20 Best Places In USA To Celebrate A 30th Birthday (2024)
Last Updated on March 11, 2024 by Nicole
A 30th birthday is a milestone event. Gone are the starving student years (hopefully!) replaced with responsibility and goals for the future. Maybe you have landed your dream job, found your soul mate, bought a home, or even started a family. Now it’s time to raise a glass and toast the past and the future. What better time to take a trip with your friends or loved ones to relax or cut loose, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The United States has fantastic destinations for amazing 30th birthday vacations. Here are 20 of the best places to visit and the best things to do in the USA to celebrate a 30th birthday.
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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 30th 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.
Amazing US Destinations For 30th Birthday Trips
In the following article, I have chosen the 20 best places in the United States to celebrate your 30th birthday. For this special milestone birthday, they include big and small cities, national parks, and beautiful beaches.
In each destination, I highlight some of the best things to do. Whether you are looking for fun, outdoor activities, pampering moments, award winning shows, world renowned museums, or restaurants and bars that scream “celebration”, you will find your inspiration for a fantastic 30th birthday trip.
Beyond highlighting the best things to do for your 30th birthday, I also discuss the best times to go or avoid and amazing accommodation options that combine location, amenities, and value.
So, get your friends, soul mates, or loved ones on board. Schedule your time off work, organize babysitters, and start dreaming about a magical 30th birthday vacation.
Best US Cities To Visit To Celebrate A 30th Birthday
New York City, New York
The city that never sleeps is rich in culture, upscale dining experiences, and a vibrant atmosphere that makes it one of the best places in the US for a 30th birthday celebration.
Broadway
What better way to celebrate your 30th in NYC than a Broadway show? Slip on your glamorous clothes, grab a glass of champagne, and enjoy both the show and the atmosphere.
If you’re interested in finding some less expensive tickets, you can always see a show off-broadway. Other options include buying same day tickets from the TKTS booth in Times Square, or use other strategies to find cheap or even free tickets to Broadway shows.
Museums
New York is the perfect place to explore world class museums.
To see one of the largest art collections in the world, you can visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the ‘MET’. The Museum of Modern Art ‘MOMA’ showcases famous works like Picasso and Warhol, and if you’d like to learn more about the natural world, you can’t miss the Museum of Natural History.
If you are looking for something a little more racier, head over to the Museum of Sex. You will either get inspired or have LOTS more to talk about over drinks.
And of course, for those who still are connected to their inner child, put aside a couple of hours and go to the Museum of Illusions. You will experience mind bending illusions that will challenge your perceptions of everything.
Fine dining
For dinner and a view, you can celebrate your 30th at Peak Restaurant And Bar. This is the perfect place to enjoy exquisite farm to table food with awe inspiring panoramic city views.
A few other good options for a 30th birthday meal include Viva Verde for delicious Mexican food and rooftop fun, and City Vineyard for a gorgeous riverside ambiance with great wines and American food.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
New York City is the ultimate bucket list destination for many people from all over the world. For your birthday trip, avoid New York City during any major statutory or school holiday, and in summer, or be prepared to face crowds and high prices.
The best time to go is in spring and fall for lovely weather with fewer crowds. For the best savings, go in winter.
Hotel Recommendation
Heritage Hotel has an excellent location near the Empire State Building and Madison Square Gardens.
Fun Fact – You can take the State Island Ferry for free to sail right by the Statute of Liberty and Ellis Island. It also gives you a stunning view of New York Harbor.
Another Fun Fact – Some New York museums allow you to pay whatever you want rather than the listed entrance fee. Others offer free admission on certain days of the month. If interested in seeing a specific museum, make sure you look into whether it offers any money saving entrance fee options.
For other amazing money saving, safety, and transportation tips for first time visitors, check out 50 Best New York Tips For First Time Visitors.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is one of the best cities to both let loose and be utterly pampered in one trip. In other words, the best of both worlds for a 30th birthday trip!
See a show
Vegas is a great place to see a Cirque du Soleil show. In fact, they offer several of them. They are classic, must-see shows in Vegas, and none of them will disappoint.
If you’re looking for a more unique show with lots of laughs, you can try the Blue Man Show. Alternatively, if you’re into something more mysterious, then try a magic show. The best magicians in the world end up in Vegas. David Copperfield has been in residence for years at the MGM Grand.
