Traveling for a birthday makes the celebration even more memorable. It’s fun to reminisce with family and friends and be able to say, “Remember when I celebrated in…?”
But what do you do when those birthday celebrations always end up back at the bar or club? What if you want something that’s a bit more unique and special?
Wherever you choose as your celebration destination, there are many ways to elevate the birthday experience - and you don’t even have to hit up the bar. The key is knowing where to go and what to do.
Luckily, we’ve got the guide you need to make your adult birthday celebration an adventure you’ll always remember, filled with inspiring birthday trip ideas.
1. Start With A Tailored Tour
Why travel somewhere new to only stay around a resort or hit the basic tourist highlights?
One easy way to get a local’s look at your destination is to take a bus or a walking tour. Guides will give you an overview of the city, and you can use that as a gateway for places to visit the rest of your trip.
You could take an afternoon tea bus tour in London, a nighttime ghost tour in New Orleans, or even a trail ride tour of a national park. The options are endless and can be tailored to your interests or things you want to learn. Plus, the guides will always be able to point you to the best local spots to celebrate.
2. Do As The Locals Do
Another great way to have some fun while abroad is to try local activities. Take surf lessons in Hawaii, go skiing in the Alps, learn to make pasta in Italy, or try your hand at fly fishing in the Pacific Northwest.
The key is to get to know a few of the locals who can point you toward the best spots for these activities. They’ll also be able to give you insider tips and tricks to make the most of your experience.
Also, don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from the staff at your hotel or hostel. They often have great suggestions for local experiences that tourists may not know about.
If the locals enjoy a regional activity, odds are that you will too. You might even make some local friends to add to your celebration crew.
3. Share A Snack
Humanity has celebrated with good food for its entire existence. You are basically obligated to treat yourself to some incredible cuisine on a birthday vacation. Each new destination provides an opportunity to try something new - or you can plan to travel somewhere where you know you love the food.
Many destinations have the equivalent of a wine trail, but for food. What’s better than snacking your way through a new place? You could try a fondue trail in Switzerland, a dumpling trail in British Columbia or even a donut trail in Ohio.
Researching local food trail options will likely lead you to discovering other stops to add to your birthday bucket list.
4. Get Your Adrenaline Going
Thrill seekers tend to want to celebrate with an adrenaline-inducing activity. If that’s you, you’ll want to check out what activities are available on your trip that will get your heart rate up and your blood pumping.
You might consider white water rafting the local river, getting an aerial view of your travel destination by skydiving, or planning to explore a coral reef by scuba diving.
Less inclined for that level of adrenaline? Plan a hike or horseback excursion, book a helicopter tour, or rent some snorkel gear. There are options for all levels of adrenaline junkies to really put a stamp on birthday celebrations with a once-in-a-lifetime activity.
5. Take A Cooking Class
Instead of just eating local cuisine, why not learn how to make it yourself? Taking a local cooking class is one of the most unique birthday ideas for adults who love to mix culture, creativity, and cuisine.
Many destinations offer cooking classes where you can learn traditional recipes in authentic settings. Learn to make paella in Spain, pad thai in Thailand, or pasta in Italy. It’s the best way to see how the locals cook and experience their culture through food.
6. Find a Spot to Relax
Does that all sound exhausting? Once you’ve celebrated as much as you can handle, be sure to book a day at a destination spa.
Stay at a resort where you can hop in a sauna after a long day of adventuring, or book an appointment at a popular facility. A great option in many mountainous locations is to look up the local hot springs to ease your tired travel muscles. Or book an oceanside massage where the sea breeze relaxes you just as much as the services.
7. Catch A Sunrise At A Landmark
There's something unforgettable about watching the sun rise over an iconic location. Now throw your birthday in the mix, and it’s incredible.
Whether it's the Taj Mahal, Machu Picchu, or just a local beach, getting up before the crowds allows you to truly appreciate the beauty of the world.
8. Book A Private Tour
Why not skip the large group tours and arrange a private experience instead? You can look up a nearby historical site, museum, or natural wonder – and hire a local guide who can show you how to visit without getting caught in the tourist traps.
9. Attend A Workshop Or Class
Learn something new as you celebrate another year. Many destinations offer workshops where you can try your hand at local crafts or arts, like glassblowing in Venice, batik making in Indonesia, or pottery in the American Southwest.
10. Volunteer For A Day
One of our favorite ways to celebrate? By giving back on your special day! Consider using your birthday to participate in a local volunteer opportunity.
Whether it's helping at a wildlife sanctuary or participating in a beach cleanup, spending part of your birthday making a positive impact while traveling is an excellent way to enjoy another trip around the sun.
Ready For A Birthday Booking?
If you’re ready to explore some of these unique birthday ideas for adults, Celebration.com can help you start your travel registry today. Create a free account and check out ways a birthday trip registry can make your dream trip possible.
When you book with Celebration.com Travel you can rest assured that every single detail of your birthday travels will be handled with care. Fill out our interest form to learn more and start your own birthday gift registry today!