Plan Your Family Vacation

20 Guys Trip Ideas (USA and International Options!)

Have you been thinking about planning a guys trip? Want a weekend getaway to some of the most popular destinations with your friends? A guy weekend is just what you need! 

If you are looking for the best guys trip destinations for a guys weekend, you are in the right spot! These guy trip ideas will help you start planning an epic guy getaway.

We will give you best USA guys trip ideas as well as international locations.

In this post, we are going to list out some of the best places for a guys trip! There are lot of options for guy vacations with fun activiities.

I know you work hard and now is the time to  plan the best guys trip ever! Let's get started! 

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This post may contain affiliate links (including Amazon) that will give me a commission at no additional charge to you. 

1. Ski or Snowboard

A ski trip is one of the best guy trips you can do! Some of the best ski resorts in the USA are located out west in Utah and Colorado. These winter wonderlands are perfect for a ski trip! 

There are a few simple steps to planning a ski trip .

  • Pick a Location
  • Book a Ski Resort or Lodge
  • Purchase Ski Clothes
  • Rent Skis or Snowboard

If anyone in your group is a beginner skier/snowboarder lessons are essential!  It will make or break your guy trip.  Also, there are better ski resorts for beginners than others.

My dad and his buddies used to do this guy's trip every year or so. They had so much fun hitting the slopes! They loved skiing all day and then coming back to the resort to hot tub.  

Skiing is a lot of fun and is a great idea for a guys trip!

2. Los Angeles Sports

Los Angeles in Southern California is home to ten (10!) pro sports teams and is one of the best cities in the world for championship-caliber sports. If you are looking for one of the best cities for a guys weekend, LA is your place! 

If you and your friends love sports, then ditch the minivan and kids soccer for a weekend and head to LA! October is the best time to go – the weather is still warm enough to relax in the sun at Santa Monica Beach or workout at the famous Muscle Beach and hit up a few games in a single weekend trip.

Pick your Sport

Depending on the time of year, take your pick from NBA pre-season / early season, NFL , college football, soccer, and playoff baseball because they’re all going on in October.

A trip to Dodger Stadium would be a guy weekend to remember. A trip to the iconic Rose Bowl would feature Chip Kelly’s top-15 UCLA Bruins. Or there’s always a reason to catch a game at the Staples Center, with LeBron and the Lakers or Kahwi Leonard and the Clippers.

And on any given Sunday, you can catch a NFL game with either the Rams or the Chargers at the brand new, state-of-the-art SoFi Stadium.

A sports trip to LA with the guys is on of the best guys trip ideas to consider and is one truly worthy of any guys trip bucket list. 

Be sure to book your tickets early!

Contributed By: Theminivanbucketlist.com

3. Working Texas Ranch

4. new braunfels, texas, tubing , 5. lake havasu city arizona.

If you’re searching for a fun guys weekend, look no further than Lake Havasu City, Arizona.  This is one of the best guys trip ideas out there! 

Less than a three-hour drive from Las Vegas, only 150 miles from Phoenix, and well-known for hosting the jet ski world finals (annually in October), this destination showcasing sparkling blue green water will not disappoint. 

Rent Jet Skis 

Rent some jet skis upon arrival (or feel free to bring your own) and stay at a   local Airbnb   or at the Nautical Beachfront Resort which offers an infinity pool with a bar as well as a private beach and boat launch. 

Things to Do in Lake Havasu City

Visit the famous London Bridge and then enjoy a tasty dinner at La Vita Dolce Italian Bistro & Lounge, Javelina Cantina or Sho-Gun Japanese Cuisine (make hibachi reservations in advance). 

Take a 25-minute ferry ride to the California side of the lake (only $2 round trip!) to the Havasu Landing Resort & Casino for a night on the town.  Another option is to enjoy a cruise on a paddler-wheeler boat. 

This is one of the best adventures for men to enjoy on a guys trip! 

Contributed By : Globalgameplan.com

6. Grand Canyon

Rafting guys trip.

Another fun activity is to actually raft the Colorado river through the Grand Canyon and enjoy all the stunning views. These adventure tours include camping for the entire stay or you can do easy day tours from the west rim of the Grand Canyon originating from Hoover Dam or Lake Mead Area.

Helicopter Ride

Grand Canyon makes the top 10 guy trip destination USA has to offer.

7. Boulder Colorado

There are endless ways to play outdoors during a long guys weekend in Boulder , one of Colorado’s favorite towns.

Outdoor Adventure for Men 

From mountain biking and climbing to fly fishing and paragliding, all with views of the gorgeous Flatirons from almost everywhere. The 150+ miles of hiking trails around town lead up to epic views of the eastern plains or mountain views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness to the west.

Rent Bikes and Explore

Rent bikes to take a brewery or distillery tour around town. Our favorites are Sanitas Brewing (where on-site McDevitt Taco Supply serves up some of the best tacos in town), Oskar Blues, and Ska Street Brewstillery.

Activities in Boulder Colorado

In the summer months, rent tubes and float down the Boulder Creek. During the school year, the University of Colorado is the place to be for all the college games. Visiting in winter? Take the 20-minute drive to Nederland to hit the slopes at Eldora Ski Area.

Hang out nearly anywhere on Pearl St. for the best food and mountain views, at restaurants like West End Tavern, Rio Grande, Avanti F&B, or Rosetta Hall. 

Where to Stay

A stay at the outdoor-themed Basecamp Boulder (located right downtown) or at A-Lodge will add even more adventure to your guys getaway.

Contributed By: Hikinginmyflipflops.com

8. Yellowstone

If you are looking for the best guys weekend ideas, Yellowstone is a great choice. Camping at Yellowstone National Park is a great way to spend your guy vacation with friends. It's a good opportunity to get away from the norm and try something different.

I have some guy friends that do this multiple times a year. They love Yellowstone. 

Why is it Awesome for Dudes

It's man vs the wild in a manner of speaking. Doesn't matter if you are an amateur outdoor camper or a hardcore enthusiast, spending time away from the city in nature really gives you some perspective.  

Nothing beats hanging out around the fire in the starry night with some cold brews and your buddies to make some good memories. It is the perfect man vacation! 

Where to Stay 

I suggest camping at the Yellowstone Park / Mountainside KOA site.  It's about 8 miles away from the actual park with plenty of room to stretch your legs.

If you don't feel like camping in a tent, they also have cabins and enough open space to bring in your RV .  It can get cold though so remember to bundle up and keep that firewood aplenty. 

Most Popular Sites 

Yellowstone has some of the most majestic views. It's hard to pick just one popular site.  First and foremost, you should take part of your time to go see Artist Point which overlooks the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. It's truly breathtaking with the majestic landscape and flowing river.

Old Faithful is also a go to. This geyser is a cornerstone of Yellowstone but if you don't get there in time to see it go off don't worry as it's known for its consistency. Just take a stroll around the trail for the next hour to see the other springs and geysers.

Get ready for the wildlife too. Don't be surprised to see a herd of bison just hanging along the road as you are making your way through the park.  Moose, Elk, Wolves, and Bears are also part of the Yellowstone experience but depending on when you go may be difficult to find.

How Much Time to Spend

You don't need a whole week to explore Yellowstone. If you are making good pace even after you're recovering from the previous night you can see most of it within 3-4 days. But don't feel the need to rush. You want to enjoy this as much as possible.

If you want to take a break and revisit civilization, go to West Yellowstone . There are some great food places along with souvenir shops and general stores.

Yellowstone is one of the best guys trip destinations around. 

Contributed By: Theworldoverload.com

9. Utah National Park

A guys trip to the mighty five national parks in Utah is a great guys trip idea.  Southern Utah offers adventure unlike anywhere else.  It is one of the best man getaways.

Best Guy Trips

If you want to plan a trip to Moab you can hit Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park .  You can also do an off-roading adventure on the famous Hell's Revenge trail .   Moab is a great place to plan a camping trip and hang out with the guys. 

If you would like a longer trip, you can then make your way to Capitol Reef National Park and do a little canyoneering.  There are lots of fun spots to explore.

Wrapping up your trip you can explore Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park .  If you want an extreme guy weekend adventure you can get a permit to hike the Narrows.  Angels Landing is also a must-do hike at Zion.  

A Utah National Park road trip is a perfect guys trip. 

Alaska is the perfect guys trip!  It is known as  the “Last Frontier”. You can plan an Alaska trip from Denali National Park all the way to Kenai Fjords National Park .  There is adventure just waiting to happen at every stop.

Things to Do in Alaska

There are lots of things to do in Fairbanks , such as the Great Salmon Bake.  If you are a man with a big apatite,  this is the place you want to go.

In Talkeetna you can hire a plane to take you over Denali, river raft, and enjoy the local restaurants.

Awesome Guy Adventures

Anchorage offers some awesome guy adventures. You can bike along the coastal trail and hike in the mountains.  As you head from Anchorage to Seward on a road trip to the Kenai peninsula, there are scenic hikes, glaciers, and animal encounters along the way.

One of the most popular things to do in Seward is deep-sea fishing for salmon fish.  This is the best place to fish as there are many charters to supply and guide your trip.

Time to pack up and start planning a guys trip to Alaska!

11. Golfing

Golfing is a great guy trip idea.  Of course, you can hit your local courses for a few rounds of golf, but you might want to go on an adventure to one of the top 5 golf courses in the US.   

Top Rated Golf Courses in the US

  • Pine Valley Golf Course – New Jersey 
  • Cypress Point Club – Pebble Beach California
  • Shinnecock Hills – New York
  • Augusta National – Georgia
  • National Golf Links of America – New York

Hopefully, this gets your wheels turning and you can decide where you want to spend a guys weekend golfing! There are probably plenty of golf courses close to your home that would work as well. 

12. Weekend at the Lake

Renting a boat or jet skies and having fun on the lake is a perfect guys' trip getaway.  Make sure to get a lakehouse with a dock right outside of the house.  Some houses will also rent boats through VRBO .  

Top Ten Lakes for Boating

  • Lake George – New York
  • Lake Champlain – New York and Vermont
  • Lake Norman – North Carolina
  • Lake Texoma – Oklahoma and Texas
  • Lake Powell – Utah and Arizona
  • Big Bear Lake – California
  • Lake Tahoe – Nevada and California
  • Lake Minnetonka – Minnesota
  • Lake Michigan – Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan
  • Lake Travis – Texas

We also love boating at Grand Lake o the Cherokees in Oklahoma and Canyon Lake in Texas . Boating is one of the best guy trips! It is a great way to relax and forget about all your cares! 

13. Fishing

We mention fishing in Alaska which is incredible but there are a lot of great places in the US to fish that would make a perfect location for a guy's fishing trip. 

You can go on your own or book a fishing charter to any of these great locations. 

Top Places to Fish in the US 

  • Florida Keys – Key West Florida
  • Outer Banks – North Carolina
  • Kona – Hawaii
  • Martha's Vineyard – Massachusetts  
  • Big Horn River – Montana
  • Kobuck River – Alaska
  • Colorado River – Colorado
  • Thousand Islands – New York
  • Cobbosseecontee Lake – Maine
  • Lake Michigan – Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin

There are so many great options for fishing guy vacations! Fishing trips are great for weekend trips.

This wraps up our best guys trip ideas in the USA we are going to share a few international options if you want travel a little farther. 

Want an International Guys Trip?

Want a little more options for adventures for men?  Maybe hiking Mt. Everest or exploring Asia is more of the type of guys trips idea you are looking for? 

No problem, the following ideas are for those men who are seeking adventure.

Let's explore some international guy trip destinations! 

14. Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Hotel Xcaret is the ultimate guys trip that offers sandy beaches, fun, adventure, and relaxation all in one place. 

Hotel Xcaret is the only   resort in Playa Del Carmen  that offers a fun-guys trip all-inclusive experience, which includes their eco-parks, tours, adventure parks , and their phenomenal hotel for one price. 

You'll need at least five days to enjoy everything this hotel has to offer, but the more time, the better. 

Things to Do Hotel Xcaret

You and your friends can ride in a speed boat, have a late-night fiesta, zip line across a forest, relax in a mud river, snorkel with gorgeous fish, and learn about the Ancient Mayan culture.

All of these activities are included with your stay at the hotel. Along with the delicious restaurants, so no need to plan and schedule tours and transportation; it's all included and provided for you with vip services.

Did I mention there are swim-up bars, along with snacks throughout the resort? Don't forget to stop and have a few shots of Tequila. 

Along with the parks, tours, and parties, there are some fun activities at the resort. There is a dinner theater show with dinner at one of the restaurants. Also, there is kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and some hidden rivers to explore.

Overall, Hotel Xcaret is the ultimate guys trip that takes planning out of your vacatio n.

Contributed By: Izafamilything.com

15. Thailand Island Hopping

One of the best guy trip destinations for a vacation with your buddies is definitely Thailand. Especially the country's huge island world is breathtaking and so perfect for planning   island hopping in Thailand .

In the south, you experience Thailand from its most beautiful side and have the opportunity to undertake unforgettable paradise islands with your best friends.

One of the most beautiful routes starts in Krabi and leads over several dream islands almost to Malaysia, to the tiny island pearl Koh Lipe.

Things to Do While Island Hopping in Thailand 

During your trip island hopping, you will bathe at absolute paradise beaches, can discover clownfish and reef sharks while snorkeling, swim through sea caves and explore a pirate hideout, cruise, take exciting scooter rides, and experience some breathtaking views.

If you need more action, you can book a diving course or paddle down the lonely beaches by canoe.

If you are into the night life. There are some fabulous islands known for their party venues. For example, Koh Lanta , is known for its hippy parties. Or Koh Lipe, where you can party until the wee hours of the morning.

Contributed By: PlacesofJuma.com

16. Gorilla Trek in the DRC

Merely mentioning the Democratic Republic of Congo will probably send the girls running. For the guys, the Congo is one of Africa's most exotic and adventurous places perfect for a thrilling adventure.

Gorilla Trekking 

Gorilla trekking   in Virunga National Park is perhaps the most extraordinary wildlife experience on earth. Park rangers guide small groups of visitors into the jungle-clad volcanoes where these magnificent beasts live. Standing just a meter or two away from these gentle giants is an experience that you'll never forget.

After the gorilla trek, you could choose to climb to the summit of Mount Nyiragongo, an active volcano, to see the world's largest lava lake.  

When you guys have had all your adventures, you can celebrate with a few ice-cold Primus Lagers on the shores of Lake Kivu.

How Much Time to Do I Need?

Plan to spend at least three days in Virunga to go gorilla trekking and climb the volcano. Add a few more days to indulge in the excellent nightlife in neighboring Rwanda, and you have yourself an epic African guy trip.

Lac Kivu Lodge in Goma is the best place to stay during your gorilla trek. The lakeside setting is excellent, and you're likely to meet exciting people (NGOs, UN staff, volunteers, peace corps etc) there.

You will probably want to look into guy trip packages if you are planning something this amazing! 

This trip is sure to bring new memories that will last forever! 

Contributed By : Museumofwander.com 

17. Langkawi Malaysia

Langkawi is the perfect island for a guy’s trip combining both adventure and nightlife as well as plenty of other things to do and see.

Malaysia is a very religious country and alcohol is taxed at a high rate. However, Langkawi is a little bit of a tax-free haven so a lot of tourists come here to party and go shopping. 

Head to the bars and explore the beach-front restaurants which are known for their incredible seafood dishes and street food.

Things to Do in Langkawi 

Of course, a jungle island is a great spot to go on an group trip adventure. Your Langkawi itinerary should include a trip to the famous Sky Bridge which is only reachable via an extremely steep cable car. The island is also very well known for its impressive waterfalls and beautiful mangrove forests which are perfect for boat tours, swimming and snorkeling.

Spending at least a weekend in Langkawi is highly recommended for guy weekend.

Contributed By : Guideyourtravel.com

18. Northern Spain

Northern Spain   is home to some of the most magnificent natural landscapes in the country, and the Picos de Europa National Park is a perfect place for guys to enjoy these views while also engaging in plenty of outdoor activities.

The park, with its mountains, lakes, and rivers, offers many things to do and see, so a trip could be as short or as long as you want to plan it, from 2-3 days to a week (or even more).

Hiking Guys Trip Ideas

For hiking lovers, it doesn't get more scenic than the trail around the picture-perfect Covadonga Lakes, the Cares Trail (passing alongside the Cares River), and the route from Fuente De to Puertos de Áliva, though you'll find countless other hiking options here.

Other than that, you can also enjoy some of the favorite things in the area such as kayaking, rafting, canyoning, rock climbing, cycling, and much more.

Stay at Hostal Poncebos , conveniently located near the start point of the Cares Trail and an hour's drive from the Covadonga Lakes.

This is one of the best guy vacations in Europe to do with close friends. 

19. UK Zipline

Fastest zip line in the world, go-kart track, climbing and hiking , 20. cycling around vietnam.

Cycling or motorcycling around Vietnam might just be the ultimate guys trip for active travelers. If you have a group of friends or just close friends that love being outside, this is perfect. 

Long and skinny with excellent highways that trace the coast, Vietnam is made for road journeys. Hanoi is a logical place to start – both motorbikes and mountain bikes can easily be hired for long-term rentals.

Plan Your Cycling Route

Start with a couple of days in the capital and  side trips to Ninh Binh   and Halong Bay before starting the journey down the coast. Go caving in Phong Nha , then visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hue.

Next comes one of the most scenic stretches of road in the country, the Hai Van Pass (‘ocean cloud pass’), a 165 km stretch of road north of Da Nang. From there, continue down to charming Hoi An before hitting the beaches and sand dunes in the south.

Finish up in Ho Chi Minh City or continue to the Mekong Delta, the perfect place to end your trip cycling around the coconut groves.

Information About the Cycling Route

The route spans almost 2,000 km and takes anywhere between 1-6 weeks by motorbike depending on your pace (double it if traveling by bicycle). 

Set aside plenty of rest days and extra time for exploring – there is no shortage of magical landscapes, trekking opportunities and cultural encounters to grab your attention along the way. This is a great getaway for the guys! 

Contributed By: Wander-lush.org

Did you Get Some Great Guy Trip Ideas?

Did you get some great “guys trip” ideas? T here are some fun places to hang out with your friends and have a good time.  Hopefully, this helps you plan a guy vacation or guy getaway that will be awesome!  

These are definitely the best guy trips out there. There are so many great guy trip ideas you really can't go wrong, especially if you are planning for Fathers day or a milestone birthday.   

Facebook Community

If you have any questions join my   Facebook Travel  Community .   You can ask any questions you have about upcoming trips and everyone is happy to help you plan your trip.  I also try to give exclusive travel deals that companies send me.  It is a great group to join!

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25 Comments

I have to show this list to my husband! The helicopter ride above the Grand Canyon looks amazing!

That would be cool!

Sounds like these are all great dude choices!

Exactly! Such a great list!

These are such great guys trip ideas! I wouldn’t mind doing most of these myself.

There are some fun ones!

These are fun ideas! The men need getaways too.

It is true. They work really hard!

What a brilliant idea to create a list of guy trip destinations. I must admit that I wouldn’t mind going on a few of these adventures myself.

I know there are some fun ones and then there are ones I would gladly let my husband do with friends!

Never mind the guys… I would love to do a few of these! Yes please to Thailand!

That would be fun!

These are some great ideas for guy’s trips. My husband would enjoy the Utah National Parks. Maybe I can convince him to go! LOL

That would be awesome!

Great list of guys trip ideas. I know my hubby would enjoy some of these. He also goes hunting every November.

I know my husband would love several ideas from this list of guy trips around the world. I think he might lean towards to skiing though.

There are some great guys trips in this list!

These look amazing! I’m sure the guys would have a fun time, but I totally would too! I might have to sneak into that!

Exactly! Although I would probably be okay if the guys did the sporting events together without me.

These are great! I keep trying to talk my husband into a guys trip, Ill have to see which one of these motivates him to go!

I think it would be fun for my husband to go on a guys trip!

These are some great trip ideas!

There are some fun ones forsure!

These are some great trip ideas. I’ll have to share this with my husband!

Awesome, I hope he finds a good guys trip to go on!

