scene, Savannah is a perfect destination for a 60th birthday celebration.

Visitors to Savannah can explore the city’s many historic sites and landmarks, such as the iconic Forsyth Park and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, or take a stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the stunning views of the Savannah River. The city is also home to several museums and galleries, including the Telfair Museums and the SCAD Museum of Art.

Savannah is also famous for its culinary scene, with a range of restaurants and cafes offering everything from classic Southern cuisine to international flavors. Visitors can indulge in a delicious meal at one of the city’s many acclaimed restaurants, such as The Grey or The Olde Pink House .

For those celebrating their 60th birthday in Savannah, a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city’s charming streets is a must-do. Another great option is to take a dinner cruise along the Savannah River and enjoy the stunning scenery and historic sites. Visitors can also indulge in a day of pampering at one of the city’s many spas, followed by a sunset cocktail at a rooftop bar, such as the Top Deck Bar at The Cotton Sail Hotel .

Celebrate your 60th birthday in the charming heart of Savannah at Bellwether House ! Enjoy the cozy, air-conditioned accommodations, and savor a delicious à la carte or vegetarian breakfast. Explore Savannah’s historic streets, and delight in the nearby attractions. With American and Indian cuisine options, make your birthday getaway a truly memorable experience!

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most iconic and breathtaking destinations in the United States. This magnificent park, which spans over 2.2 million acres, is home to some of the world’s most stunning natural wonders, including geysers, hot springs, and wildlife.

Visitors to Yellowstone can explore the park’s many natural wonders, such as the famous Old Faithful geyser, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Yellowstone River. The park is also home to an incredible array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and bison.

In addition to its natural beauty, Yellowstone also offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and fishing. Visitors can hike one of the park’s many trails and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape, or fish in one of the park’s many rivers and streams.

For those celebrating their 60th birthday, a visit to Yellowstone can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A guided wildlife tour is a great way to see some of the park’s most incredible wildlife up close. Visitors can also take a scenic drive through the park and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains, forests, and rivers.

Experience a remarkable 60th birthday getaway at Kelly Inn West Yellowstone , just steps away from the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. Unwind in the air-conditioned rooms, and enjoy the indoor pool and hot tub. Kickstart your day with a complimentary breakfast before exploring the nearby Yellowstone Park. Adventure and relaxation await you at this fantastic location!

San Francisco, California

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is known for its iconic landmarks, picturesque beauty, and vibrant culture. From the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge to the charming cable cars, San Francisco has something for everyone.

One of the most popular attractions in San Francisco is Alcatraz Island , home to the infamous Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and explore the prison, which housed some of the country’s most notorious criminals, including Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly.

Another must-see attraction in San Francisco is Golden Gate Park, a massive urban park that is home to several museums, gardens, and lakes. Visitors can rent a bike or take a leisurely stroll through the park and enjoy the scenic beauty of the city.

San Francisco is also known for its diverse food scene, with a variety of international cuisines and fresh seafood. Some of the city’s most popular dishes include clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls, dim sum in Chinatown, and Italian pastries in North Beach.

To celebrate your 60th birthday in San Francisco take a scenic ferry ride to the nearby island of Sausalito, where you can explore the charming town and enjoy stunning views of San Francisco Bay. Another great way to celebrate your birthday is to take a cable car ride through the city and enjoy the iconic sights of San Francisco.

Immerse yourself in history and elegance at Marines’ Memorial Club & Hotel Union Square for your 60th birthday celebration. Just a short stroll from Union Square, this historic gem offers spacious rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and a full-service health club. Delight in the Living Memorial museum, and explore nearby Chinatown and Powell Street BART station. Experience San Francisco in style and comfort at this exceptional venue.

Arches National Park, Utah

Arches National Park, Utah

Arches National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder located in eastern Utah. It’s known for its stunning red rock formations, unique sandstone arches, and mesmerizing landscapes. The park covers an area of over 76,680 acres, making it a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Visitors to Arches National Park can explore over 2,000 natural stone arches, some of which are among the largest in the world. The park also features various hiking trails that range in difficulty, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the park’s natural wonders up close.

One of the park’s most famous landmarks is the Delicate Arch, a freestanding arch that stands 52 feet tall and is considered one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world. The park also offers visitors the opportunity to go rock climbing, stargazing, and wildlife viewing.

Make your 60th birthday adventure in Moab unforgettable by staying at Comfort Suites . Just minutes away from the stunning Arches National Park, this hotel offers free hot breakfast daily and a relaxing hot tub to unwind. Enjoy the convenience of free WiFi, a microwave, and a small refrigerator in your room. With access to a fitness center, business center, and nearby attractions like Dead Horse Point State Park, you’ll create lasting memories in Moab.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle, Washington

Known as the Emerald City, Seattle is a bustling metropolis located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Famous for its coffee culture, tech scene, and scenic views of Puget Sound, Seattle is an excellent destination for a 60th birthday celebration.

Visitors to Seattle can enjoy exploring famous landmarks like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum. They can also indulge in the city’s thriving food and beverage scene, which boasts a variety of local craft breweries and restaurants offering fresh, seasonal Pacific Northwest cuisine.

For those seeking outdoor adventure, Seattle is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges, as well as the Puget Sound. Visitors can take a ferry to nearby islands, go hiking in the mountains or even go whale watching in the San Juan Islands.

Located in the heart of Seattle, Crowne Plaza offers easy access to major attractions like Pike Place Market and the Washington Convention & Trade Center. The hotel’s Regatta Bar & Grille serves delicious Pacific Northwest cuisine and guests can stay fit at the 24-hour fitness center. With a variety of activities available in the area, including shopping and sightseeing, Crowne Plaza Seattle – Downtown Area is an excellent choice for a 60th birthday destination in Seattle.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is a charming and picturesque destination that is perfect for a 60th birthday celebration. Known for its quaint seaside towns, beautiful beaches, and fresh seafood, Cape Cod offers a unique blend of history, nature, and culture.

Visitors to Cape Cod can explore the region’s rich history by visiting sites like the Pilgrim Monument and the Cape Cod Museum of Art in Dennis. They can also take a leisurely drive along the Cape Cod National Seashore, enjoying views of sand dunes, lighthouses, and stunning ocean vistas.

For those seeking outdoor adventure, Cape Cod has plenty to offer. Visitors can go whale watching, kayaking, or take a sunset sail. They can also hike or bike along the Cape Cod Rail Trail , which stretches for over 25 miles through the towns of Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Orleans, Eastham, and Wellfleet.

A must-do activity for any 60th birthday celebration in Cape Cod is indulging in the area’s famous seafood. From lobster rolls to clam chowder, visitors can enjoy the freshest seafood while taking in the ocean views.

Stay in comfort and convenience at the Hyannis Travel Inn on Cape Cod, just a short walk from the harbor. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the indoor or outdoor pool, soak in the hot tub, and stay connected with free WiFi in all guest rooms. Start your day with a continental breakfast and stay energized with complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate throughout the day. With nearby shopping, dining, and ferry boats to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, this hotel is the perfect location for a relaxing 60th birthday getaway.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is a bustling city that is known for its sunny weather, vibrant culture, and iconic landmarks. From the famous Hollywood sign to the glamour of Beverly Hills, there’s always something to explore in this exciting destination. So if you’re looking for 60th birthday trip ideas, Los Angeles should be on your list.

One of the most popular attractions in Los Angeles is the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a sidewalk embedded with stars that honor the entertainment industry’s biggest names. Visitors can stroll along the boulevard and take pictures with their favorite celebrities’ stars or take a tour of the nearby movie studios.

Another must-see destination in Los Angeles is Griffith Observatory, a historic landmark that offers stunning views of the city and the stars. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits and learn about the history of astronomy or attend a planetarium show.

Los Angeles is also known for its diverse food scene, with a variety of international cuisines and trendy eateries. Some of the city’s most popular dishes include In-N-Out Burger, tacos from a local food truck, and sushi in Little Tokyo.

If you’re looking to celebrate your 60th birthday in Los Angeles, there are plenty of activities to choose from. One option is to take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway and enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean. Another great way to celebrate your birthday is to take a hike in the nearby Santa Monica Mountains and explore the natural beauty of the area.

Experience the vibrant city of Los Angeles from the comfort of the modern and stylish Ace Hotel Downtown . With its central location and rooftop swimming pool, this hotel provides the perfect home base for exploring the city’s historic theatre district, fashion district, and convention center. Enjoy stunning views of the city from the rooftop bar, take advantage of the free bike hire, and indulge in the fully stocked minibar in your guest room with free Wi-Fi.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park, Montana

Nestled in the rugged terrain of Montana’s Rocky Mountains lies Glacier National Park, a stunning natural wonderland and one of the most beautiful places in the United States. Known for its dramatic landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and towering glaciers, this park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Visitors to Glacier National Park can explore the park’s many hiking trails, take a scenic drive along the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road , or go on a wildlife-watching adventure to see animals like grizzly bears, mountain goats, and elk. The park is also home to several historic lodges and cabins, which offer a cozy and rustic retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty.

For those celebrating their 60th birthday, Glacier National Park offers a wide range of activities to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in taking a leisurely stroll through the park’s stunning landscapes or embarking on a more challenging hike, the park’s natural beauty and breathtaking views are sure to make your birthday a truly unforgettable experience.

Stay at the Glacier Peaks Hotel in Montana for a convenient and comfortable experience near the Museum of the Plains Indian and Glacier National Park. Enjoy modern rooms and suites with free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and coffee-making facilities. Start your day with a full breakfast and take advantage of the hotel’s fitness center and launderette.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe, located on the border of California and Nevada, is a stunningly beautiful destination that offers a range of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. The crystal-clear waters of the lake and the surrounding mountains provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable 60th birthday celebration.

Visitors to Lake Tahoe can explore the natural beauty of the area by hiking, skiing, or boating on the lake. For a more leisurely experience, take a scenic drive around the lake and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.

The area is also known for its world-class ski resorts, making it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts. And when the snow melts, Lake Tahoe offers a plethora of hiking trails and mountain biking routes that take you through pine forests and meadows filled with wildflowers.

If you’re looking to celebrate your 60th birthday in Lake Tahoe, consider enjoying a relaxing day at one of the area’s many spas. The local cuisine is also worth exploring, with a range of restaurants offering fresh seafood and farm-to-table fare.

Enjoy a luxurious stay at Postmarc Hotel and Spa Suites . Individually decorated rooms featuring hot tubs and cable TVs provide the perfect retreat after a day exploring the nearby Heavenly Ski Area or playing a round at the Lake Tahoe Golf Course. With complimentary bicycle rentals, take in the beautiful summer scenery, and in the evening, relax in the Lounge area with a cup of coffee. Don’t miss out on the chance to stay in this breathtaking location.

Epic 60th birthday gifts

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Travel tips and tricks:

  • Save big on flights with Skyscanner.com – This incredible tool lets you find the most affordable airfare to your dream destination. You’ll love their “Whole Month” feature, which displays the best prices for the entire month. If you’re flexible with travel dates, this is a game-changer for scoring the cheapest tickets.
  • Stay in the heart of the action – I always find the perfect accommodation on Booking.com . Their map view lets me filter hotels by my budget and select ones that are right in the center of it all. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this easy way to book your ideal stay!
  • Go beyond the resort – I’m all about making the most of my trips, and GetYourGuide.com has been a lifesaver for booking unforgettable tours and day trips. It’s the most hassle-free way to dive into the local culture and explore the hidden gems in every new place.
  • Hit the road with DiscoverCars.com – There’s no better way to explore your destination than by car! Renting a vehicle has never been easier, and with their competitive prices, you’ll have the freedom to create your own adventures.

I highly recommend trying these tools for yourself – not only will you save money, but you’ll also create memories that last a lifetime. Happy travels!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

11 Best Places to Go for Your Birthday

By Rachel Chang

Skyline of Paris

Blowing out cake candles is one thing—but what really matters is making those wishes come true, especially when you're dreaming of fabulous places to go for your birthday. And that's even more important when it comes to those milestone years that are truly worth celebrating.

Whether you're a parent marking your young one turning a precious six years old, a newly minted teenager choosing an epic adventure with your family, or you are heading into the golden years ready for the most epic of adventures, one thing’s for sure: the  gift of travel never gets old.

Here are some of our favorite ways to ring in each birthday, from a formative trip to Alaska and a stolen-off-the-silver-screen European adventure, to a centering mountain wellness retreat and a once-in-a-lifetime safari .

After all, no matter your age, birthdays that require a travel itinerary and change of scenery are always guaranteed to be most memorable.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article has been updated since its original publish date.

It's never too early to instill a love of travel in kids—and celebrating your child's graduation from kindergartener to...

6th birthday: Alaska

It's never too early to instill a love of travel in kids—and celebrating your child's graduation from kindergartener to elementary schooler is worth a memorable getaway. Mix learning and immersive experiences with a trip through Lindblad Expeditions’ National Geographic Global Explorers Program , which guides kids and teens up to 18 years old on adventures around the world through the lens of science. Certified instructors mentor young ones, inviting them to record observations in a field notebook. While offered in places from Antarctica to Baja California, set your six-year-old's sights north to Alaska, which for most kids will offer scenery they've only seen in science books. Choose from itineraries like six-day Wild Alaska Escape to explore icebergs and fjords or the 8-day animal-themed Voyage to the Great Bear Rainforest , with chances to spot bears, orcas, golden eagles, and river otters.

