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List of the best emptynester and couples getaways
Updated 02.05.2023 (original post: 06.08.2021) My husband is my favorite traveling partner and we’ve curated a list of the best travel getaway ideas for emptynesters and couples based on our three decades plus of togetherness. Of course, our favorite places in the U.S., Mexico and Europe also make great travel destinations for family spring breaks and summer vacations, girlfriend getaways and solo trips.
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Best vacation getaways for emptynesters and couples
Isla Mujeres, Mexico is the perfect destination for emptynesters. Located across from Cancun, it’s more low-key and not as crowded. Check out my related post: How to get to Isla Mujeres, Mexico. Pictured: We happened to book an emptynester vacation at the same time as some other emptynester friends.
Honestly, I believe any destination is the perfect getaway for couples – as long as you have the right travel partner. Here is the list of travel destinations that my husband and I rate as some of the best emptynester getaways in the U.S., Mexico, and Europe.
Arizona– Best emptynester getaways
Arizona offers some of the best getaways for emptynesters and couples. Here are a couple of our favorites.
A champagne breakfast on the floor of the Grand Canyon after a scenic helicopter tour (which began in Las Vegas).
Grand Canyon, Arizona
We first visited the Grand Canyon in Arizona on our first anniversary as a couple more than three decades ago. The Grand Canyon is also a great destination with children and we’ve been back a couple of times since then. And how romantic is a champagne breakfast on the floor of the Grand Canyon? Highly recommend the scenic helicopter tour out of Las Vegas.
One of the best emptynester getaway experiences: helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona.
Sedona, Arizona is the best vacation getaway for emptynesters or couples.
One of our favorite couples getaways (and family vacations) is Sedona, Arizona. How beautiful are these red rocks against the blue sky? If you are a hiking couple, you will love the trails in Sedona, Arizona.
California– Best couples getaways
I loved our family and girlfriend getaways to these California destinations; however, they also make the best trips for couples, emptynesters, solo travelers, and girls getaways.
Capitola, California
The very first California beach resort town, Capitola, is the perfect emptynester and couples getaway destination. This sleepy seaside community offers a huge and uncrowded beach, charming cottages, and a relaxing and romantic vibe.
Los Angeles, California
Our favorite places to stay in Los Angeles is either right in Hollywood or at a Marina del Rey beach house (right next door to Venice Beach).
Los Angeles, California is a fabulous destination for all couples and emptynesters as it offers something for everyone. Soak up the rays on the beach, people watch on Venice boulevard, take in a taping of a favorite show (I’ve been in the audience of Jimmy Kimmel and Price is Right), enjoy foodie restaurants and so much more.
San Diego, California
View from the top of California Tower at Balboa Park in San Diego, California.
My very first plane trip was to San Diego, California when I was 14 years old. And I’ve been a huge fan ever since. San Diego is one of the best couples getaways. We highly recommend Balboa Park, La Jolla, Gaslamp Quarter, Pacific Beach and Coronado. San Diego is also where you’ll find the best lobster mac and cheese in the world.
San Francisco, California
The Painted Ladies in San Francisco are such romantic homes. We also visited the Full House house in San Francisco.
San Francisco is one of the best vacation getaways for emptynesters, couples, families, girlfriends, solos. It’s one of my favorite cities. The city by the bay offers history, culture, nature, sports, restaurants, activities – the options are endless.
And you can make an empty nester getaway uniquely yours like ending up at a vinyl record store in the iconic Haight-Ashbury neighborhood (my husband is an audiophile). Our favorite things to do as a couple (other than look at albums) in San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park (especially the Japanese Tea Garden), Pier 39/Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz, Painted Ladies, and more.
A romantic couples date in San Francisco: perusing vinyl records in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood.
Santa Cruz, California
One of the best getaways for emptynesters and couples is Santa Cruz, California. It offers beautiful beaches, sunsets, hiking trails, the iconic boardwalk, boating, and so much more. See my related post: Top things to do in Santa Cruz, CA.
The best place to stay near Santa Cruz, California: this romantic Airbnb A-frame cabin among towering redwoodsin nearby Felton. See my full review of this semi-hosted stay.
Europe– Best anniversary getaways for couples
Europe features so many beautiful romantic getaways, and we’ve traveled to these destinations as couples as well as on family vacations to celebrate our wedding anniversaries. Here are a few of our favorite European emptynester getaways.
England
One of the best European countries for emptynesters and couples to visit is England. Highly recommend London and Oxford. And The Cotswolds region offers a charming and romantic setting for couples especially. See my related post on the best day trips from London.
