20 Best Places In USA To Celebrate A 40th Birthday (2025)
Last Updated on March 11, 2024 by Nicole
Yahoo! Your 40th birthday is just around the corner. I know that one of your first thoughts might be to climb into bed and hide under your covers rather than celebrate this milestone birthday. However, I can guarantee you from personal experience that heading out on an amazing birthday getaway with your loved ones or closest friends would be so much better! Whether you want to party the night away in an exciting city, sit poolside or on beautiful beaches watching the waves lap by, or have thrilling heart pumping outdoor adventures, you will find in this article the perfect place to celebrate that special day. Here are 20 of the best places to visit and the best things to do in the USA to celebrate a 40th 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 40th 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 US Destinations For 40th Birthday Trips
In the following article, I have chosen the 20 best places in America to celebrate your 40th birthday. For this extra special milestone birthday, they include big and small cities, beautiful beaches, and outdoor destinations like national and state parks.
For each place, I feature some of the best things to do. Whether you are looking for excitement, outdoor adventures, pampering moments, beautiful sunsets, award winning shows, world renowned museums, cocktails on a beach, or restaurants and bars that scream “celebration”, you will find your inspiration for a fantastic 40th birthday trip.
Beyond highlighting the best places and things to do for your 40th birthday, I also mention the best times to go or avoid. People often discount the importance of the weather on a trip but if you have a preference and it is too hot, cold, rainy or snowy while you are there, that may have a dramatic impact on how much you enjoy your birthday trip.
So, start dreaming. Invite your closest group of friends, soul mates, or loved ones. Schedule time from work, organize babysitters for your kids and pet sitters for your fur babies, and plan your magical 40th birthday vacation.
Best US Cities To Visit To Celebrate A 40th Birthday
Chicago, Illnois
The third largest US city is beautiful, vibrant, and full of fun ways to celebrate your 40th birthday! It is also located in central United States, with countless direct flights from all over America, making it an easy destination to reach for most everyone.
Comedy Club
Chicago is full of exciting comedy clubs where you can have a memorable, laughter-filled 40th birthday. Laugh Factory, Second City, and Zanies are just three of Chicago’s many excellent comedy clubs. Most offer lots of shows each night. Normally, the later the show, the racier the material!
Sporting Event
What better way to celebrate turning 40 years old than cheering on your favorite team in person? Between the Chicago Cubs, White Sox, Blackhawks, Bears and Bulls, you’ll have your pick of sports’ games to watch no matter when you choose to visit. For an unforgettable day, pull up your favorite home team schedule and purchase your tickets.
Boat Tours
With two distinct, beautiful waterfronts, one of the best ways to see Chicago is from the water. In the summer, you can cruise along Lake Michigan or the Chicago River on a dinner cruise, or soak up the sunshine on a daytime tour.
In any season, another great option is the Chicago Architecture boat tour. With your favorite wine or beer in hand, hop on this river boat tour and be transported back in time as you gaze at stunning architecture.
Lake Michigan
Rent a bike and explore the 26 miles of Chicago’s beautiful lake front on paved trails. Alternatively, book a tour and let a local guide you. You will find public parks, gardens and more than two dozen free beaches that open every summer in Chicago, including some gorgeous lakeside patios.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Chicago is very cold and windy in the winter. However, this is low season and you will get excellent hotel deals. In addition, there are lots of exceptional things to do inside to avoid the cold.
Summer can be very hot and humid, and busy with tourists.
Accordingly, the best time to go for good hotel deals, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather is spring and fall. However, Chicago is a popular destination in the midwest so avoid weekends that are also attached to statutory or school holidays.
Chicago Travel Tip – Avoid renting a car in Chicago. Parking is difficult to find and phenomenally expensive. Chicago offers amazing public transportation, and lots of taxis and ride shares.
