Anniversary trip ideas, we’ve complied all our favorite ideas and anniversary trip locations you could ever want to visit including anniversary adventure ideas (which are some of our absolute favorites!)
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas: Where To Go For An Epic Adventure Plus Adventure Anniversary Ideas!
Are you ready to start dreaming about the best anniversary trip ideas? In other words, are you wondering what the best couple’s getaway is? Well, friend, I’m here to help you narrow down some great anniversary adventures, anniversary trip ideas and adventurous locations for your wandering hearts!
Having been to over 32 states myself, I’ve compiled a list of best anniversary trip ideas in the USA Whether it’s your first-anniversary trip idea hunt, 10 year anniversary trip ideas searching or your 2oth wedding anniversary trip ideas, I hope you find this article helpful. I will help you narrow down where to go and what to do to celebrate your beautiful journey in life together.
To help you figure out the best anniversary trip ideas we’ve broken down our ideas based on a few categories including:
Here at Celebrate Again I, Lumalia, highly value celebrations. I believe celebrations are a foundation in our lives that easily gets neglected. Creating more anniversary celebrations in our culture is one shift I desire to make with Celebrate Again. Helping couples like you enjoy their anniversaries and helping them craft their best anniversary trips.
I love sharing my absolute favorite places with you all. It’s such a joy we live in such an amazingly beautiful country with SO much to explore! Who else is ready to get their wanderlust satisfied!? *raises hand*
I’m SO excited you’re here starting to plan your anniversary trip! Let’s get to dreaming! Here are my absolute best anniversary trip ideas.
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Best Anniversary Trip Ideas:
Deciding Where To Go
How to Decide Where To Go For Your Anniversary Trip
I’ll be the FIRST person to start daydreaming about places to visit and things to do for our own anniversary trip. In fact, we just celebrated 10 years ourselves! I’m so glad we took the time to plan out our own 10 year anniversary trip and had a beautiful time!
Now, back to planning YOUR trip.
Trip ideas For Anniversary
Step 1: Deciding On The Type Of Place
Find out what type of place you’d like to go on your anniversary trip? I always love to think about the environment you’ll want to experience. Do you both enjoy warmer or colder places?
For example, my husband loves rainy climates where as I enjoy beaches. Therefore the Pacific Northwest is a popular spot for us.
What do you want the weather to be like? Do you enjoy sightseeing, exploring landscapes, unique adventures, or visiting historical places or a little bit of everything?
Anniversary Trip Ideas
Step 2: Do your research
Research where you’d like to go on your anniversary trip! And here is where I can help you with all the places we’ll cover in this article.
Here are my best anniversary trip ideas. These are some of favorites types of places to visit that are for the adventurous fun loving couples!
For example you can go hot air ballooning the Mountains in Colorado and in Oregon!
What if you could connect with your partner in as little as 30 minutes?
Hey! I’m Lumalia and I’m a couple’s connection architect.
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas:
Mountains
Altitude That Takes Your Breath Away -Really - Exploring The Mountains Creating You Best Anniversary Vacation
When thinking about the best anniversary trip ideas even if for your 10 year anniversary trip idea sometimes I just got so excited about how big the United States is. And then, other times, I freak out because it’s SO HUGE that it takes forever to get across. But, then halfway through the country, you hit the Rocky Mountains. You roll down your window, breathe that fresh mountain air and your jaw drops at their majesty. You forget about all your worries.
Have you ever stood at or near the edge of a mountain top seeing the rolling peaks cascading in the background as the sun flickers through the dynamics of each contour and specific shape? If you’re anything like me your heart explodes and every care you once had melted away.
Living in the Rocky Mountains my whole life I haven’t felt at home in any other place because of the illustriousness they bring.
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas: Mountains
#1 Rocky Mountain National Park
For all my adventure-loving couples, Rocky Mountain National Park is—I suspect—on the top of your list for anniversary trip ideas or annivesary adventure ideas. Rightly so friend, rightly so. It is one of the most beloved national parks in the USA. It’s the second most visited one too.