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great guys trips

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Guys Trip Destinations in the USA

Danial Ashraf

  • 1 Introduction
  • 2 Factors to Consider for the Best Guys Trip Destinations
  • 3.1 Las Vegas: The Entertainment Capital
  • 3.2 Nashville: A Blend of Music and Fun
  • 3.3 New Orleans: A Cultural Extravaganza
  • 4.1 Denver: Gateway to the Rockies
  • 4.2 Moab: Red Rocks and Extreme Sports
  • 5.1 Miami: Sun, Sand, and Style
  • 5.2 Charleston: Southern Charm and Hospitality
  • 6.1 Where are the best places to go for the “best guys trip destinations in the USA”?
  • 6.2 What are the top destinations for a guys’ trip in the USA?
  • 6.3 What are some ideas for an ultimate guys’ weekend in the USA?
  • 6.4 Where are the best places to have a bachelor party in the USA?
  • 6.5 What are some adventurous guys’ trips in the USA?
  • 6.6 What are some great city guys’ trips in the USA?
  • 6.7 What are some fun outdoor guys’ trips in the USA?
  • 6.8 Where are the best beach guys’ trips in the USA?
  • 7 Tips for Planning the Ultimate Guys Trip
  • 8 Conclusion

Introduction

Planning the perfect guys’ trip is an art, and the key to an unforgettable experience lies in choosing the right destination. Whether you’re seeking adventure, nightlife, or a relaxing getaway, the USA offers a plethora of options. In this guide, we’ll explore the best guys trip destinations , answering common questions and providing insights to ensure your next adventure is nothing short of epic.

Factors to Consider for the Best Guys Trip Destinations

Before packing your bags, consider crucial factors that contribute to the ultimate guys’ trip. Destination selection is paramount, taking into account the size of your group and the desired balance between adventure and relaxation.

Exploring the Best Guys Trip Destinations

Las vegas: the entertainment capital.

Las Vegas tops the list for its unparalleled nightlife experiences. Dive into the vibrant energy of the Strip, where world-class shows and casinos await. Beyond the neon lights, indulge in unique activities such as off-road desert tours and adrenaline-pumping shooting ranges.

Nashville: A Blend of Music and Fun

For a guys’ trip infused with music and charm, Nashville is unbeatable. Dive into honky-tonk nights on Broadway, savoring live music and Southern cuisine. Venture beyond the bars to explore the rich music scene and discover hidden gems in this lively city.

New Orleans: A Cultural Extravaganza

New Orleans offers a cultural feast for guys seeking a unique experience. Immerse yourself in jazz, savor the local cuisine, and delve into the city’s rich history. Don’t miss out on must-visit spots tailored for guys’ trip groups, blending culture and camaraderie.

Outdoor Adventures for the Adventure-Seeking Group

Denver: gateway to the rockies.

For the group seeking outdoor adventures, Denver serves as the perfect gateway to the Rockies. Embark on hiking trails, explore breathtaking landscapes, and recharge in the city’s vibrant craft beer scene, combining nature and relaxation.

Moab: Red Rocks and Extreme Sports

Thrill-seekers will find paradise in Moab’s red rocks and extreme sports. Explore the iconic Arches National Park, where natural wonders await. From rock climbing to white-water rafting, Moab caters to the adventurous spirit of any guys’ trip.

Coastal Escapes for a Relaxing Getaway

Miami: sun, sand, and style.

Miami offers the ultimate blend of sun, sand, and style. Dive into beach parties, water sports, and vibrant nightlife. Beyond the beach, discover an art and culture scene that adds depth to your guys’ trip experience.

Charleston: Southern Charm and Hospitality

For a more relaxed coastal escape, Charleston’s southern charm and hospitality provide the perfect backdrop. Take historic tours, indulge in culinary delights, and unwind by the waterfront with your crew.

Answering Common Questions About Guys Trips

Where are the best places to go for the “best guys trip destinations in the usa”.

The USA boasts diverse options, but Las Vegas, Nashville, and New Orleans top the list for their unique offerings.

What are the top destinations for a guys’ trip in the USA?

Las Vegas, Nashville, Denver, and Miami are consistently ranked among the top destinations, catering to various interests and preferences.

What are some ideas for an ultimate guys’ weekend in the USA?

Ultimate guys’ weekends can include activities like exploring vibrant nightlife, indulging in unique local experiences, and embarking on outdoor adventures.

Where are the best places to have a bachelor party in the USA?

Las Vegas and Miami are renowned for hosting epic bachelor parties, offering a blend of entertainment, nightlife, and excitement.

What are some adventurous guys’ trips in the USA?

Adventure seekers can find thrills in Moab, Denver, and other outdoor-centric destinations that offer activities like hiking, rock climbing, and extreme sports.

What are some great city guys’ trips in the USA?

City guys’ trips thrive in places like Nashville and New Orleans, where the combination of nightlife, music, and cultural experiences create an unbeatable atmosphere.

What are some fun outdoor guys’ trips in the USA?

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Rockies in Denver, embrace extreme sports in Moab, or relax on the beaches of Miami for a well-rounded outdoor experience.

Where are the best beach guys’ trips in the USA?

Miami stands out as a premier beach destination, offering not only sandy shores but also a vibrant city backdrop and a lively nightlife scene.

Tips for Planning the Ultimate Guys Trip

To ensure a seamless guys’ trip, focus on group consensus, utilize online resources for deals and recommendations, and create a flexible itinerary that caters to individual interests within the group.

As you embark on planning your guys’ trip, keep in mind the diverse offerings of the USA. Whether you’re drawn to the bright lights of Las Vegas, the music scene in Nashville, or the outdoor adventures in Denver, each destination promises a unique experience. Gather your crew, plan strategically, and get ready for the ultimate guys’ trip in the USA.

Recommended:

15 Best Hotels in the World: Unmasking the Epitome of World-Class Hotels

The 12 Best Guys Trip Destinations for 2023: Unleashing Adventure

Danial Ashraf

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great guys trips

8 Best Mancations for Every Type of Guy

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Ashley Rossi

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

No offense guys, but many of you are tough to please when it comes to travel. While plenty of you are avid travelers, for the most part, women dominate travel decisions and planning . Whether you’re looking for a guy’s trip, bachelor party, solo getaway, or a father-son vacation, here are eight destinations where you can truly have a stress-free vacation.

San Diego, California

three men surfing in san diego california

Relax and unwind in California while avoiding the hassle of Los Angeles. San Diego makes for a great solo trip or bachelor party destination—with activities suiting both types of trips. La Jolla is a great surfing destination, while downtown San Diego is home to great nightlife. Go to a Padres game, play a round at world-famous Torrey Pines, take a craft brewery tour, enjoy rooftop bars in the Gaslamp Quarter—the activities are endless with year-round mild weather and fewer crowds than other popular California destinations.

Where to Stay:  If you want to golf, stay at  Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines  for a guaranteed tee time at the legendary course every day. Or opt to stay closer to downtown at  Hotel Indigo San Diego Gaslamp Quarter  for a more urban experience.

Check Prices for Hotel Indigo San Diego Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego

Rome, italy.

Outdoor view of the colosseum or coliseum, also known as flavian amphitheatre

For an incomparable European experience, look no further than Rome. From the ruins of the Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Circus Maximus to the lively nightlife, Rome is the perfect guys trip. You can also golf at the championship course, Parco di Roma Golf Club, with the St. Peter’s dome as your backdrop.

Where to Stay:  The  Rome Cavalieri offers pools, access to Parco di Roma Golf Club, gladiator training in the hotel’s private park, a central location, an Italian Super Car “experience day”, a private visit to the Vatican Gardens and Sistine Chapel, and its own art collection for the ultimate Roman experience.

Check Prices for Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Rome

Phoenix, arizona.

Man holds a bike in the air phoenix arizona

Enjoy the desert heat in Phoenix poolside or on the golf course at any of the area’s 185 courses. Depending on the time of year, you can also catch a football game at the University of Phoenix Stadium or a baseball game at Chase Field. Take an ATV tour in the desert, river raft and fish outside of Scottsdale, or rent a boat on Tempe Town Lake (all within driving distance of Phoenix).

Where to Stay:  The  Arizona Biltmore  boasts eight pools, private cabanas, bike rentals, desert jeep tours, Grand Canyon tours, and a championship golf course. You’ll have it all at this resort.

Check Prices for Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort in Phoenix

Bali, indonesia.

tourists walk through the gate of a hindu temple in bali

If you’re willing to make the journey, Bali is the best Southeast Asian destination for a guys trip. You can surf at some of the world’s best beaches, relax at countless infinity pools, visit Hindu temples, and enjoy the beautiful landscape of the rice paddies and volcanoes. Once you’re there, everything is pretty inexpensive and the food, nightlife, and culture are well worth the flight.

Where to Stay:  Conrad Bali  is located on the coast of Nusa Dua at Tanjung Benoa and offers activity planning, golf, a beach coastline, a wellness studio, three restaurants, and multiple pools.

Check Prices for Conrad Bali in Tanjung Benoa

man hiking in the woods of main

If you’re looking to go off-the-grid, the Maine Huts & Trails is the perfect adventure trip. The hut-and-trail system is located in western Maine along trails marked by mountains, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. There are four hut stops—Stratton Brook, Flagstaff, Grand Falls, and Poplar—connected by paths accessible via foot or bike. From hiking and biking to fishing, canoeing, paddleboarding, and swimming, the options are endless. And if you’re looking for a winter trip, you can ski and snowshoe.

Where to Stay:  Book your trip through  Maine Huts & Trails , with rates at $90 per night, including three daily meals.

Louisville, Kentucky

a bourbon flight in louisville kentucky

Take on the bourbon trail with your group of guy friends (and SmarterTravel’s  handy five-day guide ). From the bourbon to the food, Louisville makes for a great weekend or long-weekend destination. Check out the Louisville Slugger Museum and Muhammad Ali Center for some non-bourbon activities.

  Where to Stay:  21c Museum Hotel Louisville also doubles as a contemporary art museum, fulfilling your childhood dream of sleeping in a museum. They offer free tours, and a great view of downtown Louisville, all within a few blocks of 4th Street’s nightlife.

Check Prices for 21c Museum Hotel Louisville in Louisville

Killarney, ireland.

view of canoes on lake in killarney ireland

You can have any type of vacation in  Killarney . It’s a stop on the Ring of Kerry circuit, the start and endpoint for the Kerry Way walking trail, and home to the castles, lakes, and mountains found in Killarney National Park. It also offers access to renowned golf courses and a great culinary and pub scene.

Where to Stay:   The Ross is located in the heart of the town center, close to the national park. They also offer an “Off the Beaten Track” guide and cater to whatever activity you decide to do: if you’re golfing, they will store your golf equipment and offer early breakfast, or if you’re hiking, they will reserve guides, pack a lunch, and give route recommendations.

Check Prices for The Ross in Killarney

Lake louise, canada.

man paddles on lake louise in canada

Located in Banff National Park, Lake Louise offers a variety of activities for your guys-only trip in Canada’s “Diamond in the Wilderness.” Come summertime, the area offers hiking, ATV excursions, canoeing, fishing, golfing, horseback riding, rock climbing, and white water rafting. And in the winter, the lake is home to some of the best downhill skiing areas anywhere. Year-round, you can opt for a helicopter tour, glacier walk, wildlife safari, skydiving, paragliding, cave tours, or grizzly bear tour. Make sure to also check out the town of Banff, about a 40-minute drive away for even more activities, bars, and fine dining.

Where to Stay:  The  Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise  will plan your entire trip through their concierge service so you can enjoy your vacation stress-free. Choose from  their seasonal guides  and make sure to take one of their GoPros with you to capture your adventures.

Check Prices for Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise in Lake Louise

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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10 Guys Trip Ideas for a Real Mancation

Last updated January 2, 2024

Why should girls have all the fun? We share ten guys trip ideas for the ultimate mancation getaway.

Once upon a time the quintessential weekend away with the guys meant playing a few rounds of golf at an uninspiring resort or chartering a boat for a deep-sea fishing excursion. These days, a guys trip is less about impish behavior and more about creating social bonds and sharing adventures (including spa retreats ). 

  • Vegas, Baby! — Las Vegas
  • Surf’s Up — Bali
  • Concrete Jungle Dreams — New York 
  • Hike the Inca Trail — Machu Picchu
  • Nightlife Extravaganza — Ibiza
  • Slope-Side Shenanigans — Vail
  • Fiesta Forever — Playa Del Carmen
  • Skiing in Whistler — British Columbia
  • Deep Dive — Key West
  • Music City Groove — Nashville

Here’s the deal: Taking trips with your friends isn’t just about exploring new destinations. It’s also about strengthening the bond, rejuvenating the spirit and reminding each other why you’ve been buds since that awkward phase in high school (or earlier). 

Scientifically speaking, group trips can lower stress levels, improve mental well-being and even increase feelings of life satisfaction. Plus, there’s no better way to share inside jokes and hilarious stories.

Whether you’re in the mood for sandy beaches, action-packed adventures or just good vibes with the guys, we’ve got you covered with ten guys trip ideas. 

From Vegas to Bali: Ten Guys Trip Ideas

Pack your bags as we jet-set around the world to explore ten guys trip ideas (destinations).

1. Vegas, Baby! — Las Vegas

Ah, Sin City. Not every trip to Vegas is high-roller luxuries, casinos, clubs, world-class shows and infamous pool parties. Head off-Strip and you’ll find more than your fair share of exciting things to do such as hiking and thrill-seeking adventures just a day trip away.

Where to stay: Encore at Wynn Las Vegas

2. Surf’s Up — Bali

Glistening beaches, affordable luxury villas and serious waves. Bali is not just for honeymooners—think surfing, waterfall jumping and island hopping.

Where to stay: Hotel Komune and Beach Club Bali

3. Concrete Jungle Dreams — New York 

The city that never sleeps is bound to keep you and your buddies entertained 24/7! From catching a Knicks game at Madison Square Garden and rooftop bars overlooking Manhattan’s skyline to mouthwatering street food at every corner, New York City offers an urban adventure like no other. 

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown

4. Hike the Inca Trail — Machu Picchu

For the gang that’s into breathtaking views and a bit of history, this one’s a stunner. Bond over the challenge and marvel at the ancient ruins. High altitude, higher memories!

Where to stay : Sumaq Machu Picchu

5. Nightlife Extravaganza — Ibiza

If dancing the night away to the world’s top DJs sounds like your jam, then Ibiza is your island. Pristine beaches by day, electrifying clubs by night.

Where to stay: Six Senses Ibiza

6. Slope-Side Shenanigans — Vail

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Vail offers not just world-class skiing, but also snowboarding, mountain biking and hiking, depending on when you visit. The village vibe is chill, yet luxurious, ensuring you have the best après-ski experience. And if you guys decide to visit in summer, the mountain trails and alpine beauty will leave you in awe. 

Where to stay: Manor Vail Lodge

7. Fiesta Forever — Playa Del Carmen

Sun-kissed beaches, tantalizing tacos and a nightlife that’s lit AF. Playa is not just a spring breaker’s paradise but a destination for those looking for a blend of relaxation and excitement. Whether you’re diving in the mesmerizing cenotes, dancing the night away or lounging by the beach with a margarita in hand, Playa promises a trip to remember. 

Where to stay: Hotel Xcaret Mexico

8. Skiing in Whistler —British Columbia

Shred the slopes by day, enjoy the après-ski vibes by night. Snowy adventures await in this winter wonderland.

Where to stay: Fairmont Château Whistler

9. Deep Dive — Key West

Head to the southernmost point of the U.S. for sun, sea and sangria. Key West is the tropical paradise every guy needs to visit at least once. Dive into the world’s third largest coral barrier reef, enjoy a fresh seafood feast and as the sun sets, get ready for Duval Street’s legendary nightlife. Don’t forget to try a slice of the iconic Key Lime pie!

Where to stay: Cheeca Lodge & Spa

10. Music City Groove — Nashville

If guys have even a hint of a music bone, Nashville is where you need to be. Dive into the rich history of country music at the Grand Ole Opry, catch live tunes at the honky-tonk bars and tantalize your taste buds with some southern BBQ. And hey, even if country music isn’t your jam, the infectious energy of Nashville is bound to have you tapping your boots.

Where to stay: 1 Hotel Nashville

Plan That Guys Trip Now

Life’s too short for dull vacations. These destinations promise not just great pics for your Insta, but stories that you’ll be retelling for years. So, send that group invite, start planning and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey with your best guy friends.

About Vacayou

At Vacayou [pronounced VACAY – YOU], we believe that travel has the power to change lives. The power to revive, rejuvenate and redirect your inner wellness warrior . And that’s why we’re here. Vacayou brings the world of wellness travel to you! No matter how far or how adventurous, our team scours the globe to curate the best in wellness travel. But the booking process can often be time-consuming and complicated. We’ve made it much easier for you to search, discover, and book wellness and active vacations . With Vacayou’s Instant Book, y our dream wellness getaway is now just a click away.

Start the trip of your lifetime today, with Vacayou . We are here to help create a healthier global community through wellness and active travel. To keep up with the latest wellness trends and experiences, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter . 

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The 9 Ultimate Guy Trips for 2021

Where to go, what to drive, and which places to stay.

preview for How This Man Carved A Killer Six-Pack And Became An Adventure Athlete

By plane! By train! By good ol’ automobile! Who cares where as long as it’s not home, right? These nine unsung guy trips will satisfy your sense of adventure and keep you safe in the kinda/sorta post-Covid world.

FOR THE CLIMBER ...

guy trips

TELLURIDE, COLORADO

The adventure: Conquer the Via Ferrata

You know the town for its skiing and film festival, but the hiking trails. You’ll find dozens of them, covering more than 60 miles in total, close to town. The must-do is the Via Ferrata, aka the Iron Path, a two- mile trek that includes (but is not limited to) carved steps, rope ladders, suspension bridges, and caves, with a peak summit of 500 vertical feet. On dangerous sections, you can clip your harness onto a steel cable so you’re protected if you fall.

Drive this ...

A Kia Telluride. The name tracks. But you can fit eight people in the SUV. Those are minivan numbers—and this beast drives like anything but a minivan.

Stay here ...

A 500-foot summit not enough? Book a night at the Peaks Resort & Spa, with access to an indoor/outdoor lap pool, three tennis courts, and two pickleball courts to keep you moving.

FOR THE CAMPER ...

man enjoying a day of paddleboarding on a river with his dog

COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA

The adventure: Paddleboard the Three Rivers

Aka the Broad, Congaree, and Saluda rivers. They’re all accessible through the band of national parkland that rests within a half hour of downtown. Warm up with the Broad River Blueway, which is wide and slow. Then it’s up to you what’s next. The Saluda offers quiet, tree-lined waters; the Congaree flows through downtown Columbia, so you may hit (water) traffic.

Sleek enough for city streets but tough enough for off-roading, Subaru’s Outback Wilderness will carry you and your gear to any stand-up-paddleboard put-in spot. Its X-Mode function sets up the chassis and drivetrain for optimal traction in everything from dirt to deep snow.

Pitch a tent next to the scenic Lake Russell at one of Calhoun Falls State Park’s campsites. If roughing it isn’t your thing, rent a two-bedroom cabin (with air-conditioning!) at Santee State Park, which overlooks Lake Marion, the largest lake in the state.

FOR THE MARATHONER ...

guy trips

SAUSALITO, CALIFORNIA

The adventure: Trail-run (or hike) the Ninja Loop

Start at the Golden Gate Bridge parking lot, warm up on the slow-descent Coastal Trailhead, climb the Miwok Trail, coast down the Tennessee Valley Trail, power past the horse stables, and move on to Marincello, where you’ll grind upward until you reach views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Refuel from the ten-miler at Copita with tacos al pastor.

The Ford Mustang Mach-E EV is an all-electric SUV with a 230-mile range, which means you can book a hotel in San Francisco or San Jose and still be within range.

After hitting the trails, recover with an in-room deep-tissue massage at the Inn Above Tide, which has waterfront views of Angel Island. If you’re looking for a different kind of recovery, head a half hour north to Sonoma wine country.

FOR THE ADRENALINE JUNKIE ...

guy trips

LA GRANDE, OREGON

The adventure: Paraglide through the clouds

Cycle along a section of the 134-mile Grande Tour Scenic Bikeway, which runs through La Grande, and take in views of the nearby Wallowa and Blue mountains. When you’re done, Oregon Paramotor offers eight-day paramotor courses (think paragliding but with an engine) to explore the east-Oregon skies.

No lie, the Bronco Sport has a GOAT mode. That’s “goes over any terrain,” a claim backed by its standard 4x4 system and optional lifted suspension. Its roof rack lugs up to 150 pounds, too.