Nightlife
To kick off the night, you can check out an elegant lounge like Skybar in the Waldorf Astoria for a few drinks above the Las Vegas Strip. For dancing, Marquee Nightclub is very exciting, and Hakkasan at MGM Grand has a bit more of an upscale atmosphere.
Spa day
Whether you’re recovering from the night before or simply looking for a rejuvenating 30th birthday celebration, you can’t go wrong with a Las Vegas spa day. The Bellagio Spa is the perfect place to book as it is large and extravagant. Alternatively, Qua Baths and Spa at Caesar’s Palace is exquisite and carries on the Roman emperor theme and .
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Las Vegas is exceptionally hot from May to September. So much so that it would be difficult to spend too much time outside. Any other time of the year is a great time to go, although if you wish to sit poolside, you may wish to avoid December-February.
Hotel Recommendation
Bellagio is a beautiful luxury hotel in the center of the Las Vegas Strip so you are close to all the action when you want to be, but you can also enjoy its beautiful facilities when you want some time at the pool or the spa.
Fun Facts – You can only get a taxi from a hotel on the Vegas Strip. Also, you normally pick up Lyfts and Ubers from a different location than taxis at the hotel. It can be a long way from the taxi stand, so don’t order one until you know where you are going. Finally, do not take a taxi from the airport as they add extra fees, including if you use a credit card versus cash to pay.
If you want a break from the craziness of Vegas, you can rent a car and drive 30 minutes to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area for some spectacular scenery and hiking.
For other amazing money saving, safety, and transportation tips for first time visitors, including tons of travel hacks for room upgrades and free things, check out 50 Best Las Vegas Tips For First Time Visitors.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is rich in American history, full of delicious restaurants, and has a fun and unique atmosphere that is sure to make a fantastic 30th birthday vacation.
Fenway
The best way to celebrate your 30th Boston-style is to watch the Red Sox play baseball at Fenway Park. This intimate stadium is the oldest in Major League Baseball, and always has an exciting and buzzing atmosphere- especially when the Sox are winning!
Grab a hot dog and beer, sit back and let an afternoon in the sun slip by.
Freedom Trail
A great way to get a feel for the history of Boston is to walk the Freedom Trail. The Freedom Trail takes you through some of the highlights of Boston’s American History, including Paul Revere’s House, the Boston Common, and 14 other historical sites. This can be self guided or take one of the free walking tours available. Once done, you are steps away from fantastic shopping.
Dine in Little Italy
Little Italy, or the North End as locals call it, is full of delicious Italian restaurants. You can make a reservation at Carmelina’s for a delicious meal at a family-owned Italian restaurant, or The Daily Catch for some rich seafood.
Improv Asylum
After dinner, head to an improv and sketch comedy show at the Improv Asylum. With several shows a night, choose a family friendly show or a “R” show rated, and laugh your night away.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Boston is a fantastic walking city. All of the popular attractions and sites are easy walks from the downtown center. In winter, you may get snow and it can get quite chilly in December, January and February. The rest of the year offers more mild temperatures. Traditionally, there aren’t many days above 80 degrees Fahrenheit in summer.
Hotel Recommendation
Boston Park Plaza is a beautiful historic hotel located in the Theatre District in Boston, a couple blocks from Boston Public Garden, Boston Common and John Hancock Tower.
San Fransisco, California
With its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and prime location along the California coast, it is one of the best cities to celebrate your 30th in San Francisco.
Tour of Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island has a dark history as a military prison and then, an infamous federal penitentiary for high offending criminals. Today, you can take a ferry out to Alcatraz Island and explore the bowels of this horrific prison. Whether you are history lover or not, this is an unforgettable experience.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is a colorful and welcoming area of San Francisco. It’s right on the water, and you can enjoy incredible views of both Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Walk the piers, see the playful sea lions sunbathing on the docks, shop and people watch! This is the place to find what many claim to be the best seafood in all of San Francisco- don’t miss Fog Harbor Fish House.
Orpheum Theater
Orpheum Theater is known as the Broadway of San Francisco. This gorgeous theater has been around since the 1920s, features late Spanish Gothic architecture, and hosts some of the best shows to see in San Francisco.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Surprisingly, the warmest and best weather in San Fransisco is in September, October and November, although temperatures stay generally mild all year round. You will find the most days with rain from November through to March, with very little the rest of the year.