There are lots of free things to do in Chicago when you want to find budget friendly activities. For example, in addition to the beaches, the Lincoln Zoo is free and within walking distance from downtown Chicago. In addition, Chicago has several world renowned museums that offer free days each month. For more information about things to do in Chicago, please click here.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Between the iconic, colorful streets of the French Quarter, the mouthwatering Creole and Cajun cuisines, and dark yet rich history- New Orleans is one of the most unique and exciting places to mark your 40th birthday.
Museums
The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum will teach you all about the scary practice that is so ingrained in The Big Easy.
The New Orleans Jazz Museum, McKenna Museum of African American Art, and the Backstreet Cultural Museum are also amazing to visit.
For World War II enthusiasts, set aside some time for the National WWII Museum. This interactive museum will enthral everyone with their exhibits highlighting America’s role in helping to win WWII in both Europe and Asia. It is absolutely fascinating even for someone who has little interest in war museums.
Jazz Clubs
If you’re looking to celebrate your 40th in style, definitely plan to visit some of the best jazz clubs in New Orleans. For delicious food, a sophisticated atmosphere, and wonderful jazz, you can’t go wrong at Palm Court Jazz Cafe. Alternatively, The Jazz Playhouse on Bourbon Street is also great for an elegant and fun night.
If you are only in town for a short stay, you can also book a jazz tour making sure that you see the best jazz all in one night.
Food Scene
The food in New Orleans is unlike any other cuisine in the United States! It’s a wonderful fusion of Creole, Cajun, soul food, and seafood. For dinner, GW Fins has some of the most delicious seafood in NOLA.
If you’re looking to try some authentic food, Jacques-Imo’s Cafe has incredible Creole/Cajun offerings.
Alternatively, take a food tour led by a local and discover all the hidden gems with the most delicious food you have ever tasted.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
New Orleans can get super hot and humid in the summer months. Unless you like extreme heat, or plan to spend most of your time indoors, you would be best to avoid it from June through August.
In addition, Mardi Gras is one of the biggest party in the United States. It is held on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday (sometime in February and March each year). Around this time, the city is heaving with people and hotel costs go through the roof.
The spring and fall months would be amazing. Even winter will have pleasant mild temperatures averaging high 50s and low 60s.
Fun Fact – You can request a to-go cup for your drink. It’s permitted to consume alcoholic beverages on the street in a disposable plastic cup.
Other Fun Facts – There is no set closing time for bars and you can host your own parade with police escort!
For other travel tips for first time visitors to NOLA, including transportation, money saving, safety, and freebies, check out 40 Best Travel Tips For First Time Visitors To New Orleans.
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio is a colorful, authentic, and vibrant US city. There is so much to do in this unique place, and it’s easily one of the best places in the US for a 40th birthday holiday.
River Taxi Ride
One of the most fun ways to celebrate your 40th birthday in San Antonio is to float down the San Antonio River in a colorful river taxi. You will learn all about the history of San Antonio and admire the beautiful architecture while picking out cool bars and outdoor patios for a late afternoon glass of wine.
Visit the Alamo
The Alamo Mission is an incredibly important piece of history in Texas, and it’s free to visit. You can also explore San Antonio’s other four missions, Concepcion, San Jose, San Juan, and Espada.
The Spanish missions in San Antonio are both a National Historic Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can even still attend a church service at 4 out of the 5 missions.
For outdoor enthusiasts, there is a hike & bike trail that runs along the San Antonio River. It connects all five missions – it 2.5 miles between each of them – in addition to restaurants and entertainment in the downtown core. Book a self guided electric bike tour and explore them all at your own pace.
Pearl District
The Pearl District is a vibrant neighborhood with a rich history. Back in 1880, the Pearl District compound was home to Texas’s largest brewery, Pearl Brewery. Today, the 22 acre compound transformed into a hub for gorgeous boutiques, exceptional restaurants, coffee shops, and of course, great bars!
