Girls Trips – Perfect Day Somewhere https://www.perfectdaysomewhere.com Travel Itineraries Sat, 31 Jan 2026 16:38:18 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 https://www.perfectdaysomewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/cropped-Perfect-Day-Somewhere-1-32x32.png Girls Trips – Perfect Day Somewhere https://www.perfectdaysomewhere.com 32 32 158179823 Girls Weekend Getaway Near NYC: Crystal Springs Resort in NJ https://www.perfectdaysomewhere.com/girls-weekend-at-crystal-springs-resort/ https://www.perfectdaysomewhere.com/girls-weekend-at-crystal-springs-resort/#respond Mon, 18 Mar 2024 17:58:28 +0000 https://www.perfectdaysomewhere.com/?p=10826 There is nothing better for the soul than a weekend getaway with your best friend! As a Jersey gal myself, I’m always on the lookout for awesome girls weekend getaway ideas near NYC, and Crystal Springs Resort in North Jersey has always been on my radar for a perfect local mini-vacation.

After spending a full weekend there with my bestie, I can confidently say this resort delivers the ultimate girls weekend getaway near NYC, complete with spa vibes, wine tastings, pool lounging, and fun entertainment.

If you’re wondering whether Crystal Springs Resort in New Jersey is worth it for a girls trip, what to do there, or how to plan your weekend itinerary, this post walks you through exactly what our weekend looked like, plus tips to help you plan your own.

Quick Crystal Springs Girls Weekend Snapshot

  • 📍 Location: Hamburg, NJ (just over 1 hour from NYC)
  • 🛏 Best for: Spa lovers, wine enthusiasts, low-stress weekend trips
  • 💰 Budget: Moderate to splurge
  • 🚗 Transportation: Car required
  • 🧖 Highlight: Biosphere Pool + Wine Cellar Tour

Crystal Springs Resort Logistics & What to Know Before You Go

Before we jump into what my itinerary at Crystal Springs Resort consisted of, let me tell you a little more about it first! Crystal Springs has two hotels, the Grand Cascades Lodge and the Minerals Hotel. I stayed at the Grand Cascades Lodge so this blog post will cover the amenities and my experience there.

Where is Crystal Springs Resort Located?

Crystal Springs Resort is located in Hamburg, New Jersey, surrounded by scenic mountains and nature trails. It’s just over an hour from NYC (depending on traffic), making it an easy weekend getaway near NYC without needing flights or complicated travel plans. A car is required since there’s no public transportation directly to the resort.

Screenshot 2024 03 18 at 10.07.07 AM Girls Trips

When is the best time to visit Crystal Springs?

While the warmer months are always a great choice because of the weather, visiting during the cooler seasons definitely has its perks too. Any East Coast person will tell you that one of the best things about living here is experiencing all four seasons, colorful fall foliage, beachy summers, cozy winters, and fresh, beautiful springs.

If you visit Crystal Springs in the summer, you’ll get sunny days and lush green mountain views. In the fall, those same mountains transform into stunning foliage backdrops. And honestly, there’s something extra special about visiting in the winter, being surrounded by snow while soaking in a heated outdoor pool is a vibe all on its own.

Why Choose crystal springs for your Girls’ Weekend getaway?

Whether you’re looking for a Girls’ Weekend just for yourself and your bestie, an awesome local getaway with your mom (hint, hint, this is a sweet way to treat your mom for the upcoming Mother’s Day), or are planning a bigger group for a Bach party, Crystal Springs Resort is an awesome choice for the following reasons:

  1. It’s local! You don’t need flights or long travel days to enjoy a weekend getaway near NYC.
  2. Everything is on-site – no coordinating Ubers or stressful transportation logistics.
  3. There’s something for everyone: spa treatments, mini hikes, golf, wine tastings, fitness classes, and pool lounging.
  4. The food options are genuinely good – no settling for mediocre resort dining.
  5. The wine cellar is absolutely stunning (and yes, there is wine. Lots of it.)

Amenities & Activities at Crystal Springs Resort

The key to any successful local mini-vacation is being able to do awesome things right on-site. What honestly impressed me with Crystal Springs is the selection of things to do there. With a little something for everyone, let me tell you some options of things they offer:

  • Biosphere Pool: The pool is located under a glass dome which brings in the sunlight and sun rays for an all-year-round tan. The tropical foliage along with a perfect toasty indoor temperature will make you feel like you’ve been temporarily transported out of NJ. Additionally, there are two outdoor heated pools that you can enjoy in the cold months as well. During the summer, there is an outdoor infinity pool too.
  • Reflections Spa: If you want to squeeze in a good massage or treat yourself to a beauty treatment, this luxury spa has everything you’ll need.
  • Golf Courses: I don’t golf but I imagine it’s a perfect way to send your significant other away for a little if you want some peace and quiet to yourself 🙂
  • Wine Cellar: An impressive collection of wines in a stunning cellar that you can tour. They also have really fun wine tasting which was one of the highlights of my stay!
  • Scenic Grounds: The surrounding area gives serious mountain vibes and you can explore it on your own as well on the numerous self-guided mini hikes.
  • Restaurants: You don’t have to worry about food there as Crystal Springs offers some great food spots on the property!
  • Activities: If you’re staying for a weekend, you won’t have enough time to do everything, but you’ll certainly have choices. Some of the activities offered include the following: fitness classes like a goat yoga class, a Cabaret Show, a mixology class, and even ax-throwing. There is an online schedule that shows you what is offered on what day allowing you to plan and book ahead.

How Much Does a Girls Weekend at Crystal Springs Cost?

  • Room: $400-$600 a night depending on weekday and season
  • Spa treatments: vary by service
    • Manicure ~$70
    • Massage ~$360
    • Facial ~$340
    • Body scrub ~$185
  • Wine tasting: $25 per person
  • Dinner: ~$50-$100 per person
  • Cabaret show: ~$80 per person

There are a ton of complementary activities as well. Pools & biosphere are included in the rate as well.

What a Girls’ Weekend at Crystal Springs Looks like

Now that you have an idea of what Crystal Springs Resort offers, let me show you what a weekend looked like there for me and my bestie! If you can imagine yourself on this itinerary, this is your sign to book this gem.