Of course, Paris – the city of love and romance – is on the list of the best emptynester couples getaways. We especially love the Eiffel Tower, the Jardin du Luxembourg (the Gardens of Luxembourg), the Louvre. And we love walking through the streets of Paris and enjoying a nice dinner at one of the street cafes.
And I must include the French Riviera on the list of the best places to visit for emptynesters – especially if you are a beach lover. The pebble beaches of Nice, France are lovely (wear sandals). You’ll also love the Promenade des Anglais, the cobblestones of Old Town and the climb up Castle Hill for stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Nice makes a nice emptynester vacation.
Greece
We made a very brief stop at the Corinth Canal, but it was definitely memorable. The water really is this color.
For our 25th wedding anniversary, we took a two-week tour of Greece and Italy. Nowhere long enough, but definitely enjoyed every moment as our stops in Greece included the sleepy coastal village of Tolo, the stunning Corinth Canal (it really is that color), the ancient ruins of Mycenea, the historic Olympia (first site of the Olympic Games) as well as the breathtaking city of Athens. All the Greek islands, of course, are some of the best places for emptynester getaways. We highly recommend Greece for couples who love history, culture and great foodie experiences.
The archaeological site of Mycenae, Greece is a must-visit. While there are more well-known Greek ruins, we were completely mesmerized by ancient Mycenae, which dates back to 1600-1100 BC.
Italy
Italy is defintely high on our list of the best places to visit for emptynesters. We need to return for the best Italy vacation for couples part II to see some more Italian areas that remain our bucket list. Some of the best places to visit while on your couples getaway in Italy are Rome, The Vatican, Florence (although that was our least favorite city – an unpopular opinion), Pisa, Tuscany, Verona.
Juliet’s balcony in Verona, Italy
And our absolutely favorite city, not only in Italy, but in all of Europe, is Venice. We love wandering through the endless corridors, canals and bridges. Venice is the most romantic city for an emptynester getaway in our opinion.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg City, Luxembourg is a hidden gem for a romantic getaway for couples and emptynesters. One of the smallest countries in the world, Luxembourg offers romantic castle hotels, storybook settings, beautiful museums, a rich history, fine dining and much more. We are partial to Luxembourg because my husband’s family is from here. It’s a gorgeous city and a gorgeous country that borders Germany, France and Belgium.
Three emptynester couples enjoying an empty beach on Amelia Island – one of the best emptynester getaways in Florida.
One of our top emptynester getaways is the beautiful Amelia Island in Florida. You will find miles of wide beaches where you’ll feel like it’s your own private paradise. We also love the charming downtown area of the riverfront city of Fernandina Beach, Florida where you’ll find beautiful boutiques, historic buildings (400 of them listed on the National Register of Historic Places), and delicious seafood.
Key West, Florida
One of the most laid-back places to visit for an emptynester getaway is Key West, Florida. We absolutely loved our visit and cannot wait to return. The top things to do in Key West for couples include a sunset sail, restaurant and bar hopping along Duval Street, drinking a beachy drink while watching the sunset in Mallory Square (also lots of street performers), the Southernmost Point in the U.S. Buoy (popular photo op), Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and Beach, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum (and its polydactyl cats) and much more. Check out my four-day itinerary to Key West for emptynesters.
Georgia
The state of Georgia offers several romantic and fun destinations for emptynesters and couples.
JekyllIsland, Georgia
if you’re looking for a romantic couples getaway with Southern charm, then visit Jekyll Island, Georgia. Pictured is the historic Jekyll Island Club Resort that will transport you to the Gilded Age.
Savannah, Georgia
For more romantic southern charm, Savannah, Georgia is a perfect getaway for emptynesters and couples. You’ll enjoy scenic walks through parks, beautiful water views, great food, shopping, and lots of history.
St. Simons Island, Georgia
St. Simons is an island off the coast of Georgia. And this beautiful emptynester and couples travel destination is very close to Jekyll Island (see above). Here you can enjoy a beautiful beach, pier, and we especially loved the historic lighthouse.
Hawaii – Tropical getaways for emptynesters
Kauai, Hawaii
The beautiful Na Pali Coast of Kauai
Any of the Hawaiian islands are perfect paradise destinations for emptynester getaways. However, Kauai is our favorite (as it was our first) and is absolutely breathtaking. It’s also less touristy with fewer crowds than the other islands. The top things to do in Kauai on an emptynester vacation: take a whale-watching cruise to admire the stunning Na Pali Coast, visit Waimea Canyon – the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, book a filming location tour where your rental car can’t take you (up into the rugged areas of the rainforest where Jurassic Park and Indiana Jones, among others, were filmed).