Being a local Coloradian now for 10 years I’m here to share some of my favorite things about the park:
While many people flock here during the summer months.
RMNP is just as magical no matter the time of year
Wear the right gear, pack/plan for emergencies and do your research on the specific areas you want to hike/explore.
Pro Tip Make sure you have everything you need by checking out our Colorado packing list!
If you can only visit during the summer months stay in Grand Lake vs Estes Park. The road into the park from Grand Lake is beyond gorgeous and will get you through more of the park than if you come through Estes. Not to mention Grand Lake is breathtakingly gorgeous.
Check out these rental homes in Grand Lake!
Rocky Mountains: Plan for all 4 seasons in one day
Due to the altitude, weather can change quickly. Snow can happen in June or July at the peaks and the temperature can go from sunny and warm to legit thunderstorms in seconds.
Practice Leave No Trace principles:
Considering your best anniversary trip ideas make sure to pratice Leave No Trace Princples.
The name gives it away, pack out what you take in and stay on the path. It’s a beautiful place and we want to keep it beautiful for many generations to come. But it starts with us today, to take responsibility for how we use and treat this amazing place.
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas:
#2 Boulder, Colorado
Similarly to Rocky Mountain National Park Boulder is for all couples who love adventure but also a little bit of weird culture. Boulder is your best anniversary trip idea. The culture here boasts of its uniqueness and means to do things their own way. Throughout the summer months you’ll find wonderful flea markets with local artisans, farmers markets and festivities.
Don’t miss the beautiful Flatirons and some gorgeous hikes just a skip and a hop away from town.
You’ll find world class rock climbing, paragliding, repelling, and so much more for the adventurous hearts.
Don’t forget to grab your inner tub in the summer months and take a cruise down the river. Check with the local shops about the current rapid levels and wear the appropriate safety gear.
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas: Mountains
#3 Skiing/Snowboarding Anniversary Trip Destinations
I cannot talk about the rocky mountain without mentioning our world class skiing and snowboarding destinations. If you’re more of a winter loving couple this may be a real consideration for your anniversary trip!
Colorado is peppered full of ski destinations. Some of the most popular locations being:
- Telluride, Colorado
- Vail, Colorado
- Breckenridge, Colorado
- Steamboat Springs, Colorado
- Aspen, Colorado
Recommendation Alert: If you’re going to be skiing these locations for longer than a few days I’d recommend getting an Epic Pass before the ski season starts to save a few extra bucks. They usually go on sale as early as September and stop selling by November.
Being a Colorado local let me tell you about some of the lesser known ski hotspots that are just as epic:
- A Basin- just outside of Keystone, Colorado near the beautiful towns in Summit County (Frisco, Dillon, Silverthorne)
- Wolf Creek outside of Pagosa Springs, Colorado (known for its wonderful hot springs)
- Monarch just outside of Salida, Colorado
My personal favorite is Wolf Creek which is actually down in Southern Colorado but well worth the visit and extra drive time. Fly out from Albuquerque, NM instead to shorten your drive time to 4.5/5 hours from 6/7 from Denver and explore the Rocky Mountains of the Southwest Desert instead!
If you aren’t a big ski/snowboarder I highly recommend you purchasing the right gear to actually enjoy your time there. Wearing the right layers is vital to actually enjoying your time verse freezing or sweating then getting cold again becoming absolutely miserable. Here are my favorite pieces of gear to make sure to have on your ski/snowboard trip!
For all my favorite items when you travel to Colorado check out my Colorado Packing List so you make sure you have everything you need to have a successful adventure!
Other Mountain Locations To Visit for Your Anniversary Trip:
- Mount Rainier, outside of Seattle, WA
- Mount Hood outside of Portland, OR
- Blue Ridge Mountains Asheville, SC
- Crested Butte, Colorado
- Talkeetna, Alaska
- Ketchum, Idaho
- Toas, New Mexico
- Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Moab, Utah
- Lake Tahoe, California
- Sitka, Alaska
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas:
Beaches
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas: Beaches
Traveling Tropically
#1 Maui, Hawaii
We have some AMAZING beaches in the USA. It also helps that we inhabit one of the most beautiful tropical islands in the world. Yep, you guessed it HAWAII.