Day 1: Arrival, Dinner & Exploring the Resort

This first day is all about settling in, enjoying a great dinner, and getting a feel for the property before diving into full activity mode.

We arrived right after our check-in time (4pm) at the Grand Cascades Lodge and were greeted by the stunning mountain surroundings. Our 1-bedroom suite had a large kitchen, living room, fireplace, balcony with awesome views, a king-sized bed, and a bathroom with a jacuzzi tub and heated floors. It had the perfect lodge vibe for this girls’ weekend getaway and was very spacious for two people.

A 1-bedroom Suite at Grand Cascades Lodge at Crystal Springs Resort

Our first-night dinner reservation was at Springs Bistro, an Italian Restaurant on-site serving a variety of delicious bites. I had a Mushroom Pizza while my bestie enjoyed Gnocchi alla Vodka. Both dishes were exactly what we needed! For cocktails, we had the Paloma Milanese and a unique cocktail creation called Figment of Your Imagination. The staff was exceptional and made sure we were well taken care of as well!

After dinner, we headed over to the other side of the resort to the Crystal Tavern for some live music and more cocktails. We enjoyed the music and headed back to the room to watch our favorite shows and then got some much-needed rest!

Day 2: Full Activity Mode: Pools, Wine & Entertainment

The first night was a great introduction to what Crystal Springs Resort offers but Day 2 is when we really explored the property and got to participate in a day full of activities!

Breakfast at the Buffet

For breakfast, you have some options depending on what you prefer. First, you can always cook it yourself if your room has a fully equipped kitchen like ours did. Second, there is a small cafe with quick bites close to the reception where you can grab coffee and small snacks. Third, there is an ala carte menu at Crystal Tavern which I will describe later on. And lastly, there is a breakfast buffet which offers a truly impressive selection of breakfast foods.

We decided to try the buffet option which was priced at around $30 a person. Personally, it was too much food for me to try everything but I’m also not a buffet person to begin with. I’ll say this is a good option if you’re really hungry or if you want to try a little bit of everything.

Relaxation at crystal springs biosphere pool

After breakfast, we headed over to the awesome Biosphere Pool. As I mentioned earlier in the post, this is a really impressive structure in a giant glass dome that brings in the light and sunshine. There are tropical plants surrounding the pool within a nice 85-degree surrounding. You can lay out on the lounge chairs but I recommend getting there earlier in the day as they fill up quickly! The outdoor portion is awesome because you can enjoy a 90 and 99-degree pool on a cold crispy New Jersey winter day.

There is also a sauna on-site and I was shocked that not more people were using it! We had it all to ourselves for a nice sweat session.

The Biosphere Pool also has a small Mexican restaurant on-site which serves small bites along with some delicious cocktails. You can either grab it yourself or have some pool-side drinks served as you’re relaxing in your lounge chair.

Wine cellar tour

While we really enjoyed the Biosphere Pool, the next part of the itinerary was my favorite! I had no idea that Crystal Springs had a $10-million world-famous wine cellar in its basement. When we decided to take a guided wine cellar tour, we had no idea the extent of it. Guided by a very knowledgeable wine sommelier, we learned a ton about the history behind the collection and the most valuable bottles of it. She walked us through interesting facts about different wine regions as we toured this unbelievable place!

Wine tasting at Crystal Springs Resort

After the tour, we also signed up for the Wine Tasting which is also open to guests outside the resort if you want to pop in for a cool local activity! With our generous pours, we tasted sparking, white, and red wines while learning about different wine notes, regions, and things to look out for when choosing a wine. Additionally, we were given two super delicious small local cheese tastings.

While I have done many wine tastings in my life, this was a really awesome experience. My favorite part (aside from the truly amazing wines) was learning about the wines from a professional sommelier. I won’t say that I normally pay attention to wines on the level that we were shown to do, so moving forward, I will certainly have a new appreciation for how I taste wine.

Dinner at Crystal Tavern

Directly following the tasting, we had a dinner reservation at the Crystal Tavern Restaurant. I had the Halibut and my bestie enjoyed the Ricotta Agnolotti. Both were super tasty and exactly what we needed after the wine tasting. We decided to get the Sticky Toffee Pudding for dessert to end on a sweet note!

Cabaret show at crystal springs

After dinner, we had a little bit of time to change and get ready for the last activity of the day, the Cabaret Show. The performers vary by the weekend but on our visit we listened to the super-talented musician Hernan Romero play the guitar and sing, a local band playing some classic tunes, and a comedian doing some prop comedy.

The ticket included a glass of a selected drink and a choice of a chocolate or cheese fondue.

Day 3: Breakfast at Crystal Tavern & Check-out

On our last day, we decided to try the ala carte breakfast at Crystal Tavern. I personally preferred this choice over the previous day’s buffet. The views from the restaurant are great as you’re enjoying your morning coffee as well! For our breakfast dishes, we had the Steak & Eggs and Lobster Benedict. A solid 10/10 breakfast.

It was then time to say goodbye to our perfect Girls’ Weekend at Crystal Springs 🙁 We packed up and said that we’d come back during another season to enjoy the additional amenities we didn’t have a chance to explore like the Reflections Spa or the fitness classes that they offer. My best friend and I had a perfect time catching up, bonding over doing awesome activities, and simply relaxing on the beautiful grounds of this local resort!

Is Crystal Springs Resort Worth It for a Girls Trip?

This resort is perfect for you if:

  • You want a no-flight weekend getaway near NYC
  • You love spa vibes + wine tastings
  • You prefer structured activities
  • You want everything in one place

It may not be for you if:

  • You want a super budget stay
  • You’re looking for a party-heavy nightlife trip

It’s ideal for:

  • Romantic weekends
  • Best friend weekends
  • Mother-daughter getaways
  • Low-key bachelorette trips
  • Groups that want fun + relaxation in one place

For me, it was the perfect reminder that you don’t always need to hop on a plane to have a memorable getaway.

