trip ideas for 50th wedding anniversary

Get smartphone savvy the easy way — join our seven-day email challenge to receive helpful tips each day.

AARP daily Crossword Puzzle

Hotels with AARP discounts

Life Insurance

AARP Dental Insurance Plans

AARP MEMBERSHIP — $12 FOR YOUR FIRST YEAR WHEN YOU SIGN UP FOR AUTOMATIC RENEWAL

Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine.

• right_container

Work & Jobs

Social Security

AARP en Español

• Membership & Benefits
• AARP Rewards
• AARP Rewards %{points}%

Conditions & Treatments

Drugs & Supplements

Health Care & Coverage

Health Benefits

Staying Fit

Your Personalized Guide to Fitness

AARP Hearing Center

Ways To Improve Your Hearing

Brain Health Resources

Tools and Explainers on Brain Health

A Retreat For Those Struggling

Scams & Fraud

Personal Finance

Money Benefits

View and Report Scams in Your Area

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

Free Tax Preparation Assistance

AARP Money Map

Get Your Finances Back on Track

How to Protect What You Collect

Small Business

Age Discrimination

Flexible Work

Freelance Jobs You Can Do From Home

AARP Skills Builder

Online Courses to Boost Your Career

31 Great Ways to Boost Your Career

ON-DEMAND WEBINARS

Tips to Enhance Your Job Search

Get More out of Your Benefits

When to Start Taking Social Security

10 Top Social Security FAQs

Social Security Benefits Calculator

Medicare Made Easy

Original vs. Medicare Advantage

Enrollment Guide

Step-by-Step Tool for First-Timers

Prescription Drugs

9 Biggest Changes Under New Rx Law

Medicare FAQs

Quick Answers to Your Top Questions

Care at Home

Financial & Legal

Life Balance

LONG-TERM CARE

​Understanding Basics of LTC Insurance​

State Guides

Assistance and Services in Your Area

Prepare to Care Guides

How to Develop a Caregiving Plan

End of Life

How to Cope With Grief, Loss

Recently Played

Word & Trivia

Atari® & Retro

Members Only

Staying Sharp

Mobile Apps

More About Games

Right Again! Trivia

Right Again! Trivia – Sports

Atari® Video Games

Throwback Thursday Crossword

Travel Tips

Vacation Ideas

Destinations

Travel Benefits

Beach vacation ideas

Vacations for Sun and Fun

Plan Ahead for Tourist Taxes

AARP City Guide

Discover Seattle

25 Ways to Save on Your Vacation

Entertainment & Style

Family & Relationships

Personal Tech

Home & Living

Celebrities

Beauty & Style

TV for Grownups

Best Reality TV Shows for Grownups

Robert De Niro Reflects on His Life

Looking Back

50 World Changers Turning 50

Sex & Dating

Spice Up Your Love Life

Navigate All Kinds of Connections

Life & Home

Couple Creates Their Forever Home

Store Medical Records on Your Phone?

Maximize the Life of Your Phone Battery

Virtual Community Center

Join Free Tech Help Events

Create a Hygge Haven

Soups to Comfort Your Soul

Your Ultimate Guide to Mulching

Driver Safety

Maintenance & Safety

Trends & Technology

AARP Smart Guide

How to Keep Your Car Running

We Need To Talk

Assess Your Loved One's Driving Skills

AARP Smart Driver Course

Building Resilience in Difficult Times

Tips for Finding Your Calm

Weight Loss After 50 Challenge

Cautionary Tales of Today's Biggest Scams

7 Top Podcasts for Armchair Travelers

Jean Chatzky: ‘Closing the Savings Gap’

Quick Digest of Today's Top News

AARP Top Tips for Navigating Life

Get Moving With Our Workout Series

You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.

Go to Series Main Page

8 Destinations for Milestone Anniversary Trips 

Charming and romantic getaways to show your love .

Kitty Bean Yancey,

Congratulations! Marriage isn’t always a piece of cake, so significant anniversaries are worth celebrating with a getaway to fan the flames or rekindle the spark .

Here are eight destinations in the U.S. and abroad to consider for your 20-, 30-, 40- and 50-year anniversary, inspired by the traditional gifts of milestone years.

AARP Membership — $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal

True love is priceless, but the cost of a trip depends on when you go, which property you choose and how long you stay.

Plan now to fall in love again at one of these romantic spots around the world.

20th wedding anniversary trip ideas

Anniversary gift: china.

U.S. destination: Los Angeles

Travel to downtown L.A.’s Chinatown, home to pagoda-like temples and dim sum eateries where you can enjoy soup dumplings with your sweetie. Serenade each other under hanging red lanterns on karaoke night at the intimate Melody Lounge. Or enjoy a blissful foot reflexology session at one of Chinatown’s affordable day spas. Take a self-guided walking tour past the landmarks, herb shops and discount outlets that dot the alleyways and courtyards of this fascinating quarter. For a range of romantic accommodations, stay in Beverly Hills. Splurge on the legendary Beverly Hills Hotel (rates start around $1,100). Or consider the more affordable Mosaic Hotel near the shops of Rodeo Drive (rates start around $260) and the Beverly Hills Plaza Hotel (rates start at $260). To see and be seen, sip cocktails and dine at celeb haunts such as the terrace of The Ivy or the candlelit garden of The Little Door.

Abroad: Stoke-on-Trent, England

The self-titled World Capital of Ceramics is about a 40-minute drive south of Manchester Airport (MAN). Wedgwood, Halcyon Days and other renowned lines of china and other ceramics have been produced here since the 17th century. Tour the Wedgwood Factory and update your wedding china by hunting for deals at multiple factory stores. Steal a kiss on a bench amid the 725 cultivated acres at award-winning Trentham Gardens. You can also renew your vows there in a columned Italian-style loggia or by the lake. The Stoke area boasts a range of accommodations including The Tawny, a “deconstructed” hotel with tree houses, huts and other accommodations in the middle of the English countryside (rates start at $330). Also consider the Victorian-style Upper House (rates start at $130) and Manor House Hotel & Spa (starting at $154).

ARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT

30th wedding anniversary trip ideas

Anniversary: pearl .

U.S. destination: Honolulu 

Everywhere from historic sites to Honolulu shops, the pearl is a presence on the island of O‘ahu. Shop for the perfectly imperfect gemstone at fine jewelry stores including Honolulu Jewelry Company, Maui Divers Jewelry and Nā Hōkū. In the suburb of Pearl City, active couples can pack a picnic and hike the nearly 3-mile trail to Waimano Falls. Nearby, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a must-see site honoring those who lost their lives during the attack. For dinner with a view, toast to three decades with mai tais and hula dancing at The House Without a Key restaurant at the oceanfront Halekulani hotel. Reserve table 97 with postcard views of Diamond Head . It was favored by Ernest Hemingway, who honeymooned here with Martha Gellhorn. Stay at the historic Pink Palace of the Pacific, The Royal Hawaiian resort (rates start at $486), or at the waterfront Kaimana Beach Hotel (rates start at $207). Take a surf class, snorkel or simply soak up the rays. 

Holland America Line

Up to $200 onboard credit on select cruises

Abroad: French Polynesia

If your love is into rare pearls, score coveted Tahitian cultured beauties after your plane touches down in Papeete on the main island of Tahiti. Serious shoppers can get a bead on how pearls are classed and cultivated — and see some impressively large ones — at the Robert WAN Pearl Museum. French Polynesia is a tropical playground . From Papeete, take a ferry to the island of Moorea to stay in one of many overwater bungalows with thatched roofs. Book one with tiles of clear glass on the floor to view sea life at the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort (rates start around $1,000 for an overwater bungalow). Also consider the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa (rates start at $555) and Manava Beach Resort & Spa (rates start at $490). Couples on Moorea can experience an intimate motu, or small islet on a coral reef. Picnic where you’re seated at a low table with your toes in shallow crystalline waters while enjoying fresh fish with coconut milk and tropical fruit.

40th wedding anniversary trip ideas

Anniversary gift: ruby.

U.S. destination: Sedona, Arizona

The resplendent red rock formations are said to promote rejuvenation and healing via invisible vortexes that emanate healthy energy. Sedona also appeals to hikers and ATV aficionados as well as people who love scenic drives . Visit Red Rock State Park for easy hiking trails and book a couples massage at one of the spas around town. Fall asleep in a luxe room, suite or cottage/villa at L’Auberge de Sedona (rates start at $500) or Enchantment Resort (rates start at $450). RV parks and bed-and-breakfast accommodations abound. Alma de Sedona Inn offers rooms with private balconies and views of the ruby-red landscape (rates start at $250.) The menu varies, but breakfast lovers may enjoy homemade muffins and lemon ricotta pancakes during a stay here.

Abroad: Bangkok, Thailand

People who are passionate about fine gems can bond over beautiful jewels in Bangkok. Thailand was once known for mining rubies, but ruby cutting by skilled artisans is the draw here today. Order custom pieces from reputable outlets including the many shops in the Jewelry Trade Center and S.J. International. Craving Thai cuisine? Try a food tour or night market tasting outing in a tuk-tuk motorized rickshaw. Around every corner in markets and alleyways, you’ll find fiery curries, tangy pad thai, sticky mango rice and scrumptious chicken satays. Dine on contemporary Thai cuisine at Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin. Away from the bustle, see the 151-foot-long reclining Buddha statue at Wat Pho, where you can book a traditional Thai couples massage. Find romantic five-star lodging under $250 at the Shangri-La and Banyan Tree Bangkok.

50th wedding anniversary trip ideas

Anniversary gift: gold.

U.S. destination: The Rocky Mountaineer train

Celebrate a half century of togetherness lounging side-by-side in cushy seats on the luxury Rocky Mountaineer train (rates start at $1,699 a person for two days, including lodging for one night), called the gold standard for train travel. Riding the rails from Moab, Utah, to Denver , you’ll go where cars can’t travel, streaming past canyons, whimsical rock formations called hoodoos and whitewater rafters on the Colorado River. Onboard hosts offer entertaining commentary about Western history (you’ll pass one of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid’s hideouts) and serve chef-prepared breakfast and lunch accompanied by wine, beer or cocktails. Upgrade to SilverLeaf Plus service for access to a glass-roofed viewing car. The trip includes an overnight stop in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, where you can soak in soothing hot springs and have the option to stay in the historic Hotel Colorado, where Theodore Roosevelt once laid his head. Another option: Uncommon Tours’ Great Western Holiday is an eight-day outing from Denver to Santa Fe featuring vintage Pullman sleeping cars, some overnights at hotels and a stay in Santa Fe (rates start at $3,995 per person for seven nights).

Abroad: Transatlantic crossing on the Queen Mary 2

You deserve pampering on your 50th, so a cruise vacation that involves unpacking once and never having to arrange meals or activities is a well-deserved reward. Expand your horizons with the gold-standard transatlantic crossing from New York to Southampton, England, aboard the Cunard line’s storied Queen Mary 2 . That means afternoon tea, white-glove service, formal evenings and dancing cheek to cheek (rates start at $639 per person for eight nights). Music lovers can opt for an Oct. 4 cruise to England, with stops in Boston and Newport, that includes onboard performances by the National Symphony Orchestra, starting at $1,639 a person. The ship offers accessible staterooms and restaurants. For the ultimate experience, select Princess Grill or Queens Grill Suites (rates start around $3,809 per person for the Princess Grill), with private balconies and special dining rooms. Take a windblown selfie near the bow, and you’ll feel like king and queen of the world. Also consider an Atlantic passage or other itineraries on the all-inclusive Seabourn and Silversea cruise lines.

Kitty Bean Yancey is an award-winning former  USA Today  deputy managing editor and travel writer.

Most Popular

Discover AARP Members Only Access

Already a Member? Login

MORE FROM AARP

25 Great Ways to Save on Your Next Vacation

Travel industry pros share tips to help you keep costs down, without skimping on fun

What Are the Greatest Love Stories of All Time?

9 librarians, booksellers and authors dish on their picks for the most romantic novels ever published

6 New Adults-Only Resorts

Plan a grown-up getaway at one of these relaxing properties 

Or Call: 1-800-675-4318

Enter a valid from location

Enter a valid to location

Enter a valid departing date

Enter a valid returning date

Age of children:

Child under 2 must either sit in laps or in seats:

+ Add Another Flight

Enter a valid destination location

Enter a valid checking in date

Enter a valid checking out date

Occupants of Room

Occupants of Room 1:

Occupants of Room 2:

Occupants of Room 3:

Occupants of Room 4:

Occupants of Room 5:

Occupants of Room 6:

Occupants of Room 7:

Occupants of Room 8:

Enter a valid date

You didn't specify child's age

There are children in room 1 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age for room 1

There are children in room 2 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 2

There are children in room 3 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 3

There are children in room 4 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 4

There are children in room 5 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 5

You have more than 6 people total

Please select a trip duration less than 28 days

There must be at least 1 traveler (age 12+) for each infant in a lap

Enter a valid From location

Enter a valid start date

Enter a valid drop location

Enter a valid drop off date

Select a valid to location

Select a month

Enter a valid going to location

Enter a valid from date

Enter a valid to date

AARP Value & Member Benefits

Hurtigruten Expeditions

5% off cruise fares and a €100 per person onboard credit

AARP Vacation Ideas

Ideas for every type of trip – from cruises to road trips

AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia: Car Rentals

Up to 30% off select car rentals

AARP® Staying Sharp®

Activities, recipes, challenges and more with full access to AARP Staying Sharp®

SAVE MONEY WITH THESE LIMITED-TIME OFFERS

10 wedding anniversary trips for whatever milestone you're celebrating

Feb 15, 2022 • 6 min read

Mark your special milestone with one of these anniversary trips in 2022 © Inti St Clair / Getty

Whether you’re celebrating 12 months of marital bliss or your 50th anniversary, marking the milestones as you continue your journey through life together is an annual excuse to make even more memories.

So forget presents. For travel lovers, true romance means hitting the road. Swap cufflinks for cultural connections and flowers for far-flung adventures with these wedding anniversary trip ideas inspired by traditional gifts. 

1 or 2 year(s) – paper: Dublin

You’re a year or two (depending which side of the Atlantic you live on) into the new chapter of your lives and so far, so good. The perk: you’ve made it to the grand customary gift status that is ‘paper’. But instead of an embossed journal or letter-writing set, why not treat yourselves to an experience that’s really worth writing home about?

Head to Dublin : This Unesco City of Literature is home to effortlessly romantic bookshops like the Winding Stair and Ulysses Rare Books , not to mention the beautiful Trinity College Library .

Alternative option: Go to Japan for shōji , rice-paper rolls and origami.

How to find ‘real’ traditional Irish music⁠ in Dublin

3 years – leather

Cowboy carousing might not be the most romantic anniversary activity but hey – this ain’t your first rodeo. Mix things up for your third anniversary and lasso your loved one on a trip to Texas . Grab your hat, leather boots and bullwhip (oo-er) and get down and dusty on a bonafide dude ranch.

Although a real working ranch, Dixie Dude Ranch in cowboy capital Bandera offers chilled-out horse rides and massage therapy – and if that still sounds like thirsty work, Hill Country’s wineries will oblige.

Alternative option: Shop for leather slippers and bags in Marrakesh or sniff out Instagrammable tanneries in Fez, Morocco .

The best US dude ranches to live like a cowboy

4 years – fruit: Sicily

Four years and things haven’t gone sour – time to reward yourselves! Put your zest foot forward on a trip to Sicily , where lemons and blood oranges grow like weeds thanks to the island’s volcanic soil and abundant sunshine. On long summer days, linger over limoncello, citrusy salads and lip-puckering granita.

Hide away in an agriturismo (farm stay) to walk among citrus and olive groves, enjoy home-cooked meals and practice charming your hosts – and each other, of course – in la dolce lingua .

Alternative option: Wine counts as one of your five-a-day... right? Keep telling yourself that as you sip a tipple while touring the vineyards of South Australia .

Sicily's most beautiful national parks and reserves

5 years – wood: New Zealand

By this point in your lives, you’ve most likely laid roots. You may even be adding to your family tree. Admire whakairo – the Maori artform of carving wood, jade and bone – in New Zealand , where getting back to nature couldn’t be easier, even if there are toddlers in tow.

Geothermal Rotorua makes an ideal – if a little whiffy – base; after a day wandering around Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest or visiting Whakarewarewa Village (complete with carved wooden buildings), chill out with a soak in the area’s natural hot springs.

Alternative option: Pursue your own fairy-tale romance in Germany’s Black Forest .

6 jaw-dropping places to stay in New Zealand

7 years – wool: Peru

Feeling the seven-year itch? Not if you switch your sheep’s wool for the llama or alpaca variety. Stock up on some silky-smooth textiles in Peru – colourful socks, bobble hats and ponchos are the standard – and snuggle up with your other half as you admire the Andean landscape.

Opt for an Inca Trail tour that stops at a weaving co-op, where you can learn about traditional weaving and dyeing techniques and pick up some souvenirs to keep you warm on the trail.

Alternative option: Track the world’s finest cashmere to its source in Mongolia .

Experience the best of Peru with these 8 iconic hikes

10 years – tin: the Caribbean

You may have subsisted on canned soups and tinfoil-wrapped sandwiches while saving for your wedding day, but now that you’re a whole decade in, you deserve a little indulgence.

Make like Tintin (see what we did there?) and take to the seas on a Caribbean cruise or sailing trip, exploring the likes of St Lucia , Jamaica and Cuba .

Alternative option: Tintin also travelled to Tibet – although hopefully you won’t encounter any yetis on your Himalayan trek .

The best Caribbean islands: a quick, easy guide to finding your paradise

15 years – crystal: Reims, France

A pair of matching crystal flutes makes for a nice anniversary gift – but why not swing by the home of Champagne itself? The French region is crammed with opportunities to get sozzled on the sparkly stuff.

Reims is the ideal base for a boozy tour of all the big-name producers: Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot and Dom Pérignon to name but a few. But if we’re sticking with the theme, perhaps the budget can stretch to a bottle of Cristal?

Alternative option: Swarovski fans will be all starry-eyed at Crystal Worlds in Wattens, Austria .

France’s 10 most stunning road trips

20 years – china: China

Twenty years of matrimony is a quite a feat – and if it’s taken a few plate-smashing, vase-crunching screaming matches to get you here, who’s to judge? All is forgotten once you’re making up over steaming mugs of tea...

Journey to the home of porcelain (and your favourite loose leaf), China , for a cracking anniversary trip. Sip the hot stuff in Chengdu , before nipping to Jingdezhen for ceramic workshops and pottery purchases.

Alternative option: Clink china teacups during afternoon tea at the Ritz , London , the only UK hotel to have a certified tea sommelier.

The definitive guide to China’s national parks

25 years – silver: Uganda

Chances are by this point, both you and your beau are sporting at least a few grey hairs – but it’s best not to tease Uganda’s silverbacks the way you do your partner… That’s right – why settle for a silver charm or tie clip when you can witness our wild and distant relatives in the cloud-shrouded forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park ?

The thrill of glimpsing the alpha male or a mother and her babies is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s even better when shared with a loved one. If reaching middle age together means adventures like this, who needs youth?

Alternative option: Pack your glad rags and hit the strip in Nevada’s so-called Silver City, Las Vegas .

Uganda’s incredible mountain gorillas are having a baby boom

30 years – pearl: Fiji and French Polynesia

30 years in and the world’s still your oyster – so splash out on a South Pacific getaway, where turquoise waters and swaying palms make the perfect setting to reflect on your many happy years together.

Learn about pearls on a Fiji farm tour; hunt for a bargain at French Polynesia’s pearl markets – or simply soak up the iridescent sunsets from a hammock at Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort . Wedded bliss doesn’t get better than this.

Alternative option: Channel pearl-strewn Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s with some window shopping on NYC ’s Fifth Avenue.

The A-to-Z of Fiji: 26 reasons to visit the island paradise

The adventure continues…

Still going strong after all these years? Make even more precious memories with these trip ideas:

40 years, ruby: Jordan or Arizona Jordan for Mars-like deserts or the Grand Canyon for copper-red vistas.

50 years, gold: Australia or Canada Australia’s Gold Coast or the Yukon for Canadian Gold Rush history .

60 years, diamond: Hawaii or South Africa Honolulu for views of Diamond Head, or Cape Town’s Diamond Museum .

You might also like:  Where to play, stay and dine on romantic city getaways 31 unusual love and marriage customs from around the world Classic romantic trips with an adventurous twist

This article was first published December 2017 and updated February 2022

Explore related stories

Jan 15, 2024 • 7 min read

They've got fame. Their weddings cost a fortune. But you'll fall in love with the destinations they've picked to tie the knot.

Jan 10, 2024 • 7 min read

Sep 8, 2023 • 8 min read

Jun 21, 2023 • 9 min read

Feb 9, 2023 • 7 min read

May 17, 2022 • 4 min read

Feb 24, 2022 • 6 min read

Jul 13, 2021 • 5 min read

Feb 12, 2021 • 4 min read

Aug 20, 2020 • 6 min read

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

20 Romantic Anniversary Trip Ideas

Celebrate your love with one of these getaways, designed for every type of couple.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Thomas Winz / Getty Images

Whether you're commemorating a year of marriage with a first-time trip to Amsterdam or reliving your Maldivian honeymoon after 25 years, an anniversary trip is an ideal way to spend quality time with your partner in a beautiful destination. Not to mention, a romantic getaway can infuse any marriage with some much-needed excitement and surprise.

Special anniversary trip ideas abound at any time of the year. Celebrating a winter anniversary? Consider hitting the slopes in Colorado or the hot springs of Iceland under an aurora-lit sky. Nothing beats an Italian summer filled with spritzes and Mediterranean waters. More adventurous couples might opt for an African safari or a hot-air balloon ride over the Arizona desert, while a 45-year anniversary may call for a leisurely train ride through California wine country. Or, maybe you just want to relax in your own private jacuzzi in a nice hotel room in a city you’ve never been to.

The destination will help determine the itinerary for your anniversary, so we’ve compiled a list of places to consider for any type of couple, milestone, or mood. From daring expeditions to intimate one-on-one moments, these trips prove an anniversary is the perfect excuse to discover a new part of the world — and the next phase of your relationship.

Here are 20 of our favorite anniversary trip ideas for your next romantic getaway.

The French Riviera

Armando Oliveira / Getty Images

Jetting off to the south of France to lounge on the beach, stroll through quaint villages, and shop at high-end designer stores is certainly one glamorous way to celebrate your anniversary. Whether you spend your days wandering Nice's picturesque Old Town, exploring the hilly medieval village of Èze, or visiting the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo in Monaco, you're bound to have a postcard-perfect anniversary trip. The French Riviera is known for its luxury hotels, and we recommend staying at properties like the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc on Cap d’Antibes or the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel on the Côte d’Azur.

Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Roberto A Sanchez / Getty Images

If an active vacation is more your speed, head to Colorado for some world-class skiing. The Steamboat Springs ski resort area offers the best of both worlds with prime powder and relaxing hot springs so you can go from skiing to soaking and back again. The Steamboat Grand has on-site restaurants, a hot tub, and a spa for even more pampering. After a day on the slopes, opt for a romantic massage or an intimate après-ski hangout.

Michela Sieman / Travel + Leisure

Sure, massive European capitals like London and Paris are worthy of a romantic vacation, but something about Amsterdam's charming canals and cozy hotels makes it an ideal anniversary getaway. Tour the famous Van Gogh Museum and opt for a stay with Pulitzer Amsterdam to spend the night in one of 25 beautifully renovated canal homes. Consider booking your trip during tulip season (between March and May) to see the iconic flowers in bloom.

Los Cabos, Mexico

Suzi Eszterhas / Minden Pictures / Getty Images

Fly south to Mexico's stunning beaches for a relaxing stay at a luxury resort. Head to Los Cabos, where there are plenty of incredible properties to choose from. Book an all-inclusive stay at Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos for the ultimate stress-free vacation. After paying one flat rate, you won't have to worry about taking your wallet wherever you go, so you can spend all that time unwinding with your partner.

Napa and Sonoma Valleys, California

Billy Hustace / Getty Images

California wine country has everything you need for a romantic trip, including rolling hills covered in vineyards, quaint luxury hotels, fantastic restaurants, and, of course, plenty of great wine. The North Block Hotel in Yountville, Auberge du Soleil in Napa Valley , and Farmhouse Inn in Sonoma wine country are all great places to stay in the region. If you want to explore wine country in a fun, old-school way, book a ride on the elegant Napa Valley Wine Train , which offers various tasting and dining options.

Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Cameron Spencer / Getty Images

Crossing an African safari off your list is a truly unforgettable way to celebrate another year together. You can’t go wrong in Kenya, where Angama Mara will give you the full luxury safari camp treatment overlooking the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Keep an eye out for the Big Five — lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and African buffaloes — on your wildlife-spotting adventure.

Bavaria, Germany

Treat your partner like royalty with a trip to southwestern Germany. When you're not touring famous castles like Neuschwanstein in Bavaria, you can check out your very own queen's quarters — several historic castles have been converted into hotels or Airbnbs . Extend your trip with visits to fairy-tale villages like Rothenburg or Regensburg, or large, vibrant cities like Augsburg and Munich. If time allows, indulge in a relaxing soak or wellness treatment in the spa town of Baden-Baden, located next door in the German state of Baden-Württemberg.