For nightly live southern music and dancing, don’t miss Jazz TX. If you’re craving some delicious Texas cuisine and craft beer that keeps the spirit of Pearl Brewery alive, visit Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery.
Take A Food Tour
The Moveable Feast Tour walks you through the King William district to show you all of the early architectural influences. In addition, you tour the private portion of the Riverwalk, rarely seen by tourists, all the while tasting some delicious foods.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
In San Antonio, the summers are hot and oppressive. You will regularly face mid to high 90 degree temperatures with high humidity.
The rest of the year offers amazing weather suitable for all activities. The winter months will supply average high temperatures in the 60s, whereas in spring and fall, you will have temperatures in the 70s and 80s.
Seattle, Washington
Tucked away in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is an eclectic city with wonderful coffee, fun and exciting neighborhoods, and more than enough fun activities to make your 40th birthday a memorable one.
Ride Up The Space Needle
The best way to celebrate your 40th birthday in Seattle is to ride up the Space Needle! This futuristic landmark delivers unbeatable views of the city from over 500 feet in the air. For a truly elevated cocktail experience, grab a drink in the Space Needle Lounge.
Museums
Seattle is world-renowned for its art and history, in particular its glass blowing artisans. You’ll love visiting the Seattle Art Museum and the Chihuly Garden and Glass.
The Museum of Pop Culture is home to the world’s most immersive pop culture experiences. This interactive museum showcases iconic moments in TV, rock’n roll music, science fiction, and so much more. It is a testament to Seattle’s impact on pop culture.
The experience starts with seeing and exploring the futuristic building designed by Frank O. Gehry. Then, reconnect to your love of music with exhibits about Nirvana, Jimi Hendrix, and more.
Watch The Seahawks or Mariners
To celebrate your 40th in an unforgettable way, buy tickets and go watch the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field, or the Mariners over at T-Mobile Park. Nothing beats the atmosphere of seeing your favourite professional sport live surrounded by crazy home town fans!
Whale Watching
Whale watching is one of the most popular things to do in Seattle. Migrating whales can be seen year-round, along with resident Orcas.
Spending time on a boat off the shores of Seattle also gives an opportunity to see the Seattle cityscape in a unique way. In addition, you can see the many islands that dot the Pacific Northwest, the beautiful homes and the lush forests on them.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Seattle’s temperature is mild all year round. It rarely snows (and when it does, the city completely shuts down for the day or two until the snow melts away)! However, it does rain a lot. The exception is July, August and September. Those months also offer temperatures in the 70s and 80s.
The winter months are the coldest (but still mild) with the most rain. Temperatures are in the 40s and 50s with almost half the days with rainfall. So, pack a fleece and rain jacket and enjoy everything that Seattle offers.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia was the first World Heritage City in the United States, making it a great place to visit for history lovers. However, there’s much more to this beautiful city than history, and it’s a truly wonderful place to celebrate your special birthday milestone!
Visit “America’s Most Historic Square Mile”
There are 67 different National Historic Landmarks spread across just one square mile in Philadelphia. The must-sees include Independence Hall, The Liberty Bell Center, and the Museum of the American Revolution. Take a walking tour and learn all about this amazing history.
Dinner Cruise on the Spirit of Philadelphia
Enjoy a night on the Delaware River of dancing, music, delicious food, and beautiful city views by booking a dinner cruise on the Spirit of Philadelphia.
Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square is a lovely, green park surrounded by blocks of boutique shops and upscale restaurants. After you get your shopping fix, you can enjoy delicious Parisian fare at Parc, or seasonal American cuisine at The Love.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Philadelphia is warm and sunny in the summers, and cold in winter. Temperatures in the summer are on average in the 70s and 80s. In the winter, it doesn’t snow a lot, but it does snow. The temperatures also range between 27°F and 44°F.
Best Beaches In The United States For A 40th Birthday Trip
For many people, the best birthday destinations in the world include lounging on beautiful beaches, or sitting poolside with a cocktail or cold bottle of beer in hand, feeling the rays of the sun.