Grab a suite at the Landing Hotel for easy access to the entire valley, or stay farther away at the pet-friendly Barking Mad Farm Bed & Breakfast, where pigs, goats, and chickens roam the land. Just two miles away is the Terminal Gravity Brewing Company, famous for its IPA.

FOR THE ANGLER ....

a line caught fish being pulled onto a fishing boat with a spear by a crew member

WANCHESE, NORTH CAROLINA

The adventure ...

Fish the deep sea On the southern end of Roanoke Island sits this fishing village undiscovered by most tourists. Grab a six-pack, charter a boat at the Wanchese Marina, and go battle feisty (and delicious) Spanish mackerel and acrobatic mahi-mahi (also delicious). Bonus: All that reeling counts as a forearm workout.

The Ram 1500 with eTorque Hybrid technology averages 26 miles per gallon, and the quad cab is roomy enough to stash tackle boxes, hard coolers, and camping gear if you’re overnighting it.

Each beachfront, four-bedroom cottage at Nags Head’s Haven on the Banks has its own hot tub and gas grill to cook up your catch of the day. Afterward, head to the beach, start a fire, and take in the views of the area.

FOR THE TRULY WILD ...

luanne horting tandem base

TWIN FALLS, IDAHO

The adventure: BASE jump (no, honestly)

First off, you’ll have an experienced jumper with you. Tandem BASE provides the equipment and instruction to leap from the 486-foot-tall Perrine Bridge. You’ll work up the intestinal fortitude to sign a waiver and then plummet toward—and eventually rest easy in—Snake River Canyon.

The all-wheel-drive, 158- horsepower, sporty-as-all-get-out VW Taos is your go-to dependable vehicle when you’re about to head out and do something wild.

After a nine-minute drive from the Snake River Canyon trail, you’ll feel like you’re at home at the Fillmore Inn . . . because it’s literally in someone’s home. The tiny bed-and-breakfast lies at the heart of Twin Falls, just a few minutes’ walk from Koto Brewing Co. and its more than 20 beers on tap.

FOR THE INTERNATIONAL TRAVELER ...

surfers take a break in the sun at the popular vivier waves in dakar on january 20, 2021   surfing and surf culture in dakar has exploded in the last years where a very tight knit community focuses on bringing up the next generations of senegalese surfers as more senegalese surfers find sponsors and global recognition the younger surfers see whats possible and are pushing harder than ever to get there photo by john wessels  afp photo by john wesselsafp via getty images

OUAKAM, SENEGAL

The small Dakar suburb is known for its swells and seafood. Surfers from across the globe flock here for the year-round waves.

guy trips

KOROSKA, SLOVENIA

Beneath Mount Peca, you’ll find three miles of winding bike trails in the tunnels of an abandoned mine. Descend even farther and you’ll see a kayaker’s playground: an underground lake with crystal-clear water and few tourists in sight.

guy trips

AIN SOKHNA, EGYPT

A one-and-a-half-hour drive from Cairo, the coastal city of Ain Sokhna has several scuba-diving reefs, a kite- surfing center, and pristine beaches to take in the blue waters of the Gulf of Suez.

This article appears in the July/August 2021 edition of Men's Health with the title "Hit the Road!"

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Best Guys’ Weekend Getaway Ideas

great guys trips

By Annie Hixon

Best Guys’ Weekend Getaway Ideas

  • Attending a guys’ weekend getaway is a great way to create memories and bond with friends and family.
  • Popular guys’ getaway ideas include outdoor adventure trips, Las Vegas weekends and golf excursions.
  • Vacation rental homes are ideal lodging options when planning a guys’ weekend for large groups.
  • Taking a weekend getaway with the guys promotes relaxation and may help reduce stress.

Whether your best buddy is about to get married or you’re looking for a fun way to meet up with your old college pals, there’s something truly special about planning a getaway just for the guys. From fishing and camping trips that let you get back to nature to wild Vegas excursions and weekend-long pub crawls, here are some great options to ensure your guys’ trip is one for the record books.

Camping, Fishing, Hiking and More at Lake Louise, Alberta

Located in Banff National Park in Alberta, Lake Louise is known for its crystal-blue lakes and gorgeous mountain backdrops. Camp under the stars at one of the park’s many public campgrounds, or opt for a few modern comforts by staying at the historic Deer Lodge . During the day, gather the guys for fishing along the Bow River, and catch some trout for your evening feast. For a little adventure, rent a canoe and take in the breathtaking scenery from the center of it all, or take a hike around the Moraine Lake shoreline for an invigorating workout and a panoramic view of the Ten Peaks.

great guys trips

Viva Las Vegas

While Vegas may be considered an easy ‘go-to’ destination for a quick weekend adventure, it’s also known as the ultimate playground for guys’ getaways. From your choice of casinos up and down the strip to incredible concerts featuring Sin City’s latest resident artists, you can’t go wrong with Vegas. Take in a show at the Luxor, or stop by Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club at the world-famous MGM Grand for some drinks and laughs in an old-school Vegas atmosphere. If you want to get in some outdoor time between all the nightlife, sign up for an ATV tour through the Las Vegas Valley of Fire.

great guys trips

Golf Weekend at Haig Point, Daufuskie Island, South Carolina

Haig Point is a private golf community located on South Carolina’s Daufuskie Island. With ocean views at every turn and the famous 20-hole Rees Jones Champion Course , this destination is ideal for golf enthusiasts. After a day on the course, head over to Freeport Marina, and enjoy a delicious dinner at The Old Daufuskie Crab Company Restaurant, a popular local staple where you can even shuck your own oysters. Best of all, the island houses a wide variety of vacation rental homes that are spacious enough for multiple guests and just steps from the beach.

great guys trips

Guys’ Ski Weekend in Vail, Colorado

When you’re planning a winter excursion, there’s nothing better than hitting the slopes in Vail. Located in the Rocky Mountains, Vail Ski Resort is the third-largest single-mountain ski resort in the United States, with three separate sections for various skill levels. Levels 1- 4 are ideal for newbie skiers and snowboarders, while levels 5 -7 feature slightly more challenging terrain and ungroomed runs. For the experts in your group, levels 8 and 9 offer the ultimate adventure. After your exciting snow day, recharge with a meal at one of the resort’s many five-star restaurants, then head to your mountainside vacation rental for a relaxing night with the guys.

great guys trips

Extreme Paintball Weekend in Castaic, California

If you’re in the mood for an adrenaline-packed weekend, gather the guys for a paintball adventure where the winner takes all. Castaic is a mecca for paintball, with Combat Paintball Park being a top choice for bachelor parties and mancations. Book a nearby vacation rental, and spend the weekend battling it out on any of the 10 paintball fields Combat has to offer. Take your game back to the Middle Ages on the Castle Field, or navigate a maze of irrigation tubing on the Irrigation Field while avoiding the enemy at all costs. After the winning team declares victory, the defeated can treat the group to a victory dinner at one of Castaic’s most beloved eateries – La Rocas Bar and Grill .

great guys trips

Beer Tasting in Torrance, California

If your guys’ group has a beer connoisseur or two, consider heading to the California coast for a weekend of beer tasting in Torrance. Located just 4 miles from Redondo Beach and home to 11 breweries and an abundance of vacation rentals, Torrance is a great option for a relaxed, fun-in-the-sun weekend. Spend some time at Smog City Brewery , where you can dine on local food truck cuisine while enjoying the latest IPA, then head over to The Dudes Brewing Company for a flight of craft beer before hitting the beach.

great guys trips

Ziplining at Xplor Water Park, Cancun, Mexico

For an incredible outdoor adventure, head south of the border with the guys, and fly through the jungles of Playa del Carmen via zip line. Xplor Water Park is the most-visited water park in the world, offering multiple ziplines that span 2.4 miles, waterslides and all-fun inclusive accommodations. After a day of ziplining and sunshine, take the party downtown, and soak up some of Cancun’s exciting nightlife. Stop by the world-famous Senor Frogs for a signature frozen cocktail, then head to The City Nightclub and dance until dawn.

great guys trips

Wine Tasting in Napa Valley, California

Known for its wine tours and laid-back atmosphere, Napa Valley is a great getaway destination for a low-key, relaxed adventure. Travel through wine country in a safe and stylish chauffeured SUV, or take a walking wine tour through downtown Napa, where you’ll find over 90 wine-tasting rooms. In addition to its world-famous wine, Napa is home to multiple accessible golf courses and a plethora of delicious eateries along Washington Street. End your wine-tasting day with a musical nightcap at The Blue Note Napa , where you can listen to live jazz while dining on gourmet cuisine.

great guys trips

Weekend on the Water, Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

For a fun weekend of fishing, boating and breathtaking views, head to Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. Book a spacious vacation home on Sunrise Beach or Pistol Point Loop that’s roomy enough for your entire group, and make sure to bring your fishing gear. Sunrise Boat Rental makes it easy to rent your own fishing boat for a full or half day, or you can schedule a fishing tour with a local guide. After a fun day on the water, head back to your lakefront rental, and grill up your catch of the day for a relaxing dinner with the guys.

great guys trips

Whitewater Rafting on the Salmon River, Idaho

Often referred to as a ‘Whitewater Rafting Paradise,’ the Salmon River in Idaho spans 49 miles, with beautiful scenery and twists and turns at every stretch. Idaho Adventures offers 3-day guided excursions that include camping, gear, meals and transportation. Glide through the first stretch and take in the scenic surroundings, then prepare yourselves for the next stretch, where you’ll navigate class II and III rapids. On the last stretch of the journey, you’ll experience the largest whitewater rapids on the entire river while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

great guys trips

Dude Ranch Weekend in Montana

Horseback riding, outdoor cookouts and telling stories around a roaring campfire are great ways to bond with your best guy friends, and you can do it all at a Montana dude ranch. The Bar West Dude Ranch in Whitefish is open year-round, and it offers a variety of guest ranch vacation packages for every type of cowboy. Lodging accommodations include spacious rooms in a Western-style lodge, rustic cabins and glamping tents, and all packages include meals, horseback riding and exciting ranch activities.

great guys trips

The Benefits of Guys’ Weekend Getaways

While the main objective of most guys’ weekend getaways is to simply have some good, old-fashioned fun, research has shown that taking a little time off to hang with the guys on an annual basis may also be beneficial to your overall well-being . Short, weekend excursions allow for a healthy disconnect from the obligations of everyday life, and connecting with others on a social level may actually help to balance out negative emotions and reduce stress levels.

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Annie Hixon

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Annie Hixon is a freelance content writer with over 10 years of experience in creating online content such as blog posts and informational articles. Originally from Minnesota, she currently resides in California where she supplements her writing income by working as a transcriber and script coordinator in the television industry. Annie has extensive research experience, which comes in handy when writing about unique topics.

great guys trips

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Mancation Ideas

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Mancations can take many forms, from golf trips with the guys to elaborate and luxurious once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Typically, though, the concept of a mancation represents bigger, more elaborate adventures, bucket list trips, and longer events that involve more planning. Mancations however can also simply refer to any man-only vacation to get away from society and blow off some steam with he boys.

What Do You Call Your "Guys Trips"?

  • Guys Weekends
  • Guys Getaways
  • Mancations encompass a wide range of male-oriented trips , from relaxed golf weekends to adrenaline-fueled adventures and luxurious bucket-list experiences, offering a chance for men to bond and pursue shared interests.
  • Origin and evolution of 'mancation' , a term popularized by Vince Vaughn's character in "The Breakup" (2006), has diversified into terms like 'guys getaway' and ' lads holiday ', reflecting cultural shifts and regional preferences.
  • Variety of mancation types cater to different interests : Extreme sports trips for adrenaline junkies, metrosexual getaways with spa treatments, outdoorsy adventures for nature enthusiasts, and geek-oriented excursions for fans of gaming and comics.
  • Educational and philanthropic mancations offer opportunities to learn new skills or contribute to community projects, adding meaningful dimensions to traditional men-only vacations.
  • Staycation mancations suggest exploring local attractions or enjoying simple pleasures like watching sports, proving that memorable male bonding experiences don't always require distant travel.

Article Index

Extreme sports mancations:, adventure mancations:, metrosexual mancations:, outdoorsman and leisure mancations:, geek mancations:, tour mancations:, cruise mancations:, educational mancations:, giving back mancation:, where did the term mancation come from.

The term "mancation" is widely considered to have come from Vince Vaughn's character in the movie, "The Breakup" released in 2006. However, it has since grown to be a general term referring to any men-only vacation, similar to the more common "girls getaways". The term was then picked up as the title of the 2012 movie Mancation, starring Joey Fatone - which was absolutely terrible and may very well have represented the beginning of the end for this term I once embraced passionately.

Realistically, though, over the past 18 years, the term mancation has faded a bit from popular culture and has been replaced with other words such as guys getaway or boys weekend in the United States, as well as Lads Holiday in the UK and other commonwealth nations such as Australia and sometimes Canada.

Synonyms For The Word Mancation

Other words that are also used to refer to a men-only vacation include guys' getaway, boys' weekend, lads holiday, and even a location. These aren't always the same exact term but many people use them interchangeably. For us, we use the following guidelines when it comes for vacation terms that are similar to the term mancation.

Over the past several years, as this site has grown we have had the chance to talk with a number of media about mancations and why taking a mancation is not just an excuse for "boys behaving badly" but is actually a very important opportunity for men to bond, share ideas, learn new skills, and be men without having to apologize.

Sometimes it's tough to get out of your fishing and golfing rut when planning a mancation, so here's some of our favorite mancation ideas:

Baja Racing Adventure

Get a Swanky Suite in Las Vegas

How to Plan an Amazing Beercation in San Diego

Ultimate Detroit Mancation Ideas

If you are reading this, then you probably already know what a mancation is, and you have probably participated in at least one. Simply put, a Mancation is any excuse to get away from the real world, hang out with other men who enjoy the same things you do and have fun - without having to worry about your wife, girlfriends, or other female companions. It may involve drinking lots of cheap beer, expensive whiskey, or sampling fine wines - or it can be dry. For the purposes of this site, I like to focus on a more mature interpretation of a mancation and only cover those aspects of being a man that would be safe to share with your wife - or your sons!

However, for younger guys looking for a wilder side of life full of extreme adventure, partying, and adrenaline, we haven't forgotten about Lads Holiday Trips and Bachelor Parties . The principles stay the same in terms of respecting women, avoiding negative stereotypes, and avoiding what could be labeled as "toxic masculinity." It's okay to have fun, but do it responsibly.

What Is A Mancation?

Simply put, a mancation is a getaway with a group of guys where you are off on an adventure. This can be a guys weekend getaway, a bachelor party , or simply a guys night out. However, a true mancation is an adventure with time to grow, learn, share, and ultimately create an experience that will last in your memory and stories to be told for years to come.

How you chose to enjoy your time is totally up to you and doesn't have to fit into any specific genre, but here are some common types of mancations or guys weekends that we cover on this website.

Mancation Ideas:

As I mentioned above, pretty much any opportunity to spend time with the guys and away from the women counts as a mancation. However, many mancations tend to fall into the following categories:

Extreme Sports Mancations focus on doing extreme things, such as sky diving, whitewater rafting, bungie jumping, heli-skiing in the Rockies, and other activities designed to generate the maximum adrenaline rush.

While extreme sports are certainly an adventure, Adventure Mancations are once-in-a-lifetime trips such as running with the bulls or attending the La Tomatina Festival, in Spain, rafting down the Amazon River, or participating in an archaeology dig in Mexico.

Men don't have to be cavemen and adrenaline addicts, metrosexuals are another audience that the travel industry is generating packages for. Metrosexual Mancations usually involve fantastic spa treatments, fittings for a custom suite, and staying at a luxury hotel with room service.

Hunting, fishing, golf, hiking - all activities that combine a love of the outdoors with a scaleable amount of leisure and luxury. For instance, your hiking excursion could be roughing it on the Appalachian Trail, or exploring glaciers in the morning, then returning to a fantastic lodge like the Chateau Lake Louise for high tea in the afternoon. Outdoorsy mancations are perhaps the most popular type of men's travel - but most guys probably don't even consider it a mancation. It is just having a blast with buddies from college, guys from work, or just spending some quality time as father and son.

This is absolutely an under-rated and under-promoted aspect of men's travel but as a card-carrying geek I think it is important to include things like going to E3 to hang out and "research" the latest and greatest new video games, to Gen Con for 24-hour marathons of Dungeons and Dragons and other RPGs, Comic-Con to see the latest and greatest new graphic novels, or Burning Man for, well ... everything else.

Tour Mancations are another very popular type of mancation. These typically take place over a number of years, or even just a few days. Examples of this could be a tour of all the Big 10 Football Stadiums or attending an away game each year for your favorite sports team. Other examples include Brewery Tours, Wine Tours, or traveling the Bourbon Trail in Kentucky. Often, the tour is just an excuse to go somewhere and the journey is as important as the destination.

Cruising is one of the most popular forms of travel and it is also one of the most affordable. Not surprisingly it can also make a great mancation. If you think that cruises are just for families, the newly married, and the nearly dead then you need to take a second look. Today's ships have TONS of awesome things for guys - including cigar bars, driving ranges, climbing walls and of course shore excursions and opportunities to explore nature

Mancations can be educational too! This is a great opportunity to travel to Italy for a week of cooking classes, visit museums, or perhaps go to the Travel Channel Academy's Film School. After all, learning can be fun and it is a great excuse to go somewhere new!

Typically mancations and guys weekends are selfish and oriented around "me time" or at least "us time", but being a man also means taking care of those less fortunate than yourself. Giving Back Mancations could involve traveling to New Orleans to help re-build houses for Habitat for Humanity, or maybe going to Africa to share your medical skills. Everyone has something they can do and this is a great opportunity to be a man, and doing good while traveling with the guys.

Staycation Mancation - Explore your Own Back Yard!

Finally, what if you can't afford to go to some exotic location or only have a few days and don't want to waste half of it traveling? A Staycation Mancation might be exactly what you need. This doesn't mean you have to stay in your home; it just means exploring your own backyard. Take your son downtown and treat him to something special that you remember from your childhood, or maybe rent a hotel room in the city and turn off the cell phones, stay up all night watching sports and drinking beer and enjoy not being nagged by the wife.

Like everything in life, it is important to be creative. These ten types of mancations certainly aren't the only ones, so I look forward to your feedback and getting to know you better through sharing your mancation photos and stories in our community!

great guys trips

Best US Destinations For A Guys-Only Getaway

great guys trips

A guy's vacation is like a rite of passage to adulthood and the ultimate bonding experience. This kind of trip will never go out of style. A recent study even showed evidence that "bromances" are good for their health because make friendships increase the levels of oxytocin, the "love hormone" in the brain and make people happier.

Business trips with colleagues don't count. Plan a real getaway with your real friends. Pick a destination carefully; a trip should re-energize you, make you forget your troubles for a few days and relax you. The following destinations provide all that – plus joy, laughter and dare.

Louisville, Kentucky

Explore the bourbon capital of the world – Kentucky. This 5-day trip is a must for any bourbon admirers or anyone who would like to know more about this unique American beverage. You will visit nine distilleries and participate in several tastings so you can get feel the authenticity of each final product.

Go on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. You will get an idea of the scientific process behind making this native to America spirit while also enjoying the stunning setting in the Bluegrass State. You can also participate in The Innkeepers Bourbon Selection with Dixion and learn about some rare bourbon that you won't find in stores.

There are plenty of other bourbon experiences in Louisville, Lawrenceburg, Bardstown or Clermont. Some even offer classes on how to cook your own bourbon.

Daytona Beach, Florida and Indianapolis, Indiana

If you are into fast cars, seeing Daytona 500 or Indianapolis 500 live is a must. These iconic racing events are held on weekends so you can turn the experience into a trip. Daytona is also known as an awesome destination for bachelor parties. Enjoy the beaches, fish on the Sunglow Fishing Pier or visit the Daytona International Speedway for a track tour. As is the case with most beach cities, the nightlife does not disappoint. You'll have plenty of options for dancing, drinking and enjoying live entertainment.

