There are plenty of exciting places to go for a 21st birthday, depending on the vibe you’re going for. Twenty-first birthdays are a big one, whether you’re planning to party at Las Vegas nightclubs or take a foodie tour of New York City.
Looking for the best of nightlife and relaxing days? Miami has the nightclubs and the beaches to ensure you can properly recover from partying.
No matter where you decide to toast to 21, Troupe’s group trip planner can help you iron out the details. You can even let your birthday crew vote on their favorite destination and accommodations and book your stay directly from the app.
The top 5 places to go for a 21st birthday include:
- Las Vegas
- New York City
- New Orleans
- Miami
- San Francisco
Top 21st birthday destinations
One of the reasons we love big cities for a 21st birthday is because they have plenty to do and there’s always something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to legally indulge in every drink you come across or simply enjoy incredible food with a nice glass of wine, these are the best places to go for a 21st birthday.
Las Vegas: Nightclubs and pool parties
Could you really make a list of the best places to go for a 21st birthday and not include Las Vegas? Twenty-one is considered a big birthday in the United States because it means you’ve reached the legal drinking and gambling age. And Las Vegas is arguably the best destination on Earth for late-night partying and hitting the casinos.
But it’s not all booze and late nights on a trip to Vegas. (Or at least it doesn’t have to be.) There are loads of opportunities for other special birthday activities in town. Go see a Cirque du Soleil show, check out some exhibits (like Bodies: The Exhibition or Titanic Artifact Exhibition), or enjoy a world-renowned dining experience.
Check out what to pack for Vegas.
New York City: Whatever you want it to be
Let’s be real, New York City is a great destination no matter your age. The opportunities for eating and drinking are what make The Big Apple particularly great. So when you can finally enjoy a cold beer with your fried chicken in Koreatown or a craft cocktail at a rooftop bar overlooking the Empire State Building, it makes it a little more special.
The beauty of bar-hopping in New York is that you can start the night at a fancy jazz lounge and end it with Skee Ball and PBR specials at a dive bar a few blocks away. And, during the day, there’s so much to do in the city no matter what your preferences.
New Orleans: Letting loose and exploring the city
If anywhere knows how to let loose and have fun, it’s The Big Easy. You’ll be able to party anywhere you go for your 21st, so for those who want to fill their days with exciting activities, New Orleans is a great option.
Instead of cake, treat yourself to a delicious plate of beignets from Cafe du Monde. Take a swamp tour, go on a ghost tour, or try The Escape Room. And, at night, grab a cocktail and listen to some live jazz in the French Quarter or head to Bourbon Street to get a famous Hurricane cocktail from Pat O’Brien’s.
Miami: For late nights and beach days
Especially for winter babies, Miami can make a great 21st birthday trip to escape the cold and celebrate your big day by the beach.
There are loads of options for bougie nightclubs, fancy restaurants, and high-end bars in Miami, but it’s also a great place to take it easy. Pack a cooler and head out on the water for a day of sailing or fishing. Miami also has a great art scene; pay a visit to the Wynwood Walls to enjoy the collection of murals.
Want to go someplace quieter? Consider Marco Island, Florida, only a 2-hour drive from Miami. And discover everything you’ll need to pack for a vacation to Florida.
San Francisco: For food and fun activities
A haven for foodies, San Francisco is one of the best places to go for a 21st birthday thanks to its abundance of things to do. See all the typical sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, and Fisherman’s Wharf. Depending on when you visit, catch a Giants game at Oracle Park.
In addition, you can take a trip within a trip to celebrate your birthday by visiting the Napa Valley and indulging in a day full of vineyard hopping. Alternatively, rent a cabin in beautiful Lake Tahoe and enjoy the mountains with your friends.
Still not sure where to go? Vote on it! Head over to Troupe and let your friends vote on their favorite destinations. Then, vote on dates, and accommodations, and share your favorite things to do at the destination. And if you need more inspiration, check out 30th birthday trip ideas, ideas for a 40th birthday trip, and 50th birthday trip ideas.
Or, now that you can drink (legally), plan a trip to Napa, California.
Does nothing sound exciting enough for your 21st? Check and see if there are any cool camping festivals happening around your birthday weekend!
Looking for even more travel inspiration?
- Discover what there is to do in Bogota, Colombia.
- These hidden gems in Mexico are all worth discovering
- The best destinations for a Girls Trip will have you packing your bags.