Maui, Hawaii

Taylor McIntyre / Travel + Leisure

For the couple who wants to do a little bit of everything on vacation, Hawaii offers a mix of indulgent relaxation and active adventures. The island of Maui has beautiful beaches where you can enjoy the sand and surf, as well as hiking opportunities in the volcanic Haleakalā National Park . There are plenty of incredible hotels to choose from for your home base, including Hotel Wailea , a luxurious adults-only Relais & Chateaux property, or the Montage Kapalua Bay in West Maui.

Suttipong Sutiratanachai / Getty Images

Every second of your trip is bound to be special in the land of hot springs , glacial lagoons, and active volcanoes. With natural landscapes that include the Blue Lagoon and black-sand beaches, Iceland is mythic. Its otherworldly quality is heightened by dark skies and the chance to see the northern lights — something every couple should do together at least once. Check in to the Hotel Rangá for an aurora wake-up call during peak activity before heading out to the on-site observatory (or the outdoor hot tubs , if that’s more your style).

The Maldives

Celebrate your anniversary among the seclusion and romance of the Maldives. Less than a quarter of the nation’s 1,190 islands (comprising 26 atolls) are inhabited, so you’ll feel like you’ve landed on your own private island as you and your partner lounge in a classic overwater bungalow surrounded by colorful coral reefs and some of the bluest water on earth . You could also just rent a private island . With a multitude of all-inclusive offerings and luxury spots like the Komandoo Maldives Island Resort & Spa or the Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort , this Indian Ocean getaway really is a couples' paradise.

Key Largo and Key West, Florida

Courtesy of Bungalows Key Largo

For a beach vacation a bit closer to the mainland (and easily accessible for East Coasters), head to the Florida Keys. Take a road trip down the Overseas Highway , connecting Miami to Key West, and stop for fresh seafood, great snorkeling, Key lime pie, and stunning views along the way. Bungalows Key Largo is an adults-only, all-inclusive option, while the Oceans Edge Resort & Marina offers ocean views in a serene setting about five miles from downtown Key West.

Sedona, Arizona

Getty Images / Robert Loe

Spend your anniversary among the famous red rocks, world-class spas, and mystical vortexes (energy hot spots for prime healing and meditation) of Sedona. Striated canyons and flowering cacti create the backdrop for this spiritual capital. The property at L'Auberge de Sedona includes luxury accommodations like spa cottages, which have a fireplace, a jetted tub, and an outdoor cedar shower on the large, private terrace just steps away from the resort’s spa. Couples can indulge in sound healing, stargazing, and hot-air balloon rides over the Arizona desert for an anniversary to remember.

New York City

There’s no shortage of special experiences to be had in New York City, whatever your style or budget. Perhaps you’d like to spend the day roaming the halls of The Metropolitan Museum of Art before catching a Broadway show. Maybe you’re a luxury-loving couple who prefers to window shop along Fifth Avenue before eating the best meal of your life at Eleven Madison Park . Or you might check into a suite at The Lowell , one of the best hotels in New York City , and just… never leave until your return flight home (no shame!). The Big Apple has a wide selection of gorgeous accommodations — from trendy boutique properties downtown and in Brooklyn to historic hotels on the Upper East Side — so you won’t have any trouble finding an exceptional home base for your trip.

Charleston, South Carolina

The South has plenty of small towns and historic cities that are ideal for a romantic getaway, but Charleston’s charming streets, decadent dining, and Southern hospitality put this Lowcountry locale above and beyond for an anniversary trip. Some of the best things to do in Charleston include strolling arm-in-arm along King Street, ordering a round of biscuits and fried green tomatoes at a table for two, and bonding on the links at one of South Carolina's renowned golf courses . As for accommodations, The Loutrel provides boutique charm, a rooftop terrace, and beautifully appointed rooms and suites for your stay in the Holy City. 

Santorini, Greece

Monica Farber / Travel + Leisure

Whitewashed towns, some of the best beaches in Greece , and deep-blue calderas all help Greece remain a favorite among honeymooners and other amorous travelers. The biggest decision to make when planning a Greek sojourn is which island (or islands) to put on your itinerary. Greece has six main archipelagos with one popular standout among tourists: the Cyclades, where you'll find Santorini. We recommend checking in to the Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection , and exploring the island's terraces and windmills for quality couple time.

The Seychelles

Finn Hafemann / Getty Images

Pink sand, secluded spots, and glittering waters converge in this remote part of the world. An African archipelago in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Africa and a selection of isolated luxury resorts, making it a premier romantic location. The islands are resplendent in polished granite cliffs, aromatic spice plantations, and Creole food. The Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island is the perfect private island escape for any couple looking to get away from it all and unwind with stargazing sessions for two, tranquil walks along untouched beaches, and dips in the pool outside your own villa.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Look beyond the misty ruins of Machu Picchu and embrace Peru’s cosmopolitan side. In Lima, the country’s capital city, you and your partner can dine on ceviche and sip pisco sours — when you're not dancing at discos and touring Baroque catacombs, that is. Make the charming Miraflores neighborhood your home base at Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel , for stylish accommodations, scenic breakfasts at The Observatory restaurant on the 11th floor, and private dips in your personal plunge pool off the presidential pool suite. Stroll hand-in-hand along El Malecón, the six-mile clifftop boardwalk that borders the Pacific, before making your way to the bohemian Barranco neighborhood for street art and Peruvian chocolate .

Tokyo, Hakone, or Kyoto, Japan

yongyuan / Getty Images

Whether it’s spring strolls through cherry blossom showers in Kyoto, slurping your way through ramen shops in Tokyo, or dipping into the onsens (hot springs) of Hakone, Japan is one of the best places to vacation as a couple. You and your partner will stay busy in Tokyo exploring ancient temples, navigating the hustle and bustle of the famed city streets, and indulging in world-class fare, from Michelin-starred sushi to squid-ink sticky buns at Tsukiji Market . If your anniversary falls in the winter months, consider a cold-weather trip to Kyoto , where you can find lodging at one of the city’s many resorts or hotels.  

The Amalfi Coast, Lake Como, or Venice, Italy

Getty Images

Channel Gwyneth Paltrow and Jude Law in "The Talented Mr. Ripley" (before all the murder, of course) with a romantic Italian holiday. Get your fill of oysters and Mediterranean views at Le Sirenuse in Positano on the Amalfi Coast, impeccably manicured gardens at Grand Hotel Tremezzo in Lake Como, or yacht-spotting along the Italian Riviera. When (or, rather, if ) you tire of the beach, take a train to Venice for culture, art, and gondola rides. Sip Bellinis with the jet set by the Olympic pool at Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel , where you’ll soak in your marble bathroom after a day of boat rides around the lagoon and tours of Piazza San Marco. 

European River Cruise

Tu xa Ha Noi / Getty Images

For some travelers, river cruises combine all the excitement that comes with visiting multiple destinations in one trip with the convenience of only having to unpack once. Explore Europe's medieval villages, historic metropolises, and romantic wine regions on a tour of the Danube, Rhine, or Douro river.

Bucket List Adventures for your 50th Wedding Anniversary!

This entry is from our Expert Guest series where wedding and honeymoon professionals share their best tips on creating memories that last a lifetime.

If you’ve been married for 50 years, then I salute you. Five decades of marriage to your husband or wife is a significant accomplishment that deserves recognition. From your family, your friends, and especially each other. Nothing shows your appreciation to your hubby or wife better than surprising them with a special anniversary gift that’s out of this world.

But what do you give the love of your life who has stood by your side through thick and thin? Another piece of jewelry? An excellent bottle of wine?

No. You give your spouse the priceless gift of travel and adventure. How about a destination you’ve always wanted to visit or an activity you’ve both been dreaming of doing?

Choose from one of these ideas for exciting bucket list adventures for the anniversary gift of a lifetime.

Great Ideas For 50th Anniversary Trips

Trekking the ‘lost city of the incas’ at machu picchu.

This one’s for the fit married couple!

A once-in-a-lifetime, truly unforgettable experience, Machu Picchu offers a world of discovery and breathtaking views. The Incan citadel is set high in the Andes Mountains in Peru and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 2007 it was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and continued to attract thousands of intrepid travelers every year.

If you’re a pair of avid hikers, then this is the perfect way to celebrate your 50th wedding anniversary. While it is one of the all-time greatest treks to one of the world’s great wonders, be warned – Machu Picchu is ridden with grueling climbs at high altitude, which reduces many visitors to cramps and nausea.

But don’t let this stop you!

Nowadays there are private tailor-made tours for seniors. From the Inca Trail to the Salkantay, Lares, and Vilcabamba, there are various hikes for varying levels of fitness. Witnessing the sunset on top of hilltop ruins of the ‘Lost City of the Incas’ with your spouse promises to be a romantic moment you won’t forget.

Sleep Under the Stars in NamibRand, Namibia

If you have a passion for stargazing and mind-blowing celestial views, then this lesser-known secret is the bucket list adventure for you.

Situated in a desert in Southwestern Namibia, NamibRand Nature Reserve is one of only 11 gold-certified Dark Sky Reserves in the world. What does that mean? It means that it is one of the least light-polluted areas in the world, making it the perfect spot for a romantic stargazing safari vacation.

The 170,000-hectare private reserve is also home to epic landscapes of massive apricot dunes and grassy plains peppered with mysterious fairy circles. Yes, fairy circles. Along the edge of the Namib Desert, there are thousands of small circles dotted around on the ground, in which nothing grows. Scientists have their theories, but no one knows for sure why they’re there.

Yet another reason to add this to your 50th wedding anniversary bucket list (as if you needed one) is the firm limit on the number of tourists in the nature reserve. Strict rules state that the total number of guest beds in the sanctuary is restricted to one bed per 1000 hectares, with a limit of only 20 beds in any one spot. You can much guarantee you won’t be bumping into hordes of tourists.

World class star gazing, mysterious natural phenomenon, and some serious privacy. Now that’s what I call an adventure.

Experience the Edinburgh Fringe Festival

Visiting the beautiful city of Edinburgh is a must-do bucket list for all couples who love travel. Visiting this historic city during Festival Fringe? Now that’s a bucket list adventure for a special occasion!

The three-week spectacular event turns the Scottish capital into the single most significant celebration of arts and culture on the planet, featuring more than 55 000 performances. From world-class theatre to great music, to hilarious comedy, the 25-day festival is the world’s largest platform for creative freedom. And that’s not something to be missed.

So get your tartan on, grab a whiskey, and let the infectious pride of Scotland take over!

Witness the Beauty of the Northern Lights

The thrill of viewing the magic of the Northern Lights is on every good bucket list out there. And for a good reason.

Nature’s most spectacular light show, the Aurora Borealis is visible on roughly 200 nights a year in the icy Finnish Lapland. Experience the adventure of a lifetime, cuddling up among the crisp winter air. Gaze up at the night sky to witness flickering curtains of green, red yellow and blue colors dancing on the night sky; one of nature’s most spectacular phenomenons.

While you’re there, there is plenty of other exciting bucket list type of activities to be had. Why not get the blood pumping with some cross-country skiing or a ride on a traditional dog sled. After fifty years of marriage, you deserve all the fun-filled adventure in the world!

Travel on the Orient Express

All aboard for the experience of a lifetime!

If braving the great outdoors isn’t your idea of how to celebrate 50 years of wedded bliss, then don’t you worry – I’ve got the perfect extravagant adventure for you.

Though the Golden Age of luxurious railway travel is mostly a thing of the past, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a gleaming gem that has brought it back to life. An icon of art deco design, glamour, and not to mention murder and mystery, the luxury train promises to take you not just across Europe but to transport you back in time.

Take your pick of journeys between some of the most romantic cities in the world – Paris, London, Venice, and Verona. Celebrate your 50th wedding anniversary in style, sipping on champagne and dining on exceptional cuisine as the resident pianist fills the air with sweet melodies.

This sophisticated bucket list adventure might set you back a few pennies, but it’s perfect for your golden anniversary. It’s an experience that gives you things money cannot buy:

Adventure! Intrigue! And forever memories.

Financing a honeymoon or a dream anniversary trip? Set up a Honeyfund honeymoon registry.

Bio: Committed to “providing experiences, not stuff, “ Truly believes that experiences bring more happiness than material possessions. The company curates trips for adventurous people who have the same philosophy. Truly passionately scours the globe to bring you premium, authentic opportunities that go beyond ordinary.

Join our e-mail list

Recommended Posts

© 2005-2024 Honeyfund.com, Inc. All rights reserved. Use of Honeyfund constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Use & Privacy Policy .

• I’m Getting Married
• How It All Works
• Starting Registries
• More Than Honeymoons
• Look Who’s Talking
• Honeyfund Blog
• Honeyfund Resort Directory

Join our e-mail list and we’ll send you a FREE 1-Page Wedding Plan for any budget. It’s the simplest way to make sure your entire wedding and honeymoon are paid for, AND you have money in the bank after the wedding.

Protect Your Trip »

Best romantic getaways in the u.s. for 2024.

Sometimes it's necessary to take a break from the stresses of real life and spend quality time with the person you love. And what better way to do that than to travel? To help you and your sweetheart plan the ideal romantic retreat, whether it's for an anniversary or just because, U.S. News considered ambiance, privacy and access to couple-friendly activities to rank the best romantic getaways in the USA. Use this list to pick your next one-on-one vacation, and vote for your favorite locales below. Looking to stay even closer to home? Check out these romantic weekend getaways by state .

Kaua'i

Napa valley, charleston, sc, big sky, mt, amelia island, adirondacks, martha's vineyard, jackson hole.

Kaua'i offers many distinct ways for both thrill-seeking and sun-worshipping couples to up the romance factor. You and your sweetheart can lounge on secluded beaches , relax in a private luxury villa or go on a kayaking adventure along the picture-perfect Napali Coast. For even more opportunities to marvel at nature, check out Kaua'i's scenic state parks like Koke'e and Waimea Canyon. Once you've tackled the Hawaiian island's trails hand in hand, consider booking a private helicopter tour for a bird's-eye view you and your better half will never forget.

Few things are more romantic than sharing a remote island with your beau. Lanai's exclusivity can make it feel like the two of you are alone with the Hawaiian island breeze. Head to a luxury hotel or resort to indulge in high-end cuisine and soak up some sun by the pool before exploring the tiny island's landscape side by side. For a memorable hike that requires little effort, follow the short trail from the Four Seasons Resort Lanai to the Pu'upehe overlook. Also known as "Sweetheart Rock," this landmark offers stunning views of Hulopo'e Bay, especially at sunset.

Brimming with rolling vineyards , cozy wine caverns, chic restaurants and top-notch hotels, this wine lover's paradise 60 miles north of San Francisco is the ultimate romantic getaway. Wine enthusiasts can sip Napa's award-winning reds at intimate venues like O'Brien Estate and Jarvis Estate or while savoring gourmet cuisine on the Napa Valley Wine Train. When couples need a break from being wined and dined, they can explore the scenic Napa River via kayak, take to the skies on a hot air balloon ride, or visit the town of Calistoga in northern Napa Valley for its spas and hot springs.

Another ideal retreat for wine connoisseurs , Sonoma is known to be more laid back than its neighbor, Napa, and boasts more than 425 wineries. However, strolling through vineyard vines isn't the only must-do activity for twosomes. Outdoor lovers will want to explore regional parks such as Taylor Mountain (for its trails) and North Sonoma Mountain (to enjoy a picnic surrounded by the peaks of Santa Rosa and the Sonoma Valley). Plenty of Sonoma's hotels offer spa treatments, but what could be more memorable than a massage in a 22-foot wine barrel? Book side-by-side treatments at Magical Massage for a one-of-a-kind experience.

A low-key getaway, Charleston, South Carolina, is filled with pastel-hued historic homes, art galleries and tasty Lowcountry cuisine (perfect for foodie couples). To dial up the romance, take in the sights from a horse-drawn carriage or sign up for a sunset harbor cruise just for two. For a quiet shoreside escape free from crowds, head to one of the nearby beaches like Sullivan's Island. Accommodations range from beachfront resorts to charming bed-and-breakfasts but keep in mind you'll likely have to pay a pretty penny for a stay in the historic district.

It's easy to proclaim your love when you're suspended atop red rocks and looking out upon miles of colorful Arizona landscape. After working up a sweat hiking Sedona's sandstone buttes, bring those romantic vibes indoors for a couples massage at one of the city's world-renowned wellness retreats . Or, if you and your amour prefer relaxing with a glass of vino, save time for a self-guided tour of the Verde Valley Wine Trail, which boasts 15 venues ranging from small tasting rooms to vast wineries sprawling along the banks of Oak Creek. At night, hold your loved one close and gaze at the star-filled sky.

Travel to Big Sur for its windswept coastline and rugged mystique. This peaceful destination carved out of the California coast offers a couple of luxurious hotels, but nature is the real star in Big Sur. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the area's redwood-lined trails and admire picturesque Pfeiffer Beach before setting up a tent and roughing it beneath the stars. For an atmospheric picnic, head to Sand Dollar Beach, where couples can admire the scenery sans the crowds. For a more upscale outing, take a day trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea for its art galleries and fairy tale cottages.

Let Big Sky's vast terrain, fresh air and rustic romance carry you and your loved one away from the ins and outs of everyday life. Every winter, couples flock to this Montana destination for its top-notch ski resort (complete with a heated chairlift), though the offseason has its charms, too (think: fly fishing on scenic rivers, hiking under an endless blue sky or taking a road trip to Yellowstone National Park.) For a curated Montana experience, spring for an all-inclusive ranch, where you'll find private cabins, homegrown cuisine and personalized service.

What could be more romantic than a sunrise beachfront horseback ride for two? Or a private sunset cruise aboard a 40-foot catamaran? You and your love can experience this and more on Amelia Island, one of Florida's Atlantic coast barrier islands. Hop on bikes and explore the scenic Amelia Island Trail, or pedal to downtown Fernandina Beach for its Victorian-style architecture, antique shops and galleries. After a day spent sightseeing, pamper weary muscles with a couples massage at one of the luxury resorts that call the island home.

This tiny Massachusetts island exudes New England charm. Stroll arm in arm with your sweetheart down cobblestone streets, unwind on white sand beaches and snap selfies in front of iconic lighthouses, such as Brant Point Lighthouse and Great Point Lighthouse. Then, grab a lobster roll to share from one of the island's premier seafood restaurants, and revel in the extraordinary Atlantic Ocean views from the Sconset Bluff Walk. When you're ready to retire for the night, you'll have your pick of quaint Nantucket inns.

Whether you time your trip for summer boating, fall leaf peeping or snow season, upstate New York makes for an intimate setting. Depending on when you visit, you can bond with your beloved on a sleigh ride, a paddling trip or a scenic hike, where you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the Adirondacks' forests, lakes and mountains. When you're adventured out, bop between some of New York's most iconic small towns, including Saranac Lake and Lake Placid, for local dining and shopping. What's more, you can choose from accommodations ranging from luxe lodges packed with amenities to secluded wooden cabins for two.

Savannah, Georgia, is tailor-made for a weekend getaway. Spanish moss hangs over sidewalks that lead past hundreds of historic homes. The lively River Street area features a bevy of shopping, dining and nightlife options, while nearby islands provide a relaxing respite. Meanwhile, Forsyth Park provides the ultimate romantic backdrop for memorable couples photos, and if you're feeling brave, you can hold each other tight during a ghost tour at the hauntingly beautiful Bonaventure Cemetery. For charming digs in the heart of the city, hang your hat at one of Savannah's charming bed-and-breakfast accommodations, or rent a snug carriage house.

If your ideal romantic escape entails a lazy agenda, shingle-covered beach houses and quaint towns, Martha's Vineyard is just the place. On this Massachusetts island, you can relax on quiet beaches, sample decadent fare at upscale restaurants and explore the historic Edgartown Lighthouse, which offers incredible views of the harbor and neighboring Chappaquiddick Island. On a warm, sunny day, venture to Oak Bluffs, where you'll find charming gingerbread cottages at The Campground. For the ultimate romantic retreat, book a stay at one of the island's top hotels, some of which offer complimentary bike rentals, beach chairs and continental breakfast to guests.

Reconnect with your sweetie during a getaway to Jackson Hole. This piece of Wyoming paradise is ideal for all kinds of outdoor pursuits, including hiking and skiing. Should you need to soothe your aching muscles after an active day, go for a dip in the Granite Hot Springs, Astoria Hot Springs or your high-end resort's outdoor hot tub. Whether your dream romantic vacation includes horseback riding through the majestic Grand Teton National Park, sipping wine by a crackling fireplace or unwinding at a world-class spa, Jackson Hole is the perfect place for you and your other half.

For lovebirds who enjoy skiing and cuddling up by a fireplace, Aspen is the perfect place for a romantic getaway. Spend your days sharing ski lifts in the snow-capped mountains before partaking in the highly touted après ski scene. If you arrive during the warmer months, take advantage of superb hiking and scenic gondola rides. Then, retreat to one of the many hotels and resorts that offer glitzy accommodations for two – not to mention some must-visit spas . If you're not ready to turn in just yet, Aspen's nightlife options include plenty of live music venues, clubs and cocktail lounges.

With 40 miles of protected seashore, this region of Massachusetts offers plenty of space for that long walk on the beach. And the slow pace of Cape Cod means you don't have to focus on the hustle and bustle of daily life – you can spend quality time together swimming, biking and eating fresh seafood instead. Cape Cod is also home to a handful of breweries and wineries, so you can toast to your special someone during a tasting. Splurge on one of the Cape's five-star accommodations for spectacular ocean views and sumptuous amenities like soaking tubs for two, in-room fireplaces and private balconies.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Willamette Valley

Santa Barbara

Fredericksburg, TX

San Luis Obispo

Newport, RI

Grand Canyon National Park

You may be interested in.

Best Cheap Couples Getaways for 2024

Which Hawaiian Island is the Best to Visit? Our 2024 Ranking

Best Relaxing Vacation Spots in the USA

Best Honeymoon Destinations for 2024

Best Beach Honeymoons

Best Weekend Getaways

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

Where to Go for an Anniversary Trip, Based on Your Celebration Year

Updated : July 27, 2023

AAA Travel Editor, Katie Broome

For couples who love to travel, what better way to celebrate a milestone wedding anniversary than with a romantic getaway to somewhere new? Not only will you create new memories, but you’ll also be able to connect one-on-one with each other in a unique setting.

To help you come up with ideas for future trips — whether you’re celebrating your first wedding anniversary or your 50th — we’ve put together a list of romantic hotels that correspond to the traditional anniversary gifts, with input from AAA’s team of professional hotel inspectors.

And when you’re ready to start planning your trip, the helpful agents at your local AAA Travel office can assist with all the arrangements to make your trip go as smoothly as possible.

(See the full anniversary gift list on Hallmark's website.)

1-Year Anniversary Gift: Paper

The traditional first anniversary gift is paper, and you could consider celebrating your first year of marriage at the St. Elmo Hotel in Ouray, Colorado. The reason for its inclusion in this list? The ornate wallpaper in every room, complimented by period furniture and Victorian-era décor.

“This quaint historic hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway ,” said the AAA hotel inspector. The surrounding town of Ouray — nestled in a canyon at the base of the San Juan Mountains — is a great home base for adventurous activities like hiking, rock climbing and off-road jeep tours.

2-Year Anniversary Gift: Cotton

For the anniversary gift of cotton, we recommend an anniversary trip to Savannah, Georgia. This charming Southern city was once a major player in the cotton industry. Today you can stay in a restored 1852 cotton warehouse at the East Bay Inn , a pet-friendly boutique hotel with exposed brick walls and lofty ceilings. The Cotton Sail Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is another restored cotton warehouse that’s located right on the Savannah riverfront. The Cotton Sail Hotel has a rooftop bar and is a “great place to catch the sunset,” according to the AAA inspector.

3-Year Anniversary Gift: Leather

What to get for the third anniversary gift of leather? Book a stay at the Hotel Jackson , a luxury boutique property in Jackson, Wyoming. Room décor is upscale yet rugged, with leather headboards and outdoorsy accents like reclaimed barn wood, wool and rawhide. Some suites feature natural gas fireplaces and terraces with breathtaking mountain views.

4-Year Anniversary Gift: Flowers or Fruit

Give the gift of flowers or fruit with a stay at one of the many romantic B&Bs or country inns in the northeast United States. The Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection (pictured above) in Washington, Connecticut, has 58 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland. Rooms feature floral fabrics and details as well as fresh flower arrangements.

The Chanler at Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island, boasts manicured gardens, in-room flower arrangements and a scenic location overlooking an ocean cove and beach. “Romantic options include rooms with full-canopy four-poster beds, extra-large jetted tubs and fireplaces,” according to the AAA inspector.In New Hope, Pennsylvania, The Inn at Bowman's Hill is a charming bed-and-breakfast on a gated estate complete with beautifully landscaped gardens, a vine-covered terrace and a koi pond. “The property includes a solarium growing citrus fruit year-round,” added the AAA inspector.