Wettest place on earth
Take special note that while you can enjoy beautiful beach days in Kauai, expect some rainfall. Mount Waialeale on the island of Kauai is considered to be one of the world’s wettest spots, averaging 450 inches a year. As a result, you’ll enjoy lush green rainforests and stunning waterfalls.
Maui, Hawaii
Vacation travel to Maui, Hawaii is strongly discouraged due to the devastating wildfires.
We love our Maui getaways – perfect for emptynesters. I am perfectly content sitting on the beach reading all day doing a whole lot of nothing except eating and drinking (as we’ve been here a few times). However, Maui also offers lots of fun active things to do such as the winding and beautiful road to Hana (a must-do), a sunrise or sunset view from Haleakala Crater, deep-sea fishing, whale-watching tours (with lots of dolphins), surfing lessons, hiking, fresh catch-of-the-day and so much more. See my related posts: Best things to do on vacation in Maui, Hawaii and Top things to do when it rains in Maui.
We also love Front Street in Lahaina – lots of fun boutiques, waterfront restaurants, stunning sunsets on the beach, and a huge and old banyan tree. Planted in 1873, this must-see tree covers an entire block.
Illinois – Small towns and big cities for emptynester destinations
Chicago, Illinoisone of the best destinations for couples and emptynesters
One of the best destinations for couples and emptynesters, Chicago offers something for everyone. Deep-dish pizza, museums, Broadway shows, shopping on Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, Wrigley Field, Lake Michigan, and more.
Galena, Illinois – Best historic destination for couples and emptynesters
If you’re looking for a small-town experience, check out Galena, Illinois for your next couples or emptynester getaway. This former lead-mining town used to be bigger than Chicago back in the 1800s. Today, it offers a historic district of 19th century architecture (take the Galena Trolley Tour), bed and breakfasts, museums, ghost tours, shopping, foodie restaurants, wineries, and more.
Louisiana – Best cultural destinations for emptynesters
New Orleans, Louisiana
Top things to do near New Orleans: Take a swamp tour in the bayou where you’ll see beautiful plants, trees and wildlife (including alligators).
My husband had absolutely no interest in visiting New Orleans on an emptynester getaway. I understood. I felt the same way until a friend of mine talked me into it. Now New Orleans is one of my favorite cities to visit in the U.S. And my husband absolutely loves New Orleans also – it’s one of our favorite emptynester vacations.
First, while we love the French Quarter, there is more to NOLA than Bourbon Street. We love the music, the food, the culture, the history and the natural beauty. Top things to do in New Orleans on an emptynester getaway: French Quarter, Jackson Square, Cafe du Mond beignets, Mardi Gras Warehouse, musical performers on Frenchman’s Street, cemetery tour, ghost walking tour (great way to learn about the area’s history). And just a short drive away is a great swamp tour in the bayou, which I highly recommend as you’ll see some unique plant life as well as wildlife – including alligators.
Akumal, Mexico is a great destination especially if you want to get away from the more crowded Cancun and (now) Playa del Carmen.
Cancun, Mexico
Cancun hotel zone’s skyline at night. Once upon a time, we preferred to be in party central. For a quieter emptynester vacation in Cancun, we recommend staying on the south end of the hotel zone. It’s more laid-back and also closer to the airport (so more time on the beach).
Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Isla Mujeres, Mexico is just a 15-minute ferry ride from Cancun, but you’ll feel like you’re a world away. While North Beach is lively, you can find smaller and secluded boutique hotels, which are perfect for emptynester getaways. This is the door that leads to a semi-private cove of a beach at Hotel Secreto (within walking distance of North Beach and the downtown area). See my full review of Hotel Secreto, the best boutique hotel on Isla Mujeres.
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Playa del Carmen, Mexico is one of our favorite emptynester getaways. We’ve stayed at both all-inclusives as well as more rustic boutique hotels. And since you’re in the neighborhood, take the ferry over to Cozumel – another great couples vacation.
Puerto Morelos, Mexico
Puerto Morelos, Mexico is one of the best getaways for couples and emptynesters. Conveniently located half-way between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, the small village of Puerto Morelos is laid-back and charming.
Minnesota– Best vacation or staycation ideas for couples
Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn.
The Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn. is Minnesota’s #1 tourist destination – attracting 40 million people annually in normal non-pandemic times.It’s much quieter these days.
