Hey East Coasters…looking for a girls’ trip idea where you don’t need to cross time zones or spend too much time in transit? I’ve got you covered! Up and down the East Coast of the USA, these girls weekend getaway ideas are perfect for wine lovers, history buffs, outdoor adventurers, beach goers, and small town enthusiasts.
Whether you want to relax and hang with your friends, enjoy great food and fun, or party the night away, I’ve got a suggestion for you. Oh, and the good news? They don’t have to break the bank either.
East Coast Weekend Getaways for You Next Girls’ Trip
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Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is brimming with history, great food, and its unique southern charm. Slightly quieter than its neighbor Charleston to the north, it now more affordable than ever to get to Savannah using budget airlines such as Breeze, Allegiant, and Frontier.
Take a ghost tour, explore Savannah’s stunning squares on a history walking tour, go bar hopping on River Street, or sample some of the city’s best restaurants. Take a co*cktail making class or visit the speakeasy in the American Prohibition Museum, which tells the history of the temperance movement. You can even enjoy a beach day at Tybee Island, just 20 minutes away, home to three miles of beautiful beaches, locally-caught seafood and historic sites.
Where to stay: The Alida is a 173-room boutique hotel situated on historic Savannah’s River Street in the burgeoning Plant Riverside District. The Alida features a heated and chilled year-round saltwater pool with private cabanas, The Lost Square outdoor rooftop bar, Rhett, southern coastal cuisine, and The Trade Room chic lobby bar.
Manchester, Vermont
One of the cutest small towns in Vermont, Manchester is a perfect spot for a girls’ trip. In town you will find outlet shopping alongside Vermont brands like Vermont Flannel or Orvis, fun activities like glass blowing at Manchester Hot Glass or gaming at Pastime Pinball, or spend all afternoon browsing the fabulous Northshire Books independent bookstore.
Vermont also offers plenty of outdoor adventure including hiking, skiing, fly fishing, and even learning to off-road with the Land Rover Driving Experience.
Where to Stay: The Equinox Resort & Spa is the perfect place for a girls’ trip. The historic setting of this luxury inn, combined with a prime location, spacious grounds, and amenities that include a spa and pool, there is plenty to enjoy.
Miami, Florida
Miami is the classic choice for friend looking for fun, fashion, food, and more. With stunning beaches, dynamic nightlife, premier shopping destinations, culinary delights, exciting water sports, rejuvenating spas, and a thriving art scene, what’s not to love? Plus you are going to want to document your trip with numerous Instagram-worthy spots.
Enjoy the vibes of South Beach, embark on a Wynwood Art walk to enjoy the area’s most stunning murals, sample traditional Cuban cuisine on a food tour, or get off-the-beaten path. Enjoy a tropical escape in the heart of Miami Beach with a stroll throughMiami Beach Botanical Gardenfeaturing 100 palm species, orchids, and native plants like the corky stem, which attracts Florida’s state butterfly, the zebra longwing.
Dive into Miami Beach’s architectural heritage at The Art Deco Museum. Curated by the Miami Design Preservation League, this museums showcases three historic design styles: Mediterranean Revival, Art Deco, and Miami Modern (MiMo). For something more trendy, theMuseum of Illusionson Lincoln Road sparks imagination with over 40 interactive 3D illusions, perfect for captivating photos.
Where to Stay: as a destination vacation, the right hotel can make your trip and in Miami, there is no shortage of options. The Eden Roc Miami Beach & Nobu Hotel Miami Beachis set directly on Miami Beach, offering relaxation by the sea with luxurious accommodations and amenities including exquisite dining at the renowned Nobu Restaurant and treatments at the Esencia Wellness Spa.
For pure relaxation, book the Hotel Victor South Beachand enjoy its K’alma Spa, featuring a Turkish-style hammam, sauna, meditation room, and crystal-themed spa suites offering massages, facials, and body treatments. The Betsyis a luxury boutique hotel located at the serene end of Ocean Drive, where you can enjoy cultural events like Library Socials and live jazz performances, as well as its Ocean Decks with stunning views, a rooftop pool, and sunrise yoga.
Dahlonega, Georgia
Just an hour outside of Atlanta, Dahlonega offers small town charm and all the makings of a great girls trips including wine, shopping, spa relaxation, and outdoor adventure. In the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Dahlonega is home to Georgia’s official wine country. From Italianate hillside mansions to Appalachian-style lodges, you and your friends can tour five distinctive wineries and visit several tasting rooms. You can even take a “Grapes and Ghosts” Wine Tour that mixes history, haunted tales, and local wines.