For those of you that fantasize about sleeping long hours, cooling down with refreshing dips in the pool or ocean, and feeling the sand between your toes, there are several spectacular destinations to visit in the USA for your 40th birthday holiday.
Santa Catalina, California
Santa Catalina is one of the Channel Islands located off the coast of Southern California. In addition to beautiful beaches and natural landscapes, it’s fun and has an awesome nightlife. It is an ideal 40th birthday getaway to relax, spend time and have fun with family and friends.
Nightlife
If you’re looking to party and celebrate, Avalon is the place to be. The most popular bars for dancing and music include the Chi Chi Club, Luau Larry’s, and the Marlin Club. For delicious Italian and live music, check out M Restaurants and Events.
Parasailing
For a more adventurous 40th celebration, you can go parasailing, and take in the beauty of the island from over 600 feet in the air!
Descanso Beach Club
Descanso Beach Club is located in its own private cove on the island. You can rent cabanas on the beach and swim in the turquoise waters. When you are feeling peckish, enjoy drinks from their beach bar and tasty bites from their Mexican Restaurant.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Santa Catalina offers beautiful weather all year round. From July through September, you can expect an average daily high above 72°F. In winter, temperatures rarely go below 65°F except at night.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
About 650 miles up the coast is another pristine beach destination for a 40th birthday getaway – Cape Cod! Reaching out on a pennisula, Cape Cod is known for its untouched beaches, delicious seafood, rugged marshes, and overall natural beauty.
Explore the Cape Cod National Seashore
This portion of Cape Cod consists of over 40,000 acres of untouched land, including ample beaches. It’s great for hiking, exploring, and relaxing in the sand. To get a closer look at marine life, you can even book a whale watching tour.
Monomy National Wildlife Refuge
With more than 7,600 acres of protected dunes, marshes and a decommissioned lighthouse, the gorgeous Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge is a must see stop.
Beyond the beautiful scenery and untouched beaches, it is a nesting habitat for hundreds of species of migratory seabirds. In addition, in South Monomy, there is a large harbor grey seal population that mates, plays and suns themselves on the shore.
Wine Tasting
Truro Vineyards is a lovely, family-owned vineyard and one of the best options for wine tasting on Cape Cod. Famous for their maritime-grown grapes, Truro’s standouts are their Diamond White and Cranberry Red.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
For beach time activities, make sure you come between June – September. In April, May, and October, you can enjoy exploring this beautiful part of America, but it will be too cool for swimming and sunbathing. The rest of the winter months will be cold with some snow.
Hotel Recommendation
If you are looking for a quiet spot to catch up on your sleep, then Coonamessette Inn is the right accommodation for you. You are an easy 5 minute drive to Old Silver Beach, Menauhant Beach, and Surf Drive Beach. In addition, the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard is just around the corner.
Big Island of Hawaii, Hawaii
Hawaii, or “The Big Island” is the largest of the Hawaiian Island chain. This beautiful island boasts breathtaking views of natural landscapes like volcanoes, black sand beaches, and tropical rainforests. It is one of the best places for a 40th birthday vacation.
Helicopter Tour
One of the grandest ways to experience Hawaii and celebrate your 40th is with a helicopter tour! You can choose to fly over volcanoes, waterfalls, or sheer beach-side cliffs.
Three of the Big Island volcanoes are still active. Those are Hualalai, Mauna Loa and Kilauea. Kilauea is the most active with its last eruption in 2018, while the other two could erupt at any time. Nothing is more thrilling than seeing these volcanoes and possibly spotting spewing lava from the safety of a helicopter.
Snorkel/Dolphin Spotting Cruise
If you want the best views of the Hawaiian Coastline, and spot pods of dolphins, you can embark on a dolphin cruise! Most cruises offer beverages and snacks, along with all necessary gear for snorkeling. When not snorkeling, lay out your towel and catch some delicious rays while feeling the cool ocean wind.