Before the non-shopper of your emptynester couple vetoes the Mall of America, it is one of the top things to do in Minnesota for millions of people every year. In fact, the Mall of America (or MOA as we locals call it) is also a popular wedding destination – more than 8,000 since the mall opened in 1992. And this megamall (5.6 million square feet) offers more than just 500+ stores for shopping. For a grown-up experience, here is a local’s guide to the 17 top things to do at the Mall of America for emptynesters and couples.
We live in Minnesota, so my husband and I are grateful we can enjoy convenient emptynester getaway staycations on the North Shore of Minnesota. It’s one of our favorite places in the world. The North Shore runs along Lake Superior for nearly 150 miles from Duluth, Minn. to Grand Portage, Minn. (which borders Canada). It’s the perfect getaway in any season. Check out the following blog posts on the best things to do and where to stay on the North Shore in Minnesota during your emptynester getaway.
One of our favorite places to visit in Minnesota is Rochester – home of the world-renowned Mayo Clinic and the state’s third largest city. Although when you visit, Rochester feels like a small town. Here is an overview of some of the best things to do in Rochester, Minn. on an emptynester getaway.
Nevada– Best vacation ideas for emptynesters or couples
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is one of the best vacation destinations for couples and emptynesters even or especially if you’re not gamblers. The list is nearly infinite, but here are a few of our favorite things to do in Vegas as a couple.
Take in a show or two (some of our favorites from the past included Beatles Love, David Copperfield, The Australian Bee Gees, Raiding the Rock Vault, and many more).
Tour Hoover Dam – an engineering masterpiece.
Watch the Bellagio Fountains show.
And for a different perspective, enjoy a dinner behind the fountains on the patio at Bellagio’s Prime Steakhouse.
Enjoy cocktails at the top of the Eiffel Tower in Vegas.
Play at Pinball Hall of Fame, a nonprofit, you can play classic video arcade games and pinball – perfect for today’s emptynesters.
Walk through the beautiful resorts on The Strip – they are all works of art.
View of the Empire State Building, New York Cityfrom our hotel balcony.
New York City is one of our most favorite cities as an emptynester getaway. We used to live in upstate New York, but grew a greater appreciation for the city that never sleeps after we moved away.
One of our favorite things to do on an emptynester vacation to New York City is to take in a Broadway show or two. In fact, we planned one of our recent wedding anniversaries around seeing Hamilton in New York City. Tickets at that time were in high demand and more expensive than our hotel and airfare combined, but so worth it. We would see Hamilton again and again.
Here’s a high-level abbreviated list of all the must-do and must-see experiences on a New York City emptynester getaway.
9/11 Memorial & Museum
American Museum of Natural History
Broadway show
Central Park
Chinatown
Chrysler Building (my husband’s favorite architecture)
Empire State Building
Grand Central Station
Little Italy
Metropolitan Museum of Art
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
NBC Studios tour
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Times Square (eat dinner or grab drinks at the top of the Marriott Marquis – also one of my favorite places to stay)
Top of the Rock Observatory
I recommend getting a NYC CityPass as it’ll give you discounted admissions to many of these attractions on your next emptynester getway.
North Carolina – best places for couples
Asheville, NC
One of the best travel destinations for couples is Asheville, NC. You’ll find lots of fun things to do in this charming and eclectic community. Asheville is home to the historic Biltmore Mansion, wineries, breweries, foodie restaurants, shopping boutiques, and even a pinball museum. See my related post on the top things to do in Asheville, NC.
Tennessee– best places to visit for emptynesters and couples
Three Tennessee cities made the list of the best emptynester and couple getaways: Gatlinburg, Memphis and Nashville.
Gatlinburg, Tenn.and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
You’ll find many scenic views of the Smoky Mountains, brooks, streams, waterfalls and trees on the 5.5-mile loop of Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, which starts right in Gatlinburg, Tenn.
One of the best places to visit on your next emptynesters or couples getaway is Gatlinburg, Tenn. – the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You’ll find lots of attractions, distilleries, hiking trails, scenic drives and stunning views.
Highly recommend visiting the award-winning SkyLift Park, one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg, Tenn. and the longest-running attraction. It opened in 1954 and you can’t miss SkyLift’s yellow open-air chair lift that takes you up to an 1,800-ft. overlook of the Smoky Mountains and the city of Gatlinburg. Time it so you can see the scenic views during the day and at night. While SkyLift Park hosted my visit, opinions are only my own. Highly recommend checking out SkyLift Park.