If you’re looking for the ultimate romantic couples getaway in the usa, Hawaii may just be it. I know many people think of Hawaii and Maui specifically as the honeymoon-ers spot but it truly can be enjoyed for anyone one of any age. I think a perfect place for your anniversary trip! Not to mention that you can get a 5/6 hour non stop flight there from bigger airports like Denver International Airport!
Maui was one of my favorite places to visit this past fall. I can say that it is truly a magical place. From the east side of the island with its dreamlike beaches to the otherworldly rainforests located on the road to Hana, it truly is an enchanting place you won’t regret visiting.
Find Romantic Things To Do in Maui
Want to know the most romantic things to do in Maui? We sat down with a local along with our experience to give you an insiders guide!
Maui Where to Stay
To have a more adventurous trip consider renting an VRBO or local stay instead of a resort. Consider doing some volunteer work while you’re there to get to know some locals and learn about the magic of the place!
P.s. If you’re looking to get married, we’re also Hawaii elopement photographers!
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas: Beaches
#2 Folly Beach, South Carolina
Having visited the east coast and west coast beaches throughout my childhood I can say by far Folly Beach, SC has been one of my favorites to actually get in and enjoy. I HIGHLY recommend it for any couple looking for a romantic anniversary trip idea!
If you haven’t been to both USA coasts then you’ll be surprised to learn the west coast is VERY cold until you hit Southern California in late summer. The cooler Southern California pacific ocean temperatures will be a relief from the desert heat.
Even though the Atlantic ocean is very cold in the northern states it warms up quite well as you hit the southern states.
Folly Beach, South Carolina is one of the most adorable towns with its own local culture, events, and generally easy going place. You’ll be surprised that this southern town doesn’t feel too southern but more west coast than you’d imagine for being in the heart of the south.
Want to plan your anniversary trip to Charleston? Check out the 10 most romantic things to do in Charleston, SC from some of my favorite locals!
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas: Beaches
#3 Cannon Beach, Oregon
Heading to the west coast Cannon Beach just 1.5 hours outside of Portland, Oregon is my ALL time favorite west coast beach. It’s a beautiful romantic getaway for couples on the west coast. The best time to visit is early May or late September when you may still hit some wonderful non-rainy days in the Pacific Northwest but enjoy the area without the summer out of school rush.
The actual town of Cannon Beach is so quaint and homey for being a tourist hot spot. The locals are friendly and the beach and nearby Ecola state park makes you feel like you stepped into a fairytale. Where, if you believe enough you may think you’ve seen magic yourself.
What girl doesn’t love shopping for a new suit especially for a fun anniversary trip! Here are my favorite Seea Swimwear
More Beaches To Visit For Your Best Anniversary Trip
- Coast Guard Beach, Cape Cod, Massachusetts
- Lighthouse Beach, Buxton, Outer Banks, North Carolina
- Caladesi Island State Park, Dunedin, Florida
- Surfrider Beach, Malibu, CA
- Pfeiffer Beach Big Sur, CA
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas:
Canoeing + Paddling
Canoeing + Paddling
I absolutely adore water, but I’ll be the FIRST to admit I’m not the greatest swimmer and to be honest not a fan of being underwater without scuba gear on.
If you’re not a fish in water but love water it’s better to be on it than in it, right?
But, if there is water close by you’ll find me there, stream, river, lake, ocean —I’m drawn to these places like a magnet to a fridge.
There is something so romantic about being on water together as a couple. The stillness or gentle raps the water makes against a boat in still or calm waters is so enchanting.
On the other hand there is nothing quite like the thrill of white water rafting or tubing down a river.
Whichever rings true to your heart I resonate with you too. Water is such a beautiful experience.