Beaches
Hapuna Beach State Park is one of the best beaches on the island for swimming, sunbathing, and basking in the Hawaiian sunshine.
For a more unique beach experience, you can visit the Papakolea ‘Green Sand’ Beach or the Punaluu Black Sand Beach.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
The weather on the Big Island of Hawaii is beautiful and warm all year round. Daily temperatures rarely change, hovering in the 80s. In winter, it does get colder at night and you may need a light jacket or sweater.
For best hotel deals, avoid summer, Thanksgiving, and Christmas holidays, and any other school holidays.
Palm Beach, Florida
Palm Beach is a glitzy beach town located on one of Florida’s barrier islands. In addition to beautiful beaches, it also has unbeatable shopping and exciting nightlife making it a fantastic 40th birthday destination.
Golfing
Palm Beach is world-famous for its impeccable golf clubs. Some of the best golf courses in Palm Beach include the oldest course in Florida, the Ocean Course at the Breakers and the Sandhill Crane Golf Club.
Beaches
Municipal Beach is a gorgeous, clean beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. For a more lively atmosphere, you can travel south to Delray Beach which is just as nice for swimming and sunbathing but also has some fun beach bars across the street.
Visit Clematis Street
On Thursday nights, you can experience free live music in Clematis Square. During the day, you can browse all of the luxury boutiques and souvenir shops. At night, exciting bars like Sassafras and Batch New Southern Kitchen serve delicious drinks with a great atmosphere.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
You can expect hot weather all year round. In winter, average highs are in the 70s, and in the summer, they rise to high 80s. However, there is extreme humidity from May through October.
If you wish to be outside without feeling like you want to melt, you may wish to visit between November and April.
Orange Beach, Alabama
Orange Beach, Alabama is a fun and beautiful seaside city with several miles of incredible Gulf coastline. Relax by day and party at night at this fantastic 40th birthday destination.
Dolphin-seeing Tour
On a dolphin-seeing tour, you’ll not only get the opportunity to see these incredible animals up close, but it’s also one of the best places to enjoy the fresh Gulf air and sunshine.
Visit the Surrounding Beaches
With Orange Beach’s turquoise, warm waters and white-sand beaches, it’s the perfect place to celebrate your 40th. On the other side of Gulf State Park, about 10 miles from Orange Beach, you can also visit the beaches on the beautiful Gulf Shores.
Visit the Wharf
The Wharf is the entertainment center of Orange Beach. It’s home to great restaurants and shops, along with fun bars and nightlife options.
If you’re looking for live music, you can pay a visit to The Wharf Amphitheater, where artists perform from all over the US.
You can also catch the nightly SPECTRA Laser Light Experience show on Main Street at 8:00 pm, 8:30 pm, and 9:00 pm. This exciting spectacle offers choreographed lighting effects with state-of-the-art lasers and surround-sound music. It is the perfect way to start your 40th birthday party.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Orange Beach offers lovely temperatures all year round. In winter, it is cooler with average highs in the 60s. In spring and fall, temperatures fall in the 70s, and in summer, they typically land in the 80s.
However, there will be lot of humidity from May through September so if don’t love extreme heat, then I’d avoid Orange Beach in summer. Also, summer and early fall is hurricane season.
Best Outdoor Adventure Destinations To Visit For A 40th Birthday Holiday
No matter how old you get or how much money you earn, nothing invigorates you more, brings people together and connects you more than spending time in nature. If you are feeling outdoorsy and looking for adventure as you reach your 40th, there are lots of perfect places to go in America.
Juneau, Alaska
Juneau, Alaska is one of the most rugged and naturally beautiful cities in the United States. It would also be one of the most unique and awe-inspiring destinations for a 40th birthday vacation.