5-Year Anniversary Gift: Wood

For a five-year anniversary gift, a weekend getaway at a rustic and woodsy retreat is fitting. The Hewing Hotel in Minneapolis, Minnesota, features lots of exposed timber and a Nordic-inspired design in a former 1890s warehouse. “Stay in and enjoy room service,” said the AAA inspector, “then venture out for shopping and entertainment in the hip North Loop neighborhood.”Other rustic getaway ideas perfect for a fifth anniversary include the Yellowstone-inspired Disney's Wilderness Lodge (Lake Buena Vista, Florida); the chalet-style suites close to hiking and skiing at Alta Crystal Resort (pictured above; in Mount Rainier National Park, Washington); and the cabin-themed suites at Cottage Inn at Lake Tahoe (Tahoe City, California).

6-Year Anniversary Gift: Candy

A sweet treat always makes a good anniversary gift, but you can take the gift theme a bit further with a stay at a candy-themed hotel. The Hotel Hershey in Hershey, Pennsylvania, overlooks two chocolate factories and incorporates many cocoa-related details, from the chocolate bar provided at check-in to the Hershey’s Kisses at the nightly turn-down service.Located in a former chocolate factory, The Wilbur Lititz, Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Lititz, Pennsylvania, is known to have a distinct smell of chocolate as soon as you walk in. Rooms like the “Master Chocolatier King Studio Suite” and the “Cocoa Corner King” harken back to the building’s rich history. The hotel is also just a short walk from the Wilbur Chocolate Store .The sweet theme continues — albeit more subtly — at The Charmant Hotel (pictured above), a candy-factory-turned-hotel in La Crosse, Wisconsin. According to the AAA inspector, the stunning hotel carries the candy factory theme throughout the property, with chocolate truffles available for purchase at the front desk and vintage photos portraying the building’s history.

7-Year Anniversary Gift: Copper

What to give for the 7th anniversary gift of copper? Consider a stay at the Copper King Hotel & Convention Center, an Ascend Hotel Collection in Butte, Montana. The town of Butte — a good stopping point between Yellowstone and Glacier national parks — was once called “the richest hill on Earth” due to its copper deposits. The hotel celebrates this history with copper art pieces and large copper soaking tubs in some rooms, according to the AAA inspector.More copper details are found at the Brewhouse Inn & Suites (pictured above) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Located in the original Pabst Blue Ribbon Brewery, the hotel features “six glistening and enormous copper brewing kettles lined up side-by-side, with their pipes climbing three stories up and out the roof of the atrium,” said the AAA inspector. These massive copper kettles once brewed thousands of gallons of beer for Pabst.

10-Year Anniversary Gift: Tin or Aluminum

You’ll have to think a little outside the box to incorporate tin or aluminum into your 10-year anniversary trip plans. One way to do it is to stay at a stylish hotel in the area of Manhattan once known as Tin Pan Alley. The Evelyn Hotel is a retro-classic option, built in 1903 and restored to the Art Nouveau style of the early 1900s.If you prefer to go with the aluminum gift to inspire your trip plans, consider a different type of stay altogether. A vintage Airstream travel trailer — with its sleek aluminum shell — could be just the ticket, especially if you pick a place to stay where you can experience the Great Outdoors. A few resorts and campgrounds cater to Airstream aficionados, whether you have your own trailer or will need to rent one. Consider staying at Yonder Escalante near Bryce Canyon National Park, where there are 10 glamorous Airstreams available for one-of-a-kind stays, in addition to cabins and RV sites. You can also search for an Airstream to rent with Outdoorsy, which offers a special .And if staying in an Airstream isn’t really your travel style, you could just order a cocktail or a bite to eat from the one parked at Pinewood Social , the trendy Nashville social spot that, in summer, features a converted Airstream trailer by the outdoor pool.

11-Year Anniversary Gift: Steel

For the 11th anniversary gift of steel, a historic hotel with ties to the railroad industry can be a good option. Located in a train station built in 1888, the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown Union Station has 26 train car rooms that let you spend the night in a converted 1920s Pullman sleeping car. The train car rooms rest on steel tracks inside the hotel.

15-Year Anniversary Gift: Crystal

Cheers to your 15th anniversary with a luxury stay at a hotel known for its crystal. The Baccarat Hotel New York (pictured above) — owned by the French crystal company Baccarat, founded in 1764 by King Louis XV — glitters with glamorous Baccarat chandeliers, fixtures and wall sconces. All guest rooms include real crystal stemware to make your anniversary champagne toast extra special.Another well-known brand of cut crystal has a North American hotel perfect for a romantic getaway. Created by a member of the Swarovski family, the Sparkling Hill Resort in Vernon, British Columbia, features $10 million worth of Swarovski crystals throughout the property, according to the AAA inspector. From the curtains of crystals hanging in the lobby to the light-refracting crystal fireplaces in guest rooms, it’s an elegant setting. The adults-only, European-style resort also offers a luxury spa with cryogenic treatments and steam rooms filled with rose petals.

16-Year Anniversary Gift: Coffee or Tea

If it’s your 16th anniversary, you’re in luck, as there are plenty of great hotels that fit into the gift theme of coffee or tea.For a luxury stay in the coffee-focused city of Seattle, Washington, consider the Fairmont Olympic Hotel , which has a stellar coffee shop (4th Ave Espresso Bar) in the lobby that also serves tempting pastries.To experience the British tradition of afternoon tea, stay at the Hotel Bennett in Charleston, South Carolina, where you can partake in an elegant tea service at Camellias (pictured above), the hotel’s pink-hued champagne lounge. “They also have a coffee and pastry shop onsite called La Patisserie,” added the AAA inspector.Other hotels well-known for their afternoon tea include the historic Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan; Fairmont Empress in Victoria, British Columbia; and the The Adolphus, Autograph Collection in Dallas, Texas.

17-Year Anniversary Gift: Wine or Spirits

There are quite a few hotels offering a memorable spin on the 17th anniversary gift of wine or spirits. Learn the art of blending wine at the Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston, Autograph Collection in Charleston, South Carolina, which hosts classes where you can “create and cork your own bottle with the help of an experienced sommelier,” said the AAA inspector.An on-site distillery at The Cavalier, Autograph Collection Hotel in Virginia Beach, Virginia, offers tours and tastings to sample house-made bourbon, vodka, gin and even a unique bourbon cream liqueur. “Many dishes in the [hotel’s] restaurant use the spirits in their dishes,” added the AAA inspector.For more tastings of the grape variety, consider the Chateau Chantal Winery and Bed & Breakfast (pictured above) in Traverse City, Michigan. “Set on a ridge with sweeping views of the vineyards and the bay, this elegant property offers evening wine tastings,” said the AAA inspector.On the west coast, there’s the Harvest Inn in St. Helena, California, with a scenic setting right next to their vineyards, or the Cameo Heights Mansion Bed & Breakfast in Touchet, Washington, a romantic mansion with more than 100 wineries nearby.

26-Year Anniversary Gift: Art

Art-focused hotels can inspire and delight when executed well, and AAA inspectors have identified quite a few stand-outs from coast to coast that are perfect for special occasions. For fans of contemporary art — think eye-catching abstract pieces — consider The Alfond Inn at Rollins (pictured above) in Winter Park, Florida, which features a contemporary art collection displayed throughout the hotel. The 21c Museum Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, is home to avant-garde sculptures and paintings and even a dedicated gallery space, while The Art Hotel Denver, Curio Collection by Hilton in Denver, Colorado, has an on-site art gallery and many art museums located within walking distance.For art in a more traditional sense, the JW Marriott Savannah, Plant Riverside District in Savannah, Georgia, mixes art with entertainment and features “collections of geodes, artifacts and even a dinosaur replica,” according to the AAA inspector.An impressive Victorian art collection and Romanesque Revival architecture lends a sophisticated air to The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The Pfister also has an artist-in-residence program, where guests can interact with an artist in a working studio.

27-Year Anniversary Gift: Music

Music can have a powerful effect on the emotions, and a music-themed hotel is the perfect place to celebrate a 27th anniversary. A musical motif is front and center at Hard Rock Hotel® at Universal Orlando (pictured above), with classic rock memorabilia everywhere you look and an outdoor swimming pool complete with an underwater sound system. For live music with a view of the ocean, make the trip to Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach on Florida’s east coast. The hotel has Fender guitars and record players you can borrow for your room.More rock ’n’ roll can be found at The Guest House at Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee. Within walking distance to Elvis Presley's Graceland , the hotel is said to reflect The King’s personal style and also offers an on-site concert venue.The sound of music is alive and well at the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont. Owned and operated by the von Trapp family — the inspiration for “The Sound of Music” — the Austrian-style mountain resort has plenty to keep guests occupied, including hiking, mountain biking, tennis and skiing. “The resort’s hallways resemble a museum with memorabilia from the family and the 1965 film,” said the AAA inspector.A boutique hotel to consider for the music theme: The Verb Hotel in Boston, Massachusetts, which has “a cool, retro-vibe,” according to the AAA inspector. The groovy décor weaves in music memorabilia and posters from the 1960s and 70s, and the inspector added that “each room has a record player with vintage vinyl.”

30-Year Anniversary Gift: Pearls

Connected to the 30th anniversary gift of pearls in name only, two AAA Diamond-designated hotels are worth a mention. Located in a European-style village on northwest Florida’s Gulf coast, The Pearl Hotel Rosemary Beach has the “nostalgic feel of a bygone era,” according to the AAA inspector. The trendy oceanfront hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway, with a private beach, spa, complimentary bicycles and an adults-only pool.Trendy Hotel Emma (pictured above) in San Antonio, Texas, is located in the city’s hip Pearl brewery complex and is “as much a museum as it is a hotel,” noted the AAA inspector. Repurposed industrial equipment, fixtures and furnishings hint at the hotel’s former life as the Pearl Brewing Company, while upscale details like claw-foot tubs, private terraces and a 3,700-volume library evoke an air of luxury. The surrounding Pearl complex includes more than a dozen restaurants, shops and a food hall, with purveyors selling Pearl beer on tap.

33-Year Anniversary Gift: Iron

For anniversary No. 33, celebrate with a hotel stay where industrial vibes are aplenty. The Iron Horse Hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, embraces its past as a 100-year-old foundry with iron detailing, exposed brick walls and a Harley–Davidson motorcycle on display in the lobby. Special amenities are geared toward motorcycle riders, too; the hotel has on-site bike parking, a bike wash station and heavy-duty in-room hooks for hanging heavy leather gear.Indianapolis’ Ironworks Hotel Indy (pictured above) as well as its sister property, the Ironworks Hotel in Beloit, Wisconsin, offer an industrial feel in a boutique setting. The Indianapolis property incorporates design elements like metal piping, reclaimed barn wood, brick accent walls and leather seating in guest rooms; opt for the Legacy Terrace room or Founder’s Suite to get an outdoor terrace with a firepit. The Beloit location adds in-room soaker tubs and fireplaces to some suites.

34-Year Anniversary Gift: Food

Who wouldn’t want to celebrate an anniversary with food? A few AAA Diamond-designated hotels incorporate excellent features for food-minded travelers. The Alluvian Hotel in Greenwood, Mississippi, has a popular Viking Cooking School where guests can take hands-on cooking classes ranging in difficulty from basic to advanced.

Junction at The Essex , a AAA Four Diamond designated restaurant, add to the theme. The restaurant is complete with a theater kitchen and chefs who explain the origin and process for each course.A self-described “food-focused hotel,” the Epicurean Hotel, Autograph Collection in Tampa, Florida, has a culinary classroom located off the lobby that hosts cooking classes and wine tastings. Bern's Steak House , a local landmark since 1956, is across the street and great for special occasion celebrations. (The wine collection at Bern’s offers more than 6,500 different labels.)

36-Year Anniversary Gift: Antiques

A stay at a historic hotel fits in nicely with the 36th anniversary gift of antiques. The Gingerbread Mansion Inn (pictured above) in Ferndale, California, is “full of antiques,” according to the AAA inspector, and has details perfect for an anniversary celebration, including roaring fireplaces, cozy seating areas and, in some rooms, side-by-side claw-foot bathtubs. The attractive B&B earned the AAA Inspector’s Best of Romantic award in 2020.

The Mainstay Inn in Cape May, New Jersey, consists of two Victorian-era buildings which showcase a variety of antiques, Oriental rugs and some furnishings left over from the property’s early days as a private gambling club. “The whole downtown area [of Cape May] displays antique buildings and artwork,” added the AAA inspector.

37-Year Anniversary Gift: Books

If reading and romance go hand-in-hand for you, a stay at a book-focused hotel may be just the way to celebrate your 37th anniversary. Guest rooms at the Library Hotel (pictured above) in New York City are themed around a specific topic within the Dewey Decimal system. A “Love Room” is perfect for romantic celebrations and features a collection of love-related books as well as a private terrace within view of the New York Public Library.Channel the collegiate vibes at The Study at University City in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, located between the campuses of Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania. “Their lobby library is curated by students and professors from both colleges,” said the AAA inspector. Guest rooms have a sleek Scandinavian design and feature campus views and a separate seating area with fully stocked bookshelves.

Courtesy of The Plaza Hotel

50-Year Anniversary Gift: Gold

When thinking of ideas for 50th anniversary gifts, go all out with a luxury stay at The Plaza Hotel in New York City. The landmark hotel on the southeast corner of Central Park has elegant features like 24-carat gold-plated bath fixtures, gilded bed frames and crystal chandeliers. White glove butler service is available upon request, and the skilled staff can deliver a special bottle of champagne or even a “Home Alone 2”-inspired 16-scoop ice cream sundae covered in cherries, whipped cream, M&Ms and three different sauces.

Start Your Next Vacation with AAA

AAA Travel provides peace of mind when you travel — before, during and after your vacation! Members enjoy the advantages of membership including exclusive benefits, map routing, savings with the AAA Discounts & Rewards ® program as well as recommendations for AAA Diamond -designated hotels and restaurants across the U.S. and Canada. Let AAA provide the rest of your travel needs with AAA Travel Guides , TourBook® guides, access to travel agents and counselors and travel insurance. Your next vacation starts with AAA — your complete travel solution. Visit AAA.com/Travel .

More Articles

Travel like an expert with aaa and trip canvas, get ideas from the pros.

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Culture and Lifestyle
• Activities and Entertainment

12 Anniversary Trip Ideas For Every Milestone And Couple

The South is chock-full of charming destinations for a romantic getaway.

Gabriela Herman

Celebrating an anniversary offers the perfect excuse to plan a trip to somewhere new, or even back to a beloved place that you’ve been dreaming to revisit. A romantic getaway is an ideal way to spend quality time with a loved one, and these anniversary trip ideas and itineraries are sure to make more memories as you look back on fond ones. 

Since anniversaries fall on every time of the year, we have different options for every type of couple. Planning for autumn? Consider celebrating with a Blue Ridge Mountains road trip with epic fall color or a bourbon tour in Kentucky. Dreaming of a tropical breeze ? The Florida Keys are calling. Want something unique? We’ve got small towns and cities worth wandering. Luckily, the South abounds with charming destinations to experience with your partner. 

For every couple or milestone, there’s a Southern anniversary trip idea for your next vacation. See our list of favorite romantic destinations.

The Florida Keys

Head out on a road trip on the Overseas Highway, a 113-mile road spanning from Key Largo to Key West—the most famous among Florida’s southernmost archipelago. Beyond the conch-style houses, toes-in-the-sand seafood joints, and general good-living attitude, there’s no bound on what you can explore, starting with How To Spend The Perfect Day in Key West and The Secret Beaches of the Florida Keys Worth Visiting . Make sure to stop for a tour of Ernest Hemingway’s home and its famed six-toed cats. 

Charleston, South Carolina

It’s easy to see the appeal of this charming coastal town for a romantic getaway—it’s been voted the South’s Best City several years running for just that reason. Cobblestone streets and colorful row homes make for easy wandering as you shop down King Street and eat at some of the best restaurants in the South. Get lunch at Leon's Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop (don’t miss the fried chicken), stop in at 100-plus-year-old store Croghan's Jewel Box , and book a room at Hotel Bennett on Marion Square.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Running through North Carolina and Virginia, this scenic road winds along the valleys and crests of the Appalachian Mountain range, connecting Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Shenandoah National Park. While there’s no bad time to see the sights, you’re in extra good luck if your trip lands during autumn months when fall color surrounds the drive, or during springtime when the flowers are in full bloom. Make sure to hit our recommendations for Iconic Spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway Everyone Should See and The Best Virginia Towns Along the Blue Ridge Parkway .

Dahlonega, Georgia

Ian Dagnall/Alamy

If you want to see the definition of small-town charm in person, a trip to Dahlonega will do the trick. After spending the morning wandering around the historic town square—which is centered around a courthouse that dates back to the state's early 19th-century gold rush—and grabbing breakfast at Picnic Café and Dessertery , head just outside town for an impressive collection of North Georgia wineries that are open for weekend tours and tastings, such as Wolf Mountain Vineyards , Montaluce Winery & Resort , and Crane Creek Vineyards . 

Fort Worth, Texas

For those who enjoy learning about history and having a great time to boot, Fort Worth is like taking a step back into the Wild West. This cattle town recently reinvigorated the Stockyards National Historic District, and you can explore Exchange Avenue and its shops, restaurants, and saloons. Make sure to check out the Cowtown Coliseum, which held the first indoor rodeo arena in the country. Each Friday and Saturday, you can still attend events that showcase barrel racing, roping, and crowd-favorite bull riding. Plan your trip here.

Georgia’s Golden Isles

Yes, Georgia has a coast, and it’s draped in beautiful oaks and marshes. Two neighboring islands, Sea Island and St. Simons Island are both inviting places to visit anytime of the year, but it’s an especially welcoming destination during the holidays if you want to Celebrate A Lowcountry Christmas for your winter anniversary. For a more outdoorsy and warm-weather Georgia island, Jekyll Island offers biking on wide wooden pathways, kayaking on the marshlands, and relaxing on the beach. 

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

The Smoky Mountains are calling, and luckily there are two popular towns to visit in between oohing and aahing at the mountain vistas and natural wonders. Head to Gatlinburg for the scenic SkyBridge , North America’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge, which leads up to a viewing deck, the SkyLift Park, that offers unobstructed views. Book a room at Dollywood's DreamMore Resort and Spa in neighboring Pigeon Forge.

Charlottesville, Virginia

With over 500-plus miles of Blue Ridge trails, a restaurant-per-capita density that rivals major cities like New York City, easy access to breweries and wineries, and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estate nearby for touring, Charlottesville is packed full of things to do. The Monticello Wine Trail has 40 wineries in a 25-mile radius of Charlottesville. Head to Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards —which is known for its landscape, food, wines, and verdant grounds—for a relaxing day date. 

Kentucky’s Bourbon Country

There’s not a bad time of the year to head out to the rolling hills of Kentucky’s bourbon and horse country. In the spring and fall, hit the horse races at Keeneland in Lexington , head to our South’s Best-voted favorite distillery , and stop into Bardstown, a historic small town in the countryside an hour outside Louisville. Make sure to stop in at the Old Talbott Tavern , one of the oldest stagecoach stops in the country, for Kentucky cuisine. The building was constructed in 1779. 

Orange Beach, Alabama

Ask any Alabama native their favorite thing about the 32-mile stretch that makes up the beaches of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, and it’d be hard to count the many reasons why families flock to this destination year after year. A good place to start would be The Best Things To Do In Orange Beach (including locally-beloved fried shrimp), but don’t miss the area’s biggest natural wonder, Gulf State Park , which boasts over 6,000 acres of land that includes a tranquil beach away from the busy crowds.

North Carolina’s Outer Banks

Make a beach trip into an adventure by embarking on an anniversary RV trip to North Carolina’s Outer Banks . The coastline is lined with wide, flat beaches that are perfect for long bike rides and often dog-friendly. Additionally, you can travel between towns like Nags Head, Duck, and Kitty Hawk. State Road 12 passes through lighthouses and beach villages for nearly 150 miles and culminates on the northernmost Currituck Banks, where you can spot wild horses.

Anna Maria Island, Florida

This seahorse-shaped barrier island runs for 7 miles along the Gulf Coast and, despite being a gorgeous enclave of sandy beaches with a strong local community, it has happily remained a hidden gem thanks to residents that have helped preserve its laid-back village vibe. Instead of high-rises, you’ll rent out charming beach cottages. Stroll Pine Avenue, the town’s original main street, where you’ll find a friendly mix of galleries, bakeries, boutiques, and restaurants. A quiet, breezy, relaxing anniversary? See our recommendations.

Related Articles

• Google Plus

Best Anniversary Trip in the US | 20 Romantic Destinations

Sharing is caring!

Wondering where to go on a romantic getaway? The best anniversary trip in the US can be found in one of these 20 destinations. You’ll make the perfect plan at the top places for couples.

Pick the Best Anniversary Trip in the US

This list of best vacation spots for couples in the US will help you plan your anniversary for many years to come. These top anniversary destinations can be visited even in the year of the pandemic since they are all romantic places in the USA. With a long-lasting marriage, or even something new, comes the need for exciting and unique adventures to create lifelong memories together.

Be sure to make your time together last forever, by creating a travel gallery at home or a photo book of your memories.

1. Soak up the Sun on the Beaches of Maui

Any Hawaiian island is a perfect place to celebrate and enjoy your spouse on an anniversary trip. But Maui is a top pick for couples.

Maui has just enough adventure and excitement with the perfect mix of beauty, wonder and relaxation.

On the west coast of Maui, you will find the best beaches. Napili, Kapalua Bay, and Ka’anapali beach are our favorites. Snorkeling at Black Rock or Kapalua Bay nearly always have a sea turtle or two to discover together. Or take a tour to Molokini for the best collection of sea life for snorkeling.

On your couple-only trip, you are free to be on top of the volcano for sunrise at Haleakala National Park. Enjoy the freedom to bike as fast as you want down the mountain, taking time to stop and enjoy each view of the island.

The Road to Hana is the perfect adventure to enliven and revive the fun in your marriage. Find waterfalls, rugged coastlines, serene pools of water, and secluded beaches. Enjoy the green, black, or red-sand beach near Hana. Take a hike through the bamboo forest. Jump into the 7-sacred pools and swim under waterfalls at O’heo Gulch State Park. Bring a different swimsuit for every day in Hawaii.

Your best anniversary trip in the US will be one to remember in Maui . The beautiful memories experienced on the islands together will stay with you forever.

2. Charter a Yacht in South Florida

Contributed by Zoe Amy from Breastfeedingmama.net

An amazing experience that many couples don’t immediately consider when planning an anniversary vacation is chartering a yacht and sailing around for the weekend. What could be more romantic than watching stunning sunrises over a perfect ocean, or relaxing in the sun while dolphins play around your boat?  The allure of unspoiled beaches all to yourself, not to mention spotting rare manatees in their natural environment.

The Florida Keys is an amazing spot to charter a boat. The Keys are the only living coral reef in the US and provide excellent spots for sailing.  You can spend the weekend wildlife spotting on the reef or sail down to the Everglades NP, or just enjoy the nightlife and scenery in the local area. A sightseeing pass will help you see even more.

If you are worried that you don’t have any sailing experience, don’t be. In many yachting locations, there are an array of boats that can be chartered with zero experience. So even if you have never set foot on a boat before, the team of highly experienced staff will set you up with all the information you need before you motor into the sunset for your romantic weekend.

The types of yachts that can be chartered range from small bareboat catamarans to giant superyachts, complete with crew, chefs and childcare. Any boat can be chartered with or without a crew, depending on how much of the work you want to do for yourself.

A double bonus of chartering a yacht for your romantic anniversary weekend is that you will naturally be socially distanced from other travelers, so no need to wear masks or worry about COVID restrictions on board. But of course, it goes without saying that you should always be mindful of other travelers and restrictions onshore.

3. Get Lost Together in New Orleans

By Alanna Koritzke of Periodic Adventures

New Orleans makes for a great couples weekend getaway destination! There are so many  unforgettable things to do in New Orleans  including world-famous restaurants, incredible music venues, and unique attractions.

Despite having party areas (Bourbon Street), couples will find New Orleans to be a relaxing and romantic destination. Grab beignets from Café du Monde or Café Beignet along Decatur Street, then take a stroll along the waterfront (accessible via Washington Artillery Park). Be sure to visit Frenchman Street to hear the wonderful jazz music that New Orleans is so well known for. Note that most music venues have a cover charge or a 1 drink minimum. For non-drinkers, you can order a non-alcoholic drink instead, such as lemonade, orange juice, or soda.

Spend an afternoon doing a self-guided walking tour of the beautiful Garden District where you’ll see extravagant homes with stunning architecture. Many homes are owned by celebrities or have become historic landmarks.

If you want to experience the spooky side of New Orleans, take a ghost tour of the French District or Lafayette Cemetery where so many hauntings and chilling stories have taken place including the most well-known, Madame Delphine LaLaurie, a slave-owner who infamously tortured her slaves in secret. These tours are often not for the faint of heart, so cuddle up with your loved one!

Another way to spend your romantic anniversary trip in New Orleans is to take a couples cooking class where you can learn to make some of the Cajun and Creole food that New Orleans is famous for!

Whatever you choose, New Orleans is the perfect romantic US destination.