Couple on their anniversary trip in a canoe paddling as the moonlight twinkles on the alpine lake behind them
Some of my favorite places to enjoy being on the water include:
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas: Paddling
#1 Dillon Marina
Although this is a popular place in Colorado it is a sanctuary for all of us water lovers in our land locked state. Some could say that it’s not the same as lakes experienced in northern states like Lake Superior or Lake Michigan and of course nothing like the ocean itself but it does lack humidity (aka a billion mosquitoes) and has some of the most breathtaking mountains surrounding it in a 360 degree experience.
You cannot swim in it, you can rent boats, go sailing, canoe and paddle board in the summer months.
With so many local towns nearby there’s no shortage of places to stay. You can camp, rent a home or stay in a local hotel.
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas: Paddling
#2 Grand Lake, Colorado
Similar to Dillon Marina, Grand Lake is also a water lovers sanctuary, but it is bigger and you can swim in it in the summer months! It is a further drive from Denver, roughly 2 hours, but well worth the drive.
Enjoy the beautiful lake, canoe down the different areas one day then hit up Rocky Mountain National Park the next or check out some equally epic adventures.
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas: Paddling
#3 Lost Lake, Oregon
This hidden gem in Mount Hood National Forest about 2 hours outside of Portland, Oregon is a beautiful place to try Canoeing! They have boat rentals on site if you don’t own your own or have a way to transport your own. Its a very romantic place for an anniversary trip too. On a good day Mount Hood will peak out!
Lost Lake area has camping, cabins and lots of hiking trails around. If you head out here for your anniversary trip make sure to have directions printed or screen saved as cell phone service isn’t very good in this area!
Alternative beautiful places to canoe/paddle in the USA include:
- Chesapeake Bay just outside Maryland and Virginia
- The Colorado River (you’ll get to see the grand canyon!)
- Tampa Bay outside of Florida
- Prince William Sound in Chugach National Forest, Alaska (A kayakers paradise)
- San Juan River, Archuleta County, Colorado
- Arkansas River, Leadville, Colorado
- Clearwater River Canoe Trail in Lolo National Forest, Idaho
- Lake Tahoe in Lake Tahoe National Park California/Nevada
- Crater Lake, Oregon
- Glacier Lagoon, Alaska
- Lake Powell in Glen Canyon National Park
- Grand Teton, Jackson Hole Wyoming
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas:
Waterfalls
Hiking Waterfalls | Anniversary Trip Ideas That Get You A Little Wet
Growing up in the desert I’ve always been drawn to water. So, you can imagine how dumbfounded I was the first time I saw a legit waterfall. The wonders of them are absolutely unreal and so much fun to explore and see.
Heading to a romantic getaway for your adventurous spirits could easily include exploring waterfalls.
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas: Waterfalls
#1 Pacific Northwest Wonders
When I think of waterfalls in the USA I first think of the Pacific Northwest specifically Oregon and Washington. If you’ve ever been here or seen the waterfalls in Portland or this region you’ll know the wonder of the area. With the luscious green grounds, moss growing on everything, and the most interesting plant species you’ll fall in love with this green paradise.
Visiting the Portland or Seattle area gives you easy access to some of the most beautiful waterfalls. Having visited a few of them in the past few years I can highly recommend both of these hip fun cities!
Here are some of the best waterfalls in Portland to hike!
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas: Waterfalls
#2 Rifle Falls
Outside of Glenwood Springs, Colorado (famous for its hot springs) is a hidden gem of a waterfall called Rifle Falls. The road to the falls can be a little ragged and not recommended for lower clearance vehicles like a sports car so if you’re renting one of those babies for your anniversary you may want to get a ride to this hike!
These hikes are long and short so make sure to plan accordingly! Also make sure to bring your map for your anniversary trip here as cell service isn’t very good tucked away in these canyons.
Waterfall Locations within the USA Not Previous Listed
The road to Hana in Maui, HI has unreal waterfalls that are just a few steps from the road. I love how accessible they are! Keep in mind if it’s been super stormy to make sure to wear proper , as the trail can be slippery!
- Yosemite National Park Falls | Bridalveil Fall (Need to know how to how to get to Yosemite National Park check out this guide!)