Image may contain Building Bridge Suspension Bridge Rope Bridge Human and Person

13th birthday: Costa Rica

The transition from tween to teen years is the perfect time to introduce the joys of international travel. Intrepid offers a line of fun family vacations specially designed with kids ages 10 and older in mind. The 9-day Costa Rica Family Holiday with Teenagers (with 10 percent off for kids 17 and younger) combines just the right amount of high-adrenaline adventure (like rafting on the Balsa River and traipsing on a sky walk high above the Monteverde Cloud Forest ) with chill down time. Relax in the hot springs near Arenal Volcano National Park , overnight in a tented cabin in the rainforest, and keep those eyes peeled for animal antics—there are toucans and sloths in La Fortuna, and spider monkeys and armadillos in Manuel Antonio.

Paris

15th/16th birthday: Paris

Whether it’s a Quinceañera or a Sweet 16 you’re celebrating, the coming-of-age birthday is a time of wonderment—and that’s exactly what you’ll find in the French capital . A city-based getaway is the right primer for a proper European vacation , giving teens the opportunity to navigate a foreign-language environment while gaining critical cultural perspective. Give them a taste of travel planning by letting them stitch together a custom itinerary through GetYourGuide : They can choose from a rooftop tour of the Arc de Triomphe , teen-centered shopping tour , macaron-baking class , and more. If that doesn’t fill the hours, consider a Louvre treasure hunt with ThatMuse and an evening stroll through Montmartre’s Place Dalida. (As any Emily in Paris fan knows, pics or it didn’t happen.)

Image may contain Human Pedestrian Person Path City Town Urban Building Downtown Architecture and Sidewalk

21st birthday: Memphis

Beale Street’s bars and clubs thrum nightly with hip-hop and live Delta blues, but Paula & Raifords Disco is the best spot to really dance up a storm on your big 2-1. The morning-after plan: Stroll Big River Crossing , the Mississippi’s largest pedestrian bridge, or the 4,500-acre Shelby Farms Park . Make a date with the King at Graceland , then steer your crew over to the South Main Arts District, where Wiseacre Brewing Company , Old Dominick distillery, and Ghost River Brewing Co. sit within walking distance of Arrive Memphis . The 62-room boutique hotel serves as the perfect home base, no matter how late your partying goes .

The World's 50 Best Restaurants 2024 Have Been Announced

Sarah James

The Most Beautiful Lakes in the World

Matt Ortile

7 International and Domestic Destinations With Cheap Flights This Summer

Jessica Puckett

A Venice drone shot.

30th birthday: European Adventure

Let's face it, at this point in your life, the rise and grind is starting to get static—and there's no better way to rip yourself away from it all than with a totally over-the-top trip, straight off the silver screen. Bespoke luxury travel adventure company Black Tomato has leaned into the set-jetting trend with thrilling limited-edition 12-day James Bond 007-themed itinerary simply dubbed The Assignment . Among the possible experiences: a high-speed boat chase down the Thames River and a training session with Bond stunt coordinator Lee Morrison in London; a tour of Cote d'Azur with Bond Girl Carole Ashby; and special access to Venice's Glass Museum to see the Coppa Barovier, as highlighted in 1979's Moonraker .

Image may contain Walkway Path Sidewalk Pavement Flagstone and Cobblestone

40th birthday: Naples, Italy

At this age, pedigree matters—and you couldn’t ask for a dreamier team than Atlas Obscura and Culinary Backstreets for help designing the ultimate insider food trip . The six-day Culinary Naples: Producers, Purveyors, and Pizzaioli tour covers everything from street food and bakeries to countryside feasts of mussels, wine, and buffalo mozzarella. Good news for home cooks: The itinerary includes hands-on cooking lessons , so you can learn how to make authentic Neapolitan pizza where the dish got its start.

Image may contain Outdoors Nature Land Ocean Water Sea Shoreline Coast and Promontory

50th birthday: The Galápagos

Classic Journeys’ 8-day land-based multisport itinerary brings you closer to the Ecuadorian islands’ unique wildlife (marine iguanas, warm-water penguins, blue-footed boobies) than most liveaboards. After swimming and kayaking alongside sea lions and sea turtles, trek eight miles to the rim of Sierra Negra, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Then head over to Santa Cruz Island, where you'll be greeted by 500-pound giant tortoises and manta rays swirling just below the water's surface.

Image may contain Tree Plant Fir Abies Nature Outdoors Weather and Conifer

60th birthday: The Berkshires

By this age you know the importance of taking time for yourself. At the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Western Massachusetts’ Berkshires, no yoga experience is required to partake in a Zen retreat. Instead, choose your own adventure at the 100-acre hilltop property overlooking Lake Mahkeenac: taking a reflective walk through the meditation garden or communing with nature on a network of surrounding wooded trails; observing presentations about ancestral healing or creative expression; and tucking into healthy legume- and veggie-centric meals at the Ayurveda-inflected Buddha Bar.

Elephants walking through water.

70th birthday: Botswana

Toast your seventh decade with the trip of a lifetime. Rothschild Safaris ' 10-day Classic Botswana Explorer packs equal parts adventure and luxury, two things you need more of in life. Enjoy game drives in the Chobe National Park, the Moremi Wildlife Reserve, and Okavango Delta, keeping your eyes peeled for elephant herds and perhaps even the zebra migration (depending on the time of year). Also on the agenda: leopard tracking and elephant bush walks. Then, reach for the skies with a helicopter ride to see the delta's winding waters from above, perhaps even catching an aerial view of hippos.

A person walking through Himalayas.

80th birthday: Himalayas

Whether or not you've been around the world, it's time to go the distance. There's no better way than with the three-nation, 20-day Himalayan Odyssey through Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan with Nomadic Expeditions , specialists in luxe Asian travels. Among the bucket list items you'll check off: Tibet's Gyantse Kumbum's storied shrines, Nepal's World Peace Pagoda, and Bhutan's Paro Taktsang. And, perhaps most impressively, you'll even set your very own eyes on Mount Everest from a private plane.

Image may contain Building Architecture Transportation Vehicle Ship Cruise Ship Arched Arch and Boat

100th birthday: Mississippi River cruise

Of all the places to go for your birthday, we say hit a few at once by sailing into your twilight years with a tour of the Big Muddy. Last year, Viking Cruises unveiled Viking Mississippi , a new vessel with 193 state rooms. The eight-day Heart of the Delta itinerary runs between New Orleans and Memphis, with stops in Darrow, Baton Rouge, St. Francisville, Natchez, and Vicksburg. Optional excursions include a canoe tour of the Atchafalaya Basin and a visit to one of the Civil War’s most pivotal battlefields.

trip ideas for 60th birthday

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

101 Holidays

  • Cheap holidays
  • All-inclusive
  • Villa holidays
  • Best beaches
  • Health & fitness
  • Unusual holidays
  • Quiet destinations
  • Private pools
  • Cool in summer
  • Honeymooners
  • Solo travellers
  • Bucket list holidays
  • Canary Islands
  • South America
  • Top 10 destinations
  • 30th birthday
  • 40th birthday
  • 50th birthday
  • 60th birthday
  • 70th birthday
  • 80th Birthday
  • Easter holidays
  • Wedding anniversary

60th birthday holiday ideas

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Are you wondering where to celebrate your 60th birthday? Here are some great ways to celebrate the big 6-0 in style, whether you fancy a short weekend break, a multi-generational gathering, a weekend of carousing or something big to tick off your bucket list.

Quick links

House rentals – UK holidays – Activity breaks – City breaks – Ideas for couples

trip ideas for 60th birthday

House rentals with friends and family

If your birthday falls in the warmer months, a villa holiday can be a wonderful way to get people together without the formality of a hotel stay. Out of the school summer holidays, villas can be very reasonably priced, and if you keep it short haul, airfares are cheap, if you book well ahead. Menorca is an inspired choice for a villa holiday – lovely beaches, atmospheric villages and an authentic Spanish feel.

If you fancy adding a little history into the mix try Crete ; it’s littered with stunning ancient sites and is a beautiful island for walking. It works really well in spring and autumn. In the winter months, Lanzarote is a good bet, with reliable temperatures and a quirky volcanic landscape to explore.

Head to France and grab one of these beautiful villas each with a private pool. Our favourite destination for beaches and great food and wine is  Languedoc-Roussillon  in the deep south.

For a taste of Italy, book one of these villas in Sardinia or Sicily . If you want to discover the cultural treasures of Florence, Lucca and Pisa, rent a villa in Tuscany with private pool.

Turkey’s Aegean Coast has a long season from spring well into autumn. Classic Collection has a quality selection of boutique hotels in quiet resorts such as Gocek, Kalkan and Hisaronu. Stand-out hotels include the Hillside Beach Club near Fethiye.

Or take your house party onto the water and have a week sailing on a gulet in Turkey , a blissfully relaxing way to spend a holiday.

trip ideas for 60th birthday

60th birthday holidays in the UK

If you want to keep it simple, there are dozens of options in the UK. Create your own Downton Abbey experience with a stay in a historic house , or go for somewhere sleek and modern with all mod cons such as one of these classy  party houses in the UK . You’ll also find some luxury rentals in the Cotswolds , the  Lake District and the coast of Suffolk . Book early because the best properties are getting booked out.

If you’re keen to do some walking in between the celebrations, then Scotland can’t be beat. You could r ent a holiday cottage and hike into the hills, or join a  small boat cruise in the Hebrides to explore remote islands such as Mull, Jura and Skye.

Alternatively,  drive the spectacular   North Coast 500 or take a whisky holiday in the Highlands and Islands. Also see these small group guided rail tours in Scotland.

Jersey works well for a short break with its French influences, fascinating Second World War history, sandy beaches and classy restaurants. Best places to stay include the Pomme d’Or Hotel  in the capital St Helier and the  Greenhills Country House Hotel .

If you’re an art lover, head to Cornwall and rent a holiday cottage in St Ives close to the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Tate St Ives. If you prefer a stylish hotel, Watergate Bay is set on a two-mile beach with its own surf school and swim club.

Or enjoy the timeless charm of the Isle of Wight . The ferry journey takes as little as 22 minutes.

Across the Irish Sea, you could indulge in a tour of Ireland or Northern Ireland . Take the ferry and drive through Sligo, Connemara, Ballyvaughan, West Cork and Cashel, staying in a range of Castles and Country Houses . Or enjoy a spectacular train journey along the Wild Atlantic Way .

If you just want a lovely hotel in a gorgeous location, I recommend the Marine Hotel Ballycastle close to two Areas of National Beauty, the Glens of Antrim and the Causeway Coast. It’s known for its seafood including local mussels, smoked salmon and langoustines.

In the Lake District, The Gilpin and Another Place are both stunning hotels with lakeside settings.

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Activity breaks

If you’re planning a group holiday, an activity break is an ideal way to keep all ages happy. A sailing holiday – even if you’re a complete novice – can be a memorable way to see beautiful coastlines, perhaps skippering your own boat.

Or join a small-group cruise on a gulet , a traditional wooden sailing boat. Peter Sommer Travels runs tours in Croatia, Greece, Sicily and Turkey accompanied by an expert guide with a focus on archaeology , walking or gastronomy .

You could rent a canal boat  sleeping between two and 10 people from bases in England , Wales and  Scotland . View the latest special offers .

If your birthday falls in the winter months you could make it truly memorable with a few nights up in the Arctic Circle, watching the Northern Lights .

If you’d rather get a blast of sunshine,  Madeira  is a year-round bet, only a four-hour flight from the UK. It’s not a beach destination, though. Enjoy the food, the fabulous traditional quintas and the scenic walks along ancient levadas.

Have you always yearned to take a road trip across America? These self-drive adventures include itineraries in New England , California and Route 66 .You could visit five National Parks on this American Grandeurs itinerary or opt for a motorhome holiday .

Closer to home, the wild rugged beauty of the Faroe Islands makes this an exciting destination if you love wildlife, walking and dramatic landscapes. The archipelago of 18 islands is just an hour’s flight from Edinburgh. Choose from these fly-drive breaks .

trip ideas for 60th birthday

City breaks

A city break offers a fun, vibrant few days with the ideal mix of culture, sightseeing and great restaurants. Palma , the capital of Mallorca, is one of the easiest to get to and offers fabulous food and a wealth of art galleries – as well as a beach within strolling distance.

And of course there is  Paris  where the experts at Kirker Travel can recommend a hotel that is perfect for you. Perhaps the boutique  Pavillon de la Reine  hidden away in the Marais, or the splendour of  Le Bristol .

If sport is your thing, check out this range of  sporting breaks  – how about a trip to see some  Grand Slam tennis  (Wimbledon? Paris?) or  Formula One  (Monaco? Barcelona?).

A river cruise is an easy way to see a string of beautiful cities without packing and unpacking a suitcase. Most popular destinations include The Danube – which flows through nine countries  – and  The Rhine through Germany, France and Switzerland. Portugal’s  Douro River and the Seine are also serious options.

trip ideas for 60th birthday

60th birthday holidays for couples

Simpson Travel has put together a collection of all-suite adult-only hotels in Greece  and  Turkey – just the friendly, stylish, authentic place you always dreamed about.

You could experience the unique candlelit atmosphere of the Verona Opera Festival . (You’ll find a choice of opera holidays around the world.)

Could you picture yourselves drinking Martinis amid the period glamour of the Orient-Express as it travels from London to Venice? For something even more exotic, how about its sister train, the Eastern & Oriental Express , as it travels sedately through Malaysia and on to Singapore.

In India , you could take a tailor-made private tour of the Golden Triangle – Delhi, Agra and Jaipur – with a private chauffeur and English-speaking guide. Or see this selection of small-group tours from Cox & Kings which are popular with clients over 50.

You could head to the exquisite, quirky mountain kingdom of Bhutan . Book your own tailor-made private holiday staying in luxury hotels and trekking to magical temples high in the Himalayas. Try this Luxury Bhutan itinerary, or a more challenging Adventure in Bhutan . The best time to travel is between September and May.

If you love American music, how about a trip to Tennessee to visit Memphis  and  Nashville – including Graceland and the Grand Ole Opry – and a road trip through the Great Smoky Mountains. Best times to visit are spring and autumn.