If you're more into motorcycles as opposed to cars, consider an Appalachia road trip. Take West Virginia's Route 50, which is more popular as the George Washington Highway, and head east. You will eventually reach the Skyline Drive, a road on the bucket list of every traveler. It runs through Shenandoah and the Blue Ridge Mountains, which is where you will witness some of the most stunning views ever. You'll finally get the meaning of the famous saying that "Life is about the journey, not the destination." You can start from Front Royal and drive all of the 105 miles on the Skyline Drive. Waterfalls crystallize in the winter. There are many picnic areas along the route. Many prefer the Elkwallow and South River because of the opportunities to "meet" with raptors and many animals.

Silverton Mountain, Colorado

Heli skiing is expensive but the Silverton Mountain Guides have some packages that come at reasonable prices. They guarantee six runs during the day and have access to some of the best big mountain skiing in Colorado's San Juan range, close to Telluride and Crested Butte, which gets a tremendous amount of snow. They take the chopper up to Alaska, where Silverton Mountain Guides offer full week luxury heli skiing vacations.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Vegas is the ultimate guys destination, famously known for some crazy bachelor parties. America's Sin City is a must-visit. It has changed in recent years and many associate it with wild parties as opposed to gambling. The variety of bars, lounges and night clubs in this fun haven will blow your mind.

Ocean City, Maryland

This resort city has plenty to offer – boardwalk for awesome days at the beach and fun party nights. Don't miss out on some of the best seafood in the country. Check out Assateague's famous wild ponies, just 9 miles away. Hike "with" foxes and thousands of birds around you. The golf enthusiasts will be pleased too. Ocean City has some of the most challenging courses around.

Humboldt County, California

Test yourself and your friends and see which one of you can reach the top of 1,500-year-old, 300-foot-tall trees. The answer should be "no one," because doing so is illegal and you may get in a lot of trouble. Join a canopy tour and you'll actually get to climb some of them. A panoramic view of the Redwood National Park is totally worth it. Take a zip line tour for even more fun.

North Maine Woods, Maine

Why not go on a canoe trip on the Allagash River? You will get to live like people in the mid 1800's did. The ride starts at Chamberlain Lake and goes through pine forests and rapids. If you're not careful, this can turn into the ultimate survival experience. You'll definitely need your buddies with you then.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Mardi Gras, anyone? You won't find a place in the U.S. that celebrates it better. Enjoy some of the best food in the South, if not in the whole country, and great music clubs and bars. The atmosphere is unconventional but fun. For those of who need a few days of more quiet time, you'll like the fishing and golf opportunities.

Grand Canyon, Arizona

How does paddling through miles of powerful white waters sound? Extremely challenging and exciting. The whole trip can be more than two weeks long as you navigate the Colorado River through a deep canyon. You'll probably qualify to teach geology classes afterwards. Raft trips are also available for those who prefer a more conventional adventure. Many men go on long mountain-bike trips along the northern rim.

Top 10 Guy Trips

Guys' trip

Bachelor parties, Father’s Day, or a big birthday celebration – there’s no shortage of reasons to get away with the guys. The next time you boys need some time off from the girls (ladies, you can check out our picks for the Top 10 Girl Getaways instead), skip the afternoon outing in favor of a full-blown guy trip! We’ve thought outside the sports-golf-beer-swilling box (though those vacations are all options, too) to round up the 10 best activities and destinations where you can hang with your bros. Think catching swordfish and marlin in Panama, smoking ribs and grilling steaks in Napa, and, yes, downing liters of beer in Munich, the capital of Oktoberfest (hey, it’s a cultural experience). Plus, we’ve hand-picked a package for each vacation destination, so you and the guys can plot your escape today. Get a preview of these dude-friendly destinations with our Guy Trips slideshow .

Use our Travel Search price comparison tool to find the lowest rates on flights, hotels, packages, and more travel deals. 

BBQ in Napa

Guys who think cooking is “women’s work” obviously missed the memo, because the majority of the world’s top-rated chefs are men. You may never own a Michelin-starred restaurant, but there’s no better place to learn the basics than the Culinary Institute of America ( www.ciachef.edu ) in Northern California’s Napa Valley. The C.I.A. offers a variety of culinary Boot Camp vacation courses, including a very macho grilling class that teach students how to grill the perfect steak, smoke ribs, and concoct an authentic Kansas City-style marinade – meaning you’ll be the ultimate barbecue man on the block in no time. If it gets too hot in the kitchen, steer your guy trip towards one of Napa Valley’s superb restaurants, where you can sit back and let someone else do the cooking, or enjoy the fruit of the vine at one of the Valley’s 400-plus wineries.

Book It: The C.I.A.’s location in St. Helena ( www.ciachef.edu/californi a) offers Grilling & BBQ Boot Camp courses in 2011 (August 29–30; November 16–17). The intensive two-day program is $895 per person and includes charcoal and gas grill orientation, lecture, hands-on cooking, one-on-one chef time, and your very own chef’s uniform. The school also has a more toned-down, half-day grilling course on barbecue basics for $250 per person (July 23).

See our Napa Valley Travel Guide for more trip-planning information, then use our Travel Search price comparison tool to find the lowest rates on flights, hotels, packages, and more travel deals.  

Catch a Baseball Game in Boston

Even a die-hard Yankees fan can’t deny Boston's place in baseball history. The beloved Boston Red Sox (known locally as the Sawx) are such an integral part of the city’s identity that even ambivalence is considered blasphemy. Their fans are fanatical and their home, Fenway Park ( boston.redsox.mlb.com ), looks very much like it did when the first game was played there in 1912. The best time for a guy trip to see the boys of summer in action is – well, the summer – but no matter what time of year you visit Boston, you can always take a tour of Fenway Park for a behind-the-scenes look at one of baseball’s most famous franchises.

Book It: The centrally located Omni Parker House ( www.omnihotels.com ) offers an overnight deal on select Saturdays from June through September that includes deluxe accommodations and two tickets to a Saturday game from $221 per night.

See our Boston Travel Guide for more trip-planning information, then use our Travel Search price comparison tool to find the lowest rates on flights, hotels, packages, and more travel deals.  

Drink Beer in Bavaria

There may be no better place on earth for beer lovers than Bavaria, Germany’s largest state. The capital city of Munich is home to the world-famous Oktoberfest ( www.oktoberfest.de ), but there’s plenty of sud-sipping to be done in Bavaria all year long. Beer gardens and beer halls abound, as do centuries-old breweries whose output adheres to the strict "purity" standards set forth in 1516. With so many places to lift a glass and say prost! , you might not have much time for sightseeing; but if you do take a break from imbibing, there are plenty of castles, monasteries, medieval villages, lakes, and mountains to explore. For more great guy trip destinations to throw back a few, check out our Top 10 Cities for Beer Lovers .

Book It: BeerTrips.com (www.beertrips.com/trips/oktoberfest.htm ) offers a 10-day tour of Prague, Munich (during Oktoberfest), and Bamberg this fall (September 14–24, 2011). The land-only price of $2,895 includes accommodations, transportation, brewery tours, and more.

See our Bavaria Travel Guide for more trip-planning information, then use our Travel Search price comparison tool to find the lowest rates on flights, hotels, packages, and more travel deals.  

Golf in Ponte Vedra Beach

Unless you’ve whittled your handicap down to scratch, you won’t be playing on the PGA tour. Instead, guy trips to Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, can be rewarded with tee time at the TPC Sawgrass ( www.tpc.com/sawgrass ), home of The Players Championship. No matter what level you're at, playing a course that's as steeped in golf lore as this one is an experience best shared with the boys.

Book It: Priced from $499 per person (per night), the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa's ( www.sawgrassmarriott.com ) Stadium Package includes deluxe accommodations, one round at the Players Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass, breakfast at Sawgrass’s Café on the Green, a caddy, 20 percent off a purchase at the resort golf shop, and other goodies.

See our Florida Travel Guide for more trip-planning information, then use our Travel Search price comparison tool to find the lowest rates on flights, hotels, packages, and more travel deals.  

Off-Road in Death Valley

Former boy scouts looking for a wilderness camping adventure should plan their guys' trip to Death Valley, California, where deep-rock canyons, old mining camps, and the arid Panamint Mountains beg to be explored. See it all via 4x4 – and if you’re feeling really adventurous, spin your wheels in the sand of the Dumont Dunes ( www.blm.gov ), some of the tallest dunes open for off-road riding. Set up camp under the stars and test your survival skills, because you’ll be sharing the land with wild donkeys, coyotes, and snakes. Pack plenty of drinking water – about 2 gallons per person, per day – if you don’t want the park’s name to predict the outcome of your trip.

Book It: Western Adventures ( www.4westernadventures.com ) offers three-night guided 4x4 tours of the region starting in the town of Trona, California, and continuing through the area’s mountains and valleys (a $100 refundable deposit applies; participants are responsible for all of their own food, fuel, site fees, and personal expenses).

See our California Travel Guide for more trip-planning information, then use our Travel Search price comparison tool to find the lowest rates on flights, hotels, packages, and more travel deals.  

Party Like a Sports Star in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is the ultimate spot for excess, a place where boys can be boys and indulge in the activities guys love: gambling, girls, and nightlife. The Hardwood Suite at the Palms Casino Resort ( www.palms.com ) will transform your trip into one of Hangover -esque history – think a basketball half-court and scoreboard, a massive hot tub, a full bar, and ”NBA-sized” beds. More basketball touches like a lavish locker room and jerseys are courtesy of Palms owner George Maloof, who also owns the NBA’s Sacramento Kings. Models wearing cheerleader and referee uniforms will even act as hosts for your special night. And if you're looking for ladies, we've got you covered – we recommended Vegas as a top girls getaway , too.

Book It: Nightly rates for the Hardwood Suite start at a whopping $25,000. Two master bedrooms and three extra-large Murphy beds, plus a living room, sleep 10. But if you’re just there to party, the max capacity is 350 – invite all your closest friends and get your game on.

See our Las Vegas Travel Guide for more trip-planning information, then use our Travel Search price comparison tool to find the lowest rates on flights, hotels, packages, and more travel deals.  

Play Cowboy in Lajitas

Nestled between Big Bend National Park ( www.nps.gov/bibe ) to the west and the Rio Grande to the south, the rugged landscape of small-town Lajitas, Texas, can inspire even the slickest city slicker to don a ten-gallon hat, pack a pistol, and settle in for a heated game of poker with his pals. The best place to corral your inner cowboy is during a guys' trip the upscale Lajitas Golf Resort & Spa’s Badlands Hotel ( www.lajitasgolfresort.com ), which recreates a Wild West frontier town feel – complete with tumbling tumbleweeds and a wooden boardwalk, albeit with modern comforts and amenities. Resort guests can easily arrange outings into the great outdoors from hunting to hiking to horseback riding.

Book It: The 25,000-acre Lajitas Golf Resort & Spa offers a two-night Born to Be Wild package from $369, which includes deluxe lodging for two, daily breakfast, a bucket of beer and wings at the Thirsty Goat Saloon, a picnic lunch, and a river road map to help navigate the property's Old West terrain (purported stomping grounds of outlaws of yore). Complement your stay with some skeet shooting, a cowboy shoot-out (instruction on Old West-style guns is available), an ATV tour, or a sunset horseback ride.

See our Texas Travel Guide for more trip-planning information, then use our Travel Search price comparison tool to find the lowest rates on flights, hotels, packages, and more travel deals.  

Spa in Chicago

Cubs-crazed Chicago is tailor-made for guy trips; but after you’ve had your fill of sports, pizza, and jazz, head out for a relaxing day at the spa. If you secretly love to be pampered, you’re not alone – about a third of U.S. spa-goers are men. Get a superb hot-lather shave, haircut, or your back massaged (or waxed) in masculine surroundings – think pool tables, brown leather chairs, and ’40s pin-up-girl posters – at the 316 Club Barber Spa ( www.316barberspa.com ). Don’t worry: If you have to miss the Cubs game because your skin is still exfoliating, you can catch it one of the numerous flat-screen TVs in the lounge and treatment "cabanas." 

Book It: The 316 Club Barber Spa attracts guy’s guys with its players-club ambiance (free beer and wine, and a Vegas-style odds board). The Pit Boss package includes a massaging shampoo, haircut, hand massage and detail, five-step shave, and shoeshine, all for $95.

See our Chicago Travel Guide for more trip-planning information, then use our Travel Search price comparison tool to find the lowest rates on flights, hotels, packages, and more travel deals.  

Sport Fish in Panama

If the only thing you know about Panama is that is has a famous canal, it’s time for a trip to Central America. Panama is full of surprises; that it’s an excellent spot for sport fishing is one of many. Grab the guys and head south for a “reel” good catch – Panama’s waters are home to swordfish, marlin, and even some shark species. Even if the fish aren’t biting, the landscapes alone are worth a guys' trip trek – exploring the country’s tropical rain forests and untouched beaches isn’t a bad way to spend a weekend with the fellas, either.

Book It: Go sport fishing at the edge of Panama’s remote Darien Gap at Tropic Star Lodge ( www.tropicstar.com ). Pricing from $2,850 per person (plus a $500 airfare transfer fee) gets you three meals daily, resort accommodations, and three to six days of fishing from aboard a captain-equipped yacht.

See our Panama Travel Guide for more trip-planning information, then use our Travel Search price comparison tool to find the lowest rates on flights, hotels, packages, and more travel deals.  

Surf in Sydney

The “Man” in Manly Beach isn’t the only reason for its guys' trip allure. Known as the Bondi Beach of the north, this strip of Sydney sand attracts hordes of visitors looking to kick back and ride the waves (and perhaps steal a glance at topless sunbathers, a regular sighting on local Australian beaches). Bikinis (or lack thereof) aside, men who'd rather focus on the water can master killer waves by enrolling in a local surf school and learning from the pros. Plus, once the sun goes down, you can head out and enjoy Sydney’s legendary nightlife.

Book It: The Manly Surf School ( www.manlysurfschool.com ) provides programs with qualified instructors for beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Group lessons starting from $60 are available, as are private lessons from $90/hour.

See our Sydney Travel Guide for more trip-planning information, then use our Travel Search price comparison tool to find the lowest rates on flights, hotels, packages, and more travel deals.  

Le Bon Temps: Three Nights in New Orleans

New Orleans French Quarter

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Perfect Lads’ Weekend: For Your Guys Trip, 8 Best Places to Go

Jillian Tangen

One of the greatest joys in life is just hanging out with your friends. And sometimes a guys’ weekend away is just what the doctor ordered. We’ve previously shared the best places for a luxurious Girl’s Trip . Now it’s your turn, dudes. But where to go on a weekend trip with your oldest and closest male friends? Also known as a mancation, boys-only trip or bachelor getaway, there are plenty of great luxury vacation destinations. We’ve rounded up the best places to go with the guys for an epic weekend trip right now.

a weekend escape with pals is good for your health

After two summers of social distancing and travel restrictions, it’s finally time to book that guys trip you and your crew have been talking about. With summer just kicking off and the flexibility of work from home still on the table, there’s no time like the present to start planning a getaway with the guys.

Not to mention how important spending time with friends is for your health .  Studies show that cultivating relationships through travel can extend life expectancy, combat stress and even help us better tolerate pain.

Great luxury travel destinations, best places to go with the guys on epic weekend trip, mancation, boys-only vacation or bachelor getaway.

Great luxury travel destinations, best places to go with the guys on epic weekend trip, mancation, boys-only vacation or bachelor getaway.

Here at Dandelion Chandelier, we’ve shared some of the places that women can head with their close friends for a Girl’s Trip to reap some of these benefits.

But why should the ladies have all the fun? Men deserve a guys’ trip every once in a while, too.  After all, it’s just as important for them to build their relationships with their buddies as it is for women. And sometimes grabbing a drink after hours or watching the game just doesn’t cut it when it comes to real bonding and its benefits.

Great luxury travel destinations, best places to go with the guys on epic weekend trip, mancation, boys-only vacation or bachelor getaway.

best places for a guys weekend, mancation, boys-only trip or bachelor getaway

We have a friend who makes time for a weekend of golf away with his college and graduate school pals without fail every year. Hearing him talk about the fun of having that annual time to reconnect, and how folks have changed through the years made us realize what a joy it is to be able to do that. If not once a year, at least every once in a while.

Great luxury travel destinations, best places to go with the guys on epic weekend trip, mancation, boys-only vacation or bachelor getaway.

So where should you guys head to? Other than Vegas, we mean, ’cause that’s been done already in The Hangover and a million other places. We’ve researched 8 ideas to help you get the ball rolling. From sports-driven excursions to taste-fueled adventures to low-key retreats,  there is sure to be something here for everyone in your crew.

So grab your buddies, because it’s time for a guy’s trip. And we’re not gonna lie – we might take our girls on a few of these. ‘Cause they look like serious fun.

The 8 best places for an epic guys weekend trip this year

1. hit the bourbon trail (and racetrack) in kentucky.

Hit the bourbon trail with your group of guy friends in Lexington, Kentucky – the birthplace of America’s only native spirit. From Four Roses and Buffalo Trace to Woodford Reserve there’s no shortage of historic distilleries.

great guys trips

Great luxury travel destinations, best places to go with the guys on epic weekend trip, mancation, boys-only vacation or bachelor getaway. The bourbon trail in Lexington, Kentucky.

When you’re ready for a break you can head to the races, as Lexington is also “The Horse Capital of the World.” There are over 400 horse farms in the area and many of them welcome visitors, including Claiborne Farm where Queen Elizabeth II dropped by twice. October will see the start of the Fall Race Meet. And November is the annual Breeders Cup at Keeneland.

great guys trips

Visit a horse farm in Lexington, Kentucky. Or catch the Derby or the Breeders Cup.

Whether spending the weekend betting on the ponies, sampling bourbon flights or seeking outdoor adventure exploring nearby hiking areas, the newly opened Elwood Hotel is the perfect place to retire between all the action.

2. indulge in turks and caicos

For those who are seeking relaxation and white-sand beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, Turks and Caicos is the place to go. Specifically, the Ritz-Carlton, Turks and Caicos located on the idyllic shores of Grace Bay.

great guys trips

Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos. Great luxury travel destinations, best places to go with the guys on epic weekend trip, mancation, boys-only vacation or bachelor getaway.

Whether you and the guys want to lounge by the adults-only pool in a private cabana (of course you do) or head out for a sailing lesson on the Hobie catamarans. Or grab a snorkel and foot fins at the beach and snorkel the clear water, kayak in the ocean or paddleboard . After the action you can relax at the spa or unwind at the property’s casino and do it all again the next day.

3. give london a call

Famous restaurants, Wimbledon , underground clubs, the Tower of London and The Hundred , there’s no shortage of things to do and visit in London during the summer – even for the most seasoned traveler.

great guys trips

Great luxury travel destinations, best places to go with the guys on epic weekend trip, mancation, boys-only vacation or bachelor getaway. Savile Row, Mayfair, London.

But for a real treat, take a trip to Savile Row, London’s most stylish street, where your crew can get measured for a bespoke shirt, suit or blazer by some of the world’s finest tailors like Huntsman , Stowers Bespoke and Norton & Sons . The tailors will keep your measurements on file so you can order whatever you need, whenever you like, delivered straight to your home once you’re in their files.

Stay at the recently opened One Hundred Shoreditch with a vibrant rooftop bar offering views across East London.

4. hit the links in ponte vedra beach

Grab the gang and head to the seaside paradise of Ponte Vedra Beach Florida for a truly unforgettable round of 18 holes at TPC Sawgrass . That famous 17th hole – aka the “Island Green”? You guys can brag about it for years to come.

great guys trips

TPC Sawgrass golf course in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.

For the complete experience, stay at The Lodge & Club . Word to the wise though, book early because tee times and rooms are reserved as far as 12 months in advance.

5. go fishing in lofoten, Norway

The archipelago of Lofoten in northern Norway is known for its dramatic scenery of mountains and peaks, sheltered bays, open sea, beaches and untouched lands. It’s also very well known for its fishing and offers everything from deep sea options in the ocean to fly-fishing or fishing with lures in the nearby lakes and rivers .  Opt to either take a guided fishing tour or to rent  a boat and head out on your own.

great guys trips

Midnight sun in Lofoten, Norway.

For accommodations, try renting one of the island’s famous rustic wooden fishermen’s huts known as rorbuer or stay at the industrial chic Trevarefabrikken .  Late spring/summer is a great time to go thanks to the midnight sun, which makes for even more chances at catching a big one.

6. savor america’s pastime in cooperstown

Baseball fanatics will love a weekend geeking out at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, New York. From Babe Ruth’s glove used in the 1926 World Series to Derek Jeter’s batting helmet and gloves worn during his 3,000th hit, it has everything.

great guys trips

The Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, New York.