The SkyLift Park also features an amphitheater-style SkyDeck with seating and the 680-foot-long Gatlinburg SkyBridge with glass flooring mid-way through. America’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge is 150 feet from the ground and 500 feet above Gatlinburg). While SkyLift Park provided me attraction tickets, opinions are always my own. You’ll also find many restaurants, shops, and other other attractions such as bourbon and hard cider tastings.
Explore Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers several hiking trails and scenic drives. If you’re short on time, I recommend the 5.5-mile-looped Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, which features towering trees, several waterfalls, historic homestead, stunning views of the Smoky Mountains, beautiful waterways and more.
Best attractions in Gatlinburg, Tenn. for emptynesters and couples
Here are the best attractions in Gatlinburg, Tenn. for emptynesters and couples.
Byrd’s Famous Cookies – baking cookies since 1924 (so good!)
Great Smoky Mountains National Park – lots of hiking trails and scenic drives
Ole Smoky Distillery – moonshine tasting and store
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Believe It or Not – lots of weird and intriguing stuff
Tennessee Cider Co. – hard cider tasting (I personally wasn’t a fan, but did like the strawberry cider slushy).
Memphis, Tenn.
Highly recommend the National Civil Rights Museum at Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tenn. for emptynesters, couples, solo travelers and families. It’s a poignant journey of the civil rights movement and is located where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in 1968. While the National Civil Rights Museum provided me with a complimentary ticket, opinions are always my own.
If you’re a history- and music-loving couple like us, then Memphis is your kind of town. It’s one of the best places to visit as emptynesters or couples.
One of the best emptynester and couples getaways in Memphis: Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley
Here are the top things to do in Memphis for emptynesters and couples. Those marked with an * graciously provided me tickets to visit their attractions. A special thank you to Memphis Tourism for providing tickets and arranging special hotel accommodations during my stay. Opinions are always my own.
Beale Street – lots of history, music, BBQ, restaurants and shops
Blues Hall of Fame – showcases the greatest blues singers with listening rooms
Central Station Hotel – historic hotel (located just a few blocks away from the National Civil Rights Museum) features a cool lobby bar with a huge vinyl record collection that a DJ spins *
Memphis Pyramid / Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid – take the elevator up 300 feet to the observatory platform for stunning views of the Mississippi River and Memphis
Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – celebrates rock and soul legends with a self-guided audio tour with interactive exhibits*
Sun Studio, the birthplace of rock and roll, is the number one attraction in Memphis – and I must agree it is the best thing to do on an emptynester getaway.If you love soul music, then you must visit Stax Museum of American Soul Music – one of the best things to do in Memphis, TN. And for a bit of both rock and soul, then head over to the Rock n Soul Museum, a must thing to do in Memphis, Tenn. for emptynesters and couples who love music and/or history.The best place to stay in Memphis if you love music and history is the Central Station Hotel. While I loved my comfortable and quiet room, I also loved this fabulous lobby bar with its huge vinyl record collection. This hotel, originally the Memphis Central Rail Station and also known as Grand Central Station, was built in 1914.
Nashville, Tennessee emptynester getaways
While Nashville hosts lots of bachelorette parties, it’s also a great destination for emptynesters. Pictured is from the stairwell leading up several flights to the rooftop bar at Acme Feed and Seed. The view is worth it! And you can always stop at the other floors to check out the bands and refuel with another drink and/or food.
I’ve visited Nashville, Tenn. twice on girls trip and returned recently for an emptynester getaway with my audiophile and music-loving husband. And he loved The Music City as much as I did.
List of the best things for emptynester couples to do in Nashville, TN
Here are the best things for emptynesters and couples to do in Nashville, Tenn. Attractions marked with an * graciously provided me tour tickets. Opinions are always my own.
Acme Feed and Seed – best rooftop bars with scenic views and great music (on every floor).
Broadway honkeytonks – enter whichever band is calling your name through their open doors and windows.
Twin Cities-based blogger sharing memorable emptynester, solo, family and girlfriend-getaway adventures, as well as my day hiking adventures (including all 66 Minnesota state parks), latest book reviews, and updates on my quest for the best adult mac and cheese.
Also two WIPs: historical fiction and psychological thriller
87 comments
What a fantastic and extensive list of getaways for couples and empty nesters. The first country we plan to visit once our girls are old enough to be left is the US. You have provided some great ideas and Arizona is top of the list.
Wowww Karen, you put together an amazing list. One place is better than the other, such wonderful choices! My favorite would be Tulum, such a fantastic and relaxing small spot in the world :).
Thanks for sharing These lovely places.
Thank you so kindly and my pleasure! Love Tulum – it is one of the first places we traveled to internationally as a couple so it has a very special place in our hearts.