Final thoughts on a Girls’ weekend at Crystal springs resort

I have lived in New Jersey for the majority of my life yet I’ve never spent a weekend at this local oasis. When thinking about getaways with your girlfriends we tend to default that this trip needs to involve a flight. However, I found a local gem that you can choose for your next mini-vacation with your friends right here in New Jersey!

If you’re looking to splurge a little or what I prefer to call self-invest, look no further but to Crystal Springs Resort! I hope you’ll like it as much as I did and that you’ll truly have the perfect New Jersey Girls’ Weekend!

Thank you so much to Crystal Springs for hosting me and my bestie on this awesome weekend getaway. Stay assured that all opinions are my own.

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A 3 Day Itinerary For A Girls Weekend in San Diego https://www.perfectdaysomewhere.com/girls-weekend-in-san-diego/ https://www.perfectdaysomewhere.com/girls-weekend-in-san-diego/#comments Sun, 10 Sep 2023 15:56:26 +0000 https://www.perfectdaysomewhere.com/?p=9427 What’s better than a weekend with your besties to a cool new city? Especially if that city ends up being San Diego! recently visited this gem with my best friend and we had the best time ever. Why? Because San Diego has everything you’d want in the perfect weekend getaway: plenty of activities, tasty food, culture, beaches, and a super fun nightlife. So if you’re in search of an itinerary for a perfect girls weekend in San Diego that is already planned out, you’ve found it.

In this post, I will cover the logistics of visiting this gorgeous city but most importantly I will give you a plan for an awesome getaway for you and your girlfriends. With that, you won’t have to stress about planning, and instead, you can simply focus on enjoying a city that I know you’ll end up falling in love with!

In case you’re new here, know that I always base my itineraries on my own travels! So if I give you a plan, it means I have followed it or would have done it that way based on what I experienced at the destination. If you have a suggestion for a new restaurant or a hot tip, don’t forget to comment at the bottom of this post!

Looking for other ideas for the best weekends with your girlfriends? Check out my Miami Girls Weekend or Austin Guides for awesome itineraries!

Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post. They will not make anything more expensive for you but rather provide a small commission for me should you choose to book it via the link I provide. Since I do not charge for any of my awesome travel advice and don’t make you sign up for anything to download my stuff, I appreciate any link clicks and bookings through here 🙂

Let’s talk about some San Diego logistics

Transportation to and in San Diego

Getting there

Getting to San Diego is pretty straightforward. You have a pretty well-connected airport right outside the city from which can catch a quick ~15 min Uber to the center. If the Uber fare is surging out of control, you can always take the bus on route 992 which can connect you to the trolley, train stations or the city center.

If you’re already in California, take the Amtrak along the Coast. It’s an experience within itself as its a super scenic and comfortable ride. When traveling in the southern direction, make sure to sit on the right-hand side to get the best views of the coast. I paid a little extra for the first-class cabin. It was slightly more comfortable than coach and you got a snack box with an alcoholic beverage. That alone made it worth the extra price. But to set your expectations straight, remember this is still an old train first class and not the Emirates suite.

Moving around the city

San Diego has a nice public transport system so if you don’t want to spend money on Ubers, you’ll be able to get around on the buses or trolleys. You can walk some parts of the city but if you want to see most of the attractions, you will be not able to avoid driving.

Should you rent a car in San Diego?

If you’re just staying in the city, there is no need to rent a car. Looking for parking and the cost of the rental will not save you any money and it won’t make your life easier either. However, it might be worth considering a rental if you’re planning to take some day trips out of San Diego. Some popular spots include La Jolla or even Tijuana in Mexico which is located only an hour away.

Best time to visit San Diego

Although San Diego has decent weather throughout the year, the best time to visit will be May through September for the sunshine, beach time, and overall lively vibe. As with any peak season though, it will be expensive. I personally visited in April and loved the shoulder season vibe. It wasn’t too crowded and the weather was just perfect enough to explore without overheating. However, it would get a little chilly at night and I did not do any water-related activities.

IMG 4718 Girls Trips

Is San Diego expensive?

Yes, it is. I won’t even beat around the bush and tell you that you can avoid spending money. Just as most destinations in California, San Diego is pricey, especially in the city center.

From accommodations to drinks and food and visiting attractions, you’ll be spending $500-$800 per person for a weekend there unless you’re really sticking to a low budget.

Where to stay in San Diego

Depending on what the goal of the weekend is, that will determine where you stay. However, for first timers, here are some areas to consider.

  • If the goal of your girl’s weekend in San Diego is to party, stay near Gaslamp.
  • If you want to relax near the beach, stay near Ocean Beach.
  • Coronado is an island super close to the city that will give you chill vibes and cool restaurants.
  • Downtown will have the vibes of any downtown.
  • Or even La Jolla (25 min from center) if you’re planning to do a lot of outdoor activities.

Is a weekend in San Diego enough time?

A weekend anywhere is never enough to truly get to know a destination however a weekend is sometimes all we got. San Diego has a ton of activities so I’d plan for a 3 day weekend. However, a quick Saturday/Sunday getaway will do the trick if you’re just planning to see the highlights! You certainly won’t be able to see everything and your schedule will be packed but it’s certainly do-able.


A Girls Weekend in San Diego Itinerary!

Day 1: Let your awesome girls’ trip to San Diego begin!

One of my favorite strategies for weekend trips is to always arrive on Friday afternoons. This way I can check into my accommodation, do some light exploring and get a full night sleep before the weekend ahead. I prefer this a lot more than arriving on Saturdays and losing half the day on check-in and travel. So with that, I say do your best to arrive in San Diego on check-in time Friday (early) afternoon to get your awesome San Diego girls’s trip going!

Late Lunch

Depending on where you’re staying in town, choose a place for a late lunch/early dinner vibe. My girlfriend and I stayed in the Gaslamp District so we found something nearby in the touristy area of San Diego. Food was delicious and it filled us up perfectly for the rest of the day.

Stroll along the waterfront

Right before sunset, head to the waterfront area near the Marina. It was a stunning place for golden hour and then for sunset. You can stroll along the promenade or grab a drink at one of the numerous waterfront spots. Watching the sunset along the boats is super cute!