You can find a huge choice of rail holidays in Europe and around the world including South Africa’s  Blue Train , a coast-to-coast journey across Australia and the Rocky Mountaineer in the Canadian Rockies.

Many people have Peru on their travel bucket list and two-week tours don’t get more exciting than this Train to Machu Picchu itinerary which includes Cuzco, Arequipa, Lake Titicaca and the Colca Canyon, plus an overnight stay at Machu Picchu and a spectacular journey on the luxury Belmond Andean Explorer.

Also in South America, Chile is a wonderful destination if you love wilderness, natural wonders and good food and wine. I personally rate Chile as one of the most astonishingly beautiful countries on Earth. I think you’ll be blown away by the icebergs and glacial fjords of Patagonia , the luscious beauty of the Lake District and the strange moonscapes of the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth. Join a small-group tour or create your own tailor-made holiday

Closer to home (just five hours flying time from the UK), Jordan is a small country packed with treasures including the rock-carved city of Petra, the Dead Sea and the spectacular desert of Wadi Rum. This Jordan in Style tour includes stays at luxury hotels or you could combine the Ancient Wonders of Jordan and Egypt .

If you’ve never been to Slovenia , why not discover this attractive, fascinating and compact little country. Try this fly-drive holiday or a city break in Ljubljana .

How about an adventure holiday in Madagascar to experience the unique wildlife, dramatic landscapes and pristine white-sand beaches?

If you’re looking to push the boat out, there are some wonderful, one-off experiences to try, including  Botswana where the Chobe and Khwai River region has the highest concentration of elephants and lions in all of Africa, along with some of its most elegant and luxurious camps.

And the ultimate adventure? How about a trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos , among the most pristine and unspoilt places on earth.

If you want a more cultural treat, try Kirker Travel which runs  music and history weekends in the UK and abroad. Or join an escorted tour to Italy with an expert local guide showing you the best of the culture, history, food and wine and amazing food. Options include Lakes Maggiore & Como , the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii .

See more holidays for older couples . If you’re travelling alone, how about these singles holidays for over 60s .

When is your birthday?

For holiday ideas dedicated to the month of your birthday, click here . We also have ideas for holidays in winter and over the Christmas period.

Also see our tips for the best 40th , 70th and 50th birthday holiday ideas .

Last updated: 9 February 2024

* Did you know you can save up to 40% on holiday prices? See our latest travel deals and enter your email address below to get updates every fortnight.

You may also like:

  • 18th and 21st birthday holiday ideas
  • 80th birthday holiday ideas
  • 30th birthday holiday ideas
  • 50th birthday holiday ideas
  • 40th birthday holiday ideas
  • 101 Family Holidays
  • 101 Singles Holidays
  • 101 Short Breaks
  • 101 Honeymoons

trip ideas for 60th birthday

North Mills Trading Estate, Unit 4 Hounsell Building, Bridport DT6 3BE

Copyright © 2024, 101 Holidays Ltd

  • Plan a Cruise
  • Contact us 0344 338 8669
  • Destinations
  • Travel Tips

Eight holiday ideas for the ultimate 60th birthday celebration

Wine tasting, museum hopping, wildlife spotting and beachside relaxing – discover all the inspiration you need to plan an unforgettable birthday trip

By Tristan Parker

A 60th birthday is a milestone worth celebrating, so what better way to do it than by heading off on an adventure – big or small – to commemorate the occasion. Whether you’re looking for a far-flung trip to tick off a few bucket list to-dos or fancy staying closer to home on a European jaunt, our round-up of eight great 60th birthday holiday ideas should have you covered.

Follow the trails through the red torii gates at Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Taisha © Princess

1. Discover an ancient shrine

With thousands of brilliant-red vermilion torii gates creating show-stopping pathways around a forest and leading up to Mount Inari, Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Taisha is a bucket-list attraction worth travelling for. One of the most-visited in Japan , the shrine is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice, and consists of numerous buildings dotted around the site. The woodland trails here are extremely popular and hiking to the summit of Mount Inari takes around two to three hours, if you fancy the challenge. You can visit the shrine along with two other temples as part of a Princess Shore Excursion from Osaka .

2. Get a bird’s eye view of paradise

If all you want for your 60th birthday is an adrenalin rush, but you don’t quite fancy bungee jumping or skydiving, then parasailing could be just the thing. Firmly strapped into a harness, you glide through the sky high above the ocean, while being towed by a boat down below. As to which ocean you choose to glide over, parasailing is available all around the world – however, we’re not sure you’ll get better views than when parasailing above Moreton Island in Australia . The waters here are crystal clear, and there’s a chance you might spy dolphins, turtles and even dugongs, a type of sea cow, from up in the air.

See puffins, arctic foxes and plenty more wildlife when visiting magical Iceland © Princess

3. Spot incredible wildlife

You’ll never be short on reasons to visit Iceland , but the country’s rich array of wildlife is surely one of the most compelling, particularly for nature lovers celebrating a big birthday. Skálanes Nature Reserve, easily reachable on a half-day shore excursion from Seyðisfjörður , is a great place for spotting fantastic creatures, including puffins, arctic foxes, reindeer and over 40 different bird species, including a local colony of the distinctive-looking eider. Accompanying the wildlife are dramatic coastal views and thunderous waterfalls – don’t forget your camera, now…

4. Say ‘Cheers!’ in style

The big six-oh calls for a toast with something special. While it’s not a short journey, oenophiles should head to New Zealand and embark on a wine tour in one of the country’s top wine regions, Marlborough. As part of a Princess shore excursion from Picton, enjoy being transported around the area’s wine trail, stopping at vineyards to sample their signature blends as you go. While Marlborough may be known for its superb sauvignon blancs, there’s so much more on offer besides, as you’ll soon discover. Cheers to that!

Set sail on a scenic cruise through the jaw-dropping Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska © Princess

5. Explore otherworldly landscapes

Alaska is the largest state in the USA and is also home to over 100,000 glaciers, making it a prime destination for scenic cruising. As you sail through glistening, icy channels, surrounded by shimmering fjords and mighty glaciers stretching out in front of you, it’s not difficult to imagine you’re on another planet entirely. Our series of Alaska cruises features awe-inspiring sights, such as Hubbard Glacier (where you might see seals, otters, moose and bears), Glacier Bay National Park and the Endicott Arm fjord , home to utterly breath-taking cascading waterfalls.

6. Glide above the jungle

Venturing into the rainforest is a bucket-list activity that the whole family can join in with when it’s via the means of an aerial tram . Adventure to Costa Rica’s Braulio Carrillo National Park and take a ride on a tram (in this instance, think cable car but without the side windows) that’s suspended above the rainforest canopy, slowly moving across the luscious green trees. A knowledgeable guide will join you up high, helpfully pointing out wildlife and birds, and explain more about the rainforest’s delicate ecosystem.

Find maximum relaxation on the golden beaches of Antigua in the Caribbean © Princess

7. Embrace the art of doing nothing

While you might have a bucket list to work through or family members to catch up with, you could also use your 60th birthday as an excuse to just relax. For the ultimate chill, make for the Caribbean , where you can sit back, put your feet up and simply let the world pass by. But where to start? The golden sand and sapphire water that hugs the coast of Antigua will allow you to relax like never before. There are 365 beaches on Antigua – one for each day of the year – but Dickenson Bay is justifiably one of the island’s most popular spots thanks to its postcard-perfect setting, while Half Moon Bay is a little more raw and rugged but just as peaceful.

8. Admire world-class art

Art lovers celebrating their 60th should beeline for culture-packed Paris , which is home to a string of world-class galleries and museums. While there are big hitters like the Louvre , the Musée d'Orsay and Musée Picasso Paris, there are also smaller, lesser-known venues worth seeking out. A few less-celebrated gems include Centre Pompidou, which is known for its vast collection of contemporary art and design as well as its eye-catching industrial architecture, and independents like Galerie Thaddaeus Ropac, where you’ll find anything from photography to surrealist sculpture. Take your pick as you explore the city by yourself on a day trip from the French port of Le Havre.

Excited to book a milestone adventure?

See all cruise itineraries at princess.com

Find holiday inspiration for more celebrations

Seven destinations perfect for celebrating a wedding anniversary.

Looking to celebrate in style? Here’s where to go for an anniversary you won’t forget

Seven holiday destinations the whole family will love

Stop putting off that once-in-a-lifetime trip and start planning – there’s a whole world out there for all the family to enjoy

Five unforgettable cruise destinations to celebrate a milestone birthday

Looking to celebrate a big birthday in style? These bucket-list holiday destinations are the perfect place for a toast

About the Author

Tristan parker.

Tristan is a journalist writing about travel, lifestyle and music. Writing has taken him all over the world, though he seems to spend a lot of time in Spain and Scandinavia, which is fine by him. His belief that you can learn a lot about a place by sitting in the local bar for a few hours has worked out well so far.

  • Search Please fill out this field.
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Newsletters
  • Sweepstakes
  • Holidays & Occasions

15 Best Birthday Trip Ideas For Every Age

Blow out the candles in an exciting Southern destination.

trip ideas for 60th birthday

21st Birthday Trip Ideas

30th birthday trip ideas, 40th birthday trip ideas, 50th birthday trip ideas, 60th birthday trip ideas.

Getty Images

Parties can be more work than they’re worth, but birthday trips are always worth the time and energy. If you’re looking for the best places to go on your birthday, the South has plenty of great destinations where you can celebrate in style. Whether you want to splurge on a 21 st birthday getaway with your friends or are seeking a quiet couple’s weekend for your 50 th birthday, we’ve got ideas for travelers at every stage of their lives. For those with loved ones approaching milestone birthdays, forget the surprise party. Ditch the guest lists, streamers, and Publix grocery store cake , and give them a birthday experience they’ll remember forever. Here are the best birthday trip ideas for every age.

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashvegas may be known as bachelorette party central, but the city’s mix of Honky Tonks and swanky bars also makes it a great place to ring in a 21 st birthday. Treat yourself to a shopping day in the 12 South neighborhood, where you’ll find a healthy collection of boutiques like Reese Witherspoon’s Draper James alongside national retailers. Make dinner reservations at new East Nashville hotspot, Noko , or at Sean Brock’s acclaimed tasting menu-only restaurant June . Then, gear up for a big night out on Broadway. If you can snag a reservation to the Dolly Parton-inspired bar atop the Graduate Nashville hotel, there’s not a better, pinker, or more over-the-top spot to celebrate the occasion. A picture with the giant Dolly statue at White Limozeen is reason enough to go. The bar is 21+ after 7 p.m., so you’ll have a perfect opportunity to show off your newly legal license.

Austin, Texas

Gabrela Herman

There’s a palpable energy that runs through this college town that’s famous for keeping things weird. Cheers to turning 21 by sipping on a giant margarita on Joe T. Garcia’s colorful and often-crowded garden patio. If the weather is warm, spend the day swimming, lounging, and people watching on the grassy hills around Barton Springs, or rent a paddleboard and see the city from a different vantage point on Lady Bird Lake. Austin’s dining scene leaves nothing to be desired, whether you’re in the mood for authentic Tex-Mex, real-deal Texas barbecue, or want to sit down at a stylish restaurant for dinner. The city developed its reputation as a music town, so seeing a live show is a must. A visit to the Continental Club , often called the “granddaddy of live music venues” is a rite of passage befitting of your 21 st .  

New Orleans, Louisiana

Nathan Steele / EyeEm / Getty Images

Every day is a celebration on Bourbon Street, so why not make the party that much better by bringing your big day to the Crescent City? The great thing about New Orleans is that it has range. From the grittiest of dive bars to the nicest white-tablecloth establishments, New Orleans is a city that does it all—and a place where you can experience it all. Simply strolling up and down Royal Street in the French Quarter, with its excess of shops, galleries, restaurants, and street performers, is an adventure. The birthday girl or boy can embark on tasting tour around town to sample some of the city’s many signature drinks. Frozen Irish Coffee at Erin Rose, a Hurricane at Pat O. Brien’s, and a Pimm’s Cup at Napoleon House are just a few to whet your whistle. And of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to New Orleans without eating your way through town . For a special night out, make reservations at a classic spot like Brennan’s or splashy newcomer like Lengua Madre . You can’t go wrong either way.

It’d be a missed opportunity to turn the big 3-0 and not celebrate at a place that literally has the number 30 in its name. Named for the Scenic Highway that runs for 24 miles along Florida’s Gulf Coast, this idyllic vacation destination is known for its unique beachside communities that each have a style of their own. From the stunning upscale architecture of Alys Beach to the charming Mayberry feel of the town square in Seaside, there’s a beach town to suit every personality. Of course, the gorgeous sugar-white sands and turquoise waters are the big draw here–and there’s plenty of room for you and your closest friends to park your chairs for a day of chatting and relaxing in the sun. When the sun starts to go down, all you’ll have to do is decide which of 30A’s excellent restaurants you want to dine at. You can’t beat the views from Bud & Alley’s first-come-first-serve upstairs deck, but on the other hand there’s no place livelier or more ready for a party than The Red Bar .

Miami, Florida

Miami's energy is electric, which makes it the ideal place to ring in a milestone birthday. We guarantee that not a single second of your birthday trip will be boring if you spend it in this colorful, multicultural city. Start your day by getting the perfect 30 th birthday Instagram picture in front of a bright and bold mural at Wynwood Walls , the city’s original outdoor street art museum. For lunch, sit down at trendy KoKo for authentic Mexican cuisine in a beautifully designed space, or spend time in the vintage dining room at Versailles Restaurant , known for its Cuba sandwiches. Feed off the city’s unmatched energy by spending the day at a beach club on South Beach, where you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to a tropical island in the Caribbean. Not in the mood for a crowd? Charter a private boat to take you and your pals for a cruise.