Wow, this is a nice and complete list. We were just talking about Mexico yesterday so this will help. Mosquito wipes is a good idea, we haven’t seen those yet.
My husband and I started doing “couples getaways” a few years ago, and we love them. It’s really nice to travel together and spend time alone.
We’ve never considered destinations like Sedona or the North Shore of Minnesota, but I think we’re going to be adding them to our list as well – so thanks for sharing your list! It’s definitely one I’m going to reference back to.
What a wonderful list! After almost 30 years together ourselves, but not yet empty nesters, I also highly recommend getting away as a couple! A few of our favorite couple-only trips that you have included here are Hawai’i, Paris, and Italy. I like how you’ve included things that may be local, for a weekend getaway, and also international dream destinations. We’ve loved all versions of our travel with just the two of us. Thanks for all of the great suggestions!
What a great list! So many of these are on my list. We’re still traveling with our 11-year-old, but we probably wouldn’t do things very differently if she weren’t with us. We’re planning to go to San Francisco and Yosemite next summer, and New Orleans and Key West are on my radar. I want to visit one of those after a Walt Disney World road trip. Love the ideas!
What an awesome list! Hubby and I have been travelling together for 26 years… although most often its with kids… we still try to get away alone once in a while. We have been to a few places on your list, and some are definitely on our couples getaway bucket list!
Thank you so much! We traveled a lot with our son as he was growing up. It’s a different experience to return to some of the best destinations as emptynesters.
What a great compilation of couples getaways. I went to the list to see what needs to be added to our travel wish list. Got some great return visit ideas like Arizona and Italy. And some new ideas like Luxembourg and Hawaii. Can’t wait until we can fill our travel calendar again!
Thank you so much! We absolutely loved Greece for its history, architecture, art and people – perfect destination for couples, emptynesters, families and solo travelers.
You made some great suggestions for locations. I have been to many of them (with kids) but would love to re-visit with hubby (and no kids). Lower Antelope Canyon has been on my list for years.
Thank you so much! These are some of our favorite getaways as a couple and emptynesters – and have been to a few as a family. You would love Lower Antelope Canyon!
Great post. We are empty nesters and love to travel. We typically find ourselves in Europe and particularly gravitate toward the many Greek Island and towns/cities throughout Italy. We love to mix history with great weather, beaches and amazing food. So we can never go wrong with the Mediterranean.
I love that your husband is your favorite travel companion. My husband and I will be empty nesters soon and plan to do a lot more travel together. Thanks for all the great ideas of places to travel when we become empty nesters. I’ve been to some of them, but you’ve given me a lot more ideas.
What a great list of empty-nester and couples getaway destinations! My youngest is a senior in high school starting in the fall, so an empty nest is definitely coming up soon!
I enjoyed the three Arizona recommendations on the list of best emptynester and couples getaways. We love traveling Arizona and like learning about new spots to visit.
With so many places to visit, it’s hard to know where to start. Thanks for sharing such a comprehensive blog. I’ve certainly got a lot of ideas of where to go next.
Fantastic list you’ve put together. I would definitely be going to the European destinations first and then maybe a few others in different parts of the world.
I absolutely LOVE this list of destinations! My husband and I went to Italy for our honeymoon and really want to go again at some point. I love all the other ideas you suggested too. Definitely some bucket list destinations we want to visit on this list!
This is such an amazing list of getaways for both empty-nesters and couples! There are so many listed here that are on my bucket list. My husband and I got engaged in Gatlinburg and highly recommend it!
What a fantastic and extensive list of getaways for couples and empty nesters. The first country we plan to visit once our girls are old enough to be left is the US. You have provided some great ideas and Arizona is top of the list.
Thanks, Wendy! I’m sure you would love so many great places in the U.S. on a couples getaway – Arizona is one of our favorites!
Wowww Karen, you put together an amazing list. One place is better than the other, such wonderful choices! My favorite would be Tulum, such a fantastic and relaxing small spot in the world :).
Thanks for sharing These lovely places.
Thank you so kindly and my pleasure! Love Tulum – it is one of the first places we traveled to internationally as a couple so it has a very special place in our hearts.
so many great ideas. Thanks for sharing, I particularly love Nice
Thank you so much! Nice is especially nice for a couples getaway!
That’s quite a comprehensive list of suggest couples destinations.
Thank you so much! We love sharing the best couples and emptynester getaway vacation ideas.
Aw, I wish I could find someone to grow old together and travel the world with. Great list of destinations here. 🙂
I’m sure you’ll find someone who loves you and your passion for travel! And thank you!