We walked near the Seaport Village toward the Embarcadero. This area had a ton of shops, waterfront restaurants, park spaces and cool sculptures. If you like boat tours for dinner cruises, whale watching or speed jets, you can catch those from this area too. Another thing to do in this area is to catch some live music at the Randy Shell outdoor concert venue.

Gaslamp District Party Time

Now onto the best part, party time! A trip to San Diego will not be complete until you have spent some time walking through the Gaslamp District and grabbing a drink (or partying) in at least one of the bars on the “strip.” And especially if you’re spending a girls weekend in San Diego, this will be a fun activity of your stay! There are numerous places you can go to depending on the vibe you’re looking for.

If you’re a girl there will be a ton of promoters wandering the streets looking to get you into their club with a free drink pass. You have all different types of places in Gaslamp and way too many to name them all but to name some, there are clubs like Toro, F6IX, Parq and Oxford, a rooftop bar called Altitude, more low-key bars like The Tipsy Crow or Whiskey Girl. Honestly, I think the best way to explore Gaslamp is to go bar hopping and simply finding a place based on the vibe it has. But if you want a full list of what’s in the area, check out Gaslamp’s full list of all the bars and nightclubs.

Day 2: Sightseeing in full swing

Brunch in Little Italy

After a night in Gaslamp, you will need a solid brunch. I recommend having brunch in Little Italy which is a cute neighborhood in town to eat in and explore after. Here are some popular options in the area. If traveling in season, don’t forget your resys!

  • Morning Glory – A popular breakfast/lunch place with cool decor
  • Caffe Italia – A small cafe with breakfast food, coffee and gelato
  • Farmers Table Cool decor and extensive weekend brunch
  • Parakeet Cafe – Healthy options for acai bowls, protein bowls or creative toasts
  • Little Italy Food Hall – And if you’re traveling with a bunch of picky eaters, it might be a good idea to head to the foo hall with a ton of options for everyone!

Balboa Park

For the afternoon, head to Balboa Park to enjoy this beautiful and massive park. There are so many spaces and nooks there so pick 2-3 spots you want to see rather than trying to see them all. Here are some top spots to see in the park but note that there are many more than this:

  • Botanical Building: A beautiful building (inside currently closed for construction) with a lily pond
  • Japanese Friendship Garden: Has an entry fee but it’s a beautiful display of Japanese culture
  • Alcazar Garden: A smaller space with Moorish accents
  • San Diego Museum of Art: An art museum with impressive collections
  • Spreckles Organ Pavillion: World’s largest outdoor pipe organ, free concerts on Sunday
  • San Diego Zoo: If you’d like to spend your time with some animals
  • Balboa Park Carousel: I personally love old carousels and this one is over 100 years old

Nightime activities

On day 2, treat yourself to a nice dinner. Places like Barbusa for some amazing Italian Born and Raised for high end steak or Top of the Market won’t disappoint. You can also venture out to the beautiful island of Coronado to places like Il Fornaio or Blue Water Grill for some waterfront night views.

If you’re up for night two of partying, head back to to Gaslamp and let your night continue!

Day 3: La Jolla and Old Town

La Jolla

Next on your itinerary is the famous La Jolla! It’s a quick 30 min ride from city center San Diego. There is so much to do in that area not to mention how beautiful it is. Start by exploring the La Jolla Cove, where you can admire the seals and sea lions sunbathing on the beach and rocks. I was so excited to spend time walking the stunning path admiring these lazy but super entertaining creatures! Walk all the way down to La Jolla Tide Pools as well where you’ll be able to see some cool sea creatures when as the name suggests, the tide is low.

Next, head over to Village of La Jolla for lunch and some shopping. Although popular and pricey, there are a couple of restaurants with stunning views of the ocean like Duke’s or George’s for example. The downtown area has many stores and boutiques you can explore as well.

If you want more outdoor time, make sure to visit Torrey Pines Natural Reserve. You can hike that area and get the most stunning views of the unique nature there right on the beach! It’s about 15-25 min drive from La Jolla but totally worth it!

Old Town

On your way back from La Jolla another fun things to do on your San Diego girls weekend itinerary is to stop in Old Town. The main touristy area is the Old Town Market which is full of stores and beautiful pieces. I got myself a nice hand painted vase from Mexico that is a centerpiece in my kitchen until this day. Additionally, there are some restaurants on site or food stands at which you can snag an elote or even a beer if you need an afternoon snack.

Back home 🙁

And just like that it’s time to wrap up your girls weekend in San Diego. There is nothing better than exploring this gem with your besties and I hope that you have the best weekend ever.

This is the itinerary I planned when I visited with my best friend but if you have any suggestions that you think would make this trip better, let me know in the comments!


Review: Little Italy and Chinatown Food Tour in NYC with Ahoy Tours!

The absolute best way to travel in any city is through food. In food, we can find hidden history, traditions, and each generation’s contributions. It’s also something that makes us remember distinctive things about other cultures more than a history book or a museum. For example, I had moose and reindeer meat in Sweden, unique…

Continue Reading Review: Little Italy and Chinatown Food Tour in NYC with Ahoy Tours!

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A Perfect Itinerary for a 3-Day Austin Bachelorette Party https://www.perfectdaysomewhere.com/austin-bachelorette/ https://www.perfectdaysomewhere.com/austin-bachelorette/#comments Wed, 05 Oct 2022 02:36:10 +0000 https://www.perfectdaysomewhere.com/?p=8059 When my college bestie and bride-to-be said that she wanted her last single hoorah in Austin, I didn’t know it would end up as the perfect destination for a bachelorette trip. Although this city is no secret to these kinds of parties, planning it was not as straightforward as we expected. Everyone on the internet has a ton of ideas but they either follow the same exact route or don’t give you a good plan on how to spread out your activities.

My gal pals and I got to work and ended up planning what you can call the best Austin Bachelorette weekend ever! Today I’m happy to share it with you so you don’t have to search any further 🙂 This plan is perfect for a 3-day weekend with activities spread out in just the perfect doses. Note, that this is not a traditional guide for Austin BUT although this is a plan for an awesome Austin bachelorette party, you can still find useful travel advice as well.