4. Find Romance on your Anniversary At Disney

Contributed by Debbie Fettback from  World Adventurists

Surrounded by an enchanting castle, fairy tales and great love stories, love, romance and adventure is in the air all around Disney. Remember those feelings you felt watching Cinderella and Prince Charming, Belle and The Beast, Aladdin and Jasmine, or Mickey and Minnie? So many Disney couples have been used to show that true love is real. What better atmosphere to celebrate your true love, too? You’ll feel the sparks flying as you relax and unwind with your other half.

There are several ways we suggest to find romance at Disney:

• Get  matching Mickey & Minnie ears : Getting matching ears is a great way to flaunt your love when you are celebrating an anniversary. Pair the ears with celebration buttons. You can pick the buttons up at guest services at any of the Disney Parks. Personalize them, and everyone will know you are celebrating. It is fun to see the reactions you get from the buttons, and perhaps even some special treatment. A free fast pass from a Disney cast member that notices? Don’t mind if we do! Even when you’re grown, the attention never gets old. 
• Splurge On A Hotel Upgrade: If you usually go for basic accommodations, consider what an upgrade will do. The extra luxury you’ll feel with your celebrations is sure to add some extra magic. 
• Firework Cruises: A fireworks cruise is a great way to add romance. The boat plays the audio to the fireworks and you’ll feel the sparks fly as you snuggle up together and steal some kisses. 
• Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride: Another great way to snuggle up and enjoy the sights together. 
• Vows: You do not need to have a fancy vow renewal to remind each other of the commitment you have made to each other. Find your favorite spot in Disney (ours is in front of the castle lit up at night), and take a few moments to share why you keep choosing your partner every day. 
• Dinner for Two:  Pre-reserve a romantic dinner for two at one of the many Disney themed or specialty restaurants, followed by a dessert fireworks celebration (Disney World). It is a perfect pairing to end your great celebration. 
• Purchase Disney’s Memory Maker:  Do not rely only on selfies taken on your phones. This is an important reason to celebrate — have a Disney photographer help you by taking some magical photos. We made that mistake once, and never will again.

Disney is currently taking extra precautions with Covid-19. Expect to have to wear a mask and check in on what is expected and operational before you arrive. Disneyland is currently still closed, but Disney World is operating.

5. Explore Nature near Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Contributed by Deb from the Visa Project

To tell you the truth, many couples planning an anniversary trip probably wouldn’t think about Western Wyoming as a romantic destination in the US. What I can tell you is what Jackson Hole doesn’t offer in glam or luxury, it makes up for it with its natural beauty and options of outdoor recreation and adventure. While  traveling in the USA , I visited it a few times and I would definitely recommend couple consider Jackson Hole as a romantic place to visit in the US.

Being in close affinity to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole can be your base to visit both these parks. Yellowstone is home to many waterfalls, wildlife, geysers, and lakes- and you should definitely visit it. While not as famous as Yellowstone, Grand Teton has a lot of beautiful lakes and hike trails and everything an outdoorsy couple would look for.

And now coming to Jackson Hole, there is no dearth of romantic things to do. You can go on a hot air balloon ride over the gorgeous vistas of Teton Valley. Head to Jackson Lake in the afternoon for kayaking. Maybe have dinner at Couloir at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort that involves a gondola ride.

The months of April to October are the best time to visit, But if you want a ski-focused anniversary trip, then visiting in winter is incredible. And if you do visit in winter, snowmobile to Granite Hot Springs or Brooks Lake Lodge.

If you are wondering where to stay, the Four Seasons resort is a great place.

6. Bask in the Sunshine of St. Thomas

Contributed by Kristin from Snorkel and Hike

Just a quick easy flight from the East Coast and Midwest, St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands is the perfect spot for a long weekend away.  Whether you enjoy relaxing together on the beach or a more adrenaline-filled day ziplining or snorkeling, St. Thomas has it all for a romantic vacation for couples.

As the gateway to the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is a great homebase for a long weekend.  There are plenty of amazing places to stay in St. Thomas either right on the beach or high up overlooking the ocean.  We especially love the condos at Sapphire Bay or Secret Harbor as they both offer beautiful beaches with fantastic snorkeling just steps from your door.   

Not only are these condos located on some of the best beaches on the island, but they are the perfect place to maintain social distance while still enjoying everything the island has to offer.  Rent a car and explore all of the amazing beaches and hiking trails on your own, or even take the short ferry ride over to St. John to check out the Virgin Islands National Park, all without requiring much contact with anyone.  

Looking for an ultra-romantic experience for your anniversary trip in the US?  Charter a boat for an afternoon of exploring secluded beaches and islands all on your own.  Chartering a boat is surprisingly more affordable than you might think, but for a more budget-friendly version, head out on a sunset cruise.  Once coronavirus restrictions relax a bit, a couples massage on the beach at the Ritz Carlton or a trip on the sky tram to Paradise Point will make a great addition to your anniversary trip.   

7. Discover Big Bend National Park, TX

Contributed by Margherita Ragg from the Crowded Planet

As one of the least visited national parks in the US, Big Bend is perfect for a relaxing anniversary trip, especially during COVID times. The park is located in southwestern Texas, where the Rio Grande River takes a ‘big bend’ marking the border with Mexico. The closest airport to the park is Odessa/Midland, about 150 mi from the main park entrance.

Big Bend National Park is worth visiting because it includes three very different ecosystems within park borders, allowing for a variety of scenic trips and activities – desert, mountains, and river. Most of the park is covered by the Chihuahuan Desert, with cactus and scrubland – the best way to get deep into the desert is on a backcountry jeep tour unless you have a high-clearance vehicle and can drive yourself. 

Big Bend is also unique because it is the only national park in the US to include an entire mountain range within its borders – the Chisos Mountains, home to some scenic hikes like the Window Trail, a 2-hour hike ending at a ‘window’ between the rocks with a 500 ft drop.  Don’t forget comfortable hiking shoes .

In Big Bend National Park, you can also explore the riverine ecosystem, hiking to the Santa Elena Canyon or kayaking down the Rio Grande river. A weekend should be just enough to appreciate the beauty and vastness of Big Bend. The best time to visit is spring, when the desert flowers are in bloom, turning the stark landscape into a colourful artist’s palette!

8. Enjoy Scenic Views in Big Sur, CA

Contributed by Aswani Kurra from A Charming Escape

If you are looking for a romantic and quiet anniversary weekend away from the hustle of the city, Big Sur is the perfect destination.

Big Sur is a stretch of land on the Pacific Coast of Central California spanning about 90 miles and is one of the most breathtaking places on the West Coast. Most beautiful ocean views, quiet surroundings, nature trails, quaint and romantic towns along the way make Big Sur a perfect weekend trip for your anniversary.

A great way to spend your anniversary in Big Sur is to enjoy a picnic and spend the day at the beach. If you prefer having a romantic 4 course dinner instead, check out Sierra Mar at the Post Ranch Inn. Carmel-by-the-sea, just a short drive from Big Sur with amazing restaurants, cute downtown and a beach is also a great place to spend the day.

If you are more interested in exploring the natural and rugged Big Sur area, check out Garrapata State Park, McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Beach and Point Lobos State Preserve. The 17 mile drive between Carmel and Monterey is also a beautiful drive to enjoy without stepping out of the car. Be sure to capture the best views on your anniversary trip with a great travel camera .

For romantic places to stay in the Big Sur area, the town of Carmel-by-the-sea, Carmel Valley and Big Sur Village are great options. There are several hotel options available ranging from luxurious to affordable accommodations like Post Ranch Inn, Ventana Big Sur, Big Sur lodge and Carmel Valley lodge. While the hotels in Big Sur may not be currently open due to COVID lockdown restaurants, it is nevertheless a beautiful place to visit as most of the scenic trails are surrounded by nature and have fewer crowds compared to the cities.

9. Hike in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley

Recommended by Erin from Go Hike Virginia

Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley is a natural beauty that stuns visitors with rural landscapes, rolling hills, and spectacular vistas. At the center is Shenandoah National Park, home to Skyline Drive and more than 500 miles of hiking trails that criss-cross the park, welcoming visitors with an abundance of photo-worthy scenery. Driving the road as a couple on your romantic anniversary vacation is sure to create lasting shared memories.

More than 70 overlooks, including Jewell Hollow Overlook (milepost 35.6) and Two Mile Run Overlook (milepost 76.0) implore motorists to brake along the iconic 105-mile stretch of scenic byway to savor dramatic views for miles and miles.

Get back to nature as a couple with a romantic  hike at Shenandoah National Park . There’s plenty to see on the hiking trails, like tumbling waterfalls, rock scrambles, historic remains and breathtaking vistas. The short and sweet hike to Little Stony Man Cliffs wows with spectacular views of Massanutten Mountain.

Book a guided horseback trail ride at Skyland Stables to see the Shenandoah Valley from a new perspective. As in, from atop a horse as you trot across an old apple orchard along leafy trails. More adventurous couples may want to sign up for rock climbing or rappelling in the park with Shenandoah Mountain Guides.

Stay the weekend in a well-appointed guest room or rustic-chic cabin at Skyland Resort, which sits at the highest point on Skyline Drive. The colorful sunset views from the lodge patio are among the best in the park. At Pollock Dining Room, it’s easy for couples to be tempted by regional specialties, like sweet potato poutine and pan-seared trout.

Alternatively, stay the weekend outside the park in Luray, the Cabin Capital of Virginia, which has more than 400 cabins for rent. Shadow Mountain Escape is an uber-romantic escape with four elegant timber frame cabins, each with exposed beams and cozy fireplaces. In nearby Waynesboro, six modern cabins at The Iris Inn wow with sweeping views across the majestic Shenandoah Valley. 

10. Splash in the Water of Lake Tahoe

Contributed by Christina from Travel2next.com

Lake Tahoe is a naturally stunning destination and a perfect place to spend your anniversary in two states. Straddling California and Nevada, you won’t have to travel far to cross the border, you will find many romantic things to do in Lake Tahoe for all seasons . The region is gorgeous in fall when the leaves change color, and during winter when the snow-capped mountains are picture-perfect. There are plenty of romantic ways to celebrate your anniversary in Lake Tahoe, and it is a popular destination to pop the question.  

Top spots for couples to escape and enjoy each other’s company in Lake Tahoe are Emerald Bay, for stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks and glacier-covered cliffs. The shimmering aquamarine water and pine trees make this a picturesque place for a hike. Another popular spot for couples to go to watch the sunset is Zephyr Cove. Gazing at the sun dipping behind the mountains is a splendid way to end the day on a romantic anniversary trip. Another must-do activity in Lake Tahoe is riding the 2.4-mile long Heavenly Gondola. The ride is breathtaking in winter as the gondola glides up Heavenly Mountain and over the charming Alpine forest. Have a light snack or a meal at the top. A fun option is to ski or snowboard down the mountain.

Several hot springs around the region have waters rich in minerals, so a relaxing thing to do is book some time for two at one of the hot springs, such as Sierra Hot Springs. Relaxing in hot springs or booking a treatment at a spa is a great way to relax and rejuvenate on an anniversary trip for two. 

11. Wander through the City of San Francisco

Contributed by Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

San Francisco  is a romantic place to share the best anniversary trip in the US – no wonder the song talks of leaving your heart there! The classic romantic moment is to take each other by the hand and to stroll the 2.7-kilometer length of the Golden Gate Bridge, enjoying the views of San Fransico Bay.

Shakespeare was known for his romantic words, so why not become Romeo and Juliet for an hour and visit the Gardens of Shakespeare’s flowers. There are more than 200 plants and flowers to admire and each of them is mentioned in one of Shakespeare’s plays.

If you want to do something really memorable, hire a tandem! Follow this biking path for some incredible experiences. The key to success is that you must both steer in the same direction! There is a popular cycling route to follow that visits the botanical gardens, Japanese Tea Garden, and the bison paddock where you can watch these curious animals grazing. If you would rather be pampered, the couples’ massage at Nob Hill Spa with a laze on the sun deck afterward is perfect.

During the evening, it is romantic to take a sunset cruise on a catamaran or a stroll to the western span of Bay Bridge to see the 25,000 dancing lights. The perfect way to end your special celebration is to visit Top of the Mark on the 19th floor of the Intercontinental Mark Hopkins. There is live jazz to enjoy against a spectacular 360º view of the city.

11 Must-Do activities in San Francisco .

12. Explore Texas Hill Country

Contributed by Kirsten from Kids Are A Trip

If you are looking for a romantic anniversary getaway, why not head to Texas Hill Country? Located north of San Antonio and west of Austin, Hill Country is a must visit on any  Texas bucket list . This area features plenty of opportunities for fine dining, shopping, and getting out in nature. There’s cute Texas towns and even luxury spas. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Hill Country.

For an anniversary trip to the area we recommend booking a luxury stay at Lake Austin Spa Resort, Miraval Austin, or JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country. Each of these resorts provides all of the amenities you could want on a romantic couples vacation including spa time.

If you are looking for charming boutique properties, consider Gruene Mansion Inn, Dofflemyer Hotel, or Collective Retreats in Wimberley. These unique accommodations will be one of the highlights of your trip as they are unlike any other properties in the area.

When looking for things to do, Hill Country doesn’t disappoint. Spend your days exploring the local swimming holes (Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole are favorites), sampling delicious Texas food (Salt Lick BBQ and Mamacita’s are must visits), shopping (try Wimberley, Fredericksburg, and Gruene) or visiting one of the local distilleries or wineries (most venues have entertainment and some have awesome views). No matter what type of entertainment or adventure you’re looking for, Hill Country in Texas has something for your perfect couple trip for an anniversary.

13. Adventure in Sedona Arizona

James from  www.wanderusliving.com

Sedona Arizona is an incredible place for a romantic weekend getaway for the outdoorsy type. Whether you love hiking , biking, sightsee, shop or check out the local art and spiritual stores there is plenty to do. Visiting in the summer can be brutally hot, which is why fall and spring are often the best times to go.

Depending on what type of romantic getaway you are wanting, a great starting point would be the Tlaquepaque Art and Shopping center. There are plenty of gift shops, restaurants and art galleries to explore. It had a little European vibe to it and the entire village was beautiful. 

No trip to Sedona is complete without visiting the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Don’t worry, you don’t have to be religious to visit it. The building is stunning as it is built into the side of the red rock mountains outside of the town. The building looks incredibly futuristic and is a great photo opportunity with the mountains behind it.

The best “easy” hike in Sedona is Cathedral Rock trail, which is only 1.4 miles out and back, but gains around 600 feet in elevation. The hike is right in the heart of Sedona, and offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape and town below. Grab some food on your way to the hike and enjoy a nice romantic picnic at the top!

Sedona is only 2 hours from the Grand Canyon, which would make for a great day trip or spend the night at a hotel! 

Spending a weekend in Sedona can consist of hiking and exploring the outdoors or just sightseeing and shopping. Whatever style works, Sedona is an incredibly diverse place that makes for a great romantic getaway. 

14. Take Your Breath Away at the Grand Canyon

James Ian from Parks Collecting

Grand Canyon National Park is the perfect romantic weekend getaway.  The main place to access the canyon is the south rim.  There are multiple viewpoints along the rim where couples can sit and gaze at one of the most breathtaking sights in the world. Get up early for the sunrise and head back for the sunset when the soft light and colorful skies make it even more romantic.  Don’t forget compact binoculars to expand your views. There is a free shuttle along the rim and easy trails.

There is a well-established area around the South Rim, Grand Canyon Village. Here there are several lodges, including the stunning El Tovar, which is perched right on the canyon rim.  Splurge to stay in  a room with a view of Grand Canyon  and definitely book a meal in their grand dining room.  The sky-high vaulted ceiling built with rustic logs is a national parks classic and the perfect location for your anniversary celebratory dinner.   

For the more adventurous, hit the trails and head below the rim. The Bright Angel Trail is the most popular trail leading from the south rim all the way down to the Colorado River at the bottom.  If you can get a reservation, staying at Phantom Ranch on the canyon floor is a different twist for your anniversary celebration.  You can always turn back at Indian Garden, though, and head back up to the top.

If your sense of adventure continues, take a mule ride through pine forests to a less-visited viewpoint overlooking the canyon.  Or head to the gift store to pick up the perfect anniversary gift for each other. No matter what you do, you will have a wonderful anniversary trip at Grand Canyon National Park.

15. Cruise to Bainbridge Island, Seattle WA

Contributed by Ruma Dey Baidya from The Holiday Story

Looking for a perfect weekend getaway to celebrate your anniversary in the US? Seattle’s serene yet lively Bainbridge Island can be your best destination. Travelling here will surely rekindle the spark in your busy married life. The fusion of the bay waters, mountains, lush greenery, quaint ambience offers a relaxing mood to spend the much-awaited event.

 Start a cruise ride from Seattle to Bainbridge Island. On reaching, there are several botanical gardens offering camping activities. Sun-bathe at the adjacent sandy beaches. Walkthrough the woods feeling the natural beauty at the Bloedel Reserve.

Next, head to the Museum of Art & Culture showcasing contemporary art. Have a romantic American lunch at the historic Harbour Public House. Spend the afternoon seeing artifacts at the Historical Museum. Follow it up with an adventurous night camping at Bay Bainbridge Park, overlooking the Cascade Mountains. 

 Take it easy the next day and cruise to the tribal Tillicum Village at Blake Island. Relish tasty local food offered by the tribal-dressed people. Take a lazy stroll at the Suquamish Museum – showcasing tribal culture. Enjoy a cosy coffee date with your better half at the famous Blackbird Bakery.  Spend a romantic night stay at the Richmond Beach Saltwater Park. 

 Post-pandemic, this offbeat island has opened up following all safety and sanitary protocols to revive tourism. It is safe to travel carrying a personal hygiene kit . The search for the best anniversary weekend trip with your better-half is over. Spending time at this small and beautiful island, away from the hustle-bustle of the city will refresh your married life.

16. Go Back in Time in Boston

Contributed by Nicole from Go Far Grow Close

Boston would be a fantastic destination for a romantic getaway in the US. Boston is a walking city – all of the interesting historical sites, delicious restaurants, and fun shopping areas are just a few minutes away from each other along flat paths that take you through quiet parks, wide esplanades or bustling sidewalks. It would be easy to walk and talk together while enjoying everything that Boston has to offer.

A couple of awesome activities to do together in Boston is a food tour, like the Boston Secret Food Tour. You explore Little Italy and other parts of Boston all the while eating LOTS of delectable food! During Covid, you can still book this tour but it will be private. Of course, a visit to Boston would not be complete without walking the Freedom Trail, which is a 2.5 mile walk that connects 16 significant historical sites. You can do this without a guide or choose one of the free walking tours still offered.

If you are looking to share a treat at the end of the day, head over to Mike’s Pastry, a Boston landmark. Here you can try one of the best cannolis in the city, some of which have crazy flavors. Bring cash and prepare to wait in a long line!

17. Be Inspired at Zion National Park

Contributed by Ale from Sea Salt and Fog   The natural beauty of Zion National Park serves as a perfect backdrop for an easy anniversary weekend trip. 

Located just a short two-and-a-half-hour drive from Las Vegas, Zion is a land of gorgeous red rock scenery, epic hikes, and breathtaking views. Zion is the perfect place for couples to celebrate and connect with nature – and with each other. 

If you have limited time, this  two day Zion National Park itinerary  will show you how to make the best of it. 

One of the less visited parts of the park, the Kolob Canyons, is perfect for avoiding crowds. The Timber Creek Overlook in this side of the park is a super short hike that ends at a stunning viewpoint of red rock canyons. There are some small juniper trees here under which couples can have a romantic picnic and take in the scenery. 

Back in the main Zion Canyon, an evening stroll along the Pa’rus trail will have you meandering through a beautiful meadow where you can spot wildlife. The trail ends with a gorgeous view of the river and the canyons, perfect for sunset. 

If adventure is your idea of a perfect couple’s trip, Zion offers The Narrows and Angels Landing, bucketlist-worthy hikes. 

In the Narrows you will be hiking in the Virgin River with canyon walls soaring up to a thousand feet in the air above you. Meanwhile, Angels Landing is an adrenaline-pumping hike that gives you picture-perfect views of Zion. 

Couples can stay in the nearby town of Springdale, Utah with plenty of hotels and bed and breakfasts offering hot tubs, gardens, and stunning views all around. 

Note that during COVID, Zion is requiring advanced shuttle reservations to access some of the most popular hikes in the park. Tickets sell out fast, so plan accordingly. 

18. Ski in to Sundance Mountain Resort

Contributed by McKenna Hurd of One More Step Travels

Sundance Mountain Resort , near Provo Utah, enchants visitors from the moment they step on the property and take in the stunning mountainous backdrop. Whether visiting in the winter, during ski season, or in the summer, Sundance provides a dreamy setting and romantic activities, great for couples celebrating their anniversary.

There are many activities available year-round for couples at Sundance, including the Art Studio with a variety of classes, including pottery, soap-making, and painting. Adventurous couples can enjoy the exhilarating Zip Tour side-by-side above the mountains.

Couples will certainly want to visit the Sundance Spa for a relaxing Time Together Massage, which pampers guests with a hot stone foot soak and body massage. Lodging guests can also visit the spa each morning for yoga and meditation.

In the summer, plan to take in the mountain scenery by hiking to Stewart Falls, riding the ski lift to the top of the mountain, or going on a horseback riding escapade. 

During the winter, bond over downhill skiing adventures or head to the Sundance Nordic Center for snowshoeing in solitude or joining a Full Moon Cross Country Skiing tour.

Sundance is home to amazing dining and is a great choice for splurging on award-winning cuisine. Tree Room Restaurant is upscale dining centered around a living tree and carefully crafted ingredients. Foundry Grill is homier, but still a romantic and calming setting with excellent dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Bearclaw Cabin is great for couples seeking respite atop a mountain, with simple options, such as nachos.

For your visit, consider booking the Table for Two Package, specifically for couples. This package includes lodging in a private mountain cottage, a three-course meal at either the Foundry Grill or Tree Room, and daily breakfast at the Foundry Grill.

During Covid-19, Sundance Mountain Resort is open, but reservations for skiing must be made in advance and is only open to season pass holders and lodging guests on Saturdays.

19. Find Romance in Santa Fe

Contributed by Agnes from The Van Escape

Santa Fe in New Mexico is a perfect place for a romantic and relaxing anniversary weekend trip for couples. The town delights with its attractive architecture and, above all, an exciting and rich cultural offer. Furthermore, Santa Fe was founded in 1610, and it is America’s oldest capital city.

How to spend a romantic weekend in Santa Fe?

The most exciting architectural places worth visiting are The Santa Fe Plaza, a National Historic Landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The regal Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and Palace of the Governors.

But most of all, Santa Fe is a cultural mecca, a real gem for art lovers with fabulous museums, art galleries, and famous opera. The best is Meow Wolf, which brilliantly blends interactive art installations with a fantastical funhouse. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is the perfect place to admire one of the world’s most iconic artists. Perfect is also New Mexico Museum of Art.

Finally, in the Santa Fe area, you will find the best hikes in New Mexico & outdoor adventures. Great hikes offer Bandelier National Monument or Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, or ancient Taos Pueblo. For hikes descriptions and more activities in Santa Fe, check the  3 Days Santa Fe Itinerary.  

Santa Fe is famous for its outstanding cuisine. You can discover the fantastic flavors of New Mexico here. For dinner go to 315 Restaurant & Wine Bar. This place is very romantic. Their mussels and oysters are great, but also salmon and steak are delicious. A great place for lunch is La Choza, with typical Mexican cuisine.

For an anniversary weekend trip highly recommend staying in Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi . It is a luxury 5-star hotel with a restaurant near Santa Fe Plaza in the town center. Another great option is Inn & Spa at Loretto, a 4-star stylish hotel in Santa Fe’s heart.

Due to the pandemic situation, the number of places in hotels and restaurants is limited, so it is worth booking in advance. Face masks and frequent washing of the hands are mandatory in public places. Due to the dynamic COVID situation and frequent changes in regulations, it is worth checking the  official website   regarding restrictions, including a possible quarantine.

20. Get Outside in Denver Colorado

Contributed by Matt at Wheatless Wanderlust 

If you love sunny days and the mountains, a weekend in Denver is a perfect couples anniversary trip in any season.

In the summer, enjoy warm days full of hiking some of the many trails near Denver, and exploring Denver on foot or by bike, and sitting down to an al fresco dinner in the evening in Denver’s warm summer air.

In the winter, spend your day at one of the many ski resorts just outside of Denver, and your evenings curled up by the fire with a good book and your partner. Either way, Denver is a great destination for an anniversary trip.

Denver itself is a charming mid-size city with a thriving food and drink scene, where you’ll find everything from high end dining to vegan taco shops, and just about everything in between. Foodies will love dinner at SuperMegaBien, brunch at Root Down, and sunset at the Avanti Food and Beverage rooftop in charming LoHi, where you can choose from a variety of food stalls. 

The best part about Denver, however, is actually what you’ll find just outside the city. If you enjoy being in the outdoors, Denver has a variety of options for you, where you and your partner will find a slice of solitude among the rocky peaks and wildflower meadows that you won’t forget anytime soon. 

To the west, less than a half-hour from the city center is Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. It’s a great place for a hike during the day through the red-dusted landscape, or to catch a show in the evening in one of the best concert settings in the country. Unfortunately, concerts at Red Rocks are currently on hold due to COVID-19, but they will resume once it is safe to do so. 