- Utah waterfalls
- Fish Creek Falls in Steamboat, Colorado
- Niagara Falls in Upstate New York
- Shoshone Falls in Idaho
- Havasu Falls in Grand Canyon National Park
- Dry Creek Falls, North Carolina
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas:
Camping
Camping Anniversary Getaways
Whether you are RV camping in your renovated RV for your anniversary trip, backpacking or pitching a tent, Colorado is known for some wonderful camping areas. My personal favorites include camping near Telluride, Ouray or the area also known as the Switzerland of America, and the alpine lakes outside of Leadville, Colorado.
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas: Camping
#1 Switzerland of America
Have you ever been to the southwest part of Colorado? If you haven’t you must I’d immediately add it to your anniversary ideas list, especially if you’d call yourselves adventurous.
In this part of Colorado are some of the most epic adventures are available. From world renowned white water rafting, rock climbing, ice climbing, skiing/snowboarding, hiking what we Colordians call fourteeners (hikes up mountain peaks above 14,000 feet—there are eighty-two of them in Colorado!), 4 wheel driving tours or trying it out yourselves and much more!
Telluride also is host to the wonderful Telluride Film Festival (usually late august) and Bluegrass festival (usually mid June) that carry it through fun summer festivities. So keep in mind to skip these dates if you want to avoid the crowds.
Sunshine Campground is 8 miles outside of Telluride and is a tent only facility but does include vaulted toilets, water, fire grills and picnic tables.
Couple on their anniversary trip in Telluride Colorado standing on the top of a mountain with the snow capped San Sophia mountains in the background illuminated pink and purple by the setting sun.
Ouray is more of a rustic town and has a true mountain town feel. I love their local hot springs and access to some of the most epic 4 wheel driving you could ever imagine. If you’re not familiar with 4 wheel driving I’d HIGHLY recommend booking a tour. These roads are INTENSE and can be fatal if you don’t have good experience navigating rocky roads with narrow paths.
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas: Camping
#2 Leadville, Colorado
Did you know that the peak altitude in the state of Colorado is Leadville, Colorado? This mountain town will take your breath away, for real. Nestled between Vail and Buena Vista you’ll find this rustic mountain town full of rich mining history and near some of the states most beautiful alpine lakes you can camp at. They are dry camping locations so keep in mind you’ll need to prepare yourself for not having hookups or water.
Turquoise Lake and Twin Lakes are both beautiful camping areas. They don’t have hook ups so plan to dry camp for your anniversary trip!
Other Places To Camp in Colorado for Your Anniversary Trip
The entire state is a camping haven and full of wonderful locations. Do keep in mind National Parks and State Parks fill up fast so plan a few months in advance if you can! Some other beautiful camping locations I’d recommend is:
- Kenosha Pass (especially beautiful in September)
- Blue Lakes Trail
- Dream Lake, Colorado
- Maroon Bells
- Moraine Park – Rocky Mountain National Park
- Big Creek Lakes Campground – Routt National Forest (Just outside of Steamboat Springs, CO)
- Pinyon Flats Campground – Great Sand Dunes National Park
- Chatfield State park (Great for RVS in the Denver Area)
- Clear Creek RV Park (Great for RVS in the Denver Area)
- Windy Point Campground, Heaton Bay Campground near Dillon Marina in Colorado
- For more secluded locations browse the Colorado State Parks website!
- To find VERY exclusive spots on private property check out Hipcamp!
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas:
History
History - Hitting Up History - A Romantic Getaway
I wish I was more of a history buff but I’ll proudly say that I passed that most failed AP test in high school you know the AP U.S. history test! Whoo, nonetheless my fascination for history has never stopped. So while exploring history usually means stopping into museums or guided tours through local historic homes I love that you can learn more about our heritage as Americans through experience.
Best Anniversary Trip Ideas: Camping
#1 Charleston, South Carolina
- A Perfect Southern Weekend Getaway
One of my favorite places to explore our American history, sadly its darkest history but a huge piece of it nonetheless.
Charleston has one of the largest historical districts in the US. Its historical district is full of beautiful architecture and gives you a first hand taste into what life was like into Southern Colonial life.
