Traveling with a large group can be both fun and stress-inducing. More people means more laughs, more adventure, and more memories. However, it can also mean more opinions, more requests, and more chaos. The first step to a great trip is choosing a great destination that offers food and activities that appeal to a large variety of people. Check out these recommendations from travel expert Alison Hoover.
While it might not necessarily be the first place to come to mind, Detroit is a hidden gem. Enjoy Midwestern hospitality while exploring the rich history and ample outdoor activities.
With over 65,000 works, the Detroit Institute of Arts is one of the biggest art collections in the country. Another great stop is the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village. You can ride in a Model-T, visit a working 17th-century farm, see the chair Lincoln was assassinated in, or try your hand at candlemaking.
Hart Plaza, right in the heart of the city, is a great place to enjoy water views, try local food trucks, or go ice skating in winter. You can also check out the newly restored Michigan Central Station for stunning architecture and local merchants. As for food, try genuine Detroit-style pizza at Buddy’s or taste-test the two most famous coney dogs: Lafayette and American.
If you’re looking for sunshine and stunning landscapes, Phoenix is the place. A wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts, Phoenix offers countless outdoor activities including golfing, mountain biking, and star gazing.
Your group can hike up Camelback Mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the city, or explore Papago Park for something a little less strenuous. For unique flora, take in the stunning Sonoran desert at the Desert Botanical Garden and then grab lunch or a specialty cocktail at Gertrude’s.
For history lovers in your group, Native American culture is front and center at Heard Museum. But if you’re in it for the sights and vistas, consider taking a hot air balloon ride up above the city. There’s nothing as captivating as seeing Arizona from 1,000 feet up.
While Mardi Gras gets all the hype, New Orleans is a year-round destination for foodies and history buffs alike. The rich culture combining African American, French, and Spanish influences affects everything from architecture to food. Beignets, gumbo, jambalaya, and po’boys are just a few of the local staples.
Visit Commander’s Palace for upscale Creole or learn how to make a local specialty at a personalized cooking class. Once you’re delightfully stuffed full of good food, take a walking tour through the French Quarter. When the sun starts to dip, head over to Frenchman Street for its incredible jazz and blues music scene.
For an iconically Louisiana adventure, consider a swamp tour through the Bayou – but watch out for alligators!
In addition to the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, there is so much to see and do in Seattle for any group to craft a full agenda.
If you’re visiting in fall, you won’t be let down by the variety of foliage and autumn activities. Washington is known to be the best state for apple lovers, so you and yours can explore the groves and taste countless varieties of apples, jams, baked goods, and drinks.
For a fun day trip, take a ferry across Puget Sound and visit Bainbridge Island. After exploring Winslow, head back to the mainland and enjoy Italian eats at the famous The Pink Door restaurant. Or if you’re feeling more adventurous, try out a Seattle dog (a hot dog with cream cheese and onions). The Pacific Northwest is stunningly beautiful in its own right, and Seattle offers something for everyone in your group.
One of the less talked about cities on the East coast, Baltimore is filled with charm and adventure. If your crew is more of a nature group, check out the beautiful Ladew Gardens. For art enthusiasts, the American Visionary Art Museum is unlike any other. This gallery is filled with inspiring works by self-taught artists.
If food is your motivator, there are several fantastic food tours you can join that will take you through all of the city’s best eats, including the Fell’s Point and Federal Hill neighborhoods. The Inner Harbor boasts a wonderful aquarium, as well as historic ships and the Maryland Science Center. While aquariums and zoos might seem like something for kids, don’t underestimate the joy in allowing your inner kid a day to explore.
Regardless of where you choose to go, one of the most important steps in ensuring a great trip is nailing down the logistics. Before you worry about restaurant reservations or museum tickets, take care of transportation and lodging.
Plan the ground transportation from the airport to and from your lodging ahead of time to be sure you will have the right amount of space and the right schedule. Choose a centrally located hotel or short-term rental that provides adequate sleeping and bathing space. From there, everything else is just about enjoying each other’s company and making memories.
Alison is a world traveler who loves to spend her time writing and reading. When she’s home, you can find her playing with her pet rabbit and baking.
For airport transportation or around town rides, click here to check rates and availability.