12 Fantastic Travel Destinations Across The U.S. For Large Groups
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Jasmine
Author
Planning a trip for a large group, family reunion, or big family vacation can be a challenge. You need a destination that caters to a variety of interests and age groups, with ample space for everyone to relax and have fun. But fear not! The U.S. has so many incredible places that tick all the boxes for large-group travel.
From coast to coast, in this guide, you’ll find sun-drenched beaches perfect for building sandcastles or enjoying water adventures together. Picture everyone exploring adventure-filled mountains with hiking, biking, and breathtaking scenery. Charming towns brimming with culture and history offer unique experiences for all ages. Dive into these 12 travel destinations across the U.S. to help you plan your next group getaway!
1. Lincoln City, Oregon
Lincoln City, OR, USA
Lincoln City, Oregon, is a great place for big groups and family get-togethers. With over seven miles of beautiful coastline, there's plenty of room for fun beach activities like flying kites, exploring tide pools, and searching for treasures in the sand.
The town has lots of spacious vacation homes for rent, many right by the beach, perfect for hosting gatherings. Kids can have a the blast at Roads End State Recreation Site, finding hidden spots and building sandcastles, while adults can enjoy delicious seafood, shopping, and playing golf.
Don't miss the Lincoln City Glass Center where families can make their own glass art, and the exciting annual kite festivals. Insider tip - keep an eye out for hidden glass floats on the beach and watch for whales during certain times of the year.
The town has lots of spacious vacation homes for rent, many right by the beach, perfect for hosting gatherings. Kids can have a the blast at Roads End State Recreation Site, finding hidden spots and building sandcastles, while adults can enjoy delicious seafood, shopping, and playing golf.
Don't miss the Lincoln City Glass Center where families can make their own glass art, and the exciting annual kite festivals. Insider tip - keep an eye out for hidden glass floats on the beach and watch for whales during certain times of the year.
2. Maui, Hawaii
Maui, Hawaii, USA
Maui, Hawaii, is a paradise for large groups and family reunions. It's famous for its pristine beaches, lush scenery, and rich culture. You can stay in roomy resorts or private vacation homes with pools and hot tubs, which are great for group activities.
Have fun with everyone snorkeling at Molokini Crater, getting surf lessons, or trying out exciting zipline courses for the adventurous ones. Take a drive on the scenic Hana Highway, go for hikes on dormant volcanoes, admire stunning waterfalls, and chill out on gorgeous beaches like Kaanapali. Also, be sure to attend a traditional Hawaiian luau for local food, music, and dance - it's a great bonding activity.
Here's a helpful hint - visit the Maui Ocean Center for an interesting experience and plan a sunrise trip to Haleakalā National Park for amazing views. Also, think about renting a condo with kitchen facilities to save on dining costs and enjoy meals together as a group.
Have fun with everyone snorkeling at Molokini Crater, getting surf lessons, or trying out exciting zipline courses for the adventurous ones. Take a drive on the scenic Hana Highway, go for hikes on dormant volcanoes, admire stunning waterfalls, and chill out on gorgeous beaches like Kaanapali. Also, be sure to attend a traditional Hawaiian luau for local food, music, and dance - it's a great bonding activity.
Here's a helpful hint - visit the Maui Ocean Center for an interesting experience and plan a sunrise trip to Haleakalā National Park for amazing views. Also, think about renting a condo with kitchen facilities to save on dining costs and enjoy meals together as a group.
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3. Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada
Lake Tahoe, United States
Nestled between California and Nevada, amidst crystal-clear waters and the majestic Sierra Nevada backdrop, Lake Tahoe offers an idyllic destination for things like reunions. Comfortable vacation rentals, some equipped with pools and hot tubs, provide an excellent home base for groups.
Adventure awaits year-round! Kayak on the lake during summer, hike scenic trails, or hit the slopes at Heavenly or Palisades Tahoe in winter. Families can explore museums, enjoy mini-golf, and take in breathtaking gondola rides. Food lovers can savor lakeside dining options, while adults find entertainment at local casinos (some offering babysitting services!).
Remember to pack layers as Tahoe's temperatures vary greatly, even in summer. For milder weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during spring or fall.
Adventure awaits year-round! Kayak on the lake during summer, hike scenic trails, or hit the slopes at Heavenly or Palisades Tahoe in winter. Families can explore museums, enjoy mini-golf, and take in breathtaking gondola rides. Food lovers can savor lakeside dining options, while adults find entertainment at local casinos (some offering babysitting services!).
Remember to pack layers as Tahoe's temperatures vary greatly, even in summer. For milder weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during spring or fall.
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4. Park City, Utah
Park City, UT, USA
Park City, Utah, is a giant playground! Imagine cozy cabins with hot tubs for post-adventure soaks, perfect for your whole crew. Winter boasts epic slopes at Park City Mountain Resort or Deer Valley, while summer explodes with mountain biking and hiking trails.
If your group is feeling hungry, Historic Main Street is lined with delicious eateries and cool shops, along with a museum for history buffs. Plus, the kids will have a blast at the Utah Olympic Park with activities like bobsled rides and ziplines.