Wow, this is a nice and complete list. We were just talking about Mexico yesterday so this will help. Mosquito wipes is a good idea, we haven’t seen those yet.
Thank you so much! Love Mexico and those mosquito wipes are fabulous on any getaway – emptynesters, couples, families, solo.
My husband and I started doing “couples getaways” a few years ago, and we love them. It’s really nice to travel together and spend time alone.
We’ve never considered destinations like Sedona or the North Shore of Minnesota, but I think we’re going to be adding them to our list as well – so thanks for sharing your list! It’s definitely one I’m going to reference back to.
Awesome…so happy to hear you’re adding Sedona and the North Shore of Minnesota to your couples getaways list.
What a great and comprehensive list!! We LOVE Sedona, AZ!
Thank you so much! We absolutely love Sedona, Arizona also – one of our favorite places to visit as emptynesters and as a family.
what a great list! I’ve been to some of these but not all – I definitely have some trips to plan!
Thank you! So many great places to visit as couples and emptynesters – the list is endless!
What a wonderful list! After almost 30 years together ourselves, but not yet empty nesters, I also highly recommend getting away as a couple! A few of our favorite couple-only trips that you have included here are Hawai’i, Paris, and Italy. I like how you’ve included things that may be local, for a weekend getaway, and also international dream destinations. We’ve loved all versions of our travel with just the two of us. Thanks for all of the great suggestions!
Thank you and my pleasure! We love our emptynester staycations as much as our international European couples getaways.
Great suggestions! Living in CA, I can vouch for LA, San Diego and San Francisco! All have so much to do and great food!
Thank you so much! Can’t go wrong with LA, San Diego and San Franciso as great travel and vacation getaways for couples and emptynesters.
What a great list! So many of these are on my list. We’re still traveling with our 11-year-old, but we probably wouldn’t do things very differently if she weren’t with us. We’re planning to go to San Francisco and Yosemite next summer, and New Orleans and Key West are on my radar. I want to visit one of those after a Walt Disney World road trip. Love the ideas!
Thank you so much! Love San Franisco as family and emptynester getaways. Would love to visit Yosemite! I know you would love Key West and New Orleans.
What an awesome list! Hubby and I have been travelling together for 26 years… although most often its with kids… we still try to get away alone once in a while. We have been to a few places on your list, and some are definitely on our couples getaway bucket list!
Thank you so much! We traveled a lot with our son as he was growing up. It’s a different experience to return to some of the best destinations as emptynesters.
These are wonderful ideas! I appreciate your insight!!
Thank you and my pleasure! I love sharing our best experiences traveling as a couple and as emptynesters.
I would love to spend a month exploring and visiting Europe. However, Arizona looks like a great place to hike and enjoy the outdoors.
I would love to explore Europe for a month (or two) also! We do love hiking in Arizona – great couples and emptynesters getaways!
What a great compilation of couples getaways. I went to the list to see what needs to be added to our travel wish list. Got some great return visit ideas like Arizona and Italy. And some new ideas like Luxembourg and Hawaii. Can’t wait until we can fill our travel calendar again!
Thank you so much! Love sharing our favorite couples getaways. Luxembourg is definitely a hidden gem! Doesn’t it feel so good to plan travel again?
This is a really great list you’ve put together! I like how you’ve included cities from different areas in the country as well.
Thank you! These are some of the best getaways for couples and emptynesters in a few countries!
Lots of great destinations here! Greece is high on my travel list.
Thank you so much! We absolutely loved Greece for its history, architecture, art and people – perfect destination for couples, emptynesters, families and solo travelers.
You made some great suggestions for locations. I have been to many of them (with kids) but would love to re-visit with hubby (and no kids). Lower Antelope Canyon has been on my list for years.
Thank you so much! These are some of our favorite getaways as a couple and emptynesters – and have been to a few as a family. You would love Lower Antelope Canyon!
Wow that was a wholesome list of emptynesters getaways! Got most of them in my bucket list!
Thank you! These are some of the best getaways for couples and emptynesters.
Great post. We are empty nesters and love to travel. We typically find ourselves in Europe and particularly gravitate toward the many Greek Island and towns/cities throughout Italy. We love to mix history with great weather, beaches and amazing food. So we can never go wrong with the Mediterranean.
Love the Mediterranean! And it’s a perfect destination for emptynesters and couples getaways!
What a great list! I’m not an empty nester but I still wanna visit all of these places. I like the mix of cities and more remote destinations!