With an award-winning downtown and a Historic District featuring restored wood and brick structures on the National Register, Dahlonega is big on charm. Many of the downtown restaurants have wide porches perfect for taking in the scenery and the square features a wide array of specialty retail shops including boutiques, antiques, pottery, furniture and home décor, gift shops, art galleries, jewelry, candy and specialty foods.If retail therapy isn’t relaxing enough, check out one of Dahlonega’s day spas for a massage, facial, manicure, or pedicure.
If your friends like to stay active, this is your chance to hike a portion of the historic Appalachian Trail. The southern terminus of the AT is just outside Dahlonega on Springer Mountain. There are also plenty of waterfalls, road cycling through the gaps and mountain biking on trails, kayaking on the Chestatee River, and more for adventure seekers.
Where to Stay: Dahlonega offers a variety of accommodations from quaint B&B’s and Inns and resorts to a variety of rental options. Luxury seekers will enjoy the peaceful mountain setting of the Dahlonega Resort and Vineyard or the quaint downtown location of Dahlonega Inn on Main. For something different, Triple Creek Farmshas three amazing treehouse rental options on over 80 acres that offer the perfect blend of nature and modern amenities for overnight visitors.
Seneca Lake, New York
The Finger Lakes region in New York State is a perfect spot for wine-loving friends groups. Whether you stay in Ithaca or Watkins Glen, it is easy to explore the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. If your girlfriends are anything like mine, we love a good wine tasting (especially one that supports other women!), a hike with a view, or a spa experience, and the Seneca Lake Wine Trail checks every box.
Be sure to enjoy a gorge-ous hike atWatkins Glen State Park’s Gorge Trailand encounter 19 scenic waterfalls along the way. It makes for themostInstagrammable photos!
After a hike, head over toThree Brothers Wineries and Estatesto enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and sip somePassion Feet Wine, a wine project to honor “bold, brazen, and brilliant” women and one of three wine-tasting rooms onsite. If wine is not your thing,War Horse Brewingis perfect for grabbing a pint instead. Don’t forget to eat lunch at their charming cafe,Iron Heart Coffee Co. and Eatery.
Afterward, a girls’ afternoon atBelhurst Castle’s spa is necessary. Wine spigots can be found in the halls of this historic multi-hotel, complete with two restaurants and a salon, too!
With dinner atPort’s Cafeand some shopping in the charming town of Geneva or a visit to the Corning Museum of Glass the next day, it’s the perfect recipe for a girls’ trip, East Coast Style.
Where to stay: The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel offers a luxurious stay on the shores of Seneca Lake, just a short walk to downtown Watkins Glen.
St Augustine, Florida
As home to the so-called “Fountain of Youth”, St. Augustine is a perfect location for a girlfriend getaway (at least for this middle-aged mom). Located on the northeast coast of Florida, you have a mix of history that dates back to the Spanish explorers, and beautiful beaches.
In town you can enjoy trolley tours, ghost tours, food tours, Flagler College campus tours (worth it to see the incredible architecture), and a visit to the Lightner Museum. Of course, don’t miss your opportunity to sip from the Fountain of Youth (yes, it is from a stinky sulphur spring) or walk along the walls of the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument.
Where to Stay: You have your choice of beach or town, with thePonte Vedra Inn & Club offering The ideal spot right on the beach, with an on-site spa, golf, tennis, and dining. If you would rather be in the heart of everything, plan on staying in downtown St. Augustine at the luxurious Casa Monica Resort & Spa.
Charleston, West Virginia
Sure, Charleston, South Carolina is a popular girls trip destination, but try something different and hop on a Breeze Airlines flight to Charleston, West Virginia instead. This choice is perfect for small town fanatics, outdoor adventurers, and nature seekers.
In the charming downtown of Charleston, you can dine on delicious meals, sip local brews and shop at quaint stores. Catch gorgeous views of the shining gold capitol dome and continue on a refreshing walk along the Kanawha River. In the evening, enjoy authentic Appalachian sound with a live performance at Mountain Stage.
Don’t linger too long though because National Park lovers and thrill seekers will want to drive an hour along the Midland Trail Scenic Byway (US-60), for a scenic route dotted with waterfalls along the way. Take stops and check in to earn exclusive prizes from the West Virginia Waterfall Trail while making your way to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.