Bonus tip - Park City isn't just for snow bunnies! Summer brings festivals, farmers markets, and epic mountain views – all without the winter chill. Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor activities or relaxing family time, Park City is an ideal destination for large groups, reunions, and big families.
If your group is feeling hungry, Historic Main Street is lined with delicious eateries and cool shops, along with a museum for history buffs. Plus, the kids will have a blast at the Utah Olympic Park with activities like bobsled rides and ziplines.
Bonus tip - Park City isn't just for snow bunnies! Summer brings festivals, farmers markets, and epic mountain views – all without the winter chill. Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor activities or relaxing family time, Park City is an ideal destination for large groups, reunions, and big families.
5. Door County, Wisconsin
Door County, WI, USA
Thinking of a place to travel with a big group of friends or your family? Door County in Wisconsin is a wonderful choice. It's located on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan and is known for its pretty coastline with lighthouses, beaches, and cherry orchards.
Everyone will love exploring the charming towns of Fish Creek, Ephraim, and Sister Bay, each with its own shops, art galleries, and local restaurants. If you're looking for outdoor activities, the gang can hike in Peninsula State Park, go boating, or just hang out on the beaches.
Make sure to add to your itinerary to try the delicious seafood, cherry pies, and local wines that Door County is famous for. There are also historical sites to visit, fun festivals to check out, and scenic drives to enjoy along the coast.
Everyone will love exploring the charming towns of Fish Creek, Ephraim, and Sister Bay, each with its own shops, art galleries, and local restaurants. If you're looking for outdoor activities, the gang can hike in Peninsula State Park, go boating, or just hang out on the beaches.
Make sure to add to your itinerary to try the delicious seafood, cherry pies, and local wines that Door County is famous for. There are also historical sites to visit, fun festivals to check out, and scenic drives to enjoy along the coast.
6. Black Hills, South Dakota
Black Hills, United States
The Black Hills region in South Dakota is full of amazing things to see and do. It's not your typical vacation spot but it should be. It's in western South Dakota and is famous for its beautiful natural sights, like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. You can do all kinds of outdoor activities there, like hiking, rock climbing, and watching wildlife in places like Custer State Park and Badlands National Park.
Families and groups can visit historic towns like Deadwood and Keystone to learn about the area's gold rush history and have fun at local attractions. The Black Hills also have beautiful drives like the Needles Highway and Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, where you can see amazing granite formations and lush forests.
With so many different things to do and see, the Black Hills is a great place for group trips because there's something for everyone.
Families and groups can visit historic towns like Deadwood and Keystone to learn about the area's gold rush history and have fun at local attractions. The Black Hills also have beautiful drives like the Needles Highway and Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, where you can see amazing granite formations and lush forests.
With so many different things to do and see, the Black Hills is a great place for group trips because there's something for everyone.
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7. Outer Banks, North Carolina
Outer Banks, North Carolina, USA
The Outer Banks, situated off the coast of North Carolina, is a wonderful travel destination for accommodating large travel groups. The area spans over 200 miles of islands and is known for its gorgeous beaches, diverse wildlife, and interesting history. You can visit historic places like the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk, where the first powered flight happened, and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, known for its heavenly scenery and lighthouses.
Popular towns like Nags Head, Duck, and Corolla provide various accommodation options, including beachfront rentals and cozy cottages, perfect for group stays. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, like fishing, kayaking, and surfing. And don't miss the chance to savor fresh seafood in local restaurants.
Popular towns like Nags Head, Duck, and Corolla provide various accommodation options, including beachfront rentals and cozy cottages, perfect for group stays. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, like fishing, kayaking, and surfing. And don't miss the chance to savor fresh seafood in local restaurants.
8. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
Great Smoky Mountains, United States
The Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee is an exceptional destination for family vacations. Located on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, this area is famous for its foggy mountains, beautiful forests, and wildlife. You and your family can enjoy scenic drives along Newfound Gap Road, hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks like the Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte, and a chance for wildlife viewing, including black bears.
Nearby towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer a range of accommodations from cabins to resorts, alongside attractions like Dollywood, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, and numerous family-friendly activities. The region's cultural heritage can be explored through historic sites, craft shops, and local Appalachian music. It's a fantastic spot to visit for the whole family.
Nearby towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer a range of accommodations from cabins to resorts, alongside attractions like Dollywood, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, and numerous family-friendly activities. The region's cultural heritage can be explored through historic sites, craft shops, and local Appalachian music. It's a fantastic spot to visit for the whole family.
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9. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Hilton Head Island, SC, USA
Hilton Head Island, a South Carolina gem, is a top pick for gatherings with your main peeps. This barrier island boasts beautiful beaches, world-class golf courses, and endless activities.
Groups can rent spacious vacation homes with private pools, which are great for having fun and hanging out. Beach days are a must, with options for swimming, kayaking, and other beach-centric activities. Beyond the shore, there's biking on scenic trails, dolphin-watching tours, or exciting zipline adventures.