Hotel Recommendation
Handerly Union Square Hotel is a gorgeous modern hotel located at Union Square, just minutes to the Powell Street Cable Car.
Memphis, Tennessee
Home of the blues, Memphis is a vibrant and happening city where you’re bound to have a great time celebrating your 30th birthday.
Explore Beale Street
Memphis is known for its rich history of jazz, blues, and soul music, and it’s one of the best places to listen to live music. The iconic Beale Street is riddled with live performances, and B.B. King Blues Club and Tin Roof are two of the best live music venues.
Beale Street isn’t just known for its music- you can enjoy some incredible southern food at one of Beale Street’s many restaurants. Standouts include Itta Benna and Blues City Cafe.
Iconic Music Landmarks
To complement all the live music you’ll listen to in Memphis, you can learn more about it at some of the most iconic music landmarks in the world. You can take a tour of Elvis Presley’s home Graceland, see the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and visit the famous Sun Studio, the birthplace of Rock & Roll!
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Summer is going to be hot and muggy. The rest of the year will offer friendlier temperatures for outdoor activities or hanging by the pool. May and September offer temperatures in the low 80s. March, April, October and November traditionally sees pleasant days from high 60s to mid 70s.
Hotel Recommendation
The Guest House at Graceland is a hotel that has it all. Less than a 5-minute walk from Elvis Presley’s Graceland Mansion, it offers accommodation with on-site restaurants, a theatre and outdoor pool. Complimentary airport shuttle service and an evening Peanut Butter and Jelly Bar is also offered.
Best Beaches In The United States To Celebrate Your 30th Birthday
Not everyone wants to hike up a mountain or slip into the craziness of a big city when looking for a holiday getaway from home and work life. For some, the best birthday destinations in the world are lounging on beautiful beaches, or sitting poolside feeling the rays of the sun.
For those of you that prefer the sound of crashing waves and gentle breezes, there are several spectacular destinations to head to in the USA for your 30th birthday vacation.
Venice Beach, California
For a fun and happening beach town that’s rich in both cool vibes and beautiful views, head to Venice Beach, California to celebrate your 30th birthday.
Get Cosy At Rooftop Bars
Sipping a craft cocktail with incredible ocean views is one of the best things to do in Venice Beach. For a luxe experience with a party feel, visit the High Rooftop Lounge at Hotel Erwin. They have delicious craft cocktails, small plates, and a DJ night and day!
Explore the Venice Canals
You don’t have to go all the way to Italy to explore the beautiful Venice Canals! These canals are lined with luxurious houses. Take a walk along the waterfront, choose your future home, and explore the stunning views.
If you’re visiting around the Christmas holidays, this area transforms into one of the most festively decorated in Southern California.
Stroll the Venice Beach Boardwalk
The Venice Beach Boardwalk is a famous, one-mile stretch of beachfront. It’s home to several markets, street performers, and art.
The people watching is crazy. Make sure you spend time at the Venice Beach Skate Park, and, of course, the Muscle Beach Gym- an outdoor bodybuilding arena – to get pumped up!
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Venice Beach offers gorgeous warm and sunny weather all year round.
Key West, Florida
Key West is a picturesque, Caribbean-like island off the southern tip of Florida. It’s known for sparkling blue waters, eclectic nightlife, and being home to the only living barrier reef in the United States.
Sunset from Mallory Square
Mallory Square hosts a nightly art festival along with one of the best sunset views in Key West.
Floating Tiki Bar Tour
A floating tiki bar tour is one of the most fun and unique ways to celebrate your 30th birthday in Key West. You can choose from a variety of options, including eco-tours, sunset cruises, and more.
Key West Beaches
Key West has some of the best beaches in the United States. Smathers Beach is excellent for relaxing, and has white sand and sapphire waters.
Fort Zachary Taylor is best for snorkeling and spotting sea turtles!
Dry Tortugas National Park
For adventure seekers, take a ferry 90 miles from Key West to Dry Tortugas National Park for some of the best snorkeling in the United States. This National Park is comprised of a few uninhabited islands, only one of which you may visit. This National Park is also mostly underwater. There are no hotels and only limited camping so book far in advance if interested.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Key West offers beautiful weather all year round. Average highs range from 74 degrees Fahrenheit in January to high 80s in August. Hurricane season runs from June to November so check weather forecasts before leaving.
