USA: Destinations You Can’t Miss With Friends
The United States is a land of diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich culture, making it the perfect canvas for an epic group travel adventure. Whether you’re a close-knit friendship group, a lively team outing, or just a bunch of travel enthusiasts, the options are as grand as the Grand Canyon and as thrilling as a rollercoaster ride in Orlando. With a myriad of destinations and activities, domestic travel in the US offers an experience as varied as the country itself. From the towering mountains of the West to the historic charm of the East, there’s no shortage of destinations that cater to group dynamics and shared memories.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll not only highlight where to go but also how to make the most of your group getaway, right from planning to the final selfie at your chosen destination.
Getting the Best Bang for Your Group’s Buck
Traveling with friends is a unique experience that can foster closer relationships, create lifelong memories, and perhaps even save a few dollars along the way. Here’s your passport to an unforgettable group travel experience in the USA.
Best Destinations for Group Travel
When it comes to choosing a location for group travel, your options in the US are vast and varied. The key to a successful group trip is selecting a destination that offers a little something for everyone. Consider these top picks for an adventure-packed excursion with your buddies:
New York City, New York – Urban Playground for All
There’s no place on earth quite like New York City, especially when you’re navigating its bustling streets with a group of friends. From the iconic skyline of Manhattan to the cultural melting pot of Queens, every borough offers a unique experience.
What to Do: Explore Central Park, take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty, catch a Broadway show, or discover the vibrant street art scene in Brooklyn’s Bushwick neighborhood.
Where to Eat: Enjoy a slice of authentic New York pizza, indulge in a lavish brunch in the Upper East Side, or grab a ‘dirty water dog’ from a street cart.
Where to Stay: The city that never sleeps has accommodation options for all budgets. Consider booking a spacious apartment on Airbnb for a quintessential New York experience.
Yosemite National Park, California – Nature’s Cathedral
If your friend group is more the outdoorsy type, Yosemite’s granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias provide the perfect backdrop for adventure and relaxation.
What to Do: Hike the trails to see famous landmarks like Half Dome and El Capitan, spot wildlife in their natural habitat, and stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the country.
Where to Camp: With 13 popular campgrounds in the park, you’re spoiled for choice. Reserve a spot at Upper Pines Campground for a classic Yosemite camping trip.
Where to Hire Guides: For more treacherous hikes and climbing activities, it’s advisable to have a professional guide. Yosemite Mountaineering School offers lessons and guided climbs.
New Orleans, Louisiana – A Melting Pot of Music, Food, and Culture
A group trip to the Big Easy is sure to be full of moments that you’ll be reminiscing about for years to come. This city’s festive spirit and rich history make it a top pick for group vacations.
What to Do: Take a historic walking tour, listen to live jazz music on Frenchmen Street, and enjoy a traditional crawfish boil at a local eatery.
Where to Stay: Opt for a rental property in the heart of the French Quarter or book a historic hotel for a genuine New Orleans experience.
Group-Friendly Tours: Ghost tours, riverboat cruises, and swamps tours are just a few excursions to entertain your group.
Budget-Friendly Options
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. The USA is home to many destinations that offer affordable group accommodations, dining, and entertainment. Here are a few worth considering:
Austin, Texas – The Live Music Capital on a Shoestring
Austin’s live music scene, world-class BBQ, and laid-back atmosphere are perfect for groups looking for a good time without breaking the bank.
What to Do: Visit the State Capitol, take a dip in Barton Springs Pool, and listen to free outdoor concerts during the summer months.
Where to Eat: Explore the city’s food truck scene, where you can find affordable and delicious tacos, barbecue, and more.
Where to Stay: There are plenty of budget-friendly hostels and hotels near downtown, like the The Driskill, or consider a group-friendly vacation rental.
Colorado Springs, Colorado – Adventure in the Rockies
With its close proximity to Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs is an ideal destination for groups who love the great outdoors.
What to Do: Hike the numerous trails, go rock climbing, or take a scenic drive to the top of Pikes Peak.
Where to Stay: The area offers affordable cabin rentals, campgrounds, and budget hotels with stunning mountain views.