Whale watching
On a whale-watching boat cruise, you’ll receive incredible views of the surrounding forest, coastline, and icy glaciers – all in addition to spotting the whales! You’ll likely spot other animals too, like eagles, bears and sea lions.
Mendenhall Glacier
Mendenhall Glacier is one of the few glaciers remaining from the Little Ice Age. To see and experience this incredible natural landmark, you can kayak out to see it, take a helicopter tour to view it, or observe it from the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor’s Center.
Dogsled Ride
One of the most fun ways to celebrate your 40th in Juneau is to participate in Alaska’s state sport- dog mushing! You can either ride along the Juneau Icefield or from the nearby Douglas Island for summer dog sled racing.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
If you want to experience Alaska as a snowy winter wonderland, then head to Juneau in winter. Temperatures will range between 25°F to 35°F with 6-7 hours of daylight.
Summer sees temperatures rise to the mid 60s with over 17 hours of daylight in June and July. The snow is gone except from high mountain peaks and there will be lots of animal spotting in the forests and at the water’s edge.
Live Oak, Florida
If you’re looking to escape into nature and explore some vivid sapphire mineral springs, consider celebrating your special milestone birthday in Live Oak, Florida.
Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park
This beautiful Floridian State Park is home to one the largest underwater caves in the United States, making it a big draw for scuba diving. Peacock Springs is also great for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and wildlife spotting.
Ginnie Springs
If you’re looking to swim, kayak, and explore crystal clear, blue waters, Ginnie Springs is the place to go. The natural cold springs hover at about 72 degrees year-round, which is perfect for cooling off in the heat of summer, and fun for kayaking and stand-up paddle-boarding in the cooler months.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Live Oak offers hot weather from April through October, and pleasant temperatures the rest of the year. From April to November, temperatures hover in the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit whereas the rest of the months, temperatures are in the mid 60s and 70s Fahrenheit. It is very muggy from June through September so avoid if you dislike humidity.
Big Sur, California
Big Sur, California is home to dramatic cliffs, incredible waterfalls, and beautiful beaches, perfect for a 40th birthday trip for outdoor lovers and those seeking adventure.
Drive Through Highway 1
The best way to experience Big Sur is to make the scenic drive on Highway 1. The drive is incredible going in both directions, but to make the most of the coastal views, it’s best to drive north to south. Add a self guided audio tour to learn about what you are seeing and amazing stops along the way.
See McWay Falls
These 80-foot falls are located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and splash directly onto the untouched beach below.
Point Lobos State Nature Reserve
Point Lobos is a spectacular nature reserve located in the northern part of Big Sur, in Carmel. China Cove is a must-see for its emerald waters and protected white sandy beach. To spot sea lions, you can walk down the short Sand Hill Trail to Sea Lion Cove where tons of sea lions rest. Take a guided nature walk to make sure that you don’t miss anything.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
The average high temperatures in Big Sur are in the low to high 60s Fahrenheit all year round. However, it gets much cooler at night in the winter. Most of the rainfall in Big Sur happens during the winter months with 6-8 days of rain.
Virgin Islands National Park, Virgin Islands
This US National Park in the Caribbean is by far one of the most beautiful and memorable places you can celebrate your 40th birthday. If you are a United States citizen, you don’t even need a US passport.
Enjoy the White Sand Beaches
One of the best parts of Virgin Islands National Park is the incredible beaches. Trunk Beach is one of the best white sand beaches inside the park, and as it’s well-equipped with bathrooms, lifeguards, and rental snorkel equipment, it’s perfect for a beach day. Maho Beach is another beautiful beach with white sand, crystal clear waters, and fewer crowds.
Snorkel/Sailing Tour
Most snorkel and sailing tours in the Virgin Islands National Park include food, an open bar, and all necessary snorkeling equipment. The boats will take you into calm, protected waters where you can spot sea turtles, colorful fish and reefs, and many other types of marine life.