Hotel Recommendation
Eden House is located in a lush, tropical setting. It is decorated in an art deco style and offers relaxing amenities in the center of Old Town Key West.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks are a 200-mile-long string of islands off the coast of North Carolina. This peaceful and unique coastal landscape is a popular vacation destination, and one of the best places in the US to celebrate your 30th!
Beaches
Outer Banks is famous for its lack of noisy boardwalks and nightlife, which means its beaches are peaceful and unspoiled. Kitty Hawk is a lovely beach that’s excellent for relaxing.
Made famous from the movie Nights in Rodanthe, Rodanthe is another lovely beach that’s perfect for relaxing on the beach or surfing.
Dolphin Tour
Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins swim off the shores of the Outer Banks, and booking a dolphin tour is one of the best ways to see these incredible animals in their natural habitat.
Fishing
Outer Banks is famous for having some of the best fishing on the East Coast. Cape Point is known as the best of the best, and you can charter a fishing boat at Hatteras Inlet for an all-day fishing experience.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
For beach weather, visit between May through to October. It’s cold in winter and it snows a little in December, January and February.
Hotel Recommendation
Sea Ranch Resort is a laid back hotel with beach access and an indoor swimming pool. A full-service restaurant with ocean views is also found onsite allowing you to fully relax by the beach.
Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara is a quaint, California beach town with amazing weather, beautiful Spanish Colonial buildings, and some of the best, least-crowded beaches in southern California!
State Street Promenade
State Street is the heart of Santa Barbara. It’s home to great shopping, nightlife, and even runs all the way down to the beach.
After browsing through the many boutiques on State Street, you can enjoy a delicious Spanish meal at Loquita, or rich, upscale Mexican food and cocktails from Santo Mezcal.
Beaches
Santa Barbara is full of gorgeous beaches. Arroyo Burro (called Hendry’s Beach by the locals) is great to visit during the day, and you can grab brunch at the Boathouse.
Summerland Beach is another beautiful beach, and you can even take a horseback riding tour through the sand.
For sunset, Butterfly Beach is the best option thanks to its west-facing shores.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Santa Barbara offers beautiful weather all year round. Expect average highs in the high 70s in July and August. For the rest of the year, you will get low 70s or high 60s.
Hotel Recommendation
Mason Beach Inn is only a few blocks from both historic downtown Santa Barbara and the beach. It is upscale and elegant, yet offers a relaxing vibe.
Maui, Hawaii
Maui is a gorgeous Hawaiian island famous for its volcanic beaches, waterfalls, and world-class snorkeling. There isn’t a better 30th birthday destination in the USA for anyone looking for year round sun and beautiful beaches.
Watch the sunrise from Haleakala
If you’re an early enough riser, you can catch one of the best sunrises in the world at Haleakala National Park. Just be sure to plan your visit when it’s not cloudy so you get the full experience.
For adrenaline seekers, you can also book a bike tour down from Haleakala. You go as fast or slow as you wish, with some experienced bikers going death defyingly fast down the steep slope.
Snorkel
While you can easily snorkel from most of Maui’s beaches, the best snorkel experience is a tour to Molokini Crater. The visibility here is an impressive 100 feet, and you’ll be able to easily spot colorful coral reefs, plenty of fish, and even reef sharks!
Whale Watch
From December to April, you can effortlessly spot Humpback whales from shore as they birth their calves. Alternatively, take a sunset cruise with cocktail in hand or whale watching cruise during the day to get closer and watch these amazing creatures jump and splash in the water.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Maui is the land of perpetual sun. You can expect temperatures in the 80s all year long. Avoid Maui during school or annual holidays for better flight and hotel deals.
Hotel Recommendation
Kaanapali Ocean Inn is a beautiful hotel in a fantastic spot. It is just steps to the beach and Championship Golf courses, in addition to world class restaurants and bars.
Best US National Parks To Visit For A 30th Birthday Vacation
No matter how old you get or how much money you earn, nothing brings you together and connects you more than spending time in nature.
If you are keen to spend your 30th birthday in the outdoors, consider reviewing a few of my other articles: Best Times To Visit The 25 Best National Parks In The USA; 10 Best Natural Hot Springs In Northern And Southern California; or 15 Best Waterfalls To Visit In The USA.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular landmarks in the United States, and Grand Canyon National Park is also one of the most spectacular US destinations for a 30 birthday celebration.