Texas Hill Country

Grape Creek Vineyards

A trip to Napa’s wine country is a classic birthday trip that’s especially popular for those in the 30s and 40s crowds. If flying across the country to California feels a bit out of reach (or maybe like a little too much), the high concentration of excellent wineries in the Texas Hill Country are a compelling alternative. Book a couple nights in one of the Hill Country’s many plush resorts ( Camp Lucy and Miraval Austin are both great options), then spend your days sipping wine in the company of some truly stunning scenery. Let Texas’s rolling hills, green countryside, and famous wildflowers create the perfect backdrop to an unforgettable birthday trip.

St. Augustine, Florida

SeanPavonePhoto / Getty Images

Compelling history meets unbeatable Florida sunshine in this small town that was voted as our readers’ favorite in 2023. There’s no better place to reflect on the passing of time, as one often does on landmark birthdays, than in one of the country’s oldest destinations. And St. Augustine proves that good things come with time. Take a tour of the sizable but entirely walkable downtown to see striking Spanish Renaissance architecture represented on Flagler College’s stunning campus and at the Lightner Museum. Stop to refuel at Boat Drinks , a colorful tiki-inspired bar and eatery centrally located on George Street. The great thing about St. Augustine is that is essentially two destinations in one. When your dogs are barking and you’re ready to trade city strolling for sun-kissed skin and an ocean breeze, head to Anastasia State Park , a 1,600-acre nature preserve with deserted beaches that’s less than 10 minutes from downtown.

Charleston, South Carolina

There’s no denying our love for this classic Southern destination. After all, our readers vote Charleston as their favorite city year after year. If you haven’t been yet, use your 40 th birthday as an excuse to check this bucket list destination of your list. And if you have had the pleasure of visiting before, a birthday is an equally good reason to plan a return trip. To do Charleston right for your 40 th , book a stay at a grand hotel like The Mills House or Hotel Bennett , both of which are located in walking distance of favorite attractions like King Street (for unbeatable shopping) and Rainbow Row. Then, plan a dream trip based on your interests. History buffs should check out the brand-new International African American History Museum. Art lovers will want to pop into local galleries and visit the Gibbes Museum of Art. And everyone will agree to dedicating several days to making a dent in the incredible dining scene

Highlands, North Carolina

The Old Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands

If a quiet weekend away sounds like just the way to jumpstart a new decade of life, consider Highlands. The charming mountain town nestled within the Nantahala National Forest, which means gorgeous vistas and opportunities to explore and enjoy the great outdoors abound. However, that’s far from the only thing Highlands has going for it. Treat yourself to a stay at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa , a far cry from a rustic cabin in the woods. The luxury resort is the pinnacle of mountainside elegance. Find excellent farm-to-table cuisine at the resort’s many restaurants like Madison’s and Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar, and definitely book an appointment at the European-inspired spa. The last thing you should have on your birthday is a worry, and Old Edwards, it’s hardly possible.

Savannah, Georgia

Amy Luo/Moment/Getty Images

This beloved Southern city is as timeless as you, and that’s saying a lot. As the state of Georgia’s oldest city, Savannah has had a long and colorful history, but one thing that’s remained stayed consistent throughout the years is the city’s undeniable charm. Walk the cobblestoned River Street, where you can get great views of the Savannah River while popping into some the destination’s most iconic spots like River Street Sweets , which coincidentally celebrated its 50 th birthday in 2023, and Wet Willie’s , where frozen daiquiris await. If your sweetie (good bless ‘em) has suffered a fair share of missing the mark when it comes to picking out gifts, buy your own birthday gift at the 5,200-square-foot dream store known as The Paris Market and Brocante .

The Greenbrier

Located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, The Greenbrier has more than earned its moniker as America’s Resort over the past 200 years. The National Historic Landmark, which encompasses 11,000 sprawling acres that contain not only the main resort, but also estate homes, cottages, four world-class golf courses, 19 dining options, and a shopping village where you can find everything from handmade jewelry to designer clothing. If you’re feeling lucky (and who wouldn’t be on their birthday), you can take a spin on the slots or sit down at a blackjack table in the Casino Club. If your birthday happens to fall around Christmas or Easter, you’re in for a real treat as the resort dresses up extra special for both occasions.

Marco Island, Florida

This laidback island on Florida’s Paradise Coast is so picturesque you might mistake your visit for a dream. Marco Island, along with its sister island Sanibel, is known for its unspoiled beaches, abundant wildlife, and a healthy collection of oceanfront resorts where you can set up home base for the weekend. Part of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands, a string of isles that pops up at the meeting point of the Everglades and the Gulf of Mexico, there’s no better place to commemorate half a century of living. When you’re not searching for shells on favorite Tigertail Beach, head into the town’s historic district to explore shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in brightly colored coastal shanties. For an unforgettable birthday meal, snag a table on the patio at Snook Inn or at the beachfront Kane Tiki Bar & Grill .

Alexandria, Virginia

Grace Cary/Getty Images

Old-school charm is the name of the game at this waterfront town that’s known for its colonial era contributions. For a blast from the past, visit Gadsby’s Tavern , a fine dining restaurant that’s been open since 1770 and was a favorite spot for all five of the U.S.’s first presidents. Find modern-day stars up and down King Street, a mile-long thoroughfare that’s home to unique local boutiques, farm-to-table restaurants, cafes, and art galleries. Spend time soaking in sparkling Potomac riverfront and check into one of the city’s many charming boutique hotels. If you’re a spring baby, you may even be able to make your visit coincide with the area’s famously beautiful cherry blossom season.

Ocean Springs, Mississippi

The lovely thing about this coastal Mississippi town is its just quiet enough, without ever teetering toward boring. This means you can have a relaxing day on the beach without having to worry about staking out your sliver of sand, but when night falls, you won’t be stuck inside with nothing to do. The hotels and stays in Ocean Spring are decidedly stylish. Treat yourself to a floating cabin at The Beatnik , a posh room in downtown’s The Hemingway boutique hotel, or a spacious suite at longtime favorite inn The Roost . Artsy folk will love visiting the Walter Anderson Museum , the Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Arts Center , and the many galleries and workshops of local artists that span downtown. The best place to have your birthday dinner is Vestige , owned by James Beard-nominated chef Alex Perry. There you’ll have the opportunity to savor a creative five-course tasting menu that you’re guaranteed to think about for many birthdays to come.

Blackberry Farm

A birthday as momentous as your 60 th calls for an equally significant celebration trip. And there’s no place that screams special occasion like Blackberry Farm. Located in Walland, Tennessee, Blackberry Farm is the gold standard when it comes to not only Southern resorts but luxury resorts everywhere. Its stunning 4,200 acres in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains offers a host of activities from fly fishing in nearby Hesse Creek to horseback riding to paddle sports to cycling. If you’re hoping for a more relaxing trip, the award-winning Wellhouse Spa is the place to be pampered. The farm is perhaps most well-known for its outstanding food and beverage program that brings together the immense talents of first-rate butchers, foragers, cheesemakers, chefs, master gardeners, bakers, and sommeliers. This is the kind of trip you plan for years, then relive in your head for years after you’ve returned home.

Related Articles

trip ideas for 60th birthday

  • Things to do

Explore > Type of vacation > Beach > The ultimate birthday getaways

The ultimate birthday getaways

Another birthday, another trip around the sun—this calls for a celebration!

You’ve spent your birthdays braving the bar crawls, acting shocked at your own surprise parties, and even refusing to leave the comfort of your couch, but when was the last time you booked a birthday getaway?

A milestone birthday means next-level celebrating, and jet-setting is the best way we know how. Whether you’re saying goodbye to your 20s or inching over the hill, we’ve picked the best places to go for your birthday. Here you’ll find inspiration for both last-minute getaways and birthday vacations that’ll have you counting down the days until you turn a year older. Check out our celebration suggestions and get ready to blow out the candles!

Edgy 18th birthday destinations

Hollywood sign on hillside in Los Angeles

Hello mellow: Hurray for turning 18! You can vote and get all the tattoos you want without your parents’ permission. Now it’s time to venture to Seattle and eat some cake, while overlooking the Puget Sound. The Pacific Northwest is a prime place to welcome adulthood, as you tour the underground tunnels and brave the tippy top of the Space Needle. From the fascinating exhibits at the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum to sweet eats at Pike Place Market, Seattle is perfect party grounds—and we’re sure you’ll find plenty of tattoo parlors there, too, but you didn’t hear it from us.

Family affair: You may be getting older, but that doesn’t mean you have to act your age. Let loose in Orlando , where you and your family can hit up all the amusement parks, eating your way through funnel cake, while seeing how many times you can ride your favorite coaster in a row. Your birthday comes but once a year, so what are you waiting for? Put on some mouse ears and go wild at the waterpark.

Party hardy: You still have a few years until you can sip libations with the 21+ crowd, but that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate 18, dancing the night away to your favorite band or DJs. Believe it or not, Los Angeles has a ton of music venues and dance clubs where you and your 18+ crew are welcome, from the legendary Whiskey A Go Go to Hollywood’s OHM Nightclub. Beach hop by day, and club hop by night in this trendy SoCal city.

Totally cool 21st birthday places

New Orleans at night on a true crime walking tour

Party hardy: At the stroke of midnight, you’re finally allowed to legally purchase alcohol—so it’s pretty much a given that you’ll want to celebrate with some spirits. Raise your glass and cheers to another year in New Orleans , where some bars never even close! Beyond sipping on Sazeracs, you can imbibe all the local flavors, from the delicious Cajun cuisine to the impromptu jazz street sessions.

Hello mellow: Just because you can buy a case of beer and order a round of shots doesn’t mean you need to celebrate your birthday into oblivion. Take it easy with a trip to the hipster city of Portland , where you can spend your special day gorging yourself on Voodoo Doughnuts, browsing the vinyl at one of the many record stores, and drinking up the awesome views of the Columbia River. And don’t worry, there are plenty of arcade bars and breweries for when you do want to flash your ID.

Family affair: Not everyone wants their parents around to witness their 21st birthday, but you’re not too cool to spend your birthday adventure with your siblings or cousins. Round up the gang for the perfect excuse for a vacation to Miami : your birthday. Nothing says family bonding quite like ordering birthday cocktails at oceanfront bars and eating your weight in Cuban sandwiches and croquetas. After a night that turns to morning, recharge with shot of cafecito and a spot in the sand on Miami Beach.

Flirty 30th birthday getaway ideas

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Party hardy: Thirty is the new 20, haven’t you heard? This calls for dancing until dawn and sleeping it off poolside. Las Vegas is just the place to say hello to 3-0, with bottle service and limo rides, of course. Glam it up at the clubs on The Strip, get front row seats to legendary concerts, and float the day away at one of the hottest pool parties in town.

Family affair: If you’re looking for birthday trip ideas you can share with your partner, consider somewhere a little tamer than Vegas, such as San Diego . You’ll still get the warm weather and sunshine, but it’s more beachy, less club-y. Go for a snorkeling excursion in La Jolla Cove and enjoy a meal on the patio of the famous Hotel Del Coronado. With miles of beaches, restaurants with sunset views, and water activities galore, turning another year older never sounded so good.

Hello mellow: You’re happy to leave your 20s in the past, which means you’re over the kinds of celebrations that leave you with a wicked headache come morning. Turn a new leaf this year, and spend your birthday in nature. Yosemite National Park is a place where you’ll find peace and quiet, allowing you to recharge for the year ahead. Hike the John Muir Trail and set your sights on the majestic Half Dome—you just may come home feeling younger than when you left!

Fabulous 40th birthday vacation ideas

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Viewfinder Tip: Reserve a party bus or limo to tour the Napa Valley vineyards safely and in style.

Party hardy: Turning 40? Go on, wine about it. That is, drink vino at the Napa Valley vineyards. NorCal’s wine country, with its scenic views and endless libations, is one of the most perfect 40th birthday destinations. Spend a peaceful day in the valley getting pampered at a spa, browsing the shops in town, and sipping your way through the vineyards.

Hello mellow: A more relaxed 40th birthday trip idea is to venture to Hilton Head . Whether you’re looking to tee up at one of the 30 golf courses in town or take a sunset hike on Pinckney Island, this South Carolina retreat offers plenty of low-key birthday activities. Kayak along Calibogue Sound or simply bask on the shores of Forest Beach—it’s your birthday, you do what you want.

Family affair: Another 4-0 idea is to round up the kids and ring in another year under the desert sun in the Grand Canyon . This Arizona hot spot provides the ultimate birthday retreat, where you can celebrate your big day by hiking the trails or relaxing surrounded by incredible scenery. Find a peaceful oasis at the base of Havasu Falls, toast with a glass of wine on the Grand Canyon Railway, and explore the North Rim for a birthday you won’t soon forget.

Nifty 50th birthday getaways

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Family affair: They say you’re over the hill now, but isn’t that the fun part? Throw your hands up and enjoy the ride! Of all the best 50th birthday vacation ideas, Denver takes the cake. You can’t go wrong with breathtaking Rocky Mountain views, microbreweries, and nearby ski slopes. Winter or summer, this mountain town offers the best stomping grounds for an outdoorsy birthday bash with your whole family in tow.

Party hardy: If you’re keener on skyscrapers than mountain ranges, go big in NYC . This magical city that never sleeps has birthday-worthy celebrations around every corner. Whether you score box seats to a Broadway show, go on a shopping spree on Fifth Avenue, or dine from the top of a revolving rooftop restaurant, you’ll be feeling fine and 50 in New York City.

Hello mellow: It’s your birthday, and you can lounge all day at the pool if you want to. If your idea of the perfect celebration includes relaxing under a cabana with a chilled drink in your hand, then Palm Springs is the place for you. This desert playground invites you to soak up the heat at the poolside by day, and explore downtown by night. Mosey around the antique shops, stop in the art galleries, and nosh at the local eateries for a birthday well spent.