Then, be sure to hit up Cooperstown Distillery for a tour and tasting, grab a flight at Brewery Ommegang or pick up some hand-rolled cigars at Cooperstown Cigar Company .

Less than a 10 minute walk from the village, The Otesaga on Lake Otesaga is the place to stay. Enjoy golfing, swimming and other water sports when you’re tired of exploring the history of America’s favorite pastime.

7. tune-in in nashville

If you and your gang seriously love music, then a trip to Music City is for you. With legendary venues like the Grand Ole Opry , countless honky-tonks lining Broadway and beyond and themed museums like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Johnny Cash Museum , Nashville will ensure you and the guys listen to great tunes and enjoy a beer or two.

great guys trips

Book the Thompson Hotel in the ultra cool Gulch neighborhood. Not only does it have one of the best rooftop lounges in the city but its guitars are available for borrowing (and it offers lessons, too!).

great guys trips

8. get outdoors in vermont

Ready to get in touch with your inner outdoorsman? Head to Vermont’s Green Mountains, where you can learn “the English Churchill technique” while shooting clays at the Orvis Shooting School.   Handle a trained hawk with a falconry master. Or take up fly fishing on Vermont’s Battenkill River.

Great luxury travel destinations, best places to go with the guys on epic weekend trip, mancation, boys-only vacation or bachelor getaway.

Great luxury travel destinations, best places to go with the guys on epic weekend trip, mancation, boys-only vacation or bachelor getaway. The Green Mountains of Vermont.

Alternatively, go off-road driving with the Land Rover Driving School . And in the winter you can of course ski or snowboard at Stratton Mountain .

Manchester’s Equinox Golf Resort & Spa is centrally located and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, no matter the season.

where to go with the guys for an epic trip this year

Those are our thoughts on several great luxury travel destinations and best places to go with the guys on epic weekend trip, mancation, boys-only vacation or bachelor getaway this year.

So what are you waiting for?  Gather the crew and get planning – your health depends on it, man!  And if we could offer just one more suggestion?  Be sure to bring home a little gift for your loved ones. You can thank us later.

Jillian Tangen

Jillian Tangen

Jillian is a lifestyle editor at Dandelion Chandelier covering topics like fashion, travel, entertainment and on occasion, even finance. She thinks there’s no such thing as having too many sweaters.

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5 Great Guys’ Trips

5 Great Guys' Trips

Family time, date nights, and your everyday responsible life is terrific, sure, but it’s sometimes very important to get away with the lads. Kick back, talk (or not) about your goals, your concerns, and whether LeBron could ever surpass MJ as basketball’s true Greatest of All Time, on these 5 perfect Guys Trips:

Head Outdoors in Zion National Park —More than 200 million years ago, the Virgin River cut through Utah’s burnt-red Navajo sandstone to create Zion. With soaring monoliths and dramatic buttes, this “temple of God” is a wonder of nature. Take a hike or wander through the desert landscape. Zion is just one of the stops on YMT Vacations’ National Parks of the Golden West Tour which includes the “Mighty Five” and the Grand Canyon.

Throw Back a Pint in Dublin —With more than 1,000 bars in the city, the dark “Dublin gargle” is always on tap. Enjoy a pint o’ Guinness, tapping your toes to an Irish band, and practicing the gift of the gab with locals. The Best of Ireland Tour takes you from St. Patrick’s Cathedral to the Cliffs of Moher, from the Ring of Kerry to Giant’s Causeway. Just make sure to save room for another round.

Explore the Last Frontier —From the bow of your cruise ship you can hear the sound of thunder as calving glaciers drop giant slabs of ice into the water. Alaska is home to more than 100,000 glaciers and some of the planet’s most fascinating wildlife. On a YMT Vacations Alaskan cruise tour you can search for pods of migrating whales, walk onto the Athabasca Glacier and sail the Inside Passage.

Explore NOLA —New Orleans has a flavor all its own. From second line parades to jazz in the Vieux Carre’, cable car rides to toe-tapping Cajun dancing, there’s always a spicy little something extra in the Big Easy. After enjoying the tastes of one of the world’s best culinary cities, stop by the Roosevelt for a Sazerac, America’s first cocktail. The New Orleans & Western Caribbean Cruise and the Southern Music and Dixieland Tour both make stops in this exciting city.

Experience the Wild West – Buffalo Bill Cody was the star of his own wild west show, and a major contributor to the romantic image of the “Wild West.” Visit the flamboyantly mustached cowboy showman’s museum to learn about one of the most interesting periods in American history. On the Rocky Mountains & Western Frontiers itinerary you’ll also get to see Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse, visit the site of Little Big Horn and see Old Faithful at Yellowstone National Park.

These are just a few of our favorite trips to take with your best guys. But, we do have an entire collection to choose from—try cruising through the Panama Canal or visiting the battlefields of Gettysburg, seeing the Great Barrier Reef or enjoying a whisky flight at the Jack Daniels Distillery. To learn more, call your travel professional or YMT Vacations at 888-860-1969 .

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Experience the best of 2 stunning countries on this journey through Scotland and Ireland, which promises to be an adventure you’ll never forget. First, see the great cities of Scotland on guided panoramic tours.

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Places to Play

The 11 best golf trips that offer the most bang for your buck

Much like weddings or school reunions, buddies trips offer golfers a chance to reconnect with friends away from the stress of day-to-day routines. Play some golf. Have a few drinks. Needle your opponent when the match gets tight. These getaways take on different shapes and sizes, but whether you take them with buddies from college, your weekend foursome or family members, the camaraderie always makes for memorable stories told long after the return home.

Of course, much like weddings, golf trips can be expensive. The most popular golf-trip destinations, though they might include some fantastic courses, can set you back thousands of dollars. If you’re looking to plan your next golf getaway but don’t want to break the bank, we’ve got you covered.

This collection includes our 11 favorite budget golf-trip destinations. We've identified some of the top quality, cheaper golf options that are worth seeking out in each region. Many of these courses have stay-and-play packages available to maximize value even further. 

Click around to learn more about each course and read reviews from our course-ranking panelists. And if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our new, searchable course database,  Places to Play,  to plan your next trip.

Northern Michigan

Michigan is one of the most underrated public golf destinations in North America—with a ton of great courses in close proximity—it's perfect for planning a trip around. For your next buddies’ trip, consider heading up north for startling elevation changes, stunning scenery and tremendous value.

Though Forest Dunes and Arcadia Bluffs would be at the top of our lists if money was no obstacle, the below options are perfect for the group on a budget.

Bay Harbor Golf Club: Links/Quarry

Bay Harbor Golf Club: Links/Quarry

Bay harbor, mi.

  • Best In State

Greywalls at Marquette Golf Club

Greywalls at Marquette Golf Club

Marquette, mi.

  • 100 Greatest Public

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa: The Bear

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa: The Bear

Williamsburg, mi.

The other courses at Grand Traverse are also worth playing:

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa: The Wolverine

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa: The Wolverine

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa: Spruce Run

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa: Spruce Run

Treetops Resort: Masterpiece

Treetops Resort: Masterpiece

Gaylord, mi.

Treetops Resort: Premier

Treetops Resort: Premier

Treetops Resort: Signature

Treetops Resort: Signature

Treetops Resort: Tradition

Treetops Resort: Tradition

Shanty Creek Resort: Cedar River

Shanty Creek Resort: Cedar River

Bellaire, mi.

Shanty Creek Resort: The Legend

Shanty Creek Resort: The Legend

Shanty Creek Resort: Hawk's Eye

Shanty Creek Resort: Hawk's Eye

Shanty Creek Resort: Schuss Mountain

Shanty Creek Resort: Schuss Mountain

Mancelona, mi.

Shanty Creek Resort: Summit

Shanty Creek Resort: Summit

More from places to play.

great guys trips

Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail—complete with nearly 500 holes at 11 facilities spread across the state—provides some of the best value in the country. We’ve selected the best courses on the Trail between Birmingham and Montgomery for you to plan your next trip around.

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail At Capitol Hill: The Judge

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail At Capitol Hill: The Judge

Prattville, al.

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail At Capitol Hill: Legislator

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail At Capitol Hill: Legislator

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail At Capitol Hill: Senator

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail At Capitol Hill: Senator

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail At Cambrian Ridge: Canyon/Loblolly/Sherling

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail At Cambrian Ridge: Canyon/Loblolly/Sherling

Greenville, al.

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Ross Bridge

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Ross Bridge

Birmingham, al.

Towering pines and two large lakes frame many holes on this expansive layout just south of Birmingham. Significant elevation changes dictate a layout that plays up and down the banks that surround the two lakes, which are connected by a stunning waterfall that separates the ninth and 18th greens. With wide landing areas and large greens, there is ample room for wayward shots. The course tips out over 8,000 yards, but there are five sets of tees to accommodate all players.  Note: The course is temporarily closed due to green damage caused by misapplied herbicide.

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail At Oxmoor Valley: Ridge

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail At Oxmoor Valley: Ridge

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail At Oxmoor Valley: Valley

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail At Oxmoor Valley: Valley

Myrtle beach.

Myrtle Beach has long been a staple on any list of best golf trips. For good reason: The Grand Strand boasts nearly a hundred courses, many of which offer stay-and-play packages that combine value with quality golf. On your next trip to the Palmetto State, consider these multi-course resorts.

Barefoot Resort & Golf: Dye Course

Barefoot Resort & Golf: Dye Course

North myrtle beach, sc.

Barefoot Resort & Golf: Fazio Course

Barefoot Resort & Golf: Fazio Course

Barefoot Resort & Golf: Love Course

Barefoot Resort & Golf: Love Course

Barefoot Resort & Golf: Norman Course

Barefoot Resort & Golf: Norman Course

The Legends Golf Resort: Heathland

The Legends Golf Resort: Heathland

Myrtle beach, sc.

The Legends Golf Resort: Moorland

The Legends Golf Resort: Moorland

From Golf Digest Architecture Editor emeritus Ron Whitten: At the same time in 1989 when Tom Doak was constructing the Heathland Course at Legends Golf Resort in Myrtle Beach, Pete Dye's younger son, P.B. Dye, was on site concocting another 18, the Moorland Course. (I'm pretty sure Doak routed Moorland at the same time he prepared his plans for Heathland, because early press releases stated Doak was do three 18s at the resort. He ended up building just one of the three.) Moorland, like Heathland, opened in 1990, and I played both soon thereafter. For our architecture editor's complete review, click here . 

The Legends Golf Resort: Parkland

The Legends Golf Resort: Parkland

Tidewater Golf Club

Tidewater Golf Club

great guys trips

Colonial Williamsburg

Oftentimes, a buddies’ trip is all about the golf. A 27- or 36-hole day is commonplace for many groups looking to maximize time on the course. Colonial Williamsburg is great for that -- as many resorts offer multiple courses that are all worth playing. But on at least one of the days, make sure you head to the historic center of town, where life looks similar to as it did in the 18 th  century.  

Golden Horseshoe Golf Club: Gold Course

Golden Horseshoe Golf Club: Gold Course

Williamsburg, va.

Golden Horseshoe Golf Club: Green

Golden Horseshoe Golf Club: Green

Kingsmill Resort: The River Course

Kingsmill Resort: The River Course

Kingsmill Resort: The Plantation Course

Kingsmill Resort: The Plantation Course

Royal New Kent Golf Club

Royal New Kent Golf Club

Providence forge, va.

Like Myrtle Beach, Orlando is a fixture on many golf destination lists, with a number of quality public options to plan your next trip around. There are truly an endless amount of solid Orlando golf options, but we've highlighted our favorite ones below.

Mission Inn Resort & Club: El Campeon

Mission Inn Resort & Club: El Campeon

Howey in the hills, fl.

Mission Inn Resort & Club: Las Colinas

Mission Inn Resort & Club: Las Colinas

Orange County National Golf Center & Lodge: Crooked Cat

Orange County National Golf Center & Lodge: Crooked Cat

Winter garden, fl.

Orange County National Golf Center & Lodge: Panther Lake

Orange County National Golf Center & Lodge: Panther Lake

Orange County National Golf Center & Lodge: Tooth

Orange County National Golf Center & Lodge: Tooth

Reunion Resort & Golf Club: Jack Nicklaus Course

Reunion Resort & Golf Club: Jack Nicklaus Course

Reunion, fl.

Reunion Resort & Golf Club: Arnold Palmer Course

Reunion Resort & Golf Club: Arnold Palmer Course

Reunion Resort & Golf Club: Tom Watson Course

Reunion Resort & Golf Club: Tom Watson Course

For another getaway to the Sunshine State, consider heading down to the Tampa area, where you’ll find some great public options. Tampa offers the perfect combination of quality nightlife with very good golf. Though Innisbrook Resort or nearby Streamsong might top many traditional lists, we’ve identified some hidden gems for this buddies-trip-on-a-budget list that for solid value.

Also keep in mind that World Woods -- which will be Cabot Citrus Farms when it re-opens (projected to be the end of 2023) -- will become our new favorite option in the area.

RELATED:  A new chapter for World Woods: The acclaimed Florida 36-hole complex will soon become Cabot Citrus Farms

Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club: South Course

Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club: South Course

Dade city, fl.

Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club: North Course

Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club: North Course

Fox Hollow Golf Club

Fox Hollow Golf Club

Trinity, fl.

The Club at Cheval

The Club at Cheval

great guys trips

It’s only appropriate that these affordable courses in the Land of 10,000 Lakes all play around … lakes. This collection of scenic tracks includes a 100 Greatest Public course and a couple of shorter options sure to inject excitement into your next buddies’ trip match. 

Madden's on Gull Lake: The Classic at Madden's

Madden's on Gull Lake: The Classic at Madden's

Brainerd, mn.

Madden's on Gull Lake: Pine Beach East

Madden's on Gull Lake: Pine Beach East

Legacy Courses At Craguns: Dutch Legacy

Legacy Courses At Craguns: Dutch Legacy

The Pines At Grand View Lodge: Lakes/Woods/Marsh

The Pines At Grand View Lodge: Lakes/Woods/Marsh

Deacon's Lodge Golf Course

Deacon's Lodge Golf Course

Pequot lakes, mn.

Closer to the Wisconsin side of the state, a very worthwhile trip would be combining two 100 Greatest Public facilities: Giants Ridge and The Wilderness at Fortune Bay.

The Quarry at Giants Ridge

The Quarry at Giants Ridge

Biwabik, mn.

The Wilderness At Fortune Bay

The Wilderness At Fortune Bay

West point, mississippi.

One of the more underrated destinations in this collection, West Point, Miss. boasts a couple of exceptional layouts—both ranked on our 100 Greatest Public list—that won’t break the bank.

Mossy Oak Golf Club

Mossy Oak Golf Club

West point, ms.

From Golf Digest Architecture Editor emeritus Ron Whitten: Back in mid-1980s, George Bryan, who ran Bryan Foods, now part of Sara Lee Corp., created Old Waverly Golf Club in tiny West Point, Miss., a Bob Cupp/Jerry Pate design and former U.S. Women’s Open host that to me is a bit underrated. In the early 2000s, Bryan bought an old dairy farm (Knob Hill Dairy) across the highway and hired Gil Hanse to give him an Old School public golf course. George named it Mossy Oak, after a West Point company of the same name that supplies outdoor camouflage gear. (The company has a 10-percent interest in the course.) He was going to call it Howlin' Wolf after a legendary blues singer born in West Point, but his heirs wanted too much money. Hanse got the job before he was awarded the Rio Olympics design in 2012, and it was the first project he tackled after completing his work in Brazil. For the full review from our architecture editor, click here .

Old Waverly Golf Club

Old Waverly Golf Club

From Golf Digest Architecture Editor emeritus Ron Whitten: I've always admired Jerry Pate's work in golf architecture. He was one of the few PGA Tour pros who really got down and dirty in golf design, and I especially liked the few courses he did with architect Bob Cupp. Their second collaboration was Old Waverly in tiny West Point, Miss., a dream project of West Point native George Bryan. Cupp was just two years removed from his employment as Jack Nicklaus’ chief designer, and Pate was still active on the PGA Tour when they started the project in August 1986. Both spent a lot of time on the site. I remember Pate was as proud of the massive drainage system he successfully persuaded Old Waverly to adopt as he was of the many strategies he helped impart in its holes. The course opened in August 1988 to immediate acclaim, finishing No. 3 among Golf Digest's Best New Private Courses in 1989. For the complete review from our architecture editor, click here .

San Antonio

In terms of affordable public golf, the San Antonio area is tough to beat. Of all the destinations in this collection, these Texas Hill Country courses may provide the most bang for your buck. Of course, Austin is also very doable when headed to the Hill Country, but there's a little more value on and off the course in San Antonio.

The Quarry Golf Course

The Quarry Golf Course

San antonio, tx.

La Cantera Golf Club

La Cantera Golf Club

Canyon Springs Golf Club

Canyon Springs Golf Club

Brackenridge Park Golf Course

Brackenridge Park Golf Course

SilverHorn Golf Club of Texas

SilverHorn Golf Club of Texas

The Bandit Golf Club

The Bandit Golf Club

New braunfels, tx.

Cedar Creek Golf Course

Cedar Creek Golf Course

great guys trips

Chattanooga

If your typical buddies’ trip usually takes on a laidback vibe, consider centering your next one around Sweetens Cove, just outside Chattanooga. And there are some other quality options in the area to round out your trip for when you’re not whacking it around the Peyton Manning-backed nine-holer with few rules.

Sweetens Cove Golf Club

Sweetens Cove Golf Club

South pittsburg, tn.

Bear Trace at Harrison Bay

Bear Trace at Harrison Bay

Harrison, tn.

Brainerd Golf Course

Brainerd Golf Course

Chattanooga, tn, mesquite, nev./st. george, utah.

One of the most scenic destinations in this collection, southern Nevada and Utah provide some of the most dramatic rock formations you’ll find on a course. Several of these affordable tracks just northeast of Las Vegas highlight desert golf in its gentler form, with wider landing areas than are typical of many southwestern layouts. 

Sand Hollow Resort: Championship Course

Sand Hollow Resort: Championship Course

Hurricane, ut.

The Ledges of St. George

The Ledges of St. George

Saint george, ut.

Copper Rock

Copper Rock

Wolf Creek Golf Club

Wolf Creek Golf Club

Mesquite, nv.

Oasis Golf Club: Palmer

Oasis Golf Club: Palmer

Oasis Golf Club: Canyons

Oasis Golf Club: Canyons

Coral Canyon Golf Course

Coral Canyon Golf Course

Washington, ut.

SunRiver Golf Club

SunRiver Golf Club

great guys trips

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13 Road Trips To Take In The USA That Are Bucket-List Worthy

  • Stunning coastal views and charming towns make the Pacific Coast Highway a bucket-list-worthy road trip in California. (100 characters)
  • Route 66 is perfect for history buffs, connecting small towns and offering iconic landmarks along the way. (102 characters)
  • The Great River Road, spanning 10 states, provides a scenic route along the Mississippi River for an ultimate bucket list road trip. (129 characters)

There's something inherently alluring about the open road. The wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the freedom to explore new destinations and experiences. From adventures on the rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest to the stunning vistas of the Southwest, the United States is home to some of the most iconic and breathtaking road trip routes in the world. This article lists some of the best bucket-list-worthy road trips to take in the USA for a memorable adventure. So, grab those keys, buckle up, and get ready for an experience of a lifetime on one of America's most scenic roads .

UPDATE: 2023/12/07 11:27 EST BY AARON SPRAY

Even More Great Road Trips To Take In The United States

The United States is famous for being one of the best places for road tripping. There are plenty of potential road trips to take all through the United States (and not only in the Lower 48). This list was expanded to include even more excellent road trip ideas to explore the nation.

Related: 10 Of The Most Scenic Byways In The U.S. (Perfect For A Road Trip)

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Staggering sheer drops and coastal views are what make this pacific coast adventure stand out.

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most famous road trips in the US , stretching along the California coastline between Orange County and Mendocino County, covering a distance of approximately 655 miles. The highway is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world, offering breathtaking ocean views with stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns.

Some of the must-see spots along the Pacific Coast Highway include the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Bixby Bridge, the Hearst Castle, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls. The drive also takes you through the spectacular Big Sur region, overlooking the coastline and the Santa Lucia Mountains.