Grand Canyon’s Best Viewpoints
While almost all of the scenery in Grand Canyon National Park is incredible, there are some truly jaw-dropping vistas. Mather Point provides a great view of the Grand Canyon, and you can park right at the Visitor’s Center to get there.
Yaki Point and Yavapai Point are two other great viewpoints that are slightly less crowded. Yavapai Point can be walked to from Mather Point, and you can only reach Yaki Point by shuttle.
Hike Into The Canyon
For a little more of an adventurous birthday activity, you can hike below the rim of the canyon. The Bright Angel Trail is 8.8 miles and is one of the most scenic and well-marked trails in the Grand Canyon.
For a slightly easier hike (that still offers amazing views) you can do the 1.8 mile South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point.
White Water Rafting
For adrenaline junkies, you can do one day or multi-day white water rafting trips in the Grand Canyon. The rapids in the Upper and Lower Canyon are considered some of the best in the world.
Discover hidden waterfalls and sleep under the stars, you will see things that are impossible to see from above. However, you need to book far in advance, and save your pennies as these trips can be expensive.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
The Grand Canyon is a popular vacation choice and a bucket list destination for many. Accordingly, avoid going in the summer, and around school and statutory holidays.
Weather-wise, summer offers beautiful warm weather whereas December through March is on the cooler side with temperatures ranging from 54 degrees Fahrenheit to 17 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Spring and fall may be the best bet for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
Camping Recommendation
Pro Tip: No matter what time of year you visit, make sure you arrive at the park early for the best chance to enjoy the park in quiet.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is chock-full of gorgeous alpine lakes and majestic mountains. It’s one of the most beautiful national parks in the United States, and one of the best US places to visit to spend your 30th birthday.
Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road
This gorgeous, 50-mile windy road will take you through some of the best views in the world, including right over the Continental Divide. If you go before 9 am, you stand the best chance of beating traffic, and spotting wildlife such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and even Grizzly bears.
Lake boat tour
A unique way to celebrate your 30th birthday in Glacier National Park is to take a lake boat tour. Tours of Two Medicine and St. Mary Lakes include guided waterfall hikes.
Hiking
Glacier National Park offers over 1 million acres of pristine wilderness with tall mountain peaks, rivers, alpine lakes, and forests. There are countless hiking trails for all levels.
Visit Town of Whitefish
Whitefish has a charming downtown area with plenty of shops and restaurants. It also has a community park that offers food trucks and a farmer’s market every Tuesday evening during the summer.
Whitefish is also known for its skiing if you are looking for a snowy winter destination in US.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
The best time to visit Glacier National Park is June-August when the weather is most beautiful. However, these are the busiest months of the year and can be crowded. Accordingly, May and September are also fantastic months to visit to enjoy lovely mild weather and avoid the intense crowds.
You will find much cooler temperatures or snow the rest of the year.
Camping Recommendation
Pro Tip: It is important to watch for wildfire and smoke alerts if planning your trip to Glacier National Park in summer. To check on current visibility conditions, make sure to check the NPS current conditions webpage.
Everglades National Park, Florida
Everglades National Park is perpetually warm, home to some of the most unique and diverse wildlife in any of the national parks, and is an exciting place to spend your 30th birthday.
Airboat Tour
Taking an airboat tour is a unique and fun way to see the Everglades. Gliding through the water is exciting in itself, and your knowledgeable airboat captain will be able to help you spot wildlife such as alligators, crocodiles, birds, and more.
Explore Shark Valley
Shark Valley is in the heart of the Everglades, and the best place to go if you want to see tons of animals. You can book a seat on an open-air tram, hike, or ride a bike through the Shark Valley Loop Road and spot wildlife. Don’t miss the Shark Valley Observation Tower where you get sweeping views of the Everglades in all directions.
Anhinga Trail
The Anhinga Trail is a 0.8 mile loop that takes you over a freshwater marsh that is teeming with animals.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
The best time to visit Everglades NP is during the dry season, from November to March. You should try to avoid during the wet season (May through October). There will be a lot of bugs and some of the ranger programs won’t be available.
Camping Recommendation
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park is known for its incredible alpine lakes and mountain scenery. It’s a fantastic place to get out into nature and explore, and one of the best national parks for a 30th birthday trip.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the best ways to experience the lovely scenery of the Rocky Mountains. For a short hike with great views, you can walk the 0.6 mile informational loop around Bear Lake.