Want to plan your anniversary trip to Charleston? Check out the 10 most romantic things to do in Charleston, SC from some of my favorite locals!
Head down to Folly Beach just 30 minutes outside of town for a little bit of a different adventure. Take surfing lesson, do yoga on the beach or just soak up some good ‘ole vitamin D.
Santa Fe, New Mexico - A Desert-Loving Couple's Getaway
If you want RICH American history behind colonia history this is your town. Did you know Santa Fe, NM is actually one of the oldest settlements in the US. Settled in the 15th century by the spanish. Full of local artisans practicing the methods of their ancestors to create fine home goods and jewelry you’ll be taken to another world.
Don’t forget to visit the San Miguel Chapel, the oldest church in the U.S. Built approximately between 1610 and 1626.
Hit up the ski area in the winter, or enjoy some of the beautiful hikes around the area if you are more of an adventurous couples wanting to enjoy the southwestern desert. If you’re a fan of hot springs take an hour drive to Ojo Caliente Hot Springs! Or come in October and drive an hour south to Albuquerque to go on a Balloon ride!
Other rich history locations in the US include:
- Washington D.C.
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Williamsburg, Virginia
- New Orleans, Louisiana
- Cape Disappointment Following the Lewis & Clark Trail!
I hope this helped you figure out where to for anniversary trip! There are so many decisions which is why we’d love to come along side you to help you in your adventure!
In the mean time we have some more resources you’ll love with our:
Hire US To Guide Your Anniversary Trip Expereince
Hey! We’re Lumalia (Emmy) and Team anniversary photographers but more importantly, we’re anniversary experience makers.
We believe that your anniversary deserves a unique celebration, one that takes you away from the every day overwhelm and into a place that allows for deep connection. We’d love to help guide you in crafting an unforgetable experience that we hope will transform your marriage deeply. Learn more about hiring us as your anniversary photographers! Or learn more about what to do for your anniversary.
Download our free anniversary trip planning guide
20 Responses
What great ideas! We love the mountain towns in Colorado. Fun, relaxing, scenic…they’ve got it all!
Some great ideas here! I always love an adventure getaway celebration where you pack lots in and by night stay somewhere cute with an open fire and good wine. I always love the idea of snowy destinations so a skiing getaway is a good suggestion!
This is such a great list, and some incredible photo!
You offer up a large selection of options. I love the Sante Fe idea, and would do many of the others for a non-anniversary trip.
I love the idea of hiking to some waterfalls! It’s such a romantic spot and there’s probably no one else around either.
Awesome ideas, I want to go to them all myself but I think with my other half it would have to be Maui. We loved Hawaii and last time had a great stay on the Big Island. We got to relax but also found great activities and it didn’t hurt that Hawaii is beyond beautiful
These locations are perfect for a romantic getaway. Can’t wait when we can travel the States again. Will save this post for later!
Ooooh I love your list!! We’ll be spending our anniversary in the States this year and your post just gave us some really good ideas. I love Charleston! The Pacific Northwest is calling my name again.
Oh enjoy! Love to help you all celebrate too! Feel free to reach out!
I love this! Adventurous anniversaries are the best kinds of anniversaries!
My husband and I are normally team mountain (rather than beaches or paddling) but to be honest, I think I would have a blast at any of these options. Although…nah, send me to those Rockies!! 😀
There are some amazing anniversary trip ideas here! We’ve had to reschedule our wedding twice due to covid but hopefully, we’ll get the day of our dreams eventually so we can celebrate with annual anniversary trips! I don’t live in the US but I love how vast and varied it is as a country. I’ve explored a little of it but would love to take in a whole lot more! We’ll definitely be planning some US anniversary trips in the future…thanks for the incredible inspiration!
What great ideas!
There is nothing like getting outside and enjoying the outdoors together. We used to go to Tulum while living in Texas and looking for some great ideas within the country. This is a great list, I may try paddling next year.
All wonderful spots! My hubby and I like Paris and Hawaii. But then again we love Paris for any reason! We have a 15 year coming up soon so need to get planning! Thanks for the great suggestions!