Congratulations! You are closing the first year of marriage. While you’re probably still absorbing all that newlywed bliss (as you should), it’s time to start thinking about how to celebrate some first anniversary trip ideas. While some couples choose to keep their first anniversary low – camping out on the couch with a nice bottle of wine and some takeout and watching their wedding movie on repeat is a classic – others appreciate an exciting trip, perhaps back to your honeymoon destination or to another desired location on your bucket list.
Table of Contents
How you choose to celebrate is up to you, but if you have a yearning to get away from just yourself, here are some first anniversary trip ideas that don’t require a super long flight, or a passport.
Cape May, New Jersey
If you live in the Tri-State area and are looking for an idea for an anniversary trip to the beach in the USA that does not involve a plane trip, head to the beautiful Cape May of New Jersey, which is less three hours from Manhattan. Camp at Stone Harbor, which is located in the southern part of Seven Mile Island, a strip located right on the water. Stay at The Reeds at Shelter Haven, which is open year round (even during the snow season!) And is located directly on the bay and steps from white sand beaches. Enjoy stunning views from your intimate deck before heading downtown to see all the pretty shops!
Miami Florida
If you’re looking for crystal-clear, Caribbean-quality water without having to cross the ocean by plane, head to Miami, which is packed with stunning beaches and a wealth of culture as a favorite idea for an anniversary trip to the United States. If it’s more than lightning you’re looking for, visit the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science in the Downtown Museum Park. In addition to learning about science, technology and engineering, you can take advantage of 360-degree views of Miami, a captivating three-level aquarium, laser music shows, and an on-site planetarium. Stay at the Cadillac Hotel and Beach Club in the heart of Mid Beach, a romantic Art Deco hotel with private balconies in most rooms.
New York, New York
Whether you’ve never been or visited dozens of times, NYC is always a good idea for a first anniversary trip. Not only are there endless things to do in the city that never sleeps, but it is also undeniably romantic at any time of the year: spring, summer, fall, and of course winter, with Christmas lights decorating every block and the Christmas tree. Rockefeller Christmas standing. Stay downtown at the Kimberly Hotel, which boasts stunning views of the East River and Midtown Manhattan from its rooftop lounge upstairs, serving small plates, funky cocktails, and even brunch. As if the view could improve, the walls are retractable so you and your spouse feel like you are on top of the city.
Napa Valley, California
If you appreciate fine wine and artistic expression, head to California’s Napa Valley, home to up to 500 vineyards, for a truly special first anniversary trip idea. Many of the charms of the region are located a few miles north on Highway 29, which those who know it call “Up Valley.” One of them includes the beautiful Charles Krug, the oldest winery in California. Indulge your senses as you sample a wide variety of estate wines, tour the impressive property, and learn about the history of the Napa Valley. For a true romantic experience, stay close to Las Alcobas, which is only three minutes away. It is located next to another of California’s oldest wineries, Beringer Vineyard, in the charming and sophisticated community of St. Enjoy an invigorating treatment in the atrium, the on-site spa, and enjoy world-class dining in their restaurant, Acacia House.
Martha s Vineyard, Massachusetts
You don’t have to be a wine lover to enjoy this beautiful island south of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, one of our favorite first anniversary trip ideas. This former New England vacation destination is packed with beaches, historic landmarks, adorable shops, and yes, vineyards. Stay at Winnetu Oceanside Resort, on South Beach in Edgartown. Family-owned and in the style of traditional New England seaside resorts, it is located next to natural dunes and at the head of world-class hiking and biking trails. Of course, summer is the best time to visit Martha’s Vineyard so that you and your spouse can enjoy the endless outdoor activities.