Evenings can be spent grilling by the pool or enjoying a family game night. Foodies will love the island's renowned seafood shacks and diverse restaurants. For a change of pace, explore historic Harbour Town with its iconic lighthouse or visit the Coastal Discovery Museum for a glimpse into local heritage.
Groups can rent spacious vacation homes with private pools, which are great for having fun and hanging out. Beach days are a must, with options for swimming, kayaking, and other beach-centric activities. Beyond the shore, there's biking on scenic trails, dolphin-watching tours, or exciting zipline adventures.
Evenings can be spent grilling by the pool or enjoying a family game night. Foodies will love the island's renowned seafood shacks and diverse restaurants. For a change of pace, explore historic Harbour Town with its iconic lighthouse or visit the Coastal Discovery Museum for a glimpse into local heritage.
10. Lake George, New York
Lake George, NY 12845, USA
Nestled in the Adirondacks, Lake George, New York, offers a fun-filled escape. This sparkling lake has stunning mountain views, action-packed water activities, and historic charm.
Groups can bond over boat tours with the Lake George Steamboat Company or rent jet skis for an adrenaline rush. Relax on sandy beaches like Million Dollar Beach, or explore historic Fort William Henry. Thrill-seekers can tackle theme park rides at Magic Mountain or cool off at Six Flags Great Escape. Evenings can be spent enjoying lakeside campfires, roasting marshmallows, and sharing stories under the stars.
The town of Lake George offers a lively atmosphere with arcades, mini-golf, and a variety of restaurants. Consider renting large cabins or lakefront cottages for spacious group gatherings and cherished memories.
Groups can bond over boat tours with the Lake George Steamboat Company or rent jet skis for an adrenaline rush. Relax on sandy beaches like Million Dollar Beach, or explore historic Fort William Henry. Thrill-seekers can tackle theme park rides at Magic Mountain or cool off at Six Flags Great Escape. Evenings can be spent enjoying lakeside campfires, roasting marshmallows, and sharing stories under the stars.
The town of Lake George offers a lively atmosphere with arcades, mini-golf, and a variety of restaurants. Consider renting large cabins or lakefront cottages for spacious group gatherings and cherished memories.
11. The Berkshires, Massachusetts
The Berkshires, United States
The Berkshires, a picturesque mountain range in western Massachusetts, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and a variety of cultural, outdoor, and recreational activities. Notable attractions include the Tanglewood Music Festival in Lenox, the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, which features iconic American art, and MASS MoCA for contemporary art.
Outdoor lovers in the group can take advantage of numerous hiking trails in the Appalachian Mountains, partake in kayaking on local lakes, or explore the Berkshire Botanical Garden. Charming towns such as Great Barrington and Williamstown offer unique shops, farm-to-table dining, and historic sites. If you're in The Berkshires area, you have to visit - any of these charming spots are great places to host a group of your loved ones.
Outdoor lovers in the group can take advantage of numerous hiking trails in the Appalachian Mountains, partake in kayaking on local lakes, or explore the Berkshire Botanical Garden. Charming towns such as Great Barrington and Williamstown offer unique shops, farm-to-table dining, and historic sites. If you're in The Berkshires area, you have to visit - any of these charming spots are great places to host a group of your loved ones.
12. The Maine Coast
Maine, USA
The Maine Coast stretches from Kittery to Bar Harbor and offers magnificent coastal landscape, charming towns, and fun activities. Highlights include Acadia National Park, where families and loved ones can enjoy hiking, biking, and epic ocean views. The coastal towns of Camden and Kennebunkport have eclectic shopping, dining, and picturesque harbors perfect for group outings.
For those who love more outdoorsy stuff, you can explore numerous lighthouses, go whale watching, or indulge in water sports like kayaking and sailing. The region’s fresh seafood, particularly lobster, is a culinary delight that everyone will love. Accommodations range from spacious vacation rentals to cozy inns, perfect for comfortable stays for large groups.
With its quaint New England charm, the Maine Coast is ideal for family or friend gatherings and reunions. Insider tip - visit during the fall for spectacular foliage and slightly fewer crowds.
For those who love more outdoorsy stuff, you can explore numerous lighthouses, go whale watching, or indulge in water sports like kayaking and sailing. The region’s fresh seafood, particularly lobster, is a culinary delight that everyone will love. Accommodations range from spacious vacation rentals to cozy inns, perfect for comfortable stays for large groups.
With its quaint New England charm, the Maine Coast is ideal for family or friend gatherings and reunions. Insider tip - visit during the fall for spectacular foliage and slightly fewer crowds.
Have you been to any of the destinations across the U.S.? Let me know all about it – I’d love to hear which are your favorite spots, even if they aren’t on this list. And if you’re on the hunt for more destinations, check out the 14 most unique beaches in the United States.
Planning to hit the road to visit some of these locations and are looking for a place to stay? Be sure to pack these must-haves that will make your next family road trip easier, and learn more about these epic vacation rentals across the country – they will not disappoint!
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