See the Island’s Ruins
Some of the most interesting and well-preserved ruins in the park include the Catherineberg Plantation ruins, a former sugar cane plantation from the 18th and 19th centuries, and the Cinnamon Bay Plantation ruins.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
It is hot all year round in the Virgin Islands National Park with temperatures hovering in the 80s. However, there is extreme humidity all year round. In addition, if you chose to go during hurricane season (summer and early fall), make sure you keep an eye on the weather forecast.
Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
Between soaking in the hot spring water and exploring the incredible landscapes of the Ouachita Mountains, you’ll find no shortage of ways to celebrate your 40 year old birthday in Hot Springs National Park.
Visit a Bathhouse
If you’re looking for a luxurious, rejuvenating spa experience in healing thermal waters you’ll enjoy the Quapaw Baths and Spa.
For adventurous travelers interested in a more historical experience, you should check out the historical Buckstaff Bathhouse, where you’ll experience a traditional bathing experience from the 1900s, with the original equipment to boot!
Hike Through the Park
The 2.4 mile Goat Rock Trail provides some great views of Indian Mountain and the surrounding forest, along with incredible views from North Mountain Overlook.
If you’re keen for a more vigorous hike, the 13 mile Sunset Trail will take you through all sorts of terrain, including beautiful oak and pine forests.
Head up Hot Springs Mountain Tower
The tower elevator will transport you 216 feet to 1256 feet above sea level where you’ll enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck of the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs Mountain, and Diamond Lakes area. Head up during sunset with a picnic and enjoy this special scene.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Average high temperatures from May through September are in the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. Expect a lot of humidity in June, July and August.
Spring and fall see average high temperatures in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit. During the winter months, you can expect temperatures to be in the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit during the day, cooling off dramatically at night.
You will experience snow or rain from November through February.
If you would like more ideas about how to spend your 40th birthday enjoying nature with lots of outdoor adventures, consider reviewing: 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.
Best Small Cities And Other Areas In USA For A 40th Birthday Getaway
Lafayette, Louisianna
Lafayette is a vibrant city with a fusion of Caribbean and Southern culture and influence, situated right on the Vermillion River. It offers cool daytime and evening activities and delicious food making it one of the best US destinations for a 40th birthday trip.
Live Music
You can enjoy live music in Lafayette any night of the week! Rock ‘N’ Bowl is a fun local favorite, with live music, food, drinks, and even some bowling lanes to get your competitive juices going!
The Grouse Room boasts an upscale atmosphere with live music in their lounge.
Swamp tour
The best way to experience Lafayette’s dense bayous is to take a swamp tour. You can either book a high-speed airboat or a slower boating tour that’s perfect for spotting alligators and other native wildlife.
Sample the delicious Cajun food
Lafayette has some truly incredible Cajun food, and Cafe Vermillionville is the best place to experience the local cuisine in a historic, beautiful restaurant.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Temperatures are very hot with lots of humidity in the summer. The rest of the year offers lovely warm weather ranging in the low 60s in the winter months with average high temperatures in the 70s and 80s in spring and fall.
San Luis Obispo, California
With the reputation of “The Happy City in America”, San Luis Obispo is a pretty amazing place for a 40 year old birthday getaway. This charming, Spanish-influenced small town also has beautiful, sunny weather all year long.
Downtown San Luis Obispo
One of the best things to do in San Luis Obispo is to walk around downtown. You’ll find tons of delicious coffee shops and brunch spots like Linnaea’s Cafe, Scout Coffee Co, and Kreuzberg California.
At night, San Luis Obispo comes to life with a fantastic nightlife filled with bars and restaurants. For dinner, you can’t go wrong at Giuseppe’s, an elegant, traditional Italian restaurant, or Novo for its beautiful creekside patio and amazing fine dining.
Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort
If you want to be pampered, pay a visit to Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort. In addition to hot springs, you can enjoy other spa services like massages and facials.