Swanky 60th birthday travel ideas

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Hello mellow: You’re 60, baby! Of all the 60th birthday trip ideas under the sun, you belong on a Honolulu beach on Oahu with a frothy drink in your hand. You’ve earned it. Put up your feet on the shores of Waimanalo Beach or heck, take a scuba certification class! Mark off all those Hawaiian bucket list items. From scenic helicopter tours to enchanting luaus, you’ll find more than enough ways to say, “Happy birthday to me!”

Party hardy: Pack the birthday cake and party streamers for a weekend getaway for couples in none other than San Francisco . There’s something so magical about the City by the Bay, and it’s even more whimsical when you have something worth celebrating. Book a spa treatment, set sail on a catamaran cruise, and sip handcrafted cocktails on a rooftop with a view of the skyline. This coastal city promises to dazzle on your special day.

Family affair: Not into all that birthday fuss? Consider the charming town of Charleston for a slightly less showy 60th. You and your family will find under-the-radar ways to celebrate, such as ferry rides along the harbor and dolphin sightings at Waterfront Park. Stock up on some treats at Charleston City Market and picnic at Sullivan’s Island with a view of the lighthouse to toast what’s ahead!

This year, you’re not getting away with spending your birthday at home. Pull out the party hats and choose one of these awesome birthday vacations.

Where will you be celebrating your next milestone birthday?

More Articles With Beach

Don't hold the keys to your own sailboat, but dying to get out on the water this summer? Here are six secret ways to make your maritime dreams come true.

Find out what to know for visiting Australia’s Gold Coast, such as how to get there, when to go, and what to pack.

Experiencing Mexico’s Caribbean coast

Good food for less at Myrtle Beach

Snag a Last Minute Getaway

Peep our BRAND NEW Yosemite Hiking Trip !!

60th Birthday Trip Ideas for Mom

60th Birthday Trip Ideas for Mom

Explorer Chick

October 06, 2022

They say that 60 is the new 40 and certainly living 6 decades on this planet does not mean people have to give up on going on adventures. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking all you need for your 60th birthday is high tea, a cake and a new pair of slippers.

Instead, book the trip of a lifetime and maybe even invite your daughter(s) for the ultimate mother daughter trip. Here are some awesome 60th birthday trip ideas for mom whether you want to travel alone or with female family members.

60th Birthday Trips Mom Will Love

Fremont Street in Las Vegas

1 Las Vegas Weekend Adventure

Vegas is well known as a great vacation destination for milestone birthdays but a trip to Sin City does not have to be all about malls, slot machines and novelty restaurants. There is so much more to explore in this region and lots of outdoorsy fun to be had. This trip works, whatever your birthday month.

The hotel you start this adventure in has a shark tank water slide. That alone iOS worth the journey. It’s on busy Fremont Street in downtown Vegas and has an onsite restaurant. Book spa treatments or head outside to explore all this hectic city has to offer.

Then during the outdoorsy part of the trip admire a billion stars, listen to the gentle splash of paddles on water. This really is a vacation of two halves!

You might have this destination on your birthday bucket list anyway but this trip is unique combining traditional Vegas fun with rock climbing in Red Rock Canyon, kayaking in the Hoover Dam and gourmet backwoods cuisine.You do need to have a decent level of fitness as days will be packed with activities.

TRIP DETAILS

  • Who This Is For : Fit and fun moms willing to learn new skills who like to be outdoorsy but also enjoy glitzy city fun.
  • Activities: Rock climbing, kayaking, hiking, hot springs, camping, time in downtown Las Vegas.
  • # of Days: 4 Days
  • Group Size: 12 Explorer Chicks

Hammock in the Galapagos

2 Galapagos Islands Tour and Multisport Adventure

If you are an animal lover this is most definitely the perfect milestone birthday treat for you. Warn everyone you know – they need to prepare to be bombarded with pictures of penguins, giant tortoises and swimming iguanas. Everyone I know who has been to this incredible destination says it’s one of their favorite places on Earth.

This Galapagos adventure includes snorkeling, swimming and kayaking so mom, you need to be able to swim. You should be OK with hiking for 5-6 hours on rough terrain at 2 miles an hour or be happy to train before traveling. You’ll be rewarded with close up views of an active volcano, crystal clear pools and a night on a mysterious island with black sand beaches. White sand beaches are so 2019! There might even be the opportunity to do a spot of whale watching.

The trip starts in the capital city of Ecuador, Quito, at the first of the boutique hotels you will be staying in. Quito is at high altitude so anyone with medical issues should check with a doctor before booking. Thumbs up from doc? Look forward to a wonderful time in this incredible country.

  • Who This Is For : Moms who love boutique hotels and want to go spotting wildlife in what might be the most beautiful place in the world.
  • Activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, boat trips, wildlife encounters.
  • # of Days: 9 Days
  • Group Size: 14 Explorer Chicks

trip ideas for 60th birthday

3 Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

History lovers-this is an amazing place to spend time in celebration of a special birthday. Enjoy gentle walking tours of Cusco to warm up those muscles, visit the shops and enjoy the culture and fine dining this great place offers. There’s plenty of time to get acclimatized, before following ancient Inca trails to see the Sacsayhuaman Unesco World Heritage archaeological site.

This trail trek trip (try saying that after a drink or two!) is super cool because as well as seeing the archaeological remnants of ancient cultures, mom will get to go on a day trip to meet members of the Willoc community which has preserved traditions from their Incan heritage.

This is an immersive experience where Explorer Chicks will eat lunch with the locals and learn about their age-old weaving techniques. Four days will be spent hiking the ancient Incan trail, supported by porters and chefs. I’m not gonna lie – thighs and glutes are going to feel every one of those Incan steps but it will all be worth it when you walk into the main attraction, Machu Picchu , during golden hour. Time to take pictures which will be the envy of your less adventurous best friends. Accommodation will be a hotel on some nights and deluxe camping during the rest.

  • Who This Is For : Moms who like (deluxe) camping, are excited by ancient civilisations, cultural experiences and think Machu Picchu is the perfect place to start the next decade of life.
  • Activities: Hiking, camping, sightseeing.

Hiking in Scotland

4 Unspoiled Hiking in Scotland

There’s so much more to the UK than London and if you yearn to explore the Scottish wilderness with rocky coastlines, rugged mountains and lochs for miles with a dram of whisky (there’s no “e” in Scotch whisky) to warm you through before retiring to bed THIS is the birthday present for you.

Mom can meander along cobblestone streets in historic Edinburgh. Play “spot the kilt” as you explore the shops, art galleries, and great restaurants in the medieval old town, and update your Facebook profile pic using a selfie taken with the ancient castle looming behind you.

Travel through beautiful countryside towards the north-west Highlands on the train then take a road trip with your new fellow explorer besties.

This is a remote and unspoiled area of Britain with landscapes that have remained largely the same for centuries. Imagine vast lochs, rushing waterfalls, imposing peaks, and tiny wooded islands along a rugged coastline.

This adventure’s hiking is classified as strenuous with up to 9 hours/13 miles a day up and down 3,218-foot tall peaks, Expect rough terrain and potentially lots of rain, even during summer. Make everyday leg day before you travel to ensure you will cope with this off-road adventure. There will be plenty of hearty local food and drink to keep your energy levels up and lots of time to relax in this gorgeous country. Hey Mom. You might even be lucky enough to enjoy some live music, live jazz, rock, or folk in a local pub within walking distance of your inn, or hear the wail of bagpipes during your birthday visit.

Accommodation in Scotland will be in cute and cozy inns with one memorable night in a real life Scottish castle !

  • Who This Is For : Fighting fit Moms who yearn to see Bonny Scotland and adore hiking in the wilderness, a deserted windy beach, and wide open spaces.
  • Activities: Hiking, sightseeing.
  • # of Days: 8 Days

trip ideas for 60th birthday

5 Wilderness Survival Training and Hiking in Virginia

This would make a great mother and daughter trip combining the great outdoors and the chance to learn personal self protection along with wilderness survival tips on a course led by experts in their field.

You will learn how to make wilderness shelters, light firesand which bugs are the tastiest, but everyone will actually stay in rooms with bunk beds at a cozy mountain lodge with a home cooked breakfast, lunch and a home cooked dinner provided throughout the four days.

Learn how to recognise threatening behavior, break free from an aggressive hold and how to use everyday items as weapons. You always knew being a Mom meant you had to be a superhero to run your family life, but after completing this course you will be able to fight like one too.

This trip is short but organizers have a packed itinerary planned including conquering the most iconic summits on the Appalachian trail. This trekking trip is classed as moderate to strenuous but don’t worry Mom, you will get time to rest in the grounds of the remote woodland lodge sharing stories and making new friends.

  • Who This Is For : Moms who may be living alone for the first time or who have lost their confidence.
  • Activities: Hiking, survival workshop, backwoods personal self protection.
  • Group Size: 11 Explorer Chicks

trip ideas for 60th birthday

6 Private Trip with Explorer Chick!

Ring in 60 in style by booking a private trip with Explorer Chick ! Gather your closest friends, family, or whoever makes your adventure squad, and embark on a personalized journey tailored just for you.

Whether it’s a serene escape, an adrenaline-pumping adventure, or a cultural immersion, we’re here to make it happen. Choose one of our trips, but know we’re flexible with duration, route, and excursions —  your private trip is customizable. And because it’s YOUR private trip, you can even invite the Explorer Dudes and kiddos along.

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Sign up for the latest trips and special offers!

Let’s celebrate mom’s 60th together.

Moms 60th

Turning 60 is a milestone to celebrate as after all that time parenting you finally get to invest in yourself. Whether you fancy an island retreat, an overseas hiking trip, horseback riding in exotic lands, seeing the Northern Lights or Mayan ruins, or time basking on a white sand beach, Explorer Chicks has a carefully curated adventure for you. Join a small women-only expedition and mark this new chapter in your life making memories you can recall when you really do have to hang up your hiking boots.

Other 60th Birthday Trip Ideas

Alaska Hiking, Kayaking, and Glacier Tour

7 DAYS, ALASKA

Croatia Hiking National Parks and Multisport Adventure Tour

8 DAYS, CROATIA

Iceland Glaciers and Hot Springs Winter Adventure

7 DAYS, ICELAND

Jordan and Petra Ultimate Adventure

8 DAYS, JORDAN

Moab and Arches National Parks Hiking Weekend

4 DAYS, UTAH

Patagonia Hiking, Kayaking, and Glamping Multisport

9 DAYS, CHILE

Shenandoah Hiking, Winery, and Sunsets Weekend

3 DAYS, VIRGINIA

Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Safari Adventure

10 DAYS, UGANDA

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Related Posts

7 Best Trail-Ready Hiking Boots for Women (Guide Tested!)

Backpacking, Gear, Hiking

8 Best Instagrammable Yosemite Photo Spots

If you’re on your way to Yosemite and want to make sure you snap the best shots in the park, here are 8 locations you'll want to hit.

Hiking, Instagram, North America, Photography, United States, Yosemite National Park

Training Tips for Half Dome Hiking

Those who have hiked Half Dome already know the absolute magic of the entire journey. But training for half dome is essential.

Backpacking, Hiking, Inspiration, National Parks, North America, Training, United States, Yosemite National Park

sixtyandme logo

Watch our videos

254,000 subscribers

facebook link

Join the conversation

134,000 followers

pinterest link

Pin our posts

25,200 followers

email link

Get our newsletter

88,500 subscribers

  • Hearing-Aids
  • Healthy Aging
  • Losing Weight
  • Medical Issues
  • Reducing Stress
  • Brain Health
  • Solo Travel
  • Travel Tips
  • Small Business
  • Part-time Jobs
  • Encore Careers
  • Managing Money
  • End of Life Planning
  • Retirement Tips
  • Senior Living
  • Journal Writing
  • Entertainment
  • Inspiration
  • Empowerment
  • Getting Older
  • Reinvention
  • Giving Back
  • Dating Advice
  • Online Dating
  • Adult Children
  • Grandchildren
  • Estrangement
  • Arts and Crafts
  • Piano Lessons
  • Photography

trip ideas for 60th birthday

Ten 60th Birthday Celebration Ideas

Stepping into your 60s is a remarkable milestone, and what better way to mark this chapter than by celebrating with a birthday experience that goes beyond the usual gifts? As you turn the page on another year, it’s time to discover a world of unique and unforgettable adventures tailored just for you. From thrilling escapades to serene retreats, we’ve compiled a list of inspiring 60th birthday ideas that transcend material gifts.

Here are our top ideas for a 60th birthday:

  • Cooking Class and Dinner Party – Arrange a private cooking class followed by a dinner party with close friends and family, celebrating good food and great company.
  • Personalized Workshop – Arrange a workshop or class. Whether it’s painting, pottery, or photography, providing a chance to learn and create.
  • Vintage Afternoon Tea – Host a charming afternoon tea party with vintage flair, complete with delicate finger sandwiches, pastries, and a selection of fine teas.
  • Helicopter Tour – Make it adventurous and celebrate with a helicopter tour to take in breathtaking aerial views of the local landscape.
  • Spa Retreat Weekend – How about a rejuvenating spa weekend at a luxurious resort, complete with massages, facials, and relaxation by the pool?

Create lasting memories and celebrate the essence of life at 60 because, after all, age is just a number, and these experiences are truly timeless.

60th Birthday Ideas

Cooking class and dinner party.

Celebrate your 60th birthday with a special private cooking class and dinner party surrounded by close friends and family. Picture yourself in a cozy kitchen, guided by a professional chef, learning and laughing together.

During the hands-on cooking class, whether you’re a kitchen pro or a beginner, you’ll learn new skills and create delicious dishes. The experience is tailored to your pace, ensuring everyone enjoys the process.

