Best Galentine’s Trip Ideas for Besties

by | Jan 14, 2025 | Mommy Getaways, USA

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Move over Valentine’s Day—thanks to the always-optimistic, waffle-obsessed Leslie Knope, played by Amy Poehler on Parks and Recreation, February 13th has officially become Galentine’s Day. It’s a day to celebrate the incredible women in our lives: best friends, sisters, moms, and every other amazing woman we can’t imagine life without. 

Galentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to plan a getaway with your best gal pals!

Inspired by some of our favorite iconic female friendships, the following trip ideas are all about celebrating the gal pals who make life sweeter.

From road trips and food tours to relaxing spa escapes, these adventures are sure to make an unforgettable Galentine’s Day celebration.

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Wine Tasting in Napa Valley

Wine Country (2019) is a hilarious Netflix comedy about a group of girlfriends celebrating a birthday in Napa Valley. It is the ultimate girls’ trip movie, and it inspired us to create our own Napa Valley Galentine’s itinerary. 

Like the girlfriends in Wine Country, we suggest booking a wine tour. Instead of just one winery, visit a few in an old-fashioned trolly! Or for a fancy experience, do it in a limo! Do be sure to stop by Castello di Amorosa, a Tuscan-inspired castle winery. Believe it or not, there is so much more than wine in Napa Valley. Adventurous girlies will love soaring over the vineyard on a hot air balloon ride. And for those of us who like to keep two feet on the ground, a spa day at Spa Solage in Calistoga is the perfect compromise. Guests love the geothermal pools, eucalyptus steam room, and the signature massage.

 

 

Where to Eat

Visit The Model Bakery in St. Helena for wood-fired breakfast sandwiches and croissants that will make you feel like you accidentally flew to Paris. Dinner at Bottega is a beloved event with Italian-Calfornian dishes that feel like a great big hug. 

 

Where to Stay

Stay at The Meritage Resort and Spa, which has lovely vineyard views, a luxurious spa, and plenty of comfortable lounging space for a cozy night with your best friends.

 

hot air balloon over napa valley

For the ultimate adventure take a hot air balloon ride over Napa Valley. ©Photo by Max Harlynking on Unsplash

 

Exploring New York City

Sex and the City (2008) is a movie salute to fabulous friendships and the iconic landmarks in NYC, which makes it the perfect pre-trip (or on-the-plane) watch. 

In New York City, explore The Met Cloisters, stroll through Central Park, and shop in SoHo for fashion finds alla Carrie Bradshaw. Skip on over to the Museum of Ice Cream for an interactive and Instagram-worthy experience. Guests can literally dive into a pool of pink sprinkles, and we honestly can’t think of anything that would be more fun on Galentine’s Day!

 

 

Where to Eat

For brunch, visit Jack’s Wife Freda in the West Village, known for its vibrant, playful atmosphere. For dinner, Carmine’s serves up classic NYC-Italian dishes that are perfect for sharing with your best friend group. Everything is family style!

 

Where to Stay

Stay at The Refinery Hotel in Midtown, which delivers a rooftop bar with skyline views and serves as a prime location for exploring the Big Apple.

 

New York City Sunset

New York City glows as a Galentine’s Day destination. ©Photo by Emiliano Bar on Unsplash

 

Palm Springs Retreat

The First Wives Club (1996) features a Palm Springs spa scene that captures the essence of a luxurious girls’ getaway which is exactly the kind of getaway Galentine’s deserves. 

For a similar experience, we recommend relaxing at The Spa at Sec-he at Palm Springs. This beautiful award-winning spa is known for rejuvenating treatments. Beyond the spa, there is plenty to see and do. Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum or take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for sweeping mountain views. Stroll through the Moorten Botanical Garden for desert plant inspiration.

 

 

Where to Eat

For brunch, try Cheeky’s, known for its fresh and seasonal menu. Dinner plans should involve Workshop Kitchen + Bar, which offers farm-to-table dining in an industrial-chic space. 

 

Where to Stay

Stay at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club, which combines mid-century modern design with a fun, social vibe, perfect for a girlfriend getaway.

 

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Food and Fun in San Diego

Set in sunny California, Bring It On (2000) is all about teamwork, friendly competition, and lots of laughs. In San Diego, spend the day in La Jolla kayaking through sea caves or exploring tide pools. Visit Balboa Park, an outdoor “play space” that features museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. For something musical (and hilarious), book a private karaoke room at Hive

 

 

Where to Eat

Stop by Breakfast Republic for hearty and creative brunch options with eclectic seating options. In the evening, dine at Cucina Urbana, a casual Italian eatery with California flair just right for Galentine’s.

 

DON’T MISS! Jackson Hole Girls’ Trip

 

Where to Stay

Stay at The Hotel del Coronado, a historic beachfront resort with charm and plenty of space for relaxation after a day full of adventures.

 

San Diego Galentine's Getaway

Salty air, sandy toes, and endless laughs in San Diego. ©Photo by Sapan Patel on Unsplash

 

Classic Girls’ Night Ideas

The ultimate movie for a girls’ night is Bridesmaids (2011), a friendship comedy that perfectly sets the tone for a fun night in (or at a nearby hotel). Plan an at-home Galentine’s Day party with board games, face masks, and a healthy dose of friendly competition. Add a dress code (80s-themed or Prom Dresses) for extra fun. 

Keep hostess responsibilities super simple by preparing a fondue station for dipping snacks. Order takeout from a favorite local restaurant or try a DIY taco bar with friends. Home is the perfect place for Galentine’s, where piling into the living room with cozy blankets and snacks is part of the fun.

 

 

These Galentine’s Day ideas are a great way to create new memories, whether traveling to iconic locations or celebrating in the comfort of your home. Inspired by Leslie Knope’s tradition, they ensure time spent with your gal pals is full of laughter, connection, and maybe even a little sparkle.

 

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Steffy McCourt is a mom to three active and awesome boys, two budgies, one cockatiel, and a mischievous corgi. Currently an ELA Teacher in Plymouth, Michigan, she also writes for parenting magazines and education websites. She just recently launched her own travel website, www.mifamilytravel.com; a tribute to the state of Michigan. She has an MS in Educational Leadership from Butler University and a BA in English from Indiana University.