Group Activities: Many of the local parks and hiking trails are free, so you can spend your days in Colorado’s natural beauty without spending a dime.
Portland, Oregon – A Food Lover’s Paradise
Portland’s reputation for trendy eateries, craft breweries, and food carts makes it an attractive and affordable destination for foodie friend groups.
What to Do: Explore the city’s many parks and gardens, shop tax-free at the eclectic boutiques, and hop on a bike to explore local neighborhoods.
Where to Eat: With over 600 food trucks and a myriad of affordable dining options, you won’t have trouble finding a great meal that won’t break the bank.
Where to Stay: Portland offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to trendy boutique hotels in the city center.
Road Trip Ideas
Few things bond a group of friends like a classic American road trip. The USA’s sprawling highways and scenic byways offer countless routes to explore. Here are some quintessential road trips:
The Pacific Coast Highway – Ocean Views and Coastal Cities
This iconic route from San Francisco to Los Angeles boasts breathtaking ocean views and access to charming coastal towns.
Must-See Stops: Monterey Bay Aquarium, the Big Sur coastline, and the historic mission town of San Juan Capistrano.
Length: Approximately 10 hours of driving time without stops, but plan to take at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the experience.
Recommendations: Pack a picnic and stop at scenic overlooks like Bixby Creek Bridge for unbeatable views.
The Great River Road – A Historic Journey Along the Mighty Mississippi
For history buffs, this scenic route tracing the path of the Mississippi River offers a glimpse into America’s past, with numerous historical sites and charming river towns.
Must-See Stops: Vicksburg National Military Park, Natchez Trace Parkway, and the Mark Twain Boyhood Home in Hannibal, Missouri.
Length: Over 3,700 miles from the river’s source in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Plan for multiple days to a week or more, depending on how far you wish to travel.
Recommendations: Research and choose specific segments to focus on or take a different approach — like biking along the river.
Music Cities – Nashville to New Orleans
This route celebrates the soul of American music with stops in Nashville, Memphis, and New Orleans, providing a rich cultural tapestry and diverse musical legacy.
Must-See Stops: Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Graceland in Memphis, and the Preservation Hall in New Orleans.
Length: About 7-8 hours of driving time without stops. A week-long trip provides ample time to explore and enjoy the music scene in each city.
Recommendations: Plan your trip around music festivals or live performances for an extra special experience.
Group Travel Tips
Planning a trip with friends can be both exciting and challenging. Here are some tips to ensure smooth sailing:
Plan Together but Allow for Flexibility
Collaborate with your group to plan activities and manage expectations. Create a rough itinerary together, but also allow room for spontaneity and individual interests.
Appoint a Trip Leader
Having one person act as the main contact for the group can streamline communication and planning. This person can be responsible for booking accommodations, coordinating activities, and keeping everyone informed.
Share Costs Where Possible
Pooling resources can save money and make planning and expenses much easier to manage. This is particularly helpful for accommodation, transportation, and group meals.
Stay in Group-Friendly Accommodations
Opt for larger accommodations like vacation rentals, cabins, or hostels that can comfortably house your entire group. This not only saves on costs but also ensures that you have a private space to enjoy each other’s company.
Create a Packing List
To avoid over or underpacking, create a group packing list that includes essentials as well as any specific items needed for planned activities.
Set Ground Rules
Discuss and agree on certain group travel rules, such as curfew, spending budgets, and acceptable behaviors. Clear communication before the trip can prevent misunderstandings.
Plan for Downtime
A packed itinerary can be exhausting, so be sure to schedule some downtime for your group to relax and rejuvenate. Whether it’s hanging out at a local cafe or spending a lazy day at the beach, downtime is crucial for group harmony.
Conclusion
Group travel in the USA is a chance to celebrate the country’s diverse offerings with those you care about most. By choosing the right destination, planning carefully, and being open to new adventures, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip that strengthens your group’s bonds and leaves you with stories to share for years to come.
Ready to hit the road and make memories? Gather your friends, pack your bags, and start exploring the endless horizons of group travel in the United States.