To the northwest, you’ll find the rugged rocky peaks and the abundance of wildlife that has made Rocky Mountain National Park famous. Take a day trip from the city to hike to spectacular Dream Lake or Sky Pond, and stop by Sprague Lake and Moraine Park on the way back to see if you can spot some elk or moose, both of which call the National Park home. 

Which Destination do you like for the best anniversary trip in the US?

Plan 20 years of happy anniversary destinations to bring you closer together as a couple. Your memories of the trip will endure beyond the vacation and create a happier marriage relationship for both of you and your family. Taking a trip as a couple isn’t just fun, its necessary!

Fly by the Seat of our Pants contains affiliate links. When you buy through the links it helps keep this website running, at no extra cost to you.

If you liked this, you may like these posts, too!

Everything You Need to Know about Flying on a Buddy Pass

Long Layover At DFW Airport? Take TEXRail Direct To Grapevine

Related posts.

Don’t miss this Hidden Gem for a Fantastic Family Vacation near DFW

Best Things to do in Amarillo, Texas with Kids

Experience a Beautiful European Christmas in Frankenmuth

Write a comment cancel reply.

• International
• National Parks
• Budget Tips
• Support this Website | Contribute to Blogger Jamie Harper
• Disclosure & Privacy
• Work with Me

90 years of expert advice and inspiration, for every couple.

• Engagement Rings
• Wedding Bands
• Celebrity Weddings & News
• Wedding Planning
• Destination Wedding
• Invitations & Stationery
• Wedding Décor
• Flowers & Bouquets
• Food & Drink
• Wedding Cakes
• Photography
• Wedding Dresses
• Bridesmaid Dresses
• Makeup & Hair
• Accessories
• Groom Style
• Wedding Party Attire
• Wedding Guest Attire
• Bridal Fashion Week
• Skincare & Wellness
• Engagement Party
• Bridal Shower
• Bachelorette Party
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Registry Tips
• Anniversary Gifts
• Wedding Favors
• Friends & Family
• Marriage Proposal Ideas
• Married Life
• Love & Dating
• The Brides Team
• Editorial Guidelines
• Editorial Policy
• Terms of Use and Policies
• Privacy Policy
• Relationships
• Married life

The Golden Wedding Anniversary Marks 50 Years of Marriage—Here's How to Celebrate This Milestone

Plus, find out how many couples actually reach this major anniversary.

svetikd / Getty Images

In This Article

Every year of marriage is an accomplishment worth celebrating, but there’s something particularly awe-inspiring about the golden wedding anniversary. After all, this special milestone marks 50 years together—that’s half a century! Whether you're currently planning your wedding and looking forward to the future or are quickly approaching this major relationship benchmark, you're probably curious about what this uniquely named anniversary entails—and how common it actually is to reach this point.

Considering the scope of what half a century really means—a couple has created and lived a full life together and experienced almost every possible triumph and challenge —marking this moment is often a big deal for duos. There are endless ways to do so, but how you celebrate should be informed by that life you have built and your shared priorities. Give a from-the-heart gift (gold is, naturally, the present of choice for the golden wedding anniversary!) if that speaks to your love language, take a once-in-a-lifetime trip if you're avid adventurers , or throw a party where you can watch your children (and, potentially, grandchildren) share in the joy and love that was built upon the foundation you laid.

Ahead, couples therapist Kelley Donovan explains the significance of the golden wedding anniversary and offers meaningful ways to celebrate the occasion—whether that's now or 50 years down the road. 

Meet the Expert

Kelley Donovan is a licensed clinical social worker offering couples intensives and couples therapy. She is based in Northern Virginia. 

The Significance of the Golden Wedding Anniversary 

So much happens in half a century—and if you and your spouse have been married for this amount of time, you have truly built a life as partners. “If a couple has made it to 50 years, they have gone through a life’s worth of transitions together, such as having children, empty-nesting, retiring, caring for aging parents, and grieving the loss of them,” says Donovan. “These ultra long-term relationships aren’t free from conflict—all couples have conflict, especially during life’s transitions—but a couple that has been together for 50 years probably has what couples therapists call ‘ secure attachment .’”

This is what all couples strive to achieve. Per Donovan, secure attachment means that each partner is a ccessible, r esponsive, and e ngaged. (A helpful shortcut to remember these traits: “A.R.E. you there for me?”) They’ve put in the time and effort and actively worked on showing up for the relationship, even during life's most challenging moments. “Being there for each other for 50 years is something to be celebrated, maybe even shouted from the rooftops!” Donovan adds. “Secure attachment is a triumph.”

How Many Couples Reach the Golden Anniversary? 

If you’re celebrating a golden wedding anniversary, you’re definitely breathing rarefied air. According to research from the U.S. Census Bureau reported by CBS News , only six percent of American couples make it to their golden anniversary. This low number makes sense, as couples need to marry fairly young, weather lots of storms, and live fairly long lives in order to achieve this milestone. A couple that married at 25, for example, will need to still be together at 75 in order to hit their golden anniversary. In America, where the average life expectancy hovers around 76 and roughly half of all marriages end in divorce , that’s quite an accomplishment! 

MoMo Productions / Getty Images

Gift Ideas for the Golden Wedding Anniversary 

The traditional gift for the golden wedding anniversary is—as you probably guessed—gold. A rare and precious metal with a pleasing yellow or white luster that is highly sought after for fine jewelry and other valuables, this material shines with the sparkle of a love that has endured five decades. 

According to Time , the history of associating gold with the 50th wedding anniversary might have begun in Roman or Medieval times—but the custom was more firmly cemented around the turn of the 20th century in the later Victorian era, when love marriages became more common and life expectancies began increasing. (Per customs described by newspapers at the time, wives were given golden wreaths to commemorate the occasion.) 

If you’d like to celebrate the occasion with a wrapped present, here are a few thematic gift ideas for the golden anniversary: 

• A gold stacking band to wear alongside an engagement ring and wedding ring
• A piece of gold jewelry or similar accessory, such as a watch, cufflinks, necklace, or a pair of earrings
• A gold-plated Champagne bucket paired with a crisp bottle of bubbly
• A gold-plated or gold-dipped rose (it’ll last an eternity, just like your love)

Experience Gifts

Of course, a couple that has spent half a century accumulating material possessions together might be more interested in commemorating the occasion with an experience. “I can think of no better way to celebrate 50 years together than with family, friends, and all the people in the couple’s lives who have supported them and made their bond possible,” says Donovan.

So go on—plan that vow renewal , throw that anniversary party, or gather your nearest and dearest for an intimate dinner and invite them to all give a toast. Pro tip: If the memories inspire you to more extensively reflect on your years together, use the StoryCorps App to record and archive a conversation about the history of your relationship for future generations to enjoy. 

Related Stories

Anniversary Gifts by Year: Our Traditional and Modern Guide

What Is the Platinum Anniversary?

The 40 Best 10th Anniversary Gifts Your Spouse Will Adore

The 30 Best First Anniversary Gifts for Your Partner—Editor-Tested and Approved

100 Meaningful Anniversary Captions for Your Next Social Media Post

The 31 Best 13th-Anniversary Gifts to Mark a Momentous Occasion

The Ultimate Guide to Renewing Your Wedding Vows

The 48 Best Anniversary Gifts for Parents and In-Laws

Celebrate Love With These 45 Best Anniversary Gifts for Couples

The 34 Best 2nd Anniversary Gifts of 2024

The 33 Best 20th Anniversary Gifts to Show Your Love

The 42 Best 5th Year Anniversary Gifts to Show Your Love

The 19 Best Gifts to Celebrate Your 40th Anniversary

The 33 Best Silver Anniversary Gifts For Your Long-Time Love

The Best 25th-Anniversary Gifts for the Silver Year of 2024

The 16 Most Popular Types of Rings to Know

Places to Go for a 50th Wedding Anniversary

by Corinne Baum

Published on 13 Jul 2023

Belizean Shores Resort on Ambergris Caye, Belize, Central America

Boulder brook on fall river, estes park, colorado, hotel california, paris, france.

One day you get married, and then poof! Before you know it, you spent the last 50 years in a fairytale with your sweetheart. But how do you want to celebrate your 50th wedding anniversary? After all, anniversary gifts can be tricky, and you want something world-class to celebrate your love.

The first consideration for a golden anniversary trip is how active you can or want to be. The answer will naturally lead to correspondingly appropriate destinations. For active trips, pick a spot to snorkel or kayak. For a quiet, slow-paced anniversary getaway, choose a restful setting, such as a river cruise or a spa resort. For a mixture of activity and rest, select a place offering a variety of attractions the two of you will enjoy. Here’s a list of some anniversary trip ideas in beautiful places around the world to get your itinerary started.

coral reef in belize image by jedphoto from Fotolia.com

Belizean Shores Resort is an idyllic tropical island destination complete with white sandy beaches, ocean views and coconut palms. There are many different types of activities for all types of travelers. You can snorkel or scuba dive in the Caribbean or take a leisurely cave tubing tour. If you want to go exploring with your love for your anniversary celebration, consider exploring the nearby Mayan temples of Xunantunich and Lamanai. For nature lovers, don't forget to check out 200 species of birds in the Mayflower Bocawina National Park or tour Port of Honduras Marine Reserve, where seven jungle rivers meet the sea amid 135 landless mangrove islands. Those simply looking to relax and reflect on the last 50 years can simply relax by the swimming pool or on the beautiful beaches.

Wild Elk in the Rocky Mountains National Park image by Farias from Fotolia.com

Who said you had to go to a beach for a romantic vacation? A more approachable weekend getaway for U.S. readers is Boulder Brook in beautiful Colorado. Boulder Brook is a small lodge surrounded by tall pines that is on the tumbling waters of Fall River. Each room has river vistas, a fireplace and jet tubs for further relaxation. At dusk you might see an abundance of wildlife wander by while you sit on the deck or relax in the outdoor hot tub. Wildlife watching is a favorite pastime at Boulder Brook, yet you are less than five minutes from bustling Estes Park’s shops and attractions. In Estes Park, you’ll find art galleries, ski schools, distilleries and wineries for wine tasting and two golf courses. The resort is located two miles from the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park, so there’s over 355 miles of biking and hiking trails nearby for lovebirds to explore.

arc de triomphe image by laurent davaine from Fotolia.com

Consider visiting Paris if you are looking for a classic idea for a lovely anniversary vacation. Check in to the cozy Hotel California, which is situated two blocks from Champs Elysees. Paris is the city of love, so there will be an endless array of activities to make your romantic getaway special. If you want to go check out more of Paris, you can always grab a taxi or bus to the Eiffel Tower, Place de la Concorde or Louvre Museum. If you want to travel like the locals, the Georges V Metro station is only a leisurely 10-minute walk from the hotel’s front door. If you don't want to go too far, the 1925 era hotel also features an extensive collection in its diminutive art gallery.

TRAVEL TIPS: Can’t afford to go far from home? Take a road trip somewhere close to home with your spouse to mark your special occasion. You can eat dinner at a romantic Italian restaurant and do some bucket list things around your hometown.

27 Memorable 50th Wedding Anniversary Celebration Ideas

After five decades of married life, it’s time to celebrate your enduring love and commitment in a memorable way, so, we’ve compiled a list of 27 unique and heartwarming 50th wedding anniversary ideas.

These suggestions range from traditional to creative, ensuring that you can find the perfect way to honor your remarkable journey together.

Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or a more intimate affair, these ideas will inspire you to make your 50th wedding anniversary unforgettable.

1. Renew Your Vows with a Special Ceremony

Photo: cactus collective.

What better way to celebrate 50 years of marriage than renewing your vows? Exchange heartfelt vows reminding your spouse what they mean to you. Make it unique with personalized vows, special music, photos, or videos from your wedding and life together. This is the perfect opportunity to recreate your first dance and cut your anniversary cake. It’s a beautiful way to honor your marriage and create new memories.

2. Plan an Anniversary Trip or Cruise

Photo: canva.

Mark 50 years of marriage by getting away together. Plan a trip to a destination on your bucket list or revisit where you honeymooned. Or book an anniversary cruise to relax and be pampered. Spend quality time making new memories. Surprise your spouse by planning everything yourself or collaborate and build anticipation.

To make it extra special, invite your children and grandchildren. Or savor this time alone to reconnect. Wherever you go, celebrating just the two of you is the perfect golden anniversary gift.

3. Host a Vow Renewal Party with Friends and Family

Celebrate 50 years of marriage by renewing your vows surrounded by loved ones. Host an anniversary party and recreate your wedding day. Exchange rings again and recite vows reminding your spouse what they mean to you. Make it lighthearted and fun with decorations, music, food, and photos from your wedding day. Or keep it intimate with just close family present.

However you choose to celebrate, it honors your commitment and provides a meaningful chance to thank your partner for sharing this life together. Mark the milestone by formally renewing the promises made long ago before gathering to toast your enduring love.

4. Have a Professional Photo Shoot to Commemorate the Milestone

Photo: slr lounge.

Mark this special occasion by scheduling a professional photo shoot to capture your love. Work with a photographer to find meaningful locations or recreate photos from your wedding day. Get dressed up and take stylish portraits together. Bring props like a custom sign with your anniversary date or old wedding photos. Black and white photos can add nostalgic flair.

Showcase candid moments too – hold hands, embrace, and focus on each other. The images will serve as timeless keepsakes commemorating 50 years side by side. You can display your favorites prominently in your home or gift personalized prints to your family. The photoshoot provides a creative way to honor your enduring bond and relive beautiful memories along the way.

5. Create a Custom Video Montage of Your Relationship

Photo: but natural photography.

Compile memorable photos and videos from throughout your decades together into a sentimental montage film. Include nostalgic moments like your wedding day, births of children, anniversaries, vacations, and time with grandchildren. Splice in video clips recreating special memories. Add a meaningful soundtrack of your favorite songs over the years.

Interview each other sharing favorite stories, inside jokes, and relationship advice gleaned over 50 years of marriage. Create a voiceover narrating your unique tale. Showcase the montage at your anniversary party or gift DVD copies to the family.

This personalized film provides a touching retrospective of your enduring love story and the many cherished moments you’ve shared over the years. It will remind you both how far you’ve come and inspire you to continue loving each other for many more anniversaries to come.

6. Commission a Personalized Piece of Art to Display

Commission an artist to create a custom painting or drawing depicting a meaningful memory, favorite photo, or iconic location from your relationship journey. This could be an artistic rendition of your wedding day, your first home, the beachside vacation where you became engaged, your alma mater where you met, or any place holding special significance. Work with the artist to incorporate personal touches like your actual wedding attire or venue architecture.

Display this meaningful keepsake proudly in your home as a daily reminder of the wonderful memories you share. When guests ask about it, the artwork provides a natural conversation starter allowing you to reminisce on your romantic history together. Let the creative work spark nostalgia and storytelling for years to come.

With an original piece celebrating your one-of-a-kind love, this anniversary gift idea is sure to touch your spouse’s heart.

7. Get Matching 50th Anniversary Tattoos

Commemorate reaching the rare 50 year marriage milestone with matching tattoos depicting your wedding date, anniversary date, or other meaningful symbols representing your enduring love. While tattoos carry a permanent commitment just like marriage, they can be designed in subtle ways to hold personal meaning between you two without being obvious to others.

Opt for small designs in discreet locations that can be concealed if desired. Engrave roman numerals of your anniversary date on the inside of your ring fingers. Get a minimalist outline of your wedding bouquet or venue architecture behind your ears. Have your initials or anniversary date inked on your ankle or wrist.

For a more visible display, design two half hearts, jigsaw puzzle pieces, or yin and yang symbols that come together when side by side. While tattoos may not be for everyone, for adventurous couples, matching ink can be a unique and permanent way to commemorate achieving 50 years of marriage.

8. Have a Romantic Dinner at the Location of Your First Date

Recreate the magic of your first date by returning to the original location for an intimate anniversary dinner. Relive your early days of courtship by booking the same table or requesting the same menu items. Reminisce over how far your relationship has come in 50 years. Toast to the many memories made at this meaningful place.

Splurge on your partner’s favorite dishes and desserts. Share your fondest stories from that inaugural encounter that sparked a lifelong partnership. End the evening with a romantic stroll past other nostalgic sites before capping it off with dessert in the same spot you shared your first kiss. Making a pilgrimage back to where it all started reconnects you to the roots of your enduring love.

9. Splurge on Diamond Jewelry Like Earrings or a Necklace

Mark this major milestone with a meaningful piece of diamond jewelry. Select a timeless design in a precious metal like gold or platinum. Choose for sparkling stud earrings to wear daily as a shining symbol of your 50 years together. Choose a necklace with a solitaire pendant that can be passed down as a family heirloom. Engrave the back of your gift with your anniversary date, initials, or a loving sentiment. Present your spouse with the gift as a surprise or shop for the perfect piece together.

Work with a jeweler to create something that reflects your shared tastes and tells your unique love story through carefully chosen details. Diamonds are the traditional 50th anniversary gemstone for their enduring beauty and strength, making jewelry the quintessential way to commemorate half a century of marriage.

10. Exchange Personalized 50th Anniversary Gifts

Exchanging thoughtful, customized gifts with your spouse is a heartfelt way to celebrate 50 years together. Create a photo book or collage highlighting your relationship journey from the wedding day to the present. Include captions to provide context for each picture. Turn special memories into a scrapbook or have images printed on a blanket.

Present your spouse with a customized art piece featuring your names and anniversary date. The personalized touch makes these gifts extra meaningful. Ultimately, the thought and care put into selecting or creating a gift speaks volumes about your 5 decades as a couple.

11. Display Old Photos and Memorabilia From Your Wedding

Celebrating 50 years of marriage is the perfect time to take a nostalgic stroll down memory lane. Dig out your wedding album, reminiscence over candid shots, and display cherished photos from your big day. Create a photo gallery wall showcasing pictures spanning from your engagement through early married life.

Set up a table featuring memorabilia like your guestbook, bouquet preservation, favors, or your cake topper. Reminiscing over your wedding photos, attire, and keepsakes is a heartwarming way to highlight your enduring union and bring back fond memories as you celebrate 50 years together.

12. Recreate Your Wedding Day Look with Your Original Gown and Tux

For an extra special golden anniversary, consider recreating your wedding day ensemble. If you still have your gown, get it cleaned and pressed so you can wear it again. Accessorize as you did 50 years ago with your veil, jewelry, shoes, and other accents. Gentlemen can don their original tuxedo or suit as well. This is a unique way to commemorate your 50th in style. Take photos replicating your wedding portraits for a then-and-now effect.

Ask guests to dress formally so your attire doesn’t look out of place. Walk down the aisle arm in arm, cut the cake, and dance your first dance to make it feel like your wedding day again. Keep the mood lighthearted rather than overly serious. Celebrating 50 years of marriage in your original wedding finery highlights how your enduring love has stood the test of time.

13. Plant a Tree Together in Your Yard or Donate One in Your Names

Planting a tree together is a meaningful way to commemorate your 50th wedding anniversary. Consider getting a sapling of your state tree or another significant variety. Find a spot in your yard together and dig in! Nurturing a tree symbolizes your continued growth together.

If you don’t have outdoor space, look into donating a tree to be planted in a park or other public space in honor of your anniversary. Many organizations offer commemoration certificates when you donate a tree in someone’s name.

You’ll be leaving a living legacy for your community while also honoring your marriage milestone. Trees planted in your names will stand the test of time, just like your enduring love over 50 years.

14. Write Love Letters Reflecting on Your Years Together

Writing heartfelt love letters is a touching way to celebrate 50 years of marriage. Set aside time to thoughtfully reflect on your journey together. What are your favorite memories from each decade? The challenges you’ve overcome? Hopes for the years ahead? Pour out your heart in a love letter detailing what your spouse has meant to you through the years. Reference inside jokes, cherished moments, and future dreams. Share your thoughts while displaying photos from your wedding and life together.

However you choose to express it, putting your appreciation into words is a gift your spouse will treasure. Your golden anniversary is a chance to reminisce on all you’ve built as a couple. A love letter is a meaningful memento of your milestone.

15. Create a Scrapbook or Memory Book of Your Relationship

Gather old photos, ticket stubs, wedding memorabilia, letters, and other mementos from throughout your relationship. Arrange them artfully in a photo album or scrapbook to celebrate 50 years of marriage. Include milestone moments like your wedding day, the birth of children, anniversaries, vacations, and major life events.

Jot down favorite memories and inside jokes. Old greeting cards and love letters offer a glimpse into your early days. Ticket stubs and photos relive exciting adventures. Your finished memory book will illustrate the full, rich story of your life together. It makes a heartfelt 50th anniversary gift for your spouse.

As you craft it, the process will stir nostalgia and appreciation for all you’ve shared. This scrapbook will become a treasured family heirloom to pass down.

16. Take Ballroom Dancing Lessons Together

Learning to ballroom dance is a fun way for couples to celebrate 50 years of marriage. Consider signing up for ballroom dance classes in your community. Many studios offer group lessons for beginners looking to learn classic dances like the foxtrot, waltz, tango, or swing.

Ballroom dancing is a great couple’s activity that keeps you active and enhances intimacy through touch and coordinated movement. Mastering new dance skills together builds confidence.

Dressing up and going out dancing recaptures the magic of your early dating days. Surprise your spouse with a private ballroom dancing lesson as an anniversary gift. Then show off your new moves at your 50th anniversary party!

17. Go Stargazing and Reminisce About All the Nights You’ve Shared

Laying beneath the stars is a peaceful way for couples to reflect on a lifetime together. Plan an evening stargazing date to commemorate your 50th wedding anniversary. Drive to a location away from city lights and lay out blankets and pillows. Gaze upward in awe at the vast night sky glittering with stars. Let your eyes adjust to the darkness as you pick out familiar constellations.

Share memories of stargazing when you were young – your first date, camping trips, or nights camping out with children. Reminisce about falling in love under the stars. Reflect on how far you’ve come and all of life’s twists and turns. Let stargazing be a centering ritual to cherish your enduring bond beneath the infinite beauty of the night sky.

18. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride for a Unique View

Looking down at the world below from the basket of a hot air balloon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For your 50th anniversary, surprise your spouse with a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or sunset for an unforgettable perspective. Float above the trees, lakes, mountains, and fields bathed in golden light. Toast with champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries as you drift over the stunning landscape.

Check this off your bucket list and be amazed at how new and magical the world looks from on high. A hot air balloon ride will lift you to new heights, just like your love has done for all these years.

19. Go on a Scenic Hike or Bike Ride Like You Did When Dating

Bring back fond memories of your early days together with an invigorating hike or bike ride in nature. Search for trails with waterfalls, mountain vistas, or other awe-inspiring views. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy along the way. Stop frequently to snap photos of each other with scenic backdrops.

Laugh about mishaps like when his chain fell off halfway up a hill long ago. Feel like giddy kids again as you challenge each other to a race on bikes or foot. Reward yourselves with an ice cream or craft beer at the end. You’ll be tired but filled with feel-good endorphins and nostalgia.

No matter how many years go by, it’s wonderful to reconnect with your younger selves through outdoor activities. Appreciate how far you’ve come while staying young at heart.

20. Have a Wine Tasting or Brewery Tour for an Afternoon Excursion

Make a date out of touring local wineries or breweries together. Sample flights to discover new favorite varietals and brews. Chat with the winemaker or brewmaster about their craft. Learn about the winemaking or brewing process. Pick up a bottle or cans of your top sips as mementos. Pair tastings with small plates like cheese, olives, and crusty bread.

Capture the views and good times with selfies to look back on later. End your outing by raising a toast to 50 years of marriage over a glass of bubbly. Local beverage tours make for inexpensive, fun-filled afternoons. You’ll deepen bonds over shared interests and new experiences.

21. Plan a Relaxing Couples Massage or Spa Day

Make time for rest and rejuvenation together with a spa day. Schedule side-by-side massages to melt away knots and tension. Try a soothing couples treatment like a rose petal bath or aromatherapy session. Enjoy facials, body scrubs, or reflexology foot massages. Relax in the steam room or sauna.

Sip tea or infused water between treatments. Order a healthy spa lunch or dinner to be served fireside while wrapped in cozy robes. Exchange hand and foot massages in your suite. Focus conversations on hopes, dreams, and future plans.

Let the tranquil atmosphere wash away stress. A shared spa day reconnects you through peaceful quality time. The goal is to emerge feeling refreshed and renewed—ready to continue celebrating your golden milestone .

22. Spend a Weekend Away at a Cozy Cabin or B&B

Get away from the daily grind by booking a weekend at a secluded cabin or quaint bed and breakfast. Look for somewhere off the beaten path with scenic views, trails to hike, and outdoor activities. Or pick a historic inn in a charming small town. Spend mornings lingering over breakfast in bed or on the porch.

In the afternoons, explore downtown shops and museums together. Schedule couples massages or soak in an oversized tub with a bottle of champagne. Curl up by the fireplace playing board games or reading. Savor delicious multi-course dinners onsite at the B&B.

A change of scenery and slower pace allows you to appreciate the last 50 years while looking ahead to making more memories together.