No matter your level of adventure, the Gorge has something for you. Get your adrenaline pumping with a whitewater rafting trip, zip line rush or thrilling rock climb. Slow down the pace with gorgeous hiking trails, a jet boat or Bridge Walk tour.
Where to stay: There are many cozy cabins or try something different with a one-of-a-kind treehouse, yurt or glamping dome. Check out some of the lodging options.
Key West, Florida
The Florida Keys and Key West make a perfect girls weekend destination for when you are craving a trip to the islands but don’t everyone doesn’t have a passport (or the time to get there!) Kick things off with the entertaining Sunset Celebration in Mallory Square. For an hour or two before the sun sets, the square is full of food carts, street performers, and people ready to party. Be sure to line up at the water’s edge early to get a prime spot for watching the sunset or you will find yourself holding your camera above your head to get a good picture.
There are over 400 restaurants to try in Key West, but if you can’t decide, I’d recommend a Key West Food Tour. Beyond the bars, restaurants, and shops, Key West is really about the water more than the beach. Make sure to book a group excursion for either a sunset catamaran or a snorkeling and dolphin watching cruise. Whatever you do, don’t leave town without a group photo at the Southernmost Point in the USA marker.
Where to stay: The Southernmost Beach Resort is a unique spot for your girls’ trip with its newly renovated Guesthouses. These four meticulously restored Victorian homes offer adult-only accommodations with a blend of a bed and breakfast’s intimate charm and a modern resort’s amenities and service…perfect for a girl group looking for a cozy and private island getaway. Guests enjoy full access to Southernmost Beach Resort’s extensive luxury amenities including beachfront spa treatments, yoga classes, co*cktail tastings, and more.
If you don’t want to make the trek all the way down to Key West, the Playa Largo Resort & Spa is just an hour drive from Miami but can transport you to a tropical Caribbean-esque destination. One of the best parts of taking a girls’ trip to this resort is the ability for the whole group to stay together…without crowding into one cramped hotel room. The private Playa Largo Ocean Residences are new three- and four-bedroom, townhome style accommodations with a signature “Florida Keys” aesthetic just across the street from the resort. These separate accommodations give groups all the perks and seclusion of a private residence (including an onsite community clubhouse and pool) with access to the full service and amenities of the luxury resort including customized wellness treatments at the Ocean Spa, mixology classes, relaxing in a hammock on the private beach, paddle boarding and kayaking, or renting a cabana by the pool or even a floating water cabana on the Bay (they are like your own private island).
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod can make a lovely girls trip destination, especially if you visit during the shoulder seasons and you can enjoy the gorgeous beaches and scenic beauty without the crowds. From casual hangouts on the beach to bike rides along the Cape Cod Rail Trail, to a round of golf, this destination is meant for spending quality time together.
Take day trips into Brewster, Chatham, or even out to Provincetown for some shopping, or book a whale watching tour for an afternoon to remember! Skaket Beach is a lovely spot to enjoy a sunset and historic Nauset Light is a picturesque photo spot.
Where to stay: Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club is located on a sprawling 429-acre property and The Mansion, a AAA Four-Diamond Victorian-style building that’s earned a coveted spot on the National Register of Historic Places, sets the stage for a luxurious, upscale girls getaway. Ocean Edge offers a Girlfriends Spa Getaway package which includes a guest room in The Mansion, a welcome bottle of Ocean Edge sparkling wine, a late check-out of 1:00pm, and The Sweet Escape Massage. Outside of the spa, you and your friends can enjoy a private beach, five on-site pools, multiple tennis and pickleball courts, the area’s only Nicklaus design golf course, and various dining options.
Raleigh, North Carolina
People are flocking to Raleigh not just for its college town appeal, but for its warm welcome and accessible, yet big city vibes. This blossoming Southern metropolis has a central location on the East Coast, making it a great meeting point for a dispersed friend group, with easy access by plane, train, or car.
Raleigh is a perfect choice for friend that want to reconnect over great food, shopping, and city exploration. In downtown Raleigh, you’ll find shopping gems likeDECORaleigh,Nashona and theRaleigh Denim Workshop. Continue your shopping spree over in North Hills, where you’ll findFleur BoutiqueandQuail Ridge Books, among manyothers.