After the cooking session, transition to a beautifully set dining area for a feast with your loved ones. Imagine a table adorned with elegance, where your prepared dishes take the spotlight. The evening is filled with shared stories, laughter, and the joy of good food in great company.

This celebration is more than just about cooking; it’s a special moment to connect and create lasting memories. So, put on an apron, invite your nearest and dearest, and savor the joy of a unique 60th birthday celebration.

Check on Tripadvisor for local cooking classes near you.

Personalized Workshop

Immerse yourself in creativity on your 60th birthday by organizing a painting, pottery, or photography workshop. Choose a comfortable setting and let skilled instructors guide you in learning and creating.

Whether you’re painting a canvas, shaping clay, or capturing moments through a lens, the focus is on the joy of the process and expression. It’s a chance to try something new, embrace imperfections, and share the experience with others.

The workshop should be designed for all skill levels, ensuring everyone leaves with a unique creation and a newfound appreciation for art. Celebrate your 60th with a hands-on and memorable artistic experience.

Vintage Afternoon Tea

Celebrate your 60th birthday with a touch of vintage charm by hosting a delightful afternoon tea. Picture a setting adorned with vintage china, lace, and flowers, creating an elegant ambiance.

Treat your guests to a selection of fine teas paired with classic finger sandwiches and exquisite pastries. Imagine the air filled with the sweet scent of brewing tea as you enjoy the sophistication of this bygone-era experience.

Encourage guests to dress in their finest attire for a touch of nostalgia. This vintage tea party promises not just delightful treats but also a backdrop for shared moments and cherished memories. It’s a simple yet elegant way to celebrate turning 60.

The Official Downton Abbey Afternoon Tea Cookbook: Teatime Drinks, Scones, Savories & Sweets

The Official Downton Abbey Afternoon Tea Cookbook: Teatime Drinks, Scones, Savories & Sweets can help inspire some ideas for your party.

DUJUST 22 pcs Porcelain Tea Set for 6

The luxurious DUJUST 22 pcs Porcelain Tea Set for 6 is vintage-inspired and perfect for an afternoon tea party.

Helicopter Tour

Soar to new heights on your 60th birthday with an adventurous helicopter tour . Picture boarding a sleek helicopter, feeling the excitement as it lifts off and offers breathtaking views of the landscape below.

As you glide through the skies, take in stunning vistas, from lush valleys to serene coastlines. A knowledgeable pilot adds insights, turning the tour into an awe-inspiring experience.

Consider planning it during a special time, like a sunrise or sunset, for an extra magical touch. This helicopter adventure is not just a birthday celebration; it’s a thrilling and unforgettable way to mark your 60th year, offering a unique perspective on the world around you.

Spa Retreat Weekend

Treat yourself to a serene 60th birthday celebration with a rejuvenating spa retreat weekend at a luxurious resort. Imagine stepping into a tranquil oasis, where stress fades away and relaxation takes center stage. Experience personalized spa treatments, including a therapeutic massage and a luxurious facial, leaving you refreshed and revitalized.

Choosing a spa retreat weekend is a way to pamper yourself, creating a memorable and rejuvenating celebration for your 60th birthday. It’s a luxurious escape, a self-care journey, and the perfect way to mark this special occasion with grace and indulgence.

Find your spa on Spafinder , where they have hundreds of spas.

Personal Styling Session

Imagine entering a stylish studio where the expert stylist learns about your fashion preferences and lifestyle. Together, explore a curated selection of clothing and accessories, discovering new styles and outfits that enhance your confidence.

During the session, the stylist provides valuable fashion tips and helps you build a versatile wardrobe tailored to your taste. This experience goes beyond just choosing clothes; it’s about embracing your unique style and feeling confident in your appearance.

As you leave the studio, envision stepping into the world with a newfound sense of style and confidence, ready to embrace the next chapter of life with flair and poise. This gift celebrates the beautiful, confident, and unique individual you are at 60.

For example, stores like Nordstrom and Macy’s have stylist services on hand to help you create a single outfit or a whole new wardrobe.

Scenic Train Journey

Celebrate your 60th birthday with a scenic train journey that goes beyond transportation, offering a unique and relaxing experience. Picture comfortable seats, large windows, and breathtaking landscapes passing by as the train meanders through beautiful scenery.

Enjoy the freedom to move around, visiting a dining car for a delightful meal or finding a cozy corner to read.

The journey celebrates both the destination and the voyage itself, with the gentle rocking motion creating a serene and meditative atmosphere. Whether on a vintage-style train or a modern luxury one, the experience caters to different preferences, making it a delightful way to mark this milestone.

Read 7 BUCKET LIST TRAIN VOYAGES IN THE WORLD

Also read 8 USA TRAIN TRIPS FOR SOLO WOMEN OVER 50

Culinary Tour

Celebrate your 60th birthday with a delectable adventure on a culinary tour, exploring the flavors of a vibrant city or region. Picture yourself guided by an expert through bustling markets, charming alleys, and local eateries. Indulge in diverse dishes, from street food to haute cuisine, experiencing the region’s authentic flavors.

Envision engaging with local chefs and artisans, learning about the stories and traditions behind each dish. Whether through private cooking classes or exclusive behind-the-scenes tours, the culinary exploration becomes a celebration of culture and connection.

It’s a flavorful and immersive way to mark your 60th birthday, surrounded by a region’s tastes and cultural treasures.

Type “Culinary Tours” or “Food Tours” in the search bar on Tripadvisor to find and book experiences near you.

Volunteer Experience

Celebrate your 60th birthday by giving back through a meaningful volunteer experience. Envision a day where you and your loved ones unite to support a cause aligned with your values. Whether it’s volunteering at a local animal shelter, organizing a donation drive, or contributing to environmental efforts, the day becomes a collective effort to make a positive impact.

Coordinate with reputable organizations or local charities to ensure your efforts address specific needs. Involve friends and family in the planning process, turning the day into a shared commitment to giving back. The volunteer experience becomes a celebration of kindness and connection, transforming your 60th birthday into a day of meaningful action.

The joy derived from giving back extends beyond the act itself, creating lasting memories and leaving a legacy of compassion and social responsibility. It’s a simple yet powerful way to mark your 60th birthday with purpose and positive impact.

Read VOLUNTEERING ABROAD DESTINATIONS FOR ACTIVE WOMEN OVER 50

Personal Development Retreat

Celebrate your 60th birthday with a personal development retreat focused on self-discovery, mindfulness, and overall well-being. Picture a serene setting surrounded by nature, where workshops and activities guide you toward personal growth. Imagine moments of reflection, mindfulness sessions, and rejuvenating activities like yoga.

Connect with like-minded individuals, sharing experiences in a supportive environment. Tailor the retreat to your interests, leaving you with a profound sense of self-awareness and tools for ongoing personal development. This retreat is more than a celebration; it’s an investment in your well-being and a transformative way to mark your 60th year.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Are you celebrating your 60th birthday soon? Is someone you know turning 60? What are you planning for the special milestone? Which ideas on our list are your favorites? Have you celebrated your big 60 already? How did you do it? Tell us about it in the comments below.

guest

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Tags Inspiration

Sixty and Me

Sixty and Me

Sixty and Me is a community of over 500,000 women over 60 founded by Margaret Manning. Our editorial team publishes articles on lifestyle topics including fashion, dating, retirement and money.

You Might Also Like

trip ideas for 60th birthday

How to Meditate with Crystals and Gemstones

trip ideas for 60th birthday

What Should I Do? Confessions from an Overthinker

print this page Print this page

Grab a copy of our FREE PARTY PLANNING GUIDE!  

Darling celebrations

FREE PARTY PLANNING  EBOOK!   Get your copy!

20 Heartwarming 60th Birthday Ideas

60th Birthday Ideas: 30 Heart-warming Ways To Celebrate Turning 60!

Today’s post is all about celebrating a truly special milestone: the big 6-0! Can you believe it? Six decades of memories, laughter, and love Whether you’re planning a celebration for your parent, spouse, or dear friend, a 60th birthday calls for a truly memorable bash. So grab your favorite cozy blanket and a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into our best 60th Birthday Ideas to make this milestone birthday one to remember.

How do you celebrate a 60th birthday?

How do you celebrate a 60th birthday

Whether you’re planning a 60th birthday celebration for a parent, partner, friend, or yourself, here are some wonderful ideas to ensure this special day is nothing short of spectacular. From an intimate family gathering to a full-on huge themed party , there are many ways to mark a 60 th  birthday. Here are our favorites:

Fun and Meaningful 60 th  Birthday Ideas

1. Reflect and Reminisce: Start the day with a reflective moment. Invite the birthday honoree to sit down with a scrapbook, photo album, or even a journal filled with memories. Let them journey back through their lives adventures and accomplishments, savoring every moment.

2. Intimate Family 60 th  Birthday Gathering: Host a cozy gathering with close family members, sharing stories, laughter, and a delicious meal. Create a slideshow of pictures showcasing the journey from childhood to the present, celebrating the growth and changes throughout the decades.

3. Surprise 60 th  Birthday Video Messages: Collect heartfelt video messages from friends and family who couldn’t be there in person. Compile these messages into a heartwarming video that the birthday person can watch and treasure forever.

4. 60 th  Birthday Outdoor Picnic: Plan a relaxing outdoor picnic in a favorite park or garden. Set up comfortable seating, prepare a spread of their favorite foods, and spend quality time enjoying nature and each other’s company.

5. Meaningful 60 th  Birthday Gifts: Consider gifting them something meaningful, like a personalized piece of jewelry, a custom-made artwork, or a journal where they can jot down their thoughts and reflections.

6. Multi-Generational Family Reunion: If possible, gather multiple generations of the family for a reunion. Share stories, experiences, and advice, creating a sense of connection and continuity.

7. Memory Lane Tour: Take a trip down memory lane by visiting significant places from their past childhood home, the school they attended, or the place they got their first job.

8. Tribute Video Screening: Create a heartwarming tribute video that highlights the birthday person’s journey, accomplishments, and the impact they’ve made on others. Gather friends and family for a screening that’s bound to bring tears of joy.

Click To Read About Fun and Festive Thanksgiving Games for the Whole Family!

Activity-Based 60th Birthday Ideas

Activity-Based 60th Birthday Ideas

9. Family Cookbook: Compile cherished family recipes and create a personalized cookbook. It’s a delicious way to celebrate and preserve traditions.

10. 60 th  Birthday Travel Adventure: Surprise the birthday star with a weekend getaway to a destination they’ve always dreamed of visiting. Whether it’s a beach retreat, a cabin in the mountains, a cruise, or a charming city escape, the change of scenery will make the day unforgettable.

11. Bucket List Experience: Help them tick off an item from their bucket list! Whether it’s taking a hot air balloon ride, learning to cook a new cuisine, or mastering a musical instrument, encouraging them to pursue a long-held dream is a fabulous way to celebrate.

12. Volunteer Together: Give back to the community as a birthday celebration. Find a local charity or cause that resonates with them, and spend the day making a positive impact on the world.

13. Spa Day: Treat them to a day of relaxation and pampering at a spa. Massages, facials, and calming treatments will rejuvenate their mind and body.

14. Concert or Theater Experience: Get tickets to a concert, play, or musical that the honoree would love, making it a night to remember.

15. Generations Photo Shoot: Arrange a professional photo shoot capturing the birthday person surrounded by loved ones from different generations, a true testament to their legacy.

16. 60 th  Birthday DIY Craft Party: If your honoree loves crafts, host a DIY party where guests can create something special, like personalized mugs, paintings, or memory journals.

Click to read about our favorite 70th birthday celebration ideas.

17. Wine Tasting Adventure: Explore local wineries or create a tasting experience at home, savoring fine wines and delectable pairings.

18. Adventure Day: For the thrill-seeker, plan an adventurous day outdoors, perhaps a hot air balloon ride, zip-lining, or a scenic hike.

19. Comedy Night: Laughter is the best medicine! Treat your loved one to a night of side-splitting comedy for an unforgettable evening.

Click To Read About 15 Fun-Filled Gift Exchange Games to Spice Up Your Party

60 th  Birthday Party Ideas

60th Birthday Party Ideas

20. 60 th  Birthday-Themed Party: Host a themed party that resonates with their interests or an era they love. From a 60s disco party to a vintage Hollywood glam soirée, the possibilities are endless.

21. 60 th  Birthday Grand Celebration: Go all out with a grand celebration, inviting a wide circle of friends and family. Think live music, cocktails, dancing, entertainment, and a feast fit for the occasion.

22. Time Capsule Party: Gather friends and family to contribute mementos, letters, and photos that capture the essence of the honoree’s life over the past six decades. Seal it up in a time capsule to be opened at a future milestone.

23. Vintage-themed Soiree: Transport your guest of honor back in time with a retro-themed party complete with vintage music, attire, and décor reminiscent of their younger years.

24. Surprise 60th Party with Friends: Coordinate with old friends to throw a surprise gathering, complete with heartfelt speeches and shared laughs.

25. Starlit 60 th  Birthday Dinner Party: Host an elegant evening under the stars, complete with twinkling lights, a gourmet meal, and plenty of heartfelt toasts.

26. Golden Years Gala: Throw a glamorous gold-themed party, where everything from decorations to attire shines with elegance.

27. Nostalgia Game Night: Set up a game night with classic board games and trivia from the past, sparking memories and friendly competition.

28. Book Club Bash: If the birthday star loves reading, invite friends and family to a book club-style gathering to discuss their favorite novels.

29. Family Tree Celebration: Arrange a gathering with extended family to celebrate the rich tapestry of your family’s history, sharing stories and creating lasting connections.

30. Backyard BBQ: Have a 60th birthday bash in your backyard, fire up the BBQ, and get grilling.

Click here to see our top 30 adult party themes for a guaranteed good time!

