- Attending a guys’ weekend getaway is a great way to create memories and bond with friends and family.
- Popular guys’ getaway ideas include outdoor adventure trips, Las Vegas weekends and golf excursions.
- Vacation rental homes are ideal lodging options when planning a guys’ weekend for large groups.
- Taking a weekend getaway with the guys promotes relaxation and may help reduce stress.
Whether your best buddy is about to get married or you’re looking for a fun way to meet up with your old college pals, there’s something truly special about planning a getaway just for the guys. From fishing and camping trips that let you get back to nature to wild Vegas excursions and weekend-long pub crawls, here are some great options to ensure your guys’ trip is one for the record books.
Camping, Fishing, Hiking and More at Lake Louise, Alberta
Located in Banff National Park in Alberta, Lake Louise is known for its crystal-blue lakes and gorgeous mountain backdrops. Camp under the stars at one of the park’s many public campgrounds, or opt for a few modern comforts by staying at the historic Deer Lodge. During the day, gather the guys for fishing along the Bow River, and catch some trout for your evening feast. For a little adventure, rent a canoe and take in the breathtaking scenery from the center of it all, or take a hike around the Moraine Lake shoreline for an invigorating workout and a panoramic view of the Ten Peaks.
Shutterstock/SopotnickiViva Las Vegas
While Vegas may be considered an easy ‘go-to’ destination for a quick weekend adventure, it’s also known as the ultimate playground for guys’ getaways. From your choice of casinos up and down the strip to incredible concerts featuring Sin City’s latest resident artists, you can’t go wrong with Vegas. Take in a show at the Luxor, or stop by Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club at the world-famous MGM Grand for some drinks and laughs in an old-school Vegas atmosphere. If you want to get in some outdoor time between all the nightlife, sign up for an ATV tour through the Las Vegas Valley of Fire.
Shutterstock/Sean PavoneGolf Weekend at Haig Point, Daufuskie Island, South Carolina
Haig Point is a private golf community located on South Carolina’s Daufuskie Island. With ocean views at every turn and the famous 20-hole Rees Jones Champion Course, this destination is ideal for golf enthusiasts. After a day on the course, head over to Freeport Marina, and enjoy a delicious dinner at The Old Daufuskie Crab Company Restaurant, a popular local staple where you can even shuck your own oysters. Best of all, the island houses a wide variety of vacation rental homes that are spacious enough for multiple guests and just steps from the beach.
Shutterstock/MaatmanGuys’ Ski Weekend in Vail, Colorado
When you’re planning a winter excursion, there’s nothing better than hitting the slopes in Vail. Located in the Rocky Mountains, Vail Ski Resort is the third-largest single-mountain ski resort in the United States, with three separate sections for various skill levels. Levels 1- 4 are ideal for newbie skiers and snowboarders, while levels 5 -7 feature slightly more challenging terrain and ungroomed runs. For the experts in your group, levels 8 and 9 offer the ultimate adventure. After your exciting snow day, recharge with a meal at one of the resort’s many five-star restaurants, then head to your mountainside vacation rental for a relaxing night with the guys.
Shutterstock/Kevin RuckExtreme Paintball Weekend in Castaic, California
If you’re in the mood for an adrenaline-packed weekend, gather the guys for a paintball adventure where the winner takes all. Castaic is a mecca for paintball, with Combat Paintball Park being a top choice for bachelor parties and mancations. Book a nearby vacation rental, and spend the weekend battling it out on any of the 10 paintball fields Combat has to offer. Take your game back to the Middle Ages on the Castle Field, or navigate a maze of irrigation tubing on the Irrigation Field while avoiding the enemy at all costs. After the winning team declares victory, the defeated can treat the group to a victory dinner at one of Castaic’s most beloved eateries – La Rocas Bar and Grill.
Shutterstock/Ansel BBeer Tasting in Torrance, California
If your guys’ group has a beer connoisseur or two, consider heading to the California coast for a weekend of beer tasting in Torrance. Located just 4 miles from Redondo Beach and home to 11 breweries and an abundance of vacation rentals, Torrance is a great option for a relaxed, fun-in-the-sun weekend. Spend some time at Smog City Brewery, where you can dine on local food truck cuisine while enjoying the latest IPA, then head over to The Dudes Brewing Company for a flight of craft beer before hitting the beach.
Shutterstock/Brent HofackerZiplining at Xplor Water Park, Cancun, Mexico
For an incredible outdoor adventure, head south of the border with the guys, and fly through the jungles of Playa del Carmen via zip line. Xplor Water Park is the most-visited water park in the world, offering multiple ziplines that span 2.4 miles, waterslides and all-fun inclusive accommodations. After a day of ziplining and sunshine, take the party downtown, and soak up some of Cancun’s exciting nightlife. Stop by the world-famous Senor Frogs for a signature frozen cocktail, then head to The City Nightclub and dance until dawn.
Shutterstock/Ammit JackWine Tasting in Napa Valley, California
Known for its wine tours and laid-back atmosphere, Napa Valley is a great getaway destination for a low-key, relaxed adventure. Travel through wine country in a safe and stylish chauffeured SUV, or take a walking wine tour through downtown Napa, where you’ll find over 90 wine-tasting rooms. In addition to its world-famous wine, Napa is home to multiple accessible golf courses and a plethora of delicious eateries along Washington Street. End your wine-tasting day with a musical nightcap at The Blue Note Napa, where you can listen to live jazz while dining on gourmet cuisine.
Shutterstock/FloridaStockWeekend on the Water, Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
For a fun weekend of fishing, boating and breathtaking views, head to Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. Book a spacious vacation home on Sunrise Beach or Pistol Point Loop that’s roomy enough for your entire group, and make sure to bring your fishing gear. Sunrise Boat Rental makes it easy to rent your own fishing boat for a full or half day, or you can schedule a fishing tour with a local guide. After a fun day on the water, head back to your lakefront rental, and grill up your catch of the day for a relaxing dinner with the guys.
Shutterstock/TommyBrisonWhitewater Rafting on the Salmon River, Idaho
Often referred to as a ‘Whitewater Rafting Paradise,’ the Salmon River in Idaho spans 49 miles, with beautiful scenery and twists and turns at every stretch. Idaho Adventures offers 3-day guided excursions that include camping, gear, meals and transportation. Glide through the first stretch and take in the scenic surroundings, then prepare yourselves for the next stretch, where you’ll navigate class II and III rapids. On the last stretch of the journey, you’ll experience the largest whitewater rapids on the entire river while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Shutterstock/Jim BlackDude Ranch Weekend in Montana
Horseback riding, outdoor cookouts and telling stories around a roaring campfire are great ways to bond with your best guy friends, and you can do it all at a Montana dude ranch. The Bar West Dude Ranch in Whitefish is open year-round, and it offers a variety of guest ranch vacation packages for every type of cowboy. Lodging accommodations include spacious rooms in a Western-style lodge, rustic cabins and glamping tents, and all packages include meals, horseback riding and exciting ranch activities.
Shutterstock/outdoorsmanThe Benefits of Guys’ Weekend Getaways
While the main objective of most guys’ weekend getaways is to simply have some good, old-fashioned fun, research has shown that taking a little time off to hang with the guys on an annual basis may also be beneficial to your overall well-being. Short, weekend excursions allow for a healthy disconnect from the obligations of everyday life, and connecting with others on a social level may actually help to balance out negative emotions and reduce stress levels.
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