Home Travel Girls Trip Ideas for Every Kind of Friend Group

Girls Trip Ideas for Every Kind of Friend Group

by Ohio Digital News


Get the girls trip out of the group chat, an amazing getaway awaits in New York State! We’ve planned seven unforgettable girls trips for every kind of friend group, whether you’re in need of a relaxing self-care retreat or an adventure-packed escape. Find your zen at a baby goat yoga class in Central New York, sing your heart out at a live concert in Saratoga, or sip your way through scenic Finger Lakes Wine Country, all with your girls by your side. Get inspired for your next spectacular girls trip and start planning your New York State getaway.


Artsy Friends: Hudson (Hudson Valley)


Cars parked in front of antiques storeCredit: @americanweekender on Instagram


Things to Do:


Home to an amazing antiques scene, historic artist estates, and a vibrant creative community, Hudson is the perfect spot for friends who love antiquing and the arts. A stroll down Warren Street will lead you to all kinds of local businesses like art galleries, jewelry stores, coffee shops, restaurants. If you and the girls are antiques enthusiasts, Hudson offers more than 50 antique, vintage, and thrift stores selling everything from furniture to jewelry, like Antique Warehouse, Five and Diamond, and The Second Show.


A pedestrian/bicycling path on a bridge with a view of the Catskill Mountains


Explore Olana State Historic Site, the 250-acre artist-designed landscape and Persian-inspired house considered to be one of the greatest masterpieces of American artist, Frederic Edwin Church. If you’re up for a long walk, head to the Hudson River Skywalk (pictured), a six-mile, scenic pedestrian bridge that connects Frederic Church’s Olana and Thomas Cole National Historic Site, to soak up awe-inspiring views. Or you can take a quick drive over the bridge to tour the historic home and two studios of Hudson River School founder, Thomas Cole. See the sweeping views of the Catskill Mountains that inspired his famous paintings.


Round out your girls getaway with live music at Basilica Hudson, a reclaimed 1880s industrial factory that features genre-pushing music festivals, regular film screenings, an artist in residency program, and a weekly concert and art series. 


Where to Stay:


  • Amelia Hudson: Settle into this former Queen Anne-style private residence with a modern aesthetic, eight graciously-appointed rooms, and an outdoor pool.

  • The Nest Hudson: Make The Nest your homebase with five thoughtfully-designed suites, a 24-hour complimentary snack kitchen, and convenient downtown location. 


Outdoorsy Friends: Lake George (Adirondacks)


POV shot from a yellow kayak while a person in a green kayak paddles on Lake George with a view of the mountains in the backgroundCredit: Rachel Dymond


Things to Do:


Ready for a girls getaway with scenic mountain views, picturesque paddling, and adventure galore? Lake George has it all and more! Nestled in the “forever wild” Adirondacks, Lake George is home to amazing hikes of all difficulties. If you’re a beginner but still want big views, try the Blue Trail to Bradley’s Lookout. The Pinnacle is a great moderate hike with views of Lake George, Tongue Mountain Range, Shelving Rock, and more. For advanced hikers, Prospect Mountain is a steep hike with 1,532-foot elevation gain and stunning views of the southern end of the lake.


Known as the “Queen of American Lakes,” Lake George is known for having some of the cleanest and clearest water in the country. Rent some kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddle boards from Lake George Kayak Co. and spend a couple hours out on the water. When you’re ready to take a dip, head to Million Dollar Beach where you can soak up the sun from the sandy shores.


Aerial of Narrows Island clusters on Lake GeorgeCredit: @jdsoffer on Instagram


Get your heart racing and add even more adventure to your trip with Parasailing, Tubing, or Whitewater Rafting on Sacandaga River. Prefer something more lowkey? Take a stroll through Lake George Village with boutiques, souvenir shops, handmade gifts, and tons of restaurants. 


Where to Stay:


  • Island Campgrounds: Unlock a truly unique camping experience and book a campsite at one of three separate island groups on Lake George. Accessible only by boat.

  • Huttopia Adirondacks: Enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing modern comforts at this glamping resort nestled into the base of Kenyon Mountain and spread out over nearly 300 acres of woodlands.


Wine & Foodie Friends: Geneva (Finger Lakes)


Hands holding two glasses of white wine and one glass of red cheers over a plate of meat and cheeseCredit: @belhurstcastleandwinery on Instagram


Things to Do:


If award-winning wine, delicious food, and quality time with the girls sounds like your dream getaway, Geneva is the place for you! Tucked away at the northern end of Seneca Lake, Geneva is a perfect homebase for exploring the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. One of the largest and most active wine trails in the east, the trail is home to 27 member wineries including Belhurst Castle & Winery (pictured), Fox Run Vineyards, and Miles Wine Cellar. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind wine experience, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail offers one-day excursions that can include a professional driver, wine and chocolate pairings, and elevated tastings.


a group of six girlfriends chat and laugh as they splash in the water at Green Lakes State Park beach


On summer nights over the weekend, Geneva’s picture-perfect Linden Street closes to traffic. Stroll the lively street where you’ll find charming restaurants and bars with outdoor dining, live music, and welcoming local shops like Finger Lakes Goods. Vinifera New York Speakeasy is an elegant cocktail lounge, perfect for a pre or post-dinner drink, or try The Rusty Pig for American cuisine and barbeque. For a unique farm-to-table experience, make your way to FLX Table for an intimate, interactive five-course dinner with local beers and wines.