And there you have it: 30 heart-warming and creative ideas to make a 60th birthday truly unforgettable! Remember, it’s not just about the grandeur of the celebration, but the love and thought you pour into every detail. Whatever you choose, make sure it reflects the honoree’s unique personality and passions. After all, reaching 60 is a remarkable achievement that deserves to be celebrated with joy, laughter, and boundless love.

trip ideas for 60th birthday

About Author

Author Image

Jane Sheriff is the founder, creative director, party planner and mom of three. She started Darling Celebrations back in 2012 to share easy and beautiful ideas for celebrating the special events in life.

Related Posts

umberjack first birthday party ideas

Oh my, how cute is this Lumberjack First Birthday party by From the Heart Events.!…

glow in the dark neon party

Now this is a treat for the eyes! This stunningly colorful Glow in the Dark…

aloha first birthday party

Tropical Aloha First Birthday! This stunning Aloha First Birthday party was created by Hello Pretty…

70th birthday party ideas

The 70th birthday is a milestone in your life. It shows resilience and ability to…

50th birthday ideas

Turning 50 is a milestone in any life and should be marked as such. Just…

list of party themes

A fun party theme is one of the best ways to bring your party alive.…

' data-src=

Similar Posts

Never Have I Ever Questions for Teens and Kids

Never Have I Ever Questions for Teens and Kids

Tablescaping – How To Create The Perfect Tablescape

Tablescaping – How To Create The Perfect Tablescape

The Ultimate Pool Party Ideas Extravaganza!

The Ultimate Pool Party Ideas Extravaganza!

Gaming Birthday Party Ideas for Your Little Gamer!

Gaming Birthday Party Ideas for Your Little Gamer!

What is a Golden Birthday? Golden Birthday Ideas

What is a Golden Birthday? Golden Birthday Ideas

What to do at a First Birthday Party

What to do at a First Birthday Party

trip ideas for 60th birthday

15 Unforgettable 50th Birthday Trip Ideas to Take with Friends

A re you looking for a memorable and fun way to celebrate your 50th birthday? A girls’ trip is the perfect way to ring in this significant milestone. Whether you’re a homebody or a seasoned jet setter, your birthday is the perfect opportunity to see new places, escape with your close friends, and enjoy a fantastic getaway. We’re rounding up our favorite 50th birthday trip ideas that are worthy of this momentous occasion. So come along and discover the best places to celebrate and unwind!

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

15 Birthday Trip Ideas That Are Perfect for Celebrating with Friends

1. newport, rhode island.

Newport is the perfect place for a relaxed, coastal getaway. Enjoy classic New England charm while soaking up the salt air and beautiful scenery. 

Start your holiday with a stroll on the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile coastal trail that highlights the best of Newport’s beauty. Then head to its quaint downtown area, where you can peruse art galleries, dine in local restaurants, and stroll the scenic streets. 

But the best way to see Newport is from the water. Consider booking a sightseeing cruise on a vintage lobster boat or classic sailboat. A summertime visit offers the chance to enjoy a sun-soaked beach day. Head over to Easton’s Beach, or rent bikes to visit Gooseberry Beach.

One of our favorite Newport activities (especially for a girl’s trip!) is a mansion tour . The Breakers is the most popular and stately mansion to tour, but we also love The Elms for its gorgeous gardens. 

2. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville has a little bit of everything: serene mountains, fun local culture, unique shopping and dining, and unforgettable attractions. That’s why it’s a great place to celebrate a special occasion – especially a 50th birthday!

We recommend booking a stay in one of its historic downtown hotels, but for a true escape, you could instead reserve a mountain cabin. Either way, you’ll want to make sure you enjoy both the city and its scenic surroundings. 

Of course, you can’t miss touring the Biltmore Mansion (the town’s most popular attraction), complete with time at their wine bar. The estate also offers guided hikes, bike rentals, croquet games, and falconry experiences. 

Back in town, be sure to save up for a full day of shopping and dining. When the weather is good, you could easily spend multiple days simply strolling through its charming streets. 

Nature lovers will want to head into the Blue Ridge Mountains, where there are many hiking trails with breathtaking views. And anyone will appreciate Asheville’s great spas, like Shoji Spa and Lodge , which offers professional treatments in a serene setting. 

3. Savannah, Georgia

Enjoy southern charm, coastal beauty, and unique culture in Savannah . If you’ve never visited this gorgeous Georgia city, your 50th birthday is the perfect excuse. 

Mild winters mean you can enjoy downtown strolls throughout the year, but we still prefer fall and spring for their picture-perfect conditions. Immerse yourself in the historic architecture, delicious food, quaint courtyards, and lively culture of Savannah. 

You need to book a ghost tour of downtown Savannah – the city’s unique history and peculiar hauntings are fascinating. Another option is to stay up late in one of its fun jazz bars or at the Savannah Smiles Dueling Pianos bar . 

If you want to dip your toes in the ocean, take the short drive to Tybee Island. You can dine on local seafood and maybe even see dolphins and sea turtles in their natural habitat. 

4. Charleston, South Carolina

The colorful, cobbled streets are enough to lure most girl groups to Charleston. But there’s more to this vibrant city than what meets the eye. 

Your 50th birthday getaway to Charleston will be full of beautiful sights, amazing food, great music, and plenty of relaxation. 

See the city from a horse-drawn carriage , or rent bikes to explore at your own pace. Consider taking a historical tour of one of its unique homes or neighborhoods, or simply unwind at one of Charleston’s excellent spas. To soak in the sun, take the 20-minute drive to Folly Beach, where you could easily spend an entire day enjoying its unique beach-town vibe. 

For brunch, eat at Park & Grove , which has an unbeatable farm-to-table menu. Seafood dinner is best at Chubby Fish – just get there early to minimize your wait time. 

5. Quebec City and Montreal, Canada

Quebec City and Montreal are great places to celebrate the big 5-0. These Canadian towns are perfect for sightseers who love unique architecture and walkable streets. 

Begin in Quebec City, where you can see Montmorency Falls, a natural wonder that’s larger than Niagara Falls. Also check out Place Royale, a historic square with old-world European architecture and quaint shops. 

Take the 3.5-hour train ride from Quebec City to Montreal. It’s a scenic route, and the business-class service is excellent. 

Once in Montreal, marvel at the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, walk through the Parc Du Mont-Royal, and explore the Montreal Botanical Garden. 

There’s a lot of walking to do in both Quebec City and Montreal, so consider speeding things up by renting a moped – it’s a fun way to see the sights. Montreal is also a great place to take a cooking class . Or, leave the cooking to the pros and enjoy fine dining at L’Express , an incredible French bistro that you must visit while in town.

6. Sedona, Arizona

If you’re looking for a balance between relaxation and adventure, Sedona could be the perfect destination for your 50th birthday vacation. 

Sedona is hailed as a place of healing and sacred energy, so your trip here should definitely include one-of-a-kind spa treatments. Book a treatment (or an entire stay) at The Wilde Resort and Spa to enjoy the hotel’s peaceful atmosphere and luxurious service. 

Join a wine tour to sip and see even more of the area’s natural beauty (without the hassle of driving!). 

And when you’re ready for outdoor adventures, Sedona won’t disappoint. Go horseback riding through the desert or fly high in a hot air balloon. There is also great hiking throughout the area. Sugar Loaf Loop is an easy trail that’s located near town, or consider booking a guided hike to see some of Sedona’s hidden gems. 

7. Cape Cod, Massachusetts 

Cape Cod is quintessentially New England, and you’ll be immersed in its movie-worthy aesthetic and coastal charm. 

Plan your trip here around the best restaurants. Seafood reigns supreme, but you can also find excellent delis and bakeries throughout town. Also, keep your itinerary light – you’ll want plenty of time to relax on its many beautiful beaches. 

Don’t forget to head to one of the area’s downtown districts, where colorful streets, unique shops, and local art galleries can keep you busy for multiple days. 

For a unique stay, book rooms in a local bed and breakfast. Or, book a luxurious stay at Chatham Bars Inn , which features an onsite spa, tennis courts, and an oceanfront heated pool. 

8. Park City, Utah

Park City is best known for its winter sports – and it’s our go-to recommendation for a girls’ ski trip. But even in warm months, you can have a fun-filled 50th birthday getaway in this scenic city. 

Of course, the best things to do in Park City are skiing and snowboarding, but its winter après-ski options can keep everyone in your group entertained. Enjoy great restaurants, live music, and the many adventures at Olympic Park. 

In the warmer months, you can fly fish, horseback ride, hike, or take a scenic yoga class. Plus, there are great spas throughout Park City that will help you unwind, whether you’re taking a break from non-stop skiing or lounging by a fire. 

9. Palm Springs

For a stylish SoCal getaway, head to Palm Springs. This sun-drenched city offers incredible shopping, spas, and adventure, all set in the unique landscape of the California desert. 

Our favorite 50th birthday trip ideas in Palm Springs include visiting Joshua Tree National Park and a day shopping and dining along Palm Canyon Drive. 

For a world-class spa day, you must go to The Spa at Séc-he . It’s a glistening property located in the heart of Downtown Palm Springs, and it’s home to the city’s only natural hot spring. Services include mineral baths, quartz beds, salt caves, and cryotherapy. It’s certainly a rejuvenating way to ring in a new decade of life!

10. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is a popular choice for any big occasion, and your 50th birthday celebration here will be unforgettable. Book a luxurious stay at a world-class hotel and be within walking distance of some of the most lively activities. 

You’ll want to check out some live entertainment while in Sin City. Cirque du Soleil , U2 at The Sphere , Shania Twain, David Copperfield , and Absinthe are popular choices for girls trips. 

Hit the slot machines or go big at a table game. If gambling is not for you, there’s still plenty to do, like shopping, dining, and sightseeing. 

Outside of the city, you can take a day trip to the Grand Canyon , take an ATV tour of the nearby desert , or hike through Red Rock Canyon. 

11. Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale is famous for its luxurious spa resorts and golf clubs, which is reason enough to make it your 50th birthday destination. A girls’ trip here can include wine tasting, massages, and sightseeing. 

There’s a Four Seasons and a Fairmont here, so you can treat yourself to a luxurious stay. 

You can also thoroughly enjoy the great outdoors while in Scottsdale. Take a hot air balloon ride , or white water raft , go hiking, or join a guided mountain bike tour . For a more relaxed way to take in Scottsdale’s unique scenery, you can book a chauffeured driving tour or take a leisurely hike near town. 

12. Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth is a great place for a weekend girls’ getaway. There are endless amounts of great shopping, dining, and nightlife – perfect for groups that want an easy and fun escape. Plus, getting here is a breeze with so many flights coming into DFW airport. 

Fill your days with distillery tours, downtown restaurants, and unique museums. Kimbell Art Museum is incredible, and the National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame is perfect for a girl’s trip. 

The Fort Worth Stockyards has twice-daily cattle drives that you have to check out. There are also regular rodeos and old-fashioned salons in this historic neighborhood. Book a stay at Hotel Drover to be close to all the action.

13. St. Augustine, Florida

Looking for 50th birthday trip ideas that include plenty of sand and sea? St. Augustine offers the classic beach trip your entire group will love, plus a lot of history that will make the vacation even more memorable. 

Your first stop will be the coastline, where crystal clear waters and unique lighthouses await. Crescent Beach is perfect for a beach day, and you can even go horseback riding on this scenic stretch of sand. 

When you’re ready to explore the historic city, consider getting a day pass for the hop-on, hop-off old town trolley, allowing you to see more of town (and its many distilleries and shops) with less walking. 

And when the sunsets, you’re ready to enjoy live music at one of the historic district’s great bars. Or, book a ghost tour for a unique insight into America’s oldest town. 

14. Lake Tahoe, California

Lake Tahoe is a great destination for any group, especially for celebratory girls’ trips. Adventurous travelers will love exploring on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Meanwhile, a relaxed getaway could include a scenic gondola ride or a wine cruise on the lake. 

In the winter, Lake Tahoe is a fun skiing destination with unforgettable scenery. It’s a great location for beginners, so you and your friends can take a group class and hit the easy slopes for a fun day on the mountain. 

Desolation Hotel is a top choice for a girls’ getaway, and you’ll have the best time eating and drinking throughout town. It’s a top place for bonding, adventure, and relaxation. 

15. Banff, Canada

Have you ever been to Banff, Canada? This resort town is located within a national park pleasing luxe travelers and adventure seekers alike. 

In the winter, you can hit the slopes at one of Banff’s three world-class ski resorts. But we prefer summer trips when the weather is great and endless exploration awaits. 

You’ll love relaxing in Banff Upper Hot Springs and dining in one of the town’s scenic restaurants. But be sure to get out and about, either on a driving tour or a hike. Banff is a great place for spotting wildlife, and each corner of the park is filled with stunning views. 

So hit the trails, unwind, and dine in style in Banff – one of our top 50th birthday trip ideas.

Looking for more destinations? Don’t miss the best 40th birthday trip ideas and where to go for a 10th anniversary trip !

The post 15 Unforgettable 50th Birthday Trip Ideas to Take with Friends appeared first on Groups Are A Trip .

If you want an unforgettable trip to celebrate the big 5-0 with friends, head to one of these destinations! They offer fabulous activities and tons of fun!

Ashley Judd Shares "Beautiful" Birthday Tribute to Her Sister Wynonna

Wynonna celebrated her 60th birthday this week.

preview for The Best Country Songs for Every Mood

Ashley says, "Today is an auspicious day. It is my big sister's 60th birthday. To y'all she's the G.O.A.T., the Greatest of All Time. To me, she's the one with whom I compared mosquito bites, checked our tans in Mama and Papa's basement, and caught crawdads in the creek in Aunt Pauline and Uncle Landon's farm in Lawrence County, Kentucky."