Wine tasting
Move over Napa! San Luis Obispo is located right in the heart of Central California’s wine region. Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards and Edna Valley Vineyards are two of the best places for wine tasting in the region. For some laughs, take a private side car wine tasting tour!
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
The land of eternal spring, San Luis Obispo offers average high temperatures in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit all year round.
Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth is a quaint, Bavarian-style village nestled in the Cascade Mountains of Washington. It’s fun to visit in all four seasons, and one of the more unique places in America for a 40th birthday trip.
Whitewater Rafting
Whether you’re seeking a leisurely float or a truly exhilarating experience, Leavenworth has incredible whitewater rafting for all levels in the nearby Icycle and Wenatchee Rivers.
Sleigh Ride
For a memorable experience during winter in this festive town, you can book a sleigh ride through the snow-covered meadows and woods in Leavenworth.
Embrace the Bavarian Culture
Design your own pub tour and enjoy tasting German beers at Doghaus Brewery, Icicle Brewing Co, and the famous Munchen Haus.
When it’s time to eat, choose from one of the many amazing restaurants that offer incredible German food. Those are Andreas Keller, Ludwig’s, and Baren Haus.
Be sure when strolling down Front Street to admire the Bavarian architecture of all the buildings.
Enjoy Christmas Festivities
Leavenworth is a fantastic place to visit in November and December if you love Christmas. There are a half-million Christmas lights that decorate the city and each weekend in December before Christmas, you can watch a lighting ceremony, creating a truly magical moment.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
Expect mild summers with temperatures in the low 70s and low 80s. The winter months are cold with lots of snow, perfect for experiencing a snowy winter wonderland.
Lake Havasu, Arizona
Lake Havasu is located in western Arizona and has warm weather all year long. It’s one of the most fun places in the USA to celebrate your 40th birthday, especially if you like the water!
Boating
You can rent a boat from a reputable company like Nautical Watersports or Paradise Wild Wave Rentals, and enjoy fishing, wakeboarding/water skiing, swimming, or simply relaxing in the sun.
Lake Havasu State Park
Lake Havasu State Park is full of serene beaches, nature trails, and serves as a great jumping-off point for boating activities.
Havasu Landing Resort & Casino
If you’re looking to try your hand at gambling, Havasu Casino is right on the lake, and has plenty of games, slot machines, and a bar and restaurant.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
From May through September, you will face extreme summer heat at lake Havasu with average high temperatures ranging from 96 degrees Fahrenheit to 109 degrees Fahrenheit. However, there are pretty much no muggy or humid days.
From October through to April, you will enjoy lovely temperatures in the high 60s, 70s and, 80s Fahrenheit.
Boulder, Colorado
Boulder Colorado is another great destination to spend your 40th birthday with lots of fun outdoor activities.
Explore the Flatirons
The Flatirons are massive rock formations that surround Boulder, and they offer excellent hiking, rock climbing, and picnicking.
Tubing
One of the most fun things to do in Boulder is to go tubing down Boulder Creek! You can rent a tube from Boulder Nordic Sport and hop in by the Civic Center for a fun ride in the sun.
Pearl Street Mall
Pearl Street Mall is Boulder’s hub for dining, shopping, and drinking! The St. Julien Hotel & Spa offers upscale cocktails and fine dining in their restaurant Jill’s Bistro, with an incredible view of the Flatirons.
Best Time To Go Or Avoid
You will get lovely warm temperatures in June, July and August with most days reaching in the low to mid 80s Fahrenheit. Spring and fall months offer average high temperatures from low 60s to mid 70s. Expect cold weather and snow in the winter months.
Last Word
You will find amazing destinations with fantastic things for a 40th birthday trip in the United States. Whether you wish to be pampered in mineral springs and spas, taste exceptional wine, spend a night on the town listening to live music and dancing up a storm, visit world renowned museums, go on thrilling outdoor adventures in nature, watch a world class sporting event, or lounge in the sun on beautiful beaches, the USA offers it all.