If you enjoy longer hikes, the 9.4 mile hike to Sky Pond offers some of the most incredible views in the Park including Glass Lake, Sky Pond, and Timberline Waterfall.
Snow Sports
In the winter, this mountainous park becomes completely blanketed in snow, and transforms into a playground for snowshoers and cross-country skiers.
Glacier Gorge offers great trails for cross-country skiing, and Bear Lake is a fun and accessible area for both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
You can visit Rocky Mountain National Park any time of the year. However, if you wish to visit without snow, the best time to go is between mid-June and mid-October because the weather is warmer and most hiking trails are open, including the Trail Ridge Road. Having said that, this is also the most crowded time to go.
Winter is another fantastic time to visit if you would love to see frozen alpine lakes and snow-capped mountains.
Camping Recommendation
Pro Tip: If you visit Rocky Mountain National Park in winter, make sure you understand avalanche safety if you plan on venturing far from the road.
Badlands National Park, South Dakota
If you wish to spend your 30th birthday in one of the most dramatic landscapes in the United States, consider visiting Badlands National Park.
Fossil Trail
Dinosaurs used to roam freely in The Badlands, and a walk along the Fossil Trail will display incredible replicas of the animals of the area from 75 million years ago!
Badlands Loop Road
The easiest way to explore the Park’s prairies, overlooks, yellow hills, and jarring rock formations is to drive the 30 mile Badlands Loop Road. There are plenty of places to get out and explore the terrain on foot.
If you go for sunrise or sunset you’ll be treated not only to incredible views but stand a solid chance at spotting some American Bison.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
The best time to visit the Badlands National Park is during the shoulder seasons of spring, May and June, and fall, September through November. You avoid the crowds and the weather is perfect for hiking and exploring.
Winter is cold with some snow, although you get the most snow in February, March and April with around 2-3 inches per month.
Accommodation Recommendation
Pro Tip: If you find yourself in Badlands National Park during the peak summer season, be sure to hit the trails as early as possible to avoid the crowds and heat.
Best Small Cities And Other Areas In USA To Celebrate A Milestone Birthday
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe, New Mexico is an enchanting, Spanish Colonial city that holds the title of the oldest capital city in the United States. It’s a fantastic travel destination for all four seasons, and has plenty of activities that will make your 30th birthday celebration truly memorable.
Museums
Sante Fe’s rich history can be explored at any one of its various museums. Art lovers can check out the Georgia O’keefe museum. Other interesting Santa Fe museums include the Museum of International Folk Art, the History Museum, and the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture.
Skiing
With 7 different lifts and 86 runs, Ski Santa Fe offers a downhill run for every level. The park typically opens in late November, and the season runs until late March/ early April.
Mineral Springs
Ten Thousand Waves is a Japanese-style spa right in the heart of Santa Fe, where you can unwind and enjoy the healing mineral waters.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
You will find warm summers, mild temperatures in spring and fall, and cold weather in winter in Santa Fe.
Hotel Recommendation
The Lodge at Santa Fe offers breathtaking views overlooking Santa Fe, in addition to beautiful rooms with a southwestern vibe.
Burlington, Vermont
Burlington Vermont is a lesser-known travel destination with great outdoor activities all year long. It would be an ideal destination for a 30th birthday trip.
Enjoy Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain is the 6th largest lake in America and it offers a ton of fun summer activities. You can have a beach day at Leddy Beach or North Beach, rent a boat to cruise around the lake, or catch the sunset either on the water or with a drink in hand at The Spot on the Dock.
Hit the slopes (winter and summer)
In the winter, Burlington is surrounded by several incredible ski mountains including Stowe, Sugarbush, and the fun local mountain Bolton Valley.
In the summer, those mountains all transform their ski terrain into a mountain-bikers paradise.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
For those who love to chase fall foliage, Burlington offers spectacular colors in the fall when the leaves change from green to burnt oranges and red.
Summers are lovely and warm. May and September still offer mild temperatures for summer outdoor activities. The rest of the year is cooler or cold with snow.
Hotel Recommendation
DoubleTree by Hilton is a chic stylish hotel near the University of Vermont. It offers an indoor pool and fitness center, in addition to large comfortable rooms.