She continues, "She was my protector when there was that earthquake when we lived in West Hollywood, and the one with whom I walked through many difficult trials and tribulations: loneliness, poverty, some food insecurity. And here we are, with the extraordinary lives that we have today.

ashley judd, naomi judd and wynonna judd during apla 6th commitment to life concert benefit at universal amphitheater in universal city, california, united states photo by kemazurwireimage

"My big sister is one hell of a woman. She's a grandmother, and can you imagine growing up in the house with that voice?...To y'all, she's a legend. To me, she's sister. So happy birthday. I love you. Holding your hand is my sweet, safe place. I'm always beside you."

Then Ashley is overcome with laughter as she finally says, "Love, your honey bunny."

Wynonna responded in the comments with, "Crying. I love you."

The comments section is filled with loving messages for the sister. Rosie O'Donnell wrote, "beautiful ashley - just beautiful" and Rosanna Arquette said, "🙌👏👏👏👏 happy birthday 🙌to your beautiful sister"

wynonna judd and ashley judd photo by john russellwireimage

One fan wrote, "This is just so endearing… you're everything right in this world." And another commenter said, "It was the laughter at the end for me! 😂So cute!"

We're sending along our warmest birthday wishes to Wynonna! We can't wait to see what this decade brings for the country icon.

Catch Up on Country Music News

louisville, kentucky may 04 wynonna judd and husband cactus moser reac after playing the national anthem before the start of the 150th running of the kentucky derby at churchill downs on may 04, 2024 in louisville, kentucky photo by rob carrgetty images

Country Music Fans Can't Get Over Wynonna's Derby Performance

the music of randy travis with james dupre in concert nashville, tn

Randy Travis Surprised Fans with New Music

indio, california april 27 for editorial use only l r miranda lambert and reba mcentire perform at the t mobile mane stage during the 2024 stagecoach festival at empire polo club on april 27, 2024 in indio, california photo by amy sussmangetty images for stagecoach

Miranda Lambert Calls Reba McEntire a "Class Act"

carly pearce smiling sitting on tufted green velvet couch on her bus, processed with vsco with av4 preset

Exclusive: Peek Inside Carly Pearce's Tour Bus

las vegas, nevada february 11 reba mcentire performs during the super bowl lviii pregame at allegiant stadium on february 11, 2024 in las vegas, nevada photo by kevin mazurgetty images for roc nation

Reba McEntire Drops Major Career News

las vegas, nevada   march 07 dolly parton attends the 57th academy of country music awards at allegiant stadium on march 07, 2022 in las vegas, nevada photo by mike coppolagetty images

What Is Dolly Parton's Net Worth?

Katie Bowlby is Digital Director at Country Living, where she covers gift guides, product reviews, crafts, and TV shows like Yellowstone. She’s currently stitching up a cross-stitch pattern for the magazine’s next issue 

.css-1shyvki:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin-bottom:0;margin-right:-0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-1shyvki:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:none;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:inline-block;}} Country Music News .css-unxkmx:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin:0.7rem auto 0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-unxkmx:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:block;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:none;}}

new york, new york november 03 carrie underwood attends the 38th annual rock  roll hall of fame induction ceremony at barclays center on november 03, 2023 in new york city photo by jeff kravitzfilmmagic

Luke Bryan Teases Unreleased Song Ahead of Tour

carson daly and blake shelton

Carson Daly Called Out Blake Shelton's Duet

wynonna judd and cactus moser

Who is Wynonna Judd's Husband Cactus Moser?

dolly parton

Dolly Parton Just Dropped Huge Career News

zach bryan and megan moroney at hangout fest 2024

It Was the Year of Country for Hangout Music Fest

the voice season 25

Fans Gush Over Reba and Lainey Wilson on The Voice

carrie underwood

Carrie Underwood Has the Cutest Chicken Sweatshirt

wynonna

See Wynonna Judd's 'American Idol' Duet

new york, new york november 03 carrie underwood attends the 38th annual rock  roll hall of fame induction ceremony at barclays center on november 03, 2023 in new york city photo by jeff kravitzfilmmagic

Carrie Underwood's Tour Dates Have Fans Fired Up

2014 mgm grand showcase basketball event oklahoma v washington

Toby Keith's Daughter Accepts His Honorary Degree

brendan mcloughlin and miranda lambert at the 59th academy of country music awards from ford center at the star on may 16, 2024 in frisco, texas photo by gareth pattersonpenske media via getty images

See Miranda Lambert's ACM Awards Look

IMAGES

  1. 16 60th birthday girls trip ideas

    trip ideas for 60th birthday

  2. Personalised 60th Birthday Book

    trip ideas for 60th birthday

  3. TUESDAYS WITH DORIE: Proud mama.... :)

    trip ideas for 60th birthday

  4. 60th Birthday Party Ideas

    trip ideas for 60th birthday

  5. Unforgettable 60th Birthday Party Ideas To Make Their Day

    trip ideas for 60th birthday

  6. 60th bday

    trip ideas for 60th birthday

VIDEO

  1. Shashtipoorthi Celebrations🎉🎊

  2. What I Did for Prince's 60th Birthday

  3. 60th birthday backdrop

  4. 60th Birthday Decorating Ideas #simple #nice

  5. Top 60th Birthday Party Ideas for Mom

  6. Balcony View jacuzzi / The Iberostar experience #newvideo #oneamrittv #cancun #mexico

COMMENTS

  1. 9 Best Places for 60th Birthday

    The timeless charm of European cities offers a magical experience for those seeking a culturally rich 60th birthday vacation. Is Asia a Good Destination For the 60th Birthday? Yes. Asia offers a captivating blend of ancient temples, rich traditions, and exquisite cuisine for an unforgettable 60th birthday adventure.

  2. 20 Best Places In USA To Celebrate A 60th Birthday (2024)

    Boasting magnificent wildlife, snow-capped mountains, and a historic downtown area, Sitka, Alaska is an unforgettable place to go for a 60th birthday celebration in the USA. Boating In The Bay. Sitka has a gorgeous bay, and the best way to experience it is out on the water. What this looks like is up to you.

  3. 10 Best Trips for a 60th Birthday (USA)

    Looking for 60th birthday gift ideas? Turning 60 is a milestone worth celebrating, and what better way to mark this momentous occasion than going on an unforgettable trip. From breathtaking natural wonders to vibrant cityscapes steeped in culture, the USA offers an abundance of options for the perfect 60th birthday getaway.

  4. Great Places to Celebrate Milestone Birthdays (and Special Occasions)

    There are birthdays and then there are birthdays. Certain milestones - 21, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100 - are significant events. Such moments call for a memorable celebratory trip. And ...

  5. The Best Trips to Take in Your 60s

    From a train journey through the Canadian Rockies to a tour of the pyramids in Egypt, these are the top vacations for seniors over 60. With 61 being the average age of retirement in the U.S., your ...

  6. 10 Destinations Perfect for Celebrating Milestone Birthdays

    Whether you're a newly minted 21 or celebrating the big 5-0, we've got options—both domestic and international—for ringing in your milestone birthday just right. Here, 10 birthday trip ideas that'll get you excited for the next decade, from the rugged wilderness of Alaska's Denali National Park to the white-hot clubs of Argentina ...

  7. 60th Birthday Trip Ideas: Top Destinations To Mark The Milestone

    Whether it's 50th getaway for couples or 50th birthday trip ideas for him, this vacation will stand the test of time. Don't forget about 50th birthday travel ideas for her; from the tranquil vineyards of Tuscany, luxury spa retreats in Bali, to a luxury villa amongst wildlife in Costa Rica, ensuring a celebration that she'll remember forever.

  8. The 27 Best 60th Birthday Vacation Ideas

    60th birthday vacation ideas: Feast the senses. A birthday is the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a sensory overload. There are 60th birthday trip ideas that are sure to satisfy every one of your senses, whether that means eating exquisite cuisine or seeing beautiful sights. 1. Wine tour

  9. Birthday trip ideas: 53 inspiring places to celebrate your birthday

    Serena celebrated her 21st and 28th birthdays in Las Vegas - a classic birthday trip idea. Las Vegas is one of the best places to celebrate a birthday, whether it be your 21st birthday or 51st birthday. Known as the sin city, Las Vegas has something for everyone, whether you want to be nice or naughty. Located in the desert of Nevada and only ...

  10. 7 Best Birthday Trip Ideas, According to T+L's A-List Advisors

    Olivia Young. No matter your age or stage of life, every birthday can be celebrated with a big trip. Some exciting destinations are perfect for visiting in your 20s, like backpacking through ...

  11. Where Should I Travel for My Birthday? 31 Best Places to Go

    Here are some cheap travel destinations that make excellent birthday vacation ideas: 1. Chicago, Illinois. Kyle Kroeger / ViaTravelers. Like New York but more affordable, Chicago is an excellent destination for a birthday trip. It's one of the best places to visit in the US for good reason. Lakeside style, cutting-edge culture, and Midwestern ...

  12. Best vacations for 60 year olds: 7 trips to take in your 60s

    The best vacations for 60 year olds to inspire, intrigue, excite and delight. 1. Bike, Barge, and Tulips: The Netherlands. (Image credit: Getty Images) Best known for its iconic tulips and twirling windmills, the Netherlands also boasts the highest number of cyclists per capita than anywhere else on the planet.

  13. 20 Birthday Trip Ideas for Every Type of Traveler

    17. Machu Picchu, Peru. Credit: Bérenger Zyla / Getty Images. More adventurous travelers might consider spending a birthday visiting Machu Picchu. Hike, bike, raft, or zip line to the ancient ...

  14. 19 Vibrant 60th Birthday Destinations in the USA

    So if you're looking for 60th birthday trip ideas, Los Angeles should be on your list. One of the most popular attractions in Los Angeles is the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a sidewalk embedded with stars that honor the entertainment industry's biggest names. Visitors can stroll along the boulevard and take pictures with their favorite ...

  15. 11 Best Places to Go for Your Birthday

    21st birthday: Memphis. Beale Street's bars and clubs thrum nightly with hip-hop and live Delta blues, but Paula & Raifords Disco is the best spot to really dance up a storm on your big 2-1. The ...

  16. 60th birthday holiday ideas

    60th birthday holidays for couples. Simpson Travel has put together a collection of all-suite adult-only hotels in Greece and Turkey - just the friendly, stylish, authentic place you always dreamed about. You could experience the unique candlelit atmosphere of the Verona Opera Festival.

  17. The best 60th birthday holiday ideas

    8. Admire world-class art. Art lovers celebrating their 60th should beeline for culture-packed Paris, which is home to a string of world-class galleries and museums. While there are big hitters like the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay and Musée Picasso Paris, there are also smaller, lesser-known venues worth seeking out.

  18. 15 Best Birthday Trip Ideas For Every Age

    Find excellent farm-to-table cuisine at the resort's many restaurants like Madison's and Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar, and definitely book an appointment at the European-inspired spa. The last thing you should have on your birthday is a worry, and Old Edwards, it's hardly possible. More On Highlands.

  19. The ultimate birthday getaways

    Mosey around the antique shops, stop in the art galleries, and nosh at the local eateries for a birthday well spent. Swanky 60th birthday travel ideas Flickr via Steve Bozak. Hello mellow: You're 60, baby! Of all the 60th birthday trip ideas under the sun, you belong on a Honolulu beach on Oahu with a frothy drink in your hand. You've ...

  20. 60th Birthday Trip Ideas for Mom

    1 Las Vegas Weekend Adventure. Vegas is well known as a great vacation destination for milestone birthdays but a trip to Sin City does not have to be all about malls, slot machines and novelty restaurants. There is so much more to explore in this region and lots of outdoorsy fun to be had. This trip works, whatever your birthday month.

  21. Celebrate your 60th birthday with these recommended holiday experiences

    Your 60th birthday is a major milestone that should be celebrated in a big way, and what better option than to embark on an unforgettable holiday.Now is the time to start planning if you hope to experience an adventure of a lifetime in 2019 - with everything from the tropics of the Caribbean to the wilds of British Columbia, there's sure to be a getaway on this list that's calling your name.

  22. Ten 60th Birthday Celebration Ideas

    Here are our top ideas for a 60th birthday: Cooking Class and Dinner Party - Arrange a private cooking class followed by a dinner party with close friends and family, celebrating good food and great company. Personalized Workshop - Arrange a workshop or class. Whether it's painting, pottery, or photography, providing a chance to learn and ...

  23. 60th Birthday Ideas: 30 Heart-warming Ways To Celebrate Turning 60!

    Fun and Meaningful 60 th Birthday Ideas. 1. Reflect and Reminisce: Start the day with a reflective moment. Invite the birthday honoree to sit down with a scrapbook, photo album, or even a journal filled with memories. Let them journey back through their lives adventures and accomplishments, savoring every moment. 2.

  24. 15 Unforgettable 50th Birthday Trip Ideas to Take with Friends

    take an ATV tour of the nearby desert, or hike through Red Rock Canyon. 11. Scottsdale, Arizona. Scottsdale is famous for its luxurious spa resorts and golf clubs, which is reason enough to make ...

  25. Wynonna Judd Poses With Celebrities for 60th Birthday Party

    13 hours ago. Wynonna Judd celebrated a milestone birthday with a little help from some celebrity friends. On Monday, June 3, the country singer took to Instagram to share a carousel of photos ...

  26. Watch Ashley Judd's Beautiful Birthday Tribute to Sister Wynonna

    Ashley's personal message honors their close bond. Ashley says, "Today is an auspicious day. It is my big sister's 60th birthday. To y'all she's the G.O.A.T., the Greatest of All Time. To me, she's the one with whom I compared mosquito bites, checked our tans in Mama and Papa's basement, and caught crawdads in the creek in Aunt Pauline and ...