Five Cities Perfect for a Sister’s Weekend
- Ashley Robinson
- Feb 21, 2019
- 4 min read
A few years ago, I organized a sister’s weekend for my two sisters and sister-in-law. We had a blast shopping, eating, and laughing our way through Chicago for three days. There is something about travel that makes you discover things about people, even those you thought you knew so well and connects you around a shared experience.
We had hoped it would be a yearly tradition, but babies and life changes have made that difficult. I daydream about a sister’s weekend each spring and once life settles back into a groove for everyone I’m sure that will happen. Until then though I am going to keep my daydream alive with this list of ideas.
Note: We all live in the Midwest and have young children so ideal destinations are those towards the middle of the country with lots of flights to/from. We are a low-key group of women, so no glitzy stops for us.
Austin, TX
Live music, amazing local shops, and cowboys! Really who could ask for more? But there is so much more. Perhaps a taco tour or even a cooking class to learn how to make killer breakfast tacos. You can easily fill the day visiting the nearly 30 vintage shops in the city limits and checking out the colorful murals that have become a staple of this eclectic city. Keep your energy up with a stops at a couple of the well-known food trucks. If your feet aren’t too tired, grab a drink and some BBQ before dancing the night away at a local country western joint. When in Rome (or Austin), right?
New Orleans, LA
A little France, a little Southern hospitality, and a lot of fun. A little time relaxing in the French Quarter with mimosas and beignets is just what a group of busy ladies need. The French Market is a great place to spend at least part of the day. This historic complex hosts a mix of shopping including antiques and local artisans. Take a load off and hop on the St Charles street car to view some of the beautiful architecture this eclectic city has to offer. Spend evenings enjoying cocktails, great food, and live music. For something truly unique check out the cemetery tours . . . if you are brave enough.
Galena, IL
This one might seem like an odd addition to the list, but it is one of the cutest little towns I’ve ever seen. With lots of beautiful buildings from the 18th century getting second lives as shops and restaurants it is a haven for antique and history lovers. If you need a break from shopping there are plenty of parks for hiking, horseback riding, and boating. End the day with a visit to one of the local distilleries or breweries. Overall this is a great location for a very relaxing weekend.
Charleston, SC
This southern city makes the list of the best US destinations year after year and you can easily see why. A cottage on Charleston Harbor would be the perfect home base for a girls’ weekend full of amazing food, shopping, and historic sites. Start your day with a true southern biscuit and a cup of joe at a local spot such as Hominy Grill or go low-key with a classic coffee joint such as City Lights Coffee. A leisurely stroll through the historic open-air sheds on Market Street is a great way to spend a day. You will meet lots of local artists and see some traditional techniques you won’t see many other places. What would a trip to the city be without a history tour by horse-drawn carriage? After taking in the story of Charleston kick back with a local brew and some southern BBQ. Known as a true southern city, be prepared to take your time and enjoy the moment.
Twin Cities, MN
Forget what you hear about winter here, all the other seasons are absolutely gorgeous. These sister cities in the land of 10,000 lakes have so much to offer. A great restaurant scene, talented mixologists at unique bars, plenty of outdoor activities, as well as a variety of shopping from vintage to international brands. Start your day with a paddle board session on a local lake and then head to recharge with brunch at one of the amazing breakfast joints. Spend the day shopping at one of the easily walkable stretches of shops such as the Minnehaha Mile. Grab a late lunch at Sea Salt Eatery by the beautiful Minnehaha Falls. Enjoy the city views with a pre-dinner drink Prohibition atop the Foshay Tower. The dinner dining options are nearly endless and the theater scene or comedy clubs provide plenty of evening entertainment.
Ashley is a freelance travel & food writer, blogger, and content marketer. A lover of exploration and learning, she is always reading about history, food, and the next place she wants to visit. She believes that travel and stories connect us all and make the world a better place. Inspiring others to explore the world is her number one passion. Follow her adventures and get inspired to take your own! biteboxus@gmail.com
Instagram: @bitebox_us