23. Compile Favorite Recipes You’ve Made Together into a Custom Cookbook

Gather up those recipe cards and clippings to create a custom cookbook of dishes you’ve prepared together over the decades. Note any stories behind the origins of certain recipes. Did you discover a new cuisine on an anniversary trip abroad? Did a recipe get passed down from a parent or grandparent?

Adding photos of finished dishes or the two of you cooking together makes it even more personal. Have it printed and bound through an online service so you’ll always have a record of the meals you’ve shared from your first apartment’s humble dinners to celebratory holiday feasts. It will be a treasured keepsake you can pass down to children and grandchildren.

24. Relive Favorite Travel Memories with a Slideshow or Map Display

Gather photos from your travels together over the years and create a slideshow set to music to showcase your adventures. Or print photos to pin on a large map, marking all the places you’ve visited.  Write captions noting the year and special memories. Reminisce over road trips across the country or the vacation place where you honeymooned. Or mark dream trips you hope to take someday.

Looking back on the places you’ve been together is a great way to relive beautiful memories of exploration and time spent making new discoveries side by side. Display it at the party or keep it up in your home as a tribute to the journeys you’ve taken hand in hand.

25. Make a Donation to a Charity That Has Special Meaning to You Both

Consider making a donation in honor of your 50th anniversary to a charity or cause that holds significance for you as a couple. It could be a place you volunteered together over the years, an organization that helped you through a difficult time, or a cause aligned with your values. Donating to a charity in lieu of gifts shows what matters most and allows you to give back.

This thoughtful gesture provides a way to celebrate your enduring marriage while also supporting others. Make the donation in both your names and announce it at the party or in invitations to share the significance.

26. Splurge on VIP or Box Seats at a Concert by One of Your Favorite Acts

Hearing cherished tunes will transport you back in time and create new memories to carry forward. Choose an artist or band you’ve loved since early in your relationship or one that has provided the soundtrack to your life together. Splurge on the best seats to soak in the nostalgia and make the night extra special.

This shared experience of enjoying phenomenal live music together is a fitting way to celebrate a phenomenal 50 years together. Make it a mini vacation by booking a luxurious hotel suite and planning romantic dinners out around the big event. Turn this concert into a major milestone marker on your journey .

27. Host an Elegant Formal Dinner Party for Close Friends and Family

Transform your home into a glamorous setting with flowers, candlelight, fine china, and decor touches in gold for your golden anniversary. Hire a caterer to provide gourmet fare and servers to attend to guests so you can relax and enjoy.

Make heartfelt toasts about your journey together over the decades and let loved ones share their well-wishes. Display photos from throughout your relationship at a memory table to stroll down memory lane.

This refined dinner allows you to come together with those who matter most and formally commemorate achieving 50 years side by side in wedded bliss. It provides the perfect opportunity to express your gratitude for their love and support across the years. Make it an occasion to dress to the nines and make unforgettable new memories with your inner circle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can i do for my parents 50th wedding anniversary.

Some great ideas for celebrating your parents’ 50th wedding anniversary include throwing them a party with close family and friends, creating a photo album or video montage of their lives together, planning a vow renewal ceremony, treating them to a special trip or cruise, or gifting them something meaningful like a personalized framed print. The most important thing is spending quality time together and honoring their years of marriage.

What are some meaningful ways to celebrate a 50th wedding anniversary on a budget?

Celebrate on a budget by having a picnic in a local park, recreating your honeymoon at home, making a scrapbook of memories, or planning a potluck-style family dinner.

What are some traditional gifts for a 50th wedding anniversary?

Traditional gifts for a 50th wedding anniversary often involve gold, as it is the symbol of this milestone. Consider gold jewelry, personalized gold items, or gold-themed decor.

Are there any symbolic flowers or colors associated with a 50th wedding anniversary?

Yellow roses are often associated with 50th anniversaries, symbolizing joy and happiness. The color gold also represents this milestone.

Celebrating a 50th wedding anniversary is a remarkable achievement, and there are countless ways to make it special. Whether you choose to follow tradition with golden gifts, plan a unique and unforgettable event, or opt for a more intimate and budget-friendly celebration, the key is to celebrate the enduring love and commitment that have carried a couple through five decades of marriage.

However you decide to mark this milestone, it’s an opportunity to cherish memories, create new ones, and honor the enduring bond of love that has stood the test of time.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

19 Most Romantic Resorts in the USA for an Anniversary Trip (2023)

For our 20th anniversary, I had big dreams of a romantic getaway to Greece , or a couples trip to Bora Bora, returning to our honeymoon destination. If you are looking for an anniversary trip, romantic getaway, couples trip, or honeymoon ideas a little closer to home, start with our picks for the most romantic resorts in the USA.

I’ve asked friends, travel advisors, and trusted frequent travelers for their recommendations on the best romantic getaways in the U.S. for a special milestone anniversary trip. These are our top picks:

Most Romantic Resorts in the USA

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

1. Little Palm Island, Florida

When I stumbled on the website for Little Palm Island in the Florida Keys, I thought I hit the jackpot with everything that I wanted for our anniversary trip. A private island, our own tropical villa, and the most romantic atmosphere I can imagine within the continental United States. And then I looked at the price and realized I actually needed to hit the jackpot, or the lottery, to make even a splurge trip here a reality.

But if you are ready to spend, it is no surprise that Little Palm Island was included in the top resorts in the United States (and the World) by the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.

2. Amangiri, Canyon Point, Utah

Ever since spying the Amangiri hotel in a food magazine, my husband has been angling for a romantic getaway to this remote portion of Utah’s red rock country. Covering 600 acres of the vast and majestic Colorado Plateau, the Amangiri offers a desert landscape of canyons, mesas, ridges, and gorges.

Guests can choose between the modernist suites of Amangiri and the tented pavilions of Camp Sarika. To gain an appreciation of the landscape, you can tour slot canyons with Navajo guides, or observe powerful storytelling sessions and ritual dances by the fire in Monument Valley Tribal Park. Adventurers can also go canyoning, climbing, hiking, horseback riding, or enjoy water sports on Lake Powell. This is the perfect choice for those that enjoy spending time in nature and are active adventurers.

3. Bungalows Key Largo, Florida

If you are craving a tropical setting but $2000+ a night is a little rich for your budget, head to Key Largo. Bungalows Key Largo is one of the few adults-only resorts in the United States. While it still costs a pretty penny, at least their price is all-inclusive.

Picture a waterfront bungalow with a private veranda featuring a large outdoor soaking tub as your romantic getaway retreat. If that doesn’t relax you, the Zen Garden Spa certainly should. If you want to book a bungalow for Valentine’s Day, guests can now add on a  Valentine’s Day Sunset Dinner Cruise on a luxury catamaran with live acoustic music and an elegant culinary experience.

4. Inn at Perry Cabin, St. Michael’s, Maryland

My friend Brianna recommends the Inn at Perry Cabin , on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. This Belmond property offers understated luxury in one of the most beautiful areas of the east coast. The hotel’s interiors reflect the area’s maritime history, with plenty of cozy nooks and crannies to snuggle with your significant other.

The outdoor views are best enjoyed in one of the resort’s many Adirondack chairs with a glass of wine in hand, a perfect spot for enjoying the sunset. This resort is perfect for foodie couples who enjoy waterfront activities like yoga, kayaking, and sailing lessons.

5. Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, California

My friend and luxury travel advisor Kristi Marcelle recommends the Post Ranch Inn for an adults-only romantic getaway near San Francisco. Located on a clifftop overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the romantic landscape of Big Sur, the Post Ranch Inn is ideal for romance, relaxation, and rejuvenation.

With just 40 rooms and homes, the resort offers rustic elegance and privacy. Wellness and relaxation activities include morning yoga, guided nature hikes, forest, and sound journey meditation, as well as garden tours and art walks. Guests can also relax and enjoy the view at the infinity pool or use the resort’s telescope to star gaze at night.

6. Blackberry Farm, Walland, Tennessee

Located on a pastoral farm near the Great Smoky Mountains, this Relais & Châteaux resort offers bucket-list-worthy luxury. This intimate resort has something to offer everyone — from archery to carriage rides to culinary classes to water sports.

Blackberry Farm’s “foothill cuisine” draws foodies worldwide to enjoy its three inventive restaurants, which bring together a collection of artisans – chef, master gardener, baker, cheesemaker, forager, butcher, and sommelier.

7. White Barn Inn, Kennebunk, Maine

Luxury travel advisor and friend Barbara Weindling recommends the White Barn Inn for those looking for a classic New England romantic getaway. This Auberge Resorts Collection hotel offers coastal luxury and award-winning dining in one of the most charming towns on the Maine coast .

While you are there, you can enjoy culinary experiences such as chocolate making, cocktail creations, and Sunday tea. Outdoors, guests can enjoy a private cycling tour or sailing along the coast. Or cozy up inside in the Couple’s Spa Suite for an afternoon of romance and pampering.

8. The Point, Saranac Lake, New York

Also recommended by my friend Barbara, The Point is the only Forbes Five-Star property in the Adirondacks . This Relais & Châteaux hotel offers only eleven rooms for an intimate experience.

Built by William Avery Rockefeller II and crafted of native timber and stone, today it is the only Adirondack Great Camp from the Gilded Age open to the public. Enjoy boating, fishing, tennis, waterskiing, croquet, badminton, swimming, wake surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and hiking in the warmer months, or cuddle up with hot toddies by a roaring fire or champagne from the fully stocked ice bar on the lake after a day ice skating, curling and ice fishing in the winter.

9. Magee Homestead at Brush Creek Ranch, Saratoga, Wyoming

Another pick for outdoor adventurers, Kristi also recommends the adults-only Magee Homestead at Brush Creek Ranch. A member of Relais & Châteaux and recipient of the Forbes Travel Guide Five Star rating, Magee Homestead is an all-inclusive ranch that is part of the Brush Creek Ranch Collection.

Magee Homestead offers luxury accommodations in private cabins that once housed cow camp hands. You can enjoy gourmet culinary experiences, relaxing spa treatments, or outdoor adventures and exploration in Medicine Bow National Forest.

10. The Chanler, Newport, Rhode Island

Housed in a mansion on Newport’s famed Cliff Walk,  The Chanler  offers twenty distinctive Newport hotel rooms, which are elegantly decorated in various period styles. The Chanler has been on our wishlist for a romantic getaway in Newport since we first moved here and sampled the chef’s tasting menu at the hotel’s gourmet restaurant.

This Forbes Four-Star Hotel offers a luxury experience reminiscent of the Gilded Age. Stroll through the manicured gardens while you take in breathtaking ocean vistas, walk along the three-mile Cliff Walk, enjoy a gourmet meal, and sip an after-dinner drink at the fire pit and star gaze.

11. Inn at Newport Ranch, Fort Bragg, California

Located just 30 minutes from Mendocino on the Northern California Coast, the Inn at Newport Ranch is a local secret that luxury travel advisor Kristi Marcelle first clued me into and is perfect for a California romantic getaway .

The ranch encompasses seven microclimates on 2,000 acres set along one-and-one-half miles of rugged coastline, offering plenty of space to spread out and explore. Catering to only 26 guests in total, this intimate resort offers big views, along with 20 miles of trails for mountain biking or off-roading. Dining is another highlight, and right now meals can even be delivered to your patio for more privacy.

12. White Elephant, Nantucket, Massachusetts

The iconic White Elephant has been named among the finest luxury hotels on Nantucket Island for decades and is a popular romantic getaway destination for those seeking New England island charm. This waterfront resort offers spacious suites with private balconies overlooking the harbor, as well as private garden cottages.

From the resort, it is easy to enjoy the beach, shop in Nantucket Town, or take in the views at the Brant Point Lighthouse. Guests can also relax by the outdoor heated pool, hop on a bike and explore the area, sip cocktails on the Harborside Lawn, or rejuvenate in the world-class spa.

13. San Ysidro Ranch, Santa Barbara, California

Recommended by Lynn Juliano, a travel advisor with Travel Xperts , San Ysidro Ranch is the secret hideaway embodying the spirit of Old California. Everyone from Audrey Hepburn, Winston Churchill, JFK and Jackie, Sir Laurence Olivier, and Vivian Leigh have taken up residence here. With 500 acres and 17 miles of hiking trails nestled between the mountains and ocean, San Ysidro Ranch is a perfect romantic escape.

The resort offers intimate cottages scattered around lush gardens, each individually decorated with antiques. Many offer large private decks, indoor/outdoor rain showers, sunken hot tubs, heated floors, and private gardens.

14. The Cloister at Sea Island, Georgia

We have been debating an anniversary trip to The Cloister at Sea Island for some time. I love the Golden Isles of Georgia and since Sea Island is restricted to owners and guests only, it offers both luxury and more intimacy. The Cloister offers three charming settings of accommodations, featuring elegant and unique Spanish Mediterranean décor.

Guests can enjoy five miles of private beach, the adults-only swimming pool, a round of golf, or a couples massage at the Forbes Five-Star Spa Sea Island. For a romantic evening, try horseback riding on the beach followed by dinner and a rose petal turn-down service.

15. Miraval Arizona, Tucson, Arizona

Couples seeking a wellness retreat will bask in the desert sun at the Miraval Arizona in Tucson. The resort offers all-inclusive packages with transformational wellnesses experiences, outdoor adventures, culinary delights, and spa services.

This Sonoran Desert sanctuary provides a wide range of comfortable casita-inspired accommodations for reflection and mindfulness, including rooms, suites, and villas.

16. Twin Farms, Barnard, Vermont

Twin Farms is an all-inclusive resort located on 300 bucolic acres in Vermont , offering up seclusion and privacy. The resort welcomes only adults and teens, with 10 romantically designed cottages and a selection of rooms in the lodge, farmhouse, and main house.

A vast selection of indoor and outdoor activities that focus on well-being are available to guests, including biking, canoeing, fly fishing, hiking, swimming, tennis, and more. Custom-designed meals, wine pairings, and spirits are included in the rate and can be enjoyed in the dining areas or in the privacy of your accommodations.

17. Auberge de Soleil, Rutherford, California

The “Inn of the Sun” is nestled within a terraced, sun-kissed hillside amid 33 acres of heritage olive and oak trees, in Napa wine country. The hotel’s 50 contemporary guestrooms and suites effortlessly blend relaxed sophistication with understated elegance, resulting in a romantic getaway destination.

Auberge du Soleil is the dream of French restaurateur, Claude Rouas, and The Restaurant has maintained its legacy as a “must-experience” culinary destination for more than 40 years. Couples can enjoy a private wine tasting, an art walk in the sculpture garden, a picnic in the park, a scenic hike, or a bike ride on the Napa Valley Vine Trail.

18. Dunton Hot Springs, Dolores, Colorado

Dunton Hot Springs is not your typical romantic retreat. This perfectly restored ghost town features exquisitely-furnished log cabins and a saloon serving gourmet food.

Nestled in an alpine valley deep in the San Juan Mountains of the Colorado Rockies , guests can enjoy challenging hiking trails followed by pampering massages. Of course, all must use one of the five ways to “take the waters” — including inside the restored 19th-century Bathhouse, under the stars at the source, in the pool outside the Bathhouse, in the pool behind the Dunton Store cabin, and inside Well House cabin.

19. The Inn at Little Washington, Washington, Virginia

This Relais and Chateaux, Forbes Double 5 star, and Double AAA 5 Diamond property is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountains not far outside of Washington D.C. The Inn at Little Washington , features eighteen bedrooms and suites, created by London stage and set designer Joyce Evans.

These accommodations range from well-appointed rooms to luxurious, two-story suites, many with balconies and garden views. The Inn’s dining rooms are also pure fantasy, with rose-colored, silk lampshades that float above each table, highlighting the inspired American cuisine of Patrick O’Connell.

Did we miss your favorite romantic getaway resort? Drop us a suggestion in the comments.

Need more ideas.

• Romantic getaways in California
• West coast romantic getaways
• Romantic getaways in Vermont
• Romantic getaways in New Hampshire
• Romantic getaways in Massachusetts
• Romantic getaways in Connecticut
• Romantic getaways in Rhode Island

Tamara is an over 50, award-winning travel writer, and recent empty nester based in Rhode Island. After years of writing about family travel on We3Travel and inspiring wanderlust as co-host of the Vacation Mavens family travel podcast, she started Your Time to Fly as a place to share ideas for girlfriend getaways, romantic escapes, and solo female travel for midlife women.

Share this post

• Facebook 10
• Pinterest 87

Welcome to our store

FREE SHIPPING ON ALL U.K. ORDERS OVER £70

• Help center
• Tracking order

• Best Seller
• New Arrival
• T-shirts Hoodies Sweatshirts
• Grandad Dad Dad to be Grandson Brother Husband Boyfriend
• Grandma Mum Daughter Granddaughter Sister Wife Girlfriend
• For Couples
• Partners Parents Grandparents
• For Sport Lovers
• Basketball Football Tennis Golf
• For Pet Lovers
• Dog Lovers Cat Lovers
• For Professional
• Teacher Nurse Nanny
• Birthday Wedding Anniversary Retirement Travel Memorial
• Mother's Day Father's Day Valentine's Day Summer Autumnal Halloween Christmas
• Father's Day
• Birthday Gifts For Dad
• Birthday Gifts For Grandad
• Birthday Gifts For Husband
• Birthday Gifts For Male Friend
• Birthday Gifts For Boyfriend
• Birthday Gifts For Mum
• Birthday Gifts For Grandma
• Birthday Gifts For Wife
• Birthday Gifts For Female Friends
• Birthday Gifts For Girlfriend
• Birthday Gifts For Sister
• Milestone Birthdays
• 1st Birthday 13th Birthday 16th birthday 18th Birthday 21st Birthday 30th Birthday 40th Birthday 50th Birthday 60th Birthday 80th Birthday
• Best Birthday Gifts
• T-shirt Hoodies Sweatshirts Mugs Canvas Cushion
• Anniversary
• BY RECIPIENT
• For Her For Him For Couples For Husbands For Wifes For Parents For Grandparents
• Milestone Anniversaries
• 1st Anniversary - Paper 5th Anniversary - Wood 10th Anniversary - Tin 15th Anniversary 20th Anniversary - China 25th Anniversary - Silver 30th Anniversary - Pearl 40th Anniversary - Ruby 50th Anniversary - Gold 60th Anniversary - Diamond
• Wedding Gifts
• Groom Bride Bridesmaid Best Man Father Of The Groom Father Of The Bride Mother Of The Groom Mother Of The Bride
• By Products
• T-shirt Hoodies Mugs Cushions Poster
• Gifts Guide

Heartfelt 50th Wedding Anniversary Ideas to Celebrate Love

Marking the once-in-a-lifetime achievement of 50 years of marriage deserves a momentous celebration. As a wife eagerly awaiting my own golden anniversary, I've gathered creative and romantic 50th wedding anniversary ideas to make this special occasion truly extraordinary. From dream vacations to engraved gifts, these unique ways to honour five decades of marriage will express your love perfectly.

Top 50th Wedding Anniversary Ideas for Couples Dates 

As you celebrate the beautiful journey of your love, we've curated a list of enchanting anniversary date ideas that promise to make your special day even more memorable. From 1 year anniversary ideas to 50th wedding anniversary date ideas, we've got your back!

50th Wedding Anniversary Date Ideas for Him

As you commemorate another year of shared love and laughter, consider surprising him with tailored experiences that align with your shared journey. Here are three unique and thoughtful anniversary ideas for him , perfect for celebrating his heart and creating unforgettable memories:

• Nostalgic Drive-In Movie Night

Take him on a trip down memory lane with a drive-in movie night featuring films from the era when your love story began. Pack a picnic basket with his favourite snacks, set up a cosy space in the car with blankets, and enjoy the simplicity and charm of a bygone era.

This nostalgic date idea is not only a delightful way to reminisce but also aligns with the charm of 50th wedding anniversary ideas for couples who appreciate timeless classics.

• Retreat to a Cozy Bed-and-Breakfast

Plan a getaway to a charming bed-and-breakfast, allowing you both to escape the routine and enjoy each other's company. Choose a place with a vintage touch, offering an atmosphere reminiscent of the early days of your relationship. This intimate retreat aligns with the desire for a more relaxed celebration, reflecting the comfort and warmth of your shared years.

50th Wedding Anniversary Date Ideas - Retreat to a Cozy Bed-and-Breakfast

• Vintage Wine Tasting Experience

Explore the refined world of wines by organising a private tasting of vintage wines that have aged as gracefully as your relationship. Select wines from significant years in your journey, and savour each sip while sharing cherished memories.

This sophisticated 50th wedding anniversary ideas aligns seamlessly with the elegance you'd expect in 50th wedding anniversary gift ideas for couples who appreciate the finer things in life.

• Sailing Sunset Cruise

Embark on a tranquil sailing sunset cruise to celebrate this significant milestone. Let the serene waters and the calming hues of the sunset serve as a backdrop to your celebration, offering a moment of peace and reflection on the half-century journey you've shared.

This idea aligns perfectly with 50th wedding anniversary ideals, offering a blend of romance, adventure, and serenity. It's a meaningful way to connect, reminisce, and look forward to the adventures that lie ahead, making it an unforgettable experience for couples who cherish nature's beauty and each other's company.

Sailing Sunset Cruise - Romantic 50th Wedding Anniversary Ideas for Him

• Gourmet Cooking Class for Two

Indulge in the joy of cooking together by enrolling in a gourmet cooking class tailored for couples. This experience allows you to explore new cuisines, learn new skills, and enjoy the fruits of your labour in a romantic, intimate setting.

Choosing a cuisine that holds special meaning to both of you or one that you've always wanted to explore can add a personal touch to this activity. This date idea not only nurtures your bond but also aligns with 50th wedding anniversary themes of growth, exploration, and shared experiences. It's a delightful way to celebrate your love, offering a taste of adventure that enriches your golden anniversary celebrations.

50th Wedding Anniversary Ideas for Her

Coming up with unique anniversary ideas for her 50th celebration can be challenging. Make this milestone feel extra special for your wife with these romantic date ideas:

• A Romantic Couples Massage
• An Intimate Dinner for Two

50th Wedding Anniversary Ideas - An Intimate Dinner for Two

• Scenic Helicopter Flight

Elevate your 50th anniversary celebration with a scenic helicopter flight over landmarks or landscapes that hold special meaning to both of you. The breathtaking views from above, combined with the thrill of the flight, offer a unique and memorable way to commemorate this milestone, creating unforgettable memories together.

• Renewal of Vows Ceremony

Organise a personal vow renewal ceremony in a meaningful location to both of you, be it your first meeting place, your backyard, or somewhere significant to your journey. This gesture of reaffirming your love and commitment is a profoundly romantic way to celebrate your 50th wedding anniversary, allowing you to relive the promises made and cherished over half a century.

Ideas for 50th Wedding Anniversary - Renewal of Vows Ceremony

• Vintage-Inspired Ballroom Dance

Transport her back in time with a private ballroom dance lesson featuring classic, timeless tunes. Revel in the elegance of a bygone era as you twirl and sway together. This dance, reminiscent of your early days as a couple, beautifully encapsulates the nostalgia and joy of your journey, aligning seamlessly with your perfect 50th wedding anniversary ideas.

Luxury Experience Ideas for Couples to Celebrate Their 50th Wedding Anniversary

Reaching the remarkable milestone of a 50th wedding anniversary calls for a celebration as grand as your enduring love story. Each of these opulent experiences adds a touch of sophistication to your celebration, aligning seamlessly with 50th wedding anniversary party ideas and 50th wedding anniversary gift ideas:

• Thames Dinner Cruise for Two

Elevate your celebration with an enchanting Thames Dinner Cruise for Two in the heart of London. Glide along the iconic river, savouring a delectable four-course meal amidst the dazzling city lights.

As you pass by landmarks like Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, and Greenwich, this experience not only offers culinary delights but also captures the timeless beauty of your enduring union. This luxurious river journey embodies the elegance befitting ideas for 50th wedding anniversary

• ABBA Voyage - Premium Oceanbird Lounge

Immerse yourselves in a concert like no other with the ABBA Voyage Premium Oceanbird Lounge Experience. Enjoy free-flowing food and drinks as you revel in the nostalgic melodies of ABBA.

With dance floor tickets for two during the off-peak hours, this exceptional experience provides an unforgettable evening of music and joy—a perfect addition to your curated list of 50th wedding anniversary ideas.

50th Wedding Anniversary Idea for Couple - ABBA Voyage - Premium Oceanbird Lounge

• Fortnum & Mason Afternoon Tea for Two

Experience the epitome of sophistication with an Afternoon Tea for Two at Fortnum & Mason as one of the most unique 50th wedding anniversary ideas. Indulge in a selection of sweet and savoury delights, from traditional finger sandwiches to exquisite cakes and freshly-baked scones served with clotted cream and Fortnum’s preserves. 

• Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour at a Premier Estate

Embark on a sensory journey with a Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour at one of the UK's premier wine estates. Discover the nuances of fine wines as you explore lush vineyards and learn about the winemaking process from expert vintners. This experience combines the pleasures of gastronomy and the beauty of nature, providing an exquisite setting for celebrating five decades of love and companionship.