Thank you so kindly! These destinations are also perfect for family and solo getaways!
This is such a great and informative blog post thabk you so so much ❤
Thank you and my pleasure! Love sharing my favorite emptynester and couples getaways!
Soooo many fab possibly holiday destinations here Karen! I am sure we’d be happy with any of these options. 😀
I would love to go back to Italy and Greece and the natural areas in the USA and Mexico also look heavenly!
I should get you to add BC, Canada to the list too. <3
Thank you so much! I should absolutely add BC, Canada to the best emptynester and couples getaways list and experience that area for myself!
These are all awesome!! I’ve been to quite a few on the list, but definitely have a lot more to visit. Hoping to start with the Grand Canyon!!
Thank you so much! The Grand Canyon is a great couples getaway!
Great list for emptynester travels. We’ve had some fun couples trips to Vegas!
Thanks! Las Vegas is a great emptynester and couples getaway and it also serves as a fabulous base camp when traveling to other places.
These are all great ideas for empty nesters. I personally love San Francisco. Great city.
Thank you! We love San Francisco – one of the best emptynester and couples getaways.
I love that your husband is your favorite travel companion. My husband and I will be empty nesters soon and plan to do a lot more travel together. Thanks for all the great ideas of places to travel when we become empty nesters. I’ve been to some of them, but you’ve given me a lot more ideas.
Thanks so much! Lots of great ideas on the best emptynester getaways.
This meaty list of the best emptynester vacation spots is a wonderful list for vacationers of any kind. As a solo traveler, I heartily concur! 😉
Thank you so much! I’ve done several of these best of emptynester trips as a solo traveler, with family and friends as well.
From the list of emptynester and couple getaways, I’d like to go to the destinations in Mexico. The graves in New Orleans reminds me of The Originals.
We love our emptynester getaways to Mexico especially! I’ll have to checkout The Originals.
These are all great vacation spots for empty nesters or couples getaways! So many amazing places!
Thank you! We love our emptynester and couples getaways throughout the U.S., Mexico and Europe.
What a great list of empty-nester and couples getaway destinations! My youngest is a senior in high school starting in the fall, so an empty nest is definitely coming up soon!
Thank you so much! Love these emptynester and couples getaways!
Wow-what a great list of trips. Now to get my hubby to go or to find a travel buddy. 🙂
Thank you so much! These emptynester and couples getaways also make for great girlfriend or solo trips!
I’ve been to 19 of your best empytnester and couples getaway list with two more scheduled for this year. Not too bad.
Wow! That is impressive! Enjoy your planned couples getaways this year!
I enjoyed the three Arizona recommendations on the list of best emptynester and couples getaways. We love traveling Arizona and like learning about new spots to visit.
Arizona is a great travel destination for couples and emptynesters. Hiking in Sedona and Antelope Canyon are especially lovely.
wonderful list of getaways geared toward empty nester’s! Mexico is calling to us once again for sure!
Thank you so much! Mexico is my absolute favorite emptynester getaway (and solo and with friends and family).
With so many places to visit, it’s hard to know where to start. Thanks for sharing such a comprehensive blog. I’ve certainly got a lot of ideas of where to go next.
Great to hear! Lots of wonderful and romantic places to visit as couples.
What an excellent list for empty-nesters and couples! Tennessee is special to us, and Memphis is on our list to visit!
Thank you! I know you both will love Memphis! It’s perfect for couples!
Great list. So much inspiration – where to start? I guess at the beginning and work my way through!
Thank you! And that’s the perfect place to start! So many great travel destinations for couples and emptynesters.
Thank you! And that’s the perfect place to start! So many great travel destinations for couples.
Fantastic list you’ve put together. I would definitely be going to the European destinations first and then maybe a few others in different parts of the world.
Thank you so much! We love all the featured European destinations for couples.
I absolutely LOVE this list of destinations! My husband and I went to Italy for our honeymoon and really want to go again at some point. I love all the other ideas you suggested too. Definitely some bucket list destinations we want to visit on this list!
Thank you so kindly! We absolutely loved Italy – perfect for couples!
This is such an amazing list of getaways for both empty-nesters and couples! There are so many listed here that are on my bucket list. My husband and I got engaged in Gatlinburg and highly recommend it!
Thank you so much! And that’s awesome that you got engaged at Gatlinburg. It’s a perfect destination for couples!
These are some fantastic getaways for couples. I have several on my list, from the US to Europe. Greece is up first! 93 days 🙂
How fun! You’re going to love Greece! It is definitely one of the best destinations for couples and emptynesters.