As dinner time rolls around,enjoy a sophisticated bite inspired by Paris atCoquette—a true French brasserie specializing in authentic cuisine. If you’re in the mood for an extravagant and upscale dining experience, look no further thanTamasha Modern Indian. Or swing byMadrefor tasty small plates, perfect for sharing amongfriends. The restaurant’s warm and welcoming décor will be the highlight of your night.
Where to stay: The MaytoninCaryoffers the amenities of a first-class hotel with the intimacy of a bed and breakfast. For an escape in a bit more of a natural setting,The Umstead Hotel and Spaistucked away into 12 acres of woodlands and overlooks a private lake in Cary. This Five-Star and Five-Diamond property draws inspiration from nature and art with a stimulating spa and a serene woodland setting.
Moosehead Lake, Maine
I’ve taken many girls’ trips to Maine to Portland and even sailing on a Maine Windjammer Cruise, but my favorite Maine girls’ trip was to Moosehead Lake. For anyone looking to do some hiking, napping, moose watching, or just hanging out at a cabin and watching a gorgeous sunset, this is the spot.
Moosehead Lake is Maine’s largest lake and it abuts the 100-Acre Wilderness, and some of Maine’s top hikes. If you really enjoy hiking, stop off at the visitor center in Greenville and pick up your Pinnacle Pursuit passport. Hike all six of the mountains included in this challenge (Mount Kineo, Number Four Mountain, Whitecap Mountain, Eagle Rock, Big Moose Mountain, and Borestone Mountain) and become a registered member of the Moosehead Pinnacle Pursuit.
In the small town of Greenville at the foot of Moosehead Lake, you can meet up withNorthwoods Outfittersfor a moose safari or just head north to the town Kokadjo and look for moose hanging out in Lazy Tom’s Bog. Hike hard and relax just as hard by sharing a cabin on the lake (or a nearby pond) or one of the area’s hotels on the lake.
Where to Stay: Blair Hill Inn is a luxuryten-guest room country estateset above the lake, making it perfect for a girls’ trip.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
For a car-free getaway, jet down to Fort Lauderdale in South Florida for a getaway full of sun-soaked relaxation, pampering, and fun in the sun. Experience the city from the water – with boat rentals and party-centric sandbars, paddle boarding and kayaking on the Intracoastal, and of course the destination’s famed beaches and lively beach bars that you can reach via water taxi.
When it’s time to show off that sun-kissed glow, hop over to Las Olas for boutique shopping and show-stopping co*cktails and bites at Moxies and Louie Bossi. For those that want to stay active, take a bike ride along Riverwalk or through local urban oasis Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. There’s no shortage of activities in the Venice of America.
Where to stay: The W Fort Lauderdale is a beachfront hotel with a swoon-worthy rooftop pool with daybeds and DJs on the weekends, complimentary cruiser bikes, sunrise beach yoga, pampering at the AWAY spa, and award-winning cuisine and co*cktails on-site. And if that isn’t enough, W Fort Lauderdale rolls out the pink carpet for guests that want a VIP Barbie-core experience with their poolside offering for groups — Pink Paradise. Perfect for up to 10, the hotel has turned a section of WET Deck, the hotel’s chic rooftop pool, into a Barbieland where guests can splash out on the pink velvet couch or soak up the sun in lip chairs while enjoying decadent themed co*cktails and snapping IG-worthy pictures in the iconic Barbie Box.
Newport, Rhode Island
Any fans of The Gilded Age need to plan a girls’ trip to Newport, Rhode Island. Retrace the steps of New York’s high society and explore the massive mansions (or “summer cottages”) that are historical monuments to this era.
Of course Newport is also known as a yachting capital and its position on the “Classic Coast” makes it perfect for a summer weekend getaway. Enjoy classic clam chowder at The Black Pearl, sip co*cktails on the rooftop of the Vanderbilt Hotel, and take a sunset sail through the harbor.
From scenic drives, beach days, and wine tastings at Newport Vineyards, to watching matches at the International Tennis Hall of Fame or partaking in stomping the divots at a Newport Polo match, there is plenty to do with friends in Newport.
Where to Stay: Newport Harbor Island Resort has great views and outdoor spaces to enjoy drinks and pool time with friends.
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Tamara Gruber
Tamara is an over 50, award-winning travel writer, and recent empty nester based in Rhode Island. After years of writing about family travel on We3Travel and inspiring wanderlust as co-host of the Vacation Mavens family travel podcast, she started Your Time to Fly as a place to share ideas for girlfriend getaways, romantic escapes, and solo female travel for midlife women.