  • Length: 655 miles
  • When To Go: September through October
  • Bucket List Stop: Pfeiffer Beach to see the falls

Route 66, Illinois to California

Perfect for history buffs, route 66 tells stories of america's midwestern glory days.

Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica in California, covering a distance of approximately 2,448 miles, Route 66 is one of the most iconic highways in the US and offers plenty of places to visit along the way. The highway is a popular route for travelers, as it connects many small towns and rural areas in the Midwest and the Southwest.

Some of the must-see attractions and landmarks along the highway include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri; the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas; the Grand Canyon in Arizona; and the Santa Monica Pier in California.

  • Length: 2,448 miles
  • When To Go: May and September
  • Bucket List Stop: Blue Whale of Catoosa to add a quirky, famed landmark to the trip

Great River Road, Mississippi River

This route covers 10 states in total, making it an ultimate bucket list road trip.

The Great River Road is a national scenic byway that follows the course of the Mississippi River from its headwaters in northern Minnesota to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. The road passes through 10 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Tennessee, and Louisiana, covering a distance of approximately 3,000 miles.

Some of the highlights of the Great River Road include the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri; the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi; and the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. The road also passes through several national and state parks, such as Itasca State Park, Effigy Mounds National Monument, and Natchez Trace State Park.

  • Length: 3,000 miles
  • When To Go: During the fall months , September through November
  • Bucket List Stop: The French Quarter in New Orleans for an authentic Crescent City experience

Related: 10 Bucket List Road Trips To Take In The US This Fall

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

Known for being the most scenic mountain road in the south, the blue ridge scenery is unparalleled.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive, spanning 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. The road is among the best road trips US states have to offer, especially due to the fact it provides breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling hills, valleys, and various opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular scenic drives, offering visitors a variety of attractions, including overlooks with panoramic views, hiking trails, picnic areas, and historic sites. Some of the most popular stops along the parkway include the Peaks of Otter, Linville Falls, Craggy Gardens, and the Linn Cove Viaduct.

  • Length: 469 miles
  • When To Go: Mid-May through Mid-September
  • Bucket List Stop: Shenandoah National Park to take in the beauty of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains

Discover the best stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway when planning a road trip adventure along this road.

Overseas Highway, Florida Keys

Seven mile bridge connects travelers to bahia honda state park, making it perfect for nature lovers.

The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile scenic road that connects mainland Florida with the Florida Keys , a chain of islands stretching southward into the Gulf of Mexico. The highway, which is easily among the best road trips in the US in terms of ocean scenery, offers stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean - thereby also providing opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and wildlife watching en route.

Some of the highlights of the Overseas Highway include the Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park, and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, which features hundreds of colorful butterflies and exotic birds. Other popular stops along the highway include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Dolphin Research Center, and the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.

  • Length: 113 miles
  • When To Go: Between January and April
  • Bucket List Stop: Bahia Honda State Park to appreciate the untouched beauty of this Florida Keys landscape, and any spring season festivals

The Pacific Northwest

In stark contrast to other pacific roads, the northwest scenic byway offers dense woods, mountain views, and scenic waterways.

The Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway, also known as the Cascade Loop, is another one of the most beautiful road trips in the US. It's a 440-mile scenic route that winds through the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, and lush forests, allowing travelers to enjoy various outdoor recreation and cultural exploration along the way.

The Scenic Byway is dotted with charming mountain towns such as Leavenworth, and Winthrop, offering a Wild West vibe with wooden sidewalks and historic buildings. Other highlights of the Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway include North Cascades National Park, Lake Chelan, Methow Valley, and the Columbia River Gorge, a stunning river canyon, a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and waterfall viewing.

  • Length: 440 miles
  • When To Go: During the spring or summer months
  • Bucket List Stop: North Casades National park, where travelers can cross off bucket list hikes, wildflower viewing, and scenic waterfalls off their list

Related: A Road Trip To Remember: The 10 Most Scenic Drives For Your Spring Vacation In The U.S.

The Grand Circle, Southwest USA

This route takes travelers through scenic rocky canyons between utah, arizona, new mexico, colorado, and nevada.

The Grand Circle is a scenic route that takes visitors through some of the most iconic national parks and monuments in the American Southwest. The route includes the states of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, and Nevada, stretching over 1,400 miles of stunning desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and geological wonders.

The Grand Circle route typically starts and ends in Las Vegas, Nevada, passing through iconic national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands, known for their towering red rock formations, stunning canyons, and unique geological features. Other highlights of the Grand Circle route include Monument Valley, Mesa Verde National Park, and the Hoover Dam.

  • Length: 1,400 miles
  • When To Go: April to May, or September to early November
  • Bucket List Stop: Monument Valley to explore hoodoos and other unique geological formations

The Great Lakes Circle Tour

Perfect for small town lovers and scenic lakeside views, this route promises all the beauty of the great lakes.

The Great Lakes Circle Tour is a scenic road trip taking visitors around the five Great Lakes. The route is approximately 6,500 miles long and passes through eight US states and the Canadian province of Ontario, allowing travelers to enjoy a variety of landscapes, from urban areas to small towns and rural countryside.

Along the way, visitors can explore national parks like Isle Royale, Pictured Rocks, and Niagara Falls, with various historic lighthouses, beaches, and scenic overlooks. One of the highlights of the tour is the Great Lakes Seaway Trail and the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning views of the Thousand Islands, known for its charming waterfront towns.

  • Length: 6,500 miles
  • When To Go: During the summer months , between June and August
  • Bucket List Stop: Niagara Falls for those who have never been, or Pictured Rocks for those who have

The Black Hills and Badlands, South Dakota

Early america can be seen on this route, in the form of several landmarks and even a former midwest mining town.

The Black Hills and Badlands route is a scenic driving route passing through some of the most iconic natural landmarks in South Dakota. The route covers approximately 150 miles, taking visitors through a variety of landscapes, including the rugged badlands, towering granite peaks, and pristine forests, including several iconic attractions, such as Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park.

Some other notable stops along the route include Custer State Park, Deadwood gold-mining town, and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, which celebrates the history and culture of motorcycle enthusiasts.

  • Length: 150 miles
  • Bucket List Stop: Badlands National park to witness some of the most famous landmarks in American history

Related: Hit The Road: 10 Unforgettable Adventures Await With These U.S. Road Trip Ideas

The Texas Hill Country

Small towns and country that span for miles exude the true charm of the texas hill country route, offering the best views in the state.

The Texas Hill Country route offers picturesque views of beautiful rolling hills and charming small towns of central Texas. The route is approximately 200 miles long, extending between Austin and San Antonio. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and unique cultural attractions. The road through Texas Hill Country takes visitors through several scenic small towns, such as Fredericksburg, Gruene, and Luckenbach. These are some of the best towns in the Texas Hill Country , each particularly known for its charming shops, restaurants, and live music venues.

One of the highlights of the route is the scenic drive along the winding roads of the Hill Country. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the landscape from the many lookout points and scenic overlooks along the way.

  • Length: 200 miles
  • When To Go: During the months of April, May, and October
  • Bucket List Stop: Fredericksburg, which is a bucket list destination for small town lovers

The Dalton Highway, Alaska

With this route being the only one that crosses the arctic circle, the dalton highway is the definition of "bucket list".

The Dalton Highway is the northernmost highway in the United States and the only road trip in this list that crosses the Arctic Circle. The Dalton Highway is an all-weather road but also incredibly remote and one that requires extensive planning (be prepared for breaking down in the remote Alaskan wilderness).

The Dalton Highway runs from Fairbanks (the main city in Interior Alaska) and ends at Deadhorse in Prudhoe Bay (near the Arctic Ocean).

  • Length: 414 miles
  • When To Go: June to mid-July , when the highway is usually dry
  • Bucket List Stop: Finger Mountain Wayside, which also has an interpretive half-mile hiking trail for those seeking more scenic overlooks

Hawaii Big Island Circuit Drive

While hawaii might seem out of the way, the big island circuit drive is worth the flight to see active volcanoes and stunning coastal landscape views.

The Big Island of Hawaii is by far the largest island in the Hawaiian Island Chain and is home to some of the world's most active volcanoes and some of the most stunning landscapes. One of the epic drives to consider is to drive around the Big Island. The two main roads on the Big Island are Highways 11 and 19 and taken together they create one big loop around the whole island.

  • Length: 300 miles
  • When To Go: During the months of April, May, August, September, and October
  • Bucket List Stop: Pepe'ekeo Scenic Drive is at the start of Highway 19, just north of Hilo

Seattle To Fairbanks North American Drive

It wouldn't be a bucket list trip if it didn't have a unique route, and the drive from seattle to washington and fairbanks, alaska, also brings travelers through canada.

This suggested road trip from Seattle in Washington to Fairbanks in Alaska is the only American road trip to also pass through Canada. This is a mammoth 2,150-mile road trip passing through some of the remotest landscapes of North America (including British Columbia and the Yukon Territory). Alternatively, to keep it an all-American 'road trip', consider taking the Alaska Marine Highway - a ferry network that is part of the American highway system that bypasses Canada.

  • Length: 2,150 miles
  • When To Go: During summer months, preferably early June and July
  • Bucket List Stop: While Fairbanks is the ultimate bucket list stop, saving some time to explore Canada can also add a unique aspect to this road trip

13 Road Trips To Take In The USA That Are Bucket-List Worthy

Visit 7 National Park Sites On This Great Lakes Road Trip

An epic journey across multiple national park sites of the Great Lakes is a fantastic way to explore this historic and scenic region.

  • Explore the Great Lakes region on an epic road trip to witness the majestic natural wonders of seven national park sites.
  • Start your journey at Isle Royale, a remote island in Lake Superior accessible by ferry, seaplane, or private watercraft for a unique experience.
  • Discover stunning landscapes at Apostle Islands, Pictured Rocks, Sleeping Bear Dunes, Indiana Dunes, and end at Perry's Victory & Peace Memorial.

There are plenty of bucket list national road trips in the US , but not all of them cover the stunning region known as the Great Lakes. Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario are five large freshwater lakes in east-central North America that connect to the Atlantic Ocean. These are the Great Lakes, also called the Great Lakes of North America ! Interconnected, together, they hold 21% of the world's surface fresh water.

The Great Lakes are a majestic natural wonder; the best way to fully explore and experience this natural treasure is on a road trip. Beautiful towns that come alive in summer dot the shores of the Great Lakes and are superb destinations for any road trip. From the rocky shores to the sandy dunes, summer vacations in the Great Lakes of the Midwest are genuinely 'great.'

The Great Lakes region is not just about the lakes themselves. It's also home to seven national parks, lakeshores, monuments, and memorials, each with its own unique beauty and grandeur. Imagine the thrill of a single road trip itinerary that covers multiple national park sites in the Great Lakes region!

This epic adventure across seven such sites will leave travelers in awe of the natural wonders of the Great Lakes.

10-Day California National Park Road Trip Itinerary

1 isle royale national park, 1st stop - the fourth-largest lake island in the world is the best place to start this epic trip..

A remote island cluster in Lake Superior, near Michigan’s border with Canada, Isle Royale National Park is a US national park consisting of Isle Royale and more than 400 small adjacent islands. It is a rugged, isolated island cut off from all civilized communities.

Thunder Bay, in Ontario, Canada, is the closest city, about 75 miles from the nearest ferry point to Isle Royale (crossing the country's border into the US).

Isle Royale National Park is an isolated and remote island wilderness in the middle of Lake Superior. It is only accessible by ferry, seaplane, or private watercraft.

A ferry service is offered aboard Ranger III from late May through early September , and it takes approximately 6 hours to cross Lake Superior each way. Fares start at $80 per person .

Entrance fees for Isle Royal National Park cannot be paid in cash .

2 Grand Portage National Monument

2nd stop - 6 hours by ferry from isle royale national park.

Part of a historic fur trade route, the Grand Portage is an 8.5-mile footpath that bypasses a set of waterfalls and rapids on the Pigeon River before it flows into Lake Superior. The area in Minnesota became one of the British Empire's four main fur trading centers in North America.

Today, the portage trail exists in the exact location and condition of historic times, and visitors can hike all 8.5 miles from Lake Superior to the Pigeon River. It is surreal to experience the sights and smells of a bustling depot reconstructed in its historic location.

During the second weekend of August, the Grand Portage National Monument hosts a rendezvous re-enactment, which is free and open to the public . Also, the Grand Portage Indian Reservation holds a pow wow , attracting many Native American visitors. The Rendezvous and Pow Wow coincide with the Perseid meteor shower . Ranger III brings visitors back from Isle Royale National Park in the same way as taking them there on the way up.

3 Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

3rd stop - 230 miles from grand portage national monument (plus a 25-minute boat ride).

Formed by the glaciers that once covered North America, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore archipelago consists of 21 islands spread over 750 square miles of Lake Superior along 12 miles of the mainland coast. It has incredible views, sandstone sea caves, a few old-growth remnant forests, and historic lighthouses.

Fishing and camping are popular activities for both boaters and non-boaters. Camping is allowed on 18 of the 21 islands on the national lakeshore, and permits are required from the National Park Service in advance ( starting at $15 per person ).

For a more immersive experience, kayaking is a thrilling way to discover the Apostle Islands ' thriving wildlife and secret sea caves, with or without a tour. Bayfield is the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, with boat tours to the islands starting at $52 per person .

Route 89: The Most Scenic Road Trip In The U.S.

4 pictured rocks national lakeshore, 4th stop - 250 miles from apostle islands national lakeshore.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of four national park sites in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It is known for its stunning and colorful sandstone cliffs, numerous trails, and plentiful boating and kayaking opportunities.

The wild shoreline, deep forest, and sheer cliffs beckon visitors to Pictured Rocks and explore its extensive views and variety of shallow caves, arches, and formations. Unusual sandstone formations like Miners Castle and Chapel Rock define the park's headlands. Paved highways penetrate the Lakeshore from both ends, while the rest of the shoreline can be seen from land only by hiking.

Boat companies offer daily trips to explore the Lakeshore. Sea kayaking is another popular way to explore the park from Miner's Beach or the harbor at Munising, the nearest city to Pictured Rocks.

5 Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

5th stop - 260 miles pictured rocks national lakeshore.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore protects 71,200 acres of the shoreline of Lake Michigan. With miles of sand beach, lush forests, clear inland lakes, and unique flora and fauna, the area won the title of "The Most Beautiful Place in America" from Good Morning America in 2011.

The park is known for the enormous scalable dunes of the Dune Climb, forests, beaches, and ancient glacial phenomena. Sleeping Bear Dunes, with its epic views and sprawling sandscapes, is a hiker's paradise with approximately 100 miles of trails to explore .

The 1871 South Manitou Island Lighthouse, US Life-Saving Service stations, and coastal villages bear testimony to the park's rich maritime history. Scenic highways M-22 and M-109 operate within the park, located about 20 miles west of Traverse City, the nearest city.

6 Indiana Dunes National Park

6th stop - 280 miles from sleeping bear dunes national lakeshore.

Indiana Dunes National Park is an area of sand dunes, woodlands, and wetlands on the southern shore of Lake Michigan in northwestern Indiana. It is an unparalleled destination for outdoor adventurers with the most beautiful dune beaches in Indiana for a fantastic summer getaway.

Indiana Dunes National Park is a true gem, boasting a rich variety of natural resources in a bustling urban setting. The Park is crisscrossed by 16 miles of hiking trails , some of which lead up and over the dunes. These trails offer a diverse range of experiences, culminating in awe-inspiring views of Lake Michigan for those who conquer the summit.

The Park is spread over 2,000 acres and includes a swimming beach, nature center, picnic shelters, picnic areas, and a campground. Porter, Indiana, is a small town in the Indiana Dunes ecosystem and has the easiest access to various parts of the park.

Hit Multiple National Parks With These 7 Road Trip Itineraries

7 perry's victory & international peace memorial, final stop - 240 miles from indiana dunes national park.

Towering 352 feet in the air, Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial is a powerful testament to everlasting peace and friendship between Britain, Canada, and the United States. Sweeping views of Lake Erie from the lookout platform of this tall monument are only added incentives to visit this piece of American history.

Located on South Bass Island in the Village of Put-in-Bay, Ohio, the Memorial is most commonly reached by the Jet Express or Miller Boat Line ferries. From carronade weekends to celebrations of art and history, the park always has special events for visitors , like the 109th Anniversary of the Memorial's Opening on June 13th, 2024.

Put-in-Bay, a little resort village on South Bass Island, is great to spend the last hours or day of this road trip. Victorian-era buildings, resort community amenities, and exciting nightlife with dozens of restaurants and pubs make it an ideal place to wind down after an epic and extensive adventure.

14 best travel credit cards of June 2024

Nick Ewen

The best travel credit cards offer an array of premium perks and benefits . For both occasional travelers and frequent flyers, adding a travel credit card to your wallet is a great way to earn rewards and save money on every trip you take. At The Points Guy, our team has done the legwork and curated a selection of the best travel credit cards for any globe-trotter, whether you prefer to backpack through mountains or settle into a luxury villa for some relaxation. From generous travel credits to premium lounge access, we’ve chosen the cards packed with the best benefits to elevate your next travel experience.

Check out our list below and discover which travel credit card from our partners makes the best addition to your wallet for all of your adventures.

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best for beginner travelers
  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best for earning miles
  • Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best for premium travel
  • Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card : Best for maximizing business purchases
  • The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for lounge access
  • American Express® Gold Card : Best for dining at restaurants
  • Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card : Best for no annual fee
  • The Business Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for business travel
  • Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card : Best for unlimited point earning
  • Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best for travel credits
  • Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for variety of bonus categories
  • American Express® Business Gold Card : Best for flexible rewards earning
  • Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card : Best for travel rewards beginners
  • Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card : Best for Alaska Airlines miles

Browse by card categories

Comparing the best credit cards, more details on the best credit cards, credit pointers with brian kelly, what is a travel credit card, helpful tools, how we rate cards, how to maximize travel credit cards, how to choose the best travel credit card, ask our experts, pros + cons of travel credit cards, frequently asked questions.

  • Airport Lounge Access

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular travel rewards credit card on the market. Offering an excellent return on travel and dining purchases, the card packs a ton of value that easily offsets its $95 annual fee. Cardholders can redeem points at 1.25 cents each for travel booked through Chase or transfer points to one of Chase’s 14 valuable airline and hotel partners. Read our full  review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card .

  • You’ll earn 5 points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery store purchases, 2 points per dollar on all other travel and 1 point per dollar on everything else.
  • Annual $50 Chase Travel Hotel Credit
  • Premium travel protection benefits including trip cancellation insurance, primary car rental insurance and lost luggage insurance.
  • The card comes with a $95 annual fee.
  • Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 75,000 points are worth $937.50 toward travel.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
  • Member FDIC

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

When it comes to simplicity and strong rewards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a solid choice for most travelers. You’ll earn earns 2 miles per dollar on every purchase with no bonus categories to memorize, making it an ideal card for those with busy lives. Read our full review of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card .

  • This flexible rewards card delivers a solid sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles, worth $1,388 based on TPG valuations and not provided by the issuer.
  • You'll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which means you won't have to worry about memorizing bonus categories.
  • Rewards earned are versatile as they can be redeemed for any hotel or airline purchase for a statement credit or transferred to 15+ travel partners.
  • Highest bonus-earning categories only on travel booked via Capital One Travel
  • Capital One airline partners do not include any large U.S. airlines.
  • Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

If you can maximize the  $300 credit toward Capital One Travel, the Venture X’s annual fee effectively comes down to $95, the same annual fee pegged to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ). Add in a 10,000-mile bonus every account anniversary (worth $185, according to TPG valuations ) and lounge access, and the card may become the strongest option out there for a lot of travelers. Read our full  review of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card .

  • 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
  • 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary
  • $395 annual fee
  • $300 credit annually, only applicable for bookings made through Capital One Travel portal
  • Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card’s sign-up bonus is among the highest we’ve seen from Chase. Plus earn points across the four bonus categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers) that are most popular with businesses. The card comes with travel protections, shopping protections and will also have primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes for you and your employees. Read our full  review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card .