50th Wedding Anniversary Ideas - Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour at a Premier Estate

• Private Helicopter Tour over the Countryside

For an unforgettable 50th wedding anniversary, take to the skies with a Private Helicopter Tour over the stunning British countryside. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of rolling hills, historic castles, and the beautiful coastlines from a unique vantage point. This once-in-a-lifetime experience offers unparalleled privacy and romance, making it one of the most extraordinary ways to commemorate your golden anniversary.

Related collections

Unusual personalised gifts for him, unusual personalised photo gifts, personalised photo gifts for couples, personalised sentimental gifts, 50th wedding anniversary party decoration ideas.

Your celebration is a testament to the enduring bond you share, and we hope these 50th wedding anniversary ideas inspire you to create an unforgettable experience for both you and your partner. There are countless possibilities to explore, and our page offers a plethora of inspiration, including unique wedding anniversary themes that cater to every couple's distinct style.

• Timeless Romance

Infuse your celebration with timeless romance by opting for classic white and red hues. Enhance the ambiance with floral arrangements, heart-shaped accents, and soft candlelight, offering a perfect setting for an intimate moment. Especially, remember to find some inspiration for ideas for table decorations for 50th wedding anniversary to elevate the romantic atmosphere.

• Golden Elegance

50th Wedding Anniversary Party Decoration Ideas - Golden Elegance

• Vintage Love Story

Celebrate your unique journey with a vintage-themed decor, incorporating elements reminiscent of the era when your love story began. From retro photographs to antique-inspired table settings, this theme provides a nostalgic backdrop for your celebration. 

• Starlight Serenade

Transform your venue into an enchanting night under the stars with a Starlight Serenade theme. Use twinkling fairy lights, star-shaped decorations, and a palette of deep blues and metallics to create a celestial atmosphere. This theme adds a touch of magic and wonder, making your 50th wedding anniversary ideas for celebration feel like a night out of a fairy tale.

50th Wedding Anniversary Decoration Ideas - Starlight Serenade

• Garden of Love

Celebrate your golden anniversary amidst nature's beauty with a Garden of Love theme. Utilise lush greenery, floral garlands, and rustic wooden elements to create an organic and serene setting. This theme is perfect for couples who share a love for the outdoors, offering a tranquil and beautiful backdrop for commemorating 50 years of togetherness.

Heartfelt 50th Anniversary Gift ideas for Couples

Celebrate enduring unions with these heartfelt tokens of affection, especially tailored for those marking their remarkable 50th wedding anniversary ideas. These gift ideas below are not just for the couple themselves, but also for those who want to celebrate their loved ones' 50 wedding, such as  anniversary gifts for grandparents or parents, or even friends!

50th Anniversary Gift ideas for Her

When it comes to expressing your love for her on your special day, the right gift can make all the difference. Here are some thoughtful ideas to make her heart skip a beat:

• Personalised 'You Are The Greatest Gift I've Ever Received' Mug

This personalised mug stands out as a heartfelt choice among 50th wedding anniversary ideas, symbolising the precious bond you've nurtured over decades.

It offers daily reinforcement of your love and appreciation, enhanced by the ability to customise it with personal messages or dates. With Personal Chic's customized couple mugs selection, you're choosing a gift that's crafted with care, ensuring it serves as a daily token of your unparalleled journey together.

Personalised 'You Are The Greatest Gift I've Ever Received' Mug Shop Now

• Mini Handheld Massager

Ease away the stresses of the day with this delightful handheld massager. The compact design ensures it's always at hand for those moments when relaxation is in order.

• Personalised 'Thank You For Being A Part of My Journey' Mug

As a token of gratitude that speaks volumes, this mug is a prime example of thoughtful 50th wedding anniversary ideas for her. It embodies the gratitude and love you feel, making every morning a reminder of the journey you've shared.

Personalisation options allow you to add a touch of individuality with names and dates, capturing the essence of your shared history. Personal Chic ensures this mug is not just a gift but a keepsake of timeless affection, perfect for marking half a century together.

Personalised 'Thank You For Being A Part of My Journey' Mug Shop Now

• Moonstone Earrings
• Personalised Together Since Pillow

Personalised Together Since Pillow for 50th Wedding Anniversary Shop Now

50th Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas for Him

Finding the perfect gift for him and for your 50th wedding anniversary ideas can be a delightful challenge. Here are some unique ideas that blend sophistication with sentiment:

• Personalised 'To My Husband You Will Forever Be My Always' Sequin Pillow

Highlighting the magical and ever-evolving nature of your bond, this sequin pillow captures the essence of innovative 50th wedding anniversary gift ideas for him.

The reversible sequins reveal a personalised message, making it a dynamic symbol of your love's journey. Customise it to reflect your shared memories, ensuring it stands as a testament to a lifetime of love. Personal Chic's dedication to quality makes this pillow a memorable and enduring gift.

Personalised 'To My Husband You Will Forever Be My Always' Sequin Pillow Shop Now

• Flowerhead Tea - The Originals Set
• Personalised 'I Had You And You Had Me' Posters

This poster offers a visually stunning representation of your love, positioning it as a unique addition to 50th wedding anniversary ideas. Ihis poster allows for a customised tribute to the love and life you've built together, making it one of the most  unusual 50th anniversary gifts to give your husband!

The meticulous craftsmanship provided by Personal Chic transforms your shared history into a piece of art, celebrating your golden anniversary with elegance.

Personalised 'I Had You And You Had Me' Posters Shop Now

• Whisky Smoker Kit 9pc

For the whisky connoisseur, indulge his senses with a Whisky Smoker Kit. This nine-piece set adds a touch of drama to his favourite drink, enhancing the overall tasting experience. Encouraging him to create your own 50th wedding anniversary ideas to make it totally new from these previous years

• Personalised A Life We Loved Poster

Capture the essence of your shared journey with a personalised poster. I chose this piece for its quality and the meaningful touch it brought to our space. As a testament to enduring love, it doubles as a cherished decoration.

It's not just a poster; it's a piece of art that narrates the beautiful story of "us." These are the kind of personalised anniversary gifts that become cherished keepsakes, symbolising the depth of our connection.

Personalised A Life We Loved Poster Shop Now

I hope these anniversary date suggestions help inspire you to plan a 50th celebration filled with romance, luxury, and meaning for your beloved wife. After five decades of marriage, she deserves to feel cherished and overjoyed on this momentous occasion. Don't forget to explore even more unique 50th wedding anniversary ideas by browsing our website - we have so many thoughtful gifts, party themes, and keepsakes to discover.

• 1. Top 50th Wedding Anniversary Ideas for Couples Dates 
• 1.1. 50th Wedding Anniversary Date Ideas for Him
• 1.2. 50th Wedding Anniversary Ideas for Her
• 1.3. Luxury Experience Ideas for Couples to Celebrate Their 50th Wedding Anniversary
• 2. 50th Wedding Anniversary Party Decoration Ideas
• 3. Heartfelt 50th Anniversary Gift ideas for Couples
• 3.1. 50th Anniversary Gift ideas for Her
• 3.2. 50th Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas for Him

Related posts

25th wedding anniversary ideas to celebrate milestones.

Finding some memorable 25th wedding anniversary ideas? Dive into unique suggestions that go beyond the clichés. Celebrate with a personalised touch, whether it's a romantic getaway, a meaningful vow renewal ceremony,...

Unique 40th Wedding Anniversary Ideas to Create Lasting Memories

Unlock the magic of a 40th wedding anniversary with our handpicked and personal 40th wedding anniversary ideas. From intimate dinners to adventurous getaways, our suggestions promise a celebration as unique...

Inspiring Wedding Anniversary Themes For A Special Celebration

Celebrate each wedding anniversary as a unique milestone. Don't make the mistake of equating each anniversary with the same level of significance—they each hold different meanings, making it essential to...

Honouring Love with Unforgettable 60th Wedding Anniversary Ideas

Reaching the incredible milestone of a 60th wedding anniversary is a testament to enduring love and commitment. In this article, we explore a diverse array of unique 60th wedding anniversary...

The Best 20th Wedding Anniversary Ideas to Mark the Milestone

Reaching the 20-year mark in a marriage is a remarkable achievement, deserving of celebration and reflection. As couples approach this milestone, they often seek 20th wedding anniversary ideas to commemorate...

Top 30th Wedding Anniversary Ideas to Celebrate 30 Years of Love

Marking three decades of love and commitment deserves a celebration that captures the essence of this milestone. Let’s delve into our guide for the top 30th wedding anniversary ideas, each...

Sign up for our emails to be the first to see inspiring content.

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

50th wedding anniversary getaway with families - Family Travel Forum

• Tripadvisor Forums    
• Family Travel Forums

50th wedding anniversary getaway with families

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Family Travel forum

This post has been removed at the author's request.

We celebrated my parents' 50th anniversary in July. 17 of us termed an enormous cabin on Gatlinburg, TN -- right outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. So much to do in the park and in the town. How many people are going? What's the budget?

My parents took their 4 kids, our spouses, and the oldest grandchild (10 at the time) on an African Safari for one of their anniversaries, quite a few years ago. But, in more recent years, they included the whole crew on anniversary celebration trips to Destin, Costa Rica, and this past summer to Maui, Hawaii. There are 24 of us now! We now range in age from 5-75. Such special times!

Last fall, we had a family gathering in the Red River Gorge area and it was beautiful! most of us stayed in these cabins http://www.sceniccabin.com/ . Another place to stay is http://parks.ky.gov/parks/resortparks/natural-bridge/

Gatlinburg, mentioned above is another great place that is beautiful and offers a lot more tourist options compared to the Red River Gorge area.

Beaches are often fun for large family gatherings. We did a family gathering in The Grand Strand in 2011. Most of us stayed in Surfside Beach and Garden City, both south of Myrtle Beach, SC. The Grand Strand offers many attractions for all ages.

Similarly, we have done smaller family gatherings at Virginia Beach, VA which doesn’t have the range of attractions, but is still a nice beach in the offseason.

Santa Claus, IN offers great options for family gatherings! Lake Rudolph offers cabins and rental rvs http://www.lakerudolph.com/ . They also offer shuttle service to Holiday World, next door. http://www.holidayworld.com/ Holiday World offers great plans for family groups (prices and catered meals). They also have top rated rollercoasters, the 4th best waterpark in the US (#1 outside of Orlando, FL), and are often rated the #1 for friendly employees. On top of that, they have free beverages and free sunblock throughout the park!!!

I dont think that you can miss Tajmahal in India for such a wonderful reason.

It has a reason to worth it.

The world is your oyster if you have unlimited funds and time.

It would be valuable to know when you plan on doing this, what your budget is, how long you have, how many people ? etc etc

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• transportation from Santo Domingo airport to punta Cana yesterday
• Excursion yesterday
• Italy Apr 23, 2024
• Kashmir tour Apr 23, 2024
• Scotland Travel Advice Apr 22, 2024
• Carrying zam zam water (flying UK to India) - in luggage or? Apr 22, 2024
• Where to go in December Apr 22, 2024
• All-inclusive, Asia, beachside family holiday in early Nov Apr 21, 2024
• Family holiday Apr 21, 2024
• 3 Weeks Destination? Apr 21, 2024
• Jet2 Free Child Place - What Age? Apr 20, 2024
• Holiday to Albuferia with children near old town Apr 19, 2024
• Italy family trip Apr 19, 2024
• Ryanair - Hiking Pack/ Baby Carrier Apr 19, 2024
• Welcome To The Family Travel Forum/How To Use This Forum - Family Travel Forum

How to Celebrate Your Anniversary at Disney World

Celebrate your milestone with a trip to the Happiest Place on Earth.

AaronP/Bauer-Griffin

If you’re like most couples, you’ve probably had to cancel a handful of planned or hoped for vacations over the last few years as a result of the pandemic. There’s no denying this can be a major bummer, not to mention a total romance killer, especially when you’ve been hoping to get away in honor of your wedding anniversary . After all, one of the best ways to ensure a happy and healthy relationship involves taking fun trips where you can focus on just the two of you, not to mention celebrate your momentous nuptials. 

Thankfully, after more than two years of pandemic waves and variants that caused infection rates to soar, things are finally starting to die down thanks, in part to mass vaccinations. As a result, there’s a giant post-COVID wedding boom and couples are starting to take advantage of the options to travel—and one of the most popular destinations that might come to a surprise to most couples celebrating their anniversary is Disney World. You might be surprised to find that a Walt Disney World vacation is actually everything you’ve been looking for—mixing warm weather, unique culture, amusement, thrills, fine dining, luxurious stays and more. It’s one of the most magical places on Earth (or at least the U.S.A)—and don’t even have to be game for the roller coasters! Here, we’ll share where to stay, what to do and what sites to see to enjoy a romantic anniversary trip to Disney World.

Where to Stay

The first to-do when planning a trip, pretty much anywhere, is figuring out where to stay. Well, the options are pretty endless when it comes to Orlando, even when you narrow down accommodations that are within close distance to Disney World. 

When you factor in that it’s your anniversary, you’ll want a romantic hotel that caters to couples as well as families—this can be tricky to find in the Disney World area. The top contender is Four Seasons Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort. As its name suggests, it’s far more than a hotel—it’s a five-star resort hotel in a secluded residential neighborhood area of a lakeside haven, surrounded by luscious greens and the Four Seasons Golf and Sports Club Orlando. It’s definitely worth the splurge if romance is a top priority.

The amenities are endless—a fully functioning spa that offers an array of treatments, from rejuvenating couples massages and therapeutic facials to IV vitamin therapies and even cryotherapy, four pools, one of which is adult-only (Oasis Pool), a fitness center with scheduled class offerings, and on-site restaurants that are award-winning on their own ( Capa and Ravello ). 

If you’re looking to get to the parks from the Four Seasons, you can either drive or utilize their free shuttle service, which leaves every half hour for Magic Kingdom and every hour for Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It’s about a 10-20 minute drive, depending on which park you intend on visiting. 

If you’re looking to stay a bit closer to the parks, especially Epcot and Hollywood Studios, consider staying at the brand-new Swan Reserve . It’s an Autograph Collection hotel, as part of The Marriott, which means you can use your points if you’re a member, and also means that it’s super swanky and upscale. It’s the perfect vibe for two in-love adults looking to take advantage of all that Disney has to offer while reveling in the love that they’ve built together. It’s tranquil, not too large or loud and tends to be filled with more adults than young children as compared to other hotels in the area. Another major plus for staying at the Swan Reserve is that it’s walking distance from both Epcot (15 minutes) and Hollywood Studios (25 minutes), but you can also conveniently take the skyliner, monorail or the ferry or water taxi offered by their sister properties, The Swan and The Dolphin.

Definitely be sure to make a reservation at their only on-site restaurant, Amare , which serves up Mediterranean fare morning, noon and night (we’re talking classics like grilled souvlaki and bistecca al fiorentina) and has a killer wine menu to boot. And if you’re interested in a vow renewal ceremony while in Disney, be sure to talk to the staff at the Swan Reserve. They can coordinate the whole thing for you—officiant, photographer, and a beautiful and serene location, either on their rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of the Epcot ball or Disney’s Boardwalk waterfront.   

Of course, you’ll probably want to hit up the Disney parks (or at least some of them). This year is the Disney World’s 50th anniversary celebration, so there are tons of special events, including fireworks cruises and Disney enchantment to experience. If you can’t make up your mind on which one to go to, consider getting the Park Hopper Pass , park tickets that allow you to visit more than one park per day. You may also want to get the Genie pass (kind of like a Fastpass) , which lets you conveniently skip the line on your favorite rides (just be sure to book them in advance and keep re-booking after each ride you’ve gone on). 

For a romantic trip to Disney world, Epcot is a must. It’s basically a theme park made for adults, featuring tiny versions of some of the world’s beautiful cities and sights, including Japan, Morocco, France, Italy, Germany, China, Norway, Mexico, Canada and the UK. Foodies will love the fact that you can order culturally-themed foods in each of these little destinations to get a true flavor for eating (and drinking) around the world—how romantic! While there aren’t many thrill rides in this destination, it’s certainly worth your time—and probably where you’ll have the most fun. Rides to add to your list include Remy's Ratatouille Adventure!

The next-best Disney park for adults on a romantic anniversary trip is definitely Hollywood Studios. It’s broken up into eight different sections, each with their own unique offerings. Among the most popular, especially for couples and Star Wars fans alike is Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. It’s like walking onto the set of a Star Wars film, complete with fun rides and photo opps. Also, be sure to visit Toy Story Land which might be littered with kiddos, but also features a super fun rollercoaster, the Slinky Dog Dash. 

Of course, if you want to see the classic Cinderella Castle, you could stop by Magic Kingdom. While there are no crazy rollercoasters or alcohol served outside the sit-down restaurants, you can entertain your inner kiddo by catching a picture with Mickey, Minnie and other Disney characters and cast members on Main Street or hopping on some of the classic rides from your childhood: It’s a Small World, Peter Pan’s Flight, Jungle Cruise and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.

There are also a bevy of non-theme park events around the Disney World area that are perfect for a romantic anniversary trip. One of those is Disney Springs, an eclectic mix of restaurants, including steakhouses, California grills, fun shops and tons of entertainment. Whether you go for a daytime stroll or a nighttime visit, there is always fun to be had in this unique spot. On the food front, you truly can’t go wrong, so be sure to come with an appetite and make a reservation at one of 50+ dining spots, from quick eats too full-on dining services. Morimoto is one restaurant that stands out among the rest. This pan-Asian cuisine brought to life by Iron Chef ’s Chef Masaharu Morimoto himself offers a unique dining experience for guests, with an exhibition kitchen so you can see all of the cooking action, a two-story interior clad with 30-foot chandeliers and a Shanghai-influenced vibe. 

Looking for an off-roading adventure while you’re in Orlando? Just a 45 minute drive from the central city is a unique opportunity to see a score of exotic animals (more than 150 species in total) in a safari-style setting at Wild Florida . Upon arrival, you simply order your tickets via drive-through service and then enter what is like an animal sanctuary. You drive at 5 miles per hour in your car and get to see real animals up close and personal for an hour or so as you follow the trail. The best part is the end, where you get the chance to feed the friendliest giraffes ever! Talk about a photo op!

Last, but not least, be sure to visit the Harry P. Leu Gardens before you go. This lush 50 acres of gardens showcases the largest camellia collection in the entire South, along with a formal rose garden, and gives you a true feel for “Old Florida.” It’s so romantic and includes three miles of paved scenic walkways, a butterfly garden, tropical stream garden, bamboo and palm gardens and an 1880s house museum.

As you can see, there’s no limitations for all of the fun and romance to be had in Disney World for families and couples alike. After all, you deserve your very own happily ever after.

Related WeddingWire Articles

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• This Or That Game New
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Family Life
• Married Life

How to Plan For a Golden (50th) Wedding Anniversary

Last Updated: February 16, 2024

This article was co-authored by Natasha Miller . Natasha Miller is an Event Planner, Chief Experience Designer, and President of Entire Productions, an event and entertainment production company based in San Francisco, California. Notable clients Natasha has collaborated with include Apple, Google, Gap, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Salesforce. Natasha and Entire Productions has been awarded Inc. 5,000's "Fastest Growing Companies in America", Entrepreneur Magazine's 360 List of "Best Entrepreneurial Companies in America." Entire Productions is also a Certified Women Business Enterprise. Natasha is a member of Meeting Professionals International (MPI). This article has been viewed 198,381 times.

Celebrating a 50th wedding anniversary is a huge relationship milestone and the happy couple deserves special recognition. There are many ways that you can celebrate your anniversary, from purchasing gifts, to taking trips, renewing your vows, or throwing a party. Regardless of what you choose, make sure that you find a way to honor your spouse and the relationship that you have enjoyed over the last fifty years.

Choosing a Gift for a Golden Anniversary

• Gold jewelry of any type (ex. earrings, necklaces, rings, watches, cufflinks, or tie clips).
• Champagne glasses trimmed in gold.
• Clothing trimmed in gold or of gold lace.
• A gold nugget.

• For example, you could celebrate your 50th wedding anniversary by purchasing a new set of wedding rings or have the diamonds reset into new rings, if the old bands are worn.

Planning a Golden Anniversary Party

• E-vites, or electronic invitations, can also be used. They will help save postage costs and you will likely receive responses much quicker.

• Recreating the same color scheme that the couple used at their wedding 50 years ago. You could also try and find similar floral arrangements.
• You could choose a decorating theme based on the decade the couple was married, the place they went on their honeymoon, or to something to match their current interests.

• “Happy Anniversary”
• “Happy Golden Anniversary”
• “Congratulations on 50 Years of Marriage”
• You may also want to include the name of the couple on the anniversary cake.

• If you are crafty you could try to create a scrapbook to share with the couple at the party. The scrapbook can include pictures from throughout their marriage and highlight important moments, such as the births of children and grandchildren, travel, career achievements, and retirements.
• A slideshow of photographs is another great way to showcase the couple and their relationship over the years and it will ensure that all guests get a chance to see the pictures. [3] X Research source

• You’ll likely want to bring food, as well. If you do, ensure that you provide a variety of gluten-free and vegetarian food for your audience.

• You will need to do some additional planning to make this happen. Most importantly, make sure you have an officiant present.

Recognizing the Happy Couple

• The White House will send the couple official greetings acknowledging the couple's Golden Anniversary. These need to be requested 6 weeks in advance.
• The Prime Minister of Canada will acknowledge a couple's 50th wedding anniversary. You can request this by completing an online form.
• In Australia, the Prime Minister and Governor-General will send greetings to Australian couples celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.

Community Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.anniversary.us.com/50thanniversary.html
• ↑ http://ideas.hallmark.com/anniversary-ideas/50th-anniversary-party-ideas/
• ↑ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/elin-stebbins-waldal/renewing-your-wedding-vows_b_9433386.html

About This Article

A 50th wedding anniversary is a huge milestone that deserves to be celebrated! When choosing a gift for a golden wedding anniversary, pick something that your spouse will treasure. Gold is the traditional symbol for 50th anniversaries, so gold jewelry, gold-trimmed champagne glasses, or a gold nugget are all good options. You could also pick a more sentimental gift, like a vacation or getting special family photos framed. To plan a 50th wedding anniversary party, make sure to include decorations, music, and a toast to the couple. For more tips on planning for a golden wedding anniversary, like how to get government recognition, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Zafar Alley

Sep 5, 2019

Did this article help you?

Donald Robinson

Jan 9, 2017

May 3, 2018

Feb 3, 2018

Dec 29, 2016

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve

53 Anniversary Date Ideas More Unique Than Just Dinner

• Jamie is a Senior Editor for The Knot where she oversees all sex and relationship editorial content.
• Before joining The Knot Worldwide, she worked with an array of digital publications that include Brides, The Zoe Report, Bustle and MyDomaine.
• Jamie graduated with a degree in English and Media, Culture & Communications from New York University.

Your anniversary isn't just about marking the passage of time; it's about celebrating the beautiful moments you've shared along the way—as well as making new memories you'll cherish down the line. Joyous, intimate and creative, these anniversary date ideas offer up the chance to create new shared experiences on your journey as a couple, appreciate how far you've come, and get excited for your future.

From pottery and cooking classing to thrift shopping and backyard camping, anniversary date activities can run the gamut, with options to fit every couple, relationship stage and budget. There are even free ways you and your partner can spend your day that still feel wholly special. Some anniversary dates can also become tradition and be replicated year after year. Seriously—how cool would it be to commemorate each anniversary by conquering a new hiking trail or exploring your local botanical gardens?

For more inspiration, scroll on to see 53 anniversary date ideas fit for celebrating your love story.

In this article:

The Best Anniversary Date Ideas

Romantic anniversary date ideas, fun anniversary date ideas, cheap anniversary date ideas, creative anniversary date ideas.

Want the TL;DR version? Then let's cut straight to the chase with the top five best anniversary date ideas. How did we possibly manage to narrow it down? The best anniversary dates should be affordable, widely enjoyable and a step away from the everyday. The ideas below all fit the bill.

1. Recreate Your Honeymoon at Home

You don't have to book a plane ticket to relive your honeymoon or another memorable trip you shared together. You can recreate that special destination at home: If you jetted off to Santorini for instance, whip up some tzatziki, pour some ouzo and cue up Mamma Mia!

2. Create DIY Homemade Gifts

There's no need to spend a ton on anniversary gifts . Spend a night crafting homemade gifts for one another. Think: painting wooden craft-store frames to house your favorite cute, couple-y pics.

3. Make a Couples Bucket List and Cross Something Off Every Year

From the big stuff (owning a home) to skinny dipping and learning how to salsa, jot down everything you wish to do together over the years to come—and then spend subsequent anniversaries crossing everything off your list.

4. Volunteer

Celebrate love by spreading it! Make it a tradition to volunteer each year on your anniversary. You can walk dogs at an animal shelter, put in a shift at a local soup kitchen—however you want to make a difference.

5. Book a Staycation at a Local Hotel

Cuddle up in a king-sized bed and a fluffy hotel comforter, hit the pool and indulge in room service for breakfast the next morning. (Be sure to scour travel sites like Trip Advisor for last-minute deals.)

After all this time, they still make your heart go all aflutter! Spend time thoughtfully planning a romantic anniversary date to make them similarly go weak in the knees.

6. See a Drive-In Movie

If you have the outdoor space, you can even create your own personal theater with a projector set-up!

