5 Fun Group Getaways to Take with Your Friends

Not only does traveling allow you to see new destinations and immerse yourself in culture, it also helps you create memories and build deeper connections with your travel companions. That is why I have been intentionally traveling with friends this year. What I love the most about our trips is that we walk away closer than we were before.

We create memories that still put a smile on our face and leave us wanting more. If it’s been a while, or you have never planned a getaway with friends, I encourage you to make it happen; even if just for a weekend. Check out these five fun weekend getaway destinations to visit with friends!

Beverly Hills Beverly Hills

 

Los Angeles

Traveling to L.A. for business over the years didn’t leave much free time to explore, but on my most recent trip, I made it a point to leave some free time to explore and loved it. One of my favorite aspects of L.A., is that there is always something to do. After flying into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), I suggest you drive to one of the many In-N-Out Burger locations for a bite to eat. Once you are settled in, you’re going to want to check out:

Madame Tussauds Hollywood wax museum Madame Tussauds Hollywood wax museum

 

Miami

Known for its beaches and nightlife, there is something for everyone in Miami. After flying into Miami International Airport (MIA), I encourage you to indulge in Cuban cuisine at Versailles Cuban Restaurant. Once you are ready to begin your adventures, make it a point to visit the following destinations:

  • Wynwood Walls, a unique outdoor destination featuring huge, colorful street murals by artists from around the globe. It also has some fun nightlife and various dining options, such as KYU, a Modern Asian-style eatery or Wynwood Kitchen & Bar, that offers indoor or outdoor dining featuring famous artists' works & live music.
  • Tour a stone sculpture garden, built by one man, Edward Leedskalnin, at the Coral Castle Museum. Built at a time when there were no modern construction tools, even to this day no one knows how Ed created the Coral Castle.
  • Go for a dip at the Venetian Pool, a historic U.S. public swimming pool located in Coral Gables, Florida.

Experience South Beach, which is known for its beaches and the glamorous scene around its happening nightspots and celebrity-chef eateries.

South Beach South Beach

 

New Orleans

I went to New Orleans for the first time with a bunch of friends earlier this year and it was so much fun! We went during Mardi Gras, which is something I never thought I would do but am glad I did. Whether you are there for the food or the ghost stories, you will have a blast. You can kickstart your adventure to the Big Easy by flying into New Orleans Louis Armstrong International Airport. Here are some fun things you should definitely do:

New Orleans New Orleans
  • A Ghost Walking Tour. Not being a fan of ghost stories, I was apprehensive at first, but it was actually not scary at all and hearing all of the tragic stories that led to the deaths and hauntings was quite interesting.
  • Learn about the history of pharmacology at the Historical Pharmacy Museum. The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum showcases an extensive collection and offers educational programs that help preserve the rich history of pharmacy and healthcare in Louisiana, past and present.
  • Eat beignets at Cafe Du Monde. This is a must! You will not regret it.
  • Saint Louis Cemetery Number One Walking Tour. Visit the burial site of voodoo queen Marie Laveau and other historical notables in 18th and 19th century vaults. Did you know that Nicolas Cage already has a plot there? It is explained why during the tour.
Saint Louis Cemetery Number One, New Orleans Saint Louis Cemetery Number One, New Orleans

 

Orlando

Whether your adventures include enjoying Orlando’s numerous attractions, dining or shopping, you and your travel buddies are sure to have a great time! While theme parks are the main attraction that come to mind when you think of Orlando, there are many other activities to enjoy with friends while you are there. So, start your trip flying into Orlando International Airport (MCO) and let the fun begin!

  • Enjoy drinks, dinner and dancing at Universal CityWalk Orlando.  With 32 restaurants that include, Smashburger, Vivo Italian Kitchen and the Hard Rock Café Hollywood, there is something for everyone to feast on.
  • Glide across the headwaters of the Florida Everglades at speeds up to 40 mph at Boggy Creek Airboat Rides. During the 45-minute tour aboard the airboat, you’ll see a wide range of exotic wildlife.
  • Featuring 97 challenges for climbers of every skill level, including swings, nets, ropes, a trapeze and more, the Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park is full of fun adventures that will get your adrenaline going.

Watch the Blue Man Group and you’ll enjoy a performance that combines comedy, theater, rock concert and dance party all in one. If you opt for the VIP Experience Ticket, you’ll also get to you’ll get an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the theater and have the chance to play a Blue Man Group instrument. Plus, you’ll get the best seats in the house, souvenir popcorn and soda, a private meet-and-greet with a Blue Man and more.

Blue Man Group in Orlando Blue Man Group in Orlando

 

Seattle

Boasting mountains, beautiful forests, a ton of fun things to do and some amazing coffee, a trip to Seattle, Washington state’s largest city, is a must! Fly into Seattle Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to pick up your rental car, grab some coffee at Storyville Coffee Pike Place and then check out these hot spots:

Seattle Space Needle Seattle Space Needle
  • Snap a few selfies in front of The Gum Wall. At 8 feet high and 54 feet wide, there are an estimated over 50 pieces of gum per brick or over 250,000 wads of gum on the wall.
  • Check out fish being thrown at Pike Place Market, Seattle’s original farmers market, established in 1907. Not only can you do some shopping, but if you happen to go at the right time, you just may see them throwing fish. They also have scheduled events throughout the year and if you happen to go on the evening of the last Thursday of the month, you’ll be able to enjoy the after-hours market featuring artist tables, food, music and drinks.
  • Take in the views from the Space Needle, an observation tower. Not only it is a landmark of the Pacific Northwest, it is also an icon of Seattle that allows you to get the best views of the city.
  • Stroll through storefronts and sidewalks that were entombed when the city rebuilt on top of itself after the Great Fire of 1889 with the Underground Tour
Seattle Gum Wall Seattle Gum Wall

Whether you decide to plan your next getaway with friends to one of these destinations or a city of your choice, no matter where your travel plans take you, each destination and the unique experience it brings will create a stronger connection with your travel crew.

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About the Author

Leanette Fernandez

Leanette Fernandez, owner and editor of FuntasticLife.com, is a happily married Latina who is also a proud mom of 2 beautiful children. Blogging since 2010, she is passionate about having fun, traveling with her family and helping others. Leanette is living her best life one adventure at a time.