  • One of the highest sign-up bonuses we’ve seen — 100,000 bonus points after $8,000 worth of spend in the first three months after card opening.
  • Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption.
  • Reasonable $95 annual fee.
  • Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners; primary car insurance.
  • Perks including cellphone and purchase protection; extended warranty; trip cancellation/interruption insurance; trip delay reimbursement.
  • Yearly cap on bonus categories.
  • No travel perks.
  • Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications.
  • Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
  • Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
  • Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
  • With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
  • Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
  • Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
  • Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Amex Platinum is unmatched when it comes to travel perks and benefits. If lounge access, hotel elite status and annual statement credits are important to you, this card is well worth the high annual fee. Read our full  review of the Platinum Card from American Express .

  • The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. TPG values it at $1,600.
  • This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, and more than $1,400 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more. (enrollment required)
  • The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway.
  • The $695 annual fee is only worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the card’s benefits. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost.
  • Outside of the current welcome bonus, you’re only earning bonus rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so it’s not a great card for other spending categories.
  • The annual airline fee credit and other monthly statement credits can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards.
  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
  • $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
  • Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees

American Express® Gold Card

American Express® Gold Card

This isn’t just a card that’s nice to look at. It packs a real punch, offering 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar). There’s also an up to $120 annual dining credit at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com ,  Milk Bar, and select Shake Shack locations, plus it added an up to $120 annually ($10 per month) in Uber Cash, which can be used on Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. All this make it a very strong contender for all food purchases, which has become a popular spending category. Enrollment is required for select benefits. Read our full review of the Amex Gold .

  • 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar)
  • 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with the airline or with Amex Travel.
  • Welcome bonus of 60,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first six months of account opening.
  • Weak on travel and everyday spending bonus categories.
  • Not as effective for those living outside the U.S.
  • Some may have trouble using Uber/food credits.
  • Few travel perks and protections.
  • Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
  • Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
  • Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $250.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of travel rewards, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a great way to get started. With no annual fee and a simple 1.25 miles per dollar on all your purchases, you won’t have to keep up with multiple bonus categories — just earn rewards on everything you purchase! Coupled with the 20,000-mile sign-up bonus, you can use your rewards to book travel, transfer to Capital One’s loyalty partners and more. Read our full review of the  Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card .

  • No annual fee.
  • Earn a bonus of 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 within the first three months from account opening.
  • Use your miles to book or pay for travel at a 1-cent value, or transfer your miles to loyalty programs to gain potentially even greater value for your rewards.
  • Earn 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Other credit cards can offer you higher rewards for your common purchase categories.
  • Capital One airline transfer partners do not include any large U.S. airlines.
  • $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
  • Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card from American Express is a great card for frequent travelers looking to add a touch of luxury to their business trips. While the card does come with a high annual fee, you’re also getting a ton of valuable benefits in return. They include generous annual travel credits, unparalleled lounge access that includes Amex Centurion Lounges and more. Read our full  review on The Business Platinum Card from American Express .

  • Up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry every 4 years or $85 TSA PreCheck credit every 4.5 years (enrollment is required)
  • Up to $400 annual statement credit for U.S. Dell purchases (enrollment required)
  • Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels; access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection (enrollment required)
  • Steep $695 annual fee.
  • High spend needed for welcome offer.
  • Limited high bonus categories outside of travel.
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
  • Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
  • Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®, here.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
  • $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
  • $695 Annual Fee.

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey credit card offers healthy reward earning rates on top of uncapped point-earning meaning the sky's the limit — especially if you strategize and spend in popular categories.

  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Uncapped earning potential
  • $50 annual statement credit
  • Solid point earning rates in popular categories
  • This card features an annual fee
  • Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.
  • Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X points on other purchases.
  • $95 annual fee.
  • Book your travel with the Autograph Journey Card and enjoy Travel Accident Insurance, Lost Baggage Reimbursement, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection and Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver.
  • Earn a $50 annual statement credit with $50 minimum airline purchase.
  • Up to $1,000 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
  • Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of our top premium travel cards. With a $300 travel credit, bonus points on dining and travel purchases and other benefits, you can get excellent value that far exceeds the annual fee on the card. Read our full  review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card .

  • $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards hotel and airline travel partners.
  • 10 points per dollar on hotels, car rentals and Chase Dining purchases through the Ultimate Rewards portal, 5 points per dollar on flights booked through the Chase Travel portal, 3 points per dollar on all other travel and dining, 1 point per dollar on everything else
  • 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel directly through Chase Travel
  • Steep initial $550 annual fee.
  • May not make sense for people that don't travel frequently.
  • Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 75,000 points are worth $1125 toward travel.
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph card packs a punch for a no-annual-fee product, with an array of bonus categories plus solid perks and straightforward redemption options. Read our  full review of the Wells Fargo Autograph here .

  • This card offers 3 points per dollar on various everyday purchases with no annual fee. It also comes with a 20,000-point welcome bonus and an introductory APR offer on purchases. Plus, you'll enjoy up to $600 in cellphone protection when you pay your monthly bill with the card. Subject to a $25 deductible.
  • Despite the lucrative earning structure, Wells Fargo doesn't offer any ways to maximize your redemptions — you're limited to fixed-value rewards like gift cards and statement credits.
  • Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
  • Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.
  • Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
  • $0 annual fee.
  • 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
  • Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
  • Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.

American Express® Business Gold Card

American Express® Business Gold Card

The Amex Business Gold card is a solid choice for high-spending small businesses with the flexibility to earn 4 points per dollar in the two categories where you spend the most. The card is ideal for businesses who value simplicity above all. Read our full  review of the American Express Business Gold Card .

  • You'll earn 4 Membership Rewards points per dollar in the top 2 spending categories each month (on the first $150,000 in combined purchases each calendar year).
  • Hefty $375 annual fee.
  • There may be better options for small businesses who don't spend a lot.
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
  • Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
  • Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.
  • Your Card – Your Choice. Choose from Gold or Rose Gold.
  • *Terms Apply

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card is a great starter card thanks to its no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees when you travel internationally. Earning and redeeming is effortless, with no confusing bonus categories to keep track of and the ability to redeem your points for all of your travel needs. Read our  full review of the Bank of America Travel Rewards  card.

  • 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases
  • No annual fee
  • Bank of America does not offer airline or hotel transfer partners like other banks such as American Express, Chase or Capital One.
  • No travel and purchase protections.
  • Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
  • 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
  • Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
  • Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
  • If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
  • Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
  • This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card

There’s a lot to love about the Alaska Airlines credit card, in part due to its highly valuable loyalty program: Alaska Airlines MileagePlan. Whether you’re a loyal Alaska flyer or a points maximizer looking to diversify your rewards portfolio, this card has a lot to offer. For starters, you’ll receive Alaska’s Famous Companion Pass each year from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year, free checked bags for you and up to six guests on your itinerary, 20% back on in-flight purchases and more. Plus, Alaska has joined the oneworld alliance, opening up endless redemption opportunities. Read our  full review of the Alaska Airline credit card.

  • Free checked bag for you and up to six guests on your reservation.
  • Alaska discounts, including 20% back on in-flight purchases.
  • Limited Time Online Offer—60,000 Bonus Miles!
  • Get 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
  • Get Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
  • Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. And earn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your miles don’t expire on active accounts.
  • Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
  • Free checked bag and enjoy priority boarding for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation, when you pay for your flight with your card — Also available for authorized users when they book a reservation too!
  • With oneworld® Alliance member airlines and Alaska’s Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
  • Plus, no foreign transaction fees and a low $95 annual fee.
  • This online only offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

You’ll earn a solid return on dining and travel (6% back and 4% back, respectively, based on TPG valuations ) on top of your generous sign-up bonus, and you also have access to some of the best travel protections offered by any travel rewards credit card.

We’ve long suggested the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card   as an excellent option for those who are new to earning travel rewards because it lets you earn valuable, transferable points  with strong bonus categories and a reasonable annual fee.

“The Chase Sapphire Preferred has remained a top card in my wallet for years. Between the consistently strong sign-up bonus, low annual fee and continual improvements that have been made over the years, it’s hard for any other mid-tier rewards card to compare. I love that I can earn bonus rewards on travel, dining, streaming and online grocery purchases — all with just one card. Plus, Chase Ultimate Rewards points are valuable and easy to use whether you’re new to points and miles or an expert.” — Madison Blancaflor , senior content operations editor

To add more luxury to your travel experience, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve® . Though it comes with a higher annual fee, you’ll enjoy Priority Pass lounge access plus a $300 annual travel credit.

With the Capital One Venture, you’re earning 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which makes it easy to rack up rewards without having to juggle different bonus categories or spending caps. And with flexible redemption options and a manageable annual fee, this card is an excellent choice if you’re looking to keep just one credit card in your wallet for all spending.

Those looking to earn flexible rewards should use the Capital One Venture card as it allows you to redeem miles for a fixed value or transfer the miles you earn to 15+ airline and hotel transfer partners , including Avianca, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines and Singapore Airlines.

“The Capital One Venture is a great card that can add value to pretty much anyone’s wallet. I use it to earn 2 miles per dollar on the purchases that fall outside of my other cards’ bonus categories. The annual fee is low, Capital One miles are easy to redeem and the card does come with a few nice perks — including TSA PreCheck/Global Entry application fee reimbursement.” — Madison Blancaflor , senior content operations editor

Even if you’re a casual traveler, consider jumping to the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card  (see  rates and fees ). The card’s up to $300 annual credit for purchases made with Capital One Travel immediately covers the higher annual fee — and that’s not even considering the added perks you’ll enjoy.

At $395 per year (see rates and fees ), this premium card is cheaper than all of its competitors without sacrificing the breadth of valuable perks it includes. Cardholders will get unlimited visits to Capital One’s premium network of lounges and 1,300-plus Priority Pass lounges worldwide  and able to bring up to two guests for no additional charge.

For frequent travelers, the Capital One Venture X is a must-have and is well worth the $395 annual fee. If you travel frequently with your significant other, family or friends, you can even add some authorized users for no additional cost. This will grant them their own lounge access (and the ability to bring up to two guests for no fee), among many other benefits, making this a huge cost-saver for those who travel in groups.

“With an annual fee that is $300 less than The Platinum Card® from American Express (see Amex Platinum rates and fees ), the Capital One Venture X card is my favorite travel credit card. The card comes with an annual $300 Capital One Travel credit, which I use to book flights. That effectively brings the annual fee down to $95 per year (see rates and fees ). Cardholders enjoy a Priority Pass Select membership. Authorized users — you geta number of them at no cost — also enjoy their own Priority Pass Select membership. I use my Venture X card to earn 2 miles per dollar (a 3.7% return at TPG’s valuations ) in spending categories where most cards would only accrue 1 mile — like auto maintenance, pharmacies and medical bills.” — Kyle Olsen , former points and miles reporter

Those turned off by the Venture X’s annual fee could opt for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , which has a $95 annual fee (see rates and fees ), identical sign-up bonus and similar earning and redemption options.

The Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 in combined travel, shipping, internet, cable, phone services and advertising purchases made on social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year. TPG’s most recent valuations  peg the value of Chase Ultimate Rewards points at 2 cents apiece, so you’ll get a fantastic return of 6% on purchases in these categories.

If you spend a lot on business travel or social media advertising, you’ll be able to earn significant points using the Ink Business Preferred card .

“I originally signed up for the Ink Business Preferred primarily for its sign-up bonus. But, over the last year, I’ve found myself making it my go-to card when booking travel. After all, the Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar spent on travel and provides excellent travel protections, including trip delay protection and rental car insurance.” — Katie Genter , senior writer

If you don’t want to worry about maximizing specific purchases and are looking for a lower spending requirement to earn a sign-up bonus, consider the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card , which offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases and carries no annual fee.

The Amex Platinum is a stellar premium travel card that can provide amazing redemptions . Besides the welcome offer, it comes with more than $1,400 in credits each year and various lounge access options. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Anyone looking for luxury travel benefits will find that the ton of annual statement credits make the annual fee worth it. Plus, you’ll get unparalleled lounge access , automatic Gold status with Hilton and Marriott, and extra perks with Avis Preferred , Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and National Car Rental Emerald Club . Enrollment is required for select benefits.

“While this card has a high annual fee, it more than justifies itself for frequent travelers like me. The lounge access options that come with the Platinum are unrivaled by competitors. I put all of my flights on this card to earn 5 points per dollar spent and trip protection insurance. I make sure to take full advantage of the Uber, Saks Fifth Avenue, Hulu/Disney+ and Clear credits (enrollment is required). And, honestly, pulling a Platinum card out of your wallet to pay for something does feel pretty fancy.” — Matt Moffitt , senior credit cards editor

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card  can be a great alternative to the Amex Platinum, with a notably lower annual fee, similar perks and a more rewarding earning rate on everyday purchases.

The Amex Gold earns 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants, with no foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees ), meaning you’ll get an 8% return on purchases (based on TPG’s valuations ). While a few other cards temporarily offer higher return rates on dining, this is the best option for long-term spending, making it one of the best dining cards and best rewards cards .

Those looking for a great return on dining and purchases at U.S. supermarkets will get a lot of value from this card.

“Groceries and dining at restaurants are two of my top spending categories, and I love that the Amex Gold rewards those purchases with 4 points per dollar. When you factor in the $10 dining credit and $10 in Uber Cash each month, the $250 annual fee is a net cost of $10.” — Senitra Horbrook , former credit cards editor

For those who dine out a lot and also want additional bonus categories and other valuable perks for a lower annual fee, consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card .

The no-annual-fee Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card (see  rates and fees ) has the same redemption options as its sibling card (the Venture Rewards card) but with a lower rewards rate and fewer perks. The miles earned on the card can also be transferred to airline and hotel partners, a benefit not usually seen with a no-annual-fee card.

The VentureOne is a strong card to have in your arsenal and great if you are budgeting. After all, there aren’t many no-annual-fee cards with the ability to transfer points and miles directly to travel partners, so it’s a big bonus that this card offers that (see rates and fees ).

“I wanted a credit card that earns Capital One miles without an annual fee, and this is a winner (see rates and fees ). It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of some other cards, but I’m happy earning 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases without paying a fee to keep this card year after year. I’ll never cancel this card.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

For a small annual fee, many travelers could benefit from the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . You’ll earn at least 2 miles per dollar on all purchases and receive a statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership.

There are certain ways to earn bonus points for spending on the Amex Business Platinum Card, but it’s the array of perks on the card that make it a great option. Beyond airport lounge access and automatic hotel elite status, there are a number of statement credits that are specifically targeted to common business expenses.

If you travel for business frequently, this card could help you upgrade your experience in the air and on the ground while saving you money on select business-related services. And the current welcome bonus is just the icing on the cake.

“I find that the annual perks and credits vastly outweigh the large annual fee. And that’s even without using some of them. By using the benefits with Priority Pass and Amex lounges, the airline incidental credits, plus the statement credits for Clear, our cellphone plan and restocking my home printer with ink and paper from Dell (enrollment required), I get more value out of the card than it costs to keep it. Plus, it earns my favorite points — American Express Membership Rewards — earning 5 points per dollar on flights and hotels booked with Amex Travel.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

For less-frequent travelers, consider the American Express®  Business Gold Card , which offers 4 points per dollar spent on your top two spending categories each month on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1 point per dollar thereafter).

The Autograph Journey offers cardholders the chance to earn elevated rates across travel categories including 5 points per dollar spent on hotels, 4 points per dollar on airline purchases and 3 points per dollar on restaurants and 'other travel' which includes timeshares, car rentals, cruise lines, travel agencies, discount travel sites and campgrounds. On top of this, cardholders also get the added benefit of earning a flat rate of 1 point per dollar on other purchases for a $95 annual fee.

If you travel frequently and are looking for a card to help you rack up points you can redeem for future travel, this card is a decent option. Additionally, those looking for a way to fill gaps in their points earning strategy will benefit from the flat 1 point per dollar spent on other purchases outside of the main travel categories.

Another great perk the Autograph Journey features is an annual $50 statement credit triggered by an airline purchase of at least $50. This is on top of elevated earning rates in the certain travel categories and a solid welcome offer for new applicants. There's also no foreign transaction fees on the Autograph Journey card making it a good first travel card as well as a decent supplemental card to add to your travel credit card roster.

If you're looking for a more general use credit card with no annual fee, consider the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card (see  rates and fees ). It earns a flat rate of 2% cash rewards on purchases making an excellent choice to help fill gaps in your reward earning strategy. The best part? Like the Autograph Journey card, the Active Cash Card doesn't put a cap on the amount of cash back you can earn.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve comes with an annual $300 travel credit to offset a variety of expenses — such as airfare, hotels, rental cars, transit and more. You’re also getting an up-to-$100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit  once every four years along with Priority Pass Select membership. And Chase’s slate of transfer partners allows plenty of opportunity to get the maximum value from your points.

Those looking for elevated earning rates and extensive travel protections should have this card in their wallet. The 50% redemption bonus when you use your points to pay for travel through the Chase portal  is also a nice perk.

“I’ve had the Sapphire Reserve for years, and it’s going to stay in my wallet for the near future. I get $300 off travel every year along with great earning rates on travel and dining (3 points per dollar) and various trip protections that can reimburse me when things go wrong. And by leveraging other cards in the Ultimate Rewards ecosystem, I’m able to maximize the earnings across all of my purchases.” — Nick Ewen , director of content

If you just can’t stomach the Sapphire Reserve’s $550 annual fee, go for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card  instead. It has similar perks, redemption options and travel protections — for a much lower $95 per year.

The Wells Fargo Autograph is a great no-annual-fee card that offers quality earning categories and travel and shopping protection.

Travel card beginners who are looking to get into points earning should consider the Wells Fargo Autograph, which offers a welcome bonus, 3 points per dollar on a variety of everyday spending categories and cellphone protection.

If you’re just getting into the travel credit card world and are not sure travel cards are for you, consider the Wells Fargo Autograph, which will allow you to earn bonus points on travel spending without the commitment of an annual fee.

If you’re looking to earn transferable reward points but still maintain a similar earning structure, consider the Bilt Mastercard® (see rates and fees ). The card earns 3 points per dollar on dining and 2 points per dollar on travel purchases for no annual fee. Plus, Bilt points can be transferred to any of its multiple travel partners. 

The American Express Business Gold card comes packed with perks and benefits, but its most unique feature is the ability to shift your monthly bonus categories. Cardholders will automatically earn 4 points per dollar in their top two spending categories on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1 point per dollar thereafter), so if your business spending varies month to month, you won’t have to commit to a bonus category.

The American Express Business Gold card is an excellent choice for business owners who are looking for a premium business card with premium business perks like monthly office supply statement credits, travel and shopping protection and access to The Hotel Collection.

The American Express Business Gold is an excellent choice for small businesses that have changing bonus categories but still want more premium business perks and benefits.

If you still want to earn Membership Rewards points without paying an annual fee, consider The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express (see rates and fees ), which earns 2 Membership Rewards points on all business purchases (up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar).

The Bank of America Travel Rewards card operates similarly to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . You’re earning flat-rate rewards across all spending, and then you can use those rewards as a statement credit to cover eligible travel purchases.

It’s perfect for low-budget beginner travelers  who want a card with no annual fee and a simple way to earn and redeem points.

“I’m happy earning 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases on a card without an annual fee. I can’t pay for everything in life with transferable points, and it’s nice to have a card with fixed-value points for those situations. I use this card for travel purchases where I need to pay in cash, then I can reimburse myself with the points.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you’re interested in a card with transferable miles that still has no annual fee (see  rates and fees ), consider the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card .

The Alaska Airlines Visa earns 3 miles per dollar on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases; 2 miles per dollar on eligible gas, EV charging stations, cable, streaming services and transit (including local ride share purchases); and 1 mile per dollar on everything else. You get a free checked bag on Alaska flights for you and up to six guests on your reservation, an annual Companion Fare on your account anniversary and 20% back on all inflight purchases.

Whether you live on the West Coast or not, the Alaska Airlines Visa is a good cobranded airline card to consider adding to your wallet. The Seattle-based airline is mostly limited to North American routes, but international destinations through Oneworld partners make this card valuable for all travelers.

“With new benefits, this card is even more valuable to me — even with its higher annual fee. It provides a free first checked bag, discounts on inflight purchases and priority boarding. My favorite feature, however, is the annual Companion Fare. I get hundreds of dollars in annual value from this perk.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you’re not looking to collect airline-specific miles, a general travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card might be a better option.

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Travel rewards credit cards earn points, miles or cash back that are redeemable for travel expenses or are geared toward travel spending. The cards on this list are some of the best credit cards to book flights , hotels and more with their many perks and rewards . 