Tuscon, Arizona
Tucson is a gorgeous city in the Sonoran Desert, with rich Spanish and Mexican roots. It’s a sunny, beautiful, and exciting US destination for your 30th birthday celebration.
Museums
The Tucson museum scene has a little something for everyone. You can explore the 94 acre Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum to see and learn more about the region’s native plants, animals, and history.
Art lovers will appreciate the Tucson Museum of Art, which takes up an entire city block.
The Pima Air and Space Museum is also incredible, complete with 400 types of historic aircraft.
Colonial Architecture
The San Xavier del Bac and The Cathedral of Saint Augustine are two excellent pieces of beautiful colonial architecture to explore in Tucson.
4th Avenue
4th Avenue is a festive and colorful street in Tucson that’s great for shopping, dining, and nightlife. Try La Indita for delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine, and Portal Cocktails for delicious craft cocktails.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
If you like it hot, then head to Tucson from May through to end of September. It is well into the 90s and even over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is a dry heat – little to no humidity – so you will find relief in the shade.
The rest of the year has average highs between 66 degrees Fahrenheit and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, the coolest months being December and January.
Hotel Recommendation
Hotel Tucson City Center is located in the historic district of Tucson. It offers an Olympic size outdoor pool for relaxing after a fun day of exploring. It is also pet friendly.
Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville is a safe, fun, and vibrant city with a blend of southern and midwestern cultures. There are so many fun things to do here that it’s without a doubt one of the best US places to visit for your 30th birthday celebration!
Kayak
Harrods Creek is a beautiful, and free place to kayak or SUP in Louisville. You can rent one from Nachand Canoe and Kayak.
Belle of Louisville
Taking a steamboat ride on the Belle of Louisville provides a unique perspective of Louisville from the river. You can choose from a lunch picnic cruise, a harbor history cruise, or an Ohio River sightseeing cruise.
Sample Bourbon
Kentucky is home to 95% of the world’s Bourbon supply. In fact, Louisville is known as the birthplace of bourbon. One third of it is made right in Louisville. You can sample the best on Whiskey Row. Don’t miss Old Forester and Angel’s Envy Distillery.
Unique Museums
Louisville offers one of one-of-a-kind attractions that can’t be found anywhere else.
Explore the Muhammad Ali Center, Kentucky Derby Museum, Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory.
For some heart pumping action and laughs, visit Louisville Mega Cavern, the world’s only fully underground zip-lining adventure.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
You can expect spectacular sunny and warm weather from May through to the end of September, although you will face a lot of humidity in July and August. April and October offer temperatures in the high 60s. The rest of the year is cold and will have snow.
Hotel Recommendation
Homewood Suites by Hilton is located right in the center of Louisville near all the points of interest. It is a stylish and sophisticated hotel with large comfortable rooms, indoor pool, and outdoor fire pits for relaxing and sharing a cocktail or two.
Napa Valley, California
For a truly unforgettable 30th birthday, you can’t go wrong celebrating in California’s best wine country- Napa Valley.
Vineyard Tour and Tasting
Enjoy your 30th in the elegant and tranquil setting of some of Napa’s most beautiful vineyards. Pine Ridge Vineyards is surrounded by beautiful hills and specializes in cabernet sauvignon wines. Round Pond Estate is another great option, with one of the most beautiful terraces in Napa. Wherever you decide to go, be sure to book your tasting well in advance to guarantee a space.
Golfing
In addition to wine, Napa Valley offers some of the best golfing in California! Silverado is the most famous, and many professional golfers play here. Other options include Chardonnay Golf Club, and Eagle Vines Vineyards & Golf Club.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
You can enjoy beautiful weather in Napa Valley all year long. From April through to the end of October, you will get highs between low 70s and low 80s, with July, August, and September being the warmest months. The coolest weather is December and January with an average high of 56 degrees Fahrenheit.
Hotel Recommendation
Cambria Hotel is only 1.7 miles from the Napa Valley Wine Train. The rooms are large, attractive with very comfortable beds.
Last Word
The United States offer amazing destinations with fantastic things to do to celebrate a 30th birthday. Whether you wish to spend a night on the town listening to live music and enjoying a cocktail or two, visit exceptional museums, spend time in nature, go to a world class sporting event, or lounge in the sun on beautiful beaches, the USA offers something to everyone.
