Your 30s are a time of rapid personal growth. You’re no longer a confused, constantly wandering 20-something sort-of teen still. You know yourself better, what you want, and where you want to go. Traveling in your 30s is a truly enriching experience, and it doesn’t take catching a plane to the other side of the world to have a memorable journey. Sometimes, the greatest adventures are right around the corner. Here are some of the best U.S. destinations people in their 30s should visit at least once.
The 30s Are a Time to Escape… to Joshua Tree, California
Come your 30s, you will often find yourself wanting to escape this planet for a day or two. While Elon Musk hasn’t released tickets to the Moon yet, your second best choice is a trip to Joshua Tree, California. Home to the spectacular national park by the same name, this town’s landscape is dotted with martian terrains and it offers an eclectic local scene that truly feels otherworldly.
Get Lost in New York, New York
While you’ll sometimes feel like going to Mars, you’ll also want to experience the pleasant feeling of getting lost in a crowd. What better way to do that than in the city that never sleeps? New York City is a classic experience you should have in your 30s. With its urban adventures, eccentric cuisine opportunities, and innately American landmarks (cue the Statue of Liberty and Central Park), New York will steal your heart, if it hasn’t already.
Cruise the Overseas Highway, Florida
Road trips in your 30s are the best. There’s just the right amount of adventure, fun, and discovery, especially paired with good company (even if that company is just you!). The 113-mile highway that stretches from mainland Florida down to the Florida Keys is definitely road trip material. It will take you over 42 bridges overlooking crystalline blue waters that are more vibrant and beautiful than any desktop background.
Explore a Lesser-Known Part of Hawaii — Kauai
Hawaii is always a good idea, no matter your age. But, when you reach your 30s, you might find yourself wanting to explore the road less traveled and places off the beaten path. Kauai is just the thing. It’s the fourth largest island in the archipelago and it’s just as vibrant and beautiful as the main island, but there are significantly fewer crowds to deal with. Also known as the “garden isle,” Kauai offers breathtakingly lush vegetation which is one of the reasons the Jurassic Park franchise was shot there!