Travel credit cards offer rewards on different purchases that can help you book flights, hotels and more for little to no out-of-pocket expenses. Some cards also provide valuable perks and benefits that upgrade the overall travel experience — from Global Entry application fee credits to lounge access to complimentary elite status . If you have the right card (or cards) in your wallet, the sky is the limit on where your travels can take you — literally.

Additionally, it’s often advantageous to travel with more than one credit card for a variety of reasons. Carrying a backup credit card when you travel can provide peace of mind in the case of bank or issuer problems or if you have a card flagged for fraud while you travel. (In this case, knowing if your card requires you to set up travel alerts for lengthy travel could be worthwhile).

Are you new to travel rewards? Check out our beginner’s guide to all things points and miles . You’ll learn about top loyalty programs, how to maximize your credit card strategy to reach your travel goals and so much more.

Related: The complete history of credit cards, from antiquity to today

We have researched various types of travel credit cards to help you figure out which one is best for you.

Travel vs cash back credit cards

A travel credit card is a card that is geared toward travel spending and a cash-back credit card is a card that earns cash back on purchases made with the card.

Generally, when we are talking about travel credit cards we refer to cards that earn points and miles like the Platinum Card from American Express or the Hilton Honors Aspire card. The Platinum Amex earns transferable points which can be used with any of Amex's travel partners while the Hilton Honors Aspire card only earns Hilton points which can be redeemed at Hilton properties. These cards do not earn cash back on any purchases.

Cash back cards generally offer cash back as a flat rate or feature bonus categories that earn an elevated cash back rate. Select cash-back cards can also be a great travel card such as the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express which offers 3% cash back on transit including rideshare, trains, buses, and more. Even though it is a cash-back card, the Blue Cash Preferred offers an elevated return on select transportation which potentially makes it a solid travel card option.

How do travel credit cards work?

Travel credit cards work like other reward credit cards: They help you earn rewards, primarily points and miles, on your purchases. This section will primarily focus on transferable rewards credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card® from American Express, as they are what are typically considered travel credit cards.

Related: How to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for maximum value

How to earn transferable points

Transferable points credit cards earn points or miles when you make a purchase on the cards. These points and miles can then be transferred to travel partners for rewards like flights, hotel stays and more. Different cards will have different currencies, but they are generally called either “points” or “miles” (depending on the issuer). All transferable reward credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards will have their own currency that is redeemable for travel rewards. 

Travel cards have varying rates for different purchase categories. For example, the American Express® Gold Card card earns 4 points per dollar spent on restaurants but only 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or Amex Travel. While the Amex Platinum may be a better card for travel as it earns 5 points per dollar spent on flights (booked directly with airline or Amex Travel and up to $500,000 per calendar year), the Amex Gold can be a good addition for Platinum holders who spend a lot of money on dining out.

Related: How to redeem American Express Membership Rewards for maximum value

How to redeem points and miles  

Once you’ve decided on a travel credit card and earned a welcome bonus, it’s time to put those points or miles toward free travel. There are many ways to redeem your rewards with travel credit cards. Many cards feature an online booking portal through which you can use your rewards to book things like flights, hotels and car rentals. Before booking your flight, you should consider doing a  flight portal comparison to ensure you're getting the best redemption. Others allow you to transfer your points or miles to individual loyalty programs. Depending on the redemption, this could unlock even more value.

There are plenty of ways to ensure you don’t make mistakes with your travel rewards . For instance, be sure you do your research with your rewards to get a high-value redemption and make sure your accounts are in good standing so you don’t risk losing them.  

Related: Tips and tricks to get maximum value from your Capital One miles

It’s up to you to decide whether a specific trip is worth spending your rewards. You can use TPG’s monthly valuations to help you determine if the price of your flight or hotel room is worth your points and miles. Some travels are more affordable in cash, but you can always save your points to splurge on a business-class flight to Europe or an overwater bungalow at a luxury resort. 

How to use travel credit card portals  

In the world of travel credit cards, the four major players are American Express, Capital One, Chase and Citi. These issuers also have their own travel portals which can be used to earn and redeem points for travel. 

Some issuers, like Capital One and Chase , offer an incentive to book travel through the bank’s portal but it is not always worth booking through a portal. 

We do not recommend booking hotel travel through card portals as it typically does not honor elite-status benefits or elite-qualifying stay credits. 

Luckily, flights typically allow you to earn bonus points through a card issuer’s portal and with the airline. Keep in mind that this does not apply to all cards. When purchasing in cash, there generally is little variance in booking through a portal or on the airline’s website so if your travel credit card offers incentives to book through the portal , it can be a great way to earn extra points. 

Related: Ultimate guide to the Citi travel portal

Points and miles redemptions will have a fair variance, especially if there are incentives to book through the travel portals. Overall, travel portals can be a great addition to your points redemption journey if properly used. Always remember to compare the price or redemption value of booking through a portal or directly with an airline. 

Booking through a portal may make matters complicated if you ever need to change or cancel your flight. 

Related: Battle of the credit card travel portals: Which is the best for booking flights?

Types of travel credit cards

Travel credit cards are cards that are geared towards travel spending. Luckily, there are many types of travel credit cards which means there is a good option for any traveler. Typically, when talking about travel credit cards, we are referring to transfer rewards credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards. There are additional types of travel credit cards that are less popular but can still be a good option for the right traveler.

Transferable rewards credit cards earn points and miles that can be redeemed through a card’s rewards program directly or by transferring them to a travel partner . Many of our best travel credit cards fall under this category because they are the most valuable type of points you can earn. Transferable rewards give you the flexibility to redeem your rewards in a way that will be most beneficial to you. Examples of top transferable rewards cards are the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express .

Airline cobranded cards earn a specific type of airline miles. These cards also generally come with perks specific to that airline. For example, an airline card may offer free checked bags , a certain number of elite-qualifying miles to help you reach status, priority boarding privileges, inflight discounts and more.

Hotel cobranded cards work like airline cards. You’ll earn rewards that are redeemable for a particular hotel program, such as Hilton or Marriott. Hotel cards come with their own benefits, such as complimentary elite status or free award-night stays. In addition, hotel cards can help you stack your earnings on hotel stays with the hotel’s program.

For example, if you have a Marriott credit card , you’ll earn bonus points for every dollar spent at participating Marriott properties on top of the 10 base points you get as a member of the Bonvoy program. This can really amplify the rewards you can earn when you use your hotel card to pay for your booking.

The points and miles world can be confusing for new credit card users but it doesn’t have to be. While transferable rewards cards are arguably the best way to earn points and miles for travel, they can also be incredibly confusing. Fixed-value credit cards and cash-back credit cards are good alternatives for beginners who are looking to get into the travel credit card world.

Fixed-value cards earn points or miles that are always redeemed for the same value. For example, the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card earns points worth 1 cent each. These cards are great for beginners who haven’t quite gotten the hang of maximizing transferable points or casual travelers who are looking for their first travel credit card . Fixed-value credit cards are often the best travel credit cards for beginners. 

As more hotels and airlines move to a dynamic pricing model where award pricing shifts dramatically, fixed-value rewards programs are becoming more popular.

Another great credit card option for casual travelers or credit card beginners is cash-back credit cards. You don’t have to worry about points, transfer partners or maximizing your rewards with these cards. Cash-back cards provide a percentage of cash back on your spending and provide a simple way to save on your upcoming travels. 

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) is a great option for beginners to travel rewards. It earns unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and has no annual fee.

Travel credit card benefits

Some travel cards offer automatic elite status with various programs when you sign up and can also accelerate the journey to elite airline status by converting points to air miles. If you are loyal to a particular hotel brand, status with that brand will be valuable. You’ll be entitled to room upgrades, resort credits, early check-in, late checkout and more. If you’re not loyal, it won’t. The same goes for elite status with an airline — you’ll get lounge access, upgrades, increased baggage allowance, etc. When comparing the perks of various cards like elite status, be realistic about which ones you will and won’t use.

One of the coveted perks of premium travel credit cards is complimentary airport lounge access. Many premium travel credit cards come with Priority Pass lounge access , a membership that allows access to airport lounges across the world. These lounges are a great place to relax before your flight or have a snack during a long layover. Amenities will vary between lounges but most lounges provide wifi, private seating and refreshments. Be sure to check the priority pass guest policy as many lounges allow you to bring a complimentary guest (or guests).

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are both expedited screening programs for travelers. TSA PreCheck is reserved for expedited security screening for domestic flights and Global Entry provides expedited customs screening for international travelers when entering the United States. 

The application fee for TSA PreCheck is up to $85 and $100 for Global Entry. If you are approved for the program, the membership is valid for 5 years. Many travel credit cards will offer statement credit for the application . 

What TPG readers have to say about their favorite travel credit cards

Fan favorites among top travel credit cards include those that earn both points and miles. In addition to helping offset the cost of travel — whether it’s for rental cars, hotel stays or flights — some TPG readers love that travel cards also offer travel insurance (including protections for things like delayed or lost baggage). We asked our readers which credit card has made the biggest impact when they travel and why — here are their responses.

Note: Responses have not been edited.

“Allowed me to justify staying at nicer hotels and just overall leveling up with how I travel.” — Jackie C via Facebook  

“ Venture X for me - lounge access and my first long haul biz [sic] class flight on points! Changing my travel game for the better!” — Lauren R via Facebook

“Can't beat the flexibility of the $300 travel credit from the Chase Sapphire Reserve .” — Armando S via Facebook

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Earn the welcome bonus

One of the best ways to maximize your travel credit cards is to earn the welcome bonus . Most travel credit cards will offer a welcome or sign-up bonus that allows cardmembers to earn points or miles that would otherwise require a very high spend. Welcome bonuses are a crucial part of a card’s value, so before you apply for your next travel card, be sure to plan for how you will meet the spending requirement. Ideally, you would align large purchases with your card opening so that you don’t need to spend frivolously to earn that lucrative welcome bonus .

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Use a travel card that matches your travel style

There is a travel credit card for everyone, but not every travel card is the best fit for your wallet . Consider what type of traveler you are, whether you have any brand loyalty and what perks you are looking for from your next credit card. If you travel often and in luxury, consider premium cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express or Chase Sapphire Reserve® . These cards are loaded with tons of luxury perks like lounge access and automatic elite status . 

Alternatively, if you’re a more thrifty traveler who likes to maximize your travel earnings, consider a mid-tier travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . These cards allow you to earn points on your travel, and while they don’t come with a long list of luxury perks, they’re much more cost-effective for a traveler on a budget .

And even beginners don’t have to veer away from travel cards, since many products out there offer an introduction to the travel rewards world without incurring an annual fee.

It’s important to consider where you’re looking to go when you book trips, as certain cards are especially useful for international travel . Plus, if you’re someone who frequents the skies (such as a digital nomad), there are certain credit cards best for long-term travelers .

Knowing what your travel style is like will help you determine what type of travel card you need.

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Use loyalty programs to stack your rewards

You don’t have to limit your earnings to just travel credit cards . Many airlines and hotel chains have loyalty programs that can be used in conjunction with your travel card to unlock added perks when doing business with a specific brand. In addition, many travel credit cards allow you to transfer points from your card to your eligible loyalty programs . This can open up nearly endless redemption options, including award chart sweet spots that can get you the most maximized redemptions for your points and miles.

  • 1 Sign-up bonus Choosing a card with a healthy sign-up bonus will help jumpstart the possibility of unlocking elite status across different areas, including airline and hotel loyalty programs.
  • 2 Annual fee Premium travel credit cards typically feature higher annual fees. Double-check that the card you choose suits your spending habits and travel needs before applying.
  • 3 Bonus categories It also helps to check which bonus categories a card offers to ensure that they align with your spending, whether it’s at restaurants, at grocery stores or on streaming subscriptions.

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What's your favorite travel credit card — and why?

Brian Kelly

  • Using credit cards responsibly can help build your credit score
  • Travel credit cards can earn cash back, points or miles on every dollar you spend.
  • Travel credit cards can provide purchase, theft and fraud protection.
  • Travel credit cards provide perks like travel insurance, complimentary hotel stays and more.
  • Credit cards can encourage overspending.
  • Carrying a balance and using your card irresponsibly can damage your credit score
  • The cost of borrowing on credit cards is higher than traditional loans
  • Having too many card applications can negatively affect your credit score
  • Travel credit cards may be too complicated (or expensive) for those who aren’t frequent travelers.

Generally speaking, you need at least a very good credit score in order to get many popular travel credit cards. According to FICO, the scoring model used by most lenders, this is a score of at least 740. However, there’s no hard-and-fast rule, as each individual credit card issuer looks at a variety of factors in addition to your credit score when deciding whether to approve or decline your application.

Thankfully, there are a number of ways to check your credit score for free , so you can get an idea of where you stand before wasting an application (and a hard inquiry on your credit report) for a card for which you’re unlikely to qualify.

Points and miles are simply two different ways to describe the same thing: the rewards you earn on a credit card. As an example, many popular Capital One credit cards earn miles, whereas cards that participate in Chase Ultimate Rewards accrue points. There’s no appreciable difference between the two words.

This gets a little more complicated when you begin discussing cash-back credit cards. Some of these show earnings with a dollar amount, while others show cash-back rewards in points. However, here too there’s no significant difference. It’s simply how the card issuer chooses to describe the rewards you’re earning.

It depends entirely on your typical travel habits. Many popular travel credit cards feature rewards, benefits and redemption options that only come into play when you’re actually on the road. This includes perks like airport lounge access,  rental car insurance  or statement credits for certain travel purchases. Ultimately, you should look at how much value you expect to get out of a given travel card in one year. Then, compare that to the card’s annual fee to make sure you’re getting at least that much value.

It depends. Generally speaking, you should aim to use your rewards from travel credit cards for travel-related purchases – like flights or hotel rooms. However, everyone has a different version of what “value” looks like here. Some travelers are perfectly content redeeming 25,000 miles for a $250 economy flight. Others would rather save up and use 100,000 miles for a $5,000 business-class ticket. The important thing is to avoid redemptions like gift cards or merchandise, since those typically offer poor value for your points and miles.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine whether you want to keep cash in your pocket by using rewards for a particular purchase instead.

Many of the luxury travel cards on this list offer hundreds of dollars in annual travel statement credits. However, not all annual travel statements are created equal. While some cards feature easy redemptions, other cards feature redemptions that come with more restrictions. 

Out of the various cards that offer annual travel credits, the Chase Sapphire Reserve has the easiest redemption process for travel credits . The Chase Sapphire Reserve's travel credit covers a broad selection of charges, including flights, hotels, campgrounds and more. Additionally, the travel does not have to be booked through Chase’s travel portal, and the statement credit will automatically post when you make an eligible purchase. 

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What makes the perfect golf trip? Book early, keep the peace and follow these tips

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WHEELING, W.Va. — It’s Saturday night and my feet are sore from walking two wet golf courses for 27 holes. There are 11 of us sitting around a warm living room nursing various injuries.

“How you doin’, Suds?” a friend says, invoking my nickname (don’t ask).

My back’s also a little tight, but my pride’s hurting even more because I’ve lost most of the various bets and matches on this day.

“Finally! I won some money!” cries out a guy who goes by Gerbil (really don’t ask).

It’s the first time I’ve sat down and rested since 7 a.m. and I’m exhausted.

Oh, and one more thing. I’m having the time of my life because I’m experiencing the five sweetest words any golfer can utter: I’m on a golf trip.

I’ve been on several golf trips over the past two decades and I’ve enjoyed some more than others, so here are some tips I’ve picked up along the way for planning the best trip possible.

STAYING CLOSE? 6 Michigan golf courses ranked among America's top 25 publics for best conditions

Who's in charge?

Every trip has to have one person in charge who deals with all the planning and details. Respect this person because they put in untold amounts of effort behind the scenes dealing with logistics, money, travel plans, gripes and resort staff. You may not always agree with this person’s decisions, but unless you want the job, don’t complain or criticize their choices.

In our group, our leader goes by Glitter and he takes care of everything. He makes the reservations, he collects the money, he keeps track of scores and he runs the post-round meetings to tell us who won the daily bets, though individuals pay each other.

A friend in the group who goes by E.T. (always phoning home) organizes a separate trip, has each golfer pay the resort individually and has everyone use the Golf Genius app so that he doesn’t have to track the scores and everyone can see what’s happening in real time. But he collects the betting money and pays out players without much fanfare.

Deciding when and where your group is going is key to having the most options available, especially at more popular destinations. E.T. books his annual trip six-to-eight months in advance. His group travels to a different destination every year, so it’s about as early as he can plan it.

The group I joined for this year’s outing books two years in advance because we go to the same place. Currently, it’s Oglebay Resort in Wheeling. Glitter used to book a year out but since it’s gotten busier, he has found it’s better to book way earlier in order to have the best options. This year’s accommodations were the best yet: a two-story cottage with three bathrooms that comfortably slept 11 people, had two large congregating areas, a covered patio, a fireplace and a grill.

Where to stay

There are a lot of options, ranging from hotel rooms to condos to large cottages and cabins to full-on mansions. I’ve experienced most of these options, but I think staying under one roof, if possible, makes the most sense. It keeps the group cohesive and encourages more socializing. When we’ve split up into adjoining two-bedroom condos, people tend to hunker down in their condos and someone’s always asking something like, “Hey, has anyone seen, Suds?”

But be sure to find a place that lets people get away for a quick nap or some quiet time. It’s a great option to have two or three larger gathering areas. My group had men who ranged in age from their late 30s to late 70s. With televisions in the congregating spaces on both floors, some preferred to hang out and watch golf downstairs while others preferred the NBA or NHL playoffs upstairs.

You can always find a nearby hotel, but I prefer a lodging option on the same property as the courses.

The right package

The world is your oyster when it comes to package choices. It just depends on what your group prefers. My group has always picked a package with a buffet breakfast (who wants to scrounge for food with an 8 a.m. tee time?).

We used to have dinner at the hotel, but having to get dressed for dinner, organizing 12, 16 or 20 people and waiting to get served when the kitchen is running behind on a Friday or Saturday got tiresome. Now we bring food and rotate cooking and cleanup duties. But I do miss hanging around the hotel bar on karaoke night. I do a killer “Ring of Fire.”

If you don’t want the hassle of cooking or cleaning, there’s always a food package you can tailor to your preference. And if you need post-golf entertainment options, having a casino nearby is always a popular choice. In Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, a good example is Island Resort and Casino , which offers a package that includes a round at Greywalls , a nearby acclaimed course.

The courses

I had stopped going on my trip for a while because I was unhappy with the two courses we were playing. They were too hard for many of our golfers and the resort wasn’t maintaining them properly, allowing tree branches to hang over fairways.

Our new location offers three 18-hole courses, with two built by Arnold Palmer and Robert Trent Jones Sr. They can be tough, but they’re fair, playable and keep the action moving with generous fairways. Be sure to account for the skill level of your players and especially the worst ones.

Keep the peace

Any large group will inherently contain a diverse set of viewpoints. Avoid offering too many strong opinions, especially about politics, the economy, race, religion, current events, Christmas, Santa or the Easter Bunny. You get the point. Stay away from any other potentially touchy subject.

Now, let’s be real. Alcohol tends to flow as freely as 4-foot gimmies during a golf trip, so it can be a challenge to maintain decorum. That’s why it’s important for the person in charge to make sure there aren’t any jerks on the trip. No one’s going to get along 100% of the time, but that doesn’t mean you can’t try to get along 100% of the time. And watch out for the televisions. Fox News and MSNBC should be off limits.

Everyone wins

There are countless games to play in golf, from a scramble to a shamble to bingo, bango, bongo, to just about anything you can come up with. There are two keys to these games. Make them equitable so that there isn’t a long-drive competition and keep the teams diverse so that everyone can contribute. You might hear some grousing from people who always want to play with their favorite partners, but that’s not what a golf trip is about.

The second key is to make sure everyone wins something, whether it’s a daily match, a greenie or fewest putts. We used to play two games in which everyone recorded their 18 lowest scores and their 18 highest scores. If you pay the top three spots for 18 highest scores, your worst golfers are sure to win something.

I can promise you this. Even if you’re not the worst in the group, seeing those who are finally win something will make the entire trip worth it.

Contact Carlos Monarrez: [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter  @cmonarrez .

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Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery and Museum

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

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Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

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To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

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The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

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Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

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The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

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At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

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The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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