If you’re up for a mini road trip, Green Lakes State Park (pictured) is about an hour drive from Geneva with vibrant blue waters and opportunities for hiking, paddling, and swimming.


Where to Stay:


  • Belhurst Castle & Winery: Enjoy a luxurious stay at Belhurst Castle with beautifully-appointed rooms in three accommodation options: Chambers in the Castle, White Springs Manor, and the Vinifera Inn. Plus, there’s a spa, two restaurants, and a winery on site.

  • 41 Lakefront Hotel, Trademark Collection: Stay close to award-winning wineries and attractions at this comfortable lakeside getaway in the heart of Geneva.


Event Seekers: Saratoga Springs (Capital-Saratoga)


People gather on the lawn to enjoy a concert at the Saratoga Performing Arts CenterCredit: @spacsaratoga on Instagram


Things to Do: 


With a star-studded summer concert series, historic race track, and lively downtown, Saratoga Springs is the destination for friend groups who like to be out and about. Check the summer performances at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) (pictured), located in the 2,400-acre Saratoga Spa State Park. Each summer, resident companies like The New York City Ballet, The Philadelphia Orchestra, and The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center hit the stage, as well as artists in the 2026 lineup like Lil Wayne (July 2), Kesha (August 18), TLC & Salt-N-Pepa (August 27), Luke Bryan (August 29), Pitbull (September 2), and more.


Three women in fancy clothing stand at the fence as two horse and jockeys walk pastCredit: @discoversaratogany and @alexandriaeigo on Instagram


Dress to impress and head to one of the horse races at Saratoga Race Course (pictured). The venue hosts some of the world’s best horses and most important races like the famous Travers Stakes and the Belmont Stakes for its final summer in Saratoga before returning to its newly-renovated Long Island facility. Score dining tickets for the Turf Terrace on the third and fourth floors for an amazing meal and even better views of the track. Whether you’re looking for an extravagant hat to wear to the track or a bite to eat, exploring Saratoga’s downtown is a must. Shop and stroll past boutiques, local shops, restaurants, and cafes like Saratoga Candy Co., Caroline and Main, and Osteria Danny


Treat yourself and the girls to a trip to Roosevelt Baths & Spa, offering nature-inspired therapies like signature mineral baths that use the naturally effervescent water of the springs, therapeutic massages, restorative facials, and more. If you’re looking for a fun, new activity to try, Kayak Shak offers stand-up paddleboard yoga on Saturday mornings on Saratoga Lake.


Where to Stay:


  • Bluebird Spa City Motor Lodge: Located in the center of downtown Saratoga Springs, Bluebird Spa City is home to 42 rooms and conveniently located nearby restaurants, shops, attractions, and more.

  • Adelphi Hotel: Enjoy luxury and modern design from one of the 32 luxurious and oversized guest rooms and suites at the Adelphi Hotel, located right on Saratoga’s main street, Broadway.


Self-Care Friends: Mt. Tremper & Woodstock (Catskills)


Two women sitting in beige Adirondack chairs cheers wine glasses as they look out at a creek and forestCredit: @emersonresort on Instagram


Things to Do:


Nothing says self-care like a trip to the spa, serene Catskill mountain views, and quality time with catching with the girls. Start off with a visit to the luxurious Emerson Spa in Mt. Tremper. Indulge in a spa menu inspired by the tranquility of the Catskills with treatments such as a stone massage, seasonal essential oil body wrap, and a rose quartz facial. While at the Emerson Resort, be sure to check out the Catamount restaurant, The Shops at Emerson, and the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope.


After feeling refreshed and relaxed, surround yourself with the sounds and sights of nature on a hike. Overlook Mountain (pictured below) is a must-do if you’re looking for a moderate hike with awe-inspiring views, and interesting sights like old hotel ruins and a fire tower. For something on the easier side, the Ashokan Reservoir highlights spectacular views of the reservoir and surrounding Catskill Mountains from a two-mile paved walkway. 


View of the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower and sprawling Catskills Mountains from above on a getaway to the CatskillsCredit: @rfitnessexpeditions on Instagram


Round out your self-care getaway with a little retail therapy along Woodstock’s vibrant Tinker Street, where you’ll find local shops and boutiques selling everything from secondhand gems, to handmade crafts to gourmet cupcakes. Treat yourself to a live performance at Bearsville Theater or Woodstock Playhouse, both offering amazing live theater, music, and dance, as well as film.