You will not find another route like this online because trust me, I searched and opted for making my own! So without further ado, let’s party it up in Austin, Texas!

Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post. They will not make anything more expensive for you but rather provide a small commission for me should you choose to book it via the link I provide. Since I do not charge for any of my awesome travel advice and don’t make you sign up for anything to download my stuff, I appreciate any link clicks and bookings through here 🙂

Austin Logistics

How to get to and around Austin

The best part about flying into Austin is that Austin-Bergstrom Airport is SUPER close to the city. By super close, I mean like 15-25 minutes depending on where you’re staying. And from someone who lives in the NYC area, that’s a big treat! (I’m looking at you JFK!!!!). The Uber/Lyft option is probably the easiest and with a group and splitting some costs, it will be the easiest way to get around. I noticed Uber being significantly cheaper for many rides too compared to Lyft. Note that when you land, you will have to take a small yet maze-like walk to the rideshare pick-up garage. Just follow the signs and don’t get discouraged 🙂

If you’re staying in downtown Austin, another super cheap option is to catch the Capital Metro Bus for just $1.25!! I mean you can’t beat that price. An NYC metro ride costs twice that! It stops at the Neon Guitar Bus Stop and will take you to a couple of stops in the center. Not a bad option if you ask me.

When you get to the city, Ubers and Lyfts are your best bet. There are a ton of electric scooters around the city too so if your group is up for it, you can scoot along. Although a good chunk of the city is walkable, you will need to catch rides to get in between neighborhoods and especially the Lakes.

Where to stay in Austin

Where you’ll stay in Austin will depend on your budget and group size. Keep the following neighborhoods in mind for your party as they are most central to where the action will be:

  • Downtown: City center which will put you in the middle of it all: sightseeing, party streets, but expect more pricey hotels and Airbnbs 🙂
    • The Line – stunning city views, modern rooms, restaurant, and pool!
    • W Austin – looking for a little more luxury, the W has a certain reputation for a reason!
    • Hotel ZaZa – what a beautiful spot! with boujee restaurants, pool and views!
  • East Austin: This is where our group stayed and it ended up being a more budget-friendly and quirky option. We were still very close to the action but also in a little more local neighborhood.
    • Sentral – apartments for rent with beautiful aesthetic
    • East Austin Hotel – boutique spot and also affordable, good location for the East side
    • Arrive Austin – funky building and super cute interior, sweet location too
  • South Congress: A trendy area of town with shops, restaurants, and people. We explored some streets there and would say that it was a very modern and nice area to stay in.

What to pack for your Austin bachelorette?

First and foremost, you need a vibe! When else can you be extra and obnoxious with your girlfriends by wearing heart sunglasses, matching shirts, and cowboy hats if not at your best friend’s bachelorette? And Austin groups come in all costumes you can imagine. You can stick to the classics or come up with your own unique theme. Austin is your oyster so get creative!

In addition to your bach gear, you’ll need bathing suits, going-out outfits, exploring outfits, and walking shoes. You can get away with a small wedge rather than heels for a night out too. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and hydration packs. These 3 days are a marathon, not a sprint 🙂

Other things to know about Austin

  • People say “Keep Austin Weird” for a reason
  • Things add up quickly and it’s not necessarily the cheap city it once used to be
  • There will be dozens of bachelorette parties walking the streets too
  • You won’t see everything Austin has to offer in a weekend so pick things that are easy for the group and universally liked

3-Day Plan for a Perfect Austin Bachelorette Party

This guide will save you tons of stress in planning the perfect gal getaway! I followed this exact plan when visiting Austin and made a couple of tweaks to make it even better for you. You can trust that this was tested and I can vouch for its awesomeness.

Day 1: Start out with a bang!

Let’s not lounge around yet, I recommend getting the party started right away! There is no complete trip to Austin without a day on the lake and honestly, there is a reason for it! Since everyone will have the most energy on day 1, I recommend doing the most involved stuff first.

Breakfast

For any boat venture, you will need to pack meals for lunch so sandwiches, snacks, and of course some booze. What we found to be the quickest and easiest solution is to head over to Whole Foods, (Austin has the OG flagship store), and grab some breakfast bites, and lunches for later.

Boat Party

The layout of Austin lakes might seem obvious to the locals but this initially confused me too. So let me try to explain this in the dumbed-down version of what they look like:

  • Lady Bird Lake: Close to downtown, this lake is made more so for a walk around it, kayaking, or lounging in its popular swimming section Barton Springs.
  • Lake Austin: Also close to downtown and where boats dock to party in the Party Cove area.
  • Lake Travis: ~35 minutes outside of town, most boats dock here in Devil’s Cove area to party. It’s a warmer-temperature lake with a cool party vibe for bachelorettes.

Now, if you have a big group, there is a huge selection of boats you can rent. A simple google search will show you how many businesses provide this service. Prices will range based on your group size and length of the rental but expect to spend anywhere from $70-$200 a person.

If you have a smaller group as we did, there is another option that is incredibly fun. Premier Party Cruises has a Disco Cruise which is a group boat for only bachelor and bachelorette parties. If you think that sounds obnoxious, well it is. But since everyone was in the same mindset, it ended up being a ton of fun. You won’t worry about much, all you need to remember is to bring your drinks and the best party mood 🙂 We picked the morning cruise giving us the afternoon to rest. However, there is also a later one in the day if waking up before 9 isn’t your thing.

Next you rest or …

After 4+ hours on the boat, you’ll need a shower and a nap before continuing the night. Take some time to relax before a full night ahead. If you have time though or are ready to rally, I’d recommend checking out The Oasis on Lake Travis. The sunset views look amazing from this spot and there are many areas of it for you to explore. Since this restaurant is about 30 minutes outside the city, it makes sense to check it out when you’re close to Lake Travis.

Dinner & Party Time!