7. Write Each Other Love Letters

Take inspiration from poets of the past and pen each other love letters over wine and candlelight. (This is a particularly sweet tradition you can do year after year.)

8. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Your love has you floating on cloud nine—so now take to the literal clouds with this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

9. Go Stargazing or Visit a Planetarium

If your location allows for it, lay out some sleeping bags, get cozy and see what constellations you can spot. Alternatively, you can visit a local planetarium and take in the out-of-this-world exhibits.

10. Take a Dancing Class

Be it ballroom dancing, swing or salsa, you'll be able to hold your honey close, learn a new skill and have a ton of fun. (The ultimate trifecta!)

11. Book a Couples Massage

Indulge side-by-side with a set of relaxing rubdowns, before spending some one-on-one time in the spa's sauna or hot tub.

12. Watch the Sunset (or Sunrise!)

Find a rooftop bar or romantic viewpoint to say goodnight (or good morning) to another 365 days of love in all its beautiful, messy glory.

13. Renew Your Vows

It doesn't have to be formal: You can simply take a few intimate moments to recite your wedding vows to one another—or create new ones based on what you've learned the previous year.

14. See Live Theater

Get all gussied up for a night at the theater or opera. Tickets not in the budget? You can stream professionally filmed theater performances and musicals on services like BroadwayHD . Lower the lights, clasp hands during the romantic ballads, and you have an intimate theater experience right at home.

15. Go on a Romantic Boat Ride

Whether it's a dinner cruise or a ferry ride around your city, staring out into the water with your loved one is the stuff romance novels are made of.

Ultimately, celebrating a relationship milestone should be joyful—so look to these fun anniversary date ideas for a guaranteed good time.

16. Go Camping (or Backyard Camping)

If you don't have time to hit the wilderness, pitch a tent in your backyard, make some stovetop s'mores and fall asleep together beneath the stars.

17. Visit the Zoo or Aquarium

Embrace your inner child and explore the exhibits. (You'll likely still get a thrill when you spot your favorite animal!)

18. Take a Cooking Class

Learn some new skills in the kitchen that you can put to use for date-night-ins to come.

19. Tour a Winery, Brewery or Distillery

Choose your favorite spirit collectively and then spend the day clinking glasses to your future.

20. See a Concert

If none of your favorite artists are in town, venture out to see a band you've never heard of before. You might just discover some local gems!

21. Paint and Sip

Head to a local studio that leads you through a painting class as you sip on glasses of wine (or your nonalcoholic beverage of choice). You'll both walk away with a unique piece of art as a souvenir from the night.

22. Go Skydiving

Up for a heart-stopping adventure? Take a leap of faith together and embark on this daring anniversary date.

23. Book a Photo Shoot

Score some fun pro pics of the two of you at this special point in your relationship. Book a local photographer and then unleash your inner models .

24. See a Drag Show

Enjoy a fabulous show and share the celebration with some local queens. (Remember to tip your performers well!)

25. Rent a Canoe or Kayak

Share an outdoor adventure—and get a bonus arm workout while you're at it.

26. Go Ice-Skating

Hand-holding on the ice and then cuddling up with hot chocolate, afterward? Yes, please.

27. Visit a Botanical Garden

Stop and smell the roses—both literally and figuratively. (You have much to reminisce on, after all!)

While these cheap anniversary date ideas may be inexpensive in cost, they're rich in thoughtfulness, proving you don't need to break the bank when planning a memorable night.

28. Breakfast for Dinner

Put on your PJs (or, better yet, a little bit less ) and dig into stacks of pancakes, crispy bacon and warm waffles for your anniversary dinner.

29. Browse a Bookstore

Wander around the aisles and buy a book you'd think the other would like. If you want to make it a tradition, you'll have a whole library's worth after a few years!

30. Have an At-Home Spa Night

All it takes is some inexpensive sheet masks, a sensual bubble bath for two and some massage oil candles to transform your home into a bonafide spa resort.

31. Kitchen Table Wine Tasting

Secure a few bottles of inexpensive wine from a local grocery or liquor store, then play sommelier at the kitchen table as you sip, explore flavor profiles and find your faves. You can even theme the wine to the year you met or a special destination, like your honeymoon locale. (Spanish cava, anyone?)

32. Have a Game-Night Face-Off

Hold the ultimate game night with classic board games and card games specifically for couples . Winner choose this year's holiday card photo!

33. Throw a Party for Two

Pay a visit to a local party supply or dollar store and score balloons, noisemakers, inexpensive decor and party hats, and throw yourselves a silly little party for two. It is a celebration after all! (Just don't forget the ice cream.)

34. Wander Around a Museum

Local museums often offer discounts or free tickets to residents. (For example, New Yorkers can choose their own entry price at museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art.)

35. Take a Hike

Explore a nearby trail, or plan for a more extensive excursion during a weekend getaway. A selfie and kiss overlooking a vista? We're lacing up our boots now.

36. Make a Time Capsule

Select a few mementos from the previous year (or from over the course of your relationship) and seal them in a box that can only be opened on an agreed-upon date.

37. Build a Blanket Fort

Rearrange your living room to build the cozy blanket fort of your childhood dreams. (Bonus points for string lights, a silly movie to watch inside and snacks to share.)

38. Plan a Picnic

Enjoy an alfresco meal for two on a budget by packing for a picnic. Sunshine, sandwiches, your partner—what more does one need?

39. Sign Up for a Virtual Airbnb Experience

From origami lessons taught in Japan to a virtual tour of a New Zealand sheep farm , you and your partner can share a far-flung experience for less than $20 per person with Airbnb's online global experiences .

40. Fast Food Face-Off

Choose a fast-food menu item, such as french fries or milkshakes, and then spend the day going from drive-through to drive-through as you rank each restaurant's noshes.

41. "Decorate" Your Dream Home at Ikea

Did we get this idea from 500 Days of Summer ? Yes, yes we did. Wander around the store and role-play buying furniture and fixtures for your dream home together. End the day by splitting an order of Swedish meatballs. (Just be sure not to cause any inconvenience to employees!)

This year, surprise them with an out-of-the-box activity as unique as your relationship. Look to the creative anniversary date ideas below for inspiration.

42. Rent Out a Movie Theater

Many cinemas allow you to rent out an entire theater for the ultimate movie night. Is it a little over the top? Perhaps. But the occasion certainly calls for it!

43. Choose Thrift Shop Clothes for Each Other for a Fancy Night Out

The more ridiculous the outfits, the better!

44. Road Trip Without a Destination

Gas up the car and go wherever the road takes you . With your love sitting in the passenger seat, it's bound to be an adventure.

45. Revisit Your First Date

Whether it was at that dive bar downtown or coffee at your favorite cafe, revisit the spot of your first date and prepare for the memories to come flooding back.

46. Order a Date Night Subscription Box

Feeling spontaneous? Let fate decide your anniversary date by ordering a date night subscription box . These packaged surprises come with everything you and your partner need for an evening of quality time.

47. Find the Quirkiest Tourist Attraction Within Driving Distance

The mermaids of Weeki Wachee, Florida? Seattle, Washington's gum wall? The petting zoo of plastic flamingos in Cedar Point, North Carolina? Wherever you go, just remember to hit the gift shop!

48. Plan a Scavenger Hunt

Have your partner find their way to a sentimental location using custom clues based on details from your relationship.

49. Recreate a Memorable Meal, Drink or Dessert You've Shared

Whether it was that fresh pasta you had in Italy during your first trip together or your signature wedding cocktail , try your hand at recreating that delish meal or drink in your own kitchen.

50. Get a Couples Tattoo

Is it a forever decision that shouldn't be made spur the moment? Absolutely. But once you've weighed the risks, go ahead and make your love permanent .

51. Go Axe-Throwing

Hit up an axe-throwing venue if you have one in your city and get ready for some friendly competition!

52. Do a Dessert Crawl

Go from bakery to ice cream shop, indulging in the very best sweets your city has to offer.

53. Take a Pottery Class

You may not be able to recreate that scene from Ghost , but you can at least celebrate your anniversary by learning something new together.

The Ultimate Guide to Vow Renewals

Unique Ideas for a Memorable 50th Wedding Anniversary

Celebrating 50 Years of Love Reaching the incredible milestone of a 50th wedding anniversary is a momentous occasion that deserves to be celebrated in a special and unforgettable way. This […]

A quick overview of the topics covered in this article.

1. vow renewal ceremony, 2. dream trip, 3. anniversary party, 4. family portrait, 5. unique ideas, hi there it’s nice to meet you..

Sign up to receive awesome content in your inbox, every month.

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.

Celebrating 50 Years of Love

Reaching the incredible milestone of a 50th wedding anniversary is a momentous occasion that deserves to be celebrated in a special and unforgettable way. This article offers a range of ideas to help you plan a remarkable celebration that honors the couple’s enduring love and creates lasting memories. From vow renewals and trips to unique party ideas and capturing cherished moments with a family portrait, here are some creative ways to commemorate 50 years of marriage.

A vow renewal ceremony is a heartfelt way to reaffirm the couple’s commitment and celebrate their enduring love. Plan a beautiful ceremony where they can renew their vows in the presence of family and close friends. Customize the ceremony to reflect their journey and include personal touches, such as sharing memories, exchanging new vows, and involving loved ones in readings or rituals.

Consider surprising the couple with a dream trip to a destination they have always wanted to visit. It could be a romantic getaway to a tropical paradise, a cultural exploration in a foreign country, or a relaxing cruise. Tailor the trip to their preferences and make it an unforgettable experience that allows them to create new memories together.

Host a grand anniversary party to celebrate the couple’s 50 years of love. Choose a venue that holds significance for them, such as a favorite restaurant, a beautiful garden, or a rented event space. Incorporate golden elements into the décor, from golden table linens and centerpieces to golden-themed invitations and party favors. Arrange for live music, hire a DJ, or create a playlist of their favorite songs to keep the celebration lively.

Arrange for a professional family portrait session to capture the love and bond shared by the couple and their family. This cherished memento will serve as a lasting tribute to their legacy and can be displayed in their home or included in a commemorative photo album.

a. Memory Lane: Create a nostalgic journey by decorating the venue with photographs, memorabilia, and mementos from their 50 years together. Set up stations that represent different decades of their marriage, showcasing milestones, significant events, and cherished memories.

b. Golden Garden Party: Host an outdoor garden party with a golden theme. Decorate with golden balloons, flowers, and table settings. Consider hiring a jazz band or a string quartet to set the mood. Incorporate games and activities that reflect the couple’s interests, such as lawn games or a personalized trivia quiz about their journey.

c. Video Tribute: Create a heartfelt video tribute by collecting messages from family, friends, and loved ones who couldn’t attend the celebration. Compile the messages into a touching video montage that showcases the impact the couple has had on those around them.

d. Love Story Display: Design a visual display that tells the couple’s love story. Include photographs, handwritten notes, and significant objects that symbolize their journey. Set up the display at the celebration venue for guests to explore and appreciate.

e. Time Capsule: Create a time capsule filled with memorabilia, letters, and mementos representing the couple’s 50 years of marriage. Seal it during the anniversary celebration and plan to open it on their next milestone anniversary.

A 50th wedding anniversary is an extraordinary milestone that deserves a celebration filled with love, joy, and unique experiences. Whether it’s renewing vows, planning a dream trip, hosting a memorable party, capturing cherished moments with a family portrait, or incorporating other creative ideas, the key is to honor the couple’s enduring love and create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come. As you plan their 50th-anniversary celebration, remember to infuse it with personal touches that reflect their journey and the love they have shared.

Leave A Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Explore This Section

Get Your copy of the 50th Anniversary Vow Inspiration eBook

Related Articles

How to Celebrate Your Parents’ 50th Wedding Anniversary with a Vow Renewal

Our 50th Anniversary Vow Renewal: A Celebration of Family and Love

Our 50th Anniversary Vow Renewal: A Bucket List Trip for Two in Italy

Celebrating 50 Years of Love: The Essence of a Golden Anniversary

Golden Jubilee Celebration: Wedding Renewal Ideas for Your 50th Anniversary

Vintage Floral 50th-Anniversary Vow Renewal Certificate

Your Source for Vow Renewals, Renewing Your Vows, Recommitment Ceremony, Reaffirmation of Vows, Renewal of Vows, or Whatever You’d Prefer to Call Your Celebration of Your Marriage!

Stay in the loop

Subscribe to our free newsletter.

Vow inspiration, important links, search for inspiration.

• Tracking Cookies

Third Party Embeds

50th Wedding Anniversary: 15 Party Ideas to Honor the Happy Couple

Whether you and your spouse are celebrating your golden wedding anniversary or you’d like to host a celebration for the special couple , it’s time to mark the moment with a 50th wedding anniversary party . Here’s how to plan an unforgettable anniversary party , including themes to consider, decor ideas , activities, food, drinks, and gifts. 

Sweet 50th Wedding Anniversary Party Themes

Design: Claudia Owen

From big celebrations to intimate get-togethers, a theme can set the tone and make the party planning process much more cohesive. Here are a handful of our favorite themes for a 50th wedding anniversary . 

1. Go Golden

Celebrating 50 years of marriage is a milestone anniversary that is often referred to as the golden wedding anniversary . Like the precious metal of gold, this anniversary symboli zes beauty, strength, and resilience through the ages.

With this as your inspiration, throw a gold-themed event. Transform yo ur venue into a glittering gold oasis, with everything from metallic-flecked napkins and tablecloths to golden centerpieces and balloons in this gorgeous hue . 

2. Inspired by Memories

After 50 years together, there’s no doubt that the happy couple has shared countless memories both great and small. Honor these moments by highlighting some of their favorite memories during the event. 

Consider hosting the event at the park or restaurant where the couple first met or had their first date. Dance to their favorite songs as part of the festivities. Set up a video slideshow with photos that span the last five decades. 

Fun tip: When sending out your online invitations , ask guests to email you their favorite photos with the couple so you can include them in the slideshow. 

3. What Makes Us Different

Even the closest of couples have their own distinct interests, hobbies, and preferences. Use this moment as an opportunity to celebrate them by hosting a fun party themed around each of their interests. Play a round of golf, enjoy afternoon tea, have a go at pottery, play board games — whichever two (or more) activities they love the most. 

Once you choose a theme, kick off the excitement with 50th wedding anniversary invitations to match.

Fun 50th Wedding Anniversary Decor Ideas

Design: Lisa Travis

Hosting a 50th wedding anniversary party can be lots of fun, especially when it comes to party decor. Consider these 50th anniversary decorations to make the event even more memorable. 

4. Photo Wall

Wedding anniversaries are all about honoring the happy couple and their life together. Ask friends and family members to send you their favorite photos of the couple and display them together on a photo wall. (It’s easier if you request digital versions that you can simply print.) Add in some wedding photos and funny photos to create a heartwarming display that’s not only great decor but also the perfect tribute to the couple. 

5. Floral Displays

Fresh flowers can bring a place to life, so find a way to work some into your party decor. Violets and yellow roses are the traditional flowers for a golden wedding anniversary . You could also use the same types of florals they had on their wedding day for an extra sentimental touch. 

6. Personalized Banners

Celebrating 50 years together is a special occasion that’s worth honoring. Do that in style with a personalized banner. You can get creative and DIY your own banner with paper and markers, or commission a custom 50th anniversary banner from sites like Etsy. For instance, the banner could say “Just married, 50 years ago,” “We still do 50 years later,” or “Cheers to 50 years!”

Activities and Entertainment for a 50th Wedding Anniversary

Design: Stacey Meacham Design, LLC

Celebrate the happy couple with some fun and games. Whether that’s drinking and dancing the night away or sitting down to revisit a lifetime of memories. Here are some of the best ways to celebrate a 50th wedding anniversary . 

7. Play “Name That Tune”

Whether you hire a DJ or simply have a playlist, enjoying a round of “Name That Tune” is an easy and fun activity for a 50th wedding anniversary . All you have to do is select a variety of songs from the decade when the couple got married. Play the songs for a few seconds, then stop the music. Folks can raise their hands or call out the name of the song. Whoever guesses the most tunes correctly wins a prize.

8. Toast the Special Couple

Weddings aren’t the only big moments where toasts are expected. Make room in your party schedule for a round of toasts for the happy couple . Ask close family members or friends to write a short speech and toast to a happy anniversary and many more to come. 

9. Relive the First Dance

Bring back memories of that special day by inviting the honored couple to relive their first wedding dance all over again. This is especially great if the couple plans to host a   vow renewal as part of the celebration. Hire a live band to perform that special song or break out the sound system and watch as they dance together. Don’t forget to join in afterwards and dance the night away. 

Menu Ideas for a 50th Wedding Anniversary

Design: Jen Montgomery

One of the best parts of any party is the food. Treat your guests to something special with these fun menu and catering ideas for a delicious 50th wedding anniversary bash. 

10. 50th Wedding Anniversary Cake

As with weddings, the anniversary cake can be a real showstopper. Bake your own creation at home, or ask your favorite bakery to create something special for the occasion. Ask the guests of honor for their favorite flavor, colors, and topping ideas — or surprise them with a wonderful cake based on what you love most about them. 

11. The Happy Couple ’s Favorite Dishes

We love the idea of going big on emotion and nostalgia for a golden wedding anniversary , and what better way to do that than with food? Theme your anniversary party menu around the starters, mains, snacks, and desserts that the couple loves the most. 

12. Focus on Classic Cocktails

No menu would be complete without drinks, so don’t forget to include some stellar sippers for the celebration. Offer drinks that were popular during the decade of the couple’s wedding. Or serve wine from their favorite vineyard. The key is to weave in as many thoughtful elements as possible throughout the event.

Fun tip: You can’t go wrong with classic cocktails . You can even create a fun bar menu and give each drink a special name that alludes to the happy couple . For example, the Williams Whiskey Sour or the Rodriguez Mule.

50th Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas

Design: Jessica Williams

Whether you’re celebrating a family member , close friend, or colleague, here are some wonderful 50th anniversary gift ideas to share your warmest wishes. 

13. Beautiful Photo Frame

After 50 years of marriage , the two guests of honor have more than their fair share of memories. Consider giving them a new photo frame to display one of their favorite moments. Look for a picture frame that matches their personal style or home decor, or surprise them with a digital photo frame so they can enjoy all their photos throughout the day. 

14. Keepsake Wall Art

The best gifts are often those that feel personal and unique. We love the idea of commissioning a piece of keepsake wall art as a memento of this special moment. Personalized maps featuring the pair’s wedding date and location are popular, as are family trees . Choose something that you know the couple will love and happily display in their home. 

15. Engraved Wine Glasses

If your loved ones enjoy relaxing with a glass of wine, personalized wine or champagne glasses make the perfect gift . Look for high-quality glasses and have them engraved with the couple’s names and anniversary date , or a special quote that means a lot to them. 

Host a Memorable 50th Wedding Anniversary  

Playing host for a unique 50th wedding anniversary party is a big job, but it’s an honor that you can definitely pull off. Take inspiration from this guide for your theme, decor, food, and entertainment and you’re sure to make it happen. 

Browse our collection of wedding anniversary party invitations and choose one that matches your theme. Customize the layout, colors, and wording, and you’ll have an invite that’s just as unique as your guests of honor. 

50th Wedding Anniversary: 50 Amazing Ways To Say I Love You

T he 50th wedding anniversary is also known as the Golden Anniversary and rightly so. Couples who reach this momentous milestone deserve gold medals. However, instead of giving your beloved partner a trophy, here are better and more romantic golden wedding anniversary gift ideas.

10 Romantic Ways To Celebrate Your 50th Wedding Anniversary

Instead of giving a traditional 50th anniversary gift, choosing experiences and romantic activities is also a meaningful way to celebrate with your spouse.

1. Renew Your Wedding Vows

Celebrate 50 years of marriage by renewing your wedding vows in front of loved ones.

2. Go On A Scenic Drive

Take a drive through the coast or someplace equally beautiful and enjoy the view with your partner.

3. Plan A Special Dinner Date

Don’t forget to go on a romantic date to celebrate your 50th wedding anniversary .

4. Spend A Night Watching The Stars

Take a moment to gaze at the stars while sitting beside your spouse of 50 years.

5. Cozy Up Near The Fire

Light a fire and wind down from the day’s celebrations and festivities.

6. Do A Photoshoot

Capture these special moments with your spouse with a photo shoot as one of the golden wedding gifts.

7. Throw A Surprise Party

Dazzle your partner by celebrating your 50th anniversary with friends and family by planning an elaborate surprise party.

8. Schedule A Virtual Wine Tasting

If going to a vineyard is impossible, virtual wine tasting offers the same experience from the comfort of your own home.

9. Hire A Private Chef For The Day

Splurge on a private chef for a romantic day of enjoying great food.

10. Go On A Lavish Vacation

Treat yourself and your partner to a lavish vacation to a new destination where you both can enjoy each other’s company and your golden years.

Gold Anniversary Gifts

If you’ve run out of ideas after 50 years of anniversary gifts, these 50th wedding anniversary gift ideas should spark some inspiration:

11. Bouquet Of Yellow Roses

A bouquet as a 50th wedding anniversary gift for wife is a go-to classic.

12. Personalized Fancy Pen

Get your husband’s name engraved on a high-quality pen, it is a useful and meaningful anniversary gift.

13. New Golf Clubs

If your husband is still active in the greens, the perfect 50th wedding anniversary gift for husband who loves to spend time on the golf course is a new set of golf clubs.

14. A Golf Watch

Add a brand new golf watch to match the golf clubs set to show how much you cherish your husband.

15. Forever Rose Dipped In Gold

Give your wife a rose dipped in gold to show that your love is everlasting.

16. Diamond Wedding Ring

Whether you’re renewing your vows or not, your wife deserves a new diamond-encrusted gold wedding ring .

17. Engraved Gold Tie Bar

Add your husband’s initials to tie bars and make them a special traditional 50th anniversary gift.

18. Diamond Necklace 

Nothing beats a diamond necklace with a gold chain as a 50th wedding anniversary gift for wife.

19. Simple Gold Wedding Band

This works as an anniversary gift for a minimalist husband or wife. 

20. Golden Broach

Choose your wife’s favorite flower or animal broach so she can wear it fondly with all her outfits.

Homemade From-The-Heart 50th Wedding Anniversary Gifts

Not all gifts have to be expensive. Some of the best ones are made at home and come from the heart.

21. Scrapbook

Fill up the book with little mementos from your 50 years of marriage. You can ask your kids or grandkids to help compile everything.

22. Handmade Card

Simple, but a handmade card from the heart is a thoughtful 50th wedding anniversary gift. 

23. Photo Album 

Gather all your favorite pictures and put them in a special anniversary photo album.

24. Slideshow

Go digital and prepare a slideshow with all your favorite pictures and videos.

25. Framed Wedding Vows

Get your wedding vows framed and display it for everyone to see.

26. DIY Love Coupons

A foot massage, date night, anything can go on these DIY love coupons for future use.

27. At-Home Spa Night

Prepare a nice bubble bath with flower petals and candles to set the mood.

28. Personalized Picture Frame

Frame your wedding picture from 50 years ago inside a personalized frame you made.

29. Anniversary Cake

Bake your own anniversary cake to make it extra special.

30. DIY Keepsake Box

Create a box filled with the fondest memories of your wedding and married life.

Practical Gifts For Your Golden Wedding Anniversary

Not all 50th wedding anniversary gift ideas should be lavish and extra. They can also be useful and practical.

31. Watch Winder

The perfect 50th wedding anniversary gift for husband is a place for him to store his precious watch collection.

32. Jewelry Box

A safe box where your wife can keep all her favorite jewelry and accessories. 

33. Wine Decanter 

Helpful to enjoy a vintage bottle of wine on special occasions.

34. Instant Pot

All homes should have an instant pot, including yours. 

35. Personalized Family Name Sign

Welcome people to your home with a unique sign that includes your family name and the year you were married.

36. Personalized Chopping Board

Your partner can use it as intended or just for display in the kitchen.

37. China Set

An elegant china set adds a lot of class to a home that likes to host dinners.

38. Matching Coffee Mugs

Enjoy morning coffees with your spouse while using matching and quirky coffee mugs.

39. Knife Set

All kitchens need good knives, and they are very practical 50th wedding anniversary gift ideas.

40. Tool Box

Another 50th wedding anniversary gift for husband, who still loves to tinker with things at home, is a toolbox complete with all the tools he could ever need to do DIY fixes.

10 Wonderful Messages Of Love To Write To Your Spouse

Express your love through words by including these love notes in your 50th wedding anniversary gifts and golden wedding celebration.

41. “I love you more with every passing year and here’s to a future still filled with love.”

42. “waking up next to you these last 50 years is a dream come true.”, 43. “every year with you gets more magical.”, 44. “from the day we met, all the love songs started to make sense.”, 45. “i have enjoyed watching you become the person i love the most.”, 46. “although nothing is perfect, the last 50 years with you by my side have been close.”, 47. “thank you for always being the rainbow after every storm and dark cloud.”, 48. “you continue to inspire me to become a better person every day.”, 49. “after 50 years i can still say that i love you more with each passing day.”, 50. “you are my rock, my world, and the love of my life. always.”.

The post 50th Wedding Anniversary: 50 Amazing Ways To Say I Love You appeared first on honeymoons.com .