Where to Stay:


  • Emerson Resort and Spa: Mountain views meet luxurious experiences at this resort and spa in Mt. Tremper. Experience casual elegance and modern comfort at The Inn or stay tucked away on the west side of the property at The Lodge, a cozy, rustic retreat inspired by the charm of a classic log cabin.

  • Woodstock Way Hotel: Tucked behind a waterfall along a babbling brook, The Woodstock Way Hotel offers twelve modern yet cozy rooms just steps away from Woodstock’s iconic downtown.


Animal Lovers: Cooperstown (Central New York)


a group of women do yoga in the grass with cocktails alongside baby goatsCredit: @moonstruck.the.jeep on Instagram


Things to Do:


Baby animals, baseball, and brews await on your next girls trip to Cooperstown! Make this village, known as the home of America’s pastime, your homebase for exploring. Take a 45-minute drive outside of Cooperstown to New Berlin, where you can unplug and unwind with a baby goat yoga class at NY Goat Yoga (pictured). Check the schedule for a variety of adorably-themed classes like baby goat cowboy disco, beach party, pajama party, and more.


For even more animal experiences, pay a visit to the Fenimore Farm & Country Village, a historic country village and working farm set in 1845. Visitors can try their hand at historic trades like blacksmithing and weaving, experience village life, and visit animals like chickens, sheep, and cows. Be sure to check out summer events like the Independence Day Celebration (July 4), 78th Annual Junior Livestock Show (July 5-7) Fiber Arts Weekend (August 22-23), and the Harvest Festival (September 12-13).


Person holding up beer in a cup that says "Brewery Ommegang"Credit: @ramblingricky on Instagram


Don’t miss out on Cooperstown must-visits like the National Baseball Hall of Fame, the home of America’s pastime, with intriguing interactive exhibits about baseball, special events, and the crown jewel: The Plaque Gallery. Brewery Ommegang (pictured) is another Cooperstown staple with tasty Belgian-style ales. Soak up the views from the 140-acre farmstead while you sip back, relax, and enjoy live music and performances.


Where to Stay:


  • Otesaga Resort Hotel: Situated on stunning Otsego Lake, The Otesaga Resort Hotel provides luxury accommodations and modern amenities in the heart of Cooperstown.

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites: Located just minutes from the heart of the historic village, Holiday Inn Express & Suites offers comfortable rooms nearby top attractions and New York on State Highway 28.


Bougie Friends: Montauk (Long Island)


aerial view of the private oceanfront beach, lawn chairs, and property at Gurney's Montauk ResortCredit: @gurneysresorts on Instagram


Things to Do:


With a world-class wine region, boutique shopping, and a lush beachfront resort and spa, Montauk is the perfect spot for friends who love to live luxuriously. Kick off your trip with a visit to Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa (pictured). Treat yourself to one of the indulgent spa treatments like seawater and marine-based therapies, bathhouse experiences, advanced skincare, and therapeutic bodywork, each inspired by the healing power of salt, sand, and sea. The resort also features access to a private sand beach, daily wellness classes like yoga and pilates, and more. 


After some much needed R&R, get out and explore the Hamptons. Soak up coastal luxury in iconic villages and towns like East Hampton, Bridgehampton, Southampton, and Sag Harbor. A shopper’s paradise, you’ll find everything from designer brand boutiques, upscale local brands, antique shops, art galleries, and more.


A glass of rose from Wolffer Estate in front of long rows of grape vinesCredit: @_wanderwithme_ on Instagram


When you’ve worked up an appetite, dig into the Hamptons’ dining scene at top spots like Sant Ambroeus, Navy Beach, or Duryea’s. Sip your way through Long Island Wine Country, one of the most diverse wine regions in the country, at popular spots like Channing Daughters Winery, Wolffer Estate Vineyard (pictured), and Duck Walk Vineyards. You can even hire a personal driver with East End Wine Tasting Tours to make the most out of your trip. 


For something truly one-of-a-kind, book a whale watching cruise with Viking Fleet. You and the girls will get to spend a day out on the water with an experienced guide, passing by the Montauk Lighthouse on your journey looking for whales, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds. 


Where to Stay: 


  • Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa: Immerse yourself in ultimate luxury with a stay at this resort with 158 rooms, suites, and beachfront cottages, and an acclaimed spa, onsite dining, a private beach, and more.

  • Montauk Blue Hotel: Located directly on the beach, Montauk Blue Hotel is the perfect oceanside escape with comfortable rooms, an atrium with an enclosed heated pool, a jacuzzi, and convenient location.



Share New York State adventures with us on TikTokInstagram and X with #ILoveNY and #iSpyNY, and tag us on Facebook!






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