We had one major goal for ATX and that is to have some bomb BBQ. However, most of the famous BBQ spots in the city are either casual joints or trucks. Note that it’s probably the better way to do it but we were on a mission to get a good BBQ and a nice sit-down meal for the bride. Lambert’s seemed like the perfect place to do it so we booked their dinner and music option which they host upstairs.

Was it worth it? Yea, it was a great meal with some nice music but I would certainly also set aside some time to experience BBQ the way it was supposed to be experienced, not necessarily the fancy version of it 🙂 So with that said, some other BBQ spots worth your time are:

Now it’s time to rally and head toward the famous party area of Rainey Street. It can get pretty wild but that’s why you’re in Austin! My personal pet peeve is sardine-like bars so the most popular places like Clive or Unbarlievable won’t be where you’d find me having fun. Rather, I’d recommend places where I can dance without elbowing 3 people like Cantina or Tiki Bar. However, rather than planning where to party, just follow the music that makes you the happiest and you’ll be totally fine!

The second major party street in Austin is 6th Street. They call it Dirty 6th and after seeing it I can easily tell you there is a reason for it. Maybe a couple of years ago you could have convinced me to party there but today that won’t be the case 🙂 One place that I will recommend on the 6th though is Mala Vida. It’s a Latin outdoor club/bar place so if you like Latin vibes, it will be a cool place to visit.


Day 2

Brunch or Brew Bus

There is no better way to cure last night’s hangover than with a Brunch Bus. In true Austin fashion, they one-upped a traditional bus tour and created Twisted Texas Tour which offers a band on board, 3 brunch spots, and 3 drinks. They’re also BYOB so you can sip between the stops too.

Honest opinion tho, it’s pretty pricey for you end up getting but it is still fun. I wish they served a little more food because you don’t really fill up on what’s offered. Additionally, I wouldn’t recommend the bus option for someone who has a specific food allergy. Although the website says they accommodate, that didn’t end up being the case for one of us who had a dairy allergy. If that’s the case in your group, I’d consider the Brew Bus instead. Overall it is a fun activity and it is pretty unique but expect to want more food afterward 🙂

Other sweet alternatives for a tour include:

Explore SoCo

After the brunch bus, you can take a little break and then head out to explore South Congress for some cool shopping. On this street, you’ll find some gems like Allens Boots, South Congress Books, Maya Star, Maufrais, and the iconic Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds which unfortunately will be closing sometime this year. There are so many shops there and you can spend hours exploring.

If you’re in the SoCo area, don’t forget to stop at Guero’s Tacos. It is famous for a reason and it is absolutely delicious. Not to mention the live music they often have.

Dinner

Dinner options in Austin are endless. You can find all sorts of cool restaurants all over town. I couldn’t possibly check out all of them but I did some research to help you narrow down what you might love. Here is what I got:

  • Hula Hut – You’ll find this spot on many guides and although it didn’t knock my socks off, I still enjoyed the views from here.
  • Perry’s Steakhouse – If you’re feeling boujee and want to treat your bride, Perry’s is your spot to go splurge and enjoy a great steak.
  • Red Ash – Italian spot with great food, phenomenal reviews and unique industrial chic decor.
  • Fixe Austin – Fancy vibes and Southern cooking.

Hire some good-looking cowboys to serve you pool-side drinks at home!

If your bestie isn’t into the whole stripper scene, there is an awesome alternative that can end up being even more fun for your crew at home. The Cocktail CowBoys are a great time for any bachelorette weekend in Austin. They are your hype boys that bartend, serve drinks, take and pose in pictures, pamper the bride and bridesmaids, Spotify DJ and hype you up before you go out (or stay in). They come with a vibe of southern gentlemen who know how to throw a great party, and make your bride feel like a queen!

They reached out to me after I got back and I seriously wish I found them before the trip! Make sure to save some $$ when you book them with the code perfectday for $20 off your booking here!


Day 3

On Day 3, you’ll want to take it easy. Even two days of non-stop fun can get exhausting. I recommend a lazy day on the river with a nice farewell dinner at the end of the day!

Breakfast

Before you head out of the water, you’ll want to eat well. If you’re floating with the same company I recommend below, their meeting point is close to the best breakfast place around, Cisco’s. I loved my huge breakfast tacos and it was the absolute perfect way to start the day. Another spot that is also super tasty is Cenote. Breakfast was delicious and we enjoyed the patio vibes!

Floating on the River

This is a very popular activity for a reason. You get to sip beers in a float for 3 hours and not do much of anything else. We really enjoyed it for our last day in Austin. The tubing company that we went with is called ATXcrusions and they provided roundtrip transport, tubes, and coolers with ice.

Explore more or relax

Tubing did take up about 5-6 hours so after getting back home we rested until the evening. However, if you’re up for more adventure, here are some ideas for your afternoon:

Easy night-out

For the last night, I recommend having a different vibe. Head over to the East side of Austin for cool dinner spots and some funky drinking spots after. It’s time to soak in the last vibes of your trip and laugh at all the stupid things you did for the past couple of days in a more calm atmosphere!

For dinner, check out Salt & Time for a unique vibe, delicious Tex-Mex at Suerte or one of the best restaurants in the US, Canje.

After dinner, head to the local drinking wells. We had Easy Tiger on our radar but it ended up being closed. We ended up exploring the streets of East Austin which was a ton of fun. The area is full of bars, but you can grab a beer Lazarus Brewing, dance honky-tonk at White Horse or taste some wine at Apt 115.

Final Thoughts

Austin is an awesome place for a bachelorette party. Although it’s not a hidden gem, I promise you will enjoy everything it has to offer. I hope that my 3-day plan gave you a good itinerary for a weekend with your girlfriends or at least some ideas that you haven’t heard of before. If you have any questions or suggestions, contact me and I will be happy to help ya!

Looking for another girl’s weekend plan? Check out my awesome Miami Girls Weekend Guide!

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Miami Girls Weekend Getaway: Your Ultimate Guide to an Epic Experience https://www.perfectdaysomewhere.com/miami-girls-weekend/ https://www.perfectdaysomewhere.com/miami-girls-weekend/#comments Mon, 31 May 2021 22:38:42 +0000 https://perfectdaysomewhere.com/?p=4482 Miami is the ultimate party destination in the United States, perfect for an unforgettable girls’ weekend. Gather your girlfriends and prepare for an epic weekend in this vibrant city. Miami offers a unique vibe, making you feel like you’re in another country. Whether it’s pretentious or laid-back, Miami has something for everyone.

If you’re seeking a detailed guide on Miami’s must-see spots, don’t miss my comprehensive Miami Guide. However, in this post, you’ll find the perfect short Miami Girls Weekend itinerary tailored for an unforgettable getaway.

This guide focuses on an affordable and realistic way to enjoy Miami, avoiding the typical high-cost recommendations found in major travel blogs. You won’t find luxury hotels or $600 brunches here. Instead, I provide accessible and budget-friendly tips to ensure you have an amazing time without breaking the bank.

If you’re wondering what are the best things to do on a Miami girls’ weekend, where to stay, or where to eat in Miami, let’s dive in and start planning your perfect Miami girls weekend!

Looking for another girl’s trip inspo? Check out my Austin guide too 🙂

Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post. They will not make anything more expensive for you but rather provide a small commission for me should you choose to book it via the link I provide. 🙂

To-do list before the trip:

  • Decide which area you’d like to stay in – for quick getaways, South Beach is always a safe pick
  • If you’re booking an Airbnb, do as far ahead as possible, hotels should also be booked far out
  • Make reservations for brunches and dinners in the more popular places
  • Plan your outfits well, in Miami, you dress to impress!

Day 1 of the Perfect Miami Girls Weekend

Friday or Saturday Arrival

For your Miami girls weekend, aim to arrive on Friday night if possible. However, if you’re planning a quick getaway, arriving early on Saturday morning is a great option. Flights on Fridays can be pricier, and you’ll need to add an extra night to your hotel stay. Keep in mind that arriving on Saturday morning means you’ll need plenty of energy for the day ahead.

Miami International Airport is the most convenient option, but flying into Fort Lauderdale is also viable. A ride into town will cost between $40-$70, depending on surge pricing.

Once you arrive, head straight to your hotel to drop off your luggage and freshen up. Most hotels offer luggage storage before check-in and allow you to use their amenities while you wait for your room. Your accommodation choice will depend on your budget. Collins Avenue is ideal for beachfront hotels but tends to be more expensive. Smaller hotels off Collins offer beach access through other hotels but can be hit or miss.

What are the best places to stay for a girls’ weekend in Miami?

Some other places I stayed in the past and my thoughts on them:

  • Pestana – loved it, super clean and the staff was super nice, not beachfront though.
  • Generator Hostel is my absolute favorite budget pick for the area. You can easily rent a whole room to yourselves with the ladies.
  • The Confidante – loved loved this place, however they are rebranding now and updating their property!
  • The Franklin – an apartment-like property, good for a group of friends.
  • Marseilles – trendy backyard, beachfront but most people using their space aren’t staying at their hotel.
  • Redbury – didn’t love it, rooms were nice but the amenities were shit, and the SLS beach access what a total joke because they treated you horribly.

And here are more picks for the area:

Booking.com

Brunch Options for Your Miami Girls Weekend

Brunch is a must-do during your Miami girls weekend, and it’s essential to do it right. While brunch in Miami is a blast, reservations are almost always necessary. A little tip: pace yourself with the rosé and Aperol Spritzes—you’ll need energy for the rest of your exciting day ahead!

If you haven’t spent much time in South Beach, it’s the perfect place to soak up the vibrant atmosphere before exploring other areas. While it can get a bit lively, with the right spots, you’ll have an amazing time. Here are some fantastic brunch options, especially for those new to Miami:

  • Orange Blossom: an Aperol Spritz bottomless brunch? Yassss! This gem of a place won me over just for that. The food is great prices are good (for Miami) and the atmosphere is great. Note that they have an outdoor patio that’s super nice.
  • Nikki Beach: A Miami staple, a beach club but also a restaurant. Surprisingly for such a hyped-up place they do have great food.
  • Serena: This stunning rooftop has all you need for a Miami Girls brunch! Vibes, delicious food and booze.
  • Versace Mansion: Want to experience luxury without the insane price tag? Visit Gianni’s at lunch and for a prix-fix menu under $40, you won’t be disappointed, it’s the best hack to enjoy this stunning restaurant.
  • Sweet Liberty: Bottomless rosé, tasty brunch menu, cool atmosphere? Say no more.
  • Palace: Yes I know, touristy and ratchet, but if you enjoy a cheesy drag show then you don’t want to skip the bottomless $45 brunch here right on Ocean Drive 🙂

If you want to venture outside of South Beach try places like Brickell or Wynwood. Here are some brunch picks below:

  • Pastis: A stylish French restaurant in the middle of Wynwood.
  • R House: Another drag bar but perhaps a bit more classy than Ocean Drive. $50 will get you food, bottomless drinks, and a show.
  • Barsecco: A boozy brunch with delicious food in the heart of Brickell? Say less.
  • Tap 42: Located in Midtown and a little more laid-back, this place gets pretty lively for brunch. $25 bottomless deal is a steal too.
  • Crazy About You: Classy ladies call for a classy waterfront brunch and that’s what you’ll find at this not so hidden gem.

Beach time or pool time

After brunch, it’s time to hit the beach—an essential part of any Miami girls weekend. You have a couple of options for enjoying the beach:

  1. Hotel Beachfront Chairs: Many hotels offer beachfront chairs, often for a fee. It’s a fun addition to your vacation, especially with drink service.
  2. DIY Beach Setup: Alternatively, grab a blanket and set up your spot on the sand. While many people drink on the beach, be aware it’s not officially allowed.

Collins Avenue hotels also offer fantastic backyard pools, lounge chairs, and beachfront amenities like day clubs. Spend some time soaking up the sun and the vibrant South Beach atmosphere. For added fun, join a hotel’s day party. Pro tip: Reach out to a promoter for a free cabana.

A quick reminder: Don’t underestimate the Miami sun. Even with 50 SPF sunscreen, make sure to reapply frequently, especially if you have fair skin like m

Dinner time in Miami

Ya might need a nap before dinner time after a boozy brunch and a day in the sun. Hopefully, you didn’t die during the day and were able to keep up. Trust me, I know as I made the rookie Miami mistake of pushing day drinking a little far. Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint 🙂

Dinner options in Miami are truly endless. If it’s your first time in Miami I recommend booking something on Espanola Way. Yes, it is super touristy but it will allow you to truly feel the Miami vibe. Ocean Drive is the furthest thing away from classy so aside from grabbing a drink there, I don’t think I’d have a meal on that street. Brickell and Design District are a little more classy. If you’re looking for a gentrified hipster vibe, do not miss Wynwood. Here are my favorite picks for your girl’s weekend in Miami:

  • Pane e Vino: There is no better place in Miami and I mean it. It’s tiny so you will need reservations way in advance. The pasta is unbelievable and so is this place.
  • Wanna be boujee for the night at some top Miami picks? Try Sugar, La Mar or Mila.
  • Mandolin: Greece or Miami? Honestly, what a vibe. This is a perfect spot among the chaos of this city.
  • Carbone: Miami glamour meets NYC mob money vibes? I haven’t seen anything like this yet and I’m all for it.
  • Havana 1957 Espanola Way: If you want the touristy vibes of Espanola Way but don’t want to sacrifice quality, this is the place to be. It’s cute, lively and the food is good.

Night out in Miami

What is a visit to Miami without a night out? Is there even a point? 🙂 The good news is that if this is a true Miami girl’s weekend, your night out will probably not cost you a dime. Promoters pray on good-looking groups of girls and provide free entry, bottle service, and attention for the whole night. Unfortunately, even one guy in your group will prevent you from this happening. Miami has its big clubs and then smaller joints. In my experience, I always liked smaller places but it’s worth hitting one of the famous clubs at least once in your life.

How to find a promoter you ask? Go to Instagram and search #miamipromoter and you shall find a ton of them. Make sure you meet them in a public place, preferably inside the club, do not pay them anything, and don’t be weirded out if they ask you to send Instagram pictures to them prior to the club… Check if they have some real pictures aside from posters too. I get a lot of messages asking for one but it’s been a couple of years since I used one so I’m sure there are a ton more that popped up since!

Day 2 of the Miami Girls Weekend

Breakfast

If you went out, there is a chance you were out all night. I get it, breakfast might not be for you at the moment. An early brunch is a must though because you have another day of rallying ahead. Here are some breakfast choices before your busy day ahead:

  • Necessary Purveyor: A 5-star breakfast place? I didn’t know that was possible but apparently, it is. Don’t let the central Lincoln Road Mall location deceive the quality of this place!
  • Rosetta Bakery: If your sweet tooth is as strong in the morning as fine, check out this bakery for a nice chocolate croissant. If the line is too long, pop into the bakery two doors down. Just as good if not better!
  • Pura Vida: Healthy, aesthetically pleasing, and super tasty. Owned by a super cute family too.
  • The Egg Spot: Located downtown, this is an adorable place with some tasty food.
  • Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop: A hole-in-the-wall with bomb Cubanos and other great filling selections located closer to Wynwood. You won’t find aesthetic views here but there isn’t a hangover that this food can’t cure.

Boat time

What is a Miami Girls Weekend without a time on the boat? Miami is the boating capital of the boating capitals, especially for activities involving alcohol. I did this activity twice, once for a bachelorette party and another for a Miami Girls Weekend getaway, and both times I had a blast. Despite what you might think, this is not a very expensive activity. Although I have one person that I book with (happy to recommend, shoot me a message), go on BoatSetter and you’ll see that it’s totally affordable.

A popular way of doing this is boating around in the bay and then docking at the sandbar. The Haulover sandbar is located near northern Miami and you will be surrounded by a ton of other like-minded people. There are many boats with people playing music, drinking, and just having a good time. The water is shallow and you can easily swim, walk around and socialize with more party people.

Afternoon in Miami

I have faith that you ended up balancing out your day and you still have time to enjoy some outdoor activities. If you have not had the chance to visit Ocean Drive, maybe you should. The awesome art deco buildings, party atmosphere, and simply just a touristy vibe should be experienced at least once in your life. Grab a drink and enjoy soaking it all in.

Right after a stroll on Ocean Drive, catch the most amazing colorful sunset in the neighborhood. Miami just feels different during golden hour and one of the nicest things you can do is experience how nicely the sun sets in this city. After you explored a little of Ocean Drive, make your way near South Pointe Park and walk down to the marina there. The sunset is incredible and the quiet vibe along the beautiful boats is amazing. I recommend renting a Citibike here because it will be a long walk otherwise.

Dinner

If you followed my previous plan, a good idea is to have dinner at the known sunset spot in town Monty’s. Some additional places to consider are Sugarcane, a hip Latin-Asian fusion spot, Yardbird, a nice twist on a Southern menu, or perhaps the boujee Quinto La Huella, an upscale Uruguayan spot for a perfect Miami girl’s weekend ending.

Day 3 – Bonus

Chances are your Miami Girls weekend may be ending but if your flight isn’t leaving for a couple more hours, here are some quick ideas for some last-minute fun!

  • Bayside Marketplace: Located only 15 minutes from Miami airport, this cute shopping place is the perfect last-minute spot. Located on the water, you can shop, eat and get some to-go drinks. They recently opened a huge Ferris wheel too 🙂
  • Wynwood: It’s a whole neighborhood so I don’t think it should be rushed, but if you want to get a preview of the famous murals, this area is also located close to the airport.
  • Little Havana: Last but not least, this Cuban neighborhood is under 10 minutes from Miami Airport. You can walk Calle Ocho and enjoy a fresh mojito before returning to reality.

If you’re staying a little longer, I highly recommend checking out my full Miami guide for a much more detailed explanation of each neighborhood. I go into more detail about the city, list multiple things to do, and give you a ton of recommendations. Additionally, if you’d like to download some ready-to-print itineraries for your stay, you can do so here too.

I’d love to hear about your thoughts on Miami and what your favorite thing to do in this epic city